Change Your Image
JamesDean1955
Reviews
His Girl Friday (1940)
Great film for couples!
Howard Hawks made the perfect screen comedy with 1940's "His Girl Friday", as it re-tells the tale told on stage and screen as "The Front Page". Walter Burns is a manipulative, yet charming newspaper man with an important story about to explode about an innocent man on the eve of execution. Walter's sharp-tongued and highly independent ex-wife, Hildy Johnson, has since quit the news business, but has dropped by to let him know she is remarrying the following day. The clock is ticking on the innocent man's life, as well as Walter's presumed second chance with Hildy, so what are a couple of fine talents like Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell to do but spew out their inspired and quotable dialogue out twice as fast. Equally fast-paced is the story, and the steadily building screwball chaos. This one epitomizes the title 'classic'. Highly recommend watching this one with a girlfriend or boyfriend, I did, and got lots of laughs!
Citizen Kane (1941)
standing the very test of time and much controversy
Absolute Classic. "Citizen Kane" is possibly the single most important film of this century. Setting aside the (then) controversial subject matter and the grief Welles went through over this film, watch the film at least once for sheer enjoyment. The black & white cinematography is brilliant, the direction is smooth, and the key players all turn in outstanding performances. Orson Welles richly deserved his Oscar for Best Actor this time around. Even the makeup, while seeming "overdone" by today's standards, is effectively used. This movie belongs in every movie lover's library. The film does such a great job at taking the viewer on a personal journey. The verisimilitude does well at enhancing the glorified storyline.
Dracula (1931)
Landmark in Horror Films
This film certainly is unique. This roll of the dice on behalf of the director, turned out in his favor. This first of its kind stands to create a whole new genre of films in and itself. The concept of " horror " is well displayed in the movie. The main actor does an excellent job in playing his character. He brings about a style that is completely of his own, and the lasting effect can still be seen today in modern day Halloween costumes, or horror related hoopla. The shots are done wonderfully, they are dark and scary, giving the audience a true sense of horror. I think that its important to pay attention to minor details such as sound and lighting in a film such as this. Those little details bring together the whole picture for the audience, and create a true sense of what is trying to be portrayed. This film certainly gambled with its special effects and paved the way for many many years of horror movies to be made its its image. People enjoy being scared, they enjoy the excitement that comes along with it. A lot of time and dedication and attention to detail has to all come together on behalf of the crew and actors to create the magic. I have seen a ton of " horror " movies that were completely laughable, mainly because the lack of creativity, and the ability to take the extra step to make scenes more believable. For 1931, Dracula does well and spreads its influence throughout the generations.
Guess Who's Coming to Dinner (1967)
Great Social Message
This film took me by surprise, at first I wasn't quite sure what to expect. At the end of the movie, It evoked me to spend a good hour deep in thought about not only the situation in the movie, but how things were in our past and how things currently still are. This movie does a very very good job in its casting of characters. The acting in this film is well done and very believable, which I think is very important for such a film. The title is also witty, and a bit humorous. I think that this is a great example of the New Age of Hollywood. The director is using the film to get a point across. He artfully crafts the movie around a big social message, one that is extremely relevant during 1967. The inner conflict between white and black in America was absolutely huge, and I think that as a film maker, you have a voice that is way greater than that of any political leader. As a film maker, you have an unmatchable influence on the masses. In the case of this movie, I believe that the director does an absolutely wonderful job in stating his social message.
The Killing (1956)
Captures the meaning of Film Noir
This film does very well at capturing the whole essence of film noir, which becomes very popular during and before this time period. The characters in the film are all very interesting. You never know what to quite expect next with the cast, which is enjoyable. The cinematography is done very well, the camera angles are what stand out to me the most. Certain shots have a way of zooming in close to the characters face during a certain defining time in the movie, which helps you get a better look into the emotional turmoil of the character. The actors do very well in the portrayal of these characters, I found myself immersed in the film. The film is dark, shifty, and keeps you constantly guessing. The relationship between the leading man and woman is done very well. They both compliment each other in a way that screams film noir. The film does well with its sense of verisimilitude, the lighting, camera angles, editing, soundtrack, all add an element of darkness and surprise. Good film.
