klaatu-10 Reviews

Bus Stop (1956)

Why Marilyn is Unforgettable

[8 January 2001]

The movie itself is mildly OK. However, this movie shows why MM has been so unforgettable to the American public almost 40 years after her death.

Check out two scenes. First, the justifiably famous rendition of "That Old Black Magic" number. Whether acting or if it's the real Marilyn Monroe, she conveys loneliness in front of a packed saloon; the feeling of recognition and appreciation when the Don Murray (Bo)character berates the patrons to show respect to her while she sings; and the out-and-out sexiness of her when she is lit up in red flames. Wow!!

The second scene is near the end when, standing out in the cold, Bo offers her his coat. The look on her face when she realizes that someone, maybe for the first time, is there to look after her and take care of her is absolutely moving. Again we can see the real Marilyn in the character. She so desperately looked for love and acceptance all through her life.

This is not a great movie. It is a great showcase for one of the most

remarkable personalities in movie history.

What's New Pussycat (1965)

Loved the cast, Hated the movie

[6/10 · 20 March 2000]

I really wanted to like this movie because of all the great actors. However, it is a totally awful movie. Maybe it was meant to be and was just a showcase for some really awesome talent.

Woody Allen proved to be hilarious in his first starring role. Paula Prentiss was one of the best comediennes of the 1960s. She's definitely the best thing in the movie. Peter Sellers did as good as he could. European beauties Romy Schneider and Capucine were OK. Capucine was a tragic figure with classic French looks and an aloof persona. Ursula Andress has got to be one of the sexiest women of any generation to appear on celluloid. Not much talent, but she didn't need it. Alas, Peter O'Toole was totally miscast in his attempt at comedy. He did much better years later in "My Favorite Year"

But hey, the opening credits were pretty good. And who could not like Tom Jones warbling the title song.

Dodsworth (1936)

Great Moviemaking

[10/10 · 7 February 2000]

It is hard to believe that this film is 64 years old. Walter Huston gives a performance of depth and understanding. He is matched by Mary Astor. The acting seems much more 'modern' than other films from that era, and the story will definitely hold comtemporary audiences. One of my choices for one of the greatest films of the 1930s.

To Each His Own (1946)

Overlooked

[9/10 · 21 November 1998]

This is one of my favorite overlooked movies of the '40s. Olivia deHavilland truly deserved an Academy Award for her performance. Told in flashbacks, she is as believable as an older woman as she was as a young lady. A really memorable ending, I could watch it again and again.

Imitation of Life (1959)

Fine Soap Opera

[9/10 · 13 November 1998]

This is probably the best of the slick '50s soap operas of the era. Susan Kohner gives a knock-out performance as a tormented soul and Juanita Moore is just as fine as her long-suffering mother. They give the best moments in this film whose "stars" are Lana Turner, Sandra Dee, and John Gavin. A real tear-jerker at the end.

Humoresque (1946)

Great Finale

[8/10 · 13 November 1998]

Well-done and classy. Joan gives a better performance in this than she did the previous year when she won the Academy Award for "Mildred Pierce". The movie can lag in places but if you stick it out you will witness a great finale when Joan takes a walk along the beach----I love the ending.