"Let's Do It The Hard Way !", Jul 19 2004

Clocking in at just under an hour and a half, "The Spoilers" does not have a complcated plot. The gold rush is on, but ruthless government agents, led by a swaggering crook named McNamara ( an atypically villainous Randolph Scott ), are trying to chisel miners out of their property. Cherry Malotte, the local casino operator ( smouldering Marlene Dietrich ) may seem like a tough woman on the outside, but she has supported a number of the miners and is pleased when her old flame, Glennister ( formidable John Wayne ), is back in town. Cherry's relationship with Glennister is about as calm and centred as that of two Siamese fighting fish ! At the same time, McNamara's pursuit of Cherry is only slightly less energetic than his efforts to steal gold mines, so when the showdown comes, the "Duke" has a lot at stake.

In addition to the three stars, there are many supporting performances of note, with faces familiar to fans of old "A" and "B" westerns--Harry Carey, George Cleveland, Russell Simpson, William Farnum, Ray Bennett and Forrest Taylor to name a few. The movie is directed with a lot of energy by Ray Enright. The sets are impressive--check those streets--thick mud--I suspect that Nome around 1900 was like this--plenty of booze, mud, fortunes won and lost, and a busy undertaker !

The DVD exhibits a black and white picture with reasonable quality. When a movie is 62 years old, I tend to be less critical about technical matters than some reviewers. There are no extras whatsoever. Surely there are some noted film critics out there who could have provided some interesting background comments ? Hey--Leonard Maltin--hey Roger Ebert--how about a little help here ?

"The Spoilers", even with the legendary fisticuffs, is not--for me, at least--in the top echelon of classic westerns. At the same time, Wayne, Dietrich and Scott are so watchable that this disc still deserves a place in the collection of any serious fan.

Terrific Little Gem !, Jul 14 2004

I will not reveal too many details about the plot--other reviewers have covered it extensively ( perhaps in some cases too extensively ). Bart Tare ( John Dall ) has had a passion for guns his whole life. At a carnival, he meets a sideshow sharpshooter from London, Annie Laurie Starr ( Peggy Cummins ). They are soon sharing not only a passion for guns, but an intense passion for each other ! Falling under the spell of this charismatic, young blonde--who craves excitement, action and the finer things in life--Bart is drawn into a cross-country crime spree that escalates from robbery to murder.

As one of the best "femme fatale" types in film history, Peggy Cummins gives a rivetting performance. You can't take your eyes off her, as she fanatically plunges down a road from which there is no return, taking the man she loves with her. Her character steals money--Ms. Cummins steals the movie ! As Bart, John Dall is rather stoic and one-dimensional until later in the film, when he realizes the harm he is causing others, including those who were close friends. His performance really picks up in the later scenes. Incidentally, Bart as a youth is played by Russ Tamblyn, later to spark a number of movies with his dancing and acrobatic skills.

The other "star" here is the Director, Joseph H. Lewis. His approach is refreshing and innovative. I particularly liked the scenes where you--the audience--are in the back seat of the getaway car during a heist. You cannot help but wonder how much later films like "Bonnie and Clyde", "Badlands" and "Natural Born Killers" were influenced by this low-budget masterpiece ?
I also liked the way that Lewis depicts the sexual overtones of his characters and situations, remembering that this film was first released in 1949.

Concerning the picture quality of the DVD, I see that one reviewer had some problems with the image. Personally, I found the black and white picture to be crisp and clear, especially for a film now 55 years old. The optional comments of author/film buff, Glenn Erickson, are a very nice bonus.

"Gun Crazy" provides further proof that, whether it's the 1940s or 2004, you don't need big budgets and "superstars" to make a memorable film. If you have a taut script, a talented director and even one terrific performance, you can come up with a winner. Thank you, Warner Bros !

As In "Real Good" !, Jul 12 2004

There are some excellent harp players on the blues scene today, but none are better than Mr. Piazza--his range and technique are astonishing. Like a fine wine, he seems to just keep getting better with the passing years. At the same time, Rod's virtuosity is fully matched by his partner, Miss Honey Piazza, who--in this writer's humble opinion, based on their appearances at Ottawa's annual Bluesfest--is the best "boogie woogie" piano player in music--period. Rod and Miss Honey always seem to have top-notch musicians in their "Mighty Flyers" line-up--currently, there is Henry Carvajal on guitar, Bill Stuve on bass and Paul Vincent Fasulo on drums--all are solid and inventive.

