1930s Hall of Fame Part 2

[edarsenal]

https://cdn.thinglink.me/api/image/735427714114125824/1240/10/scaletowidth

WELCOME!!
To The

1930's Hall of Fame
Part 2

Looks like this one will be a fast draw, so we'll be hitting the ground running on this one!

Will credit Citizen Rules for the following three paragraphs:

If you're new to Hofs know that you are required to watch all the movies that are nominated and to participate in the discussions and writing your thoughts on the movies in this Hof. If you need to drop out after this Hof starts:
Do so at the very start, and most importantly PM me if you need to drop out so I know to remove your movie

IMPORTANT:
We've had a problem with people joining HoFs, but never participating, and never saying they've dropped out either. That causes problems!

New HoF members will need to post their movie write ups on a regular basis. 1 write up in the first 2 weeks, and 3 in the first month and so on. That way we know your keeping up. If too much time passes without any activity from someone, their movie with be disqualified.


Has stated, this will be a quick one since we're looking to finish BEFORE the September 31 Due Date for the 30's Countdown, so, objectively, the tentative Deadline will be around

September 20, 2018

So, it's VERY important to know, before joining in, this WILL BE a quick one.
I won't put a limit on running times, though I do know a lot of films are above one hour and below two hours, but, please, try to courteous and not go for anything TOO long. If at all possible. THANK YOU

[edarsenal]

Member Reviews


Siddon List Sent In
Humanity and Paper Balloons (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929103#post1929103)
The Roaring Twenties (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929360#post1929360)
Virtue (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1933384#post1933384)
Of Mice and Men (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1937694#post1937694)
It Happened One Night (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1941626#post1941626)
Mad Love (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1945218#post1945218)
The Thin Man (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1945256#post1945256)
The Goddess (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1945311#post1945311)
Red Dust (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1945999#post1945999)
Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1947427#post1947427)
I am a Fugitive From a Chain Gang (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1947432#post1947432)

cricket List Sent In
The Thin Man (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1928312#post1928312)
Of Mice and Men (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1928320#post1928320)
Humanity and Paper Balloons (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1928889#post1928889)
Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929167#post1929167)
Mad Love (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929284#post1929284)
The Roaring Twenties (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929337#post1929337)
Red Dust (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929561#post1929561)
The Goddess (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929761#post1929761)
Virtue (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929922#post1929922)
It Happened One Night (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1931238#post1931238)
I am a Fugitive From a Chain Gang (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1934930#post1934930)

edarsenal List Sent In
Virtue (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1928424#post1928424)
It Happened One Night (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1928426#post1928426)
The Roaring Twenties (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929360#post1929360)
Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1932276#post1932276)
The Thin Man (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1934092#post1934092)
Mad Love (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1936494#post1936494)
Of Mice and Men (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1939157#post1939157)
Red Dust (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1941515#post1941515)
I am a Fugitive From a Chain Gang (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1945758#post1945758)
The Goddess (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1948762#post1948762)
Humanity and Paper Balloons (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1951210#post1951210)

Citizen Rules List Sent In
Red Dust (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1928600#post1928600)
Virtue (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1928787#post1928787)
The Goddess (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1928935#post1928935)
Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929045#post1929045)
Mad Love (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929215#post1929215)
The Roaring Twenties (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929365#post1929365)
I am a Fugitive From a Chain Gang (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929796#post1929796)
Of Mice and Men (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1932038#post1932038)
It Happeded One Night (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1932053#post1932053)
Humanity and Paper Balloons (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1933732#post1933732)
The Thin Man (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1934675#post1934675)

MijaFrost List Sent In
Virtue (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1930783#post1930783)
Humanity and Paper Balloons (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1930783#post1930783)
Of Mice and Men (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1931236#post1931236)
I am a Fugitive From a Chain Gang (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1931236#post1931236)
The Thin Man (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1935368#post1935368)
The Roaring Twenties (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1935368#post1935368)
Red Dust (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1949381#post1949381)
Mad Love (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1949381#post1949381)
Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1949381#post1949381)
It Happened One Night (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1950630#post1950630)
The Goddess (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1950630#post1950630)

Pussy Galore "List Sent In
Virtue (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1930543#post1930543)
Of Mice and Men (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1936562#post1936562)
The Thin Man (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1938824#post1938824)
The Goddess (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1942090#post1942090)
It Happened One Night (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1946487#post1946487)
Mad Love (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1951312#post1951312)
The Roaring Twenties (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1951312#post1951312)
Red Dust (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1951312#post1951312)

Nathaniel List Sent In
Red Dust (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1928750#post1928750)
Of Mice and Men (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929745#post1929745)
Virtue (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1930756#post1930756)
Mad Love (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1933170#post1933170)
Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1933845#post1933845)
The Goddess (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1935310#post1935310)
The Thin Man (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1936800#post1936800)
Humanity and Paper Balloons (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1938417#post1938417)
I am a Fugitive From a Chain Gang (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1940226#post1940226)
It Happened One Night (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1941668#post1941668)
The Roaring Twenties (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1942446#post1942446)

Thursday Next Nom Sent In
Virtue (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1931434#post1931434)
The Goddess (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1931434#post1931434)
Of Mice and Men (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1932697#post1932697)
The Roaring Twenties (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1937701#post1937701)
Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1937758#post1937758)
I am a Fugitive From a Chain Gang (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1940413#post1940413)
Mad Love (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1945139#post1945139)
Humanity and Paper Balloons (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1945827#post1945827)
It Happened One Night (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1946378#post1946378)
Red Dust (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1947434#post1947434)
The Thin Man (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1948423#post1948423)

pahaK List Sent In
The Goddess (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1928170#post1928170)
The Thin Man (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1928282#post1928282)
Mad Love (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1928869#post1928869)
I am a Fugitive From a Chain Gang (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929557#post1929557)
It Happened One Night (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1931173#post1931173)
Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1933372#post1933372)
Virtue (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1934235#post1934235)
Red Dust (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1936239#post1936239)
Of Mice and Men (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1937193#post1937193)
The Roaring Twenties (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1942098#post1942098)
Humanity and Paper Balloons (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1942945#post1942945)

Chypmunk List Sent In
Mad Love (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1928454#post1928454)
It Happened One Night (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1928886#post1928886)
Humanity and Paper Balloons (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929156#post1929156)
The Goddess (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929293#post1929293)
Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929502#post1929502)
I am a Fugitive From a Chain Gang (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929891#post1929891)
Red Dust (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1931271#post1931271)
The Roaring Twenties (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1932018#post1932018)
The Thin Man (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1932526#post1932526)
Virtue (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1932959#post1932959)
Of Mice and Men (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1934484#post1934484)

rauldc14 List Sent In
Virtue (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929197#post1929197)
The Roaring Twenties (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1929724#post1929724)
Humanity and Paper Balloons (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1931430#post1931430)
Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1933198#post1933198)
Red Dust (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1933675#post1933675)
The Goddess (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1935399#post1935399)
Of Mice and Men (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1936801#post1936801)
Mad Love (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1936898#post1936898)
The Thin Man (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1939321#post1939321)
I am a Fugitive From a Chain Gang (https://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?p=1941279#post1941279)

[edarsenal]

NOMINATIONS


Mad Love (1935) Director Karl Freund
Running Time: 1hr & 8min
Nominated by: Siddon
https://monstermoviekid.files.wordpress.com/2016/10/mad-love-1935.jpg


Of Mice and Men (1939) Director: Lewis Milestone
Running Time: 1hr & 46min
Nominated by: cricket
https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7290/9341218831_fae3b08229_b.jpg


It Happened One Night (1934) Director: Frank Capra
Running Time: 1hr & 45min
Nominated by edarsenal
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/91vvLiiIhjL._SX342_.jpg


Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1931) Director: Rouben Mamoulian
Running Time: 1hr & 38 min
Nominated by Citizen Rules
https://classic-horror.com/files/images/drjekyll_mrhyde_1931.jpg


The Goddess (1934) Directed by Wu Yonggang
Running Time: 1hr & 25min
Nominated by MijaFrost
https://i.pinimg.com/originals/fb/3a/9c/fb3a9cff91455c728ec607fa8e00fd8b.jpg


I Am A Fugitive From A Chain Gang (1932) Director: Mervyn LeRoy
Running Time: 1hr & 33min
Nominated by Pussy Galore
http://www.filmsite.org/posters/iamafugitive3.jpg


The Roaring Twenties (1939) Director: Raoul Walsh
Running Time: 1hr & 47min
Nominated by Nathaniel
https://imgc.allpostersimages.com/img/print/posters/the-roaring-twenties-1939_a-G-6249302-9664571.jpg


Humanity and Paper Balloons (1937) Director: Sadao Yamanaka
Running Time: 1hr & 26min
Nominated by pahaK
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61r6nQEwH1L._SY445_.jpg


The Thin Man (1934) Director: W. S. Van Dyke
Running Time: 1hr & 33min
Nominated by Thursday Next
https://i.pinimg.com/originals/0a/62/ee/0a62ee9c785362aea2dbf4c82c2ccdb3.jpg


Virtue (1932) Director: Edward Buzzell
Running Time: 1hr & 8min
Nominated by Chypmunk
https://thedullwoodexperiment.files.wordpress.com/2018/03/virtue_3f45310a.jpg


Red Dust (1932) Director: Victor Fleming
Running Time: 1hr & 23min
Nominated by rauldc14
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cTxH8Ez6-CQ/UYmktoOyVNI/AAAAAAAAI_c/JbzSAcS4TJo/s1600/red-dust-clark-gable-jean-harlow-1932.jpg

[Siddon]

Hopefully we'll get a decent mix of genres, this was a great decade for comedies, horror, and musicals.

[edarsenal]

Hopefully we'll get a decent mix of genres, this was a great decade for comedies, horror, and musicals.
Actually, so far, there is!

[Citizen Rules]

I went with a totally different genre for my movie. And it's a pre-code film too.

[edarsenal]

We're off to a helluva start.
I'll probably keep nominations open for a couple of days and see who jumps in quick and then we'll get this thing going!

[Citizen Rules]

We're off to a helluva start.
I'll probably keep nominations open for a couple of days and see who jumps in quick and then we'll get this thing going! We have got to get rauldc14 in here!

[edarsenal]

We have got to get rauldc14 in here!

I was going to post his name, but I didn't want to be presumptuous

[Citizen Rules]

I was going to post his name, but I didn't want to be presumptuousOh what the hell:p Raul wanted to join, I think?...Hopefully everyone from the 1st 30s HoF is up for this.

[Siddon]

MijaFrost also wanted to join the other 1930's one.

[edarsenal]

MijaFrost also wanted to join the other 1930's one.
yes, she did, THANKS for mentioning her!
and I'm not sure, but I think pahaK was considering joining in as well

[MijaFrost]

MijaFrost also wanted to join the other 1930's one.

Thanks for the notification, I've now sent in my nom. =)

[Chypmunk]

Child Bride 2: The Return Of The Doll for the win ;)

Sorry, couldn't resist :D

[pahaK]

Child Bride 2: The Return Of The Doll for the win ;)

Sorry, couldn't resist :D

:D

I'm still trying to decide if I'm up to watching another patch of 1930s films in this damn heat. I do have a nomination picked and everything (and it has nothing to do with having sex with children, by the way) so if I decide to join I'm practically ready to go. Will try to decide today.

[Thursday Next]

I won't put a limit on running times, though I do know a lot of films are above one hour and below two hours, but, please, try to courteous and not go for anything TOO long. If at all possible. THANK YOU

So no Gone With the Wind then...

[edarsenal]

So no Gone With the Wind then...

unless your heart is REALLY set on it :)

[edarsenal]

:D

I'm still trying to decide if I'm up to watching another patch of 1930s films in this damn heat. I do have a nomination picked and everything (and it has nothing to do with having sex with children, by the way) so if I decide to join I'm practically ready to go. Will try to decide today.

I also read your post in the 30s HoF as well so I do understand if you didn't, though I've really enjoyed your participation and the conversations your nom invokes.

I'll keep nominations open for a day or two, so let us know and thanks, pahaK!

[Citizen Rules]

So no Gone With the Wind then... I need to see GWTW before the countdown, So I'd be good with it. It looks to be a small HoF anyway.

Ed,Has stated, this will be a quick one since we're looking to finish BEFORE the September 31 Due Date for the 30's Countdown, so, objectively, the Deadline will around September 20, 2018 I really appreciate you working with the 1930s Countdown deadline:). I just want to say if need be, this HoF could end much closer to the Countdown deadline. Up to you of course.

[edarsenal]

I need to see GWTW before the countdown, So I'd be good with it. It looks to be a small HoF anyway.

Ed, I really appreciate you working with the 1930s Countdown deadline:). I just want to say if need be, this HoF could end much closer to the Countdown deadline. Up to you of course.

We can move it closer to the 30th if need be. We're getting a great group and excellent diversity of film.

AND, if everyone else is okay with it, we CAN go with GWTW.
So, Siddon, cricket, MijaFrost and Pussy Galore, how do you all feel about adding a 3 hour into the mix. So far it's been films under 2 hours.

[Pussy Galore]

I don't mind watching a 3 hour film!

[Pussy Galore]

I've already seen Gone with the Wind and enjoyed it so it wouldn't be an issue rewatching it, I was already planning on doing that for the 30's countdown

[Siddon]

We can move it closer to the 30th if need be. We're getting a great group and excellent diversity of film.

AND, if everyone else is okay with it, we CAN go with GWTW.
So, @Siddon (http://www.movieforums.com/community/member.php?u=95448), @cricket (http://www.movieforums.com/community/member.php?u=68505), @MijaFrost (http://www.movieforums.com/community/member.php?u=100042) and @Pussy Galore (http://www.movieforums.com/community/member.php?u=76648), how do you all feel about adding a 3 hour into the mix. So far it's been films under 2 hours.


I'm fine with watching Gone with the Wind...it's been about 4-5 years since I last saw it.

[edarsenal]

yeah, I haven't seen it since I was a pup, myself, so, it would be kinda cool!!

[Camo]

The rule was 220 minutes or less, Gone With The Wind is 220 minutes (221 but bleh), the whole reason it was made 220 in the first place was to accommodate Gone With The Wind as someone brought it up.

[Nathaniel]

I'll be sending my nom in later on. Actually considered GWTW so I have no issue with watching it again.

[edarsenal]

The rule was 220 minutes or less, Gone With The Wind is 220 minutes (221 but bleh), the whole reason it was made 220 in the first place was to accommodate Gone With The Wind as someone brought it up.

CAMO!!!!
Wonderful to (read) you!! I saw you in a thread from a week ago and I thought I was hallucinating lol

THANK YOU for the specifics, my friend!!

I was more concerned about the limited length time of the HoF since it'll be just under 2 months and wanted to be sure everyone was able to do the full run successfully.

[rauldc14]

I really want to b e in but I don't know yet if I'll have time. How long to decide?

[cricket]

You mean four hours? I wonder if she was being facetious.

[cricket]

I've seen it recently anyway so it doesn't bother me anyhow.

[edarsenal]

I really want to b e in but I don't know yet if I'll have time. How long to decide?

A couple of days most likely.
Would that work for ya?

[edarsenal]

With Nathaniel we are at 8 members and here's the tally of genres, and, as an afterthought, I'm including running times.

