Ninotchka (1939) - "Garbo Laughs!" was the tag line.

Ninotchka - Greta Garbo

Leon - Melvyn Douglas

Grand Duchess Swana - Ina Claire

Razinin - Bela Lugosi

Iranoff - Sig Ruman

Buljanoff - Felix Bressart

Kupolski - Alexander Granach

Famous for her statement "I want to be alone!" Greta Garbo's wish was granted when she ended up alone for the final portion of her life. While living not far from her in NYC in the early 90's I often wondered about her. What was the genesis of her reclusiveness? Was it fear? How often does fear and insecurity drive us to lifestyles that we otherwise would not have chosen. Then there is the vicious circle of fear that leads to reclusiveness that leads to more fear that leads to more reclusiveness and on the circle goes. We look from the outside thinking that celebrities are on top of the world and have it all only to forget that they are just as human and frail as we are ourselves. We hold them up as special and/or superior only to be dismayed when they prove themselves to be just as normal as we are.

Greta Garbo was always known for playing tragic women. Anna Karenina, Marguerite in "Camille," Mata Hari, Anna Christie, Grusinskaya in "Grand Hotel." Women in desperate situations in which she dramatically plows through. Women whom we admire for their strength yet cry with as we view the circumstances that life has dealt them.

Ninotchka, is NOT another of those roles. This was, in fact, Garbo's first and only comedy. The joviality of her acting is so natural that it's hard to remember her previous roles. Unfortunately, her next movie BOMBED terribly so she bought out he own contract and made no more.

The time setting of the movie is the mid to late 1930's primarily in Paris. Three bolshevik delegates have been sent from Moscow with the People's Crown Jewels to negotiate a sale in order to obtain precious money to buy food for their hungry people.

Immediately they begin to compromise. "Gentlemen, we have a safe that meets the requirements of your case but I don't think it meets your convictions." Quickly they are confronted with the overwhelming contrast between their surroundings and their homeland. Being the humans that they are, they quickly become accustomed to the excesses of Parisienne high life.

When they meet with the jeweler for negotiations, his offer is not to their expectations. He tells them that he is actually taking a loss by purchasing them which leads them to their first comment about capitalism: "Capitalistic methods...they accumulate millions by taking loss after loss."

Unbeknownst to them, the exiled Grand Duchess Swana of Russia (to whom the jewels originally belonged) is a resident in the same hotel where they have decided to conduct the business of the Russian people. When she learns of their presence, she has her courtesan Leon deliver legal papers to stop all transactions (her lawyer won't because France is one of the countries that recognizes the Soviet Union which means the French courts will most likely rule against her). Running into snags is not a problem for the delegates, there are so many wonderful, fun distractions to occupy their time and Leon makes sure they begin enjoying them to the fullest right away.

Reports getting back to Moscow are not promising. The progress (rather lack thereof) of the transaction is not pleasing to the authorities. Enter Ninotchka, a loyal Soviet servant. Her diligent work earns her the privilege of a trip to the Paris to take care of matters.

Upon arrival she is continually disgusted not only with the excesses but with what she sees as inequality. Inequality that she believes socialism corrects. She is equally disappointed with the three delegates that have preceded her; how shamefully they have behaved while they have accomplished nothing. Ninotchka: "How much does this room cost?" Gentlemen commrades: "2,000 francs." N: "A week?" GC: "A day." N: "Comrades, do you know how much a cow costs? A cow costs 2,000 francs. If I stay here a week, I will cost the Russian people seven cows!"

Ninotchka immediately gets to work setting up a meeting with the interested parties to sell the jewels. In the meantime, she has decided explore the city determined to investigate the "public utilities and outstanding achievements." Her first encounter is with Leon; neither one knowing whom the other really is. He is charmed by her refreshing, no nonsense attitude. Leon: "I have been fascinated by your five year plan for the last fifteen years?" When she asks about the Eiffel Tower, he is unable to answer her questions so, he does what every suave man would do (at least to Hollywood writers), he follows her to the attraction. A determined man, he has purchased a guide book and has begun reading to her the facts about the tower. "there are 864 stairs but an elevator is included in the price of admission." Elevator or no, being the strong Russian woman that she is, she takes the stairs while he choose the elevator "included in the price of admission."