I understand that the tracks on this CD were recorded in one take, to keep them as fresh and spontaneous as possible. As a result, even blues standards such as "Good Morning Little School Girl", "Baby Please Don't Go" and "Pretty Thing" come across with a renewed vigour. Several tracks were written by Rod himself--excellent numbers like "Moving in a West Coast Way" and "West Coast Midnight Blues" give away his California roots, by way of Chicago of course !

In 1991, Rod and the Flyers released a fine CD on Black Top
( Blues in the Dark ), which featured an amazing "boogie woogie" instrumental, "Buzzin'", to showcase Miss Honey's extraordinary talent. It has been a mainstay of the Flyers' concerts ever since--here in Ottawa, the only sound you could hear apart from Miss Honey's piano was thousands of jaws dropping ! On "Keepin' It Real", she updates "Buzzin'" into a more extended version, in keeping with her concert performances. I can tell you--it still blows me away !

Bottom line--one of the best blues CDs of 2004, from the band that never, ever disappoints. Highly recommended !

Amusing Farce., Jun 23 2004

After seven years of grieving over the apparent loss of his wife in a shipwreck, Nick ( Cary Grant ) marries another woman, Bianca, ( Gail Patrick ), only to discover on his honeymoon that wife # 1--Ellen ( Irene Dunne ) is back, very much alive and kicking. Naturally, Ellen wants to pick up where she left off with her husband, as well as a young son and daughter. Nick is "dazed and confused"--as only Cary Grant can be--and makes the situation much worse through his reluctance to break the news to Bianca. At the same time, Nick discovers that his "first wife" spent the better part of the seven years on an island, alone with another man--a hunky, athletic guy named Burkett ( Randolph Scott ). How will this hilarious mess turn out ? Get the disc and see.

We have another superb comedic perfomance from Cary Grant. Irene Dunne is fine as Ellen, "returned from the dead" and determined, by any means, to win her husband back. Gail Patrick's performance is a nice contrast to her sudden "competition"--icy, haughty and seriously "not amused" !
Randolph Scott--usually quite stoic in his many westerns--seems to be having a ball here. In support, special kudos to scene-stealing Donald MacBride as the hotel clerk, who has to book separate suites for each of Cary's "women"--his incredulous face is priceless.

The DVD is black and white, and shows a fair bit of wear in places--not enough to spoil your fun though. Keep in mind, the film was made in 1940. The disc also includes a trailer for the film, a radio program with Ms. Dunne, and a funny short film starring humourist Robert Benchley on the perils of showing "Home Movies" to your "lucky" friends ! On the whole, a very nice package.

Bottom line--a witty script and a solid cast will give you a very pleasant hour and a half's entertainment. Good fun for fans of old-fashioned comedy.

Suspenseful Western, Jun 21 2004

As Gant, Murphy delivers a chilling performance. You never doubt that, behind that baby face and modest build, is a man not to be crossed ( by all accounts, in real life, as well as in movies ). He is not intimidated by anyone, not even a hostile crowd who thinks that, by sheer numbers, it can scare him away. As the town's doctor who tries to befriend Gant, Charles Drake delivers a strong performance as he comes to realize that he cannot distract the killer from his purpose.
Other fine supporting actors further add to the quality of the film--Whit Bissell, Karl Swenson, Warren Stevens and Virginia Grey. Apart from one climactic scene with Mr. Murphy, leading lady, Joan Evans ( not to be confused with the popular comedienne ), has little to do but make coffee for her "man", Charles Drake.

I found the ending to be memorable, and--for those of you who like action--there is gunplay at certain crucial parts of the movie.

The DVD has beautiful colour, is widescreen and mono sound. The only extra is the original trailer.

Audie Murphy made a lot of westerns in the 1950s and 60s. "No Name on the Bullet" is not the most action-packed, but it is certainly one of the most interesting, and features one of his best perfomances. If he is not yet represented in your western DVD collection, this is an excellent title to start with.

A Fine Retrospective., Jun 18 2004

To a great extent, the history of the J. Arthur Rank studios is the history of the British film industry--period. Apparently, Mr. Rank made his millions in the flour-milling business, and in the thirties decided to finance some short, and by all accounts rather dull, "message films". Someone convinced him to start making full-length features that might actually make money. As more films were made, the studio expanded and developed its own stable of British stars.

"The Golden Gong", of course, is the symbol that introduced each Rank film--a muscular young man, striking a huge gong. In Britain, it is as famous as the MGM lion, the Warner Bros. sheild and so on. This program has three major ingredients--clips from many of the movies that were produced under the Rank banner--interviews with a number of the stars, directors and others who worked at the studio--and a thoroughly engaging host in Michael Caine.