2 Crime films #1 1hr and 33min, #2 1hr and 47min
1 Horror 1hr and 31min
1 Silent Film (Foreign) 1hr and 25min
1 Drama 1hr and 51min
1 Romance 1hr and 45min
1 Sci Fi/Romance 1hr and 8min

Lovin the diversity!!

[Citizen Rules]

...here's the tally of genres.

2 Crime films #1 1hr and 33min, #2 1hr and 47min
1 Horror 1hr and 31min
1 Silent Film (Foreign) 1hr and 25min
1 Drama 1hr and 51min
1 Romance 1hr and 45min
1 Sci Fi/Romance 1hr and 8min

Looks good!

Guess which genre my nom is in?:cool:

[edarsenal]

hmmm, that's TRICKY

you did say you went out of your usual, so. . . crime, maybe?
;)

[cricket]

Looks good!

Guess which genre my nom is in?:cool:

I'm terrible at this but I'll say horror. Me?

[MijaFrost]

The running times so far look good. Kind of hoping there won't be more than one super long film, if possible.

[cricket]

I will guess that the shorter crime film has a full sentence for a title.

[jiraffejustin]

Is there an Ozu film?

[cricket]

Is there an Ozu film?

I was wondering that because I just watched one a couple of days ago.

[Citizen Rules]

hmmm, that's TRICKY

you did say you went out of your usual, so. . . crime, maybe?
;) Ha, you had me going for a second...then I thought, 'if Ed don't know, then something is terrible wrong':eek:

I'm terrible at this but I'll say horror. Me? I sent a post comment on the first part of your question. You...hmm, I bet you picked something good, I've seen you review a lot of my favorite 1930s films and it be cool to see them again. Maybe romance, I wouldn't normally think you'd pick that but it might be one film I'm thinking of.

[edarsenal]

I will guess that the shorter crime film has a full sentence for a title.
THAT is an intriguing statement, my friend

Is there an Ozu film?
no Ozu, I'm afraid

[Citizen Rules]

Originally Posted by cricket
I will guess that the shorter crime film has a full sentence for a title.

I think I know which one that is. Awesome film if we're on the same page. I considered that one too.

[pahaK]

Screw the heat, I'm in. Nomination sent and it's very different from my previous nom :D

[pahaK]

Guess which genre my nom is in?:cool:

I'm guessing that 1h 33min crime film is yours. If I'm thinking about a right film it's something I've been meaning to watch anyway.

[Siddon]

no Ozu, I'm afraid




https://media1.tenor.com/images/782ba18e2ff1bb49a36ade1ab90f2869/tenor.gif?itemid=7549364

[Thursday Next]

Haha, I wasn't actually planning to nominate Gone With the Wind. Plus it's more like 4 hours.

[cricket]

Haha, I wasn't actually planning to nominate Gone With the Wind. Plus it's more like 4 hours.

That's what I was thinking, figured it was just a comment.

[CosmicRunaway]

no Ozu, I'm afraid
https://media1.tenor.com/images/782ba18e2ff1bb49a36ade1ab90f2869/tenor.gif?itemid=7549364
BRB, gotta find an Ozu film to nominate now just to crush some dreams. :cool:

[rauldc14]

Ozu is the man!!!!

But the 40s or 50s is his real prime.

[Citizen Rules]

I'm guessing that 1h 33min crime film is yours. If I'm thinking about a right film it's something I've been meaning to watch anyway.Good guess, and I'm sure I know which crime film that is. Some call it an early noir, but nope I didn't choose a crime film.

[rauldc14]

I'm probably going to go a bit under the radar when the 16th HOF finishes, so I am going to pass. I really thought about it but I don't want to commit to something I'm not 100% sure I could finish.

[cricket]

I'm probably going to go a bit under the radar when the 16th HOF finishes, so I am going to pass. I really thought about it but I don't want to commit to something I'm not 100% sure I could finish.

The first one was so easy to complete and I'm sure this one will be too. We would love to have you.

[edarsenal]

Sorry to hear that, raul, and I echo cricket's remark, would have loved to have you.


We are at 9 members with everything under 2 hours with the average of about 90 min, so, we should be able to knock this out in time, especially with the hard-core group we have.

I'll keep this open for one more day, just in case there's any last minute folks wanting in.
And, to save time, instead of the usual "Guess Who Nominated What," I'll simply reveal the nominations and we'll get this puppy a-runnin'.

[CosmicRunaway]

I might watch some of the nominations from the sidelines, but I have to officially sit this HoF out as well. The next couple of weeks at work are unfortunately going to be quite busy, so I'm not sure how much energy I'm going to have.

Even if I don't watch anything, I'll at least be creeping around the thread as usual haha.

[cricket]

Boo!

But then, I'm off for the next 10 days so easy for me to say:leo:

[edarsenal]

I might watch some of the nominations from the sidelines, but I have to officially sit this HoF out as well. The next couple of weeks at work are unfortunately going to be quite busy, so I'm not sure how much energy I'm going to have.

Even if I don't watch anything, I'll at least be creeping around the thread as usual haha.

"Boo" INDEED :(

though the idea of you creeping around sounds a bit exciting though :randy:


Regardless, very sorry to hear you won't be in, but by all means, stop by when ya can!

[rauldc14]

I will try my best to watch the noms, I just don't want to nom bomb

[edarsenal]

I will try my best to watch the noms, I just don't want to nom bomb

PLEASE DO! ;)


Barring any last minute entries, I will most likely post the nominations tomorrow evening.


well, actually, even WITH the last minute entries, I'll still be posting noms. . . just with a few more I guess

[cricket]

I smell nominations...

[edarsenal]

I smell nominations...

That's a mighty fine sniffer ya got there!

[rauldc14]

Now?

[cricket]

Of Mice and Men is my nomination. I just watched it last week with my wife and we both loved it.

I loved It Happened One Night, but it's been about 3 years since I've seen it.

I know I like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, but it's probably been 35 years.

I almost nominated I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang myself. I watched it about a month ago.

I watched The Thin Man about a month ago and thought it was very good.

I watched Humanity and Paper Balloons last week. I liked it, but not as much as I had hoped. I remember saying that I'd probably like it more if I watched it again. I guess we'll see.

I have not yet seen The Roaring Twenties, but I already had it on my 30's watchlist.

I am not familiar with Virtue, The Goddess, or Mad Love.

[edarsenal]

Siddon, cricket, Citizen Rules, MijaFrost Pussy Galore, Nathaniel, Thursday Next, pahaK Nom, Chypmunk

http://tib.cjcs.com/files/2010/03/wcf-barker-280.jpg

WELCOME! WELCOME! STEP RIGHT UP! DON'T BE SHY!!

The 30s Part 2 Hall of Fame is OFFICIALLY under way!!

We are proud to say we have quite a few crowd favorites as well as some new and exotic attractions to excite and intrigue, one and all!! Just step on through the flap in the tent, there's plenty of room.
(And a number of fine "peeking holes" have just been added to the fabric of the tent for those looking for a lookey loo) ;)

If you would be so kind as to direct your attention to a rather prized and special addition at the very bottom of our bill, that the Management as been lucky enough to acquire as we open up.
Don't worry about letting the kids getting a closer look, this charming little rascal doesn't bite, but he does have a reputation of being quite liberal with witticisms.

The Management would also like you to be aware that, while quite friendly, he is, at heart, a timid and skittish creature. And is quite happy in a "safe environment". Which has been guaranteed for almost ALL of our Wonderous Features except for one dark and diabolical feature that is our opening act.
SO, if anyone, while perusing our uniquely entertaining list of features, comes across such a safe viewing place for our opening film; Mad Love, please, PLEASE, be a dear and slip him a note on such a place.

We THANK YOU and hope your stay is a DELIGHTFUL one!!!

[cricket]

This is a quality set of nominations.

[edarsenal]

This is a quality set of nominations.
Completely agree! And VERY diverse! Loved how that worked out

[MijaFrost]

The only one I've seen apart from my nom was It Happened One Night, but that was seven years ago so I'll give it another viewing.
I did read the book Of Mice and Men when I was a kid. The movie should be interesting.
Anyway, looking forward to watching everything!

[edarsenal]

Mad Love Pretty excited to see a very early Peter Lorre flick that is dated near M.

Of Mice and Men Haven't seen this since I was a pup and not sure if I've seen it in it's entirety.

It Happened One Night My Nom, seen it a couple of times and rewatched it a few nights ago.

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde Been AGES since I saw this and actually thought it was going to be nominated for the first 30s HoF so pretty stoked that it is now.

I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang Another that's been quite a while since I've watched it, so it'll be great for a revisit.

The Thin Man BIG fan fo the Thin Man films. Powell and Loy are IDEAL together.

Humanity and Paper Balloons and The Goddess are completely unknown to me but I'm pretty intrigued to check them out. The Goddess is actually a silent film, by the way.

The Roaring Twenties Been FOREVER since I've seen this, so another revisit I'm excited about

Virtue is also unknown to me but I do enjoy Carole Lombard, so, should be pretty cool.

[edarsenal]

The only one I've seen apart from my nom was It Happened One Night, but that was seven years ago so I'll give it another viewing.
I did read the book Of Mice and Men when I was a kid. The movie should be interesting.
Anyway, looking forward to watching everything!

I remember reading the book for school as a kid. Can't remember ANYTHING from it, sadly. lol

[edarsenal]

Now?

forgot to answer this

So, um. . . yes. No, wait!


Okay, right . . .

about. . . .


now!

[rauldc14]

If It Happened One Night doesn't win I will eat my shorts.

[edarsenal]

If It Happened One Night doesn't win I will eat my shorts.

I think I may be calling you to help stuff the ballots :D

[rauldc14]

Oh and by the way, I should've joined damnit

[Citizen Rules]

Mad Love (1935)...This was on my short list of possible noms. I think it's better than M, though it's not the same type of film so don't expect M. Glad to see it nominated.

Of Mice and Men (1939)...This was also on my list of possible noms. Awesome film, and I'm not surprised Cricket likes it. I think he's got a theme going with his noms.

It Happened One Night (1934)..Damn, I'm a broken record, but yes this one too was definitely considered by me. I've seen it a couple of times and very recently.

The Goddess (1934)...not heard of it.

I Am A Fugitive From A Chain Gang (1932)...Yup, this was another great film that I had considered as a nom. It's been a long while since I seen it so a rewatch is in order.

The Roaring Twenties (1939)...I own this on DVD and recently watched it. Would you believe me if I said this was on my list of possible noms?

Humanity and Paper Balloons (1937)...Not heard of it.

The Thin Man (1934)....I have heard of this but for some reason have never seen it, which is odd as it's something I'm sure I would like.

Virtue (1932)...Not heard of it.


Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1931)...This is my nom. I choose it for three reasons:
1) The amazing transformation scenes from the benign Dr Jekyll to the animistic Mr Hyde which was done in one continuous shot with no edits. How this effect was done was a secret for a long time. If you don't know how they did it, watch the movie first and see if you can figure it out...then google it.

2) IMO this is the best performance given by an exceptional actor Fredrick March, and Miriam Hopkins who's a fav of mine and is also excellent in the role of Ivy.

3) IMO this is one scary film, NOT because of the horror of a monster as Mr Hyde, but as it's symbolical for the dark side of human nature. The horror is this male control freak/abuser who dominates and controls the woman in his life in an all too realistic way.

[Citizen Rules]

Oh and by the way, I should've joined damnit
OK by me....and yes you should:p

[cricket]

If It Happened One Night doesn't win I will eat my shorts.

What others have you seen?

[edarsenal]

Oh and by the way, I should've joined damnit

yeah, YOU SHOULD HAVE :)




wanna???:randy:

[edarsenal]

Mad Love (1935)...This was on my short list of possible noms. I think it's better than M, though it's not the same type of film so don't expect M. Glad to see it nominated.

Of Mice and Men (1939)...This was also on my list of possible noms. Awesome film, and I'm not surprised Cricket likes it. I think he's got a theme going with his noms.

It Happened One Night (1934)..Damn, I'm a broken record, but yes this one too was definitely considered by me. I've seen it a couple of times and very recently.

The Goddess (1934)...not heard of it.

I Am A Fugitive From A Chain Gang (1932)...Yup, this was another great film that I had considered as a nom. It's been a long while since I seen it so a rewatch is in order.

The Roaring Twenties (1939)...I own this on DVD and recently watched it. Would you believe me if I said this was on my list of possible noms?

Humanity and Paper Balloons (1937)...Not heard of it.

The Thin Man (1934)....I have heard of this but for some reason have never seen it, which is odd as it's something I'm sure I would like.

Virtue (1932)...Not heard of it.


Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1931)...This is my nom. I choose it for three reasons:
1) The amazing transformation scenes from the benign Dr Jekyll to the animistic Mr Hyde which was done in one continuous shot with no edits. How this effect was done was a secret for a long time. If you don't know how they did it, watch the movie first and see if you can figure it out...then google it.

2) IMO this is the best performance given by an exceptional actor Fredrick March, and Miriam Hopkins who's a fav of mine and is also excellent in the role of Ivy.

3) IMO this is one scary film, NOT because of the horror of a monster as Mr Hyde, but as it's symbolical for the dark side of human nature. The horror is this male control freak/abuser who dominates and controls the woman in his life in an all too realistic way.

I kept chuckling, thinking of your PM stating you wished you could send multiple noms and it kinda worked out

[rauldc14]

I'll join if nobody is angry about it.

[rauldc14]

What others have you seen?

Not enough.

[Citizen Rules]

I'll join if nobody is angry about it.I'm angry:mad: if you don't join:p...Totally cool to have you in Raul.

[Citizen Rules]

I kept chuckling, thinking of your PM stating you wished you could send multiple noms and it kinda worked out It did work out, that's an awesome group of noms:up: But I still wish I could have a half dozen more of my own.:p

[cricket]

I'll join if nobody is angry about it.

Get in here doll boy

[edarsenal]

I'll join if nobody is angry about it.

I think you got your answer - post a nom and I'll put it on the first page

[Citizen Rules]

My library USE to have almost all these titles, but for some stupid reason they got rid of most of their old classic movies, (probably to make way for Will Ferrill:rolleyes:).....SO if anybody finds really good quality links to these films, PM me...please:)


Mad Love (1935)
Of Mice and Men (1939)
The Goddess (1934)
I Am A Fugitive From A Chain Gang (1932)

[Pussy Galore]

Most of the films are available at my library (including Mad Love), the others I'll watch on youtube.


I've only seen It Hapened One Night and The Thin Man apart from my nomination. The former I really enjoyed, the latter I found forgettable, but it's been a while so I'll rewatch them both.

[Chypmunk]

I've seen Of Mice And Men, It Happened One Night and Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde before but they were all when I was a lot younger and rewatches of each are most definitely required.

The Thin Man is the only one I physically own, seen it quite a few times and last watched that about three years ago but plan on watching again anyway.

I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang is one I've never seen but wanted to for some time now so glad it was nominated and looking forward to that.

I've no knowledge of Humanity and Paper Balloons or The Goddess so I look forward to discovering what they are about when I view them.

Last watched The Roaring Twenties late last year and Virtue quite recently as part of my seemingly neverending prep for the 30s countdown - so both are relatively fresh but to give everything equal footing in terms of memory I shall happily watch both again.

I actually rewatched Mad Love (another I'd not seen for decades) just now (many thanks to all those that provided links) and will write some thoughts on my computer, but as it looks like there might be a late entrant that could yet scupper my involvement I'll not post anything on here as yet.

