Tikisoo

I also think it's a fun idea, where do you get your imagination? But also, I think it's not going to have it's desired effect. I restore old movie theaters and would love to have a line on reproduced art deco wall sconces for indirect lighting. Of course, for a theater they need to be 3 ft tall. PM me for photos of some very simple but effective vintage designs and make a few extra for me! What works in a public theater does not work the same as in your home. The best theater experiences are ones where the room is very very dark. At home, ambient light works a little better. I prefer low level lighting on the ceiling, rather than wall level. Dimmers are a MUST. Comfy couches are what most people prefer to watch movies in at home. We put a few couches in the balcony of a theater, and even *I've* fallen asleep in them! Theater row seating works better for keeping you upright and awake, although I prefer sitting in my single chair for movie watching at home. (yes, I have old deco seats-every restoration I've worked on they discard seats) I definitely like the idea of having a motorized curtain whether at home or in the theater. THAT to me, is a MUST. Also, my 5.1 SS is my dearest possession. Other people have bigger TVs, nicer houses, but my 5.1 enhances my experience more than any other factor.

> {quote:title=Hudson_Hawk wrote:}{quote} > Compare for a moment Kelly, and another of the screen's legendary beauties, Ingrid Bergman. I'd rather compare Kelly to Katherine Hepburn who played the same role. Sure, Kelly is beautiful, but I actually find Hepburn much more attractive. Kelly looks like a statue, Hepburn looks like a woman. Hepburn's less than perfect face gives her a much more appealing quality, the face of a complex personality. And Kate was so convincing as a rich heiress brought up in the lap of luxury, she brought a biting humor to the role, almost making us feel sorry for her. (poor little rich girl syndrome) You can feel Kate's frustration whereas Kelly is simply reading the words. Philadelphia Story is a successful romantic comedy. High Society is a musical with Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby & Louis Armstrong.(everything else is forgettable) And let's not forget Virginia Weidler's fun performance as the little sister. Had she not been cast next to titans Grant/Hepburn, she could have stolen every scene she's in.

Thanks Miss Goddess! Those pictures are great. I think Kim Novak is a natural beauty and talent, and enjoy every film she's in. I especially like the photo of her and the horse! She looks exactly the same and certainly has kept a great figure!

Thoughtful interesting comments.... I never warmed to this version either. If anyone ever says Katherine Hepburn or Cary Grant aren't good actors, High Society is a good example for comparison. I think Grace Kelly is a bore and Bing is too old and creepy to be considered suave, imho. I do like Frank a tad better than mumbly James Stewart, in their role, though Stewart is physically more impressive than teeny Frank. But Frank brings a sophisticated confidence to the role. The songs are definitely "add ons" and fairly weak, but I love the line, "...she got pinched in the As-tor bar." Then added, "She was stoned!" ...never fails to crack me up.

Great the opinions are so varied! I loathe Bing, although he had a fantastic voice and even have a CD of his. I love Frank and Elvis because I feel both had bucketloads of natural talent. I am often amazed at Sinatras acting and dancing talent....coming into it completely untrained! I think Elvis would have been better too, had he been given better challenges. They both worked hard to be the best they could. Sadly, Frank's gorgeous voice crapped out early due to alcohol & drug use. And Frank's arrogance kind of ruins his persona for me. He was too power hungry and impressed by the wrong things, like gangsters. But I can still appreciate his immense talent. Elvis strikes me as a truely unspoiled American boy who was just born with divine talent. His singing is average, but his phrasing injects huge emotional impact. I'm sure some arrogance crept into his life, but deep down he was a simple country boy. I never realized it until I visited his "mansion" Graceland, which turns out is fairly modest compared to todays McMansions. Ann-Margret is the female counterpart to Elvis, which is why they are so electrifying together in Viva Las Vegas. These are performers who express their "inside" emotions on the "outside"....who doesn't connect with that?

