Reviews (26)

The King of Elvis flicks
Even the stuffy New York Times praised Elvis Presley's performance in "King Creole," and why not? Everything clicks in this adaptation of Harold Robbins' novel, "A Stone for Danny Fisher." For once, Elvis has a good script, a terrific supporting cast, a first class director, and a role worthy of an actor which he shows himself to be while also singing an album's worth of outstanding songs. He's not the surly creep of "Jailhouse Rock," nor is he the bloated beach boy of most of his 60's movies. He's a good kid whose boredom with school and disappointment with his homelife leads him to explore life on the wrong side of the tracks where he encounters a switchblade flinging Vic Morrow, a sleazy Walter Matthau, and a beautiful but been around Carolyn Jones. Along the way, he also performs brilliant, knockout musical numbers like "New Orleans," "Trouble," "Dixieland Rock," and the amusing "Lover Doll" (no "Old MacDonald's Farm" in this movie). It all adds up to the King's best film, one of the few in which he wore his crown with honor.

Elvis Presley's personal favorite film role
"King Creole" from 1958,(the same year Elvis Presley was inducted into the U.S.Army),is a good drama with a few good musical numbers thrown in. Shot in glorious black&white and produced by Hal Wallis,who produced some of Mr. Presley's biggest hits("Loving You" from 1957,"Blue Hawaii" from 1961,"Girls!Girls! Girls!" from 1962) and directed by Michael Curtiz(the classic "Casablanca"),the story takes place in New Orleans and Elvis stars as Danny Fisher,a disillusioned high school drop out with designs on being a singer.Danny gets a job at the night club "King Creole". The picture features a fine supporting cast including the late,great Walter Matthau,very effective as a sleazy gangster,Carolyn Jones as the gangster's kept woman,Dean Jagger as Danny's father,Vic Morrow as a hoodlum and one of the gangster's henchman and Dolores Hart as Danny's girlfriend,(Ms. Hart after making several movies left acting and decided to become a nun in the mid '60's).Elvis's top ten hit single from this movie was "Hard Headed Woman".Also, "Trouble" was a well known number.Elvis Presley had said in interviews that of all the 30 odd pictures he had made Danny Fisher in "King Creole" was his personal favorite film role.And,Mr. Presley added that he hated most of the rest of the pictures he had made.

Actually 4 and 1/2 Stars, But...
I can't give that rating on Amazon. Anyway, as a lover of EP's music, and at the time only his music, I was so so so very hesitant to ever give a film of his the smallest chance, because of all the negative things I had heard. I didn't want a bad film to ruin the image that the music had created in my mind. So it was 35 years of just music, nothing else.
Then this past April 2004 I was able to make a "pilgrimage" to Memphis, specifically Graceland. While talking with an employee in one of the giftshops, she convinced me to give certain films a try, and King Creole was the one she recommended I start with. She was kind enough to also recommend a few that I must avoid at all costs, namely Girls, Girls, Girls.
If I could meet this Graceland employee again, I would thank her several times over. King Creole is a quality film that has an actual, and quasi-believable, plot. It has Elvis at his most handsome, and in black and white, that comes through even more. He gives a commendable performance, and his costars carry their weight in the film well also, esp the beautiful Carolyn Jones.
I would classify King Creole as a good overall film, and in the Elvis realm, I would consider it a great film. I think it is his best.

Reel Elvis
This is more like it. A great movie, well directed and acted by all concerned.

Elvis is fantasic. He looks great, looks enthused and is enjoying working with a great cast and crew. This is just the type of movie he should have been doing but, as is known, went on to make the likes of Girls, Girls, Girls and, God help us, Speedway.

The songs are good, the story is good, it looks like money was spent on it. What a pity his stint in the Army more or less ruined his movie career. This is highly recommended along with Flaming Star and Wild in the Country.

good elvis flick
I would rank this as one of the better elvis films along with "love me tender" and "jailhouse rock" also recommend "loving you" ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

One of the first Hollywood films to deal openly with white racism toward Japanese Americans during World War II, this drama directed by 1950s action maestro John Sturges (The Great Escape) stars Spencer Tracy as a one-armed stranger named MacReedy, who arrives in the tiny town of Black Rock on a hot day in 1945. Seeking a hotel room and the whereabouts of an ethnic Japanese farmer named Komoko, MacReedy runs smack into a wall of hostility that escalates into serious threats. In time it becomes apparent that Komoko has been murdered by a local, racist chieftain, Reno Smith (Robert Ryan), who also plans on dispensing with MacReedy. Tracy's hero is forced to fight his way past Smith's goons (among them Ernest Borgnine and Lee Marvin) and sundry allies (Anne Francis) to keep alive, setting the stage for memorable suspense crisply orchestrated by Sturges. Casting is the film's principal strength, however: Tracy, the indispensable icon of integrity, and Ryan, the indispensable noir image of spiritual blight, are as creatively unlikely a pairing as Sturges's shotgun marriage of Yul Brynner and Steve McQueen in The Magnificent Seven. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (22)

Magnificent movie, Tracy is brilliant
Spencer Tracy delivers yet another outstanding performance in this under-rated sleeper. He is mesmerizing as the one-armed MacReady, ably supported by the devious Robert Ryan and Ernest Borgnine, in a role rivaling his vicious "Fatso" characterization in From Here to Eternity.

However, the original cinemascope format does not translate well in this version and a wide-screen format is necessary to do justice to the film. In many scenes, one or more of the actors are cut out entirely from the frame which is irritating and distracting. In several moments, we hear Tracy's voice but he is nowhere to be seen on screen because of the limitations of a TV screen format.

It's good to see this film finally getting the recognition it deserves for an excellent script (years ahead of its time) and a stellar performance by the inimitable Spencer Tracy.

An underrated film driven by stupendous acting
Although well directed by John Sturges, this film set immediately after the end of WW II is driven by great performances by a great, great cast. Spencer Tracy's role as the one-armed John J. Macreedy, who has come to Black Rock to deliver a war medal to the father of a Japanese-American hero who died fighting in WW II, is sufficient by itself to have made this a great film. But luckily, it features several other stellar performances, including several of the best tough guys in American film history, Robert Ryan, Lee Marvin, and Ernst Borgnine. The cast is rounded out by the extraordinarily beautiful Anne Francis (a beautiful and not untalented actress who despite a long career never managed a break out role that might have propelled her to stardom), the reliable Dean Jagger, and the great Walter Brennan.

Although John Sturges is known as a great action director--and this film does have some great action sequences near the end--this film is driven by interpersonal conflict and confrontational dialog. Nearly every line spoken by one character to another seems to contain a mystery or a threat. As a result, there is an edge to this film from beginning to end. The script is brilliant, with a good mystery but even better dialog.

It is impossible to overpraise Spencer Tracy's performance in this one. He is always completely natural in his acting, but no less so in this film playing a one-armed man. He hardly comes across as someone with a handicap, but a tough-as-nails force of nature. As tough as Ryan, Marvin, and the others are in the movie, Tracy can match them grimace-by-grimace.
I'm not sure why this film isn't better known than it is. Given the quality of the performances and the stature of the principle actors, you would think it would be a mainstay on TV and rental shelves. Anyone unfamiliar with this film should do him or herself a favor and get it as soon as they can.

Sublime work
The intolerance has not political color , identity card and it has not related with a specific nation.
Bad day... is a dark and bitter story in a small town about a murderer . The victim is a japanese citizen , killed by a leader who hated all men who came from the Eastern World .
Far beyond the horrors lived in WW2 , the hate still remains in the heart the soul and the memories of this little community who decides "to clean" the town from this japanese disease.
Spencer Tracy will be sent to investigate the sudden dissapearance of this japanese citizen.
Knock out performance of Spencer Tracy and unforgettable punch from Robert Ryan. Lee Marvin plays a little role.

