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mrwahl
Reviews
On Dangerous Ground (1951)
Reminds me of Hitchcock
Caught this 1951 police procedural on Turner Movie Classics tonight. I watched the first of it enjoying the rounded automobile profiles, the high-contrast black and white mood lighting. It was a time machine taking you back to the era of old New York City - narrow alleys, crowded run-down apartments. The cynical cop is dangrously close to breaking after years of being surrounded by sleazy, low-life men and women. The action shifts to the country, and the copy quickly joins a foot and car chase of a man who attacked someone. What do I hear but background music that suspiciously sounds like the high-tension music of "North By Northwest?" And behold - the score is by Bernard Hermann, the composer of Alfred Hitchcock's most outstanding films!
The Rogues (1964)
Should be seen again!
This short-lived series appeared as a summer replacement, I believe, on Sunday night just before "Bonanza." It was sophisticated and delightful, and just too good for families watching "Wonderful World of Disney" and other Sunday night fare. I'd absolutely love to see it again. Very much similar to "The Pink Panther" - elegant international cast, doings of the rich folk....which made it fascinating viewing for us peasants! It must have been an expensive series to produce, with its top-drawer stars, gorgeous sets, pricey cars and glamourous wardrobe. I was only 11 when it appeared. That was an era of Euro-centered comedies. Andi t appeared only weeks after a new musical quartet from England appeared on the "Ed Sullivan Show."
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Lovely to Look At (1952)
Middling musical
I have a pretty high fluff tolerance when it comes to classic MGM musicals. "Lovely to Look At" makes me want to lower that level. They way the men treat the women, whose stake in the shop is equal to theirs, makes me want to scream, but those were the times. I can't help but wonder who's actually making those extravagant gowns, because the sisters don't even thread a needle. Much of it is pretty outdated.
What's not outdated are the Champion dance numbers. I've seen them all before, and they remain fresh, inventive, graceful and delightful to watch.
"Lovely to Look At" is worth watching just for those.