Set mostly in the slums of Chicago in the late 1950s, this intense drama tells the story of several adults trapped in depressing lives from which there seems no escape. So they bundle their good intentions in hopes of shepherding a fatherless teenager named Nick (James Darren) into a more hopeful life. Shelley Winters plays Nick's mother, Nellie. And Burl Ives plays the Judge, a man who somehow allowed his love of alcohol to derail his judicial career. A few others add to Nick's improvised family.
Although Nellie would probably be considered the lead character, the film could almost be described as having an ensemble cast, given that each of the main performers has scenes independent of Nellie. The script is talky but tight; dialogue largely drives the plot forward. Themes include dignity and self-determination despite apparent hopelessness.
Consistent with these themes, interiors are mostly drab and bleak; alcohol and drugs figure prominently in these peoples' lives. B&W lighting trends low-key and mostly low-contrast, though side lighting adds a hint of noir in some scenes. The score consists of intermittent elevator music that's very soft and nondescript. Ella Fitzgerald's piano playing and singing mirrors the softness of the background music. Casting is perfect. The main players all give topnotch performances.
Based on a novel, this film gets off to a somewhat slow start but the drama picks up, and builds to a theatrical climax. It's been awhile since I have watched a film with such a good script, particularly in the second and third Acts. And with a great cast and terrific performances, "Let No Man Write My Epitaph" makes a highly favorable impression.
Although Nellie would probably be considered the lead character, the film could almost be described as having an ensemble cast, given that each of the main performers has scenes independent of Nellie. The script is talky but tight; dialogue largely drives the plot forward. Themes include dignity and self-determination despite apparent hopelessness.
Consistent with these themes, interiors are mostly drab and bleak; alcohol and drugs figure prominently in these peoples' lives. B&W lighting trends low-key and mostly low-contrast, though side lighting adds a hint of noir in some scenes. The score consists of intermittent elevator music that's very soft and nondescript. Ella Fitzgerald's piano playing and singing mirrors the softness of the background music. Casting is perfect. The main players all give topnotch performances.
Based on a novel, this film gets off to a somewhat slow start but the drama picks up, and builds to a theatrical climax. It's been awhile since I have watched a film with such a good script, particularly in the second and third Acts. And with a great cast and terrific performances, "Let No Man Write My Epitaph" makes a highly favorable impression.