Comments on: FRANK CAPRA – LOST HORIZON

By: Michael Dean

Michael Dean — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 19:43:02 +0000

I have to say, you’re covering my favorites quite handily. The remaining popular ones, of course – Mr. Smith, Mr. Deeds, It Happened One Night and You Can’t Take It With You – are well known. American Madness would be one to look at, as well. Platinum Blond would be another choice. His silent work also is good. As for other directors, I’m afraid I’ve only recently paid much attention to directors. Only last year did I actually realize Capra had directed so many films that I enjoyed. Cuckor’s name did not ring a bell, but I have seen a lot of his work. He would be a good choice. As would John Ford or Alfred Hitchcock (another favorite of mine). While I’ve long enjoyed classic films, I always paid more attention to who was in front of the camera, rather than behind. I’m still learning about the people on the other side.

By: ceo

ceo — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 21:07:09 +0000

Michael, any other Capra films you would like to see us focus on? How about other directors – we were thinking about featuring George Cuckor next.

By: Michael Dean

Michael Dean — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 15:40:14 +0000

“Lost Horizon” is one of Capra’s attempts to make a more adventurous film. I like the story Capra tells of the original premiere and how the audience laughed throughout. He went back to the studio and burned the first two reels of film. The next showing, the audience reaction was completely different and the film was much better received. Another Capra film – like “The Bitter Tea of General Yen” – I wouldn’t necesarily deem essential, but still a top ten pick.