Midnite At Sunset and Vine

Everything Old is New Again

2011-04-28T11:46:00.006-04:00

Spring 2011 Couture

We can always count on John Galliano for a little vintage glamour!! Here at Dior Spring 2011 Couture shown in Paris last week, Galliano pays tribute to René Gruau, Dior's fashion illustrator of the 40's and 50's. Full Skirts with Crinolines are back!!!!!!

Galliano~ who started as an illustrator himself before moving to design~ took references from Gruau's work and incorporated into his fabrics in the form of watercolors and illusions of pencil strokes and graduated three dimension with light.

Loving Someone who is not a Classic Movie Fan

2010-11-12T01:30:00.000-05:00

John Garfied and Lana Turner
in
THE POSTMAN ALWAYS RINGS TWICE

I think Hollywood in the 1930's-1960's was so much more interesting and fascinating than it is today. People like Kate Hepburn, Bette Davis, Cary Grant...they were actors. The studios controlled their images. The studios even added moral clauses to their contracts.

Marilyn gets her hair done by Kenneth

You have to read between the lines and really listen to the words when you watch a classic film. I like classic films because of the clothing,hair,makeup,dancing and dialog. And those publicity photos that the stars sent out to fans are absolutely gorgeous. For you parents out there, classic films are kid friendly. Classic Films are a time capsule of the history of entertainment. They reflect what was going on in society at that time. Before DANCING WITH THE STARS there was Fred and Ginger. Now, it's all about getting skinnier all the time and doing nude scenes in every film.

Fred and Ginger Glide across the dance floor

Earlier this week, I was trying to explain this to my boyfriend. When he thinks about Classic Films, he automatically thinks they will be boring. We were childhood friends and have alot in common but we are butting heads on this issue. In today's fast paced world,getting people to sit back and relax for a few hours is hard. I have started a must see film list for novice classic film fans. Suggestions are welcome! They are in no particular order. I have included a few from the 70's and 80's because they are some of the greatest ever filmed. I am also trying to take baby steps backward toward's the 1930's.

THE POSTMAN ALWAYS RINGS TWICE ( 1946)

A sexy film noir classic with John Garfield and Lana Turner. Greed,Lust,Adultry and Murder take place when a drifter stops in at a Roadside Cafe. This movie is white hot.

STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE (1950)

"HEY STELLA!" Directed by Elia Kazan. With Vivien Leigh, Marlon Brando, Kim Hunter, Karl Malden.

CLEOPATRA (1963)

See Burton and Taylor in their first film together.

DR. NO (1962) AND GOLDFINGER (1963)

Early Sean Connery at his best. Need I say more???????????????????????

PSYCHO (1963)

Alfred Hitchcock at his best. Stay out of the shower!

BONNIE AND CLYDE (1967)

Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty never looked better. Great Car Chases with Blood and Guts

EASY RIDER (1969)

Two counterculture bikers travel from Los Angeles to New Orleans in search of America. Stars Jack Nicholson,Dennis Hopper, and Peter Fonda directs.

THE GODFATHER I (1972)

About a fictional Italian afia family named Corleone. Stars Marlon Brando,Al Pachino,Robert Duvall, James Caan and Diane Keaton star in this mafia saga about the Corleone Family

THE GODFATHER II (1974)

Sequel to THE GODFATHER I

RAGING BULL (1980)

Bio of boxer Jake LaMotta. Stars Robert Deniro and Joe Pesci. Filmed in Black and White. Great direction by Martin Scorsee. Great Classical and Big Band music score

Great Movie Houses Hollywood at Home: architecturaldigest.com

2010-10-21T11:53:00.001-04:00

Great Movie Houses!

"Manderley" from REBECCA

Here's an interesting article about homes used in movies

http://www.architecturaldigest.com/homes/hollywood/archive/moviehouses_article_032006

"Tara" from GONE WITH THE WIND

Mr. Blandings "Dream House"

Funny Girl (1968 ) "Hello Gorgeous!"

