368. Splendor in the Grass

Splendor in the Grass
1961
Directed by Elia Kazan

This was definitely a nice surprise.  I had never heard of Splendor in the Grass before and based on the title, I was picturing some artsy European film, and honestly, I wasn't in the mood.  However, this was a very relatable film that reminded me heavily of my own high school experience (although no one was as hot as Warren Beatty and everyone didn't have perfect skin).

Deanie and Bud are going steady but Bud wants to take their physical relationship to, um, move to the next level.  On the one hand, Deanie would be considered a slut if she slept with him.  On the other hand, she would be considered a prude and might lose Bud if she doesn't put out.  Anyway, Deanie starts to lose it a bit, in an over the top, teenage girl fashion. Or maybe not so typical after all.

Well, it was certainly interesting to see a film that addressed real issues with teens that are still relevant today.  I mean, we had Rebel Without a Cause before, but I could never connect to our rebel because, um, he had no cause.  But like I said, this film actually dealt with problems that teenage girls face.  Of course, I never dated in high school so I wasn't exactly turning away the fellows.

And, of course, this film can be relatable for guys as well.  Should they stick with the type of girl they want to marry or have some fun with the type of girl they want to, you know, have fun with (after all my parents read this blog).

And surprisingly, Natalie Wood is fantastic in this film.  I had written her off as a somewhat wooden actor but I am forced to revise my old opinion.  One of the many things Past Amanda was wrong about.

So an interesting film that is relatable and well acted.  Worth a watch.

RATING: ****-

Interesting Facts:

First french kiss in a Hollywood film.  *Whistles*

Film debut of Warren Beatty.

Trailer:

270. On the Waterfront

On the Waterfront
1954
Directed by Elia Kazan

Another classic on the list that should be viewed by everyone.  This movie has all the elements of a great film: quotable lines, phenomenal acting, and lasting relevance.  Of course, probably only about ten percent of people my age have actually seen it.

The waterfront is run by corrupt bad guys and one of their workers start to realize that he needs to stop them, even if it means doing it alone.  In another words, McCarthyism=bad.  Or at least, that is what Kazan was trying for.

Marlon Brando is a brilliant actor, the film wouldn't be nearly as interesting without him in the lead.  The plot sometimes feels like it is moving a bit slowly but that is only to make the ending that much more powerful so all is forgiven.

Overall, a great film and a classic that everyone should see.

RATING: ****-

Interesting Facts:

The film was based on the expose series on the New York waterfront written by Malcolm Johnson for the New York Sun.

This movie is thought to be an apology by Kazan for listing names to the HUAC during the McCarthy era.  Also thought to be a response to Arthur Miller's The Crucible.

Marlon Brando originally did not want to take the part because he hated Kazan for what he did.

233. A Streetcar Named Desire

A Streetcar Named Desire
1951
Directed by Elia Kazan

If you haven't seen this film, I have no idea what planet you have lived on for the past fifty years.  Actually, I hesitate to say that because I am sure that people my age probably have never even heard of it.  Damn kids.

In any case, you have probably heard countless references to the movie.  Off the top of my head:

All right, so for tradition's sake, I will give a brief summary of the film.  This movie is about….god, what is this film about?  I guess Blanche (Vivien Leigh) goes to live with her sister and her husband (Marlon Brando) and um, shit goes down.

Okay, it is a little hard to explain.  I think what has immortalized this film is mostly due to the great performances by the actors.  Leigh plays the emotionally damaged woman perfectly and Brando is a wonderful sexy asshole.  That actually is probably not too far off from real life…

I should also mention the unforgettable lines, not only "STELLA!" but also "I have always depended on the kindness of strangers."  Just watch so you can join the human race.

RATING: ****-

Interesting Facts:

Vivien Leigh had bipolar disorder in real life and trouble separating her life from Blanche's.  Called it.

#47 in AFI's top 100.

One of two films to win three Academy Awards for acting.