I just watched this movie for the first time and it completely blew me away. It’s mythic and beautiful and Mitchum is just incredible as this howling demon of a character. What a fantastic film.
Holy Scheisenheister! What an expressive and thoughtful review. This film ripped me out of my childhood and gave me a prism through which I digested the rest of my life. So nice to see the next generation appreciating this.
I feel like Night of the Hunter is almost quintessential American cinema even if the director was English. Its a perfect bridge from the schmaltzy golden age stuff to more European artsy ideas that we'd see in the 60s and 70s. The landscapes, setting & style gave me major huck finn vibes but also a little bit of the Wizard of Oz oddly enough. There is something about those first couple of minutes that really get to me. The sweeping overhead shots & the editing feel so ahead of its time. And who can forget that magical river sequence
Leeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeaniiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiing Leeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeaniiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiing Seriously, love Robert Mitchum in this, and love this film. Do wish that Charles Laughton had been able to direct more films, but oh well. This will have to do, and he nailed this one.
Robert Mitchum's performance was way more than people could handle back then. His tattooed fingers intertwining 'Love' and 'Hate' stay with me to this day.
What an absolutely wonderful, detailed, heart-felt review. I just watched the movie as it is leaving the Criterion Channel today and I absolutely loved it. I don't think I've ever seen a movie quite like it. There are moments of absolute farce when the Preacher is chasing the children or when he is shot by Rachel combined with moments of terror , surrealism and beauty. I will not soon forget this film.
Thank you for this deeply insightful review. I would love to hear your review of the 1962 film The Days of Wine and Roses. It has everything. Great cinematography, great acting, terrific writing.
The imagery in this film is so striking and memorable. The shot through the spider web is just impossibly beautiful. Such a tragedy Laughton never directed another film
I had not seen this film in over 40 years, your interpretation of the movie and perception of it made me want to watch it again. I appreciate your perspective of how movies affect you, I never think of them the way you do, I get lost in the emotional impact of the movie and have never thought of them from a larger perspective like you do, and again I appreciate that, it adds more to my appreciation of the movies you talk about.
This remains one of the darkest films I've ever seen. After watching it, I knew I wouldn't forget it for a long time. It leaves some sort of a frightening image in the back of your mind. How it was panned originally, I have no idea. Maggie, thanks for reminding me of this little gem.
A film critical of religion, parents, and small-town America in the fifties, where the children are wiser and more resourceful than most of the adults. This movie had to be made in the fifties, but the fifties would never accept this movie, because it crossed lines that even Rebel Without a Cause did not cross.
The category in my mind is unconventional. Unconventional Film Noir, Unconventional suspense. And, a unique darkness. Wasn't it great to see Lillian Gish having such a great role after all those years.
I just started watching your reviews, I must say, I was hesitant, as there are so many people doing reviews of movies on TH-cam, but, as I have been watching you, I have to say, you are the best on TH-cam, The most insightful and meaningful perspectives I've seen. You're review on "Citizen Kane" should be included as a supplement on any new Blu ray release of the film. I will go even farther, you should be a permanent host on the TCM channel - thanks you for your knowledge.
Very well done review. Just saw this movie a week ago, and also got that feeling of a dream world, especially when the two children were traveling the river on a boat, but you have given me an insight I never thought of when you pointed out that this film was being seen through the eyes of a child. I found it strange movie, but very well shot. not like anything you have seen before or since. Film students should especially watch this movie.
The best Flannery O'Connor film adaptation I've ever seen (it's actually not based on one of her novels or stories, but the whole gothic tone & fanatical preacher type is there).
I have a profound respect for movies that tell ugly stories in beautiful ways. What an amazingly beautiful, haunting experience. Sad that it's success was stamped out early on.
I recently watched Night of the Hunter again (for maybe the 15th time), and it is easily one of my favorite movies of all time. I mean, this is the ultimate definition of 'masterpiece', so poetic and personal and yet also so universal. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us, a beautiful review of a classic film.
I"m so glad you think this. I recently rediscovered Charles Laughton, who I think is one of, if not The greatest actor who ever lived. He's a genius, so versatile. It is tragic that this is the only film he directed. It was above the heads of most pple, both critics and movie goers. This is the fate of genius. Thank God, it seems to be appreciated now. A cult classic, it is considered one of the best films ever. Laughton himself is rather forgotten. I do think he will come back. Bach too was forgotten, he was discovered and now he's God.