A bit annoyed at him, Ninotchka begins to realize her great fortune in having the perfect specimen for her to examine so she goes back to his apartment with him where there true identities are exposed. Leon: "Would you like something to eat?" Ninotchka's reply: "I've had all of my required calories today." She continues..."You are something we do not have in Russia. That is why I believe in the future of my country." "The whites of your eyes are clear. Your cornea are excellent." "Chemically we are already quite sympathetic." "Don't pity me, pity the Polish lancer, after all, I'm still alive."

With grace and fun, Garbo transforms her character from robotic to human and all the way to feminine. As the movie progresses she shows signs of weakening toward the things that capitalism has to offer. Is it the city? "I always felt so sad when the swallows deserted us for capitalistic countries. Now I understand why. We have the high ideals but they have the climate." Is it the Hotel? Is it Leon? "From what I've read, champagne is a strong drink. Does anyone ever get drunk from it?" No matter what the cause, she is falling in love.

Now, the real issue is that the Duchess wants Leon and wants Ninotchka to go home. After a night of too much partying, Ninotchka has been careless with her charge leaving the safe open for a hotel worker to return them to his Duchess who is now happy to return the jewels to the Russia, on one condition...Ninotchka leaves and sees Leon no more.

Though heart wrenching, she is able to make the selfless decision. Ninotchka is use to sacrifice. After all, she is from the Soviet Union where EVERYTHING is rationed. She lives in one large room with two other women, each with her section. In order to have a party, she and the three delegates ration their daily egg in order to have an omelette. Their party is spent reminiscing on the days spent in Paris which only further saddens them as they look around their meagre surroundings that it seems that they are forever to live in. No matter, their allegiance is to Russia.

Well, that is until the same three delegates are sent on a mission to Constantinople. An anonymous report comes back to Moscow saying "...they throw a carpet out of the window and complained to the management that it didn't fly!" Despite her protests, Razinin insists that she go "straighten" them out.

A fun, light hearted movie. It is pleasant to see and hear Garbo laugh. Could it be that only Ernst Lubitsch was able to draw the laughter from her? Would this movie change her life and the directoin of her future movies? How sad that we will never know since she withdrew from society to her Manhattan home not to be seen on the screen again.

And oh the quips! Too many to recount here. This movie is another must see!

Wee Willie Winkie (1937)

Priscilla 'Winkie' Williams - Shirley Temple

Sgt. Donald MacDuff - Victor McLaglen

Col. Williams - C. Aubrey Smith

Joyce Williams - June Lang

Lt. 'Coppy' Brandes - Michael Whalen

Khoda Khan - Cesar Romero

The title character as written by Rudyard Kipling, "Wee Willie Winkie" (Percivel Williams), was a boy. However, the studio was looking for a vehicle for their 'money honey' Shirley Temple at that time. One that would draw more adults (read more money) into the theaters. Enter, Priscilla Williams. The story is further tweaked to accommodate a young girl; rather than a young boy who attempts swashbuckling, we have a sweet, innocent girl who manages to endear herself to the hardest of hearts.

The setting is 1890's India. Having left home in America, widow Joyce Williams (Lang) and her daughter Priscilla (Temple) are travelling to northeast India to live with her father-in-law (Smith) at the British outpost. This was a time when if not taken in by family, widows struggled desperately and the Williams' situation was no different. Joyce believed that it was an answer to prayer when the Colonel wrote inviting them to come live with him. Financially, difficulties in life were indeed alleviated. Priscilla: "Will we live right in Grandfather's house?" Mother: "Of course." Priscilla: "Then we won't have to worry about the butcher or the grocer man?" Mother: "No, darling." Priscilla: (deep sigh) "Too bad we didn't get acquainted with Grandfather sooner!"

