Five Movie Props I'd Like to Own (Volume I)

1. Larry Talbot's Cane from The Wolf Man. My interest in this prop isn't because I'm a huge fan of the movie. Don't get me wrong...I like The Wolf Man, but it wouldn't rank among my top 5 Universal horror classics. However, Larry's wolf-head silver cane--which ultimately becomes the weapon used to kill him--is just so cool. The actual prop was made of cast rubber and painted silver. Bob Burns, who has amassed a treasure trove of movie props, owns the original. Universal make-up artist and prop master Ellis Berman gave him the cane in 1948 when Bob was 13. You can buy replicas of it now.

2. Charles Foster Kane's Snow Globe from Citizen Kane. Yes, the Rosebud sled is the most famous prop from the movie, but let's be honest, I don't know where I'd store a sled. The globe, with its little snow-covered house, figures into one of the film's most iconic scenes as it falls from Kane's hand to the floor and smashes. You can buy a replica of it, too, for under $40.

3. The Portrait from Laura. Who wouldn't want the famous painting of Gene Tierney hanging over their fireplace? Actually, it's not technically a painting. Director Otto Preminger didn't think portraits photographed well, so he had a photo of Gene Tierney "smeared with oil paint to soften the outlines." The "portrait" was used in two other films as well: On the Riviera (1951) (in which you can see it in color) and Woman's World (1954)--which doesn't even star Gene Tierney.

4. The Maltese Falcon sculpture. It may be the second most famous prop in movie history (topped only by the ruby slippers). A Las Vegas hotel magnate bought the original Falcon at auction in 2013 for $4.1 million. That put it way out of my price range! However, Vanity Fair later published an interesting article about other supposedly real Falcons used in the movie, too. It's all very mysterious. I'd like one, but, heck, even a solid resin knockoff on Amazon runs around $119. That's not what my dreams are made of.

5. The Hourglass from The Wizard of Oz. Naturally, I thought about the ruby slippers and I even considered the big crystal globe in which the Witch spies on Dorothy. In the end, though, I opted for the hourglass because it scared the crap out of me as a kid when the Witch turned it over and told Dorothy: "Do you see that? That's how much longer you've got to be alive. And it isn't long, my pretty. It isn't long."

My 100 Favorite Films: From 10 to 1

I began this endeavor last February and now, after counting down 90 of my favorite movies, I’ve arrived at the Top Ten. It’s been grand fun for me—I’ve enjoyed revisiting each of these films and have delighted in reading comments from others who hold them in esteem. Thanks for all the wonderful feedback. Click here to read the complete list from 100-1. And now, without further discourse, here is (as Miss Jean Brodie would say) the crème de la crème.

Bronson as the mysterious Harmonica.

10. Once Upon a Time in the West – "Epic" and "sprawling" are the words critics frequently used to describe this now-revered 1968 Spaghetti Western. Yet, despite its lengthy running time and visually massive backdrop, Once Upon a Time in the West focuses tightly on the relationships among four people over a relatively short period of time. These characters are: Frank (Henry Fonda), a ruthless gunfighter who aspires to be a powerful businessman; Cheyenne (Jason Robards), a rascally outlaw with killer instincts; Jill (Claudia Cardinale), a former prostitute in search of a more meaningful life; and a mysterious revenge-minded stranger whom Cheyenne calls Harmonica (Charles Bronson). It took multiple viewings over the span of several years for me to fully appreciate Sergio Leone’s masterpiece. In the end, I was won over by its fascinating characters, overarching theme, Ennio Morricone’s score, and some marvelous set pieces (especially the opening and climactic showdown between Frank and Harmonica).

Don't you love Doris's hat?

9. Lover Come Back – There aren’t many comedies in my 100 Favorite Movies and only two in the Top 10—there just aren’t that many films that tickle my funny bone. A major exception is this bright 1960s laugh fest with Rock Hudson and Doris Day as advertising rivals. To distract Doris, Rock comes up with a fake product called Vip. He even films commercials for the fake product—which are, unfortunately aired on TV. To avoid criminal charges on fraud, he hires a Nobel scientist to invent something that could be passed off as Vip. Meanwhile, Doris mistakes Rock for the Vip inventor and he plays along. It’s a classic “snowball comedy” played by a cast of pros, including Tony Randall and Edie Adama. But the main attraction here is the pairing of Doris and Rock in their best outing. This is the film that reminded me that Rock Hudson was an exceptional comedian, as evidenced by his expert timing in the delicious scene when he tries to seduce Doris.

Tippi as another Hitchcock blonde heroine.

8. Marnie – When I first saw Marnie as a teenager, it made no impression at all. I thought Tippi Hedren was miscast and Sean Connery dull. The plot--what there was of one--seemed thin and the characters lacked interest. Decades later, I watched it it again and, to my complete surprise, I loved it! Tippi Hedren's subtle detached performance made Marnie a vulnerable, intriguing character. The progressively complex relationship between Marnie and Sean Connery’s character generated suspense--in its own quiet way--worthy of Hitch’s best man-on-the-run films. I was captivated by Hitch's finest use of color (especially during the opening scenes). And finally, there was Bernard Herrmann's incredible score (which, for me, ranks second only to Vertigo among his Hitchcock soundtracks). I've often wondered how I missed all of this the first time around?

