The leads are weak, but the movie's not

In 1992, James Foley helmed the cinematic adaptation of David Mamet’s Pulitzer-prize-winning play Glengarry Glen Ross, setting critics and audiences abuzz with excitement about its performances, dialogue, and tense dramatic sequences. The screenplay, also penned by Mamet, ensured a faithful representation of the play's dialogue and themes.

The movie boasts an exceptional ensemble cast, including Al Pacino, Jack Lemmon, Alec Baldwin, Ed Harris, Alan Arkin, Kevin Spacey, and Jonathan Pryce. Set in a cutthroat and highly competitive real estate sales environment, the story revolves around a group of salesmen who resort to extreme measures to secure deals and achieve success. It’s a gripping narrative that delves into themes of desperation, morality, and the unforgiving realities of the American Dream.

Click here to listen to a recording of our CineVerse group discussion of this film, conducted last week.

Glengarry Glen Ross benefits from the whip-smart writing of Mamet, especially the characters' credible dialogue and distinctive vernacular, as well as the rhythm and cadence of the language. It also ripples and resonates on the strength of incredible casting, featuring an A list of top-notch actors, each of whom could carry their own movie: Al Pacino, Jack Lemmon, Ed Harris, Alan Arkin, Kevin Spacey, Alec Baldwin, and Jonathan Pryce. Notably, Pacino and Lemmon's outstanding acting received critical acclaim, while Alec Baldwin's brief yet impactful appearance earned him widespread recognition, especially for delivering one of the most memorable monologues in cinematic history.

Interestingly, the story is efficiently condensed, occurring over roughly 24 hours; hence, we get a snapshot portrait of each character within a short time frame and a pressure cooker milieu.

Most importantly, Glengarry Glen Ross penetrates with intense and razor-sharp dialogue: Mamet's script is renowned for the rapid-fire words that come out of his characters’ mouths – verbal exchanges that delve deep into the personalities and psyches of these men in which_ the cutthroat nature of the sales world. Arguably, the film set a benchmark for exceptional writing, boasting several iconic monologues, such as Alec Baldwin's powerful "Always Be Closing" speech, which has become legendary within the realm of cinema.

However, there isn’t much of a story here; the office theft and the investigation of it add intrigue, but this is less of a plot than it is a character study and a depiction of a harsh workplace environment and vocation. Written originally as a stage play, the movie is bereft of action and shifts to interesting settings. Hence, this isn’t a film that’s going to showcase dramatic camera movement, innovative editing techniques, or impressive sets. It’s a work that soars or fails on the merits of its characters, which means it had better be finely scripted and superbly acted.

Consider, too, that it’s a quite bleak, pessimistic, and tonally dark picture with many unsympathetic characters, which can leave you feeling depressed and cynical.

Mamet’s work explores how the quest for materialistic rewards leads to corruption, decay, and destruction. He stated that the play is about “how business corrupts” and about how “those in power in the business world…act unethically.”

Indeed, Glengarry Glen Ross provides a scathing critique of American capitalism and the fiercely competitive sales landscape, where success is rewarded and failure is brutally punished. This “rich get richer and poor get poorer” economic structure reveals that those who succeed are rewarded with more opportunities to drive, while those who struggle cannot advance. The film effectively showcases the lengths to which people will go and the sacrifices they are willing to make to get ahead.

Critics and historians have posited that this play, written in the 1980s, is Mamet’s critique of Reaganomics and the “greed is good” materialistic ideology of the eighties. Mamet was heard to say about his play: “This play is not…about love. This is a play about guys, who when one guy is down…the guy who’s up then kicks the other guy in the balls to make sure he stays down.”

A further lesson imparted herein: Nobody wins in a corporate culture that emphasizes greed and numbers over human beings. By the end of the film, every character has lost—Roma’s sale to Lingk has been lost; Lingk feels like he has disappointed Roma; Williamson has lost business and productivity after the offices ransacked; Levene and Moss will be prosecuted; and an emotionally shaken Aaranow is accused of theft.

Glengarry Glen Ross perfectly conveys the universal experience of being in a job you hate and feeling powerless and desperate as you’re trapped in that position.

This is also a study about the persuasiveness of language: those characters who can verbalize persuasively succeed and command respect.

In this story, masculinity defines a character, and masculinity in this universe is earned. Fascinatingly, though, as the narrative unfolds each character is eventually stripped of power and emasculated in some way.

Similar Works

• Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman
• Wall Street
• Margin Call
• Boiler Room
• Swimming With Sharks
• Reservoir Dogs, in how there’s not much of a plot, it’s a character-driven piece with terrific dialogue, and nearly every character betrays each other.
• Patton, in that both films start with tremendous opening monologues that play like stern pep talks.

Other films by James Foley

• At Close Range
• Who’s That Girl
• Confidence

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Ace is the place with the hateful hardboiled man

Directed and co-written by Billy Wilder, Ace in the Hole – also known as The Big Carnival, was released to little fanfare in the summer of 1951. Starring Kirk Douglas, Jan Sterling, and Robert Arthur, the plot centers around Chuck Tatum (Douglas), a struggling reporter who stumbles upon a potentially major story: a man trapped in a collapsed mine. But instead of promptly rescuing the trapped individual, Tatum milks the situation to prolong the event, creating a media circus to advance his career.

Wilder’s work emphasizes the unethical nature of yellow journalism and the exploitation of human tragedy. By critiquing the media's manipulation of news for profit and public attention and exploring themes of corruption, avarice, and the corrosive power of personal ambition, the movie proved to be ahead of its time; its cynical tone and scathing subtextual commentary on the dark side of media help Ace in the Hole remain relevant today.

Fascinatingly, the film bombed at the box office upon initial release. But it has since garnered significant recognition as a thought-provoking morality play exploring media ethics and the pursuit of sensationalism. It also features one of Douglas’ most unforgettable performances.

To listen to a recording of our CineVerse group discussion of this film, conducted last week, click here.

Amazingly, this film was a major flop with audiences and critics in 1951. It’s not hard to contemplate why. Ace in the Hole is overwhelmingly cynical and scathing in its depiction of the press and the public's fascination with sensationalistic stories.

