Classics: A Review of Scarlet Street By Lauren Ennis

 How far would you go to be somebody? That is the question that lies at the heart of Fritz Lang's 1945 drama Scarlet Street. The film follows three misfits on a doomed quest to become big shots in a portrait of the American Dream gone horribly wrong. Take a walk on the dark side down Scarlet Street.

The story begins at a party marking clerk Chris Cross' twenty-five years of service at a local bank. While Chris should be the center of attention his colleagues are more interested in ogling his boss' young mistress. He fares little better upon returning home to his nagging wife, Adele. When he tries to unwind with his one passion, painting, Adele informs him that he is only allowed to paint in their apartment's bathroom. His dull, repressed, life takes a dramatic turn when he stumbles upon a woman being attacked in the street. He attacks the assailant and the woman introduces herself as Kitty. Flattered by the young and attractive woman's seeming gratitude he takes Kitty out to dinner and tells her about his passion for art. When she assumes that he is a successful artist he fails to correct her. Similarly, when he assumes that she is a model she does not correct him. Eager for a piece of Chris' supposed fortune she embarks upon an affair with him. In order to fund her desired lifestyle he begins stealing from his wife and his employer. Unbeknownst to Chris, however, Kitty is not actually a model but instead a prostitute and her pimp is none other than the man who was attacking her in the street, Johnny. Desperate to pay off his debts, Johnny steaks several of Chris' paintings and sells them under Kitty's name. Chris agrees to go along with the scheme under the assumption that Kitty will marry him and the pair will share the proceeds. What follows is a nightmarish journey to rock bottom in an American Dream gone irreparably awry.

Scarlet Street stands as one of the bleakest and most haunting films in all of noir. The film is so unflinching in its portrayal of its characters' descent into despair that it was actually banned in several cities upon initial release. The film particularly stands out for its portrayal of milquetoast dreamer turned anti-hero, Chris. Chris could not be farther removed from the world weary, cynical, and resourceful heroes that populate noir. He is instead unassuming, repressed, and yet somehow remains optimistic; in short he is not so different from us. In its depiction of his willing descent into a hell of his own making the film serves as an apt reminder of how easily any of us could be similarly led astray. The film also proves to be surprisingly modern in its blunt portrayal of the world of vice, violence, and desperation that its deeply flawed cast inhabit. Perhaps its greatest strength lies in its gut-wrenching ending in which Chris thinks that he has escaped punishment only to find himself trapped within a prison built by his own conscience. At once a gritty crime drama and a nuanced character study Scarlet Street remains as harrowing and resonant now as it was upon its initially release eighty years ago.

It's hard out here for a pimp

The film comes to haunting life thanks to the work of its star-studded cast. Rosalind Ivan is one of the shrillest shrews ever put to celluloid as Chris' abrasive wife, Adele. Dan Duryea is sleaze personified as callous pimp Johnny. Joan Bennett makes for one of the most fatale femmes in all of noir as the conniving, crass, and charming Kitty. Edward. G Robinson turns in one of the most complex performances of his career in his haunting turn as Chris. As the unassuming clerk he captures a vulnerability, desperation, and anxiety that mark a stark contrast from the cocky heavies he built his career playing. 

Scarlet Street is a criminally underrated noir. The twisting plot and razor-sharp dialogue place the script at the top of the genre. The performances bring each of the characters to visceral life in all of their amoral, desperate, glory. Take a walk on the wild side down Scarlet Street.

Classics: A Review of The Fabulous Baker Boys By Lauren Ennis

 "For thirty years its been juts the Fabulous Baker Boys, but times change" the tagline read for the surprise hit slice of life drama The Fabulous Baker Boys. This deceptively simple story follows a pair of musicians as they struggle to keep their outdated act alive. What ensues is a compelling character study that explores the dreams we never fully discard, the complacency that we fall into, and the inevitability of change. At once a blunt depiction of creative malaise and a loving tribute to a bygone era the film is never less than fabulous.

"That's what you get folks, for makin' whoopee"

The story begins with brothers Jack and Frank performing in a series of Seattle bars and lounges. After fifteen years performing the same tired standards and trite showtunes Jack yearns for something more. Even as he moonlights at a local jazz club, however, he remains loyal to the act and Frank. Meanwhile, Frank continues to manage the act and sees nothing wring with the decline in their performances as long as the bills continue to be paid. When jobs begin drying up, however, even Frank is forced to contend with the act's grim future. As a last resort they hire call-girl turned chanteuse Susie Diamond as their lead singer. While she breathes new life into the act she also stirs up Jack's desire for something beyond restaurant lounges and hotel bars. The stage is then set for sparks of creativity, romance, and conflict to fly as all three are forced to confront their pasts and face their futures.