2010-09-15T04:00:00.040-04:00

Cast:

Barbra Streisand ... Fanny Brice
Omar Sharif ... Nick Arnstein
Kay Medford ... Rose Brice
Anne Francis ... Georgia James
Walter Pidgeon ... Florenz Ziegfeld
Lee Allen ... Eddie Ryan
Mae Questel ... Mrs. Strakosh
Gerald Mohr ... Tom Branca
Frank Faylen ... Keeney
Mittie Lawrence ... Emma
Gertrude Flynn ... Mrs. O'Malley
Penny Santon ... Mrs. Meeker
John Harmon ... Company Manager
Thordis Brandt ... Ziegfeld Girl
Bettina Brenna ... Ziegfeld Girl

Crew:

Director - William Wyler
Screenplay - Isobel Lennart
From Story - Isobel Lennart
Producer - Ray Stark
Production Manager - Paul Helmick
Assistant Director - Jack Roe
Assistant Director - Ray Gosnell
Script Supervisor - Marshall Schlom
Director of Photography - Harry Stradling
Editor - Maury Winetrobe
Editor - William Sands
Editor - Robert Swink
From Musical - Jule Styne
From Musical - Bob Merrill
Music Director - Walter Scharf
Music Editor - Ted Sebern
Music Supervisor & Conductor - Walter Scharf
Original Music - Walter Scharf
Original Music - Jack Hayes
Original Music - Leo Shuken
Original Music - Herbert Spencer
Songs - Jule Styne
Songs - Bob Merrill
Song - James F. Hanley
Song - Grant Clarke
Song - Fred Fisher
Song - Billy Rose
Song - Maurice Yvain
Song - A. Willemetz
Song - Jacques Charles
Song English Lyrics - Channing Pollock
Production Designer - Gene Callahan
Set Decorator - William Kiernan
Art Director - Robert Luthardt
Costume Designer - Irene Sharaff
Hair Stylist - Vivienne Walker
Hair Stylist - Virginia Darcy
Makeup Artist - Frank McCoy
Sound - Jack Solomon
Sound Rerecording Mixer - Arthur Piantadosi
Sound Mixer - Jack Solomon
Sound Supervisor - Charles J. Rice
Choreography - Herbert Ross
Titles - Lepard Newhart
Properties - Richard M. Rubin
From Libretto - Isobel Lennart
Voice-dance Arrangements - Betty Walberg
Public Relations - Jack Brodsky

The Backstory:

The film Funny Girl is based on the 1964 Broadway musical that tells the story of Broadway star Fanny Brice. It was based on Isobel Lennart's book, music by Jule Styne, and lyrics by Bob Merrill. The original production starred Barbra Streisand, Sydney Chaplin, Kay Medford, Danny Meehan and Jean Stapleton, and was presented by Brice's son-in-law, Ray Stark. The original production was nominated for eight Tony Awards, but won none.

Barbra onstage and backstage on Broadway

The film version of Funny Girl,was released in 1968, re-starred Streisand and Medford, Omar Sharif, Anne Francis (whose role was severely cut), Walter Pidgeon, and, in a bit part, Mae Questel. This was Streisand's first film.

A film sequel to Funny Girl followed in 1975, entitled Funny Lady. Together, both films make a sweet homage (if historically inaccurate) to the life of the talented comedienne and performer Fanny Brice. A previous Hollywood biopic allegedly based on Brice's life was released in 1939 and was entitled Rose of Washington Square; it starred Alice Faye, Tyrone Power, and Al Jolson.

Rose of Washington Square

Plot:

Funny Girl follows the life of Fanny Brice, an aspiring Broadway actress. She starts off the show as the 'ugly duckling' struggling to find work on Broadway. Then, with the help of her dance instructor, Eddie, she lands a leading role and eventually becomes a major star. Meanwhile, she falls in love with a handsome gambler, Nick Arnstein. After a long courting process, in which Nick would leave for months at a time, Fanny and Nick finally get married. Fanny gives up her Broadway career to follow Nick, but she is forced to return to the stage when the couple runs out of money. In the end, Fanny has to use all her money to support Nick's crazy business ventures. Eventually, Nick gets arrested and goes to jail. In the end, they reunite to decide if they should stay together or split up for good. You will have to watch it and see what happens.

Fannie Brice

Omar Sharif as Nick and Barbra as Fannie

Nick Arnstein

Production notes:

Release date September 18, 1968

Running time 151 min

Awards:
Streisand won the Academy Award for Best Actress (she tied with Katharine Hepburn for The Lion in Winter); the film was also nominated for Best Actress in a Supporting Role (Kay Medford), Best Cinematography, Best Film Editing, Best Music, Score of a Musical Picture (Original or Adaptation), Best Music, Song (Jule Styne and Bob Merrill for "Funny Girl"), Best Picture and Best Sound.

