I Just Watched...

[TomJH]

NIGHT OF TERROR (1933). A dark house chiller from Columbia with all of the usual ingredients. A serial nutso killer running loose (called "The Maniac" by newspaper headlines), an isolated house in the countryside, with a (constantly) screaming heroine, mysterious servants, one liking to peer into crystal balls and go into trances and make proclamations of death coming soon, a wiseguy newspaper reporter who bursts out gleefully "Boy, what a story" every time another dead body turns up and a hard nose detective who doesn't have a clue.

 

Oh, yes, "comedy relief" is supplied by a black chauffeur who gets scared really easily. When asked what he would do if he met "The Maniac," the chauffeur replies, "I would become famous. I would become the first man to fly without wings." (Truth is, that might be the best line of dialogue in the film).

 

These kind of films are easy to poke fun at and also, on occasion, fun, if you happen to like this kind of film genre (which I do).

 

This particular film benefits, though, from a pretty good cast, with Bela Lugosi top billed over the title. Bela plays Degar, a manservant, dressed all in black, including a black turban. Oh, he's mysterious alright, in that ominous Lugosi way, but is he just a red herring? He has a sister, Sika (played by Mary Frey in her only film role), and she's even spookier. She's the one going into trances (yes, at one moment in this film they do have a séance with Sika the star of the show). Guess what? One of the participants holding hands at the table won't make it through the séance without a knife in the back.

 

It's pretty Sally Blane (Loretta Young's sister) as the screamer and Wallace Ford as the reporter with the snappy one liners and an overly pleased manner whenever a new corpse turns up. There's also Tully Marshall as the owner of the mansion (Bela keeps calling him "Master"). I remembered Tully getting knocked off in the silent version of the similar Cat and the Canary and kept counting the minutes before his character would do the same in this one.

 

"The Maniac" (who carries an oversized knife) keeps popping up throughout this film, peering through bushes with a scarred face and demented smile full of sharp teeth, climbing through windows and, generally, keeping everyone on their toes (until he lays a few of them out at their feet, that is).

 

Night of Love does have a bit of originality with one of the occupants of the house, a scientist (George Meeker) who plans on having himself buried alive in a coffin on their property in an experiment to see if, with an antidote administered eight hours later, he will still be alive. Fun kid. Needless to say, things don't go as expected, but the writing here at least fooled me a little. Nuff said.

 

Night of Love can be found if you scrounge around the internet - there's a chopped up version in installments on You Tube, but you're probably better to go to dailymotion.com for a one hour version of this thriller (Maltin lists it as 65 minutes long).

 

 

2.5 out of 4.

[LawrenceA]

NIGHT OF TERROR is one of the few Lugosi films I haven't seen yet. Nice write-up, Tom.

[TomJH]

NIGHT OF TERROR is one of the few Lugosi films I haven't seen yet. Nice write-up, Tom.

 

Thanks, Lawrence. Time to flap your bat wings to one of those internet sources I mentioned.

[HoldenIsHere]

Ah, the brief yet beautiful career of JUDY HOLLIDAY- ultimately just be grateful for that 10 years (I guess 11 if you count ADAM'S RIB) that we have of Judy, who is ultimately an entry in the OSCAR CURSE file (at least in my file cabinet.)

 

She won on her only nomination (for BORN YESTERDAY) over some stiff competition, and it seems like she felt guilty about it (Gloria Swanson, a nominee for SUNSET BLVD. claimed so, at least, in her autobiography.) for the record, Judy's great; the movie isn't and Gloria should've won.

 

She never got nominated again, in spite of giving totally awesome and 100% nomination worthy work in IT SHOULD HAPPEN TO YOU!, BELLS ARE RINGING, and (most especially) THE MARRYING KIND- which is one of the ten best performances by an actress that I have ever seen period. She was also quite a good vocalist who recorded an album with on-and-offish flame Gerry Mulligan (sp?)

 

 

 

THE MARRYING KIND is a movie that really sticks with you and it took me places emotionally that I was not expecting.

The scenes where the married couple (Judy Holliday and Aldo Ray) are arguing are so real, you feel like you're eavesdropping.

 

The different "voices" that Judy Holliday does in BELLS ARE RINGING  are so brilliantly real and so different from the speech pattern she is most famous for (a la BORN YESTERDAY). 

[GregoryPeckfan]

I just watched THE GUNS OF NAVARONE For the  -?th - time.

 

It was airing on TCM.

 

I have to turn down the sound of the guns a bit due to my tinnitus but I am always in the mood for this movie.

[Kid Dabb]

I just watched THE GUNS OF NAVARONE For the  -?th - time.

 

It was airing on TCM.

 

I have to turn down the sound of the guns a bit due to my tinnitus but I am always in the mood for this movie.

