Jeffrey’s review of The 39 Steps > Likes and Comments
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I love the 1935 film adaptation!
Helle wrote: "I love the 1935 film adaptation!"
I just watched it for the second time last weekend. It is great!! I'm hoping the book will prove to be great as well
Yes, I love the classic film too. One of the best works of Hitchcock on his British era of directing.
Alejandro wrote: "Yes, I love the classic film too. One of the best works of Hitchcock on his British era of directing."
I do believe it is the film that landed Hitch his lucrative Hollywood contract.
Yes, I think that this one and "The Lady Vanishes" were the main helpers in that.
Hi Jeffrey--Yes, me too...the film was an art class movie we reviewed in college. And, Jeffrey, I started Theroux's new Africa book today. He is the townships of South Africa now.
Alejandro wrote: "Yes, I think that this one and "The Lady Vanishes" were the main helpers in that."
Another great classic!
Helle wrote: "Alejandro wrote: "Yes, I think that this one and "The Lady Vanishes" were the main helpers in that."
Another great classic!"
Indeed it is! :D
It does not happen often, the movie outshining the book, but yes I hear you.
Arah-Lynda wrote: "I does not happen often, the movie outshining the book, but yes I hear you."
Not very often for sure.
I've read the book a very long time ago, and I didn't rate it because I don't remember much about it. Your review I think explains why it wasn't all that memorable, but I must say you sure made me want to re-watch the movie.
Thanks!
Algernon wrote: "I've read the book a very long time ago, and I didn't rate it because I don't remember much about it. Your review I think explains why it wasn't all that memorable, but I must say you sure made me ..."
I wanted to like this book. Watching the movie again so recently made the stark contrasts between a compelling story and a story that lacks key elements to make for a memorable story. The book has never been out of print and I do believe that is in no small part due to how successful the movie was and is.
Enjoy the movie!
Is there even such a thing as a BAD Hitchcock movie? If so I must have missed it. Good for you for not beating the book to death & focusing on the film instead. Fun review.
Florence wrote: "Is there even such a thing as a BAD Hitchcock movie? If so I must have missed it. Good for you for not beating the book to death & focusing on the film instead. Fun review."
I honestly don't think I've ever seen a BAD Hitch. In September I watched more movies than I think I've watched in a 30 day period since college. TCM was doing Hitch every Sunday so I was pulling marathons. I've now seen many Hitch films I've never seen before and I have to say I'm really impressed with his whole catalog.
Writing a bad review of this book would make as much sense as picking a drunk up off the floor to watch him fall down again. There are always positives to focus on if one wracks the noodle. Thanks Florence for noticing.
Sir Geoffrey, I completely agree with your approach on this one. I read it quite a few years back with the same disappointment. I suppose at the time Buchan wrote the novel it was well received. However, it took Hitchcock to turn a rather mundane novel into a memorable story. Kudos on your approach to the novel. Some would likely be content to watch "the drunk fall on the floor again."
Mike wrote: "Sir Geoffrey, I completely agree with your approach on this one. I read it quite a few years back with the same disappointment. I suppose at the time Buchan wrote the novel it was well received. ..."
I like the Hitchcock film more each time I see it. I might even say it has broken into my top ten favorite Hitchcock films. The prospect of writing a review picking this novel apart had very little appeal. As mundane as it is to us today I did have a vision of how much excitement it must have raised amongst the British lads when it first appeared. Thank you Sir Michael.
Laima wrote: "I love the movie!"
I agree Laima!
I've seen the movie over the weekend. Great shots and subtle humor. I think I like The Lady Vanishes better, but I'm glad I checked this one out.
Algernon wrote: "I've seen the movie over the weekend. Great shots and subtle humor. I think I like The Lady Vanishes better, but I'm glad I checked this one out."
The Lady Vanishes is great. I think you will find with this one just what I've found with Foreign Correspondent that they get better with each viewing. Thanks for letting me know you've seen it Algernon.
