aciolino Reviews

White Noise (II) (2020)

Insultingly transparent misinformation trying to pass as a "documentary"

[1/10 · 13 July 2022]

Literally. If one watches paint dry with the expectations that something important, informative, or enlightening will occur... well guess what?

"White Noise" is actually worse. This "documentary" (which, by and standards, is NOT) not only lacks those qualities but delivers completely unsubstantiated misinformation, sprinkled with highly charged emotional left-wing rhetoric and outright lies. They adore the term "alt right" though never define it other than implying that it is another term for Nazism. In fact, any Conservative, Traditionalist, or anyone holding even moderate right of center views is thrown in the "Nazi" mess.

Disgraceful, bigoted, and dangerous. Watch only to learn how devious those at the Atlantic can be.

Aquaman (2018)

An important film. . .

[1/10 · 26 March 2022]

This will someday (probably thousands of years from now) be a new civilization whose historians will attempt to chronicle the collapse of OUR civilization. There are so many things to point to but if they come upon "Aquaman" in some archaeological dig they will have no doubt about the speed and rapid descent into oblivion that overtook this once great and thriving culture.

Essentially, this movie contains all the elements of the worst our culture can produce: gratuitous violence, vapid dialogue that could have been written by a second grader, lots of noise (we must distract you from thinking) all wrapped up in a nightmarishly devolved cartoon atmosphere.

This Is My Life (1992)

SWEET AND CHARMING WITH WINNING PERFORMANCES ALL AROUND.

[8/10 · 19 August 2019]

With a staunch history of detesting "chick flicks," I as SO prepared to dislike this film, but then I found myself drawn in with a giant smile on my face, not because it is especially funny, but for the disarming ad utterly charming performances of the two youthful leads Samantha Mathis and Gaby Hoffman. Certainly, the situation is a well-worn one that I need not relate here, but it's execution is uniquely underplayed, giving the characters and film a believably real tone and feeling. You'll find yourself, as did I, falling hopelessly in love with the girls, wanting to hug and protect them, and making sure it all turns out okay for them.

If you have the opportunity, to not deny yourself the pleasurable experience this film provides.

Never Say Goodbye (1946)

Highly entertaining, despite the silliness; Surprisingly well worth a look!

[8/10 · 22 December 2018]

A dirty word today, we forget that for many years movies simply functioned to entertain audiences, not impress or instruct them. Here, thanks to a fairly good and script (and a real surprise) we are entertained. Flynn deserves applause for this comedic turn, so unlike his usual character roles, and he is deftly comedic. He is always a pleasure to look at and is believable all the time. The rest of the cast aids ably. Eleanor Parker is gorgeous and quite a physical comedienne in her own right, although there really isn't enough for her to do. Forrest Tucker proves a delightful foil, (then hero) to Flynn's frustrated separated husband. He dances a hilarious Rhumba, and matches Flynn's banter note for note, rendering some highly amusing moments. But this is Flynn's film and he carries it. Very well. Bravo, Mr. Flynn. Sad that he wasn't given more farce to do at this point in his career. "Never Say Good-bye" proves him more than capable. ENJOY!

Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed (2008)

YES, 8 -- JUST FOR CHALLENGING THE ORTHODOXY

[9/10 · 22 December 2017]

Yes, there are problems here. The piece is, on the whole, choppy and lacking in depth except for the achingly small amount of time devoted to David Berlinsky.

But the truth of the film, is, ironically, proven here on IMDB by the number of venomous and hateful reviews, written, no doubt by those suffering from the fear of the collapse of an illusion, or cognitive dissonance. It is not news that one cannot question the "scientific" orthodoxy in this country. Darwin is elevated to Sainthood, infallible, as is his theory, which, even a cursory knowledge of shows lots of flaws. But no, we cannot speak that and anyone who does is obviously either a religious nut, or just stupid. (The appearance of Berlinsky shows this to be wrong).

See "Expelled,"with an open mind, and remember Aristotle's dictum that "It is the mark of an educated mind that can entertain an idea without accepting it."

For that experience alone this film is worth seeing.

Places in the Heart (1984)

Surprisingly manipulative, but extremely well acted

[5/10 · 25 June 2017]

Monster storms, the scourge of the KKK, infidelity, tragic death, and redemption. Who isn't frightened of monster storms? Who doesn't feel rage at the injustice of blind hatred in the form of the KKK? Who fails to feel for a wife whose husband has cheated on her? Or a wife whose husband has died tragically young?

