Incalculacable Reviews

Going Hollywood (1933)

Going Hollywood belongs to Bing Crosby

[6/10 · 19 August 2006]

Sylvia Bruce (Marion Davies) is a bored French teacher but after hearing the melodious sounds of the famous Bill Williams (Bing Crosby) on the radio, she is so inspired she leaves her job and seeks her dream.

Going Hollywood is a rather odd movie as there is the disturbing fact that Marion Davies' character is practically a stalker who insists that their love is meant to be. I can usually accept the fact that it's just a movie - it doesn't have to be realistic, but I just felt her character was a bit of a nut case. I hate to say it but Davies is most unconvincing and it is almost painful to see her scenes. I was disappointed to see this because she was magnificent in silents. That being said, Marion is undoubtedly gorgeous and has a few good moments (and she's not a bad dancer too)... but not nearly enough as there should be.

It is evident that Bing Crosby and the music are the real stars of this picture. He steals every scene from Davies with effortless delivery. The music - especially "Temptation", "Going Hollywood" and "Beautiful Girl" are absolutely delightful little tunes and make the movie well worth watching.

Overall, a bizarre and often tedious movie and Davies isn't at her best. However handsome crooner Bing Crosby and the fantastic music by Arthur Freed and Herb Brown steal the show and make it watchable. Does not compare to the other musicals of this period.

The Painted Veil (1934)

Garbo shines in mediocre story

[6/10 · 19 July 2006]

Based on a book by W. Somerset Maugham of the same name, The Painted Veil tells the tale of Katrin Koerber (Greta Garbo) who is lonely after her sister's marriage, with whom she was very close. She agrees to marry her father's research associate Dr. Walter Fane (Herbert Marshall) who takes her to China. However, he is deeply involved with his work and often neglects Katrin in favour of his work which leads her to seek love and attention from another man: Jack Townsend (George Brent).

Although I have been unsure of Garbo's acting abilities at times, she does well and truly shine in the role of the unfaithful and confused wife - a complex character which she masters with ease. Herbert Marshall does a good job of her husband caught between emotions and George Brent – not a terribly good looking man – was unconvincing as her lover. These two men seem to fade into the background when Garbo is on screen – her exotic; cat like appearance really captures the audience – despite not playing a glamorous character!

The scenery of old China is lavish and the costumes for Garbo are a pleasure to see. However, the divine Greta Garbo is the only thing that really makes The Painted Veil watchable. The plot is thin and weak but Garbo does a wonderful job and makes the melodramatic material believable and interesting. Not a great film, but watch it for Garbo.

All This, and Heaven Too (1940)

A tragic tale of passion, love, jealousy and death.

[7/10 · 9 July 2006]

All This, and Heaven Too is based on a novel of the same name by Rachel Field. It tells the story of loving governess Henriette Deluzy-Desportes (Bette Davis) in 19th century France who cares for the three children (three girls and a little boy) Duc (Charles Boyer) and Duchesse du Praslin (Barbara O'Neil). It is not long until the suspicious, possessive and insanely jealous hypochondriac Duchesse du Praslin thinks there is something between the governess and her husband (when it is, in fact, purely platonic) which brings up a change of events with some disastrous and fatal consequences.

Perhaps I am used to the confident Bette Davis that we see in movies such as Of Human Bondage, Jezebel and All About Eve – but I felt Davis' character was a little bland. However, I considered the circumstances and I think Bette played with a lot of passion and love, and the character was quite realistic. Margo Channing for a governess wouldn't work! With a running time of 141 minutes, it sounds like a rather long movie. However, director Litvak manages to keep it running along at a very comfortable pace. It certainly did not feel 141 minutes, and of course the lush (obviously very expensive) scenery, clothing, sets etc help a lot, too! Although not perfect, All This, and Heaven Too is certainly worth watching, in part for the rich visuals including the handsome Charles Boyer and beautiful Bette Davis and the gorgeous scenery, clothing, sets, props etc. A long film, but it doesn't feel as long as it really is. Good movie.

Bombshell (1933)

"I'd like to run barefoot through your hair!"

[7/10 · 2 July 2006]

Bombshell is almost a mirror of Jean Harlow's life (although, I have heard it is extremely close to Clara Bow's life and from what I read from her biography, it seems very true) and it is fascinating to see Jean Harlow play herself (even references to Red Dust, which she made in the previous year), or perhaps what the viewers like to think is the real Jean Harlow. Anyway, Jean Harlow plays sexy bombshell Lola Burns – mega movie star who has everything – a mansion, maids, stunning clothes, dogs, movies with Clark Gable… but there's a downside: she has her drop-out brother and drunken father (Frank Oz) leeching money off her constantly to pay for their expensive lifestyle and her fast-talking publicity man Space Hanlon (Lee Tracy) makes up disgusting stories about her. She decides enough is enough – she's sick of Hollywood – so she packs up her bags.

