Hurricane Irene, Musical Countdown, Robert Ryan Festival, At-home pre-coders and Don’t be afraid of the Dark and Richard “R.D.” Finch on Monday Morning Diary (August 29)

« Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (No. 65)

Hurricane Irene, Musical Countdown, Robert Ryan Festival, At-home pre-coders and Don’t be afraid of the Dark and Richard “R.D.” Finch on Monday Morning Diary (August 29)

August 29, 2011 by wondersinthedark

by Sam Juliano

Irene’s bark was worse than her bite. What was initially seen as a monster hurricane as menacing as any in well over a hundred years, was downgraded to a tropical storm, that was mainly notable for it’s eight-to-ten inch rain, and a wind display that was no worse than medium-strength noreasters. But those of us living in the NYC area aren’t gloating by a long-shot. We’re actually grateful the prognosticators overplayed their hand, rather than the other way around, especially as the most dire forecasters had envisioned downed power lines, falling trees and flooded homes. A little bit of each did occur in a number of areas, but thankfully not in Northeast New Jersey and in the city, where Maurizio Roca, Joel Bocko and Bob Clark are presently residing. Here in Fairview, New Jersey, power stayed on all through Saturday night, into Sunday, and only a nagging house leak in our first floor bedroom was a reminder of the storm’s wrath. As I pen this part of the diary, the storm is practically gone, heading in a diminished state to New England, leaving behind dampness and overcast skies. Monday and Tuesday will be sunny days according to weathermen. But the harrowing experience made everyone wiser to cope with nature’s surprises and threats to our way of life. It’s an episode that brings to mind what was recently, suffered by our friends in Tokyo and New Orleans, and how everything must truly be placed in the proper context. I’d like to thank my dear friend Dee Dee, and so many others who asked for updates during the night and offered their well-wishes: dear people like Laurie Buchanan, Terrill Welch, Pierre de Plume, Michael Harford, Maurizio Roca, John Greco, Tony d’Ambra, Jamie Uhler, Joel Bocko, Craig Kennedy, Sachin Gandhi, Pat Perry, Judy Geater, Jaime Grijalba, Jim Clark, Jon Warner, Jason Marshall, R.D. Finch, Roderick Heath, my very good friend Alan Hardy at the Film Forum, Branko C., and of course Alan Fish, and several others. I beg everyone’s indulgence too for the incessant updates, which I could well understand coming off as redundant and a supreme annoyance.

The musical countdown is well underway, and the comments are flying in fast and furious. It’s been great to have Dee Dee’s remarkable sidebar contributions, which have unearthed some amazing foreign posters of the selections, and links to some of the more renowned clips, and essays from guest writers Brandie Ashe, Kevin Deany and Brian (a.k.a. Classic Film Boy) as well as Judy Geater’s stellar piece on Guys and Dolls, which inspired one of the site’s all-time monter threads. The site remains deeply indebted to Richard “R.D.” Finch, of The Movie Projector for his spectacular work in promoting the project, finding writers, and offering up his usual brand of incomparable thread comments that get right to the heart of every film and essay presented. His work for WitD deserves a medal. He’s been a long-time friend, and his own site writing has been exceedingly first-rate, but only now have we seen the true breath of his kindness and unwavering support. His inspiration and ceaseless energy will never be forgotten, and are prime reasons why the countdown has gotten off to such an extraordinary start. Today’s selection is a repeat of an Allan Fish review that originally appeared in the still-running pre-code series of the delightful Roman Scandals, which I recently saw at the Film Forum’s “Pre-Code” Festival.

Fear of the hurricane has severely curtailed my movie going to a near standstill over the weekend, and sadly has forced me to take a pass on offering up new links. (I have still repeated last week’s links, however) I didn’t catch a wink of sleep last night and have spent a good part of today catching up, leaving precious little time to do much before this already-formidable post and the preparation of the new musical selection on wordpress. New links are promised on next week’s diary. Again, my apologies.

I attended the Robert Ryan Film Festival this past Monday to see both John Cromwell’s The Racket and the paranoia noir thriller I Married A Communist (a.k.a. The Woman on Pier 13). Both were fair enough, but I’ve give an edge to the latter. Cromwell’s film is actually included in one of the Warner Brothers’ film noir collections. ASlthough I had plans three days later to see the four-hour The Iceman Cometh on Thursday, all the scary hurricane talk kept me home getting the house set. Lucille and I relented on Friday night, going to the local multiplex to see a Del Toro-scriped hooror film with Guy Pearce leading up called Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark. This sometimes derivative yarn had it’s moments, but it also had that trashy multiplex feel. It’s passable though, as far as genre efforts go. I also saw two truly great pre-coders on DVD: Peach-o-Reno and The Sins of Nora Moran, both which earn four-and-one-half star ratings. The former features the under-appreciated 30’s comedy team Wheeler and Woolsey, who at least with this film match the far more renowned Marx Brothers. Nora Moran is a stark, expressionistic piece that features some exceptional performances and a harrowing story. I rarely if ever include the mention of at-home DVD viewings on the diary, but this week under the circumstances, I’ve relented.

I saw in theatres:

The Rachet *** (Monday evening) Robert Ryan at Film Forum

I Married A Communist *** 1/2 (Monday evening) Robert Ryan at Film Forum

Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark *** (Friday night) Edgewater multiplex

Again, here are last week’s old links:

Jaimie Grijalba’s splendid ‘Richard Kelly blogothon’ is officially underway at Exodus 8:2, and daily posts this week have included terrific essays from writers Olabode Olakanmi and Ignacio Goldaracena on “Donnie Darko” and another from girlfriend Carol Brito that wonderfully attests to the hold the film has maintained on her: http://exodus8-2.blogspot.com/2011/08/donnie-darko-2001-obra-maestra.html

At Darkness Into Light Dee Dee has featured Dan Kelley’s terrific daily reports of “Noir 3″ in Chicago, which has featured a bevy of genre treasures, the final two of which are a Dassin gem, “Brute Force” and Anotole Litvak’s “Sorry Wrong Number”: http://noirishcity.blogspot.com/2011/08/noir-city-3-final-curtain-callat-music.html

Tony d’Ambra has penned a penetrating capsule review on celebrated film noir author James Ursini’s new volume “Directors on the Edge: Outliers in Hollywood at FilmsNoir.net: http://filmsnoir.net/film_noir/directors-on-the-edge-outliers-in-hollywood-james-ursinis-new-book.html

The annual “Fantasia” film festival in Montreal has attracted the gleeful participation of Sachin Gandhi who offers up a glowing and comprehensive report at Scribbles and Ramblings: http://likhna.blogspot.com/2011/08/fantasia-2011.html

John Greco’s review of Jules Dassin’s “Thieves’ Highway” at Twenty Four Frames is a big winner: http://twentyfourframes.wordpress.com/2011/08/19/thieves-highway-1949-jules-dassin-2/

Meanwhile, John’s beautiful new ‘photography’ website is up and running:
http://johngrecophotography.com/

At Speaking From The Heart Laurie Buchanan asks “when was the last time your wires were crossded,” while featuring a telling photograph: http://holessence.wordpress.com/2011/08/18/crossed-wires/

Hot-off-the-presses, Marilyn Ferdinand has posted a lovely testament to Chilean director Raul Ruiz (who died suddenly over the weekend) in her review of his 2005 “Klimpt” at Ferdy-on-Films: http://www.ferdyonfilms.com/?p=11041

Roderick Heath has penned a typically enthralling review at Ferdy-on-Films on the epic Akira Kurosawa masterpiece “Ran”: http://www.ferdyonfilms.com/?p=10996

Again, Film Scholar Extraordinaire Srikanth Srinivasan (Just Another Film Buff) has brightened the cinematic horizons with an utterly remarkable essay on Peter Hutton’s “At Sea,” which Film Comment voted the ‘best avante garde film of the decade’. It’s posted over at The Seventh Art: http://theseventhart.info/2011/08/21/flashback-86/

Adam Zanzie has penned an astonishing marathon essay on his most recent findings on Tarantino’s “Inglourious Basterds” at Icebox Movies: http://iceboxmovies.blogspot.com/2011/08/inglourious-basterds-2009-two-years.html

Samuel Wilson announces the passing of 92 year-old Italian Gualtiero Jacopetti at Mondo 70, where he also offers up an engaging anecdote of the origins of his blogsite name: http://mondo70.blogspot.com/2011/08/gualtiero-jacopetti-1919-2011.html

