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Reviews
Guess Who's Coming to Dinner (1967)
Review of Guess Who's Coming to Dinner
Guess Who's Coming to Dinner was another comedic film, that represented what the 60's were about. The film expanded the limits of script content. Guess Who's Coming to Dinner shows the relationship between different ethnicity's, similar to the movie Do The Right Thing; another great film of the 60's. Guess Who's Coming to Dinner feels a little fake at times, and often like it's filmed on a stage. The mother and father take on typical roles, the father is stubborn and careful with who his daughter marries, but her mother is more able to understand that her daughter is in love. The substance of the film shows that it is okay to be in an interracial couple. This was very controversial at the time, but films with this kind of controversy often become classic films, as this one did, and retain their popularity for decades.
Bonnie and Clyde (1967)
Review of Bonnie and Clyde
It was nice to finally watch this movie and have a greater understanding of who Bonnie and Clyde were. So often do we hear references to the two, but it's hard for the younger generation to really understand who these people were and their story. This film seemed to have revised the gangster film genre forever. The film also had a lot of experimental qualities to it, which was good. It reached out and tried something new, which helped make the film a huge success. The only thing I would say negatively about the movie is that is glorified the life of the real bank robbers, Clyde Barrow and Bonnie Parker. Bonnie and Clyde is much like a slapstick comedy and not the best representation of their life.
Easy Rider (1969)
Review of Easy Rider
Great film, what the 60's were all about. Easy Rider is an accurate representation of what was going on during the 60's, and how many people felt towards society. There was a lot of rebellion, and sex, and drugs. This film is much more explicit than most films before it. It reveals topics that people weren't really discussing at that point. It also shows the generation gap between the youth of that time and their parents. There was a major difference in what was considered okay or enjoyable between the youth and their parents. The film is visually appealing, and beautifully shot. The shots of Arizona make it obvious that there are more important things than silly quarrels, and that it is more important to appreciate beauty and life.
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975)
Review of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest was truly an incredible film. Everything on the screen seemed real, and makes you feel as if you're there in the mental institution. There is a real truth to the story, that makes the whole film believable, and since most of society doesn't know what it's like to be in that kind of setting, our attention is gained by experiencing something new. Jack Nicholson does a phenomenal job, expressing his anger towards Nurse Ratchet, as well as his passion for the other patients; helping them to improve themselves. The film brings out emotions in the viewer, sometimes you want to cry out of sympathy for the patients, other times you feel the anger McMurhphy has, you feel the frustration of the patients, and some fear towards the more "crazy" patients. The film also has an important social message. It proves that not everyone is society is viewed for their true potential. It is hard not to judge someone by what we see, before we know them. Overall, a great film, but also heartbreaking.
The Graduate (1967)
Review of The Graduate
The Graduate is funny and witty, yet intelligent and allegorical. It's an excellent representation of the 60's. The ending really shows what the 60's are all about. Ben and Elaine run off together, even though she's supposed to get married. They're are going against typical societal norms, which makes the storyline so compelling, and dramatic, not just comedic. In addition, the music in the film accentuates the whole feel of the movie. Simon and Garfunkel produced music specially for the film (scored music). Without this music, there wouldn't be nearly as dramatic of an effect as there is. The music evokes emotion and helps express the depths of the characters morals in each scene. The sound in the film also adds to the feel of the film. The famous pool scene when Ben goes into the pool with scuba gear on, you feel like you're in his place, because all you can hear is him breathing. The Graduate is a must see. It's emotional and riskay for it's time, but it really represents the gap in generations, and how the younger generation was going against society. Ben and Mrs.
