a wee bit of irish...

Happy St. Patrick's Day to one and all!
First off a clip from that great movie, The Quiet Man, just to put us in the right spirit:


Also we present two great performances:
Allison Krauss and The Cheiftains perfoming Molly Ban:

Also
The Coors and The Cheiftains live- get yer dancin' shoes out lassie!


Enjoy!




Then, a toast: May their days be long and full of happiness; may their children be many and full of health; and may they live in peace... and freedom.

John Wayne is America's hero

100 years ago, a boy was born who would change this country forever. Growing up in a small Iowa town as Marion Robert Morrison, the man we now know as John Wayne had no idea of what he would mean to this country and it's people some day. Much is said of the wonderful influence of his characters and films on the movie going world. He is an insurmountable figure in that industry and I feel that goes without saying. From "the Ringo Kid" to "Rooster Cogburn" his on-screen persona's are spoken of in fond remembrance. As we approached the week of his 100th birthday, I was thinking of his portrayals as well, but in a different light. Sure he has influenced actors and such with his attitude on screen, but what about the influence on America?

Growing up, I saw a lot of John Wayne movies thanks to my mother's father. He would get excited and jab me in the ribs with his elbow saying, "Watch this! Watch this!" with all the excitement of a school boy. (J.C. had his share of those moments as well.) I grew older and understood his excitement, but I also grew to understand something else about Mr. Wayne. As the greatest on-screen hero we've ever seen, the Duke had no super powers. He couldn't fly and he wore no special outfit. He was a man like the rest of us, but there was something special in the characters he portrayed. As a matter of fact, that's what he had: Character. We don't dwell on it too much, but it's his character that has made him a hero to many. When you watch Superman or the Hulk, you don't look at Christopher Reeve of Lou Ferrigno as super-human. They are just seen as actors. When you think of John Elder from 'The Sons of Katie Elder' you think , "He wouldn't have been such a tough character if John Wayne wouldn't have played him." This is the same for all of Mr. Wayne's characters throughout his movie career. John Wayne is the common denominator in the hero value of all of his on-screen persona's. He portrayed the best in all of us. Honesty, integrity, patriotism, toughness and tenacity among other things.

These are things that we as individuals can realistically achieve. I feel that is what draws us to his characters. He has character and we want it. Most of us are honest and patriotic, but in reality do we have all of the admirable traits? John Wayne's characters did and it endears him to us. As a country, we like to think of ourselves as being like him: tough and lasting while commanding respect. He is the greatest example of what we should be. He sets the bar for admirable persona. He inspires us to be strong. He inspires us to be true and he inspires us to be tough. John Wayne the man was just a man, but John Wayne as Ringo Kid or G.W. McLintock was who we want to be. He's true to his word and always fair. I feel that even though there are so many wonderful people in this country, we don't have enough John Wayne. He stands for what's good in this country. He stands for what's good in all of us as well as what we all want to become. That's what makes John Wayne the hero of the American people. We close with this great clip of the Duke havin' fun while singing a duet with the late great Dean Martin.







Please feel free to comment if the need strikes you.


Sorry doesn't cut it, dude.

week of the duke: top ten westerns

In the spirit of the Duke's 100th anniversary, Wolf and I thought we would go back over his career and give you our favorite John Wayne Westerns. Our Top Ten List is kicked up to 11 as usual, because in the best Spinal Tap tradition, 11 is one more than 10. I think it would be tough to list out top ten Wayne films, because I've enjoyed so many of his War movies and The Quiet Man, but his westerns are iconic. So we've gone through and picked 11 of his best. All of these films are among our favorites, but some in particular are important and seminal films of the western genre. So we present our Top Ten (11) list first, then with commentary from Wolf and I.

Top Ten (11) John Wayne Westerns

11. Stagecoach

Wolf:

It's not my favorite Wayne film, but an important one nonetheless. John Wayne's dramatic introduction in this film is one of the most important in film history. Though he had performed on film before, this was our true introduction to the Duke. America was grateful and film history still owes a debt of gratitude to that man. His legend began with this film and will continue with it as well as newer audiences find it each year.

Loophole:

The shot that introduced to Ringo (John Wayne) in Stagecoach is about one of the most famous in film history. Starts out wide and closes in fast on his face. Martin Scorsese once said that shot spoke volumes not only about who the character was but how important he was to the story. The same could be said for the actor. Wayne is excellent in the film and John Ford was hard on him, which made him better

10. The Sons of Katie Elder

Wolf:

For the longest time, this was my favorite Wayne film. Dean Martin really proved himself to me in this film. The auctioning of the glass eye is still one of my favorite scenes. I just feel George Kennedy's pain when the Duke takes him out with that ax handle at the undertaker's shop. It's still one of the most impressive strikes I've ever seen portrayed on film.

