DVD
December 21, 2010: DVD Pick: The Shop Around the Corner
This is the first time I have ever re-posted a previous article, but it is my all time favorite Christmas movie. It is more of a love story played out at Christmas time. A must watch this time of year. It’s an obscure film that is absolutely delightful, a great movie that cuts through all demographics.
When I saw The Shop Around the Corner, I realized Ernst Lubitsch was a great filmmaker. He is one of the heavies of the old days who is overlooked today when we look back at the golden age of cinema. Case and point The Shop Around the Corner,is a masterpiece and truly a lost gem.
This is a lovely comedy that does not ware down with age. What I enjoyed most was the script and the eloquent way the players delivered their lines. Lubitsch is a master of innuendo and the dialogue is wonderful. A good story craftily woven together, carried through by excellent acting starring James Stewart, Margaret Sullivan and a solid cast of supporting players.
Done with very few sets this movie was done quite efficiently. They probably knocked it out in less than six weeks. Lubitsch is not well known today due to his early death at 55 and the fact that two thirds of his films were made in the silent era. Certainly he ranks with Howard Hawks and John Ford his peers at that time.
This film was remade later with Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan and renamed You’ve Got Mail. They did a good job with it, but why not check out the original. Turn off the lights and get ready for a great night in your home theater. This one certainly calls for popcorn.
November 3, 2010: DVD Pick: The Shootist (1976)
The Shootist, was John Wayne’s last motion picture. The Duke has made many memorable films, including a boatload of westerns. And though a western on the surface, The Shootist is a also a drama about an old gunslinger’s bout with cancer and his imminent death.
The film mirrors Wayne’s life in several ways. He also fought cancer. He beat it the first time in the ‘60’s, but it ate him up years later. The film is set in 1901, the beginning of the end for the cowboy era. The old west was being ushered out, much in the same way Wayne’s career was coming to an end. This film didn’t do big numbers at the box office. By the ‘70’s the American public had its fill of westerns.
The Shootist is more complex than the average western. It is a psychological drama about a man facing death and how he comes to terms with that. It’s about relationships, it’s about consequences, and it’s about life. I enjoyed the character played by Wayne. Of course it is still The Duke in a western, but there were nuances in the performance that made this one special
Wayne had a lot to do with the casting, and supported himself with Lauren Bacall, James Stewart, and a young Ron Howard. The ensemble cast does the job in top-notch fashion. It is one of John Wayne’s least seen films, but one of his best.
October 21, 2010: DVD Pick: The Burmese Harp (1956)
The Burmese Harp is a beautiful movie that takes place at the very end of World War II and continues into its aftermath. This film is Japanese, and it naturally is told from that perspective. Something we are not used to in the west. In World War II movies, we only see the silent bad guys either Germans or Japanese. It is nice to see from another angle.
This war film is unique in other ways. There isn’t much battle footage. The majority of the film takes place after the war and centers on one man from that platoon who goes though a trauma and decides not to return home with his comrades. The experience changes him forever in a highly radical, yet positive way.
The harp is the central prop in the movie, which coincides with the platoons bonding through song. This connection the soldiers have with music creates a beautiful melancholy feeling that permeates the film. I find this film by kon Ichikawa a must see. It lets us take a look at war from the other side. It gives us a peak at what it might have been like for other men, who also believed in their country’s ideals, with loyalty and honor.
October 6, 2010: DVD Pick: Bad Day at Black Rock (1955)
Bad Day At Black Rock is a tight drama of a mysterious stranger coming to a small town in the middle of nowhere for an undisclosed reason. The locals are all riled up since the train hasn’t even stopped there in four years.
Spencer Tracy is that stranger, leading an old school cast including Robert Ryan, Lee Marvin, Walter Brennan, Anne Francis and Ernest Borgnine. All performances solid and director John Sturges keeps you on the edge, as he discloses information little by little.
The locals are paranoid for a reason, they have a deep secret they are bonded to. The stranger only increases the paranoia of the townspeople and eventually things come to a head. Besides doing a great job directing a tight suspenseful drama, Sturges also addresses racism, strong ideas for 1954.
This was MGM’s first movie to be shot in cinemascope and it is quite beautiful to watch. I believe this movie holds up today very well. There is a nice pace, good story, great acting, just an out and out good old fashioned movie. Perfect for a late Friday night with a little popcorn.
September 10, 2010: DVD Pick: Straight Time (1978)
Today’s film has been overlooked and has slipped through the cracks a long time ago. Straight Timefeatures Dustin Hoffman, and a young Theresa Russell in her second feature film. It is also a different role for her; she plays a caring naïve girl who just wants to be loved. Hoffman is terrific as usual, portrays Max who is just released from prison. The way the prison system works, he is set up for failure as he is released back into the mainstream.
Straight Time is raw and depressing, so if you can’t handle the downward spiral this film isn’t for you, but if you want to see a side of life rarely told in such a realistic manner with no glamour or nonsense, this movie is right up you alley.
This film is a character study that starts off slow, but the pace shifts on a dime when Max confronts his manipulative parole officer (E. Emmet Walsh) and casts the die for his present and future, in one fell swoop. Max is a salmon swimming upstream in a polluted river, but there is opportunity. Even though Max has bottomed out, sweet Jenny Mercer (Russell) reaches out to him and offers her hand of hope.
He does have a chance to grab the brass ring, maybe not brass, but at least some ring of hope. However, bound to his life as a dysfunctional member of society, it extremely hard for him break old habits and see the light in Jenny’s eyes, which forces him to hit the streets once more.