Do the Right Thing (1989)
Review of Do the Right Thing
Do the Right Thing was moving and compelling. Throughout much of the film I was unsure of whether or not I liked it, but the last 30minutes of the film brought it all together. The end was bone-chilling and captivating. Do the Right Thing was deliberately provocative, and told from the point of view of the African American director. The story easily evokes emotion from a spectrum of ethnicity's. The film was well made, and created to seem realistic, but there is a sort of stylized quality to it. There are a few moments where things feel quite unrealistic, but for the most part, the camera makes you feel like you are involved in their conversations. The camera even broke the 4th wall a lot. So the big question is, did Mooky do the right thing? Depends on who you agree with, Malcolm X or Martin Luther King. He thought he was doing the right thing by throwing the trash can in the window, since the police had killed Raheem. Mooky stood up for his "family". But what's heartbreaking about the end, is that just before everything escalated, Sal said Mooky was just like a son to him. Do the Right Thing is a great representation of how different cultures clash and come together. It's heartfelt, humorous, and mind-opening.
The Naked Kiss (1964)
Review of The Naked Kiss
The Naked Kiss is definitely a notorious film. Well known for its break through script and performances, as well as brilliant cinematography. The storyline is scandalous, raw, and bold. After Kelly moves to the suburbs from her previous lifestyle as a prostitute, contrary secretes begin to emerge. The Naked Kiss is exciting to watch because of this, it draws your attention, as you want to uncover more of Kelly's dirty secrets. Originally you don't have sympathy for Kelly, but as things unfold, you begin to empathize with her, and understand that although her life was questionable as a prostitute she is psychologically fragile like any human being. Aside from the story, the film is unbelievably visually pleasing. There's style, fluidity, and profound visual elements that catch your eye unlike many other films.
Gun Crazy (1950)
Review of Gun Crazy
Gun Crazy is very much an American film. Even the title says a lot. Many Americans are "gun happy" shall we say, and the film obviously expresses people's love for guns. However, the film is not just about one's obsession with firearms, it has moral depth and dilemma. Bart's morals are challenged as he and Annie end their man-hunt. The pivotal moments in the film, as Bart and Annie have to make new decisions, adds excitement to the film, as well as the sexual relationship between those two. However, Gun Crazy does not have to same elements as a "hollywood" film. It's clear that it was done on a low budget, but it's slight film noir feel gives it character.
On the Waterfront (1954)
Review of On the Waterfront
Overall, a great film, definitely one that was worth watching. On the Waterfront is in simple terms, a classic. It's an action packed gangster film with lots of controversy packed into the plot. There's a sort of authentic feel to the film, and the fact that it was shot on scene really adds to the mise-en scene. However, since the film was done a low budget, and it contains a lot of political and criminal context, this says something negative about society. The film was so realistic and raw. The viewer gets a true sense of what life was like, not just because it was shot on scene but also because the actors played their part so beautifully. The whole natural feel of the wonderfully done black and white film, is something that is incomparable to many other films of its time.
The Big Sleep (1946)
Review of The Big Sleep
My thoughts before watching this movie were "it has to be good if Howard Hawks directed it." The film was good, however the storyline was complex, and a little hard to follow. The depth of the plot makes it hard to comprehend what is taking place in the film. Although, the film was still enjoyable. Although the film is basically about a criminal investigation, there's a sexy/romantic feel that I think makes the film appealing to a larger audience, than the typical "action" film. The Big Sleep is a great film noir, and it's play with light, makes it easy to appreciate that it's black and white. Howard Hawks is know for his remarkable films, and although I wish this one fell into that category, it just didn't for me. The cinematography and overall feel of the film is good, but to me, it's nothing that hasn't been done before.
Psycho (1960)
Review of Psycho
There is so much to be said about Psycho, from its profound cinematography to the provocative script. Alfred Hitchcock is well known for his horror films, and Psycho definitely proves why. The plot behind the movie really broke a mold for horror films during the 1960's. Movies were become more "expressive", and leaving less unsaid, but Psycho revealed some truths behind sex and violence that weren't discussed in society. Alfred Hitchcock helped to change what society thought of as true terror. There was a realness to his films, unlike the studio era horror films. His use of the camera was truly remarkable. It's obvious that Hitchcock knew how to add suspense and fear. His way of showing the actor's reaction then what they were looking at, makes it feel like you are in the film. Also, the famous shower scene depicts how some things are better left to the imagination. Not because it's too much for the audience to handle, but because it makes the viewer think and fill in the blanks in a way. It was obvious that the woman had been killed, but it's more frightening in a way to leave out the whole scene. It adds that gasp effect. Clearly, Psycho was a somewhat ground breaking film, and really paved the way for horror films in general.