It seems though, that they exchanged their financial struggles with the stark, impersonal life found in the military. The Colonel is a career officer which never has left much time for family causing estrangement from his. Career militarists as well as missionaries often left their families in England while serving God and country in lands far away, a concept difficult to fathom in our day of instant communication. Even without the immediacy of communication, the distance lead to very difficult relationships. However, the phrase "buck up" comes to mind when considering this choice of lifestyle. Some accepted the distance as naturally as we accept our nearness. As an example, during his decades of ministry in China, Africa and India, missionary C.T. Studd was supported by his wife at home. Not only did she raise their family on her own, she also promoted and raised funds for his ministry.

Priscilla and her mother arrived at the train station in the middle of another Afghan incident. Khoda Khan (Romero) and his men were attempting to smuggle rifles out of the village. The efficient alertness of the British meant that Khan, the leader is quickly arrested and escorted off to incarceration at the military fort. Excitement that draws young Priscilla into the action. Khan takes note of her kindness and is left in wonderment at the young girl.

The fort is filled mostly with focused military men leading to a life of loneliness for both Priscilla and her mother. However, in true Shirley style, she walks about the fort trying to make friends with everyone. From the beginning, her Grandfather doesn't really know what to do with her since she's not at all like the military men that he is accustomed to. Both he and his daughter-in-law have much to learn from each other. Obviously he could learn to balance career with family but she must learn the lesson of duty and responsibility beyond herself.

The enlisted men are endeared to her but who's heart does she melt? Sgt. MacDuff (McLaglen). Big, gruff, barrel-chested, pugilist, MacDuff. He renames her Wee Willie Winkie and enlists her as a soldier in the Queens military. Outfitted with her own uniform she joins the troops for daily drills, MacDuff-carved little wooden rifle and all. The interaction between her and Sgt. MacDuff is quite moving as their friendship grows each day. Also that same precociousness begins to chip away at the stoniness of her grandfather's façade. inevitably, everyone comes under her irresistible spell to be changed forever.

As usual, Shirley has a heart of gold. She sees the good in everyone and cannot imagine evil in anyone. Because of this, she goes to visit her 'friend' Khoda Khan while in jail. Unbeknownst to her, she is aiding and abetting his rebellion. The Kashmir Pass is still disputed land between Afghan and Pakistan, a story that we see/hear reported on even today. However, in true Hollywood form, the diplomacy of a young girl solves the problems of the ages. Not only between the sparring tribes but also between those same tribes and the British government that is located there to bring peace.

This movie has it all, war, romance, spies, intrigue, and cultural information; a film for all. Most were not aware of Afghanistan and the Kashmir Pass not to mention the warring of the ages. How romantic it all seemed in the land far away from the great depression. Shirley Temple's movies were made during a time that this country needed distractions. In the year 1937 came a second dip, the depression within the depression. Despair was rampant. So many felt they were coming to the end of it all. How much longer could they hang on? Each of her films provided the upbeat message, all works out in the end, that everyone longed for.

Remember that the song of the period was "Happy Days Are Here Again!" despite the fact that happy days were not here again. It wasn't until World War II (1941/42) that our country began to pull out of the depression. Shirley Temple's movies were usually the same formula. Young girl facing difficult circumstances in life overcoming them all. The message? Our country will overcome, which it did famously.

Gigi (1958) Think "Pretty Woman"

Gigi - Leslie Caron

Gaston Lachaille - Louis Jourdan
Honoré Lachaille - Maurice Chevalier
Madame Alvarez - Hermione Gingold

As pure entertainment, this movie is a delight. The transformation of Gigi from an innocent, tomboyish school girl to elegant looking young lady is a wonder. Even though Leslie Caron was 31 when filming she indeed was convincingly impish in her portrayal of a young Gigi.

On the other hand, watching it now is difficult as I better understand exactly what the goal is. Having seen this movie many times it wasn't until recent years that I thoughtfully considered the story line.

After her mother "squandered" her life singing as an extra in operas, Gigi's grandmother (Hermione Gingold) is determined that Gigi not go down the same foolish artistic path.

Gigi is a young girl. Lovely yet playful who goes to her Aunt Alicia for lessons each week for lessons on becoming a lady ("Slowly Gigi, the racing season is over" her aunt admonishes upon her arrival for her lesson). She especially enjoys time with her good, and older, friend Gaston (Louis Jourdan who is only 11 years Caron's senior). Gaston portrays the bored socialite bachelor very well. It's only when he visits Gigi and her grandmother that he enjoys life whether just playing cards or traveling to the coast.

