I am 66. Living in a far island. Things just never worked out for me, though I tried until I cried and srcretly screamed. Seen vids by people like Arnold and Sylvester, saying if you try hard enough, it is yours. Well, for some, it still was not enough. The real trick, is learning how to lose. It is very hard to do that, because everything is about winning. But how to lose, how to make that fit and still enjoy a beach or a cup of coffee at 4am. That is the trick.
Comrade your suffering is the epitome of capitalism. Your misfortune is not bad luck it is the brutality you have been subjected to by the capitalist class. You were alienated from your labor. Miller wrote this play not to make us love the little things but to show us how the little things are stolen and corrupted by capitalism. It is not too late though, educate yourself, educate others, and join the socialist and Marxist cause. The workers will be free one day, and you will find peace.
Reminds me of the book I've been reading called The Black Swan by Talib. Society focuses on the winners. The winners write books about what qualities they have that lead to their success. Hard work, discipline, dedication, positive attitude, etc. However, they give no credit to luck, circumstances, random things, disease, or other black swan events. The truth is that for every winner with the right attributes, there are many losers who possess the same qualities. So, their perceptions of themselves and their success are often flawed. However, there is more to it than that. Almost everyone has the ability to be successful at something but some people pick the wrong things. Things outside their wheelhouse, Lofty unrealistic dreams, etc. Some people create their own failures by dreaming too big. That way there's always an excuse. Some people just plain pick the wrong career and by the time they realize it, they're already old. Lots of variables. Lots of chance events.
You're not alone, and since you live by the beach, I am reminded of this....be encouraged. "One night a man had a dream. He dreamed he was walking along the beach with the Lord. Across the sky flashed scenes from his life. For each scene, he noticed two sets of footprints in the sand: one belonging to him, and the other to the Lord. When the last scene of his life flashed before him, he looked back at the footprints in the sand. He noticed that many times along the path of his life there was only one set of footprints. He also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times in his life. This really bothered him and he questioned the Lord about it. "Lord, You said that once I decided to follow you, You'd walk with me all the way. But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life, there is only one set of footprints. I don't understand why, when I needed you most, you would leave me." The Lord replied, "My son, My precious child, I love you and I would never leave you. During your times of trial and suffering, when you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I Carried You."
I heard Arthur Miller say he wouldn’t change a word. How many of us have seen a reflection of ourselves in one or more of the characters. The first time I saw this it took me days to shake it off. Brilliant.
At 73, it also hits strong! We are only passing through this earthly realm. The goals that are set “out there” are competitive and cold! Love and support each other, and your family. Help all you can , when others need a hand. Give of yourself, but don’t lose yourself. God put us here for many reasons, but Hw will not be counting earthly treasures and money. It’s what we do with the gifts He blesses us with, that counts.
My fourth grade teacher played this on audio for our entire class back in 1970 or so. We listened to it over a few classes. My memory may be wrong but on this specific audio he shoots himself. A stunning end to our time listening. Always thought that was odd. Pretty sure it was Lee J. Cobb though the voice I always associate with Willy Loman.
lRead it at first in18,it was sadness only, but when I wachted it as aTv drama I was 28or 29,I took more things about social life and rightnow It afected me as a deep phylasophy or holy book.
I remember this production from my childhood, and I'm so glad and grateful to see it again. And with no commercial interruptions, which is as it should be. This play rings as true now as it ever did -- a classic, timeless tale. Thanks so much for posting.
According to Arthur Miller, Cobb was the greatest dramatic actor he ever saw. It is a blessing that they got him on tape doing this roles because this is his defining role, in the greatest American play ever written. It is more devastating in person with the right cast.
I love Cobb, but didn't care for this performance. I guess it is the character I don't like plus the theatric nature of the performance. Never saw the play before today. Supposed to be one of the greatest plays of all time but very depressing.
So much wisdom here. I am letting my unfulfilled ambitions, which i have no control over, affect my mental health and my family life. We are not doing bad, just not as good as people around us.
Hey, you got your limbs and your senses? You wake up with someone in your bed? You got kids down the hall and a steady check? A solid roof and reliable car? That's it, you're winning. You're in the endzone
@@matt11shawty No, you don't! "You have control over it" is the kind of stuff Willy kept repeating to Biff and Happy over and over and over again. There wasn't some genetic or intrinsic problem holding Biff or Happy back, it was the idea that they had total control - that life was theirs for the taking - that was ultimately their undoing. There is a place for ambition and desire, but they should not steer your life. Death of a Salesman, as a work of fiction, is incompatible with the American Dream's version of ruthless, uncompromising ambition - and the idea that you're in complete control of your own fate.
When Lee J Cobb was ill and found himself in the hospital facing an operation, Frank Sinatra stepped in anonymously and paid all his medical bills and even provided for care for Lee's recovery. Upon learning who his benefactor was Lee confronted Frank and asked, 'how could he ever repay him?' Frank reportedly said, 'you're work as an actor and what it has brought to the world is payment enough'.
An outstanding cast lead by Lee J. Cobb. Arthur Miller’s Dad was a salesman, and anyone who has ever tried being one realizes how true to life this incredible play is.
Thank you, Eric, for presenting this. Arthur Miller was a genius. It's excruciating to watch but a masterpiece. Cobb as Willie, the actors playing the sons are spot on, especially Hap. Fascinating to watch Wilder, too! Only character I never understood was Charley; his deliberate buffoonery, regardless of his ultimate kindness...
We read this in my technical theater class and now I'm writing a super late character analysis of Willy, and God is this one of my favorite plays. Something about the convergence of past and present and the parallels between Willy and his son's, each set up as a foil to the other-- honestly masterful storytelling. Miller was a genius in economic criticism and in play writing.
