GIANT (Theatrical Release USA 1956)

Ben Meyers’ Rating: 4.2|5.0 Starsìììì

Giant—fabulous—shows great writing skill, great acting skill, great presentation and has the human element in place. It’s terrific to see a marriage blend and allowance made for individuality and difference of opinion. It’s wonderful to see the human evolve and develop as the events of life shape lives. Great work for all involved in making this interpretation of life. Whether rich or poor, this movie touches the common elements that we all share while on life’s journey. 

Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images 

Storyline 

Eastern girl meets Texas boy and they build a life while learning to integrate two very different lifestyles in Texas. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director George Stevens for directing effort. Thank you to Producers George Stevens and Henry Ginsberg for making the film possible. Cast includes: Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, James Dean, Carroll Baker, Jane Withers, Chill Wills, Mercedes McCambridge, Sal Mineo, Dennis Hopper, Elsa Cardenas, and Earl Holliman. 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Yes. This classic belongs in the home video collection. One of a kind story that touches every single human chord and plays it with depth and tone. Terrific, terrific watch.

 Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

SHANE (Theatrical Release USA 1953)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.1|5.0 Starsìììì 

Shane—good, down-to-earth, refreshing, and simple film—is a wonderful relief from fantasy, science fiction, supernatural, and war movies that currently dominate the market. Great, natural acting by Alan Ladd, Van Heflin, Jean Arthur, Brandon De Wilde, Ben Johnson, and Jack Palance weave through the opening to ending scenes. Good story telling and great writing, that is deeply immersed in thoughtful thinking, bring this film to the forefront for adding to the family home video library. Worth its watch. 

Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images

Storyline 

A man drifts into a new homesteading area and helps a farming family and the community who have settled there. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director George Stevens for directing effort. Producer George Stevens for making the film possible.  Cast includes: Alan Ladd, Jean Arthur, Van Heflin, Brandon deWilde, and Jack Palance. 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. This is good story telling and earns its watch. Even after 70 years (as of 2023), this film has lost none of its entertainment value. It’s an above average western and more than earns its watch.     

                                                                       

Ben Meyers