Sign posted in front windows of all businesses on Church Hill Road in Sandy Hook village of Newtown
by Sam Juliano
A dry cold underlined the winter sun on bucolic Church Hill Road in the picturesque Sandy Hook village of Newtown, Connecticut on a community-sponsored Saturday event aimed at business revitalization. Adorned with green and white ribbons and defiant window placards that declare “We Are Sandy Hook. We Choose Love,” the I (Heart) Sandy Hook weekend project, held just a block and a half down the road from Dickenson Drive and Sandy Hook Elementary School was a way for the town to spur on economic renewal for businesses that were frozen during the media surge of last month, when news crews clogged roads, and residents in response stayed home. Then there was the inevitable silence when everyone and everything cleared out, leaving stores to operate during a down time when many locals opted to stay home and negotiate their own emotional recovery the the unspeakable tragedy of mid-December. Said one merchant: “People weren’t coming in that live around the area for haircuts and shopping because either they couldn’t get here, or because they couldn’t be in the town…they were hurt.” Another asserted that the mass who converged on Newtown were understandably uninterested in shopping, and arrived to leave flowers or teddy bears at the memorial. As a result the Christmas rush, which usually gets store owners through a good part of the year, was non-existent because of the tragedy. Promoting positive energy and a sense of normalcy in a town whose history has been re-written, was the noble intent of community officials who want to build on the recovery effort.
Local and out-of-area residents attending the ‘Cash Mob’ were asked to spend at least $20.00 in one or more of the establishments, which included The Toy Tree, Wishing Well, Kids Fun Cuts, Sandy Hook Diner, Figs, and Church Hill Restaurant. At The Toy Tree, green and white bracelets and “We are Sandy Hook” tea-shirts were sold to generate donations for the “We Are Newtown” Scholarship. The brisk business at that store made it nearly impossible to move around once you were inside. My own kids left with quite a few items, some hard to find anywhere. The lunch crowd at The Sandy Hook Diner kept the establishment filled to every last seat, and necessitated a short trip up to the road to the landmark “destination” Blue Colony Diner at the juncture where Church Hill Road meets Route 84. The food was fine enough (I see on-line reviews seem to be split) the service was very good, and the vestibule featured a moving window tribute to the tragedy with letters and e mail copies from people who have long patronized the eatery during their trips going through the area. After lunch we traveled further north on the road for a stop at a premier comic store named ‘Cave Comics’ which is located in a nifty old train depot shack. Needless to say the kids left there with more goodies and a firm request that we plan a return visit at some point. We then drove back into Sandy Hook, making a right after the stores and traveled about seven miles up a beautiful wooded road that led us to the ‘new’ Sandy Hook Elementary School in neighboring Monroe, which was previously known as the Chalk Hill Middle School. A reminder of the terrible events of last month at the original school, was the presence of a Monroe police cruiser at a gate in front of the attractive set back building. Greeting the morning busses from Newtown is a friendly green banner on a building across the road that reads ‘Welcome Sandy Hook Elementary.’
While the ‘Cash Mob’ project’s intentions were spurred on by positive energy and practical concerns there were some inevitable comments posed at the Monroe and Newtown Patch, that asserted that the town merchants were looking to exploit the tragedy for monetary gain and publicity, and that a number Sandy Hook residents were poised to boycott. Several readers persuasively countered with the fact that it was the community and not the proprietors who came up with the idea to stage the event, and that virtually all the businesses were making sizable contributions to the tragedy. Seems like some people will complain about just about everything, much like the relentless conspiracy theorists who polluted the waters with some outrageous allegations. There was a spirit and a resilience in the air at Newtown on Saturday. The lovely New England town is on the rebound. They are hurting deeply, but are hardly down for the count.
The horrifying night club fire in southern Brazil has reportedly claimed the lives of 230 people. We at WitD express our deepest sympathies for yet another catastrophic event that has the world crying, and leaves us all speechless.
Saturday night’s PGA (Producers’ Guild) award was announced for ARGO, and many are now figuring Ben Affleck’s film may well be the film to beat for the Best Picture Oscar despite LINCOLN holding that belief over the past months. Sunday night’s unexpected SAG award for ARGO has now made Ben Affleck’s film the favorite to win the Oscar for Best Picture.
Lucille and I and the kids for some and Broadway Bob for the documentary watched the following films in theaters over the past week:
5 Broken Cameras *** 1/2 (Saturday night) Quad Cinemas
The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie **** 1/2 (Thursday night) Chelsea Cinemas
The Woman in Green *** 1/2 (Friday Night) Jersey City Loews
Sherlock Holmes and the Secret Weapon *** (Friday Night) Jersey City Loews
5 BROKEN CAMERAS is ragged and uneven, yet it exerts enormous power and is universal in it’s message. Nominated for Best Documentary Feature, it chronicles the non-violent resistance of Palistinians on the West Bank over a period of time, with the unifying device of a several camera that are replaced by another after one is destroyed. THE PRIME OF MISS JEAN BRODIE won Maggie Smith a well-deserved 1969 Oscar for Best Actress as a corrupting school teacher at an all-Girls school in Edinburgh, Scotland between the two world wars. While Smith is electrifying (particularly in the confrontations with the stoical headmaster, played superbly by Celia Johnson) the on-location scenery, supporting cast and enveloping adaptation from the works of Muriel Sparks, all collaborate in a first-rate entry in the schoolteacher genre. The film was hosted by the drag queen ‘Hedda Lettuce’ who largely had the audience in stitches for a half-hour before the film commenced. “lettuce’ appears every Thursday night in a series that will continue in the upcoming weeks with screenings of The Prince and the Showgirl and Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? Two entries in the classic 1940’s ‘Sherlock Holmes’ series, THE WOMAN IN GREEN and SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE SECRET WEAPON was seen in incomparable splendor on the 70 foot screen of the Jersey City Landmark Loews on Friday night. Not among the best installments in the series, but still a lot of fun. A rare interview with Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was offered up before the films were shown.
A candle remains lit for Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown Connecticut, the new school in Monroe, and for the valiant principal Dawn Hochsprung, her courageous staff colleagues and the 20 angels who left us on that fateful Friday in mid-December. Selfless first grade schoolteacher Victoria Leigh Soto has now had a new building named after her in her home town of Stamford. A beautiful gesture by local officials, and an insurance policy on the continued memory of this great, beloved young woman.