Barbra did not win any awards for her see through pajama pant suit!

My Review:

I really enjoyed this film. Last year, I happend to catch a Fannie Brice movie on TCM. Barbra Streisand acted,sung and danced like just like Brice. Streisand really belts out those songs. Great Performances all around.

Trivia:

*Producer Ray Stark was Fanny Brice's son-in-law and the baby that Fanny (Barbra Streisand) gave birth to was Ray Stark's wife.

*Columbia wanted to cast Shirley MacLaine as Fanny Brice. However, producer Ray Stark, who also produced the Broadway show and was Brice's son-in-law, insisted on Barbra Streisand repeating her Broadway role

*Frank Sinatra was seriously considered for the role of Nicky Arnstein but Barbra Streisand vetoed this as she didn't like him.

*The final musical number, "My Man", was filmed "live" both to maximize Barbra Streisand's dramatic rendition and because she hated the lip-syncing process.

Gypsy (1962) "Let Me Entertain You"

2010-08-27T02:25:00.000-04:00

Cast:

Rosalind Russell- Rose Hovick
Natalie Wood- Louise Hovick, later Gypsy Rose Lee
Karl Malden-Herbie Sommers
Paul Wallace-Tulsa
Betty Bruce-Tessie Tura
Parley Baer-Mr. Kringelein
Harry Shannon-Grandpa
Morgan Brittany-Baby June
Ann Jillian-'Dainty' June
Diane Pace-Baby Louise
Faith Dane-Mazeppa
Roxanne Arlen-Electra
Jean Willes-Betty Cratchitt
George Petrie-George
Ben Lessy-Mervyn Goldstone

Crew:

Produced by-Mervyn LeRoy
Original Music by-Jule Styne
Cinematography by -Harry Stradling Sr. (director of photography)
Film Editing by-Philip W. Anderson
Art Direction by -John Beckman
Set Decoration by -Ralph S. Hurst
Costume Design by-Orry-Kelly
Costume Design by-Howard Shoup (uncredited)

Makeup Department

Gordon Bau .... makeup supervisor
Sydney Guilaroff .... hair styles creator: Miss Wood
Gene Hibbs .... makeup: Miss Russell
Jean Burt Reilly .... supervising hair stylist

Production Management

Floyd Joyer .... unit manager (uncredited)

Second Unit Director or Assistant Director

Gil Kissel .... assistant director
Mecca Graham .... assistant director (uncredited)
Gregg Peters .... assistant director (uncredited)

Art Department

Pat Patterson .... props (uncredited)

Sound Department

M.A. Merrick .... sound
Dolph Thomas .... sound
William Thompson .... boom operator (uncredited)

Camera and Electrical Department

J.B. Allen .... camera assistant (uncredited)
Frank Flanagan .... gaffer (uncredited)
George Gall .... camera assistant (uncredited)
Charles Harris .... chief grip (uncredited)
William Perillard .... best boy (uncredited)
Harry Stradling Jr. .... camera operator (uncredited)
Clyde Taylor .... gaffer (uncredited)

Costume and Wardrobe Department

Bill Gaskin .... assistant costume designer (uncredited)

Editorial Department

John F. Burnett .... assistant editor (uncredited)

Music Department

Carl Brandt .... orchestrator
Frank Perkins .... conductor
Frank Perkins .... music supervisor
Frank Perkins .... orchestrator
Stephen Sondheim .... lyricist
Cubby O'Brien .... musician: drums (uncredited)

Other crew

Ruth Bridges .... secretary: Mr. LeRoy
Leland Hayward .... producer: stage-play
David Merrick .... producer: stage-play
Jerome Robbins .... choreographer: stage play
Jerome Robbins .... director: stage play
Robert Tucker .... choreographer
Erica Wernher .... script supervisor
Robert E. Blair .... dog trainer (uncredited)
Wayne Fitzgerald .... title designer (uncredited)

Plot:

Mama Rose lives to see her daughter June succeed on Broadway by way of vaudeville. Later,when June marries and leaves, Rose turns her hope and attention to her elder, less obviously talented, daughter Louise. However, having her headlining as a stripper at Minsky's Burlesque is not what she initially has in mind.

