Movies for Friday January 5th, 2018

On January 5 in 1931 Robert Duvall was born... so the theme for today are movies with Robert Duvall. Robert Duvall's career has spanned many decades and covers a number of different genres that he mastered with his impeccable skill. Because he has been in so many great films, a long list could easily be created... I am hoping that these picks will highlight some of his finest moments on the screen-enjoy!

1 The Godfather (1972) Director Francis Ford Coppola
Fantastic film... stellar cast with Robert Duvall as Tom Hagen adopted by the family to do their bidding. Great film, great cast 'nuff said.

2 Apocalypse Now (1979) Director Francis Ford Coppola
Another unforgettable film by Duvall and Coppola... one of the quintessential Vietnam movies with Duvall's character known for one of the most memorable lines in movie history "I love the smell of napalm in the morning".

3 To Kill a Mockingbird (1962) Director Robert Mulligan
Gregory Peck steals the show as lawyer embroiled in a racially charged rape case based on the Pulitzer Prize winning novel. One of Duvall's first film roles, and what a way to start it out...

4 Network (1976) Director Sidney Lumet
Another great film which delves into the exploitative nature of the media machine. Peter Finch plays the memorable Howard Beale who is "mad as hell and not going to take it anymore" and Duvall and Dunaway are great as the evil execs- a must see.

5 Tender Mercies (1983) Director Bruce Beresford
Duvall won an Academy Award for his portrayal of a washed up country singer trying to put his life back together... sweet, touching film.

6 Sling Blade (1996) Director Billy Bob Thornton
All time favourite film with stellar performances by Billy Bob Thornton, Dwight Yoakam, John Ritter and Robert Duvall as the father of Karl who befriends a young boy being terrorized by his mother's live in boyfriend. J.T. Walsh is also a standout with his eerie portrayal of an institutionalized sex offender-surprisingly moving film.

7 Mash (1970) Director Robert Altman
Film which spawned the long running television show of the same name... which attempted to deconstruct the terrors of war through a satiric lens

8 True Grit (1969) Director Henry Hathaway
Interesting film starring John Wayne as weary grizzled Texas Ranger which won him an oscar, and Duvall is excellent as usual in supporting role.

9 The Great Santini (1979) Director Lewis John Carlino
Fascinating performance as hard nosed Colonel trying to raise a family.

10 The Apostle (1997) Director Robert Duvall
Written, Directed and starring Robert Duvall as Texas preacher... mesmerizing portrayal.

These are my top picks, and I hope that they make for many hours of great cinematic viewing... hope you enjoy
Dianezy
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