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Parachute Jumper (1933) Review

September 18, 2015 by Allison Leave a Comment

Parachute Jumper (1933) Review Poster smaller

“I’m a stenographer without a typewriter to pound, a piece of gum to chew, or a place to put it.” –Bette Davis as Alabama, from the film Parachute Jumper (1933)

If you’ve only seen Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. in movies like The Prisoner of Zenda and Gunga Din, check out the Pre-Code film Parachute Jumper (1933) starring Fairbanks, Bette Davis and Frank McHugh. Part action adventure flick, part crime caper, part screwball romance, this light hearted romp showcases Doug’s way with witty dialogue and his skills as a comedic-dramatic actor.

Parachute Jumper (1933) Review

Parachute Jumper (1933) Review lobby card 1

In Parachute Jumper, Bill Keller (Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.) and Toodles Cooper (Frank McHugh) are two ex-Marine Corps flyers and roommates looking for work during the Great Depression in New York City. Down on his luck and reduced to his last fifty cent piece, Bill bumps into a pretty, unemployed Southerner he nicknames Alabama (played by Bette Davis). She looks thin so he buys her plate of ham and eggs then sweet talks her into moving in with him and Toodles.

The story revolves around these three characters and their involvement with a slick gangster named Kurt Weber (Leo Carrillo). After Bill risks his life “parachute jumping” for grocery money, he lucks into a job as a chauffeur for Weber’s girlfriend Mrs. Newberry (Claire Dodd), who clearly wants a lot more from Bill than driving her car.

Weber threatens to shoot when he catches Bill kissing Mrs. Newberry, but Bill talks his way out of the dangerous situation and ends up being hired as Weber’s bodyguard.

Parachute Jumper (1933) Review Douglas Fairbanks Jr Claire Dodd

As Toodles and Bill fly around smuggling liquor for their bootlegger boss, Bill’s romance with Alabama hits a snag after she flirts her way into a job as Weber’s secretary.

When Bill is almost framed for murder and the two friends find out Weber is actually running a narcotics ring, they try to extricate themselves from the gangster while Bill attempts to mend his rift with Alabama (and this being such a happy-go-lucky kind of film, we sense there’ll be a happy ending for such a delightful young couple).

Parachute Jumper (1933) Review Poster2

Directed by Alfred E. Green, Parachute Jumper is a drama that also works as a screwball comedy. There’s a gleeful lawlessness in the Pre-Code universe, where characters speak sexy, sophisticated banter and suggestive scenes slip by the strict but not-yet-enforced Hollywood censorship.

Claire Dodd has some great lines as Mrs. Newberry. She slinks around sizing up her employee Bill like a cat eyeing a rather large, tasty bowl of cream; she tells him there’ll be a lot of “night work” but she thinks he’ll enjoy the “position,” and all of her chauffeurs have been Frenchmen because as a rule, they’re “more versatile.”

Parachute Jumper (1933) Review Claire Dodd

Claire Dodd

Parachute Jumper also reflects the Pre-Code’s fascination with crime. While some Depression era films such as Jewel Robbery and Trouble in Paradise offered luxurious sets, fancy costumes and elegant jewel thieves as escapism for weary audiences, Parachute Jumper is a slice of life tale about three ordinary people trying to survive the tough economic times any way they can.

If that means working for a gangster as a way to keep the wolf away from the door, so be it. The Pre-Code value system doesn’t judge Keller and Toodles or any of the film’s amoral behavior. The movie glamorizes Weber, depicting the violent criminal as a smooth operator who views the law as something to laugh at.

It’s interesting how the lead characters willingly smuggle booze for Weber; however, they draw the line at being part of a narcotics ring.

Parachute Jumper (1933) Review lobby card 4

One of the joys of Parachute Jumper is the chemistry between the very funny Frank McHugh, Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. and Bette Davis. How can you not love a film with characters named Toodles and Alabama? Evidently, Bette Davis didn’t love it. She hated second banana girlfriend roles and called this her least favorite film!

I really enjoyed her as Alabama, a tough talking celluloid blonde who manages to retain some hopeful vulnerability. She’s a dame in the gutter looking up at the stars, been around the block a few times and racked up some disappointments, living by her wits, wondering if she can put her faith and trust in Bill.

Parachute Jumper (1933) Review lobby card 3

Bette Davis as Alabama

Bette Davis fans who think of her as a thundering crescendo will be surprised by the delicate, wistful Alabama. Here she is wonderful in a more subdued way, striking much gentler notes than she does in the powerful Of Human Bondage (Who can forget that film’s epic, bone rattling Bette temper tantrum. Poor Leslie Howard!)

