Can We Talk 2

My Alltime Movie Pics

         I will not be watching any awards show. I didn't see but two new movies last year, and neither of them is nominated I'm sure. But I love watching older movies on the small screen or the big screen at historic theaters.

         I probably couldn't get any critics to agree with me. But these are a few I feel had value, and I'd watch them again. Number one on my list is The African Queen. It's a wonderful story of two losers, two people who feel sorry for themselves and never excelled in anything. Together, they proved that nobility, dignity, bravery, and self-sacrifice for others is possible from the unlikeliest people. I only want it in black and white. There is a lot of symbolism in it.

         The others come in no particular order. I have to have It's A Wonderful Life on the list, a film noir. I have to list The Sound of Music and My Fair Lady. I love westerns, so I have to list The Ox Bow Incident, starring Henry Fonda, and Shane, starring Alan Ladd. Each is a classic. I have a fondness for old black and white movies, and was hard pressed to name only one, but I came up with Arsenic and Old Lace, starring Carry Grant. It's hilarious, and the surprise ending brings a sigh of relief.

         Some have argued with me that Castaway is too depressing. But I think it has this overriding hope in it. And it points to our fundamental need for companionship or friendship. The will to survive and his ultimately successful escape from his island prison carries a very strong optimistic message.

         And I really liked the newest version of The Lion King. It was exciting for all ages. Some might think I'm a little off to mention this one, but I liked The Heart Is A Lonely Hunter. Alan Arkin and Sandra Locke were nominated for Academy Awards. but didn't get them. Arkin is still around, doing quality performances. Locke had potential, but her career went down the tubes when she got mixed up with that Eastwood fellow. If I have to stop with ten, that would be it.

         There are others that I'm sure I've forgotten for the moment, or they might shift around if I've seen them more recently. Honorable mentions go to Oklahoma, The Sting, Cujo, Jaws. The Titantic, Dr. Zhivago, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.