Saturday, March 30, 2019

Body of Evidence (1993): Madonna


     With the popularity of the sex-fueled Noir, Basic Instinct (1992), many film makers were in a rush to create a comparable film and strike while the iron was hot. Pop singer/actress Madonna was in the right place at the right time, and seemed the perfect choice for such a film project: Body of Evidence (1993). She was still receiving praise for her performance in Dick Tracy (1990) a few years prior. She had a marketable, recognizable name. And most importantly, known for her controversial antics, risque music videos, and "Sex" book...  Madonna obviously had no problem with the levels the role required. Nevertheless, the film fared poorly with critics. Body of Evidence has developed a Cult following, however, largely due to Madonna's sex appeal.
     When a rich older man with a heart condition dies during sex, the blame is placed on his young girlfriend Rebecca Carlson (Madonna). She is accused of deliberately causing his death in an effort to collect money from his will... as she is the main beneficiary. Charged with murder, Frank Dulaney (Willem Dafoe) is hired as Rebecca's defense attorney... 

Body of Evidence. 1993: Madonna

     Frank is in awe of Rebecca's beauty... 

Body of Evidence. 1993: Madonna

     her seductive charms... 

Body of Evidence. 1993: Madonna

     and eventually gives in to his urges... 

Body of Evidence. 1993: Madonna

     entering a torrid relationship with his client... 

Body of Evidence. 1993: Madonna

Body of Evidence. 1993: Madonna

     He is falling for her... Is Rebecca innocent? Or is she using Frank as part of a sinister game?

Body of Evidence. 1993: Madonna

My Man Godfrey (1936): William Powell and Carole Lombard


     Directed by Gregory La Cava, My Man Godfrey (1936) is a quintessential "Screwball Comedy" and has stood the test of time. The success rests largely with the on-screen chemistry between William Powell and Carole Lombard, who were real-life ex-spouses (they had divorced three years prior). The story focuses on a rich lady who hires a homeless man to become her family's butler, only to fall in love with him. Hilarious and poignant, and full of classic scenes and memorable moments, the film is a true "must see" picture.

My Man Godfrey. 1936: Carole Lombard and William Powell

My Man Godfrey. 1936: Carole Lombard and William Powell

My Man Godfrey. 1936: Carole Lombard and William Powell

My Man Godfrey. 1936

My Man Godfrey. 1936: William Powell

My Man Godfrey. 1936: William Powell

My Man Godfrey. 1936: Carole Lombard and William Powell

My Man Godfrey. 1936: Carole Lombard and William Powell

My Man Godfrey. 1936: Carole Lombard

Twentieth Century (1934): John Barrymore and Carole Lombard


     Directed by Howard Hawks, Twentieth Century (1934) is credited as being one of the first "Screwball Comedies." It received a "dismal reception" upon it's release, but has since become an undisputed comedy Classic. Full of rapid-fire humor, the plot focuses on a theater producer's tumultuous relationship with his young female protege. John Barrymore and Carole Lombard are excellent in the lead roles.

Twentieth Century. 1934: Carole Lombard

Twentieth Century. 1934: Carole Lombard and John Barrymore

Twentieth Century. 1934: Carole Lombard

Twentieth Century. 1934: Carole Lombard and John Barrymore

Twentieth Century. 1934: Carole Lombard and John Barrymore

Twentieth Century. 1934: Carole Lombard and John Barrymore

Twentieth Century. 1934: Carole Lombard and John Barrymore

Twentieth Century. 1934: Carole Lombard and John Barrymore

Twentieth Century. 1934: Carole Lombard and John Barrymore