Before you watch this movie, walk the dog, put the trash out, make some popcorn and get a drink with plenty of Ice and get comfortable because you will not be able to move once start watching this gem. Omg what a great movie this Is. I haven't seen anything this Intense In I don't know how long. Buckle up and enjoy.
I'm laying in bed with my electric blanket while one of the worst winter storms I have ever seen rages outside my window. Had surgery last week to have some tumors removed ... the day before Christmas I woke up feeling horrible and did a covid test. Of course it was positive ! The hospital called to say that I should test as 90 % of the floor I was on have Covid. Doctors and nurses included. Now I am relaxing and watching this great old movie. I love not being able to figure out the good guy from bad, or their motives. Great movie so far! Cheers ✌
😮 I hope things went well after that! I had corvid, wasn't fun...lost my sense of smell near completely. I spent all last winter with no heat but my electric stove and an electric blanket, which my blanket gave out nearing spring...but I managed. This winter looks like it will be the same. Getting me a new blanket, a sleeping bag to soften the poky springs of my bed.
“Has it ever struck you that life is all memory, except for the one present moment that goes by you so quick you hardly catch it going?”― Tennessee Williams....
In a galaxy of great British stars, Donald Pleasence is, without a doubt, among the half-dozen finest actors ever to grace the English language - a truly dazzling performance.
I just wanted to say thank you for sharing this masterpiece with everyone. I've seen this film three times now and I think it gets better with each watch. One needs to keep in mind this was made in 1963! Mental illness wasn't something people talked about. It was kept hidden. The script, acting, lighting, and pace make this a rare and perfect film. Everything is so incredibly accurate. If you have ever volunteered or worked in a homeless shelter or a soup kitchen, you will often see people EXACTLY like all three of those portrayed here. Not many movies can make you smell the atmosphere or truly feel the tiny space sucking the air out of the room. This is a true gem and I wonder why it did not receive more accolades. To have all three of these great actors working together is a dream come true for any cinephile. I am truly happy to see 1.8K people (so far) gave this a thumbs up! I honestly thought that number would be so much lower. Our choices now (and have been for a long time) saturated with superheros, blood and gore, non stop action and very little dialogue. It is what the majority of people want to watch. I guess that makes sense in some way since movies have always been a kind of mirror reflecting what is happening in our world at the time. The sixties were a time of change or tried to be. The subject matter of this film was still very brave for its time. Sorry, I didn't mean to write a book. I love this movie and really just wanted to thank you Johnny C for sharing it with everyone. I hope more and more people find it here on you tube. Again Johnny, thank you so very much.
Very nice reading your book Maria.Thank you 🙂 I was born in 1967 and am from England UK and I can’t get to sleep so I’m going to watch this 🙂 Stay safe
One of the best movies I have ever seen. Very deep, n realistic in all details. The kind of movie you never want to see end. Everything about it is classic. This is why British films are the very elite.
The quality of each actor was amazing. The actors were all fantastic. It was riveting and couldn’t stop watching this film. Shaw, Pleasance and Bates were mesmerising. Highly recommend this film for anyone who has any depth and understanding. Thank you for sharing .
I am an older person who likes the tension in older black and white movies 20's 30's 40's when sets were simple and expessions said it all. I have never seen a more EXCELLENTLY written produced acted set design camera lighting costumed makeup etc etc Thank You.
back when actors had talent and the main focus of the film wasn't gettin the liberal agenda into it. todays films are leftist political propaganda films and nothin more.
This whole movie is genius.... But every word is code for the elite cabal. Why so many big names helped produce it. They see humanity as undeserving of their so called tolerance of our presence. Soon....we will begin to recognize and interpret these codes and recognize pure propaganda and ridicule, behind their symbols and reverse psychology words.
It’s certainly a good movie, but what I liked most is, it had me laughing out loud!😂 And, I honestly know a couple of people like the homeless guy. And it shows, no matter how low people are, they still look down on others.!
Hey there, Good morning. I love what I am seeing on your profile. I apologize for jumping into your comment in such a way. I'm really looking forward to get to know you better. If you're comfortable with it, I'd love to talk somewhere outside the TH-cam comment section. and get to know each other a bit more intimately. What do you think about that?😏
The movie starts, thanking special people for their financial support to make this movie possible, and the list includes Elizabeth Taylor, Peter Sellers, Richard Burton among others. If these people thought it was worth supporting, that is a good testimony. It had wonderful reviews too. I was instantly hooked. Such a gem to watch on this rainy, cold day in Melbourne. Well worth it! So enjoyable.👏👏👏👏
Bravo....Never felt bored once.I was totally gripped n intrigued by the characters, all three. The old man's ramblings cracked me up....the gibbering n the pace at which he spoke was genius.... Beautiful work.
I'm only 21, but this made me realize how dependent new movies are on special effects and pretty visuals instead of good acting and writing. Sure, the graphics might be more pleasing, but turn all the effects off and the stories would appear so much more shallow and boring.
What a great comment. I'm interested to know what you are thinking of doing as a career? Whatever it may be I'm sure you will succeed and be an asset in good time to whichever profession you join. Good luck and best wishes from an old lady in England.
@@peterbeadman9010 I completely forgot that I commented here, and for some reason I got no notification for any of the replies until now. I really appreciate all these kind words, thank you so much! Also: I wish to become a professional writer. I already finished my first manuscript and look currently for an agency to get it published, though I am feeling a bit anxious about it (I suppose that's normal, I never got anything published so far, but I do my best to stay positive). I wish you also all the best! 🙂
I'm not sure why its taken so long for me to come across this play. (Im now 60). Im almost embarrassed, to admit it. We never studied it at school, but watching it now on You Tube, I can appreciate something of Harold Pinters brilliance. The acting in this is superb, so clever, and compelling to the end. Great film and something of a gem even though its also quite disturbing in places. Thanks so much for uploading.
I love to watch noir movies because it is all about the reality we live today, I born in the 70's but I have always loved noir movies, a movie with a story to tell. Thank you for sharing it with us!
Refreshing to see how many people appreciate this film. The writing, of course, is exceptional because it was a film version of Harold Pinter's first real commercial success in the theater. Because he adapted the play for the screen, it retained its original integrity and character. In Hollywood this is rarely done and they usually compromise the play a great deal making it into a "movie". Just a little exterior shooting, and the rest basically the original play. Brilliant cast, and perfectly cast I think; and not over directed. Donald Pleasence and Alan Bates were in the original theater production.
