I'm a Stranger Here Myself (1975)

I'm a Stranger Here Myself Poster

A portrait of legendary filmmaker Nicholas Ray while he is working as a film professor at a college in upstate New York.

Film Overview
"I'm a Stranger Here Myself" is a documentary film directed by David Helpern Jr. that was released in 1975. The film sheds light on the life of the distinguished science fiction master, Nicholas Ray, and offers a detailed expedition of his cinematic career and individual life. This portrait of Ray is intimate and poignant, exposing the director's innovative and innovative approach to storytelling.

Director's Vision and Execution
Helpern efficiently shapes the story of the movie through a collection of interviews with Nicholas Ray, film excerpts, and stills from his widely known works. These consist of unforgettable movies such as "Rebel Without a Cause", "In a Lonely Place", and "Johnny Guitar", movies that emphasize Ray's propensity for supportive characterisations and complex narrative constructs.

Nicholas Ray's Cinematic Career and Personal Experiences
The movie offers an in-depth view of Ray's tumultuous profession and his considerable influence on American cinema. This exploration of Ray's life consists of information about his rise to fame in the late 1940s and 1950s and his subsequent struggles with addiction and expert bad luck in the face of Hollywood's changing characteristics. The film also underscores how Ray's individual experiences significantly affected his work, either directly or indirectly, making him a special storyteller of his period.

Nicholas Ray's Return to Filmmaking
"I'm a Stranger Here Myself" provides a detailed account of Ray's return to filmmaking after conquering his battles with illness and addiction. Helpern files how Ray taught movie studies at Harpur College of SUNY Binghamton, where he recruited talented students to assist him create a film job, referred to as "We Can't Go Home Again". This won him important honor and restored his track record as a gifted filmmaker and exceptional skill mentor.

Interviews and Narrative Reveals
In the film, Helpern consists of several candid interviews with Ray, in which he discovers insights into Ray's approaches about filmmaking and life. Ray speaks about his commitment to cinematic credibility and the significance of mentally resonant storytelling. He shares experiences of dealing with terrific stars like James Dean, expressing his ideas on the significance of collaboration in between actors and directors.

Effect and Reception
"I'm a Stranger Here Myself" was met with much praise for its insightful portrayal of Ray's life and work. Critics lauded Helpern's instructions and capability to unfold Ray's complex and troubled history. The movie's sincerity and depth, paired with its compelling portrayal of one of cinema's most substantial figures, makes "I'm a Stranger Here Myself" a standout documentary.

In conclusion, "I'm a Stranger Here Myself" is a fascinating expedition of Nicholas Ray's prominent profession and personal life. By exposing Ray's distinct contributions to filmmaking and his extensive impact on American cinema, the movie provides an enhancing and thought-provoking viewing experience.

Top Cast

  • Howard Da Silva (small)
    Howard Da Silva
    Narrator (voice)
  • Nicholas Ray (small)
    Nicholas Ray
    Self
  • François Truffaut (small)
    François Truffaut
    Self
  • John Houseman (small)
    John Houseman
    Self
  • Leslie Levinson
    Self
  • Natalie Wood (small)
    Natalie Wood
    Self
  • Tom Farrell (small)
    Tom Farrell
    Self