Pauline Kael Appreciation Thread
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Archived from the IMDb Discussion Forums — Film History and Meaning
MortSahlFan — 2 years ago(December 31, 2023 10:31 PM)
I've never cared about criticism until someone mentioned her. I still prefer populist review, and mostly the IMDB score, although I keep reading news about "weighted scales" but it sure beats a 66% on RT because 1 of 3 didn't like how it interfered with their sensibilities.
I was listening to an interview of Mort Sahl, and he would never mention a woman unless she was top-tier (and Jewish). And I discovered that I enjoyed listening to her, or watching her, and despite having her books, I prefer to seek out a more intimate medium, especially when speaking about movies with so much passion. Very sharp, and seemed to be independent, especially against "duty movies" or movies that made a ton of money. Or she'd make a good point of how those who had the opportunity to be the first to review would saturate the critic space, and soon people were avoiding movies because of a sort of word of mouth, even though they might not know where it came from. I think a critic should talk about movies that the public ignores.
And though she's not my type (or anyone else's, after reading her biography) I have a little attraction to her.
The documentary is Free on YouTube, but also available for rent, which tells me it won't be up for very long. I highly recommend this. I've seen it a handful of times since it came out, but it's very well made. I'm also a "searcher" of archives, and will post some other things and hope there are fans or detractors (especially that).. I still can't find Renata Adler's "takedown" article, but I only read something she commented on.
https://www.patreon.com/LoyalOpposition -
Paul P. Powell — 7 months ago(August 29, 2025 05:07 AM)
Ugh. I detest everything I've ever learned or about her or heard about her, except for a measly handful of few minor items.
In a word, she was a shrew.
Did I read you right when you said you are
attracted
to her?
p.s. I do admire Mort Sahl the comedian. Pioneering figure in stand-up.
Paul P. Powell, Pool Player -
MortSahlFan — 7 months ago(September 01, 2025 02:30 AM)
Attracted to her voice. I think she's an elitist who tries not to be. But when it comes to the big things, I seem to agree with her.
I'm listening to Mort Sahl right now (actually Nat Hentoff and Steve Allen conversing about him)
https://www.patreon.com/LoyalOpposition -
Paul P. Powell — 7 months ago(September 02, 2025 03:30 AM)
Interesting. Now regarding Sahl, if you have any links (audio) or –in a pinch, video) I'd sure like to digest more of his stuff. I've only ever come across slim, slender clips.
His name should be more recognized.
Paul P. Powell, Pool Player -
MortSahlFan — 7 months ago(September 02, 2025 08:44 PM)
I put most behind a paywall for many reasons, but here's a good full show.
https://www.patreon.com/LoyalOpposition
