Favorite Films of 1935

I watched 51 films that were released in 1935.  A complete list can be found here: http://www.imdb.com/list/ZGW4DN5ryag/?publish=save.  I enjoyed lots and lots of them, but these were my very favorites:

1.  Top Hat (Mark Sandrich):  This is officially my favorite Astaire/Rogers film, at least until I am watching the next one.

2.  Ruggles of Red Gap (Leo McCarey):  This seldom mentioned treasure is one of the reasons I keep watching these old movies! It has a perfect cast, a wonderful script, and is expertly directed by Leo McCarey.

3.  The 39 Steps (Alfred Hitchcock):  I prefer The Lady Vanishes among Hitchcock’s British films, but this ranks just behind it. It remains a witty and stylish suspense thriller.

4.  An Inn in Tokyo (Yasujiro Ozu):  This is Ozu’s last silent film and one of his best. It has been compared to The Bicycle Thieves in its focus on the effects of poverty on human dignity, but is much more wryly humorous than the Italian film.

5.  Mutiny on the Bounty (Frank Lloyd):  A highly enjoyable adventure with one of Charles Laughton’s very best performances.

6.  The Bride of Frankenstein (James Whale):  I have fun every time I come back to this classic.

7.  Crime and Punishment (Josef von Sternberg):  I’m so glad I was able to find this unsung gem containing one of Peter Lorre’s most complete characterizations.

8.  The Good Fairy (William Wyler):  Preston Sturges’ script and wonderful performances by Margaret Sullavan and Herbert Marshall make this romantic comedy special.

9.  The Lives of a Bengal Lancer (Henry Hathaway):  This rollicking adventure celebrates friendship, honor and loyalty under fire in British India.

10.  The Wedding Night (King Vidor):  This is a refreshingly different romance with one of Gary Cooper’s best performances.