As great as Davis is, Parachute Jumper belongs to Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., our hero with a touch of Pre-Code moral ambiguity. He’ll give Mrs. Newberry his “all” if necessary, he’s rubbed out a few in his day, and he smuggles liquor in some thrilling aerial sequences.

Parachute Jumper (1933) Review Poster planes

After seeing Parachute Jumper and The Dawn Patrol (aka Flight Commander) I want to fly a plane! (Maybe I’ll visit the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome!)

It’s a testament to Fairbanks that he could make a character tangled up in illegal activities so charming and likeable. We care about Keller and want him to succeed. This film gives Doug a chance to display his range as an actor, as there are many facets to Bill: he’s a soft hearted good guy in love with Alabama, a loyal friend, a brave pilot, a bit of a daredevil, and a wisecracking tough guy, and he shows all these sides in fantastic style!

There’s a scene in a nightclub where Keller is all dressed up in evening wear, and his elegance is quintessential Fairbanks. His character is kind of an old soul, so it’s hard to believe that Doug was only twenty-four in this movie. He demonstrates impeccable comic timing, delivering the rapid fire dialogue with a maturity beyond his tender years.

Parachute Jumper (1933) Review Douglas Fairbanks Jr smaller

Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. worked in silent films, such as the dramatic A Woman of Affairs, so he knows how to make the most of a mood, a look, a gesture; when Bill is told to get rid of a mysterious package if something goes horribly wrong while he’s smuggling liquor, we see the remark land on him. He pauses, thinks it over and takes it all in, and its full implications, before finally issuing a terse “Okay.” We learn a lot about the character of Keller in moments like that, revealed to us through the artistry of Doug’s acting.

What a delight it was to see Parachute Jumper when Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. was featured on TCM’s Summer Under the Stars. I was bowled over by the sheer variety of roles he played, how he was able to create so many unique characters. Watching his body of work definitely gave me a new appreciation for his gifts and I’ve wondered why he is often overlooked as one of the great classic actors.

Parachute Jumper (1933) Review Douglas Fairbanks Jr Portrait

Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. 1930s Portrait

If you’re familiar with Doug as an action adventure star, try Parachute Jumper, a fun little movie that allows us to experience a whole other side to the swashbuckling Fairbanks.

Shopping for the Parachute Jumper (1933) DVD

The Parachute Jumper DVD is available to purchase at the following stores:

Buy the Parachute Jumper DVD at Amazon.com

Buy the Parachute Jumper DVD at Shop TCM

Buy the Parachute Jumper DVD at The Warner Bros Shop

You can also shop for Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. photos and movie posters at Allposters.com.

(Images: The Movie Poster Database, lobbycards.net, Famous Fix, Wikipedia, and Doctor Macro)

Filed Under: Classic Films, Favorite Films, Featured Tagged With: actors, aviation, Bette Davis, Claire Dodd, Douglas Fairbanks Jr., Frank McHugh, movie reviews, movies, Parachute Jumper, Parachute Jumper 1933, pre-code, pre-code films, TCM

Claire Dodd Pin Up Photo of the Day

September 18, 2015 by Allison Leave a Comment

Claire Dodd Parachute Jumper 1933 Pin up

Claire Dodd came to my attention in Parachute Jumper (1933) starring Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. and Bette Davis. This being a Pre-Code movie, she was able to show off her flair with sophisticated dialogue and sexy scenes. This is one of the pin up style pics she posed for during her career in Old Hollywood. Here’s another:

Claire Dodd Parachute Jumper 1933 Pin up2 smaller

I’ll be reviewing Parachute Jumper (1933) soon, watch a video clip:

(Image: famousfix.com)

Filed Under: Featured, Old Hollywood, Style Tagged With: actresses, Bette Davis, Claire Dodd, Douglas Fairbanks Jr., movies, Parachute Jumper, Parachute Jumper 1933, Photo of the Day, photography, pin ups, vintage

Greta Garbo A Woman of Affairs Promo Photos

August 28, 2015 by Allison Leave a Comment

Greta Garbo A Woman of Affairs 1

Garbo talks! I’ve heard her speak in talkies like The Painted Veil and Grand Hotel. Before that, she worked her magic in silent films such as the wonderful A Woman of Affairs.

I have a few more Greta Garbo photos to share today. These two shots are promotional photos for A Woman of Affairs. Garbo’s acting is amazing but she also has incredible style. Throughout the movie she sports a series of smart little hats and her coat collar is always turned up in a way that’s nonchalant cool…

Just in time for autumn, here are two striking portraits of Garbo wearing a sweater (and one of her in a hat…nobody wore hats like Greta Garbo!)

