The Last Tycoon (1976) [w/Commentary]

Director: Elia Kazan
Starring: Robert De Niro, Tony Curtis, Robert Mitchum, Jeanne Moreau, Jack Nicholson, Donald Pleasence

1930s Hollywood. Monroe Stahr, the production head at International World Films, is known within the business as the wonder boy for being able to present the truth and emotional core of the studio's films. He has immersed himself in his work ever since the death of movie star Mina Davis, with who he was intimately involved. His focus solely on work has resulted in his declining health. In addition to striving for perfection in the studio's movies at whatever cost, he has to babysit temperamental stars, deal with disgruntled directors and writers, the latter who in the process of not appreciating his heavy handed tactics are trying to unionize, and deal with the studio Board, chaired by his longtime associate Pat Brady, they who work solely to the bottom line of costs and revenues. While Pat's now late teen daughter Cecilia Brady, reaching her sexual awakening, chases after Monroe, who has never seen her as a sexual being, Monroe becomes infatuated with a young woman he sees off in the distance on the tour of the studio. He will learn she is Irish immigrant Kathleen Moore, his infatuation largely due to her resemblance to Mina. He will also learn that although she too is attracted to him, she leads a complex life which may not include him in her future. What happens in his pursuit of Kathleen will have an affect on his overall life.



Audio commentary by film historian/author of editor of Filmmakers on Filmmaking Joseph McBride (2023)

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