Christian McKay as Orson Welles in Richard Linklater's charming film "Me and Orson Welles"
by Sam Juliano
Although traffic has declined over the Thanksgiving break at Wonders, as it has on just about every other blogsite, a number of early week posts have again attracted large comment totals, with most of exceeding high quality. Countdown reviews of L.A. Confidential, Eyes Wide Shut and Breaking the Waves have inspired stupendous discourse with the usual suspects on hand to pull the triggers. A recent review of Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans also did well, and new essays of Lars Von Trier’s Anti-Christ, Richard Linklater’s Me and Orson Welles, Jane Campion’s Bright Star and John Hillcoat’s The Road are due over the next week and a half. Last week’s Monday Morning Diary was the most successful of that weekly post that we’ve ever had here at the site, so there’s reason to remain quite optimistic. As always thanks to the readers and loyalists who have allowed this continued success.
I took a much-welcome break from the torrid activity of recent weeks, but even the three times out I did enjoy I was with Lucille for all three and with the kids for one. I certainly have no misgivings for my complicity in the year-end frenzy, and neither does Lucille. I hope some of the WitD faithful were able to negotiate some trips out during the extended vacation.
Lucille and I (and Broadway Bob Eagleson) attended a one-woman show at the City Center Theatre on 55th Street on Saturday evening at 8:00 P.M. that featured legendary actress Lynn Redgrave in an extended hour-and-a-half reflection that focused on her relationship with her grandmother, Beatrice Kempson. There were some interesting segments, but the two directions the marathon monologue ventured to never came together, and much of this play was torture to sit through, even though Ms. Redgrave is often enchanting. A full review is planned for the site.
I managed two films over the past week:
The Road (Hillcoat) ** Wednesday evening; Paramus multiplex
Me and Orson Welles ****1/2 Friday evening; Angelika Film Center
THE ROAD, an apocalyptic tone poem based on the popular novel by Cormac McCarthy (which I read in its entirety shortly after it appeared and rather liked) is a dull, flavorless, one-note treatise that some have priaised -largely because of a touching final coda- and others have dismissed. There’s little insight into behavior as there is in the novel, and basically this is an incohesive lot of invidual set pieces, impressively filmed but with no direction. I have usually rallied behind bleak, apocalyptic films (Children of Men, Time of the Wolf) but this is a deadining and predictable journey that resembles the conventional horror film in tone and narrative. Surprisingly, the otherwise gifted Cave and Ellis’s score is overwrought. Both David Schleicher and Craig Kennedy liked it though, and that means quite a bit. And to boot I’ve found out that my dear friend Pierre de Plume is a fan too, so go figure.
ME AND ORSON WELLES If anyone would have told me two weeks ago that I would dislike THE ROAD and love a film by Richard Linklater, I would have said they were crazy. But there you have it. British theatre actor Christian McKay delivers an impersonation of the Mercury Theatre genius that must surely rank as one of the year’s best performances, and even the lightweight Zac Efron is reasonably charming in a film about Welles’s staging of Julius Caesar and his notorious mean streak and obstinancy. For once Linklater manages some genuine emotional resonance, and this is surprisingly one of the years most entertaining and well-crafted films. I went back and forth between 4 and 4 1/2 and I decided at the last moment to be generous.
One of the internet’s most wonderful persons, and to this site a personal favorite, Dave Hicks, an Ohio blogger who navigates the Good Fellas Blog just wound down his six-month annual countdown project, which rightly as Samuel Wilson suggests, make dave the ‘blogger of the year.” Dave has the rare combination of humility and stupendous talent, and he’s as nice a guy as you’ll ever meet. It was a great joy following his countdown, and I urge everyone to check up his wrap-up and backlog of yearly-roundups. And be sure to continue following Good Fellas as Dave will surely have some great stuff posted.
Dee Dee’s interview with authors Eric Beetner and Jennifer Kohl just posted this afternoon, and it’s a whopper. It’s a fascinating and revealing piece, superbly moderated by Dee Dee.
Around the blogosphere there’s some great new stuff:
Dave Hicks’s final piece (as mentioned above) is appropriately a wrap-up, and for statistic fans it’s a fantastic essay as well:
Judy at Movie Classics has written her masterpiece as a blogger, and it’s a passionate account of William Wellman’s Wings, which all film lovers should read!:
And speaking of “masterpieces” our friend ‘Just Another Film Buff’ has written the mother of film reviews over at his place on the yet-to-be-released The White Ribbon. (titled ‘Children of Men’) As I read this I was simply astounded, but JAFB isn’t all that pleased:
Troy Olson features an addictive Thanksgiving/Christmastime Movie Quiz at his place, and his answers are fantastic:
John Greco’s coverage of the Universal horror films has yielded it’s most distinguished entry (and essay) at “Twenty-Four Frames”:
The Garden State’s finest, David Schleicher, is one of the first bloggers to review The Road, and typically it’s a superb read:
Jon Lanthier has a superlative Slant review of the Angel Heart blu-ray up at Aspiring Sellout:
At Only the Cinema Ed Howard has a typically stupendous review up of an old Boris Karloff camp classic, The Mask of Fu Manchu:
At Mondo 70, IP MAN beat out RED CLIFF for Hong Kong awards according to Samuel Wilson, who pens an excellent piece for the martial-arts film:
The terrific Eric-Beetner/J.B. Kohl Saturday afternoon interview feature at Wonders today, is also highlighting at Dee Dee’s Darkness Into Light, as well it should be:
Animation lovers rejoice! The esteemed ‘Film Dr,’ professor of film at university, has another multi-part gem, this time praising the dazzling Fantastic Mr. Fox:
Shubhajit has an excellent piece up on Lynn Ramsay’s Ratcatcher at Cinemascope:
A poll question concerning Indian cinema is the lead post at Kaleem Hasan’s ever-animated blogsite, “Satyamshot”:
At Getafilm, Dan Getahun offers up a breather of a film that many will findly remember: (segment from City Slickers):
Marilyn Ferdinand has what appears to be an essay to die for on Pabst’s The Three Penny Opera. I will be there during the day Monday!!!!:
Tony d’Ambra’s latest noir ‘tone poem’ “The Dream are Theirs” at FilmsNoir.net features Kirk Douglas in The Man With A Horn:
Craig Kennedy and I are definitely on the same page with his polite dismissal of Precious at “Living the Cinema”, which is an excellent essay as always:
Film Writer Extraordinaire Andrew Wyatt admits he’s “late to the game” with his Star Trek review, but it’s a great capsule, as are so many others on display at “Gateway Cinephiles”:
Our great friend Pat at Doodad Kind of Town has a very fine essay up combining Precious and Pirate Radio:
Indian-American film and political scholar Qalandar has a new piece up on Hindi Cinema:
The ever astute Rick Olson has one of the greatest reviews up at Coosa Creek Cinema yet written for the Coens’ A Serious Man:
Jason Bellamy has a brilliant review up on The Blind Side at The Cooler, and the follow-up discussion is really terrific too:
J.D. at Radiator Heaven has really hit a home run with his stellar review of the Criterion Collection DVD of Ang Lee’s The Ice Storm:
Fecund R.D. Finch of The Movie Projector has a Samuel Fuller up under the magnifying glass at his place and it’s the usual insightful piece:
James Hanson’s colleague at Out 1 Film Journal, Chuck Williamson, has a great essay up on Twilight: New Moon:
The latest film review being showcased at Movie Zeal, was written by Editor Luke Harrington’s staff writer Paul Hood, and it’s a five-star assessment of Precious:
We’re all confident that Dorothy Porker and K will soon be active again at Inside the Gold. Keep looking in at their blog:
and finally………..