As you review the Rank output, you are struck by the variety of films produced--from highly-respected classics like " In Which We Serve ", " Henry V ", "The Lady Vanishes " and " Genevieve ", to more wide-appeal, commercial successes like the "Doctor" series, Norman Wisdom comedies and, of course, the Carry On gang.

Since this program was produced in 1987, a number of the key participants have since passed on--we can be thankful that this was completed before some interviews would have been impossible.
Some highlights--Sir David Lean recalling his early years as a film editor before directing "Great Expectations" ( with Alec Guinness' debut ) and "Oliver Twist"--Stewart Granger freely admitting that some of the costume melodramas that he appeared in during the 40s were awful films--Norman Wisdom recalling his early success in film, expecting that the studio would not keep him for more than five minutes. Finally, there are comments and anecdotes from the actor who, for many of us, was THE British star of the 50s and 60s, Sir Dirk Bogarde. Like Mr. Lean and Mr. Granger, Dirk Bogarde is no longer with us, so these interviews are "golden" indeed !

The story concludes with the guy who basically "saved" British cinema, and made these studios--called Pinewood--still one of the most respected and sought-after in the world. The guy ? Bond--James Bond. As Michael Caine explains though, today ( be it 1987 or 2004 ) movies are international. British films are still being made, but with a world-wide audience in mind.

The quality of the picture on this DVD varies greatly, depending on the film clip that you are watching--none of it is poor enough to spoil your enjoyment though.

I would have given this disc 5 stars, except I would have liked even more films represented, and there are no extras at all. However, if you have a particular interest or affection for classic British cinema, "The Golden Gong" is still a fascinating history.

Essential DVD for Horror Fans., Jun 17 2004

Suddenly, we have a small studio in England, making a horror film with excellent production values, gorgeously creepy sets, fine costumes, professional actors and a talented director, Terence Fisher. At the same time, along with a classy look, you add liberal amounts of gore ( certainly by 1950s standards ), and a couple of voluptuous "damsels in distress" who can scream lustily when they encounter the monster. It was a winning formula that Hammer would raise to an art form.

Peter Cushing plays Baron Von Frankenstein, and his terrific performance dominates the film. His character goes through quite a transformation from curious scientist to an obsessive fiend, determined to "create life" at, literally, any cost. His mentor/friend Paul Krempe ( Robert Urquhart )is an enthusiastic assistant at first, but soon becomes alienated by the Baron's frantic and ultimately murderous behaviour. Sometimes body parts are easily available--sometimes you have to be "creative" in obtaining them !

Of course, this flesh and blood "jigsaw puzzle" comes to life in the form of a hideous, pathetic creature played by Christopher Lee, who soon breaks loose, displaying no appreciation whatsoever for being "born" ! As I mentioned earlier, two beautiful women "round out" the cast. Gorgeous Hazel Court is Elizabeth, the Baron's betrothed, and Valerie Gaunt is Justine the maid. Justine is, as they say in England, the Baron's "bit on the side"--when she threatens to spill all the Baron's secrets unless he marries her, you just know that her future is "cloudy".

"Curse" may not be Hammer's best film, but it put the studio on the map and started an enduring partnership of two very fine actors--Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee.

The DVD exhibits good colour, with occasional haziness and mono sound. The extras are sparse--a few notes on other Hammer films, and a trailer. I would have loved some comments from Mr. Lee--sadly Peter Cushing passed away some time ago.

Still, if you like classic horror films, "Curse" has to be in your collection--its importance cannot be over-estimated. Recommended.

Grant + Loy = Cinema Magic !, Jun 14 2004

Cary Grant stars as advertising whiz, Jim Blandings. He lives in a cramped New York apartment with his wife ( marvellous Myrna Loy ),two young daughters, and live-in maid ( Louise Beavers ). Tired of battling for time in the bathroom, closet space, privacy etc., he decides to look into acquiring a house, preferably out in the country, away from the Manhattan rat race.
He and his wife are shown an old house in the beautiful Connecticut countryside--and--definitely throwing caution to the wind--and--without consulting his best friend/lawyer ( a droll, sardonic Melvyn Douglas )--they buy the place. It would be unfair to reveal more of the plot--let's just say that the house can be described as a "fixer-upper" !

