Sylistically audacious French drama "Declaration of War" emotionally potent
by Sam Juliano
While at least one person with a long Wonders in the Dark association will be rooting his head off for the New England Patriots in next week’s Super Bowl contest, it does appear that most with a feigning interest are hoping short order vindication isn’t achieved. Joel Bocko believes a Pats victory will erase the bitter taste of the 08 upset that spoiled a perfect season and sent New England fans into a prolonged depression. He also sees a side of stone-faced head coach Bill Belichick, that Pats haters hate to acknowledge, one that reveals a master at his craft and the genius behind the NFL’s most dangerous offense. Tom Coughlin’s Giants, however, are the stronger defensive unit, and the Big D is often what wins Super Bowls. The oddsmakers by 3 points believe the Pats will be getting their revenge in Indianapolis on February 6th.
The Bresson Film Festival at Manhattan’s Film Forum has concluded, but the same venue has presently reached it’s meatiest stage at the Siskel Center in Chicago, where several WitD staff and associates are presently immersing themselves. Back at the Film Forum after a one-week run of a minor camp classic Pretty Poison, the theatre will be running a comprehensive three-week festival on William Wellmann, that will include appearances by author William Wellmann Jr., some piano accompaniments by Steve Sterner, and a few rarities.
As the Noir City Festival at the Castro in San Francisco winds down, we at WitD look forward to Dee Dee’s summary report on the event she has promoted so generously and enthusiastically. The Director’s Guild award went to Michel Hazanavicius for THE ARTIST, while the Screen Actor’s Guild was copped by THE HELP, which all won two other acting awards in a rather embarrassing strong showing for the controversial drama.
Lucille and I saw five films in theatres (6 if another viewing of THE ARTIST is counted in):
Show People (1928) **** 1/2 (Monday evening) Film Forum
A Man Escaped ***** (Thursday night) Bresson at Film Forum
The Grey *** 1/2 (Saturday morning) Edgewater multiplex
Declaration of War **** (Saturday evening) IFC Film Center
Beauty and the Beast in 3D ***** (Sunday afternoon) Edgewater multiplex
A survival saga set in the snow starring Liam Neeson THE GREY has it’s moments and some excellent visual atmospherics and set pieces. It ends poorly and follows a predictable path too, presenting a TEN LITTLE INDIANS/THE CALL OF THE WILD hybrid. DECLARATION OF WAR is a sylish and brave French drama that follows the details of a real-life story. The film’s two lead stars are also directors, with the female behind the camera here. The film is moving and spirited and shows how a certain group of people would bond and handle the ultimate tragedy.
Bresson’s austere prison drama never gets stale after endless viewings; King Vidor’s SHOW PEOPLE is a charming comedy with real life appearances from early era stars including Chaplin; the animated BEAUTY IN THE BEAST doesn’t need 3D, but if it’s an excuse to see it again, so be it. Watched THE ARTIST a fourth time with some people who hadn’t yet seen it and a few adoring family members and the magic remains in full flavor.
John Greco has written a stupendous essay on the universally-acknowledged Billy Wilder comedy classic “Some Like It Hot” at Twenty Four Frames: http://twentyfourframes.wordpress.com/2012/01/26/some-like-it-hot-1959-billy-wilder-2/
Ed Howard has authored an extraordinary review of John Ford’s “How Green Was My Valley” at Only the Cinema: http://seul-le-cinema.blogspot.com/2012/01/how-green-was-my-valley.html
Tony d’Ambra is leading up at FilmsNoir.net with a terrifically insightful piece on Robert Wise’s 1947 “Born to Kill”: http://filmsnoir.net/film_noir/born-to-kill-1947-a-violent-ironic-and-macabre-paroxysm.html
Pat Perry has posted a stupendous Top Ten of 2011 list over at Doodad Kind of Town: http://doodadkindoftown.blogspot.com/2012/01/last-word-on-2011-best-and-brightest.html
Judy Geater at Movie Classics offers up a series entry “Take Five: Films About Films” which includes some fabulous capsules on some unforgettable screen classics: http://movieclassics.wordpress.com/2012/01/23/take-five-films-about-films
Jon Warner has penned an outstanding double review of two films by Italian melodrama king Rafaelo Matarrazo at Films Worth Watching: http://filmsworthwatching.blogspot.com/2012/01/nobodys-children-1952-white-angel-1955.html
Another great round of ‘key films’ by Peter Lenihan at The Long Voyage Home: http://thelongvoyagehome.blogspot.com/2012/01/key-films-29jan12.html
Marilyn Ferdinand has written a thought-provoking piece of the apocalyptic drama “Take Shelter” at Ferdy-on-Films: http://www.ferdyonfilms.com/?p=12985
Laurie Buchanan talks about retreating for those short moments of re-charging the batteries in a marvelous post titled “Rain Retreat Meditation” at Speaking From The Heart: http://holessence.wordpress.com/2012/01/24/rain-retreat-meditation/
R.D. Finch has penned a superlative review of Preston Sturges’ comedy classic “The Palm Beach Story” at The Movie Projector: http://themovieprojector.blogspot.com/2012/01/cmba-comedy-classics-blogathon-palm.html
Anu at The Confidential Report has checked in with a fabulous Ten Best list that fully warrants everyone’s attention: http://theconfidentialreport.wordpress.com/2012/01/09/top-ten-of-2011
Just Another Film Buff (Srikanth) has posted indelible stills for an American screen classic at The Seventh Art: http://theseventhart.info/2012/01/29/study-in-verticality/
Samuel Wilson has penned a fascinating review of the Soviet “Commissar” at Mondo 70: http://mondo70.blogspot.com/2012/01/commissar-1967-88.html
Jason Marshall has penned an excellent takedown of Spielberg’s “War Horse” at Movies Over Matter: http://moviesovermatter.com/2012/01/10/you-can-lead-a-horse-to-war-spielbergs-war-horse/
Roderick Heath at This Island Rod is an incomparable horror film writer and his review on 1986′s “The Hitcher” is wholly masterful: http://thisislandrod.blogspot.com/2012/01/hitcher-1986.html
Jaime Grijalba has unveiled his towering Top 10 list over at Exodus: 8:2: http://exodus8-2.blogspot.com/2012/01/las-mejores-peliculas-del-2011-chilean.html
Joel Bocko offers up “Highlights For the Holidays” at The Dancing Image, which showcases some of the great posts from the past year: http://thedancingimage.blogspot.com/2011/12/highlights-for-holidays.html
Dee Dee has posted a wonderfully informative and engaging piece on the origin of lobby cards at Darkness Into Light: http://noirishcity.blogspot.com/2011/11/holding-auctiontaking-look-at-eleven.html
At Roderick Heath’s solo movie blog “This Island Rod” the great writer offers up a classic takedown of “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy”: http://thisislandrod.blogspot.com/2011/12/tinker-tailor-soldier-spy-2011.html
At Heath’s literature blog, English-One-O-Worst, the great writer takes on the Bard’s “King Lear” and the result is a scholarly masterpiece: http://englishoneoworst.blogspot.com/2011/11/what-he-rightly-is-king-lear-as-king.html
Craig Kennedy’s always engaging Watercooler post is leading the way at Living in Cinema: http://livingincinema.com/2012/01/15/movie-vacation-all-i-ever-wanted/
Murderous Ink, in Tokyo examines ‘Nuclear Noir’ in a brilliant new post at Vermillion and One Nights: http://vermillionandonenights.blogspot.com/2011/12/nuclear-noir.html
At Patricia’s Wisdom, Patricia relates some trying conditions caused by crippling weather that has even caused power outages in her post “Eye of the Storm”: http://patriciaswisdom.com/2012/01/eye-of-the-storm/
At Scribbles and Ramblings Sachin Gandhi features an engaging film itinerary engagingly seen in the light of football groupings: http://likhna.blogspot.com/2012/01/2012-african-cup-of-nations-film.html
At the always-spectacular Creativepotager’s blog, artist Terrill Welch focuses in on a “Good Day by the Sea” after high winds and rains on Mayne Island: http://creativepotager.wordpress.com/2012/01/27/a-good-day-by-the-sea/
The gifted and always brilliant Jason Bellamy takes a fascinating and perceptive look at “J Edgar” that in some measure differs from the majority stand. It’s at The Cooler: http://coolercinema.blogspot.com/2011/11/solid-weight-j-edgar.html
Filmmaker Jeffrey Goodman at The Late Lullaby has posted a stupendous round-up of the best cinematic experiences he’s enjoyed in 2011: http://cahierspositif.blogspot.com/2012/01/my-top-10-or-so-films-for-2011.html
Again Stephen Russell-Gebbett offers an original piece on the artistic worth of the “remake” at Checking on my Sausages: http://checkingonmysausages.blogspot.com/2012/01/remakes-why-not.html
