Though late 2006 saw me beginning my addiction to classic films, Stewart Granger was one of those actors who did not cross my radar until just a little over two years ago. In fact, to be honest, I had never heard his name or seen his face until spring 2011, when I was finishing up my quest to see every film on Grace Kelly's filmography. Green Fire was one of the remaining two films I needed to see, so when I noticed it on the TCM schedule, I immediately programmed my DVR, despite not having a clue who co-star Stewart Granger was. I found the film somewhat boring and his character fairly annoying, so I didn't come away from that film enamored of him and wanting to see more of his work. However, at least at that point I knew who Stewart Granger was...plus, I did find the man himself (not his character) to be rather appealing.
Several months later, I happened upon a few more of Mr. Granger's films, including The Prisoner of Zenda, which I found completely captivating. I began seeking out more of his works, and as I did so, he made his way onto my favorite actor list, where he firmly occupies a place in the 20-25 section, in the company of such men as Joel McCrea, Van Heflin, Audie Murphy, Richard Widmark, and Claude Rains.
Although I'll also be reviewing films of others, as well as a couple baseball films I didn't get to in April, Mr. Granger will be seeing the lion's share of the action here in May, as I celebrate his centennial year. I hope you'll join me in the celebration.