HUGE thanks to Ed for working so hard in the background to try and make it possible for me to join in this one - muchly appreciated :up:

[Siddon]

I'll join if nobody is angry about it.


Awesome please do

[pahaK]

As usual lots of new films for me on this 1930s bunch.

I've seen Humanity and Paper Balloons (pretty obivous because it's my nom) and The Goddess within last two or three weeks. I liked them both.

I've also seen Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde as a kid ages ago. I know the story but don't really recall much of the film itself.

I'm familiar with the Of Mice and Men but haven't actually read the book or watched the film ever.

I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang and It Happened One Night seem somewhat familiar names but don't really know anything about them. With The Thin Man, The Roaring Twenties, Virtue and Mad Love I'm totally in the dark.

[pahaK]

I'll join if nobody is angry about it.

I won't be any more angry than I usually am :D

[Nathaniel]

I have seen 6 of these including my own and liked all of them to varying degrees. Some recently - I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang, Humanity and Paper Balloons. It's been a few years for the other three - The Goddess, It Happened One Night, The Thin Man.

Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde - This was on my watchlist. Frederic March is always great so I'm looking forward to it.

Mad Love - No knowledge of this. But a sci-fi horror with Peter Lorre and Colin Clive sounds intriguing.

Of Mice and Men - One of those blind spots. I've never read the book either which is probably something I should rectify.

Virtue - Pre-code drama! Yes!

[pahaK]

I rewatched (most of) The Goddess to ensure my recent review still felt good. I'll copy it here and add some extra notes below.

---
The Goddess (1934)

A prostitute is trying to raise her son in Shanghai but faces multiple obstacles.

https://silentlondon.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/the-goddess-1934.jpg?w=672&h=372&crop=1

The Goddess is definitely among the best silent films I've seen. Its story of a prostitute mother trying to give her son a better life than she's had is not very unique and most of the twists are very predictable but it tells its story very well. It also manages to avoid the usual issues of silent film - it actually manages to give some depth to its characters and conveys emotions without horrible overacting.

Cinematography is quite nice for such an old movie and acting was superb for a silent film (especially Lingyu Ruan as the prostitute). It's little heavy handed on its social critique but it doesn't really hurt the story so I'll mostly give it a pass on that. Script's biggest issue is "The Boss" who to me looks more like a loser (why is he a boss of anything when all we ever see of him is losing his money by gambling and being broke unless he manages to steal "The Goddess's" stash?).

Well acted and slightly depressing drama that doesn't offer much new but builds a pretty package of the same old.

3.5
---

The Goddess is not exactly what I'd describe as my kind of film but it's not anything I particularly dislike either. It's very simple story about humanity, love, injustice and hypocrisy that uses (perhaps little cheaply) the age old idea of children inheriting their parents sins and shows how unfair such concept is.

Much of the film's goodness comes from brilliant acting of Lingyu Ruan. I don't remember equally emotional but still natural performance from silent films. She really carries the simple story on her shoulders. And other actors aren't bad either but she just stands out.

I really liked the nightly shots of the city lights that were used on few occasions. It offered nice, almost futuristic, contrast to otherwise very old look of things. Was it meant to be a symbol of progress or just a beautiful visual? I don't know but I liked it.

I'm also glad that this was nominated as it was on my short list of possible nominees (seems like Citizen Rules wasn't the only one who got multiple noms in).

[edarsenal]

And we have our FIRST review!!
Splendid job, pahaK!!
Looking forward to discovering this Silent Film.

And, YOU ARE WELCOME, Chypmunk!! Though there are others as well:: Citizen Rules, Camo and cricket need applauds as well!
And don't worry, start posting reviews, we got ya covered!

[edarsenal]

Siddon, cricket, Citizen Rules, MijaFrost Pussy Galore, Nathaniel, Thursday Next, pahaK Nom, Chypmunk

Well, rauldc14 FINALLY got off his fanny perpendicular and sent in a nom, :D
And a pretty d@mn good with one with Gable and Harlowe, called Red Dust. Another pre-code film added to our list and one I haven't seen but have wanted to.
While it isn't on youtube it can be found, so PM if you need a link and I'll shoot it right over!

WELCOME ABOARD, raul!!! :)

[cricket]

Red Dust makes 4 movies I hadn't heard of prior to this HoF, and 3 of them are about a prostitute. Strange.

[cricket]

Oh and great Cheech and Chong reference Ed:cool:

[Citizen Rules]

... Red Dust. Another pre-code film added to our list and one I haven't seen but have wanted to. Cool beans. I've been wanting to see that one for well over 10 years, ever since I seen the remake of Mogambo (1953)...I need a link please, as my library cup doesn't runneth over:(

[Citizen Rules]

Red Dust makes 4 movies I hadn't heard of prior to this HoF, and 3 of them are about a prostitute. Strange. I just about went with another prostitute film, Rain with Joan Crawford.

[edarsenal]

Oh and great Cheech and Chong reference Ed:cool:
I'm here to serve!!

And three prostitue flicks you AREN'T aware of?! Doesn't bode well for your rep, my friend.

Cool beans. I've been wanting to see that one for well over 10 years, ever since I seen the remake of Mogambo (1953)...I need a link please, as my library cup doesn't runneth over:(

COMING UP!!

::HINT:: I mentioned a place to you all in PM. It IS there as well.

[pahaK]

The Thin Man (1934)

A crime comedy that delivers solid performance on one of its genres while somewhat failing the other.

https://78.media.tumblr.com/9dc3a43521fa558ee8a9afdd054019f9/tumblr_p30x1oj6tR1ugv7b3o1_500.gif

A business man / inventor disappears and becomes prime suspect for multiple murders. His daughter seeks help from a retired detective who's helped her father in the past. Reluctantly the heavy drinking ex-cop becomes involved with the case.

The crime story in the film is quite weak. There's not enough time to intelligently build it and it seems to advance by big leaps whenever there's nothing more important happening on screen. I don't think there's any chance to build proper motives for characters and guess the killer before it's revealed. Maybe they should have cut few characters from the film version.

If the crime side of the story is lackluster the comedy side works rather well and I had more laughs than the whole first 1930s HoF combined. Much of the credit goes to Powell and Loy who have amazing chemistry and especially Powell's drunkard ex-detective is genuinely funny character. There are funny moments outside the heroic couple (like some of Gilbert's almost insane ramblings) but they're the force that holds the film together.

Visually there's nothing special but it's not really that kind of film anyway. Script is half good, half bad and it's kinda shame that the crime part of the story is so lazily written that it drags the film down. Acting was solid all the way and the leading couple was excellent (even the dog was good). I hope no livers were injured during the filming.

Sloppy crime story with some great comedy. It falls little short of being good but it's definitely alright.

3+

[cricket]

Hey you stole my gif^^^

[Nathaniel]

About to watch Red Dust. Seems promising, more pre-code drama does the trick.

I just about went with another prostitute film, Rain with Joan Crawford.

How many films did you consider? 100? :D

[pahaK]

Hey you stole my gif^^^

Early bird catches the gif (or something) :D

Anyways, so far it seems that from my personal PoV the quality of films on this second 1930s HoF is much better. I think both of the films I've reviewed this far have been better than anything of the first HoF.

[Citizen Rules]

...How many films did you consider? 100? :D

Just about that many😁 I have a whole bunch of films for different types of HoFs saved in a big word file. I've been waiting for a 30s Hof for years and years...

[rauldc14]

I'll probably start with one tomorrow hopefully. Thanks for letting me join in.

[cricket]

The Thin Man

https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jb_WZ_pHBeE/VrRuGE0ZuUI/AAAAAAAAIOc/ZsSApuA1HAI/s1600/thethinman.png

I didn't really need to watch this again after just seeing it in May, but it's such an easy and enjoyable watch that I figured why not. This viewing was the same for me and for the most part I agree with pahaK.

I don't think the murder mystery part is great, but I do think it is suitable. Much like a Bond film's focus may be on the characters and the gadgets, I think this movie is simply a showcase for Nick and Nora. And Asta for that matter. They are the movie, and William Powell and Myrna Loy are brilliant. When I first watched it, I didn't know anything about the movie or it's stars. I love how we don't meet the couple right away, but instead we're treated to a fabulous introduction, with him showing how to mix a martini, and her being dragged in by their beloved dog. They are an adorable and funny couple who are a delight to watch. They are so damn likable and I'd be hard pressed to come up with a better husband and wife team. I also adore their marriage, and felt somewhat envious as I'm going through a bit of a speedbump in mine. Everything else about the movie is adequate, from the supporting cast to the technical aspects. I don't think that stuff is important with this movie. It's probably not my preference as to the type of movie it is because I feel like I'm underrating it.

3.5

[cricket]

Of Mice and Men

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/1d/ba/af/1dbaaf66c8afa09abd74fd4b0adfe6c1.jpg

I didn't watch this again as I just watched it a week ago with my wife. I knew nothing about it going in while she had read the book. We both loved it.

SPOILERS
It's most definitely my kind of movie with it's combination of being powerful and touching. I think it's a great story with strong performances and characters. I remarked before that this was the first time I ever saw Burgess Meredith when he wasn't ancient. I thought he played an interesting character; not necessarily likable or trustworthy, but a pretty good guy who takes responsibility for Lennie and never screws anyone over like I thought he would. I liked everyone, but a special shout out for Charles Bickford who brings a strong element of respect and dignity. The character of Lennie reminds me of Frankenstein, and I think his actions bring good questions regarding responsibility of the mentally ill. I think most of the members will like this, but it won't be unanimous.

4+

[edarsenal]

http://pre-code.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Virtue4.png


Virtue

A NOTICE TO ALL:
The first minute or so of the film is black screen with voices talking. Don't worry, that is merely the opening scene. I was a little concerned, thinking there may have been a problem with the video. Don't be.
Just thought I'd save the next ones to watch this lil gem from that initial worry that may cause you to miss out on the dialogue going on.

Now, BACK TO THE REVIEW:
It didn't take long to see why Chypmunk chose this film as a nomination with the truly great banter and wise crackin that goes on.
I've never seen this one and was very happy to have seen this. With a mixture of comedy, romance and some rough knocks, it is very easy to get caught up in the two leads of Lombard and O'Brien.
I won't get into what occurs and, especially, how it all turns out, and will wait for others to see this before commenting it, especially the final act of movie, but I will say I thoroughly enjoyed this film. The characters, and especially the playful arguing between the two leads. Some of my favorite scenes involved them going at in and ending in a kiss.
Oh, don't worry, this isn't soapy or mushy. But d@mn if it isn't charming!!

[edarsenal]

http://movieboozer.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/it-happened-one-night-4-660x330.jpg


It Happened One Night

How you do hitchhike successfully to get a car to stop for ya??
Miss Claudette Colbert will show ya!

Of all the times I've read IMDb and checked out References made to a particular movie, I have NEVER seen such a MASSIVE list as the one I saw for this one. Largely regarding this specific scene in so many other films, with people remarking on how they saw it in a movie. AKA THIS movie.

And that is simply one scene in this great Frank Capra film.
Colbert has run away from her father in Florida and is hightailing it to the man she had eloped with previously. In her attempt NOT to be caught, she hops a bus, where she crosses paths, and words, with Gable's character, a recently fired newspaperman.Who, once realizing who she is and the great story in the making, sticks to her like glue for the exclusive.

Now, I don't know if this is considered one of the original Road Trip movies, but it has a lot of the parameters that such films use as staples.
And, forgive the cliche, but the first time around does remain as the best time around and Capra does his usual charm in creating a cast of characters that you can't help but enjoy. Along with some hi-jinks and situations that they have to work around, while finding themselves falling for one another.

A truly enjoyable romp, if I must so.
And I will.

[edarsenal]

Completely agree about The Thin Man is more about Nick and Nora than about the case they investigate. Which I've never considered a bad thing.
If asked, I doubt I could say what ANY of the cases were in the 6 films, having enjoyed Powell's and Loy's excellent chemistry and playfulness with one another.

[Chypmunk]

I'd echo that - The Thin Man series is ALL about the chemistry, and what marvellous chemistry it is!

edarsenal - so glad you enjoyed Virtue, it's not a perfect movie by any stretch of the imagination but it sure is one that can easily be enjoyed and, yeah, the occasional piece of badinage is most certainly a part of that.

[Mr Minio]

The Goddess (1934)


I'll use this as an opportuniy to blather about Chinese cinema of the time.



Lingyu Ruan is a legend. I'm a little bit reluctant to watch her other films (Little Toys et al), because they're supposedly much inferior to The Goddess, but all people who saw them still point out she is the strongest part of those films. A great actress who unfortunately had had a very tragic life ending in a suicide. The 1991 film Center Stage starring brilliant Maggie Cheung talks about her life and death. I wholeheartedly recommend the film, but beware - it's equally beautiful and sorrowful.

Another splendid Chinese film of the 30s I can recommend is Street Angel starring the impeccable Zhou "Golden Voice" Xuan - yet another legendary figure of China. She's amongst my favourite singers of all time. Her compilation album in the 百代・中国時代曲名典 (The Legendary Chinese Hits) series truly shows why she was the goddess of Shidaiqu. Li Xianglan is another great singer of the genre. To digress even more, if you want to get a better feel of the time, I can't recommend the 上海老歌 (1931-1949) - Pop Songs Between 1930s and 1940s in Shanghai compilation box set enough. Back to the film, Zhou Xuan performs one of her biggest hits in it and is as splendid as ever. The movie itself is a perfect blend of comedy and (melo)drama.

Another legendary Chinese actress of the time (and also Lingyu Ruan's partner in some films) was Li Lili. Can't wait to watch a film with her!


https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/72/Li_Lili_in_Queen_of_Sports.jpg/386px-Li_Lili_in_Queen_of_Sports.jpg
Li Lili in Queen of Sports


One day I will gather all my strength and finally catch up with all Chinese classics! I've got quite a backlog there, because... reasons... but I just need the right mindset and time frame for this and I will watch 'em all!!!

[Chypmunk]

Mad Love

http://torontofilmsociety.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Mad-Love-2-620x400.jpg

Possible minor spoilers

A stylish reimagining of Renard's novel that successfully switches out the central motive from greed to obsession and still provides a thoroughly entertaining tale.

Peter Lorre is excellent as the increasingly maniacal lead but all three principals give good performances; Lorre and Frances Drake hamming it up a little is a nice harkback to the original silent version whilst, much as in the earlier Frankenstein, Colin Clive's slightly stiff demeanour is quite suited to his role here.

Some of the peripheral characters don't work as well for me though, Ted Healy's reporter, Reagan, may play his part in the plot but the performance belongs to a different movie and the degeneration of May Beatty's housekeeper, Francoise, is a tad overdone imo.

The sets are well designed and along with good lighting help create a very nice tone that is generally maintained throughout, there's some nice shadow-work here and there and Lorre's 'Rollo' is quite marvellous.

A couple of minor things I picked up on while watching are that Drake's hair changes length quite noticeably, which doesn't fit with the time-frame, and the second utterance of the line "This happens to be my pen" has an extra "gentlemen" appended which obviously was originally intended to be there for both. Neither mar the enjoyment at all, I just happened to notice them so thought I'd mention them as asides.

Overall a very entertaining, and long overdue, re-watch that probably wouldn't have happened without my joining this HOF (as I hadn't been able to locate it via my usual limited resources) so I'm thrilled it was nominated.

