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Grand Prix (1966)
Grand Races in "Grand Prix"
"Grand Prix" is a visual and exhilarating ride! Filmed in 1966 and directed by the talented John Frankenheimer of "Manchurian Candidate" fame, "Grand Prix" is a must see film. I recently saw this wonderful movie and was completely awestruck at the cinematography and brilliant direction. The film incorporates actual formula 1 racing and has famous drivers such as Jim Clark, Graham Hill and Juan Manuel Fangio making cameo appearances. The film begins with Aerial shots of the "Circuit de Monaco" and cameras mounted on the hood and back of a GT Ford driven by Championship driver Phil Hill makes this an authentic film complete with heart stopping footage. The audience is immediately placed in the driver's seat as formula 1 kisses every curve through beautiful Monaco, France, and the famous Monza racetrack in Italy. The story follows four Formula 1 drivers: Pete Aron, played by James Garner trying to make a comeback, English driver Scott Stoddard (Brian Bedform) recovering from a car crash and strongly resembling famous race car driver Jim Clark, actor Yves Montand as the seasoned French driver Sarti who gets involved with American Journalist played by Eva Marie Saint and Italian newcomer race car driver Nino Barlini played by Antonio Sabato. Romantic leading ladies in the story line include actress Jessica Walter and French singer, Franoise Hardy. Shot in Super Panavision 70, "Grand Prix" was presented in theaters in 70mm Cinerama (curved movie screens). "Grand Prix" won three Academy Awards for Best Sound, Best Sound Effects, and Best Film Editing. Frankenheimer a real car racing enthusiast was nominated for Outstanding Director by the Director's Guild of America. Doing much of his own driving was James Garner, who after making the film took up racing. His skills impressed formula 1 drivers Graham Hill and Jack Brabham to such a degree, they told him he could have been a successful Grand Prix driver had he not gone into acting.
My Favorite Year (1982)
Peter O' Toole shines in "My Favorite Year"
"My Favorite Year" cleverly depicts early television shows of the 1950's and enfolds as charming Benjy Stone (Mark Linn-Baker) junior comedy writer for the "Comedy Calvacade" promises to keep his movie hero, former swashbuckler Alan Swann and guest star, out of trouble. Swann, beautifully played by Peter O'Toole is a washed out movie star infamous for his drinking and making unsavory headlines. This leads to some very funny scenarios as Stone works overtime to watch over his colorful hero. There are also wonderful heartwarming scenes between Benjy and Swann and both quickly find out they have things in common. Benjy is embarrassed by some of his relatives and wants to hide his mother's offbeat marriage. Swann shares his secret of Tess, a daughter he has never visited. "My Favorite Year" has a talented cast including Lainie Kazan as Stone's mother and Joseph Bologna as King Kaiser, the star of the television show. After a mob boss wants the sketch parody of him scratched from the show, accidents start to happen. Keiser refuses to do away with the characterization for the show and it results in funny outcomes on stage before a live audience. Hiding his insecurities especially around K.C.Downing (Jessica Harper) a coworker Benjy has a crush on, Swann gives Benjy romantic advice. These two unlikely characters bond over the course of the film. Reminiscent of real television programs like "Your Show of Shows with Sid Ceasar," Screenplay writer, Dennis Palumbo was inspired to write this enjoyable screenplay when he found out producer Mel Brooks worked as a comedy writer and had to keep an eye on movie star Errol Flynn. When Swann finds out the television show is shot live minutes before the show opens, he panics and threatens to walk out of the studio. Swann, accustomed to doing several movie takes, declares he can not do the live show, "I'm not an actor, I'm a movie star!" "My Favorite Year" takes place in 1954 and Benjy's narration at the beginning and end of the story, gives the film a nice nostalgic touch. There are so many funny and memorable scenes throughout. Richard Benjamin does a great job in his directorial film debut. But it is O'Toole who practically steals the show with a fantastic performance that earned him an Oscar nomination. The film "My favorite Year" is a joy to watch from start to finish!
