Classic Movie Reviews: Recent Episodes
Classic Movie Reviews
A father and son watch old classic movies and then review them. Sometimes we even sound like we know what we're talking about.
“The Blues Brothers” 1980 is packed with music and lots of law enforcement car chases. Then add in “Joliet” Jake and Elwood on “a mission from God” to save the orphanage, plus attacks on Jake’s life by a mysterious woman left waiting at the altar, pursuit by the angry country western band, and attacks by a neo-Nazi party. What did I forget? Director John Landis herds these events into a crazy-quilt of music and mayhem.
John Belushi is Jake Blues and Dan Aykroyd is blood brother Elwood. The large cast includes Cab Calloway, James Brown, Aretha Franklin, John Candy, Ray Charles, Twiggy, Steve Lawrence, Frank Oz, Henry Gibson, Steven Spielberg in the Assessor’s office, Ralph Foody as Police Dispatcher, and a long list of other talented folks. Hang on!
“Only Angels Have Wings” 1939 takes place in the fictional South American town of Barranca. There is danger, romance, and drama surrounding Barranca Airways a struggling business with fatalistic pilots, money worries, unpredictable weather, few planes, and difficult human relationships. Director Howard Hawks creates excitement much as he did with “Red River” 1948 (Episode 71), “The Thing from Another World’ 1951 (Episode 59), and many other excellent films.
The cast includes Cary Grant as Geoff Carter the Manager and lead pilot, Jean Arthur as Bonnie Lee the piano player-entertainer, Richard Barthelmess is Bat MacPherson a hated pilot who redeems himself, Judy MacPherson played by Rita Hayworth in her first major role, Thomas Mitchell as “Kid” Dabb best friend of Carter, and many others. Fasten seat belts for this movie.
Here’s the IMDB page for “Only Angels Have Wing”
Watch the full movie for free on YouTube here.
And listen to the Lux Radio adaptation here on YouTube.
“Bicycle Thieves” also known as “Bicycle Thief” 1948 is an Italian drama that presents a Rome family struggling with unemployment, poverty, and the aftermath of World War II. Director Vittorio De Sica captures this subsistence life with exceptional use of black and white cinematography, melancholy music, on location street scenes, untrained actors, and devastating events. The movie won an Academy Award (Special Award) as did Mr. De Sica’s 1946 film “Shoeshine”.
Lamberto Maggiorani plays Antonio Ricci who is hired to hang outdoor wall posters in an assigned area, and he must have a bicycle for the work. Antonio’s supportive and strong-willed wife Maria is played by Lianella Carell. Enzo Staiola is masterful as Bruno, Antonio’s 8-year-old son. The large supportive cast enhances this drama of everyday life. This film is unforgettable.
Our podcast covers time travel movies.
“Time After Time” 1979 from Director Nicholas Meyer transports us to H.G. Wells and his search for Doctor John Leslie Stevenson known as Jack-the-Ripper. Malcolm McDowell is H.G. Wells, Mary Steenburgen plays Amy Robbins who assists Wells, with Jack-the-Ripper played by David Warner.
“Somewhere in Time” 1980 by Director Jeannot Szwarc is the timeless love story between Elise Mckenna and Richard Collier. It unfolds at the Grand Hotel on beautiful Mackinac Island, Michigan. Christopher Reeve plays Richard Collier, Jane Seymour is Elise McKenna, and Christopher Plummer plays William Fawcett Robinson Ms. McKenna’s manager and Mr. Collier’s nemesis. “Somewhere in Time” has unforgettable music composed by John Barry with Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini for added beauty.
Enjoy!
Here's the IMDB page for Time After Time
Here's the IMDB page for Somewhere In Time
Here's a YouTube playlist of 10 memorable scenes from Time After Time
“Sextette” 1978 is Mae West’s last film and showcases her talents and one liners. The movie is a wedding day mash-up of oddball characters, funny situations, antics of ex-husbands, an international peace conference, musical numbers, and a potpourri of stars. Director Ken Hughes created this big budget smorgasbord that sank at the box office.
Mae West is Marlo Manners/Lady Barrington the new bride of sixth husband Sir Michael Barrington played by Timothy Dalton. Sir Michael is also a secret agent. Dom DeLuise plays Dan Turner trying to hold everything together while also performing a search and dancing. The ex-husbands include Tony Curtis as Alexi Andreyev Karansky, Ringo Starr as Laslo Karony, and George Hamilton as Vance Norton. The cast includes Alice Cooper as Alice Cooper/Waiter and many cameo appearances. What a film!
You can watch Sextette on YouTube here (at least as of this posting).
https://youtu.be/swS-9j3BuAE
We incorrectly said Robert Wise never directed a western. Mr. Wise directed these westerns - “Two Flags West” 1950, “Tribute to a Bad Man” 1956, and “Blood on the Moon” 1948. We apologize for our oversight. The creativity of Mr. Wise is seen throughout “Blood on the Moon”.
Robert Mitchum as Jim Garry rides into a conflict involving Robert Preston as Tate Riling who has a scheme to profit from a cattle swindle effecting John Lufton played by Tom Tully, reservation food prices, and U.S. Government purchasing costs. Aiding Riling is corrupt Government Agent Jake Pindalest played by Frank Faylen. Lufton’s two daughters Amy and Carol played by Barbara Bel Geddes and Phyllis Thaxter disagree over the motives of Riling and Garry. Walther Brennan as Kris Barden is excellent.
“The Lion” 1962 is a family/adventure film set on an animal preserve in Kenya. Director Jack Cardiff relies on excellent movie making skills to fill the screen with beautiful scenes of Africa and wildlife. Mr. Cardiff‘s experience includes Cinematographer for films such as “Black Narcissus” 1947 (Episode 98) and “The African Queen” 1951.
William Holden is Robert Hayward a Lawyer who travels to Africa at the request of his former wife to help face the challenges of their eleven-year-old daughter and her attachment to King a lion played by Zamba. Capucine plays ex-wife Christine and Pamela Franklin is their daughter Tina. Trevor Howard plays John Bullit the grizzled manager of the game preserve and relatively new husband of Christine. Bullit deeply loves Africa and the movie captures that and much more.
“Mogambo” 1953 is a romance-adventure film set in Africa. Thank you to Patreon listener Arthur who recommended we include the movie in a podcast. Director John Ford built the film around African locations and music from African tribes. The film has many elements found in the 1932 movie “Red Dust”.
Clark Gable is Victor Marswell the experienced guide who leads the safari to ultimately observe Gorillas in their natural setting. The safari group includes Grace Kelly as Linda Nordley who falls in love with Marswell, Donald Nordley the husband of Linda played by Donald Sinden, Ava Gardner as Eloise Kelly who also loves Marswell, and a large supporting cast. Mr. Gable also played the lead in the “Red Dust” film. Enjoy this adventure drawn from an earlier time.
“The Fog” 1980 is a horror-drama set in the California coastal town of Antonio Bay. Director John Carpenter co-wrote the screenplay and created the music for this exciting story. A luminous, eerie fog rolls into town bringing with it the ghosts from 100 years ago seeking revenge for their brutal murder and theft of their gold.
Adrienne Barbeau is Stevie Wayne the radio host who early on deals with the fog, Ty Mitchell plays Stevie’s son Andy, Jamie Lee Curtis is Elizabeth Solley a hitchhiker swept up in events that also engulf her friend Nick Castle played by Tom Atkins, Janet Leigh plays Kathy Williams who is nervously coordinating the town’s 100-year anniversary, and Father Patrick Malone, at the core of this vengeful tale, is played by Hal Holbrook. Happy Halloween?
Here’s the IMDB page for “The Fog”
Up next is “Magambo”
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“Cry, the Beloved Country” 1951 is based on Alan Paton’s 1948 novel depicting several aspects of Apartheid in South Africa. Director Zoltan Korda persevered to make this film with intertwined stories of race relations, poverty, beliefs of diverse people, murder, a trial, status quo, yet a glimmer of hope. The movie, made in South Africa over 70 years ago, is a testament to strength and commitment.
Canada Lee plays Stephen Kumalo the black minister searching for his son and other family members lost in the depths of Johannesburg, Charles Carson is James Jarvis and Joyce Carey is Mrs. Jarvis the white farm couple whose son is murdered during a robbery, Sidney Poitier plays Reverend Msimangu assisting Mr. Kumalo in his quest. This exceptional movie is timely in today’s world!
Here’s the IMDB page for “Cry, the Beloved Country”
Up next is “The Fog”
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“King Solomon’s Mines” 1951 is the second film version depicting the danger and romance facing a group as they search for a missing husband and lost treasure in Africa in 1897. A 1937 movie was first to depict the story. For the 1951 film Directors Compton Bennett and Andrew Marton built the movie with much of it filmed in Africa.
Deborah Kerr is Elizabeth Curtis who must locate her husband missing while looking for treasure. Allan Quatermain played by Stewart Granger is the well-known safari guide who agrees to lead the search. Richard Carlson is Elizabeth’s brother John Goode, Kimursi as Khiva works with Quatermain and is from the Kipsigi Tribe, and Siriaque is Umbopa a member of royalty who wants to become King. Enjoy the wildlife, scenery, and adventure.
Here’s the IMDB page for “King Solomon’s Mines”
Up next is “Cry, the Beloved Country”
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Thank you to one of our Patreon members for recommending “Bombshell” 1933 for this podcast. Director Victor Fleming has created a fast-paced comedy. Among Mr. Fleming’s many successes are “The Wizard of Oz” 1939 (Episode 144) and “Gone with the Wind” 1939.
The talented Jean Harlow plays Lola Burns. Lola is “fed up” with the never-ending stories orchestrated in the press by Publicist E. J. “Space” Hanlon played by Lee Tracy. Lola’s father played by Frank Morgan and her brother played by Ted Healy create chaotic situations made more unpredictable by those large shaggy dogs engulfing Lola and her entourage. Then mix in Franchot Tone as the wealthy and romantic Gifford Middleton to maybe carry Lola away from this wildness. All this adds to our enjoyment of the movie. Madcap fun indeed!
Here’s the IMDB page for “Bombshell”
Up next is “King Solomon’s Mines”
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In “Les Diaboliques”, translated The Devils, Director Henri-Georges Clouzot gives us a prize winning eerie drama that is one of the best in the genre. As the story unfolds both the mistress and the wife of a mean and controlling husband work together to accomplish his murder. The movie takes manytwists and turns leading to one of the best finales in film.
Véra Clouzot plays the husband’s wife Christina, Simone Signoret is mistress Nicole, the dreadful husband Michel is played by Paul Meurisse, and a private detective and retired senior police official Alfred is played by Charles Vanel. His character seems like a forerunner to television’s Columbo. The excellent cast includes a well-placed student who adds to the mystery. Enjoy what one reviewer called “a pip of a murder thriller…”
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“The 39 Steps” 1935 is a spy movie with action taking place in the United Kingdom. Director Alfred Hitchcock packs the film with elements such as an innocent man on the run, a Hitchcock cameo, and the “MacGuffin” plot device important to the drama. These and other elements often appear in current films.
Robert Donat is Richard Hannay the innocent Canadian thrust into espionage operations designed to steal plans for an advanced, silent airplane engine. Joining Mr. Donat’s excellent performance is Madeleine Carroll as Pamela the woman who eventually realizes he needs her help, Professor Jordan played by Godfrey Tearle is the spy group’s leader, Wylie Watson as Mr. Memory who memorizes the engine design, and a cast of interesting people. Join us in following Richard Hannay’s many narrow escapes.
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The comedy duo of Bud Abbott and Lou Costello fit the bill with their 1941 movies “Buck Privates” and “Keep ‘Em Flying”. With wars raging in Asia and Europe, there were several films in 1940 and 1941 aimed at building support for a United States military buildup.
“Secret of the Incas” 1954 an adventure film that influences“Indiana Jonas and the Raiders of the Lost Ark” 1981. In “Secret of the Incas” Charlton Heston as Harry Steele has a hat, coat, and other things similar to those of Indiana Jones played by Harrison Ford in “Raiders of the Lost Ark”. Moreover, Harry uses a shaft of light in the tomb as does Indiana in the Map Room at the Nazi dig site.
Nicole Maurey as Elena Antonescu and Thomas Mitchell as Ed Morgan add to the action in Peru. Meanwhile Indiana travels the world in search of the Ark. His adventures also include Marion Ravenwood a former lover played by Karen Allen and a host of heroes to ne’er-do-wells. Enjoy the action.
We recorded this in 2021, the 40th anniversary of Raiders Of The Lost Arc
Here’s the IMDB page for “Secret Of The Incas” and “Raiders”
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“The Sound of Music” 1965 is a musical and drama film andamong our favorite movies. The creative talent of Director Robert Wise beautifully captures the von Trapp family story. We have reviewed many films directed by Mr. Wise including “The Andromeda Strain” 1971 (Episode 38), “Run Silent Run Deep” 1958 (Episode 117), and “West Side Story” 1961 (Episode 118). His films are excellent.
The movie centers around the life of Maria played by Julie Andrews, Captain von Trapp played by Christopher Plummer, and the von Trapp children. The first half of the film showcases the family and the music while the second half presents the horror caused by the annexation of Austria into the Third Reich. In addition to being a marvelous film it received five Academy Awards.
Here’s the IMDB page for ”The Sound Of Music”
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”Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” 1954 is set in 1850 and brings together wonderful Western themed musical and dance numbers and the horrible kidnapping of six women. Stanley Donen was Co-Director of “On the Town” 1948 (Episode 2) and “Singing in the Rain” 1952 (Episode 20), but as Director of this movie the disconnect between music and behavior smash head-on.
Jane Powell as Milly marries Adam Pontipee played by Howard Keel. Milly gains the respect of the Pontipee brothers. Russ Tamblyn plays the youngest brother Gideon who eventually exhibits greater common sense and maturity than any of the other brothers. In 2004 the movie was selected for preservation in the U.S. National Film Registry of the Library of Congress as being “culturally, historically, and aesthetically significant”. Join us for this collision.
Here’s the IMDB page for ”Seven Brides For Seven Brothers”
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“Paint Your Wagon” 1969 is a western – musical film. Director Joshua Logan faced multiple challenges including remote locations, cast members with differing ideas and styles, a ballooning budget, and studio anxieties. Mr. Logan needed his director experiences from films such as “South Pacific” 1958 (Episode 11) to complete this movie.
Events occur at a gold rush mining camp full of lonely, wild miners. The huge cast is led by Lee Marvin as Ben Rumson the grizzled and hard drinking man of the open country, Clint Eastwood as “Pardner” the new best friend of Rumson, and Jean Seberg as Elizabeth the woman loved by both Rumson and “Pardner”. The film features over twelve musical numbers and both Mr. Marvin and Mr. Eastwood did their own singing. Please enjoy this crew.
Here’s the IMDB page for “Paint Your Wagon”
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“Calamity Jane” 1953 is a fanciful western, musical, and comedy involving the lives of Calamity Jane, Wild Bill Hickok and many others in and around Deadwood, Dakota Territory. Director David Butler corrals together quite a group of characters for this light-hearted romp through the make-believe west with many fun songs. In part the movie was inspired by the box-office success of “Annie Get Your Gun” 1950.
Doris Day plays the wildly energetic Calamity Jane, Wild Bill Hickok is played by Howard Keel, Allyn Ann McLerie is Katie Brown an aspiring song and dance performer who captivates in every scene, and Philip Carey is the upstanding Lieutenant Daniel Gilmartin. There are many other excellent cast members including Dick Wesson as Francis Fryer. Return with us now to this 1953 version of the west.
Here’s the IMDB page for “Calamity Jane”
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"Hondo" 1953 is a 3D western directed by John Farrow with John Ford directing the final scenes because Mr. Farrow had to leave to complete another film. The movie was shown in 3D, but many smaller theaters showed it in the traditional format. The story takes place in 1870 when the Army invalidates a treaty obligation that leads to a conflict with the Apache Nation.
Hondo Lane played by John Wayne is a dispatch rider and scout for the Army who arrives at the remote Arizona homestead of Angie Lowe played by Geraldine Page and her young son Johnny played by Lee Aaker. Leo Gordon is Ed Lowe who has abandoned his family. In this first rate film Michael Pate gives a strong performance as the Apache leader Vittoro.
Here’s the IMDb page for “Hondo”
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Robert Siodmak had a long career making films in Germany during the Weimar Republic (1919-1933) before fleeing to France in 1933. He then left for the United States in 1940 when France fell to Germany. "The Spiral Staircase" 1946 is a showcase of his talents in directing this gothic horror tale of a serial killer who targets vulnerable women in a Vermont town.
The cast in this suspenseful movie includes Dorothy McGuire as Helen the woman unable to speak, George Brent as Professor Warren a man with secrets, Ethel Barrymore as Mrs. Warren who recognizes danger for Helen, and Gordon Oliver as the suspicious Steven Warren. Elsa Lanchester dominates her scenes as Mrs. Oates and Kent Smith plays Dr. Parry the newly arrived Physician. Enjoy this shadowy murder mystery.
Here’s the IMDB page for “The Spiral Staircase”
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"Paths of Glory" 1957 is a World War I drama that somewhat reflects the Souain Corporals affair a true story of four French soldiers executed in 1915 for failure to follow orders. The soldiers were exonerated posthumously in 1934. Director Stanley Kubrick shows the nightmarish horror of trench warfare, brutal treatment of soldiers, and ultimately the corrupt leadership that leads to killing three soldiers.
Kirk Douglas is Colonel Dax regimental commanding officer caught in the grinding wheels of leadership's decisions. Adolphe Menjou as Major General Broulardwho supports decisions made by Brigadier General Mireauplayed by George Macready that result in three innocent soldiers being executed. The entire cast is first rate. The scene with a young singer and many troops is among the most powerful on film.
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"Crossfire" 1947 deals with anti-Semitism and murder. Director Edward Dmytryk creates a masterful movie taking us to a place where hatred, fear, and ignorance culminate in the senseless beating death of Joseph Samuels a decorated veteran played by Sam Levene. The film is based on Richard Brooks's 1945 novel The Brick Foxhole.
Robert Young is Police Captain Finlay who uncovers the true reason for Mr. Levene's murder. Robert Ryan as "Monty" Montgomery delivers a frightening performance leaving no doubt about the impact of hate. Robert Mitchum is Army Sergeant Peter Keeley forceful leader of his troop and Gloria Grahame is Ginny Tremaine who carries the scars of her turbulent life. "Crossfire" from August 1947 and "Gentleman's Agreement" (Episode 14 - 15) from November 1947 is a double feature blockbuster about anti-Semitism.
Here's the IMDB page for "Crossfire"
Here's a TCM Introduction for the movie.
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"Touch of Evil" 1958 and 1998 Director's cut is based on the 1956 novel Badge of Evil. Orson Welles directed the movie, rewrote parts of the script, and played Hank Quinlan the corrupt and double-crossing Police Captain from Los Robles a U.S. border town. Car bomb deaths, drug smuggling, racial tensions, kidnapping, and the ultimate betrayal of a longtime friendship are woven into this mesmerizing tale as only Welles could tell it.
Charlton Heston is Ramon Vargas high-ranking member of Mexican law enforcement, Janet Leigh as Susan Vargas the newly wed bride, and Joseph Calleia, in a career-defining role, as Police Officer Pete Menzies. There are excellent performances from many including Akim Tamiroff as Joe Grandi, Marlene Dietrich as Tanya, and Dennis Weaver as the Night Manager. Enjoy!
”Moonraker" 1979 is the fourth film in our James Bond series. Director Lewis Gilbert combines themes in the movie. There is wealthy Hugo Drax whose monstrous plan involves multiple space shuttles and poison to dominate the world, a science fiction space adventure, comedic one liners, super hero exploits from Bond, near death experiences around the globe, and romance.
Roger Moore is in his fourth tour as James Bond 007 the MI6 problem solver, Michael Lonsdale as Drax, Holly Goodhead played by Lois Chiles as an astronaut scientist with a critical role in saving earth, Richard Kiel as Jaws who morphs from evil henchman to ally of Bond and many excellent cast members. Join us as we fly away with Bond.
Here’s the IMDB page for “Moonraker”
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The sixth James Bond film takes center stage with "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" from 1969. Long time industry veteran Peter R. Hunt makes his Director debut for this film. Mr. Hunt's quick film cutting accentuates the action. This may be the Bond film that most closely follows the novel's themes.
In his first film role is George Lazenby as James Bond. Mr. Lazenby appears as Bond in only this film. Countess Tracy di Vicenzo played by Diana Rigg is the independent woman who partners with Bond. Telly Savalas is Ernst Blofeld the evil head of SPECTRE. Gabriele Ferzetti is Draco a crime group leader and Countess Tracy's father and IIse Steppat is the dangerous Irma Bunt. Grab your winter apparel and join the chase.
