I love this movie. It’s a masterpiece. Joan Crawford was not often in colour films. Here she looks like she was photographed with a different process to the rest of the cast, she scorches your eyes. Her eyebrows and lipsticked lips walk into the room and pop 3 seconds before she appears. They’re the biggest stars in the movie. When she wears that yellow blouse with the zinging red neckerchief in the exact same shade as her lips, it’s like you’re being fired to the moon in a circus cannon.
Being a Republic Studios production, Republic's Trucolor process was used. I understand it did not capture colors the same way as Technicolor, so I tend to agree with the person posting that this film looks "different."
I'm also a tired old queen, and a tired old artist, and the saturated colors in this film make me want to blow the dust off my old tubes of paint, and attack a canvas! When I was young, I mostly watched this film for its campiness, but over the decades, I've found myself really embracing the characters and themes, they all resonate with me. One thing has never changed, I want to see Johnny Guitar and the Dancing Kid go at it! Who'd wind up on top? Sorry to ramble, it's late, and there's gin.
LOL! That sound slike a movie lune if I ever heard one.; " It's late, there's gin and there's a woman. There's always a woman somewhere, doing something to someone, that drives him to drinkl." Take it from there. Thanks for watching! Steve
All due props to our queen Joan Crawford, but what really makes this movie for me is Mercedes McCambridge, though perhaps more accurately, the delicious animosity between the two of them.
Hey, you forgot the Johnny Guitar quote about JC. She makes a man not feel like a man. Obviously, she wears the pants (LMFAO) in that relationship! Raymond
Crawford and McCambridge tear it up, and this Western holds up better than many films of the era with its subversive and critical sensibilities. Much thanks for your review - stellar as usual!
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ Ikr! I bet she even saw this as a possibility. I was shocked to find this one ranked higher than ‘All About Eve’ on Sight & Sound’s recent all time list 😮
Hi Steve my name is Theodore, I may only be 15 but i love classic movies especially Joan as well as Bette and Barbara. Back in July me and my dad went to a screening of Johnny Guitar at a local movie theater in Western Massachusetts where they were showing it as part of a "Big Screen Classic' series. My dad (who's name is John) had never seen it before. He loves movies but the movies he loves and watches are mostly modern and semi classic films going back to the 70s. He thought it was cool to see an old movie on the big screen and this was his first JC movie he had ever seen. The theater was a lot busier than i thought it was going to be and when the film was over it got a standing ovation! One person that you should have mentioned was Peggy Lee who wrote the title song! She is one of my favorite singers and i was disappointed when you didn't say a word about her!
it does my heart good to know such a young person has an appreciation for what came before him. Keep it up and you'll a a rich and varied life. Good for you.
Well, I'm certainly glad you did ! I love Peggy as well. SO glad you watch "TOQ at the Movies" and that you and your DadI had such a good time at the movie! It's always amazing to see these films on the big screen. I hope you have the chance to see many more. This show was created to get young people like yourself interested in these incredible story/chararcter driven films shot in beautiful black & white and gorgeous color. Keep in touch and let me know what your watching! Have a wonderful fall and thanks so much for watching and letting me know what you thought. Best Wishes; Steve
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ and @TheGuillermo519 thank you for replying I knew Steve would, I want both of you guys to know that I will be teaching a classic movie class to people of my age starting next week! It’s at the school I go to that is not technically a school self directed learning for teens called North Star where this Thursday and Friday they are doing Mini classes which are basically mini previews of the optional classes they have and I am doing one. I hope to introduce the class to some of the teens and tell people about the production code and the studio system and the stars. Next week the first official class will start but as I said this will only be about a 20 minute lecture. This will be my first time hosting a class so depending on when you read this (if you do at all) Wish me luck or hope it went well. I’m so glad I’ve found someone who seems to have seen everything I’ve seen so far knows about every classic actor and actress that I know of and does good impressions of the stars
Who needs historical accuracy when you have Joan in perfect 50's style coiff, make up and rootin tootin cowgirl chic that Dale Evans couldn't hold a candle to! What fun! Thanks Steve.❤️
So glad you got to this fave at last. Weirdest western ever. In some perverse way, I enjoy knowing that they fought like cats and dogs to make it. From a deconstructionist's point of view, that's a goldmine. I already knew that Joan and Mercedes hated each other, but the origin of that is hilarious. I love this movie so much. I try to watch it about once a year. The scene of Joan in her big white dress sitting at the piano under an oil lamp and with the red stone wall behind her is like a painting of an off-kilter world. The use of color is a big part of the aesthetic of this movie.
One reason I love this movie is the way it shows off Scott Brady, probably the best tough guy of the era, a status he took over from his self-destructive brother, Lawrence Tierney. Brady had masculine energy to spare, and it's fun watching him square off with Sterling Hayden.
A Nick Ray western masterpiece. Mercedes McCambridge gives an unforgettable performance here and ALL the acting is superb. it and Lang's Rancho Notorious should get A LOT more praise than they do.
OMG! Once we discovered Johnny Guitar airing one night on TCM, it became an annual Fall friends event to sit around with a huge bowl of popcorn and sangria to dish and hang off of every scene in this total Bitchfest of a western 😅. Great review and your MM is epic!
Great review, as usual! This looks so fun. I’m glad Joan Crawford was able to find a beauty parlor to do her “wash and set” and a Walgreens for that Revlon Fire and Ice lipstick - out in the Wild West!! 😊
When I was an intern for Scorsese in college, he had me go to a music store (back when they had those) in the Village and purchase the record (soundtrack) for Johnny Guitar. It took me twenty years before I saw the film. It did not disappoint. Another film Marty liked was Nick Ray’s Bigger Than Life. Would love to hear Steve review that one.
It's on my " To Do" list. How lucky you were! I recently saw the wonderful documentary " Made In England" which he produced and narrated about the work of Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger. It was so wonderful! "Black Narcissus" is one of my top ten favorites! I went to a sceening at The Film Forum back in June of Powell and Pressburger's " The Small Back Room" and Scorsese's editor/friend and Powell's widow, Thelma Schoonmaker was there, answering questions about both men and their mutual admiration and affiliation . A magical night! Thanks for watching! Steve
Oooh one for the playlist. Joan looks scrumptious in this. Just looked it up and Harry Stradling was the cinematographer - his filmography is amazing (and I know Barbra Streisand adored him).
