Tikisoo

> {quote:title=Ollie_T wrote:}{quote} > My biggest question has been, "Why am I so forgiving to so many bad films on TCM? Because the absence of commercial breaks keep your attention to the broadcast. As soon as there's any "break" in the story, it gives you the opportunity to start flipping channels, go to the bathroom, pick up a book....anything. I need that same concentration for silents....I need to be in a theater to really get the most enjoyment out of them. I can't stand commercials, I am in no position to buy anything, nor do I want to see people eating freshly baked cookies or pizza or ANYthing that's going to drive me to the kitchen like a cartoon dog sleepwalking after a steak on a stick. I wrote in another thread: >If for any reason TCM left the air, I'd cancel my cable subscription the next day. I'm not kidding. Sure, I enjoy the ocassional historical show or news coverage, but without TCM I could easily live without it, especially for the dough it costs every month. I hope the cable companies realize what a huge boon TCM is for them. I bet they'd lose 30-40% of their subscribers if they dropped TCM.

> {quote:title=filmlover wrote:}{quote} > Is Blu-ray Worth Getting? Thank you for posting that....it's a hot debate in this household since I'm a hand-to-mouth arteest with sporratic income. I don't replace anything until the last one truly craps out, and since I'm brand loyal to Sony, meaning even my ancient video tape machine is still going! I was debating whether to invest in a BR machine, since I already have a respectable collection of DVDs. But knowing I can play DVDs on it helps sway me to the dark side. Especially since the "used" BR section at my local store has quite the selection; only $9.99 for used BR opposed to 7.99 for used DVDs. I can think of several films (like Disney or Bollywood) that would be more spectacular on BR format, but not everything, like my educational film collection which is in rough found condition. I hate when a newer format eliminates the older. Nice to have a choice!

I was aware of TCM early on, but not a TV watcher, so no cable. My bf at that time didn't know what the heck to give me for Christmas, so I asked for, "a year of cable TV" That was around '95 or '96. I thought I had missed out on the early years of TCM, but apparently not really. In that city we received an international movie channel and I discovered Bollywood on top of it. This city doesn't offer it, so I have to get my B'wood fix at the theater or DVDs which at least offer subtitles to help me along. But I actually used to watch 3 hour movies not understanding a word! That's hardcore film watching. I've been hooked, addicted to cable ever since. If for any reason TCM left the air, I'd cancel my cable subscription the next day. I'm not kidding. When I watch stuff recorded from TCM in the early days, I enjoy seeing all the opening bits no longer used. They're like old friends.

Good point about the "one liner charactors". Capra films are full of them, like real life. Even Uncle Billy's pet crow & squirrel in the bank, little humanizing touches. I often quote "Shapley, cuz that's the way I like 'em!" (do you realize it's Shapley's (Roscoe Carnes) son who raises his glass as Harry Bailey to say, "To my brother George, the richest guy in town") And although Wilder films seem more cynical on the surface (I mean there ARE big differences in the directors) usually sweet sentiment (Sabrina) or at least truth (Stalag 17) prevails. Their few tragedies are earned playing with fire like Sunset Blvd & Double Indemnity. The biggest similarity of these 2 directors is really their large success rate of outstanding films, very few average films or stinkers. I absolutely LOVE the attention to detail of sets in Capra's films. The first time I ever saw It's A Wonderful Life on the big screen I was AMAZED at all the detail you miss on TV. The pin up girl picture on a post in the bank that WE see, but hidden from customers. The framed South American butterflies in the Bailey parent home, that turn up in George's home later. When George kicks his model bridge, you see publicity 8x10s of the actors playing his relatives taped to his work area wall. I just bought Meet John Doe on DVD and I'm sure once I watch it leisurely I'll find treasures like that in the newsroom.

Sorry if I'm stretching "Films and Filmmakers" to film techniques, but I have always wondered about lipsyching in movies: Does the person singing (say Gene Kelly in Dancin In The Rain number) actually sing while performing to a playback of the orchestra only track? Or because he's dancing, does he simply "mouth" the words because singing would impede his breathing? Does the playback tape have a track of the singer's voice recorded in a studio? Can the crew hear the live actor/actress singing above the playback? Wouldn't you have loved to have been on the set when Judy sang? If she ever did really sing while being filmed.

