Change Your Image
brendahnelson
Reviews
The Unseen (1945)
Annoying Main Character
Gail Russell was miscast in this role. She was surrounded by A list actors, but simply was the wrong casting choice. Her almost perpetually upturned eyebrows ( at the center) expressed a frightened,sad,victim demeanor. Even though at times she had to be brave...even stupidly so...which stood out in sharp contrast to her perpetual "pity me" facial expression. In the next decade this type of female character became extremely popular , especially on TV. The type seemed to be a favorite of male writers, and casting directors. In the 50s it was also required that she be able to scream hysterically , cry on cue and to be utterly helpless. Aaargh! ( Also all of them ( including Gail) "ran like girls"...with feet and arms flailing...and in high heels). I don't blame the women so much as the male directors and producers etc. Who were obsessed with the " helpless female" archetype.
Also I disliked the writers interpretation of the original Hugh Walpole story. There are other , better movie-versions that stay truer to the original supernatural story.
Carnal Knowledge (1971)
Simply AWFUL!
An utterly boring iteration of all the worst of male attitudes towards women, and womens wimpy complicity in
their own degradation... or at best...low expectations of what a good relationship with a good man might be like. Or should I say mens ideas of what women are like. I suspect, or am hoping, that 50 years later, here in 2021 things are better, but I am not convinced.
How to Marry a Millionaire (1953)
Classic Early 50s Womens Movie
The best part of this movie is Marilyn Monroe. Her comedic genius is in full evidence...even within the hackneyed dumb blond character. Too bad they made Betty Grable another DB...one was enough and Marilyn played it just right.
The second best part is the fashion element. Lots of fabulous 50's creations on view. Several reminded me of my own from that era...and each brought back its own unique nostalgic rush .
Of course the theme that women needed to marry security was still a common belief. A woman COULD marry for love ...and that was the message of the movie..."follow your heart and things will work out better than expected."
In actuality, it didnt matter much which you married for, security or love...the after-story was a downer for many women. Twenty years later we tried to create our own security by becoming male-wannabees. That didnt work either.
However, today, in 2021, women are beginning to find an inner spiritual security that DOES deliver both love and security.
Tomorrow (1972)
A Breathe of Fresh Air in a Smoggy Hollywood.
Very excellent in so many ways. Especially Duvall performance. Very moving and absorbing. Some confusion and lack of clarity in important plot details like names and who's who. But overall a true masterpiece.