Here’s the IMDB page for “Episode 204 - On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”
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Terence Young returns to helm "From Russia with Love" 1963. Mr. Young's direction keeps the swagger in James Bond as it was initially captured in "Dr. No". Istanbul, Turkey, is the scene for much of the spy drama as James Bond and MI6 battle the Soviet Union's SMERSH (an actual counter-intelligence group) and the deadly agents of SPECTRE.
Sean Connery as James Bond teams with Ali Kerim Beythe head of MI6 in Istanbul played by Pedro Armendariz (in his last film role). Together they battle Lotte Lenya as Rosa Klebb SPECTRE No. 3 and Robert Shaw as Donald Grant the SPECTRE hit man. Tatiana Romanova played by Daniela Bianchi is the cipher person who assists in stealing a Soviet Lektor. Off we go on one dangerous train ride.
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Arthur Sculco joins us for the podcast discussion of "Dr. No" 1962. Arthur is a Patreon subscriber and an avid watcher of classic movies. Thank you Arthur for joining us!
Our visit ranges from a review of "Dr. No" to an overview of the James Bond franchise and thoughts about other films.
Terence Young directed three James Bond films, "Dr. No", "From Russia with Love" 1963, and "Thunderball" 1965. Mr. Young was instrumental in setting the stage for almost sixty years of James Bond adventures. Sean Connery is the first James Bond, the British MI6 agent - code name 007. Felix Leiter is a CIA agent played by Jack Lord, Ursula Andress is Honey Ryder a local shell diver, and Joseph Wiseman plays Dr. Julius No - member of SPECTRE. The entire cast brings "Dr. No" to life for us to enjoy.
Check us out on Patreon at www.patreon.com/classicmoviereviews for even more content and bonus shows.
"Jules and Jim" 1962 is the French film of a romantic love triangle set before, during and after World War I. Director Francois Truffaut also co-wrote and produced the film. The basis for the movie is Henri-Pierre Roché's 1953 book about his and another man's love and involvement with a free-spirited woman.
Jeanne Moreau is Catherine who resembles the statue of a woman with a splendid smile. Ms. Moreau's performance headlines the film that often has a dreamlike quality. Oskar Werner is Jules the shy writer from Austria. While Henri Serre plays Jim the more outgoing man from France. Included in the talented cast is Sabine Haudepin who plays Sabine Jules and Catherine's daughter. We hope you enjoy this award winning film.
PLEASE NOTE: Through most of this review Matt has the main character names reversed. So when he says "Jim" he means "Jules" and vice versa. It was a confusing movie at some points. That’s his excuse and he’s sticking with it!
Here’s the IMDB page for “Jules and Jim”
Coming up next, a James Bond series, starting with “Dr. No”.
The “Dr. No” episode is already available over on Patreon and there’s a special behind-the-scenes video of our recording the show. Check us out on Patreon at www.patreon.com/classicmoviereviews for even more content and bonus shows.
The George Lukas film was instrumental in launching the era of the movie blockbuster. The musical score by John Williams and the production values perfectly match the film's story.
The memorable cast is highlighted by Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher), Darth Vader (David Prowse - voice by James Earl Jones), Obi-Wan Kenobi (Alec Guinness), Han Solo (Harrison Ford), C-3PO (Anthony Daniels), R2-D2 (Kenny Baker), Chewbacca "Chewie" (Peter Mayhew), evil Grand Moff Tarkin (Peter Cushing), Galactic Empire stormtroopers, Rebel Alliance fighters, and the Cantina in Mos Eisley with a diverse crowd of customers. Join us in this battle of good vs. evil.
Part 3 of our “Star Wars” review continues over on Patreon where we talk about Darth Vader and Obi Wan’s battle on the Death Star. Check us out on Patreon at www.patreon.com/classicmoviereviews for even more content and bonus shows.
"Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope" 1977 is our podcast episode 200. We pay tribute to the movie genius of George Lucas who created the magnificent science fiction space adventures of the Star Wars films. His films changed the movie entertainment business.
Mr. Lucas spent years building the scope and beauty of these films and always pursued his dream of reaching movie screens throughout the world. The challenges were daunting and he did not waver in his belief that the films must capture the fun and excitement as seen in the "Flash Gordon" movies. Each film's story is perfectly complemented by the splendid musical score of John Williams. Please enjoy this masterpiece.
The "Special Edition" was actually released in January 1997, not 1998. I'm sure there are other gaffs in this episode! Feel free to point them out in the comments here. There was so much to discuss! Here's an article on the "Special Edition"
Here's the IMDB page for "Star Wars"
Here's a link to the speech by George Lucas talking about how he got started in movies and his views on happiness.
Here's a link to "Blockbuster" podcast that we mentioned in the show.
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Happy May the 4th!
Head over to Patreon at patreon.com/classicmoviereviews and check out our two-part review of “Star Wars” available early for Patrons. We also have special bonus content and behind the scenes videos available for Patrons. Check it out and help support the show!
May the 4th be with you!
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Now back to our regularly scheduled programming…
"Elevator to the Gallows" 1958 is a French crime film directed by Louis Malle. The musical score by Miles Davisis improvised and creates a haunting mood that adds beautifully to the drama. The cinematography of Henri Decae is remarkable.
Jeanne Moreau is Florence Carala the wife of wealthy Simon Carala played by Jean Wall. Florence has a lover Julien Tavernier played by Maurice Ronet and together they plot the perfect crime that goes horribly wrong. Georges Poujouly as Louis and Yori Bertin as Veronique are the young couple whose aimless lives lead them down the highway to eventual disaster. The film creates a nightscape that is realistic and inhabited by a beautiful woman surrounded by out of control events.
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"The Mark of Zorro" is a 1940 film based on The Curse of Capistrano written in 1919 by Johnston McCulley. This film is the wrap-up in our tribute to Basil Rathbone. The film follows on the success of the 1920 silent movie "The Mark of Zorro" starring Douglas Fairbanks.
Rouben Mamoulian directed the 1940 film and it garnered an Academy Award nomination for the musical score by Alfred Newman. Leading this swashbuckler is Tyrone Power as Don Diego Vega/Zorro the hero that brings about the downfall of a dictator. Linda Darnell is Lolita Quintero who falls in love with Zorro, the evil Captain Esteban Pasquale is played by Basil Rathbone and there is a cast of excellent performers. We hope you enjoy this action packed adventure.
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We continue our salute to Basil Rathbone with "Son of Frankenstein" from 1939. In this adventure Mr. Rathbone is Baron Wolf von Frankenstein who travels to the family ancestral castle. His mission is to redeem his father's reputation. Joining the Baron is his wife Baroness Elsaplayed by Josephine Hutchinson and their young son Peter played by Donnie Dunagan. Director Rowland V. Lee puts together a film that is among the best of the Universal horror movies.
Baron von Frankenstein encounters difficulties in his quest to reclaim his father's good name. Among the challenges is Bela Lugosi as Ygor who seeks revenge against the villagers who almost succeeded in hanging him. Ygor also knows the secret to controlling the Monster played by Boris Karloff. In addition, the villagers don't want the Baron around and Police Inspector Krogh played be Lionel Atwillis poking around the castle. The movie is a favorite of many people including us.
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"The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes" 1939 is the second and last of the Sherlock Holmes films from 20th Century Fox. However, good news for us Holmes fans because Universal Studios produced another twelve Holmes films from 1942 through 1946.
In this adventure Holmes played by Basil Rathbone and Professor Moriarty played by George Zucco meet outside the Old Bailey where Moriarty has been acquitted of murder. Holmes located the evidence of guilt, but arrived too late to alter the verdict. Next Moriarty launches two schemes one to confuse Holmes and Dr. Watson played by Nigel Bruce and a second to steal the British Empire's Crown Jewels. This is a neatly paced drama that ends with Dr. Watson uttering this famous quote. "Elementary, my dear Holmes, elementary.
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The Hound of the Baskervilles" 1939 is the first of two movies made by 20th Century-Fox as part of the fourteen Sherlock Holmes films released from 1939 through 1946. Universal Studios produced the remaining twelve films. Basil Rathbone plays Sherlock Holmes and Nigel Bruce is Dr. Watson in all fourteen movies in the series. For many movie fans Mr. Rathbone and Mr. Bruce are the definitive characters from the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle detective mystery novel.
We agree with this assessment. All fourteen movies are engaging and fun to watch.
Here’s the IMDB page for “The Hound Of The Baskervilles”
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"Lady from Chungking" 1942 made at the height of World War II provides a star level role for Anna May Wong as Kwan Mei. Director William Nigh has ample experience putting together small budget movies. The film centers on Kwan Mei the leader of an underground group of farmers and villagers fighting against the Japanese occupation of China. She is also working to rescue two downed Flying Tigers pilots so they can return to action. This is a strong role for Anna May Wong and a good example of a World War II film.
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"Shanghai Express" 1932 brings us the drama and danger facing several travelers on the train from Peking to Shanghai during the civil war in China. Director Josef von Sternberg builds an engaging film that has solid production values and the look of a more recent adventure movie. Our featured actor Anna May Wong is Hui Fei who plays a pivotal role that involves rebel leader Henry Chang played by Warner Oland.
In addition to civil war the film centers on the love story between Marlene Dietrich as the beautiful and mysterious Shanghai Lily/Madeline and Clive Brook as Donald "Doc" Harvey the British Army Captain and Physician who is traveling to perform brain surgery on the Governor General of Shanghai. The intrigue deepens as government and rebel soldiers via for control of the train and the country. Lawrence Grant as Reverend Carmichael, Louise Closser Hale as Mrs. Haggerty and others round out the lead cast. The film captures the beauty and impressive acting talents of both Ms. Dietrich and Ms. Wong.
Here's a link to a YouTube playlist with videos related to Anna May Wong and Joseph von Sternberg
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"The Toll of the Sea" from 1922 is the first lead role for Anna May Wong who was 17 and the second feature movie to use Technicolor film. Director Chester M. Franklin presents the tragic love of Lotus Flower played by Ms. Wong for Allen Carver an American played by Kenneth Harlan.
Because of their love for each other they marry "Chinese fashion". Mr. Carver promises to take her to the United States. Lotus Flower's friends warn her that he will never take her to America. As predicted Mr. Carver leaves China without her and she subsequently gives birth to a baby boy. Some time later Mr. Carver returns to China and is now married to Elsie Carver played by Beatrice Bentley. Elsie agrees to take the boy from Lotus Flower so he can go to the United States with Elsie and Allen. The film was popular and perpetuated an Asian stereotype.
Here's a link to "Toll Of The Sea" on YouTube
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Masterfully directed by Ernst Lubitsch, "To Be Or Not To Be" successfully rides a fine line between satire, comedy, drama, romance and action. The script, written by Melchior Lengyel and Edwin Justus Mayer is one of the best in all of film. It stars Carole Lombard, Jack Benny, Robert Stack, Felix Bressart, Lionel Atwill, Stanley Ridges, Sig Ruman, Tom Dugan and many more excellent actors. The movie feels timely while at the same time as presenting scenes that feel almost documentary and historical. It's an excellent movie and we highly recommend it.
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Jimmy Kustes joins us for our discussion of "Some Like It Hot" 1959. In an earlier podcast Jimmy discussed his 2019 film "Body Swap" available on vimeo.com/on-demand. In "Some Like It Hot" Director Billy Wilder creates a romantic - dramatic comedy involving two men who play in a jazz band and accidentally witness a gangland murder in Chicago. These two escape the gang by disguising themselves as women and joining an all female band the Society Syncopators headed to a musical gig in Florida. Off they all go for a lot of rousing action.
Jack Lemmon as Jerry/"Daphne" and Tony Curtis as Joe/"Josephine"/"Shell Oil Junior" are the guys frantically avoiding detection. Marilyn Monroe plays Sugar "Kane" Kowalczyk the band's singer - ukulele player. The crew of henchmen is led by "Spats" Colombo played by George Raft. The film is populated by a host of actors from earlier movies including Pat O'Brien, Joe E. Brown, Joan Shawlee, and Mike Mazurki. Thanks to Jimmy Kustes for joining us.
Here’s the IMDB page for “Some Like It Hot”
Up Next… “Toll Of The Sea” which you can watch on YouTube here in glorious 720P technicolor!
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"Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House" 1948 is a delightful comedy based on Eric Hodgins's 1946 book of the same name. Cary Grant as James Blandings and Myrna Loy as Muriel Blandings team up following their worktogether in "The Bachelor and the Bobby-Soxer“ 1947. Director H.C. Potter crafts this funny tale as the Blandings decide to leave their Manhattan apartment for the countryside of Connecticut. What follows is a series of miss steps as the Blandings forge ahead in the pursuit of their dream home.
Melvyn Douglas as Bill Cole is the ever-present third wheel in the Blandings family. Bill is the very close friend and lawyer who foresees endless problems with the property that Real Estate Agent Smith played by Ian Wolfe has successfully "unloaded" on the Blandings. Among the excellent cast in this muddled situation are Louise Beavers as Gussie who saves Mr. Blandings job in advertising and Reginald Denny as Architect Henry Simms. Watching the Blandings navigate this adventure is most entertaining.
Here’s the IMDB page for “Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House”
Up next it’s “Some Like It Hot”
Check us out on Patreon at www.patreon.com/classicmoviereviews for even more content and bonus shows.
"Holiday Affair" 1949 is an enjoyable film for the holiday season. There is excellent writing by Isobel Lennart, believable characters, solid production values and first-rate direction by Don Hartman. Actually these elements combine to make this a movie worth watching any time of the year.
Among the believable characters is Robert Mitchum as Steve Mason the future builder of boats, Janet Leigh as Connie Ennis the loving mother of Timmy Ennis her 6 1/2 year old son played by Gordon Gebert, Wendell Corey as Carl Davis the well known Lawyer and possibly Connie's future husband, Henry O'Neill as department store owner Mr. Crowley, Harry Morgan as the patient but perplexed Police Lieutenant and a myriad of other cast members that do a superb job adding to the film's story. When released in 1949 the movie was not well regarded nor a financial success; however, in recent years it has become a holiday classic. Our best wishes for the season!
Here’s the IMDB page for “Holiday Affair”
Up next, “Mr Blandings Builds His Dream House”
Thank you to Arthur Sculco for his selection of "The War of the Worlds" 1953 as well as three other films we recently reviewed "Soylent Green", "2001 A Space Odyssey" and "The Time Machine".
Director Byron Haskin and Producer George Pal adapted the 1898 H.G. Welles novel to create an exciting and timeless science fiction film.
Dr. Clayton Forrester played by Gene Barry is a well-known scientist from Pacific Institute of Science and Technology who finds himself in the middle of a large-scale invasion of Earth by Martians. Dr. Forrester and two colleagues happen to be fishing near the landing site of the first Martian war machine. These three people are quickly engaged in a life or death struggle to save our planet. Also involved are Sylvia van Buren played by Ann Robinson, Les Tremayne as Major General Mann, a large cast and world wide military forces who become involved in this war. The movie is great entertainment for all ages.
Here’s the IMDB page for “War of the Worlds”
Check us out on Patreon at www.patreon.com/classicmoviereviews for even more content and bonus shows.
Based on H.G. Wells' story, "The Time Machine" from 1960 is a first rate science fiction movie. Director George Pal is a master of creating films that nourish the imagination. Arnold Leibovit's documentary The Fantasy Film Worlds of George Pal captures the innovative talent of the Academy Award winning Mr. Pal.
H. George Wells played by Rod Taylor has constructed a beautiful time machine and is prepared to travel into the future. George is tired of the present time and wants to use the fourth dimension to pursue what he hopes is a better future. The film's time machine is a classic movie property. George does travel ahead eventually to October 12, 802,701 where he encounters the Eloi and then the Morlocks. He further learns of past world wars that have led to their current condition. Cast members Alan Young as best friend Filby, Yvette Mimieux as the beautiful Eloi-Weena, Sabastian Cabot as Dr. Philip Hillyer and others make this a timeless adventure that we love.
Here’s the IMDB page for “The Time Machine”
Up next is “Holiday Affair”
And after that, “Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House”
Director Stanley Kubrick created the masterpiece film "2001: A Space Odyssey" 1968. Among the influences for the film are Arthur C. Clarke's "The Sentinel" 1951, "Universe" 1960 the documentary from the National Film Board of Canada and the 1964 New York World's Fair movie "To the Moon and Beyond".
Mr. Kubrick assembled a stellar group of people and took several years to make this exceptional movie. The film has inspired filmmakers and been a significant force as reflected in subsequent movies. There is a discovery on the moon of an alien monolith and Dr. Heywood Floyd played by William Sylvester must direct a space journey to Jupiter led by Dr. David Bowman played by Keir Dullea and including Gary Lockwood as Dr. Frank Poole, other crew and super computer HAL 9000. An alien monolith from millions of years earlier changed the course of human development. As with art and music each person watching this movie will draw a conclusion about the monolith's effect on our future.
Here’s the IMDB page for “2001: A Space Odyssey”
Up next... "The Time Machine" from 1960
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"Body Swap" is a romantic comedy about a woman and man whose bodies are switched by accident with a defective office paper shredder. Ouch!!! This is a funny and engaging film. Tim Morton is the Director of this professionally produced film featuring excellent performances by Ella Jordan as CJ, Casey played by Jimmy Kustes, Casey's brother Roy played by Gunner Willis, Kayte Giralt as Lisa, Wendy played by Erica Manni and a host of supporting cast members.
The film is on Vimeo On Demand at bodyswapmovie.com. Jimmy Kustes who wrote the screenplay, produced the film and plays the role of Casey is a fan of Billy Wilder films and other classic movies joins us on this episode.
Here’s the IMDB page for “Body Swap”
You can watch “Body Swap” at www.bodyswapmovie.com, give it a watch, we think you’ll enjoy it!
Please leave a comment over on Apple Podcast or on our website at www.classicmoviereviews.net or on our Patreon at www.patreon.com/classicmovierevews.
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"Soylent Green" 1973 is an intense film depicting a grim and dangerous world of the future. The movie has multiple levels of drama and intrigue including murder, famine, overpopulation and authoritarian rule over people. Director Richard Fleischer creates a vision of despair as oceans die and the environment deteriorates. Mr. Fleischer has built another excellent film in his long line of movies including "The Narrow Margin" 1952 - Episode 75 and "Fantastic Voyage" 1966 - Episode 13.
Charlton Heston is NYPD Detective Frank Thorn, Sol Roth "Book" played by Edward G. Robinson in his last film role, Leigh Taylor-Young as Shirl, Chuck Connors as Tab, Brock Peters as Hatcher, Joseph Cotton as William Simonson, Paula Kelly as Martha and other cast members all inhabit believable characters that make this a must see film. "Soylent Green" stands the test of time and we thank our guest and Patreon member Arthur Sculco for his selection of this film.
Here’s the IMDB page for “Soylent Green”
Up next a special episode where we interview independent film writer/producer/actor Jimmy Kustes on his new film “Body Swap”
Please leave a comment over on Apple Podcast or on our website at www.classicmoviereviews.net or on our Patreon at www.patreon.com/classicmovierevews.
Ever wonder where all the other odd numbered episodes went? They’re all over on our Patreon, so if you’re enjoying the show, head over there to check them out!
"El vampiro" (The Vampire) from 1957 is an engrossing version of the vampire story. Director Fernando Mendez had a successful career with more than thirty films in the movie industry of Mexico. Mr. Mendez and Producer Abel Salazar created this entertaining movie. The story centers on Marta played by Ariadne Welter as she travels to her childhood village and encounters vampires that dominate the local scene.
German Robles as the vampire Count Karol de Lavud has a strong influence over people in the village. Marta has an ally in Dr. Enrique played by Abel Salazar who has a key role in battling the evil Count. Carmen Montejo as Eloise, Jose Luis Jimenez as Abrosio and the other cast members make for an exciting adventure. The film is a fun experience and serves as a link between the Universal horror films of the 1930's and the Hammer vampire films from 1958 through 1974.
Here‘s the dialog in English from the clips in the show.
Clip 1
“I've come to pick up that box. Here's the ticket.
All right, it's all yours.
Isn't it a shame to have someone deliver soil from Hungary?
Soil?
What's wrong with our soil?
Whims of the rich. It's for a man called Mr. Duval, who's lived here for ten years. I think he's a little peculiar. He's very odd, only goes out at night and wears a black cape like that one.”
Clip 2
“Come this way.
I'm so sorry to have come in such a painful time.