In Los Angeles,Ca, Baby June(Morgan Brittany) and Baby Louise(Diane Pace) audition for Uncle Jocko(Let Me Entertain You). Rose(Rosalind Russell)disturbs the audition. She chats with Jocko about booking an act that was fixed by mistake. The next day Rose heads to an old vaudville theater in L.A. to see if they have a place for the girls' acts. Rose runs into Herbie Summers(Karal Maldan)he was Uncle Jocko in Los Angeles. He quit being Uncle Jocko and want to stick with his job selling candy bars. They get aquanted with each-other(Small World).Rose has decided to head back home to Seattle in her broken down car. Herbie offers to drive them there. So, Rose takes her girls to thier father's house to refiance. Herbie waves goodbye to Rose and takes the train to Chicago. Rose gets a telegram from Herbie to say that the Weber theatre is holding kid acts. Rose begs her father to get her eightty-eight bucks for her and her family to Chicago. Her father disagrees and Rose tells him, "Everyone that stays home is dead! If I die, it won't be from sittin', it'll be from fighting to get up and out!". She then says how much the money means to her(Some People). Baby June makes a success of her hit number(Baby June and Her Newsboys). Couple months later, Louise(now Natalie Wood)celebrates her birthday. Herbie gives her a gift that Rose can use for June's(now Anne Jillian)new act. Herbie says to Rose that Mr.Goldstone can book their act for them. The whole "family" is happy and cherish him(Mr.Goldstone, I Love You). Right after this, Louise cherishes her gift(Little Lamb). Before the audition, Rose discusses with Herbie that she'll marry him after the audition. However, Herbie doesn't believe her. Rose gets Herbie to believe her(You'll Never Get Away From Me). The next day June and the boys try their act(Dainty June and Her Farmboys). It's a success, but they put a phenonemal ending to it(Broadway!). Grandzigar's assistant makes out a contract which Rose doesn't agree to, plus gets really fussy. She says no, but Louise tries to comfort her. While doing this, Louise wishes their Mamma could marry Herbie(If Mamma Was Married). Later, Tulsa(Paul Wallace), tells Louise about swingin' act(All I Need Is The Girl). At the end, Louise can't help joining in, and she hopes that she'll be Tulsa's partner. Everything goes awful again,

June runs away, so now Rose thinks up a plan to make Louise a star. Rose convinces to her that if she does this, everything will be alright(Everything's Coming Up Roses). In Texas, Rose brought 6 girls to try a new Vaudiville act(Madame Rose's Toreadorables). Louise tells her Mom that the act stinks. Now they go to The Witchita Opera House, for thier act. Rose and Louise soons finds out that it turns out to be a House of Burlesque. They meet Tessie Tura(Betty Bruce), Mazeppa(Faith Dunce) and Electra(Roxanne Alren). They tell Louise how to become a stripper(You Gotta Get A Gimmick). Rose makes a deal with Herbie that he can marry him right after they're out of Burlesque. They make plans for the wedding, but Rose wants to stay, since one of the strippers got arrested for shoplifting. Rose tells Louise that she's gonna take the stage. Louise doesn't agree with her, but she gets ready anyhow. Herbie gets mad at Rose, and their love is distroyed. Rose remembers how good Herbie was to her, and how they found their love was special(Small World Repriese).

Louise comes out of the room, and finds out she's really pretty. She sings June's old song(Let Me Entertain You). She soons becomes the Queen of the Striptease. Rose gets mad about this, and Louise tells her that she doesn't want her Mother to be around anymore. Louise tells her at the end, "Because for the first time it IS my life, and I'll be damned if you're gonna take it away from me! I am Gypsy Rose Lee! I love her! And if you don't, you can just clear out!" Rose shouts to Louise that how miserable she'll be without Louise. She asks her what she did it for, Louise replies, "I thought you did it for me," which brakes Rose's heart. Rose thinks it over, and Rose realizes that she hasn't had a turn for herself, and she shows off on the empty stage(Rose's Turn). Louise and Rose find their fondness for each-other, for being Mother and Daughter.

Quotes:

Rose Hovick: [on remarrying] After three husbands, it takes a lot of butter to get you back in the frying pan.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rose Hovick: [singing] You'll be swell, you'll be great. Gonna have the whole world on a plate! Starting here, starting now. Honey, everything's coming up roses.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rose Hovick: [contemplating an unneeded wig] You know, we could get a nice refund on this... if we'd ever paid for it.

