Adventure

Cyrano de Bergerac (1950)

4/5 (1)

“Cyrano de Bergerac” is a 1950 film adaptation of the famous play by Edmond Rostand. Directed by Michael Gordon, the film stars José Ferrer in the titular role and showcases the tragic and romantic story of Cyrano de Bergerac.

The film is set in 17th-century France and follows the life of Cyrano, a talented poet, and swordsman. Cyrano is known for his wit, intelligence, and skill with words, but he is plagued by his unusually large nose, which he believes makes him unworthy of love. Despite this, Cyrano is deeply in love with his cousin, Roxane (played by Mala Powers).

However, Roxane is infatuated with the handsome but dim-witted Christian (played by William Prince). To help Christian woo Roxane, Cyrano offers his own poetic talents, composing love letters and expressing his heartfelt emotions on Christian’s behalf. Through this act, Cyrano pours his own feelings of love into words that Christian cannot articulate.

As Cyrano continues to conceal his true identity and express his love through Christian, he becomes tangled in a web of deception, love triangles, and tragic circumstances. The story explores themes of love, honor, self-sacrifice, and the conflict between inner beauty and external appearance.

The film showcases José Ferrer’s powerful and memorable portrayal of Cyrano, capturing the character’s wit, vulnerability, and internal turmoil. Ferrer’s performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, making him the first Hispanic actor to win the prestigious award.

“Cyrano de Bergerac” is a poignant and timeless tale of unrequited love and the power of words. It remains a classic adaptation of the original play and is celebrated for its engaging performances and its exploration of themes that resonate with audiences to this day.

Directors:
Michael Gordon

Writer:
Edmond Rostand, Brian Hooker, Carl Foreman

Stars:
José Ferrer, Mala Powers, William Prince

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Cyrano de Bergerac (1950)

4/5 (1)

“Cyrano de Bergerac” is a classic play by Edmond Rostand, which has been adapted into various forms including a 1950 film directed by Michael Gordon. The movie stars Jose Ferrer as Cyrano, a brilliant poet and swordsman with a famously large nose who is in love with his beautiful cousin Roxane (Mala Powers).

Despite his talents and wit, Cyrano believes that his appearance makes him unworthy of Roxane’s love. When Roxane falls in love with a handsome but dull soldier named Christian (William Prince), Cyrano agrees to help him win her heart by writing romantic letters and poetry in Christian’s name.

Cyrano’s writing skills succeed in winning Roxane’s heart, but Christian is killed in battle before he can reveal the truth about who wrote the letters. Years later, Cyrano visits Roxane and confesses his love for her, but she only realizes the truth about his feelings for her after his death.

The film adaptation stays true to the play’s original themes of love, courage, and honor, while also showcasing Ferrer’s stunning performance as Cyrano. It received critical acclaim and was nominated for several Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Directors:
Michael Gordon

Writer:
Edmond Rostand, Brian Hooker, Carl Foreman

Stars:
José Ferrer, Mala Powers, William Prince

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Great Expectations (1946)

5/5 (1)

“Great Expectations” is a film adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic novel of the same name, directed by David Lean in 1946. The film is a coming-of-age story about Pip, a young orphan boy who is raised by his abusive sister and her blacksmith husband in rural England in the early 1800s.

One day, while visiting the graves of his parents, Pip encounters an escaped convict who demands that Pip bring him food and a file to remove his leg irons. The convict is later caught, but Pip’s kindness towards him has not gone unnoticed. Soon after, Pip is summoned to the decaying mansion of Miss Havisham, a wealthy, eccentric spinster who has been living in seclusion for many years after being jilted at the altar on her wedding day. Miss Havisham hires Pip to play with her adopted daughter, the beautiful but cold-hearted Estella, whom she is raising to break men’s hearts as revenge for her own broken heart.

Pip becomes infatuated with Estella, and his desire to become a gentleman and win her heart becomes his driving ambition. His life changes dramatically when he is unexpectedly given a large sum of money by an unknown benefactor, and he moves to London to become a gentleman. However, as he rises in society, he begins to lose touch with his humble roots and the people who cared for him.

As the years pass, Pip learns the truth about his benefactor, Miss Havisham, and Estella, and he comes to realize the mistakes he has made in his pursuit of wealth and status. He discovers that true happiness comes from love and loyalty, not money and social status, and he must learn to reconcile his past mistakes and make amends.

