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Reviews
Five Easy Pieces (1970)
Excellent Period Piece
Five Easy Pieces stands out thanks to a great performance from Jack Nicholson and Karen Black, as well as a great screenplay that refines the rebellious ideas of the times that were prevalent in movies such as Easy Rider. It takes those themes and makes them relatable to a broader audience, and avoids diving into to weird of places like the commune in Easy Rider. The insecurity and uneasyness of Nicholson's character adds more depth and another connection between the audience and the film.
The film has some truly great scenes like the diner scene, and the piano on the highway scene. The camera work is also great and underrated. Some great camera work is most noticeable in the instances of the the hitchhikers, and also the sunset scene.
Underrated film, one of Nicholson's best.
Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954)
Classic Monster Movie
Sure the plot is a little far-fetched, and the monster is a guy wrapped in rubber, and the film has its fair share of cheesy moments, but I think that stuff just makes it better. The dialog also has its silly moments and the acting is sub-par, yet I seem unphased by all of that and really enjoyed this film.
Despite its B-movie qualities, Creature from the Black Lagooon does a great job of tapping into peoples fears and insecurities, and through that it becomes successful.
The underwater visuals are spectacular, and this is a must watch 50s monster movie.
Bonnie and Clyde (1967)
Welcome to New Hollywood
This film was very daring for its time and is seen as the beginning of New Hollywood. Although it is over 40 years old, the film has a very modern feel to it. Full of blood and violence, Bonnie and Clyde broke through many barriers. The film lead the audience to sympathize and understand these ruthless killers; something that was not allowed during the era of the Hays code.
The acting of Dunaway and Beatty, as well as the supporting cast is flawless. The action is nearly constant, and it was paced very well with some comedy mixed in. After this film that mixing is something that becomes more common. Violence is seen in all kinds of movies, not just gangsters, and comedy makes its way into serious action-type moves.
Where the Sidewalk Ends (1950)
Underrated Noir
Where the Sidewalk Ends contains many of the Noir elements we all know and love, and is executed perfectly. The lighting is extremely low and shadowy, the locations are eerie and sketchy, there are tough determined cops, the baddest of bad guys, a bit of corruption, tough dialog, and although not exactly a femme fatale, a looker of a leading woman in Gene Tierney.
The acting and dialog is excellent, and the plot unfolds brilliantly, and like most film noirs it ends with a hefty dose of moral lessons.
An excellent, underrated film. If you like film noir and haven't seen this one, put it at the top of your list.
The Grapes of Wrath (1940)
Good Film
The Grapes of wrath is a good film that goes well beyond expressing the grimness of the great depression and dust bowl. Sometimes I felt like some of the Joad family members characters could have been more developed instead of spending so much time on showing how sad and depressing and hard the times were. I also thought the film got too political. It wouldn't have been so bad the politics not been so uneducated or naive, but I can't really expect anything different.
The cinematography and visuals in the film alone are enough reason to watch the film. Truly brilliant work from Gregg Toland. It is undoubtedly a good film, but The Grapes of Wrath could have been better.
Do the Right Thing (1989)
**** him and John Wayne
I could listen to Public Enemy all day, so even if the rest of the film is crap I wouldn't hate it. Danny Aiello and John Turturro are fantastic in this film about the powder-keg that is bigotry and hate. Spike Lee's acting is average, but his directing is excellent. I loved how at one point he didn't even bother showing the hate the characters had through actions or dialog, he simply had at least a half dozen of the characters spout their bigoted thoughts directly to the camera one at a time.
Samuel L. Jackson, as the radio DJ Love Daddy, plays a great role in the film, offering commentary and narration through a unique medium for films. The role of Da Mayor is also an excellent role and a voice of reason. I have much more respect for Spike Lee after watching this one.
Annie Hall (1977)
A romantic comedy anyone can enjoy
Although this film is a romantic comedy, it has a different feel to it than other. While most romantic comedies portray relationships in a hardly believable, lame, fake Hollywood clichéd way, Annie Hall captures the highs and lows of a relationship in a serious and honest way, and relies on Woody Allen's wit for the comedy; including breaking the fourth wall to interject commentary, or sum up his feelings on what is happening in his life through a joke or anecdote. This formula for a romantic comedy is one that works, and can actually relate to the audience,instead of being fake and giving the audience silly ideas of what a relationship is like.
Easy Rider (1969)
Good and Bad
All things considered, I liked the movie.
I loved shots of scenery as Fonda and Hopper ride cross-country. I loved a lot of the dialog, especially when Jack Nicholson makes his appearance, and I love the theme and message the film conveys. However, there a multiple scenes that drag on way to long without anything substantial happening. I understand that the point of these scenes was to convey the lifestyle, but I couldn't help but be incredibly bored by some scenes, namely the commune. I never connected with a character more so than when Dennis Hopper has had enough of the commune, and say something along the lines of "Lets get the hell out of here, man" I knew exactly how he felt and was glad I wasn't actually there with him, and could leave the boredom and craziness much easier than he could.
