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Easy Rider (1969)
Groovy.
Dennis Hoppers directorial debut, Easy Rider, was a counter culture fueled journey through the southwest of the United States. The film follows two hippie-ish motorcyclists as they ride from L.A. to New Orleans and maneuver the social landscape of 1960's America. The biker duo is played by Peter Fonda as "Wyatt" and Dennis Hopper as "Billy". Easy Rider is definitely a product of it's time for the films 1969 release, as it embodies themes of rebellion, drugs, sex, "hippie culture", and freedom. This film does a great job of showing freedom from varying perspectives as well as the true cost of freedom or simply living a life outside the established society. This story feels very natural, this is in part due to the beautiful scenery, awesome music, and the laid back demeanor of the films featured duo. The song selection for Easy Rider alone is enough to authentically convey the films authentic rebellious, yet peaceful tone. Peter Fonda's performance is genuinely convincing and was probably one of the chief examples of what being "cool" looked like in the early 70's. Hopper was equally as convincing as Fonda's partner in crime and Jack Nicholson delivers on one of the films most enjoyable characters, lawyer George Hanson. There are some rather wacky transition to be found throughout the film, but it personally didn't effect my viewing of the film, if anything it only contributed to the films realism considering the amount of drugs consumed throughout it's duration. I enjoyed watching this film, it transported me back to the late sixties and provided me with a good sense of the attitudes of the time period. I would highly recommend Easy Rider to everyone who hasn't seen the film or has avoided it. Overall I feel there is some imperfect perfection to be found here and a pureness few other films can successfully replicate.
Guess Who's Coming to Dinner (1967)
Ahead of its time.
Stanley Cramer's "Guess Whos Coming to Dinner" is a film that was ahead of its time for its 1967 release. This films most prominent theme confronts the racial tensions in the United States during the 1960's, a theme that is still relevant in 2020. Cramer shines a light on prejudice by focusing on how discriminatory attitudes and views effect even the most isolated situations, such as the potential marriage of an inter racial couple. Sidney Portlier and Katherine Houghton play a young couple (Dr. John Prentice & Joey Drayton) who unexpectedly visit Joey's parents, with news that the two plan to be married. But once Joey's parents find out John is black and Johns parents that Joey is white, chaos consumes the household. The film explores the dynamics between the couple and their families as their fathers object to the marriage. It is specifically interesting that the film chose to portray Mr. Drayton as a liberal who has publicly fought against injustice and racism in his local newspaper, yet doesn't feel comfortable with his own daughter marrying outside of her race. "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" does seamless job of exploring the United States varying points of view and stereotypes of the time on a smaller scale. Although there are serious messages of hypocrisy and prejudice, as well as true love, there is a mixture of genuine comedy throughout. I enjoyed all the performances, especially Sidney Poitier as Dr. Prentice and Katherine Hepburn as Mrs. Drayton. I would recommend this film to everyone, there is a message that found within that is a significant now as it was in 1967.
Detour (1945)
Angst & Art
Released in 1945, Detour is an impressive result of a low film budget. I found this film to be relatively simple yet very powerful. Detour follows the misadventure of Piano player Al Roberts, played by Tom Neal, as he hitchhikes his way from New York to Los Angeles. This movie creates a notion of angst and paranoia as Tom Neal finds himself stuck in a life changing situation hen he least expects it. Neal narrates most of his hitchhiking story himself, director Edgar G. Ulmer executes the unsteady narration brilliantly. Neal comes off as broken as he recites the events that got him to where he is, even a bit unreliable as the narrator of his own story, adding to the films overall feel. Throughout his journey to Los Angeles Neal becomes entangled with a harsh woman by the name of Vera, played by Ann Savage, who ends up holding Neal's fate in her hands. Ann Savages performance is a highlight of Detour and feeds in to the perceived stress of the films situations. The idea of fate and life undeniable misfortunes are woven throughout the film. Ulmer does a great job of fitting a fulfilling and dreadful story all into a run time of just over an hour. The style of Detour may have been seen as a bit risky, but this film delivers as a bold and realistic story.
The Birds (1963)
Deeply unnerving thrill ride.