It's indicative of the trust I have in you as a critic, that I 'like' your videos right at the beginning. I just know it will be quality. And that you chose this film too - great stuff. Cheers from Blighty :)
My impression of your delivery and knowledge is that you have an accurate and acute understanding of this now classic film!!! You have given afine review and I would encourage you to do some further work!! I personally have enjoyed your review!!! Hope to see and hear some more of your work!!! Thanks
Found your review after watching a 1980 interview with Lillian Gish on the Merv Griffin show (TH-cam). She talked of Laughton's goal in making this movie. I have yet to see the movie but hope to soon. Thank you for your review and analysis.
I was born in 53 . I don't know why . but my parents allowed my brother and I to watch it when we were little. I'm reading the book right now. Hard time getting through it , the suspense isn't there because I know what happens , I havent forgotten any of it. Many nightmares.This movie is the movie that scared the carp out of me for years. Mitchum was a great actor , and he didn't think he was a god , as so many stars today do
It's one of the best Silent films with sound.... it has a underlying current of tension and danger that is beautifully shot, but can be unpleasant to experience.. it's a great film -- few films can make you feel the way this film make you feel
👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 This is top tier film criticism. I find it noble that you decided to hold off until you felt confident enough to articulate what you wanted to. And it was well worth the wait. You managed to draw insight from some of the more ineffable qualities the film possesses, not such an easy task given the film’s uniqueness. Certain terms get bandied about to the extent they lose their meaning, but this achievement by Laughton is truly “singular.” No other film exists quite like this. Perhaps Terrence Mallick’s ‘Badlands’ comes close, but only in its ability to conjure up a childlike air of innocence amidst adult crime themes. ‘Night of the Hunter’ really shouldn’t work at all. In lesser hands, all of the disparate elements would have disintegrated into an incoherent mess. This is one of those blu-ray titles I just never get around to buying. 💿 Well, no need to wait any longer.
Absolutely great review! Night of the Hunter (or its vibe) somehow always reminds me of The 5000 Fingers of Dr. T. Both seem to be about children in a terrifying adult world.
I’m glad I just found your channel. A mix of classic films plus some modern, I’m 30 and lean towards classic cinema such as this wonderful film “The Night of The Hunter” Keep up the great work!
Hi Maggie I hope that you are well, keeping well and stay well in this grim time for us all.I subscribe to your channel and I thoroughly enjoy your informed and cerebral take on such a wide-range of movies of all genres. I'm stuck indoors, in West London, the UK's Covid-epicentre, where our local hospital has just run out of ICU beds and declared an emergency having had 21 virus fatalities in 24 hours. So, as you will understand, I'm a tad anxious. By way of a distraction, I'm allocating my personal movie gems to appreciative souls and for you I have chosen Ben Wheatley's 'A Field in England' (2013). The Hollywood Reporter said it had the "midnight-movie intensity of a future cult classic." It is hallucinogenic ( a troop of 16th Century soldiers swallow some mushrooms) yet it has a bare, stripped feel to it (it's black and white). Amy Jumps's screenplay had comparisons with the work of Dennis Potter and Edward Bond and the directing's 'Englishness' was matched with Peckinpah's Straw Dogs and Withnail and I's Bruce Robinson. I just think that you will really enjoy it and if you are unfortunate to be in isolation it will, I think, entertain in a 'punk nightmare' (sic) kind of way. Sorry for the verbiage but I'm isolated from my kids and my mum, I'm worried silly about them and prohibited from 90% of usual social-animal activities. But thank you again for your contribution to maintaining my sanity - you and Graham Greene! Do watch this movie - it was my first interaction with Wheatley's work and it was my favourite movie that year. Best wishes, Chris.
That's precisely the trouble. Hollywood is a business, so art all too often bites the dust. And yet there are great films of artistic value made in Hollywood. In other countries, esp. Europe, cinema is considered more of an art than a business entreprise.
This is probably my favorite film and it makes me feel less alone that she sees all of its beauty, which to me, is obvious and transcendent. But I understand that a lot of people lack a certain sense of wonder,
It's a genius film that flies above the heads of a lot of pple. All too many. So sorry for Laughton that it flopped at first and he could never see it come into its own.