The film would have touched a nerve with journalists, especially film critics who work for newspapers, as it might have been too close to the truth. It also pulls no punches in indicting audiences, as they are equally guilty as Tatum in their craving for sleazy and sordid stories. Additionally, Ace in the Hole was ahead of its time in portraying the media circus, the manipulation of news by journalists, and the public's inclination towards manufactured human interest stories. And the picture features very few sympathetic characters and ends on a dark and depressing note, without much redemption. The sheriff and other collaborators manage to escape the consequences, while Leo dies.

Fair question: Who do you feel sympathy for by the end of the film? Has Tatum redeemed himself? Debatably, the answer is no. His desire to spill the beans and confess seems more like an act of self-loathing and passing the blame rather than a genuine attempt at cleansing and salvation. There are no likable or admirable dramatis personae, except perhaps for Boot, Leo's parents, and the doctor, who are all minor characters.

Arguably, this film has a psychological triangle at work that doesn’t involve Leo or his wife. Tatum signifies the id, embodying base and animalistic instincts. Mr. Boot, a pillar of journalistic integrity, symbolizes the superego, which represents one's moral conscience. Herbie, the young cub photographer, represents the ego, the conscious and realistic component of the mind. He serves as a stand-in for us, the viewers, who are also torn between opposing influences: the easy and seedy journalism of Tatum or the hard work, low-glamor dignity, and morality represented by the Albuquerque editor.

Although it’s not set in the urban jungle of the big city, nor does it feature any private eyes, gangsters, wrong-man protagonists, or the like, you could certainly make the case that Ace in the Hole is a film noir. Consider the morally ambiguous characters: Like many films noir, Ace in the Hole explores ethically complex and flawed characters. The protagonist, Chuck Tatum, is an unscrupulous reporter who manipulates a tragic event for personal gain. The film delves into the ethical dilemmas faced by its characters, reflecting the moral ambiguity often found in film noir narratives. The film effectively employs visual techniques commonly associated with film noir, as well, including stark contrasts, deep shadows, and expressive cinematography. These artistic choices contribute to the brooding and dark atmosphere typical of the genre. 

Film noir frequently delves into subtexts of corruption, greed, and the darker aspects of society. Ace in the Hole aligns with these themes by exposing the sensationalism and moral decay within the media. It highlights the exploitation of human tragedy for profit, providing a critical view of society. Noir often employs nonlinear storytelling, flashbacks, or voice-over narration to create suspense and ambiguity. Although Ace in the Hole primarily follows a more straightforward narrative structure, it still engages with the dark and morally complex themes commonly associated with film noir. Lastly, while not as prominent as in some other film noirs, Ace in the Hole features a character, Lorraine, portrayed by Jan Sterling, who shares traits with the archetypal femme fatale. Lorraine manipulates others and uses her sexuality to advance her own interests, adding an element of treachery and deceit to the narrative.

Many critics have posited that Ace in the Hole is seething with erotic and sexual undertones. The song composed for Leo carries a double entendre, serving as a mocking ditty that satirizes the perverse excitement surrounding his predicament. This includes the enthusiasm displayed by Tatum and his wife, who revel in the situation. The circus truck bears the name The Great S & M Amusement Corp, a deliberate reference to sadomasochism. The unyielding drill assumes a phallic symbolism, representing Tatum's virility fueled by greed. This stands in stark contrast to Leo's emasculated state, trapped and helpless within the cave. The cave itself becomes a sexual metaphor, likened to the womb. Leo's entrapment signifies being confined within the womb, while Tatum and Lorraine act as his unscrupulous parents. The mother figure rejects the child, while the father figure intentionally delays the birth to exploit the situation.

The character of Tatum in Ace in the Hole exhibits a unique quality among Billy Wilder's films. However, similarities can be found between Tatum and characters in other Wilder movies such as Double Indemnity, Sunset Boulevard, Stalag 17, The Apartment, and Some Like It Hot. These parallels include an exploration of themes centered around deception, masquerading, and assuming false identities that are contrary to one's true nature. Also, unlike the other characters mentioned, Tatum is not pretending or straying from his nature. Nevertheless, he stands out as the central figure embodying the art of deception in the film. In many of Wilder's films, the leading characters mentioned are often redeemed and justified by the conclusion, albeit sometimes too late, as seen in Sunset Boulevard and Double Indemnity. These personalities are cynical characters who are willing to compromise their integrity and make deals that come at the expense of their souls.

Similar works

• Other films critical of tabloid journalism and the manipulative power of the media, including: Citizen Kane, Sweet Smell of Success, A Face in the Crowd, Broadcast News, Day of the Locust, Network, and Nightcrawler
• James Cagney films, particularly Public Enemy

Other key films by Billy Wilder

• Double Indemnity
• The Lost Weekend
• Sunset Boulevard
• Stalag 17
• Sabrina
• The Seven Year Itch
• The Spirit of St. Louis
• Witness for the Prosecution
• Some Like It Hot
• The Apartment

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Schindler's List remains as moving and memorable as it did 30 years ago

Steven Spielberg’s most important, personal, revered, and critically acclaimed work, Schindler's List tells the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who bravely saved around 1,200 Jewish workers during the Holocaust. Spielberg's exceptional storytelling abilities are evident in this picture, the screenplay for which was crafted by Steven Zaillian, based on Thomas Keneally's novel Schindler's Ark.

To hear a recording of our CineVerse group discussion of Schindler’s List, conducted last week, click here. To listen to the July episode of the Cineversary podcast, which spotlights Schindler’s List and Saving Private Ryan, click here.

What makes this picture profoundly significant and relevant 30 years after its release? This is one of the most emotionally powerful films of all time, and the ending could be the most humbling, moving, and memorable conclusion to a motion picture ever created. More importantly, Schindler's List endures as a crucial historical document. Through its unflinching portrayal of the atrocities committed by the Nazis in Poland and different concentration camps, the film emphasizes the vital importance of learning from the past, embracing the truth about the persecution and mass killing of the Jews.

The power of Schindler's List also lies in its ability to offer a message of hope and compassion amidst the unspeakable evil of the Holocaust. The film showcases the courage of individuals who risked everything to help others during one of the darkest periods in human history, reminding us of the inherent goodness within humanity and the importance of standing up for what is right.