> {quote:title=LonesomePolecat wrote:}{quote} > Frank Capra is tied with Billy Wilder as my all time favorite filmmaker EVER. He is incredible. Amazing. As I was outdoors gardening this exact thought ^^^ popped into my head. >I hate how people think he's trite and don't take him seriously--look at how dark It's a Wonderful Life and Mr Smith Goes to Washington are. His films are incredible in every way---acting, cinematography, writing, etc. So great. Love him. I love analyzing his movies Me too. And quite a corrolation between Wilder/Capra. Very different directors, but similar craftiness. Ever read the book, "Nobody's Perfect"? I think it captures Wilder's spirit quite well. PM me if you don't know the book. Did you see my pictures of Seneca Falls, NY earlier in this thread?

> {quote:title=johnm_001 wrote:}{quote} Your entire post expresses my sentiments exactly. I only want to add that it saddens me when I meet a child of maybe 10 or 12 who doesn't care for the film.

> {quote:title=MGMMayer wrote:}{quote} > That sounds like the old burlesque routine where a guy hears "Niagara Falls" Isn't the title of that gag Slowly I Turn ? I love the 3 Stooges version...so lowbrow > how many Colleen Moore movies are out on DVD and/or shown on TCM? I just bought this for 1? and $3 mailing cost: And yeah, I think Mickey's up there in age. I can't remember last week.

> {quote:title=markbeckuaf wrote:}{quote} > I loved that interview, it is one of my all-time favorite interviews on TCM. Second was with Bob Mitchum. I love RO, but sometimes it's best to be with someone who delivers what is not expected. I agree, and RO is such a pro....Mr Calm & Collected, isn't he? The Mitchum interview reminded me of the segment in Zelig when Eudora Fletcher's Mom is interviewed and every question meets with a real dead end sort of answer. It's hilarious in a Woody Allen film, but I bet it wasn't for RO while the camera rolled! And I know someone who interviewed Rooney about his fantastic Twilight Zone episodes. He said Rooney was a sweet charming guy. But I'm sure my friend gushed over his legendary career, putting Rooney in a good mood.

OK, after watching the guest programmer's choice of Meet John Doe, I figured I should have it in my library for loan. Capra never fails, does he? There are several DVDs that come up when I search: all different release years, different covers, several grouped with other films. How do I know which version to buy? I realize none will be letterboxed, the film was made in a full screen format. But I want a nice crisp picture, I don't want some old grainy duped version. Was the film ever "restored", is there a better release over another? PS I am not really interested in any "extras", just a good clear version of the film.

Obviously great minds think alike... I absolutely HATE Forest Gump, featuring the low talent of Tom Hanks. The film is a series of insipid attempts at social commentary that is boring at best and insulting at worst. Woody Allen's Zelig is the correct, clever version of this film concept to watch instead. And boy, do I agree with johnm; Chariots of Fire was first to pop into my head when I read the threat title. But The English Patient certainly fits, but so awful of a film, I had forgotten about it! (although I saw it at the gorgeous Senator Theater in Baltimore!) Rocky may not be a great film, but it was upbeat, not vulgar and 99% of people enjoy it. I'm not surprised by it's winning best picture. But I certainly would have voted for Network, I think it's brilliant.

A movie a day? Be gone with you! As some of you here know, I listen to TCM for my 8 hour workday, that's roughly 4 movies. Then, after cleaning up, eating dinner, walking the dog I relax by watching a movie at 8pm and sometimes make it for another later, mostly though just a cartoon or a Benchley short to end my evening. I will clarify though, some days I only work a half day. So I watch or listen to an average of 3-5 movies a day. My best friend is a reviewer and I've known him to watch 4 movies a day if he has to.

