Every October the old monsters come out to play, and every October there is an argument to be made that the best Frankenstein picture of them all is the one that was played for laughs. Mel Brooks‘ Young Frankenstein opened in December 1974, and more than half a century later it remains that rarest of things, a parody made with so much love for its source that it ends up standing right beside it.
Continue readingFiled under Steven Doyle
Directed by Richard Brooks and based on the novel by Sinclair Lewis, Elmer Gantry (1960) is a searing critique of hypocrisy and ambition wrapped in the guise of a dynamic drama. The film’s central character, Elmer Gantry, is a fast-talking, charm-laden traveling salesman who discovers the lucrative potential in evangelism, manipulating faith for profit. The film not only casts a sharp eye on the manipulative power of religion but also explores the human desire for fame, power, and redemption.
Continue readingFiled under Steven Doyle
The 1960s were a time of dynamic change, but one thing remained steadfast: the charm and sophistication of Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Directed by Blake Edwards and based on Truman Capote’s novella, this film continues to be an iconic beacon of glamor, wit, and romance. It’s a masterpiece that melds sparkling social commentary with memorable characters, and a captivating performance that still resonates with audiences today.
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