Straight Time is a good story, well directed and excellently portrayed. I’ve been a long time fan of Hoffman, and his performance is gritty and powerful, Walsh is also very good and convincing as the corrupt parole officer. By the way Harry Dean Stanton shows up halfway through and he is also great.
September 1, 2010: DVD Pick: Bullets Over Broadway
Bullets Over Broadway aptly titled as the mob comes to the theater in the roaring twenties. Woody Allen does everything right, helming this great early 90’s comedy. As usual, he puts an all-star cast together with John Cusack in the lead role as an aspiring playwright finally getting his work produced.
The production is not without its price, the local mob boss backs it on the condition that his no-talent girlfriend Olive, (Jennifer Tilly) has an integral role in the play. Cheech, (Chazz Palminteri) is assigned the duties of looking after the boss’ girl while at the theater. Cheech is bored and spends time giving young David Shayne (Cusack) pointers on his script.
Time passes and Cheech’s writing prowess improves. The script is getting better, which excites older woman / leading lady Helen Sinclair, (Dianne Wiest) so much so, that she & David begin an illicit affair. There is much more melodrama, which creates the backdrop for great comedy. I especially enjoyed Ms. Wiest’s role as the over the top harlot / starlet.
Allen has had quite a career and has many great films to enjoy on a Saturday night, but I don’t need to tell you to see Annie Hall or Manhattan. Bullets Over Broadway is one that got by many aficionados. This is a guaranteed laugh riot farce. If you’re a Woody fan, I’m surprised you missed it. If you’re a movie fan, I’m still surprised.
August 25, 2010: DVD Review: The Razor’s Edge (1984)
The Razor’s Edge is a remake of the William Somerset Maugham novel of the same name. I did like the original film with Tyrone Power, but this time I take exception to my self-made rule of avoiding remakes. This version staring Bill Murray does a great job bringing the book to life. This was a different kind of movie for Bill, he showed great depth and range and a film that paved the way for him for more serious roles.
The film begins during WWI; Larry (Murray) wants something else than the sophisticated life he’s leading. The wine and cheese parties aren’t doing it for him anymore and he wants to find himself before settling down, which doesn’t sit well with his fiancé Isabel (Catherine Hicks). He promises to return to her, but she just won’t have it. Larry has made his decision and so has Isabel, the marriage is off and so is Larry.
Larry travels the world, first driving an ambulance in war torn France, then eventually ending up in India where most spiritual journeys go. He discovers, learns and grows, never to be the same again. Even though Isabel has long since married Larry’s best friend, love and jealousy run deep as our characters re-connect throughout the years.
This film touches me in a profound way, I read the book and the movie does the book credit. Murray also co-wrote the script for this film. Either the subject matter meant something to him, or he saw this as a great vehicle to do something different, or perhaps he was grabbing an extra paycheck. Either way I found Murray’s performance subtle and moving. The Razor’s Edge came and went without much notoriety; one would even say it flopped. I commend Murray’s efforts and it is a much better film than people realize. I really liked it and I hope you do to.
August 20, 2010: DVD Pick: La Chévre (The Goat) 1981
La Chévre is one of my favorite French comedies starring Pierre Richard and Gerard Derpardieu. There was an American remake with Martin Short and Danny Glover called Pure Luck, which of course does not come close to the original. A crime often perpetrated by Hollywood, stealing successful French films that cannot reach American audiences unwilling to read subtitles.
An accident-prone young French woman is missing in South America. Her rich father is out of his mind with grief and worry, and he is willing to try anything after several weeks of searching in vein. The company psychologist concocts a harebrained scheme to send another bumbling idiot (Richard) after her in hope that he slips on the same banana peel.
Teamed with an experienced detective (Derpardieu), they set out on a zany excursion to find the daughter and save her from the perilous jungles of South America. The actors have a brilliant chemistry that mix good jokes in with the right touch of slapstick. La Chévre is charming, funny and without a doubt it has one of the most beautiful endings I have ever seen.
July 28, 2010: DVD Pick: Valley of the Flowers (2006)
Valley of the Flowers is an obscure movie that will be hard to dig up. If you do find it somewhere, don’t hesitate, get it and watch it because it is one of the true great-undiscovered films of our time.
Valley of the Flowers is a mystical film set in the Himalayas in the early 19th Century. A band of thieves surviving in the mountains are raiding unsuspecting caravans. In one of the raids a demon is released in the form of a beautiful woman who connects with the leader and shows them secret trails where the ultra rich caravans travel.
It doesn’t end with the theft of physical wealth, she teaches them to steal human energy and luck. The stakes get higher and higher until they travel deep into the Valley of the Flowers, and steal the elixir for immortality, a theft with more consequences than rewards.
Director Pan Nalin seamlessly takes us through two hundred years into the modern day, weaving a unique tale that takes us deep into Eastern Mysticism. The story is a metaphor for journey, growth and redemption. Valley of the Flowers is a strong film with good acting, stunning cinematography and soundly made on the foundation of an intelligent script. It is my kind of movie.
July 13, 2010: DVD Pick: The Good Shepherd
The Good Shepherd is Robert De Niro’s sophomore attempt at directing, and quite frankly I’d like to see him do more of it. In this espionage thriller De Niro puts together a high end cast which includes Matt Damon, Angelina Jolie, Alec Baldwin, William Hurt, himself and, as the expression goes, many more.