> {quote:title=MarianStarrett wrote:}{quote} > Sorry to hear about your business TikiSoo Eh, I'm like the Langella charactor...as an artist you get used to this sort of thing. The rest of the country is in a panic, survival mode. Artists live like this all the time...hand to mouth. Two days later and that movie still has an impact, I'm still thinking about it. That's what good art does. That's why we are driven to do it despite the emotional and monetary poverty.

I watched this again last night just to see Mongo, you were a fun guest, it was great to see you. But I noticed LOTS of holes in the story this time. Didn't make it less enjoyable. 1. Walter Neff is narrating the story into a dictaphone after being shot. His voice is breathless since he's injured. EXCEPT when they forget about that. Throughout the movie his voiceover is normal, with a bitter tinge. Only when they use the bookend shots of him speaking, does his voice sound "injured". 2. He's shot in the shoulder/armpit area. Is that a fatal wound from blood loss? Minor wound? We only see a small blood spot. 3. Of course the door that opens OUT into a hallway. Never. 4. We don't see Neff kill the husband, only her face as it happens. I assumed (wrongly?) from the sounds that Neff used some kind of cord to strangle him from behind, as you'd have the correct leverage to do so from behind. Neff drags the body to the tracks. They report "broken neck". If indeed he was strangled, there would be evidence, bruising of the neck. How could Neff "break a neck" from behind? No room to swing a heavy impliment. Plus, people don't necessarily die from breaking the neck, especially within minutes like that. Can anyone set me straight?

THANK YOU for choosing this film! I was so excited to see it (& filmlover) I had taped it. My Mom is visiting me for the week and after watching 45 minutes into GWTW we threw in the tape. We both enjoyed the film immensely and she even commented, "It's so good to know there's still great movies out there to discover" since we both have had to dip into silents and foreign films to get that "new film thrill". I love turning friends on to films they may not know about and that SHOULD be the role of TCM "guest programmers". (I recall Tracy Ullman's choices fulfilling that wish) As an artist myself, I completely identified with the passion all the charactors had for the theater; the ego, the intensity, the disappointments & perseverence. And with the downturn in the economy, my business is hurting and I'm considering closing shop & taking a survival job. Langella's charactor resolve was most inspiring to me, especially since he wasn't just starting out, like the Hulse charactor. What a great film! And filmlover, what a cutie!

> {quote:title=musicalnovelty wrote:}{quote} > Most people don't like it, but realize it's a necessary evil. I don't agree, people use that excuse all the time. Commercials a necessary evil? TCM has proven that one wrong. The arrogance of the "sell". When will we get back to the "customer is always right" attitude?

> {quote:title=marinela_silvouplait wrote:}{quote} > It's still in the same spot as before, the lower right-hand corner. I have a duct tape rectangle on the lower right corner of my TV screen to cover all channel's logos. Distracting me from the show with a logo is a violation of my viewing play-zure. People who visit to watch a movie with me always ask, "What's all that duct tape stuck to the side of your TV?" I keep various size "blockers" handy....those big animated preview ones are the WORST.

Well, I love them both. And I'll add Donald O'Connor in that group too. The only distraction for me is their physiques...and face it, when we watch dancers, we're looking at their bodies. (even my DOG watches TV when Astaire's dancing) I really dislike Fred's skinny body. He looks like he just left a concentration camp. It does not add to him appearing "light" on his feet, only frail. Kelly's hunky athletic body is a joy to watch, especially since he preferred tight trousers that excentuate his shapely glutes & thighs. (Shapely's the name cuz that's how I like 'em) In the same vein, I think Cyd Charisse and Ann Miller have smooth gorgeous strong looking legs which add visually to their performance. Both Ginger Rodgers and Vera Ellen are adorable, but more "bouncy" and "light" looking.