That Mercedes McCambridge imitation is beyond funny 😁!!! The PRIZE is that STUNNING color!!! As great as in Gone with the Wind!!! The famous Italian soprano RENATA TEBALDI said in a magazine interview that in the role of MINNIE( A owner of a saloon in the wild west who can hold her own with men) in the masterpiece opera by Giacomo PUCCINI "La Fanciulla del West", She copied Joan Crawford in Johnny Guitar 🎸... If you listen to the recording, you will see and hear it!!!!
And Mercedes is so great on the radio, she plays a public defender in a series, and yes, your Mercedes imitation is amazing!!!! really good review, Thanks Steve....
I was named from this movie! My parents went to see it when it came out in 1954. I was born June 1955. Haven’t watched the movie though, guess I need to! Lol
Steve, your reviews are always so enjoyable! You are one of the reasons that my love for classic movies has endured well into my "tired old queen" years. Cheers and all the best!
Hi Steve! 😀 I've seen this and just want to say you are spot on...but you always are! 😊 Love her or not, Joan gives a whale of a performance, and Mercedes McCambridge goes toe-to-toe with her. Thanks for reminding us about great movies we need to watch again, and for introducing them to first-timers! 😘
I didn't get a notification, and I always click the moment i get one. This movie is one of my favorites for every reason you noted. My favorite moment is Joan sitting at the piano in a white dress with that vivid red rock wall behind her. What an image.
GREAT impersonation of Mercedes, Steve!!!! Hysterically funny! Love it! Love you! 💓🤗💓 (Joan was a trip! Heard she was a bi/lesbian who used to have the loudest organisms when she was with a female. lol!!! 🤣)
Good one. I've never been able to really get into this one, but it's a great (and love that crazy TruColor - it's insanely good). You ever meet Rica Martens? NY actress. She was in Living in Oblivion. I did a show with her in Pennsylvania in 1984. Anyway, she had worked with Mercedes McCambridge - and greatly admired her. Thought she was a pro and valued having worked with her.
She was a consumate pro and didn't stand for any nonsense. If you can find it, her autobiography; " The Quality Of Mercy". is a great read. Tough & terrific!
Steve, I’m so glad you’ve reviewed Johnny Guitar, and you’ve done the bang up job this Fabulous Western deserves! Mercedes Lives in your impersonation. Her character strikes me as a truly wicked Witch of the West if they’d allowed Margaret Hamilton to play it straight and evil. Make my joy complete and review Stanwyck’s Clash by Night. I yearn for your take on it. Thanks for years of movie-talk pleasure! You’re the best.
Thanks! There are several Stanwyck movies I'm dying to do, that being one of them; " Cry Wolf', " No Man Of Her Own", " All I Desire" and "The File On Thelma Jordan" are all on my "to Do' list. Hooray!
Yes, they have been so influential over the years. Truffault & his interviews and articles on Hitchcock & Cashiers du Cinema. When I went to Paris a few years back, I stayed in the Odeon area and discovered a wonderful classic movie shop. It 's fascinating to see what films the French like and who they love. I picked up a nifty book on Film Noir...even though I don't read French, the photos were wonderful ...as well as books on French stars Alain Delon, who recently passed and beautiful Jean Marais. I found in conversing with customers and the owner that they love Gene Tierney, which made me so happy, as I've always felt she was underrated, and I bought an autographed photo of gorgeous Jean Pierre Aumont. I've been fortunate to find these stores in all my Europeaon travels, especially in Rome and London as well. I love the Italain & French posters for the classic films and pick up reproductions, though where I will ever piut them is another story. Oh well...Can't keep a classic movie lover down! Thanks for watching! Steve
My My...what a dream team... Douglas Sirk directing Joan, Mercedes, Sterling ...oh let's not forget "Turkey"...very nice...in the big gun fight I was rooting for Mercedes ;) but Joan got top billing so she survived.... I loved Joan wearing that vivid white dress in the mineshaft...and how did she get there without smudging her ensemble...fabulous review...thank you Steve and Johnny :)
I just enjoy your reviews so much that I don’t know why I haven’t subscribed to your channel before. As soon as I discovered you, I nearly binged all your previous reviews, especially the old classics. I love the stories you tell. But today I rectified this egregious oversight and am now a happy subscriber!
Hellooooooo! I’m a relatively new subscriber. Your videos popped up on my feed a month ago and I’ve been binge watching as many of your videos as I can. Love, love, love them.
Thank you, Steve, for the entertaining summary. 1. I was loving the Joan/ Josephine/Tony Curtis voice from Some Like It Hot, again. 2. Two things about Mercedes, one inspirational, the other extremely tragic. a. In the 70s/80s, Mercedes became instrumental in Livingrin, a living center for recovering alcoholics in PA. She helped my uncle; I met her a couple of times. b. Mercendes' son murdered his wife and two daughters and then killed himself in 1987. John had committed financial fraud when he was an investment banker. He also forged his mother's signature. WOW😢
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ Two more things. 1. Mercedes is an unusual name for a woman. Another Mercedes won the Best Supporting Oscar, too. Mercedes Ruehl for The Fisher King. 2. To be in a lighter frame, I just put on Mercdes Boy by Pebbles. Fun fact: Pepples played a large part in the formation of TLC ,the 5th biggest girl group of all time. Their biggest hit Waterfalls
Love, love, love Johnny Guitar! Joan, a technicolour drama queen who clashes brilliantly with the dark undercurrents of Mercedes McCambridge and Sterling Hayden. Mercedes' obsessive envy and sick desire for Joan made for a wonderful performance. She portrayed one twisted sister! Super fun, thanks Steve, you made my day😊
Whenever I think of Mercedes McCambridge, she was in an episode of "Bewitched" as a powerful witch named Carlotta. Carolotta and Endora made a promise that Endora's daughter Samantha would marry Carlotta's son when they were children. As a result, Carlotta made Darrin disappear into the TV set being chased by wild animal sounds. It turns out the name Carlotta is Mercedes' actual first name. I have seen clips of the movie "Johnny Guitar," and it looked very campy. I am surprised this has a cult following, and that Martin Scorsese likes it. Thank you for another enjoyable video, Steve.
