HOLE IN THE HEAD (1959)

With the right role and strong direction, Frank Sinatra could do fine acting, and in the schmaltzy comedy HOLE IN THE HEAD, he gets both: a plum part (a constantly broke wannabe big shot) and a legendary director (Frank Capra of IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE). Plus, he gets to warble what became one of his signature songs, “High Hopes." Tony (Sinatra) is flat broke and not above a little scamming to get the cash to fund his high hopes. But more than making up for his deficiency of scruples is his love for a son (Eddie Hodges) who worships him. His high-minded big brother Mario (Edward G. Robinson) disapproves of Tony's swinging lifestyle but agrees to back him on the condition he settle down or give him custody of the boy. Does Tony give in to his brother’s tough terms? You have a hole in your head if you’re not willing to find out for yourself. Director Capra was smart. In scenes when Sinatra has to express intense emotion, we see him only from the back with his head bowed, or partially hidden by a door or tree. It's effective and touching. (Trivia note: Sinatra's best comedic role is the lovable hood Robbo in ROBIN AND THE 7 HOODS. I still debate which is his best dramatic performance: the would-be presidential assassin in SUDDENLY, the dope-plagued card shark in MAN WITH THE GOLDEN ARM, or the brainwashed captain in MANCHURIAN CANDIDATE. )