Monthly Archives: August 2014

3 things about John Frankenheimer’s THE FRENCH CONNECTION II

The French Connection II [1975] 1. “I’m going to turn your kneecaps into oatmeal.” 2. Arthritic knuckles, sores up and down her arms. 3. The look of utter shock on his face.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , | Leave a comment

3 things about Joseph Sargent’s THE TAKING OF PELHAM ONE TWO THREE

The Taking of Pelham One Two Three [1974] 1. “How the hell can you run a goddamn railroad without swearing?” 2. He grabs another bundle from the body on the way out. 3. Smoke under the collar.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

PAUSE OF THE CLOCK is coming.

Thirsty? Patience.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

3 things about Paul Schrader’s THE CANYONS

The Canyons [2013] 1. Sitting outside at the sidewalk cafe. Traffic streams by continuously. An attention to street signs. 2. “Because he’s a bad boy. He’s a bad little boy.” “Go on.” 3. A grand piano on the second floor … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

3 things about Jonathan Demme’s A MASTER BUILDER

A Master Builder [2014] 1. Obligation. 2. “It was after the fire! That! That! That!” 3. A funeral wreath? A dedication wreath.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

3 things about John Huston’s KEY LARGO

Key Largo [1948] 1. “Put it this way, for a few hours you’re going to be our guests.” 2. He grabs her by the arms and goes in for a kiss. She’s too stunned to resist. 3. Glistening, miniature rubber … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

3 things about Don Siegel’s CHARLEY VARRICK

Charley Varrick [1973] 1. Cameo as a losing ping pong player. 2. A $500 sucker. 3. “I like your bed. You may find this hard to believe but I’ve never slept on a round bed.” Someone needs to write about … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

3 things about Howard Zieff’s HOUSE CALLS

House Calls [1978] 1. “You have a very infectious laugh.” “Don’t worry, it’s the only thing about me that is!” 2. An attempt to keep one foot on the floor. 3. Why does all the red wine in the movie … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , | Leave a comment

Simpy put, BOYHOOD is extraordinary.

Over at Chicagoist, I make an attempt to articulate some of my thoughts about Boyhood. Bottom line: go see this now.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , | Leave a comment

3 things about Richard Linklater’s BOYHOOD

Boyhood [2014] 1. Around the corner, half hidden in shadow, he watches the argument unfold. 2. Garage door half open. “Go in the house! Go in the house!” 3. The Moment is always Now. Simply: masterpiece.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment