Picks from the UCLA Robert Altman retrospective

The ongoing UCLA retrospective provides a chance to go deeper through the films of Robert Altman. Even if dismissed or disliked on first viewing, his work always deserves another look.

Here are three prime examples coming up:

“Buffalo Bill and the Indians, or Sitting Bull’s History Lesson”

Leave it to Altman to release a movie amid the 1976 bicentennial that was like a pin into a parade float — deflating the myths of the American West, heroism and show business in one throw. Yet it is odd and funny and insistent, with powerful performances by Paul Newman and Burt Lancaster. (June 9)

“Popeye”

With “The Long Goodbye” long since revived to the level of appreciation it deserved all along, Altman cultists have more recently turned their attention to resuscitating this notorious 1980 flop. Starring Robin Williams in his first major film role and with music by Harry Nilsson this is by no means a kid’s movie but every inch an Altman picture, with a rambunctiously stoned sweetness. (June 8)

“A Prairie Home Companion”

For insurance purposes, an ailing Altman needed a backup director throughout the production, so no less than Altman acolyte Paul Thomas Anderson sat at his side throughout filming. That sort of gentle, meaningful act of kindness and appreciation informs the film, as Altman’s final movie is infused with a sense of whimsy and wonder. (June 29)