Tikisoo

I really enjoy German expressionism films, especially those of Fritz Lang; the style, the look, the generally drawn out stories. I find no matter how great these films are, if watching them on DVD, I have to watch them alone. (theater viewing is an entirely different story) Most people I know have much shorter attention spans and just lose interest and can't follow the story. I also notice films that have little action but rely on dialogue such as THE PICTURE OF DORIAN GRAY don't capture a "casual viewer's" attention. It's as if they don't really listen to what's said, they are waiting to be shown the story. And if it takes too long, they forget the story arc. The succinct tight editing of later films that barely allow you to breathe between action sequences seem to be all today's audience can digest. So I think there are a LOT of great movies that are hard for some people to watch, not because the story is hard to take, but it's just not told FAST ENOUGH.

>Uncomplicated, she was just plain nice. I think that niceness has long since gone out the window and that's probably one reason why she is disliked so much now. Her kind of sweetness is absolutely no longer tolerated in this cynical age. Her films represent a different era and I , for one, enjoy most of them. Very nicely stated, thank you.

As soon as I saw the title of this thread I knew there would be pages of disdain for Allyson. Well, I like her just fine. I like her sunny face & personality. Her voice sounds fine to me, especially when singing. Her hairdo, yeah, it's like a rigid blonde helmet and not really flattering to her face, but I can think of other hairdos on other actresses just as bad. And yes, I wasn't crazy about her in LITTLE WOMEN, but Kate Hepburn gets the same disdain for her portrayal as well. But just like with Kate, I just don't understand the hatred Allyson garners. Someone mentioned Rosiland Russell as SOTM, people generally dislike her screen presence too. What is it about these women people dislike? Their "mannishness"? They can't ALL be sex kittens like Rita Hayworth or Ava Gardner, what a boring world that would be.

>About DVD recorders : I have a Toshiba model VCR-DVD Recorder. I've had it for a couple of years now. I hardly use it. I can't understand how to use the thing. Oy, I have that same recorder and worry about it crapping out I use it so much. It's set up at MrTiki's who has the highest tier cable subscription. (I only get over-the-air broadcast) It works EXACTLY like an old VCR, you set the timer, load a blank disk & forget about it. I'll walk you through it if you like. >It's the same with digital cameras for me. I just want to drop in the film and take some pictures. You're right. Have someone program your digital camera to just function as a regular camera: leave the setting on "auto focus" and you'll have 3 easy steps-Turn on, Focus, Press button-done. Take your entire camera to a REAL photo processing place (every town has one) and they will take the "memory card" out of the camera and print whatever photos you choose.

>Does anyone have any stories Mutalating they GI Joes? (kids can be cruel.) I enjoyed popping off limbs of my Jane West doll, it was easy & reversible. I'd stick legs and arms and even the head in my mother's houseplants dirt for effect. It wasn't to be mean, but more "set decoration". Today, my "adult" home has many mannequin hands, legs & heads in key positions. "Action figures" really came into general use when those Star Wars toys came out. Most kids found the tiny size outrageous, they were obviously marketed to collectors. Certainly no "action" involved.

Amazing everyone here loves STRAWBERRY BLONDE and I can't stand it. I dislike stories about taking advantage and abusing someone's feelings so blatantly. I also really disliked LOVE ME OR LEAVE ME for the same reason, I just get frustrated with the stupidity of the charactors. But I have a copy of SB and will give it another look. I've watched 2 more of the Errol Flynn box set-OBJECTIVE BURMA and DESPERATE JOURNEY, both directed by R. Walsh. I loved Flynn in OB, I distinctly heard his accent, especially when he said "radar" and "adeen" for "eighteen". Did Flynn try to tone his accent down for film, or was it kind of watered down from his worldly travels as a young man? I spent time in Australia and for the most part found the accent indistinguishable from a British accent, save a few key words. I definitely liked seeing Flynn as a war hero and absolutely appreciated Walsh's choice not to linger on any killings-he usually faded out after an attack was clearly successful. James Wong Howe's photography was also a standout, a joy to watch. Flynn's performances in these films showed what a really good actor he was, along with his athleticism, making him wholly believable. But referring back to my OP, I identify with him much more in a social situation, in a romantic comedy lead. I really wish he had more successes in that type of film. I think he would have shone in any role William Powell had-Flynn has that mischievous air and handsomeness that melts any woman. Guess I need to see DIED WITH THEIR BOOTS ON next.