The scene underwater is one of the scariest I have ever seen. Also, the scene when brother and sister are in the boat is so poetic. Fantastic film, glad you did a video about it
This movie is awesome. In a horror type way and a like the woman says a type of fairy tale type vibe. It is damn right a underrated movie that should get recognition. It should be in the realms of To Kill A Mockingbird and also on Alfred Hitchcock type movie. And Charles Laughton was a damn good actor. Mutiny on the bounty with Charles Laughton and Clark Gable is fucking awesome. You wanna see two actors act in a serious way, watch these two as Laughton as captain Bly and gable as Mr Christian. Fucking awesome.
#deepfocuslens: I have a DVD of this great film. Seeing how much it affected you, I have a film that I think you might really enjoy. THE RULING CLASS from 1972. Peter O'Toole gives a haunting performance as an eccentric son of a rich patriarch who goes through an existential crisis. It brilliantly weaves comedy with social commentary, and even hints of horror. A scene near the end of this great film even influenced Stanley Kubrick and a particular shot in his classic THE SHINING. Must-see film...
Hey Maggie- this might sound repetitious and gratuitous- but I have some movies (that I enjoyed) and I think we all deserve hearing your perspective on: Blue Jasmine(2013) True Romance (1993) In Fabric (2019) Possum (2018) Dawn of the Dead (1978) Melancholia (2011) Monster (2003) :) Also Buffy the Vampire Slayer if you ever go onto tv shows!!!
Charles Laughton had a fine career. There are film reviews of one of his best performances "Sidewalks Of London" and another working title AKA St. Martin's Lane with Vivien Leigh. Actually gives the history of Busking in London.Charles character even recites Rudyard Kipling's "IF". Peter Graves was Jon's father in the Top of the scene which in real life was James Arness half brother.Excellent review
I simply adored this one. I know it's a common place but that scene of them throughout the river at night it's one of the best moments that cinema ever offered us. Harry's absolutely terrifying rage scream while he sees them escaping, the moon, the spider web, the frog, the sky with those sparkling stars and all of the details that I might missed, will forever stay in my mind and in my heart. This is a wonderful and magnificent film.
I thought the same on first viewing. It has grown on me quite a bit since. My father said this movie spooked him as a child. My children were riveted. It’s definitely a nightmare fairy tale.
The best thing about this channel is that, she doesn't try to be overly sexual to attract viewers nor does she deviate from her core ambition of reviewing movies, just to gain more followers. I mean I've seen many youtubers switching to Indian or Asia related content to cater to the large Indian, Chinese, Korean and Filipino viewers, after having initially started channels with some other motive. I like this originality. Keep going girl.
Night of the Hunter is a great film and worth watching. I agree the story is complicated. Aside from Mitchum, I was impressed by Lillian Gish’s performance.
One of those directors who was WAY ahead of the curb in applying a nostalgic aesthetic. For him to turn to the silent era for his aesthetic must've startled people in 1955 more than any of the content. Nowadays it's in vogue to kick back 20-40 years into the past. At (*sigh*) the expense of the actors, which is hard to explain properly suffice to say Laughton took ONLY what his cast and crew would need. (The wonderful wide shot of Powell on the horse comes to mind.) That you would describe it as more adult does make sense, although having children as the protagonists shifts such thinking into …. is paradox the right word?? It falls into a no man's land between kids and adults the same way "Fantasia" and "2001" and "Days of Heaven" do: regardless of your age it asks you to enter a more sensory space. With a score of 99 on Metacritic, it's safe to say that "The Night of the Hunter" has been re-assessed to the fullest extent. I'd argue that it's mainstream enough for directors like Spike Lee (in "Do the Right Thing") to reference its scenes and know that people will get the reference. And Robert Mitchum, who went on record that Rev. Powell was the performance he took the most pride in, DID live to see it vindicated which is a small consolation at least.
Thanks for your interesting and thought provoking analysis; honestly, you have made my day that much brighter ! I also enjoyed watching Maggie's (Deep Focus Lens) assertion as well her other past video's ! 👍💪🌝😉🗽🐈
You're spot on about this film. It's a weird, exotic jewel. Light and dark, good and evil and, as you say, utterly dream-like. There's nothing quite like it.
I'm surprised this isn't as best known as it should be. Reverand Harry is one of the better villains from the classic era and the cinematography is very gorgeous. I loved your review but I think its easy to understand the film. It's a con preacher that deceives a village. I just recently made a video comparing it with A Series of Unfortunate Events. I don't know if you would be interested to check it out see what you think? Thanks.