The gang on Church Hill Road in Sandy Hook
Sign hanging on home across the street from new Sandy Hook Elementary School in Monroe, Connecticut (formerly Chalk Hill Middle School)
I have copied last week’s links:
Our very good friend and ever-enthusiastic friend and colleague Joel Bocko (Movie Man) again shows his talent and versatility with superlative new short film Class of 2002, posting at his blogsite: http://thedancingimage.blogspot.com/2013/01/i-made-movie.html
Samuel Wilson has penned a brilliant essay on Zero Dark Thirty at Mondo 70: http://mondo70.blogspot.com/2013/01/on-big-screen-zero-dark-thirty-2012.html
Judy Geater has crafted a terrific essay on Clarence Brown’s little-seen 1933 “Night Flight” with John and Lionel Barrymore at Movie Classics: http://movieclassics.wordpress.com/2013/01/12/night-flight-clarence-brown-1933/
Tony d’Ambra has posted a terrific new feature at FilmsNoir.net on the 1934 Raymond Bernard version of “Les Miserables”: http://filmsnoir.net/film_noir/jean-valjean-in-the-shadows.html
Jon Warner has penned an excellent piece on Julie Delpy’s “2 Days in New York” at Films Worth Watching”: http://filmsworthwatching.blogspot.com/2013/01/2-days-in-new-york-2012-directed-by.html
Laurie Buchanan talks about a very special trip she took with Rod Stewart at Speaking From The Heart: http://holessence.wordpress.com/2013/01/15/rod-stewart-and-deja-vu/
John Greco has penned a fabulous essay on “Sorry Wrong Number” at Twenty Four Frames: http://twentyfourframes.wordpress.com/2013/01/18/sorry-wrong-number-1948-anatole-litvak/
Richard R.D. Finch astutely examines the 1966 Oscar picks at The Movie Projector as we move throught the height of this year’s awards’ season: http://themovieprojector.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-oscar-picks-1966.html
At Vermillion and One Nights Murderous Ink has posted a spectacular piece on “Evangelion After Fukushima” (Part 2): http://vermillionandonenights.blogspot.com/2012/12/evangelion-after-fukushima-part-2.html
Fimmaker Jeffrey Goodman has several updates at The Last Lullaby, including his latest a splendid quartet of capsules that includes “The Breaking Point,” “Senna” and “The Edge of the World”: http://cliched-monologues.blogspot.com/2012/12/beau-travail-1999.html
“Evening and the Arbutus Tree” is a magnificent new painting by Terrill Welch, and it’s incorporated in a fabulous new post at the Creativepotager’s blog: http://creativepotager.wordpress.com/2013/01/10/unraveling-the-artistic-influences-and-intentions-behind-the-painting-evening-and-the-arbutus-tree/
Marilyn Ferdinand looks at Lisa Cholodenko’s smashing feature debut “High Art” at Ferdy on Films: http://www.ferdyonfilms.com/2013/high-art-1998/17435/
Sachin Gandhi presents the Ten Best Canadian Films of 2012 in a terrific post at Scribbles and Ramblings: http://likhna.blogspot.com/2013/01/top-10-canadian-films-of-2012.html
Pat Perry is leading up with her “Final word on the best and worst of 2012” at Doodad Kind of Town: http://doodadkindoftown.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-last-word-on-2012-years-best-and.html
Capsule King Shubhajit Lahiri leads up with a superb piece on Kobayashi’s “Kwaidan” at Cinemascope: http://cliched-monologues.blogspot.com/2013/01/kwaidan-kaidan-1964.html
Ed Howard has penned a magnificent essay on “The Salvation Hunters” at Living in Cinema: http://seul-le-cinema.blogspot.com/2013/01/the-salvation-hunters.html
Dee Dee offers up a terrific Andrew Katsis essay on “It’s A Wonderful Life” connection the film with ‘noir’ at Darkness into Light: http://noirishcity.blogspot.com/2012/12/my-writer-andrew-katsistakes-look-at.html
David Schleicher offers up a superlative essay on the new horror film “Mama” with Jessica Chastain at The Schleicher Spin: http://theschleicherspin.com/2013/01/19/mama-say-mama-dont/
At Living in Cinema Craig Kennedy is leading up with a dialogue quick post on Robert Altman’s little-seen first film “The Delinquents”: http://livingincinema.com/2013/01/20/the-delinquents-1957/
At Overlook’s Corridor Jaimie Grijalba continues his intricate study of Chilean cinema: http://overlookhotelfilm.wordpress.com/2012/12/23/chilean-cinema-2012-16-stefan-vs-kramer-2012/
Weeping Sam’s latest post at The Listening Ear is a terrific combined piece comparing similar aspects in “Lincoln” and “Django Unchained”: http://listeningear.blogspot.com/2013/01/lincoln-django-unchained.html
At The Blue Vial Drew McIntosh is leading up with a superb screen cap presentation of Otto Preminger’s “Whirlpool”: http://thebluevial.blogspot.com/2012/12/whirlpool.html
At Patricia’s Wisdom the ever-spirited proprietor offers up “10 Steps to Finding Your Happy Place-My Gift to You”: http://patriciaswisdom.com/2012/12/10-steps-to-finding-your-happy-place-my-gift-to-you/
At Radiator Heaven J.D. La France offers up a fantastic essay on “On the Road”: http://rheaven.blogspot.com/2013/01/on-road.html
Dean Treadway’s new post “Cinema Gallery: 30 Scenes of Loneliness” is essential for all passionate film lovers. It’s over at Filmicability: http://filmicability.blogspot.com/2012/11/blog-post_6.html
Newtown residents join march against gun control in Washington D.C.
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Another great Monday Morning Diary Sam! It’s great to hear about how things are being done to help Sandy Hook get over last year’s tragic shooting. Sadly most of what I’ve been hearing from news outlets since the tragedy has been involved with what will or will not happen to the rights of gun owners in this country. Thankfully thats not the case everywhere.
