Picspam (what else?)
It seems like I've been posting nothing but picspams lately. Well, I'm in a terrible picspamming mood. As you can see though I've been completely sucked in by classics and, most of all, my three favorite actresses. I'm afraid that won't change for a while, so just wanted to give you a heads up lol.
For those who aren't tired of me yet, under the cut is a combination of a picspam and a rec entry. I decided to spam a bit about those works of my top 3 ladies that are not necessarily well known to those who aren't familiar with their body of work. So under the cut are Julie Andrews, Deborah Kerr and Vivien Leigh featured with three movies respectively, all of them beyond their most successful projects.
Some of these you have heard about on my journal before, some maybe not. Several of these are underrated works, some are acclaimed, just not as well known as those films that made them really famous.
Edit: p.s. no spoilers.
DEBORAH KERR
Beyond The King and I and An Affair To Remember.
Title: Dream Wife
Year: 1953
Type: less known / though to some extent it is deservedly underrated
What is it about: Effie and Clem are a couple... except they have completely different expectations of life and their relationship. So they break up and Clem decides to look for his dream wife, which comes in the form of the Bukistani princess. Since this is international affairs, Effie, who works for the State Department, has to 'look after' her ex boyfriend's new bride until the wedding. To make matters worse, he doesn't speak Bukistani and doesn't understand a thing. So Effie translates and generally mocks the shit out of him tries to be helpful. In short: craziness ensues.
Why I like it: Because it's crazy. Okay seriously, this is a case of two insanely gorgeous actors -- who happen to be one of my favorite on screen couples -- getting together to do some lighthearted and crazy comedy. Don't expect deep content and you'll be fine. There were some parts that had me in stitches really and that is all thanks to Cary and Deb.
Why I recommend it: Because no matter how crazy a film is, Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr are a must see. Plus, aside from Deb showing the world how a woman could kick your high male butt at any time, Cary Grant's comedic performance is SO DAMN GOOD. He makes me laugh so hard.
Quote:
Clem: "Tell Tarji I've been longing to see her all day. And put a little feeling into it. "
Ladies exchange words in Bukistani.
Clem: "What did she say?"
Effie: "She said there is no moon until you walk into her presence."
Clem: "Oh isn't that nice?"
Effie: "Is there any answer... Moon Man?"
...
[later]
Clem: "Tell Tarji that until I see her again, the birds will have no song."
Effie:"Oh brother..."
Title: Tea and Sympathy
Year: 1956
Type: less known
What is it about: Because of his lack of interest in all the things boys his age are totally into, Tom is suspected to be and is accused of being homosexual. He gets constantly humiliated as people try to shape him and show him the 'right way' and his only source of support is Laura, the couch's wife. Except, Tom has an entirely different kind of problem than what the public suspects.
Why I like it: First of all because of the actor performances. So good. On the other hand, the story is really gripping and although homosexuality isn't fully accepted these days just yet either, it shows that the world has come at least a short way since then. And the third reason is that you just feel for the guy. The public's preconceived idea can be really hard to deal with, regardless of what it is.
Why I recommend it: Because it's a movie with issues that have been and still are real.
Quote:
Laura: "Manliness is not all swagger and mountain climbing. It's also tenderness. "
Title: The Innocents
Year: 1961
Type: less known
What is it about: A new governess arrives to look after two young children, Miles and Flora. Strange things begin to happen, however, and she becomes convinced that the house is haunted.
Why I like it: Because it's so well done. The black and white is SO GORGEOUS. Works for this film so very perfectly. This movie is scary without gore. It just creates that atmosphere beautifully that completely sucks you in.
Why I recommend it: Def not for those who are easily scared. But let me just tell you, *I* am easily scared yet I think this is one awesome film.
Quote:
"It was only the wind, my dear. "
JULIE ANDREWS
Beyond Sound of Music, Mary Poppins or today's generation's Shrek and Princess Diaries.
Title: Star!