Loophole:

This film has always been an enjoyable, action-packed romp. The four sons come together in the beginning for their mother's funeral as distant as brothers can get. By the end, blood is truly thicker than water. These guys take on everyone who caused their mother's death and they do it in style.



9. The Cowboys

Wolf:

Being one of the Duke's later films I always expected this one to be a little on the stinky side. Since it's on this list, I guess you can surmise that I've since changed my opinion. Wayne did himself justice as an aging cowboy trying to drive his herd and impart some wisdom to a group of young boys. Really a great tale of knowing when one is on their last 'cattle drive' and taking that time to do for some what one was unable to do for others in the past. You can see the Duke change to a caring father figure for these boys along the way from the hard-nosed trail boss he started as.

Loophole:

You read my take in part II of this week's roundup. Suffice it to say this is one you can't miss.

8. Angel and the Bad Man

Wolf:

Being public domain, I was able to watch this for free on the Internet a couple of years ago and have since wondered why no one has bought the rights to this great film. John Wayne is wonderful as the reformed/jaded hero learning to turn the other cheek and leave blazing guns for the family life. It showed ability in the Duke to play a 'leading man' more than the action hero.

Loophole:

I'm still hoping that this film will be rescued from public domain hell. In the meantime, that means you should be able to find it fairly easily. The script is well written, with some wonderful lines. But watching John Wayne's character evolve from belabored renegade to a man willing to lay down his guns for love is some of his best acting. Gail Russell is wonderful.

7. Hondo

Wolf:

I remember watching this in 3-D with my grandfather a long time ago and it is still a favorite. On the heels of 'The Searchers', this is the second Wayne film I was able to get Mrs. Flywheel to watch with me. It was a great choice as this is a story driven film like 'Red River'. It continued to show the world that Wayne exuded toughness. He came into the film as a stranger, but you knew immediately that his character was one to be reckoned with.

6. Mclintock!

Wolf:

Like several others on this list, this film needs no explanation for it's place on this list. This is absolute perfection for John Wayne and his favorite costar from across the pond. This is such a great tale that stays true to the image of John Wayne and yet allows us to see him have a little fun. My favorite scene has to be the talk he has with his daughter while hunting pheasant. There's something about it that's almost poetic and touches me as a parent. Wayne pulls it off without a hitch. It's also one of the most fun of the Wayne films. "Great party! Where the whiskey!" If you don't realize why that line is funny, then you've never seen the movie.

Loophole:

This is still one of my all-time favorite John Wayne/Maureen O'Hara films. It's a strange, wonderful combination of western, screwball comedy and romance. I think one quote kinda sums it up for me: "I know I'm gonna use good judgement. I haven't lost my temper in 40 years, but pilgrim you caused a lot of trouble this morning, might have got somebody killed... and somebody oughta belt you in the mouth. But I won't, I won't. The hell I won't!"

5. The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance

Wolf:

John Wayne silences his detractors in this film where he plays opposite of one of America's other treasures, Jimmy Stewart. The Duke plays all emotions of his character with expertise from drama to devastating action scenes. Lee Marvin being ordered by John Wayne to pick up his steak gave me chills when I first saw it. There was no question who the alpha male was after that played out.

Loophole:

Just watching this movie makes me wish that Stewart and Wayne made more westerns together. John Wayne's character demonstrates the hero isn't always the one that takes center stage and takes down all the bad guys. Sometimes he's the one who is willing to back the right idea and the right guy. Even if that means doing it from the wings.


4. Red River

Wolf:
This is the first John Wayne western I was ever able to get my wife to watch all the way through. My wife is more for modern chick flicks and old musicals, but this one was so good it even held her attention. I like to take credit for introducing her to classic movies and though this is a western, it's still very much a classic.

Loophole:

Aside from The Searchers, this is one of the Duke's most different roles, and deep and psychological. His character isn't necessarily the hero, but he is the driving force behind the story. You just keep waiting to see what Montgomery Cliff is going to do. You may not have been half as scared if you didn't know it wasn't the Duke. You know it and I know it.