@garyabbott3861 Ah, we mostly only got to analyze plays in between one act and spring play season. Did a couple of cool projects to practice prop making too. It was definitely a lot of fun, and having a good theater teacher made a huge difference. Sorry yours wasn't more involved, but maybe you could do that sort of thing now instead. Analyze a play on your own, find some people to talk to about it- it might be even more interesting to do it on your terms, rather than for a class :^))
Holy shit! 4 minutes in and I'm struck. "Figure it out. You work a lifetime to pay off a house. You finally own it and...no one to live in it." As I sit in an empty house watching a UA-cam version of Death of a Salesman on a rare day off from the daily grind in my middle age. Except: Because of the divorce I've had to refinance and I'm as far away from paying off the mortgage as I was 11 years ago. Wish I'd had a woman like Linda.
That's just it, Willy was searching for something bigger and greater than himself or what he had. But little did he know that he had it all there for him, kids who loved him and a wife, Linda, who's love we all strive and wish for. Willy had it all, but couldn't see past his nose. I guess everyone is like this today - all caught up in the big picture that we fail to see the great one around us. As a Sales man myself I can relate to him a lot and at 45 aren't too far behind his years. Scary at the thought. Keep your chin up mate, it's tough at the moment, but will come good soon enough.
@@eugenenewton3296 Very sad for someone to have to think that near his end, though I suppose it gives so kind of reassurance once you are gone. Regards Capitalism, I think it works on a regional/national level, but once you get to international capitalism then you are talking about a different game altogether. What I mean by regional capitalism; always has there been a "rich man"/capitalist, the one with the money and power, but not so many years ago those people had businesses in and around where they grew up and lived. With that you had people who were then, if only partly, had a more positive conscious feeling on a social level to those around them. Take parts of the West Midlands, West Brom to be precise, that area was "made" by those men who lived locally to that area and though I am sure normal people had it tough back then, they did still benefit (certainly their future ancestors) and so the benefits of capitalism offered itself and trickled down to those in need. Now we have people from other countries owning businesses in parts of the world they have no interest in - it's now VERY much so all about the dollar $$. How to make it better? Only wish I knew. Still, I believe it to be the best system we have.
@@eugenenewton3296 That's what I meant by how people have lost their sense of regional responsibility. It needs a reset, but I do not see communism being the route to take to for the betterment of society.
at the premiere of the play in the theatre after it had ended grown man sat on their chairs and wept. This was told by Arthur Miller, so it is true. Lee J. Cobb I mean no words for his ability to play. Thanks for upload!!!!!
What a masterpiece of theatre and television; the acting and staging were brilliant; if this was performed on stage and televised with these same actors and actresses today the accolades of praise would rain down on them, justifiably so; I understand now why this book and adaptation is so highly regarded; thanks Eric for sharing and posting; feel so fortunate and blessed to watch this on UA-cam at home in bed, the cast and crew performed this just for me, I gave them a standing ovation.
Thank you, Eric, for downloading this classic. I remember seeing this show when I was fifteen. I didn't realize that the tape still exists. Thank you again.
35 years ago I went with a college English class to see this in the round in Minneapolis. I thought it was boring and irrelevant. Now...in my 50s, hits way too close home. I guess this is a classic.
I too saw this as a child, and thought it was a masterpiece. Lee J Cobb was a screen legend! Dustin Hoffman s Wiley Loman was good, but more of a little man .
Just finished the book. And now this film...absolutely amazing! I had also just watched "Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolf?" with George Segal as the younger professor in that. Fantastic acting all around! Both films 1966.
Lee J Cobb was being investigated by House of Un American Activities Committee and was punished by being denied the chance to do the film version. Later he did this version on TV.
Fredric March played Willy Loman in the film version. March also played the God-Father figure John Antrobus in Thornton Wilder's 'Skin of Our Teeth' on Broadway. Just trying to see March physically and emotionally shrivel down to the body and soul of a Willy Loman----pure Hollywood casting indeed.
I absolutely love Lee J. Cobb's portrayal. I remember watching the Dustin Hoffman version thinking Hoffman's portrayal was too over the top. Cobb brilliantly played a man defeated.
I saw the Hoffman version in college in the early 2000s, and watched it yesterday too. I looked for another version to compare, and found this one. I liked the Hoffman version, but Lee J Cobb better represents what I picture Willy would look like physically. Also, I agree, Hoffman was an over the top yelling nut in that version.
Pretty sure people understand what Arthur Miller was. You aren't some lone genius who cracked the nut. God damn it never fails to amaze me how self absorbed people can be.
There were promises made in this office ! The office scene, brutal, heartbreaking. I first 'heard' this play in the early 1970s on a long playing record in English class. It was an audio recording of this great production and I remember being very moved by it and Lee J. Cobb's performance. When NBC aired this I would have been too young to have understood it. Now it is with me for life as it will be with all who see it, for it will most certainly live forever. Thank you Eric so much for the gift of it now. Lee Cobb, Volcanic, beaten and yet, beacon of light. Willy Loman raised high.
Had never seen Lee J Cobb. I'm not sure I've seen more natural delivery before. (as an actor, I truly admire his conscious shifts from thought to tought -- intercepting movements and new discoveries as if the lines aren't learned. Just as it should be)
As often as I've seen DOAS, no production surpasses this one. Brilliant cast, stage design, even the music worked. Fascinating too to see actors known for their television and film work especially in comedy - Wilder, Andrews, Koppell, even Segal (I saw him on tour in ART with Wayne Knight and Buck Henry). And when the tape recorded played, I thought, Wait, that's the voice of June Foray - better known as the voice of Rocky the Flying Squirrel and a host of other cartoon characters! Thanks for this great upload.
So happy to see this production. Death of a Salesman to me is the singular greatest written form of art America has produced. It is perfection from the opening scene to the final curtain. The skill that Miller used here to move from the weight of the present moment to the hope of the fever dream pass is so well done, I marvel ever damn time I see this play. America has produced some of the world's best playwrights and here is its zenith.
You're only saying that because you're American. Yet American drama is nothing compared to centuries of European drama. Even in American drama A streetcar named desire is superior to this piece.
@@kevinrhatigan5656 it’s ALL good compared to todays challenges? No time to pick nits. Grateful to all the classic art. I’ll watch Streetcar Named Desire next and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof - thanks
@@pattyjacobson Films or plays? If it's films I'd recommend watching any of the classic Italian neorealist films, that is, almost anything by Fellini, Pasolini, Rossellini, De Sica, Visconti, etc. My personal favourite is Fellini's La Strada which is a very touching film.