I just finished The 39 Steps, and yes, agreed, it's a let down, especially after the Hitchcock version, which is superior in every way. A well-known film critic points out that in the scene where Hannay finds himself in the presence of the criminal mastermind with the amputated digit Hitchcock sets the whole thing up by shooting the whole thing from the waist. Watch how every single shot follows peoples hands. Just brilliant.
Good review.
Have you seen the play? It's far closer to the film than the book.
Tiffany wrote: "I just finished The 39 Steps, and yes, agreed, it's a let down, especially after the Hitchcock version, which is superior in every way. A well-known film critic points out that in the scene where H..."
Thanks Tiffany for the tip :-). I will certainly watch that scene more closely the next time I pop the movie in. I couldn't resist buying the Criterion Blu Ray edition of this movie...one of my favorites.
F.R. wrote: "Good review.
Have you seen the play? It's far closer to the film than the book."
I have not seen the play F.R.. I will have to watch for that...thanks for the heads up.
I've seen this in the bookstore and was curious. I'll watch the film instead. Thanks!
Douglas wrote: "I've seen this in the bookstore and was curious. I'll watch the film instead. Thanks!"
The film is far superior to the book! You aren't missing a thing avoiding the book.
Hi Jeffrey. Have u read Andrew Greigs remix of the Buchan novels. Romano Bridge is one. Can't remember the other but they are a great wheeze
Lynda wrote: "Hi Jeffrey. Have u read Andrew Greigs remix of the Buchan novels. Romano Bridge is one. Can't remember the other but they are a great wheeze"
No I haven't but they sound intriguing.
I enjoyed the movie. I gather the book does not measure up.
Frances wrote: "I enjoyed the movie. I gather the book does not measure up."
I was very disappointed. You might have a different take, but the movie is a sparkling gem compared to the book.
m.rohan singh rockzzz wrote: "it's 1935 movie super"
Indeed!
I totally agree. Movie was good, book meh
Chris wrote: "I totally agree. Movie was good, book meh"
If the book gave anything to the movie than hooray!
Am I seeing things or did Jeffrey Keeten just post a low-rating review?
Amazing review as always Jeffrey.
Mwanamali wrote: "Am I seeing things or did Jeffrey Keeten just post a low-rating review?
Amazing review as always Jeffrey."
Yes, It does happen about as often as you see a unicorn! Did you see how I turned a negative review into a positive film review? Magic!! :-) Thanks!!
I really enjoyed this review....It made me think back to all the times I was utterly disappointed by reading the book (Jaws, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, The Godfather etc etc....) after watching the movie....! I deeply respect that you stuck to your guns and finished the book...
One of those rare instances where the movie is better than the book. That's bucking the trend!
Lars wrote: "I really enjoyed this review....It made me think back to all the times I was utterly disappointed by reading the book (Jaws, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, The Godfather etc etc....) after watchi..."
I read Jaws just a couple of years ago and what was interesting about it was that the book had some huge deviations from the movie. It was not as good as the movie, but it was interesting noticing the differences. Ultimately we have to give some kudos to the source documentation because would we have the movies of Jaws or 39 Steps if some demented writer hadn't written the book in the first place? :-) Thanks Lars!
Jackie wrote: "Not often a movie outdoes it's book."
Not often, but believe me it did here. *shudder* I seriously wanted to pull this book apart and rewrite it. The poor thing.
Forrest wrote: "One of those rare instances where the movie is better than the book. That's bucking the trend!"
I'm a huge fan of movies and books and sure prefer it when the book is as good or better than the movie. I seriously could not believe how far afield the book was from the movie in quality in this instance. *Sigh*
That's very true. However, I am not attempting to take away from the creative spirit of the author nor from the originality of the script. I was only pointing out that I was reminded of the times when I found the book rather disappointing after having watched the movie.
(Kudos to all the demented writers....!)
As others have said, you have to catch the play if you can. Brilliant. Here's a teaser
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvTzS...