If you want to take a truthful and in-depth look at the old Hollywood system of making movie stars, than Bombshell is the movie for you! It takes an amusing but realistic look at this period using satire and witty, hard hitting lines, beautifully execute by Jean Harlow and a great supporting cast. There are also some daring innuendos that are only found in pre-code Hollywood movies – this makes it all the more enjoyable. This type of comedy is not everybody's thing, but Bombshell is certainly worth a look.

Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964)

Disappointing, but understandably a momentous achievement

[7/10 · 1 July 2006]

I have to say it: I was quite disappointed with this movie. I originally wanted to see it because of the fact that it is number one for comedy, voted by IMDb users. However, I found myself asking… when will it be funny? Perhaps I am just not one for dark comedies, but I just didn't find it funny. That being said, I was especially impressed with the comedic talents of Peter Sellers (who plays four characters: Group Captain, Lionel Mandrake, President Merkin Muffley, Dr. Strangelove), the atmosphere that is created and the message behind the movie. But I didn't find it funny. Sorry. Maybe it will grow on me.

U.S. Air Force General Jack Ripper goes absolutely mad, and sends his bomber wing to destroy the U.S.S.R. He suspects that the communists are conspiring to pollute the "precious bodily fluids" of the American people. The U.S. president meets with his advisors, where the Soviet ambassador tells him that if the U.S.S.R. is hit by nuclear weapons, it will trigger a doomsday device which will destroy all plant and animal life on Earth. Peter Sellers plays the three men who might prevent this colossal tragedy: British Group Captain Lionel Mandrake, the only person with access to the demented Gen. Ripper; U.S. President Merkin Muffley, whose best attempts to divert a momentous disaster depend on a drunken Soviet Premier and Nazi genius Dr. Strangelove (who, in my opinion, was the funniest).

I think there is a truly good message behind this movie: if we don't do something, this is what will happen. I was very much impressed by that. Comedy wise, I laughed a couple of times, but that was it. That's the problem with critically acclaimed films – you have high hopes for it, and when it doesn't live up to your expectations, it is twenty times more disappointing. Nevertheless, I appreciate the brilliant performances, the message and Kubrick's clever directing. I enjoyed it, but in my opinion it does not live up to the hype.

Libeled Lady (1936)

They don't make 'em like this anymore!

[10/10 · 1 July 2006]

After I got my head around the slightly complicated plot of classic romantic comedy Libeled Lady (which stars some of the most famous and talented actors of all time), I found myself very much enjoying this tremendous screwball comedy – perhaps the best of all time. It is surprisingly up-beat, witty and funny… however, it is not-so-surprisingly classy, sophisticated, charming and glamorous (what else could you expect with Jean Harlow, William Powell, Myrna Loy and Spencer Tracy!?).

Warren Haggerty (Spencer Tracy) is chief editor of the New York Evening Star, which has a notorious past of making celebrities very, very angry! One of those celebrities – one they have picked on for a long time – is heiress Connie Allenbury (Myrna Loy, cute as a button!), and she is seriously not happy. The New York Evening Star accidentally published a fake story about her, claiming her to be a marriage-breaker. She's hitting back hard with a $5 million dollar lawsuit. However, the canny Haggerty has a plan up his sleeve… he will get his fiancé Gladys (Jean Harlow, who has been waiting for years to get married, but Haggerty is always needed at work on the Big Day!) to marry Bill Chandler (William Powell) – a smart, suave chap with a Lady Killer past. After the unconsummated nuptials, Bill has to meet Connie Allenbury, work his charms on her and get someone to find them in a compromising position! The claims will be proved, the lawsuit would be dropped and Haggerty would have a load off his mind… but things don't happen so easy!

Yes, it's slightly complex, but it's oh so rewarding! There's lots of couple-matching, switching so you have to be on the ball! Watching Powell, Loy, Tracy and Harlow is pure cinematic magic – they bring such energy to the screen! As this is the 1930s, expect lots of classic, glorious, glamorous dresses from the gals, and lots of sophisticated suits from the guys! I could watch it for the fashion alone. This exceptional screwball comedy is not to be missed – it's a very witty picture that certainly keeps you on your toes – you don't know how it's going to work out!

The Gold Rush (1925)

Not to be missed

[9/10 · 30 June 2006]

This 1925 Chaplin film is probably the one I enjoyed most. I don't know what it was about this film, but I was laughing out loud constantly throughout it. Sure, it doesn't have the strong romance of City Lights (1931), but it is as funny – perhaps funnier. But when it comes to any film, it is all up to personal preference. Yep, now I think about it, this is my favourite Chaplin movie.