It is campy--but the very highest form of camp. No one is clowning--each performer is aiming to be as dead serious as they can get. Makes it hilarious and moving at the same time.
@@steve3131 The problem with Dick York was he was in severe pain for a long time after he did a film in the late 50s called "They Came to Codura" that ruined his back after he and Gary Cooper used a hand car that he accidentally bore the weight of. He was taking a lot of pain medication, and one time he was working on the show when his pain was too much to bear that he had to go to the hospital. During seasons 4 and 5, Dick York had to take some time off from several episodes for his back pain. The writers had to write two scripts in case he could not make it in for a taping. Once Dick York went to the hospital, the director William Asher told him it was better he left the show since he could not work anymore. Also, Elizabeth Montgomery could not stand Dick York since he had a crush on her and wanted to marry her even though she was married. After he left the show, she never spoke to him again. Nobody from the cast came to visit him in the hospital. Later in his life, he developed emphysema from smoking three packs of cigarettes a day, and he had to be put on oxygen therapy for the rest of his life. He died at the age of 63 on February 20, 1992. As for Dick Sargeant, both Elizabeth Montgomery and William Asher wanted him as Darrin for season one, but he was committed to some other TV show. Once that Dick York was no longer part of the show, Dick Sargeant became available as the replacement for Darrin for seasons 6 through 8. Elizabeth liked Dick Sargeant better since he was gay, and they got along great. However, Agnes Moorehead who played Endora did not like the change because she was good friends with Dick York. Agnes treated Dick Sargeant with disdain and anger. When Dick Sargeant came out in the 90s, Elizabeth supported him by attending a gay pride event together as two of the grand marshalls. As he got older, he developed prostate cancer and it spread throughout his body. He died on July 8, 1994, at age 64. Elizabeth Montgomery grew tired of playing Samantha, and the show was starting to become tedious and repetitive since the writers would use the same scripts from previous seasons. After season 8 was over, Elizabeth announced she was done with the show even though they had a contract with ABC for another two seasons. She did some other productions that included playing Lizzie Borden in a TV movie, the axe murderess. It turns out Elizabeth was a distant cousin of Lizzie, so for her to do that part is remarkable. She did another TV series as a detective for a season or two. Unfortunately, she developed colon cancer that metastasized throughout her body, and she died on May 18, 1995, at age 62. Agnes Moorehead did some other projects, such as the animated film "Charlotte's Web" as the goose. She also got to work with Paul Lynde again, who played the rat Templeton. As she got older, she developed uterine cancer. Some people believe that she got the cancer after doing the movie "The Conqueror" with John Wayne. The film director thought it would be great to film at a former test site for nuclear bombs. Many of the cast and crew died from cancer and other ailments after filming there. Agnes died on April 30, 1974, at age 73.
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ “Oh know not again!” Johnny Guitar is such a bazaar mixture of personalities that you’ve compelled me to see it yet one more time…thanx!
I love the narrators explaning the movie with his female impersonation! You are so hilarious! I subscribed just now! Now I have to review your other movies! Awesome dude, just awesome!
Steve, you got me LMAO & put me in such a good mood this morning! I've never seen Johnny Guitar and now I can't wait to watch it on the TCM channel ! It's on Oct. 2, 6 to 8:30AM. I got my DVR set!
Thanks for doing this one!! The Mercedes McCambridge voice was really funny!! Seen Johnny Guitar so many times I could tell you got the Emma Small voice right, great job.
Gr8 review as always. I immediately had to go watch your review of another Crawford gem, “Female on the Beach” from 1955. I really like that one, too. Jeff Chandler was the hunk of Hollywood hunks. Joan was a genuine star and always gave it her all, even in “Trog”. Btw, your impressions are 🤣🤣🤣.
This was fun to see Steve - I recall seeing "Johnny Guitar" a few times over the years and always enjoyed it. I was reminded of another color film that Crawford did around this same time called "Torch Song" (which you had reviewed some years back). Anyway, I always felt that Joan looked somewhat garish in both of these films. In my view, Crawford was better suited for black and white cinematography which greatly softened her features. (I'm thinking of "Humoresque.") As an aside, I recall (as a ten year old) seeing Mercedes McCambridge on a "Lost in Space" episode (Yes, I loved campy stuff even then!) She played this very mean (but somehow regal) alien lady called "Sybilla." That Dame made her character in "Johnny Guitar" seem like Melanie from "Gone With the Wind." Well thanks again for the laughs - take care!
Steve, you didn't mention the shootout between Joan and Mercedes at the end...I wish Nicholas Ray had made it longer...a great reason to watch this movie
I try...not always successfully ...not to give away the climax. I want the viewer to watch with anticipation and not know what's coming. Happy Holidays.
I have heard of this movie but never seen it. Thank You as Always for these reviews and another film to watch! Peace + Love to Steve, Johnny, and all the TOQ crew. Keeps so many folks happy. ♥️💋
I love your videos, Steve! This is another fantastic recommendation and you do the best reenactments! Did you know that Pedro Almodóvar also loves this film? It appears in Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown. So great!
Stevie, I love your reviews and your impersonations, thank you! It's a great movie, but for me the most impressive thing is Joan dressed in white in the dusty west, but the dress never gets dirty!
Great review and I love these little stories, little bits of important film history! Curious if you know--is the Johnny Guitar box office of $7.1 million padded with all the numerous cult revivals it had? Torch Song in 1953 only made $3.6 million and JC's big Oscar nom Sudden Fear in 1952 only made $4.6 million, so I wonder how little a film had to make in the early 1950s to be considered a flop?
Joan wouldn't hear of anything good about "Johnny Guitar" . She loathed it and considered it one of the worst pictures she ever made. How wrong she was.
I'm happy I'm here (relatively) early for this one. I missed the last one by weeks. As always, a wonderful review of a film I've not seen in decades. Prompting me to watch it again.
YES! What a cast! John Carradine touches me the most, as his roles sometimes do. So many interpretations! LOVE this movie! Ive heard you say Live from Utica before, Steve. Ok, but will it play in Peoria? Richard Pryor was born and raised in Peoria! I see that phrase differently now. Nice to see you again, Sir.