The Best Years of Our Lives (1946)
War Veterans Return Home
"The Best Years of Our Lives" is an introspective movie about three veterans adjusting to civilian life after World War II. The film, directed by William Wyler and released in 1946 strikes a significant chord even today. The story follows Fred Derry (Dana Andrews) an Army Air Force Captain, Homer Parrish (Harold Russel) a Navy man who lost his hands in the war, and Al Stephenson (Frederic March) an infantry platoon Sergeant. They meet on their way home to Boone City and each one experiences excitement and apprehension in resuming the life they had before the war. The three veterans have their own personal story. Fred Derry before leaving for the war, impulsively married a showgirl (Virginia Mayo) who turns out is only interested in money and having a good time. Harold and his longtime girlfriend Wilma had plans to marry, but fears she won't accept him with his physical disability, and Al Stephenson returns to his banker's job and a family who has grown up while he's been away. "The Best Years of Our Lives" is beautifully and poignantly shot by Academy award cinematographer Gregg Toland, famous for films like "Citizen Cane" and "Grapes of Wrath." Toland provides in depth wide shots incorporating busy real life activity as depicted in the department store scene where Derry reluctantly returns to work. The scene with Derry in the background of the piano bar as he makes a painful phone call while Homer plays piano (with his hooks) alongside Uncle Buck (Hoagy Carmichael) is compelling. Various film scenes cleverly shot such as the view of the aircraft graveyard gives a sense of irony and tell a deeper story. A strong performance by Theresa Wright as Stephenson's daughter who is in love with Fred Derry, adds to the conflict. Myrna Loy and Cathy O'Donnell round out an excellent cast. The biggest surprise for me was the performance of real life disabled veteran Harold Russell. He gives a sensitive and straightforward performance as "Homer" that earned him an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. "The Best Years of Our Lives" won 8 academy awards including Best Score and Best Picture.
The Legend of Lizzie Borden (1975)
Lizzie Borden Movie Chilling & Accurate!
"The Legend of Lizzie Borden" is so good not only in its performances, direction, and overall production, it is historically accurate. Nominated for 5 Emmys including "best actress," this film won for outstanding costume design and film editing. Actress Elizabeth Montgomery known for television's "Bewitched," gives a surprisingly chilling and unforgettable performance as Lizzie Borden. The effective use of authentic speech and dress attire of the period makes the viewer feel at once he has traveled back to 1892. At times, "The Legend of Lizzie Borden" appears dimly lit as if shot with only oil lamps in the Borden home, giving the film a wonderful dark sinister look. As the camera closes in and focuses on Lizzie Borden's face, the film flashes back to scenes, sometimes contradicting courtroom testimony leaving the viewer to decide what really happened. An interesting fact (although she did not know it) is actress Elizabeth Montgomery was a distant cousin of Lizzie Borden herself! Genealogy research by Rhonda McClure reveals both Elizabeth Montgomery and Lizzie Borden were descendants of 17th century John Luther of Massachusetts making them 6th cousins once removed. As cold detached Lizzie, Montgomery is subtle and unpredictable in her expressions and demeanor. The viewer can see there is something going on behind Lizzie Borden's seemingly unemotional facade, and gets a glimpse of a disturbed woman with secrets. Elizabeth Montgomery shot some key scenes in the nude (in a closed set) to show one possible theory of how Lizzie Borden could have murdered her father and stepmother without getting any blood on her. However because this was a movie made for television, it does not show nudity. The only minor distractions that perhaps take away from an otherwise perfect film are spots when a few scenes fade to black, indicating where t.v. commercials were placed. Elizabeth Montgomery breathes life in her disturbing portrayal of Lizzie Borden and is convincing in a very difficult role that earned her an Emmy and Golden Globe nomination. The story and events are examined and much of the film takes place in the courtroom with actual testimony taken from the real Borden trial. The maid Bridget Sullivan (Fionnula Flanigan) and the determined prosecutor, Hosea Knowlton (Ed Flanders)are captivating. Resembling the family patriarch, Fritz Weaver gives a fascinating performance as the complex Andrew Borden. Flashbacks of Lizzie Borden as a young girl with her father add mystery to the story. "The Legend of Lizzie Borden" premiered in February of 1975 with no special effects. The film relies on it's performances and a story brilliantly recreated about the infamous hatchet murders of Fall River, Massachusetts. The haunting score from Billy Goldenberg enhances the creepy feel to the film. "The Legend of Lizzie Borden" is mesmerizing and a must see!