At The Schleicher Spin our very good friend David take a look at both “The Iron Lady” and “Haywire” and the results are terrific: http://theschleicherspin.com/2012/01/25/the-iron-lady-goes-haywire/
At Cinemascope Shubajit Laheri has penned an excellent review of Woody Allen’s “Play It Again Sam”: http://cliched-monologues.blogspot.com/2012/01/play-it-again-sam-1972.html
Adam Zanzie at Icebox Movies has authored a marvelous essay on “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”: http://www.iceboxmovies.blogspot.com/2012/01/on-torture-and-revenge-in-girl-with.html
Michael Harford, the erstwhile ‘Coffee Messiah’ offers up an engaging video about the beverage’s worldwide popularity: http://coffeemessiah.blogspot.com/2011/11/coffee-break.html
Troy Olson announces plans to commence with his Robert Bresson project at Elusive as Robert Denby: http://troyolson.blogspot.com/2011/11/argh.html
At Radiator Heaven J.D. has penned a excellent piece on Martin Scorsese’s “The Color of Money”: http://rheaven.blogspot.com/2012/01/color-of-money.html
At Petrified Fountain of Thought Stephen Morton has penned a masterful takedown of “Melancholia” http://www.petrifiedfountainofthought.blogspot.com/2012/01/review-melancholia.html
Drew McIntosh is a real scholar and good skate, as he just gave away a blu-ray of Tarkovsky’s “The Sacrifice” at The Blue Vial: http://thebluevial.blogspot.com/2012/01/take-two-tarkovsky-blu-ray-giveaway.html
Kevin Olson offers up a postscript to his recent Horror Blogothon at Hugo Stigliz Makes Movies: http://kolson-kevinsblog.blogspot.com/2011/11/italian-horror-blogathon-postscript.html
Tony Dayoub at Cinema Viewfinder offers up an interview with the Self-Styled Siren: http://www.cinemaviewfinder.com/2011/11/gone-to-earth-conversation-with-self.html
At The Man From Porlock Craig exlores the work of the great S. Ray with a splendid review of “Pather Panchali”: http://themanfromporlock.blogspot.com/2012/01/iu-cinema-experiences-pather-panchali.html
Hokahey has penned a terrific review of “War Horse” at Little Worlds: http://hokahey-littleworlds.blogspot.com/2011/12/spielbergs-war-horse.html
Dave Van Poppel is gearing for some updates at Visions of Non Fiction, but presently is still leading up with his very fine review of “Project Nim”: http://visionsofnonfiction.blogspot.com/2011/08/project-nim.html
At The Reluctant Bloger Jeff Stroud has offered up some stunning beautiful images in a post titled “Autumn Leaves”: http://jeffstroud.wordpress.com/
Wow you were busy this week with the film viewing and I know you have been struggling with the flu a bit Hope all parts are back in balance and enjoying the new day.
Your words this week are fascinating with more good ideas and areas for exploration. I am sure that it will take me quite awhile to track down these movies…
I am happy to report that one of the joys of the storm is that the movie theaters both had power and ran lots of movies for the shivering folks to see.
I was able to see War Horse, Iron Lady and The Artist and was pleased that I knew so much about them before I attended. Then low and behold the New Jane Eyre arrived in my mailbox just in time for heat and power on the home front – For a gal who hardly sees a film at all…this was an amazing 4 days!
Also when mail services were begun again my books for review started to arrive.
In the cold, I polished off the HUNGER GAMES trilogy and have found it interesting that these very adult themed books about war are the hit of the 12 year old circuit. They are fascinating but I am not sure that I would lump them into the Harry Potter world of those so young without a great conversation and guidance. Have you explored these books? I understand they will be a film coming out here in March maybe?
Adding your suggestions to my list. Thanks for the good ideas and as always for the marvelous shout out.
Patricia—
Thanks for the kind words. I still have a sore throat and am coughing way too much, but after the fever broke on Saturday, I have been making some steady improvement. Great to hear the movie theatres were so accomodating during your storm. And thrilled to hear that you took in WAR HORSE, THE ARTIST and IRON LADY. The first two are among my favorite films of 2011, and the third certainly tolerable with a great lead performance. And more great news with the arrival of your JANE EYRE DVD. I look forward to hearing some of your reactions.
I am sadly unfamiliar with the HUNGER GAMES Trilogy but will do some research on the books this afternoon. I am further intrigued that a film is due in March. Wow.
Have a much better week my friend, and hear’s hoping to some sunshine. Many thanks!
Another wonderful cultural week for you Sam. You saw one of my favorite silents, Show People. Life is consumed by work these days so I haven’t had a chance to get to the theater. I’ve sort of had Nashville on a constant loop the past couple of days, which I have settled into proclaiming my favorite movie of all time. I always hesitated whenever someone asked my my favorite because, as you know, I love so many. But Nashville always came to mind first. So it is being anointed my favorite.
I watched some of the SAG awards tonight and I have to say it’s pretty annoying to see The Help take so many awards. Spencer and Davis do great work, but come on. I would love to see Viola Davis win an Oscar. She’s a great actor, but does she have to win for playing a maid? It makes me cringe a little. The more things change, the more they stay the same…
Wow Jason, never knew SHOW PEOPLE was one of your favorite silents! I’d say it’s probably Vidor’s most underrated film, and one of the most entertaining films of that period. This has been a glorious festival (one of the best we’ve ever attended for a host of reasons) and SHOW PEOPLE has been as much fun as any other film seen. Loved the conceit of having the silent stars making cameos fro one, but there’s so much more. Wow, that’s something about Altman’s NASHVILLE. I’ve never quite shared that kind of love for it, but I applaud that kind of passion and decision to acknowledged just how much it has meant to you. You have me wanting to watch it again right now! Ha, what you say there about THE HELP and Davis! Truthfully that ensemble prize should rightfully have gone to THE ARTIST, but Hazanavicius’s film will probably be cleaning up at the Oscars at the end of the month.
Hope you get some chances to hit the theatres my friend. And thanks as always for stopping by and postinga great comment!
Thanks for the mention Sam and hope you are feeling better now. Wow, you managed another viewing of The Artist. Is this the most you have seen a film theatrically in a relatively short time? I believe you have seen it 4 times in just under 2 months now. Jean Dujardin won on sunday night and might make him favourite for Feb 26. I have been curious about Declaration of War and hoping to see it soon.
Sachin—
I have a history of overdosing on some films I obsess over. In 2002 I broke personals records by seeing FAR FROM HEAVEN 22 times in the theatre over a five month period. But i am by no means bragging about such a dubious achievement I am coming clean in answer to your question. Yes Jean Dujardin did win the SAG (I actually predicted he would) and now the expected split between Pitt and Clooney in addition to Dujardin’s popularity should allow for his Oscar win. I hope that DECLARATION OF WAR appears in your neck of the woods soon. I’m practically certain it will resonate in a big way with you.
Have a great week my friend!
That was quite the feat for Far from Heaven. Amazing you had the chance to see it in cinemas for that long. I remember it only got a limited theatrical release here which I missed so I could only catch it on DVD.
Hope you have a great week ahead as well.
Sam don’t forget to tell people about how all of Fairview went to see Further From Heaven with you. Even Louie, do you think Louie would have gone to see that movie if you weren’t so in love with the movie. The Declares sounds like a good movie, do you know if it will be coming to Florida anytime soon? The actor of Artistry does not deserve to win the Oscar he didn’t talk enough. Bard Pride talked all throughout Moneybaseball, it’s an underrated part of acting, using your mouth. People should give it more respect. Peace and Blessings
Yes Jack “The Declares” is quite a potent French drama. It stays on your mind long after you have exited the theatre. Well, you do know my position on the power of silent acting. Dujardin deserves the prizes because of it.
And yes, I was a terror in those days enlisting everyone and anyone to see FAR FROM HEAVEN. It was 2002′s prime obsession ion fact. Ha!