to say we are missing Kevin Olson is an understatement of epic proportions. We are waiting for the torch to be lit again:
Deep in our heart, we envision a new beginning for Ric Burke, and a hopeful resumption of the Zeroes Project at “Films For the Soul”:
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Thanks Sam, as usual, for your generosity… This is a terrific roundup. And your response to THE ROAD is one more blow to the already poorly received movie…
“For once Linklater manages some genuine emotional resonance, and this is surprisingly one of the years most entertaining and well-crafted films”
Wow, this sounds really interesting. Christian McKay? Should check him out. What responsibility he must have had to impersonalte someone who is a master in a wholly different medium…
Well, JAFB, THE ROAD does have it’s fans, and I did enjoy reading the book. But yeah, the film for me was an arduous task to sit through, and it has nothing to do with the subject matter. I did after all love ANTI-CHRIST, which puts THE ROAD in the kindergarten territory so to speak. As far as McKay that was quite a pleasant surprise!
I am also surprised that ‘Me and Orson Welles’ turned out so enchanting Sam, but I’ll certainly be ready for it.
Hey Sam —
Thanks for the kind words. I’m still lurking around. I should have lots of reviews and thoughts on The Limits of Control (possibly the best movie of the year), Funny People, In the Loop, a second viewing of Drag Me to Hell, and a third viewing of Public Enemies when I return in a couple of weeks Until then…
Wow, Kevin, what you say about LIMITS OF CONTROL has really thrown me for a loop, as to be honest I haven’t even seen it yet! You are not the only one I know, however, who is at severe odds with the general concensus. I must see this ASAP!
I greatly look forward to your upcoming plans, and thanks so much for stopping by….and for lurking of course!
Thanks for the kind words, Sam. The countdown was great fun for me too, primarily thanks to you, John, Samuel, MovieMan, JAFB, etc. who joined in on everything.
I had a pretty good weekend — the Bengals got back on track, beating the Browns to move to 8-3 while the Steelers dropped another one to fall to 6-5. Pretty much an ideal NFL weekend for me!
I didn’t get to watch a whole lot, but I did get some things in. I watched Pixar’s MONSTERS INC. which I also thought was excellent. Not quite at the same level as Up, but still very good. I thought that both John Goodman and Billy Crystal were outstanding. Today, before the Bengals game, I was able to get in the Jean Negulesco 1948 noir ROAD HOUSE. While not quite top-flight noir, it was very good and once again proves that nobody could play a villain like Richard Widmark. It’s like he was born just to play such roles. I also got in my 70th Anniversary Ultimate Collector’s Edition DVD of Gone With the Wind, but I haven’t had time to watch it yet. I’ve fiddled around with some of the extras, and watched the documentary on 1939 narrated by Kenneth Branagh, but other than that I’m still looking forward to going through all that is in that box set.
Music – I’ve never been big on jazz, really, but for whatever reason I’ve been listening to it a lot lately. Stuff like Art Blakey, Hank Mobley, and other hard bop. Great stuff and it’s like a whole new musical world to me, so it’s fun to listen to a lot of these classic recordings for the very first time.
Dave:
I’m so happy to hear that Bengals resumed their winning ways! It appears they will be heading to the NFL playoffs, which will finally bring a Cinderella story to the fore waiting be realized! I must say I am definitely no Steeler fan!
Art Blakey and Hank Mobley are great figures and I hope you continue on with that form. I know you are more than familiar with the Usual Suspects too…..i.e. Ellington, Armstrong, Davis, Parker, Fitzgerald, Washington.
Great choice there with that Negulesco, and I am with you on Richard Widmark, who I feel may have delivered the quintessential noir performance in NIGHT AND THE CITY. But we have some serious noir films around here (including yourself) so I am really just a lightweight (cheerleader). Ha!
MONSTERS INC. does have great voice work for sure, but agreed it’s not on the level of UP.
Terrific round-up!
I saw two films over the past week — Precious and The Road. I agree with you, Sam, on the former. Precious doesn’t make it for me, though its star, Gabourey Sidibe, made me want to like it.
The Road, though, is where we part company. I found it engrossing, well filmed, well acted, and affectingly personal as well as visually striking. I was impressed by the subtlety of the screenplay.
Pierre, as I stated, THE ROAD left me cold. It semed to be a series of set pieces, too episodic with no cohesiveness. But I agree it was exquisitely filmed. And as you know I greatly respect your taste and opinion, so at some point I’ll be checking this out again. Always a treat to hear from you!
And by the way, I’ve seen a clip from Me and Orson Welles. Although it’s hard to say from a snippet, McKay’s performance has piqued my curiosity.
Yep, McKay really “holds the stage” here in more ways than one!
If you hear anything about this hitting a local theatre please let me know Sam. As you know I have liked this director more than you, and I don’t see Efron as any kind of a liability.
Hi! Sam Juliano, Allan, Bobby J, and WitD readers,
Sam Juliano, as usual… thanks, for mentioning the happenings on my blog. (Now, I have to add your blog too, but of course!…I’am so sorry, about that!)
Films That I Watched This Week:
F is for finally, I finally watched Suspense (A fatalistic noir),and The Hunted,(Both films starring actress Belita…Thanks, to author Eddie Muller, otherwise I would have never heard of these two films.
Here goes a tipping of Bogie’s fedora in his direction.)
I’am in the process of receiving copies of the following films:The Sin Of Nora Moran and City for Conquest…Sam Juliano, I plan to send you copies of the The Sin Of Nora Moran and City for Conquest (and all the aforementioned titles… shortly!)