Lizzie Borden Took an Ax (2014)
Disturbing, Compelling and Morbidly Entertaining
"Lizzie Borden Took an Ax" is fascinating and keeps you glued to your seat! Christina Ricci in the title role as Lizzie Borden gives a disturbing and complex performance as the accused hatchet killer. Her cool demeanor and flashes of innocent smiles leaves chills. The infamous crime of the century has been retold in numerous television and film versions including one with Elizabeth Montgomery, (of "Bewitched" fame) who was an actual distant relative of Lizzie Borden herself. I enjoyed the 1975 made for television movie and thought Elizabeth Montgomery was excellent. But this version with Christina Ricci is morbidly entertaining with a wonderful cast that includes talented Clea DuvVall as Lizzie's older sister, Emma Borden. DuvVall is convincing and the scenes between the Borden sisters are powerful. The scene of Lizzie burning her dress and her sister's confrontation, is memorable and raises more questions. Director Nick Gomez born in Massachusetts, probably grew up hearing about the grisly murders and does a good job captivating the audience in "Lizzie Borden Took an Ax" both in and out of the courtroom. There are underlying hints of an inappropriate relationship between Andrew Borden and his youngest daughter Lizzie in certain scenes. Accused of striking her father 11 times with an ax and delivering the 19 fatal blows to her stepmother, Lizzie Borden made national and international news in 1892. After more than 120 years, it remains one of the most talked about unsolved crimes in history. The "Lizzie Borden Took an Ax" film includes quick edits of the ax forcibly coming down in flashbacks and allows one's imagination to run wild. The bluegrass rock and roll soundtrack surprisingly works in key scenes as when the horse and carriage frenetically rushes Lizzie Borden to the inquest. As much as has been written about Lizzie Borden, this movie manages to reel in the viewer as curious sleuth to peel more layers and investigate the events and motive leading up to the murders. "Lizzie Borden Took an Ax" is campy and compelling at the same time. The film recreates the Borden home and the town of Fall Rivers, Massachusetts, and costumes with believable accuracy. The film's direction, cinematography, editing, and all around good performances add intrigue and make this an overall interesting film. The exchange between the two Borden sisters and Emma's facial expressions in the last scene without any dialogue is powerful and not to be missed!
The Two Worlds of Jennie Logan (1979)
Time Travel Love Story
When Jennie Logan and her husband move to the country, they acquire a Victorian house with a mysterious past. Jennie's unfaithful husband desperately wants a fresh start and tries to rebuild their marriage. Jennie, played by Lindsay Wagner finds a beautiful dress in the attic from the turn of the century. She repairs the small tear on the shoulder and puts it on, taking her to the year 1899. Soon Jennie realizes every time she wears the dress, she experiences a physical reaction and it transports her to the past. She meets David Reynolds, an artist and widower who to her surprise, occupies the same house where she now lives. The haunting soundtrack by Glenn Paxton is perfect as Jennie goes back and forth between two worlds. She explains her episodes to her husband who thinks she is having delusions and is punishing him for his infidelity. At first, even Jennie questions her mental state and sees a psychiatrist. But As Jennie travels more frequently to the past, she discovers she is falling in love with David. She also learns that David's father-in-law blames him for his daughter's death and threatens to kill him. To thicken the plot, David's sister-in-law played by Linda Gray is in love with him and can't seem to stay away. Jennie learns of the history of the house and of a duel between David and his father-in- law that took place at the turn of the century celebration. Can Jennie rewrite history and save him? I first saw "The two Worlds of Jennie Logan" on television when it was released in 1979 and it left an incredible impression as it was one of the first films to address the theme of time travel. This film made for television based on David L. Williams' novel "Second Sight" is a wonderful love story that still holds up today.
