HotToastyRag
Gregory Peck, the picture of American integrity, takes on the controversial issue of anti-Semitism in the first of his many groundbreaking films, Gentleman's Agreement. In his incredible career, he went on to tackle gambling addiction in The Great Sinner, unhappiness in Suburbia in The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit, and racism in To Kill a Mockingbird. To see a classic "Gregory Peck" role, rent at least one of those four.Greg plays a writer who uncovers the hidden anti-Semitic attitude in the "best areas" of America. He wants to expose this wrong, so he goes undercover as a Jewish man—I know, that sounds dated and offensive, but just give him a chance—and writes about his experiences with prejudice.At a time when America, and Hollywood, tended to sweep all problems under the rug, it was incredible that this movie was even made. Greg lives through some very eye-opening experiences. Friends of his confide in him and share their own anti-Semitic prejudices they've endured, and some aren't as open-minded as they seem to be. Joining the supporting cast are Dorothy Maguire, John Garfield, Ann Revere, Celeste Holm, Sam Jaffe, and Dean Stockwell. If you like movies about social causes or shedding light on the cobwebs in the room, rent Gentleman's Agreement and buckle up for an interesting, dramatic ride.
gavin6942
A reporter (Gregory Peck) pretends to be Jewish in order to cover a story on anti-Semitism, and personally discovers the true depths of bigotry and hatred.Looking back, this film may seem a little bit over the top at times. But it likely is not terribly exaggerated. Even now (2015) being Jewish means something. The prejudice may not be quite as strong, and I don't know if "restricted" hotels still exist, but the subtle dislike has certainly not gone away.What makes this film extra good is the timing, not long after World War II. Sometimes we (America) likes to say we were heroes who saved the Jewish people from the Holocaust. But, this is not really true, and even if it was, it does not mean the Americans were not prejudice in the 1940s.
mifunesamurai
I always admired Kazan's bravado in the face of Hollywood. He was brave in creating real adult dramas that took us to the edge. From revolutions to Unions and adultery, he didn't shy away. Gentleman's Agreement would have to be his most adventurous politically, but with time it seems a bit lame, maybe a little too preachy.The main fault falls on the screenplay. It took forever to set up the angle the journalist was to take. Once it kicked in, it was intriguing, but then lost its momentum midway through when it became repetitive and too dialogue driven.Peck was charming, but not too convincing as a hard-nose journalist. I believe this roll was a precursor for To Kill A Mocking Bird. The surprise was John Garfield, who knew how to work a campy drama. When together in scenes, they had your attention and lit up the screen, compared to the love interest which was weak, typically standard for its time.The movie was made almost 70 years ago, and still is relevant to today's current political climate.
wes-connors
Newly arrived in New York City, journalist widower Gregory Peck (as Philip "Phil" Schuyler Green) takes 11-year-old son Dean Stockwell (as Tommy) to meet grandmother Anne Revere and buy some new shoes. At that age, feet grow quickly. After he is asked to write a series of articles on anti-Semitism, Mr. Peck meets divorced schoolteacher Dorothy McGuire (as Kathy Lacey) at a party. They are mutually attracted. Peck is initially unhappy with his writing assignment, but becomes excited after thinking up a new angle. Peck decides to pretend he is Jewish and write about his personal experiences. "I Was Jewish for Six Months" is the title of Peck's account. Authentically Jewish childhood friend John Garfield (as Dave Goldman) arrives for a visit. As you might expect, Peck encounters prejudice...This famous film about religious bigotry is really a love story, although the backdrop is certainly preeminent. Incidents of anti-Semitism involve young Stockwell being teased on the playground and adult Jews finding upscale areas lack welcome mats. Today, kids are beat up and can sometimes die; around the world, people are shot at Jewish businesses. "Gentleman's Agreement" sticks mainly to cocktail hour inequities. Multiple award-winning director Elia Kazan and Peck take it slow. Additional award winners include supporting actress Celeste Holm (as Anne Dettrey) and juvenile actor Stockwell. Often, it seems like characters are lecturing the audience and retelling unseen incidents; to be more effective, cinema should show more and tell less. Still, it's a good production and nicely performed.****** Gentleman's Agreement (11/11/47) Elia Kazan ~ Gregory Peck, Dorothy McGuire, John Garfield, Celeste Holm
AD