Much like its title protagonists, there is much more to The Fabulous Baker Boys than meets the eye. While the premise of two struggling pianists trying to remain relevant on the lounge circuit seems like the stuff of sitcoms the film is something altogether different. Instead of hijinks the film offers somber reflections upon a world in a constant state of change and how we are inevitably forced to change with it. Over the course of the film the central trio are confronted with their past mistakes and their current complacency. Each are then faced with the bittersweet choice of forcing a new, uncertain, future or fading into obscurity. In this way, the film holds up an uncomfortable mirror to viewers, forcing us to face the compromises  that we've resigned ourselves to in our own lives. Even as it explores the sobering reality of mid-life the film still offers romance and a swoon worthy score to lighten the proceedings. Change your tune with The Fabulous Baker Boys.

Brotherly love

This intimate drama continues to captivate thanks to the compelling performances of its cast. Ellie Raab turns in an endearing performance as Jack's neglected young neighbor, Nina. Jennifer Tilly sows apt comedic skills as daffy waitress and wannabe singer, Blanche. Beau Bridges humanizes the practical and overbearing Frank. Jeff Bridges lends depth to what easily could have been a one-note role as Jack and highlights the torment simmering just beneath his cool exterior. Michelle Pfeiffer is a revelation as she blends wit, vulnerability, and sultry charm in her turn as Susie.

This story of changing times remains timeless over thirty-five years after its release. The wit and hart of the script elevate this slice of life story to universally resonant drama. The performances bring the characters to memorable life and transport viewers to the last days of the lounge circuit. For absolutely fabulous viewing sing along with The Fabulous Baker Boys.

Absolutely fabulous

Classics: A Review of Homeward Bound The Incredible Journey: By Lauren Ennis

 Few bonds are as strong as that which exists between pets and their people. In our pets we find the unconditional love and undying loyalty that ae so rare in people. The 1993 family film Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey explores the relationship between pets and people to heartwarming effect. Blending slapstick comedy and emotional drama the film is a loving tribute to pets and the people who love them. For viewing that even the four-legged members of the family will love hit the trails with Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey.

The journey of a lifetime

The story begins with the newly married Seavers and their children adjusting to life as a blended family. Complicating matters is the presence of their pets. The family's lives are further upended when they are forced to relocate for a new job opportunity. While they move they leave their pets in the care of a family friend. After a series of misunderstandings Chance, Sassy, and Shadow fear that they are being left behind for good and escape, determined to reunite with their family. What follows is an adventure that is nothing short of incredible.

Despite its animal cast the film tells a truly human story of family. In its depiction of the Seavers' efforts to adjust to their new blended family the film highlights the difficulties in maintaining family relationships. This is further emphasized through its depiction of their pets' rivalries and disagreements. As the story progresses, however, the children and their pets learn to work together and begin to see just how much they mean to one another. The importance of family is perhaps best shown in Chance's story arc He begins the film as a self-described 'lone wolf' who resents the restrictions and responsibilities of family life. When he is faced with the emptiness of a life alone, however, he realizes how much his family actually means to him. It is only then that he is able to mature beyond a puppy and reach his full potential as a very good boy. Find your way home with Chance in Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey.

The film brings it's furry heroes story to vibrant life thanks to the work of its star-studded cast. Kevin Chevalia infuses youngest sibling Jaimie with innocence and humor. Veronica Lauren imbues middle-child Hope with plenty of sass. Benj Thall turns in a surprisingly mature performance as dedicated oldest sibling, Peter. Sally Fields' Sassy more than lives up to her name in a performance that balances haughtiness with heart. Michael J. Fox infuses Chance with roguish charm and youthful recklessness. Don Ameche lends the film its beating heart as wise, loyal, Shadow.

Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey is a celebration of the truly incredible bond between pets and their people. The script blends action, humor, and heart to relate a tale that the whole family will love. The performances bring the 1961 novel to vibrant life. Curl up with your furry friend for the adventure of a lifetime with Chance, Sassy, and Shadow in Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey.

Classics: A Review of Scarface By Lauren Ennis

 "The world is yours" Cuban refugee Tony Montana reads on an advertisement. The ad promises a world in which the sky is the limit and anything is possible. In short, it is selling the American Dream, something Tony and millions like him are eager to buy no matter what the cost. At once a thrilling tale of one criminal's rise and fall and a nightmarish exploration of the American Dream gone wrong Scarface is more than a cinematic classic, its iconic. As the immigration debates rages and the war on drugs has devolved into a war of attrition Scarface remains as visceral and relevant now as it was over forty years ago. Seize your piece of the American pie with Tony in Scarface.