It was Labor Day weekend and I thought where is Steve and here you are. I loved this movie. A butch Joan is fantastic. Another fantastic review. Happy Fall to you and Johnnie and everyone involved with your show.
I have to admit I have never seen this, just bits and pieces. Just like Torch Song. I’ve got to do it. Besides, the hatred between J.C. and MM is legendary…that’s reason enough to watch.
I love this movie. It’s a masterpiece. Joan Crawford was not often in colour films. Here she looks like she was photographed with a different process to the rest of the cast, she scorches your eyes. Her eyebrows and lipsticked lips walk into the room and pop 3 seconds before she appears. They’re the biggest stars in the movie. When she wears that yellow blouse with the zinging red neckerchief in the exact same shade as her lips, it’s like you’re being fired to the moon in a circus cannon.
Yup. The word VIVID comes to mind! LOL! Thanks for watching!
Colors so vivid enough to give you cataracts
What are you talking about? Joan isn't photographed, or colored, any differently than the rest of the cast.
Being a Republic Studios production, Republic's Trucolor process was used. I understand it did not capture colors the same way as Technicolor, so I tend to agree with the person posting that this film looks "different."
Joan was a trip!!! I saw this in high school. We would watch anything with Joan or Bette Davis. They were pros.
Yup.
Joan is the greatest movie star of all time and your reviews are delicious! Please keep them coming, sir!
You keep watching and I'll keep 'em coming! Steve
That shot with Mercedes backing away from the flames outside of Vienna's is actually a reverse shot - and your 'Mercedes' is Spot On!!!
Thanks!
Love this movie Nothing better than a Joan Crawford or Bette Davis Movie
Ah! A reverse shot! Makes sense - thank you!
I'm also a tired old queen, and a tired old artist, and the saturated colors in this film make me want to blow the dust off my old tubes of paint, and attack a canvas! When I was young, I mostly watched this film for its campiness, but over the decades, I've found myself really embracing the characters and themes, they all resonate with me. One thing has never changed, I want to see Johnny Guitar and the Dancing Kid go at it! Who'd wind up on top? Sorry to ramble, it's late, and there's gin.
LOL! That sound slike a movie lune if I ever heard one.; " It's late, there's gin and there's a woman. There's always a woman somewhere, doing something to someone, that drives him to drinkl." Take it from there. Thanks for watching! Steve
Time to do RAIN - newly restored and one of Joan's best....I enjoy watching you like reading a favorite book....
Yes! I vote for Rain next, probably my favorite Joan Crawford movie
It's on my " To Do" list.
@@unioncityman63 Noted. Thanks for watching.
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ you bet!! I always look forward to them
"Rain" is a good suggestion. It's so atmospheric.
You do the best Mercedes McCambridge. Ever!
Thank you! I love doing her!
I have always thought I did the best Mercedes McCambridge, -but YOURS is supreme.
All due props to our queen Joan Crawford, but what really makes this movie for me is Mercedes McCambridge, though perhaps more accurately, the delicious animosity between the two of them.
Totally agree.
Ernest Borngine, Royal Dano, Ward Bond, Frank Ferguson, and John Carradine the character actors in this film are worth watching alone.
I totally agree with you! It's a feast!
".......In a Town where the Women are Butch and the Men are vulnerable there was Johnny Guitar. "
In a town where the men are chickens and the women are foxes...wait... thanks for watching! Steve
Hey, you forgot the Johnny Guitar quote about JC. She makes a man not feel like a man. Obviously, she wears the pants (LMFAO) in that relationship!
Raymond
Thank you, Steve, for showcasing the old movies that had so much real talent….writing, directing, acting and behind-the-scene crews.
You're so welcome. Thank you flor watching and letting us know how much you appreciate what we do. Besat; Steve
Crawford and McCambridge tear it up, and this Western holds up better than many films of the era with its subversive and critical sensibilities. Much thanks for your review - stellar as usual!
Thanks so much! So glad you watch!
Steve Hayes, You simply Reign Sovereign. And spot on with Joan. She was thee most watchable actresses, in my opinion.
Can't take your eyes off her. Talk about magnetism! Thanks for watching!
This might be her most celebrated movie amongst critics today. Indiewire just named it the greatest western ever.
Wow, that's pretty impressive! Though she never appreciated the movie, she would have loved the praise and the longevity.
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ Ikr! I bet she even saw this as a possibility. I was shocked to find this one ranked higher than ‘All About Eve’ on Sight & Sound’s recent all time list 😮
Greatest Western ever? 😂
@@track1949 It’s certainly the most subversive.
I was a Tired Old Queen myself, but you Revived me! I found myself MESMERISED by you and your astonishing, on-point review. BRAVO, Steve!
Thanks Albert! So appreciated!
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ My pleasure, dear Steve.
Hi Steve my name is Theodore, I may only be 15 but i love classic movies especially Joan as well as Bette and Barbara. Back in July me and my dad went to a screening of Johnny Guitar at a local movie theater in Western Massachusetts where they were showing it as part of a "Big Screen Classic' series. My dad (who's name is John) had never seen it before. He loves movies but the movies he loves and watches are mostly modern and semi classic films going back to the 70s. He thought it was cool to see an old movie on the big screen and this was his first JC movie he had ever seen. The theater was a lot busier than i thought it was going to be and when the film was over it got a standing ovation! One person that you should have mentioned was Peggy Lee who wrote the title song! She is one of my favorite singers and i was disappointed when you didn't say a word about her!
it does my heart good to know such a young person has an appreciation for what came before him. Keep it up and you'll a a rich and varied life. Good for you.
Well, I'm certainly glad you did ! I love Peggy as well. SO glad you watch "TOQ at the Movies" and that you and your DadI had such a good time at the movie! It's always amazing to see these films on the big screen. I hope you have the chance to see many more. This show was created to get young people like yourself interested in these incredible story/chararcter driven films shot in beautiful black & white and gorgeous color. Keep in touch and let me know what your watching! Have a wonderful fall and thanks so much for watching and letting me know what you thought. Best Wishes; Steve
@@TheGuillermo519 I so agree! Great to hear from Theodore!
