I rated this movie a 8/10 for the database. What did you rate it? And what do you think of it?
Alec Guinness (in a marvelous performance) plays an eccentric painter with a gravelly voice, an abrasive manner and an extraordinary talent that makes him the bane of rich people who covet his work. Alec Guinness wrote the witty script himself from a novel by Joyce Cary.
... Justin
This film cropped up on British TV in the early 80's then seemed to vanish. I saw it twice in those days and never forgot it. Now I have the Criterion DVD, which is very well presented in full, rich colour. I'm a fan of the book, too.
I loved Gulley for his unconventionality, his creativity, his determination to go his own way whatever the costs to himself or those he is involved with. He simply has to paint, he can't help himself. The choice of John Bratby to supply 'Jimson' painting was excellent, they look just as they are described in the novel.
My only criticism is the comedy could have been a little less broad, a little less slapstick. Still: 9/10 for me.
Criterion did an excellent job on the film, as usual. I'd never even heard of the movie until I came across the DVD at the local library. Alec Guinness gave so many wonderful performances in the movies; his Star Wars fans ought to take the trouble to seek them out.
...Om
I rated it a 6/10.
share7/10 Saw it many years ago and remembered it well but when I finally caught up with it again it was good but not exceptionally good.
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