Literature: That I Added To The Bookshelf:
Books on my (book) shelf and they are: Due to the fact, that I “hang” out with a literary crowd (In most instances, just listening, observing and reading.)
1. “One to Many Blows Too the Head” by Eric Beetner and J.B. Kohl…
2 “The Thief Maker” author D.H. Schleicher…I refuse to let go of the book, but this is what writer R.L.Bourges, said to me
R.L.Bourges said,”Finishing a book; whether as the reader or the writer, it can bring both a letdown and a sense of closure. You may also feel that you’re losing a heightened sense of clarity and purpose, or the emotional bond you’ve made with imaginary friends. However, the good ones never get away from you completely, you know. Plus, with a book, you can always go back for a visit.”
By the way, she is battling flu type symptoms’ but I truly hope that she feel better soon!…Ok I will try to heed her (R.L.Bourges) advice…about letting go of my favorite book and revisit them after I finish reading them.
3. The Hollows: Book 1 – The Ticking by Ben Larken
4. Every book that I can find by author Peter Straub…Since my mère found his book for me entitled…Mystery.
Here goes Mr.Straub’s site…
Peter Straub’s Official Website
News for Film Noir Fanatics or for people who like classic films…Please be mindful of the fact, that all of these releases are “pending.” (Not yet dealt with, decided, or settled)
Moreover, whether these are the actual titles that will be released are unknown…Well here goes:
According to a film noir aficionados, It looks like February 2010 will bring another Film Noir DVD set from Warner Brothers (regular DVDs, not Archive DVD-R) By the way, this will be Volume 5 of the WB set…
…Titles will include;
ARMORED CAR ROBBERY,
PHENIX CITY STORY,
DESPERATE,
DIAL 1119,
CORNERED,
DEADLINE AT DAWN,
CRIME IN THE STREETS and BACKFIRE. (I think that two additional titles will be added, but I’am not sure… :? )
VCI has announced their Vol 13 of this series will be released Feb 23rd with the boxing drama “Breakdown” (How very apropos… and Robert Montgomery’s courtroom drama “Eye Witness” aka “Your Witness”.
Another disc “British Film Noir” includes “Twilight Women” and the “Slasher” aka “Cosh Boy” also due out on 2/23
There was also 2 listings (with UPC numbers and February 2 release date) for Bad Girls of Film Noir Volume 1 and Bad Girls of Film Noir Volume 2.
Each set contains 2 discs and list price is 24.95. Actual titles are not listed although the blogger who reported this news suspected they decided to break the recently rumored set into 2 volumes.
That set was going to include:
Over-Exposed (1956)
Glass Wall, The (1953)
One Girl’s Confession (1953)
Two of a Kind (1951)
Bad for Each Other (1953)
Killer That Stalked New York, The (1950)
Human Desire (1954)
My Name Is Julia Ross (1945)
Dark Past (1949)
Dangerous Blondes (1943)
Girls Under 21 (1940)
British Cinema – Drama Collection (The Rough and the Smooth / The Scamp / Grand National Night / Kill Me Tomorrow).
Music…No Comment
Food … Hmmm…a very light touch…as usual.
Sports… No Comment…
Politics…No Comment
I guess that about wrap up my week in review for this week.
DeeDee ;)
————————————————————————————————————
Cont…
Thanks for all this data. Especially looking forward to the WB Film Noir set though the only two films I never seen are “Backfire” and “Dawn at Deadline.” Don Siegel’s “Crime in the Streets” (with John Cassavetes and Sal Mineo) is more of a 1950’s Juvenile Delinquents gang film that film noir, at least if I remember it correctly, but it is a rare film, one of the missing on home video and deserves a release.
R.L.Bourges said,”Finishing a book; whether as the reader or the writer, it can bring both a letdown and a sense of closure. You may also feel that you’re losing a heightened sense of clarity and purpose, or the emotional bond you’ve made with imaginary friends. However, the good ones never get away from you completely, you know. Plus, with a book, you can always go back for a visit.”
Thanks for sharing this, I always felt a tinge of sadness coming to the end of a good book. This very much explains how I feel; you do not want it to end.
Kudos Dee Dee on getting to SUSPENSE and THE HUNTED, though I can’t say I’m familiar with these two, although I do know the director of the latter also helmed DECOY. Thanks for that notice on those films. I may have CITY somewhere in this mess, but I may take forever to find it, and as to the former, I know I’ve never seen it, much less owned it.
Methinks that R. L. Bourges makes an excellent point there regarding books as opposed to films (which are far more fleeting whatever the power and resonance they manage to achieve) and that the time spent with a book does in many instances endear you to the characters, to the extent that it’s very difficult to conceive of that end point. In this sense many authors go teh sequel route to appease passionate readers who can’t accept closure. I’m sure David will be flattered by this admission on the time you’ve spent with THE THIEF MAKER.
And of course ONE TOO MANY BLOWS TO THE HEAD is a superlative addition to that shelf. I know that without even having read it to this point. You just get that “feeling.” (BTW I also hope R.L. gets over the flu; I know that’s always a real downer.)
Dee Dee: I guess you do know that Peter Straub collaborated with Stephen King on a few novels, right? Thanks for linking to his website. i will be checking that out.
Like John I am very appreciative for that confirmation on Volume 5 of the Warner Brothers noir series, and I will be ordering a set soon! It will be great to have those titles, and it’s fantastic that a number of more obscure films are finally approaching release.
I am most intrigued with that VCI set as well, but I won’t venture there just yet. Those “Bad Girls of Film Noir” sets are something! Ha!
Another submission here for the ages. Thanks as always for your tireless effots and eternal passion.
Hi! Bobby J.,
I have some good news and bad news for you about the film Occupe-toi d’Amélie! (1949) Directed by Claude Autant-Lara with Danielle Darrieux, Jean Desailly, and Victor Guyau.)
First, the good news…I located a copy for you, but now the bad news it is a French version (with no English subtitles). Hmmm…How do you feel about that?
By the way, I also have some film detectives still on the case…I will let you know what they find out once they response to my email…hopefully, later in the day.
Take care!
DeeDee ;) :)
An amazing person. So resilient, and with enough passion for a dozen people. To have you on these threads is to eradicate depression.
Thanks very much for the generous and kind comments, Sam, and for putting together all these links to explore in the movie blogosphere! Glad to hear you had a chance to unwind over Thanksgiving and also that you liked ‘Me and Orson Welles’ – I’ve seen a few trailers for this one and am hoping it will turn up here soon, since my daughter has just been watching some of Welles’ films so should be interested to see it.