Good Day at Black Rock
All the negative comments made below by "almond cakes" are accurate. However, the film is extrememly enjoyable in spite of the "flaws" he mentions. I can't imagine these events actually taking place, but wouldn't that logic also apply to Star Wars? And The Wizard of Oz. And The Terminator? And thousands of other movies where credibility is stretched a little? John Sturges and the cast he directs are sensational in this movie. Though some of the events depicted may seem far-fetched, I don't mind going along for the ride. It's well worth your time, if for no other reason to see Spencer Tracy upstage a whole bunch of very talented actors competing with him for attention. Tracy shines brighter than the rest without even seeming to try.

Stands the test of time...
Spencer Tracy's performance is bombproof in this tale of bigotry and hatred. It is a universal story that will stand the test of time by illustrating how xenophobic behavior is allowed to fester in small towns, (and in small nations). It is admirable that it was made in 1955, only a decade after WWII had ended.

If you're a movie fan, it is hard not to be in awe of the tension that is created in this story. The determination of John J. MacReedy (Spencer Tracy) is remarkable as he persistently probes the town's inhabitants to find out what happened and then tries to save himself when he realizes what probably did happen. The brief fight scene with Borgnine in the 'restaurant' is realistic and highly satisfying.

The reviewer on this page who thought the story was hokey and flawed might be more satisfied watching something like 'Flubber' because they obviously weren't getting the message...

Tracy was nominated for Best Actor for 'Black Rock' and was up against James Dean, but ironically lost to Ernest Borgnine for his role in 'Marty.' ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Fred Zinnemann's epic drama is a splendid showcase for Audrey Hepburn, who stars as the young nun Sister Luke, who is deeply spiritual yet conflicted about whether or not she can conform to convent life. Though the film is a mesmerizing--and quite leisurely--two and a half hours, its plot is fairly simple--young Gabrielle (Hepburn) enters the convent pledging her life to God, learns the disciplines associated with the life, receives her dream assignment of going to the Congo as a missionary nurse, and once there, is forced to face whether she is meant for the rigorous life of poverty, chastity, and most difficult of all, obedience. The film does a marvelous job of portraying the challenges of cloistered life without being either off-putting or overly romantic. And Hepburn, sometimes with only her eyes, communicates all the drive, faith, and conflict of a young woman so torn. --Anne Hurley ... Read more

Reviews (32)

A Conflicted Soul
In a truly great performance, Audrey Hepburn stars as Gabrielle (and later, Sister Luke), a young Belgian girl and daughter of a famous surgeon, who enters the convent with the ultimate dream of working as a nurse in the Belgian Congo. From the outset, Hepburn has difficulty working within the vow of obedience, and it becomes a daily struggle to remain faithful to her vow. The struggle becomes more pronounced in the Congo when working with Peter Finch, a brilliant surgeon who sees her conflict but is not a believer. Hepburn and Finch have a relationship that is one of the highlights of this film. The Nun's Story is not an action packed feature, but rather a character study about coming to grips with one's faith, character, and true self. Hepburn does a terrific job of portraying Sister Luke's conflicts, all the more difficult given the emotional restraint she must show in the role of a nun. The supporting cast of film veterans adds to the excellence of the acting. I also enjoyed the insight into the training and demands placed on nuns. The level of sacrifice required surprised me, and although it's not an experience that most of us will ever have ourselves, there's much about human nature that can be appreciated and learned in this film.

Nuns who look like and act like nuns!!
This is one of the truly great films of the late 50's in the genre of religion. It details with wonderful accuracy the plight of a woman caught in an order of nuns that asks her to be a nurse and cloistered nun all in one. The schizo life-style does not suit Audrey Hepburn who suffers to live it, from Belgium to the Belgian Congo and back to the ravages of WW II. She must make a decision weather to aid the allies or stay in the convent and be neutral and therfore somewhat conspirstorial; it all couched under the vow of obedience which haunts her from the very start, acting as a metaphor for individual will vs. institutional Church. For the time this was produced, the themes and the ending are daring indeed. The Catholic Church hated this film but could not have it cut or condemned because it was a blockbuster in one week.On the cutting edge of Vatican II this story, beginning in the 20's, ending in ww II, is quite prophetic. Audrey Hepburn has more than just convent ways..she is a nun, with a habit that makes her look like a true nun. A stunning performance and an academy award winning one, but she did not get it. In any case, get The Nun's Story and learn about religious life in the Catholic Church before it disappeared. By the way, where is the lbx DVD of this film????

Disappointing
The entire movie, I thought she was going to marry the doctor in Congo, and then she doesn't! The end was much too solemn. The conclusion wasn't powerful either; it was very abrupt.

Here's how I think the ending should have gone: Gabriel leaves the convent with a smile on her face and sails for the Congo. When she arrives, she finds the doctor converted. They're overwhelmingly glad to see each other, and they have a beautiful wedding. OR, as an alternate ending, Gabriel can marry Gene. Either way, I'll be satisfied.

Hep-py now?
It's a testament to the filmmakers that the scene in which Sister Luke signs papers to leave the church has real gravity.
The final shot sits on the fence, that is if to say "you can walk in as well as out", but I found it too distracting. I kept thinking: "You close doors behind you." Guess I'm not terribly spiritual, then.

The Nun Story : The Failure of the Flesh
I have found the Nun's Story to be a fascinating study of what the "fleshly" Christian experiences when he/she tries to lead the Christian life. Saint Paul draws an important distinction between the truly spiritual Christian and the fleshly or carnal Christian. The fleshly Christian tries to obey and please God in his own strength, or--to use another term--by relying on his flesh. When Sister Luke reaches the end of her own resources, that is, the resources of her flesh, she realizes her life in the convent and to obey God, is impossible for her. It would take a miracle for her to be able to forgive the Germans after she learns that they have savagely killer her father.

But that's just the point!! It would have been a truly inspiring story if at this point, Sister Luke gets down on her knees, utterly broken by the events of the world, and prays something like the following,"Dear Lord, I cannot do what you ask me to do, You will have to do it for me and in me--by revealing Your dear Son, Jesus Christ in me. In my own strength, in my flesh, I am absolutely powerless! I am absolutely depending on your grace and Life. It is utterly impossible for me to forgive these Germans--apart from you! Amen!!" This, I think, is what Paul is talking about when he says in II Corinthians 12:9 that God told him, "My grace is sufficient for you, for [My]power is perfected in [your] weakness."

One night, Corrie Ten Boom experienced this dependence on God when she finished preaching on forgiveness, only to find the former German prison guard, the man responsible for the death of her beloved sister, standing before her at the altar call. She confessed to God, her inability to forgive the man--in her own strength, i.e., in her flesh--and called out to God to forgive him through her, that is, to give her the supernatural ability to forgive. And He answered her prayer! She forgave the man with tears in her eyes, to the glory of God, the Father!!

A parallel can likewise be drawn to the film "The Keys of the Kingdom," starring Gregory Peck. In this film a very proud nun, learns to depend on the indwelling life of Christ to meet her needs to be loving. She remarks, "It's odd that my moment of deepest humiliation has also brought me to my moment of deepest peace." (I'm paraphrasing.)

