Sunday, November 14, 2010

Introducing: My New Love.

So, because of my building excitement for Christmas, I attempted to watch 'It's a Wonderful Life' on Netflix instant queue. I found myself sorely disappointed when it was not on the instant queue, quickly added it to my dvd queue and proceeded to search for other movies featuring Jimmy Stewart. It started with one that I watched in my high school AP government class, the classic, 'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington'.

I totally forgot how inspiring THAT movie was. The uplifting beautiful lesson of this film? One insignificant, ordinary yet honest man can make a difference in this corrupt world when he (or she, I suppose) stands up for the right thing.
I then ventured onto one that I have never seen or heard of before called, 'You Can't Take it With You'. This is a great film featuring, not only the great James Stewart, but also the wonderful leading lady who also starred alongside him in 'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington', Jean Arthur.
This was a genius little movie where, Stewart, from a rich family, falls in love with his secretary (Arthur) who is from a quirky odd-ball family. The theme of this story is that, no matter how much money a person may have in this world, it does not buy happiness, or love. Great theme, don't you think? It is not only a cute little love story, but also very entertaining.

After watching these movies back to back, and needing more of my love (Jimmy) I decided to skip the Netflix queue altogether and just buy 'It's a Wonderful Life'....I hate to break this to everyone, but a new obsession has been born and his name is, Jimmy Stewart. That's right. I have decided that I was born in the wrong era! I remember hearing about him being an amazing actor, but seriously, I don't think I have ever seen a more honest-to-what-life-is-really-like actor ever! Not only is he super charismatic, he is beautiful AND believable! Does anyone NOT believe that George Bailey is TRULY in love with Mary Hatch? I don't think so...

Will anyone NOT believe that I am in love with him and no other man will do? I don't think so.
After watching all of these movies, and a few more NOT with Jimmy Stewart, I decided that I really should have been born in the 30's/40's. They really REALLY knew how to make movies back then. They couldn't just throw in a bunch of high tech special effects or CGI's. They had to rely, pretty much solely, on the talent of the actors and actresses. I guess I always thought films from this era were stiff and sort of boring. I have found the contrary to be true! I think there is more wit and irony in these films then most movies I watch today. The plot lines are more interesting, the acting is more clever and the underlying themes of the stories are more brilliant.
James Stewart
So, basically, the conclusion of this post is this: I have decided that until a witty, down to earth, lanky, soft spoken, and lovable man walks into my life...I am going to stick with loving Jimmy Stewart and the men of the 40's films. :)
Jimmy Stewart

2 comments:

  1. I am so glad you have boarded the Jimmy Stewart train. Welcome. I need to recommend to you 'Harvey'. It is one of my favorite Jimmy Stewart movies. Also 'The Philadelphia Story'is a classic. Then if you want to get into some really good acting-but slightly creepier Jimmy I suggest the Hitchcock roles, 'Rope', 'Vertigo', 'Rear Window'. Less loveable perhaps but still awesome!

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