I think everyone knows the story of the costumer who picked up the long Prince Albert coat at the thrift store for Frank Morgan to wear as Professor Marvel. After filming, the costumer found a label "L.Frank Baum" sewn inside, too spooky. I tell that story often and people think I'm making it up, but it's corroborated in several books, most noteably, "The Making of The Wizard of Oz" by Harmetz pg 241. I was in B&N bookstore last night and thumbed through a new book on LFrank Baum. In it is a photo of Baum dancing on a table during the years he lived in California. I believe he is wearing the Prince Albert coat in the picture.

I missed a lot of the day due to work, but settled down for Les Miserables in the evening. Seen other versions, but couldn't wait to see Fredric in this role... March is absolutely wonderful and the only actor I can think of who is as dramatically strong enough to counter powerhouse Laughton. Plus, it really showcased March's range and power while at the same time showcased Laughton's deft subtlety. At times, Laughton's face looked (uncharactoristically) like a baby's while March seemed driven and tender at the same time. The fact that Laughton doesn't steal the picture from March is a testament to his strength as an actor. The filming of the story was great. Several dramatic close ups which I'd usually dislike on the big screen, but those faces were so over the top expressive, the close ups translated very well on my TV. I love The Best Years and Middle of the Night, but had seen them both earlier this year on TCM. Les Miserables was a real treat for a March/Laughton fan!!

I'm a huge Stanwyk fan too! I've been into old film since my teen years and only discovered Babs in the past 5 years or so. I've collected several DVRs of her pre-codes and made my own Barbara Stanwyk Box Set. There IS a previous thread, "Is Barbara Stanwyk Pretty?" I certainly think she is, because she really doesn't look like a movie star, she looks like any ordinary American gal. (well, any gal who has pro costumers, hair & make up support) And she can show all sorts of complex emotions in her charactors. She's vulnerable, but never weak. She's strong, but never mean or bitchy. She's sexy without being sleazy, even when playing a tramp. I've also stated before, I believe Catherine Keener [her imdb listing|http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001416/] could portray Stanwyk well in a film. They have similar looks and persona. Just my 2?

> {quote:title=kriegerg69 wrote:}{quote} > Supposedly, Carrey was interested in doing it, too. And that's just it. We ALL like being offered a job. We can't expect all those involved to TURN DOWN an opportunity to work, no matter how insipid the project. So if Carrey signs on, everyone gets excited at the prospect the film's going to be successful and they continue with it. Just like in the past, sometimes a big name can elevate the project. I had a friend recently tell me how fun & entertaining the new Sandra Bullock film was. I thought "great, glad SOMEone enjoyed it." I'm glad there's all sorts of films out there & all sorts of viewer tastes. BUT....some should have the good sense to be left alone. I remember over 10 years ago getting a script for "Curious George". The script was SO BAD I couldn't even get through the first 20 pages, just awful, like written by a high schooler. I usually keep scripts, but this one ended up in the recycling. Another six or seven years passed and I see ONE commercial for this "Curious George" film on TV. I was amazed they could make ANYthing of that mess. It died a quick painless death. All I could do was shake my head and wonder how ANYone could have thought it would work.

I LOVE that photo. I love seeing the old studios and trying to imagine what it was like to work there back then. I especially like the odd orientation of some of the "exteriors." As a past location scout I know the importance of knowing which way a building faces to know when exteriors can be shot for the correct light. And that building with the high "bump"...my imagination sees Dorothy's tornado created in there. Reminds me of seeing Disneyland for the first time, after numerous trips to ever-expanding cancerous Disney World. The original "land" is crammed within city blocks of Anaheim, surrounded by a tall chain link fence. When they set off evening fireworks, the whole area sees them. Graceland, Belmont Horse Racing Park & to a certain extent Churchill Downs (Kentucky Derby) are all surrounded by dense development now too. It makes them seem like oasis. Have the old studios sold off property and downsized? I always thought they went the TV route; the big soundstages & outdoor street scapes were still being utilized. Please update me!

