As beautifully constructed as John Ford's films are, I can't get behind them.
This poor woman hasn't a thought in her head that doesn't involve one of her sons.
I feel certain that it's an easier character to grasp
if the viewer is a son, and that's just not me.
I'll keep trying, though.
I'm especially excited about seeing "Upstream" once it is restored and released.
This was going to be an entry in the Single Shot series,
but I couldn't choose a favorite son/image.
The form in the first is very strong
(not to mention the four window panes for four children),
but this second one reminded me so much of this painting,
Dynamism of a Dog on a Leash by Balla.
Who can resist a cute dog with a helmet?
Four Sons (1928)
directed by John Ford
cinematography by Charles Clarke
and George Schneiderman
4 comments:
Son of a gun! I guess my filial biases must have colored my viewing of this one. I thought it was terrific. I'm looking forward to seeing the Iron Horse next month; I've been waiting for a chance to see it in a theatre, and now I'll have one...
Well, I guess she is the fantasy mother. My feminist convictions are becoming stronger the older I get.
I too am so excited to see all those delicious films on the big screen as well as meet up with my local blog friends.
As I recall, I was knocked out by the film's cinematography, and touched by it as an immigration story. If the lead character was intended as a 'model mother' or some other kind of ideal in that regard, that didn't sink in to me until reading your above line. If I see the film again (and I hope to) I'm sure I'll have "hasn't a thought in her head..." in my mind; I wonder how it'll affect the viewing...
See you soon!
I was really excited when the emigration angle developed - finally, she was given something to do of her own. I just wanted something more for her than she was given. I think it would've been a good point for her to blossom. I didn't see the character development she deserved. In my opinion.
Hope I haven't ruined it for you now. I'm looking forward to talking about this in person.
See you soon too!
Post a Comment