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453,609 | 15,896,852 | 46,876 | 7 |
The " Gill-Man " Gets His Sea Legs
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In South America , ecologist Antonio Moreno ( as Carl Maia ) leads an expedition ; he is startled to find a webbed , but human-like , hand protruding from a rock . Mr . Moreno snaps the fossil from the rock , and brings it to ichthyologist Richard Carlson ( as David Reed ) , for examination . Mr . Carlson is intrigued by the hand , and wants to find more of the Creature's remains . Carlson is also enamored with bushy-eyed beauty Julie Adams ( as Kay Lawrence ) ; but , so is Carlson's wealthy colleague Richard Denning ( as Mark Williams ) . The group decide to boat the Amazon , and find the Creature ? Created by Milicent Patrick ( with Jack Kevan and Chris Mueller ) , the " Creature from the Black Lagoon " ( or " Gill-Man " ) made a big splash at the box office . Much of the time , the film displays a rushed , " low-budget " quality ; and , it was made for viewing in " 3-D " glasses . Still , the movie entertains . The " Creature " is conceptually quite interesting ; and , he has a great " look " . More importantly , the title character has personality . Mainly , this is due to his obvious attraction to Ms . Adams ' character . Perhaps , he was the last of his type , and was responding to the mating urge ? The underwater photography , by William Snyder , is superior . It's nice to see Moreno , a former " silent film " star , among the supporting players . Future " Flipper " producer Ricou Browning performs swimmingly alongside Adams . Mr . Browning was the underwater " Creature " , and Ben Chapman served as the surface " Gill-Man " . Only Browning returned , for the two sequels : " Revenge of the Creature " and " The Creature Walks Among Us " . Watch out ! Creature from the Black Lagoon ( 1954 ) Jack Arnold - Richard Carlson , Julie Adams , Antonio Moreno
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453,118 | 15,896,852 | 25,586 | 7 |
All About Bette
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Somerset Maugham's characters are brought to life in RKO's " Of Human Bondage " ; but the movie is a too skeletal version of the novel , with Bette Davis ' star-making performance sucking up all of the energy . Otherwise , it's the story of Leslie Howard ( as Philip Carey ) ; he dreams of becoming a painter , but is told he has no talent for the arts . As the film progresses , Mr . Howard's struggles , instead , to become a doctor . His efforts seem to indicate some bad advice regarding the arts ; though successful in medicine , his painting seemed easier - - also , note the symbolism of his disability , a " club foot " ( explained in the film ) . Along the way ( right away , in this version ) , Howard becomes infatuated with waitress Davis ( as Mildred Rogers ) . Davis ' characterization of " Mildred " is extraordinary , culminating in a spectacular speech , when she tells Howard , among other things , that she had to " WIPE MY MOUTH ! " after kissing him . Howard also performs well , but the story fails to explain his prolonged fascination and love for Davis ; so , their performances are wasted . Still , a film to watch for the acting , including some good supporting players . Bette Davis ' characterization was famous for inspiring a " write-in " campaign for the 1934 " Best Actress " Academy Award . For the record , she placed third . The results were : 1 . Claudette Colbert - " It Happened One Night " 2 . Norma Shearer - " The Barretts of Wimpole Street " 3 . Bette Davis - " Of Human Bondage " 4 . Grace Moore - " One Night of Love "
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452,378 | 15,896,852 | 46,874 | 7 |
The Land Around Bing
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Musical stage star Bing Crosby ( as Frank Elgin ) is all washed-up in the theater ; after the accidental death of his son , he seeks solace in alcohol . Mr . Crosby's dowdy wife of ten years , Grace Kelly ( as Georgie Elgin ) , is both domineering and co-dependent . Ex-hat check boy , and Cosby fan , William Holden ( as Bernie Dodd ) becomes overly involved with the pair , while steering Cosby's boozy comeback . Mr . Holden is as dependable as always . Ms . Kelly is good , but sometimes too obvious in showing frumpiness . Surprisingly , Cosby , the least heralded dramatic actor of the threesome , outperforms his illustrious co-stars ; he really crawls beneath the surface of his character , and manages to make an almost tuneless , lackluster story much more interesting . The Country Girl ( 1954 ) George Seaton - Bing Crosby , Grace Kelly , William Holden
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452,548 | 15,896,852 | 27,518 | 7 |
Three Hoodlum Musketeers
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Great opportunity to see three of the biggest child actors of the 1930s , at different stages in their careers . The 1930s started with Jackie Cooper on top ; then , mid-decade , Freddie Bartholomew ruled ; and , finally , Mickey Rooney reigned . This film was made during Mr . Bartholomew's peak of popularity . After some promising scenes , it becomes obvious Bartholomew , Cooper , and Rooney are not being well served by the production . Some of their scenes appear rushed ; at times , it looks as if they are rehearsing alongside each other , rather than acting together . Possibly , this is due to director W . S . Van Dyke being assigned to the film , after the firing of Rowland Brown . Mr . Van Dyke was known for his sometimes hurried direction . Still , the actors are professional , and earnest ; and , some on-screen rapport is in evidence . Rowland Brown's story is excellent - - much more realistic than several similar 1930s " young hoodlum " dramas . Rooney gets the best part ; and , naturally , he makes the most of it ; scene stealers Bartholomew and Cooper wouldn't have missed a similar opportunity . This is one of Rooney's best-written , best-performed early roles ; he is a terrific actor , and his portrayal of " Gig Stevens " should be more renown . Writer Brown , fired as the film's director , would go on to pen " Angels with Dirty Faces " . With some more care , this film might have been as classic .
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452,393 | 15,896,852 | 20,620 | 7 |
Abraham Lincoln Achieves Griffith Sainthood
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If one were to commission a film depicting the life of Abraham Lincoln , in 1930 , one might well produce this film ; and , one would be very satisfied with the resulting " Abraham Lincoln " , both artistically , and commercially . Today , however , this is not a very exciting film . It succeeds somewhat as a series of staged vignettes , depicting stories about President Lincoln . Walter Huston is given the difficult job of portraying the revered Lincoln , and he excels , after a shaky start . Director D . W . Griffith employs a fine supporting cast , with mixed results . Early scenes are hampered by the characterizations offered by Una Merkel ( as Ann Rutledge ) and Kay Hammond ( as Mary Todd ) ; these are " the romances " of Lincoln's life ; and , they are awful . The courtship scenes involving Mr . Huston and Ms . Merkel are particularly absurd . Henry B . Walthall is notable , later on ; but . he doesn't have much to do . It might have been interesting to see Mr . Walthall play John Wilkes Booth - - admittedly , this was an unlikely consideration at the time ; and , Ian Keith is perfectly suitable in the role . Walthall graciously supports Hobart Bosworth ( as Robert E . Lee ) during his screen time ; and , Mr . Bosworth is outstanding . There is no mystery in the main story elements : he was born in a log cabin , and is assassinated in the end . Griffith acquaints himself well with " sound " in a film , though , in hindsight , it is a technical weakness . There are moments , or flashes , of " greatness " in the film , but they don't contribute to a collective work of consequence . Griffith treats Lincoln with a reverence that is oddly uncomfortable ; by the film's end , the story structure confirms Lincoln has become Divine . The ending reprise of " Glory ! Glory ! Hallelujah ! His truth is marching on . . . " nicely evokes both " John Brown's Body " and the " Battle Hymn of the Republic . " An appropriate connection . Abraham Lincoln ( 1930 ) D . W . Griffith - Walter Huston , Kay Hammond , Hobart Bosworth
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452,357 | 15,896,852 | 49,061 | 7 |
Who's Afraid of Bette Davis ?
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The Catered Affair was the movie adaptation of a Paddy Chayefsky's TV drama , which starring Thelma Ritter and Pat Henning . I'm guessing this was made due to the success of Ernest Borgnine's " Marty " . The film is interesting in its depiction of a different time , when the ceremonial aspects of weddings were very strange . Today , I doubt these people would go on and on about such trivialities . But , then , there were certain " ways " people married . There are some terrific " period " scenes . The Hurley's home is a real time trip . Great kitchen ! I loved the scene when Bette Davis takes in the frozen laundry from a clothesline outside her window . Ms . Davis totally commands the film - at times , her presence is overbearing . Her performance is excellent , but sometimes veers very close to going over-the-top . Ernest Borgnine , Debbie Reynolds , and Barry Fitzgerald hold their own in Davis ' presence . I believe , due to the presence of Bette Davis , the film should have been altered to focus more on her character . Reworked , this could have been Davis ' " Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf ? " You really have to pay attention to get what the film is really about - there is one instance where Davis ' own wedding is explained . There should be more about both Davis's dwelling on the past , and Borgnine's hopes for the future . The Catered Affair ( 1956 ) Richard Brooks - Bette Davis , Ernest Borgnine , Debbie Reynolds
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452,445 | 15,896,852 | 16,039 | 7 |
Jurassic Start
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This was the first screen adaptation of the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle story of prehistoric creatures still alive on a remote Amazon plateau . An expedition is lead ( sic ) by Professor Challenger and consists of a newspaper reporter , a big-game hunter , and his servant as well as the daughter of the plateau's discoverer , who is still stranded in this uncharted land . After a long journey , the group finds the prehistoric land and encounters all kinds of remarkable plants , dinosaurs , and ape-like men , according to the DVD sleeve's synopsis . Arthur Conan Doyle's " The Lost World " makes its impressive movie debut ; the creatures , characters , and situations continue to be imitated , with no end in sight . Oddly enough , this silent version is a case where the original is not the greatest . Herein , the creatures and humans are not scripted , directed , or edited to full advantage ; at times , it seems as if the characters are watching a dinosaur movie . More interaction between dinosaur and human was difficult , but possible ; a similar lack of contact between apeman and human is inexplicable . The possibilities lost in this outing would be found , to the extreme , in " King Kong " ( 1933 ) ; a film which makes excellent use of Willis O'Brien's extraordinary stop motion animation effects . That film certainly takes fuller advantage of human / animal interaction . " The Lost World " adds Bessie Love ( as Paula White ) , to up the expedition's romance level . Ms . Love's character wasn't even in the original novel ; so , it's an understandably weak addition . However , she helps adventurer Lewis Stone ( as John Roxton ) give the film's best performance ; as his longing for Love is just about the only interesting " non-creature " element . Wallace Beery ( as Professor Challenger ) and Lloyd Hughes ( as Edward Malone ) are good , as the film's other leading players . Unfortunately , the film includes not only explicit , but also implicit racially insensitive and inaccurate images .
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453,520 | 15,896,852 | 10,103 | 7 |
The Eyes of Clara Are Upon You
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Clara Kimball Young ( as Gina Ashling ) is at a crossroads in her life - - she has a promising operatic voice , and is invited to pursue a career in Paris ; her family , however , wants her to remain at home and help support the family . She is also being courted by a wealthy man ; however , she does not love him , and would only be marrying for financial security . ENTER a disciple from the East - - the spiritual-type Hindu ( played by Vincent Serrano , he is introduced in the film's opening ) ; he arrives to show Ms . Kimball Young his Crystal Ball - - in which she sees her future . This is an impressively mounted silent film production , with a great cast , and an ambitious story structure . The mysterious Hindu man's crystal ball provides heroine Kimball Young ( and movie viewers ) the opportunity to " see " three different future scenarios : In " The Path of Duty " she stays with the family and becomes a schoolteacher . In " The Path of Ambition " she pursues her operatic singing career . In " The Path of Wealth " she marries for money and security . You may believe a Hindu can show Kimball Young the future in a crystal ball - - but , some of the unfolding events , and choices , strain credulity . Schoolteachers and career-women are wretched creatures ! Kimball Young's performance is the film's highlight . She is not consistently great ; but , her best scenes are enough to explain her status as one of the decade's top actresses . For example , in a " Duty " scene , she checks her aged appearance in a mirror effectively . Her best work occurs in the film's final " Wealth " segment - - incredibly , she transforms herself into a gaunt , drug-addicted street-walker . The scenes with the desolate Kimball Young walking rain-drenched streets are convincing , and artful . Director Albert Parker and Kimball Young are assisted by a fine supporting cast - - the Ashling family includes brother Gareth Hughes , sister Pauline Starke , and father Sam Southern . Kimball Young's suitors include Milton Sills , Edmund Lowe , and Ralph Lewis - - all performing well . The most notable supporting player , in hindsight , is Rudolph Valentino as smarmy " Cabaret Parasite " Clarence Morgan ; he further elevates the film's fine " Path of Wealth " segment . Valentino watchers should note he appears about 50 minutes into the production . Eyes of Youth ( / 19 ) Albert Parker - Clara Kimball Young , Edmund Lowe , Rudolph Valentino
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452,572 | 15,896,852 | 10,071 | 7 |
Gloria Swanson and the Onion Man
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Gloria Swanson ( as Leila Porter ) is an understandably bored wife . Workaholic husband Elliott Dexter ( as James Denby Porter ) has " lost his romance " along with his waistline ; he also smokes cigars in bed , eats onions , and snores . He can barely remember his own anniversary - - which is attended by caddish Lew Cody ( as Schuyler Van Sutphen ) ; the younger man eyes Ms . Swanson's voluptuous figure , and flirts unabashedly . Soon , Swanson is drawn to Mr . Cody . Then , Mr . Dexter decides to try and get her back . Who will win ? The three principals are fine , with Swanson most impressive in the pivotal role as the woman torn . Julia Faye grabs supporting honors as Cody's other interest , " Toodles " ; off-screen , she tempted director Cecil B . DeMille . The DeMille touch is evident ; especially in an imaginary sequence wherein Cody promises Swanson . . . " Pleasure ? Wealth ? Love ? " Don't Change Your Husband ( 1919 ) Cecil B . DeMille - Gloria Swanson , Elliott Dexter , Lew Cody
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453,407 | 15,896,852 | 59,909 | 7 |
It Could Have Been Me
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The story of an obscene phone caller , herein given the technical term : " The Telephone Psychotic " ; who , it is suggested , follows the natural course taken by these individuals , and becomes a homicidal killer . That does seem like a stretch , but the content of the calls certainly points in that direction . And , some of the discourse rings true . The ( believable ) fact that the obscene caller probably knows his victim makes it a more frightening . There are a lot of problems with the story ; mainly , it really isn't about an obscene " Telephone Psychotic " caller ; rather , it is about a stalker who uses to phone . Sal Mineo ( as Lawrence " Larry " Sherman ) creates an interesting character ; but , his considerable abilities as an actor do not equate with the inferior material . Mr . Mineo is , of course , the stalker . The film's structure seems to " tease " a little about the stalker's identity ; but , it is fairly obvious from the opening credits . Could the very fit young man , clad in tight briefs , possibly be co-star Jan Murray ( as Dave Madden ) ? Mineo's well-defined body is displayed very prominently throughout the film . And , he is photographed in a manner usually reserved , relatively speaking , for attractive female performers . The climax for Mineo watchers will be the pool scene occurring after his gym workout . Be sure to look for uncut prints , because the scene is trimmed in cut versions . Not to be left out , beautiful Juliet Prowse ( the object of his affection ) has a couple of sexy underwear scenes of her own ; but , they are not as lovingly shot as Mineo's . After the camera admires Mineo's body , so does Ms . Prowse ; and , she tells him , point-blank , that he has a great body . The two of them , although they are supposed to be in cinematic opposition ( stalker / victim ) are great together . Whether flirting , dancing , or struggling , they display great synergy . Elaine Stritch ( as Marian Freeman ) is another in the cast who deserved a better production . Ms . Stritch has been quoted as explaining , " I was a lesbian owner of a disco who fell in love with Juliet Prowse and got strangled on 93rd Street and East End Avenue with a silk stocking by Sal Mineo . Now who's not going to play to play that part ? " Stritch gets to tell Prowse , " I dig soft things , " and makes a small pass at the young woman ( her employee , by the way ) . Prowse's character overreacts , which leads directly to Stritch's death . Also disturbing ( probably intentionally ) is officer Murray's 10-year-old daughter listening in on her father's sex tapes . When she sees Prowse , she asks her dad , " Is she a hooker ? " This parallels a situation in Mineo's home . In fact , Mineo , Murray , and Stritch's characters are related to each other in symbolic ways ; and , they all desire Prowse ( who desires Mineo ) . At least , the story is an interesting failure . The New York City locations are great ; the movie brought Michael Chapman to filmdom . The dancing of Sal Mineo and high-heeled Juliet Prowse during the " It Could Have Been Me " song is a swimming classic ( or , should have been ) . Who Killed Teddy Bear ( 1965 ) Joseph Cates - Sal Mineo , Juliet Prowse , Elaine Stritch
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452,938 | 15,896,852 | 374,252 | 7 |
Ballad of a Thin Man
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To celebrate the coming of age eighteen , boyish virgin Andre Noble ( as Cliff ) hits the streets , with a bottle of vodka and a joint . His nighttime cruising leads Mr . Noble directly to handsome bisexual hustler Brendan Fehr ( as Butch ) . For Noble , it's love at first sight - but , Mr . Fehr has locked his closet with drugs and denial . Can two gay young men find love in a repressive society ? The answer to that question should be obvious ( which is unfortunate on more than one level ) . Although you can't ( as yet ) rattle off a series of mega-popular " coming of age " gay romances , the topic has been approached enough to make much of what happens in " Sugar " expected . But , the film is so well cast , and covers most of its ground so believably ( based on stories told by Bruce La Bruce ) , it overcomes the predictable . John Palmer's " Sugar " is sweetest when Noble and Fehr are interacting on screen - it's a typical " anti-romance " ; but , the two play it as well as James Dean and Sal Mineo might have . Little sister Haylee Wanstall ( as Cookie ) and mom Marnie McPhail ( as Madge ) are an unimaginably kwel family . Some graphic sexual content is integral to the film - one standout scene involves Fehr compassionately satisfying an obese woman ( Pat Butcher ) - another ( with Michael Riley ) illustrates Fehr's inability to " legitimately " consummate his love for Noble . They are filmed well ; but , was it really necessary to have everyone except the two lead actors go full frontal in the limo ? In a tragedy having nothing to do with the plot of " Sugar " , Noble died , shortly after its premiere . He would have , obviously , had additional success as an actor . Fehr bravely essays his role as the object of Noble's affection . By the way , his question to Noble about the " last time " is his directive / permission to move on . . . " We had fun , didn't we ? " Yeah , it might have been a little scary , but it was fun . Sugar ( 2004 ) John Palmer - Andre Noble , Brendan Fehr , Haylee Wanstall
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452,520 | 15,896,852 | 16,655 | 7 |
Lon Chaney Gets Bent Out of Shape
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London's Limehouse District , " with its lust , greed , and love , " lightly blankets its citizens in a sea of fog . There , ambidextrous Lon Chaney ( as Dan Tate ) successfully spends his nights thieving as " The Blackbird " ; and , otherwise , masquerading as his own benevolent , but deformed , brother " The Bishop " . Mr . Chaney likes to visit the local pub , where he falls for charming French entertainer Renée Adorée ( as Fifi Lorraine ) . But , Ms . Adorée also attracts suave Owen Moore ( as Bertram P . Glayde ) . Mr . Moore is a rival crook , who goes by the name " West End Bertie " . So , conniving Chaney uses his respectable " Bishop " disguise to come between the increasingly more successful Adorée-Moore romance . This is a formulaic Browning / Chaney film , featuring one of the versatile actor's lesser " disguises " . For his transformation , Cheney twists an arm and a leg out of shape . It's more difficult than it looks to walk around in the disjointed position . Of course , Chaney's performance is outstanding . In particular , watch his reaction shots , which are incredibly accurate in mirroring whatever he is looking at , or reacting to . Co-stars Moore and Adorée also shine . Adorée had just been seen in " The Big Parade " , and Moore has one of his meatier 1920s roles . Also enjoyable is Doris Lloyd ( as " Limehouse " Polly ) , the ex-wife who loves Chaney . The Blackbird ( 1926 ) Tod Browning - Lon Chaney , Owen Moore , Renée Adorée
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453,225 | 15,896,852 | 51,337 | 7 |
There Were Giants in the Earth
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Kerwin Mathews ( as Sinbad ) and his crew must undertake a dangerous mission , at the behest of Magician Torin Thatcher ( as Sokurah ) . In return , the sorcerer promises to restore Mr . Mathews ' shrunken fiancée Kathryn Grant ( as Princess Parisa ) to normal size . Among other daring feats , Mathews must retrieve an eggshell from the Roc , a giant two-headed bird . Boy Genie Richard Eyer ( as Baronni ) is around , when summoned , to help out . Ray Harryhausen's special effects are the acknowledged " star " ; but , most of the cast , led by the heroic Mathews and the villainous Thatcher , are perfect . The color photography ( Wilkie Cooper ) and soundtrack ( Bernard Herrmann ) are also outstanding . Overall , the film's story lacks a certain cohesiveness , however ; and , the skeletal duel near the film's end was notably outdone , by the filmmakers ' own " Jason and the Argonauts " ( 1963 ) . Still , " The 7th Voyage of Sinbad " serves up classic afternoon adventure . Especially memorable is Harryhausen's hungry Cyclops ; literally , he's a creature to die for .
