I'm not sure how this movie really holds up, it felt slow and bulky a lot of the time, but had some truly great moments. Roundtree's performance was great, but the supporting roles felt like they were lacking substance. Shaft as a character felt believable and likeable, something not so common for a Black lead before the 1970's and the rise of Blaxploitation films. The gritty setting of 1970's New York made the story feel very realistic too, and not overly polished. I liked this film, and I think it's place in history is too important to ignore, but I'm not sure I'd say it is a great piece of cinema. However, it's worth the watch!
Reviews
22 Reviews
The Graduate
(1967)
The Graduate (1967)
10 December 2020
Warning: Spoilers
This is one of my favorite films of all time. A confused college grad, stuck in the inevitable in-between of youth and adulthood, who is seduced by the experienced Mrs. Robinson. Dustin Hoffman gives an unforgettable performance as Benjamin "Ben" Braddok, so convincing as the depressed, lost, and hilarious 20 year old he depicts. The editing of this film sets it a bar above the rest, with some truly fun match cuts thrown in there. (Ben crawling onto his pool float cutting to him crawling onto Mrs. Robinson comes to mind) The Simon & Garfunkel soundtrack is timeless, and cleverly used to depict the emotions felt by Ben throughout the film. Even the ending, where Ben runs away with Elaine, and the camera lingers on the two just a moment longer to show that it isn't a happy ending- Ben is just as confused and lost in life as ever. While most of the film is a bleak comedic approach to the uncertainties of life, the ending is a very sober reminder that once the film ends, you are also a victim of those uncertainties. This is a must see, especially for those who find themselves in a similar position as Benjamin Braddok. I can't recommend this film enough.
The Apartment
(1960)
The Apartment (1960)
10 December 2020
The Apartment (1960) is such a wonderful blend of comedy and drama, it's just so fun to watch it. The cast all give great performances, namely Lemmon and MacLaine, and add their own wonderful personal touches to their characters. Watching this film felt like I have known these characters for years, that's how convincing their performances were. The film did end up feeling a little slower in the second half, but was still enjoyable to watch. Even with it's sometimes very dark moments, the satire of the "American Dream" kept the film feeling realistic. I would definitely recommend this film.
Guess Who's Coming to Dinner
(1967)
Guess Who's Coming to Dinner (1967)
10 December 2020
"Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" was a fantastic watch. Tackling the "issue" of interracial marriage at this time couldn't have been an easy feat. Hepburn and Tracy's performances were amazing, and truly convincing. The performance given by Sydney Poitier is nothing short of phenomenal, and it comes at no surprise. The social questions that this film raises during the time it was released in the United States were incredibly important, and while the film definitely has it's moments that don't hold up in our current social climate, the message of love being love no matter who it is between is something that can still be taught today. The editing of the film felt very well done as well, not a single scene felt out of place or poorly paced. Overall I really enjoyed this film, even if it does tend to show it's age at some points. I would recommend it even if only to see Hepburn and Tracy's acting performance!
Vertigo
(1958)
Vertigo (1958)
16 November 2020
I had seen quite a few Hitchcock films before watching Vertigo, but this one might be a contender for my number one spot after viewing. The story is just so intriguing! A romantic story of obsession, manipulation, and fear. The acting performances by Kim Novak and James Stewart are incredible, and their chemistry on screen feels so natural. From beginning to end, the film is filled to the brim with beautiful shots, amazing scenery, and an amazing score. The suspense of the film leading up to that shocking ending keeps you interested right up until, well, it happens. Something that really caught my eye was the opening credit sequence. It sets the tone for the film right off the bat. I'm surprised it had taken me so long to watch this one, but I'm so glad that I did.