Trivia:

During the rehearsals for Gypsy (1962), Mervyn LeRoy was not happy with the girl that he had cast to play "Dainty June". (This was before Ann Jillian was cast.) He thought that the actress was not as good of a dancer or singer as Morgan Brittany, who played "Baby June". He tried to make Suzanne look old enough to play "Dainty June" by having Orry-Kelly design older clothes with padding and having her wear high heels, but the transformation didn't work, she still looked too young to play opposite Natalie Wood, so another casting session brought the role to Ann Jillian. Ann was not really a dancer but her voice was spectacular and Mervyn felt that she made a more believable older June.

Three legendary women were considered to play Mama Rose on film: Broadway's original Rose, Ethel Merman (who was producer-director Mervyn LeRoy's first choice), Judy Garland and Judy Holliday.

"Gypsy Rose Lee" and Natalie Wood Backstage

The stage team had hoped that Warner would cast Judy Garland as Mama Rose and Ann-Margret as Gypsy. The two stars had heavy scheduling conflicts, so the production team passed on both.

Most of Rosalind Russell's songs were dubbed by Lisa Kirk. However, Russell's voice can be heard in "Mr. Goldstone," the reprise of "Small World," and parts of "Rose's Turn" and the cut "Together Wherever We Go".

Review:

I thought Rosalind Russell was good as as Mama Rose. She was very believable and even has a descent voice when you hear bits and pieces of it. Especially for “Rose’s Turn” the power in her performance is shown in that song, wanting to have her time on stage and impress. I just love how passionate she is with it all, I also love that in that song she has to say “curtains up” as she is telling how she sees her performance going.

Natalie Wood is just fantastic as Louise then Gypsy Rose Lee. As Wood is so beautiful she has the naive charm going for her and plays the unlikely stripper ever so brilliantly.

Karl Walden was the “man” of the story. I was amused how often they acknowledged that fact, but he really grounded Russell’s extreme behavior, and it felt like he held the group together, while also being so damn sweet and likable. His character could have come off as desperate orwishy washy, but he just seemed to be a man genuinely in love with not only Rose and her energy and passion, but her makeshift family.

It does have some very amusing moments throughout as well as heart warming but also quite dramatic moments. Some of the funniest lines come from Rose.! I really do think its a very good all round musical, with something for everyone.

Does this entertain you?

Awards:

Nominated for 3 Oscars. Another 4 wins & 6 nominations

July's Poll Results

2010-08-02T04:23:00.000-04:00

July's Poll results

What is your Favorite Teen Beach Movie?

It is a tie between "Where the Boy's Are" and "Gidget".

Thanks for voting!

First anniversary of "Midnite at Sunset and Vine" on July 23, 2010

2010-07-14T23:56:00.001-04:00

Hello to all of you swinging hep cats out there! That is me in Florida, on my first birthday.

A big "Thank You" goes out to all of the visitors to this blog. I try to highlight movies,fashion and music from 1930-1965. Hopefully, you will leave with a smile on your face. Everyone deserves an escape from the real world, especially with all of the negative events that happened in the world during the last couple of years.

I will be adding more pages over the next year. Stay tuned!

July's 2010 postings

2010-07-14T22:47:00.003-04:00

My July posts have been delayed due to ongoing chronic health problems and Laptop issues. I plan to publish several posts this weekend. I also plan to add an additional page to this blog.

I have something in common with Lucille Ball, Lionel Barrymore and Rosalind Russell and Kathleen Turner! I try to draw inspiration from these hardworking actors. Thank God for TCM!

A blonde Lucille Ball was stricken with Rheumatoid Arthritis while working as a model at Hattie Carnegie. She endured painful experimental injections of equine (horse) steriods for 6 months. Luckily, her arthritis went into remission, and she was able to have an outstanding acting career.

Rosalind Russell, Long an advocate for those with disabilities, late in life this unique and pioneering talent was struck with severe rheumatoid arthritis, which derailed her career. Thereafter, Russell championed the needs of millions also suffering from the disease. In the latter part of her career she was struck with acute rheumatic arthritis; instead of covering it up Rosalind went public, and did what she could to raise money for the Arthritis Foundation. For more info, Check out -http://www.rosalindrussellcenter.ucsf.edu/index.html.