Greta Garbo A Woman of Affairs 2

(Images: The Movie Stills Database)

Filed Under: Classic Actresses, Featured, The Actresses Tagged With: A Woman of Affairs, actresses, Greta Garbo, Hollywood portrait photographers, movies, Photo of the Day, photography, silent films, vintage

Greta Garbo 1925 Photo of the Day

August 28, 2015 by Allison Leave a Comment

Greta_Garbo_by_Arnold_Genthe,_1925,_BW

I’ve loved Greta Garbo ever since I was a young girl watching old black and white movies on my grandmother’s television. When I was a teenager, I spent hours poring over vintage photos of stars like Garbo and Dietrich in glossy books about the great Hollywood portrait photographers.

August has been such a hectic month for me, but I’m glad I found the time to record the Garbo film A Woman of Affairs during the recent Greta Garbo day on TCM. Today’s “Photo of the Day” is a stunning 1925 portrait of Garbo taken by Arnold Genthe, known for his celebrity portraits.

You can browse the Genthe Collection at the Library of Congress. His work is so incredible! I enjoy looking at his shots of antiquities, travel, architecture, dance and his portraits.

(Image: Wikimedia Commons, loc.gov)

Filed Under: Classic Actresses, Featured, The Actresses Tagged With: A Woman of Affairs, actresses, Arnold Genthe, Greta Garbo, Hollywood portrait photographers, movies, Photo of the Day, photography, silent films, vintage

Joan Blondell Retro Swimsuits Photo of the Day

August 16, 2015 by Allison Leave a Comment

Joan_Blondell_Motion_Picture Swimsuit 1

I can’t believe that autumn is almost here. The summer really flew by! August 15 was Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. day on Turner Classic Movies, and one of the featured films was Union Depot starring Fairbanks and Joan Blondell. In honor of that movie, this pinup style magazine cover of Joan Blondell is our “Photo of the Day.”

August is a great time to look for late summer swimwear sales! Retro swimsuits are hot and this is the time to hunt for bargains. Here are a few stylish swimsuits I like:

Boden Sorrento Skirt Swimsuit


Boden Sorrento Skirt Swimsuit


Gottex Swim One-Piece Ruffle-Trim Swimsuit


Gottex Swim One-Piece Ruffle-Trim Swimsuit


TOPSHOP Double Scallop Trim Swimsuit


TOPSHOP Double Scallop Trim Swimsuit


Peachy Bloom One-Piece Swimsuit By MINKPINK


Peachy Bloom One-Piece Swimsuit By MINKPINK


Joan_Blondell_Screen_Guide_2


Ruche True Bliss High-Waisted Bikini Bottoms


Ruche True Bliss High-Waisted Bikini Bottoms


Vintage Inspired Halter High Waist Beach Blanket Bingo Two-Piece Swimsuit


Vintage Inspired Halter High Waist Beach Blanket Bingo Two-Piece Swimsuit



Joan_Blondell_Screen_Guide_1

Lands' End Long Beach Living Stripe Halter Dresskini Top


Lands’ End Long Beach Living Stripe Halter Dresskini Top



Images: Joan Blondell via Wikimedia Commons, swimsuit product photos via Polyvore.com for these merchants:
BodenUSA.com
SaksFifthAvenue.com
Topshop.com
ShopRuche.com
LandsEnd.com
ModCloth.com

Filed Under: Featured, Style, Vintage Style Tagged With: actresses, Douglas Fairbanks Jr., fashion, fashion trends, Joan Blondell, movies, Photo of the Day, photography, retro swimsuits, summer style, TCM, Union Depot, vintage

The Swan Grace Kelly Vintage Movie Poster

August 13, 2015 by Allison Leave a Comment

The Swan Grace Kelly Vintage Movie Poster

If you’ve always wanted to own a vintage movie poster from your favorite film, I’m amazed at the huge selection available at eBay.com. Today on eBay I saw a vintage poster for the Grace Kelly movie The Swan. It’s one of my favorite Grace Kelly movies, click here to read my review.

I love the vivid colors in this vintage poster. I’m thinking about decorating with movie posters and photos to inspire me as I write my movie reviews. Since I was a little girl I’ve been fascinated by old movie magazines, vintage movie posters, film stills and autographs of classic performers. I’m going to start looking around at the many flea markets and antique shops in the mid-Hudson Valley and see what I can find!

I also like to browse sites like eBay and Etsy.com for jewelry, craft supplies and movie memorabilia.

Click here for vintage movie posters on eBay.

Click here for Grace Kelly movie memorabilia.

You can find great deals on beautiful reproduction film posters at: Allposters.com, HollywoodMegastore.com, wbshop.com, and shop.tcm.com.

Happy collecting!

Filed Under: Classic Films, Favorite Films, Featured Tagged With: actresses, collectibles, collecting, eBay, Grace Kelly, Grace Kelly Movie The Swan 1956, movie memorabilia, movie posters, movies, The Swan, The Swan movie, vintage, vintage movie posters

The Prisoner of Zenda (1937) Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.

