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Showing posts with the label 1934

It Happened One Night (1934) review

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...

Of Human Bondage(1934) review

 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(-Jean Vigo 1934) review

 "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...