>At the end of the day we are responsible for ourselves. >You make it sound so simple, James. For some people, who can have emotional issues extending back to their childhood, it's not. Actually, it IS that simple....everything else is an excuse. I'm reminded of that skit with Bob Newhart as a psychiatrist where the patient says, "But I feel badly because my father ignored me so I act out for attention." "STOP IT!" "And I drink/take drugs to escape the pain" "STOP IT" (sounds harsh I know, but it all comes down to that) Jails are full of people who continually make excuses for their actions. Everyone needs to grow up and act responsibly in society, no matter what cards they are dealt. While I wholeheartedly agree those with emotional issues benefit from help and support, sympathizing and accepting excuses only perpetuates the downward spiral. When someone comes to me with their handful of excuses, I bring up Tina Turner's life or more impressive Oprah Winfrey whose childhood was full of horrendous roadblocks but still rose above all adversities.

Those are tough questions radio, I'm no expert on history, just riding. I would guess Native Americans became really great horsemen because they used a natural seat- bareback (or with a bareback pad) allows you to sit deeper with ultimate balance. And a really good rider doesn't need reins, you signal with your legs. Think of reins as more a "fine tuning" tool or emergency brake. The Native American in that painting is certainly not guiding the horse at all, he's concentrating on his aim. (look at how far back his leg & foot are) When that horse lands, that guy may fly off, but he doesn't care, he speared the buffalo. You can train a horse to "track" (run in a straight line) hunt, herd and a host of other talents allowing you to concentrate on your own business, such as roping a cow. Take a look at Portuguese bull fighting, done on horseback. It is this type of horse that founded the American Mustang, where herding is an instinct. The guy in your second photo is standing in his stirrups with his balance forward to steady himself. He's riding a draft mix type horse, known for their soft steady gait. This is the type of horse used in jousting and vaulting- in contrast a short light horse that would be used for polo. But yeah, I do find it amazing how skilled some riders & horses are, I'm lucky just staying on. Being a good shot was essential back then, with more talent needed than any controlled environment firing range. Couple that with the movement of a horse, questionable ground and it's amazing they ever hit their target. I'm glad "cowboy shooting" is gaining ground as a sport, there's even magazines for enthusiasts.

I haven't bought/sold movie posters through large auction houses, but have lots of dealings with large auction houses selling antiques. You are right to be cautious. I've purchased items only to find "substitute" items waiting for me, other buyers walked away with the item I really purchased. I've also caught Sotheby's (in particular) passing off repros & stolen items, claiming "Oh we didn't KNOW" bs. I would contact any auction house first and say exactly what your concerns are, they should be able to advise you so you feel comfortable mailing your items. Take photos, package everything in sleeves to protect them. You don't want to find any new damage to your pieces lowering the value. Your photos should be good back up for proving condition when sent. Insure your package, listing each individual item. I don't trust these people one iota. If it were me, I'd sell the items myself on ebay (which is where I sell movie posters) or better yet personally be at the auction (what I do if my consignment is over $1000) You want to trust them to send them BACK to you if they don't sell? Oy.

>Tiki, did you shoot that pistol with ONE HAND? I don't remember exactly what I was shooting 20 years ago, but most likely a leetle caliber pistol. (we owned scores of guns) I imagine I was holding the reins in my left hand crossed in front with my right wrist resting in the crook of my elbow. But yes, any recoil can make you lose your balance. Remember-you're absorbing 1000 lbs of upward thrust with your spine every stride. (like skiing or surfing) That girl in the photo is sitting way too high up on that horse's back for a good deep balance, an example of sitting on a horse vs really riding him. She's concentrating on hitting a target, not riding. The horse is compensating by holding his head up and is open to a slip or fall. My horse tripped yesterday and went down on her knees a split second-I stayed glued to the saddle but the poor thing bit her tongue or lip. It bled a lot but didn't stop her from chowing down! If that girl's horse tripped-she'd be in orbit! But yeah, that's one reason I don't care for westerns. So unrealistic. I bet a LOT of people suffered long before dying from sloppy gunshot wounds that simply could not be treated properly. A good horse & accurate shot together must have been one in a million.