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452,625 | 15,896,852 | 13,140 | 8 |
A Woman and Her Money Are Soon Parted
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Three Russian aristocrats lease a villa from which they can luxuriously enjoy Monte Carlo . They are : maid-pinching Maude George ( as Princess Olga Petchnikoff ) , blonde-wigged Mae Busch ( as Princess Vera Petchnikoff ) , and monocled lady-killer Erich von Stroheim ( as Count Wladislaw Sergius Karamzin ) . You should also keep an eye on their foolish maid , Dale Fuller ( as Maruschka ) . Mr . von Stroheim is the film's star , director , and writer . It becomes obvious the trio are really counterfeiting con artists . The gang of three are intrigued by the notice of the arrival of American Envoy Rudolph Christians ( as Andrew J . Hughes ) and his wife Miss DuPont ( as Helen ) ; they decide to strike up a societal acquaintanceship with the Americans , to help provide cover for their swindling . Then , von Stroheim shows Ms . DuPont his stiff cane , and give her bare legs a leer ? Have a great laugh when Ms . DuPont , while applying her face cream , declares she is twenty-one years old ; husband's reply he that is a sun-burned forty-one shows he can shave off years with the best of them . Mr . Christians died during the production , and his white-haired replacement , back to the camera , is obvious ; with all the expense obviously spent on " Foolish Wives " , it's difficult to understand why von Stroheim could not add a little bit of cheap shoe polish to Robert Edeson's head . There are other problems with the story , which was brutally cut down from a multi-hour epic . Still , the studio heads could not cut the neither the length of von Stroheim's cigarettes , nor the fact that his ( vanity ) production of " Foolish Wives " retains its spectacle .
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453,722 | 15,896,852 | 462,504 | 8 |
Better Run Through the Jungle
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In 1965 , an American pilot on a top-secret bombing mission was shot down over Laos and taken to a hellish prison camp deep in the impenetrable jungle of Vietnam . What followed was one of the most remarkable and harrowing experiences of the entire Vietnam War . Inspired by the true story of Dieter Dengler ( Christian Bale ) and written and directed by internationally acclaimed filmmaker Werner Herzog , ' Rescue Dawn ' is an uncanny tale of camaraderie and betrayal , courage in the face of despair , and triumph over tragedy . It stands as a true testament to the impossible boundaries of the human condition and the invincibility of the American spirit , according to the official synopsis . " Empty that which is full . Fill that which is empty . " As it is based on a true story , Werner Herzog's " Rescue Dawn " is convincing in its characterization of " Dieter Dengler " and his experiences as a Vietnam War POW . The jungle ( Thailand for Laos ) setting and nameless Asian extras give the film a very realistic landscape . And , fictionalized " artistic license " is in capable hands with Mr . Herzog , photographer Peter Zeitlinger , and editor Joe Bini . Oddly , there isn't much to suggest the 1965-set film couldn't have taken place in 1985 or 2005 - the World Series is briefly mentioned , but nobody mentions JFK , Cassius Clay , James Bond , or the Beatles ; and , there are no soundtrack hits ( the music , by Klaus Badelt , is absolutely a plus , though ) . " Let the people know my wisdom . Fill the land with smoke . " Criticisms do not detract from the story , however , which is elevated from a Vietnam War movie to a more universal story of conflict , friendship , and survival . The setting is secondary to the characters ' relationships , and the triumph of the human spirit . Mr . Bale and the cast embody rather than act their characters . As fellow prisoners maddeningly afflicted with more years in the POW camp , Steve Zahn ( as Duane Martin ) and Jeremy Davies ( as Gene DeBruin ) are best supporting actors . The scene where Bale hallucinates returning Mr . Zhan's shoe quite effectively illustrates the guilt , love , and madness of war . Rescue Dawn ( / 06 ) Werner Herzog - Christian Bale , Steve Zahn , Jeremy Davies
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452,359 | 15,896,852 | 47,849 | 8 |
Stranger in Town
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Spencer Tracy is an old one-armed man who goes to town in " Bad Day at Black Rock " . He wants to give a medal to an old war buddy's father ( who saved his life ) . I was a little confused by this backstory ; I wondered why everyone didn't just tell Mr . Tracy his friend's father passed away . Now , that I think about it , I'm sure the filmmakers must have wanted us to think Tracy's character was much younger . That , and one of Tracy's almost super-human feats , are the film's major flaws . Otherwise , it's great . Tracy's performance carried the film - he is an immediate visual intrusion on this old western-style town ; instead of western gear , he wears a regular suit . Although it's a dark suit , Tracy's performance relays the fact that he is the " good guy " . John Sturges does an excellent job directing ; I've seen the Sturges credit on a number of films , and believe this may be his best . Robert Ryan and the citizens of Black Rock work very well indeed with Sturges and Tracy . This is a film I'm looking forward to seeing again . Bad Day at Black Rock ( 1955 ) John Sturges - Spencer Tracy , Robert Ryan , Anne Francis
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453,142 | 15,896,852 | 316,654 | 8 |
Tobey Maguire's Back , Spinning Another Web
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The " Spider-Man 2 " movie is just a shade better than the first - which , in series films , is a cause for tremendous celebration . Happily , producers were able to pay director Sam Raimi and his main cast however many millions of dollars they needed . . . Also , the first film's " special effects " ( however well done ) seemed too startlingly change from live action to animation . This is still fairly obvious , but done much more smoothly ; and , the " Dr . Octopus " villain costume is a cinematic success . Like they say , " ( special effects director John ) Frazier is especially effective ( along with over a hundred helpers ) . " Allowing for a comic book aficionado to be a little too critical , it does seem like an extraordinary amount of time is spent on illustrating the " downtrodden " life of " Peter Parker " ( which is the main plot , I know , but it's a very large chunk of the movie ) . And , although Tobey Maguire ( as Peter Parker ) is wonderful in the role , he and Kirsten Dunst ( as Mary Jane Watson ) aren't going to be able to convincingly play " Peter " and " M . J . " as " teenagers in love " much longer . It will be interesting to see how producers continue this relationship , which seems to be , herein , necessary for " Spider-Man " to remain fully powerful . Alfred Molina ( as Otto Octavius ) rises to the challenge of playing the " visual effects " - enhanced villain role . Handsome " best friend " James Franco ( as Harry Osborn ) returns , to hint at becoming the new " Green Goblin " ; as in the first film , the actor doesn't seem to be used to his potential ( although , it looks like he will get a chance to put on a costume in the next film ) . My " No-Prize Awards " winners include : Elyse Dinh for playing the " friendly neighborhood Spider-Man " theme song , Rosemary Harris for being " Aunt May " , Hal Sparks for being so funny , and Stan Lee for believing in Super-Heroes . Spider-Man 2 ( 2004 ) Sam Raimi - Tobey Maguire , Kirsten Dunst , Alfred Molina
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452,458 | 15,896,852 | 36,962 | 8 |
Writing on the Wall
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It Happened Tomorrow could have stood a better beginning - the choice to introduce the story with elderly Dick Powell and Linda Darnell ( as Larry and Sylvia Smith ) celebrating 50 years of wedded bliss sacrifices the story's surprises . The film does possess the light touch required to make the framing sequence charming . But , director René Clair and Mr . Powell build an unexpectedly good level of suspense regarding Powell's courtship , and mortality . They are so good , you can almost forget how much the opening gives away ? Watch for a thoroughly delightful ( and unfortunately rare ) performance by sagely John Philliber ( as " Pop " Benson ) . He plays the keeper of the " Evening News " " morgue " ( a place where newspapers keep obituaries and other files ) . Possibly , Mr . Philliber had read his own notice ; he died in 1944 . Powell was also able to read the writing on the wall , and saved his fledgling career by pursuing more interesting roles ( like this one ) . Jackie Oakie and Edgar Kennedy are also on board . A subtle celebration of life , and its mysteries . It Happened Tomorrow ( / 44 ) René Clair - Dick Powell , Linda Darnell , John Philliber
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452,573 | 15,896,852 | 70,510 | 8 |
It's Only Make Believe
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In depression-era Kansas , Bible selling con man Ryan O'Neal ( as Moses Pray ) takes 10-year-old Tatum O'Neal ( as Addie Loggins ) from her mother's funeral , to locate an aunt in Missouri . Along the way , the father and daughter figures find something more important . Peter Bogdanovich's direction , László Kovács ' beautiful black and white photography , and the nostalgic soundtrack help put " Paper Moon " over . The O'Neals are at their very best - - full advantage of their genetic harmony is taken ; and , it's not an idea that always works , on screen . Madeline Kahn ( as Trixie Delight ) heads up an outstanding supporting cast . Mr . Bogdanovich's vision of Joe David Brown's " Paper Moon " may not always find its place on the " comedy-drama " scale ; but , it's still an excellent film . Paper Moon ( 1973 ) Peter Bogdanovich - Ryan O'Neal , Tatum O'Neal , Madeline Kahn
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453,646 | 15,896,852 | 65,126 | 8 |
Something to Crow About
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Former outlaw John Wayne ( as " Rooster " Cogburn ) is one tough U . S . Marshall . He is , however , one-eyed , overweight , old , and ( probably ) alcoholic . That doesn't matter to Kim Darby ( as Mattie Ross ) , because Mr . Wayne has " ? grit , true grit " . So , Ms . Darby gives him $25 . 00 to catch the man who murdered her father . To catch the killer , Wayne teams up with Glen Campbell ( as " La Boeuf " ) , a Texas Ranger who is also interested in capturing elusive Jeff Corey ( as Tom Chaney ) . The men are reluctantly saddled with young Darby ; and , the three set out on an increasingly dangerous hunt ? " True Grit " features one of the best later decades Wayne characterizations , showing how well the actor could handle a good role , when one was provided . Another reason for the film's success is the contrast of Wayne with plucky Darby , who serves as both business partner and thematic nemesis . Wayne knew his box office power was kept high with " generation gap " casts ; and , " Grit " is further enhanced by Mr . Campbell , the then hot young country singer . Even better , in hindsight , are gun-swingers Robert Duvall and Dennis Hopper . Marguerite Roberts ' screenplay and Lucien Ballard's cinematography are first class . You've got to see Darby horse-trading with Strother Martin . And , Wayne's meeting with his " Four Horsemen " is classic .
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453,479 | 15,896,852 | 407,304 | 8 |
Lightning Strikes Twice
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Get ready for a wild ride with the Steven Spielberg " DreamWorks " production team , in this high quality revision of H . G . Wells ' " War of the Worlds " . For this invasion , the story has been updated to focus on the family changes which have become most dominant over the decades since the successful 1953 version . So , the central figure , Tom Cruise ( as Ray Ferrier ) , is not a doctor , but a more ordinary New Jersey dock worker . And , the lead character played by Mr . Cruise is made much more interesting by the fact that he is a divorced man , who is somewhat estranged from his children . Instead of the expected " hot romance " , you have the drama unfolding around the bonding of Cruise and his children . Of course , a lot of disbelief suspension is required , especially in this type of film ; but , the updated situation is refreshing , and believable . When the film begins , Cruise's ex-wife drops off the couple's two children while she goes off to spend some time with her new husband , and parents , in Boston . The children are played well , by Justin Chatwin ( Robbie Ferrier ) and Dakota Fanning ( Rachel Ferrier ) . There is a point ( foreshadowed twice ) where Mr . Chatwin leaves the action ; it seems like a flaw in the storytelling ; but , it does work out quite well . The " son " is replaced by Tim Robbins ( as Harlan Ogilvy ) , in some scenes which would not have worked with the original threesome . Cruise deserves some particular praise , for his performance . He is especially good after suffering a loss , then taking refuge in Mr . Robbins ' basement ; observe his fight to overcome madness , and protect his daughter , in the bowels of the Earth . Cruise's tearful rendition of " Little Deuce Coupe " is one of the film's most memorable moments ; and , it involves no observable " special effect " . The alien " special effects " are fantastic . John Williams is outstanding . Reserving comments on minor difficulties which would reveal too much ; ( except , the narration was unnecessary ) ; the " War of the Worlds " is excellent entertainment . War of the Worlds ( 2005 ) Steven Spielberg - Tom Cruise , Dakota Fanning , Justin Chatwin
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453,130 | 15,896,852 | 38,975 | 8 |
Some Must Watch
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A serial murderer is on the loose , in a New England town . The killer's latest victim succumbs as maid / companion Dorothy McGuire ( as Helen ) enjoys one of the town theater's latest silent movie " flickers " , directed by D . W . Griffith . Her employers , the wealthy Warren family , believe Ms . McGuire's life is in danger , as she is a mute ; and , all the victims have suffered from a disability . Their concerns are , of course , dead on . " The Spiral Staircase " is as unpredictable as the sunrise ; and , McGuire's physical condition , ( presumably , she's a self-inflicted mute ) strains credulity to extreme limits - but , the film's direction , performances , and overall style are so well-done , it doesn't matter . Director Robert Siodmak and star McGuire are beautifully matched . Steadfast George Brent ( as Albert Warren ) and nipping Elsa Lanchester ( as Mrs . Oates ) lead the charge , in choice roles . But , Ethel Barrymore ( as Mrs . Warren ) is especially commanding ; she acts up a storm , though confined to a sick bed . Barrymore's cranky , creepy , and perceptive performance is the film's most riveting . By the way , the silent film McGuire sees during the opening murder is not " The Kiss " , but " The Sands of Dee " ( 1912 ) , starring Mae Marsh and Robert Harron . Ms . Marsh does receive a fateful kiss in the old film , but it is not shown . " The Spiral Staircase " picks up with Marsh being thrown out of the house by her parents , after a fling with a painter . Mr . Harron is the young man who frantically searches for his departed love . Harron was one of the 1910s best actors ( perhaps the best ) ; and , the emotions he helps elicit from McGuire's " Helen " ring true . The Spiral Staircase ( 1945 ) Robert Siodmak - Dorothy McGuire , George Brent , Ethel Barrymore
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453,081 | 15,896,852 | 337,921 | 8 |
Get Larry Cohen on the Line
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What if someone's life was literally on the line and the power to save them was totally in your hands ? For Ryan ( Chris Evans ) , the choice begins with a frantic call from Jessica Martin ( Kim Basinger ) . Having been kidnapped at gunpoint and locked in an undisclosed attic , Jessica pleads with Ryan to get help before her abductors return to kill her . With no way of knowing where she is , and with the battery in his cell dying quickly , Ryan is plunged into a relentless , high-stakes thrill ride through a world of lies and murder in this riveting , adrenaline-pumping suspense thriller , according to the film's official synopsis . So many movies attempt to do what " Cellular " does , and so many fail . This film has everything you need in an " adrenaline-pumping suspense thriller . " Director David R . Ellis , editor Eric Sears , and their production crew know exactly what they're producing . It's a roller-coaster ride of excitement . The film's pace is ideal ; and , the story always manages to stay a step ahead of you ( which is absolutely essential in a film of this type ) . The " revelation " about what is happening to the Martin family stays just out of reach when it needs to , and enhances the action when it's discovered . Writers Larry Cohen and Chris Morgan come up with some great plot-enhancing uses for the cell phone . It's interesting that Mr . Cohen wrote the excellent " Phone Booth " ( 2002 ) , which kept its hero ( Colin Farrell ) inside an antiquated telephone booth , while " Cellular " has its hero ( Chris Evans ) racing all around Los Angeles , on a modern cell phone . Obviously , Cohen knows his phones . Handsome young Evans and beautifully aging Kim Basinger are sexy and captivating ; and , William H . Macy ( as Bob Mooney ) leads a super-supporting cast . Listen for Evans ' ending line to Ms . Basinger - it's a perfect coda . Cellular ( / 04 ) David R . Ellis - Chris Evans , Kim Basinger , William H . Macy
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453,523 | 15,896,852 | 26,174 | 8 |
Errol Flynn in His Star-Making Turns
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Errol Flynn ( as Peter Blood ) is a doctor who quite rightly helps Rebels against Royalty and is condemned to slavery for his offense ; he is bought by Olivia de Havilland ( as Arabella ) , to serve her ruthless Uncle Lionel Atwell ( as Colonel Bishop ) . Soon , " Doctor Blood " escapes to become swashbuckling pirate " Captain Blood " . Mr . Flynn is remarkably new and good in this film ; though he is made-up , he is not made-over - so , his naturalness is stunning . Understandably , the studio outfitted him more and more into these roles ; while they are great , you will see a much more natural performance from Flynn in this film . Ms . de Havilland is likewise new and good ; together , they get magical - assisted by Michael Curtiz ' direction and Hal Mohr's photography . There are some wittily written passages , and a crew of sporting supporting Pirates . While the action sequences will pale by today's standards , the film's pluses will remain timeless . Some asides : I expected scriptwriters to bump off Ross Alexander ( as Jeremy Pitt ) ; he is the best supporting actor , and I was pleasantly surprised by the character's treatment . I don't mind most flaws , but supposedly dead bodies opening their eyes is one that bothers me ; watch for a certain character to open his eyes after death ; specifically , when the second ocean waves over his body ( WHY didn't they just cut out the second wave ? ) Captain Blood ( 1935 ) Michael Curtiz - Errol Flynn , Olivia de Havilland , Ross Alexander
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452,502 | 15,896,852 | 2,082 | 8 |
Robert Harron Gets the Third Degree
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Entertaining early film , directed by D . W . Griffith ; " Representing the manipulation of the third degree - the fallacy of circumstantial evidence " ! Herein , the third degree is issued to young burglar Robert Harron , who protests so loudly " I didn't do it ! " you can almost hear him shout . The set-up is terrific : Weak brother Henry B . Walthall lives with older and stronger Lionel Barrymore . Meanwhile , burglar Harron is goaded by older crook Harry Carey to go out and rob somebody . He will go to rob Barrymore . BUT , before he gets there , a drunken Walthall has had enough of brother Barrymore , and pops him one . When Harron arrives to rob the place , Walthall decides to frame Harron for the murder of his brother . To wit , Walthall leaves Harron locked in the house , and runs for the police . So , Griffith sets out to prove what he calls , " The fallacy of circumstantial evidence . " The film is a lot of fun - - especially in the performances of Harron , Walthall , and Barrymore . The Gish sisters have a cameo . Note how Griffith sets up a parallel between the two sets of men . " The Burglar's Dilemma " ends a little too quickly , and gives away too much , but it's still excellent . The Burglar's Dilemma ( 1912 ) D . W . Griffith - Robert Harron , Henry B Walthall , Lionel Barrymore
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452,759 | 15,896,852 | 17,423 | 8 |
A Child Shall Lead Them
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An introduction explains : " The Devil's share in the world's creation was a certain swampland , a masterpiece of horror ; and the Lord , appreciating a good job , let it stand . " The Devil's swampland is where Mary Pickford ( as Molly ) lives , with some orphans and a baby . Ms . Pickford has managed to avoid being thrown in the swamp , over the years , and has assumed the role of " Mother " to the young children . They are kept , as " baby farm " slaves , by wicked Gustav von Seyffertitz ( as Mr . Grimes ) . Mr . von Seyffertitz , Charlotte Mineau ( as Mrs . Grimes ) and Spec O'Donnell ( as son Ambrose ) make a frightfully wicked family . Pickford employs too many of the girlish pouts and lip-twisting grimaces to make this one of her best characterizations ; playing " Molly " as a young woman of indeterminate age would have been fine ( something Pickford would do in her next film , the extraordinary " My Best Girl " ) . Otherwise , the Pickford persona works . As might be expected , the production is first class . Harry Oliver's swampy set is magnificent . The direction of William Beaudine and photography of Charles Rosher , Hal Mohr , and Karl Struss likewise superb . The too long conclusion is noticeably anti-climatic . The special effects and editing are still convincing viewers that Pickford and the children were in some kind of danger during the " alligator-infested swamp escape " sequence . In Booten Herndon's " Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks " ( 1977 ) Mr . Mohr explains , " There wasn't an alligator within ten miles of Miss Pickford . Do people think we were crazy ? I shot that scene myself ? It was hard work for all of us , but the only thing those alligators came close to biting was a chunk of horsemeat . " Fewer people questioned Pickford's meeting with Jesus Christ , in an earlier scene .
