Two interesting references.
సుఖములెల్ల తెలిసిచూడంగ దుఃఖముల్
పుణ్యములను పాపపూర్వకములె
కొరతవేయ దొంగకోరిన చందమే విశ్వ. వేమ.
From ‘Nanati Brathuku’ keerthana
తెగదు పాపము, తీరదు పుణ్యము
నగి నగి కాలము నాటకము |
ఎగువనే శ్రీ వేంకటేశ్వరుడేలిక
గగనము మీదిది కైవల్యము ||
The phrase “bite the bullet” refers to the act of enduring a painful or difficult situation with courage and fortitude. The 1975 Western film “Bite the Bullet” tells the story of a grueling 700-mile horse race across the American West in the early 1900s, and the various participants who must “bite the bullet” in order to survive the journey. The film features an impressive ensemble cast, which includes James Coburn, Candice Bergen, and Ben Johnson, among others. Director Richard Brooks did an excellent job of bringing the story to life, creating a sense of authenticity and realism that draws the viewer into the world of the film.
At the center of this compelling story is Gene Hackman’s character, Sam Clayton, a former Rough Rider and current mercenary who enters the race as an afterthought. Hackman’s performance is outstanding, and he brings nuance and depth to Clayton’s personality. He is a tough, no-nonsense kind of guy who has seen it all and done it all. He is not particularly likable, but he is undeniably skilled, capable and kind both to animals and humans. Hackman’s portrayal of Clayton is masterful, conveying both his physical prowess and his emotional complexity.
The other actors in the film are also excellent. James Coburn, Candice Bergen, Ben Johnson etc put in terrific performances.
The film’s plot is well-crafted, and the tension builds steadily throughout the race. The challenges that the racers face are realistic and harrowing, and the sense of danger is palpable. The cinematography is also impressive, capturing the beauty and brutality of the Western landscape.
“Bite the Bullet” is a classic Western film that delivers on every level. The movie is a testament to the skill of director Richard Brooks, the talents of the ensemble cast and crew. But it is Gene Hackman’s portrayal of Sam Clayton that truly elevates the movie to a higher level. His acting is superb, and his characterization of Clayton is nuanced and multi-layered. It is no wonder that Hackman is considered one of the greatest actors of his generation, and his work in “Bite the Bullet” is a shining example of his talent.
“Midnight Express,” a gripping drama film released in 1978, has been the subject of controversy since its release due to its depiction of Turkish prisons and the country’s justice system. The Turkish government criticized the film, calling it anti-Turkish and inaccurate, and requested that it be banned in several countries.
Despite the controversy, the film was received positively at the Cannes Film Festival, where it was nominated for Palme d’Or, the festival’s top prize.The film gained critical acclaim, receiving six Oscar nominations and winning two, including Best Original Screenplay (Oliver Stone).
From a critical standpoint, “Midnight Express” is a powerful film that highlights the harsh realities of prison life and the treatment of inmates in Turkey. The movie is a testament to the power of filmmaking to raise awareness of social and political issues and spark meaningful discussions. The film’s unapologetic portrayal of the Turkish justice system and the treatment of foreign prisoners is a reflection of the real-life situation at the time.
As for regular moviegoers, “Midnight Express” is a compelling and emotional movie that can engage and captivate audiences with its powerful storytelling and exceptional performances. The movie’s message about the importance of justice and freedom is universal and resonates with viewers across cultures and backgrounds.
“Midnight Express” stands the test of time, despite the controversy it generated and is in the watch list of many. “Midnight Express” portrays the loss of freedom and basic human rights that imprisonment entails. The character of Billy Hayes serves as a powerful embodiment of this reality as he endures the physical and emotional tolls of confinement in Turkish prisons or for that matter anywhere in the world. Through his personal transformation and evolving views on crime and punishment, Hayes challenges the very notion of severe punishment as a means of rehabilitation.
The film also highlights the small pleasures we often take for granted, and how they become a luxury that is often denied to prisoners. This theme forces us to reflect on the value of our own liberty and to appreciate the many small joys in life that we may otherwise overlook. In the end, “Midnight Express” is a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving human dignity and individual rights, and challenges us to rethink our assumptions about crime and punishment.
Tailpiece (Source: Wikipedia)
The quote ‘Have you ever been in a Turkish prison?’, in the American comedy film Airplane! (1980), is a reference to Midnight Express.
Susan’s prison visit was spoofed in the 1996 film The Cable Guy, where Jim Carrey opens his shirt, presses his naked breast against the glass, and cries, ‘Oh, Billy!’