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Nostalgia for a simpler period in time |
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For me, Classic Films are films made in a time when I did not even exist on this planet. But they somehow transcend time and bring a theme or story that defy time. Classic Films are the perfect escape from reality. They remind me of a time when things were simpler and people were nicer - a time when people dreamed and cared. I am sure Hollywood was as much a money industry as it is today, but somehow the films back then reflect sweeter moments of life that seem to lack from most films of today.
Some of my all time favorite Classic Romantic Comedies :(There are so many good ones, it will be hard to narrow it down. I am putting down some of the less known, worth watching gems.)
Mr. and Mrs. Smith : Hitchcock's (no surprise, one of my all time favorite directors) only comedy starring Carole Lombard and Robert Montgomery. Their chemistry was spectacular. Even though this wasn't considered a blockbuster and I doubt anyone has ever seen it, it is truly a gem.
Bell, Book and Candle: Starring Jimmy Stewart and Kim Novak, two of my favorite actors, this films about witches, spells, and the magic of love. It is an odd little film with a lot of charisma.
Adam's Rib: It is always fun watching a movie on the battle of the sexes. Starring Katherine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy, this duo's chemistry is unmatched by any other couple. It is just a fabulous film that is ahead of its time.
Other great Romantic Comedies (the well known list): It Happened One Night, Some Like It Hot, Singing In The Rain, Pillow Talk, Bringing Up Baby, Roman Holiday , etc.
Other Genres of Classic Films: I don't usually seek out watching Thrillers, Sci-Fi or Film Noir, but there are many films that I love from these genres. I will break them down according to directors.
Hitchcock: I simply love the films that he makes. I have seen all but a handful of the films that he made. My favorite is Vertigo but all of his films are wonderful. Here are highlights of some of my favorites:
Rope : Eight 10 minute reels, this film looked like it was one long continuous take. The story is excellent and the symbolism superb. Based on a true story, this movie was about two "friends" who killed a third for the thrill of it.
The Birds : You would be surprised at just how scary birds are when they attack.
Rear Window : Looking out and peeping at your neighbors have never gotten more interesting as this.
Shadow of A Doubt : How well do you really know your relatives?
The Lady Vanishes : First you see her, then you don't. Are you crazy? Or is it everyone else?
Secret Agent : Maybe this was where James Bond got all his ideas - espionage and falling in love.
Kubrick : His films tend to move quite slowly but the two that I like are simply spectacular.
2001: A Space Odyssey : Technology taking over the world. Hmmm.. is Kubrick a prophet or what? Technological Dystopia, here we come!
A Clockwork Orange : Humans without decency, soul or sympathy. Yet again, how did Kubrick know? (The book by Anthony Burgess is better - redeeming)
Want to check out classics on the big screen? Go to the Stanford Theater (located in Palo Alto)!