Preminger's intensity is plainly evident in this great shot, Jeff. He was a powerful, some might suggest overpowering, influence on an entire generation of directors.
He had his way with his stars and in the final analysis took from them the performance he wanted - either by mutual consent or by force.
There are some pretty significant directors who had the reputation for being world-class assholes. (Lang, Von Sternberg, Ford....It's a long list), but Preminger might have been the worst.
You're right, however, in stating that he consistenly got great performances.
The Man With the Golden Arm, 1955
Preminger's intensity is plainly evident in this great shot, Jeff. He was a powerful, some might suggest overpowering, influence on an entire generation of directors.
ReplyDeleteHe had his way with his stars and in the final analysis took from them the performance he wanted - either by mutual consent or by force.
Great post.
There are some pretty significant directors who had the reputation for being world-class assholes. (Lang, Von Sternberg, Ford....It's a long list), but Preminger might have been the worst.
ReplyDeleteYou're right, however, in stating that he consistenly got great performances.