The film begins in 1980 Miami as Cuban refugee Tony Montana arrives at US customs as part of the Mariel boat lift. Despite his criminal past he is able to secure a green card after agreeing to assassinate a former member of Castro's government. He soon discovers that America's streets are not paved with gold, however, and becomes dissatisfied with his new life. In an effort to accelerate his climb up the ladder to success he take a job purchasing cocaine for a local drug lord. Although the deal goes horribly wrong Tony proves his worth to Frank, earning him a permanent position in Frank's operation. The film then follows his meteoric rise and inevitable fall as he ultimately becomes a casualty of his own ambition.

Since its inception, cinema has showcased an array of gangland dramas. While innumerable films before it chronicled the rise and fall of the American gangster few did so with the scathing social commentary of Scarface. Instead of merely following Tony's life of crime the film uses his story to explore deeper issues surrounding the American Dream in an era of modern excess. While he believes that he is pursuing a new life in America it soon becomes apparent that he is still striving for the same wealth, power, and respect that have always eluded him. This point is further emphasized by the fact that he pursues his supposed new life using the same violent criminal means that he always has. Thus his American Dream proves to be little more than a more high-end version of the nightmarish existence that he has always known. The film also offers a scathing criticism of 80's excess. Released during the height of the 1980's economic boom, the film aptly portrays the life of easy money, fast cars, and loose morals that defined a decade. Rather than glamorize life in the fast lane, however, the film condemns these same excesses as each of the characters find themselves more isolated, unsatisfied, and ultimately empty as attain their materialistic goals. Descend into the dark side of the American Dream with Tony in Scarface.

The film transports viewers to the grit, glamour, and excess of 1980's Miami thanks to the work of its star-studded cast. Robert Loggia and F. Murray Abraham are equal parts smooth and sleaze as drug lords Frank and Omar. Michelle Pfeiffer blends biting wit with icy charisma as Frank's cynical trophy wife, Elvira. Steven Bauer infuses Tony's best friend and right-hand man Manny with humor, charm, and surprising complexity. Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio sizzles as Tony's sultry but stifled younger sister, Gina. Even in the midst of excellent supporting performances, however, Al Pacino dominates the film as Tony. In Pacino's hands Tony is more than just another criminal and is instead a personification of the American Dream gone tragically wrong.

In its exploration of both the gritty underbelly of 1980's excess and the dark side of the American Dream Scarface remains as startling and startlingly relevant as it was upon its initial release. The biting script offers a gangland saga in the tradition of the Prohibition-era classics while serving up scathing social critiques that have proven nothing short of prophetic. The electrifying performances transport viewers to the by turns glittering and gruesome world of the modern drug trade. Take on the world with Tony in Scarface.

Classics: A Review of Tuck Everlasting By Lauren Ennis

 Which is more devastating; death or a life never fully lived? This is the question that lies at the heart of the 2002 fantasy drama Tuck Everlasting. Adapted from the beloved 1975 novel the film blends adventure, romance, and surprisingly weighty themes to relate a truly timeless tale. In its exploration of growing up and growing old Tuck Everlasting offers a bittersweet story of love and loss that will resonate with old souls and the young at heart alike.

"You can't have living without dying"

The story begins in 1914 as the US stands at the edge of World War I. Wealthy Winnie Foster seems to have every privilege and luxury that a teenage girl could want. In reality, what she wants most is the one thing that is forbidden to her; the freedom to choose her own path. When her overbearing mother announces her plan to send Winnie to a strict boarding school she rebels and retreats into the nearby woods. There, she encounters the mysterious Tuck family. In spire of their initial misunderstandings and mistrust of each other Winnie finds herself drawn to the unusual family. she soon learns the clan's quaint, old-fashioned, lifestyle masks a terrible secret; the Tucks are immortal. A century earlier the family were pioneers exploring the then unsettled frontier. Along the way, they unknowingly encountered a spring that was actually the fountain of youth. It was only after drinking from the spring's mythic waters that the family learned of its power. In the one-hundred years since they have never aged and remain unable to die. Winnie's respite from reality is soon disturbed when her new friends are threatened by the arrival of a local con-man searching for the spring. Both Winnie and the Tucks are then forced to make decisions that will impact the rest of their lives and far beyond.