>I think someone else hates yellow because they turned down the voltage and the sodium lamps glows blue. Haha, no one changes things because they don't like them....it changes because of MONEY. I definitely prefer the new "flat" bulb design of the new streetlights-they only shine "down" without as much sideways bleed. It's much better to illuminate the road than illuminate the sky. You really notice the horrific extent of light pollution flying at night. I can see the glowing clouds of both Toronto and NYC at the same time when flying in upstate NY. As for film, eh, there's filters. And with everything digital it's even easier to modify light & colors.

I didn't see any mounted shooting in the OP link, so not sure what you're talking about. Although I AM a fan of mounted shooting competition. I had a horse that tolerated shooting guns while mounted. We had a linear track where I never had to worry about her footing. I very rarely hit my target while cantering or galloping although I rated "master" in pistol competition (on the ground) And forget even TRYING to use a rifle! My assessment is accurately shooting from horseback was nearly impossible in the "old west". We're not talking about "groomed" ground and horses must have dodged or tripped on rocks & holes a lot throwing the rider off balance. If you have an evenly, steady gaited horse (probably worth their weight in gold) you still have to aim, hold your arm steady while flexing your torso and handle the recoil, even with a long barrel pistol. This is most likely why Wayne's Cogburn shot with both hands, just showering the "area" with bullets. Not realistic, but what a memorable scene!

>I don't believe the "F" word was in everyday usage 70 years ago the way it is now. >I don't have statistics to back me up, but when I lived as a 6 year old on Cathedral Parkway I guess it depends on your personal experience....I certainly wasn't exposed to those sorts of words. Maybe that's why when I hear prolific cussing in a movie, I'm offended. >VXavier said:Would I take children to see these films? Of course not. That's why we have a ratings system. But please, spare us a world where all films have to be 'family friendly,' or "polite." I'd probably never go to the movies again. Thank you for agreeing with my point. I too think some movies can go "over the edge" if it's an important factor of the story. I suppose what I find abhorrent is a regular movie about typical people that has so much swearing it just isn't necessary. Like I had stated earlier, CHASING AMY was a huge turn off and BIG LEBOWSKI and DEATH TO SMOOCHY were dangerously close to the language ruining the movie (for me) Just over-used. Obviously, the cussing in STAND BY ME was part of the kids "personas" of taking the leap into adulthood, independence in their eyes. For whatever reason, I didn't find the cussing in SBM particularly offensive. Was the F word in every other sentence? That's what I'm talking about.

I first took notice of him in MAGNOLIA and was surprised to see he was from the next town over from where I grew up. We're close enough in age, we probably bumped into each other around town. I then spotted him in a small part in THE BIG LEBOWSKI and was bowled over by his depiction of Truman Capote. I was so proud for this home town boy of his performances & talent. Truly a standout. What could have been so awful about his life that he would throw it all away? He had already been in rehab, he knew he was playing with fire. He owed it to his kids to have a Daddy. And who knows where his talent could have taken us in film? The very definition of the word DOPE.

>tracey said:People used rough language 70 years ago, they had sex (sometimes even before they got married), they went to the bathroom, they made fun of religious leaders and politicians. Just not in the movies. Exactly. It's just not polite, wise or necessary to include things like this in stories meant for everyone. If premarital sex is part of the story, they don't need to show couples grunting in bed-they usually show the gal in the Dr's office finding out the rabbit died. (or passed over if you're sensitive about the word died) >Arturo said: Anyway, I warned my brother and sister to not take my nieces to see it with them Why? Well because some people may be offended/embarrassed, that's why. So again, my point of "limiting your audience" is made by someone else. Really, that's the definition of "polite", trying NOT to offend anyone. I agree, you can't please everyone all the time, and your target audience may accept this off-color stuff....but by doing so you're cutting out a large chunk of people. I'm reminded of the 80's film THE DEVILS. It was a no-holds-barred view of the corruption of the Christian church. It was hard to take (I'm not even Christian!) with all the rampant sex and indignities. People were outraged and the film disappeared quickly. I completely applaud Russell for making this daring film, but if he really wanted to reach an audience to tell them this story, he could have toned it down. That wasn't his "vision", which he is entitled to, but now his film is in oblivion. >beats sugary. Heh I read "beats surgery"

