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Tag Archives: 1950s
Ascenseur pour l’échafaud (1958)
Strange, slow, sublime, sometimes silly! Mesmerizing Jeanne Moreau walks around town all night long, looking for a man that didn’t show up – while things happen elsewhere… A mixed bag of unexpected details, unbelievable story turns, and partly unconvincing actors. … Continue reading
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Rovaniemen markkinoilla (1951) The original »rillumarei« musical comedy, and arguably the most famous one as well. Shallow and goodhearted, equally loved by audiences and scorned by critics. Innocent and silly post-war entertainment with some undeniable wits. Not in my book of … Continue reading
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Sininen viikko (1954) A short and brisk triangle drama that explores the tired trope of escaping the mundane and finding brief happiness in a bubble destined to burst. Silly, heartfelt, and ominous. Probably not in my book of summertime blues.
Το αμαξακι [Horse and carriage] (1957)
Father versus son, horse carriage versus taxi car. The conflict of old and new, in family as well as society, seems to be a recurring theme of greek post-war cinema. Unabashed melodrama with neorealist details. Both gripping and ridiculous – … Continue reading
Λατέρνα φτώχεια και γαρύφαλλο (1958)
Running only 83 minutes, this is still stretched out in absurdum due to the almost nonexistent storyline. A simplistic feelgood bagatelle, every bit as naively goodhearted as its popular predecessor. Strangely intriguing body language from the irresistible Tzeni Karezi. Allegedly the first sequel in … Continue reading
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Λατέρνα, φτώχεια και φιλότιμο [The hurdy-gurdy] (1955) Two poor, struggling street musicians happen upon the runaway daughter of a rich ship magnate – humorous complications arise! An oldfashioned, mildly prejudiced featherweight story with good acting and snappy dialogue. There is little … Continue reading
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Πικρό ψωμί [Bitter bread] (1951) Greek postwar neorealism feels similar to its italian predecessor and inspiration; not especially »realistic« but heartfelt, indignant, and at times clumsy. This particular example, supposedly the first ever, is about a poor family trying its best not to disintegrate while being tormented by … Continue reading