I saw this in London in 1962; but with Peter Woodthorpe as Aston. He was an excellent actor, but Robert Shaw portrays the stillness and emptiness perfectly. And he was such a handsome man. All dead now.
The first time I saw this I was intrigued and thought it was a great film but it gets even better the more I watch it. Three superb performances from three wonderful actors. The diction and dialogue is so cleverly acted by the three contrasting actors. Thanks for sharing such an iconic work of cinematic art.
Compare this to the crap that comes out of hollywood! No comparison! 3 mesmerizing performances. Robert Shaw's character is the one we are watching closest. He plays it exquisitely. We really feel for him when he is sat on his bed telling of his electric treatment. That is not to take away from Donald Pleasance's super performance. Both performances were worthy of Oscar wins, with Alan bates worthy of an Oscar for supporting role. The film had that classic British charm and down to earth realism mixed with a mysterious, almost savage human reality. It was up there with 'Saturday night and sunday morning' yet with a bit of an 'Erazorhead' mystique about it. True class. I had never seen this before but I will happily watch it many times again in the future. Beautiful script, directing, haunting traces of musical scores gently absorbing you into the story as well as the house itself. The scene on the stairs where it is agreed that Pleasance would be caretaker was fantastic. One of my favourite films now. Well done for posting.
@@davidhull1481 do something better with your time. ERASERHEAD. Is that better? I suppose ur going to tell me off now for starting this reply without a capital letter.
I was blown away by the excellent performances of Robert Shaw, Alan Bates and especially the outstanding artistry of Donald Pleasance. I have seen Mr Pleasance’s performances in many films but this must surely be his apex. Amazing writing, production, settings and direction in this memorable mental health epic. Thank you so much.
Hey there, Good morning. I love what I am seeing on your profile. I apologize for jumping into your comment in such a way. I'm really looking forward to get to know you better. If you're comfortable with it, I'd love to talk somewhere outside the TH-cam comment section. and get to know each other a bit more intimately. What do you think about that?😏
I grew up in Hackney where this was shot. Even today, in London, you see people like this on the streets. A fantastic and important film with incredible performances.
All the characters are failures of one kind or another. The apartment house will never be renovated, the shed will never be built and the homeless guy will never get his papers. It's like most people's lives. For one reason or another, they will never realize their dreams. Incredible acting.
They were mentally ill, all of them. This was the most boring movie I have ever seen. There was no acting, or scenes just the same dialog over and over. Not even a one star . It sure doesn't take much to entertain you. I read a book while watching just to get through it.
Donald Pleasance is the best homeless man that I've ever seen depicted along with our two American actors in Ironweed. But he absolutely is tremendous, every subtle movement or expression. Just perfectly spot on. Extraordinary acting all around and fascinating writing--Waiting for Godot in a different format. If you love British realism drama you may well get hooked on this as I have become. I've watched it probably six times since a downloaded it just a year ago. I also recommend a movie called High Hopes by Leigh and his other movies on TH-cam. And This Sporting Life 1963. Good luck.
I have Never seen Donald Pleasance play a part like this, or even act like this ever before in a movie. His acting in this almost scared me, with his being so rough and almost wild like and angry.
Hey there, Good morning. I love what I am seeing on your profile. I apologize for jumping into your comment in such a way. I'm really looking forward to get to know you better. If you're comfortable with it, I'd love to talk somewhere outside the TH-cam comment section. and get to know each other a bit more intimately. What do you think about that?😏
An acting masterclass as others have noted. Alan Bates in particular is wonderful and has some of the best lines. A great study for film buffs. Thanks for this.
The sheer sensitivity, talent, required to write and play these roles is mind boggling. To understand the mechanisms one must surely have probed the roots. I have always been fascinated by the people that live outside of society, in the street obviously mad, how they manage to feed themselves and get by despite their madness, not that this applies to this film. Tremendous food for thought here. Thank you for the upload.
In my early twenties I had the honor of playing the Shaw character in a community theater production... with my father as the old man -- what a rush! I remember the director gently helping me learn how to structure and internalize that heart wrenching monologue about his shock treatments -- longer (over ten minutes) and tougher than probably anything I've ever done, in or out of the theater. I sat at the edge of the stage, alone and figuratively naked. That incredible writing made it easy to get inside his pain and learn something about his lonely illness. Oddly, I've spent many of the fifty succeeding years struggling with my own bad depression. The movie script understandably has a lot changes from the play, including that speech. Every once in awhile I still find myself murmuring (with terrible cockney accent, no doubt) the opening line from the original: "I used to go down to the pub..."
When it started I didn’t think I was going to enjoy it but it’s not meant to be a feel good movie. The feeling of loneliness and isolation pours out and the performances are brilliant. So glad they managed to make this film, it is a real gem. It captures so much on many levels and will stay in my mind for a long time.
Same! First I've ever seen this, I'm still mulling it over a couple of hours later. I'm sure it deserves another viewing, there's a lot to take in. The first part felt full of questions. Who? Why? ... mostly, Why!
I know right! Everything is CGI crap, excitement, violence, simple minded politically correct poop. Not art much anymore, and you rarely have to think!
A brilliant movie.. one of the best portrayal of human relations.. love, loathe, happiness, desire, despair, dream, ambitions, hope and hopelessness... thanks for introducing to this 💎...
Hey there, Good morning. I love what I am seeing on your profile. I apologize for jumping into your comment in such a way. I'm really looking forward to get to know you better. If you're comfortable with it, I'd love to talk somewhere outside the TH-cam comment section. and get to know each other a bit more intimately. What do you think about that?😏
Nick Roeg is one of great cinematographers and Film Directors, anyone recall, "Don't Look Back?" This whole production is the art of filmmaking with most talented people in the industry. Thank you for making it available.
Many thanks for this, what a gem! Quality acting without any CGI, just a true human story from a time when there was a real flowering of this kind of cinema.
This is superb! Perfect acting from highly skilled actors. Perfect direction. Perfect production. And a superb break through script by Sir Harold Pinter. A masterclass on every level.