> {quote:title=gagman66 wrote:}{quote} > FOR GOD'S SAKE! When will these infernal remakes stop??? When people stop going to see them? I'm always amazed that it seems like EVERYONE shares my opinion about the crapola coming out of Hollywood in the last decade. With the economy so low why aren't people staying away in droves? If these "movies" continually lost money, they would stop making them, wouldn't they? And what really frosts me is no one is giving new writers a chance. I know several people who are screenwriters and can't get a break. One even has a *great* idea for a film...I've proofed the script...and no one will talk to him because he's not "proven".

> {quote:title=Hudson_Hawk wrote:}{quote} > Skelton was the most godawful excuse for an actor, comedian or movie star who ever managed to finagle his way into employment in the entertainment industry. Terminally unfunny to the point of being offensive. Wow, pretty strong wording there, Bub. I don't care for Skelton either and could barely watch even 20 minutes of him during my lunch break yesterday. Not everyone feels the same as we do, though. Red seems to appeal to kids and I like the fact there are major studio films that feature adult actors that kids enjoy. The other prime examples are Danny Kaye and Abbot & Costello. Those are truly "essentials" for juniors; grown up films for kids. There seem to be very few of these "kid appeal" films that I still enjoy as an adult. Bob Hope (the Road & Paleface pix) and Jack Benny (Horn Blows@Midnight) films are definitely exceptions.

> {quote:title=finance wrote:}{quote} > It starts out, "You know, Sinatra is skinny and only weighs 130 pounds, but 110 pounds of it_______________ "

> {quote:title=finance wrote:}{quote} > Speaking of enormousness, I assume you've all heard Ava Gardner's remark about Frank Sinatra. No, I've never heard it, but if it's about Frank, I could handle it. Just please, no personal info on Mickey Rooney.

> {quote:title=hamradio wrote:}{quote} > Now you put that thought of Milton Berle having sex in my mind.(lol and yuck). Well, we ALL know the "legend" of Miltie's enormity. And I'm suspicious of anything I read on wiki....unresearched "facts" and a lot of opinion are often the bulk of contributions.

> {quote:title=butterscotchgreer wrote:}{quote} > have you ever seen Easter Parade? it also has the loverly Annie Miller My mother pointed out to me that Ann Miller is only ever seen dancing with a parner briefly. In any big musical number she dances alone. All attention on her, she shares with no one. Wonder how she got that kind of clout?

I think this is great. Mildred was a modern charactor for her day and I hope she translates well for today's younger generation. Her story seems just a bit "average" today compared to almost freakishly brave and independent for back then. If it takes a big name star to recognise the value of classic film and expose it to their generation, that's ok with me. Drew Barrymore seems like the only "younger generation" star who has successfully bridged the gap between 20 and 50 somethings. I just love her. (I'm a 40 something)

I am lucky enough to live in a city that has a HUGE independent used CD/DVD store. I am amazed at the plethora of modern films on the shelves that I wouldn't take home even though they are priced at $5. "Classic" films sit on the shelves for months untouched, usually until I break down & buy them. (the owners/staff count on me for this!) So yes, on a marketing standpoint I can absolutely see how unpopular classic film is to the general public, vs typical modern films. They are dust collectors on a typical DVD store shelf. Kids these days just don't realize what gems classic films are. But isn't that the fun of classic films? (or music for that matter) Going back in time and discovering all the great stuff you've never seen before? People need to *see* it before they *buy* it, which is why TCM is such a great marketing tool for DVD sales.

> {quote:title=Ascotrudgeracer wrote:}{quote} > Have you ever suffered through a British musical? Horrid! Ouch! Our film group screened British musical Evergreen (1934) starring British powerhouse Jesse Matthews a few seasons ago. It rivaled all the Busby Berkeley musicals of that time. You should check it out next time TCM airs it. I am a hard core musical fan, which is tough for most of my friends to stomach, they just see it as "corny". Yes, MGM musicals were outstanding and defined an era and genre. Musicals directed by Busby Berkeley were also outstanding and defined another era & genre. Bollywood musicals are another favorite that define a more modern era & genre. Some musicals are structured like stage shows where there was a distinct story and distinct musical "stage" type numbers. Some musicals have the singing (& dancing) as expression of emotion to further the story itself. Bollywood films often have musical numbers to express physical affection their censor boards simply won't allow. Some people only like one type of musical, while others, like myself can enjoy almost ALL musical films. And I'm thrilled with the new films geared towards kids like High School Musical and Hairspray. They are just a bit too juvie for myself, but a positive step in the right direction-getting kids excited about singing & dancing in film!