Apart from Wellman, I’ve seen one of the few remaining Cagney films which I hadn’t caught up with this week, 1931 comedy-drama ‘The Millionaire’ – he only has one scene in it and the movie as a whole is a bit slow and forgettable, but I’m glad to have seen it for that one scene. I’m also reading ‘Anything Goes’ by Lucy Moore, a fascinating account of the roaring ’20s.
That roaring twenties book sounds quite interesting Judy! I’ll have to do some research. I haven’y seen that particular Cagney, but I’ll definitely be looking for your report on it. Your Wellman work of course has been a revelation on these threads! I’m sure that the Linklater film will be making it’s way over there soon enough, and I have a sneaky suspicion both you and your daughter will like it quite a bit.
Always great to haer from you!
Yes, DeeDee, I have the same print with no subs. It wouldn’t be so bad if there was a decent English translation of Feydeau in English available, but there isn’t. When will someone PLEASE subtitle this? It would make my decade.
I have a French SRT file. The dialog is ‘tres simple’ and having it on the screen would help those with only basic French. I suppose you could get a bastard translation by using an on-line translator…
As for things done over the last week, been stuck at work doing SARs and SDPs (don’t ask!). Hence been listening to music, Wagner, Vivaldi and film scores, but also been listening to some of The Decemberists – love ‘The Rake’s Song’, for all kiddie haters out there.
Managed to watch a few films – two old Teuvo Tulio films from the 50s with Regina Linnanheimo going so o.t.t. she almost dislocated her eyeballs and Sjöman’s My Sister, My Love. Also watched and reviewed a few oldies – Midnight Cowboy, Ball of Fire, Alpine Fire, Scarlet Street and, piece de resistance, DOUGAL AND THE BLUE CAT. Been wanting to see this for ages. Absolutely chuffing brilliant! I can only imagine what it’s like watching this while high.
BUXTON & DOUGAL “We may be mad, we may be bad, but most of all, we’re evil!” LOL
As you probably know Allan, my good friend Tony Lucibello and I saw the Decemberests at the Jersey City Loews, and I wrote an e mail network review for it. Always great to listen to Wagner of course; I may listen to him tonight as I pen my ANTI-CHRIST review! Ha!
Sam,
Glad you liked “Me and Orson Welles”, that’s a film I am looking forward to seeing.
With the long holiday weekend I have not been on line much, but I have been busy. Holiday season-wise, we put up our tree and lights and got out our Christmas CD’s.
Saturday Night we saw “Late Nite Catechism 3: Till Death Do Us Part” an audience interactive comedy. If you grew up Catholic you will find this hysterically bringing back memories, or nightmares, of your days in Catechism and Catholic School.
On the movie front, we saw two films in the theater, the dreaded “Old Dogs.” Hey, I plead not guilty; it was not my idea to go see this! Zero stars and an embarrassment to Williams and Travolta……and me. We also saw “Precious”, a dark disturbing film with excellent performances by Mo’Nique and newcomer Gabby Sidibe. I know Sam and some other here had some reservations on the film but I thought it one of the better films of the year.
On the home front I squeezed in…
He Was Her Man – a lightweight Cagney/Blondell film, (believe this was the last film they made together). A crime film but both stars are somewhat subdued from their usual screen persona.
Dr. Doolittle – this is the Eddie Murphy piece of crap which was family friendly watched film on Thanksgiving Day. God what you do for family!
The Hurt Locker – Kathyrn Bigalow’s excellent Iraqi war film. What I liked most about the film is its focus on the soldiers and the daily dangers they face, no politics on whether the war is right or wrong. Bigalow creates a thoroughly tense film with her roaming camerawork.
Adventures in Manhattan – A Jean Arthur/Joel McCrea comedy /mystery with McCrea as a wise-ass crime reporter and Arthur as an actress who match wits and quips. Decent enough, I personally always enjoy Arthur.
Off the Record – Another film with Joan Blondell, this time paired with Pat O’Brien. A lightweight film tinged with Warner’s underworld flavor. O’Brien and Blondell are newspaper writers who take in reform school truant Danny Jordan (of the Dead End Kids) after his hoodlum older brother is sent to prison. Certainly no must see but if you like the stars or Warner Brothers style, it is worth seeing.
Thanks again Sam for the mention!
Wow John, that’s a week to rank with the best of them. Talk about a burst of energy! Yeah the Christmas season has taken hold here, and the family treked up to Sussex County, N.J. to get our tree on Saturday morning at one of their perrenial farms. I look forward to going because there’s a bagel place on the way up on Route 15 in Sparta that’s to die for. The coffee, bagels sandwiches, hot dogs in vertical rolls, chili all are fantastic. Always thinking of my stomach! That movie you saw I did not see but yes, as a Catholic growing up (and still am, though I don’t go to church much myself, even with the kids attending catechism) I am reminded of a film that may be similar called THE SECRET LIFE OF ALTAR BOYS. I’m not sure if you are indicating you may review your film at Twenty-Four Frames, but I’d like to read it.
OLD DOGS, eh? We never got to it yet, but personally I’m grateful, and after hearing what you just said, I’m even more inclined to avoid it. As far as PRECIOUS, you are far from being alone, and the majority of critics have been deeply moved. Lucille rather loved the film too. I can go along with you to a point. Yes, Monique was harrowing! Of the movies you watched at home the Cagney and ADVENTURES IN MANHATTAN have thus far eluded me. But there are some great people there in the cast, I quite agree. I suspected you would love THE HURT LOCKER, which by any barometer of measurement is one of the best American films of the year. Great capsule appraisal there–you really say it all! Hahahaha about placating family with that Murphy abomination! And how! And I don’t seem to be able to place OFF THE RECORD. Your work in seeing a number of these relatively neglected titles is amazing.
Appreciate this wonderful re-cap John!
ok, ‘The Road’ was a cure for insomnia. The people at the showing I attended seemed mightly disgusted. Too bad the book just doesn’t translate well to the screen. Your view mirrors my own.
Robert Duvall was pretty funny. I am interested in that Orson Welles impersonation, and I read some very favorable notices.
We checked out the Christmas tree at Radio City. Always nice.
I always look forward to seeing the tree once a year Joe. But parking in that mid-town area is a bitch.
I suspected that “The Road” would be hugely problematic. This kind of psychological material rarely translates well to the screen. The idea is one that is thought-provoking and harrowinf, but I would imagine it’s not easy for it to work in a cinematic sense. Of course, I’ll make my own conclusions. I was surprised it opened in Paramus only.
David, I belive it will open wide on Friday. I must say I agree with your insights there.
Sam,
Thanks for the shout-out! I’m truly honored and flattered. Much appreciated, my friend!
The honor is always ours J.D., our very good friend.