Year: 1968
Type: underrated
What is it about: Biopic about Gertrude Lawrence. Spans from her childhood til Lady in the Dark.
Why I like it: Julie's performance in this is simply amazing. The film is pretty entertaining and it is full of different performances with a good mixture of dramatic and comedic acting. Julie does an insane amount of numbers and she's superb in all of them.
Why I recommend it: You think you know what Julie Andrews is capable of because you've seen Mary Poppins and/or the Sound Of Music -- possibly Victor/Victoria, too? Wrong! The film is nearly three hours long so you will need an interest in the subject matter but I highly recommend it if you are curious about the depth of Julie's performing abilities. She's a true performer. No wonder, she's been doing it since she was a kid.
Quote:
"Cripes!"
Title: Darling Lili
Year: 1969
Type: less known and underrated
What is it about: A German spy falls in love with the man she's supposed to get information out of. When she finds out there is another woman, called Suzette, things get... awkward. And hilarious.
Why I like it: This film is worth watching for Whistling Away The Dark alone. Also, Julie cries in it. And she cries well. Yeah I realize I am getting weird looks now... I just really don't think every actress can pull crying off well. Most of the time I end up laughing at them (I know I'm mean.) Anyway, another reason why I like it is because Julie gets to be a vixen which she rarely did during her career.
Why I recommend it: It's got a good mixture of subtle and in-your-face situation comedy, all by Blake Edwards. If you do watch it, make sure you don't watch the director's cut though. God only knows why Blake cut out some of the funniest scenes.
Quote:
Lili: But then, why DOES he drink?
Bill: Because he's afraid to fly.
Lili: Then why does he fly?
Bill: Because he likes to drink!
--
(Lili's suppressed anger due to having found out about the other woman comes in the form of sarcasm. Bill is unsuspecting..)
Lili: Oh you were behind enemy lines. How frightful.
Bill: I had to burn my plane.
Lili: Mmm, that sweet little plane?
Bill: Well I had no choice. A lucky shot put my plane out of action. I had to make a run for it...
Lili: All the way to France?
Title: The Americanization of Emily
Year: 1964
Type: less known
What is it about: Charlie, an American dog robber at the Navy and Emily, who works at the motor pool for the British army, fall in bed.. and then love. Aside from the war, their personal differences makes this love affair complicated and intriguing.
Why I like it: First of all because this is a non-singing, serious role for Julie Andrews in which she did awesome. Second, the movie is an anti-glorification of war film and I loved a lot of the sentiments expressed in it. And third, it's got smart dialogue.
Why I recommend it: If you want to see beyond the singing governess image, or if you want to see her do a straight dramatic role, this is a good start. But the story is also pretty cool, also very funny and I love the satirical and humorous presentation of the insanity that people actually do believe, especially in war time.
Quote:
Emily: I despise cowardice, I detest selfish people, and I loathe ruthlessness. Since you are cowardly, selfish and ruthless, I cannot help but despise, detest and loathe you. And that is not the way a woman should feel about the man she’s gonna marry.
(This is my favorite quote of the entire movie)
---
Charlie: War isn't hell at all. It's man at his best; the highest morality he's capable of. It's not war that's insane, you see. It's the morality of it. It's not greed or ambition that makes war: it's goodness. Wars are always fought for the best of reasons: for liberation or manifest destiny. Always against tyranny and always in the interest of humanity. So far this war, we've managed to butcher some ten million humans in the interest of humanity. Next war it seems we'll have to destroy all of man in order to preserve his damn dignity. It's not war that's unnatural to us, it's virtue. As long as valor remains a virtue, we shall have soldiers. So, I preach cowardice. Through cowardice, we shall all be saved.
VIVIEN LEIGH
Beyond Gone With The Wind and A Streetcar Named Desire
Title: Sidewalks of London
Year: 1938
Type: less known
What is it about: Charles, a street entertainer, meets Libby, a poor cockney girl, when she tries to steal his money. Then they run into a young 'enry 'iggins. He takes her under his wings and soon realizes that she's got great talent. He's not the only one iwth that discovery though...
