Shadows is a 1958 movie directed by John Cassavetes.
WHAT HAPPENS?
Young Lelia navigates love and interracial relationships, while her brother Hugh struggles with a fledgling singing career. Their brother, Benny, is a hipster that finds himself between cultures.
ONE LINE REVIEW
Shadows is a lyrical interpretation of race set in 1950’s beat New York City.
THE ACTORS
Cassavetes’ cast features largely novice actors, who deliver raw energy that’s fitting with the movie’s DIY style. They can struggle with the weight of the rich dialogue but still convey honest emotion. Lelia Goldoni’s Lelia is the best example. She expresses the confusion and hurt of sexual relations, then later learns how to manipulate men. It’s a delicate, interesting performance.
The rest of the featured actors play one-note characters. Hugh Hurd’s Hugh is a volatile singer who refuses to acknowledge his outdated style. Anthony Ray’s Tony is a pseudo-intellectual who doesn’t grasp the impact his actions have on Lelia. Rupert Crosse is the most impressive actor of the group – he easily handles the nuance of Cassavetes’ dialogue.
Continue reading “Shadows”