JACK LEMMON?

JACK LEMMON (1925-2001), born John Uhler Lemmon III

This was way too hard to pick only five movies for him. Lemmon is no slouch when it comes to acting. Everything that I've seen him do has been brilliant.







Haven't you seen Some Like It Hot (1959)?

This is one of those movies that I cannot watch without laughing. It doesn't matter how many times I see the same scenes. Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis witness a murder and try to elude thugs by posing as performers in an all girl orchestra. Lemmon in drag is simply hilarious.



Watch this and then see these other four films.


Mr. Roberts (1955) This great performance by Jack Lemmon won him a "Best Supporting Actor" Oscar as the irrepressible Ensign Pulver. Every time I see this movie, I can't help thinking what a wonderful actor Jack Lemmon is.
The Apartment (1960) This is a drama about bosses, dating, and what it means to be a "human being". It's one of those movies where I learn something each time I see it. It has a suburb cast. It's darn near impossible for me to watch it and not think about it later for weeks. Characters are so well developed that I care about what happens to the main two, played by Jack Lemmon and Shirley Maclaine.
Phffft! (1954) There is so much to like about this film. The cast is wonderful, Jack Lemmon, Judy Holliday, Jack Carson, and Kim Novak. Both Jack Lemmon and Judy Holliday give very strong performances. They truly are an excellent pairing. The comedic timing in this film is terrific. The dialog is great. The story surrounds a married couple that divorces far too quickly, not realizing that each is in love with the other. The husband listens to his womanizing best friend, only to be miserable as a bachelor. The wife listens to her interfering mother, who'd rather be her gal pal than her mother. All she can do is miss her ex-husband. Throughout the film, I root for the two to get back together. It's a lovely film that does not disappoint.
Tuesdays With Morrie (2000) Jack Lemmon's performance in this made for TV movie about the true last days of a brilliant man, written by sports writer Mitch Albom, must be noted. Lemmon does an excellent job portraying Morrie Schwartz, Albom's old college professor. This movie is a wonderful testimony to true friendship, one where both parties grow.


*Contributed by: "Elizabeth Van Cleve Randolph" Date: Fri, 18 May 2001 09:21 PST

Academy Awards®
© A.M.P.A.S.®
1955 Won Best Actor in a Supporting Role: MISTER ROBERTS
1959 Nominated for Best Actor in a Leading Role: SOME LIKE IT HOT
1960 Nominated for Best Actor in a Leading Role: THE APARTMENT
1962 Nominated for Best Actor in a Leading Role: DAYS OF WINE AND ROSES
1973 Won Best Actor in a Leading Role: SAVE THE TIGER
1979 Nominated for Best Actor in a Leading Role: THE CHINA SYNDROME
1980 Nominated for Best Actor in a Leading Role: TRIBUTE
1982 Nominated for Best Actor in a Leading Role: MISSING