Bing and Danny singing "Sisters."

7. White Christmas – There was a time when I grumbled because White Christmas was shown every Yuletide season while Holiday Inn (1942) only made sporadic appearances. Most critics consider the latter film, in which the song “White Christmas” was introduced, to be the superior musical. It was only after my wife and I acquired both films on video that I recognized the virtues of White Christmas. It’s a near-perfect blend of music and comedy, with the cast and crew at, or near, the peak of their careers. The dance numbers are staged energetically, with the highlight being Danny and Vera-Ellen dancing outside a nightclub to the melodic “The Best Things Happen While You’re Dancing.” Crosby and Clooney generate a more subdued, but no less effective, chemistry. Their duet “Count Your Blessings” was the big hit song from the film. The most effective pairing in the film, though, is the one between Crosby and Kaye. They’re a sensational team, whether doing musical numbers or comedy (their version of “Sisters”, done originally as a joke on the set, is hysterically funny).

The quartet on their way to Oz.

6. The Wizard of Oz – When I was growing up, the annual network broadcast of The Wizard of Oz was a big event. I never failed to watch it. It’s so much a part of my movie-watching DNA that it’s hard to describe its appeal other than to say it’s one of the most perfect films ever made. The cast, the characters, the themes, the sets, the costumes, the music—does Oz fail to earn a top grade in any of those categories? But for me, the most amazing aspect of the film is this: Despite the thousands of pop culture products derived from the film over the last 70-plus years—which are more than enough to overwhelm even a dedicated fan—I never tire of watching The Wizard of Oz.

Danny and Basil in their delightful
duel (snap!).

5. The Court Jester – My favorite comedy is a spot-on, delightful spoof of swashbuckling films. In a rare role worthy of his talents, Danny Kaye gets to sing, dance, use funny voices, contort his expressive face, and excel at physical comedy (such as walking in magnetized armor). The supporting players are all at the top of their game, too. Basil Rathbone has a grand time parodying past roles such as Sir Guy of Gisbourne in The Adventures of Robin Hood. Angela Lansbury displays a deft comedic touch, while Cecil Parker steals his scenes as the bored king whose only interest appears to be “wenches.” The Court Jester also includes Danny’s most famous routine—the one that involves the pellet with the poison in the chalice from the palace, the vessel with the pestle has the brew that is true, and (finally) the flagon with the picture of a dragon (which is used for the brew that is true after the vessel with the pestle is broken). And did I mention that Danny and Basil Rathbone engage in the funniest sword duel in the history of cinema?

Gort melts a tank...how cool is that?

4. The Day the Earth Stood Still – If there were a Hall of Fame for Timeless Movies, then one of its founding members would be The Day the Earth Stood Still. I've probably watched it at least once every decade since I first saw it on NBC's Saturday Night at the Movies in the 1960s. When I was a youngster, the film's fantastic elements--and Gort, the coolest robot in the history of cinema--appealed to me. When I was a teen, its stern warning about the perils of nuclear war resonated with me. With each subsequent viewing, The Day the Earth Stood Still has revealed something new: presenting itself as a Biblical analogy, an editorial on the influence of media on public opinion, a portrait of fear of the unknown, etc. Its themes never fail to thrill me…making it much more exciting than any action-oriented sci fi film.

3. Anatomy of a Murder – Otto Preminger’s enthralling courtroom drama requires multiple viewings to be fully appreciated. When I first saw it, I focused on the riveting story, which treats the viewer much like the jury. We listen to testimonies, watch the lawyers try to manipulate our emotions, and struggle to make sense of the evidence. When I saw it a second time, I knew the case’s outcome and was able to concentrate on the splendid performances. James Stewart, Arthur O’Connell, and George C. Scott earned Oscar nominations, but the rest of the cast is also exceptionally strong. In subsequent viewings, I’ve come to appreciate the film’s well-preserved details, from the small town upper-Michigan atmosphere to Preminger’s brilliant direction (e.g., in one shot, as Scott cross-examines a witness in close-up, Stewart—the defending lawyer—is framed between them in the background).

Talk about doomed love...

2. Vertigo – This richly-layered masterpiece reveals its big twist when least expected--turning the film on its proverbial head. It causes love to blur with obsession and greed to give way to guilt and perhaps love. What we see at the bell tower is initially false, but ultimately true. I could go on and on…but, hey, whole books have been devoted to this film. I think it’s Hitch’s best job of writing (as usual uncredited) and directing…plus we get superb performances (especially from James Stewart), a marvelous San Francisco setting, an unforgettably disturbing score from Bernard Hermann, and nifty Saul Bass titles. Like all great films, I glean something new from it or appreciate another facet every time I watch it. My latest viewing reminded me just how brilliant James Stewart is in the lead. In a career filled with fine performances, I think Stewart does his finest work as a typical Stewart “nice guy” who evolves into a man obsessed with an illusion. Contrast Scotty’s (Stewart) playful banter early on with Midge with his climactic confrontation with Judy—his eyes ablaze with confusion, hate, and something akin to love. It’s a brilliant and chilling transition.

