justusmcqueen Reviews

Cannery Row (1982)

Critics once again caught standing on shore as boat sails

[15 March 2001]

Cannery Row is a quaint, philosophical and evocative film that captures the indefatigable spirit of a unique group of individuals. The casting is superb. Nolte and Winger play off each other perfectly. Its hard to imagine Raquel Welch as Suzy (originally signed for the part and filmed some preliminary scenes before being replaced).

Just as memorable is the soundtrack, it creates a musical backdrop that simply adds to tbe overall effect of the movie. Cannery Row is sweet yet not saccharin. I particulary enjoyed the subplot concerning Doc and the Seer.

In previous reviews, I have described certain films having a "watchability factor." Cannery Row rates extremely high in this area. The story reaches the audience on several levels. It even inspired me to try a beer milk shake (not bad really, though not recommended for the lactose-intolerant). Cheers!

Soldier in the Rain (1963)

Personal favorite

[10/10 · 13 March 2001]

This understated film has the feel of a well-done teleplay, showcasing the dramatic and comedic talents of Jackie Gleason. Although McQueen appears lost at times within his character, he acts as counterpoint to the cool, laidback character of Sgt. Slaughter (Gleason).

For those who have seen Soldier in the Rain, the camps appear sharply divided between love it and hate it.

For me, the film contains a certain charm which is unmistakeable. I have seen it well over 50 times, and it never grows old. Certain films have what I like to call a "watchability" factor. This is one of them.

Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964)

The Ultimate Black Comedy

[10/10 · 16 February 2001]

Few films are able to take a deadly serious issue and place it within the context of a broad comedy successfully. Dr. Strangelove does exactly that. Kubrick's masterpiece illustrates in brilliant fashion the idiocy of nuclear war and the idiots who are orchestrating it. What strikes one most however in this cinematic gem are the individual characterisations of Sellers, Scott, Hayden and Pickens. To refer to them as memorable roles is a gross understatement. With names such as President Merkin Muffley, General "Buck" Turgidson, General Jack D. Ripper and Major T.J. "King" Kong, you know that these characters will not be soon forgotten. Other features of the film such as the remarkably designed "war room" set, the hand-held camera techniques employed by Kubrick and the black and white cinematography of Gilbert Taylor only add to the power and impact of "Strangelove." Quite simply, the greatest American film by the greatest American director.