The Big Sleep

This first Philip Marlowe novel hasn't been diminished by time. Published in 1939, it tells the story of the Sternwood family, as dysfunctional a group as you're likely to run into this side of Yoknapatawpha County. Chandler's writing is moody, sexy, and down to earth. Marlowe is the epitome of the noir detective, hard-shelled with a soft center. As difficult as it may be not to imagine Humphrey Bogart as Marlowe, Elliott Gould's performance resonates with truth. He sounds like the quintessential Marlowe. Lurking in his heavy baritone are just the right touches of mockery and cynicism. As Marlowe, he manages Sternwood's daughters with seeming disdain for their charms; and as the daughters, he switches from the troubled Carmen to the mysterious Frances with the sureness of the gifted actor that he is. S.J.H. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine

Elliot Gould's voice is perfect for hard-boiled detective Philip Marlowe--clear and resonant with pauses to heighten the suspense. Called in to deal with a blackmailer, Marlowe follows a trail littered with murder and deception. The story evokes the essence of Southern California in the 30's, and the reading adds to the deadly but romantic image of the strange Sternwood family. This presentation will revive Chandler's popularity as listeners demand more. S.C.A. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine

Mystery master Raymond Chandler's classic first novel finds full realization in this new BBC Radio drama, led by talented narrator Toby Stephens. The lean, crisp prose draws in the listener, and the production's dramatic music and sound effects create a movie in the mind. Shoot-outs take on epic proportions as Philip Marlowe tracks down tough guys with square-jawed ruthlessness. Fans will find a new appreciation of Chandler's prototypical P.I. in this production, and the depth of emotion created by the talented cast will dazzle new listeners. R.O. (c) AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine