The Annual FrankGrimes Torture Thread

[MissGoddess]

thank you for the link!

 

i'm the very worst at figuring out mysteries, no matter how simple or obvious they may be.

[rohanaka]

It definitely wasn't a favorite of mine. I'm not big on backstage comedies, typically. It's not a bad film, just not one that connected with me. I give John Ford a ton of credit for even making such a film, because it just doesn't seem like the kind of film he'd even consider making. But, I will say, he did use elements of the theatrical in other films, such as My Darling Clementine *** I think it is likely one of those films that "fit" the time it was made. The characters and the story were very "timely" as I imagine that sort of situation (a bunch of quirky characters striving to get their big break in show biz.. all living in some lady's boarding house, etc, etc..) played a lot better as a story way back then (than it might now days)***And you are right.. there were some "theater" moments now and then in some other Fordies.. I think the bit in MDC would likely be closest to what you see in this one (and maybe some of the characters in Wagon Master too?? I don't know, though.. I might need to see that one again to make a good comparison) Anyway.. I found enough about the whole story to enjoy it more than it seems you did.. but again.. there are so many others for Ford that I just so dearly love, I have to list this one lower if I were to rate it overall.***I've been meaning to ask, can I borrow fifty bucks ***HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Boy would YOU be barking up the WRONG tree if you ever asked ME that kinda question.. ha. Hmmm... let's see.. I don't have any money I can give you.. but would a lovely jeweled HAT pin do??

[FrankGrimes]

How do Denver? -- *Yes, the scene at the dining table at the beginning was about the only thing I saw that had Ford's mark on it.*

 

Yes, I'd agree with that. And he seemed to like the elderly thespian, the "lifer."

 

*I think The Whole Town's Talking was better, it had a little meat on it's bones. Upstream looks almost like a programmer... I bet Ford thought of it as just a job of work. But it's wickedly funny to me coming from that milieu.*

 

I believe you're right about it being a "programmer." But that's purely a guess. I wonder if Fordy Guns has any info on it.

 

 

 

 

*I loved how they all thought the impresario was there for them. And the only one who was clueless was Brasing-HAM, the least talented of the bunch.*

 

That is funny!

 

*I also liked the Callahan and Callahan who were so obviously from different ethnicities. It reminded me of Mr. Rafferty in The Miracle of Morgan's Creek, who is an old Jewish man.*

 

Heck if I caught that! Those two drove me nuts.

 

 

*He really was the heart of the film. What a good actor Emile Chautard was! Apparently he was a stage actor in France, became a film director, then came here and directed many films, giving it up in 1924 for acting exclusively. He's splendid. I wouldn't have liked the film nearly so much without him.*

 

 

Wow! Talk about a grand tour in a small amount of time.

 

*I think Ro would really get a kick out of The Ladykillers - and the kidling too.*

 

I didn't even think of her daughter liking it. I think you're right! It's a cute film, but with good, black humor. It's along the lines of *Home Alone*.

 

*It's so true! But I also loved how absolutely tough the old lady turned out to be - that's why I love the first scene so much, when she goes to her home and whangs on the pipes to get the water for tea. We have all we need to know right there! She's so strong - in her body and her convictions. She won't be gotten rid of, or swayed.*

 

And she took on the guy at the train station, too!

 

*My mother in law is like this - she's always telling us how she is just a weak and foolish woman, but get her baking in her kitchen and you see how strong she really is. She has this lemon grater that is about 50 years old, there isn't a sharp edge on it, and she will literally shove a lemon through that thing harder than I can! The force of her will can move mountains. *

 

That's hiliarious! My country grandma has lost the strength in her hands, for the most part. She doesn't bake that much anymore, either. Her daughters won't stand for it. I don't think she has the "want" to do it anymore, too. I don't blame her.

 

 

*Good actresses both. I think Varsi quit Hollywood to become a nun. She was a very spiritual person. It's too bad for us, she was a marvelous newcomer.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What?! Really?!

 

*I need to watch again, I can barely remember it, but oh, it's scrumptious looking! All those deep black and white contrasty, foreboding scenes!*

 

*The Chase* is now a public domain film, so the image isn't the best. But I did like the look of the film, and I really loved the psychology of it.

 

*I love Laraine, she's just got something I love about her. I can't put my finger on it, but I'd like to have her class and warmth.*

 

 

I did know that you were a fan of Laraine. She does have a warmth to her. She also seems very "regular gal." I can imagine women can picture themselves being Laraine.

 

*I don't really as a genre. I like some of them. But I'm far more picky in that era than in the forties or thirties. A 60's sex comedy has to bring more for me - a star that I like (I like both Kim and Jim), or some wit and sparkle (like the Doris Day Rock Hudson films), or maybe a large supporting cast (Boy's Night Out has that format I like, lots of individual stories). It's not my favorite genre. I've tried watching Kiss Me Stupid a couple of times, and even Ray Walston can't get me through it. I should try again. I just don't get that one, is it really only one joke? The sex part? I don't understand that movie.*

 

 

I've never seen *Kiss Me Stupid*, but I do have it. I'll look to watch it.

 

 

*I like that she's playing a smart woman, but how easily all that is tossed aside when the boys get a look at her. They immediately assume she is a bombshell. And then it makes James Garner mad later on that she is, even though she isn't.*

 

 

That's funny! We men do jump to our conclusions about the "bombshell." It's all about our own fantasies, then. But if we actually fall in love with such a woman, then we don't want her to be a "bombshell."

 

*Yes, those fights were funny because we know that it comes from growing love. The images they have of each other and themselves don't match up.*

 

Precisely! He doesn't want to love a tramp. I'm trying to remember why she was upset at him. Was it because he kept pushing her away? I can't recall.

 

 

*I really wanted to chat about A Foreign Affair and about The Sin of Harold Diddlebock and about The Sea Wolf, but I still haven't re-watched them yet.*

 

Just let me know if you do watch any of them and wish to talk about them. I thought *The Sin of Harold Diddlebock* would be a film you'd really appreciate. I thought it was a lovely "valentine."

[FrankGrimes]

Howdy, Ma Stone -- *I think it is likely one of those films that "fit" the time it was made. The characters and the story were very "timely" as I imagine that sort of situation (a bunch of quirky characters striving to get their big break in show biz.. all living in some lady's boarding house, etc, etc..) played a lot better as a story way back then (than it might now days)*

 

I do agree with that. Especially when you consider the kind of entertainers they were.

 

*And you are right.. there were some "theater" moments now and then in some other Fordies.. I think the bit in MDC would likely be closest to what you see in this one (and maybe some of the characters in Wagon Master too?? I don't know, though.. I might need to see that one again to make a good comparison)*

 

Yes, there's the traveling troupe in *Wagon Master*. They were my favorite part of that film.

 

*I've been meaning to ask, can I borrow fifty bucks*

 

*HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Boy would YOU be barking up the WRONG tree if you ever asked ME that kinda question.. ha. Hmmm... let's see.. I don't have any money I can give you.. but would a lovely jeweled HAT pin do?? *

 

Noooooooooooooo!

[FrankGrimes]

Here's the most recent group of films that I have watched:

 

All Through the Night

The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse

Anna Christie (1930)

Back to Bataan

Black Friday

The Black Watch

City for Conquest

Colonel Effingham's Raid

Confirm or Deny

The Crooked Way

Dark Waters

The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie

Guilty Bystander

House of Cards

Humoresque

I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang

It Happened in Brooklyn

Jezebel

The Last of Mrs. Cheyney (1937)

The Life of Jimmy Dolan

Lizzie

Mr. Hobbs Takes a Vacation

Night and Day

Platinum Blonde

Port of Shadows

San Antonio

Shack Out on 101

The Whole Truth

World for Ransom

A Yank at Oxford

 

 

Any of those films stand out to you (or anyone)? How do you like them? How do you think I like them?

[SansFin]

> {quote:title=FrankGrimes wrote:}{quote}

> All Through the Night

 

This is so very heavy on the propaganda that it leaves me cold.

 

> The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse

 

I love this movie! The ending is most awesome.

 

> The Last of Mrs. Cheyney

 

You do not state the year but it does not matter because both versions are very wonderful. I love seeing Basil Rathbone as a leading man and any movie with Ronald Colman is good. The William Powell and Robert Montgomery version is more light-hearted and one I recommend often.

[FrankGrimes]

*You do not state the year but it does not matter because both versions are very wonderful. I love seeing Basil Rathbone as a leading man and any movie with Ronald Colman is good. The William Powell and Robert Montgomery version is more light-hearted and one I recommend often.*

 

Oops! I forgot there was an earlier version. I watched the Montgomery, Powell, Crawford one.

[movieman1957]

This may be the list where I've seen the fewest of any. There are maybe only 10 and some of those have been awhile ago.

 

Not much to share on my part. I'll see how the ladies do.

[JackFavell]

I'll respond tonight to your list and reply, but Frank, I wanted to say I hope you all missed the flooding! I was worried about you!

[FrankGrimes]

*This may be the list where I've seen the fewest of any. There are maybe only 10 and some of those have been awhile ago.*

 

Well, let's make the next group a better one for you. I'm looking to watch quite a few 30s films in the next group. I'm currently lacking in that decade, so I figured I'd put more of a focus on the 30s. So what are your very favorite films from the 30s?

 

Any westerns (not 30s) you'd suggest? Jean Arthur?

 

*Not much to share on my part. I'll see how the ladies do.*

 

I get most of the suggestions from the one lady!

[FrankGrimes]

*I'll respond tonight to your list and reply,*

 

Fantastic! I'd love to know how you liked the films from my list. And try to guess my top five (or ten), if you can.

 

*but Frank, I wanted to say I hope you all missed the flooding! I was worried about you!*

 

** Awww, that's sweet of you to say. My area hasn't received the rain the coastline has received. In fact, I want some rain! We got about an inch of rain two weeks ago and we got about a half inch last night. That's been about it, of late.

 

I'm guessing Movieman and Molo have received more rain, of late. And I know Snippy will say she has!

 

It looks like all of us in the northeast are headed for a heat wave this week. That'll be trying.

[JackFavell]

Hey there! I am glad you missed the bad weather. We have not really seen the sun very much here on the coast of CT. I am starting to get cranky (don't say it!) and the humidity is wearing.

 

>How do Denver?

 

I see the real Denver was on TCM yesterday. Gosh I love that movie. You should watch it again! Then you can tease me about it again!

 

> I believe you're right about it being a "programmer." But that's purely a guess. I wonder if Fordy Guns has any info on it.

 

I don't know, but I'd love to hear anything she's got on the film. I've been missing her discussion.

 

>Heck if I caught that! Those two drove me nuts.

 

Yeah, they were a little much.

 

>I didn't even think of her daughter liking it. I think you're right! It's a cute film, but with good, black humor. It's along the lines of Home Alone.

 

It really is! Man, that kind of plot always works as a film. *Mouse Hunt* is one of my favorite modern films, and it's the same thing but with a mouse! I laughed so hard in the movie theater I embarrassed myself.

 

> And she took on the guy at the train station, too!

 

No kidding. She had a steely reserve and a strong sense of what was right and what was wrong. DON'T mess with the OLD LADY. She'll take you OUT.

 

>That's hiliarious! My country grandma has lost the strength in her hands, for the most part. She doesn't bake that much anymore, either. Her daughters won't stand for it. I don't think she has the "want" to do it anymore, too. I don't blame her.

 

Yeah, Omi isn't as strong as she used to be, but she can sure boss us around. What she says goes, no matter what. German, you know.

 

 

>What?! Really?!

 

I was wrong. She wasn't a nun, but she was completely outside the Hollywood norm, never wearing makeup or going to parties. She was very much a thinker, and decided to leave Hollywood because she called it "destructive". I like her enormously, and wish she'd done more, but not at the cost of her sanity.

 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diane_Varsi

 

>The Chase is now a public domain film, so the image isn't the best. But I did like the look of the film, and I really loved the psychology of it.

 

I remember liking it too, just have to find time to watch again. I am watching about a movie a week, not the greatest track record! Summertime is too busy. Sometimes I watch TCM when nothing else is going on, but mostly we're doing family things.

 

>I did know that you were a fan of Laraine. She does have a warmth to her. She also seems very "regular gal." I can imagine women can picture themselves being Laraine.

 

That's how I feel.

 

>I've never seen Kiss Me Stupid, but I do have it. I'll look to watch it.

 

Oh no! Does that mean I have to try it again? Not my cuppa.

 

>That's funny! We men do jump to our conclusions about the "bombshell." It's all about our own fantasies, then. But if we actually fall in love with such a woman, then we don't want her to be a "bombshell."

 

Isn't it the truth. And then eventually, when your woman becomes exactly what you want, a complete homebody, you get bored and go looking for the bombshell again!

 

>Precisely! He doesn't want to love a tramp. I'm trying to remember why she was upset at him. Was it because he kept pushing her away? I can't recall.

 

I can't remember either, it's been a while since Ive seen it last. Maybe because he thought the worst of her?

 

>Just let me know if you do watch any of them and wish to talk about them. I thought The Sin of Harold Diddlebock would be a film you'd really appreciate. I thought it was a lovely "valentine."

 

I LOVE it. It's really my first Sturges, it used to be on all the time on this TV channel in Chicago, when I was growing up. WFLD. They only had the most obscure classic films (with bad prints), but that's how I learned about movies. I love the fact that it starts with The Freshman, and takes it from there, this guy's future life, 20 years down the road. It's hilarious. Hey, have you seen The Freshman?

 

Marlene is astounding in A FOREIGN AFFAIR. She blows everyone off the screen. I love that kind of character - Crystal Allen from THE WOMEN is the same type, and when women get to have that catting around kind of lifestyle in movies I just love it. They may fight like a jungle cat to keep their man, but they're philosophical when the end of the relationship finally comes, they may be wounded, but they take it all in stride. I like the way they tip their hat to the 'good' ladies who win in the end. Angela Lansbiury in THE HARVEY GIRLS is another.

 

This doesn't mean I don't like Jean Arthur- I do, very much so now. But there was some time when her character grated on me, didn't seem even believable. I like her very much more now, and think she did a heck of a job with a role that was quite difficult. It's never easy to play nice. Plus her hairstyle bugged me. She and Marlene are playing archetypes, and it's kind of funny to see those turned on their ear by Wilder.

 

My biggest problem is with John Lund. He's OK, but once I heard that William Holden was supposed to play it, I got upset, because I could literally hear his voice speaking those lines, using that charm he has to soften the seedier aspects of the character. He would have been wonderful. Lund has no real innate charm and this is too bad. Tyrone Power would have been another who could pull off the role. Getting by on that little something extra that people like about him.

 

Edited by: JackFavell on Jul 13, 2013 7:23 PM

[movieman1957]

Most of my favorite 30's films are comedies. Caole Lombard's "Hands Across The Table" and "The Gilded Lily" with Claudette Colbert. (Fred MacMurray costars in both.) Jean Arthur is fine in "If You Could Only Cook." If you want to try a western and Jean look for "The Plainsman." It has Gary Cooper (I know) but it's also a big picture.

 

"Ruggles of Red Gap" is a fun picture with Charles Laughton. (The Bride likes that one.) "G Men" does a nice twist for Cagney. He's the good guy.

 

For a few westerns -

 

Broken Lance

Escape From Ft. Bravo

The Last Wagon

Man WIthout A Star

Colorado Territory

Hell Bent for Leather.

 

You've probably seen a couple of those but there you go just in case.

[JackFavell]

>All Through the Night

>The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse

>Anna Christie (1930)

>Back to Bataan

>Black Friday

>The Black Watch

>City for Conquest

>Colonel Effingham's Raid

>Confirm or Deny

>The Crooked Way

>Dark Waters

>The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie

>Guilty Bystander

>House of Cards

>Humoresque

>I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang

>It Happened in Brooklyn

>Jezebel

>The Last of Mrs. Cheyney (1937)

>The Life of Jimmy Dolan

>Lizzie

>Mr. Hobbs Takes a Vacation

>Night and Day

>Platinum Blonde

>Port of Shadows

>San Antonio

>Shack Out on 101

>The Whole Truth

>World for Ransom

>A Yank at Oxford

 

>Any of those films stand out to you (or anyone)? How do you like them? How do you think I like them?

 

I think your order would be:

 

*Port of Shadows*

*I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang*

The one with *Dan Duryea*

*Shack Out On 101*

The one with *John Payne*

*The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse*

*Humoresque* (This is a long shot, not sure, you might just hate it, but it might just grab you. I'll be bold and say you liked it)

*All Through the Night*

The *Louisiana Bayou* one

 

I think you _hated_ *Night and Day*

 

Any of the others, I really have no idea!

 

Here's the order I like them in:

 

1. *The Life of Jimmy Dolan* - Aline MacMahon, redemption, STYMIE, a really fine performance by Doug Jr. and an even finer one by Guy Kibbee make this one an absolute favorite for me. This is one of those movies that shows why I like the 1930's. It would make a swell double bill with *Hide-Out*, another great favorite.

 

2. *Port of Shadows* - I just saw this recently and it was a big surprise. I was so impressed with it, I'm embarrassed to say I don't quite remember why. It was lovely. I just liked the way it all worked out, the trust and the relationship, slowly and methodically, as Gabin found love. Pre-noir, very very sad. Poetic realism is a great name for what this is. This one, *Geuele d'Amour* and *Le Jour se Leve* have made me finally get what it is about Gabin that is great. That fatalistic thing.

 

3. *I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang* - Brilliant BRILLIANT movie. I suspect it's high on your list. The ending...just ....kills.....

 

4. *The Last of Mrs. Cheyney (1937)* - one of my very favorite Joan Crawford movies and movies in general, thanks to supporting cast and especially the wonderful Montgomery and Powell. A girl should enjoy such a choice. I love the whole letter reading section, where everyone's faults and secrets are laid out for everyone to see.

 

5. *The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse* - Great story! Great acting. I am always amazed at how everything ends up, how sympathetic Eddie is, even doing what he did.

 

6. *Platinum Blonde* - I alternate between liking this movie A LOT and thinking it's too loud. I do the same thing with Bringing Up Baby, just can't make up my mind whether it's genius or the worst thing ever made. I'm falling toward the "genius' side right now. Jean is super and Robert Williams should have had a longer career. So sad that he died soon after the film was made.

 

7. *It Happened in Brooklyn* - This is just a sweet sweet movie. I adore it, almost all of Frank's early movies are equally good to me.

 

8. *All Through the Night* - This is a pretty great entertaining film. I enjoyed seeing Bogie like this, and the supporting cast, well it's great. Harrowing scene with the little merchant getting dumped down the stairs, one of the creepiest scenes I can remember from that time.

 

9. *The Black Watch* - I just loved this movie, in spite of Myrna's high pitched vocal characterization. One of the only times I thought she mis-stepped in a movie. I think Vic is great, and I like the storyline very much, how Vic is disgraced even in the service of his country. But mostly it's just GORGEOUSLY filmed. Love to look at it. Roy D'Arcy should have gotten an academy award for portraying so many awful villains in the late twenties.

 

10. *Jezebel* - This really isn't one of my favorite Wyler films, and I usually like him. It's got great atmosphere and design though, so I sometimes watch it for the look of the film. I think Bette's great, but really, Fay Bainter is AMAZING. STYMIE is in it! I heart Stymie.