Not much to say about whats playing on the big screen, with the Oscars around the corner and Sundance taking most of the headlines. I was able to watch Kim Jee-Woon’s American debut/Arnold Schwarzenegger comeback film, The Last Stand, which I thought was one of the better American action films of this century. Also I finally found some time this week to revisit a few of my favorite Oshima films (The Man Who Left His Will on Film, Death by Hanging, The Ceremony, In the Realm of the Senses, and Good Morning Mr. Lawrence) after being completely swamped with work all last week. An incredible auteur and hopefully the Academy will add him to this years memoriam. (I remember being annoyed when they left out Theo Angelopoulos last year when he died in January).
Well anyways, Happy Monday everyone!
Thanks for the very kind and considerate words Anu! Yes the gun owners battle is now if full throttle, though I have little hope that sweeping changes will be enacted, what will the continuing political clout of the NRA in the Congress. I have stayed clear of THE LAST STAND, thinking is is multiplex fodder at a dismal time of the movie year, so what you relate here is promising in the sense that you are never one to give free passes. I love those Oshima films you mention there, and happy to hear you have tackled them in the wake of his recent passing. He was certainly a Japanese New Wave giant. Thanks as always my friend for the great submission and have a fruitful week!
And as a big football fan Anu, I know you will appreciate this:
http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000133089/article/sandy-hook-newtown-to-be-represented-in-super-bowl
I think it’s wonderful.
Interesting to read about this event, as I’ve not been following much news, either from there or elsewhere. Something like this could definitely toe that fine line between community & exploitation. It sounds like it was handled well though (focusing, it seems, on local businesses with a planned itinerary rather than letting fly-by-night gimmick-mongers creep in).
Didn’t know that the Blue Colony Diner, a frequent stop for me on many many trips between New York and New Hampshire (Rein’s Deli was the other default dining choice), was so close by.
By the way, for some reason the MMD title said September 28. I fixed it for you…
Joel, thank you! As I mentioned there were some critical comments connected to the event in the local MONROE PATCH on line newspaper that I have subscribed to. It is inevitable that anything concerning money and business at this time of terrible grief, would hit a raw nerve, and to be honest I can’t blame the questioners for bringing it up. But the idea was wrought by community leaders who are trying hard to bring the stricken town back from its catatonic state, and to help businesses that were hurt. These merchants did not lobby for this this (as has been confirmed) and have made numerous donations to scholarship funds and to other projects that include helping the families. Wow, you have been to the Blue Colony several times, eh? Very interesting. But understandable, as it is located at a travel intersection that would certainly attract the major Route 84 traffic heading in either direction. Thanks for correcting that error and have a great week my friend!
I’m up early (5:00 am) Monday and what better way to begin the day than by reading your report, Sam, of how people must carry on in the wake of a tragedy. I am moved by the sensitiviity and ongoing dedication of you and your family. Your children are learning a difficult but valuable lesson.
Sunday night’s unexpected SAG award for ARGO [as well as the film’s other recent victories] has now made Ben Affleck’s film the favorite to win the Oscar for Best Picture.
That’s the way it might seem. . . . But the intracacies of inside Oscar politics are often hard to pin down and this year is no exception. I think the absence of a best director nomination for Ben Affleck has sparked a film-world backlash having the effect of increased good will for Argo’s fortunes. This apparent trend, fueled by the publicity generated from the reemergence of Affleck as a capable director (i.e., this golden boy is no flash in the pan) sets the stage for what could very well occur in 4 weeks time: an Oscar narrative for the record books.
However – and as you know – I’m not about to rush to judgment, as others have, on this point. It may be true that Argo is more tightly constructed and consistently entertaining than Lincoln. It also can be argued that Lincoln is “boring” (in its early sequences, at least). And finally, we all know that it’s fun to bestow laurels on new success (Affleck) as opposed to that of the established (Spielberg).
First, assessing from an ensemble standpoint, SAG voters may have been compelled to reward Argo because its ensemble nature is more evenly dispersed, with Alan Arkin being the only cast member whose role has an obviously showy quality. Much of the balance of the remaining cast consists of solid performances of characters that aren’t overshadowed by the likes of Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field, Tommy Lee Jones and others. Lincoln’s ongoing strength as an awards phenomenon, though, can be seen in the individual SAG victories for both Day-Lewis and Tommy Lee Jones.
The 2 films’ screenplays can be compared in a similar manner. Kushner’s script has its own starlike quality while Argo’s is more journeyman-like in nature — each serving its own purpose. To date, I don’t believe Chris Terrio’s script has won anything other than nominations, while Kushner’s has been singled out for top recognition.
Inadvertently, perhaps, the AMPAS directors branch, in overlooking Ben Affleck, has set the stage for an underdog narrative. With a month to go, however, Oscar voters still have the time to mull over the situation and either continue the trend or to say “enough is enough.” In other words, how does Argo compare, in its new spotlight, as top dog when compared with Lincoln?
It may very well be that Spielberg and company have eaten enough humble pie and that all good things come to those who wait. Although Argo, like Lincoln, tells an inspiring and essentially true story, will voters realize that much of the impact of Affleck’s film comes from a climax constructed from whole cloth?
Another possible factor that no one has mentioned involves the recent merger of SAG and AFTRA memberships. Could that move have affected the final vote tally in Argo’s favor? Though the look of Lincoln could hardly be described as flashy, it certainly has a more purely cinematic quality (i.e., “film”) to it than the more generic visual feel (i.e., “television”) of Argo.
No, I think there are two yet-to-be-determined precursors that will be telling than Argo’s SAG win. First, if someone other than Spielberg wins the upcoming DGA, then all may be lost for Lincoln. The next indicator, of course, will be when the Writers Guild announces its choice for adapted screenplay: Will it be Kushner or Terrio? This outcome in particular may provide the clue one needs to predict the short-term fortunes of Lincoln.
Whatever happens in the upcoming weeks, my guess is that Lincoln will occupy stronger territory in the long run where it comes to its relative stature as a film based on historical events.
Inadvertently, perhaps, the AMPAS directors branch, in overlooking Ben Affleck, has set the stage for an underdog narrative.
