Films/DVD Asylum

Posted by Harmonia (A) on September 15, 2008 at 11:11:21

In Reply to: RE: Ooo! Chaplin, Murnau and Rex Ingram too? posted by delboy on September 15, 2008 at 01:39:46

I look forward to it. Mr. Brownlow has participated in several fine programs and commentaries, and he has written some of the most illuminating books on early cinema. There is no better guide through early film history I can think of. I recorded his wonderful Unknown Chaplin series on PBS back in the 80s - that's just one of the programs written/directed by Brownlow and David Gill and narrated by James Mason. Of course, the Chaplin series is on DVD now. Alas, not all of them were, last time I checked. They are all well worth seeking out - especially the ones on fellow comedians Buster Keaton and Harold Lloyd. They included interviews with co-workers and collaborators who passed away soon after these progams were produced.

Since Patrick is fairly fuming, when you venture into 1930s sound films, allow me to urge you to include L'Atalante, by Jean Vigo on your list.

My favorite French films of the thirties would have to be this film and Renoir's Rules Of the Game.

Edits: 09/15/08   09/15/08   09/15/08