She doesn't stay young though and at the insistence of her Aunt Alicia, it is determined that Gigi be trained as a courtesan—for Gaston. An elegant and socially acceptable term for what is essentially an escort or prostitute.

Aunt Alicia and Grandmama are attempting this because they view it as Gigi's financial security. We're not privy to much of their history but Grandmama was at one time the courtesan for Gaston's uncle (Maurice Chevallier). That is, until he was tempted to marry her at which point he promptly left. Now that Grandmama ages alone, one wonders how she sees that as an advantage.

The problem with their plans, Gigi the fun-loving tomboy has other ideas. "Can't we just remain friends?" she begs Gaston. First of all, she's a young girl (when she's introduced to the viewer, Chevallier is singing "Thank God for Little Girls") who wants nothing to do with men, love and all that accompanies adulthood. Then too, her Aunt once taught her, "Wait for the first class jewels. Hold on to your ideals." A dichotomy obviously missed on Aunt Alicia.

After repeated rebellious outbursts, she calls for Gaston. "Gaston, I've been thinking. I would rather be miserable with you than without you." How many women have settled for a life of misery thinking, if not saying, the very same thing. A sad commentary for so many women in past eras. Hollywood has glammed up this story in a way that the viewer can forget what is actually happening.

The movie is very well done. The music is fun and light hearted. One of the songs encapsulates the aging mind so well. "You wore a gown of gold." "I was dressed in blue" "Ah yes, I remember it well." The songs are delightful and singalong easy.

A fact that I find lovely, and especially ironic for this movie, is that Louis Jourdan who convincingly plays the debonaire and often callous playboy is still married to his only wife after 66 years. Rare in today's America not to mention in Hollywood. And in France, it's becoming rare that couples marry at all.

The costumes in this movie were done by Cecil Beaton who was also the movie's scenery and production designer. Mr. Beaton also designed the gowns for My Fair Lady, another Pygmalion story. His touch is evident in the beautiful gowns that are showcased throughout the movie. At a couple of places it seemed that the scene was taken from My Fair Lady. Even though it was filmed after "Gigi," "My Fair Lady" was on stage from 1956 to 1962 so the scenes may have been been inspired by the stage version.

The book was written by Colette who recommended that Audrey Hepburn star just as she had on stage. Alan Lerner agreed but Miss Hepburn was unable. One is reminded of the hubbub when Miss Hepburn starred in "My Fair Lady" instead of Julie Andrews...but that's another review.

Don't let the ASPCA know, but in order to be included in scenes, the cat had to be heavily drugged. A point that my husband noted, "The cat looks dead!" For some reason it reacted violently to working with Miss Caron but Vincent Minnelli (director) insisted so the cat was "mellowed out."

Another bit of trivia: Lerner and Lowe collaborated on many musicals including "Gigi." However in this one, Alan Jay Lerner wrote the screen play as well.

Set and filmed in Paris, the movie is a fun watch as long as you don't take it too seriously.

Casablanca (1942)

Can a movie be yummy? This one is scrumptious! Oh the metaphors...so much to sink one's teeth into. Where do I begin?

Rick - Humphrey Bogart

Ilsa Lund - Ingrid Bergman

Victor Laszlo - Paul Henreid

Captain Renault - Claude Rains

Ugarte - Peter Lorre

Ferrari - Sidney Greenstreet

Major Strasser - Conrad Veidt

This movie is rich and intense. It started when the head of Story Department at Warners, Irene Lee, went to New York. After reading "Everybody Comes to Rick's," she sent it to Jack Warner, arriving at the California office for review the day after the Pearl Harbor attack. In turn, Warner bought the movie rights for $20,000, more than had previously been paid for an unproduced play.

As for the plot, the movie opens with the news announcement that two German couriers have been murdered. Couriers who were carrying documents signed by President DeGaulle. It quickly moves to the nightclub, or Rick refers to it: saloon. The camera scans the various tables and corners revealing subplots being played out, thus setting the story that is about to unfold. Our first hint of Rick is when he is asked to sign a receipt which is dated (watch carefully) 2 December 1941. The camera pulls back to show him playing chess. Trivia alert: that shot was intentional since he was actually playing long-distance chess with a friend.