Lars wrote: "That's very true. However, I am not attempting to take away from the creative spirit of the author nor from the originality of the script. I was only pointing out that I was reminded of the times w..."
Yeah, I know what you meant. I was just riffing on what you said because it is one of those conundrums bad book, great movie, but you need the bad book so the great movie exists. :-)
Michael wrote: "As others have said, you have to catch the play if you can. Brilliant. Here's a teaser
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvTzS..."
Thanks Michael! And I should say as an addendum to my Lars comment so the great play can exist as well. :-)
The clip from the play bosherie explains why I now detest 90% of "live" theatre. ~~ Someone would have to pay me a lot to see that. -- Yes, I was surprised at how bad the Buchan book is. His others are stinkers, too.
In the room she sits down to peel her wet stockings off her legs and because he is cuffed to her his hand travels down each leg with her hands. It is one of the most sensual, sexy scenes in movie history and no one is naked.
I am sold. :) Usually it is the book that is better, but there are exceptions. I really liked Dracula with Gary Oldman, but I have been hesitant about the book. I don’t think I will like it as much and I won’t say the reason, because I know you will laugh at me again. :) Another such case might be The Thirteenth Warrior. I don’t remember much of the movie, but I think I quite liked it. However, I think I heard that it didn't have much to do with the novel. Have you seen it? We have been talking a lot about movies lately. :) It’s good that I still haven’t picked the best movies for me to see in the ivory tower :) This way I have been delaying my fate like a real Scheherazade :) So don’t expect to ever get that top 10 list from me. :) I’m too smart! :) As always, an awesome review. Even of a book you haven’t liked. I love you <3
Sketchbook wrote: "The clip from the play bosherie explains why I now detest 90% of "live" theatre. ~~ Someone would have to pay me a lot to see that. -- Yes, I was surprised at how bad the Buchan book is. His others..."
No worries Sketch! I won't be picking up any more Buchan. Well they'd have to pay you a lot, but you can be bought. :-)
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Helle
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Sep 27, 2013 10:28AM
I love the 1935 film adaptation!
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Helle wrote: "I love the 1935 film adaptation!"I just watched it for the second time last weekend. It is great!! I'm hoping the book will prove to be great as well
Yes, I love the classic film too. One of the best works of Hitchcock on his British era of directing.
Alejandro wrote: "Yes, I love the classic film too. One of the best works of Hitchcock on his British era of directing."I do believe it is the film that landed Hitch his lucrative Hollywood contract.
Yes, I think that this one and "The Lady Vanishes" were the main helpers in that.
Hi Jeffrey--Yes, me too...the film was an art class movie we reviewed in college. And, Jeffrey, I started Theroux's new Africa book today. He is the townships of South Africa now.
Alejandro wrote: "Yes, I think that this one and "The Lady Vanishes" were the main helpers in that."Another great classic!
Helle wrote: "Alejandro wrote: "Yes, I think that this one and "The Lady Vanishes" were the main helpers in that."Another great classic!"
Indeed it is! :D
It does not happen often, the movie outshining the book, but yes I hear you.
Arah-Lynda wrote: "I does not happen often, the movie outshining the book, but yes I hear you."Not very often for sure.
I've read the book a very long time ago, and I didn't rate it because I don't remember much about it. Your review I think explains why it wasn't all that memorable, but I must say you sure made me want to re-watch the movie.Thanks!
Algernon wrote: "I've read the book a very long time ago, and I didn't rate it because I don't remember much about it. Your review I think explains why it wasn't all that memorable, but I must say you sure made me ..."I wanted to like this book. Watching the movie again so recently made the stark contrasts between a compelling story and a story that lacks key elements to make for a memorable story. The book has never been out of print and I do believe that is in no small part due to how successful the movie was and is.
Enjoy the movie!
Is there even such a thing as a BAD Hitchcock movie? If so I must have missed it. Good for you for not beating the book to death & focusing on the film instead. Fun review.