Furthermore, the film played a significant role in raising awareness about the Holocaust and its lasting impact on the world. It inspired a new generation of filmmakers to explore this pivotal historical event, leading to an increase in the production of Holocaust-related films and documentaries.

Its significance as a crucial cinematic text intended to raise Holocaust awareness and honor this true life story often overshadows another truism: that Schindler’s List is an excellently crafted film that could represent Spielberg’s finest work. This is above all a triumph of storytelling, with perhaps the most deserving praise going to the screenplay by Steven Zaillian and to Spielberg for his directing choices. Likewise, the performances deserve considerable kudos, particularly the portrayals of Schindler, Amon Goeth, and Itzhak Stern by, respectively, Liam Neeson, Ralph Fiennes, and Ben Kingsley – actors who seem to effortlessly inhabit these roles and exude extraordinary credibility and authenticity.

Schindler's List was groundbreaking and inspiring in numerous ways, as well. First, it was one of the first major Hollywood films to directly depict and seriously dramatize the Holocaust and the persecution and genocide of the Jews with dramatic realism and disturbing violence, an approach that had previously been largely avoided in mainstream cinema. The film portrayed the horrors of the concentration camps and the cruelties and atrocities perpetrated by the Nazis with unwavering authenticity and in distressing detail, creating a powerful and important work that, for many, remains the benchmark non-documentary Holocaust film.

The picture was also aesthetically memorable in its use of black-and-white juxtaposed with selective color. The choice to shoot in monochrome was astute, as it lends the movie an aura of gravitas and makes the narrative look and feel timeless. Black and white effectively captures the stark reality of the concentration camps and the unspeakable acts that occurred there; it creates a sense of historical distance that emphasized the gravity of the events depicted. But just as striking is the brief employment of color in merely a handful of scenes: The prologue, which shows a Jewish family celebrating the Sabbath; the red coat of the young girl running for her life during the ghetto liquidation scene; the later return of the red coat, whose young wearer is shown dead; and the epilogue, showing the actual survivors visiting Schindler's grave in contemporary times.

Schindler's List further stands out as distinctive by portraying the Holocaust through the eyes of a non-Jewish protagonist. This approach provided a fresh perspective on the theme of moral responsibility and highlighted the bravery and compassion of those who risked everything to help others during this dark time.

As a result of its critical and commercial success, Schindler's List had a lasting influence on the film industry, inspiring a new wave of Holocaust-related films and documentaries. Its impact helped to raise global awareness of the Holocaust and its ongoing impact on the world.

This is also noteworthy as being Spielberg’s first R-rated feature, containing several scenes with graphic violence, nudity, and profanity. Previously, this director was firmly associated with PG and PG-13 films, many of which were geared to all ages and families.

Thematically, Shindler’s List is, perhaps above all, an examination of the dichotomy between good and evil. First presented as self-centered and opportunistic, Schindler pivots between the influence of the malevolent Göth and the morally righteous Stern. He eventually chooses the path of the latter as Schindler undergoes a transformation from exploitive businessman to surreptitious rescuer, using his power and resources to save over a thousand Jewish lives. The main character demonstrates that each of us can be lured between these opposing poles but ultimately choose to be a force for good.

A handful of movies and filmmakers likely inspired by Schindler’s List and Spielberg include:

• Life is Beautiful (1997) - An Italian film that tells the story of a Jewish man who uses his imagination to shield his son from the horrors of a concentration camp. Jakob the Liar (1999) - Directed by Peter Kassovitz, this film is a remake of a 1975 East German film and tells the story of a Jewish man who fabricates news reports about Allied victories during World War II to inspire hope among his fellow prisoners.
• The Pianist (2002) - A biographical film that tells the story of a Jewish pianist in Warsaw during the Nazi occupation.
• The Book Thief (2013) - Directed by Brian Percival, this film is an adaptation of Markus Zusak's novel and tells the story of a young girl in Nazi Germany who steals books to share with others and resist the regime.
• Ida (2013) - Directed by Paweł Pawlikowski, this film tells the story of a young woman in Poland who discovers that her parents were Jewish and were killed during the Holocaust. Like Schindler's List, it is a powerful exploration of the legacy of the Holocaust.

Among other movies about or set during The Holocaust that have been released since Schindler’s List are:

• The Long Way Home - USA, 1997 (Documentary)
• The Grey Zone - USA, 2002
• The Counterfeiters - Austria, 2007
• Inglourious Basterds – USA, 2009
• In Darkness - Poland, 2011
• Son of Saul - Hungary, 2015
• Denial - UK, 2016

And here’s a timeline of notable feature films with the Holocaust as a primary focus, setting, flashback, backstory, or secondary element, released before Schindler’s List:

• Night Train to Munich – UK, 1940
• The Mortal Storm – US, 1940
• The Great Dictator – US, 1940
• To Be or Not to Be – US, 1942
• None Shall Escape – US, 1943
• The Seventh Cross – US, 1944
• The Unvanquished – USSR, 1945
• The Stranger – US, 1946
• The Juggler – US, 1953
• Nuit et Brouillard (Night and Fog) – France, 1956
• The Diary of Anne Frank – US, 1959
• Judgment at Nuremberg – 1961
• The Pawnbroker – US, 1964
• The Last Chapter – US, 1966 (documentary)
• Hitler: A Film from Germany – Germany, 1977
• The Holocaust – US, 1978 (TV miniseries)
• Sophie's Choice – US, 1982
• Shoah – France, 1985 (documentary)
• Escape from Sobibor – US, 1987 (TV movie)
• Hotel Terminus: The Life and Times of Klaus Barbie – France, 1988 (Documentary)
• Music Box – USA, 1989
• Europa Europa – Germany, 1990

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Cineversary podcast celebrates big anniversaries of Saving Private Ryan and Schindler's List

Annette Insdorf and James Kendrick

In Cineversary podcast episode #60, host Erik Martin honors the 30th anniversary of Schindler’s List and the 25th anniversary of Saving Private Ryan, both directed by Steven Spielberg. Joining him this month is Annette Insdorf, professor in the Graduate Film Program of Columbia’s School of the Arts and author of Indelible Shadows: Film and the Holocaust; and James Kendrick, professor of film at Baylor University and author of Darkness in the Bliss-Out: A Reconsideration of the Films of Steven Spielberg. Erik, Annette, and James will explore why these films still resonate all these years later, ways they were inspiring and innovative, what they reveal about Spielberg, and more.