3. Rio Bravo

Loophole:

If there is something like western perfection it has to have several elements: John Wayne, Howard Hawks or John Ford, impossible odds, tight pacing, humor, a great leading lady and great lines. Oh, and Walter Brennen. This is as perfect as it gets. Hawks sets the scene and the whole story and even backstory in the first few minutes of the film. With no dialogue. Most the film takes place in the small jail and the interplay between all of the characters tell you everything you need to know, without exposition, monologues or flashbacks. In other hands it wouldn't work, but in the hands of Howard Hawks it's an absolute classic. Think of that and then consider this: Howard Hawks hadn't made a film in four years when he made Rio Bravo. Dean Martin turns in one of the best performances of his career. The secondary storyline of Chance (Wayne) and Dude's (Martin) friendship, and Dude's transformation is a movie in and of itself. Hawks effortlessly blends several stories into one great movie. As an added bonus, you get to hear Dean Martin and Ricky Nelson due a couple of songs. By the way, Pedro Gonzalez-Gonzalez who plays Carlos the owner of the Alamo Hotel, may seem familiar. He started his career as perhaps the funniest contestant on the old show You Bet Your Life. You've heard of that show, haven't you. I'd be insulted if you haven't.


2. The Calvary trilogy (Fort Apache/ She Wore a Yellow Ribbon/ Rio Grande)

Wolf:

Wayne holds his own amongst other stars of the day in this series and plays three different characters who strike you as different stages in the life of one man. Henry Fonda earned my respect playing alongside the Duke in Fort Apache.

Loophole:

This is one of the greatest trilogies, without being a trilogy. Like Wolf said, the Duke is almost playing the same character, but in different phases of his life and career. It's hard to pick my favorite. I love Fort Apache for it's story and Henry Fonda's performance. I love She Wore A Yellow Ribbon for John Wayne's performance; he's old, he's tough, and yet he is tender. ( I love the elder of the Indian tribe who calls him "Nay-tan") And I love Rio Grande for Maureen O'Hara and Wayne and their chemistry and story and all of the great supporting cast.



1. The Searchers

Wolf:

My favorite of all the Wayne films is, I feel, his best. John Wayne was at the top of his game in this showcase of all his talents. His portrayal of a man torn apart inside by rage and emotional distress is positively riveting. It's a masterpiece of John Ford as well and it is in this film where the stars were aligned and the gods were smiling on the movie going world. If you've seen it, then you know what I mean. If you haven't, I have three requests: Doubt me, watch it, and then come back apologize.

Loophole:

There is a reason why this is number one. Because it's a damn masterpiece. If Da Vinci would've made a western, this would have been it.



That's our list. Let's face it, any top ten (or eleven) list is just a list of favorites. Next year, the order might change, but the top three will still be there, in that order. You gotta sound off? Did we miss your favorite? Do you take issue with one of our picks? Then let us know in the comments section. Stay tuned for tomorrow's post celebrating the man himself, which finishes our weeklong tribute to John Wayne.

That'll be the day.

week of the duke, pt. II

Alrighty gang, here we go with part II of our mega roundup. We've divided up the roundup into a three parter because there is just so much darn good stuff out there it just boggles the mind. If you are a classic film fan, you have a DVD player, extra time and have come into a sizable inheritance recently - well, this is your week! Realizing that most of us don't have sizable inheritances coming our way every week (we hope), The Shelf does our bit in the cause for the classic film fan, but telling you what we think is essential, what are retreads, and what is worth your hard earned dollars.

Today, in part II, we'll cover all of the John Wayne DVDs that are hitting the shelves this week. There are a lot, but there are really a few absolute must haves (after all, you need to save a little for what's coming up in part III). We've dissected ALL of them, and have layed out what's what. Is it new? Is it repackaged? Is it an upgrade from a previous release? We'll answer all those questions for all of the Duke's films hitting the shelves. We'll also link to several excellent recent reviews, so you can know more. If you don't have any of them on DVD, you've got an entirely different problem (see remark about "sizable inheritance" above). So, grab a snack and hang on 'cause here we go!