And who, seeing all this, isn't uplifted by the redemption of the transgressors (except the Klansmen, I suppose) and the almost literal resurrection of the dead? Or the cleansing of sin through love and forgiveness(faith)? Who would not weep?

Unfortunately I was too aware of the easy manipulations taking place on the screen to be really moved, feeling the author's heavy and not so subtle hand at work, grabbing at my emotional heartstrings. Maybe I'm being too cynical, but that's how I experienced it. I could hear the scriptwriter, (Benton) saying, "Okay, NOW, we're gonna get you with a big storm -- look! How scary!" "Oh, and now, the Klan makes and appearance, and you will foam with rage!" Ah, no. Too transparent.

Yes, Mrs. Spaulding overcame an inordinate number of obstacles to show the world that the human spirit is indomitable. Yeah. Don't care.

The acting was good.

Lili (1953)

Hauntingly charming; multi-layered film; Unlike any other film;

[10/10 · 15 February 2017]

I see that several reviewers have used the word, "Haunting," in describing this film, as did I. If you allow yourself, "Lili" will speak to you on many, many levels, several you won't recognize right away, and this makes it haunting. There's always something "else" going on that's just beneath the surface. This makes for very rich and profound entertainment. A fairy tale? Perhaps, that too. Consider the topics touched on: alcoholism, rape, infidelity, suicide... this is serious entertainment, couched in sweetness and light.

Visually, Lili is a fascinating film to watch. The color, although vivid, is not the overwhelming and oppressive color of an MGM 40's musical which only interferes with the talent. Here the viewer feels as if they are reading an old children's book filled with lovely illustrations.

There is multi-layered meaning one would not expect in such a "light" story. But it is intelligent, has depth and is profound, not the least reason is the presence and use of puppets. SPOILERS ALERT! This is done beautifully, as they represent, not only the puppeteers' inner life but the mystical quality of the puppets themselves. The dance between Caron and the puppets "come to life" near the end is magical and moving for precisely these reasons.

All the actors are perfectly cast.

Do not hesitate to let yourself really enjoy this film fully, completely and deeply. Let your imagination fly. It will be worth it and you'll be surprised what you come up with and don't be surprised if you shed a tear when it's over.

And that song!

Bravo!

These Wilder Years (1956)

Highly Recommended

[7/10 · 31 May 2016]

For fans of Cagney, who would appreciate his pure acting skills when given a realistic character and dialogue. Actually, the film as a whole is well written, very well written, and very well acted by the entire cast.

Cagney shows us his maturity and his commitment to the part by playing it rather close to the vest. You will be moved by him at certain moments.

The story is not nearly the "soap" fest it seems to be thought of here, nor is it the kind of vapid, clichéd silliness of your basic Douglas Sirk fantasy. It's realism prevents that from happening.

Try it. You'll be very pleasantly surprised and will have seen Cagney in a part you rarely get to see. Actually it is a bit of a treasure.

Crossing Delancey (1988)

Poignant and profound; well worth catching

[9/10 · 4 December 2015]

How disappointing that no one, not any of the "user reviewers" or any of the "professionals" in the External Reviews really understood, or "got" this film (and most likely the play itself). Lucky reader, I am here to clue you in.

This is NOT a cute trifle, a simple evening's entertainment about the old v. the new, uptown vs. downtown, the lure of glamour v. tradition. No it is much more subtle than that though, sadly, it is hardly PLAYED that way. It's métier is the passage of time, the rhythms and continuity of life, of life and death and the struggle to discover one's identity in an ever challenging world.

To defend my posit, I direct you to the last line of the film: "Okay, it's time to put the Bubbie to bed." Are there sadder, wiser, more poignant last lines in any film? No, it's not that Bubbie is simply tired and wants to go to sleep. Consider what has transpired. What was here single motivation for during the film? To see her Grand- daughter married well. We know that Izzy's parents are not available to her, and we know how much Bubbie loves her. See all the pictures on her wall? Having lived a good, full life, there is but one task left for her: to see Izzy married. This she does, and so may be "put to bed," that is, pass on. . . and let the new generation have their time. It is an old and sacred tradition. It is a profound one. Again, sadly, the film takes it lightly and should have been played differently. "Crossing Delancey," is not just a physical act. . .it is a spiritual one, Delancey indicating the River Jordan, or any border between what was and what is inevitable. Izzy choosing Sam is not just an "Oh, I guess I really like you," choice, it represents a profound metamorphoses in Izzy, an evolution in her being, and in ours. When you watch this film, this on these things and when Bubbie asks to be put to bed, see if you don't feel a tear in your eye, as we actually watch the end of one generation, who has finally given way to the next.