It's painful... yes, very much... although we should be happy for her death.
Why do you say that, aunt?
You have no idea how much she suffered these last months. Isn't that right, Emilio?
Yes, in fact, only death could free her from the pain she was suffering.
How did she die?
She suffered a heart attack, but she had been disturbed for five years.
You mean mentally ill?
Yes, she experienced persecutory delusions.
What were her fears?
Vampires.
Vampires?
Yes, things she heard from the people in the other town... they're extremely superstitious.
She was convinced there was a vampire somewhere in this house stalking her to suck her blood, and at night, she suffered even more. She would lock herself up in her room and surround herself with all the crucifixes and mirrors in the house.”
Clip 3
“Who is it?
Maria Teresa, he's a Doctor, a friend.
You've brought a Doctor to see if your sister is insane?
No, you don't believe me. It's not enough for you to see what they did to me. They wanted to kill me by murdering me without leaving a trace. That's why they gave me those powders. That way I'd wake up in my grave and die from suffocation. And from the horror of being inside a coffin.. But, I figured that out soon enough. None of their stuff is a secret to me. I've heard them talk through the tunnels. One day, they discovered me, and wanted to kill Me. They're vampires, both of them. The swine has come to unbury that one... the one in the crypt. The only way to finish with them is by killing them in their sleep. Sticking a wood stake in their chest. Do what I say, before it's too late.
I'm not mad.
I'm afraid.
I'm not mad.”
In "Curse of the Demon" a.k.a. "Night of the Demon" 1957 we explore the dark and satanic dominion of Dr. Julian Karswell played by Niall MacGinnis as he sets about making believers of those who doubt his powers. The Director Jacques Tourneur displays his exceptional experience as he creates this entertaining film using suspense, music, cinematography, special effects and talented actors. The movie reminds us of Mr. Tourneur's "Cat People" from 1942.
Dana Andrews plays Dr. John Holden the Psychologist who investigates Dr. Karswell, Peggy Cummins is Joanna Harrington the niece of a victim of Dr. Karswell's curse, Professor Mark O'Brien played by Liam Redmond is a colleague of Dr. Holden, Brian Wilde is Rand Hobart a farmer who suffers from the influence of Dr. Karswell and additional cast members add to the story. Apparently the makers of the film disagreed about how the Demon should be shown. Over the years we have watched the film many times and always find it enjoyable.
Here’s the IMDB page for “Curse Of The Demon”
Up next “El Vampiro”
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Distributed in the United States by Crown International Pictures "The Silent Star" 1960 is a science fiction film based on Stanislaw Lem's 1951 novel The Astronauts. The Director is Kurt Maetzig who made several films in East Germany. The movie was also released in several versions and titles such as "First Spaceship on Venus".
In this well produced film there is a diverse crew representing India, Japan, the USSR, Africa, the USA and other countries. They travel to Venus and unravel the mystery behind scientific equipment found in the Gobi Desert and made from materials believed to be from Venus. The spacecraft crew includes Gunther Simon as Pilot Robert Brinkman, Yoko Tani as Dr. Sumiko Ogimura the Medical Officer, Oldrich Lukes as the Mission Commander Professor Harringway and Kurt Rackelmann as Professor Sikama the Mathematician. Join this diverse crew as they encounter the perils of a Venusian civilization that vanished long ago.
Watch the movie on YouTube for free, at least at the time of this post!
The clip at the very end is from “amyswildliving” TikTok account.
Here’s the IMDB page for “First Spaceship On Venus”
Episodes post two weeks early over on Patreon. We finished up our month of scary movies with “El Vampiro” on Halloween eve. That episode will come out mid-November here. Then we’re moving into a month of classic Sci-Fi. Head over to Patreon and check out the tiers available there to help support the show and listen earlier to the episode. Plus… bonus episodes not available on this feed. Thank you for listening!
From 1967 "Viy" or (Spirit of Evil) is a film from the USSR and Communist Party era. It was the first horror film officially released during Soviet rule and was distributed by Mosfilm the film studio established in 1920. Konstantin Yershov and Georgi Kropachyov were the two Directors.
Leonid Kuravlyov as Khoma Brutus is the seminary student who encounters the witch Pannochka played by Natalya Varley. Both lead actors continue to have careers in the Russian Federation. Included in the large cast are many actors as other seminary students who behave badly, the autocratic Rector of the seminary and a host of characters that aid the witch. The film purports to be a folktale with political overtones of life before the formation of the USSR. The movie is a rare view of 1960's movie making in the USSR.
Here's a link to the Serbian version of Viy on YouTube.
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"The Conversation" 1974 is a mystery drama from Francis Ford Coppola. As Screenwriter, Producer and Director Mr. Coppola created an excellent film that was nominated for three Academy Awards including Best Picture. It lost the Best Picture award to "The Godfather II" another film from Mr. Coppola.
Gene Hackman plays Harry Caul a well-known surveillance professional. During an assignment he discovers a possible murder plot involving a couple and a CEO. In the past Harry's recordings may have resulted in the murder of three people and that memory haunts him. Because of that experience and other events Harry leads a solitary life focused on work and playing his saxophone. This engaging film is enhanced by Cindy Williams as Ann and Frederic Forrest as Mark who are the couple at the center of the mystery. Harrison Ford as Martin Stett, Robert Duvall as the Director and the entire cast and music by David Shire contributes to this outstanding film.
Peter Hyams was the Screenwriter and Director of Capricorn One 1978.
NASA is about to launch the first crew to Mars. Three Astronautics are strapped in the spacecraft. However, Dr. James Kelloway a NASA executive played by Hal Holbrook knows the craft's life support system will fail killing all onboard. The three Astronauts are ordered off the spacecraft and forced to fake the mission. Dr. Kelloway's massive cover-up is meant to deceive the President, Congress and public.
James Brolin as Colonel Charles Brubaker, Sam Waterston as Lieutenant Colonel Peter Willis and O.J. Simpson as Commander John Walker must participate in the plot. The three escape and are chased through the unforgiving desert. Brenda Vaccaro as Kay Brubaker has key information about the cover-up. Elliott Gould as Robert Caulfield the investigative journalist faces murder attempts. He uncovers the plot with help from Judy Drinkwater played by Karen Black. The elaborate conspiracy and excellent music by Jerry Goldsmith makes for an engaging movie.
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In "Three Days of the Condor" released in 1975 Joe Turner played by Robert Redford finds himself in a nightmare of murder, double crosses, a secret plan for involvement in a foreign country to protect oil supplies and a cynical view of democratic processes. Director Sydney Pollack, Producer Stanley Schneider and the screenwriting team of Lorenzo Semple Jr. and David Rayfiel have created a convoluted mystery that captures aspects of the 1970's political scene.
Faye Dunaway plays Kathy Hale who is forcefully recruited to help Joe Turner, Cliff Robertson as Higgins is pushed and pulled between opposing groups within the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), Max von Sydow as Joubert is every bit as cunning as the Jackal in "The Day of the Jackal" (Episode 156) and John Houseman as a CIA heavy hitter who means business. Hank Garrett as the Mailman brings new meaning to mail delivery. Dave Grusin's musical score fits the film's mood. Listen in to a fast paced espionage caper.
This episode contains adult themes and dialog
"Klute" 1971 is the first installment in Director Alan Pakula's paranoid trilogy. The other two films are "The Parallax View" 1974 and "All the President's Men" 1976.
"Klute" is a neo film noir murder thriller with dark and foreboding elements. The film takes us into the life of Bree Daniels prostitute and aspiring model/actress played by Jane Fonda. As Bree, Ms. Fonda won the Academy Award for Best Actress. The film explores Bree's life and possible involvement in the disappearance of a Pennsylvania company executive while in New York City.
Peter Cable played by Charles Cioffinot is a friend of the missing person and hires John Klute played by Donald Sutherland to investigate the disappearance. "Klute" and Bree become entangled in the investigation and three murders that are somehow connected. Roy Scheider as the pimp Frank Ligourin, Rita Gam as Trina and Vivian Nathan as the Psychiatrist are among the excellent cast for this tense and entertaining movie.
The mood and tension is ratched up with the music of Michael Small and the cinematography by Gordon Willis.
We keep this episode spoiler-free and resist the urge to talk about the ending. You’ll need to watch the film to find out what happens.
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"Mad Monster Party" 1967 is a stop motion film from Rankin-Bass Productions. This delightful musical comedy brings us movie monsters Frankenstein, Count Dracula, the Mummy, Quasimodo, the Werewolf, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, "It" and more as they plan and plot on the Isle of Evil. Baron Boris von Frankenstein voiced by Boris Karloff has perfected the weapon of total destruction. The Baron wants to gather the monsters on the Isle to tell them of the weapon and his upcoming retirement as head of the "Worldwide Organization of Monsters".
Alan Swift voices 15 characters including Felix Flanken the Baron's bumbling nephew, Phyllis Diller as the Bride of Frankenstein, Gale Garnett as Francesca the Baron's assistant, and Ethel Ennis who sings the title song all create a fun movie. We learn that events don't go well when this crew inhabits the Isle of Evil. Enjoy!
From 1947 "My Favorite Brunette" is a fast paced film noir parody that showcases the comedic talents of Bob Hope. The film is a part of a long list of films featuring Mr. Hope. "The Ghost Breakers" 1940 that we reviewed in our Podcast 127 and "My Favorite Blonde" 1942 are only a sample of the many comedies from Bob Hope.
Bob Hope plays child photographer and detective "wannabe" Ronnie Jackson, Dorothy Lamour is the beautiful Baroness Carlotta Montay who hires Ronnie thinking he is a real detective, Peter Lorre as Kismet the knife throwing henchman for Major Simon Montague played by Charles Dingle and we cannot forget Lon Chaney, Jr. as Willie the strong and friendly member of Montague's gang. Alan Ladd and Bing Crosby add fun cameos. The one-liners are delivered at a rapid pace. We hope you enjoy the film and the keyhole lens that saves the day.
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"The Green Man" from 1956 is a drama-comedy film based on the play Meet a Body. Directed by Robert Day and Basil Dearden the movie tells the story of the freelance assassin Harry Hawkins played by Alastair Sim. Hawkins specializes in the use of explosives to accomplish his assignments. Alastair Sim is ideally cast in the role as he goes about his murderous work that culminates at the seaside hotel "The Green Man". A special thank you to guest Arthur Sculco who selected another excellent film for the podcast.
Rounding out the cast is George Cole as the vacuum cleaner sales person William Blake, Jill Adams as Ann Vincent, Sir Gregory Upshott an upcoming victim of Hawkins played by Raymond Huntley, the hilarious Charles Boughtflower played by Terry Thomas, Avril Angers as Marigold, Cyril Chamberlain as Police Sergeant Bassett and a large supporting cast. There is much happening at "The Green Man" hotel. Enjoy!
Here’s the IMDB page for “The Green Man”
Up next it’s “Mad Monster Party?”
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"On the Waterfront" 1954 is from Columbia Pictures. Director Elia Kazan and screenwriter Budd Schulberg created this crime drama and love story starring Marlon Brando as Terry Malloy and Eva Marie Saint as Edie Doyle. The movie centers on corruption, extortion and racketeering on the waterfronts of New York Harbor and the growing love between Terry and Eva. The film's story is partly modeled after real people and events involved in corruption investigations. A critical and financial success the film won eight Academy Awards including Best Picture.
In the cast is Lee J. Cobb as union boss Michael J. Skelly, Rod Steiger as Charley "the Gent" Malloy, Father Barry played by Karl Malden, Leif Erickson as Lead Investigator for the Crime Commission and a sizeable and talented group of actors. The outstanding music by Leonard Bernstein and cinematography from Boris Kaufman are world class. The confrontation in the car between Terry Malloy and his brother Charley Malloy is one of the greatest scenes ever captured on film.
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What might happen to a crew member if required to jump, without a parachute, from a badly damaged British plane during World War II. This is the situation presented in "A Matter of Life and Death" 1946 a film selected by our guest Arthur Sculco. The duo of Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger wrote, produced and directed this beautifully photographed film.
Squadron Leader Peter David Carter played by David Niven exits the plane and free falls to a beach on the English coast. Conductor 71 played by Marius Goring is sent to guide Peter to the Other World but misses him in the thick fog. Peter is granted the opportunity to present an appeal that he should continue to live and not be taken to the next world. Peter also falls in love with June played by Kim Hunter and is aided by Dr. Frank Reeves played by Roger Livesey faces off against Abraham Farlan played by Raymond Massey. There are many fine performances in this outstanding film.
Here's a link to the film on YouTube.
Here's a link to an interview with Martin Scorsese.
Here's a link to TCM comments on the film.
Here's a link to a trailer for the 4K restoration of the film (only in 1080p on YouTube).
Director Michael Powell brings us the 1941 film "49th Parallel". Thanks to our guest Arthur Sculco who selected this excellent film for the podcast. Emeric Pressburger developed the original story and wrote the screenplay. Mr. Pressburger said, "Goebbels considered himself an expert on propaganda, but I thought I'd show him a thing or two." The film accomplishes this as it shows the treachery of most of the raiding party of six Kriegsmarine sailors from the German submarine compared to the strong character of a variety of Canadians.
What a lineup of stars. There is Laurence Olivier as Johnnie-the Trapper, Peter the Hutterite leader played by Anton Walbrook, Glynis Johns as the teenager Anna, Leslie Howard as Phillip Armstrong Scott the writer who subdues one of the Germans, Eric Portman is the barbaric German leader Lieutenant Hirth and Raymond Massey as Andy Brock the Canadian soldier who successfully matches wits with Hirth. In part the film was intended to send a message to the then neutral United States.
Maggie Smith gives the performance of a lifetime in "The Prime Of Miss Jean Brodie". She plays the titular character backed up by an outstanding supporting cast led by Pamela Franklin, Robert Stephens, Gordon Jackson and Celia Johnson. The "Brodie Set" or "Brodie Girls" are played to perfection by Pamela Franklin, Diane Grayson, Jane Carr and Shirley Steedman.
SPOILER ALERT
We highly recommend that you watch this film before listening to the podcast. We talk about the ending, and if you haven't seen the film before, you'll do yourself a favor by watching the film and then coming back to listen to the episode.
There is much to unpack with a character as complex as Jean Brodie, so to help us do some of the unpacking we're happy to welcome Arthur Sculco to the show as our guest and Tier 4 Patron. We do our best to reveal the nuance to her character and how she can be viewed from many different perspectives.
Thank you Arthur for joining us!
We hope you enjoy the roller coaster journey that is "The Prime Of Miss Jean Brodie".
Do you want to join us on the show in the future? We have two Tier 4 spots left. We'd love to have you as a guest on an upcoming show!
Do you want to join us on the show in the future? We have two Tier 4 spots left. We'd love to have you as a guest on an upcoming show! Visit over at patreon.com/classicmoviereviews/ to learn more.
Here’s the IMDB page for “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie”
Up next is “The 49th Parallel”
Also available now over on our Patreon are:
Episode 167 - Duel (available for Tiers 2 and above)
Episode 168 - The 49th Parallel (available for all Tiers)
Episode 169 - Close Encounters of the Third Kind (available for Tiers 3 and 4)
From the 1952 short story by Daphne du Maurier, "The Birds" 1963 is a film that centers on surprising and aggressive bird attacks in and around the seacoast town of Bodega Bay, California. The movie also deals with complex family relationships and the growing romance between the wealthy and sophisticated Melanie Daniels played by Tippi Hedren and Rod Taylor as the handsome and eligible bachelor Mitch Brenner. Director Alfred Hitchcock uses the characters, location, music and special effects to unfold a tale of drama and terror.
Also in the film are Academy Award winner Jessica Tandy as Mitch's mother Lydia Brenner, Suzanne Pleshette as a teacher and Mitch's friend Annie Hayworth, Veronica Cartwright as Mitch's sister Cathy Brenner, Charles McGraw as Sebastian Sholes a fishing boat operator and many other excellent cast members. As the movie progresses we wonder what caused the bird attacks and are they wide spread. The movie is another example of Alfred Hitchcock's creative talent for filmmaking.
Here’s the IMDB page for “The Birds”
Up next, it’s “The Prime of Miss Jean Brody” the first of four films in our British/UK film festival.
“The Prime of Miss Jean Brody” is available now on our Patreon.
Also available over on Patreon we have:
“Jaws”
“Duel”
“49th Parallel”
“Jaws” and “Duel” are Patron only episodes.
Head on over to patreon.com/classicmoviereviews to check out all the exclusives and sign up to help support the show!
"The Stranger" 1946 is a film noir involving the United Nations War Crimes Commission search for the notorious Nazi Franz Kindler, also know as Professor Charles Rankin, as played be Orson Welles. Mr. Welles is also the Director of the movie. For the first time in a Hollywood commercial movie documentary footage of the Holocaust death camps is shown and the horrific scenes play a pivotal role in the film.
Edward G. Robinson plays Mr. Wilson the War Crimes Commission Detective who successfully locates Franz Kindler in the fictitious town of Harper, Connecticut. Loretta Young as Mary Longstreet marries Franz Kindler alias Charles Rankin. As the film progresses she learns a great deal more about Kindler. Richard Long as Noah Longstreet is an important player in the unfolding drama. A favorite character is Mr. Potter the general store owner and town gossip played by Billy House. The film is full of Orson Welles creative touches that add to the mood and suspense of this excellent film.
This was part of our virtual film festival and was supposed to be published as Episode 156. Well... better late than never!
Here’s the IMDB page for “The Stranger”
Available now on Patreon:
Episode 163 - Rear Window (Tiers 2, 3 and 4)
Episode 164 - The Birds (all Tiers)
Episode 165 - Jaws (Tiers 3 and 4)
Episode 166 - The Prime Of Miss Jean Brodie (all Tiers)
Join us over on Patreon and help support the show!
"Taxi Driver" from 1976 is a film noir drama set in New York City with some foreboding scenes occurring at night and in the rain. Director Martin Scorsese created a movie that is a success both critically and financially. Paul Schrader wrote the movie. Bernard Hermann did the score, his very last film before passing away prior to the film’s release. The film was nominated for four Academy Awards, Best Picture, Best Actor (Robert De Niro), Best Supporting Actress (Jodie Foster) and Best Original Music Score. The film did not win in any of these categories.
Robert De Niro is Travis Bickle the former Marine who struggles to adapt to the city, Jodie Foster as the 12 year old Iris, Harvey Keitel as Sport the street smart brothel owner, Cybill Shepherd plays Betsy and Albert Brooks is Tom who works with Betsy in Presidential candidate Senator Palantine's, played by Leonard Harris, New York City office. Also included in the excellent cast is Peter Boyle as Wizard and Richard Higgs as the Tall Secret Service Man. We hope you enjoy "Taxi Driver".
Here’s the IMDB page for “Taxi Driver”
Up next, and available now over on our Patreon, is “The Stranger” directed by and starring Orson Wells.
Also available on Patreon is “Chinatown” starring Jack Nicholson.
We conclude our review of "Blade Runner" from 1982.
Wow, what a great film.
Also, I apologize for pronouncing "Brion James" as "Biron James" the whole time. Not sure what I was thinking - Matt
"Blade Runner" opened in theaters in 1982. Director Ridley Scott creates a cityscape of Los Angeles in 2019. The film has many aspects of film noir blended into a future where synthetic humans or replicants are produced to work on planets, asteroids and other objects scattered throughout space. These replicants are prohibited from being on Earth. When four Nexus-6 replicants escape back to Earth, Rick Deckard played by Harrison Ford is persuaded to hunt them. Deckard is a former police officer and now a "Blade Runner" who is authorized to eliminate or "retire" the four fugitives. The four replicants are Roy Batty the leader played by Rutger Hauer, Pris - Daryl Hannah, Leon Kowalski - Brion James and Zhora Salome - Joanna Cassidy. Sean Young plays Rachael an employee of the Tyrell Corporation makers of replicants. Deckard and Rachael form a bond that is a key part of the film. As a part of our April 11 and 12, 2020 virtual film festival we watched the final cut of the film that is, in our opinion, the best of the seven versions of "Blade Runner". Enjoy this exciting film.
Here’s the IMDB page for “Blade Runner”
Part 2 will be released next week OR you can head over to our Patreon page and listen to Part 2 right now for free. Be sure to check out the Patron only episodes and benefits and consider supporting the show over on Patreon.