To listen to this episode, click here or click the "play" button on the embedded streaming player below. Or, you can stream, download, or subscribe to Cineversary wherever you get your podcasts, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Audible, Castbox, Google Podcasts, Pocket Casts, PodBean, RadioPublic, and Overcast.

Learn more about the Cineversary podcast at www.cineversary.com and email show comments or suggestions to cineversarypodcast@gmail.com.

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Move over, Babe: This pig in the city's got a perturbed papa you won't forget

Let’s be honest: The past several years have been hit or miss for actor Nicolas Cage, who has made some curious acting choices, to put it mildly, in the 21st century. But he’s enjoyed a critical and popular resurgence of sorts lately, as evidenced by his work in Mandy, Color Out of Space, and, perhaps most impressively, Pig – a 2021 memorable feature directed and written by newcomer Michael Sarnoski. Cage portrays Rob, a truffle hunter living a quiet life in the secluded Oregon wilderness alongside his beloved pet: a cherished foraging pig. Rob's peaceful existence is shattered when his porcine pal is abducted, thrusting him into an audacious trek through the bustling metropolis in search of her. Along the journey, he plunges into the mysterious underworld of the culinary realm, revealing to us his own enigmatic history and unearthing the profound significance of his connection with the pig.

What sets Pig apart from the pack is its profound and emotionally charged storytelling. Sarnoski skillfully intertwines a narrative centered around characters that captures the very essence of the tale. Critics have lauded the film for its unique and innovative premise, captivating cinematography, and stimulating examination of identity and purpose.

Click here to listen to a recording of our CineVerse group discussion of Pig, conducted last week.

This is an unpredictable movie that undercuts our anticipation for what we think it’s going to be. Instead of a bare-knuckled, gritty revenge thriller in which the protagonist vanquishes his foes and recovers his kidnapped loved one – a la Taken or John Wick – Pig turns out to be a nuanced, surprisingly sensitive character study with several twists and curiosities along the way.

You might have, for example, expected it to feature more action, violence, or thrills. These elements are minimal. Or, perhaps you thought it was going to take a more comedic or quirky route, like an oddball buddy picture, or an outlandish odyssey tale like The Straight Story. Instead, the tone often remains melancholy and serious. This could have been a contemporary noirish detective story, but not to be. And no (spoiler!), our hero and his swine in distress are not reunited by the conclusion.

Interestingly, the movie is peculiarly segmented into different chapters with unusual titles, like “Mom’s French Toast & Deconstructed Scallops” or “A Bottle, A Bird, A Salted Baguette.” And the subculture of restauranteurs, chefs, fighters, bakers, and other underground players in and around Portland make for a colorful dramatis personae.

Cage demonstrates again that he should not be underestimated. Although he’s taken some serious left turns and stumbles since his Academy Award win for Leaving Las Vegas nearly three decades ago, he’s more than capable of turning in a stellar performance. This is certainly true of his embodiment of Rob in this film.

The obvious life lesson at the heart of Pig? Be your authentic self. Rob challenges Amir, Chef Derek, and others to stop being fake and follow their true pursuits without conforming, acquiescing, or denying their deepest passions. We see how Amir is putting up a front and rejecting a false image of success and cultural sophistication, but the truth is he’s living in the shadow of his shady father and the prevailing grief and toxicity that haunts his family.

Brian Eggert with Deep Focus Review wrote: “(Pig) questions how people resolve to adopt roles or wear masks, while underneath, they remain unhappy and betrayed by themselves. Somber and cynical about our habit of choosing financial comfort and assimilation over our dreams, Sarnoski’s film asks that we question whether our choices are authentic…Pig is a rare film that treats its characters with an open heart and its themes with an intimate profundity that never feels affected or disingenuous. Like Robin’s effect on other characters, it can take people to places they may not want to go but should.”

Pig also reinforces the truism that you can never truly go home again. Although Rob is forced to venture back into the Portland world and subculture he left behind years ago to pursue his stolen pig, he and we know that he cannot re-assimilate into this milieu. There is simply too much water under the pig trough for that to happen.

This is a work that reckons with the power of loss, heartache, and memories. A pet oinker may seem like a relatively insignificant companion, but to Rob – who also lost his wife in unexplained circumstances years before – the pig is an intrinsic part of his life whose absence will take a toll. Consider that Rob likely withdrew from society and the big city because of the death of his wife long ago. His inability to play her homemade cassettes speaks to the might of memories and the pain that the loss of a close loved one can bring. Ponder, too, the impact of cherished memories; case in point, Rob serving the same thrilling meal he cooked Darius and his wife years prior triggers recollections in Darius of happier times with his spouse, which causes this villainous character’s tough façade to crumble; Darius then admits the truth about the death of Rob’s pig.

A further movie moral to contemplate is that it’s commonly life’s simplest pleasures that are often the most impactful and profound. Rob is an austere man with modest needs. He appears happy merely living off the grid in the woods with his snouted companion, finding quiet joy in rooting out nature’s delicacies and cooking them up in his shack. Way to win at life, Rob, and beat the high cost of living, too.

Similar works

• Fight Club
• Taken
• John Wick
• Big Night
• The Menu
• Okja
• Babette’s Feast
• Winter’s Bone
• Ratatouille

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Parallax to the max

Directed by Alan J. Pakula and produced by/starring Warren Beatty, The Parallax View emerged as a captivating political thriller in 1974. The narrative follows Joseph Frady, an intrepid reporter (Beatty), as he embarks on an investigation into a series of enigmatic deaths associated with the clandestine Parallax Corporation. Frady's pursuit unveils a perilous network of political intrigue and secrecy.