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ and @TheGuillermo519 thank you for replying I knew Steve would, I want both of you guys to know that I will be teaching a classic movie class to people of my age starting next week! It’s at the school I go to that is not technically a school self directed learning for teens called North Star where this Thursday and Friday they are doing Mini classes which are basically mini previews of the optional classes they have and I am doing one. I hope to introduce the class to some of the teens and tell people about the production code and the studio system and the stars. Next week the first official class will start but as I said this will only be about a 20 minute lecture. This will be my first time hosting a class so depending on when you read this (if you do at all) Wish me luck or hope it went well. I’m so glad I’ve found someone who seems to have seen everything I’ve seen so far knows about every classic actor and actress that I know of and does good impressions of the stars
@@higbyrocket09 you're already making a difference. Bravo and good luck.
Who needs historical accuracy when you have Joan in perfect 50's style coiff, make up and rootin tootin cowgirl chic that Dale Evans couldn't hold a candle to! What fun! Thanks Steve.❤️
Don't you just love her outfits?!?
Thank you !
Oh Steve...you're the top! I just love Peggy Lee singing the title song!
Thank you! So do I!
Which she wrote as well!
One of my favorite Joan Crawford movies, just so good!!!
I agree completely! Enjoy!
So glad you got to this fave at last. Weirdest western ever. In some perverse way, I enjoy knowing that they fought like cats and dogs to make it. From a deconstructionist's point of view, that's a goldmine. I already knew that Joan and Mercedes hated each other, but the origin of that is hilarious. I love this movie so much. I try to watch it about once a year. The scene of Joan in her big white dress sitting at the piano under an oil lamp and with the red stone wall behind her is like a painting of an off-kilter world. The use of color is a big part of the aesthetic of this movie.
I totally agree. It is a feast for the eyes and the melodrama matches the vivid color frame for frame.
This weekend, I binge watched all your videos. And spent the rest of the time seeing which ones I could find on YT. You're great!
Oh, thank you! I hope you subscribe, so I can bring you a new classic every month!
Two movies in one. A cowboy/western and Beauty and the Beast. Sterling is the beauty of course. Steve as Mercedes, flawless lol hugs!!!
Hooray! So gkd you liked it!
What can I watch tonight? "Johnny Guitar"! I haven't watched this film in years--no, decades! Sadly, I had forgotten about it. 🎶💖🎶
Well, pull a chair , Pardner and settle bnck! You'll have a ball!
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ : YEE-IE! I'm humming "Cow Cow Boogie" as I write this. (Can't wait to watch "Johnny Guitar"! )
One reason I love this movie is the way it shows off Scott Brady, probably the best tough guy of the era, a status he took over from his self-destructive brother, Lawrence Tierney. Brady had masculine energy to spare, and it's fun watching him square off with Sterling Hayden.
I agree. They are well matched.
Had no idea they were brothers. Just like Dana Andrews and Steve Forrest was a. surprise.
@@windstorm1000 Scott's real name was Gerald (sometimes listed as Gerard) Tierney. I don't think the two brothers got along very well.
@@grey1951 perhaps that is why Scott changed his name or simply to create his own actors identity.
I am surprised that a movie hasn't been made about Hayden. What a fascinating man.
A Nick Ray western masterpiece. Mercedes McCambridge gives an unforgettable performance here and ALL the acting is superb. it and Lang's Rancho Notorious should get A LOT more praise than they do.
Absolutely right. thank you.
Well, Scorsese certainly sings it's praises.
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ He has great taste. He loves The River, one of my 13 all time favorite films. I wish I could show him my film. .
OMG! Once we discovered Johnny Guitar airing one night on TCM, it became an annual Fall friends event to sit around with a huge bowl of popcorn and sangria to dish and hang off of every scene in this total Bitchfest of a western 😅. Great review and your MM is epic!
Wow! Wish I could join you! Such fun! It makes for a terrific night at the movies!
Great review, as usual! This looks so fun. I’m glad Joan Crawford was able to find a beauty parlor to do her “wash and set” and a Walgreens for that Revlon Fire and Ice lipstick - out in the Wild West!! 😊
It's nice to have the nescessities.
When I was an intern for Scorsese in college, he had me go to a music store (back when they had those) in the Village and purchase the record (soundtrack) for Johnny Guitar. It took me twenty years before I saw the film. It did not disappoint. Another film Marty liked was Nick Ray’s Bigger Than Life. Would love to hear Steve review that one.
It's on my " To Do" list. How lucky you were! I recently saw the wonderful documentary " Made In England" which he produced and narrated about the work of Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger. It was so wonderful! "Black Narcissus" is one of my top ten favorites! I went to a sceening at The Film Forum back in June of Powell and Pressburger's " The Small Back Room" and Scorsese's editor/friend and Powell's widow, Thelma Schoonmaker was there, answering questions about both men and their mutual admiration and affiliation . A magical night! Thanks for watching! Steve
Oooh one for the playlist. Joan looks scrumptious in this. Just looked it up and Harry Stradling was the cinematographer - his filmography is amazing (and I know Barbra Streisand adored him).
They 're both into Harry...wait.... he was terrific!
Your insights pure gold; making film viewing nothing short of being joyful experiences.
That is so sweet and much appreciated. Thank you!
Shalom from Tel Aviv. Great escapism, Steve. The falafel is still on me if you're ever in town.
I just may take you up on that some time! Thanks for watching and for the invitation!
❤
Nick Ray was a great filmmaker.
Indeed.
That Mercedes McCambridge imitation is beyond funny 😁!!!
The PRIZE is that STUNNING color!!! As great as in Gone with the Wind!!!
The famous Italian soprano RENATA TEBALDI said in a magazine interview that in the role of MINNIE( A owner of a saloon in the wild west who can hold her own with men) in the masterpiece opera by Giacomo PUCCINI "La Fanciulla del West", She copied Joan Crawford in Johnny Guitar 🎸... If you listen to the recording, you will see and hear it!!!!
Wow! I never knew that! Thank you SO much!
This is one of my favorite review of yours. I agree with the person below -your Mercedes McCambridge impersonation is perfect!
OMG! thank you!
And Mercedes is so great on the radio, she plays a public defender in a series, and yes, your Mercedes imitation is amazing!!!! really good review, Thanks Steve....
Thank you! You made my day!
I was named from this movie! My parents went to see it when it came out in 1954. I was born June 1955. Haven’t watched the movie though, guess I need to! Lol
Indeed!