De Niro does a great job of creating tension and suspense in this great look at the CIA from its inception. He also relies heavily on dialogue to push the story as opposed to many heavy action scenes that a spy drama might have, something I applaud in today’s saturated market of car chases and gun fights. Matt Damon plays Edward Wilson who finds himself deeply imbedded in the CIA very early in his career, which creates a difficult home life. Wilson who gives his life to his country neglects family and finds himself estranged from them.
De Niro’ only helmed one other show and that was A Bronx Tale, which was also a job well done despite the poor box office. I have been a fan of Bobby for many years and appreciate his acting abilities, but I do believe he has a talent to direct and I hope to see him take another crack at it. In the mean time check out The Good Shepherd,and while you are at it you can take a look at A Bronx Tale. Both movies will not disappoint.
July 7, 2010: DVD Pick: The Diving Bell and the Butterfly (2007)
The Diving Bell and the Butterfly is a testament to the human spirit. Julian Schnabel directs the true story of Jean Dominique Bauby (Mathieu Amalric), editor-in-chief of Elle Magazine. At the age of 43 Bauby suffers a stroke and goes into a coma for almost three weeks. Upon regaining consciousness the only working parts on his entire body are his eyes, and the right one is sewn up immediately due to an irrigation problem.
With only his left eye functioning and the help of a patient transcriber, Bauby blinks out the memoir of his life. Using his left eye to relay the letters, he talks about his past and his current state of locked-in syndrome. Bauby composed and edited the book entirely in his head, and dictated it one letter at a time.
I found The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, utterly inspirational. I saw the movie first, which got me to read the book. I recommend both, but be sure to see the film. It shows the extremes Bauby goes to, in order to express himself creativity, an amazing accomplishment given the circumstances.
July 1, 2010: DVD Pick: The Hidden Fortress (1958)
The Hidden Fortress is a black and white Kurosawa film. Set in the feudal Japan, the movie opens up with two buffoons trying to survive the war. We follow these characters throughout the countryside as they screw up everywhere. This is not a comedy, but Kurosawa weaves the two fools through the plot appropriately.
Shortly after enters Toshiro Mifune, the biggest Japanese actor in the 20th century. As usual he plays the strong warrior type, he is General Rokurota Makabe, on a mission to rescue the Princess and save the gold. The gold plays a great part in the film as our characters integrity is tested and greed becomes an issue. The general uses the two fools to aid in his mission unbeknownst to them.
One is drawn into the war torn survival experience immediately. The General is a bit mysterious; it is easy to figure out there is something up with when he cuts a deal with our two unlikely heroes. I love this movie, it is grand and quirky at the same time. The Hidden Fortress is another solid movie done by the Japanese master, Akira Kurosawa. I recommend this film and any other Kurosawa film; truly he is one of the all time great directors.
June 22, 2010: DVD Pick: Dora-heita (2000)
Dora-heita is a quirky Samurai movie. This is a good movie, but I believe you have had to dabble in the samurai genre a bit to really appreciate it. The movie stands without prior reference knowledge, but you samurai buffs will enjoy Dora-heita thoroughly.
A magistrate comes to clean up a corrupt town by playing possum as a drunk womanizing official. He throws everyone off guard to get to the root of the town’s problems. Without any prior knowledge you don’t know that you’re in a comedy. At first you think it is a straight samurai movie and it takes time to figure it out. The characters play it deadpan and the comedy is subtle, dry and brilliant.
It looks like an older Japanese film. I was surprised to find out it was made in 2000. This was the first film I’ve seen by director Kon Ichikawa. I have since seen his other films and find him to be a solid director. Akira Kurosawa co-wrote the strong dialogue driven screenplay. The film is predominantly the story, but it wouldn’t be a samurai movie without one big action scene.
June 18, 2010: DVD Pick: We’re No Angels (1955 & 1989)
We’re No Angels, one title, two movies. It’s not often that I recommend the remake of a film but, there are always exceptions to the rule. Most likely you are more familiar with the remake with Robert De Nero, Sean Penn and Demi Moore. This version takes the same theme as the original, as meet our leads post jail break. That is about the only thing that resembles the original.
The 1955 version is with Humphrey Bogart, Peter Ustinov and Aldo Rey. This version has the prisoners as hardened criminals with a regal air to them as they try to make things right in the household thathas taken them in. Though are gentlemen go to extremes to help our poor family, it is done with a light touch in this sweet little comedy.
In our more modern 1989 version there is a bigger budget, more locations, more movement and more action. The comedy is still there but, in a different way. The two films are different in many ways. I respect the work of the modern one and the original is a good old fashion movie.
Weather you pick Bogie or De Niro you can’t go wrong. I encourage you to see both. You could watch them back to back in a late night double feature and not be bored. I recommend chronological order.
June 8, 2010: DVD Pick: What Have I Done to Deserve This, (¿Qué he hecho yo para merecer esto!!) 1984
In 1985 I was walking along 6th Avenue in Greenwich Village and passed by the old Waverly Theater, when a movie poster caught my eye and I spontaneously strolled in to check out an early work of the Spanish director, Pedro Almodóvar.
I was impressed immediately with What Have I done to Deserve This, and have become a fan of Mr. Almodóvar since. This was his first feature to be distributed in the U.S. It is a bizarre film that focuses on a Gloria, a dysfunctional housewife played by Carmen Maura, a great Spanish actress who has been in several of Almodóvar’s movies.
