Review of Carmen Jones (1954) by Jesse R — 30 May 2008
This modern re-working of Bizet's Carmen is a must-see. (Think like what Jonathan Larson did with Puccini's "La Boheme," except "Jones" retains Bizet's music while setting the story in the late 20th century).
Dandridge owns this film with her wildly entertaining--and empathetic--portrayal of Carmen. She totally deserved the Oscar for this performance. Sorry Grace Kelly. The cast is rounded out with Harry Belafonte playing the sweet and unassuming Joe and Pearl Bailey who treats you with her awesome vocal talents.
Directed by Otto Preminger who would transplant most of this cast to his 1959 adaptation of the Gershwin's "Porgy and Bess," which sadly has not been seen by the masses in its entirety since 1959.
If you're interested in seeing an all-star cross-section of black American talent from the 50s, it's hard to top "Carmen Jones." Highly reccommended.
This review of Carmen Jones (1954) was written by Jesse R on 30 May 2008.
Carmen Jones has generally received positive reviews.
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