S 1921 Move notes

  "Gone with the Wind" immediately draws me into the elegance and grandeur of the Southern plantation life. Scarlett O'Hara's willful and headstrong personality initially put me off. However, my perception of her began to change when she decided to care for Melanie. Despite having the option to follow Rhett and escape Atlanta, she chose to stay and face the brutal realities of war. This decision wasn't just about her promise to Ashley; it was her innate kindness and sense of responsibility that compelled her to take care of Melanie. The moment that truly changed my view of Scarlett was when she returned to Tara. Confronted with the desolation and ruin of her home, she did not succumb to despair. Instead, she stood tall with courage, rationality, hard work, and intelligence. Her declaration, "As God is my witness, I'll never be hungry again," showcases her indomitable spirit. She forgets what she can't solve and lets nothing stand in her way of su...

This film is packed with fun and surprises from start to finish. Katharine Hepburn as Susan is simply an incredible character. Her wit and vivacity keep you glued to the screen. Her antics to keep her "baby"—that adorable leopard—lead to a series of laugh-out-loud moments. Cary Grant completely breaks away from his usual suave image in this film. Wearing glasses, he transforms into a wooden-headed paleontologist, and his excitement over dinosaur bones makes him seem like a big kid. Every time he and Hepburn cause chaos together, you can’t help but think they’re the perfect duo. One scene that really stuck with me is when Susan, trying to hold onto David, gets herself covered in mud and loudly declares she wants to go on an outdoor adventure with him. Her persistence and charm are simply irresistible. Then there's the scene where they’re both drenched from the rain, running through the mud, and despite everything, they’re just so happy. It perfectly captures the innocence ...

Watching Marie Antoinette, I was captivated by the visual feast this film offers. The movie is filled with vibrant colors and exquisite costumes, making every frame look like it could be a wallpaper. The life of Queen Marie is vividly portrayed in the film, both luxurious and tragic. Queen Marie grew up in the court and was forced to marry into France, becoming the wife of the Dauphin. When she first arrived at Versailles, she was full of hopes for the future, but quickly realized that things were not as wonderful as she had imagined. Dauphin Louis XVI was aloof and lacked initiative, only interested in hunting and trivial matters, leaving Marie feeling lonely and disappointed. Although Marie's life was incredibly luxurious, it could not fill the void in her heart. She indulged in lavish parties, exquisite dresses, and delicious pastries. These material pleasures might temporarily distract her from her troubles, but they could never bring true happiness. Watching her extravagan...

  Watching You Can't Take It with You, I was truly touched by the warmth and humor of this film. It's filled with laughter and the essence of human connection, making it incredibly heartwarming. The story revolves around Tony, the son of a wealthy banker, who falls in love with Alice, a girl from an eccentric but close-knit family. This family is full of quirky characters who pursue their own interests and dreams, free from societal constraints. I particularly loved Alice's grandfather, the patriarch of this unique family. He gave up a lucrative business to live a simple, happy life, encouraging his family to follow their passions and find joy. His philosophy, "You can't take it with you," resonated deeply with me. We spend our lives chasing wealth and status, but in the end, we can't take these things with us. What truly matters is how we live and love. Tony's father initially looks down on Alice's family, seeing them as oddballs. But as the story...

  When watching Jezebel, I was completely captivated by Bette Davis's portrayal of Julie. Julie is so willful and confident, as if the entire world revolves around her. Her decision to wear that red dress to the ball, blatantly ignoring Southern societal expectations, was both shocking and mesmerizing. She seems like a spoiled princess who believes she can do anything without considering the consequences. At the same time, I could understand her pain and struggle. Julie truly loves Preston, but her ways of expressing that love are so misguided. Her demand that Preston stop his bank meeting to spend time with her seems outrageous in the context of Southern society. But to Julie, it's just her way of showing love. She craves attention and affection, yet Preston is always preoccupied with work, neglecting her feelings. The dialogue in the film left a deep impression on me, especially the exchange between Julie and Amy. When Julie speaks to Amy, you can sense her frustration and se...

 After watching "Angels with Dirty Faces," I gotta tell ya, I'm still reeling. This 1938 gangster flick hits home even today, and it's crazy how relevant it still is. James Cagney's Rocky Sullivan? Man, that street kid turned tough guy is like a mirror, showing us all those forgotten corners of our society. Watching him bust heads on screen, I can't help but wonder: if we gave kids like that a real shot, would they end up on a different path? Then there's Pat O'Brien as Father Jerry. Same rough start, totally different outcome. It really makes you think, doesn't it? How our whole lives can change in just one moment, one decision. But what really got me was the friendship between Rocky and Jerry. A gangster and a priest - talk about opposites attract! Their bond, man, it's complicated. Isn't that just like the battle we all fight inside? Good vs. evil, right vs. wrong. We're all Rocky, in a way, wrestling with our demons. That ending, th...