It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World (1963)
Funny Talent in Madcap Comedy!
This funny madcap comedy was released in 1963. It was a far departure and the first comedy directed by Stanley Kramer, known for serious academy award nominated films like "Inherit the Wind," "Judgement of Nurenberg," "The Defiant Ones, " and "Guess Who is coming to Dinner." The story begins in a huge traffic jam caused by careless driver Smiler Grogan played by Jimmy Durante. Before dying he confesses to motorists at the scene about the $350,000 he stole and "buried under the Big W." And so begins the race to find the stolen loot before anyone else. It leads to some funny scenes and lots of madcap humor. "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World" has just about every comedian (of the day) in speaking roles and bit parts throughout the film. The stars include Milton Berle, Jonathan Winters, Mickey Rooney, Sid Cesar, Ethel Merman, Phil Silvers, Dick Shawn, Edie Adams with guest appearances by Buster Keaton, and the Three Stooges. That's the kind of comedy slapstick film it is and for older viewers, it's pure nostalgic entertainment. The heavyweight star that brings a serious tone and balance is the talented Spencer Tracy. But this silly film doesn't pretend to be serious in any way. It is a joy ride. If you know that, you will enjoy the movie.
Silver Linings Playbook (2012)
Two misfits, running from issues, find love along the way
When Pat Solitano Jr. gets discharged from a court ordered stay in a mental hospital, the only thing on his mind is to reunite with his wife Nikki, who has a restraining order on him for beating up her lover. The audience is treated to an emotional sometimes funny roller coaster ride of pitfalls and obstacles Pat refuses to see. Determined to show his wife he is a changed man, Pat tells his therapist he doesn't need medication and chooses instead to maintain a positive state of mind and look for the "silver linings."
It isn't long before the viewer understands the scope of Pat's issues during his melt downs and violent reactions every time he hears his wedding song, (Stevie Wonder's "My Cherie Amour,") among other triggers. Tiffany Maxwell, a recent widow with issues of her own, meets Pat at his friend's house and sparks fly between them. Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence have real chemistry and the audience is immediately smitten with these two misfits. Aside from sharing the same kinds of medications, Pat and Tiffany seem to understand each other. Pat sees a means to communicate to Nikki through Tiffany and she promises to give Nikki (her sister's best friend) a letter from Pat, but in exchange he must be her dance partner in a competition.
Complications arise when Pat's father bets on a Philadelphia Eagles game, money he's been saving to open a restaurant. His OCD and unusual superstitions lead to some very funny scenes. As a die hard Philadelphia Eagles fan he is convinced his son, who has been rehearsing with Tiffany instead of attending games is causing the Philadelphia Eagles to lose. This leads to one of the best scenes and major turning points in the film when Tiffany having been stood up, confronts Pat at his house. The outburst is hilarious and powerful to watch. The stakes go up when Pat's father raises the bet and uses his son's dance competition score as a parlay to win back his money. Now everything rides on the dance competition and Pat feeling the pressure, refuses to compete.
This movie offers an unusual love story supported by a very strong cast. Bradley Cooper was the biggest surprise for me. Having seen him previously in comedies like "Hangover," Cooper gives an outstanding performance and proves he has the acting range to tackle complex difficult roles. David O.Russell's adapted screenplay based on the novel by Matthew Quick also does a great job as director of "Silver Linings Playbook" and garnered two Academy award nominations. Russell was originally attracted to the project because his own son suffers from a bipolar disorder and OCD,issues addressed in the movie. Russell brings sensitivity and strikes a balance with the characters and their neurosis in the film. All four lead actors including Robert Deniro, (as Pat's dad) earned Academy Award nominations. Jennifer Lawrence as Tiffany, gives a sassy multi-layer touchdown performance and won the Oscar for best actress."Silver Linings Playbook" is worth watching! Combined, with a marvelous Soundtrack by Danny Elfman,"Silver Linings Playbook" is a terrific movie that scores big!