 

I always get a kick out of the Germans in goggles and white canvas(?) hoods who man the guns. When the guns are fired, we get to see shots of them in formation as they are affected by the blasts. It's like pages out of Heavy Metal Magazine. A spectacular ending.

[film lover 293]

"Lord Love A Duck" ( the print I saw was dated 1965)--Scattershot satire of Southern California scores more misses than hits, but Roddy McDowall & Tuesday Weld are excellent.  McDowall's character is senior class valedictorian who is too smart.  His flickering expressions and throwaway lines are to be watched for (if I say more, I'll spoil the film).  Weld is a high school senior who wants to be part of the "in" crowd.  The hits include drive-in churches, hypocritical faculty, & "Beach Blanket Bingo" (1965)  ripoffs.  Look for Harvey Korman and Ruth Gordon in supporting roles.  Film gets 7.5/10 stars on the strength of the performances of McDowall & Weld.

[TomJH]

I just watched THE GUNS OF NAVARONE For the  -?th - time.

 

It was airing on TCM.

 

I have to turn down the sound of the guns a bit due to my tinnitus but I am always in the mood for this movie.

 

Guns of Navarone has my own record as the film I saw on the BIG SCREEN (!!!) more times than any other - three. I loved that film when it first came out and, unlike Rob Petrie, I never feel asleep while it played.

[limey]

I always get a kick out of the Germans in goggles and white canvas(?) hoods who man the guns. When the guns are fired, we get to see shots of them in formation as they are affected by the blasts. It's like pages out of Heavy Metal Magazine. A spectacular ending.

 

You mean this scene?

 

 

(with apologies to Wallace and Gromit)

 

Guns of Navarone is one of those movies that I'll generally catch if I can, whenever it pops up on the schedule. The restored print is nice, too.

[GregoryPeckfan]

Guns of Navarone has my own record as the film I saw on the BIG SCREEN (!!!) more times than any other - three. I loved that film when it first came out and, unlike Rob Petrie, I never feel asleep while it played.

The only time I have been outside North America, Mom and I took a cruise to Greece and Turkey and when I was there I delighted in walking down the same streets the cast did.

 

I've never seen it on the big screen though.

[Kay]

NIGHT OF TERROR is one of the few Lugosi films I haven't seen yet. Nice write-up, Tom.

 

I have been wondering how many of Bela Lugosi's silent films still exist, the foreign ones particularly. I don't think any of the Hungarian ones do, tragically; but what about the German ones? Have you seen any?

[Fedya]

The only time I have been outside North America, Mom and I took a cruise to Greece and Turkey

Not on the Poseidon, I hope.

[LawrenceA]

I have been wondering how many of Bela Lugosi's silent films still exist, the foreign ones particularly. I don't think any of the Hungarian ones do, tragically; but what about the German ones? Have you seen any?

No, unfortunately. When I typed out my Lugosi list, I left off the pre-U.S. titles for that reason. I figured any that still exist I'll catch as they're available, but I have yet to see any.

[speedracer5]

I feel as if LHF and I are battling for speedracer's soul.

 

speedracer, watch this clip from THE LEGEND OF LYLAH CLARE and see if it peaks your interest in the movie:

 

"Molly Luther, the Wicked Witch of the West! You throw water on her and she shrivels, she meeeeeelts! Ha ha ha ha ha! Imagine that! She really melts! And all that’s left is a little phony flower and a dried up, disappointed FRRRRREAK!”

 

Lol.  I can't let this battle for my soul pass without commenting.  I have to see this film.  I am someone who loves Roller Boogie and Xanadu, so I think I can handle this film.  I may regret it, or I may think it's the greatest film ever made.

 

Thanks Holden and Lorna for your opinions.  I look forward to seeing it for myself!

[speedracer5]

THE MARRYING KIND is a movie that really sticks with you and it took me places emotionally that I was not expecting.

The scenes where the married couple (Judy Holliday and Aldo Ray) are arguing are so real, you feel like you're eavesdropping.

 

The different "voices" that Judy Holliday does in BELLS ARE RINGING  are so brilliantly real and so different from the speech pattern she is most famous for (a la BORN YESTERDAY). 

 

I'm looking forward to seeing The Marrying Kind.  I know it's scheduled to air in the next couple of months.  

 

I love Bells Are Ringing.  I agree that Judy's voices are hilarious and I always enjoy watching Dean Martin.  It's nice getting to hear Judy sing.

 

re: Born Yesterday.  