John Morris. Brilliantly put. I can totally relate to “doing what needs to be done later, tomorrow…” The illness weighs heavy on the mind. I have struggled with depression for 45 yrs and it always goes this way.
It is such a great movie. Don't know why but felt really bad for Aston like he opened up to Davies only for him to receive taunts from him using those events. (Mental hospital) The character was such a kind soul.
This is one of those ones man...only gets better, the more you think about it, the more often you watch it. The kind that sears itself into your psyche after one viewing. Same goes for The Servant. The genius of Harold Pinter in action.
This was fantastic! I came across it by accident and was riveted from the first moment and all the way through. A great example of unfinished, stagnated lives.
FYI: Donald Pleasence 1919-1995, was a member of the RAF, and flew 60 missions over Europe in WWII, before being shot down, spending 1944-45 in a POW camp where he was tortured by sadistic nazi guards. Remember him in The Great Escape? He knew.
"Where he was tortured by Nazi guards" Did you just make that up.....He was in the RAF and thus in a normal Luftwaffe run camp...Where did the Nazis come in it?
@@DavidDragonetti No, why would I make something like 'that' up....Nazis are shit in wolves clothing. I Googled the info on this actor and read it - Sheesh! You should too Dragon Breath.
@@DavidDragonetti .....blah blah blah....and thus in a "normal" Luftwaffe run camp...... nothing Nazi was normal. They were all schizophrenic psychopaths. I have been studying "Nazis" as a hobby since 1964, I know how they think and what they did. TH-cam has much information on them too. Let the scales fall from your eyes and take a look, Puff.
@Moth’s Mummy Thank God for all our blessing. A family in one room is better than nothing. You sound like you appreciate what you have. I know I do.🎅🎄🎁🎒
Donald Pleasence , Robert Shaw, Alan Bates: The taker, the caretaker, and the player. All 3 did this not for money, but for the love of story and art form. Once in a generation do you come across a performance as the one conveyed by Donald Pleasence. The reality of it all really hits home.
I didn’t know of this film until now. It is not only a great film: it is a great work of art. Absolutely riveting. Three of the all-time great actors at the very top of their game. Almost too much to absorb. And such a magnificent script. Thank you for posting this. It is a work that deepens our understanding of humanity. We are so much richer, in the truest and deepest sense, for having experienced it.
It's a little known fact that Elizabeth Taylor actually made all the costumes for this herself. Ms Taylor had spent most of her youth studying theatre costume and set design. Here., in the Caretaker she gets to finally show her talent and distinct gift in dressing actors in costumes that themselves speak and move. I read that the bucket collecting the droplets of water from a "supposed leaking roof" was also her idea . Pinter had to write those lines after the fact . Evidence again that Elizabeth Taylor was a true drama genius . Alan Bates is said to have taken the bucket home with him after filming finished and it sat centre piece in his own lounge for years. I can only imagine the after dinner conversations that this bucket would have started in the Bates household. Brilliant just brilliant
Thanx for pointing out the non-music. In today's world EVERYTHING, including frying eggs has to be bombarded with / accompanied with music. Walking on a trail. Screwing with a screwdriver. You name it, and they don't trust us to keep watching ANYTHING without bombarding us with annoying music.
I'm really glad and feel very fortunate that This film was funded by actors and people who felt the importance of having it Turned into a movie. It was really awesome of them all. This was a really good movie. ❤ 🙏🏻
This 1963 classic was a real labour of love and was the result of a consortium including the director Clive Donner, the author Harold Pinter and three of the stars - Donald Pleasence, Alan Bates and Robert Shaw none of whom took any payment. Then it couldn't get any finance from the National Film Finance Corporation because it was judged not capable of gaining any commercial screening so a veritable who's who of British show business listed at the beginning of the film each contributed one thousand pounds each to provide the 30 thousand pounds budget which was very modest even for those days. It couldn't get any British theatre to screen it until after it had been released in the USA to great critical and popular acclaim. It subsequently won the Silver Bear Extraordinary July prize at the 13th Berlin International Film Festival. Today, it is considered a major film achievement.
@@louisliu5638 It is a very great shame that such co-operative efforts by show business celebrities no longer happen today. It is a case of every person for themselves now.
@@russellgrenning1317 The whole of 'The Arts' revolves around such 'co-operative efforts'. Someone creates shite; everyone ignores it. Then, just occasionally, some of the 'elite', the 'luvvies', decide it isn't shite after all. What do you know! Damien Hirst!
City permits, detailed measurements , land surveys, administration costs.....I can see how building a shed would drive anybody nuts...It took me 10 years to get mine done...it was a rite of passage..
Interesting use of shadows which often "reflected" the anger and bitterness all three characters harbored in their mind and soul. A heartbreaking tale of loneliness and mental dysfunction and pain.
All my life I've noticed the book....saw advertisements for Harold Pinter's "the caretaker....Now..I've just seen one of the best film's every made...with amazing acting ....thank you SO much for posting this...I will remember it always
This movie was not what I was expecting at all. I wasn't sure if I would get into it, the first 5 minutes, then once past that, I was completely sucked in. Not sure how I would describe it to a friend, but it was riveting. Thanks for the upload.
Donald is wonderful, met his wife actually when I fell off my bicycle in front of her : she was very kind , her husband had passed away ; I share this because she was not English and said " u may not of heard of him , he was an actor " what was his name I asked """ god bless her I made her day though when I exclaimed HE was genuinely a big favourite of mine , ; conclusion; he must have been modest at least ! God he is wonderful
The comments are quite compelling. I'mma nestle in and watch this grand old movie. They were so much better, the black and whites. Thank you for sharing this ! ❤ 🙏
My interpretation of this piece is that Davies/Jenkins is a schizophrenic and a squatter in this empty house and the only “real” person in the piece. The cluttered attic room with a bed on each side is symbolic of the two lobes of his brain, each occupied by the shifting personalities of the two “brothers”. When one arrives, the other leaves, and ideas seem to pass from one to the other. Even the monologue about the electro-convulsive therapy is probably Davies’ own memory. The brief shots of Davies as a street person are probably the film’s closest thing to “reality”; the rest of the play is from the POV of a very unreliable protagonist, a ranting homeless person and squatter.
That could very well be. The Robert Shaw character as memory of the kindly nurse in the asylum; the Alan Bates character as memory of the crafty and deceitful doctor constantly trying to confuse Davies.
