612. Network

Network
1976
Directed by Sidney Lumet

This used to be my older brother's favorite film (I don't know if it still is; he has the tendency to make broad proclamations sometimes and then pretend he never meant them).  As the dutiful doting younger sister, I watched it too.  I actually found it to be quite dull, although I am sure I pretended otherwise.

Howard Beale is the anchor of the UBS Evening News.  He learns that he will be fired in two weeks so declares on air that he will shoot himself on camera before his deadline.  His um, colorful antics actually cause a ratings spike, one that Diana Christensen, played by Faye Dunaway, tries to capitalize on.

Like I said, I found this movie to be exceedingly dull.  All the actors were "acting" so hard that it was pretty exhausting to watch.  I also didn't really understand what the point was.  Yes, it sucks that Howard will soon be out of a job.  But times change, people change, and that is just the way it is.  I don't think the company is "evil" for trying to get ratings (at least, initially).  It was also annoying, but not unexpected, that the successful career woman of course had to be a cold bitch.

A chore to get through and easily skippable.

RATING: **---

Interesting Facts:

Jimmy Stewart turned down the main role because of the strong language.  Aw, Jimmy.  You are my favorite square.

590. Dog Day Afternoon

Dog Day Afternoon
1975
Directed by Sidney Lumet

1975, everyone!  This is going to be a good year; I can feel it.

Sonny, Sal, and Stevie attempt to rob a bank.  Things quickly go awry when Stevie loses his nerve and the remaining duo realize that they have arrived after the daily cash pick up, meaning they would only get around $1,000.  The police are quickly alerted about the situation and it becomes a hostage negotiation.  The whole premise seems rather cliche now; I think just about every crime tv show has had a hostage negotiation episode.  Still, it was fresh then and it seems fresh now.

I am the first to point out when Al Pacino gets a little "carried away" with his acting, but I was actually quite pleased with his performance (excepting maybe the Attica line). It's fascinating how accurate this movie was to John Wojtowicz's story in real life.  Despite knowing how it was going to end, I still was engaged in this movie for almost its entire running time.  Almost.  Hey, it was over two hours of Al Pacino; I am not a saint.

RATING: ****-

Interesting Facts:

Almost the entire film is improvised.

Al Pacino initially turned down the role, but when he heard it was going to be offered to Dustin Hoffman, decided to take it.  Meow!

570. Serpico

Serpico
1973
Directed by Sidney Lumet

Does anyone else think Al Pacino is a huge asshole?  I find him rather exhausting to watch.  He's in so many good movies that his overindulgent performances are often forgivable.  This is not one of those times.

Frank Serpico tries to be a noble cop, but struggles against the corrupt police department.  That's pretty much it but, of course, it is over two hours.  I suppose that's how long it takes us to fully grasp Al Pacino's genius.

It's dark, it's gritty, and if you love Al Pacino, you will be impressed.  If you think he is pretentious and overrated, you will be digging your nails into your face by the forty-five minute mark.

RATING: **---

Interesting Facts:

The real Frank Serpico spent a great deal of time with Al Pacino to help him with his role.

Al Pacino would go to different neighborhoods in character and supposedly pulled over a guy.  God, he's a dick.

315. 12 Angry Men

12 Angry Men
1957
Directed by Sidney Lumet

What a great movie.  This is a classic that everyone should see or has already seen.  I was talking to some coworkers recently who didn't know I had seen it yet.  They warned me that I might not like it because it is in black and white and I am so young.  They obviously do not know me very well.

This film takes place almost entirely inside the jury room as Henry Fonda tries to convince the jury that the man on trial is innocent.  While this may seem like it could get dull after awhile, it is actually entertaining and wonderful until the very end.

I have never actually been on jury duty but like the book suggests, now I am going to imagine myself as Henry Fonda when I am finally a jury member.  The idea that a group of strangers could come together like that and then walk away and carry on with their lives is poignant and I enjoy watching movies with that theme.

There are twelve jury members that the camera is on for pretty much the entire ninety minutes and not one of them is anything less than magnificent.  Just a great film; if you have seen it yet, for shame!

RATING: *****

Interesting Facts:

None of the twelve jury members are still alive.

Shot in 21 days.

Lost all of its Oscars to The Bridge On The River Kwai.  Oh come on!