Love with the Proper Stranger (1963)

Angie (Natalie Wood) is a young woman who after a one night fling finds herself pregnant to wayward musician Rocky (Steve McQueen). The film follows the ups and downs of their relationship, first as Rocky agrees to help Angie have an abortion, and then when she doesn't, as they begin to fall in love.

Like her earlier films, Rebel without a Cause, Splendor in the Grass and the later, This Property is Condemned, Natalie displays a raw emotional side. Whilst it may sound strange I always find Natalie's 'crying' scenes in films to be the most believable of any actress, you always feel that she is the characters she plays. Despite the serious nature of the film there are several light hearted moments, particularly involving Anthony Columbo (Tom Bosley), a clumsy young chef who is in love with Angie. Being a huge Happy Days fan I loved seeing Mr. Cunningham in this film!! Steve McQueen was also great, an understated performance, I loved the scenes he shared with Natalie.

The subject matter was quite daring for the time but the film handles it sensitively. It also cemented Steve's status as a heartthrob! Natalie was nominated for an academy award for her role. It really is a great film, starring two wonderful actors!

4/5 

Quick Flicks

Just a few films I have watched lately, but haven't had the time to write full reviews of!

Indiscreet (1958): Starring Cary Grant & Ingrid Bergman. A well cast, amusing romantic comedy, with both Ingrid Bergman and Cary Grant their usual charming selves! However I did not feel the storyline was as strong as the team behind it, not Grant or Bergman's best work, but enjoyable to watch nonetheless. 3.5/5

Miss Sadie Thompson (1953): Starring Rita Hayworth, Jose Ferrer & Aldo Ray. I felt amongst the colour and the noise this film fell short of being a great film. The acting was good, but it never quite made the mark it was aiming for. 3/5

Never So Few (1959): Starring Frank Sinatra, Gina Lollobrigida & Steve McQueen. This is a good solid war film, Sinatra is very good as a rebellious army captain in India during the Second World War. Sometimes his scenes with Lollobrigida drag on. But it is worth taking a look to see McQueen's first major film role (since The Blob), that led to his classic roles in The Magnificent Seven and The Great Escape. 3.5/5

South Pacific (1958): Starring Mitzi Gaynor, John Kerr & Rossano Brazzi. I love a good musical, and this Rogers & Hammerstein classic certainly was a good one! Wonderful songs, scenery and characters make this a memorable film that will make you laugh but also tug at your heart strings. 4/5