B-MOVIE OF THE MONTH - THE DEATH OF RITCHIE (TV 1977)

Looks like a lot of fun to me, I don't know. Seriously and for those that don't know, The Death Of Ritchie is one of the most iconic TV movies of the entire '70's decade. I was roughly 15 when it aired and i can tell you that both Robby Benson and teens taking drugs were very hot topics at the time. The film is based on a true story where a father who couldn't control his teen's behavior from drug abuse was forced to take the law into his own hands. The father here is good ole Ben Gazzara and he is at his Gazzara best with a ferocious intensity, his scenes with Benson as father and son a perfect chemistry. At the time more emphasis was on Benson as a model but his performance here is really amazing. Streams free on Tubi, Freevee, Roku and Plex, if this was being rated on the standard scale I would give it five stars, 'nuff said. 2.75 stars/2.75

Friday, August 16, 2024

TOMMY'S TOP FIVE FAVORITE CLINT EASTWOOD FLICKS - #5 - CLINT IS A 90-YEAR OLD MOVING DRUGS BACK AND FORTH IN "THE MULE" (2018)

 

Welcome to my top five favorite Clint flicks (with 3 honorable mentions) and here's a couple of ground rules, One, I think we can all agree that Unforgiven is one of the greatest westerns ever made so it is not on this list because it's too obvious a choice. Two, these are my top five "favorite," I'm not saying they are the best or worst in quality, just my personal favorites. As usual, the main dig is that maybe you'll see one that sparks your interest or that you want to pull off the shelf. Finally, my picks will represent both sides of the camera that Clint works on, enjoy! 

Yes, that's right, my pick for #5 is one of his more recent and probably last best or decent film that will exist in his catalog. (By the way, I happen to really like Cry Macho but it's not going to make this or any other list, let's be real, I look at that film as a beautifully and perfectly suited coda to his overall work.) While The Mule is a more than serviceable action thriller, I think what makes it a favorite is his irresponsible old man character reminds me a lot of myself and it's very comedic to me especially his scenes driving and singing to himself in the car, joyfully aloof at his newfound occupation. 

Besides ole Clint, I can't think of anybody or any department that particularly stands out, it's just a good fun Clint movie. Andy Garcia has certainly been better as well as Bradley Cooper but again, it's just a good overall flick, check 'er out if you haven't, it's currently available on Amazon or Apple, VOD. 

3.5 stars/5


Andy! Love those hunting glasses. 

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