Peyton Place

During the 1950's, the melodrama was a popular genre among female audiences. The more popular ones were made by Douglas Sirk, but some were made by others.

Peyton Place by today's standards contains every personal tragedy in the book (rape, suicide, abortion, illegitimacy). After all, these were subjects that were "hush hush" in mixed company back then. But thanks to Mark Robson, he makes this less Douglas Sirk and more dignified soap opera.

Of course like most soap operas, the pinnacle of Peyton Place has to be the actors. The best work came from the actors who were nominated for Oscars: Lana Turner, Diane Varsi, Hope Lange, Arthur Kennedy and Russ Tamblyn. I found it amusing that Turner, a victim of many scandals, was cast where her character has a secret that would destroy her reputation.

All in all, I really liked Peyton Place. The time might be a shock to some (over two and a half hours), but surprisingly the times flies right by though it drags a little in the third act. Again, I just love the performances. This is for those who want a non-Sirk melodrama.

My Rating: ****1/2

Champion

Kirk Douglas is an actor I've always liked. (Sometimes his son Michael gets up there.) He may be a son of a bitch in most of his roles, but there's no denying the intensity in his performances.

With Champion (his first lead role), he showcases his trademark intensity with great ease. His character of Michael "Midge" Kelly appears to be a nice guy but when he's provoked or in the ring, he practically takes on a new personality.

He develops an almost murderous personality. At first, he keeps that behavior confined to the ring. But as he becomes more successful as a boxer, his pent up rage starts to affect those close to him.

Champion is quite good, but the plot waivers a bit. Douglas, pun intended, comes out fighting the minute he first appears. It's clear as to how he was boosted from supporting parts to leading man status after this.

My Rating: ****1/2