My next review in my Best Picture Oscar series. You can find other articles and reviews at my blog: thecinematicpac...
Пікірлер: 92
@WhattAreYouSaying5 жыл бұрын
Great movie. For 9 years I was exactly like Don Birnam, I can recognize myself in everything he does in this movie...When I watched the movie for the first time it was like I was watching myself. I did the same stuff, said the same things and told the same lies. But I got rid off my alcohol addiction 3 years ago, thank God. Now I live a normal life.
@TheCinematicPackrat15 жыл бұрын
That's great to hear! Glad you were able to overcome your addiction! Thanks for watching, by the way!
@WhattAreYouSaying3 жыл бұрын
@@TheCinematicPackrat1 Thanks! But I failed...1 year ago I started drinking again. I was thinking that a few beers could do no harm..But it did. I woke up every morning, shaking, scared and sweating like a pig. So the first I did in the morning was having a drink to stop the shakings and sweating. I have been drinking for 1 year now...From morning to night. But now I am in a rehab/detox clinic in Norway. Been here 5 weeks. On Monday I go home...Im not sure if I manage to stay sober, but I will try...I have been drinking 85% Hand sanitizer a few times here on the clinic. Alcoholism is bad...I have lost almost everything because off it.
@TheCinematicPackrat13 жыл бұрын
@@WhattAreYouSaying I'm so sorry to hear that. Addictions are rough to say the very least. I struggle with my own. I've found it helps to remember that failing and regressing isn't the end of the world. The important thing is to keep trying the next day/week/month/year. I wish you all the best, and I really do hope you find a way to beat your addictions for good. I believe in you!
@ellex98823 жыл бұрын
@@WhattAreYouSaying best of luck to you in overcoming your addiction - hope you can find peace in nature somehow and try to replace alcohol with something more substantial 🙏 - Norway sure is a beautiful place!
@bljb227 жыл бұрын
One of my all time favourites. Ray Milland was such a talented actor. Loved him in Dial M for Murder, The Big Clock and Beau Geste.
@moniquelacosta51707 жыл бұрын
These are all Great Movies. I loved Love Story, The Major and the Minor, and Easy Living
@matthewbyrd3982 жыл бұрын
Another good one is "Days Of Wine and Roses" with Jack Lemmon as the struggling alcoholic.
@davidalkhed33689 жыл бұрын
I actually liked The Lost Weekend a lot. I felt we saw enough of what a man Don was before his alcoholism, and could sympathies with him when he went through his struggle. And I could also understand his brother when he's leaving for the weekend, that he is tired of taking care of Don who is a grown man. I believe this was a good movie, and deserved the Oscars it won.
@garetmckenna86748 жыл бұрын
Same. This is probably in my top 5 of the Best Pictures so far.
@marilynstevenson8654 жыл бұрын
This film is, and always has been, my favourite movie along with another wonderful Ray MIlland flm...The Uninvited..
@TheCinematicPackrat14 жыл бұрын
I haven't seen The Uninvited. I'll have to check it out. Thanks for watching! :)
@marilynstevenson8654 жыл бұрын
The Cinematic Packrat it’s worth the effort.. it’s supposed to be the “ first” ghost movie made in Hollywood..
@TheCinematicPackrat14 жыл бұрын
@@marilynstevenson865 While I'm always hesitate to call a film a first in anything, you have me intrigued. Will hunt it down.
@marilynstevenson8654 жыл бұрын
@@TheCinematicPackrat1 Yes, it is best to be cautious...It's something I read a long time ago..A wonderful thing about talking to others about movies and music is you learn so much from other people..it regularly takes me in different directions..different films and music..nice talking with you..cheers..
@jamesgornall57315 жыл бұрын
As a recovering alcoholic this felt like a documentary, every single thing I've done myself except took a woman's handbag. The childish self pity was so well done it's incredible. The depiction of withdrawal where he can't walk a block and a half, awesome.
@TheCinematicPackrat15 жыл бұрын
Glad you liked the movie. And go you on beating your addiction one day at a time! You're awesome!
@Rozsaphile4 жыл бұрын
He moans that the pawnshop is two whole blocks away. Then he walks two miles uptown and back again in a truly agonizing scene, powered by Miklos Rozsa's music.
@jeffreysnow26402 жыл бұрын
Amazing Movie !!!!!
@CaminoAir7 жыл бұрын
Since Ray Milland was a tee-totaller, I have no idea how he was able to portray alcohol withdrawal. Not an experience I would have envied if I was an actor, because Millan is very convincing.
