Wednesday, December 17, 2008

CK4: The teacher/opponent



Edward G Robinson occupies the position in the Cincinnati Kid which would usually label him the villain. Robinson's character is decidedly not villainous, however. He both opposes McQueen in the game, and teaches him valuable lessons about life. He is everywhere cast as aged, knowledgeable and respectable. It is perhaps an interesting comment on culture and teaching that the opposition is the teacher - see my other blog (kingdomofinformation) for a comment on that.

Anyway, down to his clothes. It is likewise interesting that of anyone in the film, Robinson is dressed most like the villain. His gold tie pin, his three-piece, and his immaculate cuffs all speak to a care, even a fastidiousness. His materials are quite rich - silks, fine wools, pure white shirting, gold tie pin. He does seem to break the rule of unbuttoning one's bottom button - but that is in like with his character. His pocket square is plain, white and flat, not puffed. He is a man of distinction, in every way. And he has a wonderful odd vest.

No comments: