Cinema Sunday: Christopher Plummer

 

Last week, actor Christopher Plummer died at the age of 91. While Plummer had a long and varied career in film, I know of him primarily from three films. 

The Sound of Music

It's been a long time since I've seen The Sound of Music but I do recall that Plummer's  Captain Georg von Trapp was a bit of a stuffed shirt and seemed an ill fit to fall in love with Julie Andrew's free spirited Maria.   

Real life may have impacted Plummer's version of Capt. Van Trapp. Plummer did not particularly care for the character as written and resisted several entreaties to actually do the film. Whatever his misgivings about the role and the movie, Plummer's turn as von Trapp propelled him to Hollywood notoriety. 

Knives Out

One of the last live action films he made, Christopher Plummer's turn as  writer Harlan Thrombey in Rian Johnson's ensemble mystery film leaves an indelible impression. In his short time on camera, Plummer makes his character by turns sympathetic and a force to be reckoned with.  

Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country

Now THIS is the role where Christopher Plummer rocked out loud.  Plummer played General Chang, a one-eyed Shakespeare quoting Klingon who never met any scenery he couldn't chew through like an ear of corn. 

During the trial and Kirk and McCoy on the Klingon homewolrd. 

General Chang: Don't wait for the translation! Answer me now!

During his final assault on the Enterprise, Chang will just not stop his incessant monologue

General Chang: I am constant as the northern star!

Dr. McCoy: I'd give real money if he'd shut up...

Or just before Chang gets blowed up real good. 

General Chang: To be... or not to be?

Christopher Plummer was perhaps the most unique Klingon in all of the Star Trek mythos and perhaps the most memorable. 

I did not see this film but Plummer's most famous recent role was probably as  J. Paul Getty in All the Money In the World.  Originally the role was portrayed by Kevin Spacey.  After sexual misconduct allegations were made against Spacey, he was excised from the movie.  With Christopher Plummer cast as J. Paul Getty, twenty-two scenes were reshot within eight days a mere month before the film's Christmas release date in 2017. 

Despite the short lead time, Plummer turned in a performance that was rewarded with a variety of award nominations for Best Supporting Actor.

Christopher Plummer was among the last of a dying breed of classic old school acfors. 

God bless, dear sir, and rest in piece.  

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Next Sunday is Valentine's Day and Cinema Sunday will turn the spotlight on a romantic comedy.