This literary/dramatic masterpiece has been translated into literally hundreds of languages and performed in almost every country on the globe, so devastatingly universal are its themes. Once you know the play, you could attend a performance in a language that you don’t understand and still be swept away in the story, such was Miller’s genius. I had the privilege of acting in this(playing Happy) 20 years ago at a small theatre company in San Francisco, we ran it for 9-10 weeks, 4-5 shows per week, and not a single actor got bored taking the stage every night. 5 minutes into every show we were all completely swept away in what we were creating & participating in, like “magic dust” in the air every night…🙏🎭
People’s lives were much harder. Much tougher living conditions, and worse healthcare (for example no antibiotics in those days). People wore out quicker.
George Segal, James Farantino, and Gene Wilder so young here. And Gene and George we lost just recently. Wow the color quality and sound on this isnt bad for nearly 60 year old production. Edward Andrews in a dramatic role? WOW hes good. I remember him from a lot of TV and Movie Guest Appearances and commercials...mostly comedic (Molly Ringwald's grandad in SIXTEEN CANDLES)
I've heard about this play for a long time. I just could never watch it in movie form. But, I sure am glad I watched it with such great talent playing the roles. What a great written play, so American. I saw another video that says that this is not about the American dream. What B.S. It's about the stresses of obtaining the American dream.
Lee J. Cobb and George Segal were the most outstanding performers in this play in my opinion. I really love the other performers as well, but Cobb and Segal were amazing.
What a brilliancy in portrayal...especially willy loman....❤❤❤...all artists done their part very well in expressing the agony and frustrations...espevially Willy❤❤❤❤❤❤we love u willy...
This is a remarkable bit of Theater History. Lee J. Cobb leads a brilliant cast in an ultimately dark and depressing story. Fun to see familiar faces like Gene Wilder, Seigfried (Bernie Kopell) Cyrano Jones (Stanley Adams) and Mildred Dunnock who got thrown down a flight of stairs in a wheelchair by Richard Widmark in Kiss of Death... of a Salesman.... Young Segal and Farentino acquit themselves well in the presence of greatness like Cobb. I remember seeing Hoffman a few years back and wasn't all that impressed. I am going to revisit that version and see how I feel now that I am older (and wiser). I am curious to seek out Brian Dennehy's performance as well. George C Scott played Willie on Broadway. Don't know if it was ever recorded, but that would be an interesting watch as well. The problem is, it is such a damned depressing tale... I don't know how many I can take!!
You can spend your entire life worrying about being liked, and then hate yourself for eternity… Liking and excepting yourself is the only path to happiness…
Thanks a lot for this upload. I always wanted to see Lee J. Cobb's original interpretation of the role. The only one who came close in later years was Brian Dennehy.
This is (as far as I can remember) the first time i really cried watching a movie. Never got to see it in school as I didn´t grow up in the us and I definetly don´t regret catching up and finally watching a version of this Play.
Wendell Pierce's turn as Willy Loman opens in two days on Broadway. I really wish them well. It's purported to be another fantastically moving portrayal of Arthur Miller's play Death of a Salesman.
Wow that was really good. Its nearly 60 years old. I am not American but can understand a father who has slogged his guts out providing for his family and expecting great things but couldn't deal with the fact they didn't live up to his expectations. The visions he had were just a symptom of his inability to cope with it. And ultimately he just lost it. Very relevant to this day. He obviously was suffering from some sort of mental health issues and possibly dementia. Very sad. There is a dearth of older men who commit suicide and those who are left behind wonder why? I'm 63, the same age as the character but I just let my children go their own way. I wouldn't even think of telling them what to do. It is what it is, just make the best of it. Very well written play, much better than the movie.
Thanks so much for this. My God, the authority that Mr. Cobb gives to the role, what with it (likely) being written with him in mind, almost twenty years of experience with it and knowing that it 'belongs' to him.
What I said also holds for Mildred Dunnock. I was fascinated reading about the auditions for the original production where they made it absolutely clear they were not interested in her for the role, but she wouldn't take that for an answer and kept showing up until she wore them down. Inspiring! She was also the first Big Mama in 'Hot Tin Roof', also directed by Kazan. Williams had written the role for a heavy lady and changed his text for the original production, removing the 'fat' references.
I've taught this to summer school students the past few years, focusing on how it's a dark look at the American Dream, how if a person values style over substance they're eventually exposed, and how it's important to value what you have. As a way to wrap the unit up, I pair it with Rocky and compare that look at the American Dream (much more positive) and you'd be shocked at some of the parallels students draw. I do agree, though, that as an adult it definitely hits different.
@@kaysanmohamed6586 I never read the book Kansan but 40 years in Sales I saw many men in tears and popping pills to stay in the race . Selling is the Highest paid job in the world if you are good at it and the worst paid job in the world if you are bad at it . In the Film there are so many bitter Truths . In the film he was working every hour God Made , I was mostly Top salesmen in the Companies I worked for But was only doing 20 hours a week as I had two children to bring up as a single parent ,
And George seagul here too I this drama. It's because it's from a wizard Arthur Millers powerfull stage play. There's nothing better then seeing a live stage performance you just can't get out of films.If you can't find a good film to watch then go to a stageplay as they never DISSAPOINTED the disappointed veiwers.
🇺🇲🗿🎭😠👵👨🦰The great stage wrighter Arthur Miller I agree This feels more like a stage play then a movie. It was originally intended as a stage play. Stage plays hold so much of attention .They are power houses looking forward to listen to this. I HAVE ONLY BEEN TO ONE LIVE STAGE play before that was in in London I think it was in the eighties some time I forgot the title of of the drama quite an evenings entertainment it was about the Bosnia war in yugoslavia . When there was a revolution in the counrty and the army had taken over the country ftom the goverment of the time. with the three pro goverment people holding out in there house knowing the revolutionaries were closing in on them.🇱🇷 reminds me of Harold Pinters work.
