Love this latest deconstruction, John (now that I've finally had an unhurried moment to read it!) Thanks for sharing. It really is wonderful storytelling, as you say. If Harry doesn't say "cash it in," the audience, certainly the women, lose sympathy for him. But the way Bess ultimately gives in to his wishes (and the wonderfully theatrical way she reveals it to him as he's swimming around the tank at Coney Island in a fish mask!) shows unconditional love on her part too, rather than a manipulated wife capitulating to her husband. Yet another reason this movie is so magical and endearing.
Thank you! There's actually another chapter (10) that I got up before the end of the year. Might be a while until the next. I got a lot on my plate at the moment!
Really enjoyed your deconstructions of the 1953 "Houdini" movie. The back stories, production and legacy of the movie, could make a book!
ReplyDeleteThank you. I would love to one day write a book about Houdini (1953). It's on the list!
DeleteLove this latest deconstruction, John (now that I've finally had an unhurried moment to read it!) Thanks for sharing. It really is wonderful storytelling, as you say. If Harry doesn't say "cash it in," the audience, certainly the women, lose sympathy for him. But the way Bess ultimately gives in to his wishes (and the wonderfully theatrical way she reveals it to him as he's swimming around the tank at Coney Island in a fish mask!) shows unconditional love on her part too, rather than a manipulated wife capitulating to her husband. Yet another reason this movie is so magical and endearing.
ReplyDeleteThank you! There's actually another chapter (10) that I got up before the end of the year. Might be a while until the next. I got a lot on my plate at the moment!
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