Casablanca (1942)
Review of Casablanca
Casablanca is a persuasive pro-American film. It's fictional yet accurately portrays events that took place during world War II. The film has a large political influence, even Rick's character represents America's isolation from the war. The film is beautifully written and shot. Music plays a huge part in the film. It emphasizes the setting and feel of the film. As the mood of the characters change, so does the music. Even when the French sing their national anthem this adds so much to the film, and it becomes even more clear how passionate the French are about their country. The accents of the actors add to the mise-en scene, as well as the lighting in many of the scenes, such as the lighting in the restaurant, when everything is dim, the candles on the table are the only form of light, creating a certain mood. The movie is very fast paced, you can't look away for a moment or get out of your chair for a snack. There's always some new twist. Casablanca is a thrilling film to watch, and one that really lives up to it's expectations.
Saboteur (1942)
Review of Saboteur (1942)
Soboteur was a good action packed film, but not one that I could really get in to. There's no doubt that Hitchcock is a great director, but this film just didn't have all the qualities that a movie like Psycho did. There were some great aspects of cinematography, but the acting and script were a little weak. There were some bad lines that discredited the film. Visually the film is appealing, with probably the most famous shot of the Statue of Liberty's arm. It's a great aerial view of the monument. The exciting visual elements are what keep the film together, and keep the viewers attention. Maybe if I was more of a Hitchcock fan, I would appreciate the film more.
Criss Cross (1949)
Review of Criss Cross 1949
For me, never seeing a "film noir" before, I thought Criss Cross was a good representation of one. The story was not as enticing as I had hoped it would be. Although, I can't complain too much because I did get a little wrapped up in the film, because of the tumultuous love relationship between Steve and his ex-wife. However, the film was more about the photography rather than the story line. There are a lot of nighttime shots, as there should be for a film noir. But what really makes the film good are the aerial views, like when the camera swoops down into the dance club parking lot then shows the surroundings. The dark shots of the dance-club and ally way behind the club add an element of secrecy and surprise (at least to me they do). The movie seems to have a lot of secrecy to it, especially since Anna belongs to this underground element of L.A. Overall, the film was quite good. The camera-work shows progression and Steve and Anna's relationship is entertaining (for lack of a better word) as the viewer.
Citizen Kane (1941)
Review of Citizen Kane
Citizen Kane was written and directed remarkably well. The films consists of outstanding scenes and performances, cinematic and narrative techniques and experimental innovations, including sound and photography. The film was quite controversial at the time, having unflattering parallels to a real-life publisher. The film consists of a number of long takes, which create more meaning behind the actions and characters. These long takes draw the viewer in, because it's obvious that shots aren't edited together. The soundtrack is another important part of the film; it provides clues to Kane's behavior as he ages. One of the most notable scenes is when Kane walks (almost zombie-like) down a corridor lined with mirrors, where his reflection is multiplied. In this scene you realize that we all project a certain personality to people, and we often leave impressions behind. Here you get a sense that Kane is reflecting on who he has become. This also shows how well Orson Welles was able to perform, in addition to writing and directing the film, totally proving in today's world why he was so famous.
The Women (1939)
Review of The Women
I found it fascinating that on screen the audience only sees women, but it's implied that men are involved in the story (in fact the whole story is about men), they just aren't explicit characters. The film is definitely humorous while capturing the lives of Manhattan socialites of the thirties perfectly. The scene where Mary travels from NYC to Reno to obtain a divorce is slightly unrealistic, but as the viewer, I went along with it anyway because I was sucked into the film. However the train ride to Reno makes for a beautiful scenic backdrop. While the women are on the train, you feel like you are right there with them. The film also has some great actresses, which really bring the film to life. They portray an accurate role of women in Manhattan, something that even people today can relate to.