It's a Wonderful Life is another great film that was a massive flop on release, it found it's audience much later through TV. Blade Runner, and Blade Runner 2049 were also flops! Please try the massive flop 'Soy Cuba' (I am Cuba) 1964
Heard they are doing a remake of this movie😭 Why this though?It won't bring that much audience or cash.They could have taken so many other film Noir's which could be made into really good movies with mainstream appeal to grab a little bit of cash aswell.Movies like Laura,the big sleep, Maltese falcon ,kiss me deadly ,the big heat,out of the past, witness for the prosecutor,the wonan in the window etc ... All this movie is gonna do is upset people... Christians,woke ppl will rage against a movie which depicts a woman hater and killer.And they can't gender bend the role it will cause even more controversy .This is just a horrible idea.They should leave this wonderful film alone.Some movies don't need any remake...
I thought this move sucked. The cinemtography was great but the characters were paper thin and dumb and I couldn't take the acting seriously. Way to hammy and goofy
The editing was terrible. There was no sense of pacing. The actors and the characters were hammy and over the top. Couldn't take it seriously for a minute.
It flopped at first. It grew on pple and now it is universally acclaimed. The French Cahiers du cinéma call it the 2nd greatest film after Citizen Kane. High praise indeed.
The shot of the kids in the barn and Harry Powell on the horse in the moonlight is so memorable.
Unironically one of the most unnerving shots in recent memory
The preachers scream when the kids get away on the boat and the sequence that follows is just amazing.
I just watched this movie for the first time and it completely blew me away. It’s mythic and beautiful and Mitchum is just incredible as this howling demon of a character. What a fantastic film.
Holy Scheisenheister! What an expressive and thoughtful review. This film ripped me out of my childhood and gave me a prism through which I digested the rest of my life. So nice to see the next generation appreciating this.
So right you are. Exactly right what you say about the review. Intelligent and thoughtful and elegantly put.
I feel like Night of the Hunter is almost quintessential American cinema even if the director was English. Its a perfect bridge from the schmaltzy golden age stuff to more European artsy ideas that we'd see in the 60s and 70s. The landscapes, setting & style gave me major huck finn vibes but also a little bit of the Wizard of Oz oddly enough. There is something about those first couple of minutes that really get to me. The sweeping overhead shots & the editing feel so ahead of its time. And who can forget that magical river sequence
Leeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeaniiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiing
Leeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeaniiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiing
Seriously, love Robert Mitchum in this, and love this film. Do wish that Charles Laughton had been able to direct more films, but oh well. This will have to do, and he nailed this one.
Robert Mitchum's performance was way more than people could handle back then. His tattooed fingers intertwining 'Love' and 'Hate' stay with me to this day.
What an absolutely wonderful, detailed, heart-felt review. I just watched the movie as it is leaving the Criterion Channel today and I absolutely loved it. I don't think I've ever seen a movie quite like it.
There are moments of absolute farce when the Preacher is chasing the children or when he is shot by Rachel combined with moments of terror , surrealism and beauty.
I will not soon forget this film.
Thank you for this deeply insightful review. I would love to hear your review of the 1962 film The Days of Wine and Roses. It has everything. Great cinematography, great acting, terrific writing.
The imagery in this film is so striking and memorable. The shot through the spider web is just impossibly beautiful. Such a tragedy Laughton never directed another film
I had not seen this film in over 40 years, your interpretation of the movie and perception of it made me want to watch it again. I appreciate your perspective of how movies affect you, I never think of them the way you do, I get lost in the emotional impact of the movie and have never thought of them from a larger perspective like you do, and again I appreciate that, it adds more to my appreciation of the movies you talk about.
Well put.
The song/arrangement and instrumentation during the boat scene is incredible, it does so much to make that scene as arresting as it is
This remains one of the darkest films I've ever seen. After watching it, I knew I wouldn't forget it for a long time. It leaves some sort of a frightening image in the back of your mind. How it was panned originally, I have no idea. Maggie, thanks for reminding me of this little gem.
A film critical of religion, parents, and small-town America in the fifties, where the children are wiser and more resourceful than most of the adults.
This movie had to be made in the fifties, but the fifties would never accept this movie, because it crossed lines that even Rebel Without a Cause did not cross.