Like most Chaplin films, we have the benefit of a simple plot. The Gold Rush is the story of a tramp (Chaplin's classic character) that sets off to Klondike, Alaska during the Gold Rush craze. However he finds much more… including two, to say the least dodgy characters, which lead to some hilarious situations.

The only part that I am not so sure of is the romance between Georgia and The Tramp. She doesn't really seem that nice to him, and compared to his other movies, I wasn't that satisfied at the end, which is very disappointing. This is the reason why it is only nine stars out of ten instead of ten out of ten.

I really liked the narration on the DVD version, but I'm not sure why. I know some people think it takes away from the movie, but I am of the opinion that it adds to it. Chaplin has a marvelous speaking voice and I like how he guides the story. Apart from this, the DVD is absolutely the way to go for its crisp, clear picture. You'll find you'll miss some of the jokes if your picture is fuzzy.

This Chaplin film, which he wrote and directed (like most of his films), is an absolute masterpiece and a pleasure to watch. Chaplin is a comic genius. Bravo!

To Be or Not to Be (1942)

Goodbye, Carole.

[10/10 · 30 June 2006]

To Be or not To Be is Carole Lombard's last film before her tragic death in a plane crash and Jack Benny's finest. Another special thing about To Be or not To be is that it made fun of the Nazis – so much so that some were very uncomfortable seeing it. There are few films that can boast this daring achievement – making fun of Nazis in the midst of World War II. As well as succeeding at making some people uneasy, it also succeeded at making many laugh.

The story of To Be or not To Be about a theatrical company in Nazi-occupied Warsaw which is preparing to perform an anti-Nazi melodrama. Maria (Carole Lombard) and Joseph Tura (Jack Benny) are cast as the leading roles. However, the Polish government cancels the play as they are afraid it would have disastrous consequences. So instead they perform Hamlet, and when Joseph Tura is speaking those immortal words: "To be, or not to be", he notices a young man, Lieutenant Stanislav Sobinski (Robert Stack), slipping out of the audience. He is, in fact, visiting Maria Tura backstage. When war breaks out, Sobinski makes it to London to fight with the RAF, and the Turas stay in occupied Warsaw. Hilarity ensues when Maria Tura is captured by the Gestapo and to rescue her, Joseph and their friends dress up as Nazis.

This movie is absolutely hilarious, witty and clever. When I was watching it, I was dumbfounded that anyone could think of such an intelligent story which kept you constantly guessing as to what they would do next. Ernst Lubitsch manages to handle such a delicate, fragile issue and make it into a side-splitting comedy. This is an especially bittersweet movie for me as I am a big fan of Carole Lombard but I am so grateful she went on a movie such as this: a truly priceless and hilarious portrayal of Nazis. This movie is not to be missed.

The Man Who Knew Too Much (1956)

Not one of his best, but still a fine thriller

[7/10 · 29 June 2006]

I hate to admit it, but I didn't find it to be one of Hitchcock's best but nonetheless a riveting, climatic thriller. In a remake of Hitchock's 1934 movie of the same title, Dr. Ben McKenna (James Stewart) – the man who knows too much - and his wife Jo McKenna (Doris Day) are holidaying in Morocco with their son Hank (Christopher Oslen) when there is a case of mistaken identity and caught up in the web of an assassination plot. The conspirators go to extreme lengths to prevent them from interfering with their plot: kidnapping their beloved Hank.

I found it surprising that Doris Day, who I usually associate with Rock Hudson comedies, was cast in a Hitchcock film. As I was watching it, I soon realized that this was more of a family film compared to Hitchcock's other works (example: Psycho) and she had singing ability needed to pull off "Que Sera Sera", which she did beautifully. She was well cast as herself and James Stewart had chemistry, which helped make the couple believable.

In comparison to the great director's other works I believe this isn't as good, but it is still a exceedingly entertaining family thriller/mystery. There is also the added bonus of Que Sera Sera, which turned out to be a smash hit for Doris Day. Well directed, well acted. A fine film.

Annie Hall (1977)

That was the most fun I've ever had without laughing.

[8/10 · 29 June 2006]

"That was the most fun I've ever had without laughing" is just one of the witty lines from the 1977 comedy classic Annie Hall starring Woody Allen and Diane Keaton. Woody Allen pretty much plays himself (just disguised) as Alvy Singer, a surprisingly but successful but neurotic comedian. When he meets Annie Hall (Diane Keaton), a pot-smoking unsuccessful night club singer, his world changes. Although awkward at first (you have to see the famous subtitle scene – hilarious), their love turns into a bitter sweet romance with well-balanced chemistry. It's entirely realistic – definitely not a fairy-tale romance.

This has made a significant impact on the film industry – Keaton's wardrobe alone (which were in fact her own clothes) started fashion trends. It was also very unusual in the use of techniques. It also discussed sexuality, fake intellectuality, Manhattan and death (all common themes in Allen's movies).