Indeed Pierre. The director’s branch snub of Affleck has seemingly had game-changing implications for the actor’s supporters who believe he has been wronged. I also agree that a DGA loss for Spielberg will spell doom for LINCOLN’s already fading chances. Just weeks ago LINCOLN looked like practically a sure thing, but now it’s clear enough that ARGO is the frontrunner. Even at Gold Derby 11 of the 12 pundits are saying ARGO will prevail, with only a single person sticking with LINCOLN. Some are now saying Best Director will go to either Lee or Haneke. But some believe Spielberg will still win. Few thinks LINCOLN will win Picture and Director anymore. As far as the WGA I am certain Kushner will take that. You have again offered up one of your Oscar analysis classics my friend. We will discuss the other races too! Many thanks as always!
And thanks too for the kind words about Sandy Hook.
Going into the SAGs, most pundits were predicting Silver Linings Playbook followed by Lincoln and a couple for Argo. Although the smart money would be on Argo at this point, of course, I’m still not sure what the significance of Argo’s SAG win really means because of the many reasons I’ve cited. With a good campaign in the final weeks, Lincoln could take this just as Harvey Weinstein helped Streep along to victory when it appeared a foregone conclusion that Viola Davis had it in the bag. Lots of people in the Academy have worked with Spielberg over the years, and they do admire him. There’s a higher concentration of these in the actors branch than in SAG. I think it’s closer and more fluid than what people are presuming. It’s a funny year.
Check this out, Sam:
http://www.awardsdaily.com/blog/2013/01/29/oscar-campaigning-two-ways/#comments
I did indeed check it out Pierre and much enjoyed your superb and persuasive arguments. I guess we will all come closer to solving this perplexing puzzle by the weekend when the DGA final winner is announced, but even then if Affleck wins it won’t be a done deal!
I agree — the DGA may very well go to Affleck, but the WGA will be more telling as to the outcome of the Oscar race.
The WGA pits Kushner vs. Terrio. As Kushner is (deservedly) favored for that award it would safely be a done deal should Terrio win.
A very moving hands-on tribute to the Sandy Hook tragedy, Sam. I know how the terrible event has profoundly affected all of you. And I know you and your family will continue the crusade for gun control. Bless you all.
In regards to ‘Argo’ I am nearly sold on the film’s chances. I think the DGA will be telling. Seeing ‘Miss Brodie’ with Hedda Lettuce must have been a genuine blast.
Thanks very much Peter. You certainly would understand this tragedy as well, though I couldn’t imagine anyone not being profoundly affected. The gun control controversy has again reared some ugly reports from the statehouse in Hartford, where gun owners have shouted down the father of slain student Jesse Lewis for showing grief for his lost son, stressing Second Amendment rights. It is all so disturbing beyond words.
Most are indeed now predicting an ARGO win. In fact 11 of the 12 GOLD DERBY pundits are saying it will prevail. But as we all know the whole process there is a major joke, but one we can count as a guilty pleasure of sorts. Yes, the Hedda Lettuce screening was a blast indeed! Thanks as always my friend!
That town looks like the last place on earth you’d expect that kind of tragedy to occur in – there is descriptive beauty in your language Sam. It is hard to even think of the event anymore. I applaud you and the family for your compassion and dedication for a town that didn’t deserve this defining calamity. And I have read about the Brazilian disaster. So many lives lost.
I again visit your comment here Frank. Tragedies happen everywhere, but Newtown just seems like a peaceful and well-adjusted place. Crazies live everywhere for sure, and we have had other examples of atrocities happening is supposedly “unlikely” places. Thanks as ever for your support my friend, and sorry you were dragged into yesterday’s “Oscar’ fiasco.
Sam –
I’m thrilled that you, Lucille, and the kids took part in the wonderful event that “promoted positive energy and a sense of normalcy in a town whose history has been re-written.” It’s wonderfully encouraging that part of the funds went toward pumping lifeblood into the “We Are Newtown” scholarship fund and to generally help buoy the spirit of resilience. I very much enjoyed the accompanying photographs.
Oh my gosh, I remember THE PRIME OF MISS JEAN BRODIE! Who does’t love Maggie Smith (especially when she’s breaking the rules)…
Thanks very much Laurie. The people of Newtown appear focused on positive energy, and the volunteer work around the community remains just one testament to their resolve in moving forward but never forgetting. The town itself is so beautiful and the residents so warm and upbeat.
Yes, JEAN BRODIE was a favorite way back when, and it -and Maggie Smith’s performance- remain first-rate.
Have a great week my friend. Thanks as always!
Sam, you’re a true citizen-samaritan and kudos to your support of the Newtown business community and of gun control…and now the nightclub fire in Brazil. I tell you, all this “world pain” can overwhelm a person these days.
Can ‘Argo’ really win the top Oscar trophy without a Best Director nomination? Don’t bet on it.
First impressions: “Les Miserables” — when Anne Hathaway dies, so does the picture, but this off-the-cuff is based on a single viewing.
“Django Unchained” or “Isn’t That Jamie Foxx Behind Those Foster Grants?” —
To (mis)quote Uma in “Pulp Fiction’, “I don’t know WHAT that was all about!” Still sorting out my response to Tarantino’s latest blast of “dyn-o-mite” to scour out the theater stalls, but I’m leaning toward the beserk masterpiece theory.
Hedda Lettuce — funny, but my favorite drag name is still Sharon Needles.
Just read Samuel Wilson’s ‘Zero Dark Thirty’ review and found out ‘Driving Miss Daisy’ was the last film to pull off the Best Picture, No Best Director Nominee hat trick.
Per Wiki ‘Wings’ and “Grand Hotel’ are the other two other.
Thanks for the nice words Mark. As I have stated the Newtown tragedy remains in the public’s mind because of the age of the victims.. This slaughter of children seems to have lawmakers more committed than ever before. The Brazil fire is another overwhelming tragedy. As far ARGO not winning without a director nomination, it seems this may well be the year it happens. ARGO is dominating with every guild, and there seems to be a huge backlash against the Director’s branch for excluding Affleck. The smart money at this point is on ARGO, but the weekend’s DGA award will tell more of the story. Your estimation of LES MIS is reasonable enough, but down the road you may be more positive (or negative for that matter. Ha!) Agreed that DJANGO is terrific. I don’t know Needles but fair enough. Have a great week my friend.
Yes I know that DAISY was the last film to win without the Director nod as I love that film, but most people are saying ARGO will be the first since then. Samuel wrote a great piece on ZERO!