Drew Barrymore's Great Uncle Lionel, was one of the very few screen actors in the 1930s, 1940s and early 1950s who had a prolific career despite being in a wheelchair. From 1938, his screen roles were written to accommodate his disability.

Kathleen Turner was stricken with Rheumatoid Arthritis while shooting Serial Mom (1984). It forced her into semi-retirement. She has since written a book and appeared on Broadway.

Now, if I can just get these internet explorer bugs corrected, "Everything Will be Coming Up Roses"!

See Ya!

Beth

New Features on Midnite at Sunset and Vine

2010-06-02T05:53:00.030-04:00

Hey Kids!

I have added the following pages to the top of this blog. There will be more coming over the summer.

Hollywood Backstage-I found a website that displays the videos from the AMC TV show. I was a big fan.
Swing Music 101-A Brief History of Swing

On the right side of the blog-

Arthritis Foundation link- Under the Poll.

Just a link to my one of my favorite charities. I am a sufferer of 2 kinds of arthritis. I was diagnosed at age 37. Did you know that there are 100 different kinds of Arthritis? Dogs and children get arthritis too.

Upcoming Posts include:

GYPSY, FUNNY GIRL, BECKET and ANNE OF THE THOUSAND DAYS

"Hollywood BackStage " page added

2010-06-01T01:44:00.000-04:00

If you are a big movie fan you may have enjoyed the TV show "Hollywood Backstage" on AMC. It has probably been at least 15yrs since it has been on. I have added several videos of the Stars at Movie Premieres, Award Ceremonies,Parties, and Sporting Events. Check back often to see your favorite stars out on the town or supporting local charity events.

Happy Birthday Marilyn!

2010-06-01T00:54:00.001-04:00

TCM is showing her movies today starting at 7 a.m.

Sunday in New York (1963)

2010-05-31T23:58:00.003-04:00

Cast:

Adam Tyler . . . . . Cliff Robertson
Eileen Tyler . . . . . Jane Fonda
Mike Mitchell . . . . . Rod Taylor
Russ Wilson . . . . . Robert Culp
Mona Harris . . . . . Jo Morrow
Flight Dispatcher . . . . . Jim Backus

Crew:

Peter Tewksbury.....Director
Everett Freeman..... Producer
Production and Distribution Companies.... MGM
Norman Krasna.... Screenwriter
Norman Krasna .... Play Author
George W. Davis.... Art Director
Edward C. Carfagno.... Art Director
Henry W. Grace.... Set Designer
George R. Nelson.... Set Designer
Leo Tover.... Cinematographer
Peter Nero.... Songwriter
Peter Nero.... Composer (Music Score)
Roland Everett .... Songwriter
Carroll Coates.... Songwriter
Robert Armbruster .... Musical Direction/Supervision
Orry-Kelly.... Costume Designer
John Truwe.... Makeup
William J. Tuttle .... Makeup

Plot:

Travel back to the early innocent 1960's, where men and woman sleeping in the same bed together was TABOO! This movie is one day in the life of a 22 year old women visiting NYC. She feels like she is the last virgin in the world. It is also about mistaken identity, hypocracy and love happens when you least expect it. Twenty Two year old Eileen (Jane Fonda)is from Albany, NY and at the last moment decides to visit her pilot brother in NYC. She needs advice.

When she arrives in the city,he is not in. She has a key and lets herself in. Meanwhile, her brother has just finished a flight), and he is looking forward to having a romantic evening at ( home) with his girlfriend named Mona. He is caught off guard when he finds his sister in his apartment. He chats with her and finds out that she has broken up with her Boyfriend Russ. Eileen thought it was time for her to finally find out what sex was all about. Russ was putting pressure on her to let go of her virginity. Next, Mona comes through the door after waiting by the elevators. She is really mad at Adam. His job keeps cutting into their date nights. Adam tells his sister that he and Mona are going ice skating,but they are really going to call friends to find an empty apartment for privacy. Adam is a smooth talker, but when it comes to his sister he becomes tounge tied. He and Mona leave the apartment to search for privacy.

Next, Eileen also answers a call from Adam's dispatcher calling him back to work. She leaves the apartment to give Adam the message.

The next scene shows Eileen on the 5th ave bus. She scoots past Mike (Rod Taylor) and her broach gets hooked/stuck to Mike's suit jacket. They are stuck together like siamese twins. Meanwhile,Adam is still on the payphone across the street. Eileen sees him and gives him the message from the airport.