The Birds, released in 1963, is a deeply unnerving thrill ride and really a lot of fun. Another of Alfred Hitchcock's masterpieces, the film focuses on the idea of birds uniting against man in mysterious fashion. I enjoyed this concept of birds from different species retaliating against human kind for our crimes against them. It gives The Birds a uniquely alarming and disturbing quality by making something generally viewed as innocent and giving it a touch of evil. The films slowly builds with a distinct eeriness that is attributed to the bold score and increasingly unsettling imagery. The Birds blends beauty with terror and is just a realistic feeling thrill. Hitchcock captures many simple shots that are perfectly fitting and terrifying in context. I was sucked into the film early on, as Hitchcock's work has a knack of doing, with the intriguing personality of Melanie Daniels. Ms. Daniels is played by Tippi Hedren, in what's a convincingly dramatic performance, particularly in the final act. Daniels love interest is San Francisco lawyer Mitch Brenner, played charmingly by Rod Taylor. There are some good performances to be found here, but perhaps the best actors/actresses were the birds themselves. This is a film that can be a lot of fun for horror fans and a bit shocking, yet intoxicating for the average movie fan.
Singin' in the Rain (1952)
Some of the most fun you can have in an hour & forty-three minutes!
WOW!
I loved Singin' in the Rain (1952) from the opening title song to the closing love spelled tune. This film was some of the most fun I've' had by myself in years, "Singin'" had me grinning ear to ear practically the entire hour and forty-three minute run time. I honestly can't say that I have been as mesmerized by on screen song & dance, like I was during this musical, since I was a child. Genuinely fantastic acting, singing, and dancing, just pure performances. "Singin'" reminded me of how much I appreciated actors/actresses who can really just do it all. The songs here are wonderful on their own, really well written lyrics, but their execution is near flawless. This film was so much fun in part due to there always being something going on, each act presented you with something that was aesthetically pleasing or hilarious, to go along with the music. Often scenes delivered all of these elements simultaneously and in impressive fashion. Gene Kelly shows the utmost showmanship as Don Lockwood and knocks every performance out of the park with a smile. Lockwood falls for a charming woman with the voice of an angel, Kathy Selden, played perfectly by Debbie Reynolds. Lockwood's right hand man Mr. Cosmo Brown, played by Donald O'Connor, delivers one of the funniest scenes of the film and shows off real acting chops while doing it. I find Singin' in the Rain absolutely fulfilling and would recommend it to everyone. Especially those who may need to bring out the kid in them for a little while.
Psycho (1960)
We all go a little mad sometimes......
As I begin writing this review I can't help but feel a subtle chill run down my back, this is a testament to Alfred Hitchcock's successful execution of such an unsettling story. Viewed by many as one of the greatest films ever made, there's no doubt in my mind as to why Psycho has such a legendary reputation. Released in 1960, Psycho opened the door for many films in the thriller/slasher/horror genre that would follow. Psycho indices you from beginning to end. Each scene has your heart racing increasingly faster as the film progresses and for a different reason each time. This film draws you in to one situations and then turns you around right into another before you can even realize. Hitchcock masterfully pieces this
unique story together. I felt Psycho came across as a very complete movie, captivating performances, appealing cinematography, an unsettling score, and just the ability to draw you in is all pretty remarkable. The score alone is enough to make to shutter a little and it is paired up with every scene perfectly. The shots Hitchcock provides have a way of putting the films situation into perspective for the audience. It makes you feel part of the story and takes you on an intensified journey of angst and curiosity. Psycho's performances were convincing all around, but the real gem of this cast is Anthony Perkins as Norman Bates. Perkins performance is the backbone of Psycho, Norman Bates is a genuinely chilling character with a lot more too him than just simply being strange. The concept of Norman Bates and his mother adds to this films uniqueness and disturbing feel. 100% recommend, especially to horror/thriller fans who have been holding out.
Out of the Past (1947)
She can't be all bad. No one is.
Out of the Past (1947), directed by Jacques Tourneur, is a gem. This is the first film of the Film Noir genre I have watched and if Out Of the Past is any indication, I can already see myself getting into these kind of movies. Going into this film I wasn't expecting such intricacy in the plot, it caught me off guard, but it was welcomed. It's a great feeling when a movie makes you sit up in your seat and force you to get involved, it makes for a better experience. There's an intriguing story to be found here, with each scene providing a different feeling than the last. The score fit just right for the changing tone of this film and was placed just right in many scenes that added to the dramatic feel and weight of the scene. I don't think I have previously appreciated black & white filming in the way I do with Out of the Past. I love the overall feel of "past". The only way I can describe the way I felt w in the way acting this as if I hearing this story in the back of your favorite restaurant after a long night out when nothing else is on your mind. The acting was top notch all-around. Jane Greer and Robert Mitchum in particular gave strong performance's and deliver some of the films best scenes together. I can't write this review with mentioning the script. It is masterful, something any film fan will appreciate. I highly recommend Out of the Past, especially to those maybe afraid to venture into black and white movies or fans of modern directors such as Christopher Nolan who want to try something a bit more classic.
