Elmer Gantry
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Movie Reviews of Elmer Gantry
Movie Review: Jesus, the Quarterback
Summary: 5 Stars
When Burt won his Oscar my sister told me it was easy to play a part like Elmer Gantry. Maybe, but you've still got to be Burt Lancaster. What a delivery, what a presence, what a dynamo. And what subtlety he brought to this role, which pretty well matches his performance as J.J.Hunsecker, in Sweet Smell of Success. Jean Simmons is ok, Shirley Jones is frankly a little weak and I can't see her performance as Oscar-worthy. All the other actors give first-rate support. The script is highly intelligent and well-nuanced. The plot is excellent, the significance of the content is beautifully balanced. Of course, it's somewhat of its time, but none the worse for that: still gripping and entertaining throughout. The singing is a great aid. I can't think why Axmaker says Lancaster howls like a wolf --- wasn't he watching the film? Otherwise, the whole fascinating story is first-class fodder for full-time doubters, such as myself. Bigots, stay clear.Movie Review: The Great Manipulator
Summary: 5 Stars
In ELMER GANTRY Burt Lancaster has the best role of his illustrious career. He essentially is playing himself - a gifted hustler who accidentally finds himself in a profession for which he is a perfect fit. As an evangelist he shows that he understands people and is easily able to manipulate the crowds of devout believers attending his services. Lancaster gives the performance of his life. It is easy to see how much he is enjoying himself in this movie.The cast includes accomplished character actors Arthur Kennedy and Dean Jagger. Don't miss Patti Page in a minor but important role.
The screenplay was adapted from a book by Sinclair Lewis about religious evangilism in the Midwest in the 1920's.
ELMER GANTRY won Academy Awards in 1960 for Best Actor (Burt Lancaster), Best Supporting Actress (Shirley Jones) and Best Adapted Screenplay. Nominations were also received for Best Picture and Best Scoring of a Dramatic Picture.
Movie Review: Wolves in Sheeps Clothing
Summary: 5 Stars
Sorry, but it is the Lord's Day, and I am in the Spirit, or I should say into the spirits. But these modern day wolves in sheep's clothing who call themselves various phony titles such as Reverend (the Bible says that reverend is HIS name!!!), or pastor (Paul defined the qualifications for a pastor/elder/presbyter/bishop -- all are synonyms -- and most of these wannabes do not qualify.
Pat Buchanan calls them the modern day Elmer Gantrys.
I just purchased a copy of this classic movie from Amazon.
It came out in 1960, and I doubt that you have ever seen it, but you should --- it is about a phony hypocritical preacher. The world is full of them, from Oral (Anal) Roberts to Jimmy Swaggart and probably quite a few in your own church.
Do yourself a favor and get a couple of hours of entertainment and purchase ELMER GANTRY starring Burt Lancaster and the lovely Jean Simmons.
Movie Review: As relevant today as when Sinclair Lewis wrote the story...
Summary: 5 Stars
A superb film. Simply profound. The sermons are as stirring today as when the screenplay was written.Words can't express how great Burt Lancaster is in this film.
But like most truly significant movie classics, the supporting cast adds substance and strength to the overall impact of "Elmer Gantry." Shirley Jones is as sexy as any female that has appeared on the screen. Jean Simmons is spellbinding as Sister Sharon.
The film's highlight for me was the meeting involving Sister Sharon, Gantry, and William Morgan with a group of ministers negotiating the terms of a planned extended tent ministry in the fictious city of Zenith. Distrubing and embarassing -- always thought provoking.
A memorable film, worthy of repeated viewings and serious contemplation.
Movie Review: Elmer Gantry
Summary: 5 Stars
Based on the bestselling novel by Sinclair Lewis, this tale of a lustful, larger-than-life charlatan's fall from grace owes its strength to the force of Lancaster's dynamic, Oscar-winning performance. His Gantry preaches hellfire and brimstone, but loves life--and women--with a hearty gusto that is as pure as Sister Falconer's vanity is unbecoming. Jones also took home an Oscar, playing against type in a sultry turn as a minister's daughter who became Gantry's lover. Also great is Arthur Kennedy as an atheist journalist modeled on the great H.L. Mencken. Fiery and sharp, Brooks's satirical take on Bible-thumping hypocrisy and hucksterism speaks volumes in today's world.