Jon Warner has again penned an exceptional essay, this time on Kurosawa’s “Dodes ‘ka-den” which divided critics upon it’s release. But it’s certainly gained in esteemed over the years, and Warner’s review at Films Worth Watching is a must-read: http://filmsworthwatching.blogspot.com/2011/08/dodeska-den-1970-directed-by-akira.html

Utilizing you tubes and press reports Judy Geater gleefully reports at Movie Classics on the discovery in the UK of a lot of film scores, some thought lost: http://movieclassics.wordpress.com/2011/08/14/scores-for-silent-movies-discovered/

In Tokyo the always-brilliant “Murderous Ink” examines three rare but seminal works by Japanese greats Ichikawa, Masamura and Ozu at Vermillion and One Nights: http://vermillionandonenights.blogspot.com/2011/08/masumura-ichikawa-and-ozu.html

On scenic Mayne Island in the Pacific Northwest, Terrill Welch makes a case for a creative retreat in a wooden frame house in the woods to die for. The post is titled “Creative Island Retreat Home For You?” and it’s at the Creativepotager’s blog: http://creativepotager.wordpress.com/2011/08/12/creative-island-retreat-home-for-you/

Pat Perry at Doodad Kind of Girl explains why the Tribeca flick “Suburban Girl” with Alec Baldwin went straight-to-DVD, and the talk, while exceedingly well-written ain’t so pretty: http://doodadkindoftown.blogspot.com/2011/08/on-home-screen-suburban-girl.html

A major press release on “The Last Lullaby” and “Peril” from filmmaker Jeffrey Goodman leads up at the blogsite The Last Lullaby. Looks like things are moving along most promisingly!: http://cahierspositif.blogspot.com/2011/08/latest-news-on-lullaby-and-peril.html

Stephen Russell-Gebbett’s beautiful compilation on the faces of Godard’s actresses from 1959 to 2010 paints an indellible portrait of the director’s essence, complete with a lovely Rachmoninoff prelude at Checking on my Sausages: http://checkingonmysausages.blogspot.com/2011/08/jean-luc-godard-women-in-close-up-1959.html

Troy Olson may well have written his magnum opus at Elusive as Robert Denby with a spectacular essay on Robert Bresson’s Le Journal
Une Cure de Campagne (“Diary of a Country Priest”): http://troyolson.blogspot.com/2011/07/robert-bresson-journal-d-cure-de.html

Jason Marshall has named Bette Davis Best Actress of 1941 for her unforgettable performance in “The Little Foxes”: http://moviesovermatter.com/2011/08/13/bette-davis-the-little-foxes-best-actress-of-1941/

Ed Howard and Jason Bellamy have again collaborated on their seminal monthly “Conversations” post with a remarkable litchen-sink discussion of Spielberg’s classic summer blockbuster “Jaws” at The House Next Door: http://www.slantmagazine.com/house/2011/08/the-conversations-jaws/

David Schleicher has penned a terrific essay on “Sarah’s Key” at The Schleicher Spin titled “Sarah’s Key and the Privilege of Choice”: http://theschleicherspin.com/2011/08/15/sarahs-key-and-the-privilege-of-choice/

Ed Howard has penned a fasinating essay on the American re-make of a well-regarded Swedish vampire film at Only the Cinema: http://seul-le-cinema.blogspot.com/2011/08/let-me-in.html

At Cinemascope Shubhajit has posted an enegaging capsule on the “film within a film” thriller “Khamosh” by Vidhu Vinod Chopra: http://cliched-monologues.blogspot.com/2011/08/khamosh-1985.html

At Patricia’s Wisdom, the Bard is invoked in an immortal summer sonnet: http://patriciaswisdom.com/2011/08/summer-through-the-eyes-of-william-shakespeare/

Andrew Wyatt has penned a fantastic review of “Another Earth” at the spiffy new made-over Gateway Cinephiles: http://gatewaycinephiles.com/2011/08/16/another-earth/

You’d be hard-pressed to pass up “Coffee With a Twist” at the always intoxicating Coffee Messiah’s blog, authored by Michael Harford: http://coffeemessiah.blogspot.com/2011/08/coffee-with-twist-post-to-appear-later.html

Peter Lenihan has posted some tragic news on the untimely passing of the 44 year-old actress Yekaterina Golubeva of Clair Denis’ “L’Intrus” at The Long Voyage Home: http://thelongvoyagehome.blogspot.com/2011/08/yekaterina-golubeva.html?showComment=1313794373722#c5297226942411927540

R.D. Finch has crafted a fascinating post on the British actor Tom Courtenay at The Movie Projector: http://themovieprojector.blogspot.com/2011/08/yearning-to-express-myself-life-and.html

Dave Van Poppel at Visions of Non-Fiction has posted a terrific review of the documentary “Project Nim”: http://visionsofnonfiction.blogspot.com/2011/08/project-nim.html

Craig Kennedy’s engaging “Weekend Forecast” at Living in Cinema, as always offers off a comprehensive look at the NY and LA releases, including the indes and docs: http://livingincinema.com/2011/08/19/weekend-forecast-mi-amigo/

TCM’s Greg Ferrara leads off with a wonderful report on Tom Waits’ “Glitter and Doom” Tour at Cinema Styles: http://cinemastyles.blogspot.com/2011/08/tom-waits-glitter-and-doom-live.html

Roderick Heath’s latest review at “This Island Rod” is a terrific assessment of 2011’s “Ironclad”: http://thisislandrod.blogspot.com/2011/08/ironclad-2011.html

Kaleem Hasan announces the sad passing of Indian legend Shammi Kapoor at Satyamshot: http://satyamshot.wordpress.com/2011/08/14/shammi-kapoor-passes-away/

Kevin Olson has a stylish piece up at Hugo Stiglitz Makes Movies on “Summer of Slash: Hell Night”: http://kolson-kevinsblog.blogspot.com/2011/08/summer-of-slash-hell-night.html

At Petrified Fountain of Thought Stephen Morton has penned a stunning essay on Kelly Reichardt and “Meek’s Cutoff”: http://petrifiedfountainofthought.blogspot.com/2011/07/thoughts-on-kelly-reichardt-and-meeks.html

At Cinema Viewfinder Tony Dayoub has announced an early September Nicholas Ray blogothon at his place: http://www.cinemaviewfinder.com/2011/08/nicholas-ray-blogathon.html

Adam Zanzie has penned an altogether magnificent review of “The Tree of Life” at Icebox Movies: http://iceboxmovies.blogspot.com/2011/07/tree-of-life-2011-stairways-to-heaven.html

Jason Bellamy offers up a thought-provoking take on “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” at The Cooler: http://coolercinema.blogspot.com/2011/08/everyone-needs-damn-dirty-hand-to-hold.html

At The Man From Porlock Craig has penned a terrific review of The Tree of Life: http://themanfromporlock.blogspot.com/2011/08/where-god-lives-tree-of-life.html

At the Film Doctor’s place some notable “links” this week include some telling views on the reaction of some to the recently-released “The Help.”: http://filmdr.blogspot.com/2011/08/notable-film-and-media-links.html

J.D. offers up a typically comprehensive and intriguing essay on a rarely-seen “B movie, “Top of the Food Chain” at Radiator Heaven: http://rheaven.blogspot.com/2011/08/top-of-food-chain.html

At Little Worlds Hokahey has posted a perceptive “mixed” review on “The Help”: http://hokahey-littleworlds.blogspot.com/2011/08/oh-help-help.html

An early September “Nicholas Ray Blogothon” is on tap at the Cinema Viewfinder, manned by Tony Dayoub: http://www.cinemaviewfinder.com/2011/08/nicholas-ray-blogathon.html

At Not Just Movies Jake Cole offers up superb capsule reviews on “Platinum Blonde,” “The Mad Monk” and “The Lodger”: http://armchairc.blogspot.com/2011/08/capsule-reviews-platinum-blonde-mad.html

Slant writer extraordinaire Jon Lanthier likens A Serbian Film to a “transgressive” experience, awarding it 3 out of 4 stars at Aspiring Sellout: http://aspiringsellout.com/2011/05/cameraman-2010-a-serbian-film-2010/

Paul J. Marasa considers Robert Zemekis’s Who Framed Roger Rabbit? in a stellar essay at TheConstant Viewer: http://theconstantviewer.blogspot.com/2011/06/june-26-1988-who-framed-roger-rabbit.html

Jeopardy Girl admits it’s been the toughest summer for her, and it’s curtailed her blooging at The Continuing Saga of Jeopardy Girl: ttp://jeopardygirl.wordpress.com/2011/08/17/hard/

Posted in Uncategorized | 59 Comments

59 Responses

on August 29, 2011 at 1:36 am | Reply Maurizio Roca

So Sam, Alone In The Dark only gets a passable 3 stars from you. I was planning on seeing it this weekend before the Irene situation reared its monumental head. As I am a big fan of Guy Pearce and his impeccable taste when picking roles (LA Confidential, Memento, The Proposition, Animal Kingdom, Mildred Pierce), I will surly still attend a screening at some point next weekend. It hasn’t received the greatest reviews, but it sounds interesting enough. That Ryan double feature should have been half priced or free lol.
- on August 29, 2011 at 2:26 am | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  Maurizio–
  
  Actually three stars for a modern-day horror movie is a pretty good rating. There are issue here, but it’s also at times hair-raising and jolting as my wife and son Danny realized soon enough. It’s definitely worth a visit, and I am with you on your regard for Guy Pearce, whose career you frame there quite accurately. Yeah that Ryan double wasn’t his best, but I MARRIED A COMMUNIST is reasonably solid.
  