#cherrypopped

[Citizen Rules]

#cherrypopped Congrats:p on losing your Hof virginity! You do have a new healthy inner glow:D

*I haven't read your review, but I will asap after watching Mad Love. I did take a peak at the last paragraph and it sounds like you enjoyed it. I might watch that one next.

[rauldc14]

Are any of these on YouTube?

[Citizen Rules]

https://www.movieforums.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=46524&stc=1&d=1532970385
Red Dust (1932)


Rockin good fun! That's the way I like my movies and Red Dust delivered. Clark Gable as the roguish, tough & rumble boss of a tropical rubber plantation, coupled with the unabashed, brassiness of platinum blonde Jean Harlow...what more could you ask for in film? I loved the exotic feel of the rainy, steamy jungles in a remote region where just about anything could happen. That's world building and I talk about that a lot in my reviews. Well that's because escaping for a brief while into an enticing movie world is appealing to me.


Wow, was that really Mary Astor, I never seen her look so young, I'm use to the older version of her, like in The Maltese Falcon. I hardly recognized her here.

The story was bold, ruckus and fun...I loved the playfulness that Jean Harlow brought to the screen. I've never thought she was that pretty, I mean where has her eyebrows gone too? But she's so cool and so fun that her performance is infectious....like malaria!...all hot and chilly at the same time. I don't think she's the greatest actress, but she sure has style! So does Clark Gable, back in the day women swooned over him and men wanted to be like him. Gable is cool!

My favorite scenes are Gene Harlow in the bathtub, such a fun scene. I read that during filming of the rain barrel scene, she stood up...topless and said 'here's one for the boys in the film lab'....Hot damn! Oh and for some reason I got a kick out of her scraping the parrot poop out of the bottom of the bird cage, and commenting that it was 'hard as cement'. Only in a pre-code film would you see that!

Very cool movie @rauldc14 (http://www.movieforums.com/community/member.php?u=60169)

[rauldc14]

For sure Mad Love, Jekyl, and Virtue.

[rauldc14]

By the way, I had you in mind a bit for that Red Dust nomination. Thought you would love it.

It won't come close to winning, but I didn't really care. My potential winning nomination was going to be Vampyr, but I didn't think we necessarily had the right members for it to win this.

[Citizen Rules]

For sure Mad Love, Jekyl, and Virtue.I PMed some links to you.

By the way, I had you in mind a bit for that Red Dust nomination. Thought you would love it.

It won't come close to winning, but I didn't really care. My potential winning nomination was going to be Vampyr, but I didn't think we necessarily had the right members for it to win this.I think most of us will like Red Dust...but as far as winning? there's a lot of great films in this one so a tough call. I'm going to have a real hard time deciding myself.

Did Red Dust remind you of Only Angels Have Wings? It did me.

[rauldc14]

It didn't but maybe I need to see that one again. Didn't care for it as much as I thought I would

[edarsenal]

Are any of these on YouTube?
Of Mice and Men, Virtue, The Goddess, and The Roaring Twenties are on YouTube.

[edarsenal]

Only read the first two paragraphs but I definitely like what I read so far. Didn't want to go to far and hit spoiler territory. lol

[Citizen Rules]

Only read the first two paragraphs but I definitely like what I read so far. Didn't want to go to far and hit spoiler territory. lolMoi? Nope, no spoilers in that review. I just gushed over Jean Harlow & mused over her eyebrows. Mainly I talked about myself:rolleyes:

[Thursday Next]

Funny thing, It Happened One Night was the other movie I was thinking of nominating. That or The Lady Vanishes.

[edarsenal]

Moi? Nope, no spoilers in that review. I just gushed over Jean Harlow & mused over her eyebrows. Mainly I talked about myself:rolleyes:

In that case, I do enjoy a good gushing when it comes to Harlowe!


On a separate note, while Humanity and Paper Balloons (1937) is on youtube, it is silent and without subtitles.
Has anyone found a link WITH subtitles for this film?

[Citizen Rules]

In that case, I do enjoy a good gushing when it comes to Harlowe!


On a separate note, while Humanity and Paper Balloons (1937) is on youtube, it is silent and without subtitles.
Has anyone found a link WITH subtitles for this film? I have one, that Mija sent me it has sound and English subs. I'll PM you.

[pahaK]

I finished Mad Love about an hour ago. Been trying to write a review but it seems surprisingly hard for some reason. Will try to have one up either tonight or tomorrow.

[CosmicRunaway]

My potential winning nomination was going to be Vampyr, but I didn't think we necessarily had the right members for it to win this.
I've been meaning to rewatch that for a number of years now, and was wondering if it would get nominated.

Speaking of rewatches, I'd like to see Mad Love again while this HoF is still running, especially since some people are saying it's better than M. :suspicious:

[cricket]

My potential winning nomination was going to be Vampyr, but I didn't think we necessarily had the right members for it to win this.

I was watching 30's movies looking for a possible HoF nomination and i considered watching that. I still will, but I thought no way it'd do well here so I put it off.

[Siddon]

My short list was
Black Cat
The Emperor Jones
The Good Earth
Libeled Lady
Mad Love
Ninotchka
Things to Come
************(nominated film by someone else)
************(nominated film by someone else)


Had the nominees not been a surprise I think I would have gone with one the comedy's to give this Hall some diversity

[edarsenal]

Funny thing, It Happened One Night was the other movie I was thinking of nominating. That or The Lady Vanishes.
Never seen Lady Vanishes, sounds pretty interesting.
I have one, that Mija sent me it has sound and English subs. I'll PM you.
SWEET! I'll be checking it out
THANKS To both of you!!
I finished Mad Love about an hour ago. Been trying to write a review but it seems surprisingly hard for some reason. Will try to have one up either tonight or tomorrow.
Kinda makes it all the more intriguing when you do
I've been meaning to rewatch that for a number of years now, and was wondering if it would get nominated.

Speaking of rewatches, I'd like to see Mad Love again while this HoF is still running, especially since some people are saying it's better than M. :suspicious:
Been decades since seeing Vampyr as well.
And we'll both have to see if it is better than M.
Let me know if you have trouble finding Mad Love.

[edarsenal]

I was watching 30's movies looking for a possible HoF nomination and i considered watching that. I still will, but I thought no way it'd do well here so I put it off.
Thought about that one at one point and a little surprised when no one nominated it, actually.

My short list was
Black Cat
The Emperor Jones
The Good Earth
Libeled Lady
Mad Love
Ninotchka
Things to Come
************(nominated film by someone else)
************(nominated film by someone else)


Had the nominees not been a surprise I think I would have gone with one the comedy's to give this Hall some diversity
Seen them, really liked them. Really excited about checking out what you did nominate.

It's kinda funny that a number of us had films on our short list that ended up getting nominated by someone else. Rather like that.

[rauldc14]

I will certainly watch one tomorrow. Probably the short one, Virtue.

[Nathaniel]

Red Dust (1932)

46533


First time watch. Fifth film from Victor Fleming.

Now, this would make a great double bill with It Happened One Night. Red Dust ticks a lot of boxes for me on the screenplay front, pushing its protagonist in all directions. Comedy, romance, guilt, loyalty, class, betrayal and science lessons about rubber. It has it all.

There are times where I wondered whether Clark Gable could carry this kind of character depth but he won me over fairly quickly. He manages to get across a good range here, particularly with his glances of disgust or looks of guilt. This is a quality performance from him and he works well with both Harlow and Aster. Who are both pretty great too. Hoy, the Asian servant is cringe inducing and sadly I can't pretend that the character is not there.

I definitely enjoyed the use of set design, living on the edge of society with some pretty great open shots. The thunder scene in the jungle is obviously the highlight as it accentuates both the story and shows off hints of Fleming's flair for the cinematic. More impressive to come in a few of his later efforts.

I thought the final 10 minutes were super rushed and shoddy. It makes me believe that an extended version would have built towards the conclusion more effectively. It's a shame because I did enjoy the film but the end fell flat for me.

Cool nom that I would not have found on my own.

[rauldc14]

Glad you liked it. Had ending been better I would have liked even more too

[Citizen Rules]

https://www.movieforums.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=46535&stc=1&d=1532998868
Virtue (1932)

Spoilers in the review

I'm impressed...The dialogue was refreshingly fluid and natural, especially for an early 1930s film. These people sounded real, not like they were reading a script written by a screen writer. So it was very easy for me to get engrossed into the story, as the word play exchanges between Carole Lombard and Pat O'Brien was so unassuming that I took these people as real.

The acting wasn't even acting, they were their characters. I knew Carole Lombard was good, but damn she was so good in this drama, and mostly I've seen her in comedies. And yet it's her natural comic talents that makes this drama...potent. She quickly won me over and I wanted to see this ex prostitute find happiness with Pat O'Brien. Just watch Carole's face as she does her funny little smile, as she bites her lower lip and rolls her eyes in a telling way. She had it! It's too bad she didn't get to make more movies.
https://i.pinimg.com/originals/69/a4/8f/69a48f46cd43aa921788bbd52f9a03eb.gif

Pat O'Brien was real good too. The thing is he's not an overly colorful actor like Clark Gable or James Cagney so he often doesn't get mentioned in list of great film stars, but he should be* His working class type character is perfect for the story. And what a story!

The more I think about the film's story line the more impressed I am. It's quite sophisticated without throwing any below the belt punches. It hits more on a reflective level and the more I reflected on it, the more I'm convinced this is a great story. What struck me the most was how Mae (Carole Lombard) came to realize that her husband would always view her in a 'certain dim light' because of her past history. She knows instinctively that his anger over the missing $200 isn't really about the money, it's an excuse to blame her for his anger over marring her...
The film cleverly starts off with Jimmy (Pat O'Brien) telling his friend that women all have rackets and scheme to get what they want. He doesn't trust women! and doesn't want to ever get married. But then he goes and falls for Mae. And when he finds out she was a prostitute he marries her anyway out of pride to prove he never will welsh on a deal. That gives him resentment towards her, and finally she resents that. Which I thought was all a good eye on human nature.


@Chypmunk (http://www.movieforums.com/community/member.php?u=85688) Good nom, glad you joined!

[edarsenal]

I will certainly watch one tomorrow. Probably the short one, Virtue.

curious to see what you think of that one

[edarsenal]

https://www.movieforums.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=46535&stc=1&d=1532998868
Virtue (1932)

Spoilers in the review

I'm impressed...The dialogue was refreshingly fluid and natural, especially for an early 1930s film. These people sounded real, not like they were reading a script written by a screen writer. So it was very easy for me to get engrossed into the story, as the word play exchanges between Carole Lombard and Pat O'Brien was so unassuming that I took these people as real.

The acting wasn't even acting, they were their characters. I knew Carole Lombard was good, but damn she was so good in this drama, and mostly I've seen her in comedies. And yet it's her natural comic talents that makes this drama...potent. She quickly won me over and I wanted to see this ex prostitute find happiness with Pat O'Brien. Just watch Carole's face as she does her funny little smile, as she bites her lower lip and rolls her eyes in a telling way. She had it! It's too bad she didn't get to make more movies.
https://i.pinimg.com/originals/69/a4/8f/69a48f46cd43aa921788bbd52f9a03eb.gif

Pat O'Brien was real good too. The thing is he's not an overly colorful actor like Clark Gable or James Cagney so he often doesn't get mentioned in list of great film stars, but he should be* His working class type character is perfect for the story. And what a story!

The more I think about the film's story line the more impressed I am. It's quite sophisticated without throwing any below the belt punches. It hits more on a reflective level and the more I reflected on it, the more I'm convinced this is a great story. What struck me the most was how Mae (Carole Lombard) came to realize that her husband would always view her in a 'certain dim light' because of her past history. She knows instinctively that his anger over the missing $200 isn't really about the money, it's an excuse to blame her for his anger over marring her...
The film cleverly starts off with Jimmy (Pat O'Brien) telling his friend that women all have rackets and scheme to get what they want. He doesn't trust women! and doesn't want to ever get married. But then he goes and falls for Mae. And when he finds out she was a prostitute he marries her anyway out of pride to prove he never will welsh on a deal. That gives him resentment towards her, and finally she resents that. Which I thought was all a good eye on human nature.


@Chypmunk (http://www.movieforums.com/community/member.php?u=85688) Good nom, glad you joined!










You really nailed a lot of points I hedged around since I wanted folks to get the full on effect of all of it.
Really is a great little story and YES, they WERE their characters.
I was VERY won over by both of them very early on as well.

[Citizen Rules]

You really nailed a lot of points I hedged around since I wanted folks to get the full on effect of all of it.
Really is a great little story and YES, they WERE their characters.
I was VERY won over by both of them very early on as well.It's a hard movie to discuss without talking about the plot details.

I read your review and it's good you mentioned the black-out at the beginning of the film. I though for awhile something was wrong with the movie, but after a minute the film came on and showed Mae in a train being sent out of town. I'm guessing the up-loader blew something as I think originally there was a scene in the courtroom, which we can hear but not see. I don't know for sure though?

[edarsenal]

It's a hard movie to discuss without talking about the plot details.

I read your review and it's good you mentioned the black-out at the beginning of the film. I though for awhile something was wrong with the movie, but after a minute the film came on and showed Mae in a train being sent out of town. I'm guessing the up-loader blew something as I think originally there was a scene in the courtroom, which we can hear but not see. I don't know for sure though?
Same here. Though when the video started, it was EXACTLY at the end of the opening and, if you catch it, it has that quick "blooming" opening of a starting scene. So I took the wild guess that maybe it was the "words" that were more important. Not sure.

And no, you CANNOT talk about this film without giving away anything and it's far too enjoyable to do that.

The very ending that I so truly loved. He sees her at the gas station and comes out and she snaps at him, "You gonna just stand there while I do all the work?" Telling him two things to do and the third is "kiss me," and they do and it ends as the gas is pouring out.
I absolutely cheered at that. Seeing a happy ending for them.
Just loved it!

[edarsenal]

I got curious about this opening to Virtue and found it on dailymotion in 2 parts and it does the exact opening with a black screen and only audio.
I also ran through the trivia and then reviews to see if anyone mentioned the "sound only" opener and I did find one review with it, though they didn't question the why of it.
It does work, hearing only the sentencing being passed down and the warning given.

[Chypmunk]

Glad you enjoyed Virtue CR, all I'm really hoping with it is that a few would find it an enjoyable watch and that appears to be the case thus far so I'm pleased.

I honestly don't know if the opening to Virtue was ever anything more than just aural but as far as I'm aware the runtime is the full runtime and for me it totally works just as it is.

[Chypmunk]

Does anybody have a link to a decent copy of Of Mice And Men, the copies on YT are pretty poor quality - I'll watch it there if necessary but they hardly do the film justice :(

[pahaK]

Mad Love (1935)

A clumsy horror melodrama that doesn't handle its subject very gracefully.

https://amjohnson3.files.wordpress.com/2015/04/mad-love-001.jpg

A beautiful actress is married to a concert pianist / composer. When her husband gets into an accident the actress asks a favor from her biggest fan, mentally unstable but gifted surgeon Dr. Gogol. Gogol gives the lady a hand and fixes the husband with some spare parts from an executed murderer.