It is intriguing and frustrating to watch The Nun's Story, but I learned a lot about my own walk through watching it and reflecting on it deeply. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Art film and road movie collide for Vanishing Point, an existential car chase across the desert in a post Easy Rider America. Barry Newman stars as Kowalski, a taciturn driver who bets that he can drive a new Dodge Challenger from Denver to San Francisco in 15 hours. He loads up on amphetamines and begins his odyssey through the contemporary west while a funky black DJ (Cleavon Little) turns the driver into a folk hero and broadcasts advice on dodging the cops. It's like a counterculture precursor to Smokey and the Bandit, with the road as the last bastion of freedom and the DJ as a combination commentator and mystical guide. The slim plot offers a network of society drop-outs that aid the "last free Man on Earth" (as the DJ describes him) on his obscure but obviously symbolic quest while flashbacks paint Kowalski as a world-weary hero. It doesn't really make much sense, but the amazing car chases and excellent stunt work are stunningly set against the American west, beautifully captured by cinematographer John A. Alonzo. Vanishing Point is most assuredly a product of its time, the heady, anything-goes era of rebellion in the early 1970s. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (108)

Classic timepiece movie...
This is a classic movie that is as much social commentary as car chase. I remember watching this on a Saturday matinee on my local television station (long before the advent of cable television) and was mesmerized.

I recently purchased the VHS version and it was just as sweet twenty years later.

The premise isn't much: the main character, former member of society now riding on the fringe, has to get a car to San Francisco in 15 hours. Load up on amphetamines and off we go. The 'plot' is merely a vehicle for the ride.

The car chase scenes are great and realistic (none of the special effects laden hocus pocus you see today) and the cinematography of the West is beautiful. The characters, from the DJ who plays mystical guide to the helpers the driver meets in the desert, show life on the fringe. I'm sure on some level this is a mystical, metaphorical journey of sorts but to me it is simply fun to watch.

The soundtrack is absolutely great. It is kind of the O Brother Where Art Thou of the 70s -- the one that missed the radar. It isn't music you hear on the radio and it certainly isn't mainstream in any fashion but it sure is good.

I give this five stars quite simply because of the cinematography, the cast of characters and the music. Well worth the visit. They just don't make films like this anymore.

Vanishing Point on DVD.. Please !!!
Someday this cult classic will make it to DVD, and my freinds if enjoy fast paced car chase action movies this is a must for your collection. Not only is it a great movie, but the soundtrack of songs from such artists as Delany & Bonnie, Mountain, and Kim Carnes (years before she did "Bette Davis Eyes") would be a great soundtrack if it ever was put together (Problem is back in 1970, movie soundtracks were rare, only musicals had them).

The movie is basically about a driver name Kowalski who's trying to deliver a Dodge Challenger from Denver to San Francisco in less than 24 hours. It's filled with flashbacks and events that take place thoughout Kowalski's life all while he's speeding though the desert in the Challenger.

Cops, Hippies, Bikers, Gospel Faith Groups, Kowalski meets them all during his journey.

Read the other reviews to get more detail about the movie, but trust me, the music and cinematography are outstanding and you"ll really enjoy this movie.

Much more than a car chase movie
This movie held me spellbound the first time I saw it and is still capable of this after countless viewings. This is more than just a car chase movie, it actually has depth and a story to tell. The scenery of the great American West is also first rate and the soundtrack never fails to set the mood.

The story of the main character, an auto delivery driver named Kowalski unfolds as he takes delivery of a white '70 Dodge Challenger which is as he puts it `souped up to 160' and proceeds to drive it from Denver to San Francisco. His plan, however is to do this in 15 hours to win a bet. As Kowalski makes his journey his life is revealed to us through flashbacks and recollections which are usually triggered by what is currently happening to him in real time. Through these the viewer learns that despite his apparent lawless behavior, Kowalski is a man of good character.

It is this good character, sense of duty and strong moral code that led to Kowalski's fallout with the establishment. He had been a decorated war hero and was honorably discharged from the military. A few years later, he was a decorated policeman. However, when he saw his police partner behaving in an unsavory fashion, he reacted. His reward was to be dishonorably discharged from the police force. This ultimately led Kowalski down the path to where we are introduced to him.

One of the big things that drew me into this movie is that it doesn't hand you the explanations on a silver platter. Instead it allows you to think about it and draw your own conclusions long after you've seen it. Some reviewers on IMDB have already done a great job of touching on the philosophies of freedom and individualism prevalent in this movie, so I won't waste the time trying to top those. I'll add that I feel this is a type of an expressionist film. Kowalski is kind of an `Everyman' who is on a journey to find his place in the grand scheme of things. Along his path he encounters various characters that watch over him and help him along, but there are also those who wish to shut him down. Whether you think the conclusion of Kowalski's journey is successful or not is up to you.

Another big plus is the realism in the driving scenes, where the drivers are actually driving their machines and occasionally things happen like tires going flat or the car needs fuel. Most modern car chase sequences leave me wanting with all of the computer generated car moves and general lack of realism. I know they sometimes got it wrong back then too, doing things like obviously speeding the film up. In this one though, they got it right. The driving here brings us into that realm of manhandling 4000 lbs. of American Iron, in all the glory of big-block V8 roar, screaming smoking tires, and hands grappling with the steering wheel.

Another thing that's cool to me about this type of movie is the appearance of the car. At the beginning, the car is resplendent in gleaming chrome and white paint. As the story moves along, the car gradually gets a more dusty battered countenance. I won't spoil the end, but those who've seen it know.

The final things that tie this whole thing together are the soundtrack and scenery. They seem to go hand in hand, from the upbeat rock & roll as Kowalski starts out to the stirring guitar strains during the thoughtful moments. I also cannot say enough about the scenery, which really draws the viewer in. It ranges from the mountains of Colorado, across Utah and into the searing Nevada desert.

In closing, I'll say that this is one of my favorite movies. It won't be understood by everyone, but those of us who fantasize about getting in a classic car and blasting down an open two-lane highway devoid of SUV's, sport sedans and minivans will likely get it.

Still Incredible!
I own over 1000 DVDs. Most I haven't gotten around to watch. In three days I've watched this one 3 times. Maybe this explains why when I was a kid I sat through this like a zillion times in the theater. A perfect film....

A 70's Drive In Cult Classic
Fast action, terrific photography, great period atmosphere, colorful characters and a first-rate rock soundtrack add up to a true drive-in classic that retains its "cult classic" reputation even after more than 30 years.

This DVD includes BOTH the 97-minute U.S. print typically seen on cable and video AND the 105-minute U.K. version which includes a couple of flashbacks featuring Charlotte Rampling that for some reason were completely excised for U.S. release. The excised scenes add just a tad more insight into Kowalski's character; while not essential to the whole plot (such as it is), these scenes ARE interesting and definitely will be appreciated by hardcore fans of the film. Kudos to 20th Century Fox for making available both versions. Being a real fan of the era that this movie was shot in, it's a kick to hear director Richard C. Sarafian's commentary track. Highly recommended! ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Who Wants to be the Boss?
Avery Bullard, the president of a big furnishing house drops dead on the street. One of his vice-presidents (Louis Calhern) observes this incident, which nearly sends him into raptures from his window. He sells his stock-holdings immediately because he hopes their price will fall - he has the intention to buy them back at a lower price. The news that the body of his boss has not yet been identified gives him a further advantage over his competitors for the top-position: Time-honored Walter Pidgeon, goaded by his ambitious wife, hot-tempered Paul Douglas, probably the next canditate for a cardiac infarction, and eager-beaver Fredric March, who hopes that his subservience will finally be rewarded. As soon as March learns of Bullard's death he makes all the arrangements for the funeral. He is an expert obituary writer, and feels at home in public relations too. He refuses to close the factory even for one day - Pidgeon is incensed at his irreverence - and plans to publish the balance-sheet instead: the stock-price should raise, a plan that does not make Calhern happy.