Thanks again my friend!
Sam, your mention of Pretty Poison brings back fond memories of seeing it with Tuesday Weld in the theater and onstage at the Castro Theater in SF. Isn’t that the one where Beverly Garland plays her mother? I love Weld in this and also Lord Love A Duck (with Roddy McDowell/Ruth Gordon/Harvey Kormann).
Regarding SAG, although Davis does strong work in The Help, I found myself rooting for Streep. Octavia Spencer was a “meh.” The Dujardin win was a pleasant surprise and makes one ponder likelihood of a similar outcome at the Oscars. With his charm and sex appeal, the guy could be an international star without much trouble if that’s what he wanted to do.
My plans this week include The Asphalt Jungle and other precious goodies that have surfaced lately on DVD.
Pierre—
I don’t think I have ever seen LORD LOVE A DUCK, but with that trio, I’d say it’s essential, even without your highly-respected response. But the Castro would surely be the best place of all to see PRETTY POISON! We’ll definitely compare notes!
I would have much preferred Streep as well, and was surprised by the Davis win, which wasn’t predicted by anyone. Seems everyone figured the ensemble prize would be enough for THE HELP. At the Oscars I can only envision Octavia Spencer winning from that film, though she isn’t my favorite choice remotely. Yep I agree Dujardin has charm and sex appeal and his performance is much more popular than some pundits conceded, even with the acknowledged love for THE ARTIST.
With THE ASPHALT JUNGLE and others lined up I’m certain we’ll be comparing notes now! Ha!
Have a great week my friend! Many thanks!
Ooh Pierre I love the Concrete Jungle I am not surprised you like it. I am with you on Helpers because I didn’t find the people who were being helped to be as likeable as a lot of other people did but that movie is going to win awards because Oprah likes it and when Oprah likes a movie people vote for it. Remember what happened with Precious Love a few years ago? Peace and Blessings
Sam thanks for the shout out about “A Good Day by the Sea” Sunday saw photography seaweed triptych come out of that same shoot. As Patricia says, you had busy week and an unbelievable one for someone who was so sick. My movie watching this week is an assorted lot but some real gems…
KWAIDAN (1964) directed by by Masaki Kobayashi. These Japanese Ghost stories absolutely fascinating in the Criterion collection version we watched. I found the use of performance theatre and artistic quality made up for some difficulty in not understanding the stories readily due to cultural differences. I felt as an outsider there have been b many shortcuts in the storytelling because it a Japanese viewer would be so familiar with their content.
MONEYBALL (2011) directed by Bennett Miller I won’t say much about this as it is so familiar to everyone other than being a non baseball fan – I loved it! But I had to have the rules explained to me a couple times during key moment.
THE FIRE WITHIN (1963) directed by Louis Malle was good but most irritating. I just wanted the main character to grow up! But he didn’t and chose the only course he seemed to be able to imagine. However the filmography was very pleasing to this artist’s eyes.
THE TEMPEST (2010) directed by Julie Taymor I know this film is not necessarily well received but I loved it! The attention to a physical world that is not so different from the one in which I live combined with the magical world of one of Shakespeare’s last plays was a visceral viewing pleasure for me. I expect this is one I will watch again and maybe even again after that – it is the creative wonder of it that I love.
WOMAN ON THE DUNES (1964) directed by Hiroshi Teshigahara was like a waking nightmare the viewer cannot get out of! However, there are visually stunning images of the sand and great use of perspective throughout the film.
So four winners for me this week and I am absolutely glad I took the time to watch each one. All the best to you Sam as you head into a “catch up week” after that flu bug.
Ah Terrill, a few close friends are telling me I would have gotten so sick if I didn’t have such a good week culturally. Ha! I’m gratful for the opportunities, but it’s true I need to moderate more ffectively. And I say this with that comprehensive Wellmann Festival on the horizon!
I couldn’t agree more with on the Teshigahara masterpiece, one of the most metaphorical of films, and a Japanese treasure. Same with the omnibus KWAIDAN, one of the best of all ghost story collections and visually ravishing. I preferred Taymour’s TITUS, but I fully understand you responding to the creative wonderment of THE TEMPEST, which of course is a great Shakespeare play. I also like MONEYBALL, a critically praised baseball movie that is up for the Best Picture Oscar. I thought Brad Pitt’s eccentric turn as GM Billy Bean was one one of the best turns of his career. Perhaps I like the Malle movie more, but I fully see where you are coming from there. You had a phenomenal week, both professionally and on the movie scene and I wish you a better one yet this week my friend! Many thanks as always!
Thanks a lot Sam for the kind mention.
Well, I won’t go in into the discussion on American Football that you begun your current post with as I’m not really into it. For me football continues to mean (and forever shall be) what is referred to in the US as soccer
But yes, I do hope whichever team you’re rooting for achieves success.
So the Robert Bresson film festival is finally over. I’m sure you had a terrific time attending it and revisiting the classics made by the legendary filmmaker. You also referred to a Noir City festival. Did you get to attend it, and if yes, what all did you manage to watch? Someday I too would love to attend a film fest on noirs as I have over the years fallen in love with this incredible school of filmmaking championed during the 40′s and 50′s.
In the meantime I managed to watch the following movies – Nuri Bilge Ceylan’s Once Upon a Time in Anatolia, Fincher’s The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (though I liked it, I’d still prefer the Swedish version), Play It Again Sam, the Spanish film Open Your Eyes (which was remade in the US as Vanilla Sky), and Cronenberg’s A Dangerous Method which I watched earlier today.
Yes, calling anything football in which the ball basically touches only hands apart from kicking field goals is a laugh. It’s handball, guys, get over it.
Shubhajit—
Being that you just watched A DANGEROUS METHOD, I’ll express my delight at announcing that the film will be getting the royal Jim Clark treatment on these pages on Wednesday. But I’m sure I’ll be seeing something at CINEMASCOPE as well, and will be looking for it! I did see your excellent review on ONCE UPON A TIME IN ANATOLIA.
The noir festival was actually held at the landmark Castro Theatre in San Francisco over the past several weeks. Oh how I wish I could have attended some of those screenings, but such a trip wasn’t in the cards for me at this time.
The Bresson festival was definitely a major highlight for us, and it was great re-visiting some of his austere masterpiece in vintage prints.
Ha I know outside the states American football is somewhat of an acquired taste. It’s an exciting game, but the name borrows from the one known the world over. I love that football quite a bit too! Ha!
Have a great week my friend! I’ll be checking up on your new reviews! Many thanks as always.
Sam, thanks so much for the wonderful mention.
I’m looking forward to this weekend’s game. It seems destined to be a close one, no matter with whom one’s rooting interest is.
I look forward to following the Wellman series with you. He seems someone that is rightfully generating more and more talk with each passing year. Certainly up there — among or close to the very greats in my book.
This week, I was only able to take in Fred Niblo’s THE MYSTERIOUS LADY. I found it quite the little gem, inventive like the best of the silents, and simply proof that Garbo was one of the most haunting screen presences to ever grace the medium.
Here’s to another awesome week. Thanks so much, Sam, for all that you do!
Jeffrey—
The upcoming Super Bowl game would seem destined to be another classic. New England fans (including our own Joel Bocko) are counting on the revenge factor as spelling the difference, but I think we know one year is different from the next and Eli Manning has really come of ago. It would not surprise me if the Pats wind up in the winner’s circle, but the Giants are a team on a mission. Should be a lot of fun! I am presently planning what Wellmanns I will be able to negotiate. Usually I do better than I originally speculate, as the attendance begins to take the form of a domino effect. If circumstances work in my favor I should be able to make a decent showing and would be thrilled to compare notes with you! As it is I have my sights set on the February 10th opening of WINGS with William Wellamnn Jr. there to introduce. Needless to say Niblo’s THE MYSTERIOUS LADY is a great single choice! I’m with on that one lock, stock and barrel.
Have a great week my friend, and thanks as always for the incomparable support and enthusiasm!
Sam ,
I know you are not a fan of SOME LIKE IT HOT, and you are forgiven for this oversight(LOL), but I do thank you for the nice mention. The upcoming Wellman festival should be a winner, at least in many instants. On the home front, I was busy with photographing shelter cats. Also took a digital photography class which was interesting with some new insight making it worthwhile. As for the Super Bowl, looking forward to a Giants victory. As mentioned last week, Dorothy and I will be at opposite ends of the field, or at least opposite ends of the couch, for the game. Hope you and everyone has a great week!
