Burt Lancaster
Blu-Ray Review: The Swimmer
In a career which began after World War II and spanned five decades, Burt Lancaster proved beyond a shadow of doubt his range and ability as an actor. The former circus performer made his name by playing tough guys with a heart of gold, and it was this mix of malice and humanity which made …
Blu-Ray Review: Tales From the Urban Jungle
During the 1940s, Jules Dassin was somewhat of an underrated powerhouse within Hollywood. However, like so many he fell foul of the blacklist which decimated the US entertainment industry at the beginning of the Cold War. Barred from fully completing post-production on Night and the City, he had no option but to flee to Europe. …
Blu-Ray Review: Birdman of Alcatraz
After watching Birdman of Alcatraz, you might be surprised to discover that Burt Lancaster’s performance didn’t get rewarded with an Oscar. On further investigation, 1963 was a special year for male leads. Gregory Peck eventually prevailed and picked-up the gong for his role in To Kill a Mockingbird. The other nominees were Peter O’Toole (Lawrence …
Blu-Ray Review: Castle Keep
Whilst Sydney Pollack may not have been the most prolific of directors (he only made 20 features), the films he did make were almost always of the highest quality. He won an Oscar for Out of Africa and also received nomination for Tootsie and They Shoot Horses, Don’t They? Other notable works include The Firm, …
Blu-ray Review: Twilight’s Last Gleaming
It’s hard to believe it now but during the Cold War ordinary people were terrified by the prospect of a nuclear apocalypse. This was especially the case in America. An atmosphere of fear often permeated throughout society in times of high tension. This period has frequently been captured on film, most notably in Dr. Strangelove, …
DVD Review: Conversation Piece (Masters of Cinema)
Italy was once the home of some of the greatest film directors in the world. Fellini is arguably up there with the greats, and the likes of Antonioni, Rossellini, Pasolini, Bertolucci, De Sica and Zeffirelli aren’t far behind. However, the crowning glory of Italian cinema is arguably Luchino Visconti’s The Leopard. The milanese made fourteen …
Blu-Ray Review: Sweet Smell Of Success
Celebrating and championing “The American Dream” was big business in post-war Hollywood. Whether it was tales of rags to riches success or just the ability for any man (and it was all men) to make their fortune through hard work and application, audiences couldn’t get enough of these heart-warming, patriotic tales. There were notable detractors …