 

When I first saw this film, I didn't really see why this film received all the acclaim.  I hate to say it, but my first impression of Judy Holliday was that she was really irritating.  However, since then I've seen the film a couple more times and I've found myself enjoying the film more and more each time I see it.  Holliday's screechy voice is obnoxious, but at times it's hilarious.  Broderick Crawford's character is so horrible, you really feel for Holliday.  When she finally begins to stand up for herself, you can't help but applaud.  When Crawford finally begins to realize what is happening, you can't help but laugh.  I do think that William Holden was somewhat wasted in this film (they didn't particularly need someone of his caliber for the Paul role), but I love Holden, so I didn't mind him as Holliday's savior.  

 

I am undecided as to whether I think Holliday was worthy of her Oscar in comparison to her competition.  I love all the actresses and films that were nominated that year.  All the ladies were fantastic in their respective films.  I think they should have declared a five-way tie and given an Oscar to all of them.  Lol. 

[cigarjoe]

The Two Jakes (1990) the sequel to Chinatown, seemed a little too convoluted and a bit too long. Was on Movies! channel yesterday.

[LornaHansonForbes]

In Ye Olden Days of the awards, the show was bicoastal- and often nominees attended and awards were sometimes given at the East Coast party in New York City.

 

1951 was, I think, the only year where it was the epicenter of the drama as both Best Actor and Actress winners (Jose' Ferrer and Judy Holliday) were in attendance, as was Gloria Swanson- who was costarring with Ferrer in a revival of TWENTIETH CENTURY on Broadway.

 

Drama Central.

 

The Radio hook-up went out when Judy won, and her speech was lost forever.

 

Here are some pics, Gloria apparently is fully in character as Norma Desmond; LOVE Judy's black crepe dress and neck ribbon, and am surprised by how long her hair is in the photo (a piece perhaps?)

 

**NOTE: I THINK The Oscar in this pic is a prop from the stage production of TWENTIETH CENTURY.

 

 

Ferrer is named BEST ACTOR:

 

 

Holliday having just won:

 

[LornaHansonForbes]

I'm looking forward to seeing The Marrying Kind.  I know it's scheduled to air in the next couple of months.  

 

re: Born Yesterday.  

 

When I first saw this film, I didn't really see why this film received all the acclaim.  I hate to say it, but my first impression of Judy Holliday was that she was really irritating.  However, since then I've seen the film a couple more times and I've found myself enjoying the film more and more each time I see it.  Holliday's screechy voice is obnoxious, but at times it's hilarious.  Broderick Crawford's character is so horrible, you really feel for Holliday.  When she finally begins to stand up for herself, you can't help but applaud.  When Crawford finally begins to realize what is happening, you can't help but laugh.  I do think that William Holden was somewhat wasted in this film (they didn't particularly need someone of his caliber for the Paul role), but I love Holden, so I didn't mind him as Holliday's savior.  

 

I am undecided as to whether I think Holliday was worthy of her Oscar in comparison to her competition.  I love all the actresses and films that were nominated that year.  All the ladies were fantastic in their respective films.  I think they should have declared a five-way tie and given an Oscar to all of them.  Lol. 

 

for the record, the nominees for BEST ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE in 1950 were:

 

Anne Baxter in ALL ABOUT EVE

Bette Davis in ALL ABOUT EVE

*Judy Holliday in BORN YESTERDAY

Eleanor Parker in CAGED

Gloria Swanson in SUNSET BLVD.

 

I like Anne Baxter, and I think she's legitimately in the lead category here, but I don't like how she eats the third act of ALL ABOUT EVE alive and it's ultimately a misdirected performance. I know CAGED has some hardcore fans, but I also feel like Eleanor Parker's performance isn't as grounded as it could be and CAGED- while entertaining as Hell and well-acted in spots- is ultimately a little on the goofy side. So, of those nominees, it's a tight race betwixt Holliday, Davis (who already had two Oscars) and Swanson- the latter two not seen as wise investments, the former a new face with a bright career ahead, so I get where the choice came from. For the record, I'd replace Baxter and Parker with Betty Hutton for ANNIE GET YOUR GUN! or Stanwyck in NO MAN OF HER OWN or even, and this is a little unlike me- but it's a stunning performance- the Japanese actress who plays the wife in RASHOMAN- it's just that good a piece of work it deserved recognition.

 

When you see THE MARRYING KIND, I think you'll realize that IT was the perfect vehicle to give Judy an Oscar for- there would've been more of a sense that she had earned it, and it is a real 180 from Billie Dawn.

 

IN RE: BORN YESTERDAY: Sigh, this movie. Aside from Holliday- there's not much to recommend it- a static, stagey and downright tacky set (what is up with those swastikas in the wall paper?!), Cukor at his most languid and uninspired, Brod Crawford- well cast, but (as usual), pretty awful- Paul Douglas would've been a better choice, and Holden wasted...also worth noting: really, more or less NONE of the characters in the film is really all that likeable, everyone seems to be something of an oppurtunist or immoral, too much yelling in the end and not enough funny lines (or even placement of the shots) to help with the glacial pacing. Just a really ham-fisted affair throughout, with Holliday (and the costumes!) the lone saving grace (I think the fact that BORN YESTERDAY was one of the top ten moneymakers of the year explain the pic and director nominations it head-scratchingly got.)

