MovieChat Forums > Men with Guns (1998) Discussion > Lifetime Achievement Oscar for Sayles!

Lifetime Achievement Oscar for Sayles!

posted 20 years ago by jordandw
3 replies | jump to latest

I've been a huge fan of John Sayles' work ever since RotS7. Long time viewers know that his extensive body of work is consistently excellent, challenging on many levels, usually (always?) crafted by him alone and steered from concept through to cinematic release, and uncompromisingly mature, refusing to pander to fad or convention. He is, without doubt, one of the most unheralded treasures we have in the film making craft in America today. He just doesn't play Hollywood games, and for that reason he will probably remain unheralded unless the grass roots of rabid fans petitions AMPAS for long due recognition. He is a genius in the industry, long deserving of a best director/writer nod, and has even been around long enough (over 25 years) to warrant a lifetime achievement in the craft. I'd hate to think to think he will continue through the years and not get his due recognition. But then again, that's why the major studios are what they are, and Sayles' continues uncompromisingly along seemingly untouched by it all. It is tempting to think what he could do with a major budget, given the excellence he delivers on a shoestring. But, until then, I'll remain contented that he still doggedly pursues the craft that he loves. I'd love to hear other movie fans' thoughts on this.

[–] moore2772 20 years ago

I absolutely agree. Most of his films have affected me profoundly, and they stick with me for years (unlike 99% of normal Hollywood fodder.) I think his best works are Men With Guns, Matewan, Eight Men Out, Roan Innish and Lone Star. I found his new Silver City to be enjoyable, if not as profound.
That said, even his weaker films (like Casa de Babys and Sunshine State) are so much better than most of the big-budget "blockbusters" out there. I just wish more people could (or would) see them.
Yes, let's give him a lifetime achievement award. And may he continue to turn out at least one masterpiece a year for the next 20 years (he's only 53...)

[–] jebgeorgesuk 15 years ago

There's a serenity to his pacing in all his movies. I really like it. They all have a Sunday morning after a rainstorm quality that ends up coming through. I haven't seen Casa de Babys but the rest do have the quality -- if in degrees.

Big fan. Sorry the whole world doesn't shout his name. But, I only can hope he's happy doing what he does.

[–] Movie-Jay 15 years ago

I think he's the only director I know whose every movie is noble in some particular way.

Sometimes my fave is "Lone Star", sometimes "City of Hope", other times "Passion Fish".

One of the longest conversations I ever had after a movie was the time my friend and I saw "Limbo" together. That one grows on you everytime you see it.

"The Secret of Roan Inish" is a movie that seems like the first time every time. It casts a spell.

I'd love to see John Sayles finally get an Oscar. He's only the best representation of individuality in filmmaking. Not once has he ever directed anything without merit, anything that was beneath him.