Worthy Upgrades
All of the DVDs in this section have been previously released in other DVD editions, but are definitely worth the expense in upgrading and highly recommended

Top Shelf Pick of the Week:
John Wayne Special Editions
Rio Bravo: Ultimate Collector's Edition
If you read our post about these special editions from last week, then you already now that Warner's went the extra mile in giving us some great special features and commentaries. If you haven't read it, do so for more information. Suffice it to say, this Rio Bravo: Ultimate Collector's Edition follows in the footsteps of last year's Ultimate Collector's Edition of The Searchers. This film is widely regarded as one of John Wayne's finest westerns, but it should be remembered also as one of Dean Martin's best performances and a great Howard Hawks film. Ricky Nelson makes his screen debut here, and handles himself fairly well with his co-stars.
Rio Bravo is the story of a Sheriff John T. Chance (Wayne), who comes to town and arrests Joe Burdette, the brother of the area's most prominent cattleman, Nathan Burdette, for murdering an unarmed man in a bar. Nathan is none to happy and has more than enough money to hire all of the gunman in the vicinity who don't already work for him. There plan is to free Joe before Sheriff Chance is able to move him to a safer jail and court venue out of Burdette's influence. Chance enlists the help of his former deputy, Dude (Martin), who is now a mess; drunk and transfixed on the woman who left him. With Dude, and the old jail guard, Stumpy (Walter Brennan) and a young gun man (Colorado Ryan (Ricky Nelson), the men attempt to hold off Burdette and his men in the small jail.
Rio Bravo is known as Howard Hawks and John Wayne's answer to the film High Noon, which starred Gary Cooper as a lawman left alone by the cowardly townspeople and former comrades to defend against a killer he put in jail. The Duke felt that Cooper's portrayal and the storyline was much too cynically and "cowardly" and Rio Bravo is their response. Hawks and Wayne also remade this film later as El Dorado, with Robert Mitchum in the Dude part. Warner's has remastered the film and audio, packed on the extras, and added reprints of the press book and comic book from the time the film was first released. It's also available in a two disc, Special Edition, without the reprinted material and a few of the extras.

The Cowboys: Deluxe Edition
I saw this film, like I did with most of John Wayne films, with my Grandfather when I was younger. He loved it, but then again, he loves a lot of westerns. I remember seeing this and thinking it wasn't as great as some of the other films. After all, John Wayne was older in this and the bad guys were really mean. Then I watched again when I was much older and I have to say, it had an entirely different effect on me. I was awed by Wayne's performance and the power of the story. Mark Rydell's direction is spot on, and the emotional impact of this film probably resonates more when you are older and can sympathize with what the characters go through.
Warner's also put a lot of thought into the extras and added a commentary with the Rydell, which I am really looking forward to hearing. I won't go into a summary, because DVD Talk (home of Shelf Link resident, DVD Savant) has an excellent review of the film and the DVD. The only justice I can do, is direct you there, and direct you to the store to purchase it.

True Grit: Special Collector's Edition
This is another Wayne film from very late in his career, that I believe gets better with age.., that is the viewer's age. It's hard to connect with John Wayne's characters as they battle age, change in the west, and the feeling of irrelevance (The Shootist) when you are younger. You remember the lines and the shoot outs and the toughness from his earlier films. I think as you go back and revisit his films as you get older, and perhaps having viewed even more of them, you can have a greater appreciation for Wayne's acting and talent. It is unmistakable, but I think when you are younger you just love the fact that the Duke can take out the bad guys. True Grit is a classic, the film he won the Oscar for (although he deserved it for others as well). This film is so much better than I first remember. It has Wayne's comedic flair (if you don't think he had any, you didn't see McLintock!), his toughness and his wonderful portrayal of a flawed, cantankerous, yet tough hero. Paramount has included some excellent extras in the film and I will direct you to check out DVD Talk's excellent review of this DVD edition.


What's New
In this section we point you to the John Wayne films that are out this week, new to DVD.

The John Wayne Film Collection
The films in this set: Big Jim McLain
Without Reservations, Allegheny Uprising, Tycoon, Reunion in France, and Trouble Along the Way are hitting DVD for the first time in this collection. We covered most of the extras in last week's post. These films show John Wayne in some roles we may not be used to seeing. None of the films will be on many Top Ten John Wayne films, but they are interesting nonetheless. Perhaps Without Reservations is the hidden gem of the set, which pairs John Wayne with Claudette Colbert in a romantic comedy, and features cameos from other stars like Cary Grant, Louella Parsons and Jack Benny. Big Jim McClain is perhaps the most forgettable, putting John Wayne in contemporary Hawaii hunting commies. This is an interesting set and one that you should enjoy, especially if you would like to see Wayne in other roles.


What's Repackaged:
These are all the DVD's that are being re-released today, but have been (and in some cases are still) available in previous editions.

There are no extras or any new features to speak of on these DVD's , and as of this posting, we are not aware of any major remastering of film or audio. Basically, if you've got it, don't worry about it. If you don't - now is a good time to pick up a title you've been missing in the collection. We're not including any pictures of individual titles or summaries or links to most individual titles, for space considerations. So check this list against your own collection, to see what's out there:
Individual releases of the films from last year's John Wayne/John Ford Collection:
3 Godfathers
The Long Voyage Home
The Wings of Eagles
The Searchers
She Wore a Yellow Ribbon
Stagecoach
They Were Expendable
Fort Apache

Other reissues of past releases:
Chisum
The Green Berets
Operation Pacific
Flying Leathernecks
McQ
The Train Robbers
Cahill US Marshall
Back to Bataan
Tall in the Saddle
Blood Alley
The Sea Chase

Double feature discs of past releases:
In Harm’s Way/Donovan’s Reef
The Sons of Katie Elder/The Shootist
El Dorado/Hatari
How the West was Won

Individual Releases of last year's Triple Feature DVDs:
The Man From Monterrey
Ride Him Cowboy
Somewhere in Sonora
The Telegraph Trail
The Big Stampede
Haunted Gold

Also many of these films are collected in several new box sets. Again, nothing new- just repackaging, but it's a great way to get an instant John Wayne collection if you are eager to start:
The John Wayne Adventure Collection
Includes:
The High and Mighty
In Harms Way
Island in the Sky
Hatari!
Donovan’s Reef

The John Wayne Western Collection
The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance
True Grit
Hondo
McLintock!
Big Jake
The Shootist
Rio Lobo
The Sons of Katie Elder
El Dorado


And The John Wayne Century Collection, which basically includes all of the films from the Adventure and Western Collections

Whew! That was a lot of work, but I hope we've dispelled much of the confusion and overwhelming nature of all of the John Wayne releases this week. But don't think this is all for this week's roundup. We've got even more great classic film releases coming your way in part III, including a film that we've been looking forward to being released on DVD for a long time. A Shelf Favorite. Stay tuned...





I've broke my back once, and my hip twice. And on my worst day I could still beat the hell out of you.

week of the duke, pt. I

It's John Wayne's 100th birthday this week and the celebration is being embodied in the many DVD releases and re-releases of many of his films on DVD. Turner Classic Movies is also celebrating with a week-long schedule of many unforgettable John Wayne classics. So to give you a heads up on all things John Wayne and to include so many great flicks coming to DVD, we've decided to break up this week's roundup in several parts. First off, our look at some of the things hitting the small screen.

Television: (as always, check local listings for times)
Finales!
This is the week for several season finales. Our beloved NCIS is having it's finale, The Unit and Numb3rs each had finales last week. Mrs. Loophole is looking forward to the end of The Bachelor (and so I am I, although for a different reason) and she's excited to see who wins Dancing with the Stars. Me? I just wish they still had Circus of the Stars...

Turner Classic Movies:
Being that this is the week of the Duke, naturally we'll present the Shelf's picks for TCM with a John Wayne heavy schedule, with a couple of other great films thrown in for good measures. Here are our picks for the week:

May 22st:
Don't miss this updated documentary by Peter Bogdanovich on the maverick filmmaker, who helped make John Wayne a star: Directed By John Ford (2006). Also today are several of John Wayne westerns that have become legendary classics: The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962), Red River (1948), El Dorado (1967) and The Sons of Katie Elder (1965).

May 23rd:
Today's schedule includes a wide range of John Wayne films. You'll see him in the kind of western you've come to expect such as with Gabby Hayes in Tall In The Saddle (1944), or with Gail Russell in the underrated Angel And The Badman (1947), or in Hondo (1954). You'll also see him from some of the better films from his own production company Batjac, like the historical drama, The Alamo (1960) or the always fun McLintock! (1963). For John Wayne in a different kind of adventure see Island In The Sky (1953) and don't miss the high drama of The High and the Mighty (1954).

May 24th:
For a change of pace don't miss the wonderful small romantic comedy/drama with James Stewart: The Shop Around The Corner (1940). Then catch the Duke as military leader and all around tough guy with In Harm's Way (1965) and The Fighting Seabees (1944).

May 25th:
Start off with a little film noir with Robert Mitchum as he tries to figure a way out of The Racket (1951). Then you'll want to see some of the best films from late in John Wayne's career (aside from True Grit). First is Big Jake (1971) then The Cowboys (1972). Finish off the night with a bit of a fright: Tod Browning's Freaks (1932).