The Graduate (1967)
The Graduate
The Graduate is a fantastic story, and epitomizes early "New Hollywood." A story like this cold not be told correctly under the Hays Code, and when the story begins to reveal the direction it is heading, the filmmakers begin to intentionally break all the rules including one's associated with photography like the 180-degree rule.
The music captures Benjamin's emotions perfectly in the film which repetition captures how they never seem to change, no matter what he goes through,and is constantly stuck in a bit of a funk and encountering problems. Even at the end of film when it looks like he finally got what he wanted, the same "The Sound of Silence" plays.
The Killing (1956)
Loved the narrator
The structure and editing of The Killing is what obviously stands out the most, and it certainly is brilliant and works so well with the story. The audience gets to see how each piece of the heist is worked out from everyone's different point of view, which isn't only interesting and revealing, but builds a great deal of suspense. The camera work and lighting is perfect especially for the low budget, and the acting didn't particularly stand out, but was not what you'd find in a high budget blockbuster. I find all of that perfect because it gave the film a raw look which worked well with the story and editing. I've heard plenty of bad things about the narrator in this movie, but I found him to be one of my favorite parts. Although not completely necessary at all times, he kept the audience on track, and his delivery seemed to bring some comedy and a breather to the audience in between some intense scenes.
Psycho (1960)
Hitchcock Materpiece
The story is great, the suspense is excellent, even the score and sounds are perfection. The acting and dialog are extremely realistic and intriguing. This is an absolute masterpiece by Hitchcock.
I've seen many people criticize the first act of this movie for being too boring or unrelated to the rest of the film, but for me, it is actually my favorite part of the movie. Not only does it give some background on Marion and put the movie in motion, but it is incredibly well acted and technically sound. Some of the best interactions and dialog are in this first part, such as Marion and the police officer. The police officer is a dark and imposing figure who sees through Marion's acting and realizes something isn't right. Although he is very kind, professional, and concerned for Marion, Hitchcock is able to still make him seem like the bad guy, and builds suspense. Another great exchange is between Marion and the quirky car salesman, whose innocent lines seem to intimidate the paranoid Marion. Although it the salesman also seems to be concerned for Marion, and is nothing more than a quirky and playful in way, the audience feels uneasy due to what Marion is hiding and feeling.
Singin' in the Rain (1952)
Brilliant
What can be said that hasn't already been said about the marvelously beautiful songs and dance numbers? They're simply captivating and stunning. While they are the heart and soul of the film and truly capture the audiences emotions, what make this such a successful movie are the characters, the comedy, and the story, which don't get enough praise.
There's funny dialog that works its way into a few songs, and great physical comedy as well. The cheerful and comical nature of the characters makes the audience fall in love with them.
The story is what makes the movie for me though. It is a brilliant take on the attitudes and events that occurred in the transition between silent films and talkies. Faced with many challenges Don, Cosmo, and Kathy work together to save the latest Don Lockwood film in a way just as brilliant as the music and dancing.
Citizen Kane (1941)
Overrated
I'll never understand the praise that this film gets. I can understand the photography was innovative and at times quite stunning for the time period, but other than that I cannot find a way to love this movie.
"Rosebud" is perhaps what keeps the audience to stick around through this boring 2 hour movie. The acting is mediocre at best, and the characters are largely flat and lacking a certain depth, emotionally. From the beginning of the film, I could tell where it is going, and I would have a much better time respecting this movie and it's somewhat interesting story if it was at least an hour shorter. That way the cinematography could be appreciated, and the meat of the story told, without putting people to sleep.
The Big Heat (1953)
Excellent Film Noir
Working alongside corrupt police officers, and nobody left to turn to, Glenn Ford as Detective Bannion seeks to avenge his wife's death. Ford portrays his character magnificently, and the audience knows nothing will keep him from bringing those responsible to justice. The suspense and darkness in the film is very high which I believe is due the violence and mayhem that is shown, more so than most other films of the time. Things like scolding hot coffee and subsequent burns, raises the brutality over the common gunfights or other disguised violence seen in most code-era films. This is an excellent film noir that anyone can appreciate, and for those with a new appreciation for the genre, like myself, will love it.
Foreign Correspondent (1940)
A Hitchcock Classic
Foreign Correspondent was a Hitchcock film that I was never aware of; perhaps because it was one of his earlier films, or because it lacked a certain star power, but to me the film deserves to be near the top of the list of Hitchcock films.
After a brief introduction, Foreign Correspondent is filled with non-stop action and suspense. Including car chases, assassinations, and daring escapes, Hitchcock keeps the audience intrigued and at the edge of their seat, including several signature Hitchcock scenes such as the tower scene.
This film is a must see for action/suspense fans, especially fans of Hitchcock who have yet to discover this gem.
Casablanca (1942)
One of the best
I had always heard that Casablanca was one of the greatest movies of all time. However, anytime I had seen a movie that had received such high praise, such as Citizen Kane, I was disappointed. Maybe my expectations for Casablanca were lower because of that, or maybe because for some reason I always assumed it was nothing more than a girly film, but the movie far exceeded my expectations, and I must agree that it is one of the greatest films of all time.