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)
Nice Fantasy Ride
I enjoyed this film, I had heard a lot about it over the years, but never had the chance to sit down and watch it. I also have heard a lot of mention on behalf of famous actor Paul Newman, who I had never gotten a chance to view one of his films until now. The movie itself did well in capturing the essence of suspense and adventure. It had me on the edge of my seat at times and evoked a sense of wonder. I think the American people all have a side to them that wants to rebel against government and the law. This movie, which came out in 1969 stands to represent just that. As the cultural revolution is in full swing, this movie helps capture the imagination of freedom with these two characters. The cinematography is very well done, there are a lot of shots that i found to be extremely visually appealing. There certainly is a good job done in the process of creating verisimilitude. The film easily captures my own spirit and my own personal desire to rebel. I would sincerely recommend this film to just about everyone. Paul Newman and Robert Redford do a marvelous job in creating their characters and dutifully playing them out to create a sense of reality for the viewer.
The Big Sleep (1946)
Classic Bogart
This film was shot during the war and was later released in 1946. The film stars the very highly acclaimed actor, Humphrey Bogart, who does an absolutely magnificent job in capturing the very core of his character. His portrayal of his character is classic, it is so intriguing to watch. He is so very cool, and is so effortlessly. The way he dangles his cigarette loosely on his lips, and his calm, almost cold demeanor is very rich for supporting the character he was portraying. This movie sheds new light on the glorious P.I. movies, which have not lost their popular touch even in todays cinematic area. I think this movie sets off a new craze on the whole idea of being a P.I. and all the darkness that surrounds it. The shots are done in a way that gives you a feel of doom and gloom. The darkness gives you a good feel of the mood and setting of the story being portrayed. A lot of the scenes are dark, cold, and wet, which do well in complimenting Bogart's dark, sleek, powerful character. The film is the first of its kind and is certainly a Bogart Classic.
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975)
Jack Nicholson makes Hollywood well aware of his presence
This film I found to be very entertaining, as well as interesting in its ending. Jack Nicholson makes his presence and unique style well known with the debut of this film. He plays a character that plays a character which takes true talent on behalf of the actor. He pretends to be crazy to get out of working, and ends up in an institute where things just get more crazy. His ability to capture the attention of the audience is very prevalent. He brings a certain charisma to the screen, one that makes you truly identify with his character. The cinematography in the film is also great, a lot of the shots are actually taken in an old broken down mental institution, which give the film more verisimilitude. Certain camera angles that play off Nicholsons character are also very good, they give you a solid perspective of what he is actually seeing while being in a looney bin. The ending I think carries a certain message along with it, it leaves the viewer very uneasy as the credits role. I think that it was artfully constructed to invite the viewer to think beyond Nicholsons humor in the movie and investigate a moral issue.
Do the Right Thing (1989)
Interesting look into our inner city society
I enjoyed this film, Spike Lee does well at capturing the heat of bigotry amongst the various ethnicities that are in Brooklyn. The visuals are very pleasing, certain scenes that are filmed on the street and in the pizza shop give you a true feeling of actually being there. Also the sound in the movie does well to create a deeper sense of reality. The screeching tires, early hip hop music, and noises of the city all are masterfully edited into the film to enhance the verisimilitude. I think that social message being portrayed is very eye opening and does well to create a sense of awareness. The acting is also very good. You get to tag along side of the different characters and witness on a first hand experience what problems they face on a daily basis as far as racism goes. You get to see the hatred between the African American community and the Italians,which awakens you to social issues that currently plague our society. The movie also does a good job in pulling you into the storyline. You can easily be immersed in the storyline and follow the struggles of the different characters.
The Graduate (1967)
entertaining, amusing, delightful, and insightful
Id like to firstly say that the music in this movie, done by Simon & Garfunkle was truly great and really made the movie what it was. The music goes hand in hand with the storyline. Sam O'steen does a wonderful job at editing the film to fit in tune with the certain songs done by the group. Dustin Hoffman plays a great part in this movie. He is intelligent, but wittfully stupid in a fashion that is pretty funny. He gives his character a certain innocence throughout the film, which is very entertaining to watch him get in certain situations. The sexual content of this film really was revolutionary for its time. 1967 the cultural revolution was in full swing, and you can certainly see it portrayed in this movie. The rebellion against the Hayes Code, which would very soon after this movie get reduced by the federal courts was stand out. Certain scenes directly offend and step on the toes of Hayes code enforcers. I thought it was great to see, I think that it was director Mike Nichols way of joining in on the cultural revolution and making a bold statement that the old road is rapidly fading. I would certainly suggest this film to anyone. Great stuff.