A word about the music. The soundtrack of any film is of critical importance and this film is no exception. Largely, it is the music of the wonderful Roches, which lends an air of light hip-ness to the proceedings. One problem. . .Izzy starts out to visit her Bubbie. We see her crossing Central Park West and heading for the subway, and we hear a catchy, throbbing number by the Roches --- very appropriate. Cut to her exiting the subway on the Lower East Side. We need different music here--this is a different world. I'm not saying Klezmer, but something. Bad choice. Similarly, after Bubbie's last line, we go right into another hip Roches number, which is very lovely, and is perfect for "Roll credits," but--- but --- a moment or two to allow what Bubbie has said to be fully appreciated? Like she would have said, "What would it hurt?"

The Bachelor and the Bobby-Soxer (1947)

Delightfully entertaining, frothy fun farce

[8/10 · 16 February 2015]

Key word: ENTERTAINING, a dirty word by today's standards where we are to be overwhelmed and impressed instead. Here, the script, the pacing, and wonderful comedic acting (another fossil of the past) all work together to produce a movie that keeps your attention and keeps you smiling.

Sure, it is absurd. What farce isn't? What judge would allow a known troublemaker to date her younger sister? No, make that blackmail him into dating her? Sounds more like the plot to a film noir classic. But no. We look past it to allow for the fun. And the fun is plentiful.

I heartily recommend this film to those who can let go and enjoy.

Meet Joe Black (1998)

Tedium defined

[1/10 · 18 January 2015]

Meandering, pointless dialogue, stretched out and padded with verbose trivialities, long,long pauses within the dialogue, and pacing so slow it can make you itch, all blended together. In this film to create the experience of excruciating boredom. It is obvious that the director did not have much faith in the script or hr would not have had to resort to these kinds of tricks of the theater. Either way he took something bad and made it worse. Much worse. A much quicker pace and scissors to the script would have been very helpful.

I would discuss the acting but what's the point? You really do not need to see this film, unless you suffer from insomnia. Stick with the brilliant original, "Death Takes A Holiday," a classic, with Freddy March.

Lincoln (2012)

Vile, insipid, propaganda; Gives revisionists a bad name

[27 December 2013]

Okay, you LOVE, Lincoln. The person, not the movie. Why? You think he "freed the slaves." You think he gave his life for the abolition of slavery, and was a champion of the equal rights of blacks, and the defender of the Constitution?

Well, then, yes, you'll love this movie just like you loved, "The Wizard of Oz." Reality doesn't make an appearance.

Lincoln in his own words:

"I am in favor of the race to which I belong having the superior position."

"I will say then that I am not, nor ever have been, in favor of bringing about in any way the social and political equality of the white and black races. . ."

Further, Lincoln clearly and openly denied the equality of the races and was of the opinion that the "solution" to slavery was to deport all blacks back to Africa.

Lincoln ordered his military to close down opposition newspapers in the NORTH, and to arrest their editors and publishers. Same with judges. Lincoln ordered the genocide that Sherman rendered upon the South. So much for the Constitution, and 50,000 CIVILIAN deaths ensued. Look it up.

He freed the slaves? Nonsense. Emancipation could have been achieved as it had throughout the world through peaceful means. Lincoln needed the war (Emancipation was, in his own words, a military tactic) in order to decimate the South and prevent any future thought of secession. It was done as it only could have been done, not by Presidential order but by a Constitutional amendment. Besides, the way it was worded, the E.P. actually freed NO ONE.

So, if you liked Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, or, The Hobbit, you'll LOVE Spielberg's Lincoln. After all, it was based on the book by Doris Kearns Goodwin.

Star Trek: Voyager: Muse (2000) Season 6, Episode 22

Remarkable Script that no one seems to "get."

[9/10 · 30 June 2012]

Here is the finest script in the Voyager literature, perhaps in the top 10 of all S.T. scripts. It is about Star Trek, itself, its inception and purpose and Roddenberry's vision for the show.

For those who may not know Star Trek came along when the US was becoming more and more heavily involved in Viet Nam. Roddenberry believed, as did others that great art, theater, etc, when done thoughtfully and meaningfully would emancipate the human race from all it's faults, that faults that bring humans to the brink of war. So much of the original series was about that very point, and here we have it played out beautifully, with B'lanna the ersatz Roddenberry and the play she and the playwright virtually improvise a plea for clear headed thinking that would lead to a peaceful resolution of a military conflict. It's all there.

Please note the beauty of the final image. It doesn't get better than that on television. Well done.

It Happened in Brooklyn (1947)

One that gets better with age, like Durante!

[8/10 · 27 June 2012]

Viewed this again recently for the ump-teenth time, and found it more entertaining than ever. We are so bombarded by the "relevant," and, "realistic," in films and TV today that "mere" entertainment has been lost, a forgotten craft, almost to be held in contempt.

Sadly the lessons of J.L. Sullivan have to be learned over and over again, and so, with "It Happened In Brooklyn," I was reminded of what made entertainment entertaining. Great songs, funny little bits, charming scenes and characters, and most of all, nothing serious. Except fun.

Wonderfully tuneful the soundtrack provides a diverse score of popular and classical numbers all, perfectly appropriate to the action and, in the case of Sinatra and Grayson's rendering of Mozart, "La Ci Darem La Mano," a wonderful curiosity not to be missed! Sinatra's delivery of the duet is one way to successfully portray the character: a non-threatening seduction, beginning innocently with, "Give me your hand," or, as the Beatles would say years later, "I wanna hold your hand," and it works very well. Sinatra's easy manner, letting the melodies flow out of him as though he were speaking them, is charming. Grayson's voice is grating at times, but her presence is so sweet and delectable that we forgive it.

There is also a delightful setting of a Bach Invention for Grayson and her music students, that is true to the original text and quite lovely. Grayson also has a chance to shine in the "Bell Aria," from Delibes, "Lakme." She impresses, though not overwhelmingly. For the part in this movie, it's perfect. And it's ENTERTAINING.

The highlight musical number is Durante/Sinatra's, "The Song's Gotta Come From Da Heart!" -- a perfect vehicle for Durante's antics, which remain awfully funny. What a pro! The likes we have none of today.

Sinatra's "Brooklyn Bridge," "love song," is another priceless moment, filmed on location ON the Brooklyn Bridge.

Peter Lawford is appropriately stuffy and does not interfere with the fun.

All in all it is not Sinatra's film, or Grayson's or Durante, who comes closest to "stealing" it. It is ours. For it is we who find ourselves pleased and satisfied by the light airiness of the joy of "movies." Bravo!

Biography (1987– )

Up and Down Short Biography Series

[5/10 · 27 May 2011]

Ultimately disappointing series with some very good highlights, one specifically would be the two-part episode devoted to Hugh Hefner. One would think, "Hugh Hefner. . . who cares?" But it turned out to be fascinating, insightful, and as much about a time in America as Mr. Hefner. Well done.

However, missing from the pantheon of notables who have had a Bio devoted to them is Al Jolson. Here we have, arguably, the greatest stage performer in the history of Broadway, a star of the highest magnitude whose life story is still compelling. Yet the good people of Biography did not think him worthy of an episode? Badly done.

Rain (1932)

Powerful imagery will burn into your memory; a genuine masterpiece

[9/10 · 28 March 2011]

Even now, days later, the image of Crawford's face and she descends into prayer is so striking in my memory that I can feel her remarkable metamorphoses. The combination of acting, direction, and lighting, and whatever else goes into a creating an unforgettable moment in film, is rare. And the film is filled with such moments.

Crawford was never better, and not better since. But beside the acting, Huston is superb, does not miss a note, the film itself, despite its location and combination of characters is disturbingly real. Part of that is the use of incessant sounds of rainfall. Eerie. Portentous. So the atmosphere of the film is always charged, charged with the characters presence, with the rain, or the dark/light contrasts or with all of them. All to exceedingly grand and powerful effect.

And what a great last line!

Shadow of the Vampire (2000)

Brilliant, "must-see" film for the thinking person

[10/10 · 18 January 2011]

Pity the poor folks here who missed the point. That is, several points.

Above all, the statement on film-making and acting: how seriously can a director take his craft, and actor take his acting to where it becomes criminal, even evil? But there is so much here. Willam Dafoe is brilliant. His entrance may be the greatest screen entrances of all time. Wow. But his mimicry of the Max Schrch, his consistently inhuman presence up until the very end is frightening at the same time as it is (in light of the "method" actor) constantly amusing.

Malkovich is also brilliant as the equally insane Murnau. The final line: "I think we got it," says it all, all about his character, and the industry.

Brilliant.

Thank you!

It Happened One Night (1934)

You see how easy it is to make a perfect film?

[10/10 · 18 January 2011]

Have a single artist in charge. Capra, from top to bottom shines through this little fairy tale. Of course, he had to be lucky enough to land Gable and Colbert. Well, luck is the residue of perspiration, or something like that. . .

IHON is NOT the first "screwball" comedy. It is not a light, fluffy piece of "Capra-corn." Nor is it a fairy tale.

This unique and remarkable film stands alone like a Colossus astride converging worlds of film-making, unable to be categorized, refusing to fit into a formula.

It is filled with reality: the scourge of the depression is never far away, the charm of ordinary people, in ordinary situations, making them far from ordinary. The ugliness of people, so easily drawn to crime of one kind or another, and the human spirit, resilient, flawed, stubborn, immature at times, and confused, lifting itself about all.

**Spoiler** An excellent example of this (there are a multitude) is the singing of "The Man on The Flying Trapeze". A spontaneous celebration of humans sharing a common experience and musical language (long lost, tragically, today) which elevates them (if just for a moment) above the difficulties of their lives. How beautiful. Then, we are shocked back to a different reality with the passing out of the child's mother. This is quite disturbing and not the usual fodder of the so-called "screwball" comedy. No, it approaches the works of Chayefsky or Wilder, or rather, they approach this films juxtaposition of the tragic and the comic.

As far as the performances, look--Gable is perfect. It is impossible to take one's eyes off him for a moment and I say this as a confirm heterosexual. Gable is MAN, child, Sage, and fool, wrapped up in Peter Warne, a complete and fully realized human character. Bringing him to life, Gable is brilliant. It may be the greatest (forgive me, Jack Lemmon) single comedic acting performance ever made. Gable. No wonder they called him, "The King." Colbert is as well, as perfect, not a missed moment or note. She glides through the role as an ice skater warming up before an event, free and unencumbered, angry, vulnerable, phony, pure and wise. All can be seen in her visage and tone. What a performance.

Roscoe Karns. Need I say more? I hope not. Perfect.

Please note the absence of a soundtrack. None is necessary as the film provides its own, in its counterpoint of people of a multitude of melodic styles, faces, colors, attitudes (OH, yeah?!?!?), in its flight from fear to laughter, in its harmony of all these playing simultaneously. Who needs a soundtrack.

Beautiful.

Perfect.

Al Jolson Entertaining American Troops (2009)

A touching, intelligent, and long overdue film

[10/10 · 9 March 2010]

Lost amidst the silliness of Jolson's use of "blackface" and the oft mis-told story (and stories) of his life, is the ever pervasive theme of Jolson's commitment to American Servicemen. No other entertainer, even Bob Hope, was so dedicated and tireless in his efforts to bring a little ray of sunshine to the troops, particularly those overseas.

And no other performer paid so high a price, enough to prompt President Truman to declare Jolson a "casualty of war."

This is an important story to remember, to contemplate, and most of all,to know. If you are failed to be moved, fail to find a tear on your cheek, you weren't really listening.

I thank the producers of this touching, beautifully made film for such an intelligent, thoughtful and valuable effort.

Joseph Ciolino New School University NYC

Dreamchild (1985)

Brilliant, touching, poignant, and very, very thought provoking

[9/10 · 21 November 2009]

Thanks largely to the touching performances of Coral Browne and Ian Holm this little film breaks through the border of simple story-telling to reach the heights of the profound.

It will be missed by many viewers. But as you watch this film, pay special attention to the feelings and thoughts that are provoked within you at certain key moments, for example, at the scene of the picnic the lake or any of Alice's recollections. Your reactions should be complex, maybe conflicted, and at the conclusion of the film, you may be completely satisfied but not know why. But your heart will know.

The subtle messages and meanings of this simple story cannot fail to move you, if you remain open to them. Do not be distracted by lack of drama or a mundane script. They are mere incidentals. The "truth" is there, and will astonish you.

Enjoy.

Thirtysomething (1987–1991)

Don't thank me, just pass it forward

[1/10 · 19 September 2009]

What you're thanking me for is saving you from the humiliation, revulsion and possible projectile vomiting that will ensue upon watching this offensive, dreadful series.

"Be afraid... be very afraid..." A famous movie line which serves as apt advice for anyone foolish enough to consider viewing "ThirtySomething." Why such harsh words, you may ask? Answer: The "show" (for want of a better word) is a collection of glimpses into lives of people you will either hate or (hopefully) not care the least bit about; it is self-absorbed, pretentious in the extreme; it is childishly melodramatic. It is lacking in even an iota of cleverness, intelligence, or artfulness; it is offensive, really, in what it pretends to be, but never delivers. Worse than being an accurate portrayal of life among useless yuppies, it is a BORING portrayal of life among useless, narcissistic yuppies.

So, if you like your TV humorless, your drama vapid, and your characters hateful but bland, then by all means, run out and purchase the DVD (but don't pay more than eleven cents for it) right away. Otherwise, heed my warning: there's nothing to fear but this awful series.

Peace, love, and flowers.

Household Saints (1993)

Shocked that there are only two (2) reviews of this film here...

[9/10 · 4 August 2009]

Tempted to ascribe this to the films lack of distribution around the country but I'm not sure.

Even so, stars like Ullman and Taylor, who both have cult like followings should have brought greater interest which should be reflected here.

Nevertheless, this is a thoughtful, odd, unpredictable, and quite profound film. You may be bored at times, or disgusted at others, or dismissive even more. But it all works as a whole. Much of this success is owed to the extraordinary cast, really top flight.

I don't know if this is the film that really launched Lily Taylor to the wider audiences but it certainly worked for me. I have yet to see a finer screen performance by an Amercian actress that what Ms. Taylor gives us here.

Well worth seeing.

A Song to Remember (1945)

Song to Remember---Film to forget

[4/10 · 18 May 2009]

And I give it a "FOUR" ONLY for the music.

Yes, the music's great and the costumes are beautiful, and Muni is Muni and Oberon is Oberon... please.

The script appears to have been written by a Junior High School class of drama students who have just read a pamphlet about the life of Chopin. Why, oh, why, can't producers understand that the real story of most composers and artists are far more compelling than the dreck (like this) that they normally produce?

The meeting of Chopin and Liszt is so bad it is embarrassing. The dynamics of the relationship between Sand and Chopin is superficial, not fleshed out at all, and without the least element of romance. How is this possible? They've taken a fascinating life and turned it into the truly banal.

Were it not for the music, and that's a lot, this would be one of the all-time bombs of Hollywood and I'm not sure that it isn't anyway.

Do yourself a favor and buy a good CD of Chopin's music and listen and enjoy the magic and genius of the greatest composer of piano music.

You don't need this film for that.

Cast Away (2000)

Difficult to imagine the mentality that thinks this is "JUST GREAT!"

[2/10 · 15 May 2009]

I am forced to believe that a film as bad as this says more about how unsophisticated American film audiences have become. How this manipulative, vapid, empty, poorly written, pointless piece of dreck of a film could even be made is beyond me. And it IS all those things.

Hanks does his usual superficial acting that audiences seem to suck up like professional wrestling. They do not see the emptiness of his performance, the lack of soul, or spirit, and how manipulative it is, or attempts to be. Example: people (uh, women) were actually in tears when "Wilson," started to drift away. Am I crazy or was that a ball with a face painted on it? A good script would have had Hank's character speak lines that poetically spoke to his 1) encroaching madness 2) his loneliness 3) fear 4) anger etc, etc... what did we get? Grunts and groans, mostly, because, I suspect, these writers or the director knew not to trust Hanks (basically an awful actor) with lines of any meaning.

Look, just stay away from this insult to film making, art, and all of us.

Robin and the 7 Hoods (1964)

Should have been MUCH better... but still extremely entertaining

[7/10 · 14 May 2009]

When you combine talent such as Crosby, Davis, Sinatra and Martin, plus the great songs of Kahn and Van Heusen... but what's to complain about? This is enough for an evening's treat! Add to that the wonderful (should have been better, but still wonderful) "Mr. Booze" number, the fabulous Peter Falk (much under-rated in this role) and Bang! you've got memorable stuff, such as, in no particular order: Sammy's "Bang! Bang!" not only allows us to see/hear all of Sammy's performing skills, but is a very clever "gangster number." (If they ever make "The Godfather" into a musical, I hope they include this!) Then, there is the tongue-in-cheek "Style," employing the three biggest stars in show business at the time, two of them veritable legends; thirdly, the aforementioned, "Mr. Booze," is a brilliant piece of musical/theatrical chicanery.

Catch it, and keep an open mind. This ain't Shakespeare.