Life is always the same, while the values change. It's harder for the older generation to accept the changes, while the younger one don't know the past. The wonderful truth is we all have to go through the dilemma. We must be proud to be grumpy old men.
2022 march 8 very fine Totally agree correct isa this is an Exceptional play with superb performances from all the actors. one of the greats of american thearta staged plays .So glad that I found this to watch.A mile stone of thearta production and acting as .much better then movies
To my mind this masterpiece encapsulates all of the seven deadly sins. Primarily though is Miller's notion in prediction, 75 years ago of what's coming our way hard, fast and it's here today in abundance; GREED! Where enough will never be enough!
I loved that book in highscool('76), that and "catcher in the rye", what a melodramatic punk I must a been! What a sad story, it still gets me, guess I'm still sentimental. They had a losing attitude from the get go,eh, food for thought young people!
The Man didn't know who he was. In those days many women were good women. She was a saint. She gave him everything he could ever need. He was basically a dreamer who wasn't grounded. Like a lot of people he tried to fit his family around his career and goals. Instead he should have fit his career around his family. If he had done that he would have had the house paid for. He also wasn't content. He had too much arrogance and too much pride...sort of an unrealistic idea of how great he was. Notice he was too proud to take a job for the guy who offered him a position. But that guy's son found more success. As a salesman he's a talker and not a doer. A dreamer when he should have been a contractor. Some people do and some people talk.
Lee J Cobb played the role of Dr. Dozous in "Song of Bernadette" with Jennifer Jones in 1943. He was only 32 years old but looked much older. I think he had a mature quality, even as a young actor.
FANTASTIC! WONDERFUL! THANK YOU. MY FATHER WENT THE SAME WAY. HE WAS A GREAT MAN. THE "GO TO" GUY. THEN HE GOT OLD AND WAS FORGOTTEN BY EVERYONE. IT'S A TERRIBLE THING TO GROW OLD. AND DYING IS ALWAYS HARD.
People don’t work as hard now as they used to . We have cars and hoovers and washing machines and better living conditions etc. So we don’t wear out so quickly.
Cobb would probably never have been asked to do the 1951 film, because he was not a star like Fredric March. When he got his chance to do it on film here, he was the correct age for the character.
This whole show is poetry.
Amen to that!
I am 66. Living in a far island. Things just never worked out for me, though I tried until I cried and srcretly screamed. Seen vids by people like Arnold and Sylvester, saying if you try hard enough, it is yours. Well, for some, it still was not enough. The real trick, is learning how to lose. It is very hard to do that, because everything is about winning. But how to lose, how to make that fit and still enjoy a beach or a cup of coffee at 4am. That is the trick.
So true. I believe that is the essential message of this play.
Comrade your suffering is the epitome of capitalism. Your misfortune is not bad luck it is the brutality you have been subjected to by the capitalist class. You were alienated from your labor. Miller wrote this play not to make us love the little things but to show us how the little things are stolen and corrupted by capitalism. It is not too late though, educate yourself, educate others, and join the socialist and Marxist cause. The workers will be free one day, and you will find peace.
Reminds me of the book I've been reading called The Black Swan by Talib. Society focuses on the winners. The winners write books about what qualities they have that lead to their success. Hard work, discipline, dedication, positive attitude, etc. However, they give no credit to luck, circumstances, random things, disease, or other black swan events. The truth is that for every winner with the right attributes, there are many losers who possess the same qualities. So, their perceptions of themselves and their success are often flawed. However, there is more to it than that. Almost everyone has the ability to be successful at something but some people pick the wrong things. Things outside their wheelhouse, Lofty unrealistic dreams, etc. Some people create their own failures by dreaming too big. That way there's always an excuse. Some people just plain pick the wrong career and by the time they realize it, they're already old. Lots of variables. Lots of chance events.
You're not alone, and since you live by the beach, I am reminded of this....be encouraged. "One night a man had a dream.
He dreamed he was walking along the beach with the Lord.
Across the sky flashed scenes from his life.
For each scene, he noticed two sets of footprints in the sand:
one belonging to him, and the other to the Lord.
When the last scene of his life flashed before him,
he looked back at the footprints in the sand.
He noticed that many times along the path of his life there was only one set of footprints.
He also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times in his life.
This really bothered him and he questioned the Lord about it.
"Lord, You said that once I decided to follow you,
You'd walk with me all the way.
But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life,
there is only one set of footprints.
I don't understand why, when I needed you most, you would leave me."
The Lord replied,
"My son, My precious child, I love you and I would
never leave you. During your times of trial and
suffering, when you see only one set of footprints,
it was then that I Carried You."
It is a lie, that is what it is. Most people will not and can not win.
I heard Arthur Miller say he wouldn’t change a word. How many of us have seen a reflection of ourselves in one or more of the characters. The first time I saw this it took me days to shake it off. Brilliant.
I read this in school as a teenager, how could they expect me to understand it’s meaning? At 43 it just hits different.
Same, and so relevant even still
At 73, it also hits strong! We are only passing through this earthly realm. The goals that are set “out there” are competitive and cold! Love and support each other, and your family. Help all you can , when others need a hand. Give of yourself, but don’t lose yourself.
God put us here for many reasons, but Hw will not be counting earthly treasures and money. It’s what we do with the gifts He blesses us with, that counts.
Yup, 45 divorced 3 kids and this has so much more meaning than if I watched it in my teens and 20s
My fourth grade teacher played this on audio for our entire class back in 1970 or so. We listened to it over a few classes. My memory may be wrong but on this specific audio he shoots himself. A stunning end to our time listening. Always thought that was odd. Pretty sure it was Lee J. Cobb though the voice I always associate with Willy Loman.
lRead it at first in18,it was sadness only, but when I wachted it as aTv drama I was 28or 29,I took more things about social life and rightnow It afected me as a deep phylasophy or holy book.
I remember this production from my childhood, and I'm so glad and grateful to see it again. And with no commercial interruptions, which is as it should be. This play rings as true now as it ever did -- a classic, timeless tale. Thanks so much for posting.
Cobb was the master at simultaneously being the strongest yet most vulnerable man in the room. He was born to play this role.
He was a great actor. agreed.