Why I like it: Because I think this is Vivien's best pre-GWTW on-screen work. I thought she was already showing some of the fire that she channeled into Scarlett later on. And I thought she and Charles Laughton worked very well together.
Why I recommend it: Because she speaks cockney. That's a must see. :D Also, young Rex Harrison!
Quote:
Libby: Look here, mister, who does this lovely world belong to, eh? To the people who live on it, you say? Well, I'm one of them. And I've got just the same taste as all the rest. You should be surprised. I get hungry. I get thirsty. I get cold. I enjoy smoke and a permanent wave, and whatever I can get in the way of extras. And why shouldn't I have them?
Title: That Hamilton Woman
Year: 1941
Type: less known
What is it about: The affair between Lord Horatio Nelson and Lady Emma Hamilton, one of the world's most beautiful women.
Why I like it: I'm not gonna lie, but I don't think I even need to. Vivien is simply gorgeous. That is not why I like her as an actress but it is a part of why I like her image. For me Vivien was the most beautiful actress of the golden age. And if for nothing else, then one needs to experience her in her prime which I think she definitely was in here. But aside from that, the film IS good. It was Winston Churchill's favorite movie, Viv's chemistry with hubby Laurence Olivier is great AND I am insanely in love with all the impersonations and funny accent she does in this film.
Why I recommend it: To experience the best on-screen collaboration of the golden age's Brangelina (though that comparison goes only as far as public attention). This film is not underrated, but Gone With The Wind trumps it. Well, GWTW trumps practically everything but still. Most of all, however, I'd recommend it because if you watch her as Emma, you'll get a glimpse of what Vivien was like. The more I find out about her, the more of Emma I see in her.
On another note.. Julie's daughter is called Emma (Walton) Hamilton. That does greatly amuse me.
Quote:
Emma: "You have an important mission, haven't you? Has it ever occured to you that women sometimes can be of more help than men?"
Nelson: "Not in the matter of this kind, Lady Hamilton."
--
William: "You know Emma, there are three kinds of deceived husbands in the world. First there are those who were born to be deceived. Second, who do not know and third, who do not care. I've been wondering for some time now which of the three I should be myself."
Emma : "Have you forgotten the fourth kind, William? The kind that is hard, and empty and gives nothing? You married me because you wanted a new ornament for your house. Like that painting or that statue or that vase. As far as you're concerned, I'm just as ornamental... and just as dead. "
Title: Waterloo Bridge
Year: 1940
Type: less known
What is it about: Love. But if you want details: the story is about Myra, a ballett dancer and Roy, a Captain, who's about to head off to WW I. They rush to a shelter together and thus begins an acquaintance that rapidly turns into love.
Why I like it: Because watching Vivien Leigh play this role straight after Gone With the Wind is nothing short of fantastic. Her chemistry with Robert Taylor is brilliant. And the story is just so gripping, and sad. I've never loved a sad story as much as I love this.
Why I recommend it: Vivien's demonstration of 'every possible emotion flashing through the face within the span of 30 seconds" at the Waterloo Station scene alone is worth to watch this film, believe me. That should be taught in school. But really, aside rom that, it's a memorable love story.
Quote:
Myra: This hateful war.
Roy:Yes, I suppose it is. And yet there's, I don't know... a certain amount of excitement about it, too. Around the corner of every second, a fascination of the unknown. We're both facing it, this instant.
Myra:Oh, we face the unknown in peacetime, too.
Roy:You're rather matter of fact, aren't you?
Myra:Yes. You're rather romantic, aren't you?
--
Roy: Ahh, the ballet was beautiful.
Myra: Madame didn't think so.
Roy: Well, experts never known. It takes outsiders to know and I tell you it was beautiful.
Myra: That certainly proves you're an outsider.
