chance-9 Reviews

Storm Warning (1950)

An Overlooked Film Noir

[10/10 · 18 December 2001]

This film holds up so very well even after fifty years. The searing indictment of smalltown xenophobia and the struggle for truth is the hallmark here. Reagan does well in the role, but Steve Cochran and especially Ginger Rogers really shine here. The closing seconds with the fleeing Klansmen and the crumbling fiery cross coupled with strong orchestral strings leaves a hard hitting message that resonates. This film belongs on DVD as a testament to the ongoing struggle against intolerance, ignorance, and the fear of those things that are different. 1951 - 2001, sadly the need for that continues.

Deathmaster (1972)

Rare and Groovy Hippie Vampire Film!

[10/10 · 11 June 2000]

I watched this film many times as a kid in the late 1970's on late night TV. Robert Quarry co-produced this venture after the unexpected and phenomenal success of the two "Count Yorga" features, but it did not hold up to expectation at the box-office. I highly recommend watching this period piece, if you can find it. It is extremely hard to find anywhere.

The Death Wheelers (1973)

Haunting and Superb!

[10/10 · 11 June 2000]

I have always liked this film since seeing it as a kid on late night TV. Two elements stand out about this film. It being George Sander's last role and the funeral scene at the "Seven Witches". The song sung by the guitar player at the grave is very haunting and disturbing because it seems like an ode for teenage suicide. I was able to perceive this subtle impression even at age fifteen. I have always been surprised that this part of scene was never censored out. I still recommend this film to those interested in British horror of the early 1970's.

Operation Eichmann (1961)

Chilling In An Unusual Way

[10/10 · 28 May 1999]

The most chilling scene is to see the SS characters of Werner Klemperer and John Banner (Four years before "Hogan's Heroes") matter of factly greeting the Jewish arrivals to the death camp. The contrast between the high comedy of their work together later on belied how easy a shift of perspective of the Third Reich could be achieved. I recommend this film just for this extremely chilling scene alone.