May 26th:
The John Wayne marathon may be over, but the parade of great films continue. See Andy Griffith as you've never seen him before in A Face In The Crowd (1957). Then try a thriller double biller: King Kong (1933) and Mighty Joe Young (1949). Then make sure you see a film that doesn't make it around very often: a comedy starring The Ritx Brothers and Bela Bela Lugosi: The Gorilla (1939).

May 27th:
It's one of the best musicals to come out of the Dream Factory, with the unrivaled Fred Astaire and lovely Cyd Charisse: The Band Wagon (1953). Then it's Disney brand adventure and comedy: 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea (1954) and The Absent Minded Professor (1961). Later, it's the classic political drama All the King's Men (1949).

May 28th:
Memorial Day Movie Marathon. Don't forget to thank a soldier and the veterans.
Here's the full day's schedule:
Command Decision (1948)
Action In The North Atlantic (1943)
From Here To Eternity (1953)
Sergeant York (1941)
The Battle Of Britain (1969)
Where Eagles Dare (1969)
A Soldier's Story (1984)
Stalag 17 (1953)
The Bridge On The River Kwai (1957)
Wake Island (1942)



This is only part I of the roundup, kiddies. Next in part II we'll cover the Duke's DVD releases for the week- and believe me, there is a bunch of 'em! Stay tuned....



If I felt cynical, this would be a good opportunity to observe that we're about to see a perfect example of "an eye for an eye", et cetera. Unfortunately, I can't quote chapter and verse... and I'm too tired to be cynical.

john wayne collections

May 22nd Warner Brothers will be releasing several films in concurrence with John Wayne's 100th Birthday next week. We'll have even more on the films (can you guess what will be Top Shelf Pick?) in next week's roundup, but here is a look at a couple of those films:

Rio Bravo:Ultimate Collector's Edition
John Wayne, Dean Martin and Ricky Nelson star in this western from director Howard Hawks, Rio Bravo. This two disc Ultimate Collector's Edition features:
Commentary by John Carpenter and film critic Richard Schickel
Remastered Feature, Wayne trailer gallery
Documentaries & Featurettes:
The Men Who Made the Movies:Howard Hawks
Commemoration: Howard Hawks' Rio Bravo
Old Tucson: Where the Legends Walked
Reproductions of the original Press book, Dell comic book & Lobby cards. It will also be available in a two disc special edition minus some features.

The Cowboys: Deluxe Edition
Mark Rydell directed John Wayne, Roscoe Lee Brown, and Bruce Dern in this underrated classic from late in the Duke's career.
Features Include:
Commentary by the director, Mark Rydell
Documentaries and Featurettes:
The Cowboys: Together Again
The Breaking of Boys and the Making of Men
Theatrical trailer

The John Wayne Collection:
Much like last year's John Ford Collection (even similar packaging), The John Wayne Collection features several films that have been previously unreleased on DVD, and feature Wayne in a different light- outside of the Western genre. The films (and features) included are:
Without Reservations: Features: MGM short I Love My Husband, But! & WB cartoon Holiday for Shoestrings
Allegheny Uprising: Features: WB short The Bill of Rights
and WB cartoon Land of the Midnight Fun
Tycoon: Features: WB short Hollywood Wonderland and MGM cartoon Red Hot Rangers
Reunion in France: MGM short We Do It Because, MGM cartoon War Dogs & The Theatrical trailer
Big Jim McLain: WB short So You Want to Enjoy Life, WB cartoon The Super Snooper & The Theatrical trailer
Trouble Along the Way: (Reteaming of JW & Donna Reed!) Features: WB short So You Think You Can't Sleep, WB cartoon Muscle Tussle & The Theatrical trailer

The films in the JW Collection will also be available individually.
Look for more of these and other JW releases in next week's roundup.



Sorry don't get it done, Dude. That's the second time you hit me. Don't ever do it again.

the duke. 'nuff said.

We know you've been missing the roundup. And we know that some great stuff has come out in the past month. The James Cagney and Errol Flynn Signature Collections, the Tyrone Powers Collection and the Planet Earth series are just a few. Not to mention the third season of NCIS, and the first season of WKRP. But let's not look to the past. Those are all Top Shelf Picks without question, and signature sets in particular are Shelf favorites. Now the job ahead is for us to press forward and bring you more Shelf picks this week and in the weeks ahead. I will say this, perhaps my favorite new DVD set of the past week or so has been the second season of MXC: Most Extreme Elimination Challenge. If you don't have it - get it. If you're familiar with the sense of humor here at The Shelf, you know what you are in for, so don't delay! Get yours today! Right you are, Ken.
Without further adieu let's plunge right in. Keep in mind this is a special month- it's the 100th anniversaries (birthdays) of both Katherine Hepburn and John Wayne. Celebrate in style.

