Movie Reviews for The Clock

The Clock

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Movie Reviews of The Clock

Movie Review: A Perfect Classic Film by the great Minnelli
Summary: 5 Stars

I thought I had seen all of Vincente Minnelli's greatest films, well, I was so wrong... 'The Clock' is truly comparable to his great 'Meet Me in St. Louis', 'Gigi', 'The Band Wagon'... He has so many great classics, but I believe this one may be his third best.

As it starts you don't expect anything great: an aerial view of New York, Central Station, lots of people going on their daily routines... it goes increscendo though. And how! This is the romantic story of a young soldier (Robert Walker) in 1945 who has a couple of free days to spend in NYC before returning to serve in the Army (probably to go to England). He's never been in the big city before but he will meet a girl (Judy Garland) who will show him around. Love is in the making meanwhile, but there's only 2 days to spend. What can happen in two days? Well, that's exactly what they both are thinking too, while watching at the "clock" to see how much time is left for them together (more rapport between the characters and the viewers is hardly possible).

I say this film is perfect because it looks so simple, its story, its characters... it must be really difficult to tell when there's not that much plot going on. But the viewer gets so involved with these young couple that he won't have time to blink. I mean, every second of film is purposeful, meaningful, and beautiful. You can't do more with less. That's why Minnelli is one of the greatest American directors, comparable to Ford, Hawks, Vidor... Personally, it took me some minutes to forget Robert Walker's role in 'Strangers on a train', which left an indelible impression on me. He wouldn't be my first choice at all for this role, but he is fine. A must see classic.

Movie Review: The Definitive 1940s Love Story!
Summary: 5 Stars

I first saw this movie when I was eight years old and ten years later I still have not grown tired of it. It is one of those films which gets better with each viewing. The deceivingly simple love story of a young woman and a GI who fall in love and get married within 24 hours seems formulaic. But this film is anything but formulaic. The characters are unique and down-to-earth. What I liked best about this film is the way you can imagine what life was like in New York in the 1940s. The mannerisms of people and the mood of the America in this movie are so different from today, yet the film has aged well and is still relatable. Anyone who has ever felt bewildered in a new city could connect to Robert Walker's character (it is everybody's dream to find his/her soulmate by accident in a strange city populated by millions!) The film is may be slow-paced for some, but don't let this discourage you. By the end, you'll be surprised how completely immersed you'll be in the story and the characters. The film, besides starring Judy Garland in her only non-musical role, has an excellent supporting cast and is directed by the talented Vincent Minnelli. And as a side note, the beautiful musical score of the movie amplifies all the emotions in the film. Don't be surprised if you get watery eyes.

Movie Review: THE GREATEST WORLD WAR II ROMANCE MOVIE EVER MADE!
Summary: 5 Stars

Judy Garland's at the top of her MGM acting form in one of her few non singing roles showing she could have been a great dramatic talent too! Also, she never look more beautiful! MGM wasn't known for making "intimate" movies, but Minnelli's artful direction turned it into one, even turning New York City into a third character in this story of young love. It's also ironic that the 2 leads were already well along their respective paths to self destruction (Alcholic Robert Walker died only 6 years later). One of the lesser known jewels in the MGM crown; one that never makes any lists of classic films or great movie love stories, but should be acknowledged as one! My only complaint is why they named it The Clock, since they met at the train station, they found each other again at the train station and they never did meet under the clock at the Astor Hotel but in the foyer entrance of it. LOL

Movie Review: Romance Without An R Rating
Summary: 5 Stars

Actually the romance between the two stars seems more realistic since we aren't privvy to all of their sexual hangups or bedtime details and can concentrate on the emotional interface. The shots of '40's New York are great and if you have an HDTV with a progressive scan DVD player, the sharpness of this movie in widescreen is excellent. This is the New York I remember from many childhood trips up from Washington and the people are realistic. Walker's dialogue is silly at first but as the plot unwinds he sounds more and more normal. If you can get through the first ten minutes or so with the hayseed dialogue and hang on in until they get on the bus you will be fine. It is interesting from a historical standpoint to view the military presence in Penn Station and all over town. During the war this was the way it was. I doubt that the majority of the travellers in the station were extras.

Movie Review: Old fashioned WWII love story
Summary: 5 Stars

I am biased, being a big fan of Robert Walker, especially his performance in "Strangers on a Train"Strangers on a Train (Two-Disc Special Edition). But I really do love this movie. The Clock It is an old fashioned love story, and even it's 1940's setting can't date its charm. Judy Garland gives a lovely, non-singing role, and Keenan Wynn and James Gleason, two terrific character actors, lend warmth and humor. (And if you have any doubt about Robert Walker's acting ability , watch this movie and then "Strangers on a Train". He died tragically before the movie was released, but left an outstanding performance in his portrayal of the psychopathic killer, Bruno Anthony.)
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