The setting is French Morocco; unoccupied French Morocco that is. The German's have arrived setting up headquarters with the idea that it will not be unoccupied for long. Captain Renault - "I'm afraid you will find Casablanca a bit warm." Major Strasser - "Oh, we Germans must get use to all sorts of weather." Evidence of their desire for world domination.

Casablanca is filled with foreigners who are searching, longing for a way out. Looking for freedom from the oppression of the Nazis. No one is insignificant in this film. Each character has a story of their own which unfolds as the plot careens around the various situations. But to leave they must first obtain precious letters of transit also referred to as exit visas. Through the movement of the camera, the viewer is lurking amongst the plans and deals as the various ones as they plot their escape.

Rick obviously has a hard shell around his life and his heart, seemingly untouchable. A roll that Bogart always played well. On the other hand, knowing about the love story between him and Lauren Bacall, one knows better. In the movie, we eventually see the cracks in Rick as well.

Enter Ugarte (Lorre) asking Rick to hold letters of transit for him. Letters of transit which have been signed by President DeGaulle. "Yesterday they were just two German couriers. Today they are the honored dead." is Rick's cynical reply when Ugarte expresses mock sorrow for the dead couriers. The dialogue throughout contains clues to the life that European refugées are subject to. A revelation for the viewer that helps to set the mood of the movie.

Separately yet simultaneously the Germans, having just decended upon Casablanca, and Victor Laszlo (Paul Henreid) accompanied by the beautiful Ilsa Lund (Ingrid Bergman) arrive at Rick's Americain Café. A very tense situation. The Germans have been chasing Laszlo all throughout Europe as he strengthens the underground's fight against the Nazis. Now it appears that the chase could be coming to an end. Unbeknownst to everyone else including Victor, Rick and Ilsa have a history. Thus creating another tension. First it's the Nazis now it's a love triangle. The solution of both expertly played out.

The filming is amazing; each shot carefully choreographed or (videographed as it were). Full disclosure: I prefer B&W. The photography deepens moods and atmosphere by using the light and shadows.

The movie was released in late 1942. Americans had been deeply involved in the war for a year so they were acutely aware of what was happening in Europe. Also, several of the key players were actual refugées from Nazi-controlled Europe adding to the power of the story.

I continue to salivate over Miss Bergman's wardrobe. There is one outfit that I really dislike but the rest I lust for. I find myself drooling over admiring her outfit upon her entrance. That suit! That brooch! Actually, I'm captivated by the stunning brooch. Ilsa is even stylish as she perambulates through the bazaar. Hats? I have hat envy since I never seem to be able to pull off wearing them. The hat Ilsa wore at the bazaar was simple yet glamorous. And not many women can wear a fedora-styled hat the way Miss Bergman could. She added just the right touch of femininity to the one she wore in the final scene. Thankfully, the actual colors of her wardrobe are unknown. It would be a disappointment if the dresses weren't white. And it's not just the wardrobe but Miss Bergman wears them in a way that every woman wants to emulate her. She moves with grace and assurance.

When filming began, the script was not yet finished. In fact there were multiple final scenes shot while the end was worked out amongst the screen writers, director and producer. Did Rick end up with Ilsa? Did Victor? The endings had to be run past the censors as well as audiences.

There were many actors who were in line to be in this film. Rumored to be in the running for Rick were Ronald Reagan, Dennis Morgan, George Raft. However, Hal Wallis never considered anyone but Humphrey Bogart.

All throughout the film the music of "As Time Goes By" can be heard lilting through the background. Sometimes upbeat as flashbacks show better times, sometimes as a dirge when the seriousness of the situation was being showcased. Again, a subtle addition to creating the necessary mood.

One dramatic scene culminates in a clash between the French loyalists and the Nazi contingent. It is more poignant when you realize that many of the extras used in that scene are actually refugées. The scene is more powerful as you see the real tears, the result of past persecution. Some of the actors are actual German Jews who have escaped from Nazi German giving one a greater appreciation for their role.