 

11. *Anna Christie* - I think I need to give this one another viewing. I haven't seen it in years, but caught just a bit one day this year and it looked better than I remember. I always thought it was pretty dull, but maybe I could appreciate it for more than just the first time Garbo talked.

 

12. *Humoresque* - cheesy, and yet I really love Garfield here, and Crawford gets the job done.

 

13. *City for Conquest* - wow, Jimmy and classical music, not a combination I care for. blecch. And yet, I love Annie, Jimmy, and Anthony Quinn so much that I will put up with Arthur Kennedy and his silly symphony just to see Jimmy so that last scene at the end, in his newspaper shack.... and then I cry, every time. Go figure.

 

14. *Mr. Hobbs Takes a Vacation* - I like it, even with screechy! Its funny, I actually like the young people better than Jimmy.

 

15. *Back to Bataan* - it's OK, I've never liked this one, but I've come to understand it more recently. Too propagandistic even for me, who appreciates a good propagandistic movie.

 

16. *Night and Day* - wow, this is the only movie ever where Cary looks uncomfortable. There are good musical moments, and I actually really like Jane Wyman here and wish she had more to do.

 

17. *A Yank at Oxford* - gosh, there are a couple of these movies, one with Tyrone Power and one with Robert Taylor. I like the one with Robert Taylor marginally better, thanks to a really good supporting cast, but neither movie really sends me.

 

Can't remember *San Antonio*, I can never keep these Errol movies from the forties apart... I'm sure I liked it, though it's taken me until recently to really enjoy Alexis Smith.

 

I like *Reginald Denny*, I know he was in one of the films you watched, but I've never seen it.

 

Edited by: JackFavell on Jul 13, 2013 8:54 PM

 

Edited by: JackFavell on Jul 13, 2013 8:55 PM

[JackFavell]

Chris, I love Hands Across the Table and Ruggles. If You Could Only Cook is my favorite of Jean's lesser known comedies, from that time right before or as she got super famous.

[MissGoddess]

Jackie/Denver---i watched *wagon master* when it was on, too! i have to stay with it to the end so i can see the little colt. it always makes me cry.

 

 

*All Through the Night* - I enjoyed it---thought everyone was excellent. Fun seeing such a young Jackie Gleason as the diner owner.

 

*Anna Christie* (1930) - did you see both the american and german versions? i don't care much for it, it was simply important in garbo's career.

 

*The Black Watch* - i enjoyed this one, too, though you can see the STARK difference between the stilted "dialogue" scene which were directed by a special "dialogue director" that studios' fearfully employed at this time. interesting you watched two important movie in the transition from silent to sound. Vic is just splendid, and i thought the beginning shot of the men leaving for the war was touching.

 

*City for Conquest* - my feelings are very much like Wendy's---Cagney's moments at the little stand are moving and the best thing about it.

 

*The Crooked Way* - Fast paced and suspenseful. John Payne on the road to future knock-about noirs. He's great. I felt awful for Percy's cat.

 

*Dark Waters* - it lacks something yet it also has something due to the unusual setting and i really like Merle so seeing her in a rather different milieu is what draws me to it.

 

*House of Cards* - i really like this movie, it took me completely by surprise. i even liked george peppard, which is saying a lot. it felt like a hodge-podge of many other caper movies but it stands pretty well on its own. i just wish the old lady and orson had a little more screen time.

 

*Humoresque* - i admit to liking the movie though i don't particularly like either joan or john's characters. maybe oscar levant is the reason, and the great dialogue (Odettes, right?) and it has one of my all time favorite closing lines.

 

*I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang* - brilliant movie, but so hard to watch. really wrenching. i'm sure it took a lot of audiences by surprise.

 

*It Happened in Brooklyn* - though i'm not so crazy about peter and the soprano, i ADORE frank and Jimmy's scenes together, along with the tremendously fabulous songs. I can tell Frank is enjoying himself because he's really relaxed and delighted every time he shares a scene with Jimmy. who wouldn't be? I would rather have the movie about Gloria and Frank, though.

 

*Jezebel* - I LOVE George Brent in this.

 

*The Last of Mrs. Cheyney* (1937) - One of my 1930s favorites. I can't decide which I would choose, Powell or Bobby. and yes, like Wendy, i enjoy the letter scene as well as the old lady who seems so cool at first until she is "outed" and then she turns hypocritical, which surprises me. i think Montgomery is terribly sexy in this one, which is why I'd probably have chosen him.

 

*The Life of Jimmy Dolan* - I haven't seen it in a while so I don't have much to say except I remember it pleasantly.

 

*Lizzie* - I really like it---i thought it was more moving than *3 Faces of Eve* which is like a twin movie to it.

 

*Mr. Hobbs Takes a Vacation* - I think some scenes --- especially those with John McGiver, are hilarious. other scenes annoy me to death.

 

*Night and Day* - i don't like it but Jane is sweet and funny and it LOOKS very beautiful. Who thought Cole Porter could be a bore?

 

*Platinum Blonde* - Not a favorite. I like Loretta best.

 

*San Antonio* - Fun - Errol, like the others.

 

*The Whole Truth* - I enjoyed it for the most part---as always, George Sanders carries the day with his inimitable style. "Donna Stone" (Reed) acts like a sleepwalker and intensely out of her element on the Riviera.

 

*A Yank at Oxford* - the only thing i like about it is seeing maureen and viv together (school mates in switzerland!) and viv's character is adorable. it is the first movie before GWTW that i feel shows her charm. she steals the film.

 

*Black Friday* - I can't remember if I've seen this one. So many of Boris' movies blend together.

 

*World for Ransom* - never seen.

 

*Guilty Bystander* - I'm pretty sure I have never seen it.

 

*Confirm or Deny* and *Shack Out on 101* are both on my list to watch.

 

*The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie* - Never seen.

 

*Colonel Effingham's Raid* - Never seen.

 

*The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse* - incredibly, i dont' think i've ever seen it but i hope it's on youtube or i may even have a copy of my own. i think i always confused it with the one where bogie played a mad scientist with a bunny rabbit.

 

*Back to Bataan* - never seen

 

*Port of Shadows* - i must see this especially after what Jackie wrote.

[JackFavell]

> {quote:title=MissGoddess wrote:}{quote}Jackie/Denver---i watched *wagon master* when it was on, too! i have to stay with it to the end so i can see the little colt. it always makes me cry.

 

I was foolish and missed most of the movie, but caught the last half hour, and sat there crying myself over the little baby horse coming up out of the water and up over the hill. It's such a beautiful image, and so perfect for the end of this film and the beginning of their new life.

 

> *All Through the Night* - I enjoyed it---thought everyone was excellent. Fun seeing such a young Jackie Gleason as the diner owner.

>

> *Anna Christie* (1930) - did you see both the american and german versions? i don't care much for it, it was simply important in garbo's career.

>

> *The Black Watch* - i enjoyed this one, too, though you can see the STARK difference between the stilted "dialogue" scene which were directed by a special "dialogue director" that studios' fearfully employed at this time. interesting you watched two important movie in the transition from silent to sound. Vic is just splendid, and i thought the beginning shot of the men leaving for the war was touching.

 

Ahh, I didn't know that about the dialogue director! Thanks for clarifying that point, it explains a lot.

 

> *City for Conquest* - my feelings are very much like Wendy's---Cagney's moments at the little stand are moving and the best thing about it.

>

> *The Crooked Way* - Fast paced and suspenseful. John Payne on the road to future knock-about noirs. He's great. I felt awful for Percy's cat.

>

> *Dark Waters* - it lacks something yet it also has something due to the unusual setting and i really like Merle so seeing her in a rather different milieu is what draws me to it.

>

> *House of Cards* - i really like this movie, it took me completely by surprise. i even liked george peppard, which is saying a lot. it felt like a hodge-podge of many other caper movies but it stands pretty well on its own. i just wish the old lady and orson had a little more screen time.

>

> *Humoresque* - i admit to liking the movie though i don't particularly like either joan or john's characters. maybe oscar levant is the reason, and the great dialogue (Odettes, right?) and it has one of my all time favorite closing lines.

 

Oh I love Oscar in this film. He's just super. I think this one is his best.

 

> *I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang* - brilliant movie, but so hard to watch. really wrenching. i'm sure it took a lot of audiences by surprise.

>

> *It Happened in Brooklyn* - though i'm not so crazy about peter and the soprano, i ADORE frank and Jimmy's scenes together, along with the tremendously fabulous songs. I can tell Frank is enjoying himself because he's really relaxed and delighted every time he shares a scene with Jimmy. who wouldn't be? I would rather have the movie about Gloria and Frank, though.

>

> *Jezebel* - I LOVE George Brent in this.

>

> *The Last of Mrs. Cheyney* (1937) - One of my 1930s favorites. I can't decide which I would choose, Powell or Bobby. and yes, like Wendy, i enjoy the letter scene as well as the old lady who seems so cool at first until she is "outed" and then she turns hypocritical, which surprises me. i think Montgomery is terribly sexy in this one, which is why I'd probably have chosen him.

 

I would agree, RM is terrifically sexy here. But then I can never quite get over how noble WP is. It's quite the perfect balance. Each has the perfect role for his particular gifts. It's so rare when a movie has this 'rival' format to have such evenly matched actors.

 

> *The Life of Jimmy Dolan* - I haven't seen it in a while so I don't have much to say except I remember it pleasantly.

>

> *Lizzie* - I really like it---i thought it was more moving than *3 Faces of Eve* which is like a twin movie to it.

>

> *Mr. Hobbs Takes a Vacation* - I think some scenes --- especially those with John McGiver, are hilarious. other scenes annoy me to death.