Sam, thanks for the shout-out. And the Orson Welles flick sounds right up my ally. Not for the first time am I insanely jealous of your living in the big apple.
Rick, ME AND ORSON WELLES, which I agree is definitely your cup of tea, willbe in your neck of the woods in a few weeks I would think. I love Manhattan for sure, but it’s a rat race. Your beautiful country has it’s advantages too, aa you’ve related in some lovely domestic posts at Coosa Creek Cinema! Thanks, much.
Nice to see that you took a respite from the cinemas (relatively speaking), Sam! It was a great break to relax, spend time with family, eat more than anybody should, and get to a movie if the opportunity arose. I did end up taking in The Road as well and found it just as depressingly dull as you did. For the life of me I kept thinking “There must be MORE to the book than this…”, but as I haven’t read it I can’t say. I knew it received the Pulitzer but I would find it hard to believe that the book is not more affecting than the film.
Other than The Road I ended up seeing The Gods Must Be Crazy again in its entirety with some family friends. It was not quite what I remembered but still enjoyable for what it was. The DVD also has an interesting featurette about the main actor and his life following the films.
And of course football was on tap yesterday and I enjoyed watching the Vikings cruise along toward the playoffs.
Dan, the Vikings are having a sensational year, eclipsed only by the Saints and the Colts, both of whom are undefeated. I belive your Purple People eaters have only lost twice, no? Another Wonders regular, Dave Hicks, is also having a great year with his Cinderella Bengals, and then there’s good old Joel with his nagging Belechick Pats, who can never be counted out. It would be great though to see the Bengals and/or the Vikes crossing the finish line!
Yes, it was great to take a break, though most of time I go to the movies it’s with either Lucille or the whole brigade. But I needed to relax, and get a grip to gather some stamina for the final late December surge, as you are no doubt plotting too. Then we’ll be able to coast for a few months.
I know I’ve exhausted my position on THE ROAD elsewhere, but for sure we are looking at it similarly. I imagine THE GODS is a wonderful one to re-visit!
I think you already know where I stand with The Road. I read somewhere that it is now being compared to Zombieland, but without the humor and entertainment. Sure there is striking visual set design, but so what? If the story is dead, that comes off as empty and as wasteful as the sorry saga on display. Leaving more to the imagination the book has much more to offer.
Hope you and the family enjoyed Thanksgiving.
I didn’t see that ZOMBIELAND comparison, but to horror films in general – yes. But the issue of ‘imagination’ is a central point for sure. Thanks for your usual insights Frederick!
We had a fine day, hope you did too.
I’m most interested in knowing all about that Thanksgiving dinner you always talk about. Still sticking to the protein diet or does that get set aside for the holidays? I finally picked up that Beatles box on CD, but people are saying there is some kind of a “death watch” for all CDs. I hope my collection won’t be going to the curb.
The usual Karen, but a feast–white meat turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, turnip, brussells sprouts, creamed broccoli and spinach, muffins, and every desert under the sun! Too much. I am back to the mostly protein diet today, in fact.
There will always be a way to hear CDs, I don’t buy that death watch either as something imminent. the economy can’t handle a new format at this point.
Thanks so much!
Thanks a lot Sam.
Well, saw just this one movie – Le Fils (The Son) by the Dardenne Brothers – my first tryst with this Belgian duo. I was quite unprepared for the movie, to be honest. The camera work was truly interesting. Initially my response to the movie was ambiguous, but already it has moved towards the positive side in the meantime. So I guess I’ll have to play the movie in my mind a few more times before I arrive at a conclusive review (or ‘capsule review’ as you call it) of the movie.
Currently I’m trying to get hold of as many good/revered/interesting/attention-worthy 2000’s movies as possible – i.e. those that I haven’t yet watch though should have. The intent is, as soon as I manage to get some free time (which I hope to get sooner rather than later), I can watch a majority of them if not all, so that maybe in early 2010 I can sit down and make my list of my favourite movies of the 1st decade of the 21st century.
This project (Project 2000 as I’m personally calling it) is especially close to my heart right now since this was the decade when I really started ‘watching’ movies if you know what I mean. This was the decade that saw me gradually shifting from mindless albeit popular blockbuster flicks, run-of-the-mill paperback thrillers and inane pop songs to good cinema, good books and good music – I know ‘good’ is a very vague adjective, but the one easiest to use ;)
Plus, personally this has been arguably the most eventful decade in my life – high school, teenage, first love, heart-break, the fun thing called engineering, the incredible experience of hostel life, my first job, and so much more. So I would want this project to be that much more personally gratifying :)
And that’s one reason I’m especially looking forward to Allan’s countdown of 2000’s movies; not that I’m not enjoying the 90’s right now, or the ones the decades covered earlier.
By the way, I was really looking forward to The Road, but your summation of the movie has greatly disheartened me. I loved Hillcoat’s The Proposition, so I was expecting something equally stunning here. I haven’t yet read the book by McCarthy, so I guess I’ll do that instead before I get to watch the movie.
And speaking of Cormac McCarthy, do have a look at my review of the book No Country for Old Men here which I wrote recently: http://culturazzi.org/review/literature/no-country-for-old-men-cormac-mccarthy
“Plus, personally this has been arguably the most eventful decade in my life – high school, teenage, first love, heart-break, the fun thing called engineering, the incredible experience of hostel life, my first job, and so much more.”
Ah Shubhajit, it’s so wonderful to be young, and you are certainly gaining all those unforgettable experiences. And for sure the movies during this time would be closest to your heart too. We will be spending January to March examining Silent Cinema at Wonders, and then we’ll run the countdown for the 2000’s which might be a bit late, but it will give everyone a chance to see everything to make the most informed selections. I’d love to see you there! I’ll certainly be in communication with you as to what films you should see, if I can be of some supplementary assistance.
And the Dardennes (and THE SON) are essential cinema with a capital E. Perhaps I give a slight edge to ROSETTA and LA PROMESSE (and maybe L’ENFANT) in there pantheon, it’s still a masterwork. I believe you have some cinematic treats ahead of you.
The 2000 project idea is great, and I will definitely get back tyo you on what appears to be a top-rank book review here! Thanks again for this engaging reort!
Sam, Sam, Sam Sam!!!!
Sue and I attended the same showing in the same theatre, and we didn’t hook up. How tragic. You should have let me know you were planning to see it then. We liked ‘The Road’ more than you did, but still acknowledge it wasn’t as good as the book. The exquisite frmaing and great Mortenson performance were plusses, while some sections lagged. We were satisfied, but hoped for better.
That is tragic Peter. I wish I knew this. We could have made arrangements. I am happy you did get something out of that viewing, and while I have big problems with that film, I will see it again soon enough.
