One of the most frequent questions I am always asked being the host of the greatest movie podcast ever (opinions may vary) is “What’s your favorite movie?” That answer has been the same since I was 11 years old. But it also isn’t as easy to explain why I love some movies more than others.
As an art form, movies are by their nature interpretative. Some people will point to a film’s box office total as a barometer for a film’s quality, this might not be true again because although it might be popular to the masses it might not appeal to you. I am looking at you Avatar, which is not one of my favorite films, not by a longshot.
Also, if the film wins an Academy Award for Best Picture, that hardly means it’s one of my favorite films, looking at you The English Patient, in fact I hardly agree with the Academy. Having said that, I am sure that some people love Avatar and The English Patient. And that’s what makes movies so great.
I, also am not a professional critic. I love film. I try and find merit in all film. As a host of a podcast that attempts to give every movie a chance, I believe that is the best way to approach movies, let the lights go out and try and enjoy yourself. You might find a “diamond in the rough.”
When thinking of my favorite movies to share with you, my loyal listeners, I thought 100 wasn’t going to be enough. So, I am proud to present my 150 Favorite Films, right now. These will change, I know they will.
See you at the movies!
***Spoilers Ahead!!!***
89. The Eagle and The Hawk (1933) Directed by Stuart Walker and Mitchell Leisen
The Movie:The Great War in Europe rages on and two American pilots Lieutenant Jerry Young (Fredrick March) and Mike Richards (Jackie Oakie) join Britain’s Royal Flying Corps. Their missions are the most dangerous ones, they must fly reconnaissance missions over enemy lines. Lt. Young struggles with the deaths of many of his gunners.
In walks in the cocky Henry Crocker (Cary Grant) who is the only one left to fly with Lt. Young. Young despises Crocker as they have fought before. During a mission, Young’s hatred for Crocker grows as he kills a defenseless German observer who was parachuting to safety after his airship was shot down.
Crocker soon realizes that Young is struggling with his role in the war, and the two slowly become friends. The German’s attack the base, Crocker lets his commanding officer, Major Dunham (Guy Standling) that Young needs a leave. Dunham agrees, and orders Young to take a leave to London.
In London, Young meets a beautiful young woman (Carole Lombard), whom he confides to. After a brief stay in London, Young is called back to the front lines. Young is devastated to learn that Richards was killed in battle. He is further enraged when he learns that Crocker forced him to return to the enemy lines, leading to his death. Young refuses to fly with Crocker and is given a young observer, the new recruit Lt. John Stevens (Kenneth Howell).
On their first flight together, Stevens is killed when he falls out of the plane during a dogfight with the famous German Ace, Voss. Young chases down Voss and shoots him down. Young lands his plane near Voss’ downed plane. Young is shocked to learn that Voss is also just a young man.
At a party later that night, the company celebrates Young’s triumph, Young however is distraught and does not want the accolades. Young retires to his room and shoots himself in the head.
Crocker discovers Young’s body and although they had their differences, he doesn’t want Young’s death to tarnish his heroism. Crocker takes Young’s body out onto a his airplane and flies into enemy territory. Crocker makes it appear that Young died in battle, preserving his reputation.
Why I Love The Eagle and the Hawk (1933): A few years ago, I decided to watch all of Cary Grant’s movies. It was a magical journey. Grant is the epitome of a movie star. He is incredibly handsome and has charisma to spare. But my favorite part of that journey was finding hidden gems.
The biggest surprise was The Eagle and the Hawk. A film that explores not only the romanticism of war but also the heartbreak. Also, the more you explore early Hollywood you realize how many films were ahead of their time. The Eagle and the Hawk is such a film. Removing the rose colored glasses of what it means to be a hero, the film explores the weight of such a journey.
Fredric March is in top form as the conflicted and depressed hero. His realization that the “bad guys” are just kids and that he is responsible for their deaths is heartbreaking.
Carole Lombard has a very small part, but she is stunning in it. Lombard is beautiful and sympathetic, magnetizing you as soon as she is on screen.
Cary Grant is the antagonist of the film. With his cocky, sure handed approach he commands the screen whenever he is on.
The ending is devastating, and it is a gut punch. I was speechless. I was heartbroken. And a tear rolled down my eye.