I think the story is outright stupid and for such a short film there is plenty of filler material too (like the drunken housekeeper). Gogol looks mad as a bat from the beginning and I wonder who trusts such a man with patients. The autonomous hands feel pretty far fetched for a horror that doesn't draw its terrors from the supernatural but from science (and why would Rollo's hands want to kill in any case - didn't they say his sentence was for one murder only so he clearly wasn't a serial killer or anything).

I remember really liking Lorre in M but he's overdoing the crazy with Gogol (maybe Freund wanted that but still). Otherwise acting is quite mediocre at best and terribly wooden at worst. There are visually good scenes (especially the ending in Gogol's apartment) but they're not enough to draw attention away from other flaws.

I much prefer hands possessed by demons (like Demonoid (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0082257/)) over this pseudo-scientific mangling of muscle memory. Silly concept, flawed writing and forgettable characters result in quite lackluster movie experience.

1

[Chypmunk]

It Happened One Night

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/G/01/digital/video/hero/Movies/Top250/B000ZHAT3Q_ithappenedonenight_UXSY1._RI_SX940_.jpg

Possible minor spoilers

A light-hearted romance that for the most part is beautifully put together and quite wonderful whenever both leads are on screen.

Both Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert give excellent performances and, perhaps more importantly, have a chemistry between them that makes their developing relationship such a joy to watch. A chemistry that also allows for some genuinely delightful comic moments dotted throughout the journey.

Unfortunately once the 'road trip' sequence is over proceedings do dip a little imo, as we, the audience, wait for the inevitable and perfectly fitting ending. That negative is, in a way though, actually a positive as it gives testament to how enjoyable most of the previous eighty minutes has been and how much of an investment in proceedings has been created.

Overall it's another long-overdue re-watch of a highly regarded film that doesn't disappoint, and another I'm so pleased was nominated.

[cricket]

Humanity and Paper Balloons

http://www.tasteofcinema.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Humanity-and-Paper-Balloons.jpg

I really didn't need to watch this again as I just saw it last week. The first time, it took me a little while to get a feel for the characters and the village dynamics. I had an easier time following it sooner this go around, but my feelings were pretty much the same. It's most definitely a good movie that has elements I enjoy, but I feel like it falls a little short of greatness. There's a nice variety of characters and a quality setting. The story seems to develop slowly but I liked that too. I love the ending in theory, but the actual result doesn't quite give me the emotional kick I want. I think the movie might be looked at by some as having strong depth, but I don't quite see that either. I think it'll be pretty well received by the majority of members. I normally prefer a straight forward film, but I would have liked a bit more spice in this one to take it to the next level.

3+

[Mr Minio]

Humanity and Paper Balloons Can't really remember it all that well, but I remember it was a masterpiece. Directed by Sadao Yamanaka, a close friend of Yasujiro Ozu (they served together in Manchuria) - a great artist who died prematurely of inflammation of the intestines.



Out of more than 20 films he directed only three survived. Humanity is no doubt the most humanist and perhaps the best of the bunch. Just as exquisite is The Million Ryo Pot that skillfully combines drama and comedy. Priest of Darkness is distinctly inferior to these two masterpieces, but it has 16 years old Setsuko Hara in a secondary role.


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CG5HU7OUQAAalM5.jpgYasujiro Ozu and his friend Sadao Yamanaka before their departure for the Mandchouri...


Too bad we won't see so many Japanese films. To quote:
The Japanese silent cinema is almost unknown, so little has been available for viewing. Even in a medium where two-thirds of all silent cinema is lost (and perhaps a quarter of all sound films as well), the destruction of early Japanese cinema is extraordinary.
The 1923 earthquake and the 1945 fire bombing of the major cities, the postwar Allied Occupation torching of banned films, and the indifference of the industry itself has meant the destruction of at least 90 percent of all prewar and wartime Japanese motion pictures.

[Ultraviolence]

Can't really remember it all that well, but I remember it was a masterpiece. Directed by Sadao Yamanaka, a close friend of Yasujiro Ozu (they served together in Manchuria) - a great artist who died prematurely of inflammation of the intestines.



Out of more than 20 films he directed only three survived. Humanity is no doubt the most humanist and perhaps the best of the bunch. Just as exquisite is The Million Ryo Pot that skillfully combines drama and comedy. Priest of Darkness is distinctly inferior to these two masterpieces, but it has 16 years old Setsuko Hara in a secondary role.


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CG5HU7OUQAAalM5.jpgYasujiro Ozu and his friend Sadao Yamanaka before their departure for the Mandchouri...


Too bad we won't see so many Japanese films. To quote:

You should rewatch it!
It's a masterpiece, like you said!
--
I'm very happy to see this film here, I hope it wins!

[edarsenal]

Glad you enjoyed Virtue CR, all I'm really hoping with it is that a few would find it an enjoyable watch and that appears to be the case thus far so I'm pleased.

I honestly don't know if the opening to Virtue was ever anything more than just aural but as far as I'm aware the runtime is the full runtime and for me it totally works just as it is.
I completely agree, it does completely work as is. I feel "hearing" the words had more gravitas than if watching the opening court scene.

[cricket]

You should rewatch it!
It's a masterpiece, like you said!
--
I'm very happy to see this film here, I hope it wins!

I originally watched it on your recommendation, and it was a very good recommendation. It just didn't blow me away. I don't think it will win because of a lot of great competition but it should do well.

[edarsenal]

Too bad we won't see so many Japanese films. To quote:
The Japanese silent cinema is almost unknown, so little has been available for viewing. Even in a medium where two-thirds of all silent cinema is lost (and perhaps a quarter of all sound films as well), the destruction of early Japanese cinema is extraordinary.
The 1923 earthquake and the 1945 fire bombing of the major cities, the postwar Allied Occupation torching of banned films, and the indifference of the industry itself has meant the destruction of at least 90 percent of all prewar and wartime Japanese motion pictures.

That IS a terrible thing.
Was VERY much unaware of that. Thank you!

In retrospect, perhaps that was the catalyst that involved the Japanese government in assisting artists and movie makers later on.

[Citizen Rules]

I got curious about this opening to Virtue and found it on dailymotion in 2 parts and it does the exact opening with a black screen and only audio.
I also ran through the trivia and then reviews to see if anyone mentioned the "sound only" opener and I did find one review with it, though they didn't question the why of it. You are correct sir...I did a little internet digging and found this:

Source (http://10kbullets.com/reviews/a/columbia-pictures-pre-code-collection-arizona-ten-cents-a-dance-virtue-three-wise-girls-shopworn/)
the pre-credits scene consists of a black screen behind the soundtrack due to the courtroom visuals having been judged, convicted, and banished to oblivion.

Interesting! but luckily not a big deal as that scene is only 1.36 minutes long and there's still the audio.

[Citizen Rules]

https://www.movieforums.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=46543&stc=1&d=1533053404
The Goddess (1934)

I was watching this for like a half hour and thinking that it was an early Japanese silent. I kept wondering why the woman had Mandarin style collars and dresses that looked like Chinese fashions. My wife noticed that they had tables and chairs which would be unusual for a traditional Japanese home....Then I took a break from watching the movie and looked it up IMDB and to my surprise I seen it was an early Chinese film. That's really cool, as it's the only silent Chinese film I've ever seen and it's a good one too.

The actresses was superb at relaying emotions through her facial expressions and the film felt more naturalistic in it's style of acting than many American silent films. She was pretty too. The sets were simple and that's as it should be as this is a story of a poor woman forced to prostitute herself so she can earn enough money to keep her son feed. It's a heartbreaking story and effectively told. One of the movies I was considering for this Hof had a similar theme with a down on her luck woman forced into selling her body so she could buy medicine for her son. Well maybe if we ever do a pre-code HoF I would nominate that one.

A unique and well made film, glad I seen it, thanks @MijaFrost (http://www.movieforums.com/community/member.php?u=100042)

[Chypmunk]

Ahhhh, the 30s - the heyday of celluloid prostitution :D

[Citizen Rules]

https://www.movieforums.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=46548&stc=1&d=1533079259
Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1931)
*Spoilers*

I actually felt somewhat traumatized by this movie. The suffering Mr Hyde inflicts on poor Ivy (Miriam Hopkins) is brutal. He controls her every move, so much so that she lived in constant fear. That to me worked as an allegory for all the women in the world who are trapped by their own monstrous abusers.

Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde explores what happens when unbridled lust, combined with elitist arrogance is unchained in a man from his nobler, humanity side.

The way the story line shows Dr Jekyll (Fredrick March) not as a perfect man, but as a conflicted man full of raging impulses, sets up what he will become when he drinks the elixir he has concocted. He's a well-to-do man in 19th century London, who's wants to marry his fiancee...but his future father-in-law demands they wait 8 months. And Jekyll can't stand to wait that long.

Then by chance he meets a prostitute who's been beaten in the street. He carries her back to her room where she makes every attempt to seduce him. It's a very erotic scene for a pre-code film and Miriam Hopkins is quite the dish. That scene sets up a burning desire in him.

https://www.movieforums.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=46553&stc=1&d=1533081895


I was impressed by Fredrick March's duel role, and to the credit of March he plays the good Dr Jekyll with a bit of Mr Hyde inside him so it's easy for us to see where Hyde comes from. March won an Academy Award for Best Actor.

Miriam Hopkins is great too. And oh man she does this look of utter fear and hopelessness that has to be seen to be believed.

I liked the Butler too, as the movie went on he kept getting better and better and he does play an important part in the movie.

Director Rouben Mamoulian deserves a heap of praise. There's some inventive and stylish cinematography in this film! The opening 1st Person point-of-view was very cool and it was an effective intro too. I also liked the scene swipes, that's the transitions from scene to scene...A couple of times they did these diagonal split screen transitions, loved that. Also the use of shadows especially in the end chase seen, very cool to see. And the sets! I read they built 35 historically accurate sets, my favorite was the basement laboratory of Dr Jekyll.

[cricket]

I'm watching that^^tonight so I'll read it after:)

[Citizen Rules]

I'm watching that^^tonight so I'll read it after:)I look forward to your write up. I might watch another one tonight too.

[cricket]

I've got It Happened One Night coming from Netflix to watch with wifey this coming weekend, and Chain Gang to watch with her the following weekend. I'll have everything else done by then.

[Citizen Rules]

I've got It Happened One Night coming from Netflix to watch with wifey this coming weekend, and Chain Gang to watch with her the following weekend. I'll have everything else done by then.That's fast! I have Chain Gang coming from Netflix, then I need your nom to arrive...then I'm good to go.

[cricket]

That's fast! I have Chain Gang coming from Netflix, then I need your nom to arrive...then I'm good to go.

I'm off this week and a 4 day work week means a 10 day vacation. Got all the yard work done today so I'm going to have some time.

[Citizen Rules]

I'm off this week and a 4 day work week means a 10 day vacation. Got all the yard work done today so I'm going to have some time. 10 days off...nice! come to think of it I need a vacation:cool:

[cricket]

10 days off...nice! come to think of it I need a vacation:cool:

I have another vacation starting on 8/28. I'm thinking of visiting the end of my driveway.

[Citizen Rules]

I have another vacation starting on 8/28. I'm thinking of visiting the end of my driveway.Ha!

My driveway is actually really long, like 1/8th of a mile, so walking to the end is like a trip.

[cricket]

Ha!

My driveway is actually really long, like 1/8th of a mile, so walking to the end is like a trip.

That's long. Mine is about 280 feet, plenty long enough considering I landscape every inch of it.

[Citizen Rules]

That's long. Mine is about 280 feet, plenty long enough considering I landscape every inch of it. That's a lot of work to do! Do you have to weed it? Weeding is the worst/most hardest outside thing I have to do.

[cricket]

That's a lot of work to do! Do you have to weed it? Weeding is the worst:mad:

Yep but I keep up with it. I use spray and a weed whacker, none of that bending down shlt.

[Citizen Rules]

Yep but I keep up with it. I use spray and a weed whacker, none of that bending down shlt. Ha:p

[Siddon]

https://assets.mubi.com/images/film/1435/image-w1280.jpg?1505873561


I think we throw around "masterpiece" a little too much. Humanity and the Paper Balloons was to me an okay film that probably could have been more had it been made 20 years later. The film felt to much like a stage production, something that might work in the theater but didn't really translate visually on screen. I didn't feel like the story took place in Edo period, having seen so many of these films that cover this same period of time this one seemed to fail to have the scope of the period.



What I liked about the film is the duel stories, Shinza the hairdresser who gambles and Unno the out of work samurai. I think I prefer Unno's story because the moral was a little more pronounced. I liked how the story took it's time to develop the relationship between Unno and his wife and the role honor played in the tale. My biggest complaint though was I found the story to be incredibly predictable, they pretty much set up in the first scene how the film is going to end. I didn't particularly care for that.

[cricket]

I also preferred Unno's story and I'm not even sure the movie wouldn't have been better without Shinzo. Not that I didn't enjoy his time as well.

[rauldc14]

I did watch Virtue today. Review upcoming tomorrow.

[MijaFrost]

I decided to sacrifice an hour of sleep tonight and watched Virtue as well. I'll be tired at work tomorrow... but I don't regret it. :P

Will write my thoughts later.

Does anybody have a link to a decent copy of Of Mice And Men, the copies on YT are pretty poor quality - I'll watch it there if necessary but they hardly do the film justice :(

^ Yes, I was also wondering if anyone knows of higher quality links...

[Chypmunk]

I decided to sacrifice an hour of sleep tonight and watched Virtue as well. I'll be tired at work tomorrow... but I don't regret it. :P

Will write my thoughts later.
Phew, so glad you didn't regret it or I'd be feeling rotten right now. Look forward to reading your thunks.

^ Yes, I was also wondering if anyone knows of higher quality links...
Sadly it's proving very difficult to track down a better copy, it's looking like physical copy or digital rental might be the only choices.

[Chypmunk]

Humanity And Paper Balloons

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/69/6f/0d/696f0dbd65a04a329b756bccbde46929.jpg

Spoilers ahead

A modest but enjoyable enough period drama.

Visually the film is definitely appealing and it's tale of life in the underclass, which delightfully incorporates a little wry humour into proceedings, is portrayed with good performances from all.

The two separate tales are interwoven quite well, with Shinza's being the more immediately accessible but Unno's ultimately proving the more potent and rewarding imo.

Unfortunately the kidnapping element of the tale does let proceedings down a little, that part of the plot being poorly written imo with the humiliation of those above Shinza only ever partially achieved and the supposed need for discretion completely counteracted by events being so easily overheard, thus undermining the very reason for negotiation.

Overall it's a film that I'm glad was nominated and one that proved to be a likeable enough watch.

[cricket]

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

https://medialifecrisis.com/files/images/articles/201608-PopGap/Dr-Jekyll-and-Mr-Hyde-1931/Dr-Jekyll-and-Mr-Hyde-1931-00-38-41.jpg

"I'll show you what horror means"

I saw this so long ago that I could only see images in my head. While I remembered liking it, I knew it wasn't one of my favorites of the old horror films. That's because this is no horror movie for kids. If this were a modern film, it would not be a Citizen Rules type of film. It would be my kind of film, the kind that's brutal and filled with sex and violence.

