Apocalypse Now: Redux

This movie had moments of greatness, but none of the tightness of exposition that The Godfather had. The rediting in of the French plantation scene in particular, which glancingly related to the themes of colonization and what constitutes a native/homeland, dragged when juxtaposed between the high action and tension scenes of Lawrence Fishbourne's death and the fight at Do Lung bridge. I'm not sure if I liked Marlon Brando's interpretation of Kurtz, but Martin Sheen was good and Robert Duvall was outstanding.

On the Waterfront

This movie is amazing! I haven't really been a fan of Marlon Brando up until now, but wow he is simply stunning in this film. At first I thought this was just an extension of his performance in A Streetcar Named Desire being broody and alcoholic, but this was much more subtle, owing in part of course to the famous 'I could have been a contender' scene in the back of the cab. This movie of course is layered with implications from the 'naming of names' by director Elia Kazan in the 1950s in Hollywood, but all political themes aside, it is a great story of the human spirit even in those who claim to have lost their way. I love how even in the end Terry refuses to play the good guy and hangs on the threads of his bad guy persona despite being completely abandoned by the mob and the other longshoreman--the scene in which Champ strangles all of Terry's pigeons is heartbreaking. It is said that Brando's performance was the inspiration for James Dean's Jim Stark in Rebel Without a Cause and if you think that was a good film, DEFINITELY go see this!

A Streetcar Named Desire

I've never been a huge Tennessee Williams fan, however I enjoy Marlon Brando, and am in love with Vivien Leigh (no really, I would go gay for her). The film seemed a bit muddled, but from what I understand, it was simply the Broadway production put in front of cameras--with the notable substitution of Vivien who had done the West End production (even more interesting since the only Tony award the production was nominated for, and won, was Best Actress for Jessica Tandy in the role of Blanche DuBois). Overall a well made movie, but as I said, I've never been able to wrap my head around Williams (ironic since I want to see Cat on a Hot Tin Roof). It swept the acting Oscars (Best Leading and Supporting), with the exception of leading male, although Brando was nominated. It was Brando's second film ever.

The Godfather

Well, what can I say about The Godfather that hasn't already been said. Marlon Brando and Al Pacino are effing scary and I'd never want to cross them. The ultimate, and best mafia film ever made--the height of Coppola's work. The music is pretty good as well. Al Pacino makes a convincing transformation from unwilling hitman to the don who will do anything for the sake of la familia.

Seriously, go watch this again, and again. It gets better everytime.