East of Eden (1955)
Revolutionary
This film is a true gem. This film exposes the fine young talents of legend, James Dean. This being one the three of James Deans only motion pictures, the movie is forever cemented in gold, along with his iconic image. The year is 1955 and the new style of acting known as, " method acting " is starting to gain popularity. The first to revolutionize the craft, Marlon Brandon, rubbed off on the delivery of James Dean. Dean had always looked up to Brando and watched his films to try and imitate his unique approach to creating a character. James Dean sends out a message to Hollywood in this breakthrough role as a confused, misunderstood young man. He follows in the wide footsteps of his older brother, trying relentlessly to earn his father respect. The movie changes directions about midway and Deans character does a role reversal with his on screen brother. Deans character steals his brothers girlfriend and in the end finds a bond in his relationship with his father. The storyline is long, but mostly focuses in on the superb delivery of James Dean.
Stagecoach (1939)
Not your average western
Going into this film I thought it was going to be just another boring western movie. Personally, I do not enjoy John Waynes acting and do not care much for the whole awe of Western movies. I think that Hollywood has overstreched its glory and has worn its magic completely out. Though, this movie isn't exactly like that. The cinematography is done extremely well, filmed on location in some scenes. The movie also takes a deeper look into the class clash. In the stagecoach is a variety of different characters, which makes the movie interesting. Watching the different ways that each characters acts towards one another is socially constructive. It highlights the flaw in humanity, and the inability to overlook such simplistic qualities that stand to separate people. I found the film extremely boring at times, just was not into it at all. I am confused to why John Wayne is revered as such a legend of the silver screen. He was revolutionary for his time, but I think his unique style and approach is boring and tasteless. I would recommend this film to those in search of good cinematography and to get a look into the social classes back in those days.
Gun Crazy (1950)
classic film noir
For a low budget film, Gun Crazy captures the very essence of film noir. The storyline is that of classic. The visuals are very appealing to the eye, giving the audience a good sense of surroundings. The overall feeling of sexual excitement is truly felt through the screen. The two main characters, John Dolly and Peggy Cummins bring an element of electricity to the screen. Their on screen love affair captures the very attention of the audience, with its hot and cold, teasing moments. The film chronicles the classic story of a soft hearted man who falls for what is thought to be an alike woman. Little does the man know, the woman has a darker side that isn't easily discovered at first glance. Throughout the movie, bits and pieces of the leading ladies darker side come out. I enjoyed this aspect, because for me, I can identify with Dollys character. I have struggled to identify the true side a woman many times, often being mislead. I think that in a lot of instances, the majority of people can in a way relate with the storyline of this film. America sure has a soft spot for speedy romance. There is something about it that is addicting and intriguing, which gets artfully demonstrated in this film. For being " low budget ", one would expect the film to be of poor quality. I would certainly have to argue that though this movie is low budget, it embodies a creative story that has mass appeal.