The film features outstanding performances by John Mills as Pip, Valerie Hobson as Estella, Martita Hunt as Miss Havisham, and Alec Guinness as Pip’s friend, Herbert Pocket. The stunning visuals, haunting score, and compelling storytelling make “Great Expectations” a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of generations of viewers.

Directors:
David Lean

Writer:
Charles Dickens, David Lean, Ronald Neame

Stars:
John Mills, Valerie Hobson, Tony Wager

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Romance on the Run (1938)

4/5 (1)

“Romance on the Run” is a 1938 American film directed by Gus Meins and starring Joan Fontaine, Douglass Montgomery, and Alan Marshal. The movie is a romantic comedy that follows a young woman who finds herself caught up in a whirlwind adventure with two men.

The film follows Joan, a secretary who is engaged to a wealthy businessman named Don. However, when she meets a charming artist named Tony, she begins to question her feelings and finds herself torn between the two men. Things become even more complicated when she accidentally picks up a valuable diamond necklace, which leads to a series of misadventures and misunderstandings.

As Joan tries to figure out her feelings and navigate her way through the chaos, she finds herself pursued by both Don and Tony, each determined to win her heart. In the end, she must choose between the stability and security of Don or the passion and excitement of Tony.

“Romance on the Run” is a lighthearted and fun romantic comedy that showcases the talents of its cast and the charm of its storyline. With its witty dialogue and clever plot twists, it is a must-see for fans of classic Hollywood romance.

Directors:
Gus Meins

Writer:
Jack Townley, Eric Taylor

Stars:
Donald Woods, Patricia Ellis, Grace Bradley

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King of the Zombies (1941)

3/5 (1)

“King of the Zombies” is a horror-comedy film directed by Jean Yarbrough and released in 1941. The movie is set during World War II and follows a group of individuals who become stranded on a remote Caribbean island.

The film’s protagonist is James McCarthy (Dick Purcell), a pilot who, along with his assistant, Bill Summers (Mantan Moreland), and his socialite passenger, Barbara Winslow (Joan Woodbury), crash-lands on the island. They are taken in by Dr. Sangre (Henry Victor), a sinister scientist who is conducting experiments on zombies in his secluded mansion.

Sangre’s assistant, a voodoo priest named Momba (John Archer), is in charge of the zombies, which he uses to do his bidding. Momba hypnotizes Bill, forcing him to do his bidding, and they set out to find a secret formula that Sangre believes will help the Axis powers win the war.

James and Barbara, meanwhile, are locked up in the mansion and try to escape. They discover that the mansion is filled with zombies, which they must fight off to get to safety.

In the end, James and Barbara manage to escape, and Sangre and Momba are killed in a final confrontation with the zombies. James and his companions make their way back to civilization, but not before experiencing several more supernatural and comedic mishaps along the way.

Overall, “King of the Zombies” is a low-budget, campy horror-comedy film that is notable for its portrayal of zombies as mindless, obedient servants rather than the flesh-eating monsters they are commonly known as today.

Directors:
Jean Yarbrough

Writer:
Edmond Kelso

Stars:
Dick Purcell, Joan Woodbury, Mantan Moreland

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Lost in the Stratosphere (1934)

3/5 (1)

“Lost in the Stratosphere” is a science-fiction film from 1934 directed by Melville W. Brown. The movie follows a group of scientists who embark on a high-altitude balloon flight in order to conduct experiments on cosmic rays. However, their mission goes awry when they get caught in a storm and end up drifting off course, eventually crash-landing on an uncharted island.

The scientists quickly discover that the island is home to a highly advanced civilization, which has been cut off from the rest of the world for centuries. The inhabitants of the island are initially wary of the newcomers, but they eventually welcome them and show them their impressive technological advancements, including a highly advanced transportation system and a ray gun that can disintegrate anything it targets.

However, the scientists soon realize that the island’s leaders are using their technology for nefarious purposes. They plan to use their ray gun to destroy the rest of the world and establish themselves as rulers. The scientists must work together to stop them and find a way to escape the island and return to civilization.

Throughout the movie, there are several exciting action sequences, including a battle between the scientists and the island’s soldiers, as well as a thrilling chase through the island’s underground tunnels. In the end, the scientists are able to stop the island’s leaders and escape back to civilization, where they are hailed as heroes for their brave actions.