@TheCinematicPackrat17 жыл бұрын
He is very convincing. He gives the part such honesty and intensity that I wonder if he came home exhausted every day. Thanks for watching, by way. Hope you liked the video. If you liked, please like and subscribe if you haven't already.
@jamesvanslyke12596 жыл бұрын
That's why it's called 'acting. don't have to be an drunk to portray.
@IoEstasCedonta3 жыл бұрын
Oh, yeah, I remember he said so on Jack Benny, didn't he? (And so was Jack Benny.) It's odd, the only other movie I know him from, the last thing he does is pour a round of drinks. I wonder if he ever actually played a nephalist.
@pandasaurusb.c.6047 Жыл бұрын
I noticed he always places the cigarette backwards in his mouth and always corrects himself before he lights it.
@CaminoAir Жыл бұрын
I wonder if Milland was cast in this role, because his established good guy/romantic lead image would automatically provide the audience with the context for the character that you say is not established properly in the film. From what I've read, the head of production at Paramount told Milland to read the book, because he was going to play the part. So there was a very clear decision by the studio to select Milland and there wasn't the usual several options for casting.
@AmyKaribian Жыл бұрын
According to Wikipedia, Billy Wilder’s first choice for the role of Don was Jose Ferrer, but he turned it down.
@classiclife72042 жыл бұрын
7 years later, but ... one thing missing from the novel is Don's homosexuality. Might be why the film feels incomplete. Your critiques are fair, but honestly, people didn't come to the show to see Don Birnam the Nice Man with Potential. They came to see Don the Depraved Drunk, and that's exactly what Wilder gave them. Give 'em what they want!
@TheCinematicPackrat12 жыл бұрын
I'd forgotten about his homosexuality from the book. Sad the times wouldn't have allowed it in a mainstream movie. I do see what you mean with the Good Don point. I guess what I tried to say (and it's been years since I looked at this review, so I don't remember exactly what I said) was if we see more of Don's good qualities and the good man he was before he became addicted to drink, the addicted Don stands out even more and we feel even more for him because we know what's being lost in the booze bottles. So, yes, the audience is coming to see a story about a severe alcoholic, but I think the film could've made feel even more for him if I saw more of the man before the drink gripped him. Thanks for watching, commenting, and sharing your thoughts! I enjoy the conversation! :)
@stnicholas542 жыл бұрын
I fail to see what that audience laughed about. This is a frightening film of and about addiction.
@susanmurphy9584 жыл бұрын
This is a great movie. Even though it's old, it is still very relevant.
@danielstanwyck28122 жыл бұрын
Whatever do you mean, "even though it's old?" relevance makes it not old, aside from the performances and generally well put together cinema of it all.
@vickramgoswami31855 жыл бұрын
I love Doris Dawson she looks like such a babe here!
@jamesfeldman42344 жыл бұрын
I disagree with this review. I first saw "The Lost Weekend" as a child on TV and found it powerful, moving, and unforgetable. Interestingly, I did not really understand alcoholism at the time, and the few people I came in contact with then through my parents that may have had "issues" with alcohol actually seemed to be having a good time. And when I went to college and happened to take a course in film history, "The Lost Weekend" was played and discussed. The movie seemed even better than I remembered it and even more meaningful, as by this time I did see and meet serious alcoholics, and really understood what great writing, acting, directing, cinematography, and editing went into the movie. And still years later, I checked into the film again just to see if my opinion about it had changed. Again, the movie seemed even richer and more powerful than before. In recent years, however, I would not jump to see the film and even watching this clip is somewhat painful for me for very personal reasons. I saw two very important people in my life tragically succumb to alcoholism at its worst. It was like watching two people commit suicide in slow motion, and ultimately led to their premature deaths. Nonetheless, the film remains one of the best--if not the best--about addiction ever made.
@HHM7065 жыл бұрын
Ive not seen the film but i'm currently reading the book and its very good. The drunks delusional thoughts ring some familiar bells.
@PatriciaMarie10011 ай бұрын
Ahead of its time. Incredible movie
@moniquelacosta51707 жыл бұрын
Whenever you make a film that is out of the norm and you are successful, you will be awarded for that bravado effort. This film was ahead of it's time. I understand what you are saying. But there is a flashback that gave a glimpse of him being charming with Helen. That is the way Mr. Wilder wrote the script and it would have been a great story either way. I like the way it is written. Real Nitty Gritty and right to the point.