Here’s my movie list of the week….
Albert Nobbs (***) Wonderful performances from Glenn Close and Janet McTeer highlight an overall average film. The film though never manages to suck you in to the storyline.
Funny Girl (***1/2) Filmed on a grand scale Streisand’s debut film is still nothing more than a rags to riches story. The long running musical was turned into a BS songfest removing tunes that did not feature diva Babs and adding new ones ensuring the focus was on her. Streisand’s is undeniably enjoyable in the role but the script drags the film down especially as we move into the second half.
The Badlanders (**1/2) Disappointing western from Delmar Daves based on a novel by W.R. Burnett. Though set in the west the story is one of a heist, gold mine instead of straight cash. Considering the source novel is from Burnett one can easily identify the similarity between this film and the film noir classic “The Asphalt Jungle.” Frankly, I have always found Alan Ladd a rather dull actor and he does nothing here to change my mind.
Gun Fury (**1/2) Another disappointing western, more so ,since it was directed by Raoul Walsh. Unfortunately, a ludicrous script and stiff acting from Rock Hudson sink anything Walsh can do. Nicely shot with gorgeous western scenery.Good “bad guy” supporting cast with Lee Marvin, Leo Gordon and Neville Brand help a bit but there is little gunplay and even less fury.
John—
You and I both will be putting the hex on those big bad Pats and their Darth Vader coach. Some are predicting that revenge will be enacted, but the teams with the stronger “D” are often better bets in the Super Bowl. So the proof will be in the pudding. Dorothy still has the better part of a week to get with the program. Ha! Must have been a great time photographing those cats! And the digital photography class is awesome as well. As far as the Wellmann Festival, I am greatly looking forward to it.
Yes, those two performances are far better than the total of ALBERT KNOBBS, which is a most uneven confection. I completely agree with you on GUN FURY, but I would say I like FUNNY GIRL more. It’s probably Streisand’s finest screen work. But I do see where you are coming from.
I haven’t seen THE BADLANDERS yet, but appreciate the fine analysis. Have a great week my friend! Thanks as always. I trust we’ll be celebrating next Sunday? Ha!
Hi Sam!
Thanks for the terrific mention! Wow I’m surprised you’ve seen The Artist 4 times already. I tend to be a person that watches films a minimal number of times. Even films I love that are my favorites sometimes go 5 or 10 years between viewings. For instance, I haven’t seen Mulholland Drive in 10 years now. It’s hard to believe it’s been that long. It’s not that I don’t want to watch them, it’s that I stay pretty busy trying to watch films I haven’t seen I guess.
A Man Escaped is one of Bresson’s best films, but of course several of his films could also be labeled such. I’m sure everyone up your way is in Super Bowl fever. We’ll be attending a super bowl party a co-worker is hosting and my daughters are excited about going to the party and eating the food. I think the football they can take or leave at this point. Haha! I’m more interested in the game and I think Brady gets his revenge this time.
I had an amazingly busy week watching films so I’ll buzz through these.
John Ford- Watched Fort Apache, Rio Grande, Cheyenne Autumn, Wagon Master, The Informer, She Wore a Yellow Ribbon. I think my favorites of these were Wagon Master and Yellow Ribbon, but all of them had great moments and were very fascinating from the perspective of Ford’s oeuvre.
Poetry- Contains a terrific central performance from Yun Jung-hee and was on a terrific path for most of it, but became a bit bogged down in the final quarter of the film. I felt like her independence and dose of sobering reality among the masculine stupidity was working so well, but was undermined by the pity-sex and rather ugly blackmail sequence that just didn’t fit with the film for me.
Of Gods and Men- Terrific film with great pacing and mood. Well acted by all involved in this film. It’s rather unassuming as well, which I think lends it some additional potency.
Hugo- Solid family entertainment, but ultimately doesn’t transcend in any way for me. I didn’t feel the story of the boy and his father and robot meshed well with the Melies story. I did appreciate the focus on film preservation and silent film and of course it’s very biographical to Scorsese. But I didn’t feel the boy actor carried the film well enough for me to stay interested in him. This film just doesn’t come together as well as I wanted it to.
The Future- Rather disappointing follow-up to Me and You and Everyone We Know, filled with ideas that she doesn’t know how to tie together.
This week for me I will check out The Artist at our local theatre, Tuesday it looks like. Also, going to re-watch The Last Laugh, Phantom of the Opera (1925), and will see The Ides of March. Have a great week!
Jon—
It is certainly normal for people to spend their movie-watching time checking out films they haven’t seen, but I have never been able to shed that obsessive ‘repeat’ hankering I have for films that I’m really impressed by. I guess seeing this again on DVD is one thing, but theatre re-viewings that often fly in the face of time economy and sanity! Ha! Yes, I’d say most are thinking Brady will be getting his revenge on Sunday, so I can’t blame for your level-headed response. Still I’m hoping Big Bad Belichick takes it on the chin again and the Giants strut down the Canyon of Heroes for an encore of 08. Elim Manning, Victor Cruz and a stronger defense would certainly make this hope a real possibility.
That’s fantastic that Peter Lenihan’s Ford series has you re-visiting the works of one of America’s greatest auteurs. I found CHEYANNE AUTUMN uneven but still beautiful to look at, and certainly love THE INFORMER and WAGON MASTER. I will be re- watching RIO GRANDE myself either tonight ot tomorrow. Completely agreed with you of course on OF GODS AND MEN, but I love both POETRY and HUGO and don’t share your issues. But I do understand and respect them. I haven’t seen THE FUTURE yet, but the disdain is well note.
Enjoy those great silents! And you know I can’t wait to hear about your visit to THE ARTIST.
Thanks as always my great friend, and have a terrific week. Much appreciate the spectacular wrap.
Hi Sam and thanks for the shout-out. We will never be able to approach your level of activity, but for us, it was a busy cultural week. Aside from TAKE SHELTER, which was a wholly impressive film from an exciting new filmmaker, we finally caught HUGO 3D, and loved it as one of the best family films in recent memory. I caught the TCM premiere of Jane Wyatt’s debut film ONE MORE RIVER, a veddy, veddy British production that I really enjoyed. I watched KSHAY (CORRODE), an Indian film about one woman’s obsession with the goddess Lakshmi as a way to channel her grief – a review is shortly to come. Also took in online MARILYN, THE LAST SESSIONS, a rather grim-toned doc about Marilyn Monroe as seen through the eyes of the tapes her psychiatrist left with a reporter. A repeat viewing of CHARIOTS OF FIRE for my first Press Play assignment revealed a finely crafted film and excellent performances all around – I’m not sure when my review will be published, but I’ll let you know. Finally, this Wednesday, Rod at This Island Rod, Farran Nehme at Self-Styled Siren, and I will announce the next For the Love of Film: The Film Preservation Blogathon. We have an exciting project that needs the money and support of movie lovers everywhere, so please consider putting up our banner and spreading the word. Thanks, Sam!
Oh Marilyn your level of activity matched anyone else’s this week, mine included! I did of course read and very much appreciate your review of TAKE SHELTER, and am thrilled you have responded that strongly to HUGO in 3D. But to be honest I’m not really surprised, since the silent era is your specialty and special love and Scorsese’s film in one way was a celebration of this tradition. I loved the use of 3D too, in fact only Herzog’s CAVE and Wenders’s PINA were in it’s class in the use of this gimmick. I hope you’ll get a chance to pen a review, though I know this is a busy time. I have not seen that British debut film of Jane Wyatt nor the Indian film, but both sound great! As to CHARIOTS OF FIRE this is a film I like more than a number of other bloggers, but I know some who adore it. Would love the opportunity to compare notes with you under an essay at FoF! Thrilled to hear about the planning of the new preservation project! You know I’ll be there, and will be sporting a banner as soon as the parameters are set.
Have a very great week my friend! Thanks so much!
Oh, and I also saw David Mamet’s new play RACE at the Goodman Theatre. Brilliant writing, full of ideas, but when oh when will David Mamet stop hating on women?
Ya know Marilyn, I do believe Pat Perry pretty much made that same claim last week as she also saw this play. That’s truthfully very sad.