Maggie uploading 5 videos in a week is one of the few upsides to quarantine
The sad part is will movie theaters survive this pandemic ?
@@TransparencyandMerit It's not the end of the world, the aftermath's not gonna affect us nearly as drastically as that
@@lukess.s I hope you're right although this kind of shut down is unique in world history
She been comin thru lately 👏👏
Yes, one of the few bright sports these days, love having more reviews from Maggie. Always learn something from a very smart lady.
The category in my mind is unconventional. Unconventional Film Noir, Unconventional suspense. And, a unique darkness. Wasn't it great to see Lillian Gish having such a great role after all those years.
I just started watching your reviews, I must say, I was hesitant, as there are so many people doing reviews of movies on TH-cam, but, as I have been watching you, I have to say, you are the best on TH-cam, The most insightful and meaningful perspectives I've seen. You're review on "Citizen Kane" should be included as a supplement on any new Blu ray release of the film. I will go even farther, you should be a permanent host on the TCM channel - thanks you for your knowledge.
I agree. I think this is the best film reviewer I've seen on YT.
Very well done review. Just saw this movie a week ago, and also got that feeling of a dream world, especially when the two children were traveling the river on a boat, but you have given me an insight I never thought of when you pointed out that this film was being seen through the eyes of a child. I found it strange movie, but very well shot. not like anything you have seen before or since. Film students should especially watch this movie.
The best Flannery O'Connor film adaptation I've ever seen (it's actually not based on one of her novels or stories, but the whole gothic tone & fanatical preacher type is there).
I love this movie! I saw it in the early 90's and will never forget how it effected me. Robert Mitchum's understated villain is top flight!
I have a profound respect for movies that tell ugly stories in beautiful ways. What an amazingly beautiful, haunting experience. Sad that it's success was stamped out early on.
I recently watched Night of the Hunter again (for maybe the 15th time), and it is easily one of my favorite movies of all time. I mean, this is the ultimate definition of 'masterpiece', so poetic and personal and yet also so universal. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us, a beautiful review of a classic film.
I"m so glad you think this. I recently rediscovered Charles Laughton, who I think is one of, if not The greatest actor who ever lived. He's a genius, so versatile. It is tragic that this is the only film he directed. It was above the heads of most pple, both critics and movie goers. This is the fate of genius. Thank God, it seems to be appreciated now. A cult classic, it is considered one of the best films ever. Laughton himself is rather forgotten. I do think he will come back. Bach too was forgotten, he was discovered and now he's God.
Anyone else been getting these videos recommended hard this past month? Whatever she’s doing, it’s working
It's indicative of the trust I have in you as a critic, that I 'like' your videos right at the beginning. I just know it will be quality. And that you chose this film too - great stuff. Cheers from Blighty :)
ps - Laughton's DTs in "Hobson's Choice' remains one of the most frightening images I saw as a kid. Those bugs --- Arghhh!
My impression of your delivery and knowledge is that you have an accurate and acute understanding of this now classic film!!! You have given afine review and I would encourage you to do some further work!! I personally have enjoyed your review!!! Hope to see and hear some more of your work!!! Thanks
Found your review after watching a 1980 interview with Lillian Gish on the Merv Griffin show (TH-cam). She talked of Laughton's goal in making this movie. I have yet to see the movie but hope to soon. Thank you for your review and analysis.
Great review, I'm following you on Instagram, had no clue you had a TH-cam channel until I searched for a review on this film lol.
I was born in 53 . I don't know why . but my parents allowed my brother and I to watch it when we were little. I'm reading the book right now. Hard time getting through it , the suspense isn't there because I know what happens , I havent forgotten any of it. Many nightmares.This movie is the movie that scared the carp out of me for years. Mitchum was a great actor , and he didn't think he was a god , as so many stars today do
It's one of the best Silent films with sound.... it has a underlying current of tension and danger that is beautifully shot, but can be unpleasant to experience.. it's a great film -- few films can make you feel the way this film make you feel
That is a great way to put it: "a silent film without sound"
Great art will do this.
👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
This is top tier film criticism. I find it noble that you decided to hold off until you felt confident enough to articulate what you wanted to. And it was well worth the wait.
You managed to draw insight from some of the more ineffable qualities the film possesses, not such an easy task given the film’s uniqueness.