I don't want to over analyze this movie – instead, I recommend you go out and rent it now. However, I will finally say that Annie Hall is a movie certainly not to be missed. There is hardly any space to catch your breath from laughing. Allen and Keaton are glorious in their roles, and as much I was laughing I couldn't help but reflect on the bittersweet nature of this movie. Hasn't dated at all. Just a fantastic movie.

Woman's World (1954)

Underrated, Classy Laugh Out Loud Comedy

[8/10 · 29 June 2006]

Woman's World was recommended to me through a friend of the family, and I'm very glad they did! Through the 94 minutes of this film, I was laughing out loud constantly (mainly because of June Allyson's goofy character), but also on the edge of my seat wondering who would get the job! It's rather sad that this isn't as well known as it should be, because it is a real laugh but also very climatic.

Three men are up for a major promotion in a car company and the man in charge (Clifton Webb) decides that each are fit for the job, but his decision will be based on one thing: their wives. Bill (Cornel Wilde) and Katie (June Allyson) care about each other too much to sacrifice seeing each other often. Sid (Fred MacMurray) and Elizabeth (Lauren Bacall) fight constantly as her husband is a workaholic, which causes trouble with his health. Jerry (Van Helfin) and Carol (Arlene Dahl) seem to want the job too much, and Carol goes to extreme lengths in an effort to make Jerry get the job.

Woman's World is nothing deep or revolutionary, it's just a classy comedy (I could watch it for the fashions alone!) with some big stars. It does look dated from today's standards, but I still really enjoyed it! The plot stays the same (in many ways, this is good) throughout the movie. Simply, sophisticated and elegant. Great 1954 comedy.

The Third Man (1949)

Superb Noir Thriller from Carol Reed

[10/10 · 28 June 2006]

When Holly Martin, a western writer (Joseph Cotton), travels to Vienna to meet his old friend Harry Lime (Orson Welles), he is met with a big shock: Harry is dead; killed in a road accident. When a shocked, bewildered Holly asks the witnesses about the accident, their answers don't match up, and Holly believes there might be a third man involved…

The Third Man (1949) is an amazing film-noir thriller directed by Carol Reed. I have only just started to get into noirs and this has most certainly confirmed my love for them. I think this film was particularly unusual and innovative because of the constant use of slightly slanted camera angles – almost like a comic book. There were also lots of shots of a character talking to another character that has their back to the camera, this also made it very comic book like but added to the intensity which is needed in a film noir.

And for those of you who like films that keep you on your toes, this is certainly one of them! There are a lot of plot turns and it keeps you guessing… but it is still believable.

Harry Martin is constantly torn and Cotton captures his nonchalant hero quality exceedingly well. Welles is also amazing as Harry, and Valli who plays Anna (Harry's lover) is also very dark, brooding but also warm. The acting is brilliant, no qualms there.

I have heard people – in particular, my Mother – complain about the plot holes in this movie. I can understand what she is saying but these so-called plot holes can be easily 'filled up' with a bit of common sense (I suggest the IMDb boards).

All in all, a purely magnificent film like so many other films of this genre. The story is witty, intelligent, dramatic but also slightly comedic at times, the acting realistic – great performances from all… but what truly sets this film apart is the cinematic experience that you get when you watch it, as it is completely fresh and nothing like I've seen before. Ten out of ten for this superb thriller noir.

The Birds (1963)

Hitchcock's Masterpiece: The Birds

[10/10 · 28 June 2006]

I write this as I look out the window onto the bird bath. Now that I have watched The Birds (1963), I have a completely different perspective of them. I have a slight, small fear that they will gather (there's quite a few out there), and somehow attack me with force. But I guess that's what an amazing movie does to you – it affects your thoughts and feelings long after you have finished watching.

The Birds is about a notorious socialite Melanie Daniels (Tippi Hedren) who goes out of her way to deliver two lovebirds for a prank on a man she just met (…although he recognized her!). She ends up staying the weekend in Bogeda Bay, strange things start to happen: a seagull attacks her when she delivers the lovebirds, and this is the start of the attacks which increase in terror over the movie. Hitchcock is extremely clever with this, and manages to build up both suspense and tension.

Out of all the Hitchock's I've seen so far, I believe that this is my favourite. I loved the air of suspense and tension that was created, I loved the acting, I loved the story, I loved the special effects (I would much prefer the simplistic special effects than today's – if this was made today, everything would be over the top and I believe it could take away from the movie itself), everything. Hitchcock truly excelled at this genre – no wonder why it is his trademark. A timeless classic – chilling and suspenseful.