Up next, a Patron only episode of “Once Upon A Time In The West”
And then we review the legendary or infamous “Taxi Driver”
Frederick Forsyth's 1971 novel "Day of the Jackal" is brought to life in Director Fred Zinnemann's 1973 film of the same name. The fast paced political drama starts with the 1962 failed assassination attempt of French President Charles de Gaulle. Subsequently the Secret Army Organization (OAS) hires an independent assassin with the code name "Jackal". He may or may not be British, but it is clear that he is an effective and deadly sociopath who stops at nothing to achieve the President's death. To counter the "Jackal", Deputy Police Commissioner Claude Lebel is placed in charge and leads the effort to find and kill the assassin.
Edward Fox as the Jackal provides an excellent portrayal of this highly organized and obsessed paid killer. The acclaimed actor Michael Lonsdale is Commissioner Lebel. The large cast includes Alan Badel as the Minister, Olga Georges-Picot as Denise, Caron played by Derek Jacobi and many French and British actors in thoroughly believable roles. Join us in the pursuit of the "Jackal".
In the 1951 movie "The Lavender Hill Mob" four men, led by Alec Guinness as Henry "Dutch" Holland, plan and carry out the robbery of a load of gold bullion worth several million pounds. Director Charles Crichton has created one of the best British films as ranked by the British Film Institute.
This heist movie is brought to life by the marvelous acting of Alex Guinness and Stanley Holloway as Alfred "Al" Pendlebury. Contributing to the action are Sid James as Lackery Wood, Marjorie Fielding as Mrs. Chalk, Shorty Fisher played by Alflie Bass, Edie Martin as Miss Evesham and an armored car load of other excellent actors. Henry Holland is not an unambitious bank clerk, but the mastermind behind the robbery of millions. Have a good time as we visit about the mob.
“Bawarchi” (The Chef) 1972 takes us to Shanti Niwas (abode of peace) where we meet the large Sharma family. Director Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s film tells the story of the squabbling Sharma family headed by the eccentric Daduji played by Harindranath Chattopadhyay. Daduji’s personality leads to frequent turnover in the cook job. Moreover, the family difficulties also add to the problem of retaining staff.
The situation is changed when Raghu played by Rajesh Khanna (the first superstar of India cinema) shows up and is hired as the cook. He meets the many challenges within the family and begins the process of bringing the family back together. The cast of Jaya Bhaduri as Krishna Sharma, Usha Kiran as Shobha Sharma, Ramnath Sharma played by A.K. Hangal, Asrani as Vishwanath Sharam and several others make this movie an engaging and enjoyable learning experience for us. We hope you will enjoy this film and its view of life within the Sharma family.
Here’s the IMDB page for “Bawarchi”
Up next it’s “The Lavender Hill Mod” starring Alex Guinness and Stanley Holloway. This episode is available now for Patrons over on Patreon.
After that it’s “The Day of the Jackal” a tightly written, acted and directed thriller.
Support the show by becoming a Patron
Hello!
We have some exciting announcements.
The first announcement is that we are offering a new Patreon Tier 4.
Join us on the show! Become an Associate Programmer!
In addition to all the benefits of Tiers 1 through 3, you'll be an Associate Programmer for the show. Once every three months you'll:
Choose a theme for the show
Choose one movie that we'll review in that theme
Be interviewed, either over phone or FaceTime, or in writing over email. We'll include clips from the interview in the episode for the movie you've chosen.
This is your chance to become part of the show on a regular basis.
We look forward to having you join us!
So do join us... on Tier 4!
NOTE: You must be a Tier 4 Patron for three consecutive months to be eligible for these benefits. You'll receive the benefits of Tier 4, 4 times a year. Tier 4 is limited to 4 Patrons.
The second announcement is that we're hosting a virtual film festival.
Join us on Netflix Party on April 11th and 12th as we watch three classic films together.
The line up is:
April 11 at 10am PST - The Stranger
April 11 at 1pm PST - Monty Python and the Holy Grail
April 12 at 10am PST - Blade Runner 1982
Netflix Party is a free extension for the Chrome web browser. It allows us to watch a movie at the same time and to chat online during the movie. The links to the Party will be sent out on Patreon, Facebook and posted to our website.
So join us on Saturday April 11th and Sunday April 12th for our first ever virtual film festival.
We hope that you and your family and loved ones are staying safe and healthy. All the best.
Bob and Matt
Gwen Terasaki’s 1957 autobiography is the basis for “Bridge to the Sun” 1961. Director Etienne Perier creates a realistic film of the marriage and life of Gwen Harold from Tennessee and Hidenari Terasaki a Japanese diplomat stationed in Washington, D.C. Against the advise of several people Gwen and Hidenari marry in 1935. They have a daughter Mako. Following the 1941 attack at Pearl Harbor.
Japanese and U.S. diplomatic staffs are exchanged. Gwen with Mako decides to go to Japan and be reunited with Hidenari.
The film follows the Terasaki’s life during and after the war years in Japan. The film provides a portrayal of political intrigue and distrust, death of family and friends, life at a subsistence level, the love between Gwen and Hidenari and their concern for Mako. The war takes a toll on everyone especially Hidenari. Carroll Baker plays Gwen Terasaki, James Shigeta as Hidenari Terasaki, Mako played by Emi Florence Hirsch and other cast members make for a powerful movie about interracial marriage and the war.
Here’s the IMDB page for “Bridge to the Sun”
Available now over on Patreon Tier 3 is our bonus show “The Invisible Man 1933” and “The Invisible Man 2020”
After that we return with “Bawarchi” available on Netflix streaming, described as “A dysfunctional middle-class family is transformed by the attentions of their talented new chef -- until he vanishes along with their valuable jewels.” Released in India in 1972 it is a wonderful and charming film about the importance of family and noticing the small things in life.
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“Farewell to Manzanar” is an excellent NBC television movie from 1976. The film is based on an autobiography written by Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston and James D. Houston. The movie tells the story of seven-year-old Jeanne Wakasuki and her family’s internment at Manzanar in 1942 following the bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.
On February 19, 1942 President Roosevelt issued Executive Order 9066. That order authorized the creation of the War Relocation Authority and subsequently many internment camps and other facilities located in several parts of the country. One such internment camp was Manzanar. Under the direction of John Korty the cast of Yuki Shimoda as Ko Wakatsuki, Nobu McCarthy as Misa/Jeanne Wakatsuki, Young Jeanne played by Dori Takeshita, Mako as Fukimoto, Zenahiro played by Pat Morita and many other fine actors bring to life the dramatic and tragic story of Manzanar.
Here's a link to "Farewell to Manzanar" on YouTube (may be inactive so just search for the movie title if that's the case)
Here's a link to an interview with Pat Morita on YouTube
Check us out on Patreon at www.patreon.com/classicmoviereviews for even more content and bonus shows.
“Cover Girl” released in 1944 is a Technicolor musical that highlights the beautiful dancing of Rita Hayworth and Gene Kelly’s choreography and dancing genius. Director Charles Vidor gives Mr. Kelly the opportunity to create several wonderful dance sequences including the “Alter-Ego Dance” and a sound stage dance along an entire street that was accomplished in one take. It was a foreshadowing of the marvelous rain scene in “Singin’ in the Rain” from 1952 Episode 20. In addition, the movie gives us the popular original song “Long Ago (and Far Away).
Rita Hayworth is the talented Rusty Parker and Maribelle Hicks, Gene Kelly as nightclub owner Danny McGuire, Phil Silvers is the comedic Genius, Eve Arden as Cornelia “Stonewall” Jackson, Otto Kruger as magazine editor John Coudair and musical producer Noel Wheaton played by Lee Bowman lead a cast of talented and committed dancers and singers. Interestingly Gene Kelly reprised the Danny McGuire character 36 years later in “Xanadu”.
Released in March of 1944 “Cover Girl” went on to become a huge success and a welcome relief from the horrors of World War II. Enjoy this engaging film.
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”Farewell to Manzanar” from 1976 is our upcoming podcast Episode 150. Prior to that podcast we provide some background on the internment of people during World War II.
On February 19, 1942 President Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066 – Authorizing the Secretary of War to Prescribe Military Areas – to prevent possible acts of espionage and sabotage. Executive Order 9066 empowered the military to determine what people and areas to include and the ways to accomplish the goal.
Based on the Executive Order The War Relocation Authority was created in March 1942. In addition, 10 Relocation Centers, 18 Civilian Assembly Centers, 9 Justice Department Detention Camps, 3 Citizen Isolation Centers, 3 Federal Bureau of Prisons locations, 18 U.S. Army Facilities and 7 Immigration & Naturalization Service Facilities were operational.
Here’s a link to an interview with George Takei
Here’s a link to “Farewell to Manzanar” on YouTube
Check us out on Patreon at www.patreon.com/classicmoviereviews for even more content and bonus shows.
“An American in Paris” from 1951 is one of the many excellent films starring Gene Kelly. The movie won six Academy Awards including Best Picture. We reviewed two other Gene Kelly films “On the Town” 1949, Episode 2 and “Singin’ in the Rain” 1952, Episode 20. Director Vincent Minnelli had a long and productive career and his leadership shows in this film and the musical numbers.
Gene Kelly as the war veteran and artist Jerry Mulligan, Leslie Caron, in her first movie role, as Lise Bouvier, Oscar Levant as the excellent pianist and foil Adam Cook, Nina Foch as Milo Roberts the admirer of Jerry and his art and Georges Guetary as Henri Baurel with a truly beautiful voice blend together for an enjoyable adventure in Paris. Also a cast of neighborhood children, dancers and party revelers provides additional fun in many scenes.
The music and lyrics of George and Ira Gershwin and additional music by Saul Chaplin is excellent and memorable. Please join us as we journey to post war Paris in "An American in Paris"
Here’s the IMDB page for “An American in Paris”
Up next we review “Cover Girl” from 1944. A spectacular musical by Warner Bros. That episode is available now on Patreon. And we also have an episode on “Farewell to Manzanar”. It’s Part 1 of 2 and is exclusive to our Patrons at Tier 3.
Support us on Patreon!
We take a virtual tour of Astoria and discuss some of the 400 films made in Oregon. Astoria is our starting point and there is much to cover in this beautiful city of 10,000 on the banks of the Columbia River and near the Pacific Ocean. The Astoria Oregon Tourist Bureau at www.travelastoria.com has information on the area. A special place is the Oregon Film Museum www.oregonfilmmuseum.org located in the old Clatsop County Jail.
There are many interesting places to visit in and around Astoria such as Fort Clatsop where Lewis & Clark wintered in 1805-1806 and the ocean front towns of Cannon Beach and Seaside. Fun places in Astoria include the Columbia River Maritime Museum, RiverSea Gallery, the Astoria Riverfront Trolley and walking the waterfront. The hotels are plentiful as are the restaurants among them the Wet Dog Café located along the Trolley line.
Films made in Oregon before 1980 include “The Fisherman’s Bride” 1908, “A Nugget in the Rough” 1917, “The General” 1926, “Lost Horizon” 1937, “Abe Lincoln in Illinois” 1940, “Bend of the River” 1952, “Paint Your Wagon” 1969 and “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” 1975. We hope you enjoy our tour.
Here’s a link to the Buster Keaton “The General” on YouTube
Background music courtesy of Relax Meditation Music’s channel on YouTube
Check us out on Patreon at www.patreon.com/classicmoviereviews for even more content and bonus shows.
1939 was the year when many of the finest films were made. Films from that year include “Gone with the Wind”; “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington”; “Goodbye, Mr. Chips”; “Stagecoach”; and “Dark Victory”. For our podcast we discuss another of the excellent films from 1939, “The Wizard of Oz”. Director Victor Fleming did a masterful job bringing L. Frank Baum’s 1900 children’s fantasy to the screen. King Vidor took over some of the work when Mr. Fleming was called to direct “Gone with the Wind”. Together both Directors left us with an amazing film that is as engaging today as it was over 80 years ago.
The cast is excellent. Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale, Frank Morgan playing five characters, Ray Bolger as The Scarecrow, The Tin Man played by Jack Haley, Bert Lahr as the Cowardly Lion, The Wicked Witch of the West played by Margaret Hamilton, Billie Burke as Glinda, Dorothy’s dog Toto and many more fine performances.
Everything about the film is outstanding - the sepia tone color in the opening scenes, the big storm, the Technicolor, the Munchkins, the costumes and the wonderful music make this a favorite for millions of people including us.
Here's a link to the IMDB page for "The Wizard of Oz"
Over on Patreon we have a special episode on the film history of Astoria, Oregon. And available 2 weeks early is our review of “An American in Paris”.
And as we mentioned in this episode, here's a link to "Farewell to Manzanar" on YouTube, which is a film that we will be reviewing a few more episodes.
Become a Patron!
Support us over on Patreon!
This is a bit different than our regular show and we go into quite a bit of depth on our feelings about race and nationalism in film.
The episode consists of an opening by Matt followed by an excerpt from our "Yankee Doodle Dandy" episode and the closes out with some comments by Matt.
In our recent podcasts we have reviewed films that began the long and continuing journey to broaden diversity in movies. In our view this shift is welcome, overdue and needs to continue.
In Episode 143 we have a discussion of the gradual shift in movie themes. Also, the recent podcasts have opened our eyes to the lack of diversity in the majority of films from the silent era through 1979. Our podcasts reach back from 1979 to earlier films and as we have watched many of these movies our perspective on them has changed.
If we compare some silent era films to some films from the 1970’s we see a budding awareness of the rich and important fabric of people from different backgrounds and beliefs. However, the history of this change is certainly an area that is open to a variety of views and deserves serious discussions. This same history and journey is also seen in other aspects of life not just movies.
Here are links to the articles and YouTube videos mentioned in the episode:
Celebrating 100 Years of Black Cinema
Early African American Film
A short history of black US indie cinema
28 Days, 28 Films for Black History Month
YouTube:
1930s Harlem, New York City (Speed corrected w/ soundtrack)
New York City early 1900s
Check us out on Patreon at www.patreon.com/classicmoviereviews for even more content and bonus shows.
With its theatrical release a few months after the Pearl Harbor attack of December 7, 1941, “Yankee Doodle Dandy” from 1942 is a tribute to the musical career of George M. Cohan. This is a well-crafted and patriotic film. Michael Curtiz had a career as Director of over 150 films in Europe and then the U.S. He left no stone unturned when it came to putting this movie together.
James Cagney as George M. Cohan embodies the patriotic fervor of the time and gives a performance that earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor and revived his career. Mary Cohan played by Joan Leslie is a composite of Mr. Cohan’s two wives. Walter Huston as Jerry Cohan, Rosemary DeCamp as Nellie Cohan, Richard Whorf as Sam Harris, Jeanne Cagney as Josie Cohan and a fine cast add to the film’s story and more than twenty musical numbers.
While watching the film we reminded ourself to view it from the perspective of 1942 and not 2020. The film was nominated for 8 Academy Awards and won in 3 categories.
Here's the IMDB page for "Yankee Doodle Dandy"
Here's the IMDB page for "The Wizard of Oz”
Here's the IMDB page for "An American In Paris"
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“Sounder” the 1972 film is set in 1933 during the Great Depression. The Morgan’s are a family of sharecroppers in Louisiana who face the devastating effects of a scarcity of food. Director Martin Ritt is masterful in telling this story and it is one of his many excellent films.
Arrest, prison time, segregation, unrelenting work demands and low crop prices are all factors for the family. Through all of this the family shares a strong bound of love and survival to keep their farm. Together Cicely Tyson as Rebecca Morgan and Paul Winfield as Nathan Lee Morgan are the mother and father of a proud family.
Kevin Hooks as young son David Lee embarks alone on a journey to find Nathan Lee who is serving prison time at a work camp. David Lee is helped and sheltered by the devoted teacher Camille played by Janet MacLachlan. Carmen Matthews as neighbor Mrs. Boatwright, Taj Mahal as Ike and a strong cast help shape the story. James Best as Sheriff Young represents the 1930’s political structure within the Parish.
“Sounder” was both a critical and financial success. It was nominated for these four Academy Awards-Best Picture, Best Actress, Best Actor and Best Writing (Screenplay-based on material from another medium). The film stands the test of time.
Up next we have the first of four musicals "Yankee Doodle Dandy"
Here's the IMDB page for "Sounder"
Here's a link to "Sounder" on YouTube
Here's a link to Cicely Tyson's interview about "Sounder" on YouTube
Check us out on Patreon at www.patreon.com/classicmoviereviews for even more content and bonus shows.
From 1959 “Odds Against Tomorrow” is a taut and foreboding film about a bank robbery, racial hatred and human weakness that many people think is also an allegory for the cold war tension at that time between the U.S. and U.S.S.R. Director Robert Wise selected early spring of March 1959 and creative cinematography using black and white film to successfully capture a cold, bleak feel of impending doom. This is film noir at a high level.
Burke played by Ed Begley is the ruined, former police officer who uses every means available to get Harry Belafonte as Ingram the debt ridden and angry musician and Robert Ryan as Slater the embittered and racist ex-convict to join together for a bank heist in a small town two hours north of New York City. Burke has spent considerable time planning the perfect robbery that doesn’t follow his plan.
Included in the excellent cast are Shelly Winters as Lorry, Will Kuluva as Bacco, Gloria Grahame as Helen, Kim Hamilton as Ruth and an unnamed soldier played by Wayne Rogers. All of the cast members deliver excellent and believable performances that add to the films realism. Another outstanding movie from Robert Wise and one that we highly recommend.
Here's the IMDB page for "Odds Against Tomorrow"
The film is available for free on YouTube (at least as of this posting).
Here's an excellent interview with Harry Belafonte regarding this movie.
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5
Up next, we’re reviewing the beloved “Sounder” from 1972. That review is available exclusively to our Patrons at Tier 2 and 3 over on Patreon right now! And then we’re headed into a series of four musicals starting with “Yankee Doodle Dandy”. That’s also available to Patrons at all Tier levels two weeks early.
Help support the show and become a Patron!
We go back in time to 1939 to watch “Harlem Rides the Range”. The Producer and Director Richard C. Kahn made low budget films as the second movie on a double feature. “Harlem Rides the Range” is among a small group of movies featuring an all black cast. Riding together, Herb Jeffries as Bob Blake and Lucius Brooks as Dusty fight crime on the range. A catchphrase was “men of action blaze a trail of love and lead as law and order comes to the old west”.
Mr. Jeffries’ movie career was from the 1930’s into the 1970’s. He was a successful singer with several musical groups including Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington. Members of the cast include F.E. Miller as Slim Perkins (the Cook), Artie Young as Miss Margaret Dennison and the villain Bradley played by Clarence Brooks. The Four Tones supply a musical backdrop for Mr. Jeffries’ singing. We must not forget Bob Blake’s beautiful horse “Stardusk”. The overall package is similar to many of the larger studio movies starring Gene Autry, Tex Ritter and others.
This film along with a handful of other movies including “Harlem on the Prairie” 1937 and “Rhythm Rodeo” 1938 were successful. As a footnote, “Harlem on the Range” was shown on TV on December 1, 1939 on the New York City pioneer/experimental television station W2XBS. Enjoy and Happy Holidays.
Here's the IMDB page for "Harlem Rides The Range"
And you can watch this film for free on YouTube. Here's a link to a decent quality version and a very watchable transfer. There are about a dozen different versions on YouTube to chose from. There are about a dozen different versions on YouTube to chose from.
Up next we travel to cold and bleak New York City for "Odds Against Tomorrow".
Check us out on Patreon at www.patreon.com/classicmoviereviews for even more content and bonus shows.
In the Heat of the Night” from 1967 takes us to the small town of Sparta, Mississippi and the suspicion, tension and conflict surrounding the murder of Phillip Colbert a wealthy business owner who is building a manufacturing facility in the community.
Director Norman Jewison weaves together a drama of mystery, race relations, dangerous misunderstandings, statutory rape, abortion and resistance to change against the backdrop of the 1960’s in the U.S. Virgil Tibbs played by Sidney Poitier and Rod Steiger as Police Chief Gillespie have a relationship that travels from anger and control to a grudgingly hard won respect for each other. Several films from Mr. Poitier’s exceptional career have been presented in our earlier podcasts of “To Sir, with Love” Episode 27, “No Way Out” Episode 87, “The Defiant Ones” Episode 101 and “Lilies of the Field” Episode 106. In addition, for his performance as Chief Gillespie Mr. Steiger won the Academy Award for Best Actor. Lee Grant as Mrs. Colbert, Police Officer Sam Wood played by Warren Oates and Larry Gates as the powerful political figure Endicott along with a large and excellent cast deliver an unforgettable movie as relevant today as it was in 1967.
We recommend “In the Heat of the Night”
Here’s the IMDB page for “In The Heat Of The Night”
Available on Patreon we have “Harlem Rides The Range” and “Odds Against Tomorrow” which is released two weeks earlier to our Patrons.