Psycho
(1960)
Psycho (1960)
16 November 2020
Warning: Spoilers
In Psycho, Hitchcock shows off that he can master the feeling of suspense in his films. There's very few moments while watching this film that you don't feel a slight chill running down your spine. While it doesn't have the over-the-top horror aspects of todays films, it actually has one of my favorite jump scares of all time. The scene where Arbogast reaches the top of the stairs and all you see is a figure swiftly come out of the bedroom and stab him, made my skin crawl the very first time I saw it. The sound design and soundtrack are utilized so artfully in making the film as suspenseful and thrilling as it is. You can't mention this film without mentioning the iconic "shower scene" which is just a masterclass in filmmaking. The use of cuts, a cut for every slash of the knife, and not a single one containing an actual mark on Janet Leigh's body. The constant cut of the camera and jump to blood running down the drain lets your brain piece it all together without showing almost a single thing. It's things like this that show off just how amazing Hitchcock films are, and why this film is such a smart horror. If you love horror, this film needs to be on your watch list.
The Wizard of Oz
(1939)
The Wizard of Oz (1939)
16 November 2020
There's a reason this film has stood the test of time. The film itself is simple and lighthearted, with characters that are reminiscent of innocence and what we value in ourselves and others. The technological advances that were used in the creation of this movie were groundbreaking at the time, and they show it off with the beautiful cinematography and bright, vibrant colors. The musical numbers flow perfectly into the story and never feel out of place, and all of them are catchy to boot! "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" will always be one of my favorite songs of all time, and Judy Garland's rendition in this film is still so wonderful to watch. You can clearly see the impact that this film has had on the film industry in the decades following its release. The acting performances were great all around, making these whimsical characters feel relatable and realistic to the viewer. Overall, you can't go wrong with The Wizard of Oz. It's a great watch for any and everybody.
Singin' in the Rain
(1952)
Singin' in the Rain (1952)
13 November 2020
As somebody who is a fan of musicals, it's no surprise that I love this film. I've seen it countless times and it is magical every single time I see it. The songs will be stuck in your head for days after watching, and you probably have heard a lot of them regardless of seeing the film. On top of the delightful love story between Kathy (Debbie Reynolds) and Don (Gene Kelly) and the mesmerizing musical numbers with their bright beautiful colors, you also get to see a commentary of Hollywood at the time. The transition from silent films to "talkies" and all that came with it is the underlying cause of major plot points throughout the film. I'd recommend this film to just about anyone. Even if you've never seen or liked a musical in your life, I think this would be the exception. And if you've seen and enjoyed musicals without seeing this one, add it to the top of your list.
Double Indemnity
(1944)
Double Indemnity (1944)
13 November 2020
Very few films can pull off revealing the killer at the very beginning, but Double Indemnity definitely does. Watching the story unfold and the truth being revealed throughout the film was an amazing experience. The story is gripping and the acting is quite notable. In particular, Barbara Stanwyck's performance was incredible, she made it so easy to hate her. The way she could manipulate everything and everyone around her was infuriating. This feels at times like a story about human nature above all else, and the extent people will go to for money. Overall, I can see why it is so beloved and highly reviewed. I would definitely recommend this film.
Out of the Past
(1947)
Out of the Past (1947)
13 November 2020
When I first saw this film in a high school film class, I fell in love with the noir genre. Upon rewatching recently, this film really has it all. The soundtrack is perfection, perfectly timed and providing the right tone for every scene. The acting talents of Mitchum and Greer are incredible, especially when on screen together. The dark, moody, and high contrast lighting is a staple in the noir genre and this film nails it. The story is intriguing, keeping you on the edge of your seat waiting for the next twist -which you know is coming but can't predict what it will be. I would highly recommend this film to somebody who is interested in getting into noir films, as it is a perfect representation of the genre as a whole. Overall, it's a classic film that could be enjoyed by any film lover.
Saboteur
(1942)
Saboteur (1942)
21 October 2020
The story of a man who is on the run and who must clear his name seems to be a common trope with Hitchcock, but it's because he truly does it best. This one in particular provides a specific brand of paranoia provided by the war time it was released in. The concept of "watch out for the man behind your back!" and the fear of your coworkers being involved in something sinister was a real concern of Americans at this time, which I think makes the story more poignant. While I don't think that Robert Cummings was one of Hitchcocks best leading men, the story of Barry Kane and the people he meets along the way is entertaining all the same. The story does feel a bit slow at points, especially when things start to kick off in New York, but it makes up for itself in other places. It isn't my favorite Hitchcock film, but still worth watching.