Wife vs. Secretary (1936)

Loy, Gable and Harlow shine in this great comedy

[8/10 · 27 June 2006]

In this wonderful comedy/drama, all three major stars go against their stereotyped roles. Clark Gable, for example, plays devoted husband and businessman instead of a tough guy like he usually does. Jean Harlow plays a hard working, good natured secretary, who doesn't seem to know just how damn sexy and gorgeous she is, and no wise cracks! Then there is the lovely Myrna Loy, who plays an extremely sexy wife (in contrast to her other wife roles). This could have been another formulaic, predictable film but the stars – Loy, Harlow and Gable – shine in their roles and make this a truly funny, magical film.

The conflict starts when Linda Stanhope's (a gorgeous Myrna Loy) mother in law makes a careless comment about how nice her son's (a dashing Clark Gable) – Linda's Husband - secretary (played by Jean Harlow) is. From there, a usually non-jealous Linda becomes increasingly suspicious to her husbands actions. Many things seem to point to the conclusion that Van is having an affair. Hm!

It's rather tragic that this brilliant piece of comedy is not that well known, as it should be. All three stars are exquisite and really entertaining to watch and raises above the boring, run of the mill comedy/dramas. Wife Vs. Secretary is a great movie - I thoroughly enjoyed it.

The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938)

Action packed adventure!

[9/10 · 25 June 2006]

Captain Blood may have made Errol Flynn a star but his role as the fit, cocky hero Robin Hood made him an immortal, and is not doubt his most remembered role. Actually – Robin Hood was originally intended for Jimmy Cagney, but when Errol became a star they knew he was made for the role. Warner Brothers really went out on this one – period costumes, glorious Technicolor, (it looks like it could have been made yesterday – yet it was made over 65 years ago!), cast of thousands, mind blowing sets and much, much more! If you want to have a true cinematic experience then I strongly suggest The Adventures of Robin Hood (which I keep wanting to call 'The Adventures of Errol Flynn'!).

This movie, of course, is about the man who steals from the rich and gives to the poor: the handsome, young chap named Robin Hood who creates a lot of trouble around Sherwood! Trouble arises when Prince John (Claude Rains – almost didn't recognize him!) takes advantage of King Richard's absence to tax the country into poverty but meets his match in Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men! The cinematography is purely masterful - take the climatic, exciting fight scene towards the end. The use of shadows and light is very clever and unusual. The acting is excellent too, with great performances from all. Olivia de Havilland is wonderful as Maid Marion - her beauty is divine. I found the beginning a little slow, but as I got into it (especially when there was more Robin and Marion scenes) I couldn't stop watching it.

Robin Hood is a classic tale of good vs. evil packed with action and adventure and sure to take you for a ride. I re-watched it simply for the colours and costumes! Anyone can get a kick out of this movie. Fantastic.

Gaslight (1944)

Chilling to the bone!

[10/10 · 24 June 2006]

Combining the fantastic acting talents of the beautiful Ingrid Bergman and handsome Charles Boyer plus the supreme, intelligent direction George Cukor and a great supporting cast you get Gaslight: a cinematic masterpiece. It is mysterious, intriguing, gripping and spooky and the Victorian setting adds to this. This is almost Hitchcock like as it shares many similarities with his films.

Alice Alquist, a famous entertainer, is brutally murdered in her home. Her niece, Paula (played wonderfully by Ingrid Bergman) finds her body but the killer cannot be found. Devastated and in shock, she is sent away to school, but returns 10 years later with her new husband (played by a mysterious Charles Boyer) in an effort to let go of her feelings towards the murder. However, it is not long before strange things start to happen: she forgets things, she hears noises upstairs. Does Paula find her mother's killer? Who is it? And what is the explanation for all the weird things? The script is incredibly good - quite realistic and eerie, very atmospheric and you almost feel claustrophobic as Paula does. It's funny how this movie affected me. The scenes leading up towards the end are incredibly good and explain everything. Certainly leaves you hanging.

With the essential elements put together, Gaslight is an amazingly chilling, intriguing, mysterious, suspenseful thriller that just keeps you guessing and guessing.

Gentleman's Agreement (1947)

Groundbreaking

[7/10 · 22 June 2006]

I hate to say it, but before I saw this movie, I did not realize that there was racism against Jews in the post war period. I couldn't understand it: why would Americans promote the very thing they fought against in the war? Then I was informed that they weren't fighting against racism or discrimination, but against the Nazi regime and genocide. There is a large difference between one person's opinion and a government policy. I'm a teenager, and the fact that Jews were still discriminated against was never mentioned to me. Maybe it should be better known. I am doing Modern History next year and we will be studying the Second World War, and I'm very glad I saw this film (despite its inaccuracies).

Anyway – now to the plot. Phillip Green (Gregory Peck) is a writer who pretends to be Jewish to find out about anti-Semitism. Through this, he learns how much people discriminate against Jews and it affects him deeply and changes his life.

