Harvey (1950)

James Stewart is a phenomenal actor. His true expressions, and sincere mood is what makes "Harvey" such an amazing film. Embarking on this adventure of watching each movie on the IMDB's Top 250 was something that would either be very enjoyable and culturally educational, or a complete flop. Some of the movies on the list range from silent films, to black and white, to Japanese, to Anime, and up to the present day. So far, I have been very pleasantly surprised at how much I have enjoyed each film.

I have seen some of the movies on the list before, one being Arsenic and Old Lace. However, I had never before seen "Harvey". All I knew was that it was about a man with a friend named Harvey. The twist, though, is that Harvey is an "imaginary" bunny that is 6 ft. 3 1/2 inches tall of which no one can see, except Elwood P. Dowd (played by James Stewart). After seeing it, I think it has become a contender for one of my most favorite movies of all time. Which leads me to another point. Where has all of the great acting gone? I know there have been stellar performances such as Sean Penn in "I Am Sam" or Tom Hanks in "Forrest Gump" or "Cast Away" in the not too distant past, but where are the performances that people talk about and salivate over for years and years? After experiencing how effortlessly James Stewart came off in the role of Elwood P. Dowd, I couldn't help but notice how I do not get that feeling from anyone today. Is it the fault of the actors? Screen writing? Directors? Casting Directors? Whatever it might be, I hope that in the near future I am able to get the same feeling that "Harvey" delivered. I also hope that someday, I can be more like Elwood. This is the one line that I will forever remember and try to model myself after:

"Years ago my mother used to say to me, she'd say, 'In this world, Elwood, you must be oh so smart or oh so pleasant.' Well, for years I was smart. I recommend pleasant. You may quote me."