Hi Sam,
Thank you for the mention and I have to apologize for not dropping by for many weeks, My life has been a complete mess for more than a month, trying to settle down in this new house, physically and mentally exhausted, battling with piles and piles of paperwork (and still more piles). No films, no cultural absorption, no time to contemplate on anything but property taxes, mortgage planning, insurances and benefits and more taxes. I guess government is excruciatingly dumb except when they are thinking about collecting taxes.
I am in the process of reorganizing and will be back to normal bit by bit. I hope I will post new article at my site soon.
Thanks,
MI
MI—
I did figure you were busy on the domestic front for the past weeks, but I very sorry to hear of the extent of the immersion at to what price you’ve had to pay for it. I am happy for your re-location of course but not to know of all the bureaucratic haggling, which of course is a way of life in these parts as well. Yes, government does know exactly what they want when it comes to taxes, you got that right! I will be looking forward to your next post at VERMILION AND ONE NIGHTS when you are ready, and wish you some peace very soon.
Great hearing from you my excellent friend!
I saw The Grey with Carol on Saturday night. I agree that the snowy terrain was used to great effect in a film that borders on horror. The story arc is definitely The Thing Meets The Call of the Wild. Neeson give as raw and bared a performance as he ever has.
I bet you were happy Dujardin won that SAG prize last night, and will be happier still when the Giants stick it the Pats next weekend!
Frank–
I like that THE THING meets CALL OF THE WILD, which does frame this one quite vividly. Great to hear you and Carol got out to see it. It’s not a great film, but certainly a good one, and one well worth a visit. I’m a sucker of snow bound tales, but this one did make excellent use of the terrain to support the theme. Yes I was very happy Dujardin won, and will indeed be even happier when the Giants win never week. I am hoping of course. Ha!
Have a great week my friend! Many thanks!
Thanks for the link as always, Sam.
A Man Escaped is fantastic, my favorite Bresson and the film that finally made him click for me. Just a beautiful, moving film, slowly building towards the utterly cathartic ending.
I had a very good weekend of film-viewing, checking out Almodovar’s Dark Habits (the only meh film I saw this weekend), Losey’s great debut, the weirdo children’s parable The Boy With Green Hair, Sternberg’s The Blue Angel, Murnau’s The Last Laugh, and Assayas’ Demonlover. The Emil Jannings double dose was especially nice.
Ed, thanks so very much for stopping by! Aye, I do well recall your love for this particular Bresson, which of coourse you frame perfectly here with the use of ‘cathartic.’ I’ll admit is one Bresson that works over and over on repeat viewing.
I love Almodovar, but I still haven’t seen DARK HABITS, which you are mixed on, and need to watch Assayas’ DEMONLOVER, which I know you reviewed this week at ONLY THE CINEMA. As to the other three, I love every one. Murnau’s THE LAST LAUGH and Von Sternberg’s THE BLUE ANGEL are linked by the humiliation theme and by great performances by Emil Jannings, and the Losey parable is indeed a ‘weirdo.’ Ha! But yet a great bebut indeed. I’ll be watching for the possibility of some reviews of these appearing.
Have a great week, and thanks again my friend!
Sam -
Thanks for the mention! Another enviable week of filmgoing for you! I’m particulalry interested in DECLARATION OF WAR and really hoping it might come to OnDemand this week. I’m gearing up to get into Chicago for the Bresson festival this Saturday – AU HAZARD BALTHAZAR is on the schedule.
A lot of things going on here, not all film-related, so didn’t get a post up this week. But I watched another Christian film this week, FIREPROOF, which I later discovered was the top-grossing independent film of 2008 by a rather wide margin. It’s also a surprisingly moivng, engrossing film with much-better-than-expected production values, if some lackluster acting all the way around. I’m hoping to come up with a post on this and COURAGEOUS, which I saw last week, in the near future.
We also saw WAR HORSE on Saturday night. I’m happy to tell you that I found it very moving. While it probably wouldn’t make it into an amended 10 Best List for me, I’m sure it would get in my 10 “Second Best” list. Marlon loved it; he grew up riding horses in North Dakota and was able to provide me with some nuanced understanding of the film based on his equestrian background. I particuarly loved the horses themselves. I know there was a tongue-in-cheek campaign to get Uggi, the little Jack Russell terrier from THE ARTIST, an Oscar nomination; I say, if we’re going to start an Oscar category for animal performances, the clear winners this year are those two “lead horse from WAR HORSE!
Have a good week!
Pat—
DECLARATION OF WAR is surely a film that will resonate with you in a big way, and I am indeed hoping it lands in your parts very soon. As far as NYC openings this past weekend it was a no-brainer to negotiate. Fantastic news that BALTHAZAR is at hand at the Siskel Center! I can’t wait to hear your response! I’m intrigued by both Christian films you saw this past week, and hope you’ll get the opportunity to frame them at DOODAD KIND OF TOWN! That’s astonishing to hear of that box office success and of the film’s artistry.
Of course I can’t say how thrilled I am to hear of the strongly favorable response of both you and Marlon to WAR HORSE, a film I consider one of the year’s best. That’s fantastic that Marlon connected to this material in the most compelling way possible, and that you were treated to the supporting stories! I envy him for sure. Yes, Uggie does have some serious competition from those amazing four-legged creatures, who of course were unforgettable in the film. From what I was told, they used a few dozens horses in total, but there were just a couple that did most of the work.
Have a great week my friend! Hope you do get to those Bressons! Thanks as always for the great wrap!
Good to hear you’re feeling better Sammy. Like you, that killer flu-bug practically floored me and I still have a hint of the nagging cough and persistant nose running.
Yes, I too am kind of shocked by all the love this film THE HELP is receiving. Mildly entertaining at best, with no real stand-outs in the performances, I keep wondering if I missed something-look at it again-and then realize, NO, the movie really is nothing at all.
Dejardin’s performance for THE ARTIST is a nice call, certainly worthy of some of the praise it’s receiving… However, I wonder if all the applause and accolades he’s reigning in isn’t in haste. Brad Pitt has never won the Oscar after three tries at the prize, is liked by the Academy, a humanitarian, now engaged to be married and looks amazing in a tuxedo. Don’t these guilds know that those are the things that win Oscars????
Oh, and did I mention that Pitt gave a pretty wonderful performance in MONEYBALL?
Actually, the more I think about it, the one that really should win that BEST ACTOR prize is the one nobody seems to think has any chance. That would be Gary Oldman. This actor has been waiting in the side-lines for a nomination for years, let alone a chance for the biggest of the big. Since his debut turns in films like PRICK UP YOUR EARS and his ferocious portrayal of Sid Vicious in Alex Cox’s SID AND NANCY, Oldman has proven himself one of the most dependable and surprizing of character actors out there and I can think of many performances he’s given since those early days that scream for critic and Academy recognition (uh, how bout his greasy haired Westy gangster in STATE OF GRACE? His nervous Lee Harvey Oswald in JFK? How ’bout his transforming Count in BRAM STOKER’S DRACULA? His drug addicted corrupt detective in THE PROFESSIONAL? um, Beethoven in IMMORTAL BELOVED?). He’s a master actor in a field of actors still trying to find there way (he added so much to films like BATMAN BEGINS and THE DARK KNIGHT)…
Here’s hoping the Academy sees straight and gives it to someone who really deserves it for their performance this year and all the magic they have created in the past. I know, personally, that I’m pulling for Gary Oldman!!!!
Dennis—
In my opinion Dujardin’s performance is better than Pitt’s and better than Clooney’s. I know you are really singing Pitt’s praises for months now, but eccentricity aside there is nothing in his performance or in MONEYBALL in general that makes me want to go to the mat. It’s a solid baseball drama, but not something that should be winning awards. Career-wise, yes, it’s one of Pitt’s best performances, but it does not approach Dejardin’s work in THE ARTIST. As far as Oldeman, he was very good, but again for my money, below Dujardin. As you yourself note, Oldman has done better work in his career than what he did here in TINKER TAILOR. As you know Oscars are supposed to be awarded for the nominated performance and not careers.
Hence it’s Dujardin all the way.
I’m still coughing all the time, but yes, all in all the fever broke and the worst is supposedly behind me. Have a healthy week there down in Florida yourself my friend. Will see you next week.
Many thanks as always for the excellent addition!
The silent festival seems to have been going on for a long time. Based on what you have said on these boards I’m assuming it will be replaced by the Wellmann Festival soon. Your weekly rating indicate you have high regard for all the films offered. Much the same for Bresson. I read that they were doing a Terrence Davies retrospective at BAM.
