Alfred Hitchcock films deal mainly with murder and other crimes. Rope, a stage play adapted to the screen, by Hume Cronyn, is different. It is loosely based on the murder committed by Leopold and Loeb. It is a disturbing tale of two college students, Brandon, (John Dall) and Philip, (Farley Granger), who murder a former […]

Carole Lombard had it all. She was a successful screen comedienne, who commanded her own salary, and could pick her own films. This was a rarity in Hollywood, reserved for movie stars. She was married to the biggest star of the era, the king of Hollywood, Clark Gable. This wonderful life was tragically snuffed out

There were many movies made during the war, that are considered propaganda films. Mrs. Miniver fits into this category. It could be considered one of the best. It is a compelling story of a British family, the Minivers, in the early days of World War II. It details the hardships that war brings to them,

The Wings of Eagles is the Hollywood treatment of Frank (Spig) Wead. He was a pioneer in naval aviation, and later a screenwriter in Hollywood. He may have become just another person in aviation history, if not for this fairly accurate portrayal by John Ford. The film’s lead, John Wayne, is very convincing, showing Wead’s

A western is primarily good versus evil. The movie, Shane is a clear definition of that. The cattlemen are trying to intimidate the homesteaders. One of the homesteaders is trying to stand up to them, Joe Starrett, (Van Heflin). He is not able to do it alone. Into this almost unwinnable situation walks Shane, (Alan

There are many movies that show American spirit. There are five that stand out. They are Bad Day at Black Rock, Apollo 13, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, SergeantYork and The Alamo. Other than the theme running through them, they feature quality acting and filmmaking. Some of America’s most famous actors are included, in these

High Noon is a movie that takes place in the old west. That may be the one thing that classifies it as a western. It is about courage and cowardice. Will Kane, (Gary Cooper), is the marshal of Hadleyville, in New Mexico. He has retired from law enforcement, and has married Amy Fowler, (Grace Kelly).

Many films of Alfred Hitchcock, give suspense and sometimes terror. Shadow of a Doubt is a movie that goes to another level. It shows that despite fear, courage can stand alone. That is the case with this movie. It has a reluctant heroine, named Charlene, played by Teresa Wright. she is perfect in this role.

Harrison Ford is back as Indiana Jones. This film is actually a prequel to Raiders of the Lost Ark, taking place in 1935. It doesn’t have the globetrotting of Raiders. It takes place between China and India. It is still a good film with plenty of action. Harrison Ford proves he can carry a film.

Bend of the River is one of a series of westerns, that James Stewart made with Anthony Mann. They stand out for their gritty and harsher approach to the western. Stewart was a fine actor, who was known for his roles in Frank Capra films. His work with Anthony Mann, brought him to an entirely