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Reviews
Dodsworth (1936)
One of the Great Films
"Dodworth" is one of the great films. With the film,, director William Wyler joined the top ranks of directors, a status he retained through a long series of wonderful films. "Dodsworth" is an absorbing drama about adults that has been beautifully adapted from its source novel, perfectly cast & directed. There is not a false note from its cast of film legends -- Walter Huston (who originated the Sam Dodsworth role on stage is flawless in every respect), Ruth Chatterton (skilfully navigates her way through a difficult role that in a less talented actress' hands would have quickly become unsympathetic & annoying, but her Fran evokes sympathy & understanding even In her most selfish moments), and Mary Astor (so beautiful she takes your breath away, but strong & loving). They are given excellent support by David Niven, Maria Ouspenskaya (who can turn one scene into memorable gold), Paul Lukas, Gregory Cava, John Payne, etc. "Dodsworth" was a great Sinclair Lewis novel & its film adaptation may well be the best of all-time. If you have not seen this film, you are in for a great treat. Do nor wait any longer!
2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
A Reason To See The Film
Through the years, I have recommended a viewing of the film to several friends. All were experiencing problems with insomnia. I assured them that watching this long, uninteresting & pretentious film -- with interludes of soothing music -- would put anyone to sleep. I have been pleased to later hear from each of them telling me that the film did, in fact, put them to sleep & they drifted off fairly early in its playing time. Through the years, I have seen the entire film, by watching it in segments. It always had a sleep effect on me, but seeing the whole film spoiled that positive impact. Now, thinking of it just induces laughter because it is so poorly acted, boring & scientifically absurd. But, I still recommend it for insomnia.
The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show (1950)
The Inimitable Gracie
George, Bea, Larry, Fred, Ronnie, Harry & all the others were terrific. But, Gracie was the show & Gracie Allen was like no other -- the funniest woman on TV!