Here are the five nominees: (Winner in Bold)
Biggest Snub:
Stalag 17
My Overall Thoughts:
Once again, another year where the none of the 5 nominees are amazing films that swept all the awards shows (the few that they had back then)
The Robe won the Golden Globe that year.
It is understadable that FRom Here to Eternity won the top award and 7 other Oscars since it depicts for just the first time one of the greatest disasters in US history.
My Rankings:
Movies
- 5. – The Robe – One of the first (of many) films dealing with the crucifixion of Jesus and its repercussions on the Romans who were affected by it. The story doesn’t feel as groundbreaking now as it probably was then. Isn’t as thrilling as it probably could be but the message of the film is still quite clear. Burton, Simmons, mature and Rennie are all good here, but none of them really stand out.
- 4. – Julius Caesar – Nice version of the famous Shakespearean play depicting the rise and fall of the rulers of Rome and how much politics gets in the way of things along the way.
- 3. – Roman Holiday – A Princess who wants her freedom, escapes her entourage in order to explore Rome on her own. Hepburn and Peck are great here and this is such a fun film.
- 2. – From Here to Eternity – Interesting drama that shows the complexity of life in the Army prior to the outbreak of WWII. It moves quite slowly at the beginning, but has some great scenes.
- 1. – Shane – Great film about choices in life and standing up for what is right. Loved the way that both Shane and Starrett want the same thing but each does things differently based on their own personal experiences in life. The Starrett family feels quiet real and genuine and it’s possible to believe that such a relationship can easily be formed between such like-minded and simple people. Rightfully was nominated for 6 Oscars that year, but only managed a win for Best Cinematography. The music is nice and subtle and helps keep the tension high the whole way through. Ladd is amazing as the soft spoken lead and fits the character so perfectly.
Do I agree with the Oscar winner? – Yes and No! FHTE is a great film that depicts a relatively recent monumental event, but it just isn’t as good today as it was probably viewed 64 years ago. Shane, on the other hand, still remains relevant now, but they made the right choice at the time.
Let me know what you think about these films and my rankings!
MovieRob 