  Thanks as always my friend!
- on August 29, 2011 at 4:44 pm | Reply Frank Gallo
  
  I was tempted to catch this on Friday night, but I chickened out with all the weather reports pointing to the hurricane’s encroachment. Sounds like it’s a fun time.
on August 29, 2011 at 1:39 am | Reply Samuel Wilson

Sam, we don’t get tropical storms in Albany as a rule, so we were quite impressed with its bark and bite up here. I spent eight hours without power today — three hours out, power back for an hour, then down for five more.The storm is past now, but local rivers are expected to crest tomorrow, so the fun isn’t over yet. It may not suprise you to learn that I didn’t see many movies this weekend. In fact, A Screaming Man was it, but that was a good one, as I testify on my blog. Given the stress I felt about the possibility of leaks, downed trees, etc., I can only be glad that your fears weren’t realized, and that you were able to enjoy some pre-Code stuff.
- on August 29, 2011 at 2:22 am | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  Samuel–
  
  What kind of irony is that? I mean you are in Albany, far inland in New York State, getting as it is only the outer reaches of the storm, and you lose power while we miraculously maintain it. I know the reach of the storm was incredible (500 miles I think) so you surely did get at least some serious rain, as you testify by the cresting. Looks like you wound up with a light week on the movie scene too, though I must say I am very interested in seeing A SCREAMING MAN, and will be over to read your review at MONDO 70 tomorrow! Thanks for the very kiod words too my friend!
  - on August 30, 2011 at 4:10 am Samuel Wilson
    
    Sam, I spent Monday wondering whether I was going to be trapped in my downtown Troy office by the cresting Hudson River. The city’s riverfront of parks and restaurants was swamped and the river was rising rapidly, fed by runoff from the north. For many people it was pure spectacle. They gathered at the edge of the flood, or on the bridge above it. College kids new to Troy were there, and parents or grandparents had brought children to see something historic: a brown surge of sludge carrying logs and other debris rapidly downstream. And of course many were trying to encapsulate the size and speed of it inside their cameraphones, while others seemed awed by the real vastness of the scene. There was talk of evacuating downtown but as of quitting time that had proved unnecessary, so here I am back home telling the tale. Something seemed cinematic about it all, but I doubt a movie of it would sell.
on August 29, 2011 at 1:40 am | Reply holessence

Sam – Typically I’m a Monday morning responder. However, tomorrow morning at the crack of dawn I’ll be departing from O’Hare on an American Airlines flight — the first leg of my “adventure.”

I can’t beging to tell you how grateful I am that you, Lucille, and the kids are all well and fine. Whew! A few leaks here and there is a very small price to pay for what could have been disaster.

I’m grateful, too, that Maurizio Roca, Joel Bocko, and Bob Clark weathered the storm as well.

You have no idea how good it is to know that you actually view movies at home on DVD, too. I hope you and yours popped corn and curled up on the couch with the lights dimmed for viewing pleasure.

Have a fantastic week! My plan is to be back in Crystal Lake, Illinois by Labor Day weekend :)
- on August 29, 2011 at 2:16 am | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  What a lady! Laurie, you are just one of the most beautiful and brilliant and caring people I’ve ever encountered and meeting you on the blogging threads is a joy. Interestingly enough, I met you through Terrill Welch (the CREATIVEPOTAGER) who is equally as beautiful and brilliant. I can’t thank you for all your concern during the storm scare, and for lighting the light for my family. You are right that the leaks we had were a small price to pay for what might have been! I’m sure Maurizio, Joel and Bob will much appreciate those caring words too.
  
  Yes, contrary to popular perceptions I DO indeed watch movies at home sometimes, though not nearly as often as my site colleague would like me to! Ha! The time spent at home is usually expended on writing and blogging, even more so at present when my responsibility for the musical countdown is formidable. But it’s always a thrill to watch with some of the kids. Danny’s laughter at the one liners in PEACH-O-RENO were priceless. I think you will be watching this one soon Laurie. Trust me. Ha!
  
  You have really piqued my interest as to this upcoming adventure you are embarking on in the morning, and I know it will make for one heckuva post! I’ll keep in touch by email my friend, and have a great time until that Labor Day arrival back in Crystal Lake!
  
  As always, I am overwhelmed by your kindness.
on August 29, 2011 at 2:14 am | Reply Just Another Film Buff

Thanks a ton, Sam. I haven’t been on the internet much during the past week and have got a lot of reading to catch up to. (I was clearing some backlogs in the meantime).

Glad to hear that the storm wasn’t as dangerous as predicted. Stay home stay safe, though.

I caught up with a bunch of British films – Kitchen Sink and all that – and a couple of Mike Leigh films too – NAKED and SECRETS AND LIES – both of which are pretty extraordinary.

Thanks again and cheers!
- on August 29, 2011 at 2:31 am | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  Hello Srikanth!!!
  
  Thanks for the very kind words as always. Seems like we both were pre-occupied this week, but as a result you were able to see those two highly revered Mike Leigh films. Most of our blogger friends consider NAKED his masterpiece. I though Mr. Thewlis was brilliant, but I always favored SECRETS AND LIES and a few others (VERA DRAKE, LIFE IS SWEET and ANOTHER YEAR) even more. But what a great director to examine. Hope you do get to some reading. I need to see what’s happening at THE SEVENTH ART too. Thanks as always my friend!
on August 29, 2011 at 2:34 am | Reply John Greco

Sam,

As usual, thanks very much for the double mention. It’s great that Irene lost some of its punch and that all is well considering what could have been. Living in Fla. we live under the threat of a hurricane for much too long a period. With a lull in other activities this past week I watched quite a few films and caught up on some writing. Those pre-code films sound enticing, will have to catch up with them. I watched two films in theaters this week, five Joan Blondell films along with a Bogart and a Lombard.

Rise of the Planet of the Apes (***) While the special effects are superb, I found the storyline rather trite and a bit disappointing. The battle for the Golden Gate bridge was fun but I left the theater expecting more.

Redemption Road (****) Smoky juke joints and plenty of blues highlight this road movie tale of one man’s search for forgiveness and another’s need to escape from his past. The film’s weak spot is a script that telegraphs an all too familiar path but the acting is top notch and it is never less than entertaining. Mario Van Peebles smoothly directs and fine performances from Michael Duncan Clarke and Morgan Simpson.

Black Legion (***1/2) Humphrey Bogart is a machinist who gets passed over for a promotion in favor of a more qualified “foreigner,” a Polish American co-worker. Bogie joins a hate monger Klu Klux Klan type group who “fight for the rights of real Americans.” An amazingly frank film about bigotry, cowardice and senseless brutality hiding behind a mob mentality of flag waving patriotism.

The Gay Bride (***) Fair enough comedy with Carole Lombard as a gold digger chorus girl who keeps marrying gangsters who get themselves bumped off (cost of doing business) until she finds love with Chester Morris, one of the hoods former body guards. The film is light and breezy. Lombard is quick witted and beautiful. Won’t make you forget her classic comedies but you could do worst.

Lawyer Man (***) Fairly average Warner Brothers pre-code with a lighter touch than most. William Powell’s idealistic lawyer rises from the immigrant streets of the Lower East Side to a classy Uptown firm. Finds fame, women, money and corruption that leads to his downfall, only to come back and fight the dirty crooked political machine their way. Joan Blondell in a typical gal Friday role is true blue and always by his side.

