Frank Sinatra: From Terrible to Legendary

When discussing actors who excel in one particular film but fumble in others, Frank Sinatra stands out as a notable figure in the entertainment industry. The story of Frank Sinatra provides an interesting narrative of an artist who sometimes produced self-indulgent works while delivering stellar performances in other productions.

The Experience of the 'Rat Pack' Era

Frank Sinatra, in collaboration with his Rat Pack buddies, such as Sammy Davis Jr., Dean Martin, and Peter Lawford, created a series of niche films that were entertaining for the performers themselves but often disappointing to mainstream audiences. One of their earliest efforts, 'Ocean's Eleven,' offered a glimpse of their initial foray into movie-making. This film, while fun for the group, did not resonate well with the general public, as it lacked the professional depth and direction typically expected from such productions. A remake was later made, which improved on the original, showcasing how the initial version was not up to par with the standard set for successful Hollywood films.

Frank Sinatra's Own Movies

Frank Sinatra's own films during this period often suffered from a lack of focus and direction. In 'Ocean's Twelve' (re-titled as 'Ocean's Eleven Part II'), the quality and professionalism of the work diminished, resulting in a movie that was a far cry from the quality and entertainment value of 'Sergeants Three' and 'Marriage on the Rocks.' These later films, while not closely associated with the 'Rat Pack' era, still starred Sinatra and were much more polished and professionally executed.

The Turning Point

The turning point in Frank Sinatra's career as a producer turned the tide when he and his friends produced 'Robin and the Seven Hoods.' This film featured Bing Crosby and Peter Falk, who stepped up their game and contributed exceptional performances, particularly Peter Falk's memorable musical number. The film included four minutes of Sammy Davis Jr. singing and dancing, a standout performance that is still celebrated today. Sinatra was also wise enough to ensure that his production company was involved in more serious projects, such as 'None But the Brave,' where he played a supporting role and even directed. This film, although unfairly neglected, was years ahead of its time and a testament to the talent and vision Sinatra possessed.

Legendary Performances in Other Productions

While Frank Sinatra's own films during the 'Rat Pack' era were often seen as playful and informal, his performances in other productions were far more professional and impactful. In films like 'Manchurian Candidate,' where he worked diligently and portrayed a character with depth and complexity, Sinatra delivered a performance that was both inspiring and deeply moving. This role required a level of professionalism and commitment that is evident in his contributions to other productions, but which was lacking in his self-produced films.

Conclusion

Frank Sinatra's career as a producer and actor showcases how personal projects and professional endeavors can diverge. While his self-made films sometimes showcased a lack of earnestness and professionalism, his performances in other productions were often stellar. This dichotomy in career highlights the importance of professional direction, effort, and artistic vision in creating memorable and impactful works.