I was never bored in this film. I am forever fascinated by Peck, who I've always remembered as Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird (1962). This is only the second film I've seen with Peck in his younger days (it's quite a pleasure watching him). Celeste Holm also is amazing and I love how she can laugh so easily – very realistic. The only thing I wasn't satisfied with is the romantic choices by Peck's character. I wish he would have chosen the happy blonde Anne instead of the sappy, boring Kathy. Oh, how I was hoping he would choose Anne! Perhaps Dorothy McGuire was miscast; maybe someone else could have brought more energy to her character. John Garfield is fantastic as Green's Jewish friend.

This was ground breaking at the time and I really respect the people who participated in this film for taking a risk. Despite being made almost 60 years ago, I have not only learned from it but enjoyed it. Yes, there are some inaccuracies and plot holes, but I don't particularly care and it doesn't distract me. It's a great film, go see it.

Twentieth Century (1934)

What a ride!

[7/10 · 22 June 2006]

Completely over the top, silly but very funny, Twentieth Century makes the most of Carole Lombard and John Barrymore's comedic talents. This film marked the beginning of Lombard's fabulous career (tragically cut short in 1942) and the end of Barrymore's. They truly are two of the best performers that motion picture history has ever seen. I really envy Lombard's ability to laugh on cue, and Barrymore's ability to pull hilarious facial expressions.

Oscar Jaffe, (John Barrymore), a big time director, made Mildred Plotka – now named Lily Garland – a star, but HIS career is taking a battering after Lily packed up her life with him and on stage for Hollywood stardom. They accidentally meet on the Twentieth Century Limited – and hilarity ensues! There is some fantastic physical comedy here and both Barrymore and Lombard are fantastic as the overly dramatic actor/director couple who are only real "from curtain to curtain". It's a great balance of drama/comedy.

My favourite part was definitely the start. I laughed out loud when Barrymore says "Dinga-linga-ling". After seeing him in Dinner at Eight (1933), I was surprised he had THIS much talent for comedy. Carole of course is her usual perfect self. I believe neither overshadows each other. I was very impressed with both of them. However, I have not forgotten the brilliant supporting cast, with the likes of Walter Connolly, Roscoe Karns and Ralph Forbes.

Twentieth Century is a classic screwball comedy which could please the harshest of critics. Dramatic, funny but in many ways climatic. I would have enjoyed it even it had been disappointing as all the fashions were absolutely divine! Wonderful to see Hollywood's greatest actors produce such fine work together. A classic through and through.

Humoresque (1946)

Joan is, no doubt, the ultimate Diva.

[7/10 · 22 June 2006]

Humoresque contains what is said to be one of Joan Crawford's finest performances, if not the best. I cannot help but agree with them. She made a lot of fine films in the '40s – Above Suspicion (1943), Mildred Pierce - which won Joan Crawford a very much deserved Oscar - (1945), Possessed (1947) and Humoresque. She's incredibly beautiful in this.

Humoresque is about a little boy, Paul Boray (played by usual tough-guy John Garfield), who grows up in the slums. For his birthday, his father takes him to a shop and he sets his eyes on the violin and he is consumed by it. As he grows older, he becomes a very accomplished violinist but has no connections, that is, until he meets unhappily married, unsatisfied socialite Helen Wright (Joan Crawford, magnificent at playing a woman without morals!) who is his ticket to the recognition he deserves. Helen says she is purely interested in his work and only his work, but of course sparks fly and they begin a rocky, dangerous affair.

I have to admit that Humoresque is certainly not for those who dislike classical music, as there are very long scenes of simply Paul Boray playing the violin, and they seem almost claustrophobic – one long shot, hardly any movement from the camera (however, this is because they needed a certain angle for John Garfield to look like he is playing. Very cleverly done! I found these scenes drag on a bit too long, but I was fascinated looking at John Garfield's face for expressions. No doubt the music is beautiful, just perhaps a little too much of it and not enough John/Joan.

The acting is top notch with very believable performances with both. I believe this is one of Joan Crawford's best performances, but not her best (I still love Mildred Pierce). They are both wonderful at capturing the sadness, loneliness and restlessness of the characters. Then there is the wonderful Oscar Levant, who delivers the fabulous one liners with complete ease.

The climax, of course, is the ending which is wonderful. Dramatic music adds to the tone of the finale.

All in all, an incredibly dramatic, satisfying and beautiful tale of love, obsession and most of all: music. Some shots drag long – I would have preferred more scenes between Joan and John, as they did sizzle up the scene. Essential '40s film – contains two of the biggest Hollywood stars.

Made for Each Other (1939)

Well, I really enjoyed it!

[7/10 · 19 June 2006]

I can't understand the harsh reviews that this film has received from other IMDb users! I really enjoyed this film, despite the disappointing ending. I don't know if this is because I am a very big fan of both James Stewart and Carole Lombard, but I thoroughly enjoyed it nonetheless. I especially recommend it to you if you enjoyed 'Penny Serenade (1941)' with Irene Dunn and Cary Grant as they are very similar in plot.

