Search - Cinderella Liberty on DVD

Liberty, love, and the facts of life!

Dave | Tennessee United States | 03/01/2005

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I love navy movies like this because I grew up hearing my grandfather's stories of life in the navy during WW2. James Caan plays a sailor who's required to leave his ship because of a minor medical problem. Because of missing paperwork, however, he's forced to remain on shore as his beloved ship departs on its latest voyage. Although he's stuck on shore, he makes the most of his situation and heads for the nearest bar!



It's at the bar that he spots sexy Marsha Hunt, who's known for her sexual exploits with sailors. After he hustles her in a pool game, they both leave the bar and head to her apartment where he "collects" his payment (you know what I mean!). While there he discovers she has a young son (Kirk Calloway) who has a major attitude problem.



Despite the boy's attitude, Caan starts spending more and more of his free time trying to earn the boy's trust. He also realizes that he's falling in love with Hunt. Despite her initial protests, he tries his best to help her change her lifestyle and become a better parent to her troubled child (who drinks alcohol and chews tobacco).



Learning that Hunt is pregnant from another man, Caan bravely chooses to marry her so that she'll be supported by his navy benefits. Her baby dies shortly after death, however, and her depression drives them apart. Caan must then choose between returning to the navy or trying to patch up their relationship. I won't spoil the ending, although I must say I thought it was rather unconvincing.



I don't know why this is called a comedy on the video jacket, although there are humorous scenes. Some of the best scenes involve Caan and his former drill instructor (Eli Wallach). By the way, I was surprised to discover that Glenn Buttkus ("Sailor on the Ward") has a small role in this movie. If I'm not mistaken, that's the same Glenn Buttkus who does fabulous movie lists on Amazon.com! While this movie isn't quite as good as "The Last Detail", I still highly recommend it."

Love, with an Edge.

D. P. Weeks | Davis, CA United States | 03/10/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The uncertainty of life in the early 70's is on display in this movie and James Caan and Marsha Mason handle the tough assigment with outstanding performances. This is not a formula romantic comedy by any stretch of the imagination and thank goodness for that.



Caan stars as John Baggs Jr, a Navy man, who finds the freedom of life on the seas very much to his liking. That is, until he meets Marsha Mason's character Maggie (possibly named after Stephen Crane's charater Maggie: A Girl of the Streets) a troubled single mother and barfly. The two meet naturally enough in a bar, end up at Maggie's place for what both accept will be a one night stand, but turns into a real relationship soon afterwards. It's at this point when the movie really excels and allows the two stars to work their craft. Many issues are tackled and the director pulls no punches in illustrating life at the bottom of the socio-economic level.



This movie is a must see for anyone interested in seeing two actors who can really act, in a story that makes you think, and is well supported by several fine supporting actors (especially the boy playing Maggie's son)."

Cinderella liberty

William marshall | New York, New York United States | 06/30/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Very good movie, probably James Caan's best role other than Sonny Corleone. Oscar nominated Marsha Mason is perfect! Good songs by Randy Newman. A litle dated in spots, but worht it for Mason alone!"

Tear Jerker

Schenectady Scott | Schenectady, NY USA | 03/10/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Great Acting on all parts. Marsha Mason, James Caan, Kirk Calloway and the great Eli Wallach. The interaction between Kirk Calloway and James Caan is untouchable."