Miller said he had cobb in mind when he wrote the role
Beautifully put.
Hoffman played it better.
Thanks to UA-cam for having these priceless gems.
According to Arthur Miller, Cobb was the greatest dramatic actor he ever saw. It is a blessing that they got him on tape doing this roles because this is his defining role, in the greatest American play ever written. It is more devastating in person with the right cast.
Yes Cobb is the first and the definitive Willy Loman.
His acting must have been exhausting. So much effort and emotion. Very powerful.
I love Cobb, but didn't care for this performance. I guess it is the character I don't like plus the theatric nature of the performance. Never saw the play before today. Supposed to be one of the greatest plays of all time but very depressing.
@@ValeskaTruax It really is a downer. I'm in no hurry to watch it again for that reason alone.
@@WintersWar yep
This is better than anything Netflix, Amazon or Prime have ever put out.
A masterclass in acting and theater. A classic play and a classic performance by Cobb. Thank you for the post.
So much wisdom here. I am letting my unfulfilled ambitions, which i have no control over, affect my mental health and my family life. We are not doing bad, just not as good as people around us.
Hey, you got your limbs and your senses? You wake up with someone in your bed? You got kids down the hall and a steady check? A solid roof and reliable car? That's it, you're winning. You're in the endzone
You do have control over it
@@matt11shawty No, you don't! "You have control over it" is the kind of stuff Willy kept repeating to Biff and Happy over and over and over again. There wasn't some genetic or intrinsic problem holding Biff or Happy back, it was the idea that they had total control - that life was theirs for the taking - that was ultimately their undoing.
There is a place for ambition and desire, but they should not steer your life. Death of a Salesman, as a work of fiction, is incompatible with the American Dream's version of ruthless, uncompromising ambition - and the idea that you're in complete control of your own fate.
@@matt11shawtyYea. Over mind only.
When Lee J Cobb was ill and found himself in the hospital facing an operation, Frank Sinatra stepped in anonymously and paid all his medical bills and even provided for care for Lee's recovery. Upon learning who his benefactor was Lee confronted Frank and asked, 'how could he ever repay him?' Frank reportedly said, 'you're work as an actor and what it has brought to the world is payment enough'.
An outstanding cast lead by Lee J. Cobb. Arthur Miller’s Dad was a salesman, and anyone who has ever tried being one realizes how true to life this incredible play is.
Wow, Gene Wilder! I wasn't expecting that.
.... Gene Wilder eh?... Sorted
was before Charlie and the chocolate factory
Thank you, Eric, for presenting this.
Arthur Miller was a genius. It's excruciating to watch but a masterpiece. Cobb as Willie, the actors playing the sons are spot on, especially Hap. Fascinating to watch Wilder, too!
Only character I never understood was Charley; his deliberate buffoonery, regardless of his ultimate kindness...
Who's Wilder?
there he is! Sorry.
@@martitinkovich4489 he played Bernard, the one who always let Biff cheat off his answers.
We read this in my technical theater class and now I'm writing a super late character analysis of Willy, and God is this one of my favorite plays. Something about the convergence of past and present and the parallels between Willy and his son's, each set up as a foil to the other-- honestly masterful storytelling. Miller was a genius in economic criticism and in play writing.
Your tech theater class analyzed plays, too. Mine read plays only to design sets or lights for them. I think I would have enjoyed your class more!
@garyabbott3861 Ah, we mostly only got to analyze plays in between one act and spring play season. Did a couple of cool projects to practice prop making too. It was definitely a lot of fun, and having a good theater teacher made a huge difference. Sorry yours wasn't more involved, but maybe you could do that sort of thing now instead. Analyze a play on your own, find some people to talk to about it- it might be even more interesting to do it on your terms, rather than for a class :^))
Holy shit! 4 minutes in and I'm struck. "Figure it out. You work a lifetime to pay off a house. You finally own it and...no one to live in it." As I sit in an empty house watching a UA-cam version of Death of a Salesman on a rare day off from the daily grind in my middle age.
Except: Because of the divorce I've had to refinance and I'm as far away from paying off the mortgage as I was 11 years ago. Wish I'd had a woman like Linda.
That's just it, Willy was searching for something bigger and greater than himself or what he had. But little did he know that he had it all there for him, kids who loved him and a wife, Linda, who's love we all strive and wish for. Willy had it all, but couldn't see past his nose. I guess everyone is like this today - all caught up in the big picture that we fail to see the great one around us.
As a Sales man myself I can relate to him a lot and at 45 aren't too far behind his years. Scary at the thought.
Keep your chin up mate, it's tough at the moment, but will come good soon enough.
@@eugenenewton3296 No, I don't think he would have done so. Shame how he ate up and spat out. I like capitalism, but this shows the poor side of it.
@@eugenenewton3296 Very sad for someone to have to think that near his end, though I suppose it gives so kind of reassurance once you are gone.
Regards Capitalism, I think it works on a regional/national level, but once you get to international capitalism then you are talking about a different game altogether.
What I mean by regional capitalism; always has there been a "rich man"/capitalist, the one with the money and power, but not so many years ago those people had businesses in and around where they grew up and lived. With that you had people who were then, if only partly, had a more positive conscious feeling on a social level to those around them.
Take parts of the West Midlands, West Brom to be precise, that area was "made" by those men who lived locally to that area and though I am sure normal people had it tough back then, they did still benefit (certainly their future ancestors) and so the benefits of capitalism offered itself and trickled down to those in need.
Now we have people from other countries owning businesses in parts of the world they have no interest in - it's now VERY much so all about the dollar $$.
How to make it better? Only wish I knew. Still, I believe it to be the best system we have.
@@eugenenewton3296 That's what I meant by how people have lost their sense of regional responsibility. It needs a reset, but I do not see communism being the route to take to for the betterment of society.
You wish you had a woman like Linda? One who takes verbal abuse and easy to cheat on?
at the premiere of the play in the theatre after it had ended grown man sat on their chairs and wept. This was told by Arthur Miller, so it is true. Lee J. Cobb I mean no words for his ability to play. Thanks for upload!!!!!