Florence wrote: "Is there even such a thing as a BAD Hitchcock movie? If so I must have missed it. Good for you for not beating the book to death & focusing on the film instead. Fun review."I honestly don't think I've ever seen a BAD Hitch. In September I watched more movies than I think I've watched in a 30 day period since college. TCM was doing Hitch every Sunday so I was pulling marathons. I've now seen many Hitch films I've never seen before and I have to say I'm really impressed with his whole catalog.
Writing a bad review of this book would make as much sense as picking a drunk up off the floor to watch him fall down again. There are always positives to focus on if one wracks the noodle. Thanks Florence for noticing.
Sir Geoffrey, I completely agree with your approach on this one. I read it quite a few years back with the same disappointment. I suppose at the time Buchan wrote the novel it was well received. However, it took Hitchcock to turn a rather mundane novel into a memorable story. Kudos on your approach to the novel. Some would likely be content to watch "the drunk fall on the floor again."
Mike wrote: "Sir Geoffrey, I completely agree with your approach on this one. I read it quite a few years back with the same disappointment. I suppose at the time Buchan wrote the novel it was well received. ..."I like the Hitchcock film more each time I see it. I might even say it has broken into my top ten favorite Hitchcock films. The prospect of writing a review picking this novel apart had very little appeal. As mundane as it is to us today I did have a vision of how much excitement it must have raised amongst the British lads when it first appeared. Thank you Sir Michael.
Laima wrote: "I love the movie!"I agree Laima!
I've seen the movie over the weekend. Great shots and subtle humor. I think I like The Lady Vanishes better, but I'm glad I checked this one out.
Algernon wrote: "I've seen the movie over the weekend. Great shots and subtle humor. I think I like The Lady Vanishes better, but I'm glad I checked this one out."The Lady Vanishes is great. I think you will find with this one just what I've found with Foreign Correspondent that they get better with each viewing. Thanks for letting me know you've seen it Algernon.
I just finished The 39 Steps, and yes, agreed, it's a let down, especially after the Hitchcock version, which is superior in every way. A well-known film critic points out that in the scene where Hannay finds himself in the presence of the criminal mastermind with the amputated digit Hitchcock sets the whole thing up by shooting the whole thing from the waist. Watch how every single shot follows peoples hands. Just brilliant.
Good review.Have you seen the play? It's far closer to the film than the book.
Tiffany wrote: "I just finished The 39 Steps, and yes, agreed, it's a let down, especially after the Hitchcock version, which is superior in every way. A well-known film critic points out that in the scene where H..."Thanks Tiffany for the tip :-). I will certainly watch that scene more closely the next time I pop the movie in. I couldn't resist buying the Criterion Blu Ray edition of this movie...one of my favorites.
F.R. wrote: "Good review.Have you seen the play? It's far closer to the film than the book."
I have not seen the play F.R.. I will have to watch for that...thanks for the heads up.
I've seen this in the bookstore and was curious. I'll watch the film instead. Thanks!
Douglas wrote: "I've seen this in the bookstore and was curious. I'll watch the film instead. Thanks!"The film is far superior to the book! You aren't missing a thing avoiding the book.
Hi Jeffrey. Have u read Andrew Greigs remix of the Buchan novels. Romano Bridge is one. Can't remember the other but they are a great wheeze
Lynda wrote: "Hi Jeffrey. Have u read Andrew Greigs remix of the Buchan novels. Romano Bridge is one. Can't remember the other but they are a great wheeze"No I haven't but they sound intriguing.
I enjoyed the movie. I gather the book does not measure up.
Frances wrote: "I enjoyed the movie. I gather the book does not measure up."I was very disappointed. You might have a different take, but the movie is a sparkling gem compared to the book.
m.rohan singh rockzzz wrote: "it's 1935 movie super"Indeed!
I totally agree. Movie was good, book meh
Chris wrote: "I totally agree. Movie was good, book meh"If the book gave anything to the movie than hooray!