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453,166 | 15,896,852 | 17,419 | 8 |
Light and Dark Shadows from D . W . Griffith
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In the film's prelude , Lucifer is thrown out of Heaven , after rebelling against God's creation of " man in His divine image . " Lucifer is forced to change his name to Satan , and is cursed to forever " tempt the sons of men to sin against the God who made you both ! " Redemption is offered : " Only when all men turn from thee , canst thou resume thy glorious place at God's right hand ? for every soul that resists thee , thou shalt have one hour at the gates of Paradise ! " The prelude is significant ; it sets Satan up as a cursed , sympathetic villain . He is awarded an hour close to Paradise for every soul who resists his compelling ( and compelled , by God ! ) invitation to sin . This sets up one of the film's greatest sequences , the resisting of temptation , by Carol Dempster ( as Mavis Claire ) , upon meeting Adolphe Menjou ( as Prince Lucio de Rimanez ) at a party . But , first , director D . W . Griffith introduces the more luckless and susceptible protagonist , Ricardo Cortez ( as Geoffrey Tempest ) . Mr . Cortez is a poverty-stricken writer , living in the " humble quarter of a great old city " . His boarding house is inhabited by another struggling writer , the self-described not " too beautiful " Ms . Dempster ; she lives across the hall . Cortez is initially interested in Dempster for sex , but she is falling in love . The first part of the film deals with the convergence of their interests . The culmination is very well relayed by Dempster and Cortez - you can witness passion entering Dempster's thoughts as Cortez becomes love-struck . All seems to be going well for the couple . But , on the eve of wedding , Cortez is fired from his job writing book reviews . His boss explains , " We find you condemn books that every one likes , and praise books that no one likes . " Cortez curses God , triggering the thundering , Faustian appearance of Mr . Menjou , as Satan . Cortez receives the spellbinding news that a previously unknown uncle has made him " one of the richest men in the world . " Menjou thwarts Cortez ' efforts to share his luxurious news with Dempster ; instead , providing him with sexy cigarette-sucking vamps , like Lya De Putti ( as Olga Godovsky ) . Meanwhile , Dempster sinks into depression . In her despair , she turns to God ( Lord Christ ) . So , Dempster is able to resist Menjou's invitation to wickedness - the great Griffith sequence alluded to above occurs ; and , it is lighted , directed , and performed extraordinarily well , by Griffith and company . The film's sets , backgrounds , lighting , and photography are exceptional throughout . Admittedly , Griffith spends too much time on making the opening stark , staid , and ordinary . And , the film's pace is slow , with too few edited breaks . Still , " The Sorrows of Satan " is an excellent film . And , it's more faithful to writer Marie Corelli's original works than Carl Theodor Dreyer's more freely adapted " Blade af Satans bog " ( 1921 ) . Interestingly , both Griffith and Dryer bring forth Corelli's popularized view of Satan as a sympathetic entity , cursed by God . More interestingly , Griffith produces a relatively ordinary picture , while Dryer's film patterns itself after Griffith's opulent " Intolerance " ( 1916 ) , which had little to do with Corelli . Finally , unrelated to the film , but nonetheless noteworthy , this was the last product of the Griffith / Dempster partnership . The Sorrows of Satan ( 1926 ) D . W . Griffith - Ricardo Cortez , Carol Dempster , Adolphe Menjou
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453,286 | 15,896,852 | 61,385 | 8 |
Dancing Barefoot
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Jane Fonda ( she's Corie ) and Robert Redford ( he's Paul ) are a deliriously happy newlywed couple who begin their wedded days in a modest five-flight high New York City walk-up apartment . Her mother , Mildred Natwick , is their most frequent visitor ; she becomes involved with neighbor in the attic Charles Boyer . This film is a BIG improvement over Ms . Fonda's previous New York City situation comedies " Sunday in New York " ( 1963 ) and " Any Wednesday " ( 1966 ) . The " situation " isn't sexual ( it's mainly the apartment ) , and the material is much better . Fonda and Mr . Redford are fine , and supporters Ms . Natwick and Mr . Boyer are a delight to watch . You can't help but wonder : how are all these people exhausted by five flights , with the possible exception of Boyer ? I also worried , more than laughed , about Natwick falling . Still , " Barefoot in the Park " is a well-done comedy with a satisfying ending . If you are familiar with the 1966-1971 TV program " Dark Shadows " , watch Redford's performance closely . He reminded me of Joel Crothers ' role of " Joe Haskell " . Both Redford and Crothers played Neil Simon's " Paul " on Broadway , and I would say Mr . Crothers brought some of that character to his role on " Dark Shadows " . Barefoot in the Park ( 1967 ) Gene Saks - Jane Fonda , Robert Redford , Mildred Natwick
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453,434 | 15,896,852 | 37,059 | 8 |
Home is Where the Heart Is
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Judy Garland ( star ) and Vincente Minnelli ( director ) team-up for a classic MGM musical . Ms . Garland is the focus of the camera's attention as part of a sweet St . Louis family ; with younger sister Margaret O'Brien following close behind . The other players are suitably supporting . The film is beautifully photographed , with extraordinary colorful sets and locations . This " Smith Family of St . Louis " is a studio " creation " , and probably looks like no actual St . Louis town that ever existed - - but , that is irrelevant . The film's musical numbers are very strong , with " Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas " my choice the highlight ( it's nearer the end of the film ) . " The Trolley Song " and title song are not far behind . Garland performs them perfectly . I thought the song " You and I " was very much like the song " True Love " - - it seems like one swiped the other . Ms . O'Brien is both sweet and tearful , holding her own with a stellar cast . She played the role wonderfully , but I was distracted by some of her character's actions . I have been through a lot of Halloweens , but never like the one O'Brien experiences . Perhaps that is how the evening was celebrated ? I found it strange , even with her " bad girl " tendencies . Note also the film as a message curiously similar to " The Wizard of Oz " . Meet Me in St . Louis ( 1944 ) Vincente Minnelli - Judy Garland , Margaret O'Brien , Mary Astor
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452,887 | 15,896,852 | 15,136 | 8 |
The Victor
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Master painter Benjamin Christensen ( as Claude Zoret ) doesn't like the sketches offered for review by budding artist Walter Slezak ( as Michael ) ; instead , he asks the attractive young man to become his model . Mr . Christensen takes a liking to Mr . Slezak ; and , soon , they are like father and son . Then , an alluring woman arrives to request Christensen paint her portrait . Young Slezak is attracted to his benefactor's feminine model , Nora Gregor ( as Countess Zamikoff ) ; and , the young models begin an affair . Christensen becomes despondent over the loss of his ward's attentions . While carrying on with Ms . Gregor , Slezak takes increasing advantage of Christensen's generosity . Will the old painter cut him off ? The homosexuality currently heralded to be found in Carl Theodor Dreyer ' " Michael " is so subtle it's almost invisible . The Christensen-Slezak couplings must have occurred during their time in Algiers , which is over when the film begins . An even earlier affair , between Christensen and Robert Garrison ( as Charles Switt ) , is a little clearer . It's nice to see cinematographer Karl Freund ( as M . Leblanc ) , the art dealer who informs Christensen that Slezak is endeavoring to sell " The Victor " , a painting which symbolizes their once close relationship . " Michael " requires more concentration than your average silent ; to help , the overall production is excellent . Michael ( 1924 ) Carl Theodor Dreyer - Benjamin Christensen , Walter Slezak , Nora Gregor
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453,608 | 15,896,852 | 41,587 | 8 |
Special Delivery
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Joseph L . Mankiewicz ' beautifully directed , and wittily written , tale of post-1940s America begins with " A Letter to Three Wives " : " Dearest Debby , Lora Mae , and Rita - As you know , by now , you'll have to carry on without me from here . It isn't easy to leave a town like our town , to tear myself away from you three dear , dear friends who have meant so much to me . And so , I consider myself extremely lucky to be able to take with me a sort of memento , something to remind me always of the town that was my home . And , of my three very dearest friends , whom I want never to forget . And , I won't . You see - girls - I've run off with one of your husbands . - Addie " The three troubled wives are : World War II veteran " W . A . V . E " Jeanne Crain ( as Deborah Bishop ) , beautiful gold-digging Linda Darnell ( as Lora Mae Hollingsway ) , and radio career " gal " Ann Sothern ( as Rita Phipps ) . Fetching narrator Celeste Holm ( as Addie Ross ) professes to have absconded with one of her three " dearest " friends ' husbands : Is it charming schoolteacher Kirk Douglas ( as George Phipps ) , rich and forceful Paul Douglas ( as Porter Hollingsway ) , or young and worldly Jeffrey Lynn ( as Bradford Bishop ) ? Under Mankiewicz ' expert direction , the wedded six perform very well . The couples have , arguably , less " chemistry " than you might expect ; however , this helps suspend disbelief regarding the film's plot . At times , the unrelated Douglas actors ( Paul and Kirk ) seem to be the " voice " of Mankiewicz ; and , their parts are expertly performed . The women are all terrific . The three lead actresses receive fantastic support from Connie Gilchrist ( as Ruby Finney ) , Florence Bates ( as Mrs . Manleigh ) , and Thelma Ritter ( as Sadie Dugan ) . Ms . Ritter , in an early role , was not credited ; but , her role is substantial . And , it was nice to see Mae Marsh in a small role . Unfortunately , the film's eagerly anticipated ending is a little weak . A Letter to Three Wives ( 1949 ) Joseph L . Mankiewicz - Jeanne Crain , Linda Darnell , Ann Sothern
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452,902 | 15,896,852 | 2,473 | 8 |
Surf's Up
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Robert Harron's performance from " The Sands of Dee " is showcased in Dore Schary's 1945 box office hit " The Spiral Staircase " , starring Dorothy McGuire . In the film's opening , Ms . McGuire is at a nickelodeon , thrilled by Mr . Harron's desperate search for his lost love ; meanwhile , a serial murderer is claiming Myra Dell . It appears as if a superior print of D . W . Griffith's " The Sands of Dee " was used in the Dore Schary-produced film ; so , where is it ? Before the events projected in " The Spiral Staircase " , Harron ( as Bobby ) is rejected by leading lady Mae Marsh ( as Mary ) . Ms . Marsh forsakes Harron's boyish charms for sophisticated painter Edwin August , after Mr . August flatters her , and steals a kiss . Harron wanders sadly along the beach , and slumps over some rocks . Marsh is happy with her new love , but finds the fickle finger of fate pointing her toward tragedy ? Director Griffith and photographer G . W . Bitzer create beautiful seaside location images . Marsh and Harron perform expertly together ; and , audiences longed to see them reunited . Charles Hill Mailes and Grace Henderson are notable , among the always dependable Griffith stable of supporting players . The poetic on-screen story is a believable adaptation of Charles Kingsley's original , simpler poem . The Sands of Dee ( 1912 ) D . W . Griffith - Mae Marsh , Robert Harron , Edwin August
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452,460 | 15,896,852 | 30,378 | 8 |
Billy Halop leads " The Dead End Kids " to Universal
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In their third team appearance , " The ' Dead End ' Kids " are : Billy Halop ( as Johnny Boylan ) , Huntz Hall ( as " Pig " ) , Gabriel Dell ( as " String " ) , Bernard Punsly ( as " Ape " ) , Hal E . " Hally " Chester ( as " Dopey " ) , and David Gorcey ( as " Sniper " ) . After this film , Universal Pictures , the third of several studios to cash in on the Kids ' popularity , adopted " Little Tough Guys " as a series co-title ; possibly , in case United Artists or Warner Brothers legally challenged their use of " Dead End Kids " . In this film " Little Tough Guy " refers to Mr . Halop only , the leader of the pack . Universal was only able to obtain four original " Dead Enders " for their first outing ; so , substituting for Bobby Jordan and Leo Gorcey , and making their first appearances as members of the expanding " Bowery " team , are " Hally " Chester and David Gorcey ( Leo's brother ) . Both would continue with the group . Brat packer Jackie Searl ( as Cyril Gerrard ) , who not only joins , but also takes over as " Little Tough Guys " leader , would only make a couple of peripheral reappearances . Herein , his snobbishness balances the grim and gritty quite nicely . Although you wouldn't expect it , this is one of the best " little " films in the whole " Dead End-East Side-Bowery Kid " cache . The plot is fairly typical , but handled well - Halop's teen angst turns to anger after his father is wrongly arrested , for killing a policeman . Following a miscarriage of justice , Halop soothes his sorrows by descending into a " Dead End " lifestyle . Halop has a firm grasp of this material , and performs the melodrama with his usual expertise . Another cast member tuning in an excellent performance is matronly Marjorie Main ( as Mrs . Boylan ) . A keen actress , Ms . Main gives her " mother " character an almost unseemly underbelly . Note how Main's " theatrics " fit perfectly with the lines her children address her with : daughter Helen Parish ( as Kay Boylan ) says , " Oh Mom , quit acting , " and Halop tells Main , " Gee , Ma , you look just like a movie star . " So , Main plays her part as a failed movie star , lamenting her age and poverty . The 1930s New York City interior and exterior sets are terrific . Halop says , " I gotta keep moving , " and director Harold Young fills the running time with a lot of movement - there are people everywhere . Both Young and photographer Elwood Bredell excel . Ms . Parrish and Robert Wilcox ( as Paul Wilson ) are sweet , in the " romantic " adult roles . There are a myriad of extras , with Richard Selzer ( as Bud ) among the " worst dressed " background kids - later , Mr . Selzer became the " Top 10 " fashion conscious " Mr . Blackwell " . Little Tough Guy ( / 38 ) Harold Young - Billy Halop , Jackie Searl , Marjorie Main
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453,597 | 15,896,852 | 37,120 | 8 |
Mrs . Brown You've Got a Lovely Daughter
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Mickey Rooney ( as Mi Taylor ) is a young man drifting along the figurative road to ruin , where he meets 12-year-old Elizabeth Taylor ( as Velvet Brown ) - - she adores horses , but he has a sad history with the animals . Ms . Taylor is enamored with Mr . Rooney's horse-sense ; she takes him home , and gets him room and board with her family . They are supported very well by Anne Revere and Donald Crisp ( as Mr . and Mrs . Brown ) . Butch Jenkins and Angela Lansbury are Taylor's strained siblings . The plot of " National Velvet " is implausible to a fault ; for example , the circumstances leading to Taylor's ride in the " Big Race " are quite a stretch ( but were likely more believable on paper ) . Still , the characters ' connection to horses , and to Ms . Revere's character are nicely conceived . Rooney and Taylor are excellent in the starring roles ; there is a balance between Rooney's fading " child star " and Taylor's exuberant new " child star " , which adds depth to their characterizations . The excellent performances of Rooney and Taylor are further enhanced by fine direction , photography , and editing from Clarence Brown , Leonard Smith , and Robert Kern . A sentimental classic . National Velvet ( 1944 ) Clarence Brown - Mickey Rooney , Elizabeth Taylor , Anne Revere
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453,167 | 15,896,852 | 418,763 | 8 |
Every War Is Different , Every War Is the Same
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Excellently described , on the DVD sleeve : " ' Jarhead ' ( the self-imposed moniker of the Marines ) follows Swoff ( Jake Gyllenhaal ) from a sobering stint in boot camp to active duty , where he sports a sniper rifle through Middle East deserts that provide no cover from the heat or Iraqi soldiers . Swoff and his fellow Marines sustain themselves with sardonic humanity and wicked comedy on blazing desert fields in a country they don't understand against an enemy they can't see for a cause they don't fully grasp . " Sam Mendes ' " Jarhead " very effectively captures the Humor , Fear , and Waiting of War - in this case , George H . Bush's 1991 " Desert Storm " to retrieve Kuwait from Iraq . Certainly , it helped to have adapted the story from participating Marine Anthony Swofford , who was " young and stupid " enough to have " got lost on his way to college , " and volunteered . Of course , neither " Swoff " nor his brothers are really " stupid " . The Marines may not possess knowledge about every subject under the desert sun , but they are human ; and , they are treated with dignity and respect in this film . Mr . Gyllenhaal , Peter Sarsgaard ( as Troy ) , Lucas Black ( as Kruger ) , Brian Geraghty ( as Fergus ) , Jacob Vargas ( as Cortez ) , Laz Alonso ( as Escobar ) , Evan Jones ( as Fowler ) , and Iván Fenyö ( as Pinko ) are a terrific Unit . Jamie Foxx ( as Sykes ) is a perfect Lifer . Keep an eye on Mr . Sarsgaard " Troy " characterization , for a " Best Supporting Actor " caliber performance . Mr . Jones ' " Fowler " is also letter-perfect . And , Roger Deakins ' photography is spectacular . One mistake the film makes is NOT developing some characters fully . Mr . Geraghty's " Fergus " and Mr . Fenyö's " Pinko " absolutely need more minutes on screen , considering their roles ; and , the direction is good enough to warrant a longer running time . A " Director's Cut " , or reading of the book , is necessary . The film doesn't just leave you wanting more , it needs more . Semper Fi , Mr . Swofford ! Jarhead ( 2005 ) Sam Mendes - Jake Gyllenhaal , Peter Sarsgaard , Jamie Fox
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453,015 | 15,896,852 | 39,370 | 8 |
Opportunity Knocks for Loretta Young
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Loretta Young plays a Swedish " Cinderella " who rises from poor Minnesota farm girl to potential Washington official . This is very much a " Star Vehicle " for Ms . Young , and she is remarkable - lifting the routine rags-to-riches story far above the expected . Some of the supporting players seem a little silly - maybe playing caricatures - but , Ethel Barrymore and Charles Bickford are recommended viewing ; and , Young is admirably assisted by Joseph Cotton as " leading man " . There were some surprises in the predictably - at one time , the film looks like it's going to end poorly , but turns around nicely . The production values are relatively high , so ignore the fake snow scene . Surprisingly , the behind-the-scenes political dealings pulled few punches , with Ms . Barrymore's presence strongly felt . A much better film than expected . The Farmer's Daughter ( 1947 ) H . C . Potter - Loretta Young , Joseph Cotten , Ethel Barrymore
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452,689 | 15,896,852 | 41,472 | 8 |
Five Bowery Boys and a Baby
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The habitually unemployed " Bowery Boys " are losers at the laundromat ; so , entrepreneurial Leo Gorcey ( as Slip Mahoney ) decides to " take in " laundry , using the spare room at father Bernard ( as " Louie " ) ' s Sweet Shop " . As usual , Mr . Gorcey is amusingly assisted by Huntz Hall ( as Sach De Bussy Jones ) , who fantasizes about " Cynthia " , his department store wax dummy girlfriend . William " Billy " Benedict ( as Whitey ) , Benny " Bennie " Bartlett ( as Butch ) , and David Gorcey ( as Chuck ) are also on hand . During the expected washing machine mishaps , a mysterious woman ( Anabel Shaw ) leaves a baby at " Mahoney Enterprises " . . . " Hold That Baby ! " finds the comedy team of Gorcey & Hall in fine form . Hall's scenes with " Cynthia " are a highlight , along with the entire " Midvale Sanitarium " sequence - watch as quick-thinking Gorcey passes Hall off as a nut-house hopeful , and poses as a bumbling doctor . The Charles R . Marion & George Schnitzer screenplay is excellent ; and , each Jan Grippo performer is perfectly cast , with the entire production running very smoothly . It's ably directed by Reginald Le Borg , and features particularly outstanding appearances by Ida Moore and Florence Auer ( as Faith and Hope Andrews ) , a delightfully greedy old duo . Hold That Baby ! ( / 49 ) Reginald Le Borg - Leo Gorcey , Huntz Hall , Ida Moore
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452,476 | 15,896,852 | 61,107 | 8 |
Alfred Hitchcock Tears it Up
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Paul Newman ( as Michael Armstrong ) and Julie Andrews ( as Sarah Sherman ) are celebrating an early honeymoon , under their bed covers ; it's a good way to stay warm while the Cold War rages , and heating systems fail . Ms . Andrews doesn't know it , but Mr . Newman is preparing to defect to the Soviet Bloc . Further explanation would spoil the plot , which takes both expected and unexpected turns . Alfred Hitchcock's " Tom Curtain " is masterfully directed ; and , the otherwise more sunnily disposed Newman and Andrews are surprisingly effective . Their lesser known supporting players are appropriately chilling - - especially the electrifying Wolfgang Kieling ( as Hermann Gromek ) ; his ghastly expiration scene is a classic . Mr . Hitchcock received a relative bad rap for his " Torn Curtain " ; as , understandably , reviewers held his films to increasingly difficult to attain expectations . Still , Hitchcock and crew create an extraordinary frosty , paranoiac Cold War spy chiller . The film might have been perfected with some additional characterization given for Newman and Andrews to work with ; either or both of their characters might have had an intriguing past relationship with , perhaps , the " Ballerina " ( Tamara Toumanova ) or the " Countess " ( Lila Kedrova ) . As it stands , Mr . Kieling and others have more interesting backgrounds than either of the leads .