Of the movies that are still to open before the end of the year, I am most interested in –
Up in the Air
Nine
and some movie with Julianne Moore and Colin Firth.
Hey Ricky! Thanks for adding your two cents. You are referring there to A SERIOUS MAN, and I am also reallyfrothing for that one as well as the other two you mention there. Maybe Eastwood’s INVICTUS will be worth a look-see too.
Thanks as always for the link, Sam. Hope you and all the rest of patrons of WitD had a good weekend, Thanksgiving being celebrated or not. Glad to hear that you enjoyed WELLES, as the inclusion of Efron made me worried about it.
As always, I had grand plans to do so much movie watching this week, but that went by the wayside with Thanksgiving and shopping and getting the house all ready for Christmas (lights and tree and all that). But, it was all fun, as you can imagine a Thanksgiving with me and my brother would be, and I’m always thankful I actually enjoy spending time with my family :)
In my quest to catch up on 90’s movies, I watched Mike Leigh’s LIFE IS SWEET, which I found to be good, but not as good as the two films that he followed it up with. Still, Leigh has a knack for making the family drama interesting, which is no small feat. In a genre that is so often either overly light or overly dark, he strikes the chord in the middle-ground of the two.
I also attempted to watch SATANTANGO, but only made it about half way through before having to go work on some other projects. Even 3+ hours in, I’m really not sure what my reaction is going to be to this. There is a definitely a fascinating aspect of the style Tarr uses, but at the same time I’d be lying if I said there were parts where I just wanted him to pick up the pace a bit :) Anyways, more on this when I actually finish it.
I rewatched MAGNOLIA, trying to see if my opinion of it would change since the last time I watched it (maybe 5 years ago). It didn’t. As great as I think PTA is and as much as I love the style, acting, and music in the film, I just always come away feeling it’s kind of empty, thus I just can’t put it up on the higher echelon that I was sure it was destined for. And yet I’ve seen it three times and would likely watch it again…not sure what that says about me or the film.
While trying to combat a rare case of insomnia, I threw on REMAINS OF THE DAY, thinking it would put me to sleep, and yet I was enamored with it as much as I always am, reminding me why it’s one of my favorite movies. Needless to say, I didn’t sleep :)
Finally, while putting up Christmas stuff, my wife and I watched THE MAN WHO KNEW TOO MUCH (Jimmy Stewart version) and THE SHOP AROUND THE CORNER.
The Hitchcock is a personal favorite, although I know some don’t like it as much, as I could watch the symphony scene 100 times and not tire at how perfectly paced, scored, and shot that scene is. I also get a chuckle at the superfluous 1-minute scene that ends the movie.
As for the Lubitsch, well, there’s no doubt the man knew how to do a romantic-comedy. The more I watch of his films, the more obvious it is that he is a master. When one says they don’t make them like they used to, it’s these types of films that make that statement true.
Hey Troy!
Well, you have again spent much of your time here imparting a wealth of information and views, all with your endearing eloquence. To get something like this from you is always a special treat. My friend Broadway Bob was highly critical of Efron, but Lucille and I rather liked him. In any case he was really a kind of symbol in this film, and as such his work didn’t harm the story, which was dominated by the talented McKay.
Great that you got together with Kevin, which I would have to assume is an annual ritual. As you have related in reports on your sporting event attendance, I know you’re a family guy, and I think it’s fantastic. I hope through the years our own offspring will appreciate the importance of this. I sound like I’m preaching, but hey you can basically say the same thing to me. I know you are probably thinking ahead now to the Chinese trip!
SATANTANGO is admittedly one of the most difficult films to watch, surely it’s Tarr’s toughest. But the length is so prohibitive, and the pacing so measured that even before that static narrative unfolds you’re behind the eight ball. I saw some astonishing physical beauty in the compositions and some profound political and social underpinning, but again, it may not take hold until a while down the road. Tarr is simultaneously brilliant and exasperating, and I dare say some people will say they like him, even if they really don’t, as it would be cinematic blasphemy to make such an admission.
I love LIFE IS SWEET, but I can see you favoring SECRETS AND LIES or HIGH HOPES. Ironically, the somber VERA DRAKE may be his masterpiece now, though it’s arguable point.
Ah, THE REMAINS OF THE DAY. Peter just turned in his ballot today, placing that film at #1. That is a surefire way to become immerced. What a beautiful film with brilliant performances, a captivating narrative and music and cinematography of the highest order.
I am completely with you on both the remake of THE MAN WHO KNEW TOO MUCH (though the slight edge goes to the original from 1932) and THE SHOP AROUND THE CORNER, though Allan HATES the former, saying it’s one of Hitchcock’s worst. I will say no more! Ha! I see Pierre love dit too!!! The Lubitsch is absolutely my favorite by him, but TROUBLE IN PARADISE is right there too. But as you apparently agree, SHOP is pure bliss.
I must say I am surprised at what you say about MAGNOLIA, but I respect it. All of us dislike critically-praised films from time to time. I won’t go on my bandbox here and mount a defense, especially since you go on to say PT Anderson has produced work you love. It’s just one of those things. This one just left you cold.
Again, a tremendous time comittment to the site like a few others here, and deeply appreciated, Troy.
Some follow-ups…
on MAGNOLIA:
I guess my comment on it may muddle my opinion a bit, but by no means do I dislike this film. It is definitely a great film by sheer virtue of the ambition and skill of all involved. Hell, I’ve now watched a movie that leaves me “empty” three times, which should say something about the pull of the film. I currently put it in the “4 to 4 1/2 star” range, but feel that it SHOULD be a 5-star film, but I just can’t equate it as such. Does that make ANY sense?
on SATANTANGO:
I’m laughing about your comment that “I dare say some people will say they like him, even if they really don’t, as it would be cinematic blasphemy to make such an admission.” as I had to tell myself while watching that I have to love this film, lest I be ridiculed for my bourgeois tastes! I know without a doubt that this is one that will have to simmer in my brain for a bit to digest. I’m about to finish it up this afternoon, which is exciting because I really, really want to go read what others have written on it. So, if nothing else, it’s sparked interest in Tarr and his methods.
on Hitch:
The worst thing about THE MAN WHO KNEW TOO MUCH, is that it is too long by about 30-minutes and that Dorris Day can’t touch the other blonds that Hitch had used prior. Beyond that, it’s a fun diversion, to be sure. Sad to say, I’ve not seen the original.
on Lubitsch:
After I finish watching the 90’s movies, and before delving into the 2000’s, I’d like to watch as many classic comedies as I can. It’s a genre I’ve always ignored and it’s a treasure trove of great stuff there. Plus, my wife loves watching them with me, always a plus.
on Travel:
yes, the China trip is exciting and can’t come soon enough. Which reminds me, I need to finish writing about Italy this week!
