Splendor in the Grass

Dir: Elia Kazan
Starring: Warren Beatty, Natalie Wood

Elia Kazan's work always brings to Narry Borman's messed up mind the Flight of the Conchords lyric "I rap about reality, like me and my grandma having a cup of tea."

Kazan makes films about reality, like unionist strikes, broken dreams, and, in the case of this film, sexual frustration...

Although that would be a rather trite summary of Splendor in the Grass. It's a deep film, if a little bleak and one dimensional (for purposeful dramatic effect) in its portrayal of the supposedly different views of love between men and women.

In terms of acting, direction and production, Splendor in the Grass really hits the mark. It was Warren Beatty's film debut, which is incredible considering the understated intensity he puts into it. Narry B was also impressed by the soundtrack, which combined some nice jazziness with the usual sweeping orchestra work found in 1960s films.

It doesn't make for light viewing, but Narry Borman doesn't insist on films being entertaining or fun.

Rating: Top Work