Steve you had Mercedes McCambridge down!!! 🤣 😂
🌵 👢 🌅 🤠 🐂
Shhhh, don't tell her that. She's liable to come after me.
Steve, your reviews are always so enjoyable! You are one of the reasons that my love for classic movies has endured well into my "tired old queen" years. Cheers and all the best!
Thank you so much! I love hearing that! Made my day!
Hi Steve! 😀 I've seen this and just want to say you are spot on...but you always are! 😊
Love her or not, Joan gives a whale of a performance, and Mercedes McCambridge goes toe-to-toe with her. Thanks for reminding us about great movies we need to watch again, and for introducing them to first-timers! 😘
My pleasure! Mission accomplished!
I didn't get a notification, and I always click the moment i get one. This movie is one of my favorites for every reason you noted. My favorite moment is Joan sitting at the piano in a white dress with that vivid red rock wall behind her. What an image.
That color is so surreal! Enjoy!
You just keep making amazing film reviews, Sir!
I wish I could go on your cruise. I bet it will be a blast!
Thank you so much for watching!
I could watch you endlessly do Joan Crawford and Mercedes McCambridge back and forth. Great Review!
Thanks so much!
Joan Crawford vs Mercedes McCambridge! ?That's a battle I'd like to see! 😂Thank you,Steve!
Then...as they used to say in the '70's... tune in and turn on!
Absolutely delightful commentary!
Thank you so much!
My Oh My, I LOVE your Mercedes McCambridge! Almost as much as I love your Susan Hayward. You're the best, Steve!
Many thanks for the compliment and for watching!
GREAT impersonation of Mercedes, Steve!!!! Hysterically funny! Love it! Love you! 💓🤗💓
(Joan was a trip!
Heard she was a bi/lesbian who used to have the loudest organisms when she was with a female. lol!!! 🤣)
Well, she knew what she liked...
Always entertaining! Thanks Steve!
My plerasure. Thanks for watching!
Steve, you are hilarious 🤣
Thanks for the lovely compliment!
I came out to my parents while they were watching this movie. Seems apropos, no? Loved the commentary.
OMG! Considering all the gunplay, you were very brave! Thanks for watching!
Good one. I've never been able to really get into this one, but it's a great (and love that crazy TruColor - it's insanely good).
You ever meet Rica Martens? NY actress. She was in Living in Oblivion. I did a show with her in Pennsylvania in 1984. Anyway, she had worked with Mercedes McCambridge - and greatly admired her. Thought she was a pro and valued having worked with her.
She was a consumate pro and didn't stand for any nonsense. If you can find it, her autobiography; " The Quality Of Mercy". is a great read. Tough & terrific!
Great video as always Steve. I seemed to have stopped getting notified so ive got three to watch tonight. Fabulous❤❤
Hoorau! I hope you liked them and am glad you are back!
Steve, I’m so glad you’ve reviewed Johnny Guitar, and you’ve done the bang up job this Fabulous Western deserves! Mercedes Lives in your impersonation. Her character strikes me as a truly wicked Witch of the West if they’d allowed Margaret Hamilton to play it straight and evil. Make my joy complete and review Stanwyck’s Clash by Night. I yearn for your take on it. Thanks for years of movie-talk pleasure! You’re the best.
Thanks! There are several Stanwyck movies I'm dying to do, that being one of them; " Cry Wolf', " No Man Of Her Own", " All I Desire" and "The File On Thelma Jordan" are all on my "to Do' list. Hooray!
" Torch Singer" is still my favorite JC movie
It's is for many.
Great review! Glad you mentioned how much the French New Wave Directors loved this movie.
Yes, they have been so influential over the years. Truffault & his interviews and articles on Hitchcock & Cashiers du Cinema. When I went to Paris a few years back, I stayed in the Odeon area and discovered a wonderful classic movie shop. It 's fascinating to see what films the French like and who they love. I picked up a nifty book on Film Noir...even though I don't read French, the photos were wonderful ...as well as books on French stars Alain Delon, who recently passed and beautiful Jean Marais. I found in conversing with customers and the owner that they love Gene Tierney, which made me so happy, as I've always felt she was underrated, and I bought an autographed photo of gorgeous Jean Pierre Aumont. I've been fortunate to find these stores in all my Europeaon travels, especially in Rome and London as well. I love the Italain & French posters for the classic films and pick up reproductions, though where I will ever piut them is another story. Oh well...Can't keep a classic movie lover down! Thanks for watching! Steve
My My...what a dream team... Douglas Sirk directing Joan, Mercedes, Sterling ...oh let's not forget "Turkey"...very nice...in the big gun fight I was rooting for Mercedes ;) but Joan got top billing so she survived.... I loved Joan wearing that vivid white dress in the mineshaft...and how did she get there without smudging her ensemble...fabulous review...thank you Steve and Johnny :)
Thank you...however, it was Nicholas Ray who directed...in what would have been a perfect Douglas Sirk subject.
Fun, fun, fun!
Yes, yes, yes!!! Ride 'em Cowgirl!
You've convinced me! Thanks, Steve and Johnny.
You won't be sorry! Thanks for watching! Steve & Johnny!
I just enjoy your reviews so much that I don’t know why I haven’t subscribed to your channel before. As soon as I discovered you, I nearly binged all your previous reviews, especially the old classics. I love the stories you tell. But today I rectified this egregious oversight and am now a happy subscriber!
HOORAY!!! Welcome aboard! You made my day and we're delighted to have you! Thanks so much! Steve, Johnny & the TOQ Gang
Hellooooooo! I’m a relatively new subscriber. Your videos popped up on my feed a month ago and I’ve been binge watching as many of your videos as I can. Love, love, love them.
I'm thrilled and I hope you subscribe, so that I can vsisit you with anothjer classic each month! Thanks for watching! Steve
Awesome!! Thank you
My pleasure! Thanks for watching!
Stephen Sondheim said that his song in "Follies": "I'm Still Here" was based on the career of Joan Crawford.
Could very well be...as well as a host of others who; " Got through all of last year and are here!" Bless 'em!
I've missed you Steve! I'm going to have to go rewatch some older recommendations of yours now. X
Hooray! Mission accomplished!