For it's day this is rough, and that makes it all the more shocking. Hyde is an absolute terror on the streets, and poor Ivy a tragic victim. The transformation is startling, yet given believability due to Jekyll's desires. One of the great scenes, when Hyde goes out on the town to the club, reminded me of the scene in Cronenberg's The Fly when he went out, broke the guy's arm and picked up the girl. They each got this newfound strength and went out to raise some hell. Hyde's boisterous personality makes it so fun to watch. The movie starts out a little slow but when it gets going it never let's up. All of the cast is great but a big wow for Frederic March. He's already an actor I like and he knocks it out of the park here. The movie looks awesome as well. Just as an aside, I guess I've been pronouncing Jekyll wrong all these years. I loved this movie and am so glad it was nominated because I had no plans on watching it again. Conservative rating for now.

4

[rauldc14]

Virtue

https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ASA_Whf9ZJI/VNLOCU6bsAI/AAAAAAAAuX4/k2gmNLxrD0Q/s1600/VirtueStill2.jpg

A lot to like about this little film that I had never previously heard of. Some times these end up being the best nominations of them all! The strong point of the film was the character Mae played by Carole Lombard. It was a fantastic role for her and has me intrigued to see more of year roles. I had only seen a handful from her previously and none of them really showcased the talent and beauty she has like this film did. Her stunningness was shown in many different scenes. She had a great chemistry with O'Brien in this film I thought. The dialogue sort of reminded me of working as a miniature It Happened One Night. I also liked the blend that the film had between genres. It worked out very well

As a side note, was wondering what casino game that was with the dice in the cage. I had never seen that game before. I'm always intrigued by films that shoot casino scenes as well so I thought that like short snippet was cool. In general I enjoyed the scenes with Mae looking for Gert. It's a shame the film had to start off the way it did, but it really didn't effect the overall rating for me. A great start for me here.

3.5+

[Chypmunk]

So glad you enjoyed it rauld - that casino game was called Chuck -A-Luck (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chuck-a-luck) btw. Can't say I've ever played it myself (am not quite that old) :D

[Citizen Rules]

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

"I'll show you what horror means"


...I loved this movie and am so glad it was nominated because I had no plans on watching it again.

Cool beans! Glad you liked it...I chose that movie with you in mind, I thought it might work for you.

Interesting that you chose a quote from the movie, I was going to do that too in my review at one point, and that one is a good one.

[Citizen Rules]

https://www.movieforums.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=46570&stc=1&d=1533141247
Mad Love (1935)

A case study of what happens to a brilliant but pompous little man who's dedicated his life to intellectual pursuit and finds himself having never known love. The results? MAD LOVE takes over!

I learn a LOT from movies after they're over and I go to find photos for my review. With Mad Love...there are so many wickedly cool images, that I could plaster this post with a wall board of them and maybe I just will:p...And that's what I loved about Mad Love, it's visually wild imagery. It's not a deep movie, it's not a particularly emotional film, but it's balls to the walls, crazy good fun. The entire movie literally screams, 'kick back, and enjoy the wild spectacle'. The celluloid carnival ride starts at the get-go, with the title credits, when the hand smashes the glass pane. Cool!

Peter Lorre is wildly over the top, and...that's the way it should be with this movie, as it's that kind of flick.
https://www.movieforums.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=46572&stc=1&d=1533141954

What a visual wow that costume is. He looks like an early Hannibal Lecter there. Loved that scene and how Lorre, who was very quiet and almost shy in the first part of the film, became a cackling mad man driven insane by his MAD LOVE. Peter Lorre makes the film rockus fun.

And geez! Colin Clive ends up looking strange himself with those mutilated grafted on hands. I hadn't seen Frances Drake in anything else that I know of, but I liked her. I swear the wax mannequin looked just like her;)

Mad Love is a movie that has it all, a guillotine scene. A drunken old house keeper with a parrot on her shoulder, OMG! A pushy loud American reporter played by Ted Healey and without his Three Stooges. Then there's Keye Luke a real Asian American actor and he's cast in a very respectable role here. Keye Luke is best known as Master Po from the Kung Fu TV series. Oh and the opening stage play of a torture chamber scene is a big bonus. Damn this film has it all.


@Siddon (http://www.movieforums.com/community/member.php?u=95448) Great fun watching this roller coaster ride.

https://www.movieforums.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=46573&stc=1&d=1533142608

[Chypmunk]

Peter Lorre is wildly over the top, and...that's the way it should be with this movie, as it's that kind of flick.
Aye, delightfully ott isn't he :)

And geez! Colin Clive ends up looking strange himself with those mutilated grafted on hands. I hadn't seen Frances Drake in anything else that I know of, but I liked her. I swear the wax mannequin looked just like her;)
He certainly had no need for oars or a paddle if they took a boat out :lol:
And yes, the props designer definitely deserved recognition for the mannequin, hard to believe how lifelike it was ;)

Keye Luke is best known as Master Po from the Kung Fu TV series.
Keye Luke is better remembered as Charlie Chan's honourable son for me though (#1 son if I remember correctly) :)

[rauldc14]

Damn, Citizen going to be done before I even get to my third film lol. The Roaring Twenties will be next for me.

[pahaK]

Damn, Citizen going to be done before I even get to my third film lol. The Roaring Twenties will be next for me.

I think he's addicted to 30s films :D

[cricket]

Mad Love

https://thumbs.gfycat.com/ClearcutSadBustard-size_restricted.gif

I enjoyed this even if I thought it was a little ridiculous. I actually was enjoying it more before the central plot with the hands. My favorite scene was when the husband had the doctor visit the party, not knowing how uncomfortable it was for the wife. Once we get to the whole hands thing it becomes a silly, but at least fun time. I was wondering if the doctor performed the operation with good intentions or if he had sabotage on his mind from the get go. There were a few times when I wondered what the hell, like when the husband was so agreeable to be arrested. And what's with the girl's hair? That seemed a little weird to me for some reason. I slightly preferred Lorre in this movie to his eye popping performance in M. I don't know how good an actor he is because he's so naturally creepy. The actors who played the couple were pretty good while everyone else was just there for the ride. Good atmosphere and sets. It was ok.

2.5

[Chypmunk]

The Goddess

https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Av3EklLmWII/hqdefault.jpg

Spoilers approaching

A nicely worked silent drama that may tread a well beaten path but an excellent lead performance elevates it above the ordinary.

There's no doubting the highlight of this film is the performance from Lingyu Ruan as the jaded but resilient single mother with both eyes firmly fixed solely on her son's future. She really does emote well - and needs to as she has to convey a myriad of emotions throughout the tale.

Acting support was mixed, with the 'Boss' and his cohorts easily giving the weakest performances, none of them carrying any real menace, but both the 'Son' and the 'Principal' provided simple but reasonable performances.

I must admit I anticipated more of the emotional heft being generated from within the dynamic between the 'Goddess' and the 'Boss' and was very pleased that was left very much in the background as I think the societal disdain, though no more original in concept, allowed for far more impact. That the 'message' was even more overdone as a byproduct was, for me, still worth the price of opting for that route as it was always going to be slightly damaging anyway ..... personally though I'd have ended with the shot of the Principal walking away in the prison.

The occasional camera effects were sadly more miss than hit with me, no matter how much they may have pushed boundaries at the time, and I don't think really added much of interest to proceedings.

Overall it's a very nice offering that I'm delighted was nominated as I'd never heard of it before and may well never have had the pleasure of watching it otherwise.

[edarsenal]

Virtue

https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ASA_Whf9ZJI/VNLOCU6bsAI/AAAAAAAAuX4/k2gmNLxrD0Q/s1600/VirtueStill2.jpg

The strong point of the film was the character Mae played by Carole Lombard. It was a fantastic role for her and has me intrigued to see more of year roles. I had only seen a handful from her previously and none of them really showcased the talent and beauty she has like this film did.
I've only seen a couple of her films, that I can remember, but this has definitely become my favorite of hers.

[edarsenal]

WOW 22 out of 121 reviews done in ONLY 3 DAYS!!
and Mija and myself each have a film ready for write ups. She has Virtue and I watched Roaring Twenties last night.

[Citizen Rules]

Mad Love
My favorite scene was when the husband had the doctor visit the party, not knowing how uncomfortable it was for the wife.I thought it was hilarious when the mad doctor plants a big wet kiss on her, then as she's deciding to slap him or what? All these other guys start lining up to kiss her!

And what's with the girl's hair? That seemed a little weird to me for some reason. Do yo mean when he's strangling her at the end? It's from a poem, I read that at IMDB trivia:
Doctor Gogol's last lines change the hair color in, but otherwise quote, the 1836 Robert Browning poem 'Porphyria's Lover' which reads: ...I found A thing to do, and all her hair In one long yellow string I wound Three times her little throat around, And strangled her.

I slightly preferred Lorre in this movie to his eye popping performance in M. I don't know how good an actor he is because he's so naturally creepy. I've seen him in later films doing comedy as he's good there. I almost nominated him in another film Thank You, Mr. Moto (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0029648/?ref_=nm_flmg_act_88)(1937)

[Citizen Rules]

The Goddess
I must admit I anticipated more of the emotional heft being generated from within the dynamic between the 'Goddess' and the 'Boss' and was very pleased that was left very much in the background as I think the societal disdain, though no more original in concept, allowed for far more impact. Same here...I thought
The son would grow to be a man and end up killing the boss dude. I agree with you that the social issues were more interesting avenue.

[cricket]

The Roaring Twenties

https://silverscreenclassicsblog.files.wordpress.com/2016/10/the-roaring-twenties.jpg?w=700

This was very good even if it didn't quite blow me away. It's a rise and fall story with a lot of material for the runtime giving it a bit of an epic feel. There's parts of it in the beginning that feel a little like a look at history. I thought that was cool. All good performances, but the real treat is watching Cagney and Bogart as both friend and foe. Anytime there are two legends like that sharing the screen it's going to be special. It was filmed a little bland, a shame. The finale was excellent.

3.5

[rauldc14]

I'll be watching Roaring Twenties tomorrow. Look forward to it!

[edarsenal]

The Roaring Twenties

https://silverscreenclassicsblog.files.wordpress.com/2016/10/the-roaring-twenties.jpg?w=700
ah D@MMIT ya beat me to the punch for images!
That is a perfect one for what goes on with them, cannot blame ya for snatching it

looks like i'll be right back with something else to write mine up with

[edarsenal]

https://michaelgloversmith.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/vlcsnap-2013-10-17-09h18m26s170.jpg


The Roaring Twenties

You want the Brooklyn Bridge, all you gotta do is ask for it. If I can't buy it, I'll steal it.

cricket definitely hits the mark regarding the gist of this film.
It's almost set up in 3 Acts with all the filler that goes into this, involving the necessity to get into crime, the rise to power and, as these stories will go, the eventual fall. Which isn't a bad thing, at all. There's plenty to entertain even though the saga of a man who rises to power and then tumbles back down is an exceedingly common one this IS a very worthwhile film and one for anyone who enjoys the actors and the genre.

While there are two great actors here, Bogart and Cagney, you will see in any poster of this and, upon watching it, it truly centers around Cagney's character, Eddie. And Bogart, as friend and then foe is an excellent antagonist for him. Since it's very hard to see anyone, really, stand toe to toe with Cagney BUT Bogart.

A lot of the voice over narration that occurs DOES have a great bit of history thrown it while we see Eddie, having shared trenches and cigarettes with Bogart and a third friend, played by Jeffrey Lynn, who has dreams of being a lawyer; returning home to find the ONLY job available involves making and selling illegal booze.

Anyone who has ever watched a Cagney film knows just how easy it is to get behind him and wish him well. And this is no different. Where he plays a decent guy who plays fair with the usual Cagney charm AND temper.
When the fall comes, as they do, Cagney has a rough time picking himself back up and it's that inherent decency that triggers the finale to this decade long story.

When I was a teenager, having only seen one huge gangster saga, The Godfather, this was pretty impressive stuff. For very good reason.
Now, having seen countless of them, it is still a great gangster saga, though a bit more genteel, it still remains one that any fan of the gangster genre SHOULD check out as being the -- (yeah, I am SOOO using the pun) godfather of them all.

[Siddon]

https://resizing.flixster.com/EfzMdDUHctIDLP68k5KAyQU_iHU=/300x300/v1.bjsxOTc5NzU7ajsxNzc3NzsxMjAwOzUzMzs2NTc


The Roaring Twenties is a 1930's gangster epic, I believe the first of it's kind before The Godfather showed up 40 years later. It tells the story of a hard luck mechanic(Cagney) who after the war is down on his luck ends up running booze in prohibition era New York.

The entire story covers about 15 to 17 years, and they don't use makeup or age the actors so that's a bit of a problem. The film also has a couple musical and dance numbers that while it wouldn't feel out of place for that time period I don't think it really ages well. But really these are quibbles it has numerous strong points.

It's greatest value is the brisk pace and well done editing, the film doesn't even clock in at 2 hours yet it tells a long good story. If this story were told today it would either be a mini-series or atleast a three hour film. The cast runs about 6 people deep and they are all well developed, nobody is particularly good or bad. Much like Breaking Bad it's about shades of evil, the villain Humphrey Bogart is clearly bad and the heroine Priscilla Lane is clearly good but at the end of the film I was left with certain questions about the moral choices of Lane's character and Bogart.

Finally James Cagney isn't someone who I really consider a "great" actor I think that he got away with charisma for most of his career and played the same part. This film is definitely the best use of Cagney's charisma. This is probably my favorite film of his.

great pick @nathaniel

[Citizen Rules]

It's a roaring 20's type of day:yup: I own the DVD and have seen this several times and fairly recently, so I'm not going to rewatch. Here's my review:

https://www.movieforums.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=33697&stc=1&d=1503194906
The Roaring Twenties (1939)


Director: Raoul Walsh
Writers: Jerry Wald & Richard Macaulay (screen play), Mark Hellinger (story)
Cast: James Cagney, Humphrey Bogart, Priscilla Lane, Gladys George, Jeffery Lynn, Frank McHugh
Genre: Drama

An epic recounting of the rise and fall of Prohibition during the 1920s, and of three men who meet during WWI and later become involved in the bootlegging of illegal booze.

https://www.movieforums.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=33700&stc=1&d=1503194927


In 1939 Warner Brothers studio made The Roaring Twenties a film that pays homage to the early 1930's gangster films that made Warner Brothers a household name....and made stars out of two of their actors, who were famous for playing tough guy gangsters, James Cagney and Humphrey Bogart.

The movie is the pinnacle of what Warner Bros had learned from their many gangster films. It takes a broad sweeping style and tells an interwoven epic story, all done in semi-documentary form. Remember this is made in 1939 but is about the roaring 1920s, hence it's a period piece. Voice over narrative and mock news reels give the film the effect of authenticity, something which Warner Bros was famous for with their 'ripped from the news headlines' movie stories.

The movie really gives a blow by blow account of how prohibition came to be and gave rise to the manufacturing and disturbing of alcohol. We see bathtub gin being made, we see how it gets into the speakeasies, and how it leads to escalating crime and violence.

https://www.movieforums.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=33701&stc=1&d=1503194934


https://www.movieforums.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=33698&stc=1&d=1503194912


Cagney is the lead and the story tells how these three young men who meet up in a foxhole during a bombing attack, dream of what they will do when they get back home. The scene is an important one as it foreshadows the personality and there forth the fate of the three men. Each man has quite a different path during the 1920s.

Bogart is second billed here. He had not reached top star status as he later would in 1941 with High Sierra and The Maltese Falcon. It's interesting to see Bogart in this early role, one can see his screen presence is already well developed...But he's playing a different character than we are use to seeing him as. Here he's a sniveling bastard, a real cut throat...and to the films credit they foreshadow that when Bogart lays into Jeffrey Lynn who plays the college boy nice guy at the start of the film. Bogart is good at being bad.