DVD
Top Shelf Pick of the Week:
John Wayne Collections Vol.1 and Vol. 2
Last years Top Shelf Pick of the Year would've had to have been the John Wayne/ John Ford Film Collection. It was Wayne and Ford fan's dream. Special editions of The Searchers and Stagecoach really put it over the top and the long awaited appearance of Fort Apache on DVD sealed the deal. Dare we ask for more? We dare. And it seems that it will pay off in time for his 100th birthday celebration. To kick things off we've got two nice sets of films the Duke made for Republic pictures. These films have been released previously, but several are no longer on store shelves. If you've missed them before, here's a chance to fill the missing spots in your collection. Volume 1 includes the war films Sands of Iwo Jima and Flying Tigers, Wake of the Red Witch and the seminal The Quiet Man. Volume 2 is a western set including Dakota, The Fighting Kentuckian, A Lady Takes a Chance, and one of my personal favorites, Rio Grande. Each set retails for around 20 bucks, and can be found cheaper online. Not bad for some really good films from one of the greatest movie stars of the last century. The sets don't seem to include many extras and the distributor, Lions Gate, is not known for extraordinary DVD releases. I've got the previous Rio Grande and The Quiet Man Collector's Editions, which had some great extras on them. I'm not ready to give those up yet, but I look forward to adding these classic Wayne movies to my collection. Stay tuned to the Shelf in the next few weeks for even more John Wayne DVDs in the few weeks.

Pirates of the Golden Age
Avast me hearties! Man, with the Tyrone Power set coming out last week, this is a boon for Swashbuckler fans. This set includes:
Against All Flags starring Errol Flynn, Maureen O'Hara and Anthony Quinn in a good ol' pirate adventure they are known for.
Buccaneer's Girl stars Yvonne DeCarlo as a showgirl who falls in love with a pirate, played by Philip Friend.
Double Crossbones is perhaps self explanatory, but wait - it's a comedy starring Donald O'Connor who somehow goes from shopkeeper's apprentice to the most feared pirate off the Carolina coast.
Yankee Buccaneer stars Jeff Chandler as a US Naval Frigate Commander sent to the Caribbean, disguised as a pirate, in order to defeat the Buccaneers. All good adventures for classic film fans.

Worthy Double Dips:

There are some excellent DVD special editions coming out that are worthy improvements over previous editions. The Guns of Navarone, To Catch a Thief, and The Caine Mutiny are wonderful flicks and each special edition includes great features and documentaries. We don't often recommend double dips, but in this case it is definitely worth the upgrade.

Music:
Michael Buble: Call Me Irresponsible
If you are a regular shelfer (and you know who you are), then you know we love the greats like Dino, Sinatra and Nat King Cole. You also know we also dig the modern cats like Harry Connick, Jr. and Michael Buble. Well, it's Christmas come early, cause Buble has a great swingin' CD out this past week. I listened to it all last week, and it's great. If you love this kind of music, then this is must have.




Books:
History of The Ancient World by Susan Wise Bauer
I feel strongly about education and history education in particular. Lately, I have been studying the connections of Western Civilization from the Greeks to the foundation of the United States. Seeing the current sad state of liberal arts education (and if you need an eye opener- check out Who Killed Homer by Victor Davis Hanson and John Heath), its no wonder that there is a disconnect with many people and the values and principles the country was founded on. The reasons why films like 300 resonate with people, is because it speaks to things that are such a part of our common culture, of who we are; and yet many do not understand why. It is time to bridge that gap. What better place to start than this recent wonderful book by Susan Wise Bauer, The History of the Ancient World. Bauer's book is the first volume in a planned four volume series on the history of the world. This is indeed a history of the peoples of the world, but there is so much to learn about Western Civilization as well as Eastern Civilization. Bauer's background is firmly rooted in classical liberal arts education and she gives such a great presentation with excellent maps, time lines, examples, and she does a great job of pulling altogether to present the common threads and important themes that resonate through history. I'm still reading this as of this writing and it's a pure joy to read. It's time to bring the classics back and reconnect our present with our past so we can understand ourselves and go forward to a better future.