Jane Eyre (2006)
Mr. Rochester + repressed compelling Jane = Sparks & Sexual Tension
"Jane Eyre" was published in 1847. Almost two hundred years and countless television and film adaptations later, people are still talking about Jane Eyre. Why? Because author Charlotte Bronte knocked it out of the park with an unconventional heroine and an enormously interesting and complex Mr. Rochester. The story still stands up today! I have seen many excellent adaptations including A & E's 1997 version with wonderful Ciaran Hinds and the amazing Samantha Morton. Fans of "Jane Eyre" all have their favorite adaptations. But this 2006 "Jane Eyre" four part BBC miniseries is quite simply a masterpiece! Aside from the beautiful cinematography, lovely period costumes, "Masterpiece Theatre: Jane Eyre" has assembled an incredibly good cast, including Tara Fitzgerald as the heartless Mrs. Reed. But it is actress Ruth Wilson who is absolutely perfect as Jane. Her subtle performance down to her facial expressions and underlying restraint kidnaps the viewer's sensibilities, until you suffer and pine right along with her. Coupled with handsome Toby Stephens who gives a dark, interesting,and probably the sexiest Mr. Rochester portrayal I've ever seen, this "Jane Eyre" version is worth the entire four hours!! it's so good, I thought I had gone back in time. The only scene I questioned was between Jane and Mr. Rochester the night before she decides to leave Thornhill. Both appear in rather intimate embraces. But as repressed passionate characters who are truly in love with each other, it's not a stretch to accept Jane in Mr. Rochester's room or that his holding her tightly for dear life is an act of desperation, sensing he is going to lose her. Of course, there are several fantastic scenes, like the proposal. The scene photographed as a long shot looks like a gorgeous countryside postcard as the two main characters run from the rain. Jane and Mr. Rochester sitting by the pond after she returns to Thornhill is especially fun and flirtatious. They have not seen or heard from each other in a very long time. Their conversation initially brief and impersonal becomes charged as Jane teases Mr. Rochester and incites him in a jealous outburst. The viewer knows Jane and Mr. Rochester still love each other deeply and is rewarded. I highly recommend "Masterpiece Theatre: Jane Eyre." It is a classic book and this adaptation is a masterpiece!
Why Stop Now? (2012)
A Wild & Satisfying Ride
A college student en route to an important piano audition, has to score drugs for his mother so she can be admitted at the drug rehabilitation center with tainted urine. What a premise!!! I didn't know what to expect when I first saw this drama / comedy / action film. But, "Why stop Now" is an entertaining unpredictable fast paced film with a stellar cast from start to finish. Talk about a dysfunctional family including a younger sister who insists on talking through a sock named "Julio." These quirky characters are well written and at times surprising. The story follows Eli bloom in the span of 24 hours and excitement ensues with the countdown for his important piano audition. Eli's ability to speak Spanish, motivates drug dealers to kidnap him to negotiate with their source resulting in several hilarious scenes. Actor Jesse Eisenberg and Melissa Leo, as his troubled but big hearted mom turn in wonderful performances. Tracy Morgan is hilarious as the drug dealer. The cast of characters show multi layers to their personalities, and the audience is taken on a wild but satisfying ride.
