Sullivan's Travels

Sullivan's Travels: The (The Criterion Collection) This has long been one of my absolute favorite films. Not only does it comment on the American habit of happy endings (in the context of the Great Depression) but it manages to find a great middle ground itself. The ever-brilliant Preston Sturges (known for his light comedies) directed (with pieces of his stock cast) this ironic story. Joel McCrae and Veronica Lake filled out this wonderful romp. Otensibly, this film explores the ultimately vain attempt of Hollywood to connect (identify?) with an audience that they should instead be entertaining. The main character tries again and again to suffer like the people for whom he has been creating fluffy fantasies, so he can make a truly meaningful film about them, only to fall back on his luxuries. Finally, he gives up, and that's when the adventure really begins.

The result is an experience that makes you smile and think at the same time, which is quite a feat.

Trivia: The deep, social commentary director John L. Sullivan (McCrae) is attempting to research is to be called "O Brother, Where Art Thou." (sound familiar?).

If you can handle B&W, this is a must-see.

Comments

  1. Nancy RocheMarch 20, 2011 at 11:49 PM

    Check out this review:
    http://www.decentfilms.com/reviews/sullivanstravels.html

    Rottentomatoes gives this movie a 100%

    ReplyDelete

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