Thanks ChipHearts for your very thoughtful reply. Like I was hoping this thread would do, I learned from it. As you stated about Water's intelligence and creativity, I have always really really liked the man himself. I love Baltimore and his dedication to showing that great city, it's decay and struggle for vitality might be our only historical reference in the future. (kind of like recently shown Engle's Little Fugitive chronicle of Coney Island) Funny he would be considered a "freak" when now he's considered "artsy fartsy mainstream" re: his Christmas Album, appearance on The Simpsons. But yes, he personified the original indie filmmaker. And his love of classic film is evident to everyone who watches his films. > he hit the nail on the head nearly 40 years ago about the trashy celebrity culture we wallow in today. Nice paralell to Network , Chip. My prediction about the popular trend of tattoos and facial piercing....where can self mutilation go? The next logical step will be voluntary amputation. "I'm gonna attract the chicks and repulse my parents at the same time by cutting off my finger!" > You can certainly dislike his work, but trust that he genuinely is expressing a unique artistic voice > His early movies are certainly vulgar (to the extreme) and raunchy, and I can see how this would turn off many viewers, > They're not for everyone, and that's okay Perfectly stated. I personally don't care for PF, I forgot about Female Trouble, but recall I wasn't impressed. But just because _I_ dislike his earlier films, I would never say his films are worthless. I like Waters and what he has to say, I just don't think he's always successful. The more people who accept your vision, the more successful you are. But many enjoy having a selective audience, speaking to the few rather than the masses-it's like having your own exclusive club. Like Ed Wood or Bert I Gordon lovers. > At least in my experience, *Eraserhead* needs to be seen in a theatre, with other people. Excellent point! Maybe I'll get a bunch of friends together and project it at the theater!

Well, I was going to start a thread, but adding on to this one seems more appropriate. I want to recommend All Of Me (1984) Carl Reiner's film starring Lily Tomlin & Steve Martin, showing on TCM Fri April 24th at midnight eastern. If you like kooky angel/ghost sentimental type films like Here Comes Mr Jordon, most likely you'll enjoy similar themed AOM too. Lily Tomlin is great as is Steve Martin, if you can suspend your belief enough to swallow the idea Lily controls one half of his body. Martin is just wacky enough to pull it off. This film simply would not have worked without such super talented actors/comedians. I bought this DVD in the used $5 bin solely based on Reiner's reputation and it's become one of my favorites, I was so glad to see it included on TCM's schedule.

I love Mary Poppins even better as an adult, it's a really terrific movie. I also love Chris Rule's brilliant "re-edit" trailer for "Scary Mary Poppins", take a look: Link:

> {quote:title=Metropolisforever_0 wrote:}{quote} > I would like to discuss this film - but I would like to discuss it in public.....Other midnight movies like Eraserhead, I'm glad you want to discuss it here, maybe I can learn something. A friend gave me Eraserhead several years ago and told me to watch it. I have tried to watch it 3 times, never getting past the first half hour. It bored me to tears. My feeling is, if I can't care enough about a film or the charactors enough to WANT to see the rest, it's a bust and a waste of my time. Storytelling, like any other art form is only completed by it's audience, otherwise, it's just ****. Although I think Warhol was insightful about art, the "art" he created was a sham, a joke on society. His philosophy was, "People will pay thousands of dollars for "art" created by an arteest, if the critics and society deem it worthwhile art. While those who designed everyday products (like soup labels & cookie jars) go unrecognised; really talented, practical, commercial artists are ignored." So he went on to produce art; paintings, films, music, whatever, that was mostly a joke. He was pointing out that because his name was famous, he could command ridiculous prices for stuff he didn't even make. Whenever I go to someone's house and they point out their valueable Warhol, I can't help but be amused.

One of the few child actresses that transitioned successfully to a teen actress and into an adult actress. I can't help but think it was her acting family that helped support her through. Whatever happened to her sister Juliet? I never hear of her anymore.

....and don't forget Moe! > {quote:title=MilesArcher wrote:}{quote} > Leslie and Clint

I agree with you. Waters early films are just awful, in the same ilk as Warhol. I would never recommend their films to anyone. (normal, that is) Amazing that such a great film like Hairspray could come from the same guy. I found myself on the job for a month in Baltimore several years ago and went out exploring some of the locations used in Hairspray (and Barry Levinson films too) and was shocked, shocked to see the lovely deco "Hefty Hideaway" storefront had been remodeled with the money they received from the movie. It now sports a bland fabric awning like any other storefront. People just don't get it do they?