Definitely want to see “Declaration of War”
Correct Peter. Ot close to correct anyway. A one week run of PRETTY POISON starting on Friday will end on the day before the Wellmann Festical of February 10th. Yes, I am as fond of this MGM Silent Film Festival as I am of any other I’ve attended. The films are all great, the piano accompaniment ravishing and the prints excellent. The same for the Bresson as well, as he’s one of my favorite directors. I am very excited about that Davies Festival.
Have a great week my friend! Many thanks!
Hello Sam and everyone!!!!
How is everyone? I’m good, I had my birthday celebration last saturday, and I spent some time with my girlfriend, but nothing out of the usual, just enjoying summer time. Thanks once again Sam for having me writing here for the site, it’s been a blast to do the lists and receive the comments, it’s just the thing that keeps me moving forward.
It’s nice to hear that you are better Sam! You must take care of any sickness, as small as it may seem, and of the movies you’ve seen I want to see Show People, A Man Escaped (we saw bunchs of it in a class, great stuff) and Beauty and the Beast (when it came out I was a little kid and I thought it was too girly for me, same thing with Snowhite, which I’ve yet to see, so I was in my childhood).
Well, my week moviewise:
- The Boogeyman (1980, Ulli Lommel) **1/2 A Video Nasty that isn’t really nasty as it is really really weird. A horror film that plays with some interesting themes and issues, regarding what kids consider the boogeyman, mirrorplay, possession and some really ridiculous scenes and an ending to laugh at. Interesting in its own little world, but just ridiculous and bad at some other parts.
- Catfish (2010, Henry Joost, Ariel Schulman) ****1/2 My God, this was gut-wrenching and as suspenseful as any other movie, great in every way of the finding of the issue and the construction of the tale, even if the whole thing may have some inconsistencies, or what the hell. I believed every little thing they showed, it’s just obvious to believe it, in the age of facebook anything is possible.
- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011, David Fincher) ****1/2 Why is this so despised by many (and at the same time loved enough by many others)? It’s a polarizing film and not without its share of flaws, but it’s quite good and has a lot of emotion into it, as well as a mystery to entertain you all the way through. And Fincher’s direction is flawless, as well as Mara’s turn as the Salander character. One thing I couldn’t help thinking… they are all swedish, yet they all speak in english… don’t you hate those movies? Where they’re all german and yet because they’re played by americans they must speak english? At least change the nationality or the place it takes place… god. I saw this at the Avant Premiere here.
- The Help (2011, Tate Taylor) *** Warming up for my 10 Days of Oscar where I review every movie nominated for a Best Picture Oscar (as this year there are 9 I’m throwing in the movie with most nominations that wasn’t nominated for a best picture Oscar). This one wasn’t good as a portrait of an era… nor as a fair portrait of a race in a country (‘I love me some fried chicken’… GOD!) but at least it was well acted… I think?
- House of Usher (1960, Roger Corman) ***1/2 The first Corman Poe film, and one hell of an atmospheric work at it, expanding the great Poe story of catatonia and love of death (and incest to some overreading). Amazingly acted by Price, it is the rest of the actors that give the lower note in this film (yet the butler was hilarious and greatly acted), the film gets repetitive on to what the curse of the family is, and that is why it’s on a lower tier than other Poe Corman films.
- Paranormal Activity 2 (2010, Tod Williams) *** I actually saw this after seeing number 3 (below) because I was curious enough to go back and see what happened with the other half of the story of the two sisters (I just saw the first one when it came out, and thought it was ok). This one lacks the scares of the first one and has a messy plot, but still manages to affirm the mythology of the film for it to continue evolving further.
- Paranormal Activity 3 (2011, Henry Joost, Ariel Schulman) ***1/2 From the same directors of Catfish, they took the film in a interesting visual way, with nicer scares and a plot that drives you crazy with fright and repercussions, and the final scenes build up to an ambiguous ending. Yet, the found footage technique presented here was dubious on how are we seeing these tapes this time. Anyway, now I’m curious to see how the film will evolve.
- Selkirk, the real Robinson Crusoe (2012, Walter Tournier) ***1/2 An animated stop motion chilean film for kids, tha tis quite the achievement here, as it will distributed worldwide by Disney. A teacher of mine was a producer and had the original idea, so I could see it at its Avant Premiere. This movie felt great for most of the time, but it was dumbed down for kids. A review will be at my site thursday, when the movie premieres here.
- So war das S.O.36 (1985, Manfred O. Jelinski, Jörg Buttgereit) ***1/2 A documentary on a club on germany, a club where many bands go and play, famous and unfamous. It was on german, no subs, but it was music, so no problem. Interesting excercise in music video cutting in an era where that language was (I think) starting.
that’s all guys, hope you all have a good week!
Talking about my 10 Days of Oscar…
DOES ANYONE HAVE A SCREENER OF EXTREMELY LOUD AND INCREDIBLY CLOSE????
If you do, contact me, please.
Jaime—-
Great to hear the birthday celebration went so well, and that you got some quality time with your girl. Needless to say your latest post at the site was a huge hit both by way of page views and comments. Of course you are always at the top of your game when it comes to lists and genre countdowns, so the 2011 round-up played to your strength. It was also great that you presented such a versatile and eclectic group of films. I’ll gone through a very unconfortable period, and am still having a tough time getting rid of the sore throat. You are right that I need to take these maladies more seriously and need to seriously look into the flu shot. Yes you absolutely MUST see A MAN ESCAPED, SHOW PEOPLE and BEAUTY AND THE BEAST fror all kinds of reasons.
It will be great to see a review at EXODUS 8:2 of the film that your teacher is producer of!!! I’ll be looking for that!!!
Well, I can’t deny that DRAGON TATTOO was techically superlative, and I do feel Rooney Mara was impressive in the lead. As far as THE HELP, I would go an extra half star higher, but I fully understand the political issues that you and others have with it. And yes the acting is indeed it’s strongest component. I like THE FALL OF THE HOUSE OF USHER much more, in fact it is my #2 favorite Corman Poe after MASQUE OF THE RED DEATH. The story it is based on is my favorite by Poe. I agree on the two ratings of the PARANORMAL ACTIVITY films. I haven’t seen the last two films you provide capsules for.
Have a terrific week my friend! Thanks as always for the spectacular wrap!!!
I will keep my eyes open for a screener of EXTREMELY LOUD, Jaime!
I saw The Grey as well, and appreciated the ending (and I’ll admit part of me enjoyed hearing some audience members booing–any response is better than passivity). Not to be too much of a geek, but as I told my son afterwards, “This is what every Klingon movie is like.” And no spoilers here, but I think the ending complemented not only Liam N.’s character but the definite Jack London Darwinist/Marxist vibe, in which we need to figure out how we fit into a system before we can do anything about it, let alone survive. (And, as you mention, nicely shot–and edited and so forth.)
Fair enough Peter! It appears the audience did enjoy the ending and in hindsight any other direction may have been regarded as cliche-ridden. Still somewhat frustrating after the grueling time. I like your Jack London/Darwinist Marxists posing, and fitting in a system, and agree that the snowbound visuals were often arresting.
Thanks very much my friend! Have a great week!
“Peter” is nice–it’s my Confirmation name. But “Paul” is fine–after all, it’s my actual first name. (That “pmarasa” doesn’t help!) And it wasn’t the audience who enjoyed it–they let it be known, some of them, that they did NOT like the ending. But I’m glad they had SOME response to it.
I got ya Paul. Actually I was torn between Peter and Paul, and should have stuck behind the latter as it’s my younger brother’s first name. Ha! And I hear ya about the audience too. The director opted to leave it open-ended, as going one way or the other would have opened him up to the criticism that always attends happy or tragic endings. Yes in one sense it was unsatisfying, but in another way it left a little to the imagination. Thanks again.
