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Reviews
The Night of the Hunter (1955)
Demented self appointed preacher stalks two young children of a condemned man he meets in prison after he discovers the man left $10,000 hidden away.
I watched this film tonight again for I believe the 4th or 5th time. This was the first time that I became aware that it was the only film Charles Laughton ever directed. What a shame! The direction was superb. The cinematography should have won an Oscar. The choices of nature that Laughton chose to display added a unique flavor to this film noir. Does anyone know why he didn't direct again??? Robert Mitchum's performance was also Oscar worthy even though he didn't win one for it. His singing of the Gospel song "Leaning..." was very chilling throughout the film.
Lillian Gish's performance was also Oscar worthy in a supporting role. The script was equally superb! I cannot think of anything negative about this movie. I highly recommend it.
Go, Johnny, Go! (1959)
This is the quintessential 50's rock and roll movie...
This is the quintessential 50's rock and roll movie. With about 20 songs from performers such as Jimmy Clanton (the lead), Chuck Berry, Eddy Cochran, Jackie Wilson, Ritchie Valens and The Cadillacs and more, if you like 50's rock, then you will like the music in this one. This is definitely not a movie for plot or acting, but instead just plain musical fun.
Some of the best performances are Jump Children by the Flamingos and Please Mr. Johnson by the Cadillacs. Also, the rare clip of the legendary Ritchie Valens makes this movie well worthwhile. It's too bad he didn't perform one of his hits like Donna, La Bamba or Come On Let's Go, but instead wailed with Ooh, My Head! A lot of this movie is very campy and adds to its charm. Because of this and especially because of the music I'd rate this a 7+ on a scale of 10. Jimmy Clanton was a good choice for the lead. His voice and mannerisms bring back memories of a much more innocent era.