There is yet another candidate for the head of firm: William Holden, and you can see with half and eye that he is the most qualified of them all: a designing engineer so committed to his task that he rather refuses to attend an important conference than interrupt the development of a promising manufacturing process. He is happily married to June Allyson and likes to play baseball with his son. Pidgeon is willing to endorse him, but Calhern and Douglas are resigned to vote for March, who knows their little secrets: Calhern's illegal speculation, Douglas' affair with his secretary (Shelley Winters)...And there is the human factor: Barbara Stanwyck, the principal shareholder, loved Bullard for 10 years, always hoping he would marry her. Now she is on the verge of suicide. If she sells her stock-holdings it means the ruin of the firm, and one anonymous phone-caller advised her to sell...March and Holden fight for her vote: March promises to cut spending in order to pay the stock-holders their full share. Holden, on the other hand, wants to suspend the disbursement and invest in new technologies and fabricate quality furniture. He reveals that the workers in the factory are ashamed to turn out quick-selling but damaged goods. Who will get Stanwyck's vote? Who would get yours?

EXECUTIVE SUITE is an "important" film. It's seriousness is even emphasized by the lack of a soundtrack - but it couldn't prevent the coming of the throw-away society. The film combines the enjoyably ruthless comic-strip dialogue of series like DALLAS with the coy morals of the fifties - and the result is hilarious. I was not bored for a minute. The acting is very good, you will see many familiar faces, and if you enjoyed it you will also like WOMAN'S WORLD (1954), which has the same story, but this time the wives of the competitors are those who plot and scheme.

Refreshingly unique drama
Considering how much the business of business consumes of America's daily life, it's surprising that there haven't been more films like this one. The great John Houseman helped to put together this project and it's a superb study of a crisis in the life of a corporation, and the ambitions, ideals and practical necessities guiding the enterprise. The cast is fabulously good except for some scenery-chewing by Barbara Stanwyck. It's set in the 50's but anybody who's ever worked for a modern company will recognize plenty.

A great movie that still feels relevant
I have to disagree with the one reviewer here who said he faults the movie for being "too ordinary". That is actually why I like it so much. It feels very true to life. Some of the exchanges early on reminded me of executive meetings I have seen in real life. The VP sales is talking about his golf game with a client. The VP Engineering is being pulled aside to confer with his development engineers on an urgent matter. The VP Finance is rambling on about quotas and margin curves. Yes, some of it is boring, but the lack of over dramatization is what makes it so good. What is at stake in this power game is not the fate of the world-its the fate of a furniture making factory. In one scene, William Holden even talks with his wife about if its worth even fighting the good fight for the company. She urges him to strike out on his own-form his own design company. He ponders this and then decides that he will do that only if he feels there is no way not to be able to do what he wants at the company he is with after investing his energy in it for so long. I have had this same discussion with some of my friends who were thinking of leaving their companies to strike out on their own.
The final scene is great, if a little contrived.

Very Nice Boardroom Drama....
I have watched this excellent picture many times...and never tire of seeing it. I've always found the final scene to be quite gripping. There's nothing super heavy or extra special about this flick. Just really good acting by a great cast. And an above-average script. You will find yourself getting caught up in the story...and enjoying it! Fredric March is exceptionally good here.

A Great Cast and a Great Director are Not Enough
I'm going to swim against the stream of the other reviewiers. EXECUTIVE SUITE proves that a great film must have more than a great cast and a great director. At the beginning of the film, the president of a major furniture manufacturing company dies suddenly. All the junior officers are caught in a power struggle seeking to find a successor among themselves. The movie plays like a soap-opera, only with better acting.

If you think about it, ask yourself why we watch movies? Because they take us to places we normally can't go and allow us to meet people we normally never would. In EXECUTIVE SUITE we meet normal business people experiencing normal business problems (not normally of this magnitude, of course). It's just not very exciting. The film is well made and mostly well acted (except for Stanwyck, who overplays her role), but just a little too ordinary. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Great romantic comedy.
This was a fun James Garner at his romantic comedy best. I rank it #2 in that category. Natalie Wood is great oposite Garner. This is a comedy that uses some slapstick and mis-direction and coincidence to create the friction that make it fun.

I still prefer the Wheeler Dealers for sheer fun, but overall CC is a better movie, with a more interesting plot and co-star.

A Wonderful Classic
What is it about 1959? They made some great films including "The Miracle" my personal favorite of ALL times.But take a nice simple story, add some toe-tapping music, mix in brillant actors like Garner and Wood and you have the makings of a wonderful, memorialbe, teary-eyed classic film that will give you a smile on your face.The unfortunate thing is the likes of this will never be duplicated. Hollywood of today has lost all sense of real entertainment. BUY this one folks,,,,you won't be sorry. I just wish it would come out in DVD.

One of My All Time Favorites
Sitting in Washinton D.C. a week after the worst terrorist attacks in US history, this was the movie I wanted to see. Perhaps because it was a simpler time back then -- in my life and in the movie -- or because I have so many fond memories of Miss Wood, or maybe because I just needed a good cry.

The story is bittersweet, but there is a happy ending. The businessmen have hearts, and the mid-century architecture (McCall's penthouse) and Miss Wood's wardrobe are just superb.

Pretty Woman can't hold a candle to this one.

Before The Wheeler Dealers before Pretty Woman
Based on a book "Cash McCall ISBN: 0736605738" the plot is too close to reality. Much of it was reused again in "Pretty Woman ASIN: 0788821075." A tycoon James Garner learns that creation is more fun than destruction. However it take a beautiful woman (Natalie Wood) to help point him in the right direction.

This was an O.K. movie and a first for some things but it was not funny or inspiring or suspenseful or...

THEY DON¿T MAKE EM LIKE THIS ANYMORE
When Natalie Wood was in her prime, she was at the top of the biz, stunningly beautiful, sharp, but accessible. And no one played the all-american stud better than Jim Garner.

Call it a bedroom farce if you like but Cash McCall combines a lot of wheeling and dealing with a good old fashioned boy-meets-girl to make a very pleasing movie.

At first glance, McCall (Garner) is part playboy, part ruthless businessman, but we know better; that his heart of gold belongs only to Lory Austen (Wood), a woman he met last Summer, and he's thought of nothing but her since.

Standard fare, well done with attractive stars, that alone puts it in the upper 20% as far as I'm concerned. Enjoy it. ... Read more

Reviews (51)

FOR LEGAL BEAGLES EVERYWHERE...
This is a movie made great by Henry Fonda's compelling portrayal of an unlikely folk hero,Clarence Earl Gideon, who was the catalyst for one of the most significant changes in our legal system. The seminal case of Gideon v. Wainright ultimately saw the United States Supreme Court establish that anyone who is charged with a crime is entitled to legal representation by an attorney.

Clarence Earl Gideon was no angel. He was a four time loser, who had been arrested for the burglary of a pool room. He did, however, maintain that he was innocent in this instance and demanded a trial, as he had no intention of pleading guilty for a crime that he did not commit. When Gideon, a semi illiterate, poorly educated man, requested an attorney to represent him at the trial, his request was denied, the presiding judge being of the mind that Gideon was able to represent himself. Gideon did not have a clue and, consequently, was convicted and sentenced to a five year prison term.

Gideon wrote an appeal to the United States Supreme Court, which granted his appeal, and its justices set a new precedent with their ruling. His case was remanded to the Florida state court for a retrial. He was appointed an attorney, tried and, ultimately, acquitted of all charges, deservedly so, based upon the evidentiary weakness of the case against him. Justice delayed, however, is, as always, justice denied, as Gideon ended up serving two years in prison for a crime that he did not commit, before he was finally freed.

This is a terrific film with wonderful performances by the entire cast. Henry Fonda is superlative as the stalwart Gideon, whose innate sense of fair play and faith in the United States Constitution helped shape the legal system that we know today. This is a film well worth watching.

