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NIAGARA (1953)
🕑 Added 2021-11-18 19:38:32 +0000 UTCI watched this film the other day starring Joseph Cotton and Marilyn Monroe. It was very interesting. Campy, schmaltzy, and a less developed version of Vertigo in a lot of ways. But I found myself really drawn to the silence, the huge landscapes and images of the towering falls contrasting this isolation, this claustrophobia of 1950s living. I love that our main characters are anchors in a way for the narrative. The perceptive gal at the center, and the submissive, sexless husband, is right out of a 50s catalogue. They contrast the fantasy aspects of Monroe/Cotton. The visceral, violent, allure. The shots so vast, and yet the feeling of it for me is very confined. Much like an Edward Hopper painting. The typical couple and the fantasy couple contrast each other. Though the perceptive gal at the center, and Joseph Cotton do have a real connection, albeit a brief one.
One real connection in a sea of artifice, is what makes the film feel painful for me. While the violence, the misogyny, the volatility that excites, sits right below the surface. I'm sure our main character will be fine. She seems independent and solid, and ready to play the part of a wife, and yet that one simple wordless connection she had right at the climax of the film...is likely the most excitement she will ever have. And I find myself thinking about her, and feeling sad. Despite its flaws, I think it's a cool effect.
Comments
Tony Moro
"The revolution will not be televised. The revolution will be live."
Laro
Definitely true. She was a far more sensitive and intelligent person than the character she literally embodied in most of her films. Considering her backstory it's understandable why she was having emotional issues. Also a perfect example of how inner beauty of a human soul and emotional compensation can inspire and fuel into a fantasy/idealization of a "love goddess" . One of the tragedies of her life is that she did not manage to transcend her super-iconic character (that she actually created herself) into something more openly profound and realistic. Misfits (1961) might be the best glimpse of her greater potential not only as an actress but also who she truly was. To learn a little more about the person behind Marilyn Monroe - while still preserving the charm - I can also recommend My Week with Marilyn (2011).
Stephen
Damn I'll have to check it out. And its on Criterion perfect!
Deepfocuslens
nope
Deepfocuslens
Yah, that was one of my favorite scenes from an artistic standpoint. Very dreamy and Hitchcockian.
Deepfocuslens
I like your last sentence. I wouldn't say I'm particularly interested. But of course anyone who is created to be a fantasy through transformation is interesting to me. Because it's a sad thing, and also a relatable thing.
Bennett Oliver
Are you a fan of Marilyn Monroe? Iโve never thought much of her as an actress, but like many people, I find her to be fascinating as a person. She was much more troubled, complex, and yes, intelligent than anyone ever thought her to be, and was certainly more interesting than any character she ever played. As far as Hollywood lore goes, she was the ultimate example of a difficult reality that existed behind an alluring surface. If she never existed, the movies wouldโve had to invent her.
Wolfman Brandon
I remember this one but it's been almost a decade since I've seen it. I remember the bell tower playing that song for Monroe. I'll need to rewatch it again to form a solid opinion.
Tony Moro
Next review I assume?
