#98: Great Expectations (1946) September 4, 2007
Posted by badblokebob in : Drama, adaptations, 4 stars, 1940s, British films, David Lean, 2007 , add a comment1946 | David Lean | 113 mins | DVD | PG
Classic adaptation of the acclaimed novel. While my experience of Dickens is woefully limited to screen adaptations, this tale is one of my lesser favourites; the first act and elements of the climax are wonderfully Gothic (and here beautifully directed to that effect), but it seems to lack the depth or importance of works such as Bleak House, Oliver Twist or A Christmas Carol.
Though, aside from the dully straightforward middle, there’s little to dislike about the adaptation. John Mills is too old to convince as a 20-year-old Pip, but his performance is good and he’s ably supported. However, the main highlights are undoubtedly all in Lean’s brilliant direction.
#76: Brief Encounter (1945) August 6, 2007
Posted by badblokebob in : Drama, Romance, 5 stars, 1940s, British films, David Lean, 2007 , add a comment1945 | David Lean | 83 mins | DVD | PG
Celia Johnson and Trevor Howard star in the classic romantic drama from highly acclaimed writer Noel Coward and highly acclaimed director David Lean. The central character’s relationship is, famously, a very British affair — all awkwardly repressed emotions, discussion of the weather, fear of society’s opinions, stolen passionate kisses, guilt, indecision, true love and endless cups of tea. The witty screenplay, direction, and lead and supporting performances are all excellent. Undoubtedly and deservedly a true British classic.
#56: Road to Morocco (1942) June 11, 2007
Posted by badblokebob in : Comedy, Musical, 3 stars, 1940s, 2007 , 1 comment so far1942 | David Butler | 82 mins | VHS | U
Gentle, silly humour abound in this comedy, the third in the Road to… series. If you remember those plays that Morecambe & Wise used to do you’ll have a fair idea what this feels like, although with a couple of added musical numbers (and pretty good ones at that). It’s not ‘great cinema’ and it won’t be to everyone’s taste, but it makes for a light, fun way to spend not much more than an hour.
#24: The Reckless Moment (1949) March 21, 2007
Posted by badblokebob in : Drama, Film Noir, adaptations, 4 stars, 1940s, 2007 , add a comment1949| Max Ophuls | 79 mins | DVD | 12
Ophuls’ film noir about a mother who covers up the death of her daughter’s much older boyfriend. I think I’m perhaps erring on the side of generosity with the rating, but it is still quite a good film. Certainly it allowed me to play one of my favourite games: what would I change if I remade it? I had a few quite good ideas, actually. I’m tempted to start writing…