1. The Adventures of Robin Hood – For many readers, I’m sure it comes as no surprise that Robin Hood occupies the No. 1 spot on my list. For me, it shares many traits with The Wizard of Oz in that, from top to bottom, it’s a flawless film (well, except for one tiny continuity gap). The early Technicolor color is rich. Michael Curtiz, who took over the film from William Keighley, keeps the pacing tight. Errol and Olivia, one of the great screen couples, exude celluloid chemistry. Basil and Claude make for dastardly villains. And the supporting cast, from Alan Hale to Una O’Connor, is incredible. My favorite aspect, though, is that it’s the ultimate “let’s form a team” movie. As discussed in this blog before, I hold a special affection for movies in which one character recruits others to form a team to accomplish a goal (e.g., The Magnificent Seven, The Dirty Dozen). There’s nothing as satisfying as watch Errol assmble his Band of Merry Men. As for that one tiny flaw in Robin Hood, watch where the sword lands when Basil drops it on the staircase and note how it magically moves courtesy of a continuity gaff. Those are the kinds of things one notices when watching a favorite film a few dozen times!

The 5 Best "Let's Form a Team!" Movies

Call it the Robin Hood Syndrome. But ever since I saw The Adventures of Robin Hood as a wee lad, I've been intrigued by movies where the hero forms a team to go battle the bad guys, steal something valuable, or liquidate a witch. It's important to note that the team can't be formed already at the beginning of the film--the fun is with watching the assorted characters join up one by one. Here are the five best films in this made-up genre:

Robin meets Little John.

1. The Adventures of Robin Hood. It's the one that started it all, so it has to be No. 1. Plus, it boasts one of the finest casts ever assembled and features some of the genre's best meets--the scenes where each individual joins the team. We're treated to the fight on the bridge between Flynn's Robin and Alan Hale's Little John, followed by the swordfight between Robin and Eugene Pallette's Friar Tuck. It doesn't get any better!

Yul and Steve, the first two of the Seven.

2. The Magnificent Seven. With apologies to Mr. Kurosawa, I prefer the supporting characters in this Western remake of The Seven Samurai: James Coburn is the quiet, deadly knife-thrower; Robert Vaughn the gunfighter who has lost his nerve; Charles Bronson the tough guy who loves kids; and Horst Bucholtz the young whippersnapper eager to join the team. Throw in Yul Brynner, Steve McQueen, and an awesome Elmer Bernstein theme and you have a film that challenges Robin for the top spot. (For the record, Brad Dexter is the seventh team member...but he's the one no one remembers.)

3. The Andromeda Strain. When a satellite returns to Earth with an unknown (alien?) organism, a team of scientists converge on a biological threat containment lab in Nevada, The Wildfire team consists of: Jeremy Stone (Arthur Hill), the leader; Ruth Levitt (Kate Reid), the cynic; Mark Hall (James Olson), the passionate physician; and Charlie Dutton (David Wayne), the skeptic who wonders if their goal should be destroying Andromeda. You could say that there’s a fifth member of the team and that’s the Wildfire lab itself. One of my favorite scenes in the movie is a virtual tour of the five-level, underground facility as the team goes through decontamination and immunization procedures.

Savalas, Bronson, and Trini Lopez.

4. The Dirty Dozen. Tough-as-nails Army major Lee Marvin recruits 12 convicts--doing hard time or sentenced for hanging--to go on a suicide mission during World War II. Overall, the cast and characters aren't as memorable as the preceding films, but it's an incredibly entertaining picture with an amusing first half and an exciting finish. The members of the Dozen who stand out include Telly Savalas, Clint Walker, Bronson again, and John Cassavetes.

5. The Five Man Army. A Spaghetti Western (co-written by Dario Argento) in which Peter Graves plays a mysterious man called The Dutchman (he's not Dutch, though) who recruits four other guys to rob a train guarded by most of the Mexican Army. The cast is "B" grade, but the characters and performers mesh quite well, including James Daly as The Colonel, Tetsuro Tamba as a samurai, and Bud Spencer in his typical role of gruff brute. The train robbery itself is worthy of a heist from Graves' TV series Mission: Impossible.

Special Honorable Mention: The Wizard of Oz. This classic would rank in the list above if Dorothy had set out to intentionally form a team. Still, she does form a team, the members bond together, and--when one of their own is captured--the remaining teammates execute a rescue mission. As with Robin Hood, the splendid cast embodies the lovable characters perfectly and the "meet scenes" are the most memorable in this genre.

Other Honorable Mentions: The Asphalt Jungle, Kelly's Heroes.