The drama in the coourt.
Gideon's Trumpet was an interesting movie.The movie first started out with Gideon an innocent man who thought that going to the pool hall to use the phone would have been a better idea then using it at the motel and disturbing other people. After Gideon got to the pool hall he was accused of breaking in and stealing change out of the vending machines.While he was in trial he order that he wanted an lawyer, but the judge said if he was on trial for an capital offense he could not have a court appointed lawyer.Gideon was given a 5 year sentence and while he was in prison he started to read and study about court cases and it's process. While he was reading he realized his rights and appealed to the Supreme Court and they ruled that he needed another trial and he got it. In the other trial they found out that the guy who supposively had seen him at the pool hall was the one who had done it and Gideon was set free.

It was a good learning experiance
To me the movie "Gideon's Trumpet" was an execellent illistration of how far the government has come and how far it has yet to go. Gideon who was arrested for a felony in the state of Florida was not given a lawyer. His reason for not getting a lawer was that he was competant enough to stand trail on his own. With out a lawyer he was convicted and sentenced to five years in prison. While Gideon was in prison he wrote a letter to the supreme court. His letter ultimately made the judge overrlue his decision and Gideon was granted the right to a lawyer. Thus leading to his second trail. During his first trial he asked no questions of cross examination. Gideon's lawyer was able to make sense out of the previous trail and prove that he was indeed innocent. This trial proved that it really does help to have a lawyer. I look upon Clarence Earl Gideon as an important figure in our history. He made sure that everyone, even poor people that commit petty crimes are still entitled to the sixth ammendment.

Landmark Film on Land Mark Case
Fonda's performance is perfect, and the film covers all the issues without missing a beat. I use it every year in my government class.

Great Law Study Video
My law teacher showed us this film to show us how the right to have a lawer, even if you could not pay for one, was made law. It is a very good film. It does not make you feel he is innocent, lkie must law films do. You see tha facts and decide as you go along. Any law teacher should show this film. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

A great story from Hollywood's first "brat pack"
A lot of people forget that there was a stable of youthful actors during the late '50s/ early '60s, which co-stars Troy Donahue and Connie Stevens were were part of here. This film deals with the Conneticut tobacco planting industry, a woman (Colbert) who is hired as governess for one of the planters' daughter, her iconoclastic son (Donahue), his girlfriend (Stevens) the region's largest landholder who wants it all (Karl Malden) and his personable sweet-natured dauhter (Sharon Hugueny). There are family struggles in this film which are a lot like later TV series like "Dallas" and "Dynasty". Another point of interest is the work songs sung by the migrant Jamaican workforce; "There's a wheel spinnin' round and round/ puttin' tobacco in the ground", and other such chants. This is no Oscar winner, but it's a lot better than just about any other generation-cult film.

Parrish-The genius of Delmar Daves and Max Steiner
My wife and I saw this film at a drive in central coastal caif.when first released.I believe the musical scores of Daves films lifted them higher than the scripts alone would allow.Each character or relationship had it's own theme music which would swell as a new scene faded in from black, it was very subtle,but very effective.It put the audience back in contact with the characters without using additional dialog.In the first viewing you may not even be aware of what Daves and Steiner are doing.The same thing happens in A Summer Place,Rome Adventure,Susan Slade It really adds to the enjoyment of the film.Of course it only works when someone of Max Steiners talent scores the films.Delmar Daves,best known perhaps as a director of westerns certainly had the touch to direct romantic films with a message.The skill to get the best performances out of young and inexperienced actors,and the most beautiful visuals and photographic work of that or any other era.His films leave you feeling good,a smile on your face,and your faith in mankind restored.THAT'S ENTERTAINMENT!

Not yet on DVD?
I consider this movie a classic for it's time period. I am astounded it's not yet on DVD and that we have to "vote" to convence the studio to release it. Ever bit of nonsense that's newly relased makes it to DVD. It's a shame such movies as Parrish and Splender in the Grass are not available.

The Characters Have Depth, Nothing Was Spared In Its Making
Max Steiner's musical scoring, the brilliant performances by the entire cast, and the great directing and editing will put this film in the Gone With the Wind category. I recommend it highly to those who want to see filmmaking at its best.

Parrish
I was a kid when my mom took me to the "burning of the barn" scene and the scenes in Old Saybrook. Then i saw the finished product and even today i still watch that film. Even though now it does seem a little corney, it's just plain fun to watch. I also was a big Troy Donahue fan and saw all of his other movies. "Rome Adventure", "Summer Place", and "Susan Slade" which for some reason was never transferred to tape, at least i have never been able to find it. Of course the music by Max Steiner is the greatest and it's a shame that we do not have any composers like Max anymore. Parrish is and will always be a great classic in my eyes. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This semi-remake of Holiday Inn (the first movie in which Irving Berlin's perennial, Oscar-winning holiday anthem was featured) doesn't have much of a story, but what it does have is choice: Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, an all-Irving Berlin song score, classy direction by Hollywood vet Michael Curtiz (Casablanca, The Adventures of Robin Hood), VistaVision (the very first feature ever shot in that widescreen format), and ultrafestive Technicolor! Crosby and Kaye are song-and-dance men who hook up, romantically and professionally, with a "sister" act (Clooney and Vera-Ellen) to put on a Big Show to benefit the struggling ski-resort lodge run by the beloved old retired general (Dean Jagger) of their WWII Army outfit. Crosby is cool, Clooney is warm, Kaye is goofy, and Vera-Ellen is leggy. Songs include: "Sisters" (Crosby and Kaye do their own drag version, too), "Snow," "We'll Follow the Old Man," "Mandy," "Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep," and more. Christmas would be unthinkable without White Christmas. --Jim Emerson ... Read more

Reviews (115)

a great hoiday movie
After only seeing this movie twice, I had the catchy numbers Snow, Sisters, the Minstrel Number, Count Your Blessings, Choreography, and my favorite The Best Things Happen While Your Dancing stuck in my head for a week. Made in 1954, you no longer see the real dancing in movies, where the girls could dance in stiletos and still look beautiful and graceful at the same time. And the songs are filled with pure Christmas joy and love.

After saving Bob Wallace's (Bing Crosby) life, Phil Davis (Danny Kaye) teams up with the entertainer to form the team wallace and Davis. They woo crowds with their dance steps and catchy tunes. Soon they become a huge production, with shows filled with show girls and dancing guys.

One evening before leaving for New York before Christmas, Wallace and Davis stop by a club to see their old army buddy's sisters perform. Betty (Rosemary Clooney) and Judy (Vera Ellen) Haynes are trying to make it big as well. Through some confussion and singing, the four end up going to Vermont together. They end up staying at the hotel of Bob and Phil's old army general.

I'm not going to give away what happens, but I do want to tell you this movie is worth watching. The dancing and singing is sensational, and the characters lovable. This is definitley a great Christmas classic. Oh and by the way, Rosemary Clooney just so happens to be George Clooney's aunt.

"We'll follow the old man where ever he wants to go!"
Back in 1954, director Michael Curtiz (1886-1962, who won the Oscar for Best Director for the 1942 film "Casablanca") directed a musical that has become a beloved Yuletide classic for many people (myself included): "White Christmas". With the all-star cast of Bing Crosby, Danny Kay, Rosemary Clooney, Vera Ellen and Mary Wickes, the film is often regarded as an updated remake of the 1942 classic "Holiday Inn", which also starred Bing Crosby and featured the same classic Yuletide song, "White Christmas". Though the two films do have many similarities (they're both musicals with lots of song and dance and they both have two main male characters), there are sufficient differences in their respective plots to make each film a unique viewing experience.

