Reviews

A rewarding post modern film about life and decay and the effects of a single moment on a person's life. Great sets and photography by the legendary cinematographer Sacha Vierny, this film makes you ultra aware that you are watching a film, or a sort of theatrical filmed piece. Greenaway is an aquired but very rewarding taste, and no other director makes films as he does. A disturbing somber film for serious fans of modern cinema. Greenaway is a must in your education of film.

Many people will disagree, but this is one of my favorite John Wayne films of all time, and for all the wrong reasons: This film is a cold-war camp classic that has to be seen to be believed. Imagine Alfred the Butler from the 1960's TV show Batman as the head commie and you have some idea what you are in for. James Arness is such great at John Wayne's side kick who hates commies because they shot at him during the war. I could watch this film anytime because it is very relaxing and has a quiet air about it, but at the same time, such a harsh reminder of what America was like in the 50's.

After reading other comments, I must comment myself. Ayn Rand's favorite movie star was Gary Cooper, and I believe that when she was writing the novel, she pictured Gary Cooper as Howard Roarke, so it is only NATURAL that Gary play Howard in the film. He was not mis-cast, he was perfect for this role. Rand is the only one who could have written the screenplay, and it is filled with her Objectivist philosophy. Great scene after scene, I could watch this film anytime. Particularly interesting is the scene where Miss Francon destroys her favorite statue because "Something so beautiful could not exist in a world where it is not appreciated" Almost surreal and ultra-real, this is one of the handfull of films Rand wrote, so be thankful that she wrote anything at all for the screen. The masses, the mob, the Banner.

I just had to comment after reading the other people's comments. I guess that the other people who wrote their reviews based purely on gut reaction which is cool, but I have to tell you, Ayn Rand wrote the novel the fountainhead with gary cooper in mind as howard roarke because he was her favorite movie star. Also, did you all know that Ayn Rand was writing screenplays before she wrote her novels? People should always get their facts straight before writing. The film is so true to her philosophy and I think one of the best written scenes is where Miss Francon destroys her beautiful statue. See this movie twice!