Although marketed as a teen romance, Tuck Everlasting is instead a beautifully melancholic meditation upon death and what it means to truly live. At first glance, Winnie and the Tucks could not appear to be more different. Upon closer observation, however, it becomes apparent that they both are facing the same struggle to lead meaningful lives in an unfulfilling world. Winnie's life is subject to a seemingly endless series of restraints forced upon her by both her domineering mother and society. Her mother does her best to ensure that Winnie stays her "little girl" while societal expectations demand that she maintain a childlike docility and dependence upon the men in her life. As a result, her life is one in which she is prevented from fully growing or maturing. 

Similarly, the Tucks are forced to live cast out from society under the constant threat of being discovered. The ever present threat of the outside world forces them to base their entire existence upon their ability to stay safely hidden. In this way, the Tucks find their lives just as controlled as Winnie's. Their isolated existence also leaves them emotionally stunted in much the same that Winnie is as they remain cut off from new experiences, people, and ideas. As a result, despite their endless time the Tucks are just as incapable of living their lives to their fullest potential as Winnie. In our youth-obsessed culture the film's emphasis upon the vital need to grow up and even grow old serves as a poignant reminder of what it truly means to be alive. Dare to live life to the fullest with Winnie and the Tucks in Tuck Everlasting.

The film transports viewers to the magical world of the Tucks thanks to the stellar performances of its cast. Ben Kingsley blends sinister and sleaze as the mysterious villain known only as 'the man in the yellow suit'. William Hurt aptly conveys Angus Tuck's world weariness and wisdom. Sissy Spacek infuses Mae Tuck with warmth and charm. Scott Bairstow captures Miles Tuck's bitterness and regret. Jonathan Jackson combines roguish charisma with boy next door sweetness as Jesse Tuck. Alexis Bledel imbues Winnie with a winning combination of innocence, independence, and intelligence, that will keep viewers rooting for her until the film's final frame.

Tuck Everlasting is a film for the ages. The script balances youthful adventure with mature meditations about life and death without missing a beat. The stellar performances of the cast transport viewers to the magical world of Natalie Babbitt's novel. Join Winnie and discover the timeless magic of Tuck Everlasting.

Classics: A Review of The Great Mouse Detective By Lauren Ennis

 The 1980's are commonly referred to as Walt Disney Studios' 'dark age'. In the years between the death of its founder in 1966 and its 'renaissance' in the 1990's the studio nearly lost its status as an animation juggernaut amidst a series of lackluster films and even disappointing box office returns. Even in its darkest moments, however, the studio managed to maintain some of its original spark and release a few precious diamonds amidst its rougher output. One such film is the 1986 mystery The Great Mouse Detective. The film cleverly parodies the classic Sherlock Holmes novels and introduced the genius detective to a new generation. For a mystery that will keep the whole family guessing follow the case of The Great Mouse Detective.

The story begins in Victorian-era London as young mouse Olivia Flaversham is celebrating her birthday with her widowed father, toymaker Mr. Flaversham. In the midst of their festivities a vicious bat breaks into their apartment and kidnaps Mr. Flaversham. Olivia narrowly escapes and seeks out the help of Basil of Baker Street, the famous great mouse detective. Basil realizes that the bat who kidnapped Mr. Flaversham was Fidget, the henchman of his arch-nemesis, Professor Rattigan. The unlikely duo enlist the aid of surgeon Dr. Dawson and Toby the pet basset hound of none other than Sherlock Holmes himself. Together, the ragtag sleuths discover that Professor Rattigan is forcing Mr. Flaversham to create a robot replica of the Queen of England as part of his plan to launch a political coup. Its up to Basil and his unlikely allies to stop the plot and save both Mr. Flaversham and the queen before its too late.

Upon its initial release The Great Mouse Detective was deemed a middling effort at best. The film was considered too much of a deviation from Disney's standard formula for contemporary audiences. Yet it is this very break with studio tradition that has earned the film a devoted following today. The film breaks with Disney's tried and true fairytale formula to instead relate a decidedly darker tale that appeals to a wider audience. All too often the perfect princesses and noble heroes of Disney's fairytales are admirable but not relatable. Rather than these idealized archetypes The Great Mouse Detective follows a diverse cast of decent but entirely human characters in the face of insurmountable odds. Basil in particular might surprisingly be the most realistic and relatable protagonist in the studio's history. Much like his literary counterpart, Basil allows his singlemindedness and success cloud his judgment. While such traits might make a character unlikeable it is these very flaws that ensure Basil is not an infallible, unattainable, genius. Similarly, he also begins the film with a decided lack of empathy, which makes his growing bond with Olivia and Dawson all the more impactful. The film also sets itself apart through its incorporation of darker themes. For example, the film begins with an all too real crime in the form of Mr. Flaversham's kidnapping. Rather than being jarring, however, this opening aptly serves to set the tone for all that follows. Similarly, the villains' plot is not some wacky scheme to take over the world, but instead a plot to stage a political coup. One look at a history book will remind viewers of just how surpringly realistic Rattigan's seemingly fantastic plot actually is. Even at its most serious, however, the film still manages to make room for plenty of dark, dry, wit that will appeal to parents and children alike. Solve the mystery of masterful storytelling with Basil, The Great Mouse Detective.