Casablanca (1942)
As Time Goes By......
Well I was not a fan of that movie Casablanca........said no one (with good taste) ever. I would be lying if I said I didn't have high expectations going into this film. Just about everyone one I know who appreciates a good movie, that has seen Casablanca, has insisted I see Casablanca. I finally did and the love for this film is not wrongful, I too love this movie upon first viewing. There isn't enough I could say about this movie and the internet has done its best to say just about everything. Beautiful story, beautiful acting, beautiful cinematography, and a beautiful song. Humphrey Bogarts performance as Rick Blaine instantly made him one of my favorite characters across all cinema. Rick is the definition of "Cool" in Casablanca. Ingrid Bergman simply delivers in the role of Ilsa Lund. Passionate and elegant, she crafted a great character. I enjoyed the part of Captain Louis, played by Claude Rains, a sophisticated yet subtly amusing character. Rains is fantastic, as time goes by I watch myself becoming a bigger and bigger fan of his. Speaking of "As Time Goes By", this song captures the feel and emotion of Casablanca, not only the loss of a true love the loss of security. Casablanca allows the audience to feel the passion, heartbreak, paranoia, and pressure of war and its consequences. If you are a history buff you will appreciate the historical ramifications of Casablanca and the glimpse of the indirect impacts of WWII outside of Europe. This film really does live up to its established standards, I wouldn't call it the best film ever made, or my favorite, its just one of the good ones.
Stagecoach (1939)
Ringo Kid
Stagecoach, released in 1939, is a classic western ride that's a lot of fun. Directed by John Ford and staring the great John Wayne, along with Claire Trevor. This is a film that laid the blueprints for many westerns to follow and marks the beginning of stardom for John Wayne. Stagecoach follows the story of a group of travelers riding on a stagecoach through various towns in the United Sates Western territories. Wayne plays "the Ringo Kid", a wanted man on a path to enact revenge for the murder of his brother. I can clearly see why this helped launch Wayne to greater heights in Hollywood, he had this undeniable swagger about him that I gravitated to. The story features a colorful cast of characters behind Ringo. In particular I enjoyed Doc Boone, played by Thomas Mitchell, the doctor as well as the drunk of the group. Even though Docs tab at the saloon is far to big, he plays an imperative role during one of the groups more crucial parts of their journey. There were some rather annoying characters but isn't that difficult to look past them as the remaining characters are so spot on. This film delivered some impressive scenes of the western plains and a sequence involving a meeting with a group of Apache Natives that went beyond my expectations. If you are a fan of westerns this is a must see as it sets the stage for the genre as a whole.
My Man Godfrey (1936)
Misdirected energies!
This film pushes all the right buttons. I had some of the most genuine fun while watching "My Man Godfrey" for the first time. No wonder this has manifested itself as one of the best screwball classics of all time. I escaped from my comfortable living room with this movie I can't imagine the escape it must have brought depression era movie goers. "My Man Godfrey" was released in 1936 and was directed by Gregory La Cava. The film follows the tale of Godfrey Smith, a homeless man living on a riverbank who finds himself with a job as a butler for a wealthy family, but he soon finds out sanity is hard to come by in this family. Godfrey is played by William Powell, who gifts the movie world with this incredibly charming performance. Powell is witty, relatable, and funny throughout. Godfreys love interest, Irene Bullock, is played by Carole Lombard. Lombard delivers a fast talking, over dramatic yet likeable character in Irene. "My Man Godfrey" has an array of enjoyable characters that make up the family Godfrey Butlers for. The dynamic of the family is one of the most entertaining aspects of the film. complete with arguing, crying, and certain characters on the brink of insanity. I loved how this film was able to blend over the top comedy and intelligent dialogue. Everyone should get around to seeing this movie at least once, it was simple but so appealing, a truly enjoyable experience. 10/10
Lifeboat (1944)
What do you do with a person like that?