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This podcast we take time to discuss some of the many comments we have received from listeners to our Classic Movie Reviews podcasts. We love getting comments and they are helpful as we refine our approach and strive to improve the content and quality of the podcasts. We appreciate all the comments and encourage people to keep letting us know how we are doing.
We hope you enjoy our discussion. Thanks for listening and we wish everyone a happy holiday.
You can leave comments on our website, on Apple Podcast or over on Patreon!
Check us out on Patreon at www.patreon.com/classicmoviereviews for even more content and bonus shows.
This podcast takes us to “Christmas in Connecticut” from 1945. We find Elizabeth Lane played by Barbara Stanwyck embroiled in hijinks surrounding her supposed expertise in food and home matters, her nonexistent marriage, a baby (or two), an imagined home in Connecticut and fast paced comedy and a budding romance all deftly put together by Director Peter Godfrey. Participants in this freewheeling and delightful film are Dennis Morgan as Jefferson Jones the returning war hero, Sydney Greenstreet the self assured magazine publisher Alexander Yardley, Reginald Gardner as John Sloan the intense and largely ignored architect, the huge treat of S.Z. “cuddles” Sakall as Ms. Lane’s uncle and chef Felix Bassenak and a stray cow. The gaggle of folks all become intertwined in a host of situations that illustrate that old saying, “Oh what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive”. At times I wondered how Ms. Lane would extricate herself from the frantic series of events such as not one but two babies, several interrupted marriage ceremonies, avoiding all requests to cook except flipping pancakes, a new love interest and more. We thoroughly enjoyed this holiday treat and hope you have a fun time at “Christmas in Connecticut”.
Best wishes for the holidays!
Up next we’re reviewing “In The Heat Of The Night”
Over on Patreon you can listen to our first every “Comments Show” where we read comments left on Apple Podcast, Facebook and Patreon and make comments on the comments. It’s a lot of fun, join over on Patreon at Tier 3 to hear that episode.
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In this Patron Tier 2 and 3 only episode, Matt and I visit about a favorite holiday movie “A Christmas Carol” aka "Scrooge" from 1951. Charles Dickens’ story from 1843 has been told on film and television several times. The 1951 film was adapted and crafted by Director Brian Desmond Hurst and Screenwriter Noel Langley. The result of their collaboration is a wonderful movie that contains many themes that are as relevant today as they were long ago.
Alastair Sim is the perfect Ebenezer Scrooge along with a cast that brings to life each of the characters. I especially enjoyed Francis de Wolff as the Spirit of Christmas Present, Mervyn Johns as Bob Cratchit and Glyn Dearman as Tiny Tim. Patrick Macnee, from British TV’s Avengers, plays young Jacob Marley. Everyone delivers outstanding performances.
Every year in the late 1940’s and early 1950’s our family gathered in front of the record player in the living room of our home to listen to the recording of “A Christmas Carol”. For me this was a highlight of those Christmas years together. I wish I had that old recording. Matt and I hope you all enjoy this memorable film.
Happy Holidays to everyone!
Here's the IMBD page for "A Christmas Carol"
Up next we'll be reviewing "A Christmas In Connecticut"
Check us out on Patreon at www.patreon.com/classicmoviereviews for even more content and bonus shows.
“Giant” from 1956 is the sprawling, multiple decades story of the Benedict family, Jeff Rink, strong women, oil, cattle, conflict in race relations, power, political influence and the gulf between wealth and poverty. Edna Ferber’s 1952 novel is brought to life on a large, 3 hour 18 minute Academy Award winning, scale by Director George Stevens. “Shane” 1953 is another award winning film from Mr. Stevens and is discussed in our Episodes 91 and 92.
Elizabeth Taylor as Leslie Benedict, Rock Hudson as Jordan Benedict Jr., Jett Rink played by James Dean, Elsa Cardenas as Juana Villalobos Benedict and Sal Mineo as Angel Obregon II are part of a large cast in this many faceted story played out on the Texas stage from the 1920’s up to the 1950’s. More than twenty primary characters contribute to the breadth of the drama.
In 2009, “Giant” the musical, with a 3 hour and 45 minute length, premiered at the Signature Theater in Arlington, Virginia. The musical premiered Off-Broadway in 2012 to positive reviews.
In our opinion “Giant” contributes to the long journey of presenting a wider perception and understanding of people from very different backgrounds. We hope you enjoy our review.
Up next it’s “Christmas In Connecticut” which will be released on Christmas Day!
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“Christmas In Connecticut” is already available to Patrons at all Tier levels and as a Patron at Tiers 2 and 3 you can listen to “A Christmas Carol” from 1951 as our Bonus Show.
Please consider becoming a Patron, it’s a wonderful way to support the show. It helps offset the cost of web hosting as well as for new equipment. Thank you!
The ground-breaking "The Twilight Zone" television series turns 60 this year and to celebrate Fathom Events brought six episodes to the big screen. I went to the screening and recorded some audio on my way there and right after the showing. Then Bob and I spent some time talking about the show and the impact it had on us and to television and movies in general.
"The Twilight Zone" is available to watch on Hulu and Netflix and probably other places like CBS All Access.
If you're interested in learning more about the super weird and thought-provoking anime I mentioned seeing at the art house theater in Seattle check out "Angel's Egg" on YouTube and IMDB. There is very little dialog and some incredibly bleak and beautiful animation.
Here’s the IMDB page for “The Twilight Zone”
Check us out on Patreon at www.patreon.com/classicmoviereviews for even more content and bonus shows.
Hailey, Matt and I visit about “Rebel Without a Cause” from 1955. The film was James Dean’s second major role. Director Nicholas Ray frames a drama of high school students dealing with overwhelming emotions, out of control situations, a lack of love and confusion about their lives, family and place in the world. Joining Mr. Dean’s Jim Stark is Natalie Wood as Judy and Sal Mineo as John “Plato” Crawford. Jim Backus and Ann Doran are Jim’s parents Frank and Carol Stark. Edward Platt turns in a solid performance as Inspector Ray Fremick.
This film is highly regarded as a look into the urban to suburban shift that occurred following World War II. The main characters aimlessly look for a place in the changing landscape of Los Angeles that stands in for any city. We see them at a police station, the Griffith Observatory, on a cliff above the Pacific Ocean, in a deserted mansion and most importantly in their own struggles with alienation and loneliness.
Tragically all three lead actors in the film died at an early age, Mr. Dean at 24, Ms. Wood as 43 and Mr. Mineo at 37. Mr. Dean’s death, even before he was able to view this completed film, has added to the interest in the film. We all wondered had they lived how would their lives and careers developed? We recommend the film.
“Rebel without a Cause” is one of the two free shows we publish monthly on our regular public podcast feed.
Up next is James Dean’s third and final major motion picture “Giant”.
Patrons have access to Episode 134 - Giant two weeks early.
Our bonus show, Episode 133 - Twilight Zone 60th Anniversary is also available now on Patreon.
Become a Patron!
Bob and Nancy sit down to talk about "Miracle on 34th Street" and Nancy poses the question of whether or not all the fancy dress was just for the movie and Bob wonders if everyone dressed that way when going out shopping!
Check us out on Patreon at www.patreon.com/classicmoviereviews for even more content and bonus shows.
With “Miracle on 34th Street” released in 1947 we join Santa and the holiday festivities beginning with Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade and concluding on Christmas Eve. The talented Edmund Gwenn is Kris Kringle. Doris Walker played by Maureen O’Hara convinces Mr. Kringle to be Santa in the parade. As Santa he is a huge success and has a positive influence on just about everyone. He then is hired to be Santa Clause at Macy’s flagship store.
The story captures the warm and heartfelt behavior of Mr. Kringle. The intriguing mystery is whether Kris is the real Santa Clause. His openness and honesty change the philosophy of Macy’s to focus more on customer satisfaction and less on the bottom line. Remarkably the bottom line also does better. Quite soon Gimbels and others follow suit.
Kris also helps Doris Walker’s daughter Susan played by Natalie Wood to discover her imagination. Ms. Walker’s neighbor John Payne as Attorney Fred Galley becomes both Susan’s friend and romantically involved with Doris. However, things don’t go well because the villainous, Porter Hall as Granville Sawyer, does not believe any of Kris’s story. This sets in motion a highly publicized court case to determine if Kris really is Santa Clause. Mr. Galley’s legal work and the U.S. Postal Service mail delivery are important to the outcome of the case. Happy Holidays everyone!
Check us out on Patreon at www.patreon.com/classicmoviereviews for even more content and bonus shows.
James Dean’s first major film was “East of Eden” from 1955. It is the starting point for our coverage of his three big film roles in a career that ended with his death at age 24. John Steinbeck’s novel is the basis for the film. In 1962 Mr. Steinbeck was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature “for his realistic and imaginative writings, combining as they do sympathetic humour and keen social perception”.
Director Elia Kazan won Academy Awards for directing “Gentleman’s Agreement” 1948 our Episodes 14-15 and “On the Waterfront” 1955. For “East of Eden” Mr. Kazan selected James Dean to be Caleb Trask and Richard Davalos, in his film debut, to play Aron Trask. Julie Harris as Abra Bacon had a prestigious career and was outstanding in “The Haunting” that we reviewed in Episode 60. Raymond Massey as Adam Trask is the patriarch of the Trask family.
In “East of Eden” Mr. Kazan creates a dramatic and often painful view of the multi faceted lives of Caleb, Aron and Adam and the emotions that tear at the fabric of their family. Caleb’s search for his mother, played by Jo Van Fleet, and the romantic triangle of Abra, Aron and Caleb add to the drama of their lives. James Dean totally is Caleb! After watching his performance we are anxious to see him in “Rebel Without a Cause” and “Giant”.
“East of Eden” is one of the two free shows we publish monthly on our regular public podcast feed.
Up next is James Dean’s second motion picture “Rebel without a Cause”.
Patrons have access to Episode 132 - Rebel without a Cause two weeks early.
Our bonus show, Episode 131 - Miracle on 34th Street is also available now on Patreon.
Become a Patron!
“Alien” is a landmark film. It marks a turning point in horror cinema, blending ultra realistic science fiction with mind bending body and creature horror. In many ways, you can delineate horror cinema before “Alien” and after “Alien”.
Masterfully directed by Ridley Scott and starring Sigorney Weaver in her break out role, the film spawned a media franchise/empire that is still going strong today. There have been 3 direct sequels, two spin offs, and two prequels with a third prequel in pre-production. There have been books, audio dramas, animated shorts, film shorts, video games and more all set in the universe created by “Alien”.
In our first “special content” episode we take a trip with Matt to the theater where he meets up with his youngest son and his eldest daughter and her boyfriend, all of whom have never seen the movie before, to see it on the big screen for Turner Classic Movies’ special 40th Anniversary celebration of the release of “Alien”. We then wrap up the show with Matt and Bob discussing the movie in our traditional format. It’s a fun journey and we hope you enjoy it!
Here's the IMDB page for "Alien"
Here's the link to the "Alien" page on tcm.com This page has an incredible amount of information about the movie.
Up next we begin our James Dean festival with "East of Eden".
Stay tuned and happy movie watching!
We wrap up our salute to the music of Bernard Herrmann with “Journey to the Center of the Earth” from 1959. Under Henry Levin’s direction the Jules Verne classic is brought to life in a fun and engaging adventure. The cast led by James Mason and Arlene Dahl is delightful to watch as we join them on this trip into an unknown world. Mr. Mason as Sir Oliver Lindenbrook is quite taken by his own renown and thoroughly enjoys everyone’s adulation. He meets his match in Ms. Dahl’s Carla Goteborg a strong person bent on completing her dead husband’s lifelong work.
Also Alec McEwan played by Pat Boone and Diane Baker as Jenny Lindenbrook together add depth, romance and song to the story. We cannot forget Thayer David as Count Saknussemm who is determined to meet his evil goal no matter the cost or Peter Ronson as Hans Bjelke who, with his pet duck Gertrud, adds strength to the drama.
As always, Bernard Herrmann’s musical score is excellent. The music perfectly frames the scale of this adventure. Mr. Herrmann is quoted as saying “I feel that music on the screen can seek out and intensify the inner thoughts of the characters”. His music certainly does that in the films we have reviewed.
Join us in this “Journey to the Center of the Earth”.
Episode 128 - Journey to the Center of the Earth is one of the two free shows we publish monthly on our regular public podcast feed.
Patrons on Patreon, will be have access to Episode 130 - East of Eden two weeks early.
What happened to Episode 127 and 129 you ask?
Those were bonus episode on Patreon!
Episode 127 was a review of "The Ghost Breakers" starring Bob Hope and Episode 129 was a special event episode covering the 40th anniversary of "Alien"!
Become A Patron!
Welcome to our first Patreon podcast post!
“The Ghost Breakers” takes us on a horror-comedy ride from New York City to an ocean liner on to Cuba then to a seemingly deserted island mansion. Bob Hope as crime reporter Larry Lawrence leads the way through a collection of sometimes dangerous and sometimes funny situations. At his side is the trusty partner/valet Alex portrayed by William Best. As the film unfolds Larry and Alex encounter underworld thugs, beautiful Mary Carter played by Paulette Goddard, shadowy people with secrets, a zombie, as well as several ghosts.
Director George Marshall does a yeoman’s job of holding all this together sprinkled throughout with classic Bob Hope one liners. Paul Lukas is believable as the concerned Mr. Parada, Richard Carlson as the suave man with his secret plan, Anthony Quinn appears as twin brothers Ramon and Francisco Mederos. Paul Fix is the lead gangster and Lloyd Corrigan as Martin keeps appearing as we wonder what is his game.
Watching the film we both thought that William Best’s role could have been reshaped to more fully reflect his talent. Unfortunately in 1940 this just didn’t happen. The special effects and cinematography were first rate and added to the moody foreboding of the island and mansion. For a comparison with a later version of horror-comedy check out 1948’s “Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein” that we reviewed in Episode 19.
Here's the IMDB page for "The Ghost Breakers"
Up next we're headed on a "Journey to the Center of the Earth"!
Be sure to leave a comment to join in the discussion. We will reply usually within a few hours. We'd love to hear from you!
“The Wrong Man” is a true story of Christopher Emmanuel "Manny" Balestrero and his family and the fallout of his being wrongly accused of several armed robberies. The film is directed by Alfred Hitchcock and stars Henry Fonda and Vira Miles. The music is by Bernard Hermann. This is the third film in our Bernard Hermann film festival. The music is more restrained than the other films we’ve reviewed. It fits the story and mood of the film perfectly. Bernard Hermann even makes an appearance as the piano player in the Stork Club band right at the start of the movie.
This is a powerful and moving film exploring the impact of a miscarriage of justice both to “Manny” and to his family, his wife in particular. It’s a chilling account of the deterioration of her mental state to the point where she needs to be admitted to an outpatient facility where she stays for 2 years, eventually recovering from the ordeal. Needless to say, Bob and I loved the film and we hope you enjoy this episode of the show.
Up next on the public feed is “Journey To The Center Of The Earth” releasing on October 31st.
On Patreon, which is launching for signups next Thursday, October 24th, we’ll have “Journey To The Center Of The Earth” a week early + “The Ghost Breaker” + “The 40th Anniversary Of Alien”. That will be three shows for folks that sign up at Tier 3 on Patreon. More information about that below and on our website.
Here’s the IMDB page for “The Wrong Man”
Our Patreon launches on Thursday, October 24th!
It’s a big week next week as we prepare to launch on Patreon.
Starting on October 24th you’ll be able to subscribe to the show’s Patreon at one of three tiers:
$1 a month is Tier 1 where you’ll receive “Journey To The Center Of The Earth” a week early. You’ll also get a shout out on the next show and be able to participate in Patron-only comments on the show.
$4 a month is Tier 2 where you’ll receive the same benefits as Tier 1 plus a bonus show “The Ghost Breakers”. This show is only available to Patrons at Tier 2 and Tier 3.
$7 a month is Tier 3 where you’ll receive the same benefits at Tier 1 and 2 plus a special content show “The 40th Anniversary of Alien” where we’ll have several guests, some live audio from the movie theater and a discussion of how “The Thing From Another World” and “Planet Of The Vampires” influenced “Alien”
We’ll have 3 new shows on Patreon next week at Tier 3!
And every month afterwards we’ll have the same benefits for our Patrons.
This is an exciting time for the show as we embark on a new phase of the podcasting journey together!
We’re excited to announce we are launching on Patreon on October 24th! All the details in the show notes!
The “Garden Of Evil” presents a fairly straight-forward and borderline run-of-the-mill story, set to an outstanding soundtrack and spectacular visuals. Gary Cooper puts in his usual excellent portrayal of a western gun man, Hugh Marlow gives a convincing performance as a desperate prospector, Richard Widmark plays the cranky suspicious card shark, Cameron Mitchell portrays a man with a sorted past and a soul that needs redeeming, Victor Mendoza plays a solid Mexican local trying to get the most of the adventure, and Susan Hayward carries them all away with her incredible performance as someone that will stop at nothing to achieve her goals. The music by Bernard Hermann, the on location scenery and Susan Hayward’s performance are clearly the stars of the show. Henry Hathaway does a competent job in the director’s chair. The movie is entertaining in the old Saturday double-feature sort of way.
“The Ghost and Mrs. Muir” is directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz and stars Gene Tierney and Rex Harrison in the lead roles with Edna Best, George Sanders, Vanessa Brown and Natalie Wood providing excellent supporting characters. Charles Lang, the cinematographer deserves a special mention as well. And of course the moving music by Bernard Hermann.
This is a wonderful movie about loss and love, life and death, hopes and dreams, and ultimately about the strength to carry on when life is throwing one difficult challenge after another at you.
Bob and I dive into great detail and cover both the film and the music. This is after all the first movie of our Bernard Hermann film festival.
So with that I would leave you with two thoughts, the first is to be sure and watch the movie before listening to the podcast if you can, as we do talk about the ending. And secondly, give this article on the music by Bernard Hermann a read, either before, after or during the movie. It really helped me understand the music and the use of leitmotifs, a style of film scoring that apparently Bernard Hermann only used in this film.
Described as a “psychic thriller” on some of the movie posters, “Don’t Look Now” is certainly weird, and whether or not you think there’s anything “psychic” going on, well, that’s part of the fun and mystery of watching the movie.
Bob and I really enjoyed this one. And since the ending is so integral to the overall impact of the movie, we hold off on giving away any specifics about the final scenes.
Many consider this to be Director Nicolas Roeg’s masterpiece. It stars Donald Sutherland and Julie Christy both of whom are perfectly cast as a grieving couple. The film stars off as a straight-forward tragedy. A married couple with two young children suffer the loss of their youngest in an accident that happens very near the home where they live. And what’s worse, for both of them, but particularly for Donald’s character, is that the accident was most likely avoidable. Then the movie takes a turn into the weird. I am defining weird here as “unknowable or unexplainable in a way that gives you the impression of horror or of some force or power operating at a level that we as mere humans can’t comprehend”. That’s my definition. I think that’s a pretty accurate description of this movie as well.
The clips from the making of videos in this episode feature the Director, the Editor, Graeme Clifford and the Cinematographer, Anthony Richmond as well as Donald Sutherland and Julie Christy.
We hope you enjoy this one. I’m off on a three week vacation, so we’ll be back in mid-September with our next Episode.
We’re back revisiting feudal Japan, on the road with Zatoichi, the blind swordsman/masseur/gambler/savior of the downtrodden. This time we find Zatoichi saving the life of a young artist, while protecting his son, and in the end going up against a samurai of equal prowess to his own. It’s full of adventure, beautiful scenery, excellent set design, and even a musical number. And do we think the ending sword fight is one of the best in samurai films? We dive deeper in the origins of the character and the film makers that brought him to life over 26 films and 100 television episodes.