 

John McGiver deserves an entire day on TCM. I adore him, he's so funny. I can think of at least 3 films just off the top of my head in which he's pivotal to the plot and hilarious in every one.

 

> *Night and Day* - i don't like it but Jane is sweet and funny and it LOOKS very beautiful. Who thought Cole Porter could be a bore?

>

> *Platinum Blonde* - Not a favorite. I like Loretta best.

>

> *San Antonio* - Fun - Errol, like the others.

>

> *The Whole Truth* - I enjoyed it for the most part---as always, George Sanders carries the day with his inimitable style. "Donna Stone" (Reed) acts like a sleepwalker and intensely out of her element on the Riviera.

>

> *A Yank at Oxford* - the only thing i like about it is seeing maureen and viv together (school mates in switzerland!) and viv's character is adorable. it is the first movie before GWTW that i feel shows her charm. she steals the film.

 

I forgot Maureen was in this one. I liked them both very much. Viv really does carry the picture, and you are right, this is the first film where she is positively magnetic. I always wonder about this - do you think that something happened to her during her films of the thirties? I see this happen with other actors, like Spencer Tracy for instance in the second half of *Riffraff*, and then *Fury* and *San Francisco*, suddenly, he's GOT it, the technique of film acting, down to a T. You can't look away from him. I wonder what it is that suddenly turned on a switch in Vivian. You, more than anyone, would be the one who would know.

 

> *Black Friday* - I can't remember if I've seen this one. So many of Boris' movies blend together.

>

> *World for Ransom* - never seen.

>

> *Guilty Bystander* - I'm pretty sure I have never seen it.

>

> *Confirm or Deny* and *Shack Out on 101* are both on my list to watch.

>

> *The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie* - Never seen.

>

> *Colonel Effingham's Raid* - Never seen.

>

> *The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse* - incredibly, i dont' think i've ever seen it but i hope it's on youtube or i may even have a copy of my own. i think i always confused it with the one where bogie played a mad scientist with a bunny rabbit.

>

> *Back to Bataan* - never seen

>

> *Port of Shadows* - i must see this especially after what Jackie wrote.

 

I think you, of all the ramblers, would absolutely LOVE this film. It's a beautiful one.

[FrankGrimes]

Hiya, Movieman -- *Most of my favorite 30's films are comedies.*

 

Yes, I did know that. And I'm more than fine with that.

 

 

*Caole Lombard's "Hands Across The Table" and "The Gilded Lily" with Claudette Colbert. (Fred MacMurray costars in both.)*

 

 

I've seen the former but not the latter. I don't have the latter, either. I'll have to be on the look out for it.

 

 

*Jean Arthur is fine in "If You Could Only Cook."*

 

 

There you go! And, ironically, that was the Jean film I was looking to watch next.

 

 

*If you want to try a western and Jean look for "The Plainsman." It has Gary Cooper (I know) but it's also a big picture.*

 

I have seen that one. It's a solid adventure. Coop was making quite a few adventure flicks during that time, too.

 

 

*"Ruggles of Red Gap" is a fun picture with Charles Laughton. (The Bride likes that one.) "G Men" does a nice twist for Cagney. He's the good guy.*

 

 

I thought I had that one recorded, but it looks like I do not.

 

 

*For a few westerns -*

 

 

*Broken Lance*

*Escape From Ft. Bravo*

*The Last Wagon*

*Man WIthout A Star*

*Colorado Territory*

*Hell Bent for Leather.*

 

 

I've seen *Broken Lance* and *Colorado Territory*. I have *Escape from Fort Bravo*, so I'll watch that next. The others, I don't have. *The Last Wagon* is on DVD and affordable. I think I'm going to get it. I'm such a Richard Widmark fan. *Man Without Star* looks to have a great leading cast. I'd like to see that one.

[FrankGrimes]

Ciao, Little Red Buick -- *Hey there! I am glad you missed the bad weather. We have not really seen the sun very much here on the coast of CT. I am starting to get cranky (don't say it!) and the humidity is wearing.*

 

You're probably seeing plenty of the sun now! It's hot out! The humidity remains, though.

 

*I see the real Denver was on TCM yesterday. Gosh I love that movie. You should watch it again! Then you can tease me about it again!*

 

 

Tease you about it?! More like anger you!

 

 

*I don't know, but I'd love to hear anything she's got on the film. I've been missing her discussion.*

 

 

She finally showed! But we need our tidbits on *Upstream* ! Did she even watch it yet?!

 

 

*It really is! Man, that kind of plot always works as a film. Mouse Hunt is one of my favorite modern films, and it's the same thing but with a mouse! I laughed so hard in the movie theater I embarrassed myself.*

 

 

That made me laugh! I never heard of the film, but it sounds cute.

 

 

*No kidding. She had a steely reserve and a strong sense of what was right and what was wrong. DON'T mess with the OLD LADY. She'll take you OUT.*

 

 

I did like it when she started to catch wind of the what was going on and how the guys tried to push her in other directions.

 

 

*Yeah, Omi isn't as strong as she used to be, but she can sure boss us around. What she says goes, no matter what. German, you know. *

 

 

Are you telling me that what a German woman says, goes? Really? I have no idea what you're talking about.

 

 

*I was wrong. She wasn't a nun, but she was completely outside the Hollywood norm, never wearing makeup or going to parties. She was very much a thinker, and decided to leave Hollywood because she called it "destructive". I like her enormously, and wish she'd done more, but not at the cost of her sanity.*

 

 

Wow! I would have got along quite well with her.

 

 

*I remember liking it too, just have to find time to watch again. I am watching about a movie a week, not the greatest track record! Summertime is too busy. Sometimes I watch TCM when nothing else is going on, but mostly we're doing family things.*

 

 

Being a wife and mother is always busy! But I know it's especially busy when school is out.

 

 

*Oh no! Does that mean I have to try it again? Not my cuppa.*

 

 

Of course not! But it's Billy Wilder and Kim Novak, so that's going to appeal to me. Dean Martin can be very hit or miss with me, though.

 

 

*Isn't it the truth. And then eventually, when your woman becomes exactly what you want, a complete homebody, you get bored and go looking for the bombshell again! *

 

 

For certain kinds of men, that's for sure. Their ego is attached to their ability to "capture" a beautiful/sexy woman. It's about them, not her. One of the toughest things to understand in life is why we are attracted to someone and if that attraction has any meaningful depth.

 

 

*I can't remember either, it's been a while since Ive seen it last. Maybe because he thought the worst of her?*

 

 

It could have been that. But she seemed to be trying to draw him in and he kept leaving her and slamming the door as he left. He was appalled by her "sleeping around," particularly with his pals. What man wants the woman he's attracted to to be doing that?! I definitely liked the misconceptions. It's all very "Three's Company."

 

 

*I LOVE it. It's really my first Sturges, it used to be on all the time on this TV channel in Chicago, when I was growing up. WFLD. They only had the most obscure classic films (with bad prints), but that's how I learned about movies. I love the fact that it starts with The Freshman, and takes it from there, this guy's future life, 20 years down the road. It's hilarious. Hey, have you seen The Freshman?*

 

 

No, I haven't seen *The Freshman*. The only Harold Lloyd film I have seen is the short film *Haunted Spooks*. I loved the ending of *The Sin of Harold Diddlebock*. It's a terrific send-off for Harold. And Jimmy Conlin is terrific as "Wormy." It's a sweet, madcap valentine.

 

 

*Marlene is astounding in A FOREIGN AFFAIR. She blows everyone off the screen. I love that kind of character - Crystal Allen from THE WOMEN is the same type, and when women get to have that catting around kind of lifestyle in movies I just love it. They may fight like a jungle cat to keep their man, but they're philosophical when the end of the relationship finally comes, they may be wounded, but they take it all in stride. I like the way they tip their hat to the 'good' ladies who win in the end. Angela Lansbiury in THE HARVEY GIRLS is another.*

 

 

Now this is rather strange. I'm usually fawning over Marlene in her films. She's always drawing me in. But in *A Foreign Affair*, I wasn't taken by her. Maybe it's the kind of character she is playing. It's the kind of character that is going to stand out more for you. She doesn't get the guy here, when she almost always does in her other films. I think I loved Jean more because she is clearly overmatched and in way over head against Marlene.

 

 

And I love your "catting around." That's a perfect description of Marlene. She does play the "stray cat" quite often.

 

 

And Crystal Allen? Yuck! But I'm probably the only person who likes Mary Haines (Norma Shearer) the most in *The Women*. That could very well be a guy/gal thing.

 

 

*This doesn't mean I don't like Jean Arthur- I do, very much so now. But there was some time when her character grated on me, didn't seem even believable. I like her very much more now, and think she did a heck of a job with a role that was quite difficult. It's never easy to play nice. Plus her hairstyle bugged me. She and Marlene are playing archetypes, and it's kind of funny to see those turned on their ear by Wilder.*

 

 

Jean seems to be an actress people really love or find annoying. I'm definitely in the "love her" camp. Interestingly, she was one of the very first classic actresses that I fell for. She's the definition of a "sweetheart." She's a funny mouse.

 

 

*My biggest problem is with John Lund. He's OK, but once I heard that William Holden was supposed to play it, I got upset, because I could literally hear his voice speaking those lines, using that charm he has to soften the seedier aspects of the character. He would have been wonderful. Lund has no real innate charm and this is too bad. Tyrone Power would have been another who could pull off the role. Getting by on that little something extra that people like about him.*

 

 

William Holden would have been perfect. He can play the male "user" quite well. I like when Ty goes against type in comedies, playing more of a jerk. It's not often, though. John Lund was rather vanilla, but I did see him as a jerk.

