"A Face in the Crowd:" long before "Network,"

Films/DVD Asylum

Movies from comedy to drama to your favorite Hollyweird Star.

Budd Schulberg and Elia Kazan crafted this superb drama about a charismatic man from Arkansas that rises from hobo to tv personality and king-maker. Andy Griffith should have garnered an Oscar for his performance, as should Patricia Neal as the woman that "discovers" him and helps guide his career.
This film is the equal of any American political film though it isn't preachy in the least. One major reason for its lack of acknowledgment may be that the Schulberg the writer and Kazan the director both sang like birds to the HUAC, naming their fellow Communists.
Leaving all politics aside, this film is just as important a commentary on America as Citizen Kane and just as eternal.
I have put off seeing this film because I unfairly thought of Griffith, so well did he represent the character, as the country cop in Mayberry RFD--- any more serious role I thought beyond him.
Wrong. Terribly wrong.
He is sensational, easily the equal of Burt Lancaster's turn in "Elmer Gantry."
If ever one wonders how Americans can make so many mistakes in choosing our politicians, this film has some answers.
Tony Franciosa and especially Walter Matthau put forth powerful supporting roles, as does a very, very young looking Lee Remick.

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Topic - "A Face in the Crowd:" long before "Network," - tinear 12:25:09 02/28/08 (6)

RE: "A Face in the Crowd:" long before "Network," - Bill McNeal 18:24:55 03/01/08 (0)

Just happened to have this arrive from Netflix the day of your post - sjb 09:47:55 03/01/08 (0)

"A Face in the Crowd:" a neglected gem. - Harmonia 00:32:10 03/01/08 (0)

Agreed! On several occasions in the past I've noted that Andy Griffith's stellar performance in this film ... - Audiophilander 01:16:27 02/29/08 (0)

Great Movie, great performances. - Larry I 15:09:40 02/28/08 (1)

Not another good recommendation from you? Jeesh. Thanks, - tinear 17:02:10 02/28/08 (0)

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