Central Park (**1/2) Two depression era strangers meet in Central Park and innocently get involved in a scam to rob a charity banquet of all it funds. Nothing special here except for Joan Blondell who is charmingly sweet.

Footlight Parade (****1/2) Once of the great Warner musicals of 1933. Cagney, Blondell, Powell and Keeler along with Busby Berkeley. An entertaining delight from beginning to end.

Big City Blues (***1/2) – A young Indiana rube inherits a few dollars and goes to the big city getting mixed up with a shyster cousin, whiskey, murder and the lovely Joan Blondell. Humphrey Bogart in a small supporting role. Cast also includes Lyle Talbot, J. Carroll Nash, Dennis O’Keefe in small roles.

We’re in the Money (**1/2) Sassy, though silly little film with Blondell (again) and Glenda Farrell as process servers who are offered big bucks to serve four subpoenas in a breach of promise lawsuit. A showcase for both ladies but unfortunately as the film progresses it becomes more implausible until you hopelessly give up.

Stand-In (***1/2) – The script could have had a little more snap to it but overall a decent satire on the behind the scenes goings of Corporate America and 1930’s Hollywood. Leslie Howard and Joan Blondell star with Humphrey Bogart, billed third in the role of a producer. Howard is a numbers man, an accountant, who is sent to Hollywood by a Wall St. firm to straighten out a money losing film company. All the dice are rolling on a little film called “Sex and Satan.”
- on August 29, 2011 at 12:40 pm | Reply Jon
  
  John,
  
  That’s interesting, I watched Footlight Parade this week as well. I think “Beside A Waterfall” was the most elaborate thing Berkeley ever did. Its visuals are remarkable, despite the fact that it’s basically a male fantasy sequence gone overboard.
- on August 29, 2011 at 7:17 pm | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  John–
  
  Living in Florida does indeed intensify one’s concern of these catastrophes. In the NYC area the occurance is rare, so people do tend to overeact. But meterologists are saying that some kind of a “western front” confronted the hurricane and diminished it’s force. We are all very lucky. Thanks for the kind words of course.
  
  You had quite a spectacular week there with all those films in a diverse show in every sense!
  
  I’ll admit I liked RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES more than you (I gave it four stars) and gave it points for it’s accurate picture of how humans flub the growing up process a la PROJECT NIM. But I can understand this film diving the field. As far as REDEMPTION ROAD, I haven’t yet seen it but much appreciate the excellent capsule treatment.
  
  You are dead-on with Humphrey Bogart’s BLACK LEGION, methinks, and I was happy to read a report from you on LAWYER MAN, a modestly engaging film I just saw at the pre-code festival. The two Blondells (CENTRAL PARK and BIG CITY BLUES) are close to what I would apply, and I’m delighted you watched the great musical FOOTLIGHT PARADE again and greatly look forward to your review for the countdown! WE’RE IN THE MONEY is silly for sure (I’d go **) and STAND-IN is one I must catch up with!
  
  Great week, great roundup, awesome submission as always my friend!
on August 29, 2011 at 4:27 am | Reply David H. Schleicher

While holed up inside during Irene I watched Troll Hunter (**) which was not nearly as fun as it should’ve been and Winter in Wartime (****) which was completely riveting. I also re-watched Shadow of a Doubt and The Third Man in prep for my upcoming 1940’s retrospective. Naturally, these are both ***** stunners and hold up to repeated views.

On Sunday, we ventured out to the theater looking for laughs and Our Idiot Brother (***1/2) proved a perfect post-Irene tonic. Full review at The Spin:

http://theschleicherspin.com/2011/08/29/our-idiot-brother/

Glad to hear most others found Irene to be a bust as well and everyone is safe and sound (spare for some minor flooding and some downed trees and powerlines). She was no Gloria. It’s kinda cool to be able to see I experienced and earthquake and a hurricane in the same week, though.
- on August 29, 2011 at 7:37 pm | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  David–
  
  I did hear of that woman who was killed in Salem County, which I know is near you. Very tragic. But obviously I can’t blame you for being “holed up.” It was a fearful episode. I haven’t seen TROLL HUNTER, but am hardly surprised at that rating. I loved WINTER IN WARTIME and am delighted that you reagrd it highly. A very taut and atmospheric piece set in the show with a buffo lead performance by the boy. Yes, THIRD MAN and SHADOW are five-star masterpieces, I quite agree. I look forward to your upcoming 40’s retrospective. Lucille really wants to see OUR IDIOT BROTHER, and I’ll refer her to your reasonable promotion. I am will be over to THE SCHLEICHER SPIN to read your comprehensive take too.
  
  A hurricane and earthquake in one week is enough for one lifetime! Ha!
  
  True, Irene was no Gloria!
  
  Thanks as always my friend
on August 29, 2011 at 4:40 am | Reply dennis

AWWWWW…. I wsas rteally looking forward to DONT BE AFRAID OF THE DARK, the 70’s tele-movie it is based on (starring Kim Darby and Jim Hutton) was a favorite of mine and I remember, vividly how creepy it was (the moment the little devils get in the bathroon while she’s bathing and their discovery of a straight-razor will make your heart pound)… Watched Jules Dassin’s incredible Noir Classic NIGHT AND THE CITY on Criterion DVD. This Richard Widmark starrer had atmosphere to spare and the sheen on black and white cinematography is some of the vest I’ve ever seen. No wonder this film is so highly praised by viewers and experts of the genre. I feel dirty after seeing it!!!!!!
- on August 29, 2011 at 7:43 pm | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  Dennis—
  
  Don’t be disuaded. It’s certainly fun and entertaining, regardless of the typical preposterousness of it all. We don’t go to movies like this for any sense of any kind, but to unwind. Danny seemed to really like it. I do well remember that original you broach. Thrilled to hear you finally got to NIGHT AND THE CITY, which is probably the greatest noir ever, and tied for my own #1 favorite with Ray’s ON DANGEROUS GROUND. No wonder you feel “dirty.”
  
  Thanks as always my friend!
on August 29, 2011 at 5:32 am | Reply R. D. Finch

Sam, thank you so much for your effusive praise. It has been my pleasure to offer whatever I can do to help you get the countdown underway. But really this is your baby, and I can’t express how impressed I am at the tremendous job you have done organizing and overseeing such an ambitious project. I have been getting a tremendous kick out of the countdown, and the quality of the contributions so far, including your own, has been–to use one of you favorite adjectives–stellar and has certainly raised the bar for those of us who will be contributing later. Separately, I’m glad to hear that Irene wasn’t as fearsome as some had predicted and that you came through the experience okay. Remember, my friend–hurricanes hardly ever happen in the Hamptons, Hartford, and New Hampshire!
- on August 29, 2011 at 7:58 pm | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  And you have delivered with first-class generosity and some wonderful insights that are consistent with your modus operandi. We won’t ever forget it my friend! Likewise I greatly look forward to your own upcoming work on the Astaire/Rogers films. Thanks for the comforting words on Irene, and yes you make a valid points about these angry outbursts of nature showing their face in the Granite State, though I know that’s a cute play on the letter H! Ha!
  
  Thanks again my very good friend!
  - on August 29, 2011 at 9:11 pm R. D. Finch
    
    Sam, I should also mention the Classic Movie Blog Association, whose members (like Kevin, Brandie, Brian and others yet to come) responded with such enthusiasm to the countdown. I simply passed along the information about the countdown and they did the rest.
  - on August 29, 2011 at 10:48 pm Sam Juliano
    
    Yes indeed R.D. The association has really come through in a big way, and having such a brace of terrific writers is a boon to the project. Your work in promotion, and theirs in responding has really produced the desired reult.
    
    Thanks to all in the association!
on August 29, 2011 at 12:00 pm | Reply Jeffrey Goodman

Sam, thanks so much for the wonderful mention.

My wife and I watched the news all weekend, holding our breaths that all would be okay across the east coast. I know that there was still very significant damage, but I was very happy to know that it was perhaps less than most people expected. Here’s to less anxious and unsettling times.

This week, I saw a few things at home. They were ALMANAC OF FALL, Losey’s DON GIOVANNI, WINNEBAGO MAN, LOCAL HERO, FITZCARRALDO, and DAVID HOLZMAN’S DIARY. I was happy to see them all, but I would have to say that the Herzog film struck me the strongest. It just re-invigorated me and reminded me of the lengths some people have gone to capture a story on film. It simply left me in awe of Herzog and his ambition.