Acting and dialogue of the highest quality.Three absolute actors at the top of there game,Bates, Pleasence and Shaw all of who went on to appear in many top films throughout there careers.
!["Royal Bay" FULL FILM [HD] - Joan Crawford Diane Baker (1963) aka "Della"](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/gE7TWOa01CQ/mqdefault.jpg)
Before you watch this movie, walk the dog, put the trash out, make some popcorn and get a drink with plenty of Ice and get comfortable because you will not be able to move once start watching this gem. Omg what a great movie this Is. I haven't seen anything this Intense In I don't know how long. Buckle up and enjoy.
👍
Wrong
Love love love your comment!
You forgot 'use the loo'.
28:00 jenkins
I'm laying in bed with my electric blanket while one of the worst winter storms I have ever seen rages outside my window. Had surgery last week to have some tumors removed ... the day before Christmas I woke up feeling horrible and did a covid test. Of course it was positive ! The hospital called to say that I should test as 90 % of the floor I was on have Covid. Doctors and nurses included. Now I am relaxing and watching this great old movie. I love not being able to figure out the good guy from bad, or their motives. Great movie so far! Cheers ✌
😮
I hope things went well after that! I had corvid, wasn't fun...lost my sense of smell near completely. I spent all last winter with no heat but my electric stove and an electric blanket, which my blanket gave out nearing spring...but I managed. This winter looks like it will be the same. Getting me a new blanket, a sleeping bag to soften the poky springs of my bed.
I hope you are doing better.
I had 3 surgeries in 3 days. Went home and 2 days later broke my arm. One of the Best movies Ove seen out of the 300 I watched back then.
Now your talking B0LL0CKS
Fast forward to Feb 2024. Are you better? Hope no long Covid
Bates, Shaw, and Pleasence were national treasures of the UK. Very talented actors!
In 1972 while I was in London as a visiting college student, I saw Alan Bates in the play Butley.
Didn't Bates run a hotel?
The Brits are the best in acting. Take it from a New Yorker
debra bolton - True. Requiescant In Pace.
'were'? They are...
I've been watching movies for 65 years and truly, Donald Pleasence performance in this film is one of the greatest I've ever seen.
Peter Falk said Donald Pleasance was his favorite guest star on Columbo, and he felt genuinely bad about having to arrest him. 🙁
Pleasance was never better. A break through role & superb acting. Masterclass!
if you liked him here try to watch his performance in a movie called "Wake in fright " ...it is unforgettable and quite an extraordinary movie !
yes, he's very good in that but for me I agree with David Mann, this performance is remarkable - was he nominated for a BAFTA or an Oscar ??
David Mann 💙 Donald pleasance 1 of my favs
I think Robert Shaw's monologue about what happened to him in the hospital is possibly the greatest piece of acting I ever saw.
His story of the Indianapolis in jaws was also a really strong scene by him he’s top draw
loved him in zulu and hell's drivers@@Rosco-P.Coldchain
He was brilliant in everything he did ❤
@@spudspuddy that was Stanley Baker. Not Robert Shaw
@@manfromnocky correct, sorry i mixed him up, oops
“Has it ever struck you that life is all memory, except for the one present moment that goes by you so quick you hardly catch it going?”― Tennessee Williams....
Yes, Tennessee, it has.
An often quoted quote, dang it Chumely! Gee Tennessee, I'm sorry.
A wave that you must surf to stay in the present moment.
In a galaxy of great British stars, Donald Pleasence is, without a doubt, among the half-dozen finest actors ever to grace the English language - a truly dazzling performance.
Robert Shaw is no lightweight either.
Agree with you on Donald Pleasance. Fantastic having Pleasance and Shaw together !
I just wanted to say thank you for sharing this masterpiece with everyone. I've seen this film three times now and I think it gets better with each watch. One needs to keep in mind this was made in 1963! Mental illness wasn't something people talked about. It was kept hidden. The script, acting, lighting, and pace make this a rare and perfect film. Everything is so incredibly accurate. If you have ever volunteered or worked in a homeless shelter or a soup kitchen, you will often see people EXACTLY like all three of those portrayed here. Not many movies can make you smell the atmosphere or truly feel the tiny space sucking the air out of the room. This is a true gem and I wonder why it did not receive more accolades. To have all three of these great actors working together is a dream come true for any cinephile. I am truly happy to see 1.8K people (so far) gave this a thumbs up! I honestly thought that number would be so much lower. Our choices now (and have been for a long time) saturated with superheros, blood and gore, non stop action and very little dialogue. It is what the majority of people want to watch. I guess that makes sense in some way since movies have always been a kind of mirror reflecting what is happening in our world at the time. The sixties were a time of change or tried to be. The subject matter of this film was still very brave for its time. Sorry, I didn't mean to write a book. I love this movie and really just wanted to thank you Johnny C for sharing it with everyone. I hope more and more people find it here on you tube. Again Johnny, thank you so very much.
Very nice reading your book Maria.Thank you 🙂 I was born in 1967 and am from England UK and I can’t get to sleep so I’m going to watch this 🙂 Stay safe
We had a few nuts, but nothing like we have now in any generation before or since!
Thank you for writing a book Maria. Now I have an idea of what the movie is about since they didn't put that in :)
Very eloquently stated. Thank you! I wasn't sure if I wanted to watch this but now I feel as if though I'll miss out if I don't! :)
@@shellyhane7428 if your interested, check out: Harold Pinter - theatre of the absurd. The Birthday Party, is another notable play/film of his.
Robert Shaw's acting in Jaws had me completely convinced. This movie is just over the top. 3 great actors. Thanks for sending it our way!
Donald Pleasence deserved an Oscar for his acting in this movie. Simply outstanding.
One of my favorite actors. First rater all the way!
@Sebastian No.
He just doesn't like Blacks.
@Sebastian Sorry.
You were being lampooned.
It isn't personal.
bingola45 he dislikes everyone.irish scots blacks poles and society
I can smell him through the screen. That's great acting.
One of the best movies I have ever seen. Very deep, n realistic in all details. The kind of movie you never want to see end. Everything about it is classic. This is why British films are the very elite.