Casablanca
(1942)
Casablanca - 1942
21 October 2020
This is truly one of the greatest classics of film. The story is non-stop and keeps you intrigued up until they very iconic ending. The film itself has quite the unique atmosphere, where every character knows everybody else's business. Despite this, every major character is trying to figure out what the others are going to do. The chemistry of all the major characters is amazing, and the performances from Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart are incredible. I love that we don't truly know what Rick is going to do until the very end of the film, but you also kind of knew all along that he would do the right thing. This is truly a master class in story telling and I would recommend that everybody watches this film at least once, even if just for the ending.
Stagecoach
(1939)
Stagecoach (1939)
5 October 2020
If you have never seen a John Wayne film, this is the one to start with. It's not hard to believe that this was the film that launched him into stardom and it's easy to see why he's such a film legend today. His performance as Ringo Kid was phenomenal and engaging. The other performances also deserve recognition, especially from Clare Trevor and Thomas Mitchell. Ford took a simple enough story and turned it into a masterpiece. It's not often you have a film with quite so many characters that are all endearing and fleshed-out enough that you care about each one's outcome. The soundtrack is another strong point of the film, with music that just evokes a western feel, even while listening to it on it's own without the film to back it up. The long shots and amazing setting of Monument Valley made for some beautiful cinematography, and the stunt work was impressive to say the least. I would highly recommend "Stagecoach" to anybody looking to get into westerns or explore the creation of the "disaster movie" genre.
Young Mr. Lincoln
(1939)
Young Mr. Lincoln (1939)
5 October 2020
Fonda's performance as a young Lincoln was incredible. He portrays Lincoln with humor and cunning wit, and it keeps you intrigued throughout the interesting trial that Abe is taking part in. While coming across as very dramatic and a bit overly patriotic at times, considering this is a film set long before Lincoln becomes President, the sarcasm and humor throughout makes up for it. Ford's directing made for some very beautiful still frames and well constructed shots for visual storytelling. It was a compelling story that, while a work of fiction, brought a great insight into the character of young Abraham Lincoln.
Imitation of Life
(1934)
Imitation of Life (1934)
29 September 2020
To see a film that touches on sensitive points so openly in the 1930's is almost unbelievable. It was controversial at the time to not only show two women working together and living together, but to also show a Black woman and a white woman as close friends running a business together. Where this films most important story lies is with Delilah's daughter Peola. Peola is light-skinned and white passing and does everything in her power to distance herself from her heritage and who she is. Bringing an issue like this to light so openly was unheard of, especially at this time.
Although it can feel overacted at times, it still is a culturally significant film. It is difficult to look past the racist undertones and mixed messages from today's standards, but I suppose that is to be expected from a film made in such a different time.
My Man Godfrey
(1936)
My Man Godfrey (1936)
29 September 2020
While providing an interesting view into the class differences of the Great Depression, My Man Godfrey does not disappoint as a classic screwball comedy. William Powell is the perfect fit to play Godfrey, I find it hard to believe there would be a better choice for the role of a butler to a high class quirky family who is trying to maintain a level head and sophistication. His onscreen chemistry with Carole Lombard is incredible throughout, making for a perfect screen partnership.
Lombard is also a genius in her acting, you can truly see she was the perfect "Screwball" comedian. My Man Godfrey is truly a must watch for the "screwball" drama, as it is a perfect blend of sophistication and comedy.
The Invisible Man
(1933)
The Invisible Man (1933)
21 September 2020
The Invisible Man (1933) was truly a groundbreaking film for its time and a staple in the Universal Monster films. While barely being seen on screen, Claude Rains did an amazing job acting with essentially just his voice. The character he plays- Dr. Jack Griffin- is both menacing and even humorous at times.
What I was truly impressed with were the visual effects used in this film. While they don't exactly compare to the CGI and practical effects being used today, it's always fun to watch older movies and think "how did they do that?" While you could easily go through with a fine-toothed comb and point out discrepancies today, in 1933 this was groundbreaking film technology.
Overall I enjoyed the film, I found it entertaining throughout. It did feel almost a little rushed towards the end but I don't think it took away from the overall quality of the film.