This was easily one of the best films I've had the pleasure of seeing in recent years. Lifeboat (1944) tells the story of group of Allied shipwreck survivors after their ship is torpedoed by a German U-boat. Alfred Hitchcock directs another masterpiece in Lifeboat, based on the writings of John Steinbeck. I was impressed at how drawn in i was to this film as it was shot almost entirely on a single lifeboat in the middle of the ocean. Hitchcock achieves such an intriguing story with the characters and unique bond they form with each other as they deal with an array of life threatening situations. From the opening to closing scene I felt personally invested in this story and the fate of this motely cast of characters. I really can't say enough about this cast, they were nothing short of spectacular. In particular I enjoyed Tallulah Bankhead's performance as Mrs. Connie Porter, a photographer/writer with a ravishing yet commanding way about her. As well as Henry Hull, who plays a self made millionaire, Mr. Charles Rittenhouse. Rittenhouse delivers some reason and at times amusing exchanges to the unfortunate situation he is placed in. The lone Nazi of the survivors, Willy, is played quite convincingly by Walter Slezak. Willy presence on the lifeboat creates a pathway for moral dilemma and paranoia among the allied survivors, yet they may need the German whether he blew up their ship or not. Lifeboats masterful dialogue brings this movie to life, adding to the cats performance. There are conversations that go beyond the survivors tiny lifeboat that really work for this film. When you think of Hitchcock Lifeboat usually isn't the first that comes to mind but its more than worth the hour and thirty seven minutes of your time. WATCH THIS MOVIE!
Imitation of Life (1934)
Quack Quack
Imitation of Life (1934) stars Claudette Colbert, Louise Beavers, & Warren Williams and is directed by John M. Stahl. Watching Imitation of Life gave me a comfortable feeling, as if I was Thanksgiving break or eating dinner after working outside in the cold. This was an enjoyable viewing all around. The performances by just about the entire cast were tremendous. I enjoyed Claudette Colbert's character, Ms. Pullman, she has an appealing style and infectious personality. Louise Beavers performance as Delilah delivers that feeling of warmth and kindness throughout the film. The relationship between these two characters is convincing and brings an added element to this film. I also enjoyed Ned Sparks character, Elmer, who carried an amusing demeanor and delivered as the subtle comic relief in this story. Imitation of Life is certainly ahead of its time, this film handles multiple sub-plots and constructs them altogether quite nicely. Each of the main characters also receives a well played out arc from the beginning to end. The story itself if compelling as well as entertaining. Following Ms. Pullman and Delilah's start-up of a successful pancake business, especially for the time period, must have made this duo remodels for many women of the era. "Imitation" is simply a classic and I would highly recommend this film to viewers of all ages and true film fans in general.
Frankenstein (1931)
THE Monster
This film is the gold standard for classic horror and horror films in general. "Frankenstein" gifts audiences with one of the most original ideas of it's time and executes it on screen to near perfection. This collection of characters laid the blueprint for many monster flicks to follow. The dialogue of this film are legendary. There a good chance you've heard various lines from "Frankenstein" every Halloween, as a kid I knew a good chunk of these lines and who said them without ever seeing the film. That is a testament to how influential a masterful film can be. The iconic performances of Colin Clive and Boris Karloff are instrumental to this film. Clive is truly convincing as the medical genius Victor Frankenstein, who desires to push the boundaries of nature and create life in his own image. That idea alone carries some weight. Karloff delivers perhaps THE most important performance of a movie monster that there has ever been for the genre. As "The Monster" we get to see Dr. Frankenstein's creation that just doesn't seem to belong in this world and quickly develops dangerous tendencies as confusion and fear set in. "The Monster" is deadly yet innocent and garners sympathy from audiences as well as terror. "Frankenstein" is a generational film that should to be viewed by anyone who enjoys a good movie and is absolutely necessary for those in love with the horror genre.