The quality of each actor was amazing. The actors were all fantastic. It was riveting and couldn’t stop watching this film. Shaw, Pleasance and Bates were mesmerising. Highly recommend this film for anyone who has any depth and understanding. Thank you for sharing .
I am an older person who likes the tension in older black and white movies 20's 30's 40's when sets were simple and expessions said it all. I have never seen a more EXCELLENTLY written produced acted set design camera lighting costumed makeup etc etc Thank You.
James Munafo,Sr. I feel old . Love these movies. Great to watch when I’m feeling ill (RA)
@@lenoretalon9958 I feel young but I love this stuff anytime. Would be great on a cold nite by a fire, lights out under a comforter.
1963 this one... a classic.
Donald Pleasance AMAZING
Robert Shaw.. young
Pinter...what a joy!!!!
back when actors had talent and the main focus of the film wasn't gettin the liberal agenda into it. todays films are leftist political propaganda films and nothin more.
Loneliness, mental illness, cognitive dissonance, and procrastination brilliantly evoked from 3 exceptional actors.
Dissonance*
@@sarahdixon6011 Thanks
Sounds like a great musical. Who did the choreography?
@@AFaceintheCrowd01 don't be a fool Cadbury cream eggs only at easter don't you no
This whole movie is genius.... But every word is code for the elite cabal. Why so many big names helped produce it. They see humanity as undeserving of their so called tolerance of our presence.
Soon....we will begin to recognize and interpret these codes and recognize pure propaganda and ridicule, behind their symbols and reverse psychology words.
No one can tell a story like Robert Shaw. This movie is brilliant. I love the bag scene. Genius. Donald pleasance is brilliant in this role.
I can
all of them are brilliant.
Not for everyone…but I’d watch this any day over Star Wars.
*Perhaps the best acting of Donald Pleasence in this performance which he never bettered.*
One of the best actors ever if not the best 👍💯
Wow. Look at the list of the actors who financially produced this. Legends!
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Yes amazing.
@@swelly84 Loser.
It’s certainly a good movie, but what I liked most is, it had me laughing out loud!😂 And, I honestly know a couple of people like the homeless guy. And it shows, no matter how low people are, they still look down on others.!
Hey there, Good morning. I love what I am seeing on your profile. I apologize for jumping into your comment in such a way. I'm really looking forward to get to know you better. If you're comfortable with it, I'd love to talk somewhere outside the TH-cam comment section. and get to know each other a bit more intimately. What do you think about that?😏
The movie starts, thanking special people for their financial support to make this movie possible, and the list includes Elizabeth Taylor, Peter Sellers, Richard Burton among others. If these people thought it was worth supporting, that is a good testimony. It had wonderful reviews too. I was instantly hooked. Such a gem to watch on this rainy, cold day in Melbourne. Well worth it! So enjoyable.👏👏👏👏
I think it thanked
Elizabeth Montgomery.
But that intro caught my interest too.
I really liked enjoyed this movie
Where in Melbourne:
Also in Melbourne Abigail but six monts later abd it's still raining😛
I'm visiting my relatives in Thornbury, Melbourne (in the North) .
Charlie
Chicago , IL , Usa 🇺🇲
Special movie .From Thailand
Bravo....Never felt bored once.I was totally gripped n intrigued by the characters, all three.
The old man's ramblings cracked me up....the gibbering n the pace at which he spoke was genius....
Beautiful work.
👍
I'm only 21, but this made me realize how dependent new movies are on special effects and pretty visuals instead of good acting and writing. Sure, the graphics might be more pleasing, but turn all the effects off and the stories would appear so much more shallow and boring.
What a great comment. I'm interested to know what you are thinking of doing as a career? Whatever it may be I'm sure you will succeed and be an asset in good time to whichever profession you join. Good luck and best wishes from an old lady in England.
@@peterbeadman9010 Also a great comment.
Refreshing.
Michelle
Old Hollywood is the best.
Physco Rebecca Rear Window such classics...
Simple storytelling.
@@peterbeadman9010 I completely forgot that I commented here, and for some reason I got no notification for any of the replies until now. I really appreciate all these kind words, thank you so much!
Also: I wish to become a professional writer. I already finished my first manuscript and look currently for an agency to get it published, though I am feeling a bit anxious about it (I suppose that's normal, I never got anything published so far, but I do my best to stay positive).
I wish you also all the best! 🙂
I love how in the comments, people love this movie or absolutely hate this movie!
Three of the finest actors.
What a waste.
I'm not sure why its taken so long for me to come across this play. (Im now 60). Im almost embarrassed, to admit it. We never studied it at school, but watching it now on You Tube, I can appreciate something of Harold Pinters brilliance. The acting in this is superb, so clever, and compelling to the end. Great film and something of a gem even though its also quite disturbing in places. Thanks so much for uploading.
"Disturbing" is the point.
Me too
I love to watch noir movies because it is all about the reality we live today, I born in the 70's but I have always loved noir movies, a movie with a story to tell. Thank you for sharing it with us!
Me, too.
If this one is "noir" or "film noir", sure is different from the kind I'm use to watching.
R##
Brilliant cast. Aston's monologue is very moving and hits home hard. One of Shaw's great performances.
Robert Shaw plays a beautiful part in this, wonderful, a short hair cut, a distant stare, cool temperament and he steals the show.
Yes he does. As with all films he appears in. 😊
Refreshing to see how many people appreciate this film. The writing, of course, is exceptional because it was a film version of Harold Pinter's first real commercial success in the theater. Because he adapted the play for the screen, it retained its original integrity and character. In Hollywood this is rarely done and they usually compromise the play a great deal making it into a "movie". Just a little exterior shooting, and the rest basically the original play. Brilliant cast, and perfectly cast I think; and not over directed. Donald Pleasence and Alan Bates were in the original theater production.
I saw this in London in 1962; but with Peter Woodthorpe as Aston. He was an excellent actor, but Robert Shaw portrays the stillness and emptiness perfectly. And he was such a handsome man. All dead now.
Robert Shaw, oooo la la!
But the shall live on forever as legends of the silver screen.
Very handsome😢💕💋
R.I.P TOO ALL
he was handsome like me, let's meet up
Donald, the old guy's part was SUPERB and couldn't have been played any better by ANYONE.