"White Christmas" begins on a World War II battlefield with soldiers performing a Christmas show for their fellow soldiers. The two starring soldiers are Bob Wallace (Bing Crosby) and Phil Davis (Danny Kaye). During the performance, all of the soldiers in attendance pay homage to their commander, General Thomas F. Waverly (Dean Jagger). The film then moves forward to its present day of 1954 where it finds Wallace & Davis as being very popular and successful on-stage song & dance performers. After one of their performances, they go to a nightclub where they a performance by two beautiful sisters: Betty Haynes (Rosemary Clooney) and Judy Haynes (Vera Ellen). Bob & Phil become infatuated with the pair (Phil more than Bob). They meet each other and Phil sneakily arranges for himself and Bob to go to Vermont, where the Haynes sisters are going, instead of their planned destination for their next performance. Bob isn't too happy initially with Phil's subterfuge, but relents and enjoys the trip with the Haynes sisters to the Vermont ski lodge. Sadly, when they arrive, there isn't any snow; but they quickly discover who owns the ski lodge: their former commander, the retired General Thomas F. Waverly, who is assisted by his daughter Anne Waverly (Anne Whitfield) and Emma Allen (Mary Wickes). The unfortunate lack of snow isn't very good for the ski lodges business, but Bob & Phil decide to help the retired general in the best way that they know.

Songs by Irving Berlin in "White Christmas" include many wonderful and catchy tunes as listed below. (Vera Ellen's singing was dubbed by Trudy Stevens.)

* "The Old Man/Gee I Wish I Was Back In The Army" (5 stars, performed by Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye and chorus).
* "Sisters" (5+ stars, Rosemary Clooney, Trudy Stevens and chorus).
* "The Best Things Happen While You're Dancing" (4 stars, Danny Kaye with the Skylarks & chorus.)
* "Snow" (5+ stars, Bing Crosby, Danny Kay, Rosemary Clooney, Trudy Stevens and chorus).
* "Blue Skies/Mandy" (4 stars, Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye and chorus.)
* "Choreography" (5 stars, Danny Kaye, the Skylarks & chorus.)
* "Count Your Blessings Instead Of Sheep" (5 stars, Bing Crosby.)
* "Love, You Didn't Do Right By Me" (5 stars, Rosemary Clooney.)
* "What Can You Do With The General" (5+ stars, Bing Crosby.)
* "White Christmas" (5+ stars, Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, Trudy Stevens & chorus.)

"White Christmas" has deservedly become an annual Yuletide classic that will be enjoyed by many generations to come. Overall, I rate the film with 5 out of 5 stars. Also on the DVD is an excellent commentary by Rosemary Clooney. Sadly, "White Christmas" was Vera Ellen's second-to-last film after she decided to retire from acting.

X-MAS NOSTALGIA!!!!
I LOVE THIS MOVIE I WATCH THIS MOVIE EVERY YEAR AROUND X-MAS I LOVE THIS MOVIE. THIS IS SO GOOD IT HAS GREAT PRODUCTION,ACTING, CHOREOGRAPHY,SINGING, AND A LOT OF OTHER THINGS I LOVE THIS VIDEO IT IS SO NICE I WOULD RECOMMEND ANYONE WHO LIKES BING CROSBY ,DANNY KAYE,OR IRVING BERLING MOVIES TO PURCHASE THIS MOVIE BECAUSE IT IS A NICE HOLIDAY MOVIE TO ENJOY WITH YOUR FAMILY. I THINK ABOUT MY GRANDPARENTS WHENEVER I WATCH THIS MOVIE; BECAUSE IT REMINDS ME OF THEIR TIME PERIOD AND IT IS JUST A GREAT MOVIE TO WATCH AND ENJOY.

Bing Croons....Rosemary Swoons....Watch It In June!
This review refers to the Widescreen Collection(Paramount)DVD edition of "White Christmas"...

This DVD should be held up as an example of what DVDs are all about.The transfer and restoration of this 50 year old film is superb. It is the reason we are willing to spend a little more to upgrade from VHS and are awed when we see the wonderful results. Filmed in "VistaVision", the widescreen picture lets you take in every scene of this wonderful classic from edge to edge. The picture is clear, sharp and in glorious technicolor.The colors are beautiful and vibrant.
You have the choice of viewing it in DD5.1 surround or the restored Mono. For those looking for some special features, Rosemary Clooney helps out with a retrospective interview and also commentary. There are English subtitles for those needing them and may also be viewed in French(mono).

The film is a treasure in itself. Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye,Rosemary Clooney,and Vera-Ellen are the stars of this 1954 musical with songs by Irving Berlin that you'll want to sing along with and keep humming long after the film has ended. Directed by Michael Curtiz it's a feel good film that although takes place during the Christmas season, is one that you can pull out and watch anytime of the year.

Bing and Danny were Army buddies, now a successful song and dance team and are out to help their favorite old retired General(Dean Jagger),who is having trouble coping with retirement. The General is now running a country inn in Vermont, but the big problem is there is no snow to bring up the tourists. Bing and Danny to the rescue, as they turn the inn into a showcase of talent, and fall for the Haines sisters along the way. Can these wonderful voices also bring the snow out of the sky?...well..you know.

This film is filled with Berlin's wonderful tunes. When Bing takes Rosemary's little hand in his and croons "Count Your Blessings" to her..well it's movie heaven. Rosemary also treats us to several numbers, Vera-Ellen does some fabulous hoofing, and Danny clowns and keeps us smiling like only Danny can. And how much fun is it watching Bing and Danny do the "Sisters" number together?...alot! Then there's the goose bump evoking, wonderfully nostalgic scene of the four of them singing "White Christmas" together with the Winter Wonderland of Vermont as a backdrop.I would be remiss if I didn't mention the wonderful character actress Mary Wicks, she's a great busy-body who causes misunderstandings, and also keep an eye out for George Chakiris and Barrie Chase.

Thanks Paramount for bringing us this great old classic holiday film on this great DVD...enjoy...Laurie

The Classics are the Best
My parents were Bing Crosby fans, so I grew up watching this movie. It is a jewel in Paramounts crown. Two ex soldiers team up for a stage act, along the way they meet another stage act, sisters. They all end up traveling together by train to Vermont where the sisters are performing for the christmas holiday at a ski resort. When they arrive, they find no snow and very few customers, and the general that Crosby and Kaye served under. Needless to say, they try to help out, and in doing so, they reawaken the spirit of christmas and giving in everyone. It isn't the best quality film, the sound is acceptable but not exceptional, but the story is as great in 1954 as it will be in 3004! ... Read more

Reviews (66)

Bless them all...bless them all....
I am unable to recall another film whose opening and closing scenes are more effective than those in this brilliant portrayal of the 918th Bombardment group based in England which flew almost daily missions to Germany during World War II. The character of General Frank Savage (Gregory Peck) is reputedly based on Brigadier General Frank A. Armstrong, Jr. Sy Bartlett wrote the book and then the screenplay. Brilliantly directed by Henry King, we are introduced to a combination of combat fatigue and self-pity which results in the replacement of Colonel Keith Davenport by his friend Savage who is told by his commanding officer, General Pritchard (Millard Mitchell), to shape up the 918th while avoiding Davenport's problem: Becoming overly involved emotionally in decisions to send B-17 crews on exceptionally dangerous missions, day after day after day. Savage immediately establishes his authority and almost immediately loses whatever goodwill he may have had. He applies and then maintains constant pressure on the crews to improve their performance in all areas of flight operations. Underachievers are reassigned to one B-17 renamed "The Leper Colony." Morale deteriorates to such a point that those at headquarters become concerned. A formal investigation of the situation is conducted. This is a critical moment for Savage. If he has "lost" his men, he cannot continue. In fact, he expects to be relieved and begins to pack his personal items. However, for reasons revealed in the film, Savage remains in command. And then....