Am I seeing things or did Jeffrey Keeten just post a low-rating review? Amazing review as always Jeffrey.
Mwanamali wrote: "Am I seeing things or did Jeffrey Keeten just post a low-rating review? Amazing review as always Jeffrey."
Yes, It does happen about as often as you see a unicorn! Did you see how I turned a negative review into a positive film review? Magic!! :-) Thanks!!
I really enjoyed this review....It made me think back to all the times I was utterly disappointed by reading the book (Jaws, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, The Godfather etc etc....) after watching the movie....! I deeply respect that you stuck to your guns and finished the book...
One of those rare instances where the movie is better than the book. That's bucking the trend!
Lars wrote: "I really enjoyed this review....It made me think back to all the times I was utterly disappointed by reading the book (Jaws, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, The Godfather etc etc....) after watchi..."I read Jaws just a couple of years ago and what was interesting about it was that the book had some huge deviations from the movie. It was not as good as the movie, but it was interesting noticing the differences. Ultimately we have to give some kudos to the source documentation because would we have the movies of Jaws or 39 Steps if some demented writer hadn't written the book in the first place? :-) Thanks Lars!
Jackie wrote: "Not often a movie outdoes it's book."Not often, but believe me it did here. *shudder* I seriously wanted to pull this book apart and rewrite it. The poor thing.
Forrest wrote: "One of those rare instances where the movie is better than the book. That's bucking the trend!"I'm a huge fan of movies and books and sure prefer it when the book is as good or better than the movie. I seriously could not believe how far afield the book was from the movie in quality in this instance. *Sigh*
That's very true. However, I am not attempting to take away from the creative spirit of the author nor from the originality of the script. I was only pointing out that I was reminded of the times when I found the book rather disappointing after having watched the movie. (Kudos to all the demented writers....!)
As others have said, you have to catch the play if you can. Brilliant. Here's a teaserhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvTzS...
Lars wrote: "That's very true. However, I am not attempting to take away from the creative spirit of the author nor from the originality of the script. I was only pointing out that I was reminded of the times w..."Yeah, I know what you meant. I was just riffing on what you said because it is one of those conundrums bad book, great movie, but you need the bad book so the great movie exists. :-)
Michael wrote: "As others have said, you have to catch the play if you can. Brilliant. Here's a teaserhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvTzS..."
Thanks Michael! And I should say as an addendum to my Lars comment so the great play can exist as well. :-)
The clip from the play bosherie explains why I now detest 90% of "live" theatre. ~~ Someone would have to pay me a lot to see that. -- Yes, I was surprised at how bad the Buchan book is. His others are stinkers, too.
In the room she sits down to peel her wet stockings off her legs and because he is cuffed to her his hand travels down each leg with her hands. It is one of the most sensual, sexy scenes in movie history and no one is naked.I am sold. :) Usually it is the book that is better, but there are exceptions. I really liked Dracula with Gary Oldman, but I have been hesitant about the book. I don’t think I will like it as much and I won’t say the reason, because I know you will laugh at me again. :) Another such case might be The Thirteenth Warrior. I don’t remember much of the movie, but I think I quite liked it. However, I think I heard that it didn't have much to do with the novel. Have you seen it? We have been talking a lot about movies lately. :) It’s good that I still haven’t picked the best movies for me to see in the ivory tower :) This way I have been delaying my fate like a real Scheherazade :) So don’t expect to ever get that top 10 list from me. :) I’m too smart! :) As always, an awesome review. Even of a book you haven’t liked. I love you <3
Sketchbook wrote: "The clip from the play bosherie explains why I now detest 90% of "live" theatre. ~~ Someone would have to pay me a lot to see that. -- Yes, I was surprised at how bad the Buchan book is. His others..."No worries Sketch! I won't be picking up any more Buchan. Well they'd have to pay you a lot, but you can be bought. :-)
