esrosedotblog

NOT SO GREAT

Today's NYTimes Best 1176 Film was Preston Sturgis'

The Great McGinty (1940)

This has two things going for it; the jokes and Brian Donlevy.

Donlevy was not a big star and ended in westerns and crime films but he had great timing and the air of the rascal. He is wonderful to watch in this film.

We also have Akim Tamiroff and William Demarest in supporting roles; always a treat to watch.

The cinematography is first rate; lots of shadows and neat framing.

The story is just the barest structure to hang the jokes on. Political corruption; an easy target.

The ending is bitter sweet and not all that sweet when you come down to it.

The restoration of the print is beautifully done.

I just was not that keen on the whole thing so I will give it a 3 out of Netflix5.