August 11, 2015 by Allison 1 Comment

The Prisoner of Zenda (1937)  Douglas Fairbanks Jr. Ronald Colman

“Somebody once called fidelity a fading woman’s greatest weapon and a charming woman’s greatest hypocrisy. And you’re very charming…” –Rupert of Hentzau, from the film The Prisoner of Zenda (1937)

I love a good swashbuckling adventure, done up in romantic 30s celluloid style. As a girl, I adored young Cary Grant in Gunga Din, which starred another beautiful actor who caught my eye, the dashing Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. When The Prisoner of Zenda (1937) also starring Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. was playing on TCM, I tuned in to see Doug. I’m so glad I did, as this film has it all: talented and charismatic actors, a well crafted script, stylish costumes and sets, breathtaking action sequences and a wry sense of humor.

Then why is The Prisoner of Zenda overlooked and underrated?

The Prisoner of Zenda (1937) Review

The Prisoner of Zenda (1937) Poster

The film’s plot revolves around the power struggle for the throne of an unnamed European kingdom. As the movie begins, English gentleman Rudolf Rassendyll (played by Ronald Colman) goes on a fishing trip where he encounters Fritz (David Niven) and Colonel Zapt (C. Aubrey Smith), two aides to the about to be crowned King Rudolf V (also played by Colman).

The men are astounded by the striking resemblance between the king and Rassendyll (who turns out to be King Rudolf’s distant cousin). The night before the coronation, King Rudolf is drugged by his half brother Michael (Raymond Massey), so Fritz and Zapt convince Rassendyll (the doppelganger) to be crowned in King Rudolf’s place, impersonating the king until the rightful royal can be restored to the throne.

All sorts of complications arise, as black hearted Michael schemes to eliminate King Rudolf, seize the throne for himself, and marry King Rudolf’s intended bride the Princess Flavia (Madeleine Carroll). When Michael’s henchman Rupert of Hentzau (the delicious Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.) kidnaps the drugged King Rudolf and hides him in Zenda Castle (where he’s now the “Prisoner of Zenda”), Rassendyll must find a way to penetrate the castle, free the king, and fend off Hentzau, in one of the most thrilling sword fights ever filmed…

The Prisoner of Zenda (1937) Movie Poster

There have been several filmed versions of the popular “Prisoner of Zenda” story, but this 1937 movie is the best, due to the pitch perfect casting and excellent performances.

Much of the film’s success hinges on the work of Ronald Colman, who’s a pleasure to watch as he handles the dual role of Rudolf Rassendyll/King Rudolf with ease. Rassendyll’s amused, sardonic air keeps the film from becoming too heavy handed.

The Prisoner of Zenda (1937) Ronald Colman

The same can be said for two supporting players, David Niven and C. Aubrey Smith. The Prisoner of Zenda was a breakthrough role for Niven and he relishes all the dialogue and comedic bits he is given throughout the movie. C. Aubrey Smith is always a welcome sight; he’s an old hand at performing, the ultimate character actor, and a treasure. These British actors bring such flair and elegance to the film that it’s hard to imagine Zenda without them.

The Prisoner of Zenda (1937) lobby card 5

British actress Madeleine Carroll, another underrated and all but forgotten performer, exudes star quality as Princess Flavia, the woman destined to marry King Rudolf but who falls in love with his twin, Rassendyll. She’s not an accomplished actress; she doesn’t have to be, she’s a natural.

Carroll, one of the most beautiful silver screen actresses, doesn’t need to “act” the purity, morality, and radiance of Flavia, she simply embodies it, gracing the film with her presence in sweet love scenes with Rassendyll. The camera loves her, and when she gazes up while wearing a glittering crown, I get chills. It’s an unforgettable classic cinema moment.

The Prisoner of Zenda (1937) Ronald Colman Madeleine Carroll

The other female lead, Mary Astor (playing the role of Black Michael’s mistress Antoinette) always impresses me with her beauty, range, warmth and intelligence. Astor’s character is described as a “woman of the world” who is hopelessly in love with Michael, imploring him to marry her instead of seeking the throne and a marriage of convenience with Flavia.

I admire Astor’s versatility. In Red Dust, she played the ingenue like Madeleine Carroll, but here she makes the most of a small but significant role. She must be a gifted actress to make us believe her knowing, mysterious character could be so devoted to a dud like Michael (played by Raymond Massey, the film’s only lackluster performance).