Without the charm and ability Lombard and Stewart, I believe Made for Each Other could have been extremely ill-fated and boring. However, they manage to bring life, charm and make their characters very genuine. Made for Each Other is about a couple (played extremely well by Carole Lombard and James Stewart as always) who meet, fall in love and get married quickly, seem simply made for each other... but when certain problems arise - disapproving in-laws, job stress, financial challenges and illness, their love really takes the test.

It is only the ending that lets the film down. Not only is it bizarre but it is extremely unrealistic too. I can understand why it was written - to give an added sense of drama for the finale, to keep the reader glued to the screen, but it seemed very unnecessary.

Other than that, I found it an absolute pleasure watching Carole Lombard and James Stewart fit so perfectly into a melodrama which many of us can relate to. Perhaps it is for 'die-hard fans' only, but I do recommend it to those who are not familiar with their work. I found it very interesting, charming and occasionally laugh-out-loud funny - a great balance of comedy and drama. I can't understand the dismal reviews for this film - I thoroughly enjoyed myself! Wonderful melodrama.

Queen Bee (1955)

"Any man's my man if I want it that way."

[10/10 · 3 June 2006]

This little known 1955 melodramatic gem starring Joan Crawford, Barry Sullivan, Betsy Palmer, John Ireland, Lucy Marlow is not only incredibly over-dramatic (sometimes hilariously so) but a great opportunity for Joan Crawford to show off her inner diva and those great acting skills of hers.

Emotions run high as ruthless Southern socialite Eva Phillips (the Queen Bee - played by else but the magnificent Joan Crawford who is absolutely in her element) manipulates those around her, turning them against each other. The story begins when her sappy cousin (badly played by Lucy Marlow - you are almost happy when she gets slapped) arrives at Eva's mansion and boy, is she in for one wild ride! Affairs, suicide, car accidents, love, manipulation all drive this movie.

It is such a pleasure to watch Eva Phillips tear people apart and see the cunning ways in which she works and gets her own way. The script is, as I previously said, insanely dramatic (and sometimes the lines aren't delivered well - bad acting) and sometimes it got very funny as it just seemed really pathetic. That doesn't mean I didn't enjoy it though - no, I loved every minute of it. I loved Eva Phillip's ability to torment the people around her (for example - calling her drunk, scarred husband 'Beauty') - it was incredibly fascinating to me. And the ending was very rewarding too.

Undoubtly over-the-top to the point of laughing, but a very entertaining ride perfect for a day in. I enjoyed every minute of it, I thoroughly recommend it to comedy and drama fans alike - both could get some enjoyment out of this.

Dracula (1931)

The Movie That Started It All

[8/10 · 3 June 2006]

"I am Dracula....I Bid You Welcome." Although perhaps not the first vampire film - many regard Nosferatu (1922) (which, by the way, was a more horrific interpretation of a vampire) as the first - it is clearly the most popular. When one thinks of Dracula, you think pale face, black cape, eerie, spooky settings, mist, the thirst for blood, Trannsylvainia - and that's exactly what you get in this magnificent version of the classic tale of Dracula (a role that Bela Lugisi was born to play).

The plot is simple and well known... Dracula is a vampire and thirsts for blood. He travels to England with his newly transformed sidekick Renfield (Dwight Frye) and sets his eyes on Mina, an engaged young woman.

In my opinion, no one plays the part better of Dracula like Hungarian born Bela Lugosi, who acted in the stage version. Strangely, he was not the first choice for the film role, but he won it eventually. I believe he was the perfect choice and brings the essential strange, chilling element. His ominous, eerie presence... his long, thirsting, desiring stares and generally his intriguing and often sexy performance as Dracula. His unforgettable articulation and his mysterious entrancing tone of voice are just perfect. Imagine anyone else saying "I am Dracula....I Bid You Welcome"!

The best thing about this movie is how wonderfully it created the dark, chilling atmosphere unparalleled by any other movie on such a tiny budget. A great example of this is at the start where Dracula's brides slowly creep out. Their emotion is truly haunting. This doesn't have the now typical 'boo!' moments of modern horror flicks but I would not miss the hypnotizing performance of Dracula and the eerie settings. This is the movie that set off a whole generation of vampire movies, but I believe this is the greatest of them all. It makes others pale in comparison. Great to own on DVD.

Sunrise (1927)

Beautiful - I can't say it enough

[8/10 · 30 May 2006]

Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans is an incredibly close-to-life, touching, tender love story, where an attractive woman (Margaret Livingston) comes from the city and sets her eyes on a local farmer (George O'Brien), who, might I add, is married with a baby. The Woman from the City selfishly convinces him to drown his wife (Janet Gaynor) in a lake so they can be together in the City. The farmer tries, but cannot bring himself to do the horrible deed of murdering his wife. Oh boy, does it come back to haunt him.