Another tidbit: one of the writers, Joan Alison, creates a key character in this story-the letters of transit. While selling the story to Broadway as well as Hollywood, the hope was that no one would ask about them. Why? Because they were a total figment of her creative imagination. All throughout the process no one questioned the concept so they are included in Hollywood lore.

Correcting the myth: the often quoted statement "Play it again Sam" never occurred in the movie however, "Here's looking at you, kid." did.

The Quiet Man (1952) - a St. Patrick's Day twofer!

Sean Thornton - John Wayne

Mary Kate Danaher - Maureen O'Hara

Will Danaher - Victor McLaughlin

Michaleen Oge Flynn - Barry Fitzgerald

Father Lonergan - Ward Bond

A classic St. Patrick's Day movie. Sean Thornton returns to where he was born, Inishfree Ireland to forget his past as a boxer and to return to the roots of his mother. There he finds the fiery red head, Mary Kate. "Oh, that red hair is no lie!" Flynn tells Sean. Unfortunately, she is the younger sister of Will who's temper is hotter than hers.

Thornton ingratiates himself to the village but not to Will Danaher starting when he buys the cottage where he was born by outbidding Danaher. Danaher then refuses to give his sister to Thornton ("This is Ireland Sean, not America. Without her brother's consent, she couldn't and wouldn't marry you.") so the priest, the minister, and others cook up a plan that is sure to get his consent.

As soon as the wedding occurs, Danaher discovers the deception and refuses to give up Mary Kate's dowry. This causes a rift between Sean and Mary Kate before the end of the "quiet little celebration." "Until I've got my dowry safe about me, I'm no married woman. I'm just the servant I've always been. Without anything of my own." she informs her groom.

The dilemma is that Sean has sworn off fighting and the only way to save his marriage is to fight his brother-in-law. He is torn between saving the reputation of his wife and keeping his vow to himself not to fight.

When he determines to fight for his bride (in a culture he does not yet understand), he awakes to find that she has left for Dublin. He rushes to the train station to literally drag her back to return her to her brother. Along the way a crowd gathers to follow them. "Here's a nice stick to beat the little lady" says one very helpful woman. (Side note: the term "rule of thumb" refers to the size of stick that can be used to beat your wife. A pleasant thought.)

Trivia:

The movie is indeed a family affair. Barry Fitzgerald and Arthur Shields (the Protestant vicar Reverand Playfair) are brothers. John Ford's older brother Francis Ford, a well known silent film actor, plays an elderly man who is dying in one scene. In the race scene, the children seen sitting on the cart with Mary Kate are actually John Wayne's children including Patrick Wayne. James O'Hara (Father Paul) and Charles B. Fitzsimmons (Hugh Forbes) were Maureen O'Hara's younger brothers.

There is a great scene where Mary Kate and Father Lornegan are speaking "the Irish" - Gaelic. A pleasant, tuneful language. Another piece of trivia, because of her vibrant red hair, any movie that Maureen O'Hara was in was the one that got use of the Technicolor camera. This film is brilliant with the colorful, lovely scenery of Ireland.

"The Luck of the Irish" 1948

"Irish paths are whimsical, like the Irish character."

Stephen Fitzgerald - Tyrone Power
Nora - Anne Baxter
Horace/Leprechaun - Ceceil Kellaway
David C. Auger - Lee J. Cobb
Frances Auger - Jayne Meadows

Such a whimsical, fun movie. It is sad that this one is difficult to find. However, when you do, you will be enchanted.

The movie opens with scenes of the beautiful Irish countryside as American writer, Stephen Fitzgerald (Tyrone Power), travels to the coast of Ireland to make his way back to America. Right away he makes the acquaintance of a leprechaun by the "waterfall on the gentle bern" that the lovely Nora (Anne Baxter), "the old lady" of the inn says doesn't exist.

Thinking it's all a joke, Stephen captures the leprechaun and demands to see his gold. Still not believing the "story," He gives the gold back to the old man.

Meanwhile, Stephen goes back to New York to a plush job, working for a publisher (Cobb) who is vying for high political office. Stephen's job? To get him elected. His passion is real writing but real writing doesn't pay the bills.