Here’s to a much better week, Sam. Thanks so much for all that you do!
- on August 29, 2011 at 8:17 pm | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  Jeffrey–
  
  You are a seasoned veteran when it comes to these natural disasters, and as a supremely compassionate guy I have no doubt you were monitoring the path of this storm closely. Yes there was damage, but the NYC area was spared serious catastrophe after an unexpected assistence from a western front. The worse part of the storm was several hours before the “eye”, which turned out to be ironically, a let up on the storm’s strength. Thanks for the kind words of concern as always, and yes, let’s have a period of tame weather in the coming months, and then a mild winter!
  That was a very fine lot there, and I can’t blame you for going with that Herzog masterpiece as the top film; it’s a revered work of the cinema. The lengths Herzog went to there are astounding, and it represents I think that most ambitious of all his films. I also love Losey’s DON GIOVANNI unconditionally, and will be doing the full review of it in a few weeks for the musical countdown, where it placed prominently. Of the others, I do like LOCAL HERO (a charming and quirky comedy set in Scotland with Burt Lancaster in top form) and Tarr’s ALMANAC OF FALL quite a bit.
  
  Thanks for the wonderful words Jeffrey, and here’s to the best of times my friend!
on August 29, 2011 at 12:35 pm | Reply Jon

Sam,

Great to hear that the storm near you was not catastrophic and that you all are doing okay. Hopefully with the sunshine coming everything will dry out. Wishing you and everyone out that way all the best as things begin to get back to normal.

As you know I posted on Funny Girl this week and love Barbra’s performance in the film. It’s one of my favorite musicals. I also caught a couple more this week, including the incomparable A Star is Born and Swing Time. The latter of which I showed some of the dancing scenes to my 3 year-old daughter who was entranced by the dancing for sure. Both of these films are all-time classics. Up next for me is Easter Parade, South Pacific, and Oliver!.

On another note, I saw a very fascinating film by Pontecorvo called Kapo. It was a film I had never heard of, and the subject matter, regarding concentration camp prisoners made into camp wardens was very difficult for me to process. Although it’s not a perfect film because of some contrived plot devices, it is remarkably powerful, and considering it’s really the first film to dive deeply into the Holocaust from inside the camps (of course Night and Fog was a documentary), it is an important work. Apparently though, a few critics have lambasted the film in previous decades (including Jacques Rivette) and decried its use of artistry to film the unfilmable. Regardless, it seems to me an important work that despite its flaws remains unique.

Well hope you have a great week friend!
- on August 29, 2011 at 8:37 pm | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  Jon—
  
  The sun is indeed out and shining. The clouds are blue. There is a cool breeze. And temperatures are in the mid 70’s. It’s amazing how this kind of the day could possibly have followed what transpired over the weekend. But heck, my front lawn is dry and ready to be cut! All is well, and memories of the past few days will be slowly be replaced by images of Back to School, autumn leaves, New York Film Festival, NHL Football, the World Series, Halloween costumes and invigorating weather. In other words, the best time of the year is immediately ahead of us! Ha!
  Love to hear you showed those dancing scenes in SWING TIME to your three-year old daughter! Ha! lovely! And yes, I know you love FUNNY GIRL, a film that barely missed our Top 70, and one you wrote up magnificently at FILMS WORTH WATCHING:
  
  http://filmsworthwatching.blogspot.com/2011/08/funny-girl-1968-directed-by-william.html
  
  I can’t wait to hear your response to OLIVER!, which I’ll be covering here on the countdown, and SOUTH PACIFIC, another one I’ll be doing. Judy will be reviewing EASTER PARADE.
  
  I know Pontecorvo’s KAPO quite well and own that Kino DVD. The director of course is known to many for BATTLE OF ALGIERS (his masterpiece) but this film is indeed underestimated, and your insights frame it perfectly. I’m surprised Rivette felt that way!
  
  Have a great week my very good friend, and many thanks!
on August 29, 2011 at 1:45 pm | Reply Murderous Ink

Sam,
I hope the storm did not leave the serious damage on your place. I heard there are some casualties and some damages to properties in East Coast area. Here I am listening to the WQXR news reporting “Hurricane Irene was less damaging than expected”. It is always better to prepare for the worst rather than not preparing at all. We are expecting our share of storms this week (a typhoon is approaching). The concern here is if the typhoon approaches the Fukushima plant, it might “suck up” the still-leaking radioactive materials and disperse them in the wider area in a very short time, may be in an hour or so.

I attended one of those radiation safety seminars for citizens this week. It was a well-organized event and very informative (though most of the stuff were things I already knew). Even though it was a rather small meeting, there were many concerned citizens, especially parents with small children. You see, there are many possibly-contaminated food delivered to the market, without any proper inspection. And, worse, some cities provide them in school lunch. There were parents who relocated their children to Hokkaido (the location for Kurosawa’s “Idiot”). One parent asked the panelist if it is okay for their kid to relocate to southern France, but it turned out that southern France is also filled with nuclear plants. Life shouldn’t be this hard.

I am enjoying Musical Countdowns. I didn’t expect “Brigadoon” would make it inside 70, but it may deserve the place after all. As for Ryan festival, I saw “The Racket” recently, but it’s been quite a while since I saw “I married a communist”, and I really can’t remember the film. As a die-hard Ryan fan, I should look it up.

It seems you have a special treat this autumn, at NY film festival. Nikkatsu films!
This is my list of films you should never miss (no matter what). Others you will have other opportunities (on screen, DVD, BR or whatever). These films are very hard to come by and one of those few chances you can see.

A Diary of Chuji Travels (1927) Daisuke Ito I haven’t seen this,yet!

Earth (1939) Tomu Uchida Not this one, either….

Pigs and Battleships (1961) Shohei Imamura my favorite Imamura.

Singing Lovebirds aka Samurai Musical (1939) Masahiro Makino
This is the one I had a post.

http://vermillionandonenights.blogspot.com/2010/08/jazz-operetta-in-edo.html

Hometown (1930) Kenji Mizoguchi
A bit of a curiosity.

Somai’s early work and Seijun Suzukis are also must-see.

I wish I could attend the festival!

MI
- on August 29, 2011 at 3:44 pm | Reply wondersinthedark
  
  I was about say, MI, you bastard! Then I realise it’s Sam who gets the lucky breaks again. I take years and cost a fortune getting rarities, he just sits and waits like the lazy bastard he is. I always thought Chuji was only partially in existence, they found it in the 1990s but not the full thing.
  
  I wish someone wouyld add English subs to so many Japanese classics completely unavailable…Yoshimura’s Sisters of Nishijin, Gosho’s Four Chimneys, Kawashima’s The Sun Legend of the End of the Tokugawa Era, Masumura’s Play it Cool, The Most Valuable Wife, A Wife Confesses, The Wife of Seishu Hanaokai, The Hot Little Girl and Two Wives, Ichikawa’s The Hole, Crowded Streeetcar, Punishment Room and Goodbye Hello, Kimura’s Diary of a Mad Man. SOMEONE, PLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEASE!
  
  Japanese film history is being royally screwed by criminal negligence.
  - on August 31, 2011 at 12:54 pm Murderous Ink
    
    I wish I could help you on this. But the creating subtitles for a full film is too time-consuming. It’s a full time job. I did make English subtitles from CC on Italian DVDs using Cations ripper/Google Translator. Even this all automatic process was extremely time consuming.
    One of the reasons for “negligence” is probably due to complex copyright law in Japan. In addition, they extended the copyright protection from 50 years to 70 years in 2004. Plus, due to very little demand for old films in general, I don’t know if copyright holders are interested in releasing it in International markets (i.e. can make money). You see, selling packages (DVD, BR) is a tough business, I heard download business is much more lucrative, breaking point is much less than a thousand downloads. Like WB classics releases, they could supply less popular films in this way. If some outlets such as Criterion are interested in this form of business, there may be a chance. Though Japanese entertainment industry view download/streaming business as “evil” (almost no business for visual art, film, TV programs download/streaming in Japan), it may be possible overseas.
    MI
- on August 29, 2011 at 10:45 pm | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  MI:
  