This movie is filled with beautiful imagery (in fact, some of the best I've ever seen in a movie. The craft behind this movie is simply magical) which just screams German Expressionism (the director, F.W. Murnau, was German). The way they set scenes out, the links between shots and the deep meaning in some scenes is incredibly clever and very touching. I really appreciate all the hard work they put into making this movie.

The acting is (surprisingly) also very believable and still, till this day, extremely realistic. The expressions, the gestures, the actions all seem natural, realistic. It hasn't dated at all, and I don't think this has any 'silent acting' (which definitely does look dated). In other words, I thought the acting was amazing. The characters really drew them in and you could feel what they were feeling.

If you haven't seen this movie, I suggest you get the DVD and watch it! The DVD is fantastic (very crisp and clear colour), plus I found the commentary very, very useful and showed me things I didn't know or didn't realize. It is extremely informative and very useful, I definitely recommend listening to it.

This is the third silent film I've seen, and this is possibly my favorite. A very dark film, but so wonderful and touching at the same time. The imagery itself is worth a look - the fine details are excellent and a joy to watch. A beautiful romance/melodrama fit for people of all ages (I'm 15 and I really, really enjoyed it). Absolutely breathtaking.

Born Yesterday (1950)

Funny but also very inspiring

[9/10 · 20 May 2006]

It's the performance that won her an Oscar and beat out Hollywood heavyweights such as Gloria Swanson (for Sunset Blvd. which William Holden also starred in) and of course Bette Davis (for All About Eve). I certainly couldn't argue with that decision when I saw her bang-on comedic performance of a dumb blonde named Billie Dawn who doesn't question anything who blossoms into a woman who starts to question everything – her relationship with a mean-tempered millionaire, her life and what's she's doing with it, history… all with the help of a sexy reporter, played by the always wonderful William Holden. With him, her eyes are opened to the whole world. The story is remarkably uplifting and actually has a moral (something lacking in today's movies), it just depends on how you interpret it. It is fantastic to see the single same character be completely different at the start compared to the finish.

And you know what? It's all believable. I never once thought, 'Yeah right!' or 'Like it could happen that quick!' That's what's so wonderful about it. You can see the transformation process is gradual – it's not an overnight thing.

William Holden is perfectly cast as the lovely, kind hearted and certainly patient reporter tutor. He is so damn attractive and charming (such a contrast from Billie's overbearing and uncaring fiancée), you just want to be in Billie Dawn's shoes! Unfortunately, Judy Holliday had a very short (successful) career (spanning a little over ten years), and left the world far too young. Luckily, we have films like this to remember her by. I find it very sad that such a talented actress had such a short career.

Born Yesterday is a hilarious tale with some belly laughs for all. Don't miss out on Judy Holliday's Oscar winning, hilarious and inspiring portrayal of Billie Dawn. Sit back and enjoy. It's one heck of a movie!

The Band Wagon (1953)

Extravagant Musical

[7/10 · 19 May 2006]

I first saw clips of this movie when I saw 'That's Entertainment' a few months ago. Naturally, I was intrigued as it came up so frequently in that film and it looked like a very good film. As clear as crystal in dazzling technicolour and directed by the great Vincent Minnelli, The Band Wagon is clearly one of the most famous musicals, with famous numbers such as 'That's Entertainment', 'Triplets' (how on Earth they did that, I don't know!) and 'Girl Hunt'. It looks like it could have been made yesterday - and yet it's well over 50 years old! That's the magic of musicals - they never seem to age and more importantly, music will never go out of fashion. And the dancing - oh, the dancing! Magnificent, dramatic, unusual and dreamy are just some adjectives you can use to describe the wonderful choreography featured.

I wasn't very sure of Cyd Charrise's dancing ability for this (I didn't think she was anything special) but this movie proved to me that she was a very excellent dancing, with style and grace. Although, I am not sure if she is much of an actress though. Fred Astaire is his normal light-on-his-feet self, proving that you can still be fit and fabulous when you're over 50 (goodness he looks fantastic!). Everyone else in the cast - Oscar Levant, Nanette Fabray, Jack Buchanan are very well cast.

Now for the plot: Tony Hunter is a has-been. He was once a very famous dancer and singer, but his career is at an all time low. However, he has some old friends to help him. They've written a new musical for him and it would be perfect comeback material. They hire bigshot "artistic" director/producer/star Jeffrey Cordova and from then on, things get out of hand, not to mention there are conflicts between Tony and Gabrielle Gerard (Cyd Charisse).

All in all, a stunning musical no matter how cheesy or cliché it may seem. We all need to escape from reality sometimes and what a better way to escape than to be thrown into the world of lavish Broadway productions, great songs, sexy dances and magnificent colour. Great film.