His Girl Friday (1940)
Review of His Girl Friday
This film was brilliant, and hilarious. Beautifully written to provide lots of humor, sparks between the characters, and wit. It is a film that will never go out of style. This film proves the continual advancements in technology for film making. The cinematography is wonderful, as the camera enhances the story line. The story line is a little fast past, if you get up for just a couple minutes you might miss something good. Delving deeper into the script, I think it was a little bit risky to portray a woman who was recently divorced, and getting married very soon after the divorce. During the 1940's, this was not as socially accepted as it is now. However, I think incorporating something like this in a film helped to strengthen women's role in society. Overall the film was just remarkable, it keeps the viewer on the edge of their seat waiting for the next witty punch line, and Walter's (Cary Grant) behavior trying to get his wife back was spectacular. Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell clearly exhibit why they are still well renowned today, their skills in front of the camera are a huge part of why the film is so great. They seem natural and comfortable, it's easy to imagine yourself in the film with them. You really couldn't ask for more in a film.
Dracula (1931)
Review of Dracula (1931)
Dracula, similar to Frankenstein helped shaped the horror film genre. Although Dracula was released not long before Frankenstein, it seemed to have more flaws in terms of it's camera-work and acting. Some scenes are not up to the standard I had for the film. Overall the acting just wasn't convincing enough. There wasn't enough emphasis and expression of emotion to draw in the viewer, with the exception of when Dracula bites Mina's neck; that instance is a trademark for the film, and it provides a sense of fear, but really the only moment when things are slightly scary. Although Dracula is considered a horror film, there isn't much about it that's really frightening. The camera-work was great in some scenes, such as when the camera followed the horse-drawn carriage, as Dracula made his first appearance in the film. However, there were often too many static shots; the camera didn't provide enough movement in the film, to really draw the viewers eye, and give a feel of verisimilitude.
The Grapes of Wrath (1940)
Review of Grapes of Wrath
Grapes of Wrath is a very real representation of what life was like during the Great Depression. There is an overall dark and depressing aspect to the film; families lost their land, homes, food, and great amounts of their wealth. Media tried to cover the reality of the situation by reporting deaths due to heart failure or stroke, instead of starvation, which was the reality. It was a trying time for many people, and Grapes of Wrath, shows what it was like for one family to lose their home to the Depression. All they want to do is go to California, but when they get to the land of "Milk and Honey" there isn't as much hope there as they had thought. The camera work for this film was overall good. There were beautiful shots of the environment and land surrounding them. Although the film is a realistic interpretation of a very historical period in American history, it seems to be quite dull. John Ford (Director of the film) may have tried to make too much happen in the film. The family can never catch a break and there's no profound change, making the story seem somewhat repetitive and hard to sit through, and really enjoy/get into.
Frankenstein (1931)
Review of Frankenstein 1931
Frankenstein is a classic horror film. It's really part of the basis/beginning of present day horror films. This 1931 films portrays a very Gothic feel and setting. The following images help to depict this Gothic feel; dark film, stormy nights (rain, thunder, and lightening), dead bodies covered by sheets, and brains in jars. Images like this give the viewer a psychological experience, and feeling that they're in a scary environment. Frankentein's house is a great example of this, its secluded, made entirely of stone, it seems very dark and cold, and much like a dungeon. When Frankenstein's monster comes to life, Frankenstein yells "It's alive, it's alive... I know what it feels like to be God." This was a very controversial quote, surfacing a moral story to the movie; is it right to do what God should be doing? It seems that the story was more depressing and pathetic than scary, you almost felt bad for the monster, because he was never able to fit in to society.
In terms of the camera work for the film, I thought it was quite good. The camera angles exaggerated the plot, especially as the camera followed the man through town while carrying his dead daughter. You could see the whole towns reaction, and hear church bells in the background, giving the scene a very real and emotional feeling, something the viewer could relate to.