It would be a disservice to those who have not as yet seen this film to say any more about the plot. Suffice to say that brilliant direction, great acting by everyone involved (notably by Dean Jagger who received an Academy Award for best actor in a supporting role), superb cinematography (Leon Shamroy), and haunting music (Alfred Newman) are seamlessly integrated in this analysis of effective leadership (especially decision-making) under wartime conditions. The film begins when Harry Stovall (Jagger) makes an especially significant purchase in an antique store and then proceeds to what has by then become an abandoned air base. As we begin to hear the bombers' propellers whine as the engines roar to life, we are transported back in time. Later, as the film ends, civilian Stovall climbs back on his rented bike and departs what is again an abandoned air base. Stunning images throughout both sequences.

Peck included this among his favorite films, while adding that he was especially proud of his performance as Frank Savage. When first released more than 50 years ago, it did not receive the recognition (much less the appreciation) it so obviously deserves. Whenever CEOs and other senior-level executives ask me to suggest war films which offer important lessons about leadership and management, Twelve O'Clock High is first on the list, joined by (in alphabetical order) Command Decision, The Dirty Dozen, The Enemy Below, Fort Apache, The Hunt for Red October, Paths of Glory, Pork Chop Hill, The Red Badge of Courage, They Were Expendable, and Zulu.

The best war movie I've ever seen. Magnificent!
Twelve "O'Clock High is a powerful and true-to-life film dealing with the early days of the 8th US Air Force in Great Britain. Its mission: to bomb Germany not by night in saturation bombings as the British were doing, but instead to boldly engage in "precision daylight bombing." No one knew if the concept was viable because no one had ever dared try it before on a large scale. Gregory Peck plays the role of a leader suddenly thrust into command of a deeply troubled, demoralized, and shot-up bomber squadron. How he motivates the men and overcomes the fact that the men well know that their chances of survival were poor (the worst survival odds of any American combat assignment in the war) is a deeply moving, powerful, indeed unforgettable story. This is a great movie.

The cinematography of this movie is wonderful, featuring actual combat footage of B-17s engaging German Focke-Wulf fighters in deadly combat. The sense of authenticity that this movie brings to the screen is total. One feels transposed back into England in 1942, engaged in a life-and-death struggle in the air against the Germans. The uniforms, dialogue, everything, about this movie reeks of authenticity. The storyline moves along at a breakneck pace--no dull interludes. And yet this is not just a "shoot-em-up" war flick. It is a stirring story of leadership, personality clashes, honest fear and human imperfections that reminds us what an incredible debt we all owe to the men who fought and won the air war over Nazi Germany.

This is a DVD movie to keep and watch repeatedly over the years. It is not only a great movie, it is wonderfully entertaining. This is truly one of the all-time great war movies.

The best review from someone who lived it.
My father, a b-17 bomber pilot, flew 52 missions out of England (Bassingbourn) during WWII. He spoke very little about his war-time experiences, but he said that this was the closest that Hollywood ever came to capturing what it was like for the B-17 bomber squadrons during WWII. It is a great film about human beings under extraordinary stress, making extremely difficult choices and living with their consequences - but most especially it is a moving portrayal of the complexities of leadership and friendship, and the trust needed to get others to do difficult, if not impossible things.

the meaning of "Maximum Effort"
This is a magnificent World War II film about U.S. airmen stationed in Britain in the fall of 1942, and so much more; it's about the psychology that goes into situations of extreme stress, and what makes a man a winner or loser when put to the test. As General Savage (Peck) says in his pep talk, "fear is normal, but stop worrying about it". Savage has no time for self pity, for himself or anyone else, and his toughness and high principles bring out the best in his men, and it also points up the dangers of emotional attachment in the wrong situations.
The script by Sy Bartlett and Beirne Lay Jr., from their book which is loosely based on a true story, is intelligent and insightful, and the direction by Henry King meticulous. The cinematography by Leon Shamroy is crisp and marvelous, and also includes riveting portions of actual WWII battle footage interspersed in the aerial shots.
The Alfred Newman score also adds much to the film.

Gregory Peck is perfect as General Savage, fabulously handsome, with one of the greatest voices of the 20th century, one cannot imagine a better actor for the part. Dean Jagger is also splendid as Major Harvey Stovall; wise and often witty, it is through his eyes that we see the story, told in flashback as he wanders the deserted airfield in 1949.
Other excellent performances come from Gary Merrill and Hugh Marlowe, but every cast member is good, with strong turns from all.

Nominated for a Best Actor and Best Picture Oscar (losing out to "All the King's Men" on both counts), "Twelve O'Clock High" spawned a much better than average TV series (1964-67) that I enjoyed watching, especially in its first season when it starred Robert Lansing.
This is a film that is actually used in "leadership seminars" for business executives, and by the U.S. Airforce as a teaching tool. It has lessons for the average person too, but most of all, it's a superb film, with memorable performances. Total running time is 132 minutes.

Excellent Movie for Leadership
This movie is a classic tool used by the USAF Squadron Officer School. It is a great way to see the different styles of leadership. When we viewed it in an educational fashion the movie carried a much greater sense of meaning for us. For all military buffs this movie has to be in your collection. Tobey Jugs, leather caps, B-17s...Bless them all, bless them all... ... Read more

Reviews (23)

" Im On My Way"
An Oscar winning turn for Burt Lancaster and and Shirley Jones. Richard Brooks ,a terrific writer/director brings to the screen the saga of a bible salesman and all his tall tales.

Its a period piece ..but if you look closer whats old is new. Human nature..being what it is has cycles...and Religion has its own time and eternal ways.

You couldnt get a better cast that includes; Dean Jagger, Arthur Kennedy, and even the lighter Hugh Marlowe.( Edward Andrews)

Elmer Gantry,s success in the revival business is jeopardized when a prostitute comes back into his life( how many times has that occured before in literature?)

Richard Brooks superb screenplay..and Andre Previn,s riveting score add to the auroa of this fine film..with Lancaster ..playing ....himself.

SERMONS OF THE ZEALOUS PREACHER WERE NEVER MORE MEMORABLE!
Even if you find yourself falling asleep during a sermon, you won't be able to here. Brother Gantry won't allow it. Brother Gantry is the zealous, fiery new preacher who is here to warn the world that we're all sinners... and we'll go straight to hell if we don't repent! Repent and join the big baseball team headed by "Jesus Christ, himself!". As Elmer Gantry, Burt Lancaster is at the epitome of his charm and dynamic personality as the smooth-talking, fire-and-brimstone preaching character who brings an evangelical woman's (Jean Simmons) religious organization to prominence through his zestful sermons. It will work out just fine... as long as the people don't know that Brother Gantry is a lusty sinner himself, his best friend a blonde prostitute (Shirley Jones, who won a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for this role) and his flexible morals and ideals are hidden. Lancaster won a Best Actor Oscar for the role, and deservedly so, for he is Elmer Gantry: his sparkling blue eyes, and mile-wide smile set the standard of a persuasive salesman, selling religion to those manipulated by his exacting pull. Richard Brooks' incredible screenplay and crisp direction make "Elmer Gantry" the great Burt Lancaster film of all time.

love is the evening and the morning star!
Elmer Gantry, (Burt Lancaster), is a travelling evangelist with one eye on the Lord and one eye on the ladies! Elmer put's his amazing gift of the gab to use by preaching in tent meetings. Along the way he meets Sister Falconer, (Jean Simmons), who takes him under her wing, there working relationship soon turns personal.

Elmer Gantry is one of the greatest, (in my opinion), movies ever made. Burt Lancaster won his only oscar for his dynamic manic performance as the charlatan with a heart of gold. His preaching style is bombastic, his personal life morally bankrupt. It's really eerie how he resembles a number of "Evangelists", that I have come across in person or on the television. Elmer Gantry truly represents a lot of the tele-evangelists that have come and gone over the last 50 years or so as does Sister Falconer.

Watching Burt Lancaster in full flight as he belts out his sermons and slides across the platform is a true joy to behold. It's a really great actor in his prime, and wonderfully entertaining.