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453,351 | 15,896,852 | 37,280 | 8 |
Keep the Home Fires Burning
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Faithful wife Claudette Colbert ( as Anne Hilton ) , and daughters Jennifer Jones ( as Jane Hilton ) and Shirley Temple ( as Bridget " Brig " Hilton ) keep the World War II home fires burning ? and burning ? and burning ? in David O . Selznick's eagerly awaited follow-up to his two extraordinary " Best Picture " Oscar winners : " Gone with the Wind " and " Rebecca " . " Since You Went Away " doesn't rate with those classics , but it does compare favorably with most other films released in 1944 . The cast is certainly " All-Star ! " - fronted by the teary performances of top actresses Claudette Colbert , Jennifer Jones , and Shirley Temple . Ms . Colbert and Ms . Jones characterize well . Ms . Temple is less effective ; although , scenes like the reading of her father's letter are nicely played . Temple was better as an actress , in fact , than in many of her more successful child roles ; and , she only falters when slipping too heavily into the old persona . Male support is provided by : Joseph Cotten ( as Tony Willett ) , a lieutenant who'd like to have had a go with Colbert ; Monty Woolley ( as William G . Smollett ) , a grandfatherly sage ; and , Robert Walker ( as William ' Bill ' Smollett II ) , a corporal who takes a liking to Jones . Off-screen , Jones was breaking up with Mr . Walker ( her husband ) , and taking up with Selznick . Agnes Moorehead ( as Emily Hawkins ) gives the film some much-needed friction , by going against the patriotic grain . And , Hattie McDaniel ( as Fidelio ) is charming in her updated " Mammy " role . Given the star-studded cast , it's surprising to see so little energy transmitted from the screen ; or , at least , not enough to justify the long running time . As an ensemble , the cast never quite coalesces . There is more energy transmitted in " cameo " roles by Lionel Barrymore , Guy Madison , and Nazimova . Mr . Madison , in his first film role , gives the film some sex appeal when he tries to pick up Jones in a bowling alley . Ms . Nazimova , in her last film role , recites an accented " Give me your tired , your poor , your huddled masses yearning to breathe free ? " speech that gets to the point ( at last ) . The photography ( Stanley Cortez and Lee Garmes ) and music ( Max Steiner ) are beautiful . Cortez , Garmes , and director John Cromwell give the film a dark shadowy style ; and , many scenes , with sparse dialog , are magical . One of the best parts of the film occurs when Walker goes off to war , leaving Jones at a train station . Mr . Steiner's score is one of his most successful , and suitable ; it helped send several records , like " Together " , up the hit parade . Recommended for everyone with a 1940s wartime sensibility ( which was this film's intended audience ) . Otherwise , get yourself in the right frame of mind , and have a few hours to spare for " Since You Went Away " . Since You Went Away ( 1944 ) John Cromwell - Claudette Colbert , Jennifer Jones , Shirley Temple
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453,524 | 15,896,852 | 17,739 | 8 |
Stylish Spoofery of the Old Haunted House
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Laura La Plante ( as Annabelle West ) and an assortment of greedy relatives gather at a Gothic Old Mansion to hear the reading of The Will . Relatively soon , we learn The Fortune will be inherited by young Ms . La Plante ; however , she must be declared Sane by a doctor - naturally , this is an incentive for someone to drive the dear girl Insane ! This is a stylishly shot silent " comedy / thriller " spoof of " haunted house " stories - like " The Bat " ( a 1920 play , and 1926 movie ) . La Plante and Creighton Hale ( as Paul Jones ) are okay as the nominal " leads " , but the veteran cast must have been much more amusing to the typical 1920s viewer . Tully Marshall ( as Mr . Crosby ) and Lucien Littlefield ( as the Doctor ) were two of the best supporting actors around , and Flora Finch ( as Aunt Susan ) must have been considered a film legend in 1927 - they are all a hoot , but Martha Mattox really steals the " The Cat and the Canary " with her terrific turn as haunted house hostess " Mammy Pleasant " ! Interestingly , this was an adaptation of a ( 1922 ) stage play - obviously " silent " films made much better movies out of plays than did later " sound " adaptations . Some may argue " sound " productions never figured out how to turn a good stage play into a good movie . Director Paul Leni and Gilbert Warrenton were among those making art ( more or less ) out of silent film . By the way , there is a scene with the possible " killer " walking in from the right of the screen ; but , this is not a " who-done-it " movie as much as it is a spoof of said ? The Cat and the Canary ( 1927 ) Paul Leni - Laura La Plante , Creighton Hale , Martha Mattox
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453,291 | 15,896,852 | 41,716 | 8 |
New York , New York ! ( It's a Wonderful Town )
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Three sailors spend their 24-hour shore leave looking for women in New York City . Gene Kelly ( he's Gabey ) finds Vera-Ellen ( she's Ivy ) , Betty Garrett ( she's Brunhilde ) finds Frank Sinatra ( he's Chip ) , and Jules Mushin ( he's Ozzie ) finds Ann Miller ( she's Claire ) . The movie opens with the extraordinary production number " New York ! New York ! " , with the Kelly , Sinatra , and Mushin trio dancing and singing all over New York City . It's one of the best musical introductions ever , and the New York City location footage is exquisite . You should know that , while the film is classy and energetic throughout , it never again even approaches the high standard exhibited in the opening . The exuberance is enough to sustain the film for some time - how long will depend on individual tastes . On the Town ( 1949 ) Gene Kelly , Stanley Donen - Gene Kelly , Frank Sinatra , Ann Miller
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453,182 | 15,896,852 | 21,542 | 8 |
All Quiet on the Westfront 1918
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It is incredible that the U . S . and Germany , in between two Great World Wars , would simultaneously produce two very similarly-themed films - this one , and " All Quiet on the Western Front " ( 1930 ) . The sounds of war are eerily alike - relentless , disturbing , horrifying ? " Westfront 1918 " is less drama , and more documentary-style than its cousin . The war scenes are remarkable ; but so is an interlude when Gustav Diessl ( as Karl ) goes on leave , expertly directed by G . W . Pabst . This part is slightly better than the Lew Ayres ( as Paul ) leave in " All Quiet on the Western Front " ; and , it is more realistic . However , " Westfront 1918 " is less memorable in its final " emotion grabbing " scene ( and , overall ) . Still , it's an excellent film . Westfront 1918 ( 1930 ) G . W . Pabst - Gustav Diessl , Fritz Kampers , Hans-Joachim Moebis
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453,354 | 15,896,852 | 58,997 | 8 |
She's Not There
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While Keir Dullea ( as Stephen Lake ) gets her things in order , sister Carol Lynley ( as Ann Lake ) arranges for a local school cook to look after her daughter " Bunny Lake " , telling the woman she has left the unseen four-year-old in the " First Day room " . Ms . Lynley has arrived from America , to join her London-based journalist brother , Mr . Dullea . After some shopping , Lynley goes to pick up her daughter from school , but ? " Bunny Lake Is Missing " . Soon , sleuthing Laurence Olivier ( as Inspector Newhouse ) arrives to investigate the disappearing child ; but , unexpectedly , he has trouble finding evidence " Bunny Lake " has ever existed . Director Otto Preminger artfully holds interest , as his psychological thriller gets creepy on you . Lynley and Dullea are quite effective , and intriguing , as the oddly coupled siblings . Olivier is as arresting as ever . Hindsight will prove the story cheats ; however , it doesn't deter from the viewing pleasure . The supporting cast is fantastic . Noel Coward ( as Horatio Wilson ) is the reddest herring around , but highly amusing . Martita Hunt ( as Aida Ford ) is delightful as the frightfully intuitive woman upstairs . The sets and photography ( Denys N . Coop ) are terrific . And , you can't beat The Zombies , performing " Remember You " , " Just Out of Reach " , and " Nothing's Changed " . Cheers ! Bunny Lake Is Missing ( / 65 ) Otto Preminger - Carol Lynley , Keir Dullea , Laurence Olivier
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453,697 | 15,896,852 | 43,560 | 8 |
Richard Basehart Goes Out on a Ledge
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After passing on a hotel waiter's delivery of breakfast , troubled young Richard Basehart ( as Robert Cosick ) steps out on the ledge of a New York City hotel , and threatens to jump . Fifteen floors down , he is spotted by beat street policeman Paul Douglas ( as Charlie Dunnigan ) . As a multitude of onlookers , punsters , policeman , and media crowd around , officer Douglas tries to talk " loopy " Mr . Basehart off the ledge . Basehart's psyche is made more insightful through conversations with Douglas , and a parade of interested parties ; including self-centered mother Agnes Moorehead ( as Christine Hill Cosick ) , henpecked father Robert Keith ( as Paul E . Cosick ) , and wholesome ex-girlfriend Barbara Bel Geddes ( as Virginia Foster ) . Director Henry Hathaway's " Fourteen Hours " milks billowing curtains and skyline angles for all they are worth , registering a great amount of anxiety for his " Man on the Ledge " . Fidgeting and ghostly , Basehart is terrific as the psychotic suicide hopeful who states , " Life stinks . " Douglas is a perfect good-natured contrast , who tries to explain life's worth in family homilies ( which are impossible for Basehart to understand ) . Both actors had underrated careers . Happily , Basehart won the National Board of Review's 1951 " Best Actor " award for his ledge work . Interestingly , Jan Sterling won the Board's 1951 " Best Actress " award for " Ace in the Hole " , which also dramatized a " breathtaking spectacle " . In subplots , love blossoms for handsome Jeffrey Hunter & pretty Debra Paget ( as Danny & Ruth ) , while Grace Kelly & James Warren ( as Mr . & Mrs . Fuller ) struggle with impending divorce . These stories don't add or subtract much from the main event - Will Basehart jump , or won't he ? - It might have been interesting and artful for writer John Paxton to parallel Ms . Kelly's marriage woes with Ms . Moorehead's early life and marriage ; the sense of generational doom would be left open-ended , with the future resting with Hunter and Paget . By the way , the cast of thousands includes dozens of " bit " players worth connecting with ( I started with switchboard-ready Sandra Gould of " Bewitched " , and found something right from George Putnam ) . Fourteen Hours ( / 51 ) Henry Hathaway - Richard Basehart , Paul Douglas , Barbara Bel Geddes
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453,676 | 15,896,852 | 9,109 | 8 |
The Boy Who Went to War
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At the end of the U . S . Civil War , the well-named " Monsieur France " ( Adolph Lestina ) moved to his father's home in France , rather than submit to the Yankees . Boasting he is " the only citizen of the Confederate States of America , " he sits by his old Confederate flag , dreaming of a time gone with the wind . Mr . Lestina lives with his exuberant granddaughter Carol Dempster ( as Atoline France ) . Ms . Dempster catches the eye of Richard Barthelmess ( as Ralph Grey ) , the older brother of a school chum ; but , Mr . Barthelmess is too late in his courting - - and , so , Dempster gets herself betrothed to Syn De Conde ( as the Count de Brissac ) . Then , Dempster goes to visit the " Grey " family in New York . In New York , Dempster meets Barthelmess ' younger brother , Robert Harron ( as James Grey ) . Mr . Harron is more interested in continuing a partying lifestyle than settling down ; he gives Dempster the once over , but finds singer-dancer Clarine Seymour ( as Cutie Beautiful ) more fetching . Ms . Seymour shares Harron's interest in youthful Ragtime fun . Although their father is against the Great War ( aka World War I ) , Barthelmess and Harron eventually join in the fighting . Will the two brothers get out of the war alive , and return to the women they left behind ? Harron effortlessly steals the film , with his portrayal of the slouching , partying brother who becomes a war hero ; Seymour is also delightful as his 31st conquest , and true love . That Harron's performance so outdistances the other players may be why director D . W . Griffith , as the film progresses , devotes more screen time Harron's character . In hindsight , a re-titled , re-edited " The Girl Who Stayed at Home " would have been improved by scenes from Harron's college days , and his contrasting relationship with brother Barthelmess . Old Confederate rebel Lestina's final acceptance of the United States of America is a nice touch . The Girl Who Stayed at Home ( / 19 ) D . W . Griffith - Carol Dempster , Richard Barthelmess , Robert Harron
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453,561 | 15,896,852 | 2,408 | 8 |
Rich Man , Poor Man , Beggar Man , Thief
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Early film , beautifully directed by D . W . Griffith . Two young couples are happily married , on the same day : one is rich , Blanche Sweet and Edwin August ; the other is poor , Dorothy Bernard and Charles West . As their wedded lives unfold , we see the desperation of the poor couple contrasted with the opulent lifestyle of the rich couple . The poor husband cannot find work , and is tempted to rob a house . The rich husband is tempted to take a bribe . Each succumbs to temptation . When the poor man attempts to rob the rich man , their lives again collide ? Griffith expertly cross-cuts between the parallel lives - the rich and the poor couples , bringing them together , and tearing them apart . G . W . Bitzer's photography is stunning , highlighted by a cooperative wind . The scenes with the poor husband looking for work are very well done . Griffith and the four principals ( Sweet , West , August , and Bernard ) very effectively use body and expression to convey their means . Griffith expertly uses the camera and the characters to relay his message about " white collar crime " in " One Is Business , the Other Crime " . Sweet . One Is Business , the Other Crime ( 1912 ) D . W . Griffith - Blanche Sweet , Charles West , Edwin August
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452,741 | 15,896,852 | 45,124 | 8 |
Sweating it Out with Broderick Crawford
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Watch Crawford sweat this one out ! Great fun with Broderick Crawford as managing editor of a " Scandal Sheet " newspaper , with John Derek and Donna Reed on staff as reporters . The film uses the technique of showing the murderer's identity as the crime is committed ( it's editor Crawford ) ; then we watch him squirm as the reporter hero ( Derek ) and heroine ( Reed ) try to identify the killer and cover the story . Mr . Crawford must give the " Lonely Heart Killer " big coverage in his tabloid newspaper , or risk suspicion . When a possible witness turns up , things get complicated . Henry O'Neill is great as a washed-up old drunk who used to work for Crawford's newspaper . The film has a great style ? beautiful black and white photography directed by Phil Karlson . Recommended viewing ! Scandal Sheet ( 1952 ) Phil Karlson - Broderick Crawford , John Derek , Donna Reed
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452,824 | 15,896,852 | 32,022 | 8 |
John Garfield Gets in the Ring for Billy Halop and " The Dead End Kids "
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After winning a championship fight , boxer John Garfield ( as Johnnie Bradfield ) celebrates with a drinking binge , which leads to the manslaughter of a pushy reporter . Although his manager killed the man , Mr . Garfield is blamed . When the manager dies in a car crash , wearing Garfield's stolen watch , authorities think the boxer is dead . Still a WANTED man , Garfield changes his identity to " Jack Dorney " and moves to an Arizona ranch . There , Garfield meets " The Dead End Kids " : Billy Halop ( as Tommy ) , Bobby Jordan ( as Angel ) , Leo Gorcey ( as Spit ) , Huntz Hall ( as Dippy ) , Gabriel Dell ( as T . B . ) , and Bernard Punsly ( as Milt ) . Garfield bonds with the young " Dead End " lads , who were sent to stay with sweet " Grandma Rafferty " ( May Robson ) as an alternative to reform school , courtesy of her brother , deceased priest " Father Rafferty " . Garfield falls in love with Halop's sister , pretty " Peggy " ( Gloria Dickson ) , who is there to keep any eye on the kids . Of course , Garfield's past comes back to haunt him ? " John Garfield and The ' Dead End ' Kids " make beautiful ( Max Steiner ) music together , thanks to effective direction and photography , by Busby Berkeley and James Wong Howe . The story is predictably comfortable , with the Warner Brothers support team in fine form . Garfield and the " Dead End " kids are a winning combination ; although Garfield made no further movies with the " East Side " gang , the studio had him re-team with both Billy Halop and Bobby Jordan , almost immediately , for " Dust Be My Destiny " . The boxing scenes are nicely staged . But , the most exciting sequence has Garfield and four of the New York " Kids " ( Halop , Jordan , Hall , and Punsly ) climbing into a giant water tank for a swim - which unexpectedly puts their lives in danger . Other , more brief , highlights include floozy Ann Sheridan ( as Goldie ) , boozy Barbara Pepper ( as Budgie ) , and young Ronald Sinclair ( as Douglas ) losing at strip poker . They Made Me a Criminal ( / 39 ) Busby Berkeley - John Garfield , Billy Halop , Bobby Jordan
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453,014 | 15,896,852 | 41,239 | 8 |
In the Ring with Kirk Douglas
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Kirk Douglas delivers an astonishing performance as rags-to-riches boxer . " Champion " is a dark film , told in flashback . The main feature is Mr . Douglas ' performance , but it also works as a " boxing film " - however , don't expect Douglas's character or the film to be typical 1940s Hollywood film . This is a film which raises questions about this " sport " and others . It's well written ( for the time ) and directed Mark Robson . There are some other good performances ; in particular , Arthur Kennedy as Douglas ' brother ; when the story first flashbacked , the two actors were very believable as brothers . This kind of drama might seem a little tired , at times , because it's been done so many times since , and the scenario is ( or , has become ) so predictable . Oh , and you have to just go along with Douglas and Kennedy being named " Midge " and " Connie " . Champion ( 1949 ) Mark Robson - Kirk Douglas , Arthur Kennedy , Ruth Roman
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452,354 | 15,896,852 | 37,469 | 8 |
An Imaginative Portrait
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Joan Bennett reigns supreme as " The Woman in the Window " , and Edward G . Robinson is superb as the man whom she invites over to see her sketches . Under Fritz Lang's direction , they are a magical team . I was as captivated by their performances as they were captivated by each other . The story , however , is somewhat of a letdown . I don't think the flaws are enough to mar thoroughly enjoying the film ; it's sad , though , to watch an potentially extraordinary film falter . Mr . Robinson and Ms . Bennett are greatly supported by Raymond Massey and Dan Duryea . Mr . Duryea's supporting performance is particularity effective . Mr . Massey is close behind ( but certainly no " Colombo " ) . You should see " The Woman in the Window " . . . The Woman in the Window ( 1944 ) Fritz Lang - Edward G . Robinson , Joan Bennett , Dan Duryea
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452,749 | 15,896,852 | 100,814 | 8 |
Get Off the Ground !