The first time I saw this I was intrigued and thought it was a great film but it gets even better the more I watch it. Three superb performances from three wonderful actors. The diction and dialogue is so cleverly acted by the three contrasting actors. Thanks for sharing such an iconic work of cinematic art.
Compare this to the crap that comes out of hollywood! No comparison! 3 mesmerizing performances. Robert Shaw's character is the one we are watching closest. He plays it exquisitely. We really feel for him when he is sat on his bed telling of his electric treatment. That is not to take away from Donald Pleasance's super performance. Both performances were worthy of Oscar wins, with Alan bates worthy of an Oscar for supporting role. The film had that classic British charm and down to earth realism mixed with a mysterious, almost savage human reality. It was up there with 'Saturday night and sunday morning' yet with a bit of an 'Erazorhead' mystique about it. True class. I had never seen this before but I will happily watch it many times again in the future. Beautiful script, directing, haunting traces of musical scores gently absorbing you into the story as well as the house itself. The scene on the stairs where it is agreed that Pleasance would be caretaker was fantastic. One of my favourite films now. Well done for posting.
Have you watched Shaw in the birthday party, its on youtube.
Erazorhead? If you’re going to cite a movie you could get the name right, at the very least.
@@davidhull1481 do something better with your time. ERASERHEAD. Is that better? I suppose ur going to tell me off now for starting this reply without a capital letter.
Bret Jackson yup, that’s better. Good job, lad.
@Dildo Shwaggins oh dear
now that was acting!! I was stunned by the pure perfection of this entire 'Caretaker'. I was wishing it never ended, but, it never really will.
I was blown away by the excellent performances of Robert Shaw, Alan Bates and especially the outstanding artistry of Donald Pleasance. I have seen Mr Pleasance’s performances in many films but this must surely be his apex. Amazing writing, production, settings and direction in this memorable mental health epic. Thank you so much.
Hey there, Good morning. I love what I am seeing on your profile. I apologize for jumping into your comment in such a way. I'm really looking forward to get to know you better. If you're comfortable with it, I'd love to talk somewhere outside the TH-cam comment section. and get to know each other a bit more intimately. What do you think about that?😏
I grew up in Hackney where this was shot. Even today, in London, you see people like this on the streets. A fantastic and important film with incredible performances.
All the characters are failures of one kind or another. The apartment house will never be renovated, the shed will never be built and the homeless guy will never get his papers. It's like most people's lives. For one reason or another, they will never realize their dreams. Incredible acting.
Never knew Robert Shaw could be quite so captivating, unlike the roles he's taken in some of the later blockbusters. Great find.
They were mentally ill, all of them. This was the most boring movie I have ever seen. There was no acting, or scenes just the same dialog over and over. Not even a one star . It sure doesn't take much to entertain you. I read a book while watching just to get through it.
Donald Pleasance is the best homeless man that I've ever seen depicted along with our two American actors in Ironweed. But he absolutely is tremendous, every subtle movement or expression. Just perfectly spot on. Extraordinary acting all around and fascinating writing--Waiting for Godot in a different format. If you love British realism drama you may well get hooked on this as I have become. I've watched it probably six times since a downloaded it just a year ago. I also recommend a movie called High Hopes by Leigh and his other movies on TH-cam. And This Sporting Life 1963. Good luck.
@@jwilcox4726 HAROLD PINTER
@@jwilcox4726 too deep or thoughtful for u ?...prefer 'Friends' ?
A true study of the human condition.
Absolutely riveting!!.......also, this movie just proves how great of an actor that Donald Pleasence really was.
October 7 /2024. Watching this movie 🍿 ❤
I haven't watched a good cerebral movie in a long time. This was excellent.
I have Never seen Donald Pleasance play a part like this, or even act like this ever before in a movie. His acting in this almost scared me, with his being so rough and almost wild like and angry.
one of my fav actors, love him, his daughter angela too, she always scared the c... out of me, superb
First time seeing this and Donald blew me away. Never seen him like this before
yep ...he is a great character actor....
he does a good job he scared himself ..lol
It's a stage play, performed in front of a camera. The dialogue is is what matters, so don't expect any car chases or lurid sex scenes!
Now this is a REAL film... With AWESOME performances by all
Loved this movie,great writing, acting and directing!
This is what I call a classic.
Thank you.
Hey there, Good morning. I love what I am seeing on your profile. I apologize for jumping into your comment in such a way. I'm really looking forward to get to know you better. If you're comfortable with it, I'd love to talk somewhere outside the TH-cam comment section. and get to know each other a bit more intimately. What do you think about that?😏
STUNNING MOVIE.
Nothing changes, poverty, mential health issues still not addressed.
Iceland is a progressive state.
So very true. What is needed is Washington needs to make Mental health a priority and not a open border.
An acting masterclass as others have noted. Alan Bates in particular is wonderful and has some of the best lines. A great study for film buffs. Thanks for this.
A very powerful film of human observation and extremely well acted by the talented cast.
Just three actors! A real tour de force from conception by Pinter to realization by the director, cinenatographer, and cast.
The sheer sensitivity, talent, required to write and play these roles is mind boggling. To understand the mechanisms one must surely have probed the roots. I have always been fascinated by the people that live outside of society, in the street obviously mad, how they manage to feed themselves and get by despite their madness, not that this applies to this film. Tremendous food for thought here. Thank you for the upload.
In my early twenties I had the honor of playing the Shaw character in a community theater production... with my father as the old man -- what a rush! I remember the director gently helping me learn how to structure and internalize that heart wrenching monologue about his shock treatments -- longer (over ten minutes) and tougher than probably anything I've ever done, in or out of the theater. I sat at the edge of the stage, alone and figuratively naked. That incredible writing made it easy to get inside his pain and learn something about his lonely illness. Oddly, I've spent many of the fifty succeeding years struggling with my own bad depression.
The movie script understandably has a lot changes from the play, including that speech. Every once in awhile I still find myself murmuring (with terrible cockney accent, no doubt) the opening line from the original:
"I used to go down to the pub..."
FEEL FREE TO CHAT.
@@melindalemmon2149 I'd like that but I'm a tech idiot. Lead me by the hand.
"There's a cafe along the road..." Is the opening line
@@shikharsaini6217 I guess it depends on who and where. Some would prefer the pub rather than a café. I for one would much prefer the latter.