Regarded as a classic in the conspiracy thriller genre, The Parallax View delves into themes of government corruption, assassination, and the manipulation of public perception. The film benefits from the stylish guidance of Pakula, who adeptly weaves a web of tension and paranoia throughout the story. The cinematography, editing, and skillful use of visual symbolism further contribute to its lasting impact. Among its standout sequences, this movie showcases an iconic and unforgettable “carousel scene,” which occurs at a political rally staged within a domed carousel, enveloping viewers in suspense.

Click here to listen to a recording of our group discussion of The Parallax View, conducted last week.

Why would have audiences connected well with this film upon its release in 1974? How would it have captured the zeitgeist of the times? Americans were growing more suspicious of authority and distrustful of government in the wake of Watergate, the Vietnam War, the Warren Commission findings, and the assassinations of major leaders. The movie drew upon the collective memory of significant assassinations in the 1960s, such as those of John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy, and Martin Luther King Jr. These high-profile events had already fostered an atmosphere of suspicion and conspiracy theories in society. The Parallax View capitalized on this existing sentiment, presenting a chilling narrative that delved into political assassinations and the subsequent cover-ups.

Indeed, there was a pervading, brooding sense of paranoia and cynicism in the culture, and conspiracy theories were becoming more popular to explain political mysteries.

The Parallax View also effectively tapped into the tense atmosphere of the Cold War era, where the fear of communist infiltration and suspicions of covert government activities were widespread. Audiences were already preoccupied with the notion of hidden forces at play, and the film skillfully played into those concerns by exploring the concept of a secretive, powerful organization with its own hidden agenda. Consider that many Americans felt helpless to affect change and ignorant of what might really be going on.

Lastly, remember that the 1970s was the golden age of the political/paranoia/assassination thriller, and this was regarded among the best of that subgenre.

Filmmaking elements that make this movie so effective include superb compositions that frame subjects in a way to evoke a feeling of powerlessness and isolation and advance the mood. Recall the use of long shots and extreme long shots that show a character as vulnerable, alienated, and lost in their surroundings; yet, despite being so far away visually from the subject, we can hear them as if they were close by. Pakula and company employ vast empty spaces to progress this emotion of feeling dislocated and alone; close-ups are used sparingly.

A distinctively dark visual style is emphasized, too. Consider that cinematographer Gordon Willis is responsible for all the Godfather movies, eight Woody Allen films, and three Pakula films; he was known as “the prince of darkness” for his reliance on shadows and often preventing a character’s eyes from being seen clearly. Occasionally, Willis utilizes shallow focus that reveals a blurred, shadowy, mysterious environment surrounding the protagonist.

Moreover, this film uses brilliant editing to pace the building tension, including a bold use of Soviet montage-style editing during the training video. The montage theory posits that otherwise normal images that are juxtaposed with unrelated images take on a whole new meaning due to new associations the viewer makes with the image before it and after it.

Also particularly impactful is the shrewd use of sound effects and sound editing in The Parallax View, which forces you to pay attention to the small aural details.

What’s interesting about the narrative and POV in this movie is how the first half unfolds in a conventional narrative style, but the second half leaves you feeling more unsure about everything. In the first half, the audience is more omniscient than the hero; but after the midway point, we’re not as informed as Frady.

This is a movie that also plays with the audience. Like Hitchcock’s Psycho, we learn that most of the narrative has potentially been a red herring meant to mislead.

Finally, storywise, the movie doesn’t dumb down or fall into clichés. There is no romantic subplot or obligatory sex scene, and no overacting by Beatty. His character treats the threat as something real and probable, not a fantastical cartoonish villain.

Similar works

• Hitchcock's Foreign Correspondent, Notorious, The Man Who Knew Too Much, North by Northwest
• John Frankenheimer's The Manchurian Candidate (1962) and 7 Days in May (1964)
• European works like The Battle of Algiers (1964), Z (1969), and Day of the Jackal (1973)
• Other political action thrillers, including:
• Executive Action (1973)
• Day of the Dolphin (1973)
• Chinatown (1974)
• The Conversation (1974)
• Three Days of the Condor (1975)
• All the President’s Men (1976)
• Capricorn One (1977)
• Winter Kills (1979)
• Blow Out (1981)
• Missing (1982)
• No Way Out (1986)
• JFK (1991)

Other films by Alan J. Pakula

• Klute
• All the President’s Men
• Sophie’s Choice
• Presumed Innocent
• The Pelican Brief

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Portrait of a film on fire

Directed and written by feminist filmmaker Céline Sciamma, Portrait of a Lady on Fire is a 2019 French film starring Noémie Merlant as painter Marianne and Adèle Haenel as Héloïse, the daughter of a countess who is determined to marry off her reluctant daughter to a wealthy Italian aristocrat and present him with a portrait of his future bride, who refuses to pose for the painting. Set in 18th-century France, this narrative emphasizes a blossoming romance between a female painter and her subject.

It’s easy to see why the picture was voted the 30th greatest movie ever in the Sight & Sound 2022 critics poll. Its vibrant and sensual cinematography and visual aesthetics are worthy of immense praise, as they skillfully capture the natural beauty of the surroundings and the intimate moments shared by the characters. But most of all, the sparkling, emotionally honest, and gracefully nuanced performances by Merlant and Haenel linger long in the viewer’s memory. Portrait of a Lady on Fire has been lauded for its sensitive depiction of same-sex love, its intellectually stimulating thematic elements, and its overarching artistic brilliance. The work’s ability to connect with audiences around the world has embedded its reputation as a significant contribution to feminist filmmaking and queer cinema.

To hear a recording of our CineVerse group discussion of this film, conducted last week, click here

What helps this film resonate so strongly is its ability to serve as a counterpoint, perhaps even a rebuke of, the traditional male gaze. The notion of the male gaze emphasizes the tendency in visual arts, particularly movies, to predominantly depict women from a heterosexual man’s point of view. The male gaze reveals how narrative choices and the camera lens itself commonly depict females as sexually enticing objects of desire with physical forms designed to be appealing to male sensibilities.

Here, the filmmakers present an opposite approach: the female gaze, in which our expectations are subverted when, for example, a character is shown in nude or partial nude, or an erotic scene takes place. Instead of trying to titillate with images male viewers would find arousing, Sciamma and her collaborators focus more on organically building an erotically charged scene/environment, spotlighting facial glances, expressions, aroused eyes, and tactile sensuality between two characters of the same sex, and concentrating on the unspoken but nearly palpable emotions conveyed by Marianne and Héloïse.