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The tiny city of " Perfection , Nevada " suddenly finds its population of 14 dwindling , as under-employed handymen Kevin Bacon ( as Valentine " Val " McKee ) and Fred Ward ( as Earl Bassett ) decide to hit the road . Before heading to nearby " Bixby " , they meet perky student seismologist Finn Carter ( as Rhonda LeBeck ) . Ms . Carter is studying an odd abundance of seismic " Tremors " in the vicinity . Driving on , Mr . Bacon and Mr . Ward discover giant mole-like slug creatures are eating all animals ( including people , of course ) in the area . They high-tail it back to town and , with the remaining citizens , try to avoid becoming food for slugs . Director Ron Underwood , with writers S . S . Wilson and Brent Maddock , creates a great balance of humor , suspense , and horror show " homage " . The flesh-eating " graboids " are a great " monster " - but , the real success in " Tremors " is the dignified performances of the cast , led by Bacon's keenly characterized " Valentine " . Bacon , Ward , and the others play the cartoonish characters with wit rather than foolishness . As usual , the excitement is enhanced when the characters are appealing . Michael Gross and Reba McEntire ( as Burt and Heather Gummer ) are an absolute hoot . Tremors ( 1990 ) Ron Underwood - Kevin Bacon , Fred Ward , Finn Carter
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453,472 | 15,896,852 | 18,054 | 8 |
If I Were a Carpenter
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Cecil B . De Mille's EPIC " The King of Kings " is his New Testament follow-up to the Old Testament EPIC " The Ten Commandments " ( 1923 ) . These films are better than their sound-era re-makes ; their lack of spoken dialog makes them seem more reverent , somehow . DeMille even promises this , " play ( is ) a reverent part in the spirit of ( Christ's ) great command . " To introduce his version of Jesus Christ ( H . B . Warner ) , " The King of Kings " heals a blind girl - as the girl opens her eyes , Mr . Warner becomes the Christian sin-savior . It's one of many marvelous bits of film-making . For its time , this was a very artistic , well-produced film . In a foreword to accompany this picture , DeMille wrote , " At no time in the world's history has humanity so hungered for the Truth . Science has declared there is a God . And a groping , eager World cries , ' How may we find Him ? ' The answer goes back two thousand years , to a Man who stood with a little band of ragged followers in the midst of bigotry , cruelty and ignorance - lighting with the torch of His own life the flame of hope in the heart of man and showing us by sublime Sacrifice - Death and Resurrection - our own Immortality . " DeMille takes liberties with the story , but doesn't waver too far from what could have happened in the lives of the characters . For example , since the affairs of Mary Magdalene ( Jacqueline Logan ) aren't explicitly documented , DeMille ( with writer Jeanie Macpherson ) creates one , to introduce and move the story along . With a prominently jeweled bust , Ms . Logan's " Mary " meets Christ after learning her lover , Judas Iscariot ( Joseph Schildkraut ) , is spending too much time with the Divine one . But , in casting an older man as Christ , DeMille helps avoid possibly making Christ appear too erotic . The film benefits from some story tinkering ; however , it still plays like a series of stilted vignettes - most of the time . One of the more memorable moments occurs when a girl asks Christ to " heal " her doll's broken leg . This simple scene stands out , due to its lack of miraculous content . The " special effects " highlight in " King of Kings " is the rollicking crucifixion ; and , like " Ten Commandments " , some color footage is included . Watch closely , and you'll see the character " Judas " steal the picture ; and , overall , Mr . Schildkraut's hanging disciple is the film's most memorable character . The King of Kings ( 1927 ) Cecil B . DeMille - H . B . Warner , Joseph Schildkraut , Jacqueline Logan
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453,063 | 15,896,852 | 10,418 | 8 |
Thomas Meighan's an Admirable Crichton
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Thomas Meighan ( as the admirable Crichton ) is head butler for an aristocratic British family ; he is obviously quite taken with luscious Gloria Swanson ( as Lady Mary Lasenby ) , but unable to cross class barriers . The household's scullery maid Lila Lee ( as Tweeny ) is in love with Crichton . The threesome , and some others , go out yachting ; when cross currents hit , the ensemble is shipwrecked ! Turns out , the servant class has far more advanced survival skills . Who knew ? Ms . Swanson is the film's main attraction ; her bathing and showering scenes , near the beginning of the film , helped clean-up at the box office . Note that whenever there is nakedness afoot , DeMille has an object cover-up Swanson's figure , however . Though not as famed , Swanson's later wet spot , when she is nearly drowned in the bowel of the sideswiped yacht , is far superior . Swanson and Ms . Lee perform well , actually , with the material given . Loved the " upper crust " lady complaining about limp toast ! Mr . Meighan delivers the movie's finest performance ; the other players have moments , but Meighan is outstanding in the pivotal role of Butler Crichton . From the moment he checks the mansion for dust , he is delightful ; the actor makes the movie even more interesting when the suppressed desire for Swanson begins registering on his face . A couple of smaller roles are noteworthy : Wesley Barry is great as the peeping Buttons , indicating what Cecil B . DeMille's " Male and Female " is really all about ( more or less ) . You should also keep an eye on Bebe Daniels during the " King of Babylon " imaginary sequence ; she is terrific as Meighan's right-hand lady . Silent film veterans Guy Oliver and Clarence Burton inexplicably disappear , after the shipwreck . Theodore Roberts and Raymond Hatton are around much longer , thankfully . The film is recommended , and DeMille obviously expert - but it's one of the more ludicrously-themed silent era classics preserved for modern scrutiny . Apparently , in adapting " The Admirable Crichton " for DeMilledom , the director substituted sex for satire . AND , he gets his titillating re-title " Male and Female " from no less than God Himself ! quoting , " So God created Man in His own image , in the image of God created He him : Male and Female created He them . " There is also a oddly placed bow to the good ol ' U . S . A . With all its oddities , it's still a fun film . Male and Female ( / 19 ) Cecil B . DeMille - Thomas Meighan , Gloria Swanson , Lila Lee
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453,244 | 15,896,852 | 8,406 | 8 |
Norma Talmadge Makes an Impression
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That this film was reportedly shown at Venice ( presumably , in conjunction with the summer's Film Festival ) in 1958 makes the possibility of someday seeing " Panthea " tantalizing . Norma Talmadge died in December , 1957 , which would seem to confirm that the film was screened , possibly as a tribute to Ms . Talmadge . So , what happened to this print of " Panthea " ? After impressive performances in " A Daughter's Strange Inheritance " ( 1915 ) and " The Battle Cry of Peace " ( 1915 ) , Talmadge began her reign as one of the most acclaimed actresses of the entire silent era . She won a 1915 " Motion Picture Magazine " award as best " Character Woman " for the year ( the unusual distinction being the way they differentiated an " Actress " from a " Star " back then ) . Talmadge was a popular " Triangle " player in 1916 . But , the 1917 release of " Panthea " established her as a superstar ( with help from producer-lover Joseph M . Schenck , director Alan Dwan , and photographer Harold Rosson ) . Contemporary critics lavished praise on " Panthea " . Julian Johnson called it " one of the best photoplays in screen history , " despite an " ineffective " ending , in " Photoplay " magazine ( April 1917 ) , explaining , " Norma Talmadge plays Panthea with a verve , abandon and surety which denominates her queen of our younger silver-sheet emotionalists . There is no woman on the depthless stage who can flash from woe to laughter and back again ( like ) Talmadge . She is 100 % surefire . Rogers Lytton , as the Baron , surpasses all his other efforts . Earle Foxe plays Gerald in psychopathic correctness . " Fortunately , the number of lost Talmadge film reels is not as extensive as was once believed . An impressive number are known to exist ( search Greta de Groat's website for an excellent listing ) ; but , they are in need of restoration . The reason so few of Talmadge's films are available , presently , appears to be due to lack of interest ( and funds ) . Hopefully , someone will locate films like " Panthea " ( 1917 ) , and restore Talmadge's acclaimed " Smilin ' Through " ( 1922 ) . Panthea ( / 17 ) Alan Dwan - Norma Talmadge , Earle Foxe , L . Rogers Lytton
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452,707 | 15,896,852 | 57,063 | 8 |
When Sandy Met Flipper
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Chuck Connors ( as Porter Ricks ) lives on the Florida coast , with his 12-year-old son Luke Halpin ( as Sandy ) , and wife Kathleen Maguire ( as Martha ) . Following a hurricane , son Halpin goes to bail out a dingy ; and , he is startled when a dolphin jumps out - - it's Flipper ! As it introduces an enduring franchise , the first " Flipper " effortlessly overcomes its flaws - - mainly , parts that go on too long , and look more repetitive and ordinary in hindsight . The catchy theme song , for example , will soon be improved upon , and given its logical place over the credits . The film opens with an exciting hurricane , and features beautiful location and underwater photography throughout . If you know Flipper , the film offers many origin story " firsts " , topped by the meeting of Sandy and Flipper . Pete the Pelican is around , along with many familiar elements . The Ricks family line-up is different , however - - mother Maguire is present , but no Bud . The " Flipper " character is played by " Mitzie " , and others , undoubtedly . The " A Boy and His Dolphin " concept is terrific , and the Flipper character retains its integrity through ensuing years . Halpin is very cute , and seems to improve his performance over the run of the film ; his cavorting scenes are charming . Mr . Connors and Ms . Maguire are great parents - - they make up MUCH more natural family than expected . Joe Higgins ( who also appears in the next " Flipper " ) and Jane Rose ( who also appears in the first " Dark Shadows " ) are among the supporting players . Note that Connors ' friend , who dies during the hurricane , is mentioned as " not of our faith " ; this add depths to the film . Flipper ( 1963 ) James B . Clark - Chuck Connors , Luke Halpin , Kathleen Maguire
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453,309 | 15,896,852 | 45,216 | 8 |
Weird Scenes Inside a Boy's Mind
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Talk About a Stranger is a much , much better film that you might expect . Despite the credits order , it stars Billy Gray ( as Robert " Bud " Fontaine Jr . ) . Mr . Gray would , later , become best known as another " Bud " , on the TV series " Father Knows Best " . In this film , he plays a boy who adopts a stray dog , which he names " Boy " ; then , he finds the dog has been poisoned . Gray suspects a mysterious new arrival in town , Kurt Kasznar ( as Matlock ) . Mr . Kasznar acts , and looks , very much like an outsider ; and , he seems to dislike " Boy " , and children ? Gray does a fine job in a difficult role ; he has to play the boy as both unlikeable , and likable . The character " Bud " is redeemed ( or , made sympathetic ) by his caring for his dead " Dog " ; and , the film effectively captivates , with its plot developments . Kasznar is great , as usual ; he keeps the performance from going in a direction not in tune with the film's ending . Top billed George Murphy and Nancy Davis ( as parents Robert and Marge Fontaine ) are ordinary ; undoubtedly , they are better appreciated in other films . Later , Ms . Davis was , of course , wonderfully cast as the second Mrs . Ronald Reagan . The film's weaknesses might have been arrested by strengthening the " Fontaine " family . The other players in " Talk About a Stranger " are terrific . Lewis Stone is at least as " fatherly " as Mr . Murphy ; he plays the newspaperman ( William J . Wardlaw ) Gray runs to for help . Teddy Infuhr has a great little part as a boy who lives near a " Haunted House " Gray visits ; watch for their scene in the " San Sala " house . The film is full of weird scenes ; and , Gray's trip to " San Sala " is one . Note , also , that Gray is picked up hitchhiking by motorcycling sailor Alvy Moore , who immediately asks Gray if he has a sister ! Mr . Moore will , later , become best known as " Hank Kimball " on the TV series " Green Acres " . You also get to see Kathleen Freeman , Burt Mustin , and some others ? Cinematographer John Alton is the film's most valuable player . Mr . Alton , David Bradley ( director ) , Cedric Gibbons ( art director ) , and Eddie Imazu ( art director ) make " Talk About a Stranger " a great looking film . For this , and its cast , " Talk About a Stranger " is well worth watching . Talk About a Stranger ( 1952 ) David Bradley - Billy Gray , Kurt Kasznar , Lewis Stone
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452,605 | 15,896,852 | 50,976 | 8 |
Death Becomes Him
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In middle of the 14th century , knightly Max von Sydow ( as Antonius Block ) and squire Gunnar Björnstrand ( as Jöns ) , " after long years as Crusaders in the Holy Land , have at last returned to their native Sweden , a land ravaged by the Black Plague . " Mr . von Sydow is immediately confronted by creepy , black-cloaked Bengt Ekerot ( as the Personification of Death ) , who has appeared to claim von Sydow's soul . Instead of going quietly into the final night , von Sydow challenges Mr . Ekerot to a game of chess . " Death " is in a playful mood , and accepts the contest ; if von Sydow wins , he and his friends may avoid the Plague . Director Ingmar Bergman had an amazing 1957 ( in Sweden , anyway ) , book-ended with " Det sjunde inseglet " ( " The Seventh Seal " ) and " Smultronstället " ( " Wild Strawberries " ) . The latter film definitely has the edge , story-wise . Still , the former is full of beautifully morbid images , killer camera-work from Bergman and Gunnar Fischer , accompanying a thought-provoking script . Von Sydow and the cast , including Bibi Andersson ( as Mia ) and Nils Poppe ( as Jof ) are great . Ms . Andersson's preparation of some " wild strawberries " seems to portend the next film . Death is not too subtle . Your move . Det sjunde inseglet ( 1957 ) Ingmar Bergman - Max von Sydow , Bengt Ekerot , Bibi Andersson
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453,042 | 15,896,852 | 120,303 | 8 |
Pants on Fire
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In the early 1960s , Cleveland , Ohio immigrant teenager Brad Renfro ( as Karchy Jonas ) struggles with adolescence and assimilation . Mr . Renfro is working on eradicating the remnants of his Hungarian accent ( his " th " sound ) . Meanwhile , slick disc jockey Kevin Bacon ( as Billy Magic ) arrives in town ( one step ahead of the law ) , to spin " sweaty collar and dirty fingernail music " on the local rock ' n ' roll radio station . Mr . Bacon is a payola player , who needs an underage kid to handle money illegal exchanges . When Renfro cheats on a radio contest , Bacon offers him big bucks to serve as " unwitting accomplice " ? Bacon swaggers through his role with perfection . And , Renfro is incredible , in a very difficult role ; capturing the vulnerability of youth , as he struggles to both adopt and resist Bacon's seductive persona . Calista Flockhart ( as Diney Majeski ) is very effective , as Renfro's " older woman " love interest . Their performances should have received some award consideration . Maximilian Schell ( as Istvan Jonas ) would have been more believable as Renfro's grandfather , to support the obviously wider than envisioned cultural gap between the characters . A few of the scenes are silly , but many more work , due to director Guy Ferland and his convincing cast . " I make things up sometimes , " Renfro reveals . Don't we all . " Telling Lies in America " certainly breaks no new ground - but , it revisits cinematic themes in great style . The film builds to a fine conclusion , and the music is terrific . Telling Lies in America ( 1997 ) Guy Ferland - Brad Renfro , Kevin Bacon , Calista Flockhart
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452,784 | 15,896,852 | 8,519 | 8 |
Strawberry Flats Forever
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Mary Pickford ( as Jenny Lawrence ) finds herself all alone in New England , after the elder Mrs . Lawrence dies ; so , she moves to the " Gold Rush " state of California , to live with her uncle . What she doesn't know ( initially ) is that her uncle has been killed by Indians ( Native Americans ) ; and , outlaw Elliott Dexter ( as " Black " Brown ) has assumed his identity . Arriving in the little mining town of Strawberry Flats , Ms . Pickford discovers Mr . Dexter's charade , and learns of her uncle's death . Dexter demands Pickford pretend she's his niece ; and , with nowhere to go , Pickford agrees . First and foremost , Dexter and Pickford are marvelous in the lead roles . Dexter begins to amaze when , in a barroom scene , he rescues Pickford from the advances of Raymond Hatton ( as Dick Roland ) . Pickford performed nicely when first entering her shabby new home , but becomes amazing when waking in the shed up as a wolf howls ? the two exude an unmistakable sexuality in their earliest scenes together , assisted by fine light and shadows direction from Cecil B . DeMille ( and , watch how the camera places their hands in a couple of scenes ) . As the film moves along , it loses focus on some of the sensuality , unfortunately . A subtle scene showing the leads ' passion would have been nice . Joining Hatton , supporting players Charles Ogle ( as Jim Lyn , who dates Pickford ) , Tully Marshall ( as barman Sam Sparks ) , and Walter Long ( as the Sheriff ) are entertaining . Pickford's last minute way of getting the townfolk to reconsider Dexter's fate is ingenious . The fact that " twenty men are fooled by one small woman " was nicely put , especially since it involved a doll given to Dexter's so-called " little girl " ! A Romance of the Redwoods ( 1917 ) Cecil B . DeMille - Mary Pickford , Elliott Dexter , Charles Ogle
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453,226 | 15,896,852 | 57,197 | 8 |
Gods and Monsters
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In order to claim his rightful throne , Todd Armstrong ( as Jason ) must find the legendary Golden Fleece ; the assembled " Jason and the Argonauts " assume the quest , but are stymied by a series of monstrous obstacles . Behind the scenes , the Greek Gods ( led by Zeus and Hera ) are fighting over the mission's outcome . The heroic Mr . Armstrong also catches the eyes of mortals Gary Raymond ( as Acastus ) and Nancy Kovack ( as Medea ) , but ? for different reasons . Ray Harryhausen's special effects are outstanding ; especially noteworthy are the dueling skeletons near the film's end - - and , the " stop motion animation " is excellent throughout . The skeleton sequence , and others , like the statue of Talos " coming-to-life " , are classic . Armstrong portrays the hero " Jason " handsomely , while Nancy Kovack ( as Medea ) and Honor Blackman ( as Hera ) add feminine charm . Don Chaffey ( director ) and Bernard Herrmann ( musician ) also excel . The supporting cast and crew is stronger than you'd expect in a film of this type ; Mr . Raymond is the best supporting actor , with his clear , focused characterization of " Acastus " . Raymond's underrated performance provides some unexpected dramatic tension - - note how he calculatingly observes Armstrong , catching both the hero and the viewer off-guard . Jason and the Argonauts ( 1963 ) Don Chaffey - Todd Armstrong , Gary Raymond , Nancy Kovack
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453,420 | 15,896,852 | 26,029 | 8 |
The Man Who Knew Too Little
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Alfred Hitchcock directs Robert Donat ( as Richard Hannay ) to a London music hall , where he joins the crowd enjoying the " Mr . Memory " show . A commotion erupts , and Mr . Donat finds himself in the company of a mysterious , beautiful woman . The woman ( Lucie Mannheim ) asks to be taken to Donat's flat , asking , " May I come home with you ? " Then , she is stabbed by spy types . Of course , Donat is suspected . While on the lamb , he meets cool blonde Madeleine Carroll ( as Pamela ) . . . " The 39 Steps " is an fine representation of 1930s Hitchcock ; although , the director more finely tuned some of the craft evident as his career developed . Some Hitchcock touches I found amusing were : the train men reviewing progress in the development of women's undergarments , and handcuffed Donat and Madeleine Carroll enjoying a sandwich while she removes her stockings . Hitchcock elicits nice performances ; with John Laurie ( as John ) and Peggy Ashcroft ( as Margaret ) standing out , in particularly effective characterizations . Early on , the film is reminiscent enough of Greta Garbo's " The Mysterious Lady " ( 1928 ) to invite some comparison . The 39 Steps ( 1935 ) Alfred Hitchcock - Robert Donat , Madeleine Carroll , Peggy Ashcroft
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452,623 | 15,896,852 | 10,635 | 8 |
Wallace Reid Speeds into the Box Office Lead
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Car salesman Wallace Reid ( as Walter Thomas " Toodles " Walden ) wants to win the triple crown in a big auto race . His boss , Theodore Roberts ( as J . D . " The Bear " Ward ) , has won two of the three races , and thinks Mr . Reid may muss up the company's winning streak . Roberts decides to test Reid's mettle ; but , the plan backfires , and his crack-car salesman quits . Meanwhile , Reid courts Roberts ' daughter , Ann Little ( as Dorothy " The Cub " Ward ) . She is the only thing Reid wants more than winning the big race ; however , Roberts wants her to wait five years before wedding . Can Reid win both the big race and the girl ? Scenery and cigar chewing Roberts threatens to steal the film from its star ; but the likable Reid overtakes Roberts after a contest to see who can pound his desk hardest . In jail for speeding , Reid memorably asks a rat , " How fast were you going ? " Car and train racing along the Los Angeles and San Francisco locale provided an exciting ending ; at one point , the car and train might collide ! " The Roaring Road " brought in box office returns at great speed ; and , Reid quickly became the # 1 United States Box Office star ; understandably , several follow-up films raced into theaters , including outright sequel " Excuse My Dust ! " ( 1920 ) .
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453,376 | 15,896,852 | 20,269 | 8 |
When Love Comes Stealing
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London " Piccadilly Club " proprietor Jameson Thomas ( as Valentine Wilmot ) is having an affair with the female half of his star dancing duo " Mabel and Vic " , shimmying Gilda Gray ( as Mabel " Mab " Greenfield ) . When Ms . Gray's dancing partner gets too amorous with his lady love , Mr . Thomas fires the man . Alas , the departing Cyril Ritchard ( as Victor " Vic " Smiles ) was the nightclub duo's main attraction , and business tanks . But , Thomas has discovered a new dancer in his kitchen , sexy scullery maid Anna May Wong ( as Shosho ) . Ms . Wong becomes an immediate sensation . Older Gray feels put out , especially when Thomas slips easily into the younger Wong's arms . Eventually , passion leads to murder . Director E . A . Dupont and photographer Werner Brandes are superb , in their final collaboration ; they give " Piccadilly " a great , artful style . Wong's performance , the last of her " silent " career , is almost revelatory ; and , it's at least " Supporting Actress " award-worthy . Higher-billed Gray handles her less flattering role well , too . And , Thomas meets Wong's subtlety in wonderful ways ; catch him admiring Wong's torn stockings . Small bits of business , like Mr . Ritchard slitting a deeper crease into his hat , suggest additional eroticism . Charles Laughton has a delicious cameo as a " Piccadilly Club " patron more interested in his food than the dancers . The film is not without its sour notes , however ; for example , some characterizations / relationships are poorly defined ; and , the ending could have been better . However , any attempt to improve " Piccadilly " might have encouraged the producers to fix things that weren't broken . Even the fly crawling up Wong's left arm as she reclines , during a seduction scene , seems magically planned .
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453,606 | 15,896,852 | 55,184 | 8 |
Bottoms Up ! ( ? or Meat Is Murder ? )
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In Reno , Nevada , voluptuous Marilyn Monroe ( as Roslyn Taber ) obtains a divorce ; then , she attracts the attention of three boozing cowboys : Clark Gable ( as Gay Langland ) , Montgomery Clift ( as Perce Howland ) , and Eli Wallach ( as Guido ) . Mr . Gable emerges as Ms . Monroe's ( and the film's ) leading man ; he leads the group on a hunting quest for flesh , explaining , " Nothing can live unless something dies . " Mr . Clift and Mr . Wallach agree with Gable . But , sensitive Monroe believes meat is murder . So , apparently , does Monroe's motherly landlady Thelma Ritter ( as Isabelle Steers ) ; however , she begs off the expedition early on , to join an ex-husband . The cast is extraordinary ; and , adding director John Huston and writer Arthur Miller to the mix guarantees a very interesting motion picture experience . " The Misfits " falls short , but not by much . Despite the fact that Mr . Miller must have written the story with Monroe ( then , his wife ) in mind , the main character is played by Gable - that is , if you consider the fact that his character undergoes the greatest transformation , in reaction to Monroe's character . And , Gable , performs the part very nicely . More importantly , he displays a dramatic , " modern " acting prowess , which might have served him well through the 1960s . Of course , that potential went unrealized when Gable suddenly died . In part , his heart attack was attributed to Gable's work in " The Misfits " . This is one film where the personal lives of the cast , director , and writer adversely affects what you see on the screen . The most " negative " result is Monroe's characterization ; she obviously needed more time with the role . Watch , for example , the scene with Monroe and Ritter , which plays after Gable walks off calling his dog ( " Tom Dooley " ) . As the women turn a corner , Monroe has to steady herself . It's a slight , almost unnoticeable misstep ; and , honestly , one which should have been re-shot . Probably , Monroe was so often indisposed , Mr . Huston had to do the best with what he had . It's a shame , because Monroe's acting is not at all inadequate . A particularly good moment to watch for is her " truck ride " , with Wallach ; in this scene , Monroe is exceptional . Another good scene includes Monroe using her real voice , listen to her say , " I don't care about the lettuce ! " At other times , Monroe appears very disconnected ; often , she seems to be acting alongside , rather than with , her co-stars . Gable , Monroe , Clift , and Ritter are certainly convincing as heavy drinkers . Interestingly , Clift uses his " personal demons " to good acting advantage ; whatever he was going through , privately , fit the character ; and , he manages to essay the film's most consistently convincing performance . If " The Misfits " were more successful , Clift might have been nominated as a " Best Supporting Actor " for his role . Also award-worthy is Alex North's perfect musical score . The ending lines , uttered by Gable and Monroe , are quite touching . . . indeed , the stars are out tonight . The Misfits ( 1961 ) John Huston - Clark Gable , Marilyn Monroe , Montgomery Clift
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452,992 | 15,896,852 | 31,826 | 8 |
Earl of the Ring
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Purported to be the story of a real Queen ( Elizabeth ) and Earl ( Essex ) , " Private Lives of Elizabeth and Essex " is difficult to believe . Something is wrong with either the actors ' or characters ' motivations ; in this , the story of their " Love / Hate " relationship . The background story , involving armies and such , is really just there to add characterization . BUT , that does not mean the film fails ; in fact , it's very entertaining . Take it as an opportunity to enjoy leads Bette Davis and Errol Flynn deliver exciting performances . Interestingly , Ms . Davis portrays an aging , plain woman ; and Mr . Flynn is her young , beautiful lover . Their words make the situation believable , despite the strange plot and lack of passion . The supporting cast is chock FULL of other recognizable and delightful actors - - with Olivia de Havilland adding some lustful looks . Suspend the questions about how the characters ' motivations could possibly happen ; and , how events like Flynn's army becoming powerless in an instant could possible occur - - this is a film for appreciators of director Michael Curtiz ' cast . AND , a reversal of the more typical Older Man / Young Beauty gender roles . The Private Lives of Elizabeth and Essex ( 1939 ) Michael Curtiz - Bette Davis , Errol Flynn , Olivia de Havilland
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453,307 | 15,896,852 | 24,115 | 8 |
Have You Ever Seen the Rain ?