The film transports viewers to Victorian London thanks to the work of its exceedingly entertaining vocal performers. Candy Candido balances slapstick and sinister as Rattigan's bumbling henchman, Fidget. Val Bettin conveys kindness and intelligence as Dr. Dawon. Susanne Pollatschek turns in a surprisingly mature performance as plucky Olivia. Barrie Ingham captures the beloved combination of intellect, confidence, and charm hat has endeared audiences to Sherlock Holmes for generations as Basil. The film is easily stolen, however, by Vincent Price in a performance that oozes villainy in every syllable as Rattigan.

Blending high-flying adventure with classic mystery The Great Mouse Detective might be one of the greatest adaptations of Sherlock Holmes. The script balances comic hijinks, action, and mystery to expert effect. The voice performances bring the cast of colorful characters to vibrant life. Its no mystery why The Great Mouse Detective has become a cult classic.

Classics: A Review of The Leopard by Lauren Ennis

"A man who doesn't spend time with his family can never be a real man" Don Vito Corleone famously declared in The Godfather. It is this same sentiment that lies at the heart of another tale of a Sicilian patriarch; The Leopard. Much like The Godfather, The Leopard follows Don Fabrizio Corbera as he struggles to guide his family through political unrest, personal turmoil, and sweeping change. At once an ode to a bygone era and a timeless story of family The Leopard is a series you cannot refuse.

The story begins in 1860 as Giuseppe Garibaldi and his redshirts enter Sicily in a political coup against the local monarchy. As members of the local aristocracy the Corbera family find their status, wealth, and very way of life upended. As head of the family Don Fabrizio struggles to keep the Corbera clan together even as their entire world threatens to crumble around them. Amidst this upheaval the family also faces threats from within as they struggle to come to terms with personal rivalries and romantic entanglements all while striving to find their place in a rapidly changing Italy.

This sweeping historic tale continues to resonate today largely through its depiction of the paradox of parenthood. Throughout the series Don Fabrizio struggles to do what he believes is best for his family. In this depiction of a father trying to do his best the series ensures that Don Fabrizio is a relatable character viewers rather than a distant elite from an even more distant era. As the series progresses, however, it becomes apparent that father does not always know best. Ultimately, it is his meddling in his daughter's love life, his intercession in his nephew's legal troubles, and his neglect of his wife and son incur irreparable consequences. This depiction of his misguided but well-meaning efforts make him a tragic figure as it is his very attempts to guide and help his family which hurt them the most. Despite his many mistakes, however, it is the lessons that he imparts in and example that he provides to his family that allow them to move forward and find their place in the new Italy. For some fatherly love Italian style, join the Corbera family in The Leopard.

Daddy's home!

The series brings Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa's novel to brilliant life thanks to the work of its cast. Saul Nanni perfectly balances callousness and charm as Don Fabrizio's reckless nephew, Tancredi. Benedetta Porcaroli infuses Don Fabrizio's oldest daughter and right-hand woman, Concetta, with a winning combination of intelligence, warmth, and girl next door charm. Deva Cassel showcases all the smoldering sultriness of a 1940's femme fatale as ambitious socialite, and Concetta's romantic rival, Angelica. Alessandro Sperduti personifies decency as Concetta's idealistic suitor, Colonel Bombello.Roberta Procida infuses Don Fabrizio's mistress, Mariannina with world weariness, wit, and sass. Alberto Rossi captures the passion and frustration of Don Fabrizio's overlooked son, Paulo. Astrid Meloni conveys warmth and wisdom as Don Fabrizio's devoted wife, Stella. Francesco Colella blends humor and cunning as opportunistic politician, Don Calogero. Even in the midst of superior supporting performances, however, the series belongs to Kim Rossi Stuart as Don Fabrizio. In Stuart's hands Don Fabrizio is more than a symbol of a fading era and is instead a complicated man struggling to hold onto his dignity, his family, and his way of life even as they threaten to disappear.

Even as it captures the sweep of Italian history The Leopard is a timeless story of family and fatherhood. The intelligent script transports viewers to the tumult of Risorgimento-era Italy. The dynamic performances bring di Lampedusa's novel to vibrant life. This Father's Day celebrate family and fatherhood with The Leopard.

Like father, like daughter