Now THIS is REAL acting! No fancy gimmicks, nothing gratuitous for shocks sake. This is what I yearn to see more of.
I watched this aged 12 on a 19" b&w tube and Willy Lohmann has always been Lee J Cobb. Thanks for posting.
i discovered Lee J Cobb from 12 angry men..he should have got the academy award for that movie,thankyou for uploading this
This was a TV production. Her would have been eligible for an Emmy.
In my heart Lee Cobb gets an Oscar! 👏
What a masterpiece of theatre and television; the acting and staging were brilliant; if this was performed on stage and televised with these same actors and actresses today the accolades of praise would rain down on them, justifiably so; I understand now why this book and adaptation is so highly regarded; thanks Eric for sharing and posting; feel so fortunate and blessed to watch this on UA-cam at home in bed, the cast and crew performed this just for me, I gave them a standing ovation.
I remember watching this in real time as a kid. Thank you so much for posting.
Thanks so much for uploading this. I'll never get over this play. It's under my skin.
Same. It still tugs at my heart.
Thank you, Eric, for downloading this classic. I remember seeing this show when I was fifteen. I didn't realize that the tape still exists. Thank you again.
35 years ago I went with a college English class to see this in the round in Minneapolis. I thought it was boring and irrelevant. Now...in my 50s, hits way too close home. I guess this is a classic.
I too saw this as a child, and thought it was a masterpiece. Lee J Cobb was a screen legend!
Dustin Hoffman s Wiley Loman was good, but more of a little man .
@@cimerti I thought John Malkovich was magnificent as Biff. The chemistry between Dustin and John as father and son was believable.
@@altonpitts5303 And not that many years separating them either.
@@procrastinator9 Live and learn. That's why we should not judge...Daniel 2:44 God will set things straight...soon
Just finished the book. And now this film...absolutely amazing! I had also just watched "Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolf?" with George Segal as the younger professor in that. Fantastic acting all around! Both films 1966.
Lee J Cobb was being investigated by House of Un American Activities Committee and was punished by being denied the chance to do the film version. Later he did this version on TV.
Well, well
Another black mark on American history
Fredric March played Willy Loman in the film version. March also played the God-Father figure John Antrobus in Thornton Wilder's 'Skin of Our Teeth' on Broadway.
Just trying to see March physically and emotionally shrivel down to the body and soul of a Willy Loman----pure Hollywood casting indeed.
Yeah, he was screwed.Cobb was great in On in the Agreement and 12 Angry Men.12 Angry Men was sorta like a play.
cant watch any version after seeing hoffman and malkovich …
I absolutely love Lee J. Cobb's portrayal. I remember watching the Dustin Hoffman version thinking Hoffman's portrayal was too over the top. Cobb brilliantly played a man defeated.
I think i agree.
Two very different style actors though.
Cobb owned the role, Hoffmann's Willy Lohmann was dreadful and utterly self-absorbed.
I saw the Hoffman version in college in the early 2000s, and watched it yesterday too. I looked for another version to compare, and found this one. I liked the Hoffman version, but Lee J Cobb better represents what I picture Willy would look like physically. Also, I agree, Hoffman was an over the top yelling nut in that version.
I like things about every version.
*VERY FEW PEOPLE KNOW WHAT A GENIUS ARTHUR MILLER IS!!!RESPECT FROM INDIA*
and he got Marilyn Monroe
Pretty sure people understand what Arthur Miller was. You aren't some lone genius who cracked the nut. God damn it never fails to amaze me how self absorbed people can be.
Maybe in India. In the West vast majority know who Miller was and what his contributions to culture were.
There were promises made in this office ! The office scene, brutal, heartbreaking. I first 'heard' this play in the early 1970s on a long playing record in English class. It was an audio recording of this great production and I remember being very moved by it and Lee J. Cobb's performance. When NBC aired this I would have been too young to have understood it. Now it is with me for life as it will be with all who see it, for it will most certainly live forever. Thank you Eric so much for the gift of it now. Lee Cobb, Volcanic, beaten and yet, beacon of light. Willy Loman raised high.
Had never seen Lee J Cobb. I'm not sure I've seen more natural delivery before. (as an actor, I truly admire his conscious shifts from thought to tought -- intercepting movements and new discoveries as if the lines aren't learned. Just as it should be)
maybe you would like 12 Angry Men
Miller's play is a masterpiece.
Lee J Cobb's performance is unsurpassed.
As often as I've seen DOAS, no production surpasses this one. Brilliant cast, stage design, even the music worked. Fascinating too to see actors known for their television and film work especially in comedy - Wilder, Andrews, Koppell, even Segal (I saw him on tour in ART with Wayne Knight and Buck Henry). And when the tape recorded played, I thought, Wait, that's the voice of June Foray - better known as the voice of Rocky the Flying Squirrel and a host of other cartoon characters! Thanks for this great upload.
So happy to see this production. Death of a Salesman to me is the singular greatest written form of art America has produced. It is perfection from the opening scene to the final curtain. The skill that Miller used here to move from the weight of the present moment to the hope of the fever dream pass is so well done, I marvel ever damn time I see this play. America has produced some of the world's best playwrights and here is its zenith.
You're only saying that because you're American. Yet American drama is nothing compared to centuries of European drama. Even in American drama A streetcar named desire is superior to this piece.
@@kevinrhatigan5656 it’s ALL good compared to todays challenges? No time to pick nits. Grateful to all the classic art. I’ll watch Streetcar Named Desire next and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof - thanks
Also, can you recommend some European films? Thank you kindly.
@@pattyjacobson Films or plays? If it's films I'd recommend watching any of the classic Italian neorealist films, that is, almost anything by Fellini, Pasolini, Rossellini, De Sica, Visconti, etc. My personal favourite is Fellini's La Strada which is a very touching film.