>And my favorite: "Turn right here left!" Heh I say that one too! Along with when asked what the street sign is; "The sign says own-ee way. That's ONE WAY!" (from the Flintstones) I don't think many adults act out scenes from movies, but I bet many of us use quotes in our everyday lives. I love Charlotte Vale's line from NOW VOYAGER, "You didn't want me and I didn't want to be born. It was a calamity on both sides!" I often say "it's a calamity on both sides" when dealing with a problem at work. No one recognises it, but most laugh at the use of the word "calamity". I'm sure there's many more...

My golden retriever LOVED the Puppy Bowl and would try to play with all the pups on screen - entertainment for both of us!

>Some will argue, "If young people see sex in a movie, it'll make them want to have sex!" Yeah, well, they'll want to have sex REGARDLESS of whether or not they see it in a movie. Eh, some people seeing sex decide they never want it! How many of us accidentally stepped in on our parents? It's NOT seeing it that creates a mystique. >Some will try to reason, "If they hear foul language in a movie, it will INSPIRE them to use that same foul language!" I don't think so. My argument is when people see charactors OVER use foul words (most often the F or MF versions) like every other sentence, it normalizes these words. In other words, it loses impact for the viewer and therefore loses impact for the movie charactor as well. >when people saw the violence and murder in old films it was fairly clean, and the villains almost always were punished for their crimes. So the audience members identified with the victims but not the criminals. Good point, Fred.

>TikiSoo, after you see Gentleman Jim, I hope you tell us what you think. Is this a great film or what? OK, finished off the Adventures of Errol Flynn box set and closed with GENTLEMAN JIM. Although I enjoyed the features from the box set OK (skipped one or two) not ONE of them has stuck in my mind as "special". The subject matter only fits a portion of Flynn's personality-nothing portrays him fully. I was however impressed by Ann Sheridan whom I always wondered what all the hub-bub was about. But yes, GENTLEMAN JIM was a gem in many ways. It seemed all of Errol's talents were used in that one. And I concur praise be to Walsh. I couldn't picture fave Alan Hale as Flynn's father....weren't they around the same age? But wow what a great illustration parental influence! Both actors play the raucous Irish lovable rogue to perfection. Wish there were more scenes with them together. Everyone's style of acting fit their roles. And boy were you right about ubiquitous Ward Bond-the role of a lifetime for him! He finally had a part where he could ham it up. Bond certainly looked like he worked out in a gym. And yes, the historical aspect was marvelous. Easily the least interesting time period for me, it was enjoyable because it wasn't cloying. Corny? Yes, but people were more corny back then, a great depiction. I just love at the end when Flynn slaps his hand on Alexis' shoulder. Her look said it all and his oblivious expression made you realize down deep he's a rube. As you pointed out Tom, there's a million teeny perfections of Flynn's acting in this film. I did notice Flynn's accent seemed to come through more in this film than any other. Sex-ay. It certainly doesn't hurt to see Flynn scantily clad & shirtless in the same movie in sharp b&w formal garb. Wowie.

fx said: if you are going to sit here and claim that "only" low lifes used this type of language, then you owe me an apology in addition to millions of "decent" Americans who served during World War One and Two. You're right, I shouldn't have typed "only" What I should have said was that sort of language wasn't casually used by typical Americans of mixed sexes. War situation is wholly different, as is street gangs, construction workers, football players-anywhere men gathered. Could it be cussing was a sign of "how rogue & rebellious can I be" ? The use of bad language helps to define what sort of person is depicted. The OP was about a Wall St movie. If this is how those people speak, I'm not interested in what they have to say; I won't understand them. Limits your audience appeal. >Andy said:So only criminals and "low lifes" swear? Are you serious? If they have a sentient IQ, they'll tame their language in appropriate situations. (again, I shouldn't have typed "only or low lifes" sorry) Exactly my point though, that swearing defines your judgement abilities and therefore level of intelligence. The guys coming home in BEST YEARS OF OUR LIVES left the cussing on the battlefield, right? Sepiatone said: Usually, the people in movies who "cuss a blue streak" continually are displayed as being not so smart, or not so likeable. Thank you for being more eloquent than me. >I just saw this "Adam and Eve" commercial on the Spike channel and what the heck with the bleeping? See? It's attention getting. People are first shocked, then sometimes think, "I'll get attention too!" and they emulate it, that's what's not so good. Same with the twerking (whatever THAT is) Anyone remember my interaction last year with cable TV reality show? They encouraged me to "get angry & cuss" - the more bleeps the better! It was a big part in my decision not to participate. Oh that, and wanting me to grow a very long beard. ;-)