His origins are to be found in a brief story by Kan Shimozawa, first published in 1948, most succinctly in only a few passages: “No one who saw him walking along with his shaved head and his long-handled sword at his side would ever have guessed he was blind. The man had an uncanny sixth sense . . . Blind though he was, Zatoichi was a master swordsman with a lightning draw: he had only to lay a hand on his sword for an opponent to shrivel in fear.” Those sentences encapsulate the narrative essence of the Zatoichi films, but they can hardly explain how Katsu and the filmmakers with whom he worked managed to turn Zatoichi into a personage of subtle and enduring power.[1]
So settle in and get ready to enjoy “Zatoichi Challenged”. And up next, we visit Venice of the early 1970’s for an incredibly spooky and weird film “Don’t Look Now”
[1] https://www.criterion.com/current/posts/2971-on-the-road-with-zatoichi
“Rififi” loosely defined as “a rumble among men” or “trouble/violent conflict/show of force” is a 1955 French movie directed by Jules Dassin after he was black listed in Hollywood. The film is based on a portion of a novel by Auguste Le Brenton. Starring Jean Servais as the lead character “Tony” and the other members of the heist crew, Carl Möhner as “Jo”, Robert Manuel as “Mario” and the director himself in the role of “Cesar”, who apparently was paid the equivalent of $8,000 for the roles of Director, Writer, and Actor. The money was extremely well spent as this is considered by many one of the best crime/heist film noir films of all time. Mr. Dassin won the Best Director prize at Cannes in 1995. And the film was nominated for the National Board of Review for Best Foreign Film. The influence this film has on subsequent heist films is clear. Bob also recommends watching “The Asphalt Jungle” for another tightly directed and acted noir crime/heist film that may have had an influence on “Rififi”. We both really enjoyed the movie and would place it near the top of our list as one of the best films we’ve seen.
Just a reminder that we discuss the ending of the films we review and we definitely would spoil the plot for anyone that hasn’t seen the film. So, if you want to watch the film spoiler free and haven’t seen the film we recommend watching it before listening to the podcasts.
Up next “Zatoichi Challenged”
“Yokai Monsters: Spook Warfare” was released in 1968 as the first of a trilogy of films starring famous Japanese Yokai. Yokai are supernatural beings from Japanese folklore. Here’s a link to the Wikipedia page on Yokai. There are literally thousands of different Yokai. This film features many of the most popular ones. In addition, the film is extremely well shot and includes many music themes that add to the drama and action of the film. The tokusatsu special effects are very well done and shown in such as way as to add to the impact of the film rather than detracting or creating a “cheezy” image.
This is a special episode as it’s our first movie commentary and Hailey joins the podcast to talk about it with Matt. It’s a father and daughter special episode! Bob is doing well and was unable to make the recording due to a busy travel schedule this last month.
Watch the movie for free on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/wPBgtuM0SRo
This is also the first of a four film festival of films from countries other than the United States.
COMMENTARY NOTE: There is a “B” version of this episode without the film audio in the background. This “A” version contains the film audio in the background. If you want to listen to our commentary while watching the film yourself, be sure to listen to the “B” episode.
COMMENTARY NOTE: This is the "B" version of the podcast. If you want to listen to our commentary while watching the film yourself, be sure to listen to this episode. The main pocast post is for the "A" version which contains the film audio in the background. Enjoy!
This is a special episode as it’s our first movie commentary and Hailey joins the podcast to talk about it with Matt. It’s a father and daughter special episode! Bob is doing well and was unable to make the recording due to a busy travel schedule this last month. NOTE: This “A” version contains the film audio in the background. If you want to listen to our commentary while watching the film yourself, be sure to listen to the “B” version.
Watch the movie for free on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/wPBgtuM0SRo
It’s a double sci-fi feature! “Star Trek: The Motion Picture” wraps up our series of films directed by Robert Wise. A movie that was mired in delays and controversy from the very beginning, we feel that Robert Wise’s signature touches are missing from the film and we both want to get our hands on the Director’s Cut to see what this film may have been intended to be in the director’s original vision.
“Star Trek II: The Wrath Of Khan” on the other hand, wow! This is an explosive, action packed and surprisingly deep film directed by Nicolas Meyer.
We go into the details, and probably miss a ton of interesting facts, but in the end we enjoyed both films.
“West Side Story” tells the tale of two rival gangs, the Sharks and the Jets on the west side of New York City during early 1960’s, or perhaps late 1950s. This is a film that on the surface appears to be a musical based on the story of Romeo and Juliet. And then you watch it, and it unfolds in such a way, that by the end you’re left feeling like you’ve been hit in the gut and you’re reeling with trying to wrap your mind around what you just witnessed.
The IMDB summaries for some movies are funny. Here’s a one liner for “Run Silent Run Deep”: A U.S. sub commander, obsessed with sinking a certain Japanese ship, butts heads with his first officer and crew.
Yeah, that about sums it up, except that there are about three more layers of drama going on. There’s the Moby Dick aspect of Commander “Rich” Richardson’s obsession with the Japanese commander that sunk his sub. There’s the angle of the younger commander being usurped by the older returning commander. There’s the tension on board the ship as they sail deeper and deeper into Japanese territory. And then there’s the flat out dramatic war movie action that is brought to vidid life in this film by the excellent use of miniature photography. All helmed by one of our favorite directors Robert Wise. Starring Clark Gable, Burt Lancaster, Jack Warden, Brad Dexter and Don Rickles in his first film appearance. So secure the hatches and prepare for diving! We’re headed into the Bungo Strait!
Be sure to listen all the way to the end for a clip from an Iron Maiden song called “Run Silent Run Deep” that features themes and lyrics that could be right out of this film. And here’s a link to a YouTube video, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DU32myDHbM, with lyrics for Iron Maiden’s “Run Silent Run Deep” if you want to actually be able to understand everything that’s being sung!
One of our favorite movies, “The Day The Earth Stood Still” tells a cautionary tale in a time of the Cold War and rapidly advancing technology.
Expertly directed by Robert Wise and starring the perfectly cast Michael Rennie, Patricia Neal, Hugh Marlow, Sam Jaffe and Billy Gray, this is a film with multiple layers of meaning and nuance. It’s a straight-forward sci-fi tale with a flying saucer, a superior alien race, and an invulnerable all powerful robot. It’s also a tale of the possibility of humankind's redemption in the face of a higher power. Or is it a tale of the origin of the human race on Earth. Or is it… well, you’ll see. There’s so much to discuss in this film. And let’s not forget the music, in what may be Bernard Herrmann’s best score, but which certainly is one of his best, he utilizes two Theramins for the first time in film and the score sets a standard for sci-fi scores that will be followed for decades after. We’re considering a Bernard Herrmann festival. So keep your eye out for that soon.
We truly love this film and hopefully that comes through in the show. Enjoy!
Billed as a sequel to the widely popular “Cat People” movie, it’s more of a spiritual successor to that film. In many ways a masterpiece in its own right, “The Curse Of The Cat People” beautifully tells the tale of life from being a young person, dealing with all the loneliness and uncertainty of that age to middle age, struggling with making the right decisions for you and your family, to old age and the frailty of life and it’s ultimate end.
Holy smokes, our review really is longer than the film. There’s not much else to say that we didn’t say in the podcast. Be sure to stay tuned until the very end for the story of the 16 suits. Enjoy!
We’re finally reviewing North By Northwest, one of the greatest films ever made and many say Hitchcock’s greatest film.
There’s so much to say and so much has already been said about this movie. Maybe we’re not breaking any new territory here with this review but we sure have fun talking about it.
There’s the action, the drama, the subtle and not so subtle comedy, the romance, the suspense, not to mention the incredible direction, script, acting, set design, cinematography and score.
We decided to give the movie the love it deserves and go through scene-by-scene. We only get through the first 46 minutes in Part 1. We’ve already recorded Part 2 and we’ll have that out next week.
We’ll be back next episode to wrap this up and then we have a special five movie marathon planned of Robert Wise films.
It’s going to be a great couple of months of movies!
Two federal agents, one from Mexico and one from the United States team up to break up an illegal human trafficking operation along the US/Mexico border. Released in 1949 and directed by Anthony Mann and starring the incomparable Ricardo Montalban and George Murphy, this taught crime drama is sometimes mistakenly categorized as noir, though it lacks the essential noir elements, such as a femme fatale. It is a top-notch crime drama though and the cinematography, directing, acting and subject matter all elevate it to the top of our scale. We dive into some of the political aspects of the plot and discuss the stark similarities to the situation at the border today.
We hope you enjoy this review as much as we enjoyed watching the film.
And up next, a long time request from several listeners and one of our all time favorites “North By Northwest”!
We’re so excited to review it, we already know it will be a two part review, we will have so much to discuss.
Directed by Andrew Stone and starring an array of top talent including, Lena Horne, Bill Robinson, Cab Callaway, Katherine Dunham, Fats Waller, The Nicholas Brothers, Ada Brown, Dooley Wilson, and so many more, it’s an incredible film from a music and dance perspective and a troubling film from the perspective of accurate portrayals of the characters in the film, not to mention almost zero character development. There’s a lot to cover in this film and we do our best.
Happy Holidays from Holiday Inn! We’re open 15 days a year for all the major holidays. Come on up to Connecticut for a break from the hustle and bustle of the big city.
At least that’s what Bing Crosby’s character Jim Hardy hopes you’ll do in this enjoyable, if flawed film, also starring Bing Crosby, Fred Astaire, Marjorie Reynolds, Virginia Dale, Walter Able and Louise Beavers and directed by Mark Sandwich, the film is full of memorable dance and song numbers and one song and dance we’d just as soon forget ever having seen.
“Holiday Inn” introduced the world to the song “White Christmas” which is either number one or number two in the list of most sold songs ever depending on the year. And the song won an Academy Award in 1943 for Best Original Song in a Motion Picture. It’s a highlight of the film for sure.
So cozy up with a warm blanket, some hot cider or something a bit stronger, gather around with your loved ones and enjoy the sights and sounds of Holiday Inn.
Highly rated and much beloved, “Bringing Up Baby” stars Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant and is directed by one of our favorites, Howard Hawks. The movie requires a certain approach or mindset to really enjoy the zany antics. Prepare yourself for a movie full of overlapping dialog, bizarre situations, unrealistic setups and truly memorable characters. And if you’ve never seen it and like me thought the movie was about being a parent(!), you’re in for some surprises!
The IMDB summary for this movie reads "A Polish rabbi wanders through the Old West on his way to lead a synagogue in San Francisco. On the way he is nearly burnt at the stake by Indians and almost killed by outlaws."
Oh IMDB, you miss all the nuances in the movie.
Directed by Robert Aldrich and starring Gene Wilder and Harrison Ford, this is a movie that hits all the best notes. It has everything from zany comedy to high drama. Including a buddy movie angle and a love story (sort of).
Bob and I agree that this is a must see movie. It's especially fun to see Harrison Ford at the beginning of his career and Gene Wilder at the height of his talent. Both definitely went on to make many more excellent movies. And it's great to see Robert Aldrich bring his own brand of direction to these two super star talents.
Up next, "Brining Up Baby", starring Katherine Hepburn and Cary Grant. And contrary to my first impression, this movie has nothing to do with being a new parent! Thank you to our listeners for all the great movie suggestions.
"The Sugarland Express" is Steven Spielberg’s feature film debut, starring Goldie Hawn, Ben Johnson, Richard Atherton and Michael Sacks. It is based on a true story, though the details and some of the major events have been changed. In some ways we wish they’d been changed even more than they were in the film. It’s an incredibly strong debut film and it’s also uneven in places. Bob and I talk through what we liked and didn’t like about the movie and wonder if our views are influenced by Mr. Spielberg’s later huge successes.
We’re an Official Selection in the West Coast International Film Festival for “Best Movie Related Podcast”!
Ralph Nelson directed and also played a supporting role in this adaptation of "Lillies of the Field" a novel by William E. Barrett. The movie stars the incomparable Sydney Poitier who won the Academy Award for his role in the movie. Lilia Skala, Stanley Adams and a ensemble of excellent actors round out the cast. A simple story belies a complex character study. There are many wonderful small moments in the film. The dialog is sharp and witty when needed and at times profound in unexpected ways.
Written by John Huston and Richard Brooks and directed by John Huston and filmed almost entirely on the backlot of Warner Bros. studios, Key Largo is a intricate character study of people under pressure. Starring Humphrey Bogart, Edward G Robinson, Lauren Bacall, Lionel Barrymore, Claire Trevor and many more excellent actors. We should also count the storm as a character. It plays a big role in setting the circumstances and the mood for everything that goes down in and around Key Largo. So grab some popcorn, close the blinds, and settle in for a trip to southern Florida during hurricane season. Enjoy!
It's a sci-fi double feature, just like watching movies at the drive-in as a kid. Or at least when Bob and I were kids. I don't even know if there are any drive-in theaters anymore.
This is a special episode, not just because of the double feature, we also have a special guest! Hailey returns and all three of us are in the same room at the same time recording our thoughts on these two amazing films. Note the sarcasm there. Actually, they both have some redeeming qualities. And they both have some things that really irk us. Whether it's the cheesy special effects, the repetitive story telling or the obvious racial overtones. We get through them though. And what's important is spending time as a family reviewing movies. Because that's what families do, right?!?
And an extra special congratulations to Hailey for graduating from the University of Washington's School of Public Health on Sunday. Way to go! We are so very very proud of you!
Essentially a buddy movie, maybe one of the first of this genre, three fellow soldiers and best friends played by Cary Grant, Victor McLagen and Douglas Fairbanks have a series of adventures in northern India (aka Lone Pine, California). There’s a darker undertone to the film that rears itself in a few scenes covering the occupation of India by the British. Filmed on location with a huge crew of over 900 people, this is definitely a big budget spectacle film. We enjoyed it and Bob relates some of his time in Lone Pine to the film. Directed by George Stevens and also starring Sam Jaffe and Joan Fontaine, Gunga Din is a fun and at times thought provoking film. So sit back and prepare to be magically transported to the Khyber Pass as the British army fends off the “invading” forces of the Thuggee cult.
We talk about Lone Pine, California and Bob's week long trip to visit the area in March 2018.
Set in the south, during a time of segregation, The Defiant Ones tells the tale of two escaped convicts, chained together and running for their lives. Directed by Stanley Kramer and starring Sidney Poitier, Tony Curtis, Theodore Bikel, Charles McGraw, Lon Chaney Jr., and Cara Williams it pulls no punches in showing the racism of the time. Depending on the review you read you'll either think it's a great classic movie or a boring melodrama. Bob and I lean more toward the great classic side of the debate. Spoilers, we talk about the ending and all the interesting points of the plot. This movie is also very difficult to find, unless you catch a showing on Turner Classic Movies or maybe it's also on Filmstruck, but in a pinch, a crappy copy is also on YouTube. We hope you enjoy this episode and up next we're going to deep dive on Bob's field trip to Lone Pine, California. The location where hundreds of Hollywood films take place.
We made it! 100 episodes!
We spend our time talking through why we started the podcast, what it means to us, our top favorite and top worst movies and a bit of our plans for the next 100.
Thank you to each of you for listening. It means a lot to us. We love hearing your thoughts and feedback.
"The Gunfighter" tells the tale of Jimmy Ringo and his final days as he searches for a way out of his life as a “gunny”, a big time gunfighter. He tries to connect with his estranged wife and a son that doesn’t even know that the famous Jimmy Ringo is his father. Excellent dialog, fantastic music, and top notch acting all directed by Henry King. There’s a lot to like in the movie and the sense of doom prevailing in the film is totally appropriate given the dramatic ending. Starring Gregory Peck, Helen Westcott, Millard Mitchell, Jean Parker and a very young looking Karl Malden, Bob and I highly recommend this Shakespearian tragedy/western/noir film.
Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger direct Deborah Kerr, Flora Robson, Kathleen Byron, Sabu, David Farrar, Jean Simmons and more in an epic tale filled with ghosts of the past, the power of nature and the futility of trying to fight either force.
Filmed in glorious Technicolor, almost completely on a soundstage, the film triumphs as a master work of cinema. In what turns out to be almost a double episode, Bob and I lose ourselves in diving deep into the subtext of the film and marvel at the technical mastery of the film makers. Truly a 10 out of 10 in every way, "Black Narcissus, is now on our must watch list. So if you haven't seen it, go find a copy and watch it!
Up next, Gregory Peck in "The Gunfighter"
We're joined by a special guest this episode, Hailey, my daughter and Bob's grand-daughter!
Hailey and I watched "Murder At The Gallop" on Christmas Eve together. A totally fun way to spend the evening! We can't get enough of the scene with the cat jumping out of the closet.
I mean, check out the screen grab of that amazing cat!
Anyway, this movie is a hoot. We all three really enjoyed Margaret Rutherford's take on the Miss Marple character. Hailey coined a phrase to describe Miss Marple "Detective, Social Justice Warrior, and Hot Mama!"
Turns out Bob really does think she's a Hot Mama! And so does Hector Enderby played marvelously by Robert Morley. And wow, check out his eyebrows. Impressive!
The movie is excellently directed by George Pollock who also was an Assistant Director on "Brief Encounter" which Bob and I reviewed in Episode 16.
Up next.... well, we haven't decided yet. We have several suggestions and we'll probably chose one of those. So stay tuned!
Happy New Year!
There's a great one liner on the movie poster for "Where Eagles Dare".
"One weekend Major Smith, Lieutenant Schaffer, and a beautiful blonde named Mary decided to win World War II"
But really, they didn't say "a tall handsome blue eyed man named Schaffer." Ugh. Things haven't changed much in 50 years.
Anyway, the movie is an exciting roller coaster of action. And despite the trite description of Mary's character, played excellently by Mary Ure, she really kicks some ass in the movie along with the other female lead played by Ingrid Pitt.
Prepare yourself though, this movie was made during an era when total running time wasn't much of a consideration in the editing room. Two hours and 38 minutes, sure! No problem! Let's put every excruciating detail into the action segments and draw out the narrative between those! Yes!
Oh and I happen on one of the greatest trivia bits we've found in a long time about the Director, Mr. Brian Hutton. Really, I think you'll like it. And Bob makes a funny reference to the movie "Amadeus" near the end.
We have a lot of fun talking about the movie as usual. We hope you enjoy!
And Happy Holidays!
Up next "Murder At The Gallop"
Ester Williams headlines this drama, comedy, cartoon about the exploits of the Higgins family as they train for the English Channel swim. It's the whole family picking up from rural Arkansas and heading the the south coast of England to train and prepare for this epic swim. And why you ask are they training for this incredibly challenging swim? Well, to buy a prize bull of course! Well, that's not the only reason as you'll find out as you learn more about the motivations and connections of this special and especially athletic family. Directed by Charles Walters it also stars the "fabulous" Fernando Lamas, Jack Carson, Charlotte Greenwood, Denise Darcel and my favorite William Demarest.
So pull on your swim suit for a rollicking good time.
And oh, I almost forgot, Tom and Jerry make an appearance as well!
Angela Lansbury, Basil Rathbone, Glynis Johns, and Mildred Natwick, among others, round out the cast. Danny Kaye for sure carries the day with his witty one liners, crazy rhyming scenes and especially his suave portrayal of Giacomo, when he’s hypnotized and under the influence of Griselda. You’re in for a treat with “The Court Jester”. There are also some great musical numbers, surprising choreography, and beautiful matte paintings, all skillfully written and directed by Melvin Frank and Norman Panama.
And up next, it’s Ester Williams and Fernando Lamas in “Dangerous When Wet”
It's a creature feature double-feature. Two classics from the golden age of cinema science fiction.
Aliens and giant ants in the desert threatening humanity with utter destruction. "It Came From Outer Space" and "Them!" are classics that bring back a lot of great memories for both of us. And Bob surprises me with his rating of Them!
Considered a classic western, included in several top 100 films of all times lists, and often quoted and imitated, Shane brings it all, the acting, the direction, the script, the cinematography, and on and on. It really is a great film and Bob and I couldn't stop talking about it.
Considered a classic western, included in several top 100 films of all times lists, and often quoted and imitated, Shane brings it all, the acting, the direction, the script, the cinematography, and on and on. It really is a great film and Bob and I couldn't stop talking about it.
Directed by Robert Aldrich and starring Joan Crawford and Betty Davis “What ever happened to Baby Jane?” is a strange tale of twisted fate between two sisters. The slow strange ride comes to an end on the beach with ice cream and a dance number? Well, not really, but maybe, in Baby Jane's mind anyway.
Directed by Robert Aldrich and starring Joan Crawford and Betty Davis “What ever happened to Baby Jane?” is a strange tale of twisted fate between two sisters. It’s a slow weird ride into madness ending with a trip for ice cream to the beach! No, seriously, really.
Oliver! won 5 Oscars in 1969 including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Music. Carol Reed was once described as being able to put a picture together liked a clock maker and it shows in Oliver! The direction is top notch, the acting is outstanding, the sets are huge and amazing and the music is Oscar worthy. And yet… there’s something about the story that just doesn’t click with me and Bob. Give it a listen and see if you agree. Either way, drop us a line in the comments on the website, in iTunes or on Facebook.
