by Sam Juliano
The war in Ukraine, perpetrated by the evil dictator of Russia continues to outrage the world, but daily the horrors continue to show no manner of relenting. For nearly all of us, the mounting list of casualties has put our lives on hold, as we find it difficult to pay any mind to anything aside from this human calamity. Still we manage to escape for a few hours weekly to get on with our lives.
The Best Films of India polling has been officially extended until Saturday, March 26th, as so far attendance has been scant. This past week film essayist extraordinaire Jim Clark post a marvelous piece on Federico Fellini’s Ginger and Fred, as part of his continuing series on the iconic Italian director.
I am still searching for my muse to return, so I can get totally serious in getting Irish Jesus in Fairview completed. Though I am close to 50,000 words, I do need a mental push to get this sequel to Paradise Atop the Hudson completed, so I can get it edited and published in the coming months. Meanwhile, a book presentation/reading/signing is all set up for Wednesday, March 30th at the Fairview library. Invitations have been sent out this past week.
Captivating Musical “Cyrano” a dazzling revision of Edmond Rostand’s celebrated play!
Dog, also seen via streaming this past week isn’t anything special, but it is reasonably entertaining and a worthwhile diversion, methinks. 3.0 of 5.0.
Wishing everyone a good week.
RIP William Hurt. “Body Heat” Verges on camp (those steamy double entendres sound faintly ludicrous when coupled with writhings of naked, sweaty flesh), but it’s surprising that Hurt’s horndog lawyer didn’t receive a nomination. It’s a first-rate performance.
“Licorice Pizza” (P.T. Anderson). My favorite film of 2021. Reminiscent of the old Altman magic. (The film takes place the year “The Long Goodbye” was released.) A+
“Chariots of Fire” (Hugh Hudson). I haven’t seen this much slow-motion photography since “Sallie Gardner at a Gallop.” Vangelis’s modern synth-pop score works improbably well for a period picture. And it’s always good to see Lindsay Anderson’s face. B
Mark, yes we lost a superstar with the untimely passing of William Hurt. “Body Heat” is certainly a signature role for him. My own favorite from his superlative canon would be “The Accidental Tourist.” I also adore “Licorice Pizza,” which is one of my favorite films of 2021. Happy to hear you gave a solid grade to ” Chariots of Fire,” and you do point to one of its defining aspects. For me the film rates an A+. Thank you so much my friend. Wishing you a terrific week!