Easy Rider (1969)
A generational hand-me down
This film, for me, was truly great. I found it to strike a very near and dear chord of mine because of my great desire to take the country by storm, mounted on an iron horse glad in rubber boots. This movie also spoke to my soul in the sense that it is based in the great, historic year of 1969. My personal fascination with the 1960's and the social revolution that engulfed that time period both adds greatly to my sense of wonder, and fantasy for my outlook on modern times. This film embodies freedom. Touring the country on motorcycles, with an open mind and only the clothes on their back. This is a great fantasy of mine, and is one I plan to fulfill this summer with my best friend. I believe that my generation ( i am 20 years old ), is up against a lot more than we can possibly imagine. We stay hidden behind our computers, cell phones, and video games. I am guilty of using these means of technology but i strongly advocate the willingness to act and to live. Instead of living life through a computer screen ( like the majority does ) I believe one should take to the open road, get submerged in nature, rough it, and explore all that is out there. This movie really captures it, it speaks it, it speaks what was going on during that time period and the desperate need for change. The breaking of traditional, poisonous views, and getting in touch with all that is real. A personal conquest for truth is something my generation should be more focused on. We as a generation need another revolution and need to do so following in the footsteps of the 1960's generation, but learning from their mistakes, and striving for originality, instead of living off the table scraps of what conspired almost 50 years ago. This movie should be an inspiration for minds like mine, minds in search of freedom and truth. Escaping the clutches of society and discovering oneself is essential. Rotting away on a couch, submerged in the glow of a computer screen is poison, and the quicker my generation comes to that realization, the quicker we will get to forming a revolt against our current conditions. This movie is actually quite perfect for my generation. I know for me, it was certainly motivational and inspiring to watch. Many ignorant man alike quickly pass movies like this off as being just another hippy, drug infested, dreamer movie. Many still laugh at those in search of truth, but i think the message behind this film is way greater than what is often perceived. The message falls deaf on the years of those not in tune. Sadly, the majority of my generation are tuned out, too busy with updating their status on facebook and catching the latest episode of " jersey shore ", to realize the shape our country is in and the complete and udder filth that is occurring on a daily basis in Washington. I recommend this film to the liberated mind, to the dreamers, and to those who missed or jumped off the bandwagon of our culture today. And even if you are apart of the sad culture that is of today, you should put down your cell phone long enough to let this film soak in, watch it twice if need be. Lets refuse to be force fed the daily lies and seek truth.
On the Waterfront (1954)
All around great film
This has to be one of my favorite movies of this era. Brando certainly steals the stage with his methodical approach to acting. This new brand of acting that inspired greats such a James Dean is something that works really well. Brandos performance is great, he was known to be an inspiration to that of Elvis Presley and James Dean, two of the most historical icons of the twenty first century. Besides Brandos talent, the plot is one that is easy to follow, it grips you and pulls you into the story and really gives a ton of insight into the mind frame of Brandos character. The editing was especially great. There were a lot of scenes that show and focus on what Brando would be actually looking at, which also lets the audience in one what the main character is feeling and going through during the movie. The film is filmed on location in Hoboken, NJ which i thought gave the movie a truer sense of feeling. The sights of the streets and docks and the working class hero's all tie into making the film believable, and more impacting on the viewers experience. All in all i really loved this one and would strongly recommend it to just about anyone, there is an important social message that lies in the fiber of this film, one that involves a personal struggle with ones conscious that can be applied to a wide range of personal dilemmas.
You Can't Take It with You (1938)
Interesting brand of comedy
Upon reviewing this title, i found myself rewinding certain scenes because of their beauty. This romantic brand of comedy was visually pleasing and also bestowed a good level of simple comedy. I must admit though, there were parts that i found to be extremely ridiculous, which did turn me off. There was a certain scene in the park where the little gang of kids with the acordian that stuck me. The coordination with the song and dance was really delightful. A couple sitting in a dimly lit porch, necking, and dancing with children was my favorite scene. There was a lot of humor that i enjoyed in the film, simple little humor that some wouldn't pick up on, but for me it struck a cord. I enjoyed the look back into the eyes of the social scene in the 1930's. The clash between classes, the way of words, and the styles are all something that really stuck out for me. The humor in this film is intelligent, it makes you think, unlike most mainstream comedies of todays day and age.
Frankenstein (1931)
Lighting and cinematography make for an interesting feel
I thought this films highlight was the essence it captured. Watching the film gave me chills, made me feel dark, lonesome, and a bit zany. The lighting in a lot of the laboratory scenes gave you a true sense of doom and gloom. The wooden floors and the sound they projected, the chains, the thunder and lightning, all added elements of spook there are now considered to be classic. Didn't care for the plot. interesting to know that Frankenstein is actually the wacky scientist, and NOT the monster. I think that this film paved the way for how horror films should be portrayed. Certain elements such as special effects are certainly mandatory when trying to create the feel and visuals of doom and gloom.
Casablanca (1942)
Classic proves itself to be somewhat desirable
I now can finally say I watched Casablanca. Putting my shame aside for not reviewing this high acclaimed film at an earlier date, i can say that I was half way impressed. Going into the film my expectations were a bit high, so that could have something to do with my final thoughts. I expected my mind to be blown, and to a certain degree i suppose it was. This was my first exposure to the legendary actor, Humphrey Bogart, and i was surely impressed. His acting is simply legendary and for me, he made the entire movie. The visuals were also very eye appealing. I must admit that about midway through i did get a little lost, and tried to regain focus but just couldn't. I mainly focused and was sort of awed by the presence of Humprey Bogart, his style on the screen is intriguing, smooth, and something to look up to.