Image Credits:
VivAndLarry.com, Vivien-Leigh.com, DeborahKerr.es, JulieAndrewsForum.com and me :p
Thanks for reading. :D
For those who aren't tired of me yet, under the cut is a combination of a picspam and a rec entry. I decided to spam a bit about those works of my top 3 ladies that are not necessarily well known to those who aren't familiar with their body of work. So under the cut are Julie Andrews, Deborah Kerr and Vivien Leigh featured with three movies respectively, all of them beyond their most successful projects.
Some of these you have heard about on my journal before, some maybe not. Several of these are underrated works, some are acclaimed, just not as well known as those films that made them really famous.
Edit: p.s. no spoilers.
DEBORAH KERR
Beyond The King and I and An Affair To Remember.
Title: Dream Wife
Year: 1953
Type: less known / though to some extent it is deservedly underrated
What is it about: Effie and Clem are a couple... except they have completely different expectations of life and their relationship. So they break up and Clem decides to look for his dream wife, which comes in the form of the Bukistani princess. Since this is international affairs, Effie, who works for the State Department, has to 'look after' her ex boyfriend's new bride until the wedding. To make matters worse, he doesn't speak Bukistani and doesn't understand a thing. So Effie translates and generally mocks the shit out of him tries to be helpful. In short: craziness ensues.
Why I like it: Because it's crazy. Okay seriously, this is a case of two insanely gorgeous actors -- who happen to be one of my favorite on screen couples -- getting together to do some lighthearted and crazy comedy. Don't expect deep content and you'll be fine. There were some parts that had me in stitches really and that is all thanks to Cary and Deb.
Why I recommend it: Because no matter how crazy a film is, Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr are a must see. Plus, aside from Deb showing the world how a woman could kick your high male butt at any time, Cary Grant's comedic performance is SO DAMN GOOD. He makes me laugh so hard.
Quote:
Clem: "Tell Tarji I've been longing to see her all day. And put a little feeling into it. "
Ladies exchange words in Bukistani.
Clem: "What did she say?"
Effie: "She said there is no moon until you walk into her presence."
Clem: "Oh isn't that nice?"
Effie: "Is there any answer... Moon Man?"
...
[later]
Clem: "Tell Tarji that until I see her again, the birds will have no song."
Effie:"Oh brother..."
Title: Tea and Sympathy
Year: 1956
Type: less known
What is it about: Because of his lack of interest in all the things boys his age are totally into, Tom is suspected to be and is accused of being homosexual. He gets constantly humiliated as people try to shape him and show him the 'right way' and his only source of support is Laura, the couch's wife. Except, Tom has an entirely different kind of problem than what the public suspects.
Why I like it: First of all because of the actor performances. So good. On the other hand, the story is really gripping and although homosexuality isn't fully accepted these days just yet either, it shows that the world has come at least a short way since then. And the third reason is that you just feel for the guy. The public's preconceived idea can be really hard to deal with, regardless of what it is.
Why I recommend it: Because it's a movie with issues that have been and still are real.
Quote:
Laura: "Manliness is not all swagger and mountain climbing. It's also tenderness. "
Title: The Innocents
Year: 1961
Type: less known
What is it about: A new governess arrives to look after two young children, Miles and Flora. Strange things begin to happen, however, and she becomes convinced that the house is haunted.
Why I like it: Because it's so well done. The black and white is SO GORGEOUS. Works for this film so very perfectly. This movie is scary without gore. It just creates that atmosphere beautifully that completely sucks you in.
Why I recommend it: Def not for those who are easily scared. But let me just tell you, *I* am easily scared yet I think this is one awesome film.
Quote:
"It was only the wind, my dear. "
JULIE ANDREWS
Beyond Sound of Music, Mary Poppins or today's generation's Shrek and Princess Diaries.
Title: Star!
Year: 1968
Type: underrated
What is it about: Biopic about Gertrude Lawrence. Spans from her childhood til Lady in the Dark.
