Vintage Vault

A Classic Weekend

Last weekend, completely unintentionally, I viewed three classic films in three days. They were three films I was; A. Ashamed I had never seen and B. Had always wanted to see. So for the first of our film posts for the Vintage Vault here is a run down and recommendations for A Classic Weekend.

Friday – East of Eden

This film was originally released in 1955 and is part of my housemates James Dean box set. She is an avid Dean fan and had recommended his films for years. Apart from visiting the site of his tragic death in California whilst on a family holiday when I was eleven I didn’t know that much about his abilities, the films he starred in or why he was remembered so well. I had already seen Rebel without a Cause about a year ago so thought it was time for the next one!

Dean plays Cal Trask, an unhappy young man, black sheep of the family and generally misunderstood. He is always competing with brother Aron for the acceptance and love from his father he so needs. He had been told by his father that his mother died a long time ago but refused to accept this fact. Cal finds his mother and realises they are very similar. After his father loses a lot of money Cal sets out to help his father get it back and so earn his love.

The performance from Dean is very intelligent and unique. His behaviour contains aspects of what may be thought of as a cognitive condition in today’s society. He is likeable but unpredictable and at the end of the film I found he was the only character I still liked. His father is mean and unforgiving; his brother Aron jealous and Abra, his brothers’ girlfriend is quite the little hussy! Would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys classic, character based drama and needs educating in the phenomenal talents of James Dean.

Saturday – West Side Story

Shock, shock, horror, horror, I had not viewes this classic until now! I am ashamed but redeemed now that I have watched this brilliant musical. I had already seen a university production of the film in my first year so knew I would enjoy the story, songs and adaptation of a Shakespearean classic, Romeo and Juliet.

West Side Story was released in 1961 starring Natalie Wood as Maria and Richard Beymer as Tony. They live in different circles in Manhattan; Tony is white, polish and part of the gang the Jets. Maria is Puerto Rican and her brother head of the Sharks. They fall in love and the classic plays moral messages resonate in a modern setting.

The film is brilliant. I have often been known to say I wish we lived in a world of Technicolor where the reds pop as they dance on the roof and the whites shine as they walk through the streets. The songs are all classics, the dancing amazing to witness for the sheer fitness of the cast and it’s always good to watch a romance! For fans of musicals – it is a crime to not have seen this classic!

Sunday – An Affair to Remember

This classic starring Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr was released in 1957 and still holds one of the most memorable romantic promises. The two meet on a cruise, both with fiancés but proceed to swiftly fall in love. Amidst comedic farce, Grant’s witty lines and Deborah Carr’s beauty this film portrays the appeal of when the Hollywood ‘stars’ were born. The two agree that if they go home and still feel the same way in six months they will meet at the top of the empire state building.

Apart from the premise of Sleepless in Seattle being dependant on this film, I did not know that much about it. It was a nice surprise therefore when it wasn’t just a soppy romance but a funny and witty take on love at first sight. I think men as well as women can appreciate An Affair’s appeal with the every dashing Cary Grant typifying gentlemanly behaviour whilst being coy and suave. Despite the infuriating final half hour of the film when you will wish people are just honest about their feelings the film pays off. 

Three films in three days, not only enjoyable but I have added to my film education! Classic films are always good to look back on, see the inspiration for today's modern films and to appreciate when it wasn't all special FX and 3D! 

Emily x