The Grapes of Wrath (1940)
graphic look into the feel and realness of the average struggling American family during the Great Depression
Upon review of this classic, I found myself immersed into the feel of this film. The lighting in this movie casts a certain element of darkness,doom,and gloom which indirectly reflects the time period this is being portrayed in the film. The plot was interesting, I followed the story and it was an interesting look into what our grandparents and great grandparents had to endure during those times of hardship. I found it also liberating to a certain extent, it made current situations and problems in my current life seem not so hard up after all, at least i haven't been forced out of the home and shipped off to a farm to work for a measly 2 cents... Not yet of course ( considering the shape of our current economy / government ) I enjoyed the casting of shadows, and that most of the film was shot at night, this really gave me the sense of darkness, loneliness, and uncertainness. Not quite sure if the director had that intention in mind while in production, but anyway you look at it, it holds a unique element of darkness to it. I would strongly recommend this movie, its fun, serious, and educating, and tells a story during an important time in Americas history.
Scarface (1932)
Original Gangster
The original scarface that i had no idea even existed... Today Al Pacinos version is highly acclaimed and has been blown up to all proportions. Any inspiring thug or drug dealer looks to that movie with giant gleaming eyes. Pacinos Scarface glorifies Italians and their mob mentalities, exposing extreme murder, drug use, and corruption. The 1932 version tells the tale of somewhat exaggerated truth. During that time period gangsters were frowned upon by the government but glorified by the public. Gangsters captured the publics attention due to their heroic efforts in taking what they thought they were entitled to, even if they had to kill for it. This film highlights a lot of the present day activity during that time period. The 1930's were an extremely hard time for America and crime ran rampant. Gangster films were extremely popular. Scarface was the king of them all, but unfortunately the government at the time didn't want the public exposed to such crude and vulgar acts carried out by the skilled gangster actors. The film was held up for two years while restrictions were slapped on it. Many states even banned the film. This film was great in my opinion. I personally am a big fan of the gangsters of the 1930's. I think they stood up for what they believed in, they were criminals but were also hero's. They carried out acts organists banks and such that the average American struggling during that time would love to do. The film itself has a great deal of action, suspense, and crafty acting. I think its fun to take a look into history and this film portrays a great piece of American history. This film was action packed, much like what you'll find in a lot of the mainstream movies of today. Interesting that with all the murders portrayed in the film and there was no blood shed... Censorship i take it. We have come a long way in that aspect. There isn't much censorship going on in todays action films. Violence has reached its absolute peak, and i don't believe it can be taken to a higher. Scarface (1932 ) I believe showed Americans fascination with violence and crime. I think the movie displays Americas affection for the " bad guy " and our civil duty to rebel against to authority. Would certainly suggest this film.
My Man Godfrey (1936)
Zany, yet structured.
Upon review of this film, I found it to be rather interesting, as well as funny. William Powell plays a great role in this film as Godfrey. He is put right in the middle of this wacky film. Gregory La Cava dabbles with zany humor in this film. He boldly designs this character for Powell ( over a bottle of Scotch, might I add ) and does so in a great way. The character is really dynamic, you get to feel the insight of Godfrey as the movie unwinds. I found it ironic that in the beginning he starts out as a bum and no one wants anything to do with him, but then in the end everyone is in love with him. The time period in which the film is shot is also very interesting. It gives a great look into the lifestyle of the rich and privileged back in the 1930's. Godfrey is the butler among a very rich, and diverse family. The family all has characters that contrast with each other. The mother strikes a cord of comedy, whilst the one sister is a spoiled brat, and the other is young and naive. The father seems to be the only level headed one in the house. The butlers and maids tip toe carefully, obeying every antic of this whacked out family, and do so in a comedic display that is thrilling to the audience. The pace is very quick, there are a lot of quick little quips thrown in here and there, and intelligent banter, which is very different from main stream Hollywood movies of today. I found the film interesting, William Powell's performance stuck out to me, as did the crazy mother in the film. Also Carole Lombard was great to watch.