Rush (2013)
"RUSH" Drives & Delivers
"RUSH" is the incredible true story of Formula 1 drivers Jim Hunt and Niki Lauda in the epic 1976 Grand Prix. The race is exciting on and off the tracks. Directed with precision and heart by Ron Howard, "Rush" runs on adrenaline at 220 miles an hour and the audience is instantly taken on an unforgettable ride. Chris Hemsworth plays the reckless charismatic English playboy Jim Hunt, and Daniel Bruhl gives a spot on performance of meticulous and serious Austrian racer Niki Lauda. The story would be unbelievable if it wasn't true. But Director Ron Howard has brought to life all the excitement of the 1976 Grand Prix complete with the personal stories of Hunt and Lauda. The film is gripping and a visual rush as Academy award cinematographer Anthony Dodd Mantle puts the viewer directly in the driver seat. Hans Zimmer's moves the story in a wonderful and pulsating soundtrack. The drama depicts rivals Hunt and Lauda and the incredible events that lead to the perilous Nurburgring race and finally the Japanese Grand Prix. As each driver accrues points in each race, they reach the dangerous rain drenched final head to head for the championship title. "RUSH" is an exhilarating film between two talented drivers beautifully performed by Hemsworth and Bruhl. The lives and personalities of these two drivers couldn't be more different and yet their respect and admiration for each other and passion for racing formula 1 is palpable. The film is excellent and accurate in its details of the true story and rivalry of Hunt and Lauda. "RUSH" drives and delivers!
Bonnie & Clyde (2013)
Entertaining Fictionalized Bonnie & Clyde
Holliday Grainger and Emile Hirsch are appealing and exciting as Bonnie and Clyde. Both actors give strong performances. This period piece is done well as far as the weapons, cars, costumes and set design. Even the golden look in certain scenes gives a gritty 1930's feel to the film. William Hurt is wonderful as Frank Hamer, the relentless Texas Ranger in hot pursuit of Bonnie and Clyde. Holly Hunter, as Bonnie's mom also turns in a solid performance. I really wanted to like this film and it is very entertaining. But the story is far from being accurate. There was plenty of creative license taken in this Bonnie and Clyde version. For one thing, portraying Bonnie as the instigator in several bank robberies and whose ego was primarily fueled by being famous and seeing her name in lights is not true. Bonnie's letters to Clyde (in prison) show quite the opposite. She wanted Clyde to "not be a thug" and urged him to go straight. Many of her letters are quoted in published and film biographies of Bonnie and Clyde. As for the witness who initially reported Bonnie shot one of the Grapevine police officers and heard her say, "his head bounced like a rubber ball", was later discredited. That scene in the movie never took place. However, newspapers of the day ran with the first story and helped turn the public sentiment against Bonnie and Clyde. There are documentaries available that give a more accurate historical account of these two notorious outlaws. This version of "Bonnie and Clyde" is compelling. But for historical accuracy, this Roman a Clef is way off the mark. If you want the true story, check out "Bonnie & Clyde: The Real Story" from the History Channel or read John Neal Phillips book "Blanche Barrow, my life with Bonnie and Clyde." Not only was Blanche married to Clyde's brother Buck, she ran around with the Barrow gang and left journals (1933 - 1935) during her prison stint after being shot and captured.
Love at the Thanksgiving Day Parade (2012)
Two Opposing Views + Lots of Chemistry = Sparks
What a fun movie! There is a lot of chemistry between the two lead actors. This heartwarming love story set around the Thanksgiving parade in Chicago centers around Emily, the Thanksgiving Parade Coordinator and Henry the handsome consultant hired to cut costs. These two likable characters at opposite ends, argue and banter beautifully as sparks and tension fly between them. The music and the occasional split screen, highlights Emily and Henry's angst and turmoil for each other. This gem of a film is reminiscent of successful romantic films of the 60's. When Emily's fiancée of five years returns, it thickens the plot resulting in twists and surprises. The vintage attire worn by Emily throughout the film is charming and exemplifies the character's love for the past, propelling her to protect the city's history and annual Thanksgiving parade. Autumn Reeser as outspoken Emily gives a performance that is funny, vulnerable and adorable! "Love at the Thanksgiving Day Parade" is sheer delight and acted with great comedic pacing. The Karaoke scene is not to be missed. I love this movie!