 

 

*I think your order would be:*

 

 

*Port of Shadows*

*I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang*

*The one with Dan Duryea*

*Shack Out On 101*

*The one with John Payne*

*The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse*

*Humoresque (This is a long shot, not sure, you might just hate it, but it might just grab you. I'll be bold and say you liked it)*

*All Through the Night*

*The Louisiana Bayou one*

 

 

You did quite well! You got five of them right. You nailed the top one.

 

 

*I think you hated Night and Day*

 

 

No! Not at all! I wasn't familiar with Cole Porter's music, and I ended up loving the songs. I think he captures the feeling of love so very well. The actual story in the film isn't the best, though.

 

 

*Here's the order I like them in:*

 

 

*1. The Life of Jimmy Dolan - Aline MacMahon, redemption, STYMIE, a really fine performance by Doug Jr. and an even finer one by Guy Kibbee make this one an absolute favorite for me. This is one of those movies that shows why I like the 1930's. It would make a swell double bill with Hide-Out, another great favorite.*

 

 

I watched that one because it's a title you suggested to me. You suggested another good one. You're doing good with that! *Hide-Out* certainly took from the film. Both have Mickey Rooney! I liked *The Life of Jimmy Dolan* more. Ironically, the film also reminded me of *I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang*. Aline MacMahon was tremendous.

 

 

*2. Port of Shadows - I just saw this recently and it was a big surprise. I was so impressed with it, I'm embarrassed to say I don't quite remember why. It was lovely. I just liked the way it all worked out, the trust and the relationship, slowly and methodically, as Gabin found love. Pre-noir, very very sad. Poetic realism is a great name for what this is. This one, Geuele d'Amour and Le Jour se Leve have made me finally get what it is about Gabin that is great. That fatalistic thing.*

 

 

You hit on everything. Nicely done! The film is awesome. I don't think it's a "Miss G" flick so much as it's my kind of flick. It's film noir before film noir, without a doubt. Jean Gabin is such a brilliant actor. I'm learning he's one of the all-time best. He's a tragic Spencer Tracy. That makes him phenomenal. Such a great ending to the film.

 

 

*3. I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang - Brilliant BRILLIANT movie. I suspect it's high on your list. The ending...just ....kills.....*

 

 

I love the message of the film, no doubt about it. The film itself can be on the dry side, but it's so doggone powerful. It feels a bit like *The Grapes of Wrath*.

 

 

*4. The Last of Mrs. Cheyney (1937) - one of my very favorite Joan Crawford movies and movies in general, thanks to supporting cast and especially the wonderful Montgomery and Powell. A girl should enjoy such a choice. I love the whole letter reading section, where everyone's faults and secrets are laid out for everyone to see.*

 

 

You can add me to you and Miss G's loving the scene with the letter. It's the best moment in the film, to me. I did enjoy this film quite a bit. The stars all sparkle and the supporting cast is wonderful. The entire set-up actually reminded me some of *My Man Godfrey*. Great ending.

 

 

*5. The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse - Great story! Great acting. I am always amazed at how everything ends up, how sympathetic Eddie is, even doing what he did.*

 

 

This was a great surprise to me. The film is really good. Who would have thought Bogie, Eddie G, and Claire would end up together in *Key Largo* ? Probably John Huston! Since he co-wrote the screenplay. Love how the mugs all love the "professor." I think Quiet Gal would go for this film. It actually reminded me some of *The Woman in the Window*, another Eddie G flick.

 

 

*6. Platinum Blonde - I alternate between liking this movie A LOT and thinking it's too loud. I do the same thing with Bringing Up Baby, just can't make up my mind whether it's genius or the worst thing ever made. I'm falling toward the "genius' side right now. Jean is super and Robert Williams should have had a longer career. So sad that he died soon after the film was made.*

 

 

I'm with Miss G with this one. I loved Robert Williams and his lines, but the film itself didn't do anything for me. Jean Harlow is too stuffy for me.

 

 

*7. It Happened in Brooklyn - This is just a sweet sweet movie. I adore it, almost all of Frank's early movies are equally good to me.*

 

 

It really is a sweet film, but it ended up being too sweet for me. Gloria Grahame is awesome, though!

 

 

*8. All Through the Night - This is a pretty great entertaining film. I enjoyed seeing Bogie like this, and the supporting cast, well it's great. Harrowing scene with the little merchant getting dumped down the stairs, one of the creepiest scenes I can remember from that time.*

 

 

This was another huge surprise for me. I loved the film! What a cast! It's one of the best I have ever seen. Bogie is absolutely hilarious. I'm starting to realize he's one of the funniest actors to me. I think this is another film where Quiet Gal would like her tomato.

 

 

*9. The Black Watch - I just loved this movie, in spite of Myrna's high pitched vocal characterization. One of the only times I thought she mis-stepped in a movie. I think Vic is great, and I like the storyline very much, how Vic is disgraced even in the service of his country. But mostly it's just GORGEOUSLY filmed. Love to look at it. Roy D'Arcy should have gotten an academy award for portraying so many awful villains in the late twenties.*

 

 

I just couldn't get into this film. It just sat there for me. Myrna Loy was on the annoying side, which is saying a lot. The journey didn't do much for me. I liked some of the Expressionistic battle scenes, though. The film is actually rather Fordian, though. The opening and closing scenes with the traditional music is very Foridan. And those scenes didn't play well with me, either.

 

 

*10. Jezebel - This really isn't one of my favorite Wyler films, and I usually like him. It's got great atmosphere and design though, so I sometimes watch it for the look of the film. I think Bette's great, but really, Fay Bainter is AMAZING. STYMIE is in it! I heart Stymie.*

 

 

This is another film I couldn't get into. It reminded me of *The Rains Came*, which is not a film I like. George Brent is in both films, but I greatly prefer him in *The Rains Came*. His character in that film is sensational. Here, he's a blockhead. I liked Richard Cromwell the best. Bette? A bit too much.

 

 

*11. Anna Christie - I think I need to give this one another viewing. I haven't seen it in years, but caught just a bit one day this year and it looked better than I remember. I always thought it was pretty dull, but maybe I could appreciate it for more than just the first time Garbo talked.*

 

 

I thought this one was pretty decent. Garbo was still silent acting, but it kind of worked. Charles Bickford, George F. Marion, and Marie Dressler are all quite good. It's very "30s female." It's not bad.

 

 

*12. Humoresque - cheesy, and yet I really love Garfield here, and Crawford gets the job done.*

 

 

This one reminded me of *A Star Is Born*. I liked it more, though. I thought John Garfield and Joan Crawford were both good. Oscar Levant is excellent. I liked the dark side of the film.

 

 

*13. City for Conquest - wow, Jimmy and classical music, not a combination I care for. blecch. And yet, I love Annie, Jimmy, and Anthony Quinn so much that I will put up with Arthur Kennedy and his silly symphony just to see Jimmy so that last scene at the end, in his newspaper shack.... and then I cry, every time. Go figure.*

 

 

Yet another big surprise for me. This one packs an emotional punch and James Cagney is just great when he's taking on a role like this. It's one of the better films about eternal love that I have seen. The ending is beautiful. I'm finding out that I like Cagney when he's not playing a gangster. He's great in comedy, and he was great here.

 

 

*14. Mr. Hobbs Takes a Vacation - I like it, even with screechy! Its funny, I actually like the young people better than Jimmy.*

 

 

I mostly liked the film. I absolutely loved Jimmy and his crankiness. He delivered some lines that absolutely killed me. I really liked the generational divide that the film portrays. It's actually rather similar to *Giant*, in that regard.

 

 

*15. Back to Bataan - it's OK, I've never liked this one, but I've come to understand it more recently. Too propagandistic even for me, who appreciates a good propagandistic movie.*

 

 

There isn't much to this film. It's rather vanilla for a Duke flick. I liked Ducky Louie (Maximo Cuenca) the most.

 

 

*16. Night and Day - wow, this is the only movie ever where Cary looks uncomfortable. There are good musical moments, and I actually really like Jane Wyman here and wish she had more to do.*

 

 

I've never seen Jane more playful! She was cute. Cary was out of his element.

 

 

*17. A Yank at Oxford - gosh, there are a couple of these movies, one with Tyrone Power and one with Robert Taylor. I like the one with Robert Taylor marginally better, thanks to a really good supporting cast, but neither movie really sends me.*

 

 

As you and Miss G discussed, it's great to see Viv and Maureen. They are both cute in the film. Viv is already tramping it up!

 

 

*Can't remember San Antonio, I can never keep these Errol movies from the forties apart... I'm sure I liked it, though it's taken me until recently to really enjoy Alexis Smith.*

 

 

I agree with Miss G, it's a fun film.

 

 

Thank you for going to trouble of ranking how you liked the films. That was excellent! I like your enthusiasm.

[FrankGrimes]

Bonjour, German Girl -- *Jackie/Denver---i watched wagon master when it was on, too! i have to stay with it to the end so i can see the little colt. it always makes me cry. *

 

Ford used that shot twice in the film! You don't have to wait until the end! But I think it's cute that you like your little colt.

 

*All Through the Night - I enjoyed it---thought everyone was excellent. Fun seeing such a young Jackie Gleason as the diner owner.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Uh-oh! We're on the same page! It's a fun film. Bogie with Demarest? Wow!

 

 

*Anna Christie (1930) - did you see both the american and german versions? i don't care much for it, it was simply important in garbo's career.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Charles Bickford! I saw the English version. *Anna Christie* is like a stripped-down version of *Clash by Night*.