Directors:
Melville W. Brown

Writer:
Tristram Tupper, Albert DeMond

Stars:
William Cagney, Edward J. Nugent, June Collyer

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The Private Life of Don Juan (1934)

4/5 (1)

“The Private Life of Don Juan” is a 1934 film directed by Alexander Korda and starring Douglas Fairbanks Sr. as the legendary lover Don Juan de Marana. The film follows Don Juan, who has grown old and tired of his playboy lifestyle, as he returns to his hometown in Spain to retire.

However, Don Juan’s reputation precedes him and he is immediately recognized by the locals. He tries to keep a low profile, but his old flame Antonia (Merle Oberon) discovers his presence and tries to rekindle their romance. Don Juan resists at first, but eventually gives in and the two begin an affair.

Meanwhile, Don Juan’s former protégé, Count de Polan (Benita Hume), who has always been jealous of Don Juan’s fame and success, plots to destroy him. Count de Polan hires a group of assassins to kill Don Juan, but the plan fails and Don Juan is able to escape.

Don Juan and Antonia decide to leave Spain together, but as they are about to depart, Count de Polan reveals their plans to the authorities and Don Juan is arrested. In the end, Don Juan is released and allowed to leave Spain, but he realizes that his days of living the life of a womanizer are over and decides to retire for good.

“The Private Life of Don Juan” is a classic romantic adventure film that showcases Douglas Fairbanks Sr.’s charm and charisma as the legendary lover. The film was praised for its beautiful cinematography and costumes, as well as its witty script and engaging storyline.

Directors:
Alexander Korda

Writer:
Henry Bataille, Frederick Lonsdale, Lajos Biró

Stars:
Douglas Fairbanks, Merle Oberon, Bruce Winston

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Angel on My Shoulder (1946)

4/5 (1)

“Angel on My Shoulder” is a classic American fantasy film released in 1946, directed by Archie Mayo and starring Paul Muni, Anne Baxter, and Claude Rains. The movie tells the story of Eddie Kagle (Paul Muni), a notorious gangster who is killed while trying to escape from the police.

After his death, Eddie is sent to Hell, where he meets Nick (Claude Rains), the Devil himself. Nick is impressed with Eddie’s cunning and offers him a deal: Eddie will be sent back to Earth, but in the body of a virtuous man named Judge Frederick Parker, who is about to die of a heart attack. Eddie agrees, hoping to use his new identity to take revenge on his former associates.

Once on Earth, Eddie discovers that Judge Parker was a beloved figure in the community, and he soon finds himself torn between his desire for revenge and his growing love for Judge Parker’s fiancee, Barbara Foster (Anne Baxter). As he struggles to come to terms with his new life, Eddie begins to question whether his deal with the Devil was worth it.

Meanwhile, Nick is keeping a close eye on Eddie, waiting for him to slip up so he can claim his soul for Hell. When Eddie finally does fall into temptation and reveals his true identity to his former associates, Nick appears to claim his soul. However, Eddie is saved at the last minute by the intervention of a mysterious stranger who turns out to be the real Judge Parker, returned from the dead.

In the end, Eddie is redeemed by his sacrifice, and he is allowed to ascend to Heaven with Judge Parker, leaving Nick to his eternal damnation. The movie concludes with Eddie looking down from Heaven, watching as Barbara mourns his passing and realizing that he has finally found true happiness and peace.

Directors:
Archie Mayo

Writer:
Harry Segall, Roland Kibbee

Stars:
Paul Muni, Anne Baxter, Claude Rains

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Clipped Wings (1936)

3/5 (1)

“Clipped Wings” is a 1936 American drama film directed by Stuart Paton and starring Lloyd Hughes, Lois Wilson, and William Henry. The film tells the story of a group of pilots who are training for the National Air Races.

Hughes plays the lead role of Tom Gray, a talented pilot who is forced to quit flying after he suffers an injury during a competition. He takes a job as an aircraft mechanic and meets a young woman named Betty (Lois Wilson), who is also a pilot. The two fall in love, but their relationship is threatened by the jealousy of another pilot, Bob (William Henry).

The film features several exciting aerial scenes, as well as a romantic subplot and some dramatic moments. The story explores themes of perseverance, love, and competition, and is notable for its portrayal of the early days of aviation.

Overall, “Clipped Wings” is a well-crafted drama with solid performances from the cast. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of early aviation and the passion and determination of those who pursued their dreams of flight.

