Happy Valentine’s Day! Here’s to all the couples out there who have found love and are celebrating it…today and all year ‘round. Around here at ArtHouseFilmWire, we like to revel in movies every day. Since it’s February 14, let’s look at Five Memorable Movie Kisses, and note, not all of these kisses are romantic.
1. “No one’s asking you to.” – Francesca Johnson (Meryl Streep), “The Bridges of Madison County” (1995)
When Francesca’s family is away at a fair for four days, this Iowa housewife meets photographer Robert Kincaid (Clint Eastwood) and unexpectedly falls into a romance. During an impromptu dance in her kitchen – to the music of Johnny Hartman’s “I See Your Face Before Me” – Robert utters, “If you want me to stop, tell me now,” and Francesca responds accordingly.
2. “I knew it was you Fredo. You broke my heart.” – Michael Corleone (Al Pacino), “The Godfather Part II” (1974)
No, this moment wasn’t a romantic lock on the lips. You see, Michael knows that his brother Fredo (John Cazale) is a traitor and informs him – of this known fact – to his face.
3. “Hey, You.” – Bob Harris (Bill Murray), “Lost in Translation” (2003)
When actor Bob Harris leaves Tokyo by car, he spots Charlotte (Scarlett Johansson) walking on a busy sidewalk. So, Bob makes the chauffeur stop, and the thespian scampers to her and gives a proper goodbye, one out of friendship and respect.
4. “What’s happening?” – Dale Doback (John C. Reilly), “Step Brothers” (2008)
When Dale punches Derek (Adam Scott) in the face, the man’s wife Alice (Kathryn Hahn) – ironically – becomes instantly attracted to him and shares an awkward smooch. We think this is Dale’s first kiss!
5. “He says it’s the chance of a lifetime.” – Mary Hatch (Donna Reed), “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946)
When Mary Hatch and George Bailey (Jimmy Stewart) share a phone call with Sam Wainwright (Frank Albertson), the aforementioned pair speak a little too closely to the receiver, and the floodgates open.
