Film of the Month

[WS]

TF suggested we have a film of the month and we all watch it and then we can discuss it (like a book club). Anyone in for this and have a suggestion for our first film?

We could even pose themes and questions prior to watching the film to give us things to think about and look for when watching the film! First of all who is in and then what should we watch first?

[WS]

Well, Citizen Kane takes a lot of patience and attention to detail. It is never one of my students' favorites until after we talk about all the innovations made by Welles and his crew. It is an amazing film when you realize what had come before. Of course Welles didn't make people more impressed by saying he learned how to make a film by watching Stagecoach 39 times.

[Nick Danger]

Citizen Kane takes more patience than I have. I watched this movie a number of years ago and though it was just "eh" - certainly not the all-time classic of its reputation.

I saw it again a few years ago and saw no reason to change my opinion. Okay, it might have a few cinematic innovations but who but film students even notices this stuff, let alone cares about it. It might be a noteworthy film for the way it was made but if the critics didn't anoint it, would the public love it as much? Somehow, I doubt it.

By the way, if you want to see an intense, rip your guts out film, try watching Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?. Now there's an intense, well-made film! Makes CK look like a movie for wimps!

[WS]

Well, Nick, I can't actually agree with you this time. I think Virginia Woolf is well written, but visually and sound wise it doesn't hold a candle to Citizen Kane. Welles experience in radio caused him to use some amazing sound techniques j and l cuts in which the sound of a scene precedes the visual to set the scene. He also changes the quality of sound to match the scenes, amplifying echoes in the "vault" scene. His editing in the breakfast table scene to show how the Kanes grow apart is a masterpiece of brevity. Virginia Woolf is a powerful piece but although filmed in moody dark tones, it can't compare filmically to Kane (in my opinion).

[belle054]

I finally watched Citizen Kane last year for the first time. I have to say, I don't get it. Based on it's reputation, I was incredibly disappointed.

[WS]

It seems like Twelve Angry Men may be available at kewego (I've never used them before)
http://www.kewego.com/video/iLyROoafYMtS.html

[cynthia Hunter]

12 angry men exalent movie!

[Lily Roth]

Al Pacino himself is a classic in my book.....lol

[Ubu]

I like this idea. When will the discussion start? Is it going to be 12 Angry Men?

By the way one actor you didn't mention in the photo is Ed Begley. Just to the right of Fonda.

[WS]

Okay Let's Do Twelve Angry Men!

Here are some things to think about before or after seeing the film (IF YOU WANT TO). No one needs to answer any or all of these questions. I simply want to give people that would like some ideas a little push.)

Because we are older we may see diversity differently than my students did. How diverse is the jury? What role does class play in the film? Is one class portrayed as more or less honorable than another? What other American characteristics is the film criticizing (besides a rush to judgment). This film is praising certain aspects of the US and its people. What is unexpected (if anything) in this regard? How would this film be different if it were made today?

Is a week enough time can we be ready to discuss by Sunday or Monday (or Tuesday?) Let me know about the time frame and I'll set up a separate discussion for Twelve Angry Men.