 

 

*The Black Watch - i enjoyed this one, too, though you can see the STARK difference between the stilted "dialogue" scene which were directed by a special "dialogue director" that studios' fearfully employed at this time. interesting you watched two important movie in the transition from silent to sound. Vic is just splendid, and i thought the beginning shot of the men leaving for the war was touching.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This one is an important transitional film? I had no idea. The "leaving for war" just never gets to me. It seemed to be played for laughs, which is quite Fordian.

 

 

*City for Conquest - my feelings are very much like Wendy's---Cagney's moments at the little stand are moving and the best thing about it.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It's a wonderful ending. *An Affair to Remember* !

 

 

*The Crooked Way - Fast paced and suspenseful. John Payne on the road to future knock-about noirs. He's great. I felt awful for Percy's cat.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It's really hard to beat John Payne in these kind of films. He's perfect. The film has a real nice twist on the "returning, amnesiac vet" angle.

 

 

*Dark Waters - it lacks something yet it also has something due to the unusual setting and i really like Merle so seeing her in a rather different milieu is what draws me to it.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The setting is a big selling point with the film. As I was watching the film, I kept wondering what film it was playing like. I finally figured it out. It was *The Return of the Whistler*. That film also features family shenanigans.

 

 

*House of Cards - i really like this movie, it took me completely by surprise. i even liked george peppard, which is saying a lot. it felt like a hodge-podge of many other caper movies but it stands pretty well on its own. i just wish the old lady and orson had a little more screen time.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I was also amazed to find myself really liking this film. George Peppard is a riot in the film! I also liked the action and the twisting story. For a film that I thought was going to play "fluffy," it's quite masculine.

 

 

*Humoresque - i admit to liking the movie though i don't particularly like either joan or john's characters. maybe oscar levant is the reason, and the great dialogue (Odettes, right?) and it has one of my all time favorite closing lines.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You've got it, it's Odets. He seemingly always has excellent dialogue. One of the very best. The relationship between Paul (John Garfield) and Helen (Joan Crawford) is quite contentious, yet they really do love each other. But it seems like they both have to love on their terms.

 

 

*I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang - brilliant movie, but so hard to watch. really wrenching. i'm sure it took a lot of audiences by surprise.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It really is a grinding watch. I wasn't expecting the ending. That was really a kick to the gut.

 

 

*It Happened in Brooklyn - though i'm not so crazy about peter and the soprano, i ADORE frank and Jimmy's scenes together, along with the tremendously fabulous songs. I can tell Frank is enjoying himself because he's really relaxed and delighted every time he shares a scene with Jimmy. who wouldn't be? I would rather have the movie about Gloria and Frank, though. *

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I really thought Gloria was going to reappear. You're absolutely right about Frank and Jimmy. They seemed to enjoy their time together on screen. And the songs are good, too. I didn't like how Anne (Kathryn Grayson) and Jamie (Peter Lawford) ended up together. It seemed forced.

 

 

*Jezebel - I LOVE George Brent in this.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How?! He's an idiot! I guess he was honorable, though. He did love Julie (Bette Davis) and he knew she loves Preston (Henry Fonda). Ohhhh, nooooooooooo! It's *The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance* !

 

 

*The Last of Mrs. Cheyney (1937) - One of my 1930s favorites. I can't decide which I would choose, Powell or Bobby. and yes, like Wendy, i enjoy the letter scene as well as the old lady who seems so cool at first until she is "outed" and then she turns hypocritical, which surprises me. i think Montgomery is terribly sexy in this one, which is why I'd probably have chosen him.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Montgomery was playing the more charming one. Powell was more serious.

 

 

*The Life of Jimmy Dolan - I haven't seen it in a while so I don't have much to say except I remember it pleasantly.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I can't see you liking it more than *Hide-Out* because of Montgomery versus Fairbanks, Jr.. I liked the boxing angle in *The Life of Jimmy Dolan*. Plus you get Duke.

 

 

*Lizzie - I really like it---i thought it was more moving than 3 Faces of Eve which is like a twin movie to it.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eleanor Parker is an interesting actress. I thought she was good in a role that can be played too silly. Joan Blondell is pretty good. I'm not crazy about Doctor Richard Boone.

 

 

*Mr. Hobbs Takes a Vacation - I think some scenes --- especially those with John McGiver, are hilarious. other scenes annoy me to death.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I didn't go for the marital problems being shown in the film. They were tedious. But Jimmy was killing me. He wasn't holding anything back!

 

 

*Night and Day - i don't like it but Jane is sweet and funny and it LOOKS very beautiful. Who thought Cole Porter could be a bore?*

 

 

Cole's music won me over.

 

 

*Platinum Blonde - Not a favorite. I like Loretta best.*

 

 

And that's saying something!

 

 

*San Antonio - Fun - Errol, like the others.*

 

 

I agree. I liked the multiple villains in the film.

 

 

*The Whole Truth - I enjoyed it for the most part---as always, George Sanders carries the day with his inimitable style. "Donna Stone" (Reed) acts like a sleepwalker and intensely out of her element on the Riviera.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Again, I agree. This is George Sanders' film. He was the reason the film is actually decent. It's rather similar to *Witness to Murder*. You're very correct about Donna Reed and her role in the film. Nothing going on.

 

 

*A Yank at Oxford - the only thing i like about it is seeing maureen and viv together (school mates in switzerland!) and viv's character is adorable. it is the first movie before GWTW that i feel shows her charm. she steals the film.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Viv really was a pixie in this one. A very young Blanche! I guess this film opened the door for a *Waterloo Bridge* pairing with Robert Taylor. I can't say that I have ever seen Taylor this brash.

 

 

*Confirm or Deny and Shack Out on 101 are both on my list to watch.*

 

 

I hope you watch *Shack Out on 101*. Ohhhhhhhhhhhh, Lee Marvin. Absolutely hilarious!

 

 

*The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse - incredibly, i dont' think i've ever seen it but i hope it's on youtube or i may even have a copy of my own. i think i always confused it with the one where bogie played a mad scientist with a bunny rabbit.*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I'm not sure it's your kind of film. You'll at least find it pleasing.

 

 

*Back to Bataan - never seen*

 

 

What?! I can't believe you haven't seen a John Wayne film. I guess it's because it's a war pic.

 

 

*Port of Shadows - i must see this especially after what Jackie wrote.*

 

 

I think you may like the rootless feel of the people in the film.

[FrankGrimes]

Here's how I liked the films:

 

1. Port of Shadows

2. All Through the Night

3. House of Cards

4. City for Conquest

5. The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse

6. The Life of Jimmy Dolan

7. The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie

8. The Last of Mrs. Cheyney (1937)

9. Shack Out on 101

10. I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang

11. San Antonio

12. The Crooked Way

13. Black Friday

14. World for Ransom

15. Guilty Bystander

16. Mr. Hobbs Takes a Vacation

17. Humoresque

18. The Whole Truth

19. Dark Waters

20. Lizzie

21. Anna Christie (1930)

22. Night and Day

23. Jezebel

24. Confirm or Deny

25. Back to Bataan

26. Platinum Blonde

27. A Yank at Oxford

28. The Black Watch

29. It Happened in Brooklyn

30. Colonel Effingham's Raid

 

[MissGoddess]

> Ford used that shot twice in the film! You don't have to wait until the end! But I think it's cute that you like your little colt.

>

 

that's one reason why it is so affecting at the end shot, because you remember seeing him in the beginning. it's lovely and i like how it shows Ford's confidence to do a repeat like that, sort of breaking an unwritten rule that you don't repeat shots (unless it's for a flashback).

 

> Uh-oh! We're on the same page! It's a fun film. Bogie with Demarest? Wow!

>

 

it does feel like Sturges meets Huston. i like that the humor is really funny and sharp but it does not undercut the serious scenes---nor do the dramatic moments dampen the fun. i was so surprised how much i liked this one when i first saw it.

 

> Charles Bickford! I saw the English version. *Anna Christie* is like a stripped-down version of *Clash by Night*.

>

 

good description.

 

> This one is an important transitional film? I had no idea. The "leaving for war" just never gets to me. It seemed to be played for laughs, which is quite Fordian.

>

 

important in Ford's career, i meant (his first full length talkie). i agree about the topic---only Ford can usually move me with that scenario. the best scene in the movie was apparently deleted so who knows how it might have been.

 

>

> It's a wonderful ending. *An Affair to Remember* !

>

 

kind of.

 

>

> It's really hard to beat John Payne in these kind of films. He's perfect. The film has a real nice twist on the "returning, amnesiac vet" angle.

>

 

i think so, too. it's too bad he didn't have bigger stars for leading ladies. i wasn't crazy about the one *the crooked way*.

 

>

> The setting is a big selling point with the film. As I was watching the film, I kept wondering what film it was playing like. I finally figured it out. It was *The Return of the Whistler*. That film also features family shenanigans.

>

 

that's an excellent comparison.

 

>

> I was also amazed to find myself really liking this film. George Peppard is a riot in the film! I also liked the action and the twisting story. For a film that I thought was going to play "fluffy," it's quite masculine.

>

 

yes, it's got some sterner stuff to it and moves pretty well. as you say, the lines by Peppard are really fun and he tosses them off confidently.

 

>

> You've got it, it's Odets. He seemingly always has excellent dialogue. One of the very best. The relationship between Paul (John Garfield) and Helen (Joan Crawford) is quite contentious, yet they really do love each other. But it seems like they both have to love on their terms.

>

 

Odets and Abraham Polonsky have such distinctive ways with dialogue, as did Paddy Chayevsky later on.

 

 

> It really is a grinding watch. I wasn't expecting the ending. That was really a kick to the gut.

>

 

one of the greatest film endings.

 

>

> I really thought Gloria was going to reappear. You're absolutely right about Frank and Jimmy. They seemed to enjoy their time together on screen. And the songs are good, too. I didn't like how Anne (Kathryn Grayson) and Jamie (Peter Lawford) ended up together. It seemed forced.

>

 

me, too! it was disappointing how little time she had and she was so much more interesting than kathryn. everything about them seemed token, it was their "vehicle" yet frankie and jimmy carry the film.

 

> How?! He's an idiot! I guess he was honorable, though. He did love Julie (Bette Davis) and he knew she loves Preston (Henry Fonda). Ohhhh, nooooooooooo! It's *The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance* !

>

 

how's he an idiot? he's the only one who really could handle bette and he didn't take himself too seriously (and i agree, his character is like doniphon in some ways). at least he's not like that pompous oaf, fonda. talk about an idiot! i've seldom seen george as funny and lively.

 

>

> Montgomery was playing the more charming one. Powell was more serious.

>

 

Powell was Doniphon!

 

>

> I can't see you liking it more than *Hide-Out* because of Montgomery versus Fairbanks, Jr.. I liked the boxing angle in *The Life of Jimmy Dolan*. Plus you get Duke.

>

 

oh, yes, one of Wayne's early bit parts.

 

> Eleanor Parker is an interesting actress. I thought she was good in a role that can be played too silly. Joan Blondell is pretty good. I'm not crazy about Doctor Richard Boone.

>

 

don't watch "Medic", then!

 

>

> I didn't go for the marital problems being shown in the film. They were tedious. But Jimmy was killing me. He wasn't holding anything back!

>

 

Maureen actually annoys me in this one, she's too smart to play such a clueless wife in that vapid mid-century way you sometimes see in movies of that time. i vastly prefer her in *the parent trap*, at least she slugs someone!

 

> Cole's music won me over.

>

 

that's an amazing confession from you! porter may have been the most sublime composer/lyricist of the era.

 

>

> Viv really was a pixie in this one. A very young Blanche! I guess this film opened the door for a *Waterloo Bridge* pairing with Robert Taylor. I can't say that I have ever seen Taylor this brash.

>

 

You mean obnoxious? I can't stand him in this movie. Mickey Rooney is placid compared to him!

 

Jackie---you asked about Viv's emergence as a screen actress with charisma at this time. I can offer the pragmatic guess or the "True Romances" version. Either the American film making style of a director like Jack Conway (it was an MGM production) influenced her to emphasize her humor and drop that English reserve which had maintained distance between her and audiences until then; Or....as she was very emotional and passionate the influence of her developing love affair with Olivier was really loosening her up.

 

There is also the possibility Viv was already "auditioning" for Scarlett, a role she was determined from day one to play. GWTW was already an international best-seller and headed for the screen. There are some aspects of Scarlett's coquettish side to be found in "Elsa".

 

> I hope you watch *Shack Out on 101*. Ohhhhhhhhhhhh, Lee Marvin. Absolutely hilarious!

>

>

 

i have to see it and him!

 

> What?! I can't believe you haven't seen a John Wayne film. I guess it's because it's a war pic.

>

 

yes, there are a handful of his war films i don't care if i never see.

 

i like your comparisons of gabin to tracy. when i first saw him it is what i instantly thought.

[JackFavell]

> Tease you about it?! More like anger you!

 

Well. yeah. And BTW, Ford uses that shot twice for a reason! To point up the new beginning. and that even the youngest made it through to start a new life.

 

You should give it another try someday. Ford's movies cry out to be seen multiple times, and you might find something to it on further viewing. I'm even willing to hear you berate it again, if you'll only try it one more time.

 

> She finally showed! But we need our tidbits on *Upstream* ! Did she even watch it yet?!

 

It's so light, it's almost musical comedy. I imagine it's a tough watch for her, like The Black Watch was for you. I can't see her liking Callahan and Callahan! And there's not much Ford to it.

 

 

> That made me laugh! I never heard of the film, but it sounds cute.

 

It's hilarious. I never realized they all hark back to The Ladykillers. None of these movies are as good as The Ladykillers, but I always like that story. I find it funny when people shoot themselves in their own foot. Literally. They have no one to blame but themselves. Like Wile E. Coyote.

 

 

 

> I did like it when she started to catch wind of the what was going on and how the guys tried to push her in other directions.

 

It's so funny, you can see her shock and dismay, and then she gives them a proper scolding! In some ways, they are not only convincing her because of the money, but also out of a terrific sense of guilt. She makes them feel like children.

 

> Are you telling me that what a German woman says, goes? Really? I have no idea what you're talking about.

 

I hate to tell you, but I am also German, at least on my mom's side.

 

> Wow! I would have got along quite well with her.

 

I know! I've always liked her.

 

> Of course not! But it's Billy Wilder and Kim Novak, so that's going to appeal to me. Dean Martin can be very hit or miss with me, though.

 

I'd like to try it again, I always try. Sometimes it's worth it. Two of my favorites happened because I just kept trying. I fell asleep a couple of times trying to watch both *Comfort and Joy* by Bill Forsythe, and *Simple Men* by Hal Hartley (which you would love). I think I rented them both twice before I could get into them. They start out really slow, but are so worth it when you get past the first half hour. Both are classic to me even though they are modern and might not appeal to the classic film fan. They have that same kind of comedy that is in the Ladykillers and other Alexander MacKendrick films... ridiculous, almost surreal things happen, but seem completely plausible within the structure of the movie.

 

> For certain kinds of men, that's for sure. Their ego is attached to their ability to "capture" a beautiful/sexy woman. It's about them, not her. One of the toughest things to understand in life is why we are attracted to someone and if that attraction has any meaningful depth.

 

That's true.

 

> It could have been that. But she seemed to be trying to draw him in and he kept leaving her and slamming the door as he left. He was appalled by her "sleeping around," particularly with his pals. What man wants the woman he's attracted to to be doing that?! I definitely liked the misconceptions. It's all very "Three's Company."

 

very much so. I think Garner wants the beautiful, sexy girl, but then fights that want because now he's invested in actually knowing her and caring for her. if that makes sense.

 

> No, I haven't seen *The Freshman*. The only Harold Lloyd film I have seen is the short film *Haunted Spooks*. I loved the ending of *The Sin of Harold Diddlebock*. It's a terrific send-off for Harold. And Jimmy Conlin is terrific as "Wormy." It's a sweet, madcap valentine.

 

Now I have to watch again, like today! I remember parts of it, and the overall 'valentine' feel of it, but not the actual happenings. This one has a horrible reputation, but I've always adored it. It's got a very interesting background - Sturges and Lloyd saw the film two different ways, so Sturges let Lloyd have a final cut, and he also had a final cut. The Sturges final cut is *The Sin of Harold Diddlebock*, and the Lloyd final cut is called *Mad Wednesday*. Sturges has the edge with me, because well... he gives it edge. I believe in the Harold Lloyd version, there is no spin, whereas in the Sturges comedy, Harold wins out only in spite of himself. I'll have to take a look again of course to be sure.

 

I know this seesm like a non-sequitur, but have you seen *Hallelujah, I'm a Bum*? It's another really odd movie with a terrible reputation that I just love. It also has a comedian (in a secondary role), who was past his prime.

 

> Now this is rather strange. I'm usually fawning over Marlene in her films. She's always drawing me in. But in *A Foreign Affair*, I wasn't taken by her. Maybe it's the kind of character she is playing. It's the kind of character that is going to stand out more for you. She doesn't get the guy here, when she almost always does in her other films. I think I loved Jean more because she is clearly overmatched and in way over head against Marlene.

 

Marlene is quite harsh here and she is set up as the bad guy. But what a delicious bad guy! I love her. Not so fond of Crystal, but I do like her exit lines. All these movies have heroines who are overmatched. I like the heroines and the bad girls equally though.

 

> And I love your "catting around." That's a perfect description of Marlene. She does play the "stray cat" quite often.

 

She's gone way up in my estimation over the last few years, and I always liked her. She can't do very much wrong with me. But then, neither can Jean Arthur.

 

> And Crystal Allen? Yuck! But I'm probably the only person who likes Mary Haines (Norma Shearer) the most in *The Women*. That could very well be a guy/gal thing.

 

Crystal is just plain awful. But you've got to hand it to her, she knows the score, her exit is almost a sort of sportsmanlike loss. Do everything to win, even cheat, but know when it's over.

 

> Jean seems to be an actress people really love or find annoying. I'm definitely in the "love her" camp. Interestingly, she was one of the very first classic actresses that I fell for. She's the definition of a "sweetheart." She's a funny mouse.

 

I've always been in the LOVE camp. But this movie took me awhile to warm up to. I think it's flawed, but that doesn't mean I can't love it.

 

> William Holden would have been perfect. He can play the male "user" quite well. I like when Ty goes against type in comedies, playing more of a jerk. It's not often, though. John Lund was rather vanilla, but I did see him as a jerk.

 

 

Yes, Holden has that great cynicism, mixed with boyish charm. It's a killer combination. He's just great, because no matter who he is, Pike, Sefton, Joe Gillis, Shears - he can have really AWFUL traits - greed, cynicism, cowardice, laziness, unpatriotic, misanthropic, antisocial - you still LIKE him, and see WHY he is the way he is. Lund just doesn't have any of that, he plays one note. Not to say he isn't good, he does a fine job, but wow, if Holden were in it, this movie would make a lot more sense.

 

> *I think your order would be:*

>

>

> *Port of Shadows*

> *I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang*

> *The one with Dan Duryea*

> *Shack Out On 101*

> *The one with John Payne*

> *The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse*

> *Humoresque (This is a long shot, not sure, you might just hate it, but it might just grab you. I'll be bold and say you liked it)*

> *All Through the Night*

> *The Louisiana Bayou one*

>

>

> You did quite well! You got five of them right. You nailed the top one.

 

Woo-hoo! FINALLY. Of course, Port of Shadows was a no brainer. It's so good.

