Week in summary, 12/20-12/26 |
La Vie De Chateau 
(1966, Jean-Paul Rappeneau)
Quite enjoyable farce starring Catherine Deneuve.
Vertigo 
(1958, Alfred Hitchcock)
I am embarrassed of my rating for this film, but it’s an honest one. I’m afraid my expectations may have gotten in the way of my enjoyment. I hope the film will grow on me through the years, but for now it’s my fifth favorite Hitchcock film.
Les Demoiselles de Rochefort 
(1967, Jacques Demy)
Technically outstanding only in Demy’s superlative fusion of music, color and story, but personally enjoyable in every respect.
(Extended review here)
Sideways (2004, Alexander Payne)
Doesn’t quite live up to the hype, but it is an excellent picture with a lot of depth and humor.
Casino Royale (1967; more directors than I have patience to type)
I didn’t believe in guilty pleasures till I watched this film. I thought any film I thoroughly enjoyed was absolutely justifiable, until I watched this clumsy Bond spoof. Truly, it’s a terrible movie, with no discernable plot or continuity. But I’ve developed a bit of a “thing” for Peter Sellers and David Niven, and have to admit I watched this twice, gladly.
Les Diaboliques 
(1955, Henri-Georges Clouzot)
A superlative suspense film that I actually rate higher than any Hitchcock film I’ve seen so far. This one sets the standard for a lot of weak imitations.
Touch of Evil 
(1958, Orson Welles)
Absolutely inspiring direction, camera work and lighting. Unfortunately, I think I would have enjoyed it more had I watched it on mute. The plot is convoluted and dull, and the performances simply average. Still, it makes me quite interested to see what Welles can do with a better script.
Jules et Jim (1962, Francois Truffaut)
A film that touched me more deeply and personally than any other has for a long time. Instantly finds a spot in my top ten.
(Extended review here)
The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004, Wes Anderson)
My second-favorite film of the year; not quite as masterful as Tenenbaums and Rushmore, but probably the funniest, and quirkily lovable in its own unique way.
Best of the week:
Best Film: Jules et Jim
Best Lead Actor: Bill Murray, The Life Aquatic
Best Lead Actress: Jeanne Moreau, Jules et Jim
Best Supporting Actor: Willem Dafoe, The Life Aquatic
Best Supporting Actress: Virginia Madsen, Sideways
Best Director: Francois Truffaut, Jules et Jim
Best Screenplay: Francois Truffaut and Jean Gruault, Jules et Jim
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