Think about how the painting of a woman in the 18th century would have been a form of the male gaze long before cinema; these paintings of many undoubtedly reluctant or powerless women were often commissioned by men and meant to be cherished particularly by males, who likely saw the female forms painted as desirable. But by having a woman character paint Héloïse, the male gaze is disrupted, and we come to see Héloïse through a fellow woman’s eyes.

Remarkably, the movie features no significant male characters; men in this story rarely have a speaking part, and the opposite sex isn’t even shown until the last act. This is clearly a film about women and made primarily by women, and the absence of males sends a strong message about the film’s thematic agenda. This work celebrates female camaraderie and sisterhood solidarity. Except for the countess, the women in this story work together, participate in a quiet subculture of shared values, and demonstrate gendered empathy.

Furthermore, the subplot about servant Sophie’s abortion is a bold and unexpected deviation from the main romantic narrative. It further emphasizes the difficult choices women in this era had to make, the lack of agency they possessed, and the ingenuity and resourcefulness with which they often had to operate covertly. The overhead shot of Sophie being treated by the midwife while an infant grabs her hand is an unforgettable image of cognitive dissonance. And Marriane’s insistence on painting a re-creation of the abortion adds yet another unanticipated element to the story that informs her character.

Notably, Portrait of a Lady on Fire is replete with contrasting sensory stimuli, including a wet and cold body and her dripping canvasses adjacent to warm fireplaces, dark clothes worn outdoors on bright days, and the din of the pounding surf juxtaposed to two silent smitten lovers.

The film also benefits from a sparse soundtrack that ingeniously employs existing classical music – Vivaldi’s soul-stirring summer movement from The Four Seasons – and an eerily beautiful and evocatively harmonized a cappella hymn from some downright witchy women.

Portrait of a Lady on Fire delves into themes of love, desire, and the constraints imposed by societal expectations. It sheds light on the challenges faced by women within a patriarchal society, as Marianne and Héloïse's relationship develops clandestinely. The film thoughtfully explores concepts such as agency, autonomy, and the power dynamics inherent in relationships.

Looking deeper, beyond the superficial or expected. Héloïse asks: “Is this how you see me?” after her initial portrait is completed. She is dissatisfied with Marianne’s lack of sensitivity and emotional perception. The prime takeaway is that, ideally, the connection between an artist and his or her subject should be symbiotic, synergistic, and reciprocal. Portrait of a Lady on Fire suggests that the muse, or subject, can participate in the art and collaborate with the artist so that the creator and the later audience of the art get to see the true nature of the human subject.

Criterion Collection essayist Ela Bittencourt posited the following: “Sciamma…creates a provincial world in which art—both as a technique governed by solemn tradition and a practical tool for remaking one’s world—is a part of daily life, and in which the artist’s gaze is reciprocal, not one-sided. Similarly, the film presents the act of falling in love not through the (quintessentially male, one might say) lens of conquest and possession but through one of equality between the two lovers, creating a reality in which each can truly see the other.”

Prominent theme #2? The “power of art to validate, preserve, and console after a romance,” or a relationship, is over, according to New Yorker critic Rachel Syme, who wrote that the movie is also “about the erotic, electric connection between women when they find their desire for creative experience fulfilled in each other.” Indeed, keeping love and passion alive through art is one of the central tenets of this picture. Marianne and Héloïse will always share a bond through her paintings and mutual love of art.

Portrait of a Lady on Fire is a treatise on tragic, doomed, lost love, as well, colored by the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. Orpheus was a gifted musician married to Eurydice. After her untimely death, Orpheus embarks on a perilous journey to the Underworld in an attempt to retrieve her. The gods grant him permission under the condition that he refrains from looking back until they both reach the realm of the living. Unfortunately, just before their escape is complete, Orpheus succumbs to temptation and glances back, resulting in Eurydice vanishing forever. This timeless tale explores themes of love, loss, trust, and the consequences that arise from disregarding divine directives.

“What thrums beneath every scene is a sort of fraught longing — for a love that could not speak its name, certainly, but also for all the larger liberties that women living in the 1700s, even ones as privileged as these, couldn’t dream of: the freedom to marry by choice or not at all; the freedom to earn an independent living; the freedom just to walk down an empty beach, alone,” wrote Entertainment Weekly reviewer Leah Greenblatt.

Similar works

• Ammonite
• The Piano, and Portrait of a Lady, both by Jane Campion
• Blue is the Warmest Color
• The Handmaiden
• Carol
• The World to Come
• Titanic
• The myth of Orpheus and Eurydice

Other films by Celine Sciamma

• Water Lilies
• Tomboy
• Girlhood
• Petite Maman

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Fellini takes the road less traveled

Even 69 years following its original release, Federico Fellini's La Strada remains an iconic masterwork of world cinema. The film takes us on an unforgettable journey into the life of Gelsomina, a wide-eyed young woman who is sold by her mother to Zampanò, a merciless and wandering strongman performer. Together, they traverse the picturesque landscapes of Italy, with Gelsomina enduring his mistreatment and exploitation. Their performances serve as a backdrop to their tumultuous relationship, characterized by a power dynamic of dominance and submission. Along their path, they encounter a diverse cast of characters and situations that challenge their identities and the fragile bond they share.

Fellini's artistic brilliance shines through every frame of La Strada, particularly in his unique storytelling style, which weaves together elements of poetry and dreams. The film transports us to a world that skillfully captures the profound emotions and inner conflicts of the characters, offering a profound exploration of human nature. Beyond its surface narrative, the movie’s subtextual exploration delves into universal themes of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of the human condition.

In 1957, La Strada was honored with the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, solidifying its esteemed place in film history. Even today, the film continues to be revered as a timeless classic, serving as a testament to Fellini's unmatched artistic vision and storytelling prowess.