Troy: The classic comedies by Sturges and Lubitsch are tops methinks, but the silent clowns and Frenchman Jacques tati and Englishman Will Hay would also fall under the must-see banner. But there’s the screwball comedies of Hawks, Capra, Stevens, et al that I’m sure you are also considering.
I hear what you are saying there with MAGNOLIA, and I admit I misread your original comment. It makes perfect sense what you sat there about a 4 1/2 rather than a five. I have the same problem with a number of other films. You may at some point find that you think MAGNOLIA is a masterpiece, but it won’t happen overnight.
SATANTANGO is a very difficult film, and it’s thereby most intimidating. Again it takes time.
Good Monday to you all.
My viewing this week was pretty substantial for I did have a few more days to myself what with the holiday and all. I watched:
‘Blue’ and ‘Red’. Did this out of an inkling that they would appear in the countdown, and within days both did. I’ll comment in both threads about each movie, I have little more to say but they are supreme masterpieces that I try and watch around twice a year. I will watch ‘White’ in the coming days.
‘Days of Heaven’ haven’t seen this in over a year so I revisted it. It was my least favorite Malick (though that means little as I rate all his films as 5 star masterpieces), it may have risen after this viewing. Something I took away this time was the commentary about money, or haves vs have nots, or economics (as another man made institution). I had never picked this up before… it’s a Socialist film i think, fantastic.
‘Darkman’ and ‘Max Payne’ watched these two on a friends recommendation. ‘Darkman’ is a comic book like noirish film from Raimi, while ‘Max Payne’ is a noirish video game adaptation. The Raimi is a complete joke that leaves one wondering what Liam Neeson and Frances McDormand were thinking in taking these roles. It’s utter garbage, and more then sufficiently shows the fact which I believe: that Raimi is incredibly overrated by many. ‘Max Payne’ was all cheap style and went no where. Don’t bother with either.
‘The Seventh Victim’ and ‘Shadows in the Dark: Val Lawton Documentary’. Watched ‘Seventh Victim’ on Tony’s recommendation. I want to view it again before I comment either way; but I will say initially I really liked it. The doc. was rather straightforward facts and still image representation of Lawton’s career.
‘Home for the Holidays’ d. Jodie Foster starring Holly Hunter. Perhaps my personal favorite Thanksgiving film, I watch it every year.
‘Damnation’ (d. Bela Tarr) Had never seen this, but was overall delighted. I agree with others now it isn’t as good as some of his later works but definitely recommended.
‘Limits of Control’ I liked this a lot. I’m not sure if I’d say it’s the best movie of the year thus far (as someone did above), but I can already tell I will like it even more with every new viewing. Right now as a Jarmusch fan I’d take several of his over this; but that is also because I’ve seen several of his multiple times. A few things I loved about this films was the central performance and Jarmusch’s selection of art work to contemplate throughout. Watching a film while observing an Antoni Tapies painting? Count me in!
‘Mortal Thoughts’ (1991), ‘You, Me, and Dupree’ Both embarrassing viewings as I was laid out and hung over and these came on television and I didn’t want to get up to turn the channel. Both are very forgettable, though ‘Mortal Thought’s was much better.
I am going to try and catch ‘The Road’ this week… though Sam’s review does dampen my enthusiasm.
Personally, I listened to Depeche Mode a lot and continued working on my screenplay (it’s written with nothing but DM music, hence why I listened to only them). Inching towards the finishing line…
Jamie:
The Limits of Control is a film that will get under your skin and make you think back on it long after you’ve watched it. I was the one that said it may be the best film of the year. I’ve watched it twice in two weeks and I plan on watching it again. It was like Dead Man for me…the more I thought about it the more I wanted to re-watch certain scenes.
I can’t wait to see what you say about The Road. I hope you had a good holiday weekend.
Aw, too bad about DARKMAN. It’s always been a guilty pleasure of mine, perhaps because it DOES star Neeson and McDormand. I’m not saying it’s some great film, I’ve just always found it fun.
Although picking a favorite Lewton film is tough, I’d say that THE SEVENTH VICTIM is in the running for me, if for no other reason than the somber tone it takes, which runs antithetical to the standards of the time it was made in. I DVR’ed that Lewton doc and have yet to check it out…doesn’t sound too earth-shattering though.
The Olsen Brothers:
Kevin, I think I will feel like you do eventually with ‘The Limits of Control’ as ‘Dead Man’ is one of my favorite films. I can’t wait for your full ‘Limits’ breakdown at your blog… get done with grad school already damn it!
Troy, I was kind of surprised I didn’t even find ‘Darkman’ fun as I am usually able to see some pearls in the trash.
I’d pass on the Lawton doc if I was you… if you’ve seen a lot of his films (which you seem to) there is really no reason to see it. ‘The Seventh Victim’ may end up being my favorite Lawton when all is said and done too. As I said I want to view it again.
I await your final say on the epic Tarr as well.
Jamie, that’s something that you just watched both BLUE and RED as they were appearing on Allan’s countdown! Talk about perfect timing. I agree they are masterpieces, but WHITE is clearly below them, as you will no doubt conclude later in the week, methinks. But as someone else on these threads stated last week, the least of the Trilogy is still better than many other director’s greatest films. That’s where Kieslowski stands in world cinema.
You’ve really been listening to Depeche Mode a lot as of late, so it’s safe to say you are mostly ravished, even if admitting the finishing line is there. I personally felt the same way about Frank Zappa. I love some of his stuff, but realized it was time to listen to others.
Jamie, don’t let my opinion of THE ROAD dampen your expectations. Many critics gave it excellent reviews, so it may again be a matter of taste and perception. And if apocalyptic settings usually float your boat you may fall for this.
Jamie, it was Kevin Olson who said he adored LIMITS OF CONTROL, and as I said I haven’t seen it yet, but am aware it’s out now on DVD. I am going to netfliz it right now in fact after I finish this response. I remember Craig Kennedy also said he like dit a lot. I can’t figure that 40% at RT, especially since it’s Jarmusch. But the same thing wioth ANTI-CHRIST, which has a 49% currently. i will certainly let you know my opinion.
I agree that DAYS OF HEAVEN is a socialist film. And it’s ravishing. It’s my least favorite Malick too, but it’s still a near-masterpiece for it’s cinematography alone.
Aye, I won’t have anything to do with DARK MAN or MAX PAYNE!
