Kattiera Nana
I think this is a new genre that they're all sort of working their way through it and haven't got all the kinks worked out yet but it's a genre that works for me.
Nonureva
Really Surprised!
FeistyUpper
If you don't like this, we can't be friends.
calvinnme
Tenth Avenue Angel might remind you somewhat of A Tree Grows In Brooklyn - the apartment seemed similar, the mother becomes pregnant, there's a family member who has to overcome a stigma,an economically challenged household, the coming-of-age of the daughter. However, all of it is without emotional resonance, to say the least. And although I'm usually not fans of these kinds of films I DID love "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn".So what's missing? Despite the evocative lower Manhattan sets, the genuinely warm and believable performance of Phyllis Thaxter as the mother, Rhys Williams as a blind newspaper vendor and (occasionally) Margaret O'Brien (when she's ruling the roost of her neighborhood in a precociously cynical way; not when she's required to do The Crying and saying lines like "How do cows know it's Christmas?") the movie doesn't work for me at all. This is one of those "we-don't-know-what-to-do-with-her" parts for the supremely talented Angela Lansbury, here completely wasted as O'Brien's young aunt, in love with the equally miscast George Murphy (he does his best, though the script just sinks him). Rhys Wiliiams was so much better served in How Green Was My Valley in much the same type of character (albeit more pugilistic).Margaret gives a patriotic speech at a Fourth of July block party which it's safe to surmise (since the film was made in 1946, only one year after FDR died though released in 1948) is a double tribute to him and his principles (they even show his picture); convenient dovetailing as the story takes place in Depression era 1936.Apparently mice are so common in their household that the one O'Brien sees doesn't phase the family one bit; nobody bats an eyelash. Also, when pregnant women fall down stairs, they are not taken to the hospital.Also, bovine miracles will astound you. I was underwhelmed throughout.I'd say it's a take it or leave it proposition, probably a 4.5, but I'll be kind given the season and round up to five.
wes-connors
In 1936 New York City, pretty pig-tailed Margaret O'Brien (as Flavia Mills) leads a charmed life. She roller-skates through traffic oblivious to danger, which works out well because the little "Tenth Avenue Angel" may be divinely protected. Young O'Brien believes in country, God and fantastical stories shared by several loving adults in her life, especially sweet mother Phyllis Thaxter (as Helen). One of these stories suggests mice bring money; another involves a magical cow...The difference between truth, lies and fantasy confuses O'Brien as nice guy George Murphy (as Steve) gets out of jail. O'Brien has been told Mr. Murphy was in Australia. Due to both the Depression and his criminal past, Murphy has trouble finding work as a taxi driver and marrying O'Brien's aunt Angela Lansbury (as Susan). This was not a bad story idea, but too saccharine an approach for the still capable little actress, who needed something less obvious to revitalize a limited career.***** Tenth Avenue Angel (2/20/48) Roy Rowland ~ Margaret O'Brien, George Murphy, Angela Lansbury, Phyllis Thaxter
tmj-9
I guess I'm just old-fashioned, since this is the kind of movie that appeals to me. I haven't gone to a theater in years due to the crap they put out now. What's wrong with a sweet little film that leaves you feeling good about life? It was quite inspiring. I like to watch movies that are as I would imagine things to be without all the harsh and ugly realities that are out there.I can't stand most newer movies due to the bad language. (many times put in only to give it a more restrictive rating) I would like to see the return of this style of movie with a modern day setting. At least you could take your kids without feeling embarrassed about it.
pjj-3
I saw this movie as a child, and of course I have a different perspective than I would have had as an adult. I never forgot that she doubted God; because her Mom had told her about untrue superstitions.