Set in Madrid, it is a tough life for Gloria, the family burden is on her and coping is not easy. It is not a normal family dynamic, but who could say what is normal in a world where most people struggle to survive. The characters are unique and bizarre, from the courtesan next door to the little girl on the 6th floor with psychokinetic powers.
There’s a great shot at the end of the film when the camera pulls back from the apartment balcony to reveal the massive apartment building, that pulls back to reveal the entire complex, which emphasizes that this is just one crazy tale in a vast ocean of crazy stories in a crazy world.
If you have enjoyed any of Almodóvar’s work you will certainly enjoy this earlier piece. If you are unfamiliar with Mr. Almodóvar’s work this is a great place to get started.
June 1, 2010: DVD Pick: The Counterfeiters (Die Fälscher) 2007
The Counterfeiters is a German movie with English subtitles. It’s a Holocaust movie, I say that first and foremost because you have to be up for this kind of human tragedy. As years go by I do find it harder to watch holocaust films. This movie snuck up on me because I didn’t know what I was getting involved with. What kept me on the hook were the characters and the unique story.
The two leads are concentration camp prisoners, one a professional counterfeiter (Karl Markovics), the other a talented printer (August Diehl). The Nazis force the two men to counterfeit money in order to destabilize the Bank of England. The struggle for survival in an inhuman situation conflicts with the moral question of working and abetting the Nazi’s. The director Stefan Ruzowitzky, is able to show a large grey area in the prisoners perspectives, which makes it difficult for them to agree on what is necessary for survival and what is helping the Nazis too much. It is hard to question anyone’s actions, morals and judgments in such an insane situation.
The backdrop, as in any holocaust movie is painted with senseless violence throughout the film. However, it is not the major theme of the movie, it is more of a character study of the prisoners / counterfeiters. The director gets inside the heads of the men and their struggle against the Nazis and each other. It is a solid film with good performances by good German actors unknown to us here in the U.S. It is a fine film that deserves a look.
May 25, 2010: DVD Pick: The Tailor of Panama
The Tailor of Panama,another good movie slipping into the unknown movie ocean. Not a big box office hit, which is not always the bench mark for a good film. We have three big stars in this one, Pierce Brosnan, Geoffrey Rush, and Jamie Lee Curtis.
Rush is an amazing actor of our time, who seems to look different every time I see him and completely embodies the character he plays. Brosnan on the other hand does not look physically different, but as usual nails his role. I have become a fan of Pierce over the years, especially when I see him in films that let him use his range.
The intrigue is set around the Panama Canal in this espionage thriller. I have a soft spot for espionage when it is done right. Andy Osnard (Brosnan) is banished to Panama, after a politically incorrect infidelity. Osnard has Harry Pendel (Rush) over a barrel and persuades Harry to squeal on his high-powered clientele and use his wife (Curtis) as a mole.
A good story from the novel by John le Carre, that is told well with the high-end cast delivering the goods. It’s a good ride that keeps you on your toes and on the edge of your seat as the plot unfolds. If you like intrigue and good old fashion spy stuff, this movie is for you.
May 11, 2010: DVD Pick: La Haine (1995)
La Haine is French for hatred. Director Mathiew Kassovitz takes you through a day in the life of three young men living in a Paris project on the outskirts of town during the riots of the early 90s. It’s a tough movie about enraged youth with an anti-violent message, to quote the film, “hatred breeds hatred.”
Our three multiethnic gentlemen are not necessarily looking for trouble, but they aren’t running away either. Many altercations ensue during the 24-hour period, which have the viewer thinking about racism, justice and morals. Our three young men also have these philosophical debates mixed in with the every day banal banter that young men everywhere have.
Kassovitz chose to shoot his film in black-and-white, which gives it a starker look. The black-and-white does enhance the film, but what sets this film apart is the way it was shot. Kassovitz declined to do traditional coverage and his use of steady-cam is brilliant. It includes a spectacular shot that covers the boys over several blocks and was properly done to convey information and tone.
A great film that was critically acclaimed when it was released still holds up today. Outside of story, significance and all the cinematic charms La Haine has to offer, I also enjoyed the French version of De Niro’s Travis Bickle from Taxi Driver. That alone is worth the price of admission.
May 4, 2010: DVD Pick: Hard Eight (1996)
Hard Eight was the only P.T. Anderson film I had not seen up until now. This is a strong character driven piece with only five main actors, though you wouldn’t know it because of the Las Vegas backdrop. This film is really a play and could have been done with five actors on a barren stage, but Anderson dresses it up nicely using Las Vegas to light it.
When an obviously well experienced man of the world helps out a destitute young man the table is set for the ulterior motive. For a long time we wait for the other shoe to drop while other story lines develop. Like most of Anderson’s films something cataclysmic erupts and changes everyone and everything. Our characters are forced to deal and sort things out.
P.T. Anderson also wrote the script to this strong character study. It is a tight movie and the chemistry between the actors is dynamic. Anderson does a top notch job as always, with Phillip Baker Hall, John C Rielly, Gwyneth Paltrow, Samuel L. Jackson and Phillip Seyomour Hoffman. The actors are wonderful but I think it is P.T. who always manages to pull a little more out of the great ones.
April 20, 2010: DVD Pick: Bella (2006)
Bella, set in New York City is an emotional story of friendship, choices and redemption. Nina (Tammy Blanchard) is late for work at the restaurant for the last time as her uptight boss Manny (Manny Perez) fires her on the spot. As she walks away Manny’s brother Jose, (Eduardo Verastegui) the chef, chases after her in an act of kindness. He gets the nutshell version of her pregnancy story before she jumps on the subway. At that point Jose makes the decision to abandon the restaurant to some how help Nina.