I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang (1932)
A Gamble for Warner Bros deems itself a Success
I was instantly intrigued by the main character in this movie. Paul Muni is certainly a standout. Throughout the movie I kept thinking of how much he reminded me of James Dean in Rebel Without a Cause. His method of acting and the way he carries himself is very similar to Dean. I also thought that in certain scenes, Muni almost resembles a young Sinatra, appearance wise. For 1932 this film was exceptional. It held my devote attention for the full 93 minutes. The fact that this film was based on a true story captivates my attention even more. The film takes the viewer on a journey back nearly eighty years to see first hand what prison was like. The lack of democracy was evident, the seriousness of crimes that are considered petty in todays standards really stuck out in my mind. The film encapsulates a sense of rebellion, which i think 99% of the population can relate to on differing levels. For me, I enjoy watching people defy the law, and rebel against set standards in defendance of their own personal values and beliefs. The year is 1932 and sound in movies is something new. Warner bros goes against the grain and takes a risk by adding sound. Honestly, I do not see, nor comprehend why people wouldn't want sound to run alongside of a movie. Perhaps its similar to the mid 1950's when Elvis introduced a whole new wave of culture, only to be caster-sized by the generation before him that was into tight buttons, short hair, and traditionals. The sound really makes this film what it is and validates Warner bros gamble as being a big success. Interesting to look back into the mindset of society in that day. The chain gang was instituted to a man in need of correction, based upon their offensive of the law. This film is constructed to show James Allen ( the main character ) doing unjust time, and in the process is supposed to conform to a " better sense of character ", but instead learns to steal, and break the law to just-fully obtain freedom. The film basically is set out to indirectly mock the Georgia chain gang system. I love justice, and believe that no matter what your title, position, or rank, you should be held accountable or your injustices. Robert Elliott Burns boldly stands up for himself, and all the men who were victims of this cruel, and disgusting form of criminal rehabilitation.
The Birth of a Nation (1915)
Interesting, somewhat educational.
Before taking this movie out from my school library I was warned that it is " three hours long, and good luck in staying awake." Trying not to go into it with preconceived notions I took the film for what it was worth. Considering it was produced nearly one hundred years ago, it was good. I tried to put myself in the shoes of an audience member, sitting in a theater in 1915. The visuals were certainly good for its day. I actually didn't grow bored with this film, believe it or not. I did the best I could do following the plot. I am a big civil war fan, so that may be why this film appealed to me. For me it was very interesting to look back into the year 1915 whilst virtually looking back to the 1860s. I thought the acting in the film was very good all around. Without the presence of sound, they still seem to illustrate what they're talking about. The score of music selected for the film is interesting, some of it I enjoyed, it played a crucial part in some of the battle scenes. It was interesting to see the mindset of the average family back in that time period, and the role of African Americans. It really opens up the eyes of someone viewing it in todays age, how far we have come, and how lost and confused we have been in the past.
Interesting portrayal of historical characters. Casting director was on the money when it came to casting Abraham Lincoln. I was also impressed with the budget they must have been working with. There were a vast amount of extras, not sure if they got paid for their service.. most likely not. All in all it was an interesting view into our past as a nation. I have to say, something peculiar stuck out when I was about half way through the film. I realized that all these people that were in this movie are surely dead and gone, and most likely have been for almost a half a century.
The Gold Rush (1925)
Charlie Chaplins performance takes the plot by the hand.
Upon review, i was instantly captivated by Chaplins charisma. I had heard of Charlie Chaplin in my travels but never could truly understand what the craze was about until i saw him in action for the first time. His Ability to capture the audience in a spell of wonder, excitement, and laughter is nothing short of amazing, considering its release date and the fact that it is a silent film. Chaplin is an artist, and entertaining an audience is simply his canvas. His over-exaggerated gestures, facial features, and appearance all add to the magic of his character. The movie itself didn't so much stand out to me, I knew it was about a Gold Rush but, I was more interested in Chaplins performance and his interactions with other actresses and actors of that time period. The film itself held pleasing visuals, once again, considering that it was 1925. All in all the film was delightful, it was my first silent film and was enjoyable. Just imagine if some of todays blockbusters were dubbed silent, most of the "actors" wouldn't be able to hold the shortened attention span of the present day audiences for more than thirty seconds!