Sam, how do you like the Oscar you’ve received? He makes a provocative point, though for what it’s worth Sandy Hook does look to me like the sort of place where that particular sort of thing happens. But I’m talking about types of crime and types of criminal while the famous designer seems concerned about the equality of victimhood. The choices seem to be selective mourning or not mourning — organizing, then? That’s happened, to an extent, but it’s fair to question the scope and duration of it all.
Anyway, the movies. Didn’t watch too many this week but I am keeping up with my pre-codes. Life of Jimmy Dolan is a showcase for D. Fairbanks Jr as a disgraced boxer seeking anonymous redeption and has a nice cast. Week-end Marriage was a harsh reminder that sexism still flourished in that progressive period: Loretta Young has to quit her white-collar job because poor Norman Foster will waste away if she doesn’t take up her housewifely duties — ugh! The biggest surprise was William Dieterle’s Grand Slam, a breezy absurdity in which the world comes to a literal halt so all may hear the radio play-by-play of a bridge tournament. It may be the funniest Paul Lukas movie ever. Also saw another spaghetti western, but Corbucci’s The Hellbenders lacked a compelling star presence and seemed imitative of Hollywood “adult” westerns without really living up to the resemblance. More to report next time.
http://video.foxnews.com/v/2124999428001/father-of-sandy-hook-victim-speaks-out-on-gun-violence/?intcmp=trending
Deeply moving but constructive too.
Well Samuel, without going into further details, yesterday’s extended dialogue at the site was not at all conducted by “Oscar” the famous designer, but by someone much closer to the WitD universe. But I’ll leave it at that. As far as the scope and duration of the mourning that you are alluding to here (and I understand you have expressed some agreement to the fraudulent Oscar in full contradiction with every other responder on this thread, though you are well entitled to that) I had explained the whole matter of my wife and I being life-long educators, and the unspeakable nature of the slaughter of 20 young innocents babies. Yes Samuel, I am guilty as charged. That terrible event of last month does affect me more profoundly than other killings that have largely involved adults. As I stated in the now removed comments yesterday, the MMD is my own weekly report to the site readers, and as such it includes my personal thoughts and convictions. For as long as this site exists I will hold a candle to those lost children. Only the most cynical of persons would make assertions that I am diminishing other killings by honoring the loss of children within the direct parameter of my vocation (and my wife’s) but I will leave it at that. The Diary is my own domain and I will post it as I see fit to. In any case as you now have a general idea as to what was going on here yesterday, I would hope you will understand the objections were not as they seemed, but as a continuation of bad vibes dating back months.
I did see HELLBENDERS and mostly enjoyed it, but you do make an excellent point as far as the film an somewhat of an off-shoot of the Hollywood westerns.
Have a very good week my friend.
Kinda figured what it was before it became more obvious. In any event an impossible standard was being set by your antagonist, and whatever my own view of the relative or absolute significance of any one crime, a gesture like yours certainly has some worth.
Thanks again Samuel. As I just mentioned to John, there must be stronger gun control laws, but the fight will be a long and hard one. Guns are not the only problem of course, and mental health options are also on the table.
A truly touching “diary” Sam. You and your family actions along with so many others is truly inspiring. We all pray some good will come out of all this tragedy. Though politics and division on the gun issues is going to make change hard, but we must try. Hope all have a great week!
On a much lighter note I watched the following…
The Public Enemy (****1/2) Classic William Wellman gangster film with James Cagney in his star making role as Tom Powers, a charismatic evil thug whose rise and fall is chronicled. There are at least three of cinema’s most classic scenes all in this one film.
Out of the Fog (***1/2) John Garfield is pure evil in this dark, fog bound drama directed by Anatole Litvak. Hampered by its stage bound looking waterfront sets and a watered down ending from its original source, but still engrossing.
A Night to Remember (***) In the tradition of The Thin Man films,” Loretta Young and Brian Aherne are a married couple who get involved in a murder in the comedy/mystery. Entertaining, but the film comes off as sit-com silly at times, and a running joke involving a turtle wears out its welcome quickly. Young and Aherne make for a nice couple but Young seems a bit out of her element in this kind of film.
The Breaking Point (****) Late film in John Garfield’s career. He’s a down on his luck boat captain who gets involved with some shady characters in hopes of making his financial ends meet. Garfield is both hard-boiled and haunted giving one of his finest performances. Good supporting cast include Patricia ‘Neal, Phyllis Thaxter and Juan Hernandez. Nicely directly by Michael Curtiz.
Cactus Flower (***1/2) Charming lightweight comedy based on hit Broadway play highlighted by sturdy performances by Walter Matthau, Ingrid Bergman and Goldie Hawn in her film debut.
Black Widow (**1/2) Broadway producer Van Heflin is framed for the murder of a young writer played by Peggy Ann Garner. Laborious creaky plot lacks any kind of punch. Gene Tierney is wasted, Ginger Rogers play against type. George Raft, whose career has seen better days speaks in a monotone voice throughout. On the plus are some nice location shots of early 1950’s New York including the Times Square area. Fox released this on DVD as part of their Fox Film Noir collection, but this is a blatant misnomer. Nothing noirish about this at all.
John—
Thanks for the exceedingly kind words John. Yes it is going to be a long struggle to get new gun laws in place. Just today in Hartford about a dozen hecklers interrupted Neil Heslin, the father of slain schoolboy Jesse Lewis by defending their right to bear arms as guaranteed by the 2nd amendment. The way Congress stands at present it is doubtful any significant laws have the needed support, but as you rightly note the effort must continue.
THE PUBLIC ENEMY of course is a pre-code masterpiece, and it features one of Cagney’s most celebrated performances. True what you say about some of the cinema’s classic scenes in that film. Of the two Garfield films you saw I agree that the late-career THE BREAKING POINT is the better one. CACTUS FLOWER is indeed harmless enough, and BLACK WIDOW though reasonably entertaining isn’t anything special. I haven’t seen this particular A NIGHT TO REMEMBER and appreciate the excellent capsule.
Thanks again my friend for the great re-cap of your terrific week!
Hi Sam,
You are a good friend of mine and I appreciate all that you do for so many people. You are one of the nicest people I know. That’s all I have to say about all of this.