Sam, thanks as always for the mention. Wanted to get out to Dangerous Method over the weekend but had to shop and visit and couldn’t find the time. Should still be around next weekend, though. That left me with that Commissar DVD and my DVR. From the latter I watched both versions of Ozu’s Floating Weeds and it was hard to choose between the two. Pictorially the color version is often a wonder — Ozu’s late films often remind me of abstract art — but the silent is earthier and often more amusing. I’ll leave the final verdict to to the experts. Also saw: Jack Cardiff’s Dark of the Sun, a vividly muscular exercise in pulp brutality; Bruce Humberstone’s Madison Avenue, a tepid look at the world of Mad Men from its own era; Henry Hathaway’s Seven Thieves, a surprisingly low-key ensemble caper compromised by its need for a happy ending in the crime-does-not-pay era; and Don Weis’s The Adventures of Haji Baba, which may be one of the worst, tackiest, noisiest films of the classic studio era, as well as a sonic skeleton in Nat King Cole’s closet. Those who have seen, know.
Samuel—-
We will be graced with a Jim Clark gem tomorrow on A DANGEROUS METHOD in fact. Hope you’ll get another chance to see it this coming weekend. I did see the COMISSAR review, and planned on commenting, but there was only so much I could say without having seem the film, so I delayed. I have exactly the same problem when it comes to identifying which FLOATING WEEDS I really like better. The latter version of course is visually exquisite, but yes the earlier one is funnier and far more memorable from the writing end. Buit yeah, there’s an abstract quality to the later version that makes it more unforgettable visually. Excellent points theer about that Cardiff film and MADISON AVENUE. I kinda like the Hathaway, though yes it’s a very low-key affair. I have not yet seen HAJI BABA, but hope to get the opportunity soon enough to get a good laugh (at the film I’m sure!)
Thanks for the typically superlative wrap my friend! Have a great week!
Mark S. was spotted wearing Edward Gein from Wisconsin’s House of the Criminally Insane at last night’s SAG Awards. Wowing the fashionistas with a tasteless number that included a skin vest peppered with multiple…….never mind. Sick, sicker, sickest. But you have to admit the Hollywood assembly line is a little cannibalistic. Maybe white liberal guilt over this country’s shameful racial past will propel ‘The Help’ to Oscar victory next month. Academy history is strewn with victors that have won for all the wrong reasons cf. ‘In the Heat of the Night”.
Hey Sam, I recall ‘Pretty Poison’ as a neat little horror/thriller, but it’s been ages seen I’ve seen it. Whatever happened to Tuesday? Doesn’t she play a nutso drum majorette in ‘Poison’?
Sherlock Jr. — Luis Bunuel must have slavered at the bit over this surreal comedy, with its wild and magical dream sequence. Keaton possessed one of the saddest, most beautiful faces in all of film — his mug is a perfect, calm counterpoint to the whirl of arduous physical comedy, the chaos, close shaves and pratfalls that beset our boy Buster. One of the great comedies of the silent era. No, that’s too mild. One of the great comedies of any era.
A.I.: Artificial Intelligence — can’t see this as anything more than an android ‘Pinocchio’ with tatters of ‘Blade Runner’, ‘Dr. Mabuse’, ‘Metropolis,’ ‘The Wizard of Oz’ and maybe even Ken Russell’s noir et rouge ‘Crimes of Passion’ trailing behind. And I prefer each of those films separately rather than this mashed-up fable of heartless, atheistic science vs. the human need to believe in fairy tales and God. ‘A.I.’ looks great, sleekly visionary and color-coordinated and the production values are impeccable, but the film is utterly non-cerebral — a bliss-out for set decoration and special effects aficionados.
Queued up — ‘War Horse’ and ‘Mysteries of Lisbon’ (VERY appreciative, Sam),
“Lola Montes’, ‘The World of Apu’, ‘Ivan the Terrible, Parts I & II’, and Tarkovsky’s first feature ‘Ivan’s Childhood’.
Mark—
Wearing Edward Gein, eh? That’s a scary thought! You can be sure that even exceeding guilt won’t be enough to prepel THE HELP to Oscar glory. The showing Sunday night at SAG was about as triumphant as anything else this film will receive or not receive. THE ARTIST has the top prizes all locked up (Picture, Director and probably Actor, with musical score and film editing almost certain as well) Yes I do believe Tuesday does play that character, but it’s been so long since I saw the film. I am figuring on attending a Friday night showing. What you say about Keaton possessing ‘one of the saddest, most beautiful faces in all of film’ is a classic in and of itself. How true! And I couldn’t agree with you more on SHERLOCK JR., one of the greatest films of all-time from any country in any genre. Your dismissal of A.I. is original and impassioned, but of course I am on the other side of the fence with it:
http://wondersinthedark.wordpress.com/2009/05/13/spielbergs-a-i-artificial-intelligence-a-story-of-unrequited-love/
You have a fantastic queue there, and I can’t wait to hear your reaction to some of those ASAP!!! I have my inner suspicions as to which ones will work with you best, but I’ll wait for the results. Enjoy!
And as always my friend, thanks for gracing this weekly thread with one of it’s most spectacularly creative additions!
God, remember when ‘Midnight Cowboy’ confounded all expectations and (deservedly) won the Best Picture prize? ( actually, I think I’d have voted for ‘The Wild Bunch’ but it wasn’t nominated). I smell an upset this year.
Maybe even Malick will get the respect from Hollywood that has eluded him since “Badlands’. That’s a stretch because out there they can’t think in any terms but the unilinear. At least they’ll throw him a bone for Best Cinematography.
Mark—
I would place a wager on THE ARTIST winning a tidy sum of Oscars including Best Picture and Director. But of course anything could still happen. Turning the clock back to 1969, the five best movies of that year were pretty much out of the picture because they were foreign made (only one in English) even though Costa-Gavras’ Z was nominated. Here ate the five best filmas of 1969 in no particular order:
Kes (Ken Loach)
The Colour of Pomegranates (Sergei Paradjanov)
Days and Nights in the Forest (Satyajit Ray)
Eros + Massacre (Oshishige Yoshida)
Witches’ Hammer (Otakar Vavra)
I think Army Of Shadows and The Wild Bunch would need to be in any top 5 of 1969…. I certainly prefer both to the three I’ve seen in Sam’s list (though those three are certainly superior to either Midnight Cowboy or Z IMO).
Army of Shadows and Bergman’s The Passion of Anna would be #6 and $7 on my list, however I am no fan of The Wild Bunch, Maurizio.
Five other Mellvilles (LE CIRCLE ROUGE, LE SAMOURAI, BOB LE FLAMOUR, LES ENFANTS TERRIBLES and LA SILENCE DE LA MER) would rank about the very best films of their respective years.
But fair enough what you feel here.
Yes Le Circle Rouge is my favorite Melville followed by Le Samourai, Army Of Shadows, Le Doulos, and Second Breath. Never seen Witches Hammer though it surly does look interesting.
I was in agreement with you on The Wild Bunch for a long time Sam. I loved that Peckinpah immensely in my late teens/early twenties until I became more enamored by his less action heavy westerns like Garcia and Billy The Kid (which caused me to lose my appreciation for Bunch for awhile). But about 6 months ago I watched it again and realized the errors of my ways for the last time…
Well, that does speak volumes for the benefits of re-viewings. At some point I’ll give it another go myself.
1969?
c’mon guys, Dillinger is Dead, Medium Cool, Blind Beast, and Oshima’s Boy.
Plus Salesman.
1969?
Go, Go, Second Time Virgin!
Oshima’s BOY was a finalist, and would surely make the Top 10. BLIND BEAST would make the cut as well. For me no DILLINGER, SALESMAN or MEDIUM COOL, though each is fine enough. It will be interesting to see how this year goes when we reach it in Allan’s yearly round-up.
Yeah, not all I put out there would vie for a top 5, but all (included Jaime’s great pick too) are generally forgotten in 1969, which was a great year for cinema. And in many cases, something like ‘Medium Cool’ and especially ‘Dillinger is Dead’ I’d definitely take over something like the ‘Wild Bunch’ as great as that one is. I’m of the opinion, as I think many know around here, that ‘Medium Cool’ is one of the greats of American Cinema, certainly American Political Cinema.
Oh and add Bresson’s magical ‘Une femme douce’ to the heap too. I’d take that over quite a few mentioned.
The Melville is earth shattering brilliant. I forget how great it is, and always put a few over it in his career then I watch it again, and exclaim, “Oh yeah he’s a master of the highest order, and this is probably his masterpiece!”
Melville’s masterpiece to these eyes is LE CIRCLE ROUGE, but his catalogue is so superlative that any one of six films can be with good reason likened as his masterpiece.
I have so many Bressons at or near the top in their respective release years, that I am loathe to add yet another one. Still I can’t blame you for counting UN FEMME DOUCE near the top of it’s year.