Certain terms get bandied about to the extent they lose their meaning, but this achievement by Laughton is truly “singular.” No other film exists quite like this. Perhaps Terrence Mallick’s ‘Badlands’ comes close, but only in its ability to conjure up a childlike air of innocence amidst adult crime themes.
‘Night of the Hunter’ really shouldn’t work at all. In lesser hands, all of the disparate elements would have disintegrated into an incoherent mess.
This is one of those blu-ray titles I just never get around to buying. 💿 Well, no need to wait any longer.
Great comment. Laughton in one category with Terence Mallick is high praise indeed. Mallick is one of themost spiritual, unusual directors today.
One of my favorite films. Robert Mitchum can play a villain better than anybody
He was also a pretty good villain in "Cape Fear" in 1962.
Absolutely great review! Night of the Hunter (or its vibe) somehow always reminds me of The 5000 Fingers of Dr. T. Both seem to be about children in a terrifying adult world.
"Leaning, leaning, leaning on the everlasting arms."
Great review! Please do the Swimmer with Burt Lancaster (1968)
Amazing review. So glad this film can reach people in the modern age. The criterion version looks so amazing! Has so much history of the film.
I’m glad I just found your channel. A mix of classic films plus some modern, I’m 30 and lean towards classic cinema such as this wonderful film “The Night of The Hunter”
Keep up the great work!
My favourite horror/noir/fairytale/dark comedy/surrealist/western/satire/christmas movie.
Hi Maggie
I hope that you are well, keeping well and stay well in this grim time for us all.I subscribe to your channel and I thoroughly enjoy your informed and cerebral take on such a wide-range of movies of all genres. I'm stuck indoors, in West London, the UK's Covid-epicentre, where our local hospital has just run out of ICU beds and declared an emergency having had 21 virus fatalities in 24 hours. So, as you will understand, I'm a tad anxious. By way of a distraction, I'm allocating my personal movie gems to appreciative souls and for you I have chosen Ben Wheatley's 'A Field in England' (2013). The Hollywood Reporter said it had the "midnight-movie intensity of a future cult classic." It is hallucinogenic ( a troop of 16th Century soldiers swallow some mushrooms) yet it has a bare, stripped feel to it (it's black and white). Amy Jumps's screenplay had comparisons with the work of Dennis Potter and Edward Bond and the directing's 'Englishness' was matched with Peckinpah's Straw Dogs and Withnail and I's Bruce Robinson. I just think that you will really enjoy it and if you are unfortunate to be in isolation it will, I think, entertain in a 'punk nightmare' (sic) kind of way. Sorry for the verbiage but I'm isolated from my kids and my mum, I'm worried silly about them and prohibited from 90% of usual social-animal activities. But thank you again for your contribution to maintaining my sanity - you and Graham Greene! Do watch this movie - it was my first interaction with Wheatley's work and it was my favourite movie that year. Best wishes, Chris.
That's precisely the trouble. Hollywood is a business, so art all too often bites the dust. And yet there are great films of artistic value made in Hollywood. In other countries, esp. Europe, cinema is considered more of an art than a business entreprise.
Excellent review. Beautifully expressed.
This is probably my favorite film and it makes me feel less alone that she sees all of its beauty, which to me, is obvious and transcendent. But I understand that a lot of people lack a certain sense of wonder,
It's a genius film that flies above the heads of a lot of pple. All too many. So sorry for Laughton that it flopped at first and he could never see it come into its own.
Fabulous, thoughtful, insightful movie analysis!!!
The scene underwater is one of the scariest I have ever seen. Also, the scene when brother and sister are in the boat is so poetic. Fantastic film, glad you did a video about it
...and beautiful, like the house catching on fire in Badlands.
Scary? Have you never seen a horror movie?. Stop lying and being hyperbolic.
This movie is awesome. In a horror type way and a like the woman says a type of fairy tale type vibe. It is damn right a underrated movie that should get recognition. It should be in the realms of To Kill A Mockingbird and also on Alfred Hitchcock type movie. And Charles Laughton was a damn good actor. Mutiny on the bounty with Charles Laughton and Clark Gable is fucking awesome. You wanna see two actors act in a serious way, watch these two as Laughton as captain Bly and gable as Mr Christian. Fucking awesome.
Another insightful review. I would echo what you say, that people should get to see this film by hook or by crook. It rewards multiple viewings.
I rarely say this, but The Night of the Hunter was sooooo ahead of its time.