The Invisible Man (1933)
Invisible Mania
"The Invisible Man" delivers one of the most unique and intriguing horror characters of all time. Every kid thinks about having the power of invisibility at least once during their childhood, but what if that power was paired with a touch of evil? "Invisible Man" realizes this with Claude Rains performance as Dr. Griffin, the Invisible man. Rains one liners in this film are humorous as they are menacing and that maniacal laugh without a doubt haunted the dreams of audience members back in the thirties. The plot unfolds steadily as the growing threat of the invisible murderer leads to panic among the public and the police tasked with catching him. "Invisible Mans' special effect are ahead of its time when it comes to Griffins "invisible" appearance and the movement of objects around him. There are some beautiful shots throughout, especially during the sequences of the police honing in on Dr. Griffin as the snow is falling. I would highly recommend this film there is an entertaining experience to be had and some uneasy speculation of the possibilities that lie with the powers of "The Invisible Man".
The Public Enemy (1931)
Gangster Blueprint
"The Public Enemy" is the earliest film of the gangster genre that I've had the pleasure of viewing. The gangster or mob genre of film has become one of, if not my favorite in recent years. You can feel the essence of "Public Enemy" in many modern gangster classics. This film laid the blueprints for future films in terms of how to successfully mold the rise and eventual fall of the American gangster. This mold "Public Enemy" presented reminded me of the the overall story in Martin Scorsese's "Goodfellas", which told the story of a poor young boy who rises to become a wealthy and prominent gangster. James Cagney leads the cast of "Public Enemy" as Tom Powers, a rising mobster with a growing love for the high life and no qualms about killing to maintain it. Cagney's character is also a mold many actors have built off when portraying such a menace to society. The films cast as a whole put on a convincing performance. "Public Enemy" possesses polarizing lines of dialogue throughout, especially with scenes in the second half of the story where Tom Powers mob induced fairy tale begins to run into some roadblocks. Overall I would highly recommend this movie, as it packs a punch for only an hour and a half runtime. Those in love with the gangster genre will appreciate "Public Enemy's" position as one of the "Godfathers" of the genre.
I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang (1932)
Chain Gang Hell
I had my doubts on how captivating this film would be as a began watching, but it did not take long for me to realize "Chain Gang" means business. Paul Muni stars as James Allen, a WWI vet who recently returned home from war. There were a few scenes, specifically in the prison that set the tone for the remainder of the film. They hit you as if to say "this is no laid back viewing experience, James Allen is going for a ride and your going with him". This movie pulled me in completely at the half way point, as i was literally on the edge of my desk chair, in a way few films of recent years have been able to do. Muni's performance provides a strong underdog feeling throughout, and undoubtedly has you rooting for James Allen, or Allen James, the whole time. Aside from an exciting story the film highlights questions about justice in the United States and ones rightful place in society. I highly recommend this film, especially for those holding off on black & white features, let this one be your break through and you wont look back.
Steamboat Bill, Jr. (1928)
Death Deifying Keaton!
Steamboat Bill, Jr. is a charming comedy, action, adventure film of sorts that brings you back to the 1800's. Staring Buster Keaton and Ernest Terrence as the dynamic father and son duo that the film centers around. Their relationship proves funny and relatable as they are at odds for most of the films duration. Overall this movie is quite enjoyable with some dull spots sprinkled throughout, but there is never a sequence that drags too long before you're laughing again. With that said any dull spots Steamboat posses is more than made up for with an impressive final sequence performed by Keaton. Stunts, that Keaton appears almost lucky to have pulled off at times, happen one after another in the films masterful closing. I would recommend Steamboat Bill, Jr. to anyone in need of a relaxing hour that wont require any stressing or understanding in order to have a good time.
The Circus (1928)
Genuine good comedy.
The Circus is the first Charlie Chaplin movie I've had the pleasure of watching and i'm quite glad i did. Chaplin writes, directs, and stars in this film and absolutely delivers. The Circus posses a pure and heartwarming comedic element that is achieved through Chaplin's performance. There is a constant flow of one scene after another that will genuinely have you laughing out loud. Chaplin's character "The Tramp" has a goofy yet witty way about him throughout the film. The Circus not only presents laughs on a silver platter, but pairs it with an emotional connection to The Tramp as he deals with the highs and lows of his journey. The music is also spot on, especially in scenes with The Tramp and his love interest "Merna", played by Merna Kennedy. Musical backing meshes beautifully with Chaplin's already astounding performance and takes it to the next level. This is a movie that unexpectedly pulls you in and has you on the edge of your seat similar to a good thriller, but its more of a strong current of comforting laughs and simplicity that sweeps you away. I highly recommend devoting the hour or so from your life to view this film as its fitting for just about any age and will deliver just the same.