Directors:
Stuart Paton

Writer:
Paul Willett

Stars:
Lloyd Hughes, Rosalind Keith, William Janney

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Machine Gun Mama (1944)

3/5 (1)

Machine Gun Mama is a musical comedy film released in 1944, directed by Harold Young and starring the comedic duo of Wallace Ford and Mae West. The film was produced by Universal Pictures and is notable for being one of the few films that West made outside of Paramount Pictures.

In the film, Mae West plays a singer named “Tira” who gets mixed up with a group of criminals after she falls in love with a man named “Bob” (played by Roger Pryor). Tira and Bob, along with Tira’s bodyguard “Slick” (played by Ford), travel to Central America where Tira becomes embroiled in a plot to overthrow the government.

As with many of West’s films, Machine Gun Mama was met with controversy due to its suggestive content and innuendo-laced dialogue. Despite this, the film was a moderate success at the box office and helped to solidify West’s status as one of the most popular actresses of the era.

Today, Machine Gun Mama is primarily remembered as a curiosity in the Mae West filmography, and is notable for its campy humor and over-the-top musical numbers.

Directors:
Harold Young

Writer:
Sam Neuman

Stars:
Armida, El Brendel, Wallace Ford

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Paradise Isle (1937)

3/5 (1)

“Paradise Isle” is a 1937 American romantic adventure film directed by Arthur Greville Collins and starring Movita Castaneda, Warren Hull, and Kenneth MacKenna. The film follows the story of a young woman named Luana (Movita Castaneda) who lives on a South Seas island with her father and her people. One day, a young American pilot named Jim (Warren Hull) crash-lands on the island, and Luana nurses him back to health. The two fall in love, but their relationship is complicated by the fact that Luana is promised to another man, a powerful chief named Tanoa (Kenneth MacKenna).

As Jim and Luana try to navigate their feelings for each other, they are faced with a series of challenges, including a group of pirates who have their eyes on the island’s riches, and Tanoa’s jealousy and anger. Jim must prove his worth to Luana’s people and win Tanoa’s respect if he is to have any chance of staying on the island with Luana.

The film is a classic example of Hollywood’s portrayal of the South Seas as an exotic, romantic paradise, and features a number of musical numbers and dance sequences that showcase the talents of the film’s Polynesian cast. Despite its somewhat clichéd plot and stereotypical portrayals of indigenous peoples, “Paradise Isle” remains an enjoyable and entertaining film that captures the spirit of adventure and romance that was popular in Hollywood films of the 1930s.

Directors:
Arthur Greville Collins

Writer:
Allan Vaughan Elston, Marion Orth

Stars:
Movita, Warren Hull, William B. Davidson

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The New Wizard of Oz (1914)

4/5 (2)

“The New Wizard of Oz” is a silent fantasy film released in 1914 and directed by L. Frank Baum, the author of the original “Wizard of Oz” book. It is based on the second book in Baum’s Oz series, “The Marvelous Land of Oz”.

The film follows the adventures of a young boy named Tip (Violet MacMillan) who runs away from his cruel guardian, the wicked witch Mombi (Mai Wells). Along with his friends Jack Pumpkinhead (Charles Murray) and the Sawhorse (Fred Woodward), Tip sets out to find the Emerald City and seek the help of the great Wizard of Oz (J. Charles Haydon) to defeat Mombi and save the Land of Oz.

However, when they finally reach the Emerald City, they discover that the Wizard is not what he seems and that Mombi has her own plans to take control of Oz.

“The New Wizard of Oz” was one of the earliest adaptations of Baum’s Oz series and helped to establish the popularity of the franchise. The film features impressive special effects for its time, including stop-motion animation and hand-drawn animation, as well as colorful costumes and sets.

Overall, “The New Wizard of Oz” is a charming and imaginative film that captures the spirit of Baum’s original stories. While it may seem dated by modern standards, it remains an important piece of early cinema history and a beloved classic among fans of the Oz series.

Directors:
J. Farrell MacDonald

Writer:
L. Frank Baum

Stars:
Violet Mac, MillanFrank Moore, Pierre Couderc

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Mr. Reckless (1948)

3/5 (1)

“Mr. Reckless” is a 1948 film noir directed by Frank McDonald and starring William Eythe, Barbara Britton, and Walter Catlett.