Click here to listen to a recording of our CineVerse group discussion of La Strada, conducted last week

This film marked a major fork in the road in Italian cinema, representing a deviation from the neorealism movement that took root over the previous nine years in Italy. Italian neorealism works were often shot in near documentary style, on location and often using nonfactors/nonprofessionals – commonly working-class people and the impoverished. The messages of neorealism films are often bleak, realistic, and plausibly pessimistic—without any sentimentalizing, glossy coating, or tacked-on happy endings. These films don’t give us black-and-white, good vs. evil tropes: characters are commonly depicted as the victims of poverty and a corrupt, unjust, and misery-inducing political system. Also, with neorealism, there is a deliberate focus away from big-name stars, complex psychological themes and issues, and intricate plots and actions.

But in La Strada, professional American actors are cast. The story can be interpreted to function more as a lyrical fable, myth, or Christian allegory than a recreation of a realistic event. Magical realism is imbued in the narrative (as evidenced by Gelsomina’s wide-eyed discovery of and encounters with awe-inspiring characters like the Fool and the disabled child).

Criterion Collection essayist David Ehrenstein wrote: “Fellini’s treatment of their adventures and interactions doesn’t aim for a sense of commonality on the level usually associated with naturalism. There’s an odd touch of fantasy hanging about this childlike waif and the sullen brute who keeps her, and more than a touch of the magical to the circus high-wire walker known as The Fool, whom they meet along the way.”

In responding to his critics who accused him of betraying neorealist ideals, Fellini said: “There are more Zampanos in the world than bicycle thieves, and the story of a man who discovers his neighbor is just as important as the story of a strike.”

This film was highly influential, inspiring many filmmakers, including Akira Kurosawa, Martin Scorsese, and Krzyszlof Kieslowski, and songwriters (the tunes Me and Bobby McGee and Mr. Tambourine Man were inspired by La Strada). Its success catapulted Fellini into the pantheon of prominent figures in the film industry, paving the way for his subsequent masterpieces.

Fellini’s wife, Giulietta Masina, who plays Gelsomina, embodies this character as an instantly sympathetic child-like innocent who may be mentally challenged in addition to being naïve and inexperienced about the world. Her large, expressive eyes, squat stature, comedic timing, vulnerable demeanor, and underdog charm draw comparisons to Chaplin.

Some believe that Gelsomina represents a dated and problematic character today, as she is often bullied and tolerant of Zampano’s toxic masculinity, serving as more of a passive martyr than an inspirational character. But consider the effect her absence and death has on Zampano and the legacy she has left behind (the tune she played on trumpet that continues to be hummed and remembered by those she encountered). Recall, too, that Gelsomina, demure and passive throughout most of the story, begins to demonstrate some agency and resistance to Zampano, but ultimately proves too fragile to overcome his brutal and callous nature.

Christina Newland, another Criterion Collection essayist, wrote: “Gelsomina, a creature of luminous simplicity, suffers as though she was born to do so. And in the spiritual sense, that may be true; her suffering is purifying. There is no delusional rationalizing of an abused woman, no justification; she knows Zampanò cannot love her, that even his tiny slippages of kindness must inevitably be followed by another act of savagery. She loves him not despite his being a monster but because he is one. She may be victimized, but she is not pathetic; her self-awareness is what makes the distinction…Wretched though Gelsomina may be, she is elevated by her compassion, not her martyrdom. Even left traumatized and freezing on a roadside, she remains steadfast. In the literal sense, this seems outrageous, debased, superhuman. In the Fellinian sense, it is the most human of all gestures.”

Fascinatingly, the narrative abandons Gelsomina toward the conclusion, revealing that she had died, impoverished and sick, years earlier. We are forced to follow Zampano, the insensitive beast responsible for her demise. We see how he has further devolved since parting with his indentured servant—losing any semblance of pride in his work, drinking too much, inciting violence, and finally crawling along the shoreline with guttural cries of assumed remorse for not appreciating or reciprocating love to Gelsomina. The last shot suggests that perhaps his soul is worthy of redemption now that he has finally acknowledged his failure and his many sins; or it could be that Zampano is doomed to suffer the remainder of his life in a state of pain, grief, and regret as punishment for his transgressions.

Note that Fellini remarked that he could identify with Zampano; and he purposely cast his wife in the role of Gelsomina, which she played as a 10-year-old form of herself. A longtime philanderer, the director may have created La Strada to convey his culpability and self-admonishment.

Symbolically, Gelsomina is associated with the ocean and water, while gruff and dirty Zampano is more akin to the earth and the Fool is a light and airy creature linked to the air. In an alternate reading, she embodies the soul, Zampano the body, and the Fool the mind, per late film Pauline Kael.

The power of love and sacrifice is a resonant message espoused by La Strada. Gelsomina comes to love Zampano and feel a connection with him, a man truly unworthy of her affection. By following the Fool’s advice – that her purpose is to love Zampano – and by returning to Zampano as a loyal companion when she doesn’t have to, she willingly chooses the more difficult path, or the road less traveled, so to speak, to feel like her life has meaning.

Another key reading: Living up to your potential or fulfilling your destiny. The Fool tells Gelsomina that “everything in this world has a purpose,” even a relatively insignificant pebble, and certainly Gelsomina. He suggests that Zampano likes her but doesn’t know how to express it. The fool’s words inspire her to remain with Zampano and to encourage him to accept and, ideally, love her. She is motivated to live and work harder in her role as assistant and companion, which will hopefully make Zampano a better person who values her role in his life. Unfortunately, this choice proves to be her undoing, as Zampano fails to improve as a human being and she becomes a psychologically broken individual after he kills the Fool.

Further themes to mine include repentance and redemption. La Strada can be ultimately interpreted as an allegory about a man who recognizes and accepts – although it is too late to do anything about it – that he was loved and was capable of loving. While the story ends with this painful acknowledgment, and we don’t know what will happen to Zampano in the future, it’s possible that he learns from these experiences and becomes a better human being.

Additionally, this film serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of toxic masculinity. La Strada continues to resonate as a cautionary tale about how an imbalance between the sexes and patriarchal dominance can ultimately devastate both genders. “La Strada is best seen as a poetic expression of the yin-yang relationship between the masculine and feminine, and the destructive tendencies lurking beneath the surface of traditional masculinity. If the binary nature of Fellini’s gender politics is perhaps a bit outdated, the film’s clarity of vision is such that it remains striking both for its immediacy and the articulation of the emotions that propel its archetypal characters,” wrote Slant Magazine critic Derek Smith.