@TheCinematicPackrat17 жыл бұрын
And I see your point. I guess I wish I had seen more of that charming good man. I still commend Millland's performance and Wilder's direction. Thanks for watching, by the way.
@TheCinematicPackrat19 жыл бұрын
David Alkhed: Wick's motivations are certainly understandable. Who wouldn't be tired of Don's behavior after so long. I'm glad you enjoyed the movie. I get why you or others would like it. The movie just didn't connect with me for some reason, possibly for the reason I stated in the review. As always, thanks for watching!
@poetcomic14 жыл бұрын
The book was outstanding and autobiographical by Charles johnson and deals with amazing frankness (for the time) how the writer's closeted homosexuality and a horrific public humiliation when he was thrown out of his fraternity and college for a passionate crush on an older boy. The drinking was rooted in this deep self-loathing and shame. Take that motivation away and the movie makes NO real sense to me.
@linnycrocus60232 жыл бұрын
I feel so bad for him. I imagine the treatment options weren't great back then.
@somexp12 Жыл бұрын
Well, it's kind of a fiction that there is a such thing as treatment. There's stuff out, but (unless AA is right about its "miracle" claims) nothing solves the problem as well as simple time-in-grade. The longer you go without, the better you're able to be happy without. Working on a triggers list wouldn't do to well for Don, because clearly his trigger is consciousness. This is very apparent at the start of the film, where his soul-crushing boredom while sober is thoroughly palpable. That aside, I think your reaction is kinda what the video maker is missing. You're not meant to regret the loss of the man he was so much as you're meant to feel the misery of being the man he is. Film can only portray this so well. I found the book, with all its depiction of his internal processes, much more effective (and much more accurate) at showing what it must be like.
@wookinooki90232 жыл бұрын
he shoulda done this this and that. or I woulda done this this and that... is not a good way of criticiizing movies. Wilder didn't want to make a 3 hour movie. That's that.
@Mutlap3 жыл бұрын
my mother and father were alcoholics and it destroyed the family! I am 66 and never have drunk in an excessive way. Both have passed mother died from heart attack, father old age 88, go figure
@janellewilliams79083 жыл бұрын
It was a phenomenal movie!,. Everyone's entitled to their opinion,but I don't care to hear him bash it,and tell us one by one all the reasons he didn't like it.
@user-kw6ck1pz6g10 ай бұрын
Also, Leaving Las Vegas with Nicholas Cage !!!
@rosemarybishop5776 Жыл бұрын
It's better NOT to feel it in my opinion. But that just be me. Best wishes.
@Willismcnillis Жыл бұрын
I’ve never seen a film capture the deception and humiliation that comes with alcohol addiction like this. I’m struggling, I really am. The shame makes me want to die. I’m trying,
@TheCinematicPackrat1 Жыл бұрын
I hope you don't mean you're trying to die. If so, you're life is worth living.
@adamhasideas6813 Жыл бұрын
Hang in their Willis. You can make it!
@ruthiehenshallfan999 жыл бұрын
After seeing this here is the current list of the Best Pictures I have seen (You don't have to show me yours): 1. Gone with the Wind (10/10) 2. Casablanca (10/10) 3. Mrs. Miniver (10/10) 4. It Happened One Night (10/10) 5. Rebecca (10/10/) 6. You Can't Take It With You (10/10) 7. All Quiet on the Western Front (10/10) 8. How Green Was My Valley (9/10) 9. Grand Hotel (9/10) 10. Going My Way (9/10) 11. Cavalcade (8/10) I look forward to The Best Years of Our Lives! It is one of my favorite movies! By the way, what were your thoughts on Jane Wyman in this movie? She is one of my favorites!
@TheCinematicPackrat19 жыл бұрын
ruthiehenshallfan99 You should track down The Life of Emile Zola (because it's surprisingly good) and The Broadway Melody (because it's horrifyingly bad). Would be interested to see where those fall on your list. I remember liking Jane Wyman just fine. I wouldn't say she stood out to me but she certainly did a good job in the movie. The Best Years of Our Lives, is on its way, by the way. Will hopefully have it ready in a couple weeks. Thanks for stopping by! Glad that you seem to be liking the videos!
@sliceoflife42206 жыл бұрын
I haven't seen your # 5 to # 10 but because of your top 4 I will trust you and will watch each one
@sliceoflife42206 жыл бұрын
Ever seen Ace in the hole? With Kirk Douglas
@ImVee103 жыл бұрын
@@TheCinematicPackrat1 I’ve not seen TBM. Is it worse than Crash and (the worst film ever to win the Oscar) Green Book?