 This 1937 flick still shines with wisdom even today. It reminds me of that unwavering pursuit of justice in "Lawrence of Arabia," but Zola's fight? Man, it hits closer to home. Paul Muni's Zola, with those eyes that seem to see right through all the world's BS - that's some next-level acting. The courtroom scene where he's defending Dreyfus? Every look, every gesture is dripping with this hunger for truth. Watching him go off like that, my heart was racing. It's like I was right there in that courtroom, throwing down against injustice. It got me thinking - in this age of information overload, how many of us are willing to risk our cushy lives for the truth like Zola did? Everybody's rushing to post their hot takes on social media, but how many are really thinking things through? Zola's "J'accuse" - isn't that the kind of guts we all should have? Director William Dieterle's got some tricks up his sleeve, weaving Zola's...

Right off the bat, I was sucked into that desolate Arizona desert. In this middle-of-nowhere joint, we've got Leslie Howard playing Alan, this down-on-his-luck writer, who bumps into Gabrielle, a waitress itching to ditch the desert, played by Bette Davis. The way these two dance around each other emotionally? Man, it's sweet and heartbreaking all at once. Just when I'm getting cozy with this romantic setup, bam! The movie throws us a curveball. Enter Humphrey Bogart as Duke, this on-the-run crook, crashing the party with his gang. Holy smokes, Bogart's eyes are scary as hell! Every time he shows up on screen, you can cut the tension with a knife. But get this - even with all this danger going down, the movie still finds time to chew the fat about social issues. All that talk about gender equality and women's consciousness? Must've been pretty cutting-edge back in the day. I'm totally vibing with Gabrielle when she says, "I want to live, not just exist....

 After watching "The Great Ziegfeld," I gotta say, I'm feeling all kinds of emotions. This 1936 musical biopic is a real visual feast, but it left me with a bit of a bittersweet aftertaste. ight off the bat, the movie pulls you into this glittering era. Ziegfeld, man, what a legend! His story should've been a real page-turner, you know? But here's the thing - the film seems more interested in showing off those jaw-dropping stage performances he put together than digging into who the guy really was. I found myself sitting there, realizing I still didn't have a clue about the real Ziegfeld. But let's be real for a second - those musical numbers? They're out of this world! Especially that hour-long extravaganza - it's like eye candy on steroids. The lights, the costumes, the choreography - every single element is a work of art. Watching it, I felt like I'd been zapped back to a 1930s Broadway show, getting a front-row seat to Ziegfeld's glory ...

 After watching "Top Hat," I was left in a state of awe. Who would've thought a 1935 flick could be this captivating? Sure, the plot's your typical romantic comedy of errors, but trust me, there's so much more to it than that. Fred Astaire as Jerry Travers? Man, he's the epitome of cool! His elegant dance moves, smooth gestures, and that killer smile – you just can't take your eyes off him. And when he dances "Cheek to Cheek" with Ginger Rogers? I swear my heart skipped a beat. Their steps are in perfect sync, and the way they spin together? It's like they're one person. I couldn't help but think, "Damn, if only I had a dance partner like that!" Speaking of Ginger Rogers, her performance as Dale Tremont blew me away. She's not just a pretty face – she's got sass and class in spades. I absolutely loved the scene where she's dancing on stage. Her movements are so light and effortless, and her expressions? So natura...

 Watching "Mutiny on the Bounty" was like stepping into a time machine. This 1935 classic isn't just a movie; it’s a journey into the past, into a world where the stakes were as high as the ocean waves that crashed against the ship. The film is based on true events, which already gives it an edge of intrigue. It's about an 18th-century British warship on a mission to Tahiti to gather breadfruit plants, with a planned voyage of two years. The captain, played with a chilling severity, rules with an iron fist, believing that fear and punishment are the best ways to maintain order. This oppressive regime doesn't sit well with the crew, leading to growing unrest and eventually, a full-blown mutiny led by the charismatic first officer. Clark Gable's portrayal of the first officer is nothing short of mesmerizing. He's a mix of courage, rebellion, and a desire for justice. His defiance against the captain’s tyranny isn’t just about survival; it’s about standing up...