This is a perfect role for Cary Grant--he is, as ever, suave, charming and funny, as well as embarrassed, befuddled and frustrated when facing one problem after another. His reactions, double-takes and expressions of incredulity are priceless. As Mrs. Blandings, Myrna Loy again proves that she is one of the great leading ladies of film--witty, sophisticated, smart and beautiful--her character is a full partner to her husband, rather than just a "rose in his lapel". By all accounts, Ms. Loy would not have had it any other way.
Melvyn Douglas also registers as the Blandings' lawyer, who--just to spice things up even more--was one of Mrs. Blandings old beaux from her college days. Supporting players are all fine, including "B" movie stalwart, Nestor Paiva, and--soon to be the screen's next Tarzan--Lex Barker.

The DVD exhibits a clear B & W image. Extras include quite a few trailers for other Cary Grant films, two radio shows with Cary, and a delightful, colour Tex Avery cartoon, "House of Tomorrow".

So--take a witty script--sharp direction--add Cary Grant, Myrna Loy and Melvyn Douglas--and you have a real winner. Highly recommended !

Jet-Propelled Action !, Jun 9 2004

While the planes are great to watch, this film is primarily about human beings caught up in war. It stars Robert Mitchum, and he is terrific--his fighter pilot character is a born leader, yet he also suspects there is something important missing in his life. He enters into a guilt-ridden relationship with the wife of another pilot, played by lovely May Britt. When there's a war on though, the feelings of two people aren't worth--as someone once said--"a hill of beans". Mr. Mitchum's main job is to lead a fighter squadron, and satisfy his boss on the ground--Richard Egan in a strong performance, knowing that every day he may be sending a man to his death.

Just to make things even more interesting for Mr. Mitchum, his squadron includes Ms. Britt's husband ( a paranoid, self-doubting Lee Philips ) and a cocky, young "hotshot" who doesn't like "rules" ( a young, excellent Robert Wagner ). It would be unfair to reveal more of the plot, but the film is consistently interesting and exciting.

The DVD is full screen on one side, and wide-screen on the other. The colour is very good for a 46-year old film. It does not have "surround sound", of course, unlike that 1986 aviation hit, "Top Gun"--then again, "Top Gun" didn't have Robert Mitchum ! Tom Cruise has a nice smile--but, for leadership and grit, I'd follow Robert Mitchum through the gates of hell !

Actually, I'll give "The Hunters" 4 1/2 stars. Action--suspense--romance--Sabre Jets--Robert Mitchum--what more do you want ? Thanks, Fox--a very nice disc !

Here Come the Cavalry !, Jun 7 2004

Jeff Chandler stars as a US cavalry officer who tries to use a "good" Indian tribe--the Seminoles--against a "bad" tribe of marauding Kiowas. Let's not get into "political correctness"--the film is over 50 years old. Not only does he have his hands full with these Native Americans, the commanding officer of the local fort, played by a gruff John McIntyre, resents his presence and "progressive" ideas. A beautiful "widow"--Maureen O'Hara--is trapped at the fort, and she soon has Jeff practically drooling over her. Since John wants her too, the "rapport" between the two men plunges further downhill. The movie toddles along for about an hour, before a climactic attack on the fort by those nasty Kiowas--led by Jay Silverheels, taking a break from his "good guy" Tonto image !

Jeff Chandler, with his piercing eyes and prematurely grey hair, gives the film more dignity than it deserves. He was a good actor, and his early death deprived the movies of a fine leading man. Maureen O'Hara has always been a stunning woman--that red hair, those flashing eyes, the fiery "Irish colleen" personality--yet, in this film, she seems to be going through the motions. Perhaps after "The Quiet Man", movies like this were not exactly inspiring for her. Comic relief is provided by Noah Beery as one of Mr. Chandler's sidekicks--Charles Drake is the other. Suzan Ball sizzles as an "Indian maid", while Henry Brandon is solid as her father, the Seminole chief--not the first or last time that Mr. Brandon would play a Native American. Another member of the tribe, with totally understandable "hots" for Ms. Ball, is played by Dennis Weaver--not too well--a good thing that "Gunsmoke" was just around the corner ! "B" western actor, Jim Bannon, is also featured--he may bill himself as "James" here, but his acting is as wooden and one-dimensional as ever.

The DVD exhibits a colourful, if slightly hazy, full-screen picture, and mono sound.

I bought "War Arrow" because I like westerns, Jeff Chandler and Maureen O'Hara--but sometimes, even with a lot of good ingredients, you can wind up with a second-rate stew ! I would file this one under "disappointing".