Why I like it: Julie's performance in this is simply amazing. The film is pretty entertaining and it is full of different performances with a good mixture of dramatic and comedic acting. Julie does an insane amount of numbers and she's superb in all of them.
Why I recommend it: You think you know what Julie Andrews is capable of because you've seen Mary Poppins and/or the Sound Of Music -- possibly Victor/Victoria, too? Wrong! The film is nearly three hours long so you will need an interest in the subject matter but I highly recommend it if you are curious about the depth of Julie's performing abilities. She's a true performer. No wonder, she's been doing it since she was a kid.
Quote:
"Cripes!"
Title: Darling Lili
Year: 1969
Type: less known and underrated
What is it about: A German spy falls in love with the man she's supposed to get information out of. When she finds out there is another woman, called Suzette, things get... awkward. And hilarious.
Why I like it: This film is worth watching for Whistling Away The Dark alone. Also, Julie cries in it. And she cries well. Yeah I realize I am getting weird looks now... I just really don't think every actress can pull crying off well. Most of the time I end up laughing at them (I know I'm mean.) Anyway, another reason why I like it is because Julie gets to be a vixen which she rarely did during her career.
Why I recommend it: It's got a good mixture of subtle and in-your-face situation comedy, all by Blake Edwards. If you do watch it, make sure you don't watch the director's cut though. God only knows why Blake cut out some of the funniest scenes.
Quote:
Lili: But then, why DOES he drink?
Bill: Because he's afraid to fly.
Lili: Then why does he fly?
Bill: Because he likes to drink!
--
(Lili's suppressed anger due to having found out about the other woman comes in the form of sarcasm. Bill is unsuspecting..)
Lili: Oh you were behind enemy lines. How frightful.
Bill: I had to burn my plane.
Lili: Mmm, that sweet little plane?
Bill: Well I had no choice. A lucky shot put my plane out of action. I had to make a run for it...
Lili: All the way to France?
Title: The Americanization of Emily
Year: 1964
Type: less known
What is it about: Charlie, an American dog robber at the Navy and Emily, who works at the motor pool for the British army, fall in bed.. and then love. Aside from the war, their personal differences makes this love affair complicated and intriguing.
Why I like it: First of all because this is a non-singing, serious role for Julie Andrews in which she did awesome. Second, the movie is an anti-glorification of war film and I loved a lot of the sentiments expressed in it. And third, it's got smart dialogue.
Why I recommend it: If you want to see beyond the singing governess image, or if you want to see her do a straight dramatic role, this is a good start. But the story is also pretty cool, also very funny and I love the satirical and humorous presentation of the insanity that people actually do believe, especially in war time.
Quote:
Emily: I despise cowardice, I detest selfish people, and I loathe ruthlessness. Since you are cowardly, selfish and ruthless, I cannot help but despise, detest and loathe you. And that is not the way a woman should feel about the man she’s gonna marry.
(This is my favorite quote of the entire movie)
---
Charlie: War isn't hell at all. It's man at his best; the highest morality he's capable of. It's not war that's insane, you see. It's the morality of it. It's not greed or ambition that makes war: it's goodness. Wars are always fought for the best of reasons: for liberation or manifest destiny. Always against tyranny and always in the interest of humanity. So far this war, we've managed to butcher some ten million humans in the interest of humanity. Next war it seems we'll have to destroy all of man in order to preserve his damn dignity. It's not war that's unnatural to us, it's virtue. As long as valor remains a virtue, we shall have soldiers. So, I preach cowardice. Through cowardice, we shall all be saved.
VIVIEN LEIGH
Beyond Gone With The Wind and A Streetcar Named Desire
Title: Sidewalks of London
Year: 1938
Type: less known
What is it about: Charles, a street entertainer, meets Libby, a poor cockney girl, when she tries to steal his money. Then they run into a young 'enry 'iggins. He takes her under his wings and soon realizes that she's got great talent. He's not the only one iwth that discovery though...
