Oscar Best Picture Challenge Movie #3 -- Cimarron

Cimarron, the 1931 version is based on Edna Ferber's book of the same name.  Even though I did find it boring, perhaps because I'm not all that into western films, it was a good portrayal of the Oklahoma Land Rush to the Cimarron territory, the no man's land that once used to belong to the Native Americans.  It is also shows how everyone was after the same thing, a better way of life and prosperity.  Of course there were always the bad guys looking for trouble and the portrayal of all ethnic minorities.  For example,  Sara Cravat, the wife of the main character, calls all native Americans filthy and savages.   Overall, the movie is not all bad.  I did fall asleep but I do that  a lot so I guess I can't really blame it all on the movie.  I did just find out there is a 1960's version that I may need watch and see if I feel differently.  :)  Now on to movie #4, 1932's Grand Hotel.  Join us on this challenge!

s

Movie #2---"All Quiet on the Western Front"

 

"All Quiet on the Western Front"  (1930) is a great war movie adapted from a novel by German author Erich Maria Remarque.  I must agree with most people that It may be one of the best.  It is a fantastic portrayal of the recruiting of young German men in schools during World War I.  It depicts the naivety of the young soldiers as they embark on a journey to die for the country only to realize their ignorance of war and the underestimation of the advanced war technology from the Allied Forces.  It also shows the gruesome trench battles, the psychological and physical damage it caused many, and the unawareness and lack of information that the society had about the war. 

Compared to the previous winner, the cinematography (quality, transitions, etc) was much improved.

Check out the link for more details about the movie or this trailer!

Next up "Cimarron" (1931)--the first western to win Best Picture. STAY TUNED! :)