jcain3 Reviews

The Grand Illusion (1937)

Song in the film!

[21 June 2002]

There is a brief bit of a song sung by Marechal and Rosenthal toward the end of the film. This is from a favorite folk song of children in France, in the public domain now. The refrain is "O-way, O-way", for recognition to those who are not familiar with it. The song is "Il Etait un Petit Navire". The whole movie is very well done in accuracy for details of the time that it takes place. That is what makes it such a memorable film!

Man and Boy (1971)

Well written non-typical western

[20 June 2002]

Very well written story of the early American West and African American family. It is "G" rated but the subject is on adult level, for complete understanding. The psychology of the characters is very well defined and true to life as I see it, from my knowledge of early cowboys in Texas and the Western frontier. Fine acting and great scenery, a good movie to watch!

Murder in Mind (2001–2003)

Dark humoured comedy!

[25 April 2002]

I watched this program recently on BBC America television just because Kevin Whatley was listed in the guide. It was hilarious and I laughed and laughed at the (unexpected) dark humour of the story. It was the anguish of having unpleasant neighbors. It is told in a European style, as those who know the song by Ray Ventura and his Collegiens, "Tout va tres bien, Madame la Marquise"/"All goes very well, Madame la Marquise", understand and recognize. Kevin Whatley is great in his role, a new one for him, after the detective series,"Morse".

The Hill (1965)

Good performance by Ossie Davis!

[16 December 2001]

I happened to catch this movie on television, and as it was a British movie, was interested to see Ossie Davis appear on the screen. He does an excellent job of acting in the film, portraying the character with depth and determination. This was many years ago, and his ability to carry off a difficult role was apparent even when he was younger. His career has been steady and his films worth a second viewing, in that light.

Love Affair (1939)

Film music

[18 September 2001]

The song played on the piano by the grandmother and sung by Irene Dunne is Martini's "Plaisir D'Amour (Pleasure of Love). It has been a classic since its French release in 1932.It was recorded then by Yvonne Printemps (1894-1977). Her recording is with harpsichord accompaniment.

Les chevaux du soleil (1980)

Beautifully presented saga of French in Algeria

[19 August 2001]

The series was shown in the US on the cable television station, Telefrance, as "Horses of the Sun", the year after it was made. It was in French with English sub-titles; an excellent rendering of Jules Roy's historical novel of the French presence in North Africa, following the generations of a family, their lives and loves, up until the independence of Algeria. Well acted and shot on location, with an original music score by George Delerue, it is worth seeing if ever it is made available again!