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Reviews
Half a Sixpence (1967)
An energetic and charming musical!
Master showmen were at work in the production of this perhaps over long but nevertheless delightful picture. It would be impossible to visualise the film without the warm performance of Tommy Steele, and it was an inspired move to bring in George Sidney, one of Hollywood's finest directors of musicals, to give the picture a very special flare. The budget was obviously huge and it all shows on the screen in the very lively production numbers, especially those shot on location. A super piece of screen entertainment which stands up well to occasional re-watching.
Young at Heart (1954)
Sinatra at his very best
This film features Sinatra relishing some great songs and some fine dialogue which suits him perfectly. The scene where he sings "Someone to Watch Over Me" at the cafe piano is quite unforgettable. This is a very re-watchable movie with a fine cast - Doris Day, Gig Young, Ethel Barrymore, Brian Keith etc.
The standard songs are joined by some new ones written for the production - and they too are a total delight. A fine example of 1950s Americana as seen by Hollywood.
Goodbye, Mr. Chips (1969)
A memorable piece of movie nostalgia!
MGM produced this beautiful film at a genuine British Public School and I think anyone who attended one of those institutions during the 1940s or 50s will agree that the mood and authenticity of the film is spot on! Peter O'Toole's performance in the title role is extremely moving and Petula Clark is an unexpected choice for "Mrs Chipping" but she is first rate in the part. I note that some commentators were unimpressed with the Leslie Bricusse score. Well, all I can say is that I wore out my vinyl LP copy within one month of buying it when the film was first released. Incidentally, a short version of the film was released on 16 millimetre film in the UK with virtually EVERY song cut out and it was just awful without the music. But the full musical version is a delight.
Kiss Me, Stupid (1964)
A fine example of Billy Wilder's work!
A delightful movie from Billy Wilder with a marvellous and at times very touching performance from Kim Novak and Dean Martin sending himself up in great style. The script is first rate, the situations hilarious and the entire cast is in great form. Tasteless? Well surely not - I've shown 16 millimetre copies of this film to a variety of audiences over the years and I've never had a single adverse comment. If you haven't seen it give it a try - you may be very pleasantly surprised.
Rainbow 'Round My Shoulder (1952)
A must see for fans of Frankie Laine & Billy Daniels
This modestly budgeted musical was extremely popular in the UK on its release in 1953, featuring a few good songs (including the memorable "Girl in the Wood") performed by the ever popular Frankie Laine and by that marvellous showman Billy Daniels who subsequently became a major attraction at variety theatres all over Britain. So why do the television broadcasters never give us the chance to see this very pleasant movie again?