Jose reaches out to Nina and the two spend a highly emotional day together as they connect and share their lives with each other. Through heart felt conversation Jose exposes his own life altering past. The film makes great use of the flashback to slowly reveal the back-story. Bella deals with the quick twists of fate that transform life in a matter of seconds. One never knows when the long arm of life is going to tap you on the shoulder and force you to deal with circumstances beyond your control.
This is a great film that had low box office returns, and unfortunately it never found an audience. Tastefully done by director Alejandro Gomez Monteverde, a good story that captures the human spirit at it’s best. It was a tough niche to sell and should now reside in the good movie category.
April 13, 2010: DVD Pick: The In-Laws (1979)
What makes great comedy go beyond the script is great chemistry between the leads. Such is the case with The In-laws starting two old time favorites Peter Falk and Alan Arkin. If I went to the desert island I would take this one with me because I can watch it over and over again.
Falk’s son and Arkin’s daughter are getting married on Sunday, the parents just meet for the first time. After that Falk, the 20-year CIA agent coaxes Arkin, the 20-year dentist into helping him out for a few minutes. One thing leads to another and before you know it they are both on the run and wanted by the U.S. Treasury for counterfeiting and armed robbery.
Falk always in control saying, we just do this and everything will be all right. The carrot of vindication is always right in front of Arkin that leads them both down to a corrupt South American Country with a crazy despot played perfectly by Richard Libertini. The film gets zanier, but you are so sucked in it all works well.
If you haven’t seen this movie, don’t waste anytime and put it on your list. Watch it with your spouse or a friend so you can laugh out loud together. Beware of the remake, I haven’t seen it, but I never mess with perfection.
April 5, 2010: DVD Pick: Revanche
Revanche is a drama set in Vienna Austria in the local language of German. It looks at the love story of a prostitute and another brothel worker. As the movie starts they are knee deep in their relationship. Pressure from the boss comes down to relocate her to a higher scale gig with big money clientele. This would separate her from her lover.
Our hero takes charge and devises a plan for them to escape, which has bank robbery at the core of their new life together. Not a life devoted to crime, just a one shot to take the money and run. I don’t have to tell you how that goes, but the robbery takes the movie and its characters into a dynamic shift. It is almost like there are two movies going on but they fit well together.
The pace of the film is slow by American standards, but It does give more impact for the action scenes, which are jarring in contrast. Our lead character Alex (Johannes Krisch) is forced to deal with unusual circumstance but not unrealistic by the choices he has made.
I think you will like Revanche, it is intelligent filmmaking with a good story. It is not an every day scenario, but still highly plausible. The actors are good, they had some challenging work and delivered the goods. In this strong drama Director Gotz Spielmann creates several ethical and moral points for his characters to ponder and deal with as they find themselves in extreme circumstances that life sometimes offers.
March 29, 2010: DVD Pick: Gun Crazy
Another movie for late night fare is Gun Crazy with Peggy Cummins and John Dall. Not exactly household names however, they were both very good. Ms. Cummins character Annie Laurie Starr is the self-professed “bad girl,” wanting everything she has coming to her, a la Tony Montana. She needs a strong man that isn’t afraid to get it for her. Enters the slightly confused Bart Tare played by Dall, who is all mixed up about love, guns, right and wrong. After Bart weighs it all out he throws himself into the femme fatale full throttle and consciously plunges into a life of crime.
Of course she uses him in order to get the finer things in life. She’s greedy, pushy and even on the nasty side at times, but a key element in this mixed up girl’s head is that she loves her man. Even though she wants all the things money can buy, love is still at the core of this small town Bonnie and Clyde. The two gun crossed lovers have an unshakable bond and no matter what happens they stick it out together to the end.
It’s beautiful, it’s uplifting and as the title says it’s crazy. There in for a long ride living on the edge, robbing banks and staying a step or two in front of the law. This was a B-movie at the time and probably released as the second feature on a double bill. Most B-movies don’t hold up over time but Gun Crazy is so quirky and bizarre it makes for great entertainment. Gun Crazy is a must see for the noir aficionado or anyone who want to enjoy an off the wall but good movie.
March 22, 2010: DVD Pick: It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World (1963)
It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World is a farce containing many big stars of the day. A huge ensemble cast featuring, Spencer Tracy, Milton Berle, Jonathon Winters, Phil Silvers, Ethel Merman, Jimmy Durante in his last film and my personal favorite Sid Caesar. This just scratches the surface of stars, costars and cameos.
A crazy chase for some buried cash in San Diego. Comedy from the beginning ensues when Jimmy Durante kicks the bucket, both figuratively and literally. The strangers meet after a car accident where a dying Durante utters his last words of the buried loot “under the big W.” The characters set out for the money. Obsession and greed take over as a host of zany situations occur. The film reaches an outlandish climax, which is a totally over the top spectacle, but works quite well.
At the time this movie was being made everyone in Hollywood wanted to be in it. It features big names of eras past and present at the time from Jerry Lewis to the Three Stooges. It can also be seen as Comedy’s hall of fame. It is a great movie especially for the younger audience as it gives you a nice slice of some of the funniest comedic players of all time.
I enjoy all the old school comedians through out the movie. Each one brought something special to the table. There are certainly funny people working in movies today but, there is something special about the old timers. They were such characters themselves with a natural flair for comedy. This is a great movie, about two and a half hours, more bang for the buck.