Television:
Turner Classic Movies:
Man great flicks, great tunes and a great read. What more could you want? More great classic films? Who am I to deny you? TCM's star of the month is Katherine Hepburn, and this being the 100th anniversary celebration of both Hepburn and John Wayne, you can expect some great must see flicks this month. We know there is just not enough time in the day to watch them all, so we present to you some of our favorites and some rarely seen classics.

May 8th: Kick it off with some early Hepburn: Alice Adams (1935), Sylvia Scarlett (1936), and Mary of Scotland (1936) . And don't miss an excellent documentary on one of the first ladies of film: Katharine Hepburn: All About Me (1993).

May 9th: More Hepburn, this time with frequent guest star Cary Grant: Stage Door (1937), Bringing Up Baby (1938), Holiday (1938) and The Philadelphia Story (1940).

May 10th: To me, romantic comedy doesn't get any better than Spencer Tracy and Katherine Hepburn: Woman Of The Year (1942), Keeper Of The Flame (1942), Without Love (1945), The Sea Of Grass (1947), and one of my personal favorites: Adam's Rib (1949).

May 11th: OK one more great Hepburn and Tracy flick: Pat and Mike (1952). And don't miss the worst case of great mega-classic not on DVD: The African Queen (1951).

May 12th: If you missed the great Brando documentary that premiered on TCM last week (and which we previewed here) you get a second chance today: Brando Part 1 and Part 2 (2007). Also don't miss the must see musical My Fair Lady (1964).

May 13th: It's Mother's Day! Why don't you handle the cooking and cleaning and let mom sit back and relax with some great classic films: Bachelor Mother (1939), Mildred Pierce (1945), I Remember Mama (1948) and Stella Dallas (1937). Just don't forget to provide the snacks and a fresh box of tissues.

May 14th: Film Noir is the order of the day: The Killing (1956), Angel Face (1953) and Orson Welles' underrated classic: Mr. Arkadin (1955).

Well, it's great to be back. And don't forget to stay tuned. Coming up we have looks at some upcoming DVDs that you need to plan for during the summer months, the continuation of our Read a Great Book Lately series, a preview of yet another new original TCM Documentary and much, much more. Same Shelf time, same Shelf channel.



No matter what you think you think, you think the same as I think.

31 days of Oscar: day 6

We meant to start this last week, but better late than never. This month, Turner Classic Movies celebrates movies and the Academy Awards by presenting 31 Days of Oscar. Each Day from Feb.1 through March 3, a different category of the awards will be the theme of the day; featuring films that were nominated or won in that category. The Shelf will be joining in the celebration by giving you our Oscar pick of the Day!

Today's category is Best Supporting Actor- Winners. The interesting thing about today's selections are the number of westerns included and that all of the films span a wide range of years from 1936 all the way to 1996. Here's the schedule (all times are EST):

6:00 AM Sweet Bird of Youth (’62)
8:15 AM A Thousand Clowns (’65)
10:15 AM The Barefoot Contessa (’54)
12:30 PM Come and Get It (’36)
2:15 PM The Treasure of the Sierra Madre (’48)
4:30 PM Stagecoach (’39)
6:15 PM The Westerner (’40)
8:00 PM The Big Country (’58)
11:00 PM They Shoot Horses, Don’t They? (’69)
1:15 AM Jerry Maguire (’96)
3:45 AM The Last Picture Show (’71)

And our Oscar pick goes to... Stagecoach. With some great films in today's rotation (and personal favorites) it's difficult to choose. Luckily you really don't have, just sit back and enjoy as many as you want. Stagecoach defintily deserves a viewing, especially if you have never seen one of the best of the early collaborations between Director John Ford and John Wayne. This was the film that broke John Wayne out of the "B" and "C" Western status and helped to put him on a path to becoming one of America's most beloved stars. The movie also marked a new chapter in the Ford/Wayne relationship, and one that led to a strong and enriching professional output.
The film was nominated for 7 Academy Awards, including Best Director. It won for Best Music (Score) and a well deserved win for Best Supporting Actor (today's category) for Thomas Mitchell and his portrayal of the sympathetic druck Dr. Josiah Boone. Mitchell was one of my favorite all time character actors and is perhaps best remembered for his role of Uncle Billy in It's a Wonderful Life.
You can see Stagecoach today on TCM, or you can order it here as a great two-disc special edition, or as part of the fantastic John Wayne/ John Ford Box Set. For more information on TCM's 31 Days of Oscar, visit the Turner Classic Movies website.



I'm not only a philosopher, sir, I'm a fatalist. Somewhere, sometime, there may be the right bullet or the wrong bottle waiting for Josiah Boone. Why worry when or where?