Are you tired of the same drab movies the studios are shoving down our throats? Can't find a fix for your movie addiction? Perhaps are you feeling nostalgic? Well then...
Paramount Home Entertainment has released a new movie collection that may just rival Criterion dvd's. Showcasing their best films with remastered picture and an ocean of special features, Paramount Centennial Collection starts off with three Hollywood classics: Sunset Boulevard, Roman Holiday, and Sabrina.
First off: Sunset Boulevard. My take, a dark tale about screenwriter Joe Gillis (William Holden) trying to get his next gig, and by circumstance lands himself in a wasted away mansion owned by a loved but forgotten silent film actress Norma Desmond (Gloria Swanson). The chemistry of these actors explodes on the screen, complimented no doubt by their co-stars Erich von Stroheim who plays Norma's butler, and script reader Nancy Olson, who at every turn tries to become a screenwriter herself.
The film is a masterpiece. And it is completed by its second disc full of special features. Whether its behind the scenes at Paramount, or insight into legendary actress Gloria Swanson, there is something for every palette. Even if you don't watch the special features, trust me, these are great.
Movie: Grade A+
Special features: Grade A+
Second, we have Roman Holiday. A cute and classic romantic comedy starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. This classic tale of a sheltered Princess falling in love with your average Joe doesn't disappoint. I must admit, it takes some time for it to pick up; however the charm and beauty of Audrey Hepburn keeps your attention until the story picks up.
Again, another Hollywood classic that should quite possibly be seen as required material before receiving your SAG card.
My only gripe is that the special features are a bit on the light side, but still are worth watching.
Movie: Grade A
Special features: Grade A -
Special features: Grade A -
Now, last but certainly not least: Sabrina.
Why the hell Hollywood felt the need to remake this movie with Harrison Ford and Julia Ormond I have no idea.
I've used this word before, but my goodness this is truly a masterpiece. Audrey Hepburn is a delight and was perfectly cast as the late bloomer Sabrina, who goes away to Paris to become a chef, only to return as a beautiful woman. Even her character is amazed at how much she has changed when greeted by "co-workers" and her employers.
William Holden and Humphrey Bogart play the wealthy Larrabee brothers who each fall in love with Sabrina. Whether its for the right or wrong reasons, they area joy to watch, and to see how the story plays out is exciting. I couldn't help but sit in my chair with a big goofy smile on my face as the the anxiety overwhelmed my senses.
While I appreciated the special features Paramount had to offer about the movie, I was a little disappointed by the "Audrey Hepburn: Fashion Icon" featurette. It started off with a wonderful look at Audrey Hepburn and her style in Hollywood cinema. But then switched to an uncomfortable fashion show of Hollywood Designers trying to emulate her style. It was just odd and misplaced, very unnecessary. For the same featurette, I would highly recommend the one in the Anniversary Edition of Breakfast At Tiffany's. It had more character and did well without the fashion show.
Movie: Grade A+
Special features: Grade B+
Now that I have babbled long enough, you can find theses DVD's in the Paramount Centennial Collection now in stores. Or preferably at your Pop Culture Beast Store.
The next two installments from this collection are Funny Face and Breakfast at Tiffany's slated for a January 19th, 2009 release.
Stay Tuned for more!
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