Old, Older, Oldest

I have watched three movies from my designated list (#67) since the beginning of the year and while I can't say I was totally bowled over by any of them, I wasn't totally disappointed either.  Which, when I think about it, is probably what I expected to feel about them when I chose all these movies.  They are each classics in their own right and are often referenced in other books and movies.

First was Jaws (1975).  This one held my attention more than the other two... it is definitely dramatic and an adventure.  And I have to say that I feel no need to go swimming in the ocean anytime soon!  I was really impressed by the special effects, especially given that it was made almost forty years ago.  And it was fun to see so many actors when they were so young.  hee-hee!

Next up was Rebel Without a Cause (1955).  I almost want to see it again, because I have a feeling I would like it much better the second time around.  It was very interesting to see James Dean in the role that became the prototype for all other subsequent bad boys.  I remember watching Beverly Hills 90210 and hearing all the reviews say that Dylan was the new James Dean, and now I totally understand why... the hair, the sleepy eyes, the red jacket, the slacker attitude... all there.  The movie was actually kind of deep.  Especially when you remember the era in which it was filmed.  It's one of those things that helps me realize that the younger generation and these "modern" times are probably only about 0.5% removed from the generations before us.  Times are not so different as we would like to believe.  Or things were not so innocent and simple as we would like to believe.  Anyway, it was a good movie and I enjoyed it.  And it was fun to give myself another visual of Natalie Wood besides West Side Story.

Most recently was It Happened One Night (1934) with Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert.  I think I remember hearing that this was the forbear for all modern movies, and it really was a cute romantic comedy.  Change up the clothes and hairstyles, and we'd all be paying ten bucks to see it at the theatre some Saturday.  And it's hard not to like Clark Gable's roguish charm.  The gentleman/bad boy... my favorite kind!

So five down, five more to go.  I think I made some pretty good choices here!  Now I really need to get started on asking other people what their favorite movies are(#59).  So... what is your favorite movie???