One of my favorite performances is Gladys George who plays the night club owner Panama Smith. Her character is modeled after the real life, colorful Texas Guinan, who ran a famous speakeasy in NYC during prohibition. Gladys George plays her character with a lot of heart and sadness too, as she's the ignored part of a love triangle.

https://www.movieforums.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=33699&stc=1&d=1503194920


The other part of that triangle is Priscilla Lane who's a fresh faced kid that falls for Cagney. He gives her no notice until he runs into her several years later, and she's all grown up. Then he's smitten with her. She sings a couple of brief songs, and yes that's her singing. She was a singer before turning to acting.

The Roaring Twenties is not a shoot em up flick, it's a retrospective look at prohibition, done up big scale, with a talented cast of Warner Brothers stars.

rating_4

[edarsenal]

cricket got the very gist of the story, but YOU CR, got the very lifeblood of it!!

[Nathaniel]

Off for a day and wander in to a page of great Roaring Twenties reviews. Nice surprise :)

I'll be watching Of Mice and Men tonight. cricket and CR will have sent their ballots by then.

[Chypmunk]

Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/29/10/4c/29104c571551bf29321c6afb40a239cd.jpg

Pretty much spoiler free

A very nicely rendered adaptation of the classic tale about the duality of man (and woman).

Fredric March is excellent in both titular roles, proving remarkably agile at times whilst exercising his inner demon and later in proceedings managing to convey the inner turmoil between them quite nicely. The support is mainly solid with both female leads giving March nice foils however, by contrast the little girl, Mary, is atrocious and thankfully only makes a brief appearance.

First person perspective in film can be rather hit or miss with me but aside from the opening sequence imo being a little too lengthy it is generally well used here and certainly one of the strengths of the film is the use of effects - with the earlier transformations between Jekyll/Hyde being particularly good and the prolonged overlay of Ivy's swinging leg a nice touch, though conversely the use of the split screen transitions is a little overdone for me.

The sets are well staged, especially the basement laboratory, and nicely compliment the excellent cinematography with some good use of lighting as well.

Overall it's a lovely, entertaining watch that quickly grabs and maintains attention and I'm delighted it was nominated as it's one that I may not have got round to re-watching for the countdown otherwise.

[Citizen Rules]

Any Star Trek The Next Generation fans here? If so, remember Whoopi Goldberg's character Guinan who tended bar on the ship's 'Ten Forward' and gave out timely advice. Her character's name comes from the real Texas Guinan who was played by Gladys George in The Roaring Twenties. I just thought that was cool, so I mentioned it:p

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ejLxY1Biqu0/ToNI00w8PaI/AAAAAAAADqg/C3VeNGg4FC0/s1600/220px-TexGuinan.jpg
The real Guinan (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Texas_Guinan)

[pahaK]

I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang (1932)

Probably daring and controversial in its time but for modern viewer it seems like a repetition of all the standard prison film cliches.

http://www.oscarchamps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/1933-I-am-a-Fugitive-From-a-Chain-Gang-03.jpg

An innocent (or at least not completely guilty) man is convicted for ten years of hard labor in a chain gang. He's not happy about the situation and manages to escape after several months. He winds up in Chicago, builds a new life as an engineer, is blackmailed to marry an evil and selfish woman and eventually his past catches up.

I can't experience films as a contemporary viewer. From my point of view the sadistic prison wardens, corrupt and petty politicians, sympathetic and almost noble prisoners, etc. are familiar from countless films already. The story isn't precisely bad but very familiar. I think the best non-standard thing in it is its questions about morality of punishment vs the value of an individual to society (is his new societal status good enough reason to annul his sentence).

First half of the film works pretty well. After James meets Marie the movie starts to move on a fast forward towards very unsurprising final act (though the exact ending was a positive surprise). I suppose the film loses some of its emotional power to James being (at least to me) somewhat unlikable and definitely more responsible for his situation than he was willing to admit.

I think acting is mostly fine; Muni is really good in the lead but some of the minor characters (like the guy accompanying him on the second escape) are way too theatrical. Most of the prison scenes look pretty realistic (assumption, I've never been in a chain gang myself) and there's no huge exaggeration or dehumanization of the guards.

It's alright version of a good old story but offers nothing new for someone who's seen plenty of prison films already.

2

[cricket]

Red Dust

http://ilarge.lisimg.com/image/9543812/815full-red-dust----------------------------------%281932%29-screenshot.jpg

I didn't think it was great but it got a reaction out of me.

SPOILERS
I didn't think I was going to like it at all at first. For the first five minutes, I had a hard time making out what was being said and I figured it was dated. Then the Jean Harlow character shows up and I didn't like her or her character. I wondered why she was known as a sex symbol; was it just the platinum blonde hair? Anyway, I figured no way was I going to like this with her continually aggravating me. Then Mary Astor shows up and she instantly saves the movie for me. Then something strange happened; I started to hate Astor's character and like Harlow's. I always like Clark Gable, even if this wasn't one of his most likable characters. At least he redeemed himself a little bit. The fact that Dennis and Barbara were hooking up infuriated me, but having my blood boil was better than having the lighthearted fare I was expecting. I do think they could have done a lot more with the story. The setting was awesome especially with all that rain. Mickey Rooney was great as Hoy. I feel like I'm overrating it but it pissed me off in a good way. I give a lot of credit for that.

3.5-

[rauldc14]

Darn, it's been awhile since I nominated something good for you.

[cricket]

Darn, it's been awhile since I nominated something good for you.

I would have liked it to have been longer. I usually feel the opposite.

[Citizen Rules]

I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang (1932)

Probably daring and controversial in its time but for modern viewer it seems like a repetition of all the standard prison film cliches.
I can't experience films as a contemporary viewer. If you watched more older films, like 1930s films, you would develop a frame work in your mind and then be able to appreciate the greatness of films past.

From my point of view the sadistic prison wardens, corrupt and petty politicians, sympathetic and almost noble prisoners, etc. are familiar from countless films already. That would be astute criticism of a modern film, but this film was ground breaking, it was literally the first of it's type and IMO deserves much credit for that. It's based on a true story, so true...that at the time the man featured in the movie was actually on the run and hiding out during the filming of this movie. The film then helped to earn him a pardon and bring an end to the cruel chain gangs. I think that is worth a popcorn barrel or two.


It's alright version of a good old story but offers nothing new for someone who's seen plenty of prison films already.
rating_2 I support everyone's right to view and rate any film they watch as they see fit, but really? you're going to knock it because it's been copied in the present?

[Citizen Rules]

Mickey Rooney was great as Hoy. Ha! LMAO...good one:D

[pahaK]

I support everyone's right to view and rate any film they watch as they see fit, but really? you're going to knock it because it's been copied in the present?

Not exactly because of that. For me it just doesn't offer anything new or even be especially good in its peer group. I'm quite sure I'd have rated it higher in 1930s but sadly it's 2010s now and I can't forget my past experiences every time I watch a new film (as fantastic as that might actually be).

Like I've said in the past for me the movie is only as good as the experience of watching it. I'm not going to Google historic significance, contemporary reactions or anything like that to to adjust my score.

So no, I'm not knocking it because it's been copied but because (in my opinion) many of those copies are actually better films and I was only rather mildly entertained by it.

[edarsenal]

I'll have to read that review AFTER I see Red Dust.

We do have our first review for I am a Fugitive From a Chain Gang.
I definitely get your feeling about watching a film that has been repeated so many times since then, pahaK. I found myself doing that with The Roaring Twenties and had to fight the urge and watch it as is, not as subject matter I've seen so many times previously.

[edarsenal]

Any Star Trek The Next Generation fans here? If so, remember Whoopi Goldberg's character Guinan who tended bar on the ship's 'Ten Forward' and gave out timely advice. Her character's name comes from the real Texas Guinan who was played by Gladys George in The Roaring Twenties. I just thought that was cool, so I mentioned it:p

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ejLxY1Biqu0/ToNI00w8PaI/AAAAAAAADqg/C3VeNGg4FC0/s1600/220px-TexGuinan.jpg
The real Guinan (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Texas_Guinan)


that is a VERY COOL bit of trivia!! :)

[rauldc14]

Roaring Twenties

https://www.proprofs.com/quiz-school/topic_images/p1cc078okan5r1vto13sn1hqmpd43.jpg

A pretty good movie. I felt the crime related scenes were the weak point though as they weren't all that realistic for me for whatever reason. Regardless, I thought Bogart and Cagney played well off of one another, and Priscilla Lane was pretty good in her role too. From a historical standpoint I think it did a good job in being realistic about how prohibition played out during this time period, I just felt it did a little injustice to the mobs that were present around this time. Then again, this was made nearly 80 years ago so maybe it should be given some slack from me. I felt more drawn towards the story of the film in the first half for whatever reason as we got to learn about the characters. Once the action and shoot em ups started it surprisingly lost a bit of it's luster. I don't have a lot to say other than that but I am glad that I got around to finally seeing it.

3.5

[Citizen Rules]

that is a VERY COOL bit of trivia!! :) Did I mention that Ian Wolfe, better known as Mr Atoz to Star Trek fans, was the father in Mad Love:cool:

[edarsenal]

Did I mention that Ian Wolfe, better known as Mr Atoz to Star Trek fans, was the father in Mad Love:cool:

you HAVE now lol

[MijaFrost]

Hey guys, I found a better copy of Of Mice and Men if anyone wants a link...

[Nathaniel]

Of Mice and Men (1939)

46593

1939 was stacked. The fact that I'm still finding films I enjoy from '39 is testament to its greatness. Add Of Mice and Men to that list despite having a couple of issues with it.

Burgess Meredith is excellent as George Milton and his performance drives the plot. Essentially the character is at the crux of these peoples lives, acting as a shoulder or moral compass so to speak. Watching him play off other characters is what drew me in to the story. I was also impressed by Lon Chaney Jr as Lennie who I only know for the monsters he would go on to play. This role led to him being type cast in future films. Every other character feels a little bit off. I think that comes down to quite a bit of the dialogue being played as stagy or over dramatic. Which I wasn't keen on. Also, not a fan of Curley's characterisation who is like the walking embodiment of an alien or something. He just doesn't seem like an actual human being. Probably Steinbeck's intention. The story does have some nice poignant moments though.

Knowing when to settle or provide a unique angle can be a challenge for some directors from this period but this was a good watch on the visual front. Some scenes towards the end really stood out and I can see them sticking with me. There's a reverse tracking shot there that's perfect and it kind of blew me away.

[cricket]

The Goddess

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/4b/db/a4/4bdba40660959e6256d96237a68cbafe.gif

I was just thinking while watching Red Dust that I see a lot of these old movies with prostitutes, but in many of them I only know the character is a prostitute because it says so in the synopsis. There's no getting around it in this movie as that's the whole story. Of course, it could all have to do with censorship differences between countries. I have no idea.

I liked how the main character is squarely portrayed as a victim. It seems that over 80 years later, in reality, are we now just seeing laws and society view these girls as victims rather than criminals. Also, the children are often the unseen victims, except in this movie we do see it. It's an important piece that is too often an afterthought. I was surprised to see this woman end up with a pimp, another aspect that seems rare in old films. I also thought that was handled pretty well. It may seem odd to some that she ended up involved with that guy. It is in a way in that she's no rookie so she obviously knows about these predators, and she may have had one previously before the action in the movie starts. Unfortunately for her, once he saves her from arrest, she owes him, or at least that's what the code of the streets say. It's like being in jail; don't let anyone do any favors for you. These worlds and the people who live in them abide by their own sets of rules. These girls, except in very rare instances, do not seek help from the police either. I think that is starting to finally change a little bit now, at least in America, as law enforcement has started to go after the pimps as human traffickers.

The lead actress is fantastic and the rest of the cast as good as needed. The way the subtitles were presented, at least in the version I watched, were extremely easy to read. I'm not doing backflips or anything after watching this but it's an extremely effective and well done movie.

3.5

[edarsenal]

Hey guys, I found a better copy of Of Mice and Men if anyone wants a link...

I believe Chyp was and yes, I would love one as well. THANK YOU SO MUCH Mija!!

[edarsenal]

cricket MAY be in making of a record for Fastest Participation in a Hall of Fame!!!
What's it been, like four days and he his at 8/11?

[rauldc14]

I feel slow as a snail this go around. I won't even have time to get to my third until Sunday night or Monday with a busy weekend ahead

[cricket]

cricket MAY be in making of a record for Fastest Participation in a Hall of Fame!!!
What's it been, like four days and he his at 8/11?

I'm putting another on now but still about 10 days until I finish.

[edarsenal]

I feel slow as a snail this go around. I won't even have time to get to my third until Sunday night or Monday with a busy weekend ahead

i feel you pain, looking at how many I've done while sitting between cricket and citizen on the front page I'm like a valley between two mountain peaks

[rauldc14]

I think I will go with Humanity and Paper Balloons next though, although I thought about a rewatch of It Happened One Night next too. Think the next go around will be my sixth watch!

[Citizen Rules]

https://www.movieforums.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=46596&stc=1&d=1533262636

I Am A Fugitive From A Chain Gang (1932)


I watched this last night, I hadn't seen it in like 15 years. I remember when I first seen it I was blown away by the story! This is one of those 1930s films that got me hooked on movie watching. When I joined MoFo and started doing Hofs I made me a list of movies that I might nominate and this was one of them. Well I never did nominate it, but was glad to see it here.

I like to say I was still blown away, but that wouldn't be true. No, it's not the fault of the film that I didn't experience the same impact as before. It happens to me with most mystery-thrillers, I already knew how this turned out, so the punch that this film delivered was somewhat subdued. Perhaps if it had spent more time in the chain gang prison, or spent more time on character development, it might have been the 1930s equivalent of The Shawshank Redemption.

But as it was, it goes straight for the chase and I already know what happens. But I bet audiences in 1932 were shocked out of their seats by this exposé on the corruption & abuse of the southern prison system. Hell, if this was the 1930s and I had just seen this movie, I would NEVER EVER set foot in Georgia.

So did I like it? Yes! Paul Muni was great in this and it was totally great to see how a chain gang operated, yikes!...

Kudos to Glenda Farrell, the blonde girlfriend who knives him in the back. I've never seen her play a role like this one, usually she's in comedies and is the likable brassy blonde with a sharp wit and a big heart.

BTW do you guys know this was based on a very true story and the man who wrote the book was actually on the lam during the making of this film.

@Pussy Galore (http://www.movieforums.com/community/member.php?u=76648) very cool nomination!

[Chypmunk]

I Am A Fugitive From A Chain Gang

http://www.oscarchamps.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/1933-I-am-a-Fugitive-From-a-Chain-Gang-04.jpg

Spoilers, I say, spoilers

A worthwhile crime drama that helped lift the lid on pitiless penal practises.

Paul Muni puts in a very good shift as the unfairly-done-by protagonist, showing a suitable mix of both strength and weakness, and the support he is given is mostly fine though for me Hale Hamilton's performance as his brother is a little weak.

The economy of storytelling is quite nice in places but the balance isn't perfect imo with the first escape sequence feeling rather rushed (kudos for the very nice water sequence though) and what should be one of the most emotionally affecting parts of the tale, the second stint on the chain gang, far too brief which is also a shame as the prison and chain-gang scenes were generally nicely staged.