When Ladies Meet (1941)
Love Story of art imitating Life
Joan Crawford plays Mary Howard, a novelist in love with her publisher who can't seem to finish her latest manuscript about a woman in love with a married man. In a case of art imitating life, Mary much like her literary heroine believes Rogers Woodruff will leave his wife and forge a future together with her. To make things complicated, Mary is relentlessly pursued by handsome Jimmy played by charming Robert Taylor. Although she likes Jimmy, Mary turns down his marriage proposals saying she prefers to remain friends. Instead, Mary arranges a getaway weekend at the home of ditsy friend Bridgi (wonderfully acted by Spring Byington) so she can see Rogers. The plot thickens when Jimmy accidentally runs into Woodruff's wife (played by Greer Garson) and invites her on an outing where they "get lost" and find themselves at Bridgi's cottage. The story is an interesting one as Jimmy fails to tell anyone about Claire's true identify. Claire Woodruff is also in the dark about the woman, Jimmy is trying to make jealous. Throw in a thunderstorm and Jimmy's plan that inevitably sends Woodruff away on a wild goose chase so that the two women can meet, makes this film worth seeing. Both Joan and Greer Garson turn in solid performances. The acting is a bit stylized, characteristic of the 1940s but both women are appealing in their roles. Spring Byington almost steals the show with her funny character portrayal of Bridgi. The dialogue is crisp and Bridgi provides comic relief and helps the story flow. Stranded at the cottage, Mary and Claire strike a friendship and genuinely like each other. It doesn't take Mary long to know that Claire is married and confesses Jimmy is only trying to make her jealous."When ladies meet" has powerful scenes and the viewer is in on the secret of their connection as it cleverly unfolds to the two women. The dialogue is honest and the reveal ultimately helps Mary's writer's block to help her finish her novel. I highly recommend "When Ladies Meet."
It Happened One Night (1934)
Original Screwball Comedy of the Sexes
When spoiled millionaire heiress Ellie Andrews (Claudette Colbert) jumps off her father's yacht, reporters are on the trail for the hottest newspaper story! She finds herself hiding on a bus sitting next to down- on-his luck reporter Peter Warne, deftly played by wise cracking Clark Gable. The story takes off in funny and memorable predicaments for this unlikely couple. Both Ellie and Peter are fiercely independent with their personal goals on the line and yet they are forced to completely depend on each other. Peter is not about to let his lead story escape and she needs him to help her get to New York and "Westley," the weasel husband she married in haste who is only interested in her money. In the meantime, an array of colorful characters including Ellie's father bent on annulling her phony marriage, help make this film a wonderful screwball comedy. This Frank Capra film is the original road trip story packed with fast paced dialogue by Robert Riskin who won the Oscar for best screenplay. Gable and Colbert also deliver great performances that garnered both of them Academy awards! When they find themselves stranded off the road, Peter teaches "Brat" (Ellie) the art of hitchhiking. It is a classic scene, as he fails miserably until cool and collected Ellie succeeds in stopping a car by lifting her skirt and exposing her leg. Clark Gable munching a carrot with his mouth full in a fast talking performance according to Friz Freleng and Chuck Jones of Warner Brothers cartoons admitted was the inspiration for another iconic character, Bugs Bunny! "It happened one Night" is sheer joy to watch and director Frank Capra is at his best. This 1934 gem is why so many other films that came later, copied and recreated so many famous scenes from "It Happened One Night." With very little money, Peter and Ellie register as a married couple to get a room only to hoist a blanket between the two beds;"the walls of Jericho." This is another classic scene and a turning point in the story for the two sparring characters who are falling in love. Even funnier is when detectives hired by Ellies' father, close in on the couple at the motel and they improvise a domestic argument to fool them, only to burst out laughing when the coast is clear. "It Happened One Night" is the first film to win 5 Academy awards including Best Picture. It should be part of everyone's movie collection. 80 years after it's release, "It Happened One Night" is still fresh, funny and the ultimate screwball comedy!