 Watching "Bride of Frankenstein" is both an interesting and somewhat poignant experience. As a film from 1935, it was undoubtedly a technical marvel of its time, but today, some of its special effects and plot elements do feel a bit dated. However, this is precisely the charm of old movies: they allow us to see the evolution and progress of the film industry. In the movie, Frankenstein is portrayed as a lonely and pitiful creature, not evil, but driven to self-defense. His character is vastly different from the monsters in modern horror films, presenting more of a tragic figure. His creator is coerced into making a companion for him, who will become his bride. This plot itself carries a strong sci-fi flavor, with the idea of creating new life from corpses being very novel at the time. There are many scenes in the film that left a deep impression on me. For instance, the monster escaping and then suddenly returning to the original village puzzled me. How the professor's w...

 The film tells the story of Alice Adams, the daughter of a poor family, who strives to find her place in the affluent social circles. Her journey is full of struggle and hope, making it impossible not to empathize with her. From the very beginning, Alice appears at the ball in her heavily altered old dress. She tries to hide her predicament, but her helpless and self-conscious expression is truly touching. Katharine Hepburn's acting shines here; she isn't just playing a character but embodies a real person, someone we might encounter in our own lives. When Alice meets the handsome, wealthy young man at the ball, her eyes sparkle with hope and longing. Yet, she is acutely aware of the vast gap between her background and his. Every smile and every gesture is tinged with unease and nervousness. She tries to appear composed in front of everyone, but her internal struggle is constantly apparent. One of the most memorable scenes is the dinner at Alice's home, where she hosts the...

Watching "It Happened One Night," I can't help but marvel at its charm. The story is set during Prohibition-era America, where the spoiled heiress Ellie Andrews tries to escape her family's constraints by eloping to New York. Along the way, she meets down-and-out reporter Peter Warne, and together they embark on a hilariously sweet journey. In the beginning, Ellie comes off as a beautiful but brainless daddy’s girl. She meets Peter, a fast-talking reporter who initially seems slick and self-serving. But as the story unfolds, we see his caring, genuine side. Peter not only helps Ellie evade her family's pursuit but also teaches her how to navigate the real world. Their interactions gradually heat up their relationship, revealing Peter's sincerity and Ellie's underlying kindness. One of the most memorable scenes is when they share a night together, separated by a blanket Peter calls the “Walls of Jericho.” This scene is both funny and heartwarming, showcasin...

 Watching the 1934 film "Of Human Bondage" left me with a mix of emotions. While the film omits much of the original novel's exploration of life's meaning and the reasons behind suffering, it still has many commendable aspects. Adapted from W. Somerset Maugham's classic novel, the film may lack the depth of the book's philosophical inquiries, but it effectively portrays the complexities of human nature and emotional entanglement. Leslie Howard's portrayal of Philip and Bette Davis's portrayal of Mildred deliver an emotional punch. Howard's performance is nuanced and authentic, capturing the essence of a man torn between his desires and the harsh reality of unrequited love. His conflicted emotions every time he encounters Mildred are deeply moving. Bette Davis is undoubtedly the film's standout. Despite being an American, she flawlessly mimics the London Cockney accent. Her portrayal of Mildred, with her crudeness and wantonness, is dangerously ...

 "L'Atalante," this 1934 gem, really struck a chord with me. It's like a beautiful love poem, gently singing the purest form of love. From the get-go, I was captivated by Juliette's eyes, sparkling with curiosity. This country girl boldly marries the captain, Jean, and hops aboard the Atalante - a worn-out boat brimming with warmth. Watching them chase each other on deck, I could almost taste the sweetness of first love. That scene where Jean dunks his head underwater to find Juliette's reflection? Breathtaking. But life ain't no fairy tale, right? Juliette's yearning for the outside world, Jean's roughness and jealousy - these are like ripples on calm water, slowly growing, eventually triggering their separation. When Juliette steps onto Parisian soil alone, my heart was in my mouth. The bustling city, unfamiliar faces, Juliette's mix of confusion and excitement - I was both thrilled and worried for her. The shot of Jean sailing away alone is...

 Duck Soup? Man, after watching this so-called "comedy classic" from 1933, I'm torn between laughing and crying. Marx Brothers, are you guys pulling my leg? When the story kicked off, I still had a glimmer of hope. The Republic of Freedonia appoints this wacko president, Rufus T. Firefly, and I thought, "Hey, this might be fun." Boy, was I wrong. Firefly's presidency is like a never-ending circus act. He mocks ministers, flirts with rich girls, spouts nonsense in Congress, and treats diplomacy like a game. I figured this was supposed to be a jab at incompetent leaders, but guess what? This nutjob actually wins the war! Is this satire or praise? I'm completely lost. The Marx Brothers' performance? Okay, I'll give them props for their mirror scene chemistry. But come on, is this your A-game? Compared to Chaplin or Keaton, it's small potatoes. Those so-called "jokes," like the bathtub prank or the squabble in front of the vendor'...