The Prisoner of Zenda (1937) Mary Astor Ronald Colman

The amazing Mary Astor behind the scenes with Ronald Colman

In classic films, I notice “good girls” and “bad girls” and a woman had to choose a side. Astor falls into the latter category; she wears a lot of dark clothing and veils and hangs around murky castles conducting clandestine meetings, rebuffing Hentzau’s advances (he wants to come to her room…) Quite a contrast to the “good girl” Princess Flavia, who wears white a lot and is referred to as an “insipid flaxen haired doll.”

The Prisoner of Zenda (1937) lobby card 2

I love both the ladies in this film. Carroll is breathtaking but in my opinion, Mary Astor almost steals the show from Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. as Hentzau. In fact, I’d love to see a movie starring the two of them, all about their Zenda characters!

The Prisoner of Zenda (1937) lobby card

The Prisoner of Zenda (1937) Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.

Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. is the best thing about The Prisoner of Zenda. His Rupert of Hentzau is one of the great cinema villains, all epaulets, white gloves and cigarettes.

Fairbanks, Jr.’s performance is vital to the film; without him, Zenda wouldn’t have been nearly as much fun.

He’s delightfully mercurial, steel wrapped in velvet, romancing Mary Astor’s character one minute, menacing Rassendyll the next, keeping us off balance, always wondering what his evil henchman will do next.

The Prisoner of Zenda (1937) Douglas Fairbanks Jr Hentzau

Every girl’s crazy ’bout a sharp dressed man…

And he looks amazing too! With his lithe dancer’s body and urbane manner, Doug displays incredible, swashbuckling style. He was born to wear all the Zenda costumes. What a matinee idol, something to dream on! (One of the most beautiful men ever…)

Fairbanks, Jr. creates such a multidimensional villain that it’s unsettling: he confuses our sensibilities by making a morally reprehensible character so seductive and appealing.

(What does it say about us if we’re secretly attracted to Doug as Hentzau? What if we find him more desirable than Rassendyll? Maybe characters like Rupert of Hentzau and films like Zenda allow us to explore our shadow side in a safe, cinematic way…)

Douglas Fairbanks Jr. The Prisoner of Zenda

I’m amazed at how Fairbanks, Jr. comes up with so many layers that aren’t in the wonderful script. The subtly exaggerated eye rolling and body language are reminiscent of the old days of silent film, but he makes it all work. Rupert seems sweet enough on the surface, always laughing, smoking, throwing barbs and trading quips, but don’t cross him or he will strike! Hentzau’s sunny side makes his heinous deeds seem all the more dastardly, because we simply don’t expect them from such a dashing, beautiful man.

It’s unfair that Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. didn’t receive more acclaim for playing Rupert of Hentzau and for his entire body of work. Maybe it’s because he makes it look so easy! He’s so good looking and personable and joyful that all his hard work seems effortless.

Some actors in the celluloid vault are unsung performers who don’t always get the credit they deserve (stars like Monty Clift, Kay Francis, and I could go on and on…) One of the joys of Celluloid and Lipstick is celebrating my favorite overlooked performers.

I hope as new audiences discover Zenda, it will shine a light on Doug and he will be remembered as one of the great actors of the Golden Age of Cinema.

The Prisoner of Zenda: Underrated Film

We don’t have films like The Prisoner of Zenda these days. In Zenda, everything is heightened, like Shakespeare’s classics, and more theatrical than modern, realistic films.

In the digital era, we get our thrills from car crashes, explosions and computerized special effects, and don’t have the patience for something as lyrical and poetic as The Prisoner of Zenda.

The Prisoner of Zenda (1937) lobby card 3

In the celluloid age, it took a lot more skill, subtlety and subtext to communicate danger and Zenda did it in such a refined, classy way, through the performances, the dialogue, and the atmosphere. I appreciate the beauty and romanticism of films like The Prisoner of Zenda, qualities often lacking in the digital age.

Watch The Prisoner of Zenda for Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.’s performance as Hentzau, one of the best villains of all time. This movie offers such fine acting, writing and storytelling; I’ve often wondered why it’s not better known. On a cold winter night or a balmy summer evening, escape with me to Zenda, and get swept away to a land of castles, beautiful damsels, mythical kingdoms and handsome gentleman. Give this film a chance and I think you’ll agree: The Prisoner of Zenda is great entertainment and an underrated masterpiece.

(Images: Wikimedia Commons, The Movie Poster Database, The Movie Stills Database, lobbycards.net, and fanpix.net.)

Filed Under: Classic Films, Favorite Films, Featured Tagged With: action adventure, actors, C. Aubrey Smith, costume dramas, David Niven, Douglas Fairbanks Jr., Madeleine Carroll, Mary Astor, movie reviews, movies, Ronald Colman, swashbuckling, TCM, The Prisoner of Zenda, The Prisoner of Zenda (1937)

Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. Photo of the Day

August 1, 2015 by Allison 2 Comments

Douglas Fairbanks Jr. The Prisoner of Zenda

August is Summer Under the Stars on TCM. Turner Classic Movies features movie marathons during the 31 days of August, highlighting the work of one particular movie star each day.

