Review of Sweet Bird of Youth (1962) by Kevin R — 10 Feb 2013

I'm for loose government, loose money, and loose women.

Chance Wayne has had many jobs, but never his dream job. Chance is an aspiring actor who hopes to one day land his big break; well, he hasn't been lucky finding the right opportunity and returns home with a alcoholic former movie star he hopes will help him earn his big break. Chance is a playboy, He doesn't really love the movie star and is using her, like most people in his life. Will Chance ever earn his big break or will his methods catch up to him?

"I don't understand you.".

"I don't expect you to.".

Richard Brooks, director of Fever Pitch, Bite the Bullet, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Elmer Gantry, Battle Circus, Crisis, and Flame and the Flesh, delivers Sweet Bird of Youth. The storyline for this picture is interesting and a bit methodical. The pace is kind of slow but the acting is amazing. Newman delivers a powerful performance and the cast also includes Geraldine Page, Shirley Knight, Rip Torn, and Barry Cahill.

"What are you laughing at?".

"Nothing.".

"Only idiots laugh at nothing.".

I came across this film while scrolling through Turner Classic Movie's (TCM) upcoming television schedule. I was surprised that I had never heard of this Newman gem. I found this film fairly entertaining, a bit depressing, and a fairly slow. The story itself is excellent and contains wonderful characters; but overall, while it tells an interesting tale it is far from my favorite Tennessee Williams story or Newman picture.

"There is no easy way to the top.".

Grade: B+.