March 16, 2010: DVD Pick: The Misfits, (1961)
The Misfits is an outstanding movie. It starts off with an excellent script written by Arthur Miller, an intense drama with intelligent dialogue and brilliant characters. Even though Hollywood was well into color at this stage, director John Huston opted for black and white, an excellent choice by the master. Huston has directed several of my favorite films, which include The Maltese Falcon and The Treasure of the Sierra Madre, two films that should also make your Netflix list.
For Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe this would be their last film. Gable died before the films release and Marilyn died a year later. This last movie for Miss Monroe was one of her best roles, her character had more layers than many of the dumb blond roles she had. With this movie and Bus Stop, which came out several years earlier it was clear that Marilyn had more talent than she was allowed to use.
The Misfits featured another stellar performance by the long time Hollywood leading man Clark Gable, an actor who clearly had his own stamp and always managed to bring a fresh touch to each role. Always a strong presence and true to form he nailed his unbeknownst swan song, which is one of Hollywood’s all time great films. Eli Wallach and Montgomery Clift round out the supporting cast. Clift passed on in 1965; Wallach has survived and is still working today at the ripe old age of 94.
In a nutshell, depressed divorcee meets over the hill cowboy in this slice of life movie, which comes to an intense climax that centers on Gable wrangling a wild horse. I’ve said to much already, great scene, great movie!
March 8, 2010: DVD Pick: Murder By Death
Murder By Death is an over the top murder mystery spoof. It pokes fun at the iconic film and book sleuths like Sam Spade and Charlie Chan played respectively by Peter Falk and Peter Sellers. Falk is great muttering off Bogie diatribes, as is sellers punching out Chinese comedic wisdom; “Conversation like T.V. on honeymoon, unnecessary.”
This movie was a lot of fun when I saw it the theater and is still very funny today. I thoroughly enjoyed the film references throughout as well as the star studded cast which includes David Niven, Alec Guinness, Maggie Smith and Truman Capote as the diabolical host of the evenings murder and mayhem.
The film is a tad on the kooky side and is very light fare. Falk as Bogart as Sam Spade as Sam Diamond just cracked me up. I’m a big Bogie fan and I love a spoof when it’s done well and Falk is just great. If you’ve enjoyed the old murder detectives and have an appreciation for the old movies you’ll enjoy this little whodunit parody.
March 1, 2010: DVD Pick: Blood Simple
Blood Simple is the first film in a long line of work from the Coen brothers. I highly recommend this film, which is where it all started for the Coen brothers. This movie has a slow pace accompanied with a lot of action and many twists and turns. Murder is the main theme and what usually happens with murder, it does not go as planned.
This is also Frances McDormand’s first role. She plays a young woman having an affair with the bartender at her husband’s bar. The affair doesn’t sit well with the husband played by Dan Hedaya and he is forced to take action. The strong cast accompanies a good script, which was produced and directed well by the budding filmmakers in 1985.
As usual with any Coen brothers’ film the script is well thought out and is plot driven. There are many odd things happening along the way that keep you on the edge of your seat. This movie has the distinct mark of the Coen brothers as the worlds they create are unique where the bizarre is the reality.
I saw this in the theater when it first hit the streets. I was initially impressed and immediately became a Coen brothers fan. I have recently re-watched the film and it still holds up over time and stands today as a great piece of filmmaking. Blood Simple put the Coen brothers on the map and they have not looked back since. I recommend this to anyone who can appreciate film and it is essential viewing for any Coen brothers fan.
February 23, 2010: DVD Pick: Living In Oblivion
Living In Oblivion is a must see for anyone who makes movies, wants to make movies or just likes movies. Director Tom Dicillo brings you on the set of a low budget movie shooting in a warehouse in Manhattan. Dicillo hits the nail on the head as we see what it is like for young filmmakers struggling to make an independent movie. This film is quite funny and one of the few movies that gets funnier every time I see it.
Steve Buscemi plays the director of this low budget fiasco. We go through the trials and tribulations of Buscemi trying finish Scene 6. Catherine Keener plays his leading lady and potential love interest. Good performances by both and the rest of the cast, which includes James LeGros and Dermott Mulroney. A great job of casting, as DiCillo was able to get great actors before their rise to prominence.
Dicillo had originally made a 20-minute short and raised the rest of the money later on the strength of it. The short was the first segment but was able to stand as its own movie, a great way to secure funding with a third of the movie already complete.
Tom DiCillo gives us a great glimpse of what it is really like to make a low budget movie. In this case fiction is reality. I’ve done many low budget movies myself and I can tell you the jokes and caricatures hit the mark dead on. I am also proud to say I had the pleasure of working on this film for a couple of days.
February 15, 2010: DVD Pick: What Just Happened?
What Just Happened, is an inside look at the Hollywood upper echelon. A star studded cast that was barely noticed at the box office. This film is clever and witty similar to a good Cabernet Sauvignon, very dry. Of course I love dry humor and having an appreciation or some understanding of the film making process makes it a very fun movie to watch.
Robert De Niro, Sean Penn, Catherine Keener lead the cast as well as Bruce Willis doing what he does best, playing himself. They poke fun at Hollywood and themselves in some seemingly over the top scenes that do not stray from the plausibility of the actual reality that is Hollywood. This movie will take you to the core of the Hollywood machine, you’ll see how it moves and shakes and you will crack up in the process.