I can recall hearing lines in older (30's-50's) films where people state, "You know it's not good for you." when asked for yet another cigarette. I think people instinctively knew it was a heath hazard despite no warnings. Maybe hacking coughing, wheezing and inability to climb stairs tipped them off I recently watched Now Voyager (yet AGAIN) and all the smoking actually makes me laugh out loud. The whole ritual of smoking is glamorized in that film, it's supposed to be oh so romantic when Charlotte takes a drag, looks up with loving eyes and blows a puff of smoke into Gerry's face. Absurd!

> {quote:title=CineSage_jr wrote:}{quote} > As readers of the now-locked thread know, my criticism of Capra runs pretty deep, though I could not agree more with his reaction to, and estimation of, Glenn Ford. Wow, I usually agree with you CSJ, but I'm gaining new appreciation for Capra all the time (although I dislike the Mr Smith film in particular) I want to back read that thread for your insights. Funny, I've never liked Glenn Ford either, I wonder if his inner personality comes through his performances somehow? I trust Capra's take on it, he seemed to be ruled by his emotions and not put up with any negativity. Plus, he completely recognised Stanwyk's talent. > Capra was right, too, about Peter Falk, one of the truly wonderful, unsung masters of his craft. Peter Falk, otoh, can completely light up a picture. He is only briefly in my favorite Wings of Desire with very few lines, yet completely gels the story. Sorry to hear he's ailing. A *truly great* talent.

What the heck IS that under his ear? An attacking pair of hairy pants?

*Capuchin*: I turn my tv on when I wake up, and it stays on until I go to bed. Me too. I've been suckered into watching movies when I should be doing other things. A few times discovered real gems that way. *cinemafan*: And, if we don't care for the star of the day, it's an great excuse to turn off the tube and get all those things done that we've put off *PrinceSaliano*: August is not as bad as February. Both those observations go together. February in upstate NY is like the Shining. TCM helps survive the hibernation. At least in summer, I can go outside. *JackFavell*: It makes my decision making very simple. And you know, sometimes I even find I end up liking someone who I disliked before...... *hamradio*: The other night was the FIRST time I've ever heard Harold Lloyd talk. A good reason to just have your TV on like Capuchin (& me) I discovered the joy of Marion Davies on her day, enjoyed snippets of Judy singing on her day, caught an unseen before Bette Davis and weeded my garden all Harold Lloyd day. I like SUTS. It may seem like "too much", but it actually creates variety in my viewing habits. It seems to bring out many opinions and change typical viewers patterns. Glad no one has"slammed" anyone they don't care for's "day". I'm no Glenn Ford fan, but enjoyed having lunch during Eddie's Father. I like Harold Lloyd, but can't enjoy silents on TV. But I'm sure glad TCM scheduled those stars & days! There's really something for everyone.

Trying to watch this again the other day, reminded me why I can't sit through it; the sound. I don't know what's up with it, but it sounds like James Mason is speaking from inside a metal culvert. Just a terrible echo-y sound. I love Judy and the segments of film of her performing are breathtaking. But all the speaking parts sound terrible. Anyone know what I'm talking about?

Just to let you know the reality of horse ownership in the US these days....with our economy tanking, people can't afford to properly take care of their animals. And recent closing of all US horse slaughter houses creates a practical problem for the disposal of euthenized horses, due to illness or injury. You can't just bury them in the yard, either. Perfectly healthy, sound horses are being abandoned every day in the US. In my equestrian internet forums, there's a posting weekly about a "horse found in our driveway". My board went up 30% last month and I've been unemployed since April. I live in fear of having to give my horse away.