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Richard Barthelmess ( as Tom Holmes ) is serving in the Great War ( World War I ) , with buddy Gordon Westcott ( as Roger Winston ) . When Mr . Westcott shows cowardice during an important assignment , Mr . Barthelmess heroically completes the mission . However , Barthelmess is wounded ; and , he is taken prisoner by the Germans . Westcott assumes Barthelmess is dead , and takes credit for completing the mission . Meanwhile , Barthelmess is given morphine by German doctors ; after the war , he returns to the United States , but has become a drug addict . Westcott helps Barthelmess out by getting him a job in his father's bank . Naturally , a poor morphine addict is going to have a difficult time working in a bank ? Barthelmess performs exceptionally well ; and , the filmmakers should be commended for dealing with the story of a war veteran's overcoming of addiction . Director William A . Wellman also excels in " Heroes for Sale " . Loretta Young is lovely as Barthelmess ' leading lady ; but , Aline MacMahon is much more interesting as another woman who secretly desires Barthelmess . Ms . MacMahon might have garnered " Supporting Actress " awards for her characterization , if they had been given in 1933 . Watch McMahon watch Barthelmess ; and , don't miss Barthelmess ' contrasting first look at Ms . Young . The film deals with political notions which are a little confusing , especially with the communist and / or capitalist character played by Robert Barrat ( Max ) . " Heroes for Sale " begins as World War I ends , and concludes in the " present " era , as FDR becomes President . Barthelmess ' character is optimistic about America , stating , " In a few years it will go on bigger and stronger than ever . " Heroes for Sale ( 1933 ) William A . Wellman - Richard Barthelmess , Aline MacMahon , Loretta Young
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452,618 | 15,896,852 | 268,978 | 8 |
You Do the Math
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By the time Russell Crowe ( as John Nash ) married Jennifer Connelly ( as Alicia ) , I had serious concerns about " A Beautiful Mind " . My first question revolved around Mr . Crowe's Princeton roommate , Paul Bettany ( as Charles ) . I could not understand why Mr . Bettany did not pal around with the college bar crowd . Crowe was there , with a group of other students , but no mixing with Bettany . Why ? Obviously , Bettany loved to imbibe ; so , he should have been the life of the party , I thought . With that question nagging me , I continued to have questions . Like was up with the two men at the later party ? I wondered ? Then , the final straw - Crowe uses his secret " code " to open a security gate ; and , the gate swings open without closing behind him . This was not a very secure gate . Anyone wanting to gain admittance would only have to wait for Crowe to open it up , and walk in after him ( if not climb in ahead of him ) . And , why wasn't Bettany at the Crowe's wedding ? Just when I was wondering how to get in touch with director Ron Howard , the truth dawned on me . I was expecting a more traditional film . A couple of surreal moments should have tipped me off ; for example , Crowe's barroom deduction concerning the students ' chances of " picking up " a blonde women . Still , I didn't fully appreciate what was going on . Was the rollicking car chase with Ed Harris ( as Parcher ) supposed to be an illusion ? Then , I wondered about the characters " Charles " and " Marcee " . I understood " Parcher " as a manifestation of " cold war " paranoia . But , I do not understand what , precisely , " Charles " and " Marcee " reveal about the title character , other than a propensity for creating illusions . The three imaginary characters are the most important in Nash's life - maybe if I knew what they were around for , they'd go away . Eventually , the film confirms suspicions . I can almost see clearly now . A Beautiful Mind ( 2001 ) Ron Howard - Russell Crowe , Jennifer Connelly , Paul Bettany
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453,008 | 15,896,852 | 371,257 | 8 |
For There is Nothing Either Good or Bad , but Thinking Makes it So
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Promising art student Ryan Gosling ( as Henry Letham ) becomes suicidal , after a fatal car accident , on what looks like New York's Brooklyn Bridge . Mr . Gosling's preoccupation with death gets the attention of high-water pants psychiatrist Ewan McGregor ( as Sam Foster ) . Alas , Gosling seems to slip farther and father away from reality , dragging Mr . McGregor's psyche along with him - or , it may be the other way around . Meanwhile , McGregor's beautiful blonde girlfriend Naomi Watts ( as Lila Culpepper ) has had suicidal tendencies of her own ? Guess Who sings " These Eyes - watched you bring my world to an end . This Heart - could not accept , and pretend . " Psyched-out Janeane Garofalo ( Dr . Beth Levy ) , blinded Bob Hoskins ( Dr . Leon Patterson ) , and bleeding Kate Burton ( Mrs . Letham ) lend able , entertaining support . Marc Forster's " Stay " is a superbly well-crafted , award-worthy art film ; so , it's easy to watch over . It was during a second viewing that I amend my initial dissatisfaction with the conclusion . There must be an infinite number of ways to react to the " event " in question ; and , I suppose Gosling's could happen . And , the knowledge about what really happened allows time for more thought regarding the previously ignored , subtle " changes " Gosling's redeemed character brings to those played by McGregor and Ms . Watts . I feel no longer cheated . Stay ( 2005 ) Marc Forster - Ewan McGregor , Ryan Gosling , Naomi Watts
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452,877 | 15,896,852 | 14,440 | 8 |
Beautiful Spectacle from Ingram with Novarro
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Ramon Novarro stars as André-Louis Moreau . Lewis Stone is Moreau's enemy , the Marquis de la Tour d'Azyr . And , Alice Terry is the woman they both love , Aline de Kercadiou . The story is set during the time of the French Revolution . The film begins with Mr . Stone as the Marquis de la Tour killing Mr . Novarro ( Moreau's ) best friend , which makes them great enemies . Enemies usually like the same woman ; in this case , the coveted Ms . Terry ( as Aline ) creates the additional animosity . This is a well-produced spectacle , from director Rex Ingram ; the film obviously cost a fortune , and the money was well spent , creating a beautiful looking film . Mr . Ingram does a great job of pacing the approximately two hours of film ; it retains much of its pace today , relative to other 1920s epics . Ingram's cinematographer John F . Seitz and star Ramon Novarro are indispensable . Mr . Seitz ' photography is great , from the windmilly opening until the final conflicts . Some of the spectacular scenes are still terrific ; but , some do look like they were staged to fit the movie screen , where everyone gathers for " Action ! " Mr . Novarro's lead performance is excellent ; though , it might have been wise to let him use more of the ahead-of-their-time skills that are clearly evident . But , what's left is fine - best are the " looks " from the performers , which are not overacted ( mostly ) . Lewis , Terry , and most everyone performs well . Novarro must join an acting troupe , by the way , while on-the-run - he becomes " Monsieur X " and play acts clown " Scaramouche " , giving the film its title . Watch for the relationship between Novarro and a woman from the troupe , and the reason he finally rejects her ( it parallels the major love triangle ) . Also , watch for two of the characters to startlingly look exactly like / alike the " shocking " second revelation at the end of the film . Scaramouche ( 1923 ) Rex Ingram - Ramon Novarro , Lewis Stone , Alice Terry
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452,632 | 15,896,852 | 8,687 | 8 |
Jack Pickford Takes a Bite Out of the Apple
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Jack Pickford ( as Tom Sawyer ) is not the model boy of his village ; in fact , he beats up the model boy ( Carl Goetz ) . Mr . Pickford is impressed with the " juvenile pariah " of the village , Robert Gordon ( as Huckleberry Finn ) - - although Pickford is " under strict orders not to play " with Mr . Gordon , the boys are attracted to each other ; and , Gordon brings Pickford a large watermelon to eat . Sore from tussling with the model boy , and sporting a " sore toe " , Pickford is , nevertheless , ordered to whitewash the Sawyer fence . Along comes Antrim Short ( as Joe Harper ) , eating an apple , and pretending to be a Mississippi river steamboat ; Pickford tricks Short into giving up his apple , and whitewashing the fence . Pickford is munching on a different apple when he notices " new girl in town " Clara Horton ( as Becky Thatcher ) ? Director William Desmond Taylor and writer Julia Crawford Ivers ' adaptation is first rate ; the production team would finish the lads ' adventures with " Huck and Tom " ( 1918 ) and " Huckleberry Finn " ( 1920 ) . This beginning is a surprisingly good , and relatively faithful , version of the Mark Twain classic . The focus is on Pickford's " Tom " , and his friendships with Gordon's " Huck " and Short's " Joe " . The three boys take off together , going down the Mississippi river ; while , back home , the villagers think they are dead . Jack Pickford proves himself to be as good a performer as his more famous sister ( Mary Pickford ) ; he is more than capable in the " Tom Sawyer " role - - skipping , pouting , flirting , jumping fences , and getting sick on fresh catfish ; he brings the character to life . He and the other " children " appear too old for their roles in many instances ; so , for example , Pickford stealing a kiss from Horton loses its innocence , and looks more like an attack . Yet , most of the time , the performers make themselves believable . Though most faithful , this is definitely an interpretation of Twain's characters . There is some symbolism in this film that I don't recall from the novel ( which I will have to re-read ) ; director Taylor uses food ( like the Apple ) from the novel ; but , possibly , in a different way . Pickford and Gordon create a particularly interesting dynamic : drawing lines with their feet , rubbing shoulders , and drawing in their knees . I found the recurring " sore toe " of Tom's fascinating ; and , note that when the boys " escape " , he is relieved from this malady . This is another nuance to track in a re-reading of " Tom Sawyer " .
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452,836 | 15,896,852 | 393,109 | 8 |
Rian Johnson Makes an Impression with Joseph Gordon-Levitt
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In sunny Southern California , love-spurned loner Joseph Gordon-Levitt ( as Brendan Frye ) discovers his former girlfriend's dead body in a watery tunnel . In flashback , Mr . Gordon-Levitt recalls a strung-out Emilie de Ravin ( as Emily Kostich ) reaching out for help , explaining , " I screwed up real bad . " Unfortunately , the soon-to-be-dead blonde speaks in riddles . So , Gordon-Levitt is left with word clues - like " Brick " , " Tug " , " Frisco " , and " Pin " . Cross-legged genius Matt O'Leary ( as Brain ) provides assistance ; fortunately , he remembers everyone's locker number . Realizing the authorities are clueless , Gordon-Levitt decides to carry on his own investigation , beginning with doped-up rival Noah Segan ( as Dode ) . Gordon-Levitt infiltrates the drug ring managed by creepy Tolkien reader Lukas Haas ( as The Pin ) , after mixing with femme fatale Nora Zehetner ( as Laura ) and bodyguard Noah Fleiss ( as Tug ) . Alas , the closer Gordon-Levitt gets to solving the mystery of his ex's death , the more he gets smacked down . " Brick " shimmers with potential . Most obviously , debuting director / writer / editor Rian Johnson makes a great impression ; there is always something interesting happening on Mr . Johnson's screen . Steve Yedlin's crisp photography , and Nathan Johnson's peaking music , are great mood enhancers . Lead actor Gordon-Levitt continues to work wonders with interesting , offbeat roles ; and , importantly , shows he can " carry " a film , with his singular characterization . The story updates 1940s " film noir " quite effectively . The high school setting may have been a mistake ; other than the high-school grounded Mr . O'Leary , the " Brick " cast seem more like post-high school deadbeats . Gordon-Levitt visits his Assistant Vice Principal ( Richard Roundtree ) , but , nobody ever goes to class ; and , there are no scenes in the cafeteria or gym , either . The settings used , instead , are a real treat . Paintings , posters , birds , vehicles , and water add stillness and movement to backgrounds ; but , the movie is never gimmickry or busy . Perhaps the best inside joke ( and a great visual to boot ) was dressing up Mr . Haas as Jonathan Frid from " Dark Shadows " , with his Inverness-styled cape , and cane ; in silhouette , and behind a screen door , Haas even looks like " Barnabas Collins " . As a former " Dark Shadows " star , Gordon-Levitt would have been familiar with the figure ; he played " David Collins " and " Daniel Collins " during the series ' 1991 incarnation . " Brick " is a film to watch with focus and concentration ; if you can't bring those , wait for the right frame of mind . Brick ( 2005 ) Rian Johnson - Joseph Gordon-Levitt , Nora Zehetner , Lukas Haas
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452,912 | 15,896,852 | 6,780 | 8 |
Raising Hell with William S . Hart
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As the film begins , William S . Hart ( as " Blaze " Tracy ) is off-screen , in the appropriately named town of " Hell's Hinges " . Mr . Hart is a " man-killer whose philosophy of life is summer up in the creed ' Shoot first and do your disputin ' afterward ' ! " He believes neither law nor religion will ever come to the wretched town he loves . He is wrong . Jack Standing ( as Rev . Robert Henley ) is on his way to town ; he is , as you'll witness , a recently ordained minister with an eye for something other than ladies ' souls . Mr . Standing will also reveal a fondness for drink . Accompanying the bad reverend is his good sister Clara Williams ( as Faith Henley ) . Ms . Williams combines " the strength of character her brother so woefully lacks " and leads Hart to God ( the Jesus Christ version ) . But , is Hart a faithful servant of God , or just another Hell-raising western rogue ? This is an excellent , albeit absurd , film . Steely-eyed Hart is well heeled ; and , the fiery ending is tremendous . Standing's debauched preacher is unexpectedly entertaining . Williams was a noted actress ; but , she doesn't play innocent and alluring ; mainly , she looks admiringly at Hart ( and her brother ) . You may wonder what Hart sees in her , when they first meet ; although , Hart plays the scene well . It's difficult to understand the Williams / Hart attraction , which worked in other films . Thankfully , Louise Glaum ( as Dolly ) is around to play guiltily alluring ; presumably , Hart has had his fill of such women by the time Williams arrives . Hell's Hinges ( / 16 ) Charles Swickard - William S . Hart , Clara Williams , Jack Standing
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452,937 | 15,896,852 | 183,649 | 8 |
Smooth Operator
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Captivating director Joel Schumacher imprisons cocky publicist Colin Farrell ( as Stu Shepard ) in a Manhattan " Phone Booth " for almost the entire length of this eighty minute movie - and , the result approaches amazing . Mr . Schumacher's cinematic sense , and willingness to experiment , is worth of comparisons with Alfred Hitchcock . Most obviously , this film is " Rear Window " in reverse . Note how successfully both directors keep you , and their protagonists , is their opposite settings . Of course , Mr . Hitchcock ( for a small sample of his " phone booth " usage , see " The Birds " ) would have done several things differently in a feature-length " Phone Booth " . For example , the " menacing " toy near the beginning of the film would certainly have been owned by an annoying kid . And , the film's moral compass ends up strangely askew . Still , Schumacher , cast , and crew keep you on the line . Phone Booth ( / 02 ) Joel Schumacher - Colin Farrell , Kiefer Sutherland , Forest Whitaker
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452,373 | 15,896,852 | 16,258 | 8 |
Metro-Goldwyn-Coogan
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In " New York , a world within a city , where anything might happen , " Irish Catholic lower East Side kid Jackie Coogan ( as Timothy Kelly ) survives a fire at St . John's Orphanage fire , and takes to the streets . Ten-year-old Coogan meets Jewish junk dealer Max Davidson ( as Max Ginsberg ) ; and , after Coogan returns Mr . Davidson's dropped wallet , he moves in with the rheumatic old man . The two become business partners " Ginsberg and Kelly " , after Coogan proves his " Rag Man " mettle by filling Davidson's junk truck with four dollars worth of merchandise . Along the way , Coogan helps right and old wrong ; he tracks down thieving Robert Edeson ( as Mr . Bernard aka Mr . Bishop ) , who robbed Davidson of a patent fortune . " The Rag Man " is a top-of-the-line Metro-Goldwyn-Coogan production , smoothly directed by Edward F . Cline ; it is highlighted by the Frank Good / Robert Martin photography , which features some great New York City sets and locations . Coogan and Davidson aren't very original , basically re-treading their " Kid " and " Izzy " characterizations ; but , the Irish / Jewish teaming adds some freshness ( as does Linda Martinez ' new soundtrack ) . In the sequel " Old Clothes " , Coogan and Davidson wisely take in young Joan Crawford ( as Mary Riley ) as a boarder . The Rag Man ( 1925 ) Edward F . Cline - Jackie Coogan , Max Davidson , Robert Edeson
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453,098 | 15,896,852 | 36,342 | 8 |
No Doubt
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Sinister Joseph Cotten ( as Charles " Uncle Charlie " Oakley ) eludes some men in Philadelphia , then heads for Santa Rosa , California , where he plans an extended visit with adoring young niece Teresa Wright ( as Charlotte " Charlie " Newton ) and her family . Ms . Wright feels a " special " connection with Mr . Cotten , and the two share the nickname " Charlie " . While Cotton tries to lay low , people want to know , " Where is The Merry Widow Murderer ? " Could it be the Wright's beloved " Uncle Charlie " ? Great starring performances by Cotton and Wright , and superb direction from Alfred Hitchcock , are this film's main attractions . The supporting characters are all , at least , entertaining ; they include , notably , Hume Cronyn ( as Herbie Hawkins ) in his first feature . Mr . Cronyn , with his U . S . flag-pinned lapel , is an obvious supplier of red herrings . Macdonald Carey ( as Jack Graham ) provides Wright with some non-incestuous romantic possibilities . The story's promising psychological depth is somewhat marred by a plot which leaves too many important questions unanswered . The best piece of business that goes nowhere is matriarch Patricia Collinge ( as Emma Newton ) ' s brief reconsideration of her brother's character , after her daughter suffers two near-death " accidents " . Ms . Collinge is the only one who really loves Cotten ; and , if you think about it , she should know better . " Shadow of a Doubt " may not be perfect , but it's still excellent Hitchcock . Shadow of a Doubt ( 1943 ) Alfred Hitchcock - Teresa Wright , Joseph Cotten , Patricia Collinge
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453,034 | 15,896,852 | 181,689 | 8 |
Tomorrow Never Knows
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In the year 2054 , Washington D . C . is murder free zone . This is because a futuristic " Precrime " program has obtained three precognitive humans ( called " pre-cogs " ) who have a talent for predicting murder . The three individuals perpetually dream about future crimes , in a secured area nicknamed " The Temple " ; there , they float in a tank of water . The US government falsely claims the three live a luxurious lifestyle - working out in a weight room , for example - but , the pre-cogs are , essentially , imprisoned for the good of society . According to Precrime , the pre-cogs " see the future " and are " never wrong " . The Washington program has prevented all murders for the past six years , and is about to be implemented nationally . As the film opens , top Precrime gun Tom Cruise ( as John Anderton ) goes through some visual evidence downloaded from the pre-cogs ' minds , and arrests an individual for the " future murder " of his wife and lover . Mr . Cruise has a back-story . Years earlier , Cruise's young son was abducted , indirectly destroying his marriage . Cruise also takes illegal drugs , which does not effect his work or appearance adversely . Distinguished Director of Precrime Max von Sydow ( as Lamar Burgess ) is wary of arriving agent Colin Farrell ( as Danny Witwer ) . He should be , Mr . Farrell is there to investigate the Precrime program . Farrell fears the system may be flawed . Due to a startling encounter with pre-cog Samantha Morton ( as Agatha ) , Cruise also becomes suspicious . Then , the pre-cogs identify an unexpected murderer , right in the heart of Precrime ! Orwellian " thought police " ( aka thinkpol ) are never a good utopian sign . There are plenty of plot holes and / or contrivances in " Minority Report " . For example , how is it that these geniuses can't anticipate or detect an eye transplant ? And , a certain pregnant woman made me laugh out LOUD . Still , this is excellent , exciting entertainment from Mr . Spielberg and company . Turn off your mind , relax , and float with Steven . Minority Report ( / 02 ) Steven Spielberg - Tom Cruise , Colin Farrell , Samantha Morton
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452,407 | 15,896,852 | 16,346 | 8 |
Richard Barthelmess Takes Shore Leave