  Thanks for framing the storm so expertly, and for offering the telling advice that too often is lost on many, and that is to heed warnings and always prepare for the worst. After what you went through of course, this small outburst of nature was a tiny blip on the radar screen. It’s true what you heard on that weather station–the storm was downgraded, and the effects are far weaker than what so many were saying all week. There were sadly some casulaties, as I heard of a tree crashing through a house in Virginia, killing a boy, and a woman swept away trying to open her car door in Salem County, New Jersey. I’d say people heeded all the warnings and stayed indoors, and went as far as taping windows and stocking up on food and essentials. Barely a day later we are now enjoying the most blissful day imaginable with blue skies, mid 70’s weather, with no humidity and a delightful breeze.
  The fear you have in regards to that Fukushima plant is real, and one that makes me shudder. You have had way too many instances of concern, and it’s time that things settle in and positive developments occur. I am hoping that all works out for you my friend.
  Your second paragraph is remarkable, and underlines the importance of community involvement in times of contamination crisis. I indeed remember that setting for Kurosawa’s THE IDIOT (Hokkaido). That comment about “re-locating” to southern France really says it all.
  You have alerted me to something that I was completely unaware of with all those planned screenings for the New York Film Festival. I know that the programmers always bring in some of the old stuff, but this is rarity heaven. I will need to look closely now at what is left as far as seating, but I’ll waiting no later than tonight to investigate. I do have a copy of EARTH here (sent to me by Allan over a year ago) but none of the others. The Mizoguchi is absolutely a curiosity, but obviously the Nikkatsu films are unmissable!!! I also like PIGS AND BATTLESHIPS quite a bit. I’d say it’s that or THE INSECT WOMAN as my favorite Inamanura.
  I am very happy to hear you are following teh musical countdown, and agree that BRIGADOON’s placement was a bit of a surprise when you consider teh critical drubbing it’s absorbed. They’ll be a few other surprises, but there will be many more deserved showings of musical masterworks! As far as THE RACKET, I thought it mediocre, but always marvelled at the title: “I Married A Communist.” LOL!!!!!
  
  Thanks my friend for the spectacular wrap and the great link. I am heading over to VERMILLION AND ONE NIGHTS presently!
  - on August 31, 2011 at 1:36 pm Murderous Ink
    
    A few days ago, TEPCO announced one of their workers died of acute leukemia but denied link between his work and death. I wonder when they start denying link between radiation contamination and THAT nuclear plant. I am not kidding, They sometimes imply some of the radiation is from H-bomb testing more than 50 years ago. I really am ashamed of morals of our government and corporate conglomerates.
    Yeah, I couldn’t believe that title “I Married A Communist” when I saw it for the first time. It’s much deadlier than “I Was A Communist for the FBI”. I wonder if Soviets had “I Married A Capitalist”.
    MI
on August 29, 2011 at 2:06 pm | Reply Pat

Sam – I’m so relieved for you and all my East Coast friends that the storm was not nearly as severe as predicted. I think you saw a pretty admirable number of movies considering the stormy situation.
Had you been planning to see a film of “The Iceman Cometh” or a stage production? The Goodman Theater here recently announced that it will be staging that play in spring 2012 with Nathan Lane in the lead. Marlon and I had already snapped up season tickets prior to the announcement, so we’ll get to see it. Not sure what that casting will bring to the production, but I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to see it.

Slow on the movie front here this week. Aside from re-watching the first of the films on which I’l be writing for the Musical Countdown (no hints here!) , I managed to catch SINNER’S HOLIDAY on TCM’s Joan Blondell day. She and James Cagney really outshine the rest of the mediocre-to-poor cast in their debut. “Summer of the Stars” month on TCM is helping me load my DVR to capacity – still waiting for me is THE LEOPARD, taped Thursday on Burt Lancater day, and I’m all set to record STAGE FRIGHT and A FOREIGN AFFAIR this Wednesday when they honor Marlene Dietrich. Other than that, saw MIDNIGHT IN PARIS for a second time last night, since Marlon wanted to and had not seen it yet; surprising, I enjoyed it much more the second time. Perhaps because I came in with lower expectations and so was able to enjoy it for what it was?

Have a good week!
- on August 30, 2011 at 1:52 am | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  Pat—
  
  Thanks for the kind words. Yes, we seemed to have lady luck on our side, but I hope the next test of this type isn’t for along time into the future. All kind of horrible imaginings do go through your mind. When you add the films I saw at home into the mix, I guess it wasn’t too bad in number.
  
  Good move there by you and Marlon on the season tickets to the Goodman Theatre. Nathan Lane in the lead eh? Wow!!!! Well, the version that I wa sreferring to here was the 1974 film version with Robert Ryan, Frederic March, Lee Marvin and Jeff Bridges, directed by John Frankenheimer, which was screened on the final night of the Robert Ryan Film Festival on Thursday night. I really couldn’t blame Lucille for balking on a four-hour movie with all the hurricane talk and the kids at home. I had intentions all week of going, but decided to let it go. The DVD is available here:
  
  The Iceman Cometh
  
  But I don’t think you could ask for a more promising production that the one you have tickets to, and if I was in Chicago, I’d have that near the very top of my lists of things to see. I look forward to your report at that time Pat!! Lane of course is a great actor, and I recently saw him on Broadway in Beckett’s “Waiting For Godot” but my friend Broadway Bob always complains he’s not friendly to autograph seakers, and won’t even acknowledge their presence. He recently starred in “The Adams Family” on Broadway, as I’m sure you know well. That show got mixed to negative reviews.
  
  Good show with that Joan Blondell fest on TCM. John Greco has reported (above) on some of the titles and films he watched. Very interesting Pat that you liked “Midnight in Paris” more on the second viewing. I think I should see it again as well. That may be one that gains resonance after the first time, when the lead character leaves a rather disjointed impression.
  
  That Dietrich stuff is nice, but Visconti’s THE LEOPARD is a masterpiece of world cinema, a position few contest. At some point I hope to hear a response either here or at DOODAD KIND OF TOWN.
  
  Anyway thanks Pat, and looking ahead to that first musical countdown piece, which I know will be great stuff!
on August 29, 2011 at 4:38 pm | Reply Frank Gallo

I was thinking the same ‘media event’ terms Sam, but the damage it causes in some sectors was still extensive. I think all the talk about the eye hitting NYC was miscalculated. But it could have been far worse. We must thank our lucky stars.

I can’t say I’m surprised you stayed back this week. You saw some terrific pre-coders I see. And I again commend you on your Magic Flute review. It was incredible.
- on August 30, 2011 at 2:14 am | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  Frank–
  
  That’s pretty much the way I feel too. It’s easy in hindsight for some to say it was purposely manipulated, but then you have to consider the consquences of shrugging it all off. We were lucky for sure, and those of us who never lost electrical power (like you and I) are even more fortunate.
  Ah that MAGIC FLUTE review again. I must ask you to watch this film ASAP. I have a copy already made for you my friend.
  
  Thanks as always!
on August 29, 2011 at 4:58 pm | Reply Jason Marshall

Like everyone else, I am happy to hear that you are well. The only thing I have to contend with over here is heat in the triple digits.

I finally made it back out to the movies and like you one of the films I saw was “Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark.” I think I would rate it slightly lower than you — ** 0r **1/2. I thought everything was competent and fine, but there were massive inconsistencies and one major error in judgment. It wasn’t remotely scary, opting for the easy and cheap jumps. And the little gnome creatures were kind of funny. I do have a question: If you find a bolted furnace and you hear creepy voices calling your name from the inside, what is the first thing you would do? I’d run like hell, but this dumb girl goes and gets a wrench to pry it open. Wow.

I also saw “Conan” and “Our Idiot Brother.” “Conan” was pretty bad (*1/2), but Jason Mamoa wasn’t as terrible as I thought he would be. Rose McGowan on the other hand was terrible. I liked “Our Idiot Brother” (***1/2).

I also finally saw “The Help” and I have to say the only reason the see this movie is for the performances of Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer. Otherwise it was everything I feared it would be: a patronizing, whitewashed version of Jim Crow and a simplification of the Civil Rights movement, all designed to make white people feel good about themselves without threatening their continued privileged positions. I understand why so many people are connecting with it, though I wish they would understand they are being manipulated with a distorted view of history designed to confirm and inspire them rather than offer them any real insight into U.S. race relations. But others have written about this much more eloquently than me, so I won’t go on … though my fingers itch to type more.
- on August 30, 2011 at 2:30 am | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  I did indeed hear about that triple digit heat Jason, from Braodway Bob who has spent the entire month of August with his boyfriend in San Diego. But I think SD was a bit cooler than LA.
  
  I can’t really dispute what you say about DON’T BE AFRAID OF THE DARK, as you make some irrefutable points. Why would that little girl open that grate indeed? Ha! Well, Lucille opines that all horror films are “dumb” and so much makes no sense. This may be true as well, and if all the characters did the logical thing, we wouldn’t have the same kind of film for good or for bad. But I’d say the chief horrific aspect of the film was the dental horror, even more so than the evil little people. Still, I’d go no higher than ***. Glad to hear you liked OUR IDIOT BROTHER as I wasn’t sure that would be worth the trip. CONAN on the other hand will be avoided at all costs.
  