Damn I’ve never seen such nerds fight
This literary/dramatic masterpiece has been translated into literally hundreds of languages and performed in almost every country on the globe, so devastatingly universal are its themes. Once you know the play, you could attend a performance in a language that you don’t understand and still be swept away in the story, such was Miller’s genius. I had the privilege of acting in this(playing Happy) 20 years ago at a small theatre company in San Francisco, we ran it for 9-10 weeks, 4-5 shows per week, and not a single actor got bored taking the stage every night. 5 minutes into every show we were all completely swept away in what we were creating & participating in, like “magic dust” in the air every night…🙏🎭
Great actors and fantastic production......!!!!
Best version available. Lee J Cobb makes me forget that this is made for tv
60 yrs old ….. regarded as OLD in 1949 ….. now old is 90 !
Keep up that 90 talk, my friend! 76 and I feel fine.
Employers still think 60 is old.
People’s lives were much harder. Much tougher living conditions, and worse healthcare (for example no antibiotics in those days). People wore out quicker.
Most humans die in their 70s, 60 is old but government wants to work you to the last drop of energy. Theres ur american dream
@@hudsony777funny how they keep moving the age of retirement here in the UK at least it’s 67 now.Work till you d ie.
I remember listening to the audio version of this in 9th literature class. Great memory.
Cobb and Miller--Doesn't get any better
George Segal, James Farantino, and Gene Wilder so young here. And Gene and George we lost just recently. Wow the color quality and sound on this isnt bad for nearly 60 year old production. Edward Andrews in a dramatic role? WOW hes good. I remember him from a lot of TV and Movie Guest Appearances and commercials...mostly comedic (Molly Ringwald's grandad in SIXTEEN CANDLES)
Thank you so much for uploading this.
I think deep down every man fears that he is just like Willie.
I've heard about this play for a long time. I just could never watch it in movie form. But, I sure am glad I watched it with such great talent playing the roles. What a great written play, so American. I saw another video that says that this is not about the American dream. What B.S. It's about the stresses of obtaining the American dream.
Lee J. Cobb and George Segal were the most outstanding performers in this play in my opinion. I really love the other performers as well, but Cobb and Segal were amazing.
Yep. I read Sinatra paid for Cobb's hospital bil ls...when Cobb asked why, Sinatra said I like what you do. Amen.
Mildred Dunnock did fantastic as Linda. She held her own on that stage. I was captured at some of her scenes. Nothing taken from Cobb or Segal.
When I saw this on video cassette years ago, it gave me nightmares. Cobb was a rare actor. Always came from the soul.
What a brilliancy in portrayal...especially willy loman....❤❤❤...all artists done their part very well in expressing the agony and frustrations...espevially Willy❤❤❤❤❤❤we love u willy...
This is a remarkable bit of Theater History. Lee J. Cobb leads a brilliant cast in an ultimately dark and depressing story. Fun to see familiar faces like Gene Wilder, Seigfried (Bernie Kopell) Cyrano Jones (Stanley Adams) and Mildred Dunnock who got thrown down a flight of stairs in a wheelchair by Richard Widmark in Kiss of Death... of a Salesman....
Young Segal and Farentino acquit themselves well in the presence of greatness like Cobb.
I remember seeing Hoffman a few years back and wasn't all that impressed. I am going to revisit that version and see how I feel now that I am older (and wiser). I am curious to seek out Brian Dennehy's performance as well. George C Scott played Willie on Broadway. Don't know if it was ever recorded, but that would be an interesting watch as well.
The problem is, it is such a damned depressing tale... I don't know how many I can take!!
You can spend your entire life worrying about being liked, and then hate yourself for eternity… Liking and excepting yourself is the only path to happiness…
Thanks a lot for this upload. I always wanted to see Lee J. Cobb's original interpretation of the role. The only one who came close in later years was Brian Dennehy.
This is (as far as I can remember) the first time i really cried watching a movie. Never got to see it in school as I didn´t grow up in the us and I definetly don´t regret catching up and finally watching a version of this Play.
Wendell Pierce's turn as Willy Loman opens in two days on Broadway. I really wish them well. It's purported to be another fantastically moving portrayal of Arthur Miller's play Death of a Salesman.
Wow that was really good. Its nearly 60 years old. I am not American but can understand a father who has slogged his guts out providing for his family and expecting great things but couldn't deal with the fact they didn't live up to his expectations. The visions he had were just a symptom of his inability to cope with it. And ultimately he just lost it. Very relevant to this day. He obviously was suffering from some sort of mental health issues and possibly dementia. Very sad. There is a dearth of older men who commit suicide and those who are left behind wonder why? I'm 63, the same age as the character but I just let my children go their own way. I wouldn't even think of telling them what to do. It is what it is, just make the best of it. Very well written play, much better than the movie.
An excellent production!
Thank you for this wonderful upload Eric, the comments made by the other viewers of this masterpiece are equally compelling.
Thanks so much for this. My God, the authority that Mr. Cobb gives to the role, what with it (likely) being written with him in mind, almost twenty years of experience with it and knowing that it 'belongs' to him.
What I said also holds for Mildred Dunnock. I was fascinated reading about the auditions for the original production where they made it absolutely clear they were not interested in her for the role, but she wouldn't take that for an answer and kept showing up until she wore them down. Inspiring! She was also the first Big Mama in 'Hot Tin Roof', also directed by Kazan. Williams had written the role for a heavy lady and changed his text for the original production, removing the 'fat' references.
So sad that Lee Cobb died in his 60s. 😢 Great actor, not just a pretty face. 👏 👏 👏
I've taught this to summer school students the past few years, focusing on how it's a dark look at the American Dream, how if a person values style over substance they're eventually exposed, and how it's important to value what you have. As a way to wrap the unit up, I pair it with Rocky and compare that look at the American Dream (much more positive) and you'd be shocked at some of the parallels students draw.
I do agree, though, that as an adult it definitely hits different.
Pairing this play with “Rocky” is an inspired choice! (30-year teacher here.)
I've cried twice so far and the movie is only halfway over 🥺
Brilliant just brilliant thank you 🙏
I spent many years as a Specialty Direct salesman.
Saw this film now for the first time.
is this accurate to the book?
@@kaysanmohamed6586
I never read the book Kansan but 40 years in Sales I saw many men in tears and popping pills to stay in the race .