This dark comedy hits the nail on the head when it comes to the L.A. above the line crowd. De Niro plays a big time producer driving down a rough road in his career. We get to know this producer professionally and personally, a fairly decent man just trying to make it work under the pressures of the system. He finds himself in the middle of his director’s “artistic” integrity and the studio exec trying to salvage an arty film that will surely tank at the box office.
As I have worked in the business for so many years I have developed a strong pension for the movie within the movie genre. It is really great to see Hollywood rip on itself. If you enjoy this genre, you will enjoy What Just Happened?.
February 10, 2010: DVD Pick: Mongol
Mongol is great film shot in Kazakhstan, Mongolia and China. The films that have been coming out of the Far East have been just getting better and better over the years. The images they capture are astounding and they are able to do big budget action/dramas without the cheese factor that is so often contained in American films. Mongol is a quality film that has a moving story and excellent acting with great action scenes that enhance the movie as opposed to the action being the movie.
This is the story of Genghis Kahn from the age of nine through his rise to power. Though a great deal of research went into making this film, we do have to take into account that little is known of the early and personal life of Genghis Kahn and accept this as a work of fiction though plausible. This movie brought me back a thousand years into the life of rural Mongolia. It gave a real sense of the time, place and its hardships.
In this movie the life of the great warrior seems destined, if he doesn’t come to power the alternative would have been death. His struggle is primarily survival for many years until the preordained moment arrives. This is a powerful movie directed by Sergei Bodrov, a Russian born filmmaker who’s work is extraordinary. This film is gorgeous to watch and should not be missed.
February 5, 2010: DVD Pick: The Producers
I thought it would be apropos today to talk about one of my favorite movies of all time. As I am now in pre-production with my own short film parodying the world of the producer, I am inclined to say a few words about the Mel Brooks Classic The Producers.
This movie contains one of my favorite character actors of all time Zero Mostel, a comedian whose presence alone evokes laughter. This is Zero’s best piece of work and a great piece of casting by Mel Brooks. Gene Wilder goes toe to toe with Mostel as the comedic chemistry jumps off the screen. The dichotomy between the characters is dynamic as the self-assured over bearing scam artist Max Bialystock, (Mostel) convinces the neurotic bean counter Leo Bloom, (Wilder) to join his hair brain scheme that Bloom unwittingly came up with.
You all know how all these sure fire can’t miss schemes turn out in the movies and as it unfolds you will be laughing all the way. This schtik filled movie has you rolling from the first scene as Max Bialystock is philandering little old ladies attempting to hold onto a bit of their youth. The hustle is born, the plan concocted, a crazy audition, rehearsal and then the grand premier of Spring Time for Hitler. Now that’s comedy!
If you haven’t seen The Producers, it is a cinematic crime. This is not only a great movie it is a must see and don’t waste your time with the remake. I’ve never seen the modern version but, I wouldn’t get excited about seeing a copy of the Mona Lisa either.
February 3, 2010: DVD Pick: Sukiyaki Western Django
Sukiyaki Western Django is a Japanese western soup. If you have an affinity for the Spaghetti Western and loved Kill Bill, I think you’ll be able to appreciate this modern approach. It is homage to the old-style western combined with a Japanese flavor giving a new twist on the old clichés.
The basic inspiration is taken from Sergio Corbucci’s Django. It’s not a remake. It could be loosely seen as a prequel. Corbucci made a western that mirrored Samurai life. It also reached crude graphic proportions and it was banned in London. Clearly violence was taken to a new level and Corbucci lead the way in 1966.
Director Takashi Miike also took Sukiyaki Western Django to epic graphic proportions. Miike creates a lightness that goes well with this movie, the paradox works as the film is shrouded in a bloodbath. Sukiyaki Western Django is a unique film with some very original ideas. The characters are all Japanese speaking broken English, which is something I have never seen in a western. It is loaded with clichés and references from start to finish and the twists in the delivery make it fresh and funny.
This film is a bit over the top but that is what makes it great. Check this gem out, if you have an appreciation for the western and modern cutting edge cinema then sign right up for this Japanese Spaghetti Western tribute to the old west.
January 27, 2010: DVD Pick: 12 Angry Men
12 Angry Men is a strong dialogue driven piece that takes place on one set. This is Sidney Lumet’s first feature film, a strong dramatic piece with spectacular performances. The film questions morals, values, racism and perspective; the movie is so strong that it still holds up after over 50 years.
Henry Fonda leads an all-star cast in a murder case deliberation, where we spend the entire film in the jury room and everyone except Fonda has voted guilty. What is seemingly an obvious verdict now has to be analyzed. Basically Fonda has to slowly convince his juror brethren that there isn’t really enough evidence to convict the poor lad for murdering his father. Great job by the entire cast with an especially strong finale as juror #3, Lee J. Cobb holds out to the end. This movie is what acting is all about.
This film is the essence of movie making, a movie completely carried by script, strong acting and excellent direction. There have been many other remakes but I strongly suggest the original 1957 version, a compelling classic that should not be overlooked.
January 23, 2010: DVD Pick: The Tale of Zatoichi
Zatoichi is my favorite of all the martial arts movies. It is not just one movie; it is years of sequel after sequel. The first one was made in 1962 starring Shintaro Katsu, who also directed the final episode in 1989. There were some T.V. episodes made as well however, I advise to stay away from those unless you become a Zatoichi freak and you have to see everything. I think the 26 features could keep you busy enough.