No Way Out is a movie that is as relevant today as it was in 1950. Director Joseph L. Mankiewicz delivers an outstanding film with an all star cast including Richard Widmark, Linda Darnell and Sidney Poitier in his first major motion picture appearance. This film is brutal in its honesty and in the depiction of the state of race relations. Set mainly in and around an urban hospital it tells the story of Ray Biddle a violently racist character, Edie Johnson, Ray’s ex-sister-in-law and Dr. Luther Brooks an up-and-coming young doctor as their lives crash together in the aftermath of an attempted robbery. Warning that this film pulls no punches with the use of racist language. I’ve muted certain words in the film clips to maintain our clean rating. Up next is the Carol Reed directed musical “Oliver!”
The Clanton’s and the Earp’s have the final showdown at the O.K. corral. Based on real life events, the film covers the lives of Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday leading up to the fateful gunfight. In fact the gunfight is really only a small part of the whole movie. It’s a film more about the relationship between the two main characters, the meaning of loyalty and friendship, and the lengths to which one will go to uphold one’s honor. John Sturgess directed and Burt Lancaster, Kirk Douglas, Rhonda Fleming, Jo Van Fleet and a very young Dennis Hopper starred in this 1957 retelling of the tale. And to top it off, the music was composed by the incomparable Dimitri Tiomkin.
We’re wrapping up 2016 with one of our favorite all time Christmas movies appropriately title “A Christmas Story”.
Bad Day At Black Rock is as relevant today as it was when it was released in 1955. Spencer Tracy stars as John McCreedy, on a mission to deliver a medal to the father of a man that saved his life in Italy in World War II. The people of Black Rock have secrets. They are not happy to see a stranger roll into town on the train, which hasn’t stopped in over 4 years, asking questions about a certain homesteading family. Directed by John Sturges, and starring a powerhouse all star cast, including Robert Ryan, Anne Francis, Dean Jagger, Walter Brennan and Ernest Borgnine, Bad Day At Black Rock delivers the goods and takes us back to the top of our rating scale. Enjoy!
Genevieve, oh Genevieve, why must you be so fickle. Breaking down every few miles. It’s only 60 miles from London to Brighton but in these turn of the 20th century cars it feels more like 600! Hijinks and pranks ensue along the way. Directed by Henry Cornelius, with some sweet mouth organ tunes provided by Larry Adler, starring Dinah Sheridan, John Greyson, Kay Kendall and Kenneth More. It’s part travel film, part slapstick comedy and part commentary on post World War II London. All in all a rollicking good time! Enjoy!
Please somebody help us! We’ve wandered into the cemetery at midnight and the ghouls are out cavorting in the radiant moonlight. They’ve tied us to a post and forced us to watch “Orgy of the Dead”.
What do a contract killer, a bumbling night club owner, a corrupt chemical company CEO, and a magician/singer/patriot all have in common? Find out as we review “This Gun For Hire” starting Veronica Lake and Alan Ladd and directed by Frank Tuttle. Great directing, acting and cinematography all combine to elevate this noir thriller above the average film.
Directed by Roger Corman and starring Ray Milland, Diana Van der Vlis, Harold J. Stone and Don Rickles star in a tale of science gone wrong.
Plan 9 From Outer Space truly lives up to its reputation. Bad in almost every aspect it becomes comical to the point of almost being entertaining. Almost.
Murder On The Orient Express is the big screen adaptation of the Agatha Christie’s novel of the same title, directed by Sidney Lumet and starring, well, a LOT of top names actors and actresses with stand out performances by Albert Finney, Marin Balsam, and Ingrid Bergman (to name just a few). It’s a murder mystery set on a train but that’s just the beginning. It’s a character study, a story of revenge and forgiveness, and it’s a story of the ripple effects caused by a tragic event in all of their pasts. We love it! Up next, yep, we’re going to watch it, the classic “Plan 9 From Outer Space”. Pretty sure this one will anchor are rating scale on the low end.
The Harvey Girls tells the story of a group of women that help to open a restaurant along the Santa Fe rail line in the late 1800’s.
The lady certainly did vanish, but was it all in the mind of Iris Henderson played by Margaret Lockwood or is something sinister afoot? In what has been described as a “comedy thriller” Alfred Hitchcock directs Margaret Lockwood, Michael Redgrave, Paul Lukas, Dame May Whitty and a cast of very interesting supporting characters in the 2nd of our train themed movies. We mention a couple of other movies during the podcast. Apparently the characters of Caldecott and Charters went on to appear in other movies including “Night Train To Munich”. And was there really a red car in the chariot scene in Ben Hur (Spoilers: it’s a myth). And yes, Alfred Hitchcock did make a cameo appearance in this movie, albeit a very very brief one.
Classified as a “B” movie, The Narrow Margin rises above its “B” label and shines as a great example of film noir from the early 1950s. Directed by Richard Fleischer and starring the “gravel voiced, stoney faced & grizzled looking actor” Charles McGraw, Marie Windsor and Jacqueline White it tells the story of a woman planning to testify against the mob that must be protected against her assassins on the train trip from Chicago to Los Angeles. Remade in 1990 with Gene Hackman and Anne Archer. The original is generally accepted as a superior film. Well, Bob and I sure enjoyed it!
Set in early 1970’s Seattle, McQ tells the story of a police detective out for justice (or revenge) for the killing of his partner. Little does he know that his partner was part of a crime ring. As events unfold we get to see some great old cars, clothes, inappropriate and sexists remarks, and of course Seattle as it looked 40 years ago. Being from Seattle, Bob and I are particularly impressed with knowing the filming locations for most of the shots. Directed by John Sturges and starring John Wayne, Eddie Albert, Diana Muldaur, and many others, it’s a well acted but at times heavy handed and slowly plotted film. There are some great scenes and some scenes that literally put me to sleep! If you’re into old 1970’s cars and fashions or you like the movies of John Sturges, John Wayne or the other actors then give it a watch. Otherwise, you might want to skip this one.
The Quiet Man, directed by John Ford and starring John Wayne and Maureen O’hara tells the story of Sean Thornton, returning to Ireland after a tragic accident in the boxing ring. He proceeds to try and get his life together in his ancestral home, ultimately marrying the strong willed and intelligence Mary Kate Danaher, played by Maureen O’hara. The movie ends with a riotous fight scene that goes on for 10 minutes between Thornton and Squire 'Red' Will Danaher, the brother of Mary Kate. It’s a fun and beautiful movie. Bob and I highly recommend watching it, more than once!
Gene Miller and Karen Kavner have written for television for over two decades. They sit down with Bob to discuss their debut novel Unraveled: A Novel. Gene and Karen talk about writing for television and the process of writing their novel together. It's a fascinating interview and a fantastic book (if you don't believe me check out the Amazon reviews).
Red River released in 1948 by MGM tells the story of Thomas Dunson and his adopted son Matt Garth as they pull off an epic cattle drive from Texas to Kansas. It’s a story told on a grand scale but the best moments come from the personal interactions between the main characters, Thomas Dunson played by the incomparable John Wayne, Matt Garth played by the mesmerizing Montgomery Clift, Nadine Groot (love that name) played by the always entertaining Walter Brennan and the stunning Tess Milay played by the equally stunning Joanne Dru. The entire movie builds up to a climatic finale between Tess, Matt and Thomas. The music written by Dimitri Tiomkin pushes the film along with a perfect score for the wide open spaces of Texas and Kansas. And Howard Hawks directs the characters and action with a master's touch. Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable film.
We wrap up Vincente Minnelli month with one of his best “Father Of The Bride.” It’s a wonderful story of a father as he experiences the ups and downs of his daughter’s engagement and wedding. A heart warming story with some great comedic scenes powered by the stars of Spencer Tracy, Joan Bennet and Elizabeth Taylor. I personally prefer the later Steve Martin version but I think Bob may prefer this one. We have a good discussion and also figure out what we’ll be watching in January and February. Happy New Year!
“Meet Me In St. Louis” tells the story of the Smith family as they experience the changes in the city leading up the 1904 World’s Fair. There are trials and tribulations but through it all the family sticks together. Starring Judy Garland, Margaret O’Brien, Mary Astor, Leon Ames, Harry Davenport and many others and directed by our “Director of the Month” Vincente Minnelli it a true classic full of wonderful music and memorable scenes.
If you picked any scene in Goodbye Charlie you would likely think that is a well acted, written and directed movie and you would be right. But something gets lost along the way to putting all the pieces together into a whole film. Is it the editing? Maybe too many subplots? Maybe too complex of an interweaving storyline? There’s a delicate balance to strike in making a movie and sometimes even the top talent just misses the mark.
“They Drive By Night” tells the story of two brothers and two women. It’s a story about truck drivers, the men who hire them, the men who work for them, and the women that love them. It’s a story about loss, gain, love and hate. It’s so many different stories and themes that it’s difficult to pin the film down, but it all hangs together thanks to the excellent directing by Raoul Walsh, the screenwriting of Jerry Wald and Richard Macaulay and of course the outstanding acting of George Raft, Ann Sheridan, Ida Lupino, Humphrey Bogart, Alan Hale and many more. The entire cast is top notch. As the one sheet poster declares “NO PICTURE IN 1940 WILL HAVE BIGGER THRILLS”.
It doesn’t happen often but every once in a while Bob and I have a very different take on a movie. And it’s a fun discussion when that does happen, which is the case with “Not Wanted” released in 1949, directed primarily by Ida Lupino and starring Sally Forest, Keefe Brasselle, and Leo Penn. It tells the story of a young women who falls in love with an intense moody piano player. She ends up pregnant with his child. He skips town and she’s left to her own devices. Another young man named Steve Ryan falls in love with Sally’s character, but she’s too ashamed and full of guilt as a result of her pregnancy and can’t find a way to let him into her heart. Is this a dated story of morays from the 1949 or is it a tale of the social pressures that women suffer under even to this very day? “Not Wanted” tells the story of a young women who falls in love with an intense moody piano player. She ends up pregnant with his child. He skips town and she’s left to her own devices. Another young man named Steve Ryan falls in love with Sally’s character, but she’s too ashamed and full of guilt as a result of her pregnancy and can’t find a way to let him into her heart.
Ida Lupino helmed the director’s chair for three days while primary director Nicholas Ray was ill. Ida Lupino is our “Director Of The Month” and she also turns in an excellent performance as a nearly blind woman trying her best to protect her younger brother. Robert Ryan plays Jim Wilson, a city detective at the end of his rope. Jim Wilson’s Captain, played by Ed Begley, sends Jim to a small town in the mountains to help solve a murder and as a way to keep Jim out of trouble that he’s in for beating up suspects in the city. Through the course of the investigation, Mary and Jim fall in love and find redemption in their lives. As does the young victim’s father played by Ward Bond. All of the lead cast is excellent and the music by Bernard Herrmann perfectly compliments the amazing cinematography by George E. Diskant. We highly recommend this movie!
So opens "The Hitch-hiker" a film directed by our director of the month Ida Lupino. Ida Lupino was a very talented actress, writer, producer, studio owner, and director. Starring Edmond O'Brien, Frank Lovejoy, and William Talman it tells the story of a killer on the run and two men that have the unfortunate luck to cross paths on the way to a fishing trip in Mexico. A tight tense film that foreshadows later films like "The Hitcher". We'll talk more about Ida Lupino next week as we watch "On Dangerous Ground" a film that she both starred in and co-directed, though the latter role was uncredited at the time.
Filmed simultaneously and released in 1931 the English language and Spanish language versions of “Dracula” are very similar in many ways but very different in other important ways. The English language version stars none other than Bela Legosi in the lead role. The Spanish language version stars Carlos Villarías in the lead role. Bob and I both prefer Bela Legosi’s portrayal, but we differ on which version is the better film. If you get a chance to watch both you definitely should. They are both excellent films and certainly have set the stage for later horror films, all the way to the present day.
An interplanetary starship arrives on a possible rescue mission to Altair 4 only to be rebuffed by a disembodied voice broadcasting from a 20 square mile area. Commander Adams played by Leslie Nielsen convinces the man, Doctor Morbius played by Walter Pidgeon, that they must land, despite the Doctor’s dire warnings. What unfolds next is a truly epic science fiction story. Directed by Fred McLeod Wilcox and starring Walter Pidgeon, Anne Francis, Leslie Nielsen, Warren Stevens and Robby the Robot this is a classic film that both of us give our highest rating too. Enjoy!
Strange events surround the Thorn’s adopted son Damien. Is he the spawn of hell, or is something else going on? Either way, it’s a heck of a scary ride!
Directed by one of our favorite directors, Robert Wise, “The Haunting” is an excellent haunted house story. Starring Julie Harris, Claire Bloom, Richard Johnson and Russ Tamblyn, it’s equal parts spooky atmosphere and jump-out-of-your-seat scares. Bob remembers seeing it in the theater and I can only imagine how much popcorn would have been spilled, especially in that scene at the top of the rickety spiral staircase! October Is For Horror month continues with “The Haunting”
In the remotest regions of the unexplored Arctic an unknown aircraft crash-lands in the ice. A group of scientists and military men are dispatched to find out what happened. And so begins an epic struggle for the fate of planet Earth. In the remotest regions of the unexplored Arctic an unknown aircraft crash-lands in the ice. A group of scientists and military men are dispatched to find out what happened. And so begins an epic struggle for the fate of planet Earth. We are treated to a great horror/sci-fi film in this 1951 adaptation of the John W. Campell Jr. novel. Featuring a fast paced, witty script by Charles Lederer and directed by Christian Nyby (and Howard Hawks uncredited) with expert acting by Margaret Sheridan, Kenneth Tobey, Robert Cornthwaite, James Arness and others, this film offers great atmosphere, a few memorable jump scares and a monster to rival any monster to ever appear in film. “Watch the skies. Keep watching the skies!”
Is Nosferatu a monster or a tragic figure cursed to live forever until he falls in love and forgets his most dangerous weakness. In a landmark horror film Max Shreck creates an unforgettable image of terror as the undead nosfertu “Graf Orlok”. Directed by F.W. Murnau, the film has scenes that would be copied for decades to come.
City Lights was a silent film in the era of talkies. Charlie Chaplin believed that people would come to his movies despite the fact that "silent movies were dead" after The Jazz Singer was released. And he was right! It's a great movie. In fact, the closing scene may be one of the best ever filmed!
Prepare yourself for an epic adventure in the tradition of “The Arabian Nights”. Douglas Fairbanks, Snitz Edwards, Charles Belcher, Julanne Johnston, Sôjin Kamiyama and Anna May Wong star in this wonderful story written by Douglas Fairbanks and directed by Raoul Walsh. The story of a simple thief in Bagdad and his quest for meaning and redemption in the name of love for the city’s Princess. He must undergo mythic trials and conquer his fear and desires to deliver the city from the hands of the evil Mongol Prince. Full of majesty and magic, this film stands the test of time and appears to predate by a decade other movies in terms of scope and effects. A truly special film that everyone should take the time to watch. Seriously, it’s two and a half hours long so you may need an intermission somewhere in the middle!
Metropolis was released in Europe in 1927. It was then drastically cut for the US release and the original version was lost for over 80 years. Then unexpectedly in 2008 a nearly complete 16mm print was discovered in Buenos Aires. That version was intercut with the original US print and digitally restored. In the meantime two other “restorations” were completed, one in 1984 by music titan Giorgio Morodor. He colorized scenes and used music from well known 80’s musicians with the film. A digital restoration was completed in 2001 but it lacked the complete footage of the 2010 version that resulted from the find in Buenos Aires. You can watch both the 1984 and 2010 versions on Netflix streaming. Bob and I discuss the differences between the two and arrive at the conclusion that the 2010 version is the definitive and superior version. No shock there. You can learn all about the history of the film at the www.metropolis1927.com website. Enjoy!
Is it an allegory for how humans treat each other and animals, is it an allegory for the cold war, or is it just a great sci-fi story? Maybe it’s all three at once. In any event, Fantastic Planet released in 1973 is a bit of a cult film but one that deserves a wider audience. It’s just as relevant today as it was in the early 70’s. And the visuals and music are top notch. Very different and strange in some parts, but that just adds to the alien feeling of the film.
The IMDB summary for this movie is… “The Beatles agree to accompany Captain Fred in his Yellow Submarine and go to Pepperland to free it from the music hating Blue Meanies.” If you had to summarize it into one sentence that’s not too far off the mark. But words really don’t do justice to the film. It has to be experienced firsthand. In fact the best way to watch “Yellow Submarine” is to go in with an open mind and let it wash over you. Don’t think too much about what you’re seeing because some of is just crazy and weird and strange and wonderful. So open your mind and your heart and remember “All You Need Is Love”! And to those folks that may not be fans of The Beatles, well, this movie may not be for you, but give it a go and maybe you’ll find some things to like anyway.
Snow White shook the film industry to its core when it was released in 1937. We can’t under-estimate how huge this movie was when it first came out. It was as big as Star Wars, Indiana Jones or Jurassic Park. The film was dubbed “Disney’s Folly” due to it’s huge budget and the fact that it was a full length feature film, something that had never been attempted before. And Star Wars wasn’t the first film to capitalize on its success with a line of toys and related products. That honor goes to Snow White, a full 40 years earlier. The film was release was accompanied by an onslaught of related merchandizing. All in all an outstanding, we might even say disruptive, film. A film that continues to enchant and engage audiences of all ages up to the present day.
Starting in the 1920’s and really picking up the pace in the 1940’s it was common to see several short animated films prior to the main feature. You’d also see a serial and a news reel before the show too. It was truly a golden age of animation. And the creativity was off the charts. Some of these cartoons are truly bizarre, even to a modern viewer. We wonder what those must of been like to see in an original release in the theater. Well, Bob can relate what it was like for him growing up in a small town in Montana. Prepare for a whirlwind tour of short animated classic films. Here’s a link to the YouTube playlist of shorts we’ve watched and discuss in this episode. And in a special extended after show, Bob describes his awesome tour of Warner Bros. studios.
The warm breezes, the crashing waves, the lovely women at “the club” and let’s not forget the never ending PK duty, scrubbing floors, pulling weeds, running laps, running up mountains. You know, the good old days on Oahu before the United States entered into World War II. In an all star production of the James Jones novel of the same name we experience the turmoil that filled the lives of a group of soldiers and civilians living on and near the Schofield Barracks in the weeks leading up to the bombing of Pearl Harbor. In what has to be one of the best all time performances in any movie, Montgomery Clift plays “Prewitt”, a young determined solider with a chip on his shoulder. Burt Lancaster, Deborah Kerr, Donna Reed and Frank Sinatra round out the cast in another film directed by Frank Zinnemann. We’ve reviewed two other films directed by Frank Zinnemann, High Noon an Oklahoma. Both excellent films. So sit back and prepare for a journey From Here To Eternity. Next podcast we enter the August Is For Animation month with a list of short animated films that you can find in a playlist we’ve created on YouTube.
Grab your camera and your scooter as we tour the beautiful sites of Rome with Gregory Peck, Audrey Hepburn, and Eddie Albert. In a movie that feels like it’s out of a fairy tale, Audrey Hepburn as Princess Ann escapes the overbearing life as a public figure to spend the day as a common person. Gregory Peck finds out her secret and lots of fun and interesting (and weird/creepy) hijinks ensue. Directed by the incomparable William Wyler this Paramount production won Academy Awards for Best Actress performance; the screenplay and costume design. So sit back, grab an espresso and enjoy “Roman Holiday”!
High Noon is a film that has been analyzed to death in every way conceivable. It tells a straight-forward story of a man who stands up against overwhelming odds to keep his sense of duty intact and to “do the right thing.” It stars Gary Cooper, Thomas Mitchell, Lloyd Bridges, Katy Jurado and Grace Kelly in her first major film role. Fred Zinnemann directed the film. It won four Academy Awards with “Best Actor” going to Gary Cooper. Do yourself a favor and watch “High Noon” just don’t do any internet research before hand. You’ll lose an hour or more reading about the movie which will not add to the enjoyment of the film (in my experience.)
Strange celestial events, the wholesale slaughter of predators to ants in the Arizona desert and unusual crop circles are just the beginning of a series of highly unusual events that lead Dr. Davenport and Dr. Lesko to setup a scientific observation station on the outskirts of an abandoned housing development. What exactly is going on? And is Kendra Eldridge really the mother to a new race? So many fantastic scenes and ideas in this little known but well respected, film released in 1974 by Paramount Pictures. Starring Nigel Davenport, Michael Murphy and Lynne Frederick, it’s the only film directed by acclaimed artist and designer Saul Bass. Bob and I wish he had directed further films. We really liked it!