 

 

> No! Not at all! I wasn't familiar with Cole Porter's music, and I ended up loving the songs. I think he captures the feeling of love so very well. The actual story in the film isn't the best, though.

 

That's great! You actually liked the music best! Is this a breakthrough?

 

> *Here's the order I like them in:*

 

> I watched that one because it's a title you suggested to me. You suggested another good one. You're doing good with that! *Hide-Out* certainly took from the film. Both have Mickey Rooney! I liked *The Life of Jimmy Dolan* more. Ironically, the film also reminded me of *I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang*. Aline MacMahon was tremendous.

 

That's funny, I like Hide-Out more. But this one does have Aline, and STYMIE. And the Duke, who is REALLY interesting, I like seeing him in a role that isn't just a big tough guy. It's weird but very effective.

 

I never thought about it being similar to *I Am a Fugitive* but I can see it now.

What made you like it MORE than *Hide-Out*?

 

 

> You hit on everything. Nicely done! The film is awesome. I don't think it's a "Miss G" flick so much as it's my kind of flick. It's film noir before film noir, without a doubt. Jean Gabin is such a brilliant actor. I'm learning he's one of the all-time best. He's a tragic Spencer Tracy. That makes him phenomenal. Such a great ending to the film.

 

I think she'll love it's romanticism, and the tragic aspects. The French seem to have hit on film noir about 1938 which always amazes me. Perhaps its the clouds over Europe that made them start to see things a little darker earlier?

 

I was on the edge of my seat in this one right through to the end - I wanted it to work out OK.

 

> I love the message of the film, no doubt about it. The film itself can be on the dry side, but it's so doggone powerful. It feels a bit like *The Grapes of Wrath*.

 

I guess you like dark, but not documentary style dark. More stylized. It's so tough. The ending just chokes you up. I think it kind of plays you a little, lets him off the hook and you think it's all going to work out OK, then ... that ending. Among the best ever.

 

> You can add me to you and Miss G's loving the scene with the letter. It's the best moment in the film, to me. I did enjoy this film quite a bit. The stars all sparkle and the supporting cast is wonderful. The entire set-up actually reminded me some of *My Man Godfrey*. Great ending.

 

There's definitely a lesson to be learned here, and the 'family' has to learn it the hard way. It's really an under-appreciated movie. I like the way the movie is set up, with Joan as the pivot around which everything turns. She's also quite elegant here, which many of her movies didn't really show off. You can see her as a poised lady, but also as a criminal. It's pretty near perfect casting, all the way through the movie, from the leads to the bit parts. And it's just plain fun, lots of suspense and wit.

 

> This was a great surprise to me. The film is really good. Who would have thought Bogie, Eddie G, and Claire would end up together in *Key Largo* ? Probably John Huston! Since he co-wrote the screenplay. Love how the mugs all love the "professor." I think Quiet Gal would go for this film. It actually reminded me some of *The Woman in the Window*, another Eddie G flick.

 

I still have to see W in the W! I put it off, because it's the last of the really good Lang noirs I have to see. I also didn't want to watch it too close to Scarlet Street.

 

I definitely think Ro would like this one! It's got the morality she likes, and it's light enough to be very entertaining. The ending is a shocker, at least to me. Clair Trevor really does a great job here, her heart is written on her sleeve. I love my mugs too, I always like it when Allen Jenkins or little Edward Brophy or Slapsie Maxie Rosenbloom shows up. I have a little crush on Slapsie. He can be so sweet.

 

 

> I'm with Miss G with this one. I loved Robert Williams and his lines, but the film itself didn't do anything for me. Jean Harlow is too stuffy for me.

 

Yeah I guess if you can't see Harlow as a rich girl, it just doesn't work.

 

> It really is a sweet film, but it ended up being too sweet for me. Gloria Grahame is awesome, though!

 

Of course. I love Frankie and Jimmy. I forgot Kathryn Grayson was in it! I like Anchors Aweigh too. You might just get into that one, though it has Kathryn too. She's at least pretty, even if she does sing opera.

 

> This was another huge surprise for me. I loved the film! What a cast! It's one of the best I have ever seen. Bogie is absolutely hilarious. I'm starting to realize he's one of the funniest actors to me. I think this is another film where Quiet Gal would like her tomato.

 

These are the movies I dream of - the little ones that have so much charm and that you never hear about. Bogie really is funny isn't he? A gift not so much tapped into. And that supporting cast makes me drool! William Demarest, aww man, he's a gem. And Jackie Gleason looks so young with that wavy black hair! Amazing.

 

Have you seen *It All Came True*? Another good Bogie film, not so well known.

 

> I just couldn't get into this film. It just sat there for me. Myrna Loy was on the annoying side, which is saying a lot. The journey didn't do much for me. I liked some of the Expressionistic battle scenes, though. The film is actually rather Fordian, though. The opening and closing scenes with the traditional music is very Foridan. And those scenes didn't play well with me, either.

 

I enjoyed the Fordieness of it. I really thought Vic was phenomenal, I liked his situation, that he couldn't tell even his brother, he just had to take it. I think that's such a Ford theme, the good and the bad of the service. Taking one for the team, with no hope that anyone would ever know your real intentions. And it was beautifully directed, quite a gorgeous film.

 

> This is another film I couldn't get into. It reminded me of *The Rains Came*, which is not a film I like. George Brent is in both films, but I greatly prefer him in *The Rains Came*. His character in that film is sensational. Here, he's a blockhead. I liked Richard Cromwell the best. Bette? A bit too much.

 

You should have been paying attention to STYMIE.

 

I am totally with MissG here. He's really wonderful, so ambiguous, a bad man but a loyal bad man with breeding and honor when he chooses to use it. I find him totally intriguing here and I think he's one of the high points of the film.It's disappointing that he has to go so soon.

 

For me, it's all about Fay Bainter. I really think she's interesting as a southern belle just a little past her prime - you can see she sympathizes with Bette, that she once was maybe in the same spot, but she settled down. I find her to be an under-rated actress. And the movie looks so good.

 

 

> I thought this one was pretty decent. Garbo was still silent acting, but it kind of worked. Charles Bickford, George F. Marion, and Marie Dressler are all quite good. It's very "30s female." It's not bad.

 

I remember liking the German version better. I should go back and watch both sometime.... like that will happen.

 

 

> This one reminded me of *A Star Is Born*. I liked it more, though. I thought John Garfield and Joan Crawford were both good. Oscar Levant is excellent. I liked the dark side of the film.

 

It IS a sort of reversal on A Star is Born! I never would have thought of that. This one's more your genre. Not so much women's picture, and a little more noir. What John Garfield films have you seen so far? Or was this more for Joanie? You guys were right to mention Odets dialogue. It's a beautifully shot film, about two people who really shouldn't be together, but who can't stay apart. I like how shocking and brash Garfield seems up against Joan Crawford. It's lush.

 

 

> Yet another big surprise for me. This one packs an emotional punch and James Cagney is just great when he's taking on a role like this. It's one of the better films about eternal love that I have seen. The ending is beautiful. I'm finding out that I like Cagney when he's not playing a gangster. He's great in comedy, and he was great here.

 

an emotional punch...

 

That last scene is just so wonderful. I actually end up watching right through the symphony, because it's edited so well.Usually that's the part where I tune out in movies. I don't want it to get to me, but it always does. Sheesh. I'm almost a puddle of tears thinking about it.

 

I find the other amazing scene in the movie is the one where Anthony Quinn attacks Ann Sheridan. It's very daring and dark, quite surprising for that time period. Annie's just terrific in this movie, even though they give her almost too much back and forth angst. When actors and actresses can play meldrama like this and still come off well, they can do anything. You realize just how great they really are.

 

> There isn't much to this film. It's rather vanilla for a Duke flick. I liked Ducky Louie (Maximo Cuenca) the most.

 

I don't really remember. It's not my kind of movie. Some of the stuff is OK, I remember the school house scenes kind of got to me, on a propangandistic level, and yet were also kind of icky. Am I even thinking of the right war movie?

 

> I've never seen Jane more playful! She was cute. Cary was out of his element.

 

Yes.

 

> As you and Miss G discussed, it's great to see Viv and Maureen. They are both cute in the film. Viv is already tramping it up!

 

Oh now really..

 

I have to watch *The Whole Truth* now, after what you and MissG said about George. And also *San Antonio* again, since I'm a huge fan of multiple villain movies. The others that caught my eye were Dark Waters and the Dan Duryea. I always have the best intentions to watch your list films, but it rarely happens.

 

> Thank you for going to trouble of ranking how you liked the films. That was excellent! I like your enthusiasm.

 

You are reaching now for something nice to say....

 

Edited by: JackFavell on Jul 16, 2013 1:00 PM

[movieman1957]

Some REALLY long and REALLY interesting comments with the three of you. (Adding more stuff to my Netflix queue, thank you.)

 

I thought you'd seen "Woman In The Window." Sir Francis and I talked about it sometime last year. I think I like it better than "Scarlett Street." A great out of the norm performance for Robinson.

 

Once again you gave me an education. As much as I like Harold Lloyd I did not know he and Sturges had different cuts of the film. I just thought it was one of those typical rerelease names and would go by either title.

 

That being said I have not seen either cut. And just my luck neither of them are available at Netflix. I guess I'm going for a TCM reminder.

 

Thanks for another great discussion.

 

P.S. I don't cry at the pony in "Wagonmaster" but I do smile. A lot in that picture makes me smile, mainly Harry Carey, Jr.

[movieman1957]

Thanks for the link.

 

Later that night. Look for Thursday at 6:15pm - "The Sin Of HD." Fancy that.

 

Edited by: movieman1957 on Jul 16, 2013 6:45 PM