Complications are ahead. Mistaken identity and Moral issues make the movie interesting. I do not want to give anymore info because I hate being a spoiler. There is alot going on in this movie, including a surprise visit by Russ (Robert Culp). Rockefeller Center, IDLEWILD Airport (now Kennedy) and Jim Backas (Mr. Magoo) as Adam's boss round out the cast.

Costumes:

Cute skinny skirts, blouses,gloves and a slip for Jane Fonda. Jane does not wear a hat in this movie. By 1970, most men and women stoping wearing hats and gloves. Aussie Rod Taylor's suit jacket looks a little tight in the shoulders. He needs an Athletic cut suit. He also wears a bathrobe and pj's.

Trivia:

Watch the scene when Eileen and Mike are in the rowboats at Central Park. Actor Jim Hutton is in one of the other rowboats. Actually, it is his back that is mostly shown.

Timothy Hutton

Jim Hutton

He is Actor Timothy Hutton's father. He played TV Thompson in Where the Boys Are (1960). He was the tall goofy guy.

Review:

This film (released just a week before JFK's assassination) has yet to make it to DVD. It should be paired with Barefoot In The Park (1967).

This movie is fluffy fun. Fonda is cheerfully ditzy most of the time. This is before she got into the political spotlight. Hunky Aussie Taylor plays his role with his usual masculine charm. Robertson makes the most of his role in the subplot as her playboy brother. I really hated Robert Culp in this film. Not a big fan of his. They should have have cast someone else.

Will She or Won't she? Watch the film!

Favorite Marilyn Monroe Movie Poll

2010-05-31T00:24:00.001-04:00

(Near the end of her life, at the Golden Globes 1962)

I have added a new poll to the blog. Look for it down and on the right side.

Delay in May's Blog Post

2010-05-30T06:00:00.000-04:00

Next Post:

Sorry for the Delay in getting my Blog postings published. I have been sick for a week! I will have 2 postings published in the next two days.

Directed by George Stevens Poll

2010-05-01T01:27:00.000-04:00

I asked-"What is your Favorite Film Directed by George Stevens?"

You answered-"Shane"

Thanks for voting!

Glitches with Blogger

2010-04-28T10:56:00.000-04:00

Please pardon the text alignment on some of the posts. I hope to get them corrected over the weekend.

-Beth

TCM Classic Film Festival

2010-04-22T03:51:00.002-04:00

Well it is finally here. TCM's Classic Film Festival ,Thursday, April 22 – Sunday, April 25, in the heart of Hollywood.

I just looked at the schedule of events around Hollywood. It looks like there is something for everyone.

Alec Baldwin, Tim Roth, Esther Williams, Betty Garrett, Tab Hunter and filmmaker John Carpenter are slated to join the amazing collection of stars scheduled to take part in the first-ever film festival.

Also scheduled to appear are; Mel Brooks, Luise Rainer, Ernest Borgnine, Eva Marie Saint, Tony Curtis, Jon Voight, Jean-Paul Belmondo, Martin Landau, Anjelica Huston, Danny Huston, Buck Henry, Eli Wallach, Peter Bogdanovich and Stanley Donen.

I did not see Elizabeth Taylor on the festival schedule. It would be great (for those attending) to see her introduce CLEOPATRA.

If you happen to read this, and are at the festival, please share your thoughts here. I am unable to attend, but I want to go next year!

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2010-04-21T15:24:00.002-04:00

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Character Actor Corner: Chill Wills

2010-04-21T01:22:00.003-04:00

Bio:

He began performing in early childhood, going on to appear in tent shows, vaudeville, and stock throughout the Southwest. He also formed Chill Wills and the Avalon Boys, a singing group in which he was the leader and bass vocalist, in the '30s.

From 1930s through the 1970s he would appear in dozens of films, but is best known for his westerns. Wills acted as sidekick in B westerns with such cowboy actors as George O'Brien, and he even did the voiceover of Francis the Talking Mule in the popular Universal-International film series of the same name. In the fifties he appeared in Giant (1956). Perhaps the greatest moment of his career was being nominated for an Oscar for his supporting role in The Alamo (1960). In the 1960s Wills' career began to slow, but he still found a few roles in The Rounders (1965; with Glