CRITERION - Kevin Bacon's Closet Picks
Kevin Bacon visits the Criterion Closet and selects several films, each with a personal connection or interest. He starts with 'Seven Samurai' by Akira Kurosawa, admitting he hasn't seen it despite its acclaim among cinema lovers. He then picks 'The Blob,' sharing a personal anecdote about its annual screening in Phoenixville, PA, where the film was shot. Bacon highlights 'Do the Right Thing' for its stellar performances and connection to actors he's worked with. He discusses 'Gimme Shelter,' a documentary on the Rolling Stones, noting its chilling portrayal of the darker side of fandom and its reflection on cultural shifts from the 60s to the 70s. Bacon also mentions 'Sullivan's Travels' by Preston Sturges, appreciating its humorous take on the film industry. He reflects on 'The Fugitive Kind,' the first Marlon Brando film he saw, praising Brando's naturalistic acting style. Finally, he randomly selects 'Jules and Jim,' sharing a light-hearted story about naming animals after the film's characters.
Key Points:
- Kevin Bacon selects 'Seven Samurai' to watch, acknowledging its critical acclaim.
- 'The Blob' is celebrated annually in Phoenixville, PA, where it was filmed.
- 'Do the Right Thing' is praised for its performances and connection to Bacon's career.
- 'Gimme Shelter' is noted for its depiction of the darker side of the 60s music scene.
- Bacon appreciates 'Sullivan's Travels' for its comedic take on the film industry.
Details:
1. 🎬 Kevin Bacon in the Criterion Closet
1.1. Arrival and Introduction
1.2. Exploration and Selections
1.3. Reflections and Insights
2. 🎥 Discovering 'Seven Samurai'
- The speaker has not seen 'Seven Samurai' by Akira Kurosawa, a film widely regarded by cinema enthusiasts.
- The intention to prioritize watching 'Seven Samurai' indicates its recognized importance in film history.
- Acknowledgment of the film's reputation suggests it is a must-watch for anyone who considers themselves a cinema lover.
3. đź‘˝ 'The Blob' and Local Traditions
- The Colonial Theatre in Phoenixville, PA hosts an annual screening of 'The Blob', a film originally shot in the theater.
- During the screening, attendees participate in an interactive experience by running out onto the streets when the Blob enters the theater scene in the movie.
- This event attracts fans of the movie and adds a unique cultural tradition to the town, enhancing local engagement and tourism.
- Phoenixville has capitalized on the film's legacy to create a distinctive local festival that celebrates its cinematic history.
4. 🎠Celebrating 'Do the Right Thing'
- 'Do the Right Thing' is celebrated for its outstanding performances by a cast including Spike Lee, John Turturro, Dan Aiello, and Giancarlo Esposito, each bringing a unique depth to the film's narrative.
- The film's innovative storytelling and solidly New York cast underscore its cultural and historical impact, positioning it as a seminal work in cinema.
- Personal admiration and professional connections with several cast members highlight the film's lasting influence and the strength of its ensemble performance.
- The film is noted for its powerful scenes and character dynamics, which continue to resonate with audiences and critics alike.
5. 🎸 'Gimme Shelter' and Rock History
- 'Gimme Shelter' is a chilling and insightful documentary that explores the darker side of crowds, fandom, and rock and roll, capturing the chaotic events at the Altamont Free Concert.
- The film marks a critical transition from the idealistic '60s to the more tumultuous '70s, highlighting the end of the peace and love era.
- The documentary provides a raw and unfiltered view of the tragic events, including the stabbing death of a fan, making it a pivotal moment in rock history.
- 'Gimme Shelter' offers a profound commentary on the cultural and social shifts of the era, serving as a cautionary tale about the potential dangers of unchecked fandom and mass gatherings.
- The film's impact was significant, prompting discussions about the responsibility of artists and organizers in ensuring concert safety.
6. 🎞️ Exploring Classic Films and Directors
- The speaker's interest in films began with 1970s classics such as 'The Godfather', 'Dog Day Afternoon', 'Panic in Needle Park', and 'The French Connection'. These films captivated them due to their groundbreaking storytelling and cinematic techniques.
- Their appreciation for older films developed later in their 20s, particularly through the works of director Preston Sturges, whose innovative narratives and comedic style offered a fresh perspective on filmmaking.
- Preston Sturges is noted as an interesting director, whose films often provide a humorous and critical perspective on the film industry. His unique approach made his work especially appealing to the speaker as they explored older films.
- The film 'Sullivan's Travels' by Preston Sturges is highlighted for its comedic and insightful take on the movie business, with Joel McCrea playing a director exploring filmmaking through a cross-country journey, further deepening the speaker's appreciation for the art form.
7. 🎠'The Fugitive Kind' and Brando's Influence
- The film 'The Fugitive Kind,' directed by Sidney Lumet, is based on Tennessee Williams's play 'Orpheus Descending.' It was renamed from 'Orpheus Descending' to 'The Fugitive Kind' to appeal to a broader audience, avoiding the perception of being too highbrow.
- This film marked the speaker's first encounter with Marlon Brando's work, preceding iconic performances in 'On the Waterfront' and 'Streetcar Named Desire.' Brando's acting in 'The Fugitive Kind' is noted for its super naturalistic, edgy, and dangerous style, exemplifying his mastery and influence on method acting.
- Brando's portrayal in the film is further emphasized by his iconic appearance in a snakeskin jacket, a symbol of his character's rebellious and enigmatic nature.
- While 'The Fugitive Kind' might not have achieved the same legendary status as Brando's other films, it remains significant for its contribution to the evolution of naturalistic acting styles and Brando's impact on the craft.
8. 🎲 Random Pick: 'Jules and Jim'
- The speaker randomly selected 'Jules and Jim' as a topic by closing their eyes and picking.
- The speaker humorously notes that two animals frequenting their house every summer have been named Jules and Jim.
- 'Jules and Jim' is a classic French New Wave film directed by François Truffaut, exploring themes of friendship and love.