Saturday, July 19, 2008
THE FIRST STAR
Today's NYTimes Best 1176 Film was the original version of
The second version with Garland and the third version with Streisand are not in the 'Best' list.
I think the reason is that this original play is built on a different foundation. It is as much about Norman Maine—Frederic March—as the new star who marries him, played by Janet Gaynor (a little old for the role).
Another thing is that there is more 'real' Hollywood in this one. There are many shots in familiar locales. The realities of the business seem more stark.
And then there is the three strip Technicolor. The photography is stunning even in this moderately restored version. Quite breathtaking in many ways.
There is a good supporting cast. In one of those coincidences of the 'Best' series, we had Andy Devine and Chris-Pin Martin who were in Stagecoach which I saw yesterday and Adolph Menjou who I saw a few days ago. He was playing a producer again inStagedoor.
This movie was pretty good. I am glad that I saw it but I wouldn't want to see it or its re-makes ever again.
That makes it a 3 out of Netflix5.
Labels: best films