I caught up with a bunch of Borzage like I mentioned and my favorites are 7th Heaven, Lucky Star, and my favorite most of all….Street Angel, which I will be working up as an essay. I was particularly entranced by Janet Gaynor who does tremendous work in all 3 films. I will need to continue to track down more Borzage.
I’ve also continued to evaluate more newer films…
The Impossible- Interestingly, I thought the film was a bit too short. It was only about 1 hour 45 minutes and I thought the search maybe didn’t go on long enough for me. The ending was a bit too neat and tidy and I thought the scene on the airplane was a bit strange. The film had a really nice score though.
The LIfe of Pi- Both my wife and I enjoyed this film. She had read the book and thought it was a fine adaptation. We both thought the first 2/3s were better than the final 1/3, and she said the book played out that way for her too….sometimes movies like this are hard to “finish” if you know what I mean. This film also had a terrific score and nice a nice wit to the tone. Overall I liked it.
I spent much of the week still thinking about ZDT though and it has held sway over me since I saw it.
Can I say I’m still rather puzzled to see Argo continue to do well with the awards? I think it was Maurizio who several months ago said something about it being very ordinary……and thus of course the perfect film to win the Oscar…..or something rather amusing to that affect. He just might be right!
Have a great week Sam! This week is Anna Karenina and The Imposter.
The Imposter is my favorite documentary of the year Jon (though I still need to catch up with a bunch of others in 2012). Would like to hear your take on it after you watch it. When I finally post my top ten films of the year on this blog, it will certainly be featured.
Oh my. I am really looking forward to seeing your list when you publish it. Yes check back at next week’s MMD and I’ll have my thoughts together. I actually haven’t heard much about it or read anything at all on that film yet.
Thanks for the very kind words Jon. You know the feeling is mutual. Delighted to hear you have gotten well into Borzage, and I am certainly a big fan of all the films you mention there. I look forward to your reviews (s) at FILMS WORTH WATCHING! Yes Maurizio did indeed call it a month ago. In fact when Maurizio said that my response was along the lines that “ARGO won’t win, and that Spielberg’s LINCOLN had it in the bag.” LINCOLN is certainly not down for the count, but just about everyone else is saying ARGO will win now, and some even are saying LINCOLN is a bore. Ironically, Allan Fish sent me an e mail this morning saying he liked LINCOLN a lot (4 of 5) and found it restrained and completely unlike anything Spielberg has done. He also praised day-Lewis highly, but I can’t say I am surprised. I mention this only because Allan had written a piece months back that was highly critical of the director. But LINCOLN has the subtlety and some qualities I did figure Allan would appreciate. But ARGO in my opinion is NOT the best American movie of the year, though I do like the film, and reject dismissals of it. But that’s the Oscars for you. One can hardly expect the right thing to happen. (Except in the case of last year with THE ARTIST! Ha!) I like competition, a carry-over from my sports days. But most people can’t even remember what film won the year before.
I loved LIFE OF PI, but can certainly respect that you found the first 2/3 particularly effective. It never dawned on me that THE IMPOSSIBLE was too short, but all in all a very moving film, with that great performance by young Mr. Holland and the exceptional Velasquez score that you note. And yes, Danna’s music to PI was beautiful as well.
Look forward to your further movie watching reports! Have a great week my friend.
Sam yes it appears that Allan’s response is like that of most of us….that Lincoln just felt different from other Spielberg movies and that was perfect for this sort of film. However, it’s highly possible that will cost the film the Oscar, as it’s not “Spielbergian” enough for what they want out of it.
Maurizio was another site regular who surprised me with his solid response to LINCOLN as well Jon, and it’s due to much of what you have related here. You may well be right what you say about it not being “Spielbergian” enough for Oscar! Ha!
The 4 star rating for LINCOLN by Allan Fish has me surprised but delighted. I also remember the controversial post he authored on Spielberg from months back.
Frank: Allan informed me by e mail today that he also rates these two films with solid 4 star ratings as well:
LES MISERABLES
ARGO
Well I think Argo is a step down from Les Mis, and 2 steps down from Lincoln. But the entire world seems to have gone gaga for Argo. If the academy wants to give their award to another middling piece of entertainment, it would seem much in line with their history to give it to Argo.
Sam, thank you so much for continuing to send updates on Sandy Hook. They are truly powerful reminders and most welcome.
I don’t have much new to report on the film-watching front. Been quiet for me. But your recap of THE PRIME OF MISS JEAN BRODIE has me wanting to track it down.
Thanks so much, Sam, for all that you do. And the great humanity you continue to share with all of us.
Jeffrey—
Thanks so much for your very kind words and support. I will continue to eulogize Sandy Hook at this site for the duration of its existence, and as a teacher and as a parent I will continue to keep the candle burning at the site in memory. The screening of THE PRIME OF MISS JEAN BRODIE was a real blast, and it brought back fond memories of a film and iconic performance I have long cherished. This is a rather dry time of the year for movies, but it does pick up soon. Again, I can’t thank you enough my friend. Have a great week.
Your trip to Newtown sounds like very positive support – it is good to see a place come back after such a tragedy – it will be changed forever and I am hoping that maybe all of us will also.
I am remembering the murder of so many in UK a number of years back, but then the people really embraced gun laws and assault weapons bans – they have never had another experience such as that every again – some bombings etc but not such a horrible tragedy.
I actually saw a movie this week IRIS….Judy Dench and Kate Winslet and the fellows were superb in it. I got in on disc so watched it 2 times. My new book is on happiness coming up this week.. and it is just a great write up and I am sure I will give it a 5…
I was here last night and wrote from my cell but it would not post and I kept signing in – no luck…finally time today. I enjoyed the pictures very much and hearing the story
The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie – oh that does bring back memories…and Maggie Smith is wonderful
Thank you for your great post.
Patricia—-
Thanks for the very kind words. Yes it is a time for healing, but what I noticed there was a sense of community. It will certainly be a long haul, and as I said the history there has been re-written, but Newtown will come back. You are referring there to the Dunblane murders. Allan and I discussed them in the past (he lives not far from there.) The UK did indeed tighten their gun laws–in that sense they are light years ahead of our country, one where the NRA is at this moment bragging that Congress will enact little change. Mental health is obviously just as vital an issue, but the easy availability of high-powered rifles and extensive magazines will keep a real threat on the streets. For such a powerful country, the people are often left powerless sad to say.