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Alone and friendless , drifter Richard Barthelmess ( as " Bilge " Smith ) visits a New York aquarium , and observes the sea creatures . Seeking employment and pals , Mr . Barthelmess decides to join the Navy . Meanwhile , in coastal Wautucket , dressmaker Dorothy Mackaill ( as Connie Martin ) longs for male companionship . " Shore Leave " brings sailor Barthelmess to Ms . Mackaill's attention ; and , she invites him over for a home-cooked meal . Barthelmess steals a brief kiss , and sets sail - but , he promises to return for more . Mackaill is smitten with her sailor date , and waits ? for years ? until Barthelmess returns ? A charming picture , but , today , it requires some suspension of disbelief . There are a couple of hints Barthelmess ' character was likely a " randy " sailor , so why did he settle for that lackluster first kiss ? And , the film explains the town of Wautucket was a fledgling seaport , but " spinster " Mackaill is lovely enough to have attracted some local attention . Later , Barthelmess rejects her because she's wealthy ! . . . but ? the actors make it believable . The film was much-admired in its day . Barthelmess ' performance in " Shore Leave " was one of the " Motion Picture Magazine " best of the year 1925 , alongside Lon Chaney , W . C . Fields , John Gilbert , and winner Emil Jannings ( for " The Last Laugh " ) . Mackaill ( a frequent co-star ) is also very good . There is a sweet , natural quality to their acting ( which certainly fits the storyline ) ; witness her falling in love over supper , and his recognition of her , after two years of sailing . John S . Robertson ( director ) and Roy Overbaugh ( cinematographer ) manage the New York locations and set pieces nicely . Debuting Ted McNamara ( as " Battling " Smith ) handles his comic sidekick role well ; he probably would have been a character actor long into the talking picture era , but died of phenomena in 1928 . Barthelmess has named his " Shore Leave " characterization as a personal favorite - still , it was his last collaboration with director Robertson ? who replaced Henry King ? who replaced D . W . Griffith ? Shore Leave ( / 25 ) John S . Robertson - Richard Barthelmess , Dorothy Mackaill , Ted McNamara
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452,963 | 15,896,852 | 22,879 | 8 |
Soldiers of Love find Other Arms to Hold Them
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Helen Hayes is a World War I nurse who falls for wounded soldier Gary Cooper . The war , and Adolphe Menjou , threaten to come between them . . . This film features some startling , indelible images . The acting is also first rate . Mr . Cooper and Ms . Hayes make their characters ' courtship very believable - with performances transcending what could be acted , or shown on-screen , at the time . Their closing scene is classic . Mr . Menjou leads a strong supporting cast ; interestingly , his interest in Cooper looks highly ambiguous , intentional or not . Arguably , Menjou's character shows more interest in him than her . The story is just a little too soapy ; and , it lacks a certain cohesion . It's unsteady , at times . Yet , director Frank Borzage elicits some dazzling performance and images in " A Farewell to Arms " . Peace . A Farewell to Arms ( 1932 ) Frank Borzage - Helen Hayes , Gary Cooper , Adolphe Menjou
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453,283 | 15,896,852 | 29,604 | 8 |
All About Kate
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Katharine Hepburn moves in with Ginger Rogers at a boarding house for ( mostly ) would-be actresses . Soon we meet the many women in the boarding house , and become involved in their hopes , friendships and competitions . . . This is a very busy film . We are introduced to many characters and situations , it's sometimes difficult to focus on the story . It's the revolving door of stardom ( one star dies , another is born ) , centering around the relationship between Ms . Hepburn and Ms . Rogers ( mainly ) and the rest ( complimenting the leads and the theme ) . The film's many other performers are distracting ? there are so many stars to watch . Eve Arden comes on with a cat and I don't know what else just happened ! I had to read the IMDb comments , and watch this one twice , to make sure I didn't miss anything . Stage Door ( 1937 ) Gregory La Cava - Katharine Hepburn , Ginger Rogers . Andrea Leeds
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452,715 | 15,896,852 | 16,629 | 8 |
The Dark Nights at the Old Dark House
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A master criminal known as ' The Bat ' has held the city in a grip of error during his crime spree . His latest caper involves some embezzled bank money that apparently is hidden in the bank president's mansion . A reclusive woman and her niece are currently renting the mansion ? Our villain must find a way to frighten off the unsuspecting boarders in order to find the stolen money , as well as try to stay one step ahead of the law , according to the DVD sleeve's synopsis . " Can you keep a secret ? " the film begins , " Don't reveal the identity of ' The Bat ' . Future audiences will fully enjoy this mystery play if left to find out for themselves . " This excellent silent film should be much more highly regarded than it is , currently . Director Roland West , with cinematographers Arthur Edeson and Gregg Toland , creates a fine " Dark Night " setting for " The Batman " ; the film either influenced , or inspired imitations which influenced , DC's comic book hero . One of the film's many imitators was Mr . West's own " The Bat Whispers " ( 1930 ) . Jack Pickford ( as Brooks Bailey ) and West's wife , Jewel Carmen ( as Dale Ogden ) , lead the ensemble cast . This was Ms . Carmen's last feature film ; she was a fairly big star , but worked less as her popularity grew . The even more popular Mr . Pickford ( brother of Mary ) is quite good ; certainly , none of the problems which plagued Pickford in the late 1920s show up in his performance . Comedic maid Louise Fazenda ( as Lizzie Allen ) manages to stand out , despite datedness . And , Emily Fitzroy ( as Cornelia Van Gorder ) knits throughout . The Bat ( 1926 ) Roland West - Jack Pickford , Jewel Carmen , Louise Fazenda
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452,876 | 15,896,852 | 44,837 | 8 |
Limelight is a Cruel Lover
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Charlie Chaplin moves into the 1950s with an unusual drama about an alcoholic old timer ( Chaplin as Calvero ) and suicidal young ballerina ( Claire Bloom as Terry ) . The comedian " Calvero " is drunk as the film opens , and obviously in the twilight of his career . He rescues Ms . Bloom from a suicide attempt and helps her to get back on her feet ( so to speak ) . The film seems almost like nothing , but becomes quite substantial . It's a very thoughtful film - - obviously , Chaplin in his 60s has lost none of his film-making skills : the difference is that you come to Chaplin on His terms . No longer interested ( capable ? ) of producing massive audience " hits " , Chaplin produces an indulgent , sentimental " Limelight " . It's an excellent work , but very hard to digest . Some impressions : Comedy is ballet . Life is ballet . Young needs old . Old needs young . Comics need a drug . Perhaps the film needs a single focus ? I found the sequences where Chaplin is told by the " suits " he's washed-up to be most memorable ; along with the small scene where a comic goes in for Chaplin's job because he's heard the old clown is awful . The stuff with Buster Keaton is very nice , too , and makes you wish the would have done a full film together . I believe Keaton's role makes the film deliberately less autobiographical than many would believe , but you can never be sure ? Chaplin is interesting to watch always ; when he seems to be doing nothing , he's not . Limelight ( 1952 ) Charles Chaplin - Charlie Chaplin , Claire Bloom , Buster Keaton
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453,001 | 15,896,852 | 18,566 | 8 |
When Barrymore Loves Costello
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In an old French cathedral town , during the reign of Louis XV , devoted churchman John Barrymore ( as Chevalier Fabien des Grieux ) is studying to become a Priest . One May morning , virginal Dolores Costello ( as Manon Lescaut ) arrives at the musty convent , like " a flower freshly plucked from the countryside " ; when Mr . Barrymore sees Ms . Costello , the seeds of romance are firmly planted . Meanwhile , Costello's scheming brother Warner Oland ( as André Lescaux ) decides to prostitute sister Costello . Barrymore overhears Mr . Oland's plotting , and whisks Costello off to Paris . Eventually , Costello feels the lure of jewels and pretty clothes ; and , Barrymore is torn between lust and the Lord . Sheer nonsense , but extremely well-produced - - firstly , Alan Crosland's " When a Man Loves " is another great opportunity to see star lovers Barrymore and Costello ( who would soon marry off-screen ) . Oland and the man he sells Costello to , Sam de Grasse ( as Monsieur Guillot de Morfontaine ) , head up a delightful supporting cast . Look out for a hilariously over-painted Bertram Grassby ( as Le Duc de Richelieu ) , Tom Santschi sneeringly captaining the convict boat , and pretty prisoner Myrna Loy . The convict ship trip ending , with its swelling Vitaphone soundtrack , and Barrymore going ballistic . . . all fantastic . Barrymore's performance becomes amazing . Don't desert the ship - - keep watching until the exciting ending payoff .
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453,181 | 15,896,852 | 18,618 | 8 |
All the Brothers Were Valiant
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Ramon Novarro ( as Joel ) is the youngest of the seafaring Shore family . While older brother Ernest Torrence ( as Mark ) is off on a long voyage , Mr . Novarro falls for fetching Joan Crawford ( as Pricilla ) . Upon returning , Mr . Torrence is revealed to have also fallen for the bewitching Ms . Crawford - and , eventually , the brothers become rivals . Crawford prefers Novarro , but her father " betrothes " her to Torrence . Before their wedded bliss begins , however , the Shore brothers must make a trip to Singapore ; it's Novarro's first voyage with older brothers , after proving himself in a barroom brawl . While sailing " Across to Singapore " , a fierce storm blasts the Shore brothers ' " Nathan Ross " ship - with tragic results ? Actually , this is a version of " All the Brothers Were Valiant " . Perhaps the title was changed because one brother clearly dominates ( Novarro ) , and only one other figures prominently ( Torrence ) . Although there are four Shore brothers , you won't see much of the others , valiant or otherwise . It's odd MGM re-made this story in 1928 ; it was seen relatively recently , in 1923 , with Malcolm McGregor , Lon Chaney , and Billie Dove as Joel , Mark , and Pricilla . AND , there was no sound version until 1953 , with Robert Taylor , Stewart Granger , and Ann Blyth in the principal roles . Novarro performs very well , especially enjoy his scene with Crawford , when she boards the ship to bid farewell , before his maiden voyage . It's also one of Crawford's best scenes , and the lower " Nathan Ross " set is beautifully detailed . Anna May Wong also performs very well ; though uncredited , she is the best supporting player . Note Ms . May Wong's excellent introduction ( during the first trip to Singapore ) - she relates her dissatisfaction with her man , and her desire for Mark , with a few simple gestures . May Wong is superb , and should have been included in the film's credits . James Mason ( not the later actor ) is fine as the villain . There are some problems with the story . The whole " betrothed " issue is confusing to me , and may be to others . I also don't understand why an experienced sailor like Mark Shore immediately goes below and gets drunk ; perhaps , he saw little brother with Crawford earlier on ? I wondered how Mark Shore could order a certain character killed , and , seconds later reverse said order . Though a fine actor , I had some trouble accepting Torrence in this role - I expected him to be the villain , due to his other indelible portrayals . A big MGM production , with a lot of excitement , and a fine cast . The voyages of the " Nathan Ross " are particularly exciting ? great storm , and great ending . This is a film that was " saved " in the nick of time , however , and some of the film is sadly deteriorated ; happily , it is still enjoyable . Across to Singapore ( 1928 ) William Nigh - Ramon Novarro , Joan Crawford , Ernest Torrence
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453,444 | 15,896,852 | 22,913 | 8 |
Super Freaky After All These Years
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Wallace Ford ( as Phroso ) is a clown at a carnival freak show . There , beautiful trapeze artist Olga Baclanova ( as Cleopatra ) enjoys the company of strongman Roscoe Ates ( as Hercules ) ; however , she also enjoys toying with the affections of midget Harry Earles ( as Hans ) , much to the dismay of his similarly statured fiancée Daisy Earles ( as Frieda ) . When the normal-sized Ms . Baclanova finds out little man Mr . Earles is rich , she decides to lure him into marriage . At her wedding feast , Cleopatra's ulterior motives become clear to the " Freaks " ; then , they enact their terrifying revenge ? The last great Tod Browning film ; " Freaks " has to be seen to be believed . The cast is sometimes so riveting , they distract from the story . After all these years , the " Freaks " remain stunning . BUT , really - - if only this had been filmed a few years earlier , as a silent ? ( sigh ) Freaks ( 1932 ) Tod Browning - Wallace Ford , Olga Baclanova , Harry Earles
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453,698 | 15,896,852 | 38,109 | 8 |
Alfred Hitchcock casts a Minor Spell with Ingrid Bergman and Gregory Peck
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Stolid psychoanalyst Ingrid Bergman ( as Constance Peterson ) falls head over heels in love at first sight with handsome Gregory Peck ( as Anthony Edwardes ) . Young Mr . Peck is the newly arriving young director at the Vermont insane asylum , where Ms . Bergman dispenses lay analysis . Soon , it becomes obvious that Peck is harboring a very dark secret - he is an amnesiac ( John Ballantine ) suspected of murdering the asylum's real director , and taking his place . Love-struck Bergman assumes the identity of Peck's wife , and endeavors to prove he is not guilty . Soon , Peck's fragile psyche will have you questioning not only Peck's innocence , but also Bergman's sanity ? Alfred Hitchcock's obvious directorial touches make " Spellbound " a good watch . Surrealistic artist Salvador Dali contributes a psychotic dream sequence , and composer Miklós Rózsa's eerie theremin-enhanced soundtrack adds some suspense . Bergman and Peck look , and act , splendid for the master , basking in beautiful black-and-white photography from George Barnes . Michael Chekhov ( as Alex Brulov ) and Leo G . Carroll ( as Murchison ) are good supporting doctors . Pretty Rhonda Fleming ( as Mary Carmichael ) is a nymphomaniac who , sadly , isn't left alone with Peck . The film's " Achilles ' heel " is its ludicrous psychobabble . Spellbound ( 1945 ) Alfred Hitchcock - Ingrid Bergman Gregory Peck , Michael Chekhov
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453,164 | 15,896,852 | 29,546 | 8 |
The Way You Wear Your Hat
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In order to fend off an admiring ballerina , phony Russian ballet star Fred Astaire ( as Peter " Petrov " Peters ) falsely claims he's married to a beautiful American musical star he admires , Ginger Rogers ( as Linda Keene ) . To complicate matters , and get closer to lovely Ms . Rogers , Mr . Astaire joins her on a ship leaving France for New York . On board , Rogers treats Astaire with disdain , while gossiping newspapers report their " secret wedding " and " blessed event " . Can Astaire's elegant charm , and sweet singing , win Rogers ' heart ? for real ? " Shall We Dance " dutifully duplicated the success of previous Astaire / Rogers box office hits . Astaire issued his standard three 78 RPM Brunswick singles , which proceeded to saturate radio waves , and effortlessly made " Hit Parades " during the spring of 1937 - peaking in the following positions : " They Can't Take That Away from Me " ( # 1 ) / " ( I've Got ) Beginner's Luck " ( # 13 ) , " Shall We Dance ? " ( # 3 ) / " Let's Call the Whole Thing Off " ( # 5 ) , and Astaire's version of Rogers ' film song " They All Laughed " ( # 6 ) / " Slap That Bass " . The wonderful George & Ira Gershwin written songs , and the workmanship RKO / Astaire / Rogers delivery , is what really keeps the film's flimsy , formulaic story above board . Shall We Dance ( 1937 ) Mark Sandrich - Fred Astaire , Ginger Rogers , Eric Blore
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452,714 | 15,896,852 | 86,856 | 8 |
No Matter Where You Go , There You Are
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Buckaroo Banzai's latest adventure ( and , his first revealed in any media ) begins with Peter Weller as the Samurai , " renaissance man , neurosurgeon , physicist , race car driver , rock star , AND comic book hero " test driving his Jet Car through a mountain . Due to the vehicle's " oscillation overthruster " , Mr . Weller emerges unscathed - he and his Jet Car pass through solid matter . Unfortunately , the car picks up a glob of inter-dimensional matter . Coincidentally ( actually , not coincidentally ) , super-weird physicist John Lithgow ( as Emilio Lizardo ) ends his five decade residency at the " New Brunswick Home for the Criminally Insane " . . . As it turns out , Mr . Lithgow is an alien ( they are all named " John " ) from " Planet 10 " . On Halloween 1938 , Lithgow and some " Red Lectroids " arrived on Earth . Their mission failed , and many were thrown into " The 8th Dimension " . This event was , by the way , was misinterpreted as an invasion from Mars , by Orson Welles , during his infamous October 30 , 1938 radio broadcast version of H . G . Wells ' " War of the Worlds " . By the late 1960s , other media hinted at the continued Lectroid presence . Examples include ABC-TV's " The Invaders " and novelist Thomas Pynchon's " The Crying of Lot 49 " . Presently , defeating the Red Lectroid invaders is up to multi-talented " Buckaroo Banzai " ( Weller ) and his hard-rocking team of " Hong Kong Cavaliers " : Lewis Smith ( as Perfect Tommy ) , Jeff Goldblum ( as New Jersey ) , Clancy Brown ( as Rawhide ) , Pepe Serna ( as Reno Nevada ) , and Billy Vera ( as Pinky Carruthers ) . Suicidal Ellen Barkin ( as Penny Priddy ) provides Banzai romantic interest . " The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai ( Across the 8th Dimension ) " is intelligent fun , from writer Earl Mac Rauch and director W . D . Richter . Lithgow is a perfect Lectroid , " Laugh while you can , monkey boy ! " Really , he and the likes of Vincent Schiavelli ( as John O'Connor ) couldn't be anyone but aliens , could they ? In hindsight , perhaps the " Black Letroid " and " Penny Priddy " parts might have been better re-worked . Still , it's a classic . And , it still leaves you looking forward to " Buckaroo Banzai Against the World Crime League " , with Weller and the Cavaliers . The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai ( 1984 ) W . D . Richter - Peter Weller , John Lithgow , Lewis Smith
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453,370 | 15,896,852 | 55,489 | 8 |
The Pleasure of His Company
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Tennessee Williams ' tale of sexual repression in a small Mississippi town makes it to the big screen , with enough , but not all , of its integrity intact ; most notably , it glistens when it should sweat . Geraldine Page ( as Alma Winemiller ) is excellent as the minister's daughter who guiltily longs for rakish playboy Laurence Harvey ( as John Buchanan Jr . ) . Ms . Page's characterization is one that unravels ; its full impact realized is in a devastating last act . Mr . Harvey does well , successfully conveying the near-equal importance of his character . Page gives Harvey spiritual love , and he wants her physically ; their reversal of desire is very convincingly , and thoughtfully , portrayed . Excellent supporting performances are highlighted by crazed Una Merkel ( as Mother Winemiller ) and lonely Earl Holliman ( as Archie Kramer ) . If the film seems a little too staged , remember , it is Tennessee Williams ; a staged atmosphere is pardonable when your fluttering heroine speaks lines like , " The wind is penetrating this afternoon . " ( A decade earlier , Page played the role on stage . ) Elmer Bernstein's soundtrack is lovely . Music , performance , and dialogue give " Summer and Smoke " an appropriately sexually-charged atmosphere . Toss thoughts of blasphemy to the wind , and turn OFF the color ( if you can ) , to watch " Summer and Smoke " in mood-altering grayish tones . Summer and Smoke ( 1961 ) Peter Glenville - Geraldine Page , Laurence Harvey , Una Merkel
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452,809 | 15,896,852 | 10,040 | 8 |
Mary Pickford Makes it Work
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Mary Pickford ( as Jerusha " Judy " Abbott ) is found , as a baby , in a garbage dump . Orphaned , she is brought to the " John Grier Home " , where young boys and girls are treated more like convicts than children . By the time she is 12 , little Mary is leading the orphans in a strike against eating prunes . Some years later , Ms . Pickford is the beneficiary of a lucky , life-changing event : one of the orphanage's new trustees wants to sponsor an orphan's higher education ; and Pickford is chosen . At college , Pickford is a fetching young woman , which sends Cupid's arrows flying . Love-struck Princeton man Marshall Neilan ( as Jimmie Mc Bride ) and " older man " ( as Jarvis Pendleton ) vie for Pickford's hand in marriage . Pickford becomes a writer ; her first effort fails , but she instinctively follows the advice " write what you know " in creating a successful tome about orphans . Finally , Pickford must choose her man , and payback her " mysterious benefactor " . Some of " Daddy-Long-Legs " doesn't ring true ; vignettes are cute , in isolation , but add little to the overall film ; it's obvious , for example , that the children experience some childhood fun , which is said to be completely absent . And , the cruelty of the " John Grier Home " is hardly comparable to a prison ! You may also wonder why a fully clothed boy is considered " naked " , how a baby might have digested a mouth organ , how that girl got in and out of the well , and other stuff . The film is not at all unpredictable . However , Mary Pickford is outstanding . She very believably plays " Judy " - - growing from a precocious 12-year-old girl to young career woman . As the film progresses , Pickford seems to add layers upon her character . For example , in some later scene , beginning at a society party where Pickford admires some ancestral portraits ; watch , as the party progresses , both Pickford's past , and future , register on her face . Pickford constructs her character extremely well . Director Marshall Neilan ( who also appears , as Jimmie Mc Bride ) was an important Pickford collaborator ; and the supporting cast is delightful . Wesley Barry is wonderful as Pickford's early orphan pal ; he manages to steal scenes from Mary Pickford - - 11-year-old Barry play " drunk " better than Pickford ! Carrie Clark Ward is delightful as love-weary " Mrs . Semple " , and Fay Lemport ( as Angelina Wyckoff ) shows how pampered , selfish little girls grow up . " Daddy-Long-Legs " was filmed again and again , but this is the definitive version , thanks , mainly , to Mary Pickford .
