Movies
This could've been a lot more fun if it hadn't felt like it lasted about 80 days to finish this film. It's essentially a very simple adventure flick, based on the famous Jules Verne novel. With some trimming down this could've been just that, but at almost three hours long, there's just way too much cruft. The plot isn't any more complex than the film's title suggests. A wealthy adventurer makes a bet with some fellow club members that he can travel around the world in 80 days, using his ultramodern airship. With his trusted companion, he prepares his journey and off they go. The film certainly looks the part and the various places they visit are fun enough, but all it that could've been done within a span of 90 minutes. The extra runtime is wasted on pointless dialogue and excess footage that should've remained on the editing floor. Not the worst classic though.Read all
A somewhat lighter, jollier noir film. If that sounds a little nonsensical, it's because it is. The film seems a little unsure of what direction to take, and ends up a mess of two conflicting halves that never quite come together. In a way, it's a nice diversion on my journey of stereotypical noirs, but it doesn't really make for a better film. Earl is the CEO of a big publishing company. When he kills his girlfriend in a jealous fit, he panics. He calls on George, an editor of a crime magazine, and commands him to investigate the case. What George doesn't know is that Earl is planning to shift the blame to him, and make him the scapegoat. The plot and cinematography are typical noir elements, the soundtrack and performances give it a softer, almost comedic edge. It's still extremely dialogue-heavy though, and the simple plot and sluggish pacing don't do the film any favors. Noir fans probably won't mind, I just don't really care for it.Read all