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Mr. Deeds Goes to Town (1936)

“Mr. Deeds Goes to Town” is a classic Gary Cooper film that reminds me quite a bit of “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington,” starring James Stewart—not just in title, but in premise. Longfellow Deeds is a young man who lives in a small town named Mandrake Falls. He lives a simple life as a staple of his community. He has enough for his needs but he’s not wealthy. He writes poetry for postcards and greeting cards, and plays the tuba in the town band. All in all, he’s a good fellow with a bit of a temper, living a peaceful … Continue reading →

Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)

I stayed up late last night watching “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington,” and was once again awe-struck at what a good actor Jimmy Stewart was. This film is a masterpiece of acting. Mr. Jim Taylor has been pulling the strings in his state’s senate for years. He bought the Governor his seat and has been arranging the senators for longer than that. When his appointed patsy unexpectedly passes away, he needs a new one, and fast. He tells the Governor who to appoint, but the public reaction is such that the Governor doesn’t dare proceed. Instead, he appoints the man … Continue reading →

The Majestic (2001)

Jim Carrey is a phenomenal actor. It doesn’t seem to matter whether he’s doing a goofy or a serious role—he takes it to the limit and doesn’t back off. I think one of his best performances is in “The Majestic,” a PG-rated film set in 1951. Peter Appleton is a screenplay writer. He’s been creating B movies for most of his career and has just finished the script for a film he believes will get him on the A list at last. But just as the film is getting ready for production, Peter is blacklisted—Congress wants him to admit to … Continue reading →

The Flight of the Phoenix (1965)

I watched “The Flight of the Phoenix” on the recommendation of a friend, and I have to say, I found it fascinating. I also have to say, this is one that you’ll want to watch after the younger children are in bed – you can enjoy it with your teenagers, but the themes are a bit too intense for children under the age of twelve. Jimmy Stewart stars as Frank Towns, a pilot with a second-rate airline. He’s flown with better outfits in the past, but his talent hasn’t diminished, just his job status. With him is Lew Moran, his … Continue reading →