  Now, THE HELP. I’ve been embroiled in controversy over this film at another site that I regularly frequent, and where there are some good friends. I gave teh film 4 out of 5 stars, and have steadfastly argured that the racial issues and proposed “manipulation” were really no worse than they were in FRIED GREEN TOMATOES and DRIVING MISS DAISY, which are two very fine films. While I agree with you on the strong performances I would also have good things to say about the delightful local color, humor and rich emotional story. Your interpretation is one I’ve seen elsewhere, and I can’t really say it’s incorrect (so many agree) it’s just not one I took issue while letting the emotiopns in the film just wash over me. However I will send you a link by email to the strong rhetoric that grew out of my position on the film, and my initial reference to the solid if not spectacular revioews it received in the professional ranks.
  
  Anyway I am hearing it is a strong possibility for the Best Picture Oscar now, something I never imagined by a stretch and one I don’t agree with. I do like the film for sure, but it is NOT remotely the best movie of the year. That’s crazy. In anycase a good sector of the public adores the film.
  
  Thanks for this fantastic wrap Jason!!!
on August 29, 2011 at 5:12 pm | Reply Frederick

You really do need to suspend belief with horror films like ‘Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark.’ The characters always do the dumb things, letting curiosity getting the best of them. If the films were to conform to logistics, not only wouldn’t you have horror, but no film at all.

Glad Irene took a nosedive.
- on August 29, 2011 at 8:13 pm | Reply wondersinthedark
  
  Is it possible to suspend disbelief or is that a double negative? :-)
  - on August 29, 2011 at 8:41 pm Sam Juliano
    
    Allan, I think you misread what Fred said here. Look at his first sentence. He said “belief” not “disbelief.”
    
    Your point is well-taken Fred. Few horror films make any real sense.
    
    Thanks as always my friend.
  - on August 30, 2011 at 5:11 am wondersinthedark
    
    No I didn’t misread it, I know he said belief, I was just thinking rather like the airheads in 10 Things I Hate About You who wondered if you can be overwhlemed (Sam) or underwhelmed (me), whether you can be just whelmed. As Bianca said “I think you can in Europe.”
- on August 30, 2011 at 2:50 pm | Reply Jamie
  
  This is a strawman. Many, many Horror films refer to legitimate logic, and really the ones that don’t are either the bad ones or specific genre films where faulty logic is sort of the point (I’m looking at you slasher genre).
  
  But think about films like DON’T LOOK NOW, any Lawton, some of the great European Horror films, etc. It is a genre as logistical as any other.
on August 29, 2011 at 5:47 pm | Reply Jill St. John, Ph.D.

Predicting the severity of weather is an inexact science. Forecasters create models of potential outcomes that reflect variables whose certainty cannot be predicted. What saved NYC from greater havoc has a lot to do with the storm’s rate of travel in relation to high tide in New York harbor. If the Eastern seaboard hadn’t prepared for the worst — and the worst had happened — we’d be in a Katrina-like pickle today.

One nice byproduct of all this has been the opportunity to watch a spate of old films on TV.
- on August 29, 2011 at 8:45 pm | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  Hello my very good friend and associate Jill. It is a great honor to have you stop by our humble abode with this model of insightful and telling analysis. Too many are thumbing their noses at Mother Nature the day after, which almost seems an invitation for future disaster. it’s true what you say there, and I’d add that ‘western front’ that moved in unexpectantly to diminish the force of Irene.
  
  Yes, at-home viewing was really a great way to ward off the consternation!
  
  Thanks so much my very fine lady!
  - on August 30, 2011 at 4:39 pm Jill St. John, Ph.D.
    
    Thanks ever-so, Sam, — you’re such a gentleman! If I weren’t already aware that you’re a married man, I’d invite you to drop by some time and come blow my horn.
  - on August 30, 2011 at 6:53 pm Sam Juliano
    
    Jill, I’ve been known to stray here and there, so don’t throw in the towel, my fine lady….stay tuned.
  - on August 31, 2011 at 1:43 am Jill St. John, Ph.D.
    
    That’s great, Sam! I’ll ring up one of my gal friends, Plenty O’Toole, so we can make it a foursome!
  - on August 31, 2011 at 1:56 am Jaime Grijalba
    
    God Sam, what will your wife think?
  - on August 31, 2011 at 2:22 am Sam Juliano
    
    Jaimie: What she doesn’t know won’t hurt her!
  - on August 31, 2011 at 2:23 am Jaime Grijalba
    
    I think you’re right about that. Well done you sexy beast!
on August 29, 2011 at 8:11 pm | Reply patriciaswisdom

Great post and I found myself clicking all over the place and writing down films to watch – I am taking a a week off from the computer, I just need a bit of down time with so much garden work ahead of me…

I am sure Shakespeare is loving your three weeks of linking to that post on Patricia’s Wisdom, but I am taking zucchini this week not poetry….or maybe I am talking about abundance from the earth???? It is a glorious summer sonnet…
Are you heading back to school soon? Glad Irene lost steam….we are back to clouds and rain…
Top of the line post here…I am having a bit of trouble keeping up with the musicals – and wanted to let you know I was reading.
- on August 30, 2011 at 1:33 am | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  Patricia—
  
  I can’t blame you at all for taking a break, especially with gardening to attend to. That’s the perfect kind of hiatus, methinks. But I’m happy to hear you’ve made good on some recommended film titles at the site.
  
  LOL on what you say about Shakespeare and zuccini. Lamentably, I didn’t update a single link (a rare occurance) this week because Irene had me awake all night on Saturday, forcing me to sleep through the time I wanted to complete the updates. But as I said to the group I will be going with brand new links for this coming week. And your zuccini post is wonderful–I’ve already refered it to Lucille, who does the cooking in these parts. I do like sauteed zuccini in tomato sauce particularly, I must say. School begins this coming Thursday (September 1) by way of a three-hour meeting of the entire faculty with the district’s superintendent. But then after that meeting school won’t resume again until the following Tuesday (September 6) when the students attend for the first time. Many teachers were angry that they had to cut short their vacations for that isolated Thursday meeting (costing them six days) but heck, there are worse things in life. Ha! Yep, Irene lost steam and receded by heading north last night. Al,l is well here now, as I assume it is for you.
  
  Thanks so much for the reading of the musical pieces. It’s been a great countdown to this point.
  
  And thanks for the great submission my friend! Have a wonderful week!
on August 29, 2011 at 8:57 pm | Reply creativepotager

Good to know you are perfectly fine Sam! Thank you as always for the mention. I will be posting some of my new paintings from the summer’s plein air adventures this week so keep an eye out!

This weekend while you were wrestling hurricane Irene down to a tropical storm we watched Agnes Varda’s 1962 film CLEO 5 to 7 which I greatly enjoyed but I think I like the interview with Varda and others as much as liked the film. I am always impressed with the depth Varda has and how this gets expressed so lightly in her films. I seem to remember that she is not one of your favourite directors but there are so few women directors that have a strong presence – I treasure each piece of her work. Le Bonheur (1965) is my favourite. I have seen it twice and would see it again if the opportunity presented itself.
- on August 30, 2011 at 1:21 am | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  Terrill–
  
  While I will admit that I much prefer Claire Denis and Catherine Breillat among French (women) directors, I don’t fault you nor even contest you for connecting to Varda. With much of her work I find myself on the outside looking in, and you are only one person of taste who appreciates her work. I will say that while CLEO didn’t resonate with me (neither did THE GLEANERS AND I) I do like LE BONHEUR and VAGABOND, the latter my favorite Varda. So many find much deph and subtle power in her work and I’m not about to question any of that. As always you impart much the same by peeling off the gauze here.
  
  You know I’ll be keeping my eye out for those new paintings my friend. Many thanks as always!
on August 29, 2011 at 9:13 pm | Reply Judy

Thanks very much for the kind mentions, Sam, though I haven’t updated my blog for ages. Glad you are all ok after Irene. I’ve had another busy week but, staying with the musical theme, have been watching a lot of Astaire and Rogers and also read Arlene Croce’s excellent ‘The Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers Book’… which makes me want to watch them all again right away.
- on August 30, 2011 at 1:10 am | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  Judy–
  
  I bet the demands of the musical countdown and the wonderful immersion into the form has set you back a bit at MOVIE CLASSICS, and for that I lament. Thatnks for the words on Irene, here and elsewhere. I can’t blame you wanting to re-visit the Astaire-Rogesr films after looking at that book Ha! There are anumber of very good fils from the pair that won’t even made the final cut, sad to say. Anyway, I’m thrilled at how everything has been going with the countdown and applaud your marvelous contributions.
  
