THE PLOT THUS FAR
“MONEY IS POWER This adaptation of Arthur Hailey’s bestselling book is a tale of power and greed in the banking business. Two ambitious vice presidents become rivals when an imminent board room vacancy arises. The Moneychangers won an Emmy Award nomination as Outstanding Series as well as an Emmy for Christopher Plummer in his role as one of the protagonists. Other nominations went to Susan Flannery (as Kirk Douglas’ lawyer girlfriend), to Joseph Biroc for his cinematography, and to Phill Norman for his graphics and opening titles. The Moneychangers is the story of how absolute power corrupts absolutely. ”
WHAT WE THOUGHT
“The Moneychangers” was a big mini-series back in 1976. It was from the guy that created Hotel and Airport, which means it’s about the third most melodramatic thing created in the last 50 years. Basically, two upper management types decide to have a business fight while their boss dies. It’s boardroom politics back when that kind of stuff didn’t destroy lives and send the country barreling to 2nd World status. Is there really a 2nd World? Oh well, we’re going to find out in the next 30-40 years. Please, let it take that long.
Kirk Douglas and Christopher Plummer try too hard here and it makes them look good. However, everyone else looks like chumps trying to keep up with the big dogs. The fact that Susan Flannery was able to squeeze some recognition out of this is on par with Pia Zadora winning a Golden Globe. It was bullshit three decades ago and now no one really cares. The only thing that this movie is missing would be George Kennedy yelling about how only he can bring things under control. I miss you, Hocken. You were my boy, dawg!
The DVD comes with no special features. The A/V Quality is pretty sharp. The Dolby 2.0 track creates a lively soundstage. That being said, that transfer is impeccable for a mini-series that time seemingly forgot. In the end, I’d recommend a purchase.
RELEASE DATE: 05/20/2014