Oh boy, I really love IRIS! Dench and Braodbent are extraordinary and the film really moved. Can’t blame you for giving it your highest rating and hope to read about it at your place! Yes Maggie Smith and JEAN BRODIE was an affectionate re-viewing of a film I’ve held highly for decades.
Thanks as always my friend! Have a great week!
Sam, I’ll give you something movie-ish to respond to. I forgot the first time around that I’d watched Claude Sautet’s Mado this week, thinking it might be a competitor for 1976. I didn’t notice it on Allan’s shortlist, however, and that seems fair. There’s a very good sustained scene of people trying to get cars out of mud near the end but while the film as a whole is well executed the story wasn’t very compelling. Not a waste of time but nothing very memorable. More memorable in its peculiar way was Bob Kjellan’s Act of Vengeance, a bit of 1974 vintage instant camp about rape victims teaming up to take down their common oppressor, a hockey-masked goon with a “Jingle Bells” fetish. Exploitation and empowement are painfully entangled in what can only be a guilty pleasure. Well, back to the DVR.
Samuel, I have not seen Sautet’s film (I have seen others by the director though) and am intrigued by your middling assessment, though when I proceed I will do so with caution. Oh a “Jingle bells” fetish, eh? But I know the guilty pleasure aspect of movie watching and would love to investigate here! Your wordage there in framing it is perfect!
Thanks you my friend!
Hello Sam and everyone!
Just a message to the wind, if anyone catches it: Uhler, you bitter man, if you were actually a real man you would put your name when you comment.
What a great thing you did with your kids this week Sam, good one!
My week movie wise:
– Fatty Drives the Bus (1999, Mick Napier) **1/2 I reviewed this particular film for Wonders, you know, haha.
– It’s Such a Beautiful Day (2012, Don Hertzfeldt) ***** The first feature length by one of the best animators and directors overall working right now (and quite young at the same time) going with the deep and wonderful story of a man who is sick and trying to find a meaning to his life after all of his personal story, finding some meaning to it all, one of the best things of 2012 was this compilation of his three previous short films: Everything Will Be Ok, I’m So Proud of You and I’ts Such a Beautiful Day that titles this feature. It has to be seen to be believed, it’s just deep, emotional and impressive even though its minimalistic approach.
– The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012, Stephen Chbosky) ****1/2 This was a great ensemble piece film directed with a lot of affection, with impressive performances and touching moments, it has a lot of great music additions, as well as having the whole Rocky Horror angle about it that I particularly think was made without being too referential, it was genuine, these boys were into Rocky Horror. It was nice in many moments and a bit too sad in another, the whole series of events were a bit exploitative for me, as the sudden realization was kinda cheap for me, but it’s great!
– Rabbit (2005, Run Wrake) **** A great short animation that tells a classic story of greed and accumulation as well as being impressive visually, with a distinct style and approach regarding text in screen and names.
– The Shining (1980, Stanley Kubrick) ***** Impressive as always, this time I watched my bluray copy of the film and it was exciting to see the film, first as it should’ve always been seen (without the helicopter shadow at the start) and in the full pristine quality, it was amazing to see the performances, the great framing and shots, well… it’s on my top 5 films of all time, I love it that much!
– Silent Hill: Revelation 3D (2012, Michael J. Bassett) *** Wow, this was dull and unoriginal, after the first film (all the way back in 2006) that was a freaking masterpiece of visual effects and style, as well as being a puzzle narrative filmmaking at its best in the 2000’s, as well as an example of making bloody frightening horror for the mainstream, and at the same time be a great videogame adaptation, it comes here with this sequel that tries to adapt the third instalment in the series by completely changing everything about it, not featuring the town in any interesting moment, making it visually dull and fake-looking (seriously, this looked TV-level props and production) and a ridiculous ending. What a waste, they should’ve hired me.
– My Neighbour Totoro (1988, Hayao Miyazaki) ****1/2 I finally saw this beautiful piece of animation, and I saw it in a state of sleep and awake, but it was totally impressive and fitting at the same time. The landscapes, the characters, it was all pretty much incredible, but at the same time I was surprised by how little there actually was of the Totoros themselves, the creatures, it was magical but actually really short, I wanted more, and that in the bad sense more than in the good one, it lacked a stronger plot and more moments with the creatures.
Thanks Sam, have a good week!
No problem Jamie. You rang?
Shall I add that I started my Frank Awards 2012 at my blog, I spent a lot of time in these, and I usually don’t do this, but I’d love some feedback and even your own choices guys!
http://overlookhotelfilm.wordpress.com/2013/01/27/frank-awards-2012-part-i/
Thanks in advance!
Jaimie, I will be addressing your longer comment ASAP, but be rest assured I will most assuredly be investigated and commenting on your Frank Awards post.
Jaimie—
Just stopped over to your Frank Awards. That was quite a labor of love kind of presentation I must say! The time you spent there was immediately apparent. And you took on quite a number of categories to boot. Well, as far as your long admission I want to thank you for your initial kind words. Your weekly round-up includes one masterpiece (THE SHINING) and two great films: THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER and MY NEIGHBOR TORTORO. Thrilled to hear how much WALLFLOWER impressed you. I am ashamed to admit I have not yet seen that Hertzfeldt. But I will and know many have praised it highly. I will stay clear of SILENT HILL, but I obviously must see RABBIT at some point. Superbly-penned capsule assessments, and a great diversity of viewings. As always your frantic activity is amazing. And great job too with the Muriel ballot! Have a great week my fried!
Yeah, Rabbit is excellent. I will probably be voting for it as short come ’05. Btw, I wrote it up for Wonders a year or so back, as part of the Avant-Garde series:
https://wondersinthedark.wordpress.com/2011/12/25/whats-in-a-name-the-girl-chewing-gum-rabbit-a-walk-through-h-•-fixing-a-hole-avant-garde-month/
Still hoping to catch both your year-end round-up and your short from a few months ago, incidentally. January has been a crazy month, hopefully February is a bit more sane so I can play some catch-up from the holidays and post-holidays (which were, if anything, more intense than the actual “season” for me anyway).
Yep that was indeed a great piece on RABBIT Joel. Just now finished taking a second look!