@@ralphficker167 It's safer to be "a tech idiot", my friend. Thank you for sharing your memories. 🤝
When it started I didn’t think I was going to enjoy it but it’s not meant to be a feel good movie. The feeling of loneliness and isolation pours out and the performances are brilliant. So glad they managed to make this film, it is a real gem. It captures so much on many levels and will stay in my mind for a long time.
Same! First I've ever seen this, I'm still mulling it over a couple of hours later.
I'm sure it deserves another viewing, there's a lot to take in.
The first part felt full of questions. Who? Why? ... mostly, Why!
great comment i agree
Ohh this one is brilliant! Thanks for the share. Every drama student needs to study this one.
Hollywood sucks today. No creativity.
H Pn Go foreign.
Yes no subtance no heart in today's movies, I actually search for the Oldies instead of anything today..
H Pn - Exactly.
but alot of people love Lady Bird
I know right! Everything is CGI crap, excitement, violence, simple minded politically correct poop. Not art much anymore, and you rarely have to think!
A brilliant movie.. one of the best portrayal of human relations.. love, loathe, happiness, desire, despair, dream, ambitions, hope and hopelessness... thanks for introducing to this 💎...
I got out of this story... 1: You are your caretaker and 2: Don't bite the hand that feeds you. Great laid back story! Thanks for the upload.
Hey there, Good morning. I love what I am seeing on your profile. I apologize for jumping into your comment in such a way. I'm really looking forward to get to know you better. If you're comfortable with it, I'd love to talk somewhere outside the TH-cam comment section. and get to know each other a bit more intimately. What do you think about that?😏
Nick Roeg is one of great cinematographers and Film Directors, anyone recall, "Don't Look Back?" This whole production is the art of filmmaking with most talented people in the industry. Thank you for making it available.
Many thanks for this, what a gem! Quality acting without any CGI, just a true human story from a time when there was a real flowering of this kind of cinema.
This is superb! Perfect acting from highly skilled actors. Perfect direction. Perfect production. And a superb break through script by Sir Harold Pinter. A masterclass on every level.
Agree 👍
'Where were you born?' --- ''Huh... what do you mean?' Priceless! Loved it.
Robert Shaw is utterly compelling. Three men, trapped in paralysis of mind, doing what needs to be done later, tommorow....
Don't do today what you can put off until tomorrow.
John Morris. Brilliantly put. I can totally relate to “doing what needs to be done later, tomorrow…” The illness weighs heavy on the mind. I have struggled with depression for 45 yrs and it always goes this way.
It is such a great movie.
Don't know why but felt really bad for Aston like he opened up to Davies only for him to receive taunts from him using those events. (Mental hospital)
The character was such a kind soul.
Pleasence' performance was about as great as great gets.
Surreal - sad - poignant - masterful - A masterclass in writing and acting.
A lot of people don't realise that it's a comedy.
i think the old movies are best
Old movies are good, they're the best. This is not an old movie.
some old movies SUCK but not this one -_-
@@wifighostcruiser9665 it's from 1963 yes it's old enough
most certainly
I know the old movies are the best.
Wonderful film. The remarks at the bottom tell accurately that the film is a classic. Thanks so much for allowing us to watch.
one of the most important films ever made about empathy toxic narcissism and delusions of grandeur homelessness and urban sprawl
One can never go wrong with Harold Pinter. A truly exceptional movie.
Many great movies have Harold Pinter screenplays.
In every case, the greatness is in spite of, not because of, the screenplay.
What a wildly brilliant piece of filmmaking.
My God, what a great performance by DP. Best acting job I've seen in a long long while. Genius level.
Totally agree... I was beyond impressed with him and the entire cast on the whole. Very unique film. I watched it through twice 👍
This is one of those ones man...only gets better, the more you think about it, the more often you watch it. The kind that sears itself into your psyche after one viewing. Same goes for The Servant. The genius of Harold Pinter in action.
This was fantastic! I came across it by accident and was riveted from the first moment and all the way through. A great example of unfinished, stagnated lives.
talking about me again, eh?
"Unfinished, stagnated lives",
Yes
FYI: Donald Pleasence 1919-1995, was a member of the RAF, and flew 60 missions over Europe in WWII, before being shot down, spending 1944-45 in a POW camp where he was tortured by sadistic nazi guards. Remember him in The Great Escape? He knew.
"I like actors that weren't CAUGHT, OK?"
DONALD J. TRUMP
"Where he was tortured by Nazi guards" Did you just make that up.....He was in the RAF and thus in a normal Luftwaffe run camp...Where did the Nazis come in it?
That's method actors for you 💯👍👍
@@DavidDragonetti No, why would I make something like 'that' up....Nazis are shit in wolves clothing. I Googled the info on this actor and read it - Sheesh! You should too Dragon Breath.
@@DavidDragonetti .....blah blah blah....and thus in a "normal" Luftwaffe run camp...... nothing Nazi was normal. They were all schizophrenic psychopaths. I have been studying "Nazis" as a hobby since 1964, I know how they think and what they did. TH-cam has much information on them too. Let the scales fall from your eyes and take a look, Puff.
Pleasence is just astonishing!
This is how I live in 2018. I didnt realise it was the same in 1963. one room living.
@Shank Adams no you're the scrub. And it's obvious you have no class
@Moth’s Mummy Thank God for all our blessing. A family in one room is better than nothing. You sound like you appreciate what you have. I know I do.🎅🎄🎁🎒
Easier to keep clean😅
@@jimreid6370 Not if it is cluttered as in this film.
@Shank Adams
Skank. It's you're, as in 'you are'.
An examplary drama of Absurdism by Harold Pinter , portraying after war circumstances and chaos in life ....acting is just sublime.
Donald Pleasence , Robert Shaw, Alan Bates: The taker, the caretaker, and the player. All 3 did this not for money, but for the love of story and art form. Once in a generation do you come across a performance as the one conveyed by Donald Pleasence.
The reality of it all really hits home.
I didn’t know of this film until now. It is not only a great film: it is a great work of art. Absolutely riveting. Three of the all-time great actors at the very top of their game. Almost too much to absorb. And such a magnificent script. Thank you for posting this. It is a work that deepens our understanding of humanity. We are so much richer, in the truest and deepest sense, for having experienced it.
Uncomfortable, brilliant, strange, intense..like who is afraid of Virginia Wolfe intense. Strange but really good.