>Sepiatone said: People cuss. Today AND "back when" Not really. Language often separated those from the "nice" side of town from those on the "other side of the tracks". I never heard a lady or gentleman a generation older than myself utter a swear word. And I'll limit "swear" to be defined by Carlin's (media's actually) 7 words you can't say on TV. It was never acceptable for any "decent" person to use those words, only low lifes spoke that way. >Fred said: This is just NOT NECESSARY and to me it lowers my interest in reading the comments, because when I see curse words in them, I think of a group of teenage street-corner hoodlums talking to each other See? Decent, well educated, intelligent adults just don't speak like that. Swearing lowers others opinions of you, it's offensive. Of course, nowadays, people enjoy shocking others with how low they can be. (and reality shows definitely feed into that) >speedracer said: I don't think it's right to basically come out and say that because you don't like something in a particular film, that it shouldn't be in any film. No one's saying that. I'm saying using a plethora of bad language narrows the audience your film will appeal to, so why use so much? Don't you want EVERYone to see your movie? ANGELS WITH DIRTY FACES can be enjoyed by my parents as well as my kids. Still pretty brutal and appalling without any blood or cussing. How'd they do that? Why can't anyone these days do that? Does anyone in a public or professional situation talk like that? No, only low level people in society talk like that. So if your movie is about criminals, dialogue with lots of swearing might be appropriate. And I DO think casual swearing by regular people in movies "normalizes" it for impressionable teens. Ever listen in a high school hallway? (I always wonder what kind of job they think they're going to get) >Aurturo said: who counted the moans in Donna Summer's first hit record, the then controversial "LoveTo Love You Baby". He claimed that she had something like 100 **** during the course of the song And then he said, "I'll have what she's having" ba-da-boom. Since when does one moan equal one ****?

>Fred said: I believe things like this become noticeable only to people who watch films over and over again. I wholly agree with that assessment. But I also have become disenchanted with Hitchcock and for the most part find his films overrated. While there are a few gems in his crown, the majority of his films fail overall...while Billy Wilder or Fritz Lang's work is consistently more satisfying for the viewer.

I'm on the same page as the original poster- dislike outright swearing and sex scenes both. Really, the vast majority of classic films through the decades should confirm it's simply not necessary while it automatically narrows your audience. I can't tell you how many DVDs I won't show to my mother NOR my step daughter because of this. For example, even though my mother loves Steve Buschemi, she hated THE BIG LEBOWSKI because they all spoke like ghetto trash (she's right). Why not just tame the language down to "occasional" swearing where it may truly be needed? You'd certainly widen your acceptance. Anyone remember CHASING AMY? I don't remember a thing about the story, all I remember is the principles couldn't utter a sentence without the f word. What intelligent, educated, mature adult speaks like that? As for sex scenes, really? Just HOW does it further the story? We all know what it looks like, why waste valuable screen time on showing it? It's one of the reasons I love Bollywood films-I actually describe them as being like MGM musicals of the 50's. You won't see kissing, merely embracing and it actually builds sexual tension throughout the story. And if there IS an occasional swear word, it's in English....does that tell you anything?

>Part of the late Lawrence Tierney??? Sure, the part that when matched with John Dillinger's made two of a kind in a poker game Add Milton Berle to THAT Hollywood legend. From every report I've heard, it was true!

Thanks for bringing the article to us.....I enjoyed her point of view. I see very little connection between movies and the Oscars.