One of the perks of being on Summer vacation is that I get to catch-up on some classic films, many considered to be among the greatest in the history of cinema, that I’ve never had the time and/or opportunity to see. Here are the five I’ve screened thus far as part of the LCJ Personal Summer Film Festival 2014:
“Broadway Danny Rose” – Woody Allen’s black-and-white tale of a theatrical manager on a one-day adventure with the girlfriend of his popular client is a sweet, old-fashioned comedy. Allen and Mia Farrow have terrific chemistry and the final few minutes are simply perfect.
“Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb” – Considered to be one of the best comedies ever made, Stanley Kubrick’s 1964 WWII farce was certainly daring and groundbreaking for its time. Peter Sellers is quite good in his multiple roles. It’s not one of the funniest movies I’ve ever seen, but it’s satisfying and engaging (and the Wes Anderson connection is undeniable).
“Moonstruck” – Cher won the 1987 Best Actress Oscar for her electric performance as an engaged widow who stumbles upon a man who could be the true love of her life (played by Nicolas Cage). Olympia Dukakis and a pre-“Frasier” John Mahoney are the supporting cast stand-outs in this charming, highly likeable romantic comedy.
“North by Northwest” – Director Alfred Hitchcock’s complex and brilliant thriller involving a case of mistaken identity that quickly escalates into much more is spellbinding. Loads of twists and tension. Cary Grant and Eva Marie Saint are incredibly natural together. Films such as this simply aren’t made anymore. Hitchcock gold.
“The Silence of the Lambs” – Contrary to what the Academy thought, I still don’t believe this deserved the 1991 Best Picture honor over “Beauty and the Beast”. But Anthony Hopkins and Jodie Foster are fantastic, especially in their powerful and iconic scenes together. Suspenseful and gritty throughout.
Still on the Festival agenda: “Rain Man”, “Apollo 13”, “Kramer vs. Kramer”, “Casablanca”, “Jaws” and more. I need an “Endless Summer”.