 "Triumph of Faith" stands as a thought-provoking historical testament. In 1933, when Leni Riefenstahl's camera captured the grandeur of the Nuremberg Rally, she likely didn't foresee that this work would become a significant marker of the Nazi rise to power. The film opens with breathtaking scenes that immediately captivate the audience: thousands of SS troops in perfect formation, flags billowing in the wind. This visual impact is truly awe-inspiring. Riefenstahl's camera work is inventive, using low-angle shots to make figures appear more imposing and authoritative, while aerial shots showcase the rally's massive scale, allowing viewers to feel the Nazi party's strength. Hitler's appearance marks the film's climax. Standing at the podium, his voice booming and eyes piercing, I could sense how his inflammatory speech deeply enthralled everyone present. This scene sent chills down my spine as I realized how such oratory, combined with meticulously...

 The 1933 adaptation of "Little Women" transports us to mid-19th century America, an era when women were just beginning to seek their own value. The film, through the story of the four March sisters, presents a world full of warmth yet not devoid of real-world challenges. Jo's character left a lasting impression on me. Katharine Hepburn's portrayal of Jo is brimming with vitality and rebellious spirit. Her love for writing and yearning for freedom stand in stark contrast to society's expectations of women at the time. Hepburn's performance is vivid and natural, especially in scenes where she jumps over fences and slides down staircases, showcasing Jo's free spirit and resistance to traditional constraints. The film skillfully depicts the friendship between Jo and Laurie. Their interactions are full of joy and understanding, but director George Cukor wisely refrains from pushing this relationship into romance. Instead, Jo's encounter with Professor Bhae...

  "Scarface" captivates the audience with its unique charm, transporting them to Prohibition-era Chicago. The film opens with the character of Tony, a rustic figure whose crude behavior and sinister expressions leave a lasting impression. What truly draws me in is the bloody rampage of Tony's gang. In one chilling night scene, a black car drives by, unleashing a burst of machine gun fire, leaving a man writhing in pain on the ground. As the car speeds away, the shadow of a street sign forms a cross on the ground. This type of scene recurs throughout the film, creating an almost suffocating atmosphere of tension. Paul Muni's performance as Tony is effortlessly natural, especially memorable when he is finally cornered, displaying a blend of arrogance and cunning. When faced with retaliation from other mobsters, rather than showing fear amid the hail of bullets, Tony contemplates how to get hold of the same model of machine gun. This calm demeanor showcases the character...

 "Blood of a Poet" is a film rich in symbolism and metaphor, leading viewers into a dreamlike world from the very beginning. The film explores the inner journey of a poet, delving into the complexities of art and creation. The poet encounters a strange mirror in his room, and as his hand passes through it, he enters a fantastical realm. This scene evokes a sense of Alice in Wonderland but with a deeper philosophical undertone. In this fantastical world, the poet meets various mysterious characters and scenes. He witnesses a young boy falling from a great height, a moment filled with tragic beauty and an enigmatic power. The poet then enters a room filled with statues, each seemingly telling its own story. As the poet touches each statue, it feels as if he is engaging in a profound dialogue with them. This scene is laden with symbolic meaning, exploring the essence of artistic creation. One of the most striking moments in the film is when the poet, after passing through the mi...

 "Trouble in Paradise," released in 1932, is a classic film brimming with light-hearted humor. Set against the backdrop of Paris during the Great Depression, the movie tells the story of two charming con artists, Gaston and Lily, who, through clever schemes, deceive wealthy socialites and embark on a complex and amusing romance in the process. The film opens with Gaston posing as an Italian doctor in a luxurious Venice hotel, quickly gaining the trust of the hotel owner. His first encounter with Lily is marked by mutual suspicion, which ultimately leads to the realization that they are both con artists, sparking a deep attraction between them. This scene, rich with witty dialogue and clever setup, perfectly showcases the intelligence and allure of the main characters. As Gaston and Lily decide to team up, they set their sights on the wealthy perfume company owner, Mariette. Gaston becomes Mariette's secretary, while Lily infiltrates her life as his assistant. As they exec...