This blog entry is part of my “movie year countdown”. To read more about that check out my first Spout filmblog entry.
Black Narcissus
My friend Jason had often urged me to see a Powell & Pressburger film. I wasn't sure which to start with but he said this one wouldn't be a bad pick.
I have read that many consider this to be the most gorgeous Technicolor film ever made. That may be true. I'm sure if I were to see a perfect print projected through film on a big screen, I would be even more impressed. But Criterion Collection has done a fine job brining the wonderful palettes to the television screen.
Otherwise, the story and acting are very good, but for me it just doesn't become a great film. Something is missing. Some element or humor or mood that I always look for.
Kathleen Byron however does manage to somehow be both the most repulsive and frightening figure while being extremely sexy at the same time. When she emerges from the building near the end to confront Sister Clodagh, it is a truly shocking image. Something that seems to have been copied many times, but somehow felt completely fresh and original here.
Rating: 8/10