Why I like it: Because I think this is Vivien's best pre-GWTW on-screen work. I thought she was already showing some of the fire that she channeled into Scarlett later on. And I thought she and Charles Laughton worked very well together.
Why I recommend it: Because she speaks cockney. That's a must see. :D Also, young Rex Harrison!
Quote:
Libby: Look here, mister, who does this lovely world belong to, eh? To the people who live on it, you say? Well, I'm one of them. And I've got just the same taste as all the rest. You should be surprised. I get hungry. I get thirsty. I get cold. I enjoy smoke and a permanent wave, and whatever I can get in the way of extras. And why shouldn't I have them?
Title: That Hamilton Woman
Year: 1941
Type: less known
What is it about: The affair between Lord Horatio Nelson and Lady Emma Hamilton, one of the world's most beautiful women.
Why I like it: I'm not gonna lie, but I don't think I even need to. Vivien is simply gorgeous. That is not why I like her as an actress but it is a part of why I like her image. For me Vivien was the most beautiful actress of the golden age. And if for nothing else, then one needs to experience her in her prime which I think she definitely was in here. But aside from that, the film IS good. It was Winston Churchill's favorite movie, Viv's chemistry with hubby Laurence Olivier is great AND I am insanely in love with all the impersonations and funny accent she does in this film.
Why I recommend it: To experience the best on-screen collaboration of the golden age's Brangelina (though that comparison goes only as far as public attention). This film is not underrated, but Gone With The Wind trumps it. Well, GWTW trumps practically everything but still. Most of all, however, I'd recommend it because if you watch her as Emma, you'll get a glimpse of what Vivien was like. The more I find out about her, the more of Emma I see in her.
On another note.. Julie's daughter is called Emma (Walton) Hamilton. That does greatly amuse me.
Quote:
Emma: "You have an important mission, haven't you? Has it ever occured to you that women sometimes can be of more help than men?"
Nelson: "Not in the matter of this kind, Lady Hamilton."
--
William: "You know Emma, there are three kinds of deceived husbands in the world. First there are those who were born to be deceived. Second, who do not know and third, who do not care. I've been wondering for some time now which of the three I should be myself."
Emma : "Have you forgotten the fourth kind, William? The kind that is hard, and empty and gives nothing? You married me because you wanted a new ornament for your house. Like that painting or that statue or that vase. As far as you're concerned, I'm just as ornamental... and just as dead. "
Title: Waterloo Bridge
Year: 1940
Type: less known
What is it about: Love. But if you want details: the story is about Myra, a ballett dancer and Roy, a Captain, who's about to head off to WW I. They rush to a shelter together and thus begins an acquaintance that rapidly turns into love.
Why I like it: Because watching Vivien Leigh play this role straight after Gone With the Wind is nothing short of fantastic. Her chemistry with Robert Taylor is brilliant. And the story is just so gripping, and sad. I've never loved a sad story as much as I love this.
Why I recommend it: Vivien's demonstration of 'every possible emotion flashing through the face within the span of 30 seconds" at the Waterloo Station scene alone is worth to watch this film, believe me. That should be taught in school. But really, aside rom that, it's a memorable love story.
Quote:
Myra: This hateful war.
Roy:Yes, I suppose it is. And yet there's, I don't know... a certain amount of excitement about it, too. Around the corner of every second, a fascination of the unknown. We're both facing it, this instant.
Myra:Oh, we face the unknown in peacetime, too.
Roy:You're rather matter of fact, aren't you?
Myra:Yes. You're rather romantic, aren't you?
--
Roy: Ahh, the ballet was beautiful.
Myra: Madame didn't think so.
Roy: Well, experts never known. It takes outsiders to know and I tell you it was beautiful.
Myra: That certainly proves you're an outsider.
Image Credits:
VivAndLarry.com, Vivien-Leigh.com, DeborahKerr.es, JulieAndrewsForum.com and me :p
Thanks for reading. :D