  Have a great week, my friend!
on August 30, 2011 at 2:12 am | Reply Jaime Grijalba

Hello Sam and everyone! Thanks for still showcasing the most proudful thing in my blog, and that is just amazing the kind of traffic and attention the site has received in the last days thanks to your links and the links of many many people. I’m kinda behind on my posting on my Richard Kelly Month, since I’ve been having a lot of working to do due to the fact that the strike was cancelled, but now I have new forces on me… but first things first, since I have a structure for this comments.
You had a quiet week and I blame the hurricane! It must really be the end of the world for you to stay at home, but I really applaud your enthusiasm, as I’d have done the same thing… if I had money, that is, or if anything remotely decent showed up, or if they played 35mm copies around here, which is really impossible in Chile, and I’m so sad because of this, but ANYWAY. You only saw three films, which I’m not really eager or in need to see, but you mention Peach-O-Reno, which I thought You had seen! (given that you’d given me the dvd), and that reminds me of recommending you of a site I use to keep track of every little thing I see, and that is listology.com, where you can log what you thought of each movie you see with a brief rating chosen by yourself. Take my own Seen on 2011 list: http://listology.com/jaimeblack/list/0002-movies-ive-seen-2011 It’s easy to use and to remember! That’d also give you the chance to divide the diary between what you saw on the theatre and explain a bit of that, and then all what you saw in some other media with no explanation and just ratings, it would only take a couple of minutes more, and it’d be interesting to see your reactions to some new foundings or rewatches.
So, my week was hard work. Monday I had my internship, we finished doing a recreation and then I found out about the strike going down, as I told last week, and I went into a full working schedule to do what I had to do. Tuesday the teacher was gracious enough to not ask for the assignment since we hadn’t done it due to the work in the strike. Wednesday was weird, since I had the radio show in the morning, but at the same time a 48 hour strike was going on, with a march scheduled for Thursday, which I went to (we marched along with our career’s director) and all classes were cancelled after 4 pm. Friday was a different beast, as in the morning I had classes, I also filmed a Fiction excercise with my girlfriend acting with a friend, reenacting a scene from the movie Storytelling (which I haven’t seen). Saturday I spent some time with my girlfriend, and on Sunday I was faced with the editing of the exercise, which went smoothly for being my first time using Final Cut. But GOOD NEWS appeared today afternoon, the strike is ON again, and we have many activities! Yeehaw for free and quality education. Today also the government affirmed that police was involved in the killing of a 14 year-old boy during one of the marchs, which is sad and gives us something to think about, on how sometimes policemen (specially the brute kind in Chile) are just a couple of milimeters from being the worst kind of delincuent.
Anyway, my week filmwise:
– At Midnight I’ll Take Your Soul (1964, José Mojica Marins) **** Classic Brazillian Cult Movie. I don’t know how many of you are familiar with the Coffin Joe series of films, but they feature a gravedigger or coffinmaker who is really evil and a real blasphemous whose most offensive attitude is defying the existence of God, which was the main reason this movie was banned in some places in Brazil, and not the violence. Good!
– Altered States (1980, Ken Russell) **** Good horror/scifi/visual blend of really great directing mixed with some flawed script choices. This thing is a little miracle and the confirmation I needed that Russell is one hell of a director and a visual guy, the hallucination scenes and plots steal the show, and the whole concept is really inventive. I liked it quite a bit.
– The Black Cat (1934, Edgar G. Ulmer) **** Universal Horror film, supposedly based on the work of Pie, but actually taking only as little inspiration as possible. Comparing this to the other horror from Universal based on the works of Poe, I’d have to say that The Raven (1935) is far more entertaining and inventive. Many people love this movie and forget the later. I think the film showcases many excellent sets, but lacks in horror.
– Evil Dead II (1987, Sam Raimi) ***** I had to rewatch this, it’s just simply amazing, but I still prefer the first one.
– Méditerranée (1963, Jean-Daniel Pollet, Volker Schlöndorff) *** Similar in structure to Socialisme, but completely different as a film about ideas and images as it can be, since the monotonous tone of the whole thing lacks any new information, and the repetition holds little re-evaluation of the images about violence or travel around Europe. It is quite similar to Socialisme, but this one is not really good due to the lack of good images.
– Portal: No Escape (2011, Daniel Trachtenberg) **** Curious fan film based on the videogame Portal. Quite well done and amazingly inventive in the way on how a puzzle game could be converted into a feature lenght film. Well done for a no budget (kinda) thing.
– The Silver Key (2010, Gary Fierro, Conor Timmis) **1/2 Short film based on the short story of Lovecraft. Completely destroys the true intent of the story. I saw this because I want to adapt this short story for a short film I have to do at the end of the year. This doesn’t even come close.
And that’s all have a good luck everyone. And, as always, go forward to victory and a better life for us and those who follow us.
- on August 31, 2011 at 2:37 am | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  Jaime–
  
  You certainly had a baptism under fire with the Kelly blogothon. What I think so many are missing is that a director doesn’t have to have many films to be entitled to such analytical scrutiny. Heck Kelly has three, but each offers a wealth of intellectual riches, all presented at your site from many sources. I have rarely seen someone work as hard as you did, and impart so much enthusiasm to any project, and I offer you hearty congratulations!
  
  Jaimie, the hurricane certainly curtailed outdoor viewing, but with the onset of the new school year, it would have had to be more measured, at least until the Bernard Herrman Festival in late October. Besides, it’s taking a good chunk of my time to pen essays for the musical countdown and set the posts from others. Thanks for thinking of me wioth that 35 mm proposal!!! Ha!
  
  I did indeed send you the PEACH-O-RENO DVD but I only watched part of it at that time, due to my having to leave teh house. Only this past week did AI look at it in his hysterical entirety, and only now did my opinion rise to the heaven on it. I know well of your love for it, and admired your EXODUS 8:2 review. Listology.com is a great idea, and the link is fascinating. It does give me an idea though!
  
  You had a frantic, incredible week there; too bad it ending with the realization of that tragedy. Didn’t realize the Chilean Police were that brutal. Great news though that the strike is on, and that you completed your internship and got that teacher’s reprieve! And the filming with your friend and girlfriend was the capper!! Nice.
  
  I have not seen the Brazilian cult movie, but appreciate the great capsule. Fully agreed on ALTERED STATES, though I’d go a half star more on THE BLACK CAT which is a near-masterpiece of horror and a great work of expressionism. I’ll go **** on EVIL DEAD II, which is admittedly terrifying, and and a half star more on that Sclondorf. I have not seen PORTAL and THE SILVER KEY, but again much appreciate teh excellent capsules.
  
  Your final sentence there is a real gem my friends. And this report is magnificent. Have a great week!
on August 30, 2011 at 12:45 pm | Reply Shubhajit Lahiri

Thanks a lot Sam for the kind mention.

I’m glad to know that the Irene menace is over. When it comes to natural calamities, I’m sure you’d agree that, bark being worse than the bite is a far better proposition than the other way round :)

As for me, my exams started last Saturday, and will get over this coming Saturday. Nonetheless, I managed to watch a couple of movies in the meantime – Polanski’s interesting pseudo-political thriller The Ghost Writer, and a Bengali movie called Takhan Teish (which roughly translates to, when I was 23).

By the way, any idea where Gaddafi is hiding? :P
- on August 31, 2011 at 2:44 am | Reply Sam Juliano
  
  Shubhajit–
  
  How right you are on that point, that’s for sure. The hurricane was actually worse than we all are surmizing, as I am hearing there were about 400 deaths on the East Coast and billions of dollars of damage. Just in nearby Pompton Lakes, New Jersey (traditionally a flood area) people lost their homes and life’s possessions and was emotionally devastated as well they would be. All of us tend to judge catastrophes by how that directly effect us unfortunately.
  I look forward to seeing reviews on THE GHOST WRITER and that Begali film at CINEMASCOPE, which I visit tomorrow morning. I like the Polanski for sure. Good luck with the completion of those exams! That is VERY important!
  
  I was told that Gaddafi is hiding in Allan’s house, as he asked to see some Libyan rarities that were available nowhere else on Earth. But the poor guy is being fed Bangers and Mash and Fish and Chips every day!
  
  Thanks as always my very good friend!