I’ve seen ‘Kes’. The others from your list are indeed foreign to me.
Can you believe ‘Hello, Dolly!’ was nominated for best picture of ’69? Just add that clunker to the elephant’s graveyard of past Academy nominations.
My list of best films of 1969:
‘The Passion of Anna’ (Bergman)
‘The Wild Bunch’ (Peckinpah)
‘Une Femme Douce’ (Bresson)
‘My Night at Maud’s’ (Rohmer)
‘Midnight Cowboy’ (Schlesinger)
‘Z’ (Costa-Gavras)
‘The Bed-Sitting Room’ (Lester)
and, grudgingly, ‘Fellini Satyricon’, just because it doesn’t look like any other film made that year.
Can’t believe no one has mentioned the Rohmer until now. I’m off to self-flagellate, that’s a terrible omission on my part. It’s one of my favorites, by one of my 10 favorite directors.
I did think of the Rohmer Jamie, and I applaud Mark for mentioning it here. CLAIR’S KNEE is the one I’d have near the top of it’s year. But MNAM is a great one, I’ll admit.
Is there some kind of big foosball game on next Sunday? LMAO – just kidding. I got my block pools goin’.
I hope to catch THE GREY and A SEPERATION in the coming week.
This weekend I saw:
Moneyball – **** – Solid film about two of my favorite things: baseball and statistics, though it was odd they glossed over the fact that the 2002 A’s had an awesome starting pitching staff that had nothing to do with the numbers crunching and was the real key to their success. I like the human element they added in and Brad Pitt gave a great performance. Jonah Hill, however, was terrible and almost sunk what was otherwise a fine, fine film.
Colombiana – Negative Five Stars – utterly worthless and particularly vile and a-moral revenge-thriller/action film starting Zoe Saldana – who clearly needs a better agent. These types of movies can be fun when handled right – I don’t understand the need to be so flashy and repugnant here.
Everything Must Go – ***1/2 – Amiable character piece starring a likeably quasi-serious Will Ferrell inspired by a Raymond Carver short story. I love Carver – and this movie kind of missed the whole point of that particular story – but I did appreciate them trying to update the “Carver Universe” if you will to our current times and providing a wider scope to his scathing sketch of a man at the end of his domestic rope. The botched Carver aspect aside, the characters and the actors were interesting enough to keep you entertained.
David—
I know you are an Eages fan (and a Phillies admirer of course) but would think you will be rooting for the Giants over the Pats. That’s just my hunch!
I also liked MONEYBALL, which I originally saw in a work-in-progress print in the winter of 2011. In that version, Hill’s character went on near the end to take a job and a GM with another team. I agree that Pitt gave one of his finest performances, and like you I am a baseball fan (me for Yankees, you for Phillies) but I wasn’t quite as down on Hill’s performance. I’m not exactly saying he deserved that supporting actor nod he received, but neither did I feel he inflicted any damage. heck he had some funny lines.
I haven’t seen EVERYTHING MUST GO, but am intrigued with your capsule. As far as COLUMBIANA I assure you I will stay miles away! Ha!
Have a great week my friend! Thanks for the great wrap!
Glad it sounds as if you are on the mend now, Sam, and many thanks for the plug. That Wellman festival sounds wonderful – looking at the list makes me realise there are quite a number I still have to see of his, especially some of the later films as I’ve tended to watch his earlier stuff. Exciting that the Film Forum has also included rarities like his silent ‘You Never Know Women’… and the aviation talkie ‘Young Eagles’, which I thought was all but lost. Anyway, I’ll be interested to hear about those you see, and the special presentation of ‘Wings’ sounds great!
I hope some of these films will turn up at the BFI in London later… and, talking of the BFI, I spent a great day there on Saturday. They have a ‘Dickens on Screen’ festival going at the moment for his bicentenary, and I went along to a day of talks about Dickens on TV, featuring a lot of clips, including a scene with a young Ian McKellen as David Copperfield in an early 1960s production – sadly I think most of that version is lost. Sir Tom Courtenay was on one of the panels and talked about his role in the BBC ‘Little Dorrit’ a few years ago.
Then in the evening at the BFI I saw Jean Vigo’s ‘l’Atalante’ (1934), which I’d heard a lot about and it was great to see it on the big screen.
At home I’ve watched three 1924 films, Murnau’s ‘The Last Laugh’, which is brilliant… also Ford’s ‘The Iron Horse’, which I didn’t enjoy as much as I hoped to although the landscapes and set pieces are spectacular (I suspect it really needs to be seen on the big screen), and then ‘Beau Brummel’ starring John Barrymore. Sadly I saw that one in a dodgy PD version available online which I then discovered has large chunks missing – anyway Barrymore is great in it, all the same, and I’ll hope to get the Warner Archive version. I also watched Preston Sturges’ ‘The Palm Beach Story’ (1942) after seeing R.D. Finch’s great review of it – really enjoyed it though the ending is outrageous!
Judy—-
I’m having a tough time getting rid of the cough (I was rather embarrassed to hack away in a movie theatre tonight. I won’t divulge the title of the film I saw with my cousin Bobby McCartney and my son Jeremy as I would surely be remanded to a mental institution, but I suspect you know my gist here anyway! Ha!) You can be rest assured Judy that I will be seeing both YOU NEVER KNOW WOMEN and YOUNG EAGLES. And I will be there for the performance of WINGS when Wellmann Jr. is there to introduce. I’m still go over plans for what I am targeting, and typically it’s more than I originally planned. Way more. But certainly you set the stage with your two year investigation of the director’s work at MOVIE CLASSICS. I do wish you were here. Still, you’be made good with TCM and have seen the lion’s share of these already. Still I do hop that a good number show up at BFI.
As far as BEAU BRUMMEL, I will be contacting you soon on that. I agree it’s an excellent work. And yes, R.D. Finch’s review of THE PALM BEACH STORY is stupendous! I like THE IRON HORSE, so I’m disappointed it didn’t work quite so well for you. L’ATALANTE and THE LAST LAUGH are screen masterpieces, a point we seem to be in agreement on. But that sounds like a fantastic project there with Dickens on Screen, one that surely yielded some rarities.
You had a banner week, and hope you ‘keep on keeping on’ this coming week. Many thanks as always my great friend!
Sam – I’ve tip toed in quietly to whisper this message. Shhhhhhh, don’t tell anyone, but I’ve never seen “Beauty and the Beast.” With your glowing endorsement, however, that will be remedied this week
Ha Laurie, I’ll keep things on the low-keel, at least until I get your full report. It’s one of the greatest animated films of the past three decades, and while the 3D doesn’t add anything significant, it somewhat enhances the visual allure. Of course the Ashman-Menken score is one of the finest to ever grace an animated film.
Many thanks as always my friend! Have a great week!
I really didn’t have any big problem with the ending of The Grey. How was it supposed to end? With contrived resucue sequences? Or with the final nail in the coffin? They hedge their bets and some still look for a reason to tear the film down.
Excellent points there Frederick. Personally, I didn’t have a big problem with the ending either, but it seems to be dividing the critics.
Thanks as always for stopping in my friend!
Well I read one review that complained about the scene when Neeson yells out to God for help and nothing happens. According to this critic it was predictable that no response was forthcoming. I guess its more appropriate for a plane to miraculously appear from the heavens instead lol. You simply can’t please everybody…
Yep, I completely agree with you here
Farewell to the honey-and-scotch basso profundo of Don Cornelius, impresario of TV’s ‘Soul Train’. Anyone up for a little kung-fu bump?
I hear it was suicide Mark (at age 75) Very sad.
Sam –
I have nominated you for the “Versatile Blogger Award.”
THE RULES AS THEY WERE PROVIDED TO ME:
Nominate 15 fellow bloggers
Inform the bloggers of their nomination
Share 7 random things about yourself
Thank the blogger who nominated you
Add the versatile blogger award picture to your blog
(here’s the code to insert when the widget asks for the URL or link: http://i1109.photobucket.com/albums/h435/thatswhatchesaid/Thats%20What%20Che%20Said%20Blog/VersatileBloggerAward.png)
You can see the complete list of 15 near the bottom of the comments section of my current post: http://holessence.wordpress.com/2012/01/31/write-or-wrong/#comment-8783
I can’t thank you enough for this Laurie! I just checked out your latest post too. It’s one of your great ones!