I’m really excited about August 15: Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. day!

Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. films aren’t on TCM that often. He’s one of the actors we love at Celluloid and Lipstick, so I’m glad they included him in Summer Under the Stars.

Today’s photo of the day is from The Prisoner of Zenda (1937). It’s an underrated masterpiece! I wonder why The Prisoner of Zenda is not better known, as this film has everything: great acting, incredible style, beautiful actresses, dashing lead actors, a witty script, an interesting storyline and amazing sets.

And there’s a sword fight too!

So much to love about The Prisoner of Zenda. This is a portrait of Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. as Rupert of Hentzau…the villain of the film…

He’s so good when he’s bad…

Here are the other featured stars in the TCM lineup for Summer Under the Stars 2015:

  1. Gene Tierney
  2. Olivia de Havilland
  3. Adolphe Menjou
  4. Teresa Wright
  5. *Fred Astaire
  6. Michael Caine
  7. Katharine Hepburn
  8. Raymond Massey
  9. Robert Walker
  10. Joan Crawford
  11. Rex Ingram
  12. Robert Mitchum
  13. Ann-Margaret
  14. Groucho Marx
  15. *Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.
  16. Patricia Neal
  17. Lee J. Cobb
  18. Vivien Leigh
  19. John Wayne
  20. Mae Clarke
  21. Alan Arkin
  22. Marlene Dietrich
  23. Debbie Reynolds
  24. Warren Oates
  25. Virginia Bruce
  26. Greta Garbo
  27. Monty Woolley
  28. Ingrid Bergman
  29. George C. Scott
  30. Gary Cooper
  31. Shelley Winters

 *Celluloid and Lipstick favorites…don’t miss them! xo

(Image: The Movie Stills Database)

Filed Under: Actors We Love, Classic Actors, Featured Tagged With: actors, Douglas Fairbanks Jr., movie marathon, movies, Photo of the Day, photography, Summer Under the Stars, TCM, The Prisoner of Zenda (1937)

Montgomery Clift Movie Marathon

July 20, 2015 by Allison Leave a Comment

Montgomery_Clift_in_I_Confess_trailer

Montgomery Clift is my acting hero. From the moment I first caught a glimpse of him seducing Shelley Winters and romancing Elizabeth Taylor in A Place in the Sun, I was hooked, forever a Monty Clift fan.

It was a hot, sweltering summer day I saw him on celluloid; how apt, as he made everything so delightfully steamy.

Since that afternoon, I vowed to watch every Montgomery Clift film I could get my hands on. So imagine my excitement when I stumbled across a Monty Clift movie day on Turner Classic Movies. It was Montgomery Clift movie marathon madness! Over twelve hours of Clift films running all day on TCM.

With all that Monty in the summer heat, a girl could get a little flustered!

Montgomery Clift Elizabeth Taylor A Place in the Sun

Unfortunately, I missed the first half of the marathon, and I’m disappointed I didn’t get to watch A Place in the Sun again. On the bright side, I was able to record three Clift films: I Confess, Indiscretion of an American Wife, and The Defector. These movies aren’t as well known as A Place in the Sun, but still worth your time, to experience three varied and intriguing characters created from the heart and soul of Montgomery Clift.

Montgomery Clift: Our Greatest Actor

Clift,_Montgomery

Much has been made of Montgomery Clift’s tortured life; some have called his final years a “long suicide.” You can discover details about his personal life by searching online or find out more by reading biographies, such as the book by Patricia Bosworth.

These capsule movie reviews focus on his incredible acting and storytelling, his amazing energy and personal magnetism.

I have a passion for Clift’s work and study his acting for clues about technique; I feel an affinity with him as a kindred spirit. The greatest actors inspire this kind of soul connection, allowing us to identify with their characters and step into their shoes during a performance.

When acting is truly authentic, there’s transference of emotion, a transcendence of experience and a suspension of space, time, and often, disbelief. We are thrust into the story, living vicariously through the actors who become a channel or vessel for the human experience. Through the actor’s craft we are propelled skillfully into places that can be joyful, cathartic or revealing. It’s a wild ride, that journey, but so illuminating when we are under its spell.

In this way, acting as art exposes what it’s like to be human, in all our pain and glory, embracing the shadow sides and the light.

Monty Clift was a true artist and one of the best actors of all time, arguably our greatest actor.

Montgomery Clift Rebels

Through his authenticity, his unflinching honesty, insight and sensitivity, and the courage to bare his soul while disappearing into each role, he draws us so deeply into the world of his characters that we feel we are living the story with him.

This is when acting is being.