#deepfocuslens: I have a DVD of this great film. Seeing how much it affected you, I have a film that I think you might really enjoy. THE RULING CLASS from 1972. Peter O'Toole gives a haunting performance as an eccentric son of a rich patriarch who goes through an existential crisis. It brilliantly weaves comedy with social commentary, and even hints of horror. A scene near the end of this great film even influenced Stanley Kubrick and a particular shot in his classic THE SHINING. Must-see film...
Hey Maggie- this might sound repetitious and gratuitous- but I have some movies (that I enjoyed) and I think we all deserve hearing your perspective on:
Blue Jasmine(2013)
True Romance (1993)
In Fabric (2019)
Possum (2018)
Dawn of the Dead (1978)
Melancholia (2011)
Monster (2003)
:)
Also Buffy the Vampire Slayer if you ever go onto tv shows!!!
Charles Laughton had a fine career. There are film reviews of one of his best performances "Sidewalks Of London" and another working title AKA St. Martin's Lane with Vivien Leigh. Actually gives the history of Busking in London.Charles character even recites Rudyard Kipling's "IF". Peter Graves was Jon's father in the Top of the scene which in real life was James Arness half brother.Excellent review
One of my favorites
Robert mitchum didnt even get an oscar nomination
SUCH AN EXCELLENT REVIEW. THANK YOU.
I simply adored this one. I know it's a common place but that scene of them throughout the river at night it's one of the best moments that cinema ever offered us. Harry's absolutely terrifying rage scream while he sees them escaping, the moon, the spider web, the frog, the sky with those sparkling stars and all of the details that I might missed, will forever stay in my mind and in my heart. This is a wonderful and magnificent film.
Mitchum was superb
I really want to see your take on Ginger Snaps
Nice review of a movie that I agree isn’t as well known as it should be.
Nick Cave rules!
Excellent review!
I'm obsessed with your hands
I found this movie a bit... Overrated... I'll have to watch it again. I would've loved to see Laughton make more movies though.
I thought the same on first viewing. It has grown on me quite a bit since. My father said this movie spooked him as a child. My children were riveted. It’s definitely a nightmare fairy tale.
Great movie. Got my 4k coming from kino lorber on Wednesday. Laughton never directed again I don’t believe
The best thing about this channel is that, she doesn't try to be overly sexual to attract viewers nor does she deviate from her core ambition of reviewing movies, just to gain more followers. I mean I've seen many youtubers switching to Indian or Asia related content to cater to the large Indian, Chinese, Korean and Filipino viewers, after having initially started channels with some other motive. I like this originality. Keep going girl.
Night of the Hunter is a great film and worth watching. I agree the story is complicated. Aside from Mitchum, I was impressed by Lillian Gish’s performance.
Do you have Letterboxd?
love alll the videos you've been pumping out! good stuff!
I was ecstatic when I found out Orson Welles made a film adaptation of The Maginificent Ambersons, which is my favorite book.
the film's not very good.
@@helvete_ingres4717 Not Welles's fault .. the studio ruined it.
@Jim Pickard I know
It reminded me a little of the movie M.
Thought you were gonna mention that spike lee stole the love/hate monologue for do the right thing
Stole or pay homage?
Spike Lee is a hackfraud
Great review. I just posted it in my top 10 on my FB. It's securely in the 7 slot. "Leaning..."
Not a Turtle it was a Tortoise they are two different things.
you seem fun
One of those directors who was WAY ahead of the curb in applying a nostalgic aesthetic. For him to turn to the silent era for his aesthetic must've startled people in 1955 more than any of the content. Nowadays it's in vogue to kick back 20-40 years into the past. At (*sigh*) the expense of the actors, which is hard to explain properly suffice to say Laughton took ONLY what his cast and crew would need. (The wonderful wide shot of Powell on the horse comes to mind.)
That you would describe it as more adult does make sense, although having children as the protagonists shifts such thinking into …. is paradox the right word?? It falls into a no man's land between kids and adults the same way "Fantasia" and "2001" and "Days of Heaven" do: regardless of your age it asks you to enter a more sensory space.
With a score of 99 on Metacritic, it's safe to say that "The Night of the Hunter" has been re-assessed to the fullest extent. I'd argue that it's mainstream enough for directors like Spike Lee (in "Do the Right Thing") to reference its scenes and know that people will get the reference. And Robert Mitchum, who went on record that Rev. Powell was the performance he took the most pride in, DID live to see it vindicated which is a small consolation at least.