Similar works

• Beauty and the Beast
• Raging Bull
• Sweet and Lowdown
• Films by Charlie Chaplin, including The Circus

Other prominent films by Fellini

• I Vitelloni
• Nights of Cabiria
• La Dolce Vita
• 8½
• Juliet of the Spirits
• Roma
• Amarcord

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A 1950s romcom far from Notorious

As a fairly representational romcom from the 1950s, you can do a lot worse than Indiscreet, released in 1958 and brought to life by director Stanley Donen and screenwriter Norman Krasna, who adapted it from his own stage play titled Kind Sir and received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay. The film stars the legendary Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman in the lead roles, accompanied by Cecil Parker and Phyllis Calvert. The picture tells the story of Anna Kalman (Bergman), an actress who finds herself entangled in a romantic affair with the charismatic diplomat Philip Adams (Grant). However, Anna soon discovers that Philip is married, leading to a series of humorous misunderstandings and complications.

Click here to listen to a recording of our CineVerse group discussion of Indiscreet, conducted last week.

Indiscreet thrives on star power. It reunited two iconic Hollywood actors, Grant and Bergman, in their second and final collaboration, after their first appearance together in Hitchcock’s Notorious. Both actors were renowned for their on-screen charm and charisma, and their chemistry in the film adds to its appeal.

Consider that the romantic comedy subgenre was immensely popular during the 1950s. Indiscreet combines elements of romance, humor, and wit, creating an entertaining and lighthearted experience for the audience. It also benefits from a sophisticated milieu, as the film is set and shot in London and features elegant and glamorous locations, adding to its appeal. The movie showcases stylish costumes, lavish interiors, and a sophisticated atmosphere, contributing to its overall charm. This work is also remembered for its urbane, clever, and witty dialogue, filled with banter and repartee between the characters, which adds depth and humor to the story.

Indiscreet’s original incarnation was a stage play, and the challenge here was to make this narrative more cinematic. While there are scenes that occur outside of Anna’s apartment, and the filmmakers try to liven things up with a memorable dance sequence featuring a spry-for-his-age Grant, the picture arguably suffers from feeling stagy and spatially constrained to one primary setting.

Notably, this marks one of the first uses of split screens for the era. This technique would inspire subsequent films like the Doris Day/Rock Hudson sex comedies.

The glamorous costumes, colorful art direction, posh surroundings, and classy cast do much of the heavy lifting. But for a plot that quickly turns on a comically-tinged twist, Indiscreet loses out on a golden opportunity to drive more laughter. Arguably, it’s simply not funny enough for the third act to pay off properly.

Underpinning the story thematically is the notion of selfish chivalry. Philip lies that he’s married but unable to get a divorce, which enables him to sustain a romantic relationship without the pressure of matrimony. He believes he’s doing the right thing, but Anna is rightfully resentful when his deception is uncovered.

The complex and ironic nature of relationships is another subtext explored. Interestingly, Anna doesn’t have a problem having an affair with a presumably married man, but she feels fleeced and disrespected when she learns the truth that he’s been single the entire time. Recall her famous line: How dare he make love to me and not be married! Likewise, Philip is content being the covert lover who quietly rents a suite in the same building as Anna so that he can conveniently slip in and out of her abode, a man perfectly happy to remain in unmarried status with Anna; but once he suspects her of getting attention from other men, he becomes jealous and wants to tie the knot. The movie explores the complexities of love and trust, highlighting the challenges and misunderstandings that can arise within romantic relationships.

Per the Ace Black Movie Blog: “Indiscreet does ask some interesting questions about what some women hope to gain from entering into a relationship with an ultimately unavailable man, and why some men avoid long-term commitments at all costs. Thanks to the central plot twist, the answers are abandoned in favor of a final act that veers towards broad comedy.”

Also at the heart of the matter is the delicate balance between independence and interdependence in relationships. The characters navigate their individual lives while grappling with the compromises and commitments inherent in forging a meaningful connection. Indiscreet asks thought-provoking questions about preserving one's personal identity while fostering a deep bond with another person.

A further message is the interplay between illusion and reality, challenging the notion that what initially appears perfect or ideal always holds true. The characters confront the disparities between their fantasies and the intricate realities of love, prompting them to reassess their expectations and perceptions. Indiscreet is a work about self-expression and self-discovery, as well. As the characters traverse their emotional landscapes, they embark on a journey of self-understanding. Through their romantic experiences, they gain insights into their own desires and feelings, ultimately finding the courage to authentically express themselves.

Similar works

• Charade (1963): This movie also features Cary Grant in a romantic comedy-mystery directed by Stanley Donen. With its blend of suspense, romance, and clever banter, it captivates viewers in a stylish and captivating way.
• Pillow Talk (1959): Directed by Michael Gordon, this romantic comedy showcases the charismatic pairing of Doris Day and Rock Hudson. It weaves a tale of mistaken identity, romance, and the complexities of relationships, highlighting the leads' playful chemistry in a witty and delightful manner.
• The Philadelphia Story (1940): Directed by George Cukor, this timeless romantic comedy boasts a stellar cast including Cary Grant, Katharine Hepburn, and James Stewart. It delves into themes of love, class dynamics, and self-discovery, presenting sophisticated dialogue and memorable performances.
• An Affair to Remember (1957): Directed by Leo McCarey, this romantic drama stars Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr. The film follows two individuals who meet on a cruise and plan to reunite six months later. It explores themes of love, fate, and the challenges of maintaining a connection.
• Sabrina (1954): Directed by Billy Wilder, this romantic comedy stars Audrey Hepburn, Humphrey Bogart, and William Holden. It tells the story of a young woman's transformation as she falls in love with the affluent Larrabee brothers. Through its exploration of class, identity, and self-discovery, the film offers an engaging and enchanting narrative.

Other films by Stanley Donen

• On the Town
• Royal Wedding
• Singin’ in the Rain (co-directed by Gene Kelly)
• Seven Brides for Seven Brothers
• The Pajama Game
• Damn Yankees!
• Charade

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