Selling is the Highest paid job in the world if you are good at it and the worst paid job in the world if you are bad at it .
In the Film there are so many bitter Truths .
In the film he was working every hour God Made , I was mostly Top salesmen in the Companies I worked for But was only doing 20 hours a week as I had two children to bring up as a single parent ,
Thanks for posting this
Wow, just wow! That was amazing. I am deep in thought. They don't make stuff like this any more - very powerful.
And George seagul here too I this drama. It's because it's from a wizard Arthur Millers powerfull stage play. There's nothing better then seeing a live stage performance you just can't get out of films.If you can't find a good film to watch then go to a stageplay as they never DISSAPOINTED the disappointed veiwers.
Watched this for my dual credit class and oh my god it’s so good
Wonderful play. Thanks for posting it.
This play foretold the future where companies think nothing of employee loyalty. The death of the middle class.
Very disturbing stuff..........that's because there's truth in it. Makes me think about my own family, now that's it's just me left.
The book is a classic. But the script was brilliant. The acting was superb all round. What a great movie.
🇺🇲🗿🎭😠👵👨🦰The great stage wrighter Arthur Miller I agree This feels more like a stage play then a movie. It was originally intended as a stage play. Stage plays hold so much of attention .They are power houses looking forward to listen to this. I HAVE ONLY BEEN TO ONE LIVE STAGE play before that was in in London I think it was in the eighties some time I forgot the title of of the drama quite an evenings entertainment it was about the Bosnia war in yugoslavia .
When there was a revolution in the counrty and the army had taken over the country ftom the goverment of the time. with the three pro goverment people holding out in there house knowing the revolutionaries were closing in on them.🇱🇷 reminds me of Harold Pinters work.
Life is always the same, while the values change. It's harder for the older generation to accept the changes, while the younger one don't know the past. The wonderful truth is we all have to go through the dilemma. We must be proud to be grumpy old men.
This movie is excellent . All the actors were marvelous . I love it . 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
There is no such great actors any more :( never seen an actor imitates the feelings so good in today's movies.
You don't watch many movies
2022 march 8 very fine Totally agree correct isa this is an Exceptional play with superb performances from all the actors. one of the greats of american thearta staged plays .So glad that I found this to watch.A mile stone of thearta production and acting as .much better then movies
Method at its best...if you feel something, then it's great acting.
Watch the Dustin Hoffman version, especially the “fight” scene near the end, where Biff tells Willie he is going to leave in the morning.
To my mind this masterpiece encapsulates all of the seven deadly sins. Primarily though is Miller's notion in prediction, 75 years ago of what's coming our way hard, fast and it's here today in abundance; GREED! Where enough will never be enough!
Thanks for uploading this. ✨️
I loved that book in highscool('76), that and "catcher in the rye", what a melodramatic punk I must a been! What a sad story, it still gets me, guess I'm still sentimental. They had a losing attitude from the get go,eh, food for thought young people!
This was brilliant. I’m so glad I happened upon this this morning.
What a cast!
One of the most depressing of any play written.
Bad plays are depressing.
See it as a study in narcissism.
The Man didn't know who he was. In those days many women were good women. She was a saint. She gave him everything he could ever need. He was basically a dreamer who wasn't grounded. Like a lot of people he tried to fit his family around his career and goals. Instead he should have fit his career around his family. If he had done that he would have had the house paid for. He also wasn't content. He had too much arrogance and too much pride...sort of an unrealistic idea of how great he was. Notice he was too proud to take a job for the guy who offered him a position. But that guy's son found more success. As a salesman he's a talker and not a doer. A dreamer when he should have been a contractor. Some people do and some people talk.
I'm so lucky that my Grandfather was who he was. A good man to all - including treating women as equals.
Lee J Cobb. Fantastic actor. Love him. I've seen him in so many films.
A what a story. Play.
Powerful human drama.
Thanks
Lee J Cobb played the role of Dr. Dozous in "Song of Bernadette" with Jennifer Jones in 1943. He was only 32 years old but looked much older. I think he had a mature quality, even as a young actor.
idk what made me look this up but wow, I’m so glad I watched this. Pleasantly surprised by Gene Wilder as well :)
FANTASTIC!
WONDERFUL!
THANK YOU.
MY FATHER WENT THE SAME WAY. HE WAS A GREAT MAN. THE "GO TO" GUY. THEN HE GOT OLD AND WAS FORGOTTEN BY EVERYONE. IT'S A TERRIBLE THING TO GROW OLD. AND DYING IS ALWAYS HARD.
what an excellent version ! and amazing performances wow
Always felt Happy was neglected by Willy and Linda
Wow, been looking for this for my English class in G9
Howard all I need to set my table is $50 a week. Went down from $65 to $50 to $40, and eventually got fired. It is so sad.
Marvellous performance.
This is THE version of Salesman for me. Period.
Lee J. Was born for this role.
For me, it's "Salesman" and "Twelve Angry Men."
The way they talk about him being 60 years old is equivalent to 70 now
People don’t work as hard now as they used to . We have cars and hoovers and washing machines and better living conditions etc. So we don’t wear out so quickly.
Lee j. Cobb just brilliant.
This is great!
Jume Foray, the voice of Rocket J. Squirrel and so many others.
7/17/2022 Excellent work by all. I am trying to see all the work that James Farentino has done.
Cobb! Dunnock! Legends! The Original Production! This is Excellent Also! Everyone. Fantastic Job!
Lee J Cobb was Arthur Miller's favorite Willie Loman according to his memoir
i can see why - i couldn't imagine him played by anyone else, now, if i tried
@@Xx_Eric_was_Here_xX I liked Hoffman as well
@@Xx_Eric_was_Here_xX Dustin Hoffman played him it's online.
Thank you!
That father’s a good actor. I recognize him from The twilight zone and 12 Angry Men.
one of my favorite movies
Cobb would probably never have been asked to do the 1951 film, because he was not a star like Fredric March. When he got his chance to do it on film here, he was the correct age for the character.
Right when the car took off and he died, an old tree fell down outside of my apartment. Spooky.
Cool, like the apple tree that toppled in ‘All My Sons’…!