Thanks for your interesting and thought provoking analysis; honestly, you have made my day that much brighter ! I also enjoyed watching Maggie's (Deep Focus Lens) assertion as well her other past video's ! 👍💪🌝😉🗽🐈
This is an all time favorite film
Have you seen The Wailing?
You're spot on about this film. It's a weird, exotic jewel. Light and dark, good and evil and, as you say, utterly dream-like. There's nothing quite like it.
Subjective expressionism - kids pov makes bad guy feel worse. Told from pov of adult recalling kids trauma - interesting
You are amazing.so intelligent
I was Sooo waiting for this review! Thanks. Best wishes from Italy.
Thank you for reminding me that I really need to see this!
Great film, nice review.
I'm surprised this isn't as best known as it should be. Reverand Harry is one of the better villains from the classic era and the cinematography is very gorgeous. I loved your review but I think its easy to understand the film. It's a con preacher that deceives a village. I just recently made a video comparing it with A Series of Unfortunate Events. I don't know if you would be interested to check it out see what you think? Thanks.
It's a Wonderful Life is another great film that was a massive flop on release, it found it's audience much later through TV. Blade Runner, and Blade Runner 2049 were also flops! Please try the massive flop 'Soy Cuba' (I am Cuba) 1964
Even "The Wizard Of Oz" wasn't considered a great success on its initial release. It sometimes takes a generation or two for a film to be appreciated.
Great film! u have impressive tastes , he gave it all in that one movie , which is why he never made another one maybe ?
It flopped and he was never able to get funding to make another film. How much has the critical and audience stupidity of the times deprived us?
I just watched this movie for the first time, and I loved it! Thanks for putting this on my radar :)
U look like GOT highgarden princess to my eyes.... I forget her name BTW
XD I get the Oona comparison sometimes...and I'm perfectly okay with that.
@Φno I meant Margaery Tyrell but after seeing ur comment I realised that she's more like Talisa than Margaery.
wow very accurate description, u got a sharp brain
Heard they are doing a remake of this movie😭 Why this though?It won't bring that much audience or cash.They could have taken so many other film Noir's which could be made into really good movies with mainstream appeal to grab a little bit of cash aswell.Movies like Laura,the big sleep, Maltese falcon ,kiss me deadly ,the big heat,out of the past, witness for the prosecutor,the wonan in the window etc ...
All this movie is gonna do is upset people...
Christians,woke ppl will rage against a movie which depicts a woman hater and killer.And they can't gender bend the role it will cause even more controversy .This is just a horrible idea.They should leave this wonderful film alone.Some movies don't need any remake...
I thought this move sucked. The cinemtography was great but the characters were paper thin and dumb and I couldn't take the acting seriously. Way to hammy and goofy
Defy your fans expectations and make a blooper reel.
Check my IG stories. I post bloopers there semi-frequently when a new video is up.
I cant help it.i love you!!!
Weak parents create weak kids usually. "By there 🍓"
????
Double bill idea: The Night of the Hunter and Sling Blade
Please watch The Platform on Netflix, it's the best movie so far this year.
I found this one a bit of a let down. I thought most of the acting (aside from Mitchum) was very poor, and the editing was quite amateurish.
Editing amateurish, one of the greatest films ever. Back to the drawing board. Thank God, very few pple think this.
The editing was terrible. There was no sense of pacing. The actors and the characters were hammy and over the top. Couldn't take it seriously for a minute.
Somehow I got the impression this movie was universally acclaimed! I thought people knew about it as much as they knew about Citizen Kane.
It flopped at first. It grew on pple and now it is universally acclaimed. The French Cahiers du cinéma call it the 2nd greatest film after Citizen Kane. High praise indeed.
I love you.
Well Laughton hated himself he was a homosexual and he was a very sensitive man
Yes, given the ideas pple had about homosexuals in his day. He also had a very devout Catholic mother. Difficult.
Yuck
Maggie i know youre not interested but i love movies also and would love to be movie friends with you
Night of the Hunter is trash. Sorry.
Oh, foe Chrissake. All I can say is you're not up for it or ready for it.
Overrated trash. Paper thin story and obvious themes.
I found this movie kinda sexist.
The movie is really retarded. The characters are dumb and paper thin