After his initial success in Hollywood as a box office sensation, Clift could have settled, cranking out a series of predictable hits that cashed in on his charm and good looks, but his dedication to the craft of acting led him to make some interesting career choices.

I Confess (1953)

Montgomery_Clift_in_I_Confess

Montgomery Clift started acting at the tender age of thirteen. After ten years on Broadway (acting onstage with the likes of Lunt and Fontanne!), he headed out to Hollywood, where he was cast in films like Red River with John Wayne and The Search (which earned him his first Academy Award nomination).

Montgomery_Clift_in_The_Search_trailer

I Confess (1953) represents a moment in celluloid time, before Monty’s car accident and subsequent personal decline. The early 50s were the height of his popularity and great physical beauty and energy immortalized in films like A Place in the Sun (1951) and From Here to Eternity (1953).

Although he was adored for playing the romantic lead in films like The Heiress and marketed as a Hollywood “heartthrob,” Clift signed on to portray a priest in I Confess. That unexpected choice seems a bit unusual for a celluloid sex symbol, but Montgomery Clift was the antithesis of the cookie-cutter Hollywood star, and his theatre background and commitment to acting made him quite selective about roles.

Montgomery Clift I Confess

Monty made a great decision to play this character, as he is amazing in this film. Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, I Confess is the story of Father Michael Logan, Catholic priest at a Quebec church where Otto Keller is employed as caretaker. Keller kills a man he is trying to rob, then confesses to Father Logan. When the priest comes under suspicion for the crime, the story turns on whether or not Logan will disclose the secrets of the confessional in order to prove his own innocence.

This movie can’t hold a candle to Hitchcock’s better known films (like my personal favorite Notorious.) The killer is exposed so early on that it ruins any hope of mystery; instead, we are left with a gripping psychological character study of Father Logan, and that is what makes the film remarkable.

Montgomery Clift I Confess 3

As much as I’ve enjoyed Clift in his earlier sensual and romantic roles in Hollywood, I find him wholly believable as he tackles the part of an anguished priest with utter conviction. It’s a treat to see Hitchcock’s camera linger on Monty’s face in close ups that reveal the nuances of Logan’s struggle.

Anne Baxter and Karl Malden are also worth watching. Baxter is the woman Logan had a romance with before he joined the priesthood, and she brings a little soul to the prototypical “Hitchcock blonde.” Malden is also well cast as the determined Inspector.

Anne Baxter in I Confess Montgomery Clift

I Confess should be required viewing for admirers of Montgomery Clift and Alfred Hitchcock. At the very least, you’ll have bragging rights. While other Hitchcock fans rave about North by Northwest and Strangers on a Train, you’ve experienced I Confess!

Indiscretion of an American Wife (1953)

Montgomery Clift portrait Indiscretion

Montgomery Clift portrait as Giovanni in the film Indiscretion of an American Wife (also known as Terminal Station)

In 1953, Monty starred in I Confess, Indiscretion of an American Wife and From Here to Eternity. Indiscretion of an American Wife, also known as Terminal Station, is a showcase for Montgomery Clift’s handsomeness and acting talent, capturing him at his peak, in those years right before his devastating car accident.

Directed by Vittorio De Sica and co produced by David O. Selznick, this is one of the more obscure films in the Clift canon. Indiscretion of an American Wife: love it, hate it, or have you even heard of it? This relatively unknown little film seems to provoke strong positive or negative reactions in the few people who have seen it.

Jennifer Jones is Mary (aka Maria), an American housewife visiting Rome who falls head over heels for Giovanni, a sexy Italian played by Clift. The title Terminal Station encapsulates the mood of the film, as her marriage and child mean the lovers are trapped in a hopeless affair with nowhere to go but the end of the line.

Stazionetermini53_clift+jon

I’ll admit this movie has script problems and can’t quite figure out what it wants to be: a gritty, realistic tale about love and relationships or a soapy, overwrought melodrama.

Montgomery Clift Indiscretion poster

However, I really enjoy the movie, because the strength of the picture rests in the hands of Monty Clift and Jennifer Jones, who rise above the trite material to deliver two heartfelt performances.

Montgomery Clift Jennifer Jones Indiscretion

I’ve always liked Jennifer Jones, especially in a film called Good Morning, Miss Dove. She has a gravity and authentic beauty that doesn’t rely on artifice. I sense she had a huge inner life also, and this bleeds into her portrayal of Maria. Indiscretion of an American Wife was shot entirely in Rome’s Stazione Termini (train station); the way the light plays off Maria’s face and captures her expressions is luminous and adds to the film’s haunting quality.

