Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #45893 in DVD
• Released on: 2004-08-23
• Rating: Parental Guidance
• Aspect ratio: 1.78:1
• Formats: Anamorphic, PAL
• Original language: English
• Number of discs: 1
• Running time: 171 minutes

Synopsis
Produced as part of the American Film Theater series, which produced films of classic plays with top-shelf actors and directors, this adaptation of Eugene O'Neill's THE ICEMAN COMETH is infused with director Frankenheimer's (THE FRENCH CONNECTION, THE EXORCIST) trademark kinetic style. Set in 1912, the entire film takes place inside a dive bar named The Last Chance Saloon, where its destitute patrons eagerly await the arrival of Hickey, who arrives annually and props everyone up with free drinks and spirited stories of his travels. However, when Hickey does show up this year, it is with a message of temperance and an exhortation to give up hopeless dreams and face reality.

Customer Reviews

A great theatrical work on film.
John Frankenheimer directed this film in 1973 as part of the American Film Theatre series of movies, which were brought to the screen by producer Ely Landauer. This rarely seen film is now available to a wider audience on DVD.
The play itself is legendary and is often referred to as the greatest american play of the twentieth century. One can debate whether it is or is not, but for sure one can say that it is a challenge for both actors and audience alike. The movie itself has a running time of 171 minutes and has to have something special to keep one watching. I rather think that it does. For starters, it contains a marvelous cast, which includes: Lee Marvin, Frederic March, Robert Ryan and a very young twenty something Jeff Bridges. Their commitment and obvious feeling for ensemble coupled with expert direction and atmospheric photography keep one riveted to the screen. This is one not to be missed by anyone who cares for great theatrical works.

MASTERFUL DRAMA
This is a must-see for anybody even slightly interested in drama, acting and writing. A to-kill-for cast that includes career busting performances from the entire company but especially LEE MARVIN and ROBERT RYAN. Ryan in particular is a revelation. For those of us who only know him for FILM NOIR and WESTERN roles we here get a glimpse at this man's stage presence. I would love to have seen him live on stage. My only problem with this DVD is that it is a dreadful transfer. Top right of the screen flickers throughout the viewing and the colour shifts. SHAME. If you can live with these faults then you are in for a treat. Such a wonderful piece of work deserves a full-on clean up. inD (company).....get your act together!