[EugeniaH]

At least a year ago there was a popular thread in this forum on the movie Abandon Ship with Tyrone Power, and it interested me so much that I put it on my "must watch" list.  I was finally able to see it last night.

 

**SPOILERS**

 

It was worth waiting for - what a gem.  Almost the entire movie takes place in a small boat in the middle of an ocean, but it has enough tension, drama, and thought-provoking dialogue to keep you from turning your eyes away even for a minute.  Power is as great here as he is in Nightmare Alley, with his commanding presence and penetrating dark eyes.  He had to make the decision - who to murder in order to save lives.  You can see his inner torment and he pulls off this acting feat believably.  In fact, all the acting was terrific. 

 

Thumbs up, too, on the camera work.  The scenes where those who are sacrificed are swept away by the churning tides as they flail their arms in horror are terrifying.  Another powerful scene:  In response to a dying woman's request for more water Power retorts angrily, "Don't waste the water on her!"  Suddenly his face, and the faces of those around him, go black as if the atmosphere was draped in evil.

 

On a humorous note - In the beginning scenes in the boat, most of the people look disheveled and stunned, except for one woman.  She looks like she just stepped out of the beauty parlor, with perfect hair blowing in the wind, perfectly-applied lipstick, wearing a cocktail dress with a glittering necklace and earrings.  It reminded me of the "unlikely moments in film" thread in this forum sometime back.  Eventually this woman does get wet and shows signs of strain, but she's obviously made to look almost unbelievably attractive given the life-threatening situation they're in.  

[film lover 293]

"Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" (1912)--Although it's not listed in James Cruze's credits (he directed 1923's "The Covered Wagon", and many other films) he is listed as starring in this twelve minute film. A 1996 restoration done by Blackhawk and several others, on "Inter-Pathe" channel on YouTube, film is a interesting antique that sacrifices much of the plot to a short running time.  When the potion/formula is drunk, it looks like Cruze is making a wine spritzer and then chugging it.  Makeup changes are effective.  Are at least two copies on YT; film is worth the twelve minutes to watch it.  See the film while it is available to see.

 

From the credits:  "Wurlitzer organ courtesy of Uncle Milt's Pizza".

[Fedya]

On a humorous note - In the beginning scenes in the boat, most of the people look disheveled and stunned, except for one woman. She looks like she just stepped out of the beauty parlor, with perfect hair blowing in the wind, perfectly-applied lipstick, wearing a cocktail dress with a glittering necklace and earrings.

Reminiscent of Tallulah Bankhead in Lifeboat, the film that should have won Hitchcock the Best Director Oscar.

[Fedya]

A film from 1912 is in the public domain (I think the cutoff date is anything before 1923), so that version of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde shouldn't get taken down.

[Bogie56]

I watched a recording of TCM Underground's broadcast of Lemora: A Child's Tale of the Supernatural (1973).  You often cannot expect much from a genre film made under limiting circumstances and Lemora was no exception.  It was pretty bad.  The music score by one-time film composer (according to the imdb) by Dan Neufeld was pretty good considering he was asked to carry the picture for probably no money or budget.  Cheryl Smith was quite competent as the young girl in the story.  I was sorry to read that though she did do other films she eventually succumbed to complications from her heroin addiction at a very young age. 

[LawrenceA]

I watched a recording of TCM Underground's broadcast of Lemora: A Child's Tale of the Supernatural (1973).  You often cannot expect much from a genre film made under limiting circumstances and Lemora was no exception.  It was pretty bad.  The music score by one-time film composer (according to the imdb) by Dan Neufeld was pretty good considering he was asked to carry the picture for probably no money or budget.  Cheryl Smith was quite competent as the young girl in the story.  I was sorry to read that though she did do other films she eventually succumbed to complications from her heroin addiction at a very young age.

 

I liked this movie, but I was prepared for the low budget limitations. It manages to be much more atmospheric than most films of that level. It probably cost about as much as THE EXORCIST's catering budget. It's weird, and a lot doesn't work, but the parts that do are memorable. For me, anyway.

[Janet0312]

I watched Niagara this morning. I love this film. I love the location shooting, the characters are great, the Technicolor wonderful. I wonder why Rose and her

loverboy find it necessary to murder her husband George? Why not just scram outta the country and be done with it? It's an enjoyable film for me none the less.

 

How does Marilyn walk like that???? Wowee!!