As has become customary (it seems), I’m once again late to this thread. But, as some wise man once state, better late than never.
I had a hectic week at office. And, during the much needed weekend, I used the opportunity to get away from the city for a day with friends – had a terrific road trip in the process. So, movie viewing-wise, it has been a slow week for me.
Anyway, here’s what I managed to watch:-
– Angelopoulos’ compelling psychological drama cum road movie, The Beekeeper
– The brilliantly photographed Japanese New Wave film, Woman of the Lake, by Yoshida
– The third chapter in Polanski’s Apartment Trilogy, viz. The Tenant.
Shubhajit—
You are not late at all my friend. It is I who am late in getting over to CINEMASCOPE to investigate what is going on there. But I will remedy that soon. It’s always great to unwind with a road trip escape, and to enjoy quality time with friends, as you did this past week. I know both the Angelopoulos and Yoshida and completely concur. Allan has led a two-year charge for the work of the Japanese director and I got to see that film over a year ago, and was impressed with the style and philosophical resonance of the piece.
Polanski’s THE TENANT is great stuff. Disturbing and mesmerizing.
Have a great week my friend!
This thread could use a little humor. Whatever one thinks of Les Mis and the Oscars, I hope this can generate a chuckle or two:
“I lost half my body weight . . . but then they never did a wide shot!”
LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Pierre, THIS is an instant classic!!!!!!!!!!! Hathaway’s great but in-your-face turn is sure to garner many parodies well into the future. Thanks for posting this link!!! Ha!
Sam, I was not aware of the cash mob held at Sandy Hook, so nice to read that you went there and supported the local businesses. And it seems you will be making quite a few frequent trips there especially to the comic book store. Finding a good comic bookstore always hits the wallet hard as there is no end to what one can buy🙂
I have been waiting to see 5 Broken Cameras. Your words about cameras being replaced remind me of the remarkable Israeli documentary Checkpoint where the camera is almost plunked down at various checkpoints to highlight the struggle of people trying to cross such boundaries every day. We are shown events as they unfold and that ends up being a powerful method to get the point across.
take care and have a good week ahead…
Sachin—
You are quite right there. That incredible comic store already has Sammy and Danny clamoring for another visit. I’ll wait a bit, but I have every intention of returning to the area well into the future. It’s breathtaking, and the people are wonderful. It’s funny how you figured it all out already. When I think of the reason I was lured to Newtown I can only bow my head and wish it were all a dream. Connecticut is as picturesque a state as you could ever want to visit, but I feel a bond now with Sandy Hook, though as I say I will wait a while before going back. And yes, the comic store is a bit rough on the wallet. Ha!
I’d love to see CHECKPOINT and much appreciate that correlation. I am absolutely certain you will like 5 BROKEN CAMERAS quite a bit as you have always appreciated this kind of startling cinema from creative amateurs, latching on to real and disturbing events that are suffused with unmistakable verisimilitude.
Thanks for the very kind words my great friend. Have a terrific week!
Sam, I’m late to this thread but am pleased to hear of support for the community and pressure to change the gun laws. I haven’t watched much in the last week or ten days but did see Rivette’s ‘Duelle’, which made a strong impression although I struggled to follow it at times – I will hope to revisit in future. Also saw and enjoyed the Litvak/Barbara Stanwyck noir ‘Sorry, Wrong Number’, after being tempted by John Greco’s review. I’ve also finally finished watching season two of ‘Boardwalk Empire’, which I thought improved a lot halfway through and had me gripped.
Judy—-
Thanks as always, and for the telling words on the gun control issue, where you stand squarely on the right side of the divide. You had Dunblane, which again was the singlemost horrifying episode that was responsible for sweeping reforms in the UK. DUELLE did grow on me as well, as as you subsequenly noted on the 1976 voting thread, William Lubchansky’s extraordinary cinematography is just unforgettable. I also loved John’s SORRY, WRONG NUMBER piece, but haven’t yet gotten to Season 2 of BOARDWALK EMPIRE. Delighted to hear what you say here following up on some other WitD ‘customers.’ Thanks again my friend, and have a great week! There is a massive ‘1933’ Film Festival starting up at the Film Forum in February—66 films over 4 weeks!!! Pre-Code bliss Judy Geater style! Ha! Well, I will see some but I did see most of these films at last year’s equally comprehensive (though not of a single year) Pre-Code Festival, and how vowed to cut down my repetory visits this year.
http://www.filmforum.org/pdf/ff2_cal98_FINAL.pdf
The gun control debate has been heating up the last few days, Sam. I was also dismayed to hear about the shouting at the victim’s father and other such horror stories. That was a wonderful idea to support the Newtown community.
Thanks for the kind words Fred, and for stopping in. Yes, gun control is the prevalent issue as well as it should be at this time. I may pen an editorial on the subject over the next week if I can get my ideas and beliefs together. I though the father of David Wheeler said it best when he stated that Second Amendment backers have a right to bear arms, but that his young son had a right to his own life too. All one needs to do is to hear Europeans who offer uncompromised derision for America’s ‘right to bear arms’ as an exclusive domain of the US. On that point their argument is difficult to counter to be perfectly honest. There have been murders right along but the massacre of twenty babies in a classroom in cold blood has rightly reached the ‘enough is enough’ stage.
This pretty much tells it all. I am 100% in agreement with this people for precisely the exact reasons:
http://newtown.patch.com/articles/newtown-hearing-coverage?national=patch&ncid=edlinkuspatc00000006&icid=maing-grid7%7Cmain5%7Cdl1%7Csec1_lnk3%26pLid%3D264218
Sam, I do know that Sandy Hook is New England at it’s most scenic, and I can fully unerstand why you’d all appreciate the sensory overload. But it was a caring trek, one I’d always associate with you and Lucille. Like so many others I have had a hard time not thinking back on Dcemeber 14.
I got the news that Ed Koch passed on this morning. Now he was a real mayor!
Thanks as always for the very kind words David. You describe that lovely area quite effectively there. Yes, Ed Koch was one of NYC’s most unique figures, one who was larger than life. I’ll have quite a bit to say about him on Monday’s Diary, and am actually attending his documentary tonight at the Angelika Film Center. I must say it is eerie that he passed on the very day his film opened in the Big Apple. But he did live a long, rich and fruitful life.