That events are based in reality certainly gives proceedings an extra gravitas and whilst some may find the lack of closure a little frustrating, for me it ends on the perfect note that indicts a system completely uninterested in potential rehabilitation.

Overall it's a very worthy nomination that it turns out I had actually seen at least most of before (decades ago) and one I'm very glad was nominated.

[Mr Minio]

For me it just doesn't offer anything new or even be especially good in its peer group. It's one of the best films of its kind. :shrug:

I'm quite sure I'd have rated it higher in 1930s but sadly it's 2010s now No. No! Nooooo!!! Don't use this annoying, normie argument. This film is outstanding compared to so many new films similar to it. Very few (if any) contemporary prison films get to this level. When he says these few final lines while slowly descending into shadows - this is what cinema is all about. Which contemporary director would have had balls big enough to direct this scene this way? It's both terrifying and beautiful.
Like I've said in the past for me the movie is only as good as the experience of watching it. That's obvious. However, in this case the what-has-happened in real world is a meta message of the film, so it is a part of it.

So no, I'm not knocking it because it's been copied but because (in my opinion) many of those copies are actually better films and I was only rather mildly entertained by it. Then you have crap taste. Simple as that. And your TOP 10 isn't even that bad... What happened?


I can't fight off the impression that you lack enthusiasm and don't really love watching these films, guys. But maybe that's just a matter of wording. I too often come off as way less excited and in love than I really am. You sound so distant, so removed from it. As if you were saying, yep it's good, but nothing great. Yeah, you know, it was okayish.
Blah. More love for cinema, please! Some of you also give me this "I'm just getting into cinema" vibe and this might be true for some of you in some ways! :D Yes, I'm done whining.

[pahaK]

Then you have crap taste.

No, this has nothing to do with my taste. It's just you having some sort of a god complex.

[cricket]

Virtue

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0xArtw5id00/S_hsHTFSmDI/AAAAAAAAB8g/Ko6m1j1-ghM/s1600/cap026.jpg

I was just saying yesterday after watching The Goddess that I've been seeing movies in which a character being a prostitute is not made clear. I was also surprised to see a pimp in an old movie. Well I guess that had to do with code because I got it all over again. It turned out to be a nice score watching these two movies back to back, especially with this movie being second. While The Goddess deals with life as a prostitute, this movie deals with the life after.

SPOILERS
This movie presents a couple of different dilemmas regarding the life of a working girl. One is how to put the past behind you, and the other is from the point of view of the man who falls in love. I thought both of these were handled brilliantly. For a girl, unless you move far away, you always have that fear of the past catching up to you. That means running into someone you knew in your previous life, and that could be clients, co-workers, police, hotel doormen, or really anybody. Just as an aside, this is an even bigger problem today for girls who post their pictures on the Internet. Then you have the man. Does the girl tell that man about her past and hope he doesn't find out? In the case of this movie she doesn't and he does. This is going to be a difficult relationship to work out even if he's willing to give it a go. He will block it out and pretend it never happened, but it will always be in the back of his mind. When he senses something is amiss, he may become overly suspicious and he could also hold it against her when things get tough. This is hurtful for both parties and Virtue does a great job at showing this.

I thought most of the characterizations and performances were spot on. The pimp wasn't the most realistic, or rather, the norm. Most real pimps are more like the guy in The Goddess. I do think the pimp in this movie fits the story well at least. I knew it was a big problem when her friend was asking for money, and while it's hard to blame someone for having a heart, that was a big mistake by her. I thought the movie derailed a bit once it got to the murder, not that I don't like that kind of thing because I do. I just think the movie was heading towards being something special without that. There's a little bit of humor, but it's the right kind, sharp instead of sappy. Overall this was a great watch with no wasted time.

3.5

[Chypmunk]

Pleased you thought favourably of it crick.

[cricket]

Pleased you thought favourably of it crick.

Yea it was really good and I never would have seen it otherwise.

[Mr Minio]

No, this has nothing to do with my taste. It's just you having some sort of a god complex. PUNY MORTAL! BEND OVER AND EMBRACE MY GLORY!

[edarsenal]

Yea it was really good and I never would have seen it otherwise.
That was the exact same for me as well. And being one of the first reviews I was dying NOT to reveal things but found it impossible to write about it WITHOUT doing just that.
This was TOO good to reveal.

[Pussy Galore]

Just saw Virtue and I thought it was alright, though forgettable. There might be some minor spoilers.



By forgettable I mean that I couldn't really care for any of the character because I thought they were caricature and aren't really developed. The most noticeable lack of development is the one regarding the love bond between the 2 protagonists. The whole movie we see the taxi cab driver being sarcastic and dismissive toward his wife, I don't see on what basis they love each other, the movie didn't really show us any chemistry between the 2 characters.


The main problem I have with the film as I said before is the characters, but the prostitute isn't that bad, I can see her inner conflict between the love (even if not demonstrated) and the responsability she feels toward her husband and her friend which seems in need of assistance, also at the beggining of the film we see that she's happy to find that she has some sort of connexion with a man which could lead her to a ''normal'' life. What I don't see if why she's attracted to this man which is obnoxious, non interesting and dismissive of her. Maybe she was more happy about the idea of the ''normal'' life I just talked about then with this man in particular.


Overall I'd say it's an okay movie that I won't remember in a week with some weak undevelopped characters.


I'd give something like 5/10

[Chypmunk]

Can understand that perspective - at least you gave it five more than pahaK probably will :)

(just kidding, pahaK's gonna give it the full eleven, I can just feel it)

[pahaK]

Can understand that perspective - at least you gave it five more than pahaK probably will :)

(just kidding, pahaK's gonna give it the full eleven, I can just feel it)

Giving zero points would mean I didn't finish the film so in HoFs the minimum you'll see from is going to be 1/10 or half a popcorn :D

[Nathaniel]

Virtue (1932)

http://www.jbkaufman.com/sites/default/files/styles/fullpage-image/public/MovieOfTheMonth/Virtue%202.JPG?itok=vYxoATTa


SPOILERS

The power of money is so prevalent in this and it's a fascinating look at the various routes people will take towards it. Like the Great Depression is hanging over every action, money used for control and manipulation. The first time we see Mae and Jimmy together is her cheating him out of his cab fare. That interaction is integral to how their relationship develops. It's clear that it's edging towards toxic from the get go.

Jimmy is keen to get across his ambivalence towards women, how you can't leave them with cash. He has little faith in Mae's actions, setting pocket money and generally being a bit of a dick. Understandably this distrust is confounded when he learns of her past. I found him to be quite easy to hate and this makes Mae's eventual comeback speech all the more satisfying when it happens. Does the romantic ending undercut this? I could go either way but I'm leaning towards no. The conclusion comes after some character defining moments and people change. So why not? Murder charges bring people together is what I say.

I really enjoyed this, particularly the dialogue which is filled with snappy one liners. Clear to see why Carole Lombard became a star.

Great nom Chypmunk.

[cricket]

I didn't think Jimmy was a bad guy at all. I thought he handled it well for an average guy.

[Nathaniel]

I didn't think Jimmy was a bad guy at all. I thought he handled it well for an average guy.

She never actually tells him about her past so I understand his reaction. Credit to the writing in that whist I didn't like him, I did understand his behaviour.

[Citizen Rules]

I didn't think Jimmy was a bad guy at all. I thought he handled it well for an average guy. That's how I seen it too.


Virtue
...money used for control and manipulation. The first time we see Mae and Jimmy together is her cheating him out of his cab fare. That interaction is integral to how their relationship develops. It's clear that it's edging towards toxic from the get go. I didn't see it that way, I think they both truly loved each other but had huge hurdles to overcome. Mae has to stop scamming for money, and Jimmy needs to learn to trust women, which in the end he does.


He has little faith in Mae's actions, setting pocket money and generally being a bit of a dick. I could see a modern audience thinking the 'setting of pocket money' was a control issue. It was not. At that time it was very, very common for the man to work and the woman did the house work. She got an allowance, aka 'spending money', that was for her own personal use. Yes, today that sounds belittling, but it was not intended that way in the movie. Mae getting an allowance isn't a reflection on Jimmy's character.


Understandably this distrust is confounded when he learns of her past. I found him to be quite easy to hate and this makes Mae's eventual comeback speech all the more satisfying when it happens. I do understand that, I felt the same one, at times he did act like a dick and it pissed me off at him.

[Chypmunk]

Very glad you enjoyed it Nathaniel :)

I think partly why I like it is both his and her viewpoints are understandable to me. They are both very human characters in my eyes.

[Nathaniel]

I didn't see it that way, I think they both truly loved each other but had huge hurdles to overcome. Mae has to stop scamming for money, and Jimmy needs to learn to trust, which in the end he does.

Jimmy only learns to trust after Mae is thrown in jail and is facing life imprisonment. The screenplay itself pushes the idea of double crossing for money right from the cab scene. I think that's how they intended it to play out.

I could see a modern audience thinking the 'setting of pocket money' was a control issue. It was not. At that time it was very, very common for the man to work and the woman did the house work. She got an allowance. Yes today that sounds belittling but it was not and in the movie Mae getting an allowance isn't a reflection on Jimmy's character.

Good point on the pocket money and that's something I didn't consider. However, it does not wipe away his controlling and dismissive attitude. He relates the point right away that he does not trust women and then proceeds to be controlling and dismissive towards Mae. Regardless of the time frame, he's not a guy that I could say is decent. The speech scene as I saw it was even the director's way of nodding that yes Jimmy is being a jerk here, lets give Mae a chance to say her piece.

[cricket]

That first scene with the way Jimmy is talking, I dismiss that as guy talk. Reality with the woman is often different, and I think that's shown by how quickly he's smitten with her. She's even the one who's in charge of the savings.

[edarsenal]

The conclusion comes after some character defining moments and people change. So why not? Murder charges bring people together is what I say.

:rotfl:

[MijaFrost]

I'll get my review of Virtue in now, too.

46639

So, first of all, to join in with the discussion above, I have to say I wasn't offended by much in this film because I took it as being an example of its time period. However, the main male character, Jimmy, did seem overly negative, dismissive, and controlling at times, and I didn't like how he'd physically hit Mae, et cetera. THAT I see as being a personality flaw, not something that's indicative of any specific period.

I liked how Mae did have a strong character though, and she seemed quite feminist, even if that wasn't the filmmaker's intention.

As already mentioned, the dialogue was sharp, and there were some unexpected developments in the plot. (I didn't read much about it before my viewing.) It was very watchable and the 68 minutes flew by quickly.

Now on to...

Humanity and Paper Balloons

46638

Don't read if you want to avoid spoilers

This reminded me somewhat of later Kurosawa films, and also Ugetsu, but unfortunately I must admit that those movies were more to my taste than this one. It was quite a depressing watch. I kept waiting for something cheerful or beneficial to the characters to happen, but it was like a study of bad karma. If they gained money, it was through devious means, and they would then have to suffer for it later. If they wanted to have fun and get drunk with friends, they'd then lie to their wife about it, because they had promised her they'd quit drinking so they would have a better chance of looking respectful and finding employment.
There are no happy endings in this film. It ends much the same way it begins.

[edarsenal]

Just saw Virtue
The whole movie we see the taxi cab driver being sarcastic and dismissive toward his wife, I don't see on what basis they love each other, the movie didn't really show us any chemistry between the 2 characters.

Sorry to hear you didn't enjoy this one too much, PG.

with those scenes, if you take a moment and look closer, there is a small grin in their eyes, giving a sidelong look to one another as they, basically, "talk sh@t" with one another. And it normally ends in a kiss by scene's end. They do love one another, they're just not "new to the game" and have had rough times, so there's that rough edge to protect the past hurt.

Known a lot of folks like this and do this myself. Knew an elder couple who "lovingly" called one another "@sshole" and "b@tch". And would laugh and joke, and kiss while doing it.
It's not romantic love, it's spicy love and at first glance it isn't seen in Virtue, but it definitely is there.

[cricket]

You should hear how my wife and I talk to each other. Oy.

[Chypmunk]

Pleased you found aspects of Virtue you liked Mija.
Also glad to hear that there's still hope that one day my wife might actually have a kind word to say about me :D

[Pussy Galore]

Maybe the fact that my mother tongue is french and that I rarely speak english made me miss those nuances in their interactions. It seemed to me that the guy always talked about the garage he wanted to buy, didn't give attention to his wife. I didn't see why Carole Lombard would be attracted to him. Maybe I missed something, it's a possibility.

[edarsenal]

Pleased you found aspects of Virtue you liked Mija.
Also glad to hear that there's still hope that one day my wife might actually have a kind word to say about me :D
she will. But not to you. The kind word will be shared with her mom, her friends, her siblings - but not to you ;)
Maybe the fact that my mother tongue is french and that I rarely speak english made me miss those nuances in their interactions. It seemed to me that the guy always talked about the garage he wanted to buy, didn't give attention to his wife. I didn't see why Carole Lombard would be attracted to him. Maybe I missed something, it's a possibility.
I had forgotten you're from Montreal - VERY cool. I have family from both sides in Montreal. And Ontario and . . . my parents are actually from New Brunswick and they've been here in the U.S since the mid 50's and my mom STILL has a bit of an French-Canadian accent.

But I digress.

The nuance is in their eyes and that hidden shadow of a grin. It IS easy to miss if you don't recognize it.

[cricket]

Maybe the fact that my mother tongue is french and that I rarely speak english made me miss those nuances in their interactions. It seemed to me that the guy always talked about the garage he wanted to buy, didn't give attention to his wife. I didn't see why Carole Lombard would be attracted to him. Maybe I missed something, it's a possibility.

I don't necessarily think you're wrong, but some people attract one another for unusual reasons.

[pahaK]

Just finished It Happened One Night. Will try to have review done tonight.

[cricket]

Just finished It Happened One Night. Will try to have review done tonight.

I can't wait to read you tearing it to shreds!

[pahaK]

I can't wait to read you tearing it to shreds!

While I didn't really like it I don't think it deserves a full on tearing either :D

[pahaK]

It Happened One Night (1934)

I have never read Harlequin books but It Happened One Night is very close to how I imagine them to be.

http://thenewswheel.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/It-Happened-One-Night-Review-classic-road-trip-film-6.jpg
Who in their right mind doesn't like raw carrots?

A rich man's daughter is on the run from Miami to New York, or from her possessive father to her husband through marriage her father attempts to annul. She bumps into a pompous and drunken journalist who decides to help her evade all the forces sent by her father in exchange for exclusive story. Everything after that is surprisingly unsurprising.

I watched the clock for the first time after only 20 minutes and was horrified. Fortunately the film did pick some momentum during the road trip. With the ending being obvious very early it was the journey that mattered but it only sparkled for too few and too short periods. Middle of the film was far more pleasant but the last 20 minutes were again just waiting for the obvious to happen.

For the most time both leads were good but I didn't feel much chemistry between them (Peter being so full of himself probably didn't help nor did Ellie being helpless and clueless like a little child). I can't really fault their performances but the writing made it really hard to be interested in their relationship.

A predictable romance with somewhat dull characters but some good moments and good acting.

2-

[Siddon]

So just so we're clear here to you...


It Happened One Night isn't as good as Child Bride

[rauldc14]

Man, Pahak is just brutal sometimes....