Canadians sometimes have an inferiority complex when it comes to their military history. Recent developments notwithstanding, we seem to be ignored in pictures regarding the Second World War; likely because it is simply we were seen as being under the British. It actually may be surprising to learn that we were under our own command... Continue Reading →
PAID (1930)
The subversive world of pre-code Hollywood continues to delight. Each studio had a formula and star that was put into dastardly situations, usually coming out on top or with a new moral fiber. The pleasure comes from seeing how these film makers were blatant with their language, actions, and predicaments. Sam Wood delivers a punchy... Continue Reading →
ILLEGAL (1955)
Hollywood in the fifties was going through a transition. The moguls were losing control of the medium. Actors were becoming independent. Audiences were evolving. Sure, scandals still happened that were hushed up. The argument, the evidence, the testimony and the final sound of the gavel hitting wood can all be bought or controlled. This was... Continue Reading →
STARDUST ELEGANCE: An opinion on simplicity and people.
Watching film for the sheer enjoyment of it can sometimes be overpowering in the amount one views. I thought it would a good time to step back -a type of intermission- and look one of the admirable aspects of picture watching which is overlooked: its simplicity. Embodying simplicity and elegance was TCM Networks on air... Continue Reading →
THE INVISIBLE MENACE (1938)
The mystery play, with its creaking doors, sliding panels and bodies falling out of unexpected places has long been a staple of stage thrillers. THE CAT AND THE CANARY (1927), THE BAT WHISPERS (1930) and others were made into films with the fusion of the forties of horror/mystery to come. Boris Karloff, or "Billy Pratt"... Continue Reading →