To Have and Have Not

Howard Hawk's "To Have and Have Not" is on television, and there's nothing to say but that Lauren Bacall is still the toughest talking 20 year old to ever appear in film:

Slim: You know Steve, you're not very hard to figure.
Only at times.
Sometimes I know exactly what you're going to say.
Most of the time.
The other times ... the other times you're just a stinker.
(She kisses him)
Harry: What'd you do that for?
Slim: Been wondering if I'd like it.
Harry: What's your decision?
Slim: I don't know yet. (She kisses him again)
Slim: It's even better when you help.
Uhh... sure you won't change your mind about this?
This belongs to me, and so do my lips, I don't see any difference ...
OK You know you don't have act with me, Steve. You don't have to say anything, and you don't have to do anything.
Not with me.
Ohh, maybe just whistle.
(Turns to leave, then turns back)
You know how to whistle don't you? Just put your lips together...and blow.

There is no amount of modern day explicit tough talk that would outcool Bacall in that role.

[monologue lifted (with fixes) from here]

Posted by Claus at June 08, 2004 01:03 AM | TrackBack (0)