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ You’re a treasure. X
You never mentioned the theme song! How I loved that song! I learned to improvise it on the piano. I saw it when it came out!! I am OLD!!
You are NOT alone! LOL! Love Peggy Lee!
Didn't care for the movie plot but I would watch Joan in any film production.
Me too.
The scene where the young guy gets shot and Joan is Comforting as he’s dying …… it’s such a touching moment…. Love Joan’s range in this picture….
I do too. You can't take your eyes off her.
I si love your movie reviews, can't wait for the next one.
Me neither! LOL!
This is one of the great ones. Wow I did not know it was Mercedes McCambridge's voice in the Exorcist! Great video thanks.
You are so welcome and thank you for watching!
Thank you, Steve, for the entertaining summary.
1. I was loving the Joan/ Josephine/Tony Curtis voice from Some Like It Hot, again.
2. Two things about Mercedes, one inspirational, the other extremely tragic.
a. In the 70s/80s, Mercedes became instrumental in Livingrin, a living center for recovering alcoholics in PA. She helped my uncle; I met her a couple of times.
b. Mercendes' son murdered his wife and two daughters and then killed himself in 1987. John had committed financial fraud when he was an investment banker. He also forged his mother's signature. WOW😢
Yes. Her last years were very tragic.
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ Two more things.
1. Mercedes is an unusual name for a woman. Another Mercedes won the Best Supporting Oscar, too. Mercedes Ruehl for The Fisher King.
2. To be in a lighter frame, I just put on Mercdes Boy by Pebbles.
Fun fact: Pepples played a large part in the formation of TLC ,the 5th biggest girl group of all time.
Their biggest hit Waterfalls
Hello, my heart smiled when I saw you posted ❤🎉🎉🎉
Awww, thank so much!
Love, love, love Johnny Guitar! Joan, a technicolour drama queen who clashes brilliantly with the dark undercurrents of Mercedes McCambridge and Sterling Hayden. Mercedes' obsessive envy and sick desire for Joan made for a wonderful performance. She portrayed one twisted sister! Super fun, thanks Steve, you made my day😊
Then , we're even. You just made mine!
Whenever I think of Mercedes McCambridge, she was in an episode of "Bewitched" as a powerful witch named Carlotta. Carolotta and Endora made a promise that Endora's daughter Samantha would marry Carlotta's son when they were children. As a result, Carlotta made Darrin disappear into the TV set being chased by wild animal sounds. It turns out the name Carlotta is Mercedes' actual first name.
I have seen clips of the movie "Johnny Guitar," and it looked very campy. I am surprised this has a cult following, and that Martin Scorsese likes it. Thank you for another enjoyable video, Steve.
He loves it and I think you will too! Lots of fun to be had.
It is campy--but the very highest form of camp. No one is clowning--each performer is aiming to be as dead serious as they can get. Makes it hilarious and moving at the same time.
@@DRaymore44 when they replaced Darren I (played by Dick York) with Darren II (played by Dick Sargeant) they could have woven that into the episode.
@@steve3131 The problem with Dick York was he was in severe pain for a long time after he did a film in the late 50s called "They Came to Codura"
that ruined his back after he and Gary Cooper used a hand car that he accidentally bore the weight of. He was taking a lot of pain medication, and one time he was working on the show when his pain was too much to bear that he had to go to the hospital. During seasons 4 and 5, Dick York had to take some time off from several episodes for his back pain. The writers had to write two scripts in case he could not make it in for a taping.
Once Dick York went to the hospital, the director William Asher told him it was better he left the show since he could not work anymore. Also, Elizabeth Montgomery could not stand Dick York since he had a crush on her and wanted to marry her even though she was married. After he left the show, she never spoke to him again. Nobody from the cast came to visit him in the hospital. Later in his life, he developed emphysema from smoking three packs of cigarettes a day, and he had to be put on oxygen therapy for the rest of his life. He died at the age of 63 on February 20, 1992.
As for Dick Sargeant, both Elizabeth Montgomery and William Asher wanted him as Darrin for season one, but he was committed to some other TV show. Once that Dick York was no longer part of the show, Dick Sargeant became available as the replacement for Darrin for seasons 6 through 8. Elizabeth liked Dick Sargeant better since he was gay, and they got along great. However, Agnes Moorehead who played Endora did not like the change because she was good friends with Dick York. Agnes treated Dick Sargeant with disdain and anger.
When Dick Sargeant came out in the 90s, Elizabeth supported him by attending a gay pride event together as two of the grand marshalls. As he got older, he developed prostate cancer and it spread throughout his body. He died on July 8, 1994, at age 64.
Elizabeth Montgomery grew tired of playing Samantha, and the show was starting to become tedious and repetitive since the writers would use the same scripts from previous seasons. After season 8 was over, Elizabeth announced she was done with the show even though they had a contract with ABC for another two seasons. She did some other productions that included playing Lizzie Borden in a TV movie, the axe murderess. It turns out Elizabeth was a distant cousin of Lizzie, so for her to do that part is remarkable. She did another TV series as a detective for a season or two. Unfortunately, she developed colon cancer that metastasized throughout her body, and she died on May 18, 1995, at age 62.
Agnes Moorehead did some other projects, such as the animated film "Charlotte's Web" as the goose. She also got to work with Paul Lynde again, who played the rat Templeton. As she got older, she developed uterine cancer. Some people believe that she got the cancer after doing the movie "The Conqueror" with John Wayne. The film director thought it would be great to film at a former test site for nuclear bombs. Many of the cast and crew died from cancer and other ailments after filming there. Agnes died on April 30, 1974, at age 73.
You impersonations are such a hoot! Mercedes always sounds like Rocky the Flying Squirrel to me.Thank you for the movie review…always fun!
LOL! I never thought of that, but you're right!
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ
“Oh know not again!”
Johnny Guitar is such a bazaar mixture of personalities that you’ve compelled me to see it yet one more time…thanx!
I love the narrators explaning the movie with his female impersonation! You are so hilarious! I subscribed just now! Now I have to review your other movies! Awesome dude, just awesome!
Thanks so much! You made my day! Welcome aboard! Steve
So happy you did! Thanks!