Scarface (1932)
Review on Scarface
I watched the original Scarface(1932) which was phenomenal. For my first time watching it, I instantly understood what everyone had raved about. This is the ultimate "gangsta" film, no wonder it's every rappers favorite movie. I thought the script was wonderfully written, and expressed so much truth behind gang wars and life. I think life as a gangster is something that the average person has a curiosity about because it's not something that is publicly displayed or discussed. It's a more undercover way of living, therefore enticing to outsiders. Scarface was a great look into a different world. A world of money, drugs, greed, trust, betrayal, and a lot of violence. Al Pachino worked brilliantly as Scarface, he completely adapted to his character, making the story so believable. I thought there were some points in the film where the directing could have been a little better, and the camera work could have been improved. Nonetheless, I was completely enthralled in the film, feeling like I was there, which I think is the best part of watching a good film. You get completely sucked in, that you don't think about your real-life surroundings during those two hours.
My Man Godfrey (1936)
A Wonderful Comedy
My Man Godfrey was a classic screwball comedy from the golden era. Right away the film draws you in with entertainment and humor. Every word and mannerism that comes from Godfrey is hilarious. Especially the part where Irene asked why he lived in the town dump, and his reply was that his real estate agent suggested the altitude would be good for his asthma.
As the film goes on, there are new and exciting factors that keep the viewer wanting more. When the Bullock family begins to find out that Godfrey is more than they thought he was. As Irene falls in love with him, her over dramatic behavior had me laughing the entire time.
The camera work was great for the time the film was made. The camera followed the actors up the stairs, making the viewer feel like they were standing in the room watching people move.
The setting and environment in each scene clearly showed the economic status of the characters, except for Godfrey. It's obvious that Irene and Cornelia were from a very wealthy family; having an event at the Ritz, and wearing fur coats. My favorite aspect of the film, was that Godfrey's identity was kept under-wraps for most of the film. Also, it seemed that he was more wholesome than the Bullock family, even though he was supposed to be the forgotten man, but he seemed to have a better hold on society.
I thought My Man Godfrey was much better than most films today, the whole composition of the film, the script, the acting, just everything. I loved every moment of this film.
I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang (1932)
Review on I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang
This film was well written and directed, not lacking much substance. This film was much different than a silent film, although it was made only a few years after silent films were popular. The cohesiveness, editing, and picture quality were all impressive, not to mention there's sound. Most importantly, this film stands out for its time, revealing facts about life as a prisoner, and conveying that an ex-con can make their way up in the economy. Revealing that life in a chain gang is inhumane, was not a fact that was publicly expressed. However, the film was a good representation of social injustice. It was upsetting that at the end of the film Allen had to become a criminal again just to stay away from being part of the chain gang for a third time.
The Gold Rush (1925)
My thoughts on The Gold Rush
After viewing the Gold Rush, my initial thought was "that was a pretty good movie for a silent film". Honestly, I had my apprehensions at first. I thought that a silent film wouldn't be too exciting, however, I had never really seen an entire film of this sort. The Gold Rush was confusing for me at first, I didn't understand what was going on when the scenes switched from being in the middle of nowhere, to being in a small town. Other than that, I appreciated the fact the Charlie Chaplin was so innovative, and his camera skills were impressive for the 1920's. The acting was humorous and understandable. It was surprisingly easy for me to relate to the characters because of their exaggerated facial expressions and body language. The only part of the film I did not like was when the house was falling of the cliff, it was a little too obvious that it wasn't real, but then again there weren't the same technological advances then as there are now. Overall, The Gold Rush was a great silent film for my first experience.
Broken Blossoms or The Yellow Man and the Girl (1919)
Review on Broken Blossoms
Broken Blossoms was a strikingly beautiful and enthralling film. It portrayed an intense, and somewhat dangerous love story. The music that accompanied each scene was appealing to the ear, more so than some other silent films. The colors(tints) used to expose detail in each scene were also impressive. Similar to The Gold Rush, the characters expressions and body language really displayed the feeling and story in the film, however, there were points where the acting was a little too dramatic, or lacking thereof. All in all, The film was well directed and written, it seemed as though it may have been a little provocative for its time, but I can appreciate Griffith's(the writer) willingness to write a film like this. Without those daring to go against the majority, there would be no progress in society.