What I was truly impressed with were the visual effects used in this film. While they don't exactly compare to the CGI and practical effects being used today, it's always fun to watch older movies and think "how did they do that?" While you could easily go through with a fine-toothed comb and point out discrepancies today, in 1933 this was groundbreaking film technology.
Overall I enjoyed the film, I found it entertaining throughout. It did feel almost a little rushed towards the end but I don't think it took away from the overall quality of the film.
Frankenstein
(1931)
Frankenstein (1931)
18 September 2020
This is the first of the classic universal monster films that I've watched, and at first it was exactly what I expected. Growing up, everybody knew the story of Dr. Frankenstein and his creation, it is one of the most iconic classics in horror and has been referenced endlessly. Upon watching this film I gained a new appreciation for the story, seeing it brought to life through beautiful, gothic black and white.
While the performances can seem a little over the top at times (for example, Henry Frankenstein) it never comes off as campy or unserious. It keeps you interested, and the lack of a score to the film requires the actors to draw you in on their own.
Overall, I don't think it would hold up to today's standards in horror. It's impact can still be seen in modern horror, and it truly is a classic.
While the performances can seem a little over the top at times (for example, Henry Frankenstein) it never comes off as campy or unserious. It keeps you interested, and the lack of a score to the film requires the actors to draw you in on their own.
Overall, I don't think it would hold up to today's standards in horror. It's impact can still be seen in modern horror, and it truly is a classic.
Little Caesar
(1931)
Little Caesar - 1931
14 September 2020
In Little Caesar, Edward G. Robinson portrays Rico Bandello, a crook who swiftly becomes the crime boss of a powerful gang in the big city. His performance encapsulated the stereotype "mobster" character that would be followed for decades to come. I found it interesting that throughout the film you see just how fragile power can be and just how quickly things change in his life of crime. Robinson's acting portrayed just how ruthless you needed to be to get far as a gangster, seeing every relationship as a sign of weakness even if it means being lonely at the top. While being a fun gangster movie, I feel it comes across almost silly by todays standards. Fun to watch, and tons of action, but it could almost feel like a parody of gangster films at times. I would still recommend it as a good time to watch.
I Am a Fugitive From a Chain Gang - 1932
14 September 2020
To say this film surprised me would be an understatement. Paul Muni gives such an engaging performance as James Allen, a World War veteran who gets caught up in a robbery and then is thrown into the prison system. You can't help but empathize with him even when he would be a "bad guy" from the perspective of others in the film. I was on the edge of my seat for the entirety of this film, and I was surprised at just how much of a social statement it was making. A film that highlights the United States prison system and its flaws may seem commonplace today in 2020, but in 1932 it was practically unheard of. The sound design of this film along with the lighting really drive home the moody feel of the film. I would highly recommend, and I am excited to watch more films with Paul Muni in them!
The Circus
(1928)
The Circus - 1928
7 September 2020
"The Circus" is the first Charlie Chaplin film I have had the pleasure of watching in its entirety, and I must say it exceeded my expectations. Even in 2020, I found myself giggling throughout the entire film at Chaplins wit and physical comedy. Each scene flowed into the next, and it felt like we were following The Tramp through his story without ever slowing our pace. Not only is this a timeless comedy, it also proves to be quite the sweet love story. Throughout the film you'll find yourself feeling for the main characters as well as laughing at their antics, all leading up to an almost melancholic ending. A touching comedy that I feel truly shows why Chaplin is such a legend of film.
The General
(1926)
The General - 1926
7 September 2020
This film gave me a new appreciation for silent films, and the effort that truly goes into them. Buster Keatons amazing physical acting and body language throughout the film keeps your attention and has you following along closely to see what happens next. What I found interesting was that this film felt more like an action film with comedic elements, rather than just a comedy. From the moment The General is stolen, up until the very end, the action truly is non-stop. The stunts performed in this were intense for the times and actually pretty dangerous, which opened my eyes to the risks Keaton was willing to take for his comedy and acting. While the comedy was primarily slapstick and obviously silly, it never felt out of place during this film. I would highly recommend it as a view into this time period of filmmaking.
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