@@cindirose3390 ya , Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolf is a great film. So fun to watch. I'm about to watch The Caretaker now so see ya from 🇨🇦.
It's a little known fact that Elizabeth Taylor actually made all the costumes for this herself. Ms Taylor had spent most of her youth studying theatre costume and set design. Here., in the Caretaker she gets to finally show her talent and distinct gift in dressing actors in costumes that themselves speak and move. I read that the bucket collecting the droplets of water from a "supposed leaking roof" was also her idea . Pinter had to write those lines after the fact . Evidence again that Elizabeth Taylor was a true drama genius . Alan Bates is said to have taken the bucket home with him after filming finished and it sat centre piece in his own lounge for years. I can only imagine the after dinner conversations that this bucket would have started in the Bates household. Brilliant just brilliant
What a great play. All about the English language. 3 fine actors.I find modern television so shallow. So self indulgent.
Love the creepy non-music 'score'. Fine acting all around, Donald Pleasence is riveting.
Thanx for pointing out the non-music. In today's world EVERYTHING, including frying eggs has to be bombarded with / accompanied with music. Walking on a trail. Screwing with a screwdriver. You name it, and they don't trust us to keep watching ANYTHING without bombarding us with annoying music.
@@posttyped11 The music is for emotional manipulation. I like that this movie let me figure out how I felt all by weensy.
I'm really glad and feel very fortunate that This film was funded by actors and people who felt the importance of having it Turned into a movie. It was really awesome of them all. This was a really good movie. ❤ 🙏🏻
This 1963 classic was a real labour of love and was the result of a consortium including the director Clive Donner, the author Harold Pinter and three of the stars - Donald Pleasence, Alan Bates and Robert Shaw none of whom took any payment. Then it couldn't get any finance from the National Film Finance Corporation because it was judged not capable of gaining any commercial screening so a veritable who's who of British show business listed at the beginning of the film each contributed one thousand pounds each to provide the 30 thousand pounds budget which was very modest even for those days. It couldn't get any British theatre to screen it until after it had been released in the USA to great critical and popular acclaim. It subsequently won the Silver Bear Extraordinary July prize at the 13th Berlin International Film Festival. Today, it is considered a major film achievement.
I caught that donor list right away; knew something had to be going on;
@@louisliu5638 It is a very great shame that such co-operative efforts by show business celebrities no longer happen today. It is a case of every person for themselves now.
@@russellgrenning1317 The whole of 'The Arts' revolves around such 'co-operative efforts'.
Someone creates shite; everyone ignores it.
Then, just occasionally, some of the 'elite', the 'luvvies', decide it isn't shite after all.
What do you know! Damien Hirst!
City permits, detailed measurements , land surveys, administration costs.....I can see how building a shed would drive anybody nuts...It took me 10 years to get mine done...it was a rite of passage..
you do make me laugh because it is true
i am still laughing
I consider this a masterpiece of great acting!
It certainly is that.
Only the Great could make a masterpiece out of this piffle.
@@bingola45 its not piffle...its very real.
@@TheBlueCream
Is that how everyday people talk where you live?
However do you put up with it?
I've stayed in houses like this one. I could feel its loneliness. You live in this house, you don't live anywhere.
i believe it
Interesting use of shadows which often "reflected" the anger and bitterness all three characters harbored in their mind and soul. A heartbreaking tale of loneliness and mental dysfunction and pain.
Enigmatic, tour-de-force performances all round and a fantastic quality 'print' to boot - thanks for posting!
I love movies like this - an interestingly simple story & setting. The acting is absolutely top notch :)~~~
Totally mesmerizing. Stunning performances by Robert Shaw and Donald Pleasence. I have never seen this play before and found it heartbreaking. Brenda
A Masterpiece.
All my life I've noticed the book....saw advertisements for Harold Pinter's "the caretaker....Now..I've just seen one of the best film's every made...with amazing acting ....thank you SO much for posting this...I will remember it always
Harold Pinter with all of the most talented actors has to be a winner........thank you
This movie was not what I was expecting at all. I wasn't sure if I would get into it, the first 5 minutes, then once past that, I was completely sucked in. Not sure how I would describe it to a friend, but it was riveting. Thanks for the upload.
'Sucked in' is the expression.
Have you seen any Damien Hirst?
Thank you so much for sharing this and your patience without people like you these films would be lost thank you 😊
Alan Bates is hilarious in this.
The original white van man.
Donald is wonderful, met his wife actually when I fell off my bicycle in front of her : she was very kind , her husband had passed away ; I share this because she was not English and said " u may not of heard of him , he was an actor " what was his name I asked """ god bless her I made her day though when I exclaimed HE was genuinely a big favourite of mine , ; conclusion; he must have been modest at least ! God he is wonderful
The comments are quite compelling. I'mma nestle in and watch this grand old movie. They were so much better, the black and whites. Thank you for sharing this ! ❤ 🙏
Great character acting portraying a tour de force of social dysfunction.
The attic is more than a memory for me. Except there was no bedding and no windows to let any fresh air in. BUT I was at least dry!
You will never see acting like this today...Amazing professionals.
My interpretation of this piece is that Davies/Jenkins is a schizophrenic and a squatter in this empty house and the only “real” person in the piece. The cluttered attic room with a bed on each side is symbolic of the two lobes of his brain, each occupied by the shifting personalities of the two “brothers”. When one arrives, the other leaves, and ideas seem to pass from one to the other. Even the monologue about the electro-convulsive therapy is probably Davies’ own memory. The brief shots of Davies as a street person are probably the film’s closest thing to “reality”; the rest of the play is from the POV of a very unreliable protagonist, a ranting homeless person and squatter.
That could very well be. The Robert Shaw character as memory of the kindly nurse in the asylum; the Alan Bates character as memory of the crafty and deceitful doctor constantly trying to confuse Davies.
👍 A theory further reinforced by Jenkins' limp, perhaps incurred when he was initially given the electroshock.
Just Class Harold Pinters Play brought to life thanx to Burton Taylor etc putting up the $$$ Bates & Pleasance pure gold !
Acting and dialogue of the highest quality.Three absolute actors at the top of there game,Bates, Pleasence and Shaw all of who went on to appear in many top films throughout there careers.