dbarton-1

I liked this film for it conveys a can-do-attitude that was so prevalent in America at that time. This movie was made (1931) in a time when man was just beginning to test the limits of himself, machine, and the elements (it was only 5 years earlier in 1927 that Limbergh crossed the Atlantic in the Spirit of St. Louis.) This movie focused on the race to the south pole and it made for good entertainment. The special effects for the time were very good.

The human interest aspect of the film showed the negative side of ambition (how it affected a marriage and a friendship)this I found interesting. The character development in the one, Frisky, was especially satisfying.

I would recommend this movie to anyone--however do not compare it to the movies of our time--that would be a disservice to the movie.

This picture is a picture postcard on film--everything is beautiful, the scenery and the actors. The acting is adequate--Sleazak and Lollabridgida are excellent. Hudson does an OK job, he's more eye candy than anything, but then again this is not Shakespeare you are watching. What I found interesting was the generational conflict between the Hudson/Lollabridgida generation and Darren/Dee generation. Up to this time everyone seemed to looked to adults as models of deportment and style, in this movie we see that undergoing some change. It is particularly interesting considering modern times when young people are impressed by the likes of Brittany Spears, etc and not people of an older generation who know something of life. Anyway, when you get around to seeing this movie, don't think to hard about it, just sit back in a comfortable chair, with your favorite snack food and enjoy the scenery.

The movie is overall likable. The on screen chemistry between Grant and Bergman is definitely there! However, there is a stilted quality to the film. There are many silent moments in which the overly dramatic music takes over to a fault. The premise and logic upon which the relationship is based upon is almost laughable.

Yet, there is nothing better to see than 2 intelligent and yes beautiful people navigate the romantic waters. However, this movie is not on the level of Hitchock's CATCH A THIEF--the witty banter between Grace Kelly and Cary Grant is not in this movie. Its a more emotional movie, all thanks to Bergman's performance. One moment she is a laughing girl and the next she is an angry woman. Grant comes off a bit wooden, but that it fine here-you don't want two emotional performances.

Finally, I have to say something about Bergman's apartment--it is to die for. Yes, I know this is a bit of fluff to comment on set decoration, but the layout, the artwork--its amazing. However, her bedroom is a big disappointment.

Overall, I would recommend this movie--only if you have nothing better to do.