The movie is so much more than a love story. Elements of suspense and conflict between good and evil make this story work. Bogart's character is even a social commentary on American isolationism, and what good can be achieved when he opens his heart and sticks his neck out for someone.
The dialog is not only brilliant, but masterfully delivered by Bogart and Rains. I think Rains performance is highly underrated, and my favorite in the film.
This is a must see for everyone, especially for people like me who think it will be nothing but a romance movie.
Stagecoach (1939)
Good Western
What stood out to me in "Stagecoach" is the visually stunning landscape. It gave the film an authentic feel which was not achieved by the sub-par acting. The story is good, but also a simple one which takes a rag tag group of strangers with nothing in common, and puts them in danger. United by a common goal of survival, these stereotypical characters break away and reveal they aren't the people their stereotypes would lead you to believe. This motif may have been new at the time of the films release, but I didn't find it to be all that captivating. I expected more action from this film, but really didn't get it until the end of the movie. I found this film to be good for sure and definitely worth watching, but I could not get as into it as many others have.
My Man Godfrey (1936)
Fantastic Screwball Comedy
My Man Godfrey is a brilliant, fast-paced, and witty comedy, with an excellent portrayal and social commentary on the rich-poor dynamic. The entire length of the film is based on the interaction of an erratic, childish, rich family, and a witty and proper homeless man turned butler. Carole Lombard is the primary focus of the rich family and is the quintessential screwball. Her performance is only surpassed by William Powell as the butler. His dry wit delivery of hilarious lines is outstanding. My Man Godfrey inspires hope for the unfortunate during the depression, and at the very least is a very funny movie to people of all circumstances.
His Girl Friday (1940)
Need for speed
I have never watched a more fast-pace movie than "His Girl Friday". Like all screwball comedies, this film relies on witty dialog and sarcasm, but I have never seen it pulled off so fluidly and quick as this. Whereas some screwball comedies rely on making social critiques to give their films an edge, such as "My Man Godfrey", "His Girl Friday" wins the audience with top notch comedy and wit.
The setting of a newspaper publisher is perfect for the frantic speed and tone of the whole movie, and the relationship between Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell is all the film needs to drive it forward and is premise everyone can relate to. This is by far my favorite screwball comedy.
Scarface (1932)
Stands out among many pre-code gangster films
More violent and raw than any of the crime films of its period, "Scarface" stands out as one of the greatest gangster films of the pre-code era, and of all time. Paul Muni's portrayal of a mean, nasty, and imposing boss is captivating, and Director Howard Hawks not only crosses lines that other gangster films had not crossed, but he includes clever and entertaining symbolism, such as the X to symbolize death. The film had trouble passing the censors as it was seen as glorifying the gangster lifestyle and too violent. Several scenes had to be added or changed to give the film a more condemning feel, including adding the subtitle "The Shame of a Nation." This film with its unapologetic portrayal of the gangster lifestyle, is directly responsible, more so than almost every other film, for the implementation of the Hays Code a couple years after its release.
I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang (1932)
Brilliant Pre-Code Film
"I am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang" is a powerful and vivid film that effectively depicts the injustices of the legal system of the time. Paul Muni gives a masterful performance in his role as the down on his luck average Joe, who is unjustly imprisoned and forced to suffer the brutality of being in a chain gang. The brutality of the prison scenes are certainly effective in conveying the social critique desired by the filmmakers, and it showed as the public began to distrust the legal system's legitimacy. Prisoners in the real world began to appeal their wrongful imprisonment, and many won there release. The strong social commentary in the film make it good, but the acting and action escape scenes are what put this movie over the top. Paul Muni delivers in this Pr-Code gem.
The Circus (1928)
Great Physical Comedy
Chaplin's "The Circus" displays mastery of physical comedy. The slapstick gags keep the audience laughing and wanting more, and more is what they get. The story revolves around Chaplin's comedic talents, but lacks a bit in plot. The ending is surprising which helps to make up for the film being based solely around physical gags. Luckily the film ended only a shade over an hour because I was losing interest due to the boring plot, and an hour of slapstick was enough for me. Films like Buster Keatons's "The General", keep me more entertained through the use of action and suspense, but Chaplin's slapstick is truly amazing, and makes "The Circus" a must see, and I look forward to seeing more Charlie Chaplin films.
The General (1926)
Great silent film
"The General" is one of only a handful of silent movies I have seen; the majority of which being Charlie Chaplin films. When I heard that "The General" was a comedy and a very good one at that, I expected it to be similar to the Chaplin films I had seen. However, what makes "The General" a great movie is the action/adventure aspect combined with funny situational comedy, opposed to the slapstick, physical comedy which Chaplin executes flawlessly. I found Keaton's slapstick in "The General" to be forced and redundant. Keaton's same sad-sack, dead-pan expression, after every physical gag, is the worst part of the film. The action and excitement of this film mixed in with situational comedy is what truly makes "The General" a very enjoyable movie.