Steve, you got me LMAO & put me in such a good mood this morning! I've never seen Johnny Guitar and now I can't wait to watch it on the TCM channel ! It's on Oct. 2, 6 to 8:30AM. I got my DVR set!
Hooray! Get rready for a "rootin' tootin' " good time! Thanks for watching!
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ 🤣🤣🤣👍
Thanks for doing this one!! The Mercedes McCambridge voice was really funny!!
Seen Johnny Guitar so many times I could tell you got the Emma Small voice right, great job.
Ya gotta' love Mercedes.
Gr8 review as always. I immediately had to go watch your review of another Crawford gem, “Female on the Beach” from 1955. I really like that one, too. Jeff Chandler was the hunk of Hollywood hunks. Joan was a genuine star and always gave it her all, even in “Trog”. Btw, your impressions are 🤣🤣🤣.
Thanks so much and yes, she gave it everything and that was more than alot of other star's best efforts.
This was fun to see Steve - I recall seeing "Johnny Guitar" a few times over the years and always enjoyed it. I was reminded of another color film that Crawford did around this same time called "Torch Song" (which you had reviewed some years back). Anyway, I always felt that Joan looked somewhat garish in both of these films. In my view, Crawford was better suited for black and white cinematography which greatly softened her features. (I'm thinking of "Humoresque.") As an aside, I recall (as a ten year old) seeing Mercedes McCambridge on a "Lost in Space" episode (Yes, I loved campy stuff even then!) She played this very mean (but somehow regal) alien lady called "Sybilla." That Dame made her character in "Johnny Guitar" seem like Melanie from "Gone With the Wind." Well thanks again for the laughs - take care!
Thanks for watching! Mercedes would turn up over the years on many TV programs. Always a pro and fun to watch.
Steve, you didn't mention the shootout between Joan and Mercedes at the end...I wish Nicholas Ray had made it longer...a great reason to watch this movie
I try...not always successfully ...not to give away the climax. I want the viewer to watch with anticipation and not know what's coming. Happy Holidays.
I have heard of this movie but never seen it. Thank You as Always for these reviews and another film to watch! Peace + Love to Steve, Johnny, and all the TOQ crew. Keeps so many folks happy. ♥️💋
Thanks so uch! We're so glad you enjoy it! Happy September!
Another great review from you.. i was fifteen when i saw it. Crushed hard on Ben Cooper! Love your imitation of McCambrige. Haha.
I loved Ben too. I'd have taken him out behind the stable early on.
I love your videos, Steve! This is another fantastic recommendation and you do the best reenactments! Did you know that Pedro Almodóvar also loves this film? It appears in Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown. So great!
Some of the references, color and western influences appear in his gay themed short film; " Strange Way Of Life". Thanks for watching! Steve
Another winning review Steve! Thank you!!!
My pleasure!
I didn't realize that Hayden hated Joan! Great excuse for a rewatch, I wanna see the tension. Thank you!
It's all right there!
Another winner, Steve! You know how to pick 'em. I'm re-watching tonight!
Hooray! Mission accomplished! Enjoy and thanks for watching! Steve
Have to watch this. The two women look so wonderfully BUTCH!!!!!
@@jaykauffman4775 They are!
Finally finished my "re-watch" on Monday. As great as you said. Mercedes McCambridge is a force of nature... and Sterling Hayden... wow!
It's a fantastic movie. So over the top in the best sense. And with your commentary it's even better. Time to a rewatch.
Hooray! Mission accomplished!
I saw this a while ago, forgot the plot. Thanks for the reminder
You're welcome.
Stevie, I love your reviews and your impersonations, thank you! It's a great movie, but for me the most impressive thing is Joan dressed in white in the dusty west, but the dress never gets dirty!
Hilarious...not to mention the horse froppings! Whew!
Great review and I love these little stories, little bits of important film history! Curious if you know--is the Johnny Guitar box office of $7.1 million padded with all the numerous cult revivals it had? Torch Song in 1953 only made $3.6 million and JC's big Oscar nom Sudden Fear in 1952 only made $4.6 million, so I wonder how little a film had to make in the early 1950s to be considered a flop?
Joan wouldn't hear of anything good about "Johnny Guitar" . She loathed it and considered it one of the worst pictures she ever made. How wrong she was.
TXS Johnny - very worthy of a rewatch.
Hooray!
I'm happy I'm here (relatively) early for this one. I missed the last one by weeks. As always, a wonderful review of a film I've not seen in decades. Prompting me to watch it again.
Hooray! So glad you'll be seeing it again! Enjoy!
Sterling Hayden NUMERO UNO!!!!!
HJe
He's always terrific!
Yup!
I dont know if its a great movie but, its better than the musical version.
BTW thats an amazing Christmas Cactus on your right! Happy Holidays!
🌲🌵🌲
I call it a "Triffid"...it eats unwanted guests, dates and out of work actors. ! happy Holidays!
I am not sure about a tried old queen BUT I really appreciate your insight. Now I am fully prepared to watch TROG!!! Thank you!!!
Which is as it should be. Enjoy! Thanks for watching!
Big Hugs!
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ I just subscribed thanks for shedding light on the lost art of filmaking may I suggest "The Grand Hotel"?
YES! What a cast! John Carradine touches me the most, as his roles sometimes do. So many interpretations! LOVE this movie! Ive heard you say Live from Utica before, Steve. Ok, but will it play in Peoria? Richard Pryor was born and raised in Peoria! I see that phrase differently now. Nice to see you again, Sir.
Thanks, Mary!
Wow. You do others than Bette Davis?! Im impressed. Ill put Joan in the top 5 actress list but Bette is still my no.1! Keep up the good work.
Thanks, if you keep watching, We'll keep making them!
It was Labor Day weekend and I thought where is Steve and here you are. I loved this movie. A butch Joan is fantastic. Another fantastic review. Happy Fall to you and Johnnie and everyone involved with your show.
Thanks the same to you! My favorite time of year!
I have to admit I have never seen this, just bits and pieces. Just like Torch Song. I’ve got to do it. Besides, the hatred between J.C. and MM is legendary…that’s reason enough to watch.
You got that right.
And Ernest Borgnine!
Yup! Nasty ole' Ernie!
So good to see you back.
Thank you. Always nice to hear!
Great review! Ive been waiting for this.
So glad you are pleased!