I agree with Tony on THE SEVENTH VICTIM and am very happy to read that you dug it. It’s probably the most difficult Lewton to seel, because it’s all set in an apartment and it’s psychological. Some rank it with ZOMBIE as the Lewton masterwork. Jean brooks is excellent and Mark Robson’s direction is perfectly modulated.
Damnation rates below WERCKMEISTER and SATANTANGO, i quite agree, but as you also nore it’s an essential film.
Superlative report! You had quite a week.
Today is Lucille’s birthday!!! I won’t say how old except that she’s nine years my Junior! Ha!
The reason why I bring it up now is that we are all leaving to have dinner at her place of choice – the Outback Steakhouse, originated in Tony d’Ambra’s beloved Down Under, so I will b eback later to handle some awesome lengthy posts from Dee Dee, Troy, Jamie and a few others. I also need to pen my ANTI-CHRIST review for the morning, so I have alot to do after our dinner and cake!
Many happy returns Lucille! Try the kangaroo steaks ;)
Tony: Thanks! As this is my last comment until I return, I can assure you I will tell her! I always go for the salmon myself, but going to a steakhouse for salmon is like ordered a hamburger at Nathan’s! Ha!
To Lucille: Happy Birthday, may your night be special.
Same here Jamie, thanks very much! Response will be relayed.
“A dull, flavorless, one-note treatise” is how you describe the film adaptation or Cormac McCarthy’s THE ROAD. Funny thing is, that’s EXACTLY how I describe McCarthy’s novel. An utter bore in every way shape and form. By the time I reached the half way point in the bool I was ready to turn it into toilets tissue. THE ROAD is, in my opinion, no match for his better, earlier work. Gimme ALL THE PRETTY HORSES any time. BTW: Sam… That’s a lovely picture of you and Lucille.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY LUCILLE!!!!! MANY MANY MORE! Here’s hoping you get exactly what you wished for on your special day: A COMPLETE DAY AWAY FROM SAM, THE KIDS, THOSE SKWAKING PARROTS and those three UGLY DOGS (well, maybe not Joanie)!!!! LOLOLOL!!!!!! All kidding aside, Lu, I’m sure I speak for everyone when I say that you must know your special when you’re surrounded by so much love! Have a very Happy Birthday! Love you a lot… Your kitchen helper, Dennis
She DID NOT spend the day away from me (and the kids) Dennis. We were at the Outback Steakhouse in Edgewater enjoying all those Down Under delicacies. Ever dysfunctional, I ordered the salmon, but Lucille had a delicious steak dish and the kids some chicken fingers, steak and potato soup.
What, no Bloomin’ Onion!!
That bloomin onion is delicious Kevin, especially with that tangy sauce it comes with, but it’s a fattening confection. Those days are over, though I’ll admit it will always be a temptation!
Hi! John Greco,
John Greco said,”Thanks for all this data. Especially looking forward to the WB Film Noir set though the only two films I never seen are “Backfire” and “Dawn at Deadline.” Don Siegel’s “Crime in the Streets” (with John Cassavetes and Sal Mineo) is more of a 1950’s Juvenile Delinquents gang film that film noir, at least if I remember it correctly, but it is a rare film, one of the missing on home video and deserves a release.”
You’re very welcome!…Those last two films that you mentioned are the two in the entire lot that I have not had the privilege of watching neither.
Therefore, I welcome the upgraded copies (even though I wished they would have included hard-to-find titles that may never see the light of day.)
Cont…
R.L.Bourges said, “Finishing a book; whether as the reader or the writer, it can bring both a letdown and a sense of closure. You may also feel that you’re losing a heightened sense of clarity and purpose, or the emotional bond you’ve made with imaginary friends. However, the good ones never get away from you completely, you know. Plus, with a book, you can always go back for a visit.”
John Greco said, “Thanks for sharing this, I always felt a tinge of sadness coming to the end of a good book. This very much explains how I feel; you do not want it to end.
John Greco, once again you are very welcome!… I agree with you wholeheartedly, but I ‘am planning to “heed” writer R.L. Bourges, advice!
DeeDee ;)
Dee Dee, I stated my opinion on this above to your longer post, but I do agree with R.L. Bourges.
Hi! Allan,
Allan said, “Yes, DeeDee, I have the same print with no subs. It wouldn’t be so bad if there was a decent English translation of Feydeau in English available, but there isn’t. When will someone PLEASE subtitle this? It would make my decade.”
Right you are…Allan, because the Film Detective just responded to my email and they were not even able to locate a copy of the film Occupe-toi d’Amélie!
DeeDee :(
Here goes…
Info(rmation) about playwright Georges Feydeau
Tony said,”I have a French SRT file. The dialog is ‘tres simple’ and having it on the screen would help those with only basic French. I suppose you could get a bastard translation by using an on-line translator…”
Hi! Bobby J.,
You may have to heed Tony D’Ambra’s suggestion if you want to at least watch the film and understand the dialogue. Just let me know and I will send the film to Sam Juliano, in order for him to send the film to you.
Take care!
DeeDee ;)
Hi! Sam Juliano,
Sam Juliano said,”Today is Lucille’s birthday!!!
Sam Juliano, here sending out Happy Birthday! wishes to…Mrs. Juliano,
…I hope that she have a nice one too!
Take care!
DeeDee ;) :)
Thanks very much Dee Dee for that effervescent greeting! Lucille and the kids had a very nice evening.
59 comments! Impressive. Thanks again, Sam, for the link and the kind remarks.
Troy — I’m glad to find another fan of Hitchcock’s second “The Man Who Knew Too Much.” Whenever that film turns up while channel surfing, I can’t stay away from it. (Same thing happens when I encounter “Shadow of a Doubt.”)
There’s no explaining people’s reactions to The Road. I saw it in an upper middle class suburb, where the theater was nearly full. Many people clapped when it was over.
For me, there aren’t any Hitchcock films I won’t watch if they are on the TV. Even his admittedly less outstanding films, like THE MAN WHO KNEW TOO MUCH and TORN CURTAIN, have their moments of fun.
It would be really great to have your suggestions and assistance in this Project 2000 of mine. You’re right, the movies of this decade are very important for me, and hence I wouldn’t want to come out with a half-hearted selection.
Great that the 2000’s countdown here will start after March 2010, as I’m sure it’ll take me sometime to watch at least most if not all the movies that merit a watch.
Right now I’ve narrowed down my ‘watched’ movie list to slightly more than 100 films. And movies that needs to be watched stand at a staggering 50-odd, with 25 odd that are must watch in my opinion. I’ll share that document with you to get it fine-tuned.
Shubhajit: I will gladly do all I can to help. It’s definitely a worthy venture.
Thanks for the plug, Sam!
Hey Craig! You are most welcome.