Indiscretion of an American Wife Montgomery Clift

You must watch this film for Montgomery Clift, who effortlessly changes gears from Catholic priest to hot blooded Italian lover. He has sizzling chemistry with Jennifer Jones; in their scenes together, the heat almost leaps off the screen. Clift the actor communicates so much with subtle touches and gesture. As he walks away at the end, the way he moves his body reveals more about character than dialogue ever could.

The Defector (1966)

Montgomery Clift The Defector Poster  (1)

Monty as Professor Bower in The Defector (aka L’Espion!)

The Defector 1966 is perhaps my favorite of the three films I’ve talked about today, and I’m not totally sure why it strikes such a deep chord with me. Maybe it’s because this is Montgomery Clift’s last film before his untimely death at age forty-five (in 1966).

During the filming of Raintree County in 1956, Monty left Elizabeth Taylor’s house after a dinner party and fell asleep at the wheel, crashing his car into a telephone pole. He needed plastic surgery for his face and increasingly turned to alcohol and pills to numb the pain. The crash had a catastrophic effect on his life and career. He was never the same after the accident.

His close friend (or should I say his soul friend) Liz Taylor gave him the opportunity to work together again in the film Reflections in a Golden Eye, offering him a chance to revive his Hollywood career, but first, he had to perform in The Defector.

Montgomery Clift The Defector Poster  (2)

And what a cool little Cold War spy thriller it is! The Defector stars Montgomery Clift as Professor Bower, an American physicist and art expert blackmailed into helping the CIA obtain secret microfilm from a defecting Russian scientist.

When Bower goes undercover in East Germany then tries to make a daring escape back to the West, he is aided by an unlikely friendship he forms with fellow physicist and German secret agent Heinzmann (the excellent Hardy Kruger). The bond that develops between the two opposing agents gives this spy movie its unique twist.

Montgomery Clift The Defector

Although Monty wasn’t in good health and died of a heart attack only a few months after shooting the movie, he’s terrific as the Professor, swimming in a cold river and doing all of his own stunts, gracing the role with his signature authentic behavior: when Bower crawls under a bridge to hide during his escape, Clift’s face and body language totally express his terror of being discovered (and shot) by German guards.

And then there are his eyes…

Those enormous gray orbs framed by dark heavy eyebrows seem even bigger now against his slender form; those eyes look, but what do they see?

Montgomery Clift The Defector 2

His gaze is riveting, searching, conveying the confusion, isolation and trepidation of being a reluctant spy on the run (and the pain of being Monty?)

Monty Clift is the main reason to see The Defector and fans will definitely want to catch his final movie.

I Confess, Indiscretion of an American Wife and The Defector are good but flawed films elevated by the passion of Montgomery Clift, his artistry and commitment to the craft of acting.

A Place in the Sun and From Here to Eternity are his quintessential films and essential viewing for Monty fans. However, don’t overlook the three movies mentioned above, worth watching for the magic and mystery of these fascinating Monty Clift performances.

(Images: The Movie Stills Database, famousfix.com, The Movie Poster Database, Wikipedia, Wikimedia Commons, LobbyCards.net)

Filed Under: Actors We Love, Classic Actors, Featured Tagged With: A Place in the Sun, actors, Alfred Hitchcock, Elizabeth Taylor, I Confess, Indiscretion of an American Wife, Jennifer Jones, Montgomery Clift, Montgomery Clift death, Montgomery Clift movies, Montgomery Clift photos, Monty Clift, Monty Tribute, movie marathon, movie reviews, movies, Terminal Station, The Defector

Remembering Montgomery Clift Photo of the Day

July 8, 2015 by Allison Leave a Comment

Montgomery Clift portrait

This summer, I stumbled upon a Montgomery Clift movie marathon on TCM and recorded a few films for later viewing. I’m really enjoying watching these diverse Clift films and plan to review them for the blog.

It’s hard to believe that Montgomery Clift (also known his whole life as Monty Clift) has been dead for almost fifty years.

His acting is timeless.

On July 23, 1966, at the age of forty-five, Clift died of a heart attack in his Upper East Side townhouse. This was a tragic end to a brilliant career that included Broadway acclaim and classic films such as A Place in the Sun and From Here to Eternity.

Montgomery Clift is my favorite classic film actor and we’ll be talking about him a lot.

RIP Monty Clift, brief candle…do you know what film this haunting portrait is from?

(Image: The Movie Stills Database)

Filed Under: Actors We Love, Classic Actors, Featured Tagged With: actors, Montgomery Clift, Montgomery Clift death, Montgomery Clift movies, Montgomery Clift photos, Monty Clift, movies, Photo of the Day, photography

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The 411 on Me

Allison West

Freelance Writer. Film Reviewer. Animal Lover. Coffee Drinker. Wordpress Whisperer. Style Hunter. Gem and Jewelry Enthusiast. I dream in black and white and celluloid. More about me.

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