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Ah man...
My first memories of Jack Palance were as a kid watching Ripley's Believe it or Not. He was the creepy host. It wasn't until I was much older and into Film Noir that I discovered how powerfully creepy he could be.
When I saw, Panic in the Street for the first time I was riveted. I couldn't believe that *this* was the Believe it or Not guy. This young, chiseled, menacingly powerful character actor was brilliant. I more than impressed.
Then it was Sudden Fear (if you haven't seen this film... what are you waiting for?) he plays an out of work actor who scorned by casting director Joan Crawford. His revenge is a slow burn that would make any conniving evil-doer look like a pansy. Not to mention that Gloria Graham and Joan Crawford are awesome.
The Big Knife. Another massive film. Rod Steiger and Jack Palance in one film. Mano a mano. Rent it. Rent it now.
I could go on... but will just say this. If you only know Palance from City Slickers and Batman... do yourself a favour and have a look at his early works, especially the ones I have mentioned above. You will gain a new appreciation for his abilities.
I knew the day had to come soon as he was getting old but it's still sucks to lose someone this cool. The nice thing is that he lives on his films.
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"My hands are on fire. Hands are on fire. Ain't got no more time for all you charlatans and liars."
- Old Man Luedecke
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