The Spirit of St. Louis (1957)
Lindbergh's story soars High
"The Spirit of St. Louis" is an entertaining gripping film of Charles Lindbergh and the first transatlantic flight from New York to Paris in May 1927. The film directed by the talented Billy Wilder is quite good, from impressive aerial cinematography to James Stewart in one of his best acting performances. The "Spirit of St. Louis" funded by businessmen from St. Louis, and designed in large part by Lindbergh, propels him through extraordinary moments and some close calls documented in the 33 1/2 hours of his famous flight. Once Lindbergh departs from New York, the audience is whisked up in the air and is treated to colorful scenes of his early beginnings as he reminisces on board the plane. The flashbacks showcase Lindbergh's experiences and provides the viewer an insight into his love affair with aviation. The last few hours of Lindbergh's flight are intense. Not only does the film document when the "Spirit of St. Louis" begins to accumulate ice on its wings, but portrays the incredible toll on Lindbergh of sheer exhaustion as he desperately fights from falling asleep. The film culminates with his famous landing to Le Bourget Field outside of Paris greeted by cheering crowds of thousands, followed by a hero's welcome in America woven with footage of the real event. The magnitude of Lindbergh's heroism and historic flight are beautifully captured in this movie. The way this film is shot, along with Jimmy Stewart's natural reactions and incredible performance as he narrates Lindbergh's thoughts, makes this journey a flight not to be missed!
Paid (1930)
Joan Crawford Mesmerizes in Revenge Plot
1930's film "Paid" is worth every penny and a collector's item for film buffs primarily because of Joan Crawford! This was one of her first "talkies" and Joan determined to show the movie studio execs she was more than a flapper, proved she had the acting chops in her first compelling dramatic performance. She is mesmerizing! Supported by a strong cast like Marie Prevost as endearing wise cracking Agnes Lynch, Robert Armstrong as con artist Joe Garson and Purnell Pratt as the hateful Edward Gilder, her former boss, the film is well written and an entertaining story! Based on "Within the Law" by Bayard Veiller which ran successfully on Broadway in 1912 and three silent films later, this film version (and a talkie) is a must see. Although director Sam Wood does a decent job, it is evident that several scenes were shot like a stage play. The look of the film is interesting however, and set lighting captures the mood, especially with shots of Joan in the women's penitentiary. 30's Films of the day were somewhat stylized and the acting often exaggerated and over the top. But Joan Crawford is a natural and gives an unforgettable performance. She is a knockout in every sense of the word!
The premise is still a good one and this movie buff would love to see the film remade today in a modern version with excellent direction. But it would be hard to top Joan Crawford's performance. "Paid" opens up with a court scene that sentences wrongfully accused Mary Turner to three years in the pen for stealing from the Gilder store where she's worked as a clerk. The department store owner Edward Gilder and his high priced lawyer decisive in sending Mary to jail, represent the unfair establishment.
The film made shortly after the famous stock market crash, is a perfect film for the times. The viewer is immediately on board and Mary Turner represents the oppressed innocent trying to get ahead. It is no wonder that the film did so well in the box office. The first time the camera gives you a close up of Joan Crawford, it is a powerful and unforgettable experience. Joan shows her enormous talent in her hurt, indignant,scared and angry expressions as she receives her sentence. Her big eyes and convincing performance reels the audience in and the viewer becomes an ally with her promise to avenge herself. I was glued to the screen wondering how she was going to get her revenge. The twists and turns in the story line were not always predictable. Joan Crawford gives the most enigmatic and interesting character transformation. In the beginning of the film she is a framed innocent person, but when Mary Turner comes out after doing her time, she is jaded by the system though wiser, stronger and with knowledge of the law. She is going to get even and no one is going to stand in her way even when she starts to fall in love. Mary Turner helps her con artist friends but only if they stay "within the law." Her associations lead to conflict and a major turning point in the story. I recommend this gem of a film. "Paid" has a good pay off for the viewer!