The story follows a young man named Johnny McEvoy (Eythe), who works as a salesman for a jewelry company. One day, he meets a beautiful woman named Linda Vickers (Britton) on a train, and they fall in love. However, Linda is married to a wealthy businessman named Phil Vickers (Richard Gaines), who is abusive and controlling.

Johnny and Linda begin an affair, but their happiness is short-lived when Phil discovers their relationship. Phil sets out to destroy Johnny’s life, first by getting him fired from his job, then by framing him for embezzlement. Johnny is sent to prison, and Linda is forced to testify against him.

However, Johnny’s cellmate, a wise old con named Pop Reilly (Catlett), teaches him some important lessons about life and survival. With Pop’s help, Johnny manages to escape from prison and sets out to clear his name and prove his innocence.

The film builds to a tense and dramatic climax as Johnny confronts Phil and exposes his schemes. In the end, justice is served, and Johnny and Linda are free to be together.

“Mr. Reckless” is a gripping film noir that explores themes of love, betrayal, and redemption. It features strong performances from the lead actors and a well-crafted script that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.

Directors:
Frank McDonald

Writer:
Maxwell Shane, Milton Raison

Stars:
William Eythe, Barbara Britton, Walter Catlett

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International Crime (1938)

3/5 (1)

“International Crime” is a 1938 American crime drama film directed by Charles Lamont and starring Rod La Rocque, Astrid Allwyn, and Thomas E. Jackson. The film tells the story of a detective who must infiltrate a criminal organization to bring down their leader and stop their illegal activities.

The film opens with the murder of a wealthy businessman, which is believed to be the work of an international criminal organization led by a mysterious figure known only as “The Voice.” Detective Jack Murphy (La Rocque) is assigned to investigate the case, but he is met with resistance from his superiors who believe that the case is too big for him to handle.

Undeterred, Murphy decides to go undercover to infiltrate the criminal organization and gather evidence against The Voice. He enlists the help of a female reporter, Kay Wallace (Allwyn), who is eager to get a story on the criminal organization. Together, they start to unravel the web of corruption and crime that is plaguing the city.

As Murphy gets closer to The Voice, he discovers that the criminal organization has a far-reaching network that spans across the globe. He also learns that The Voice is planning a major heist that could threaten national security. With time running out, Murphy must race against the clock to stop The Voice and his organization before it’s too late.

Overall, “International Crime” is a thrilling crime drama that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. The film features a strong performance by La Rocque as the determined detective and Allwyn as the fearless reporter. The story is well-crafted and keeps the viewer guessing until the very end.

Directors:
Charles Lamont

Writer:
Theodore A. Tinsley, Jack Natteford, John W. Krafft

Stars:
Rod La Rocque, Astrid Allwyn, Thomas E. Jackson

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Windjammer (1937)

3/5 (1)

“Windjammer” is a 1937 American drama film directed by Edward Sloman and starring George O’Brien and Constance Worth. The story follows Captain Willoby (O’Brien), a tough and experienced sailor who takes command of a windjammer ship and faces numerous challenges as he tries to complete a dangerous voyage.

The film opens with Captain Willoby being assigned to take command of the windjammer ship, “Mary Ann,” which is scheduled to sail from San Francisco to Australia. He meets with the owner of the ship, Mr. Thorpe, and his daughter, Barbara (Worth), who is also on board. Willoby is immediately attracted to Barbara, but she is engaged to another man, a wealthy businessman named Stephen Wayne.

As the ship sets sail, Willoby faces a mutiny attempt by some of the crew members who are unhappy with his leadership. He manages to put down the mutiny and gain the respect of the crew. However, his problems are far from over. The ship encounters a fierce storm, and Willoby must use all his skills and experience to keep the ship afloat. Along the way, he and Barbara grow closer, and she begins to question her engagement to Wayne.

As the ship approaches Australia, Wayne appears on board and demands that Barbara return with him. Willoby intervenes and fights Wayne, eventually throwing him overboard. The ship finally reaches its destination, and Willoby and Barbara profess their love for each other.

Overall, “Windjammer” is an exciting and dramatic film that showcases the dangers and challenges of life at sea, as well as the strength and courage of those who sail on the high seas.

Directors:
Ewing Scott

Writer:
Daniel Jarrett, James Gruen, Roul Haig

Stars:
George O’Brien, Constance Worth, William Hall

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