In the “Seven Samurai” released in 1954 by Toho and director by Akira Kurosawa, we follow the exploits of an unfortunate peasant village in feudal Japan as they recruit seven samurai to help them defend themselves against marauding ronin. In “The Magnificent Seven” released in 1960 by MGM/UA and directed by John Sturges, we follow the exploits of an unfortunate peasant village in rural Mexico as they recruit seven gun fighters to help them defend themselves against marauding bandits. And that’s just the beginning of the similarities between these two movies. Many people consider the “Seven Samurai” one of the best films ever produced. “The Magnificent Seven” is also held in very high regard. What are the similarities? What are the differences? Is one a better film than the other? Bob and I discuss these topics as we review these two films in this week’s episode.
Released in I958, Vertigo is a tour-de-force in film making directed by Alfred Hitchcock and starring James Stewart and Kim Novak. It's a story of betrayal and murder. It's also a borderline ghost story. I like to imagine that with a few minor changes this could be one heck of a great ghost story. Ultimately it's a tragic tale of deceit and love. betrayal and the search for redemption in the most Shakespearian of traditions. Bob and I really enjoyed it and we hope you enjoy this episode of Classic Movie Reviews.
“The Professionals” was expertly written and directed by Richard Brooks and stars Burt Lancaster, Lee Marvin, Robert Ryan, Woody Strode, Jack Palance, Claudia Cardinale and Ralph Bellamy, released in 1966 by Columbia Pictures. It’s a great ride full of beautiful scenery, sharp dialog, excellent explosions and some great twists in the plot. So saddle up and prepare to cross the desert into Mexico with “The Professionals”
In honor of my grandmother Betty, Bob and I review her favorite movie "All About Eve." Starring Bette Davis, also my grandmother's favorite actress. "Fasten your seatbelts, it's going to be a bumpy night!"
Bob and I were unable to record a podcast this week. My grandmother passed away last weekend and so in honor of her passing we are going to review "All About Eve" next week. Bette Davis was her favorite actress and this was one of her favorite movies. We hope you have a good weekend and if you're in the United States, have a nice Memorial Day on Monday. Until next week...
Bob and I watch and review “The Virgin Spring”. A movie released to critical success in the US, but was panned by critics in Europe at the time. The film was banned in some parts of the US for the depiction of a young virgin, Karin, being raped and murdered. But that is only one aspect of the film. In some respects, the story is a very simple tale of innocence and revenge. On another level, or maybe several other levels, the film is a critique of religion and the clash between the old gods and the new Christian god, it’s also a tale of the tensions that exist between family members, and the price that one must pay for carrying out acts of violence whether they be meaningless or whether they are seemingly to avenge the senseless death of another innocent person. The quote above is from a scene in the movie where one character is foreshadowing the death and after-life of another character. It demonstrates the powerful writing in the film. The story is derived from a 13th century ballad. Ulla Isaksson adapted the ballad for film. She also gives an amazing commentary to the film on the Criterion Collection DVD. Directed by Ingmar Bergman, Starring Max von Sydow, Birgitta Valberg, Gunnel Lindblom and Birgitta Pettersson, “The Virgin Spring” won the Oscar in 1961 for Best Foreign Language Film. It continues to have a powerful impact to this day.
Winner of 6 Oscar Awards, this William Wyler and MGM production perfectly captures the wartime era of London and surrounding suburbs during the start of the German air raids. Greer Garson, Walter Pigeon, Teresa Wright, Dame May Whitty, Henry Travers and Richard Ney all give outstanding performances. Henry Wilcoxon gives a speech for the ages, which he also helped write. There’s just so much to cover, so many good scenes, great acting, great script writing, set design, cinematography and on and on. Bob and I can’t and don’t stop praising this film. We hope you agree that Mrs. Miniver is a perfect 10 out of 10. Enjoy!
The year of the City 2274, the remnants of human civilization survive in a domed city. They spend their days playing, partying, and having sex. That is until they turn 30. Then they must go to Carrousel where they will be reborn if they try hard enough. But some people don't believe in carrousel, or maybe they are afraid, so they make a run for Sanctuary. They are called Runners. And the people that are assigned to stop them, to terminate them, those people are called Sandmen. And all of this, the people, the city, everything, is controlled by one maniacal all powerful central computer. So what happens when a Sandman is tasked with finding Sanctuary. He is forced to become a Runner himself. And the future will never be the same again! Prepare yourself for a journey into the ultimate utopia or the ultimate hell, you decide, as we watch the future unfold in "Logan's Run". Produced by MGM, right before the great MGM purge, it stars Michael York, Richard Jordan, Jenny Agutter, Peter Ustinov, and let us not forget Roscoe Lee Browne as "Box" (so bad he's almost good), Logan's Run is a true mixed bag of a movie. Sometimes reaching the highest of highs in science fiction film making and other times sinking to the lowest of lows. So of course Bob and I go into a deep dive and spend almost an hour picking it apart! Enjoy!
"We aren't dealing with ordinary machines. These are highly complicated pieces of equipment, almost as complicated as living organisms. In some cases they've been designed by other computers. We don't know exactly how they work." And so begins the downfall of the DELOS vacation resort, because the machines, they have a mind of their own and they intend to use they're new found sentience. Bob and I play a game of connect the dots between Westworld, The Terminator, Blade Runner and Austin Powers. Wait, what? Austin Powers! Yes! Austin Powers? Just wait for it, you'll understand. Released in 1973 by MGM, written and directed by Michael Crichton, and starting Yul Brynner, Richard Benjaman, James Brolin, Alan Oppenheimer, Dick Van Patten, and Linda Gaye Scott, "Westworld" is in many ways the forerunner to the modern "machines take over the world and wipeout all humankind" thriller. There are many original ideas contained in the film and some derivative ideas (see notes below). Overall we like it, but we have some issues with it as well.
Deep in the Nevada desert lies a secret underground lab called Wildfire. Is the lab there to promote peace or to forward the agenda of war? What if we discovered a new and previously unthinkable type of life? What would we do with that knowledge? Would we share it for the betterment of all humankind? Or would we weaponize it for our own selfish gain? These are some of the questions raised by "The Andromeda Strain". The questions are raised but they are never fully answered. The answer is up to you. What would you do when faced with a deadly biological threat? And what the heck is up with those Presidential advisors?!? Geesh!
Science, faith, truth, justice, ecology, violence, war are all themes in Planet of the Apes. Imagine that we’re on a distant planet ruled by an intelligent race of apes. Men and women are seen as animals. What would that culture think of a talking man? A man that claims he’s from a distant solar system? And what would happen to that man when he finds out the truth? We find out the truth in this classic sic-fi movie from Twentieth Century Fox, released in 1968, staring Charlton Heston, Roddy McDowall, Kim Hunter, Maurice Evans, James Whitmore, Linda Harrison to name just a few.
Molly Brown is truly unsinkable in the fast paced and fun MGM production of “The Unsinkable Molly Brown” released in 1964. Debbie Reynolds sings and dances her way from rags to riches, from the mountains of Colorado to the finest establishments of Europe and back again. There’s a lot to enjoy in this movie. it’s a light hearted and funny movie. Bob and I go through the major scenes and talk about some of the themes of the film. What will happen to Molly next? Would Johnny really be okay with burning $300K? And where can we find a mountain like the one they do where the gold just falls right out onto the ground? Inquiring minds want to know! We keep it light and breezy, just like the movie.
Twelve criminals are recruited to form a special unit tasked with taking out the German high command during World War II. Can Major Reisman get these murderers, psychopaths and general malcontents in shape in time to complete the mission? And why in the heck would they let Maggot be a part of this group? This group of dirty, stinky, rotten troops who for the most part are totally redeemed by the end of the film. Bob and I kick off the episode with a special mention for Nunnally Johnson one of the screenwriters for the movie, along with many many many other films including “The Grapes Of Wrath”. Nunnally Johnson did yeomans’ work for over 30 years in Hollywood and he doesn’t get nearly enough credit. So Bob and I give him some!
"There's a bright golden haze on the meadow. There's a bright golden haze on the meadow. The corn is as high as an elephant's eye. And it looks like it's climbing clear up to the sky. Oh what a beautiful morning! Oh what a beautiful day!" Those lyrics kick off a magical journey into the heart of Oklahoma territory set in 1901 before the territory became a state. The tension and drama that existed between the cattlemen and the farmers plays out in spectacular musical fashion both on beautifully filmed location (in Arizona no less) and on sets built to look like an Oklahoma farmstead. Everything turns our alright except for Jud. He's kind of a bad dude, but Casey isn't a squeaky clean hero either. And wouldn't the whole thing be resolved peacefully if Laurey and Curly decided to go to the dance together in that first scene. Oh, but wait, then there wouldn't be a movie! Oh, the singing! The dancing! The ballerinas! Where did all these professional dancers/singers/ranchers/farmers come from! Don't ask too many questions just sit back and let the scenery and the music wash over you. "Oh what a beautiful morning!"
We'll return next week with our review of Oklahoma! In the meantime, remember that the farmer and the cowman should be friends!
A cast of what seems like thousands are on a race for a buried fortune, at least they think it exists, but they don't know exactly where to look, but they know that a giant "W" marks the spot. Why not an X? Don't ask, it's a W which is right next to X in the alphabet. And the whole movie makes about as much sense as that comment! It's a crazy, or dare we say, mad race to the finish. We give it a go and tell you what we think. We keep it real even though the American Film Institute ranks the film as one of the best American comedies. So jump in a car, a plane or a truck and hold on for dear life as we see just how mad this world can be in Stanley Kramer's classic(?) 1963 comedy/action/adventure movie.
It's Vienna, 1949, Holly Martins steps off a train and into a mystery, full of intrigue and backstabbing. Is it just another day at the office for Mr. Martins? No way, he's a clueless American writer of pulp westerns. He's completely out of his depth and that's the fun of the movie. It unravels before our eyes in glorious black and white with the incomparable zither score by Anton Karas. Directed by Carol Reed, with an all star cast of Joseph Cotten, Orson Welles, Trevor Howard, and Valli, the movie is a true masterpiece of film-making. Not everyone agrees with this assessment, just read through some of the IMDB forum posts. That's alright, Bob and I certainly enjoyed it. And we hope you enjoy this episode of Classic Movie Reviews.
Released in 1953, this independent production didn't garner much in the way of accolades or revenue at the box office. In fact, it's been called a "lost classic". For one reason or another it's fallen into the public domain. You can watch it online via the Internet Archive. Described as a mix of film noir and comedy, the cast is solid, the director, well, it's John Huston and the script? Written in collaboration with Truman Capote. What could go wrong? Is it really a "lost classic" or has it been forgotten for good reasons?
Dobbs continues his descent into madness, Curtin narrowly escapes with his life and Howard finds a tropical paradise in the middle of the Mexican dessert. Really, what? Did Howard look right into the camera in that scene and nod to us as the audience. Yes, he did! But that’s not all, there’s so much to talk about in this movie that our review is nearly as long as the movie itself.
Gold does strange things to a man’s soul as we find out in Warner Brothers / First National Picture’s adaptation of B Traven’s classic "The Treasure Of The Sierra Madre". Who is B Traven? Why can’t Dobbs see that he’s got gold fever? How much gold is enough gold? So many questions and so few answers in a truly great movie, one of Humphrey Bogart’s best and definitely one of John Huston’s best. It’s also one of the only (or the only) movie where a father and son both won an Oscar in the same year for the same movie. Bob and I like that part especially. It’s good to see a father and son have great success together. This is the second movie in our John Huston & Humphrey Bogart movie marathon.
Roger Ebert gives it his highest rating, the American Film Institute voted it one of the best movies ever made and starring Humphrey Bogart who was voted the best actor of all time, The Maltese Falcon delivers the goods with incredible acting, directing, and cinematography. Bob and I delve into some of the questions left open at the end of the movie. I even throw out my personal theory on what really happened to The Maltese Falcon. Prepare yourself for the adventure as we walk the streets, corridors and rooms of San Francisco, 1941, in search of The Maltese Falcon.
A #1 pop hit song kicks off this tale of inner city kids and their inexperienced but masterful teacher and how they all end up deeply affecting each others lives. A powerful portrayal by the consummate Sidney Poitier, and a wonderful job of writing and directing by James Clavell bring combine to make a truly memorable movie. So travel back in time with us to the dock yards, back alleys and school rooms of London, 1967. Next episode we kick off a three movie marathon of John Huston and Humphrey Bogart movies, starting with the Maltese Falcon, then Treasure of the Sierra Madre and ending with Beat The Devil.
“The sun is shining, the grass is green, The orange and palm trees sway. There's never been such a day in Beverly Hills, L.A. But it's December the twenty-fourth, And I am longing to be up North” Nope, you’re not going to hear this original first verse to the iconic and hugely successful “White Christmas” song in the movie or in any of the popular versions of the song released since the 1940’s. But it says a lot about the state of mind of Irving Berlin. He was missing his family in New York City and that feeling comes through in the rest of the song and in the movie “White Christmas” released by Paramount Pictures in 1954. The movie was a big hit for the studio and helped launch the career of Rosemary Clooney. Of course, Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, and Vera Ellen were already stars in their own right, but Vera Ellen only appeared in one movie after this one. Bob and I talk about all of this and more in our inaugural Christmas episode. So sit back, put another log on the fire, cozy up with a loved one and enjoy the sounds of “White Christmas”
What do "the adventures of a blind, gambling masseur who also happens to be a master swordsman", the television show "Sons of Anarchy" and Star Wars all have in common? Tune in and find out as we connect some tenuous dots between a wide range of genres and time periods in our review of "Zatoichi: The Tale Of Zatoichi" the first of 26 movies and 100 television episodes produced between 1962 and 1989 that follow the life and exploits of Ichi, the wandering blind ronin or as Ichi says "yakuza". Next episode we had planned to watch "To Sir, With Love" but then realized that our podcast will come out the day before Christmas and so of course we have to watch a Christmas movie. Settle in, pour yourself something warm to drink and prepare for a "White Christmas". Enjoy!
Will Dan Evans get Ben Wade to the 3:10 to Yuma in time? Will Dan redeem himself in his son's eyes? What other uses of cutlery will Ben Wade find along the way? All these questions and more are answered in "3:10 To Yuma". Bob and I compare the original movie released in 1957 to the new movie released 50 years later in 2007. Can you say "turn the drama dial to 11!" because that's what they did in the 2007 version and we think it works!
"O-Lan, you are the earth." Those are the closing words to MGM's 1937 film adaptation of Pearl S. Buck's "The Good Earth". Bob and I land squarely in the middle of our rating scale on this one (spoiler alert). We like Luise Rainer, who won an Academy Award for her role as O-Lan, the cinematography is great and there are some great scenes (how did they film the locus scene?!?) in the movie. But is suffers from being too long and from some questionable directing and acting choices. Well, there you have it. We really like some parts, and we really question some other parts.
Just in time for Halloween here in the United States, we pick a perfect movie if you like to be creeped out, shocked and generally made to feel like you won't be able to sleep tonight.
There are some great and memorable lines from the movie that changed motion picture making, The Jazz Singer broke ground with the dramatic use of music, singing and talking. It's also remembered for the use of "black face" in the closing musical numbers of the film. Al Jolson was known as the "World's Greatest Entertainer" at the time of the movie's release. We can catch glimpses of his charisma in the film. By all accounts, you'd have to have seen him in person to really understand why he carried that title. There's so much to digest in this movie. Bob and I cover the basis and of course get philosophical near the end. We can't help ourselves.
Rated as one of the top movies of all time Singin' In The Rain has left a huge mark on film making that we are still feeling, seeing, hearing and enjoying today. From the classic "Singin' In The Rain" number to the goofy "Make Em Laugh", Singin' In The Rain is great fun from start to finish. So grab an umbrella as we go a Singin' In The Rain!
"Chick... chick... CHICK!" Poor Wilbur, if only Chick would believe him. He really is being chased by Dracula and Frankenstein's monster. And what do they want from Wilbur? His brain of course! No, they aren't zombies. They don't want to eat it. They want it for it's intellectual capacity, or lack thereof. And why and how did the Wolfman get mixed up in this zany adventure? Lot's of fun is had as we follow the adventures of Bud and Lou in this classic horror comedy, voted one of the top 100 funniest movies of all time. Next episode we're lightening it up with "Singing in the Rain". So grab your umbrella and join us won't you?
"To a new world of Gods and Monsters." - Dr. Pretorius "This isn't science, it's more like black magic." - Dr. Frankenstein That may be true Dr. Frankenstein but that doesn't stop you from trying to create a new race of man and woman to walk the face of the earth. Of course it doesn't end well for our poor creatures, not to mention the crazy Dr. Pretorius. The similarities between this movie and Young Frankenstein are overwhelming. And can you believe there may be a musical connection between Bride of Frankenstein and South Pacific? Yep! And our good friend the Preacher from Grapes of Wrath makes an oh so brief appearance as well. Sit back, pour yourself a glass of gin (it is my only weakness) and maybe light a cigar (it is my only weakness) and enjoy the zany horrific touching story that is "The Bride of Frankenstein".
"It's Alive!" Yes, it is and it's out to get you Doctor Frankenstein. Bob and I have some fun walking through our favorite scenes and some of our not so favorite scenes. We discuss the influence this movie had on "Young Frankenstein" and it turns out that "Young Frankenstein" had a pretty big influence on us because we inadvertently call the lab assistance Igor throughout the entire review when in fact his name was Fritz. Oh well. Igor has a nice ring to it. Universal must have thought so too. The new Universal "Frankenstein" movie is due out in 2015 and the lab assistant, played by Daniel Radcliffe, is called Igor. So, don't let your children play with flowers by the lake unattended. You never know what may come lumbering out of the forest.
We travel back in time to an age of innocence, wait what? No, that must be a different movie. We do get to watch a touching love story unfold in the suburbs of London in the 1940's. There's only one problem. The lovers are already married! The drama, the awkward situations, the chatty train passengers! Not to mention the holier than though friend. There's a lot to like in "Brief Encounter" and it's easy to see why this movie is ranked among the top classic movies by the BFI. But do yourself a favor and read the IMDB reviews. Not everybody loves it. Bob and I do really like it though.
We wrap up our epic review of Gentleman's Agreement as events come to a dramatic climax. Bob and I just keep heaping praise on the film. And we dive into the themes and see how it all plays out for Phil, Kathy, Tommy, Grandma, Dave and the rest. Next week we're watching "Brief Encounter" released in 1945 by Pinewood Studios.
Prepare yourself for an epic review of "Gentleman's Agreement" released in 1947 by Twentieth Century Fox. This is Part 1 and covers the first half of the movie. Part 2 will be released next week. Also prepare yourself for a fairly opinionated review that dives deep into the themes of the movie. This is one of our very favorite movies of all time and I think we do it justice. Next week stay tuned for Part 2 of "Gentleman's Agreement" and in two weeks we watch "Brief Encounter" at the suggestion of a listener.
We are magically transported into inner-space on a Fantastic Voyage in this episode of Classic Movie Reviews. Is it a B movie? Is it an A movie? Maybe a B+ movie? No matter what letter you give it, the movie is a lot of fun and we enjoy the trip.
We'll never think of eating beans around a camp fire the same way again! We hit the dusty trails to find out just why the saddles were blazing. And boy oh boy do we find out.
It's a wild ride as we join the Navy and the Marines on Bali High in "South Pacific". Is it a love story? A war movie? A comedy? or maybe it's all just in our imaginations. We like it overall. Next time we head out west for "Blazing Saddles"!
We watch helplessly as Barbara Stanwick gets steamrolled for being a "Witness To Murder" Bob and I agree, it's not one of our favorites, but it does have it's moments. Next week we travel to the "South Pacific". Join us won't you?
Bob and I get philosophical (and political) as we discuss the merits of John Ford's adaptation of John Steinbeck's "The Grapes of Wrath." We talk for an hour and so we've decided to split this episode into two parts. This week we follow the Joad's to the border of California, right before their perilous desert night crossing. Next week, we'll find out what happens to them in California. Spoiler: it's not good.
We join the fighting 918th Bomb Group as they struggle to find out what it means to give a "maximum effort" during America's first daylight precision bombing runs of World War II. Next episode we review "Grapes of Wrath" which does not star Ricardo Montalban. That's a different wrathful movie.
We venture deep into the uncharted waters of the Amazon river to find the Creature From The Black Lagoon. We have lots of fun picking it apart and talking about the origins of the monster, science fiction versus horror, and more! Next episode we review the World War II classic "Twelve O'clock High".
Bob and I have the most fun we've had yet recording our review of "Young Frankenstein". There are so many good scenes, we have a hard time choosing our favorites. Next episode we review the Blu-Ray release of "Creature From The Black Lagoon"! I even watched it in glorious 3D!
Enjoy the double-crossing in part 2 of our review of "Double Indemnity"! Our review is almost as long as the movie itself. Next week... Young Frankenstein!