Zatoichi is the roaming, blind, dice playing, sword master/masseur. A very humble blind man stuck inside the Japanese underworld and can’t get out. He does his best to mind his own business and avoid trouble. His heart is good and his actions at times border on saintliness. Still much to his dismay when he arrives in town havoc will be wreaked and our poor hero is forced to kill time and time again, in defense of course. Not only are his fighting skills the best in the land, his hearing is remarkable and he is not hampered by his blindness. He’s fast with a blade and very agile. He survives by hustling dice and massaging underworld bosses until they want to kill him.
Start off with Zatoich Monogatari aka The Tale of Zatoichi, it is the first of the series. It is not at all necessary to start in chronological order. Each film stands entirely on it’s own. Feel free to jump in anytime. If you’re a martial arts aficionado then start at the beginning. I think it gives you a better understanding of the character. There are many repetitive themes throughout the series but, if you like one Zatoichi, you will like them all.
January 14, 2010: DVD Pick: Trust Us This Is All Made Up
I have not enjoyed a night at the movies like this in a while. Trust Us is a performance documentary about two amazing improv artists who are absolutely sensational. T.J. Jagodowski and David Pasquesi are nothing short of brilliant as they have total command of the stage and there is an ease and comfort that comes out of the two improv masters .
Many people question the authenticity; it is hard to believe it is not scripted. I take the word of the two gentlemen from Chicago, a place where improv is taken seriously. T.J. and Dave have developed a tight show out of the chemistry that goes on between them. With this kind of chemistry you don’t need a script.
What I found most fascinating is the difference between their on screen and off screen persona. As soon as they leave the stage they become scientists examining their work under a microscope. The tone is light but the focus to their craft is serious. The stage energy stopped and they reverted back into their mild mannered selves.
Director Alex Karpovsky made this movie for coffee money. It is a great testament to the independent filmmaker. Good movies can be made on a low budget and still entertain. When you watch this doc you will learn a little about the improv world, the artists and you will also crack up in the process. If you add this to your Netflix queue it will help the filmmaker immensely.
January 11, 2010: DVD Pick: The Matador
Here’s a movie that really slipped through the cracks, The Matador with Pierce Brosnan, Greg Kinnear and Hope Davis. A chance meeting in a bar changes the lives of two men forever. A hit man meets a businessman in a chance encounter and forms a friendship, which makes for an excellent black comedy.
This is quite a different role for Pierce: he’s not his usual aristocratic self. His character is more on the repulsive and obnoxious side, yet still likable. It is a great role for him, he stretches his range and does some of his best work. Kinnear and Davis handle their assignments equally well. I had the chance to work with Ms. Davis in 1996 on Next Stop Wonderland. She was a pleasure to work with. She brings a unique touch to each roll she plays and pushes to find the subtleties of her character. Kinnear also does a great job as the relationship between him and Brosnan morphs in status.
Though a wacky theme, one which I embrace, the film is also about friendship and loyalty. Richard Shepard wrote and directed this off beat comedy. Not very well known in the business at the time he was able to get the script to Brosnan who wisely accepted the role. It is a solid well crafted film with a few unexpected twists that keep the film exciting all the way to the end. It’s a great choice to curl up on a Saturday night with beer and popcorn.
January 6, 2010: DVD Pick: The Big Sleep
Today, I want to share with you my favorite film of all time, The Big Sleep with Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, in her second round with my childhood idle. This is a masterpiece by director Howard Hawks. The mood is so compelling it pulls you right back into 1946.
A few years back I watched this film every night for over 3 weeks straight. I would turn the lights off in my living room and hit the video tape; this was back in the old days, years ago, waaaaaay before DVD. We still had remotes then, they weighed about four pounds. The movie would kick in wherever it left off. If the movie had only 20 minutes left, I would watch it to the end, start over and watch it again.
I immersed myself in the film. Every night after the wife and kids went to bed I headed into Bogie Land. I lived and breathed this movie for 23 nights in a row. I felt like I was inside it. A unique way to experience a film.
I started this crazy relationship with The Big Sleep because I couldn’t figure out the plot. I would get so caught up in the film by the end I would say, “Did I miss something?” Eventually, I figured it out. The plot is unclear. The beauty is it doesn’t matter. The work is so artful that you are swept away by the mystique and ambience.
Besides having this unparalleled movie experience, it is the best Film Noir ever. This film looks brilliant. It is one of the most beautiful black and white movies made. And if there ever was a man made for black and white, it was Humphrey Bogart.
January 5, 2010: DVD Pick: My Mexican Shivah
This little pearl came and went at the theater. Set in Mexico the patriarch of a Jewish Family dies and our story begins. Over the next 7 days as the loved ones sit in Shivah, all the laundry comes out, and it’s dirty. I loved the cross culture of the Jewish family steeped in tradition, speaking entirely in Spanish. The Spanish element enhances the movie. It creates a more unique situation. I can’t remember the last film I saw with Mexican Jews.
This film is sold as a comedy but I feel it goes deeper than that. I found it a great slice of life movie that touches all the chords we go through during such a tragedy. I can’t say the family is mended and everyone lives happily ever after. Life goes on but not without growth for our characters. They grapple with their dysfunctional issues as they come together at a very difficult and emotional time
This movie only grossed a mere 13k at the domestic box office in 2007. They had a hard time selling it to the public. Subtitles are unpopular. People don’t want to work at the theater. If you’re in the middle of the road about subtitles you may want to jump off the fence and watch My Mexican Shivah. It is not dialogue heavy. The emotion is the heart of this film. The characters go through a lot and you experience the catharsis. I recommend this film highly, you’ll enjoy the cross culture as it flies off the screen.