Following him to New York is the grateful leprechaun who poses as his manservant so as to repay the favor. His desire is to "help" Stephen make the right decisions.

In a twist of Irish fate, Nora comes to NY to settle the estate of a deceased relative. In the city of 8 million people, Stephen "happens" to cross paths with her on the subway train. To confuse things, Stephen's publisher boss has a beautiful daughter, Florence (Meadows), who has set her sights on him while the manservant has his sights set on setting Stephen up with Nora.

"You are the type who wears no man's collar. That is why I am pleased to serve you." says Horace, but Stephen isn't so sure. Especially when he agrees to run Auger's campaign and marry "the tall lady" leading to the position of running the newspaper.

After he has written a campaign speech that is full of things that are contrary to what he believes, everything comes to a head. Does he stay with high-maintenance Florence and his high-powered position or does he return to a more simple life with Nora and writing. Sell his soul or save it? "I offered you gold. It's not my fault that you prefer a pebble." is all Horace can say.

The movie is full of adorable clichés and fun predicaments as Stephen's life is turned upside down. There is the raucous New York Irish wedding in a pub; the Irish police officer; and the Irish fireman and pugilist. Not to mention the Irish tongue! Fun times all around!

"Desire" (1936) Gary Cooper, Marlene Dietrich.

We were fortunate to be able to purchase this from a video store that was going out of business. Regrettably, we've not be able to find it at www.moviesunlimited.com which is where we purchase our movies.

This movie has so many things going for it that it's a pleasure to watch, watch, and watch again. The plot revolves around an American automobile engineer, Tom Bradley (Cooper), who is currently working in Paris but is being transferred back to Detroit. Before he goes home, he heads out for two weeks in Spain with dreams of lovely señoritas at a bullfight: "while I'm watching the bulls, she'll be watching me!"

At the same time, an unprecedented jewel robbery is underway. The glamorous thief: Madeleine de Beaupre (Dietrich). The complex details of the theft is enough to give anyone an ulcer but because of her beauty and poise, she successfully relieves the jeweler of his 2.2 millon franc necklace. Then the chase is on.

As she makes her escape to Spain, her path crosses Bradley's several times and their subtle comedic performances draw the viewer into the story with them. The caper takes us from Paris to the border between France and Spain, to a San Sebastion luxury hotel, to a Spanish villa. All the while, details of her life slowly unfold revealing someone more frail than first appears. While Tom is immediately infatuated, Madeleine uses the bumbling American in whatever way she can only to find that she is unable to shake him. The more she tries, the more her defenses begin to slip away.

Important to the story line is the full circle of falling from grace, repentance, forgiveness, redemption as well as the truth of consequences.

As a jewelry designer and a devotée of fashions of the 1930's and 1940's, this movie is a treat. Miss Garbo's glamour is undeniable. The lighting is another star in this movie adding greatly to the mood of the story. Much is lost today because of color. The deep shadows define the mood as well as the forms.

One of the issues I have with this movie is that I don't think there are ready-to-develop darkrooms in the hotels of Spain. I chalk that up to artistic license. With each viewing I wonder what the original audience thought about that little piece.

Other characters include:

Dr. Maurice Pauquet (The Nerve Doctor) - Alan Mowbray

Aristide Duvalle (The Jeweler) - Ernest Cossart

Prince Margoli (part of the thievery) - John Halliday

Aunt Olga (part of the thievery) - Ziffie Tilbury

Mr. Gibson (Mr. Cooper's boss) - William Frawley

No detail is overlooked. From the amazing rare Duesenberg Supercharger (only a handful were made and the first was bought by Gary Cooper; the second by Clark Gable) that Miss Dietrich drives to Spain, to the lovely styles that adorn her shape. Being partial to Art Deco, this is eye candy for me. The luxury depicted here is elegant, not ostentatious.

Another bit of trivia is that Miss Dietrich was dating John Gilbert just before beginning this movie. He read for, and won, the role of Prince Margoli. Unfortunately he had a massive heart attack in his dressing room just before filming began and was replaced by John Halliday. Thus, his comeback was not to be and he died of heart failure shortly after his replacement.