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453,433 | 15,896,852 | 33,870 | 8 |
Full of Sound and Fury
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Humphrey Bogart plays grimacing detective Sam Spade in John Huston's " The Maltese Falcon " - a classic film ; and , it deserves that status , in many respects . The performances are and " noir look " of the film help tremendously . Peter Lorre's was the best characterization - and , he's great with " The Fat Man " Sydney Greenstreet . Mr . Bogart was memorable , as was Mary Astor , but , I didn't see any special magic in their relationship ( perhaps none was intended ) . It was nice to see Bogart paired with a woman closer to his own age . The weakest element in " The Maltese Falcon " is a story that never really takes a stranglehold on your mind ; which is made worse by the fact that it always seems like it is about to - like there is some mysterious all-connecting story element to be revealed ( perhaps none was intended ) . The Maltese Falcon ( 1941 ) John Huston - Humphrey Bogart , Mary Astor , Sydney Greenstreet
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453,715 | 15,896,852 | 16,822 | 8 |
Colleen Moore's Cinderella Story
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Because the plot of this very well-produced silent film is so easily recognizable as " Cinderella " , it can be one of your most enjoyable introductions to both the silent film genre , and to one of its most popular actresses , Colleen Moore . The film was an adaptation of the then popular new comic strip " Ella Cinders " , with changes to the heroine's situation that were perfectly suited to a silent film starring Ms . Moore . The film easily transcends its source , and succeeds as prime example of the often repeated story about a young woman achieving her dream to become a Hollywood movie star - itself , a " Cinderella " story . Who knew comic strips could be perfect silent film fodder ? The Hollywood " movie set " scenes aren't as clever as in other films of this type , despite the appearance of Harry Langdon and others , in cameos . Director Alfred E . Green , Lloyd Hughes ( as George Waite ) , and Vera Lewis ( as Ma Cinders ) make good contributions . Interestingly , Moore is best on screen , alone , with a lion or fire ; and , when attempting to , " Master the art of expressing every emotion with the eyes , " imitate Jackie Coogan , and pose at a " photo session " for the movie star contest she eventually wins . " Ella Cinders " was a huge success , and helped propel Colleen Moore to the # 1 position on Quigley Publications ' " Box Office Stars " list for 1926 . Ella Cinders ( / 26 ) Alfred E . Green - Colleen Moore , Lloyd Hughes , Vera Lewis
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452,413 | 15,896,852 | 38,235 | 8 |
Close to the Dirt
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In Italy , a platoon of American GIs must rid a farmhouse of its Nazi occupants . " A Walk in the Sun " is expertly directed by Lewis Milestone , utilizing Russell Harlan's perceptive camera . It's unusually poetic , for the time , courtesy of writers Harry Brown and Robert Rossen . And , certainly , the film should grow in stature , over the years , when compared to the more typical war dramas released during its era . Upon release , the film was no doubt considered noteworthy for its " realism " . Presently , this strength is weighted . Still , the film's substance endures . Strong characterizations are provided by the cast of soldiers . Two stand out , and give the film greater emotional depth . Though it begins , necessarily , as a team effort , reluctant Dana Andrews ( as Bill Tyne ) emerges as the " hero " ; and , John Ireland ( as Windy Craven ) stands out among the other soldiers . Mr . Andrews is the man who takes command , after leader Herbert Rudley cowers under the pressure . Andrews is terrific ; especially , note how he fights off the same war fatigue and mental illness that claimed his predecessor . Mr . Ireland's performance , as a poetic minister's son , is award-worthy . Each of the film's characters attempt to grab you : " the farmer " , " the prophet " ? accompanied by an almost too sentimental , heart-tugging soundtrack . But , however you try to resist , it's impossible not to fall under Ireland's spell , as he explains " G . I . Dirt " , and writes letters home " in his head " . While Andrews takes explicit control of the mission , it's Ireland who implicitly provides the battle plan . The film does well in portraying a platoon's waiting , talking , teamwork , and action during war .
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453,572 | 15,896,852 | 404,390 | 8 |
Down the Rabbit Hole with Wayne Kramer
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Struggling mob hand Joey Gazelle ( Paul Walker ) finds his life turned inside-out when a ' hot ' weapon he's in charge of concealing goes missing . With two mafia families and a team of crooked cops watching his every move , Joey sets out on a chilling , bloody pursuit , maneuvering his way through a horrific web of creeps and criminals , praying he can retrieve the gun and make it home to his family - alive , according to the Warner Home Video synopsis . Well , Mr . Walker turns out to not quite fit that description ; and , you won't see much time spent on " praying " ( perhaps , Warner Brothers meant " preying " ? ) - anyway , Wayne Kramer's " Running Scared " is a shocking , viscerally violent , and potentially offensive bloodbath . Two of the film's featured players are adolescents , Cameron Bright ( as Oleg Yugorsky ) and Alex Neuberger ( as Nicky Gazelle ) . The youths do well in their roles , but I'm not sure they should see the movie - at least , not without an intense debriefing conversation . Kramer , with photographer James Whitaker , and their crew make " Running Scared " a relentlessly violent , but beautifully filmed , " Grimm " fairy tale . The " pedophile " sequence , with Bruce Altman ( as Dez ) and Elizabeth Mitchell ( as Edele ) , is astonishingly well shot . Here , with a bright set and creepy shadows , Kramer's suggestion of horror is chilling . This section of the film is most successful , with relatively little violence , and no sex . For fans of less subtle bloodletting , Kramer ends with a some brutally violent hockey rink horror . In hindsight , there are some improvable plot points ? Vera Farmiga ( as Teresa ) and Ivana Milicevic ( as Mila ) make their presence felt , in a largely male film . And , Karel Roden ( as Anzor Yugorsky ) is a John Wayne fan from Hell . The end credit characterizations , which hammer home the fairly tale quality hinted at throughout , are well-drawn , and seem a little wasted in proximity . While exceedingly violent , " Running Scared " is a striking , stylish film . Running Scared ( 2006 ) Wayne Kramer - Paul Walker , Cameron Bright , Vera Farmiga
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453,105 | 15,896,852 | 44,687 | 8 |
Bobby Driscoll Comes of Age
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Bobby Driscoll ( as Robert " Bibi " Bonnard ) is a teenager " coming of age " in 1920s Ottawa . Mr . Driscoll's uncle , traveling salesman Louis Jourdan ( as Desmond Bonnard ) , is away when the film begins ; he enjoys a " playboy " lifestyle , but returns soon , for a visit . Driscoll's father , Charles Boyer ( as Jacques Bonnard ) appears to have grown out of an extended career of his own , as a " ladies ' man " ; and his father , randy Marcel Dalio ( as Grandpa Bonnard ) , recognizes " la puberty " is beginning for Driscoll ? Everyone in the cast is outstanding ; but , " The Happy Time " is , more than anything , Driscoll's film . He more than holds his own , among the distinguished cast . Watching Driscoll perform in this film makes his sudden slide from favor all the more puzzling - - he may not have grown up according to the Disney studio's specifications , but few do . As evidenced here , Driscoll should have had a long working career as , if anything , a comedian ; " ? only one is from the burlesque , the other was obtained privately , " he says , arriving at the dinner table wearing garters . Director Richard Fleischer does Earl Felton's smartly written play justice . The film is full of nice " symbolic " touches - - the canary , the girl's braces , and the medals appearing inside more than one of the characters ' jackets . While beautifully done , the film's ill-mannered presentation of sex , love , and gender roles seems very queer ; probably , the film's themes held significantly more charm in the 1950s . Also worth watching for Kurt Kasznar ( repeating his stage role as a possibly alcoholic neighboring uncle ) , Marsha Hunt ( whom Driscoll seems to take after , in looks ) , Linda Christian ( recalling of Eva Gabor ) , Jimmy Bishop ( a young Chuck Connors ) , and Marlene Cameron ( entering her own " happy time " ) .
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453,053 | 15,896,852 | 68,286 | 9 |
First You Must Learn How to Kill
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I put the tape in , made a quick trip to the refrigerator , and returned to find six guys acting like they were animals , being massacred by hunters . Curses ! I thought the tape hadn't been re-wound - - and , I was watching the ending . BUT , it was only a nightmare . This IS how the film begins . . . Barry Robins ( as " Cotton " ) wakes up , all right , in his " Box Canyon Boys Camp " cabin . Mr . Robins rounds up his troops ; then , they head out to save the buffalo ? and civilization . The opening " flashback " is appropriately disturbing . More importantly , it clearly and directly relates the teenagers at the " Boys Camp " to caged animals . Further flashbacks tell the story of how the six " emotionally disturbed " kids are put out , by failed parents , to be either housed or " corrected " . The camp's motto is : " Send Us A Boy ? We'll Send You A Cowboy " ! The prospective cowboys , corralled by leader Robins , are : stoner Bill Mumy ( as " Teft " ) , comedian Miles Chapin ( as " Shecker " ) , fairy Darel Glaser ( as Goodenow ) , and feuding siblings Bob Kramer ( as " Lolly 1 " ) and Marc Vahanian ( as " Lolly 2 " ) . The entire cast performs well , with Robins and Mr . Mumy more obviously standing out . Watch for a great scene , after the travelers ' " Pest Control " truck , hot-wired by Mumy , runs out of gas . Robins tries to start the truck ; and , his hopeless efforts trigger an important " flashback " . Imaginatively directed , by Stanley Kramer , we see Robins through his mother's vanity mirror , applying make-up for a young date . When Robins threatens to reveal his mother's age , she responds , " I'll kill you . . . " Telling . Another important , well-played , sequence occurs with Mr . Glaser's last " flashback " - - to when he was " cast out " of his cabin . Branded a " sissy " for bed wetting , Glaser is humiliated , and attempts suicide . Robins is the boy's Savior ; he raises " Goodenow " from a drowning pool to the " Bedwetters " cabin , where introductions are made . This part of the film might have been better placed earlier , as it so effectively " introduces " the individual characters , and cinematically ties them together as a team . While this is a " non-linear " film , there are editing / continuity problems ( real and speculative ) ; hopefully , a better cut version of " Bless the Beasts & Children " can be found . The music is outstanding : both the instrumental theme by Barry DeVorzon and Perry Botkin Jr . , and the vocals " Bless the Beasts and the Children " ( by Carpenters ) and the ill-titled " It's a Beautiful Day " by co-star Mumy ( written with Paul Gordon ) . Bless the Beasts & Children ( 1971 ) Stanley Kramer - Barry Robins , Bill Mumy , Darel Glaser , Miles Chapin
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453,534 | 15,896,852 | 36,868 | 9 |
Nothing But the Best
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This is a great film from director William Wyler , cast and crew . I agree with so many of the prior comments . The film's appeal - represented early on by amputee Harold Russell - is that this is going to be a realistic depiction of post-war comings home . Mr . Russell , Mr . March , and Mr . Andrews make a great team , and each give great performances . Russell is an amputee , March has an alcohol problem , and Andrews shows some post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms . The film shows them adjusting , or not adjusting , to civilian life . Myrna Loy is wonderful to watch ? especially , her eyes . The background / foreground action is nice . I noticed that March and the others do not look like they've missed all that much shaving , despite the script . In fact , March's moustache looks very neatly trimmed , to me . My major criticism is , after starting as a " realistic " drama , the film ends with a glossy " happy ending " . The servicemen's differing problems are all too conveniently . . . gone . The movie becomes less a realistic drama and more a Fantasy Hollywood Movie . It becomes way , way too sentimental . It's , still , incredibly well-presented sentimentality . I think its closeness to the actual war being represented both adds and detracts from the film . I'm sure audiences benefited from this movie greatly during release - but , it was too soon for an honest reflection . Instead of it's goal , I think the film becomes an essential American time capsule . It shows the mood of the country in a way , today , the filmmakers were perhaps not expecting - and , it's sentimentally perfect Hollywood ending is no less valuable than gritty real life dramas . The Best Years of Our Lives ( 1946 ) William Wyler - Fredric March , Dana Andrews , Myrna Loy , Harold Russell
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453,475 | 15,896,852 | 110,632 | 9 |
A Red-Blooded American Man and Woman
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In 1994 , Oliver Stone held a mirror up to the face of America's preoccupation with mindless violence , and most recoiled in disgust . It was a good sign ! Alas , the obsession remains ; and , with a few twists and turns unforeseen in Mr . Stone's film . Perhaps , it won't end until a " reality show " films an actual " Mickey and Mallory Knox " in action . Until then , " Natural Born Killers " gives the lowest common dominator exactly what they won't admit they desire : " The gory details . " Thankfully , Stone and his skillful crew depict the violence in an artful , poetic , and ( sometimes ) humorous manner . Violent or not , it is an excellent piece of film-making . Stone , with photographer Robert Richardson , uses film types and techniques in an extraordinarily powerful way ; the differing styles are a relevant enhancement of the story , rather than a catalog of gimmicks . Stone brilliantly captures 1990s TV media ( and beyond ) . In particular , Robert Downey Jr . ' s portrayal of an Australian Geraldo Rivera-type interviewer " Wayne Gale " is a dead-on treasure . This type of interviewer peddles the perverse as entertainment ; and , with viewers ratings , turns " folks " like Charles Manson , Bonnie , and Clyde into celebrity stars . A decade later , Chris Hansen's " To Catch a Predator " proved media could sink even lower , by celebrating pedophilia . Woody Harrelson and Juliet Lewis are individually chilling and brave , in the lead roles ; somehow , they aren't as memorable together as other criminal and / or degenerate couples ( " Bonnie and Clyde " , " Sid and Nancy " ) . Perhaps , their relative aloofness is intentional . Mr . Downey Jr . and Tom Sizemore are award-worthy , in their supporting roles ; the former's portrayal is the best example of the film's uncomfortable resonation . Stone's soundtrack choices ( Yo ! Patti Smith ) rock . The " Nature / Nurture " balance / influence on the film's anti-heroes is explained during the appropriately placed " Super Bowl " TV interview . Natural Born Killers ( 1994 ) Oliver Stone - Woody Harrelson , Juliet Lewis , Robert Downey Jr . , Tom Sizemore
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452,744 | 15,896,852 | 43,961 | 9 |
Audie Murphy Carries the Flag after Everything Has Gone Boom
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Director John Huston's version of Stephen Crane's U . S . Civil War classic " The Red Badge of Courage " is an unusual , but ultimately engrossing , film . It is infamous for provoking major Hollywood infighting - read Lillian Ross ' " Picture " , a book on the film's troubled history . Huston's original version was severely cut ; unfortunately , the missing footage is believed to have been destroyed . Yet , this film fairly accurately retains the novel's possibly controversial storyline / theme , as a generous amount of soldiers are shown deserting their battalion ( including the star protagonist ) . It's enough to make you wonder what was cut , and why . The youthful Audie Murphy ( as Henry Fleming ) is terrific as the Union soldier confronting feelings of cowardice , before fighting Confederate rebels . A genuine World War II hero , Mr . Murphy carries the film extraordinarily well . The sequence wherein Murphy ends a battle with the American flag held high , as he holds the Confederate flag waving sideways above ground , should be an iconic movie image . It photographically capsulizes the war for many . Murphy's courageous performance was worthy of some " Best Actor " consideration . The narration , despite being genuine Crane , doesn't quite work ; but , the supporting characters , led by loud soldier Bill Mauldin ( as Tom Wilson ) convey the novel's voices nicely . Despite having his film cut by ( possibly ) half , Huston's direction remains excellent . And , Harold Rosson's black-and-white photography is also award-worthy . Salute the cast and crew for surviving " The Red Badge of Courage " so eloquently . The Red Badge of Courage ( 1951 ) John Huston - Audie Murphy , Bill Mauldin , John Dierkes , Royal Dano
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453,607 | 15,896,852 | 41,746 | 9 |
The Racism in Your Face
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Well-mannered nurse Jeanne Crain ( as Patricia " Pinky " Johnson ) returns to her poor " Black " neighborhood , in Mississippi . There , she is welcomed by washerwoman grandmother Ethel Waters ( as Granny ) . The pair are confronted by racism both outside and inside their home . Most importantly , it is revealed that Ms . Crain has been " passing " as " White " . Moreover , Crain has become engaged to Caucasian doctor William Lundigan ( as Thomas Adams ) . While working at home , to support Crain's nursing education , Ms . Waters has grown close to ailing Ethel Barrymore ( as Miss Em ) . At first , Crain does not understand or accept the friendship between Waters , a former slave , and Ms . Barrymore , a former plantation owner . But , for her grandmother , Crain agrees to become Barrymore's nurse . " Pinky " is a nerve-rattling classic . Probably , the most obvious " debate " point was the casting of Crain in the title role . Crain was definitely " pink " enough ( or , white-looking ) ; but , her general " movie star " persona makes the casting decision seem risky . Yet , Crain , under Elia Kazan's direction , triumphs . There are so many ways Crain could have fallen into acting traps - she could have used mannerisms , make-up , and / or other stereotypical devices to " camp " up the " Black " - but , she avoids each trap . Crain performs the role with a great amount of dignity . She was deservedly honored with an " Academy Award " nomination . Barrymore and Waters also perform well ( as you might expect ) . We are never , in the film , given a clear statement of facts regarding the heritage of Crain's " Pinky " . My guess is that she is related , by blood , to both Waters and Barrymore . An attempted rape of Crain's character accounts , arguably , for her pink appearance ; this might have occurred in more than one generation . It's also possible that a loving " mixed race " relationship was part of either Ethel's past . Making the " Black / White " history more clear would have only gotten the film into more trouble . " Pinky " was quickly censored , and headed for the US Supreme Court . One of the Board of Censors ' objections was , " a white man retaining his love for a woman after learning that she is a Negro . " However , Mr . Lundigan's " Thomas " is only willing to retain his love under certain conditions ; and , this leads to a sharp , less " Hollywood " - styled ending . The Supreme Court was correct . Some of the film's best scenes show the way Crain is treated after other characters learn she is not white . Pinky ( 1949 ) Elia Kazan - Jeanne Crain , Ethel Barrymore , Ethel Waters , William Lundigan
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452,604 | 15,896,852 | 97,714 | 9 |
Tra-La-La ( and The Killing of Georgie , Part I )
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A startling trip into the lower-class bowels of the fourth largest city in the world , circa 1952 . This is the film version of Hubert Selby Jr . ' s unrelentingly pessimistic 1964 novel " Last Exit to Brooklyn " . In the film medium , the material makes a sideways , but successful , impression ; this is an exceptional drama . There are many great sub-plots , and performances ; but , mainly , the film focuses on the character stories involving beautiful young prostitute Jennifer Jason Leigh ( as Tral ) , and striking bisexual union leader Stephen Lang ( as Harry Black ) . Writer Selby has said , " Sometimes , we have the absolute certainty that there's something inside us that's so hideous and monstrous that , if we ever search it out , we won't be able to stand looking at it . But , it's when we're willing to come face to face with that demon , that we face the angel . " Selby's brutal , heart-wrenching treatment of its characters would not have been as successful a film without an extraordinary look at the " angel face " referred to in his quote . In a scene not in the book , young Cameron Johann ( as Spook ) , who has a teenage " crush " on Ms . Leigh , happens upon her drunken figure , after she is nearly raped to death . She is resurrected by his tear-stained face , and realizes her fling with soldier Frank Military ( as Steve ) provided fulfilling sexual intimacy . The scene implicitly offers salvation to Mr . Lang , who , after attempting sex with an underage boy , has been crucified . Still , the film can't shed some " dock-time " , for rancid sexual one-sidedness . Director Uli Edel , cinematographer Stefan Czapsky , editor Peter Przygodda , and musician Mark Knopfler are award-worthy . Jennifer Jason Leigh won several well-deserved awards , but no Oscar ; and , there are at least five performances worthy of a " Best Supporting Actor " nomination . From the central roles , to the smallest " walk on " player ; this film is an example of " ensemble acting " at its best . Its shocking content must have put off a lot of viewers , at the time ; yet , " Last Exit to Brooklyn " succeeds because its violence is not mindless . Last Exit to Brooklyn ( 1989 ) Uli Edel - Stephen Lang , Jennifer Jason Leigh , Peter Dobson , Cameron Johann
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