@TheCinematicPackrat13 жыл бұрын
@@ImVee10 While I've not seen Crash yet, I have seen Green Book, and for all its problems, yes, Green Book is better than The Broadway Melody. Though, there have been worse NOMINEES than The Broadway Melody: Alibi, In Old Arizona, The Front Page, and Trader Horn are ones I've seen so far that would receive that "honor."
@paulaharrisbaca48516 ай бұрын
"The Verdict" is another great film about alcoholism. Perhaps the reason you didn't care for this movie is because they left out the subplot of Birnham's homosexuality.
@user-kw6ck1pz6g10 ай бұрын
Reviewed in Graduate school...
@tvoommen46885 жыл бұрын
Enjoy alcoholism if you work and earn money even when you are drunk . If you are drinking and not working then.............
@robertmatheus80046 жыл бұрын
I wish Helen would leave Don for good in the end.
@jackwar87797 жыл бұрын
Excellent movie, very well done all around! Compare the superb acting with the trash there putting out these days? I don't think a junkie re-make was ever attempted with this film>
@philiphalpenny97615 жыл бұрын
...mnnn. Man With The Golden Arm with Sinatra was pretty close, thematically, Jack.
@jmeekselectric5 жыл бұрын
Great content on this channel. So much history. We need to get you some more traffic so your sub count can go up. You should have 25,000 easy.
@Jhensy20125 жыл бұрын
We actually laughed at the hallucination part, with the bat in the wall.
@TheCinematicPackrat15 жыл бұрын
Really? I Didn't laugh, but I guess I can see why somebody would. I didn't love the film, but I did like how brutally they presented, though some of it may have been a little over-the-top, at least by today's standards. Thanks for watching, by the way. Please like and subscribe if you'd like.
@Danielle-pu3lm Жыл бұрын
If you’ve grown up with alcoholics, you would not find this movie funny in anyway. It couldn’t be more true to form.
@danielstanwyck28122 жыл бұрын
One of your least favorites of the AA winners, you said. Well, that tells you something right away, My two cents.
@bgrampp3 жыл бұрын
I‘m terribly sorry, but you haven’t understood a thing.
@TheCinematicPackrat13 жыл бұрын
How so?
@ethanedwards75572 жыл бұрын
The last word of every sentence this guy says gets stretched ouuuuuuut.
@TheCinematicPackrat12 жыл бұрын
Yeah, it was a bad quirk with my voice overs that I think I've gotten much better with not doing these days.
@PonderousProse4 жыл бұрын
I might've enjoyed this video, were it not for the narrator's annoying, affected vocal cadence.
@IoEstasCedonta3 жыл бұрын
"Laughed throughout the whole film" - it is a funny movie, in places. I mean, Billy Wilder is a funny guy.
@Bonserak232 жыл бұрын
Well you are obiouvsly not a drunk like us lol
@88hyperman5 жыл бұрын
Great movie indeed but I didn’t really like the ending.
@TheCinematicPackrat15 жыл бұрын
Why is that?
@philiphalpenny97615 жыл бұрын
...in showing the nature of the disease throughout the movie, the ending is not a cop out as many have suggested. Don could relapse at any second. Killing him off would be more of a cop out. The point of the film is the struggle over the weekend. The images and dialogue have stayed with me for years. Essential.
@sleuthentertainment58722 жыл бұрын
Devastating analysis about the consequences of the vice of alcohol, maybe the most devastating ever come from Hollywood, and a masterpiece of the earlier career of Wilder. But I have to say...I am not agree with the ending. Let's analyze it: The point of view of the movie is the main character's, and it's totally destructive, hopeless. But suddenly that point of view changes, from subjective to objective, returning the story to the beginning and doing Wilder the reverse of the initial shot: instead of coming to the intimacy of Don's little world, it goes out to the city, giving a collective vision, and that vision carries some compassion and pity that, of course, don't allow the story finish with the tragic original ending that, in my opinion, could have been better...
@tonyberardi38293 жыл бұрын
I think you're too hard on this film. Not my favorite, but I did like it. It's a movie for it's time.
@Plathianloner7 жыл бұрын
Are you drunk?
@vickramgoswami31855 жыл бұрын
Lol
@saffronsworld15084 жыл бұрын
I'm not drink. Give me another drunk.
@rcalabais4 жыл бұрын
What is wrong with this guy's voice? What an affected annoying sound!