All in all it's a great romp with fantastic dialogue, wonderful performances and it's controversial theme packs a punch even today when Tele-evangelist, whilst know less popular, are still racking in the big bucks and filling stadiums with willing followers. To the Christian, let this film be a lesson for all of us, there are wolves in sheeps clothing around.

Thanks for reading and enjoy and maybe be educated by this wonderful film.

Two sides to a coin
In response to the reviewer who said this film was anti christian and to pass on this trash. I would like to say that this film represents a view of some peoples distasteful view of religion , but sure not all people feel this way. Un fortunately in this world, their are people who use religion to exploit and manipulte people- This is just a fact of life- Then there are people who see the true beauty in religion and and utililze it to help people obtain a higher good - Unlike this reviewer, I would suggest you do not pass on this trash! It is an outstanding film which really makes you think !

Move It On Over Kathryn Kuhlman, Kenny Hagin & Benny Hinn!
Burt Lancaster as Elmer Gantry & Jean Simmons as Sister Sharon Falconer. Elmer is a slick salesman who falls head over heals (HA, pun intended) for the self ordained healing prophetess preacher woman who certainly must have been modeled on Amy Semple-MacPherson's Four Square Gospel Church in exsistence today.

THE best Upton Sinclair novel in my humble opinion, with a top notch screenplay that follows the novel fairly well, given what you could actually film in 1960. The book itself is much more dicey & really delves into the character of Elmer and his weaknesses for booze, unfaithfulness of all kinds, and sex and is a great study into the mind of a master manipulator.

This film has a timeless quality given the New WORD FAITH MOVEMENT goin on. Call it "Name It & Claim It" Message or The "Health & Wealth" Gospel but Elmer & Sister Sharon could go up against the 1950/60's Kathryn Kuhlman, 1970/80's Kenneth Hagin or Kenneth Copeland, or our new millenium savior, Benny Hinn, ANY OL' DAY! A TRUE GEM of a film, not to be missed!

In MY TOP 25 FILMS of ALL TIME. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Realistic--Great!
My wife and I live in a primarily Native Alaskan Communmity far north of where this movie took place. But the setting and the people and the rich profile of a primarily-subsistence, Native community seems to be right on target. All of the actors do a first-rate job, and the movie is a fine blend of aspirations,and idealism with the realities of Bush Alaska life. We watch it every Christmas and often times inbetween. Enjoy!

Nice reflection of an Alaska Native Community in the 70's
I'm an Alaska Native and grew up in a small town in the Southeast. I'm in my early 50's now, and many times I moved to "the lower 48" to work or live with family. Very strange-- There is an urging when you're younger to move outside of Alaska because it's so remote compared to Stateside. You miss all the malls and variety of places to eat and things to do. After living south for a while, I would start missing the trees, mountain, streams and water where I grew up. When I would become fed up with living south, on some channel on tv, I would find this movie! I would see the trees, all the water and beauty, and within a short time I'd be packing to return to Alaska! This movie became my signal more than a few times to return home. Anyway, I enjoyed the movie and listening to the older people in the village reminded me of my own elders as I grew up in Alaska. I love this movie, the only reason it got one star less is because I wish they would have put out the mini series copy instead of the movie length version. Hoka Hey! And enjoy!

A Short Owl
"I Heard The Owl Call My Name" was shown as a television mini-series in 1973. It was wonderful, and I'm afraid the tape I just received is a chopped up, over-edited and miserable version. The events, characters and dialog are the video less-than equivalent of Cliff Notes. Wish I hadn't wasted my money No quality with this release, that's for certain.

Don't miss the book, but skip the movie altogether
I bought this video because I truly loved the book it was based on. What a dis-service was done to Margaret Craven's fine work. The characterization was completely changed, significant parts of the plot were altered, as well as the essential meaning of her uplifting story. The very reasons the young vicar was successful in the village were lost in the terrible characterization of his movie persona.
If you love this book, steer clear of this movie. You will be sorely disappointed. If you love this movie, try reading the book. I believe you will find a very pleasant surprise awaiting you. As I read the favorable reviews, I was struck by the fact that they could find the very things they appreciated about the video in abundance, without the bitterness that the movies seemed compelled to promote. I realize that this was the popular style of 1970's movies, but it was a shame to bring this element into an otherwise very positive and life affirming story.

Memorable
Truly a film that stays with you for many years. In my late teens I found this to be a very inspirational film. It encouraged respect and discovery of native peoples and their ways and dealt with the often difficult issue of faith communities and their relations with aboriginal peoples. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Memorable Little Film
Natalie Wood stars as an 8 year old girl who witnesses a plane crash. She seeks solace with the town doctor. This film is no longer available and is a real treasure to own.

A Cutie movie
I think this is a nice pleasant movie with a good bit of humor and a realistic plot. The parts are well played and not to sweet, its better than you would think being made in 1947. It dosent copy any thing like many lassie clones do and is heart warming without be to over done. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Hammer Studios' attempt to replicate the success of the superior Quatermass films gives us a kinder, gentler hero, the polite and soft-spoken Dr. Royston (played with almost paternal kindness by American Dean Jagger). When the populace of the area surrounding a bottomless fissure in an abandoned quarry is devastated by a rash of lethal radiation burns, Royston tries to convince authorities of the possibility of a life from deep within Earth that has surfaced to feed to a rather skeptical reception. Sure enough, the sludge from 20,000 fathoms is spotted pouring down the road like a self-contained lava flow, headed for the military's own nuclear reactor. Director Leslie Norman can't quite match that taut, wound up quality of his inspirations, The Quatermass Xperiment and Quatermass 2, but he creates an inky-black atmosphere with moody night shooting and heaps on the horror with blistery, blotchy burns that culminate in the gooey remains of a man whose flesh is found melting off his skeleton--one of the most startling moments of any Hammer picture. A young Leo McKern can be spotted as a reporter and Anthony Newley is a whining soldier. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Radioactve mud threatens a Scottish village
Hammer Films tried to follow up on the success of "The Quartermass Experiment" with this tale starring Dean Jagger as Dr. Adam Royston, an atomic scientist. Royston is called to a remote Scottish town to investigate a mysterious and deadly outbreak of what appears to be radiation poisoning. It soon becomes clear than some sort of subterranean, radioactive entity has come up from a bottomless crack that appears in the earth. Royston figures out the thing feeds on energy, which is going to make it very difficult to destroy. Writer Jimmy Sangster delivers an intelligent script that manages to make "X--The Unknown" as much a science fiction film as it is a horror movie. This film is certainly up to the standard of the Quartermass films. Leslie Norman (Dukirk," "The Lost Continent") directed this 1956 film, although I want to point out that he did replace the original director, Joseph Losey ("Boom," "Modesty Blaise"), who had moved to England to avoid the Hollywood blacklist. This DVD includes the theatrical trailer and the science fiction segment from the "World of Hammer" documentary.

Another hit from Hammer Productions!
While Nigel Kneale was thrilling the world- UK included - with his immensely successful QUATERMASS movies in the 50's, another name was added to Hammer Productions' list of writers- Jimmy Sangster, who wrote this genuinely suspenseful, frightening, and equally intelligent B-movie for his debut. An 'intelligent' element (a larger - than - life glob of sludge) from below the surface of the earth arises from a fissure in a Scottish bogland and wipes out anything in its path- including humans, who are either horribly burned or completely melted away from coming into close contact with it - on its way to locate and consume nearby sources of radiation to fuel its growth. To stop the titular entity, Quatermass-like scientist Dr. Alan Royston (Academy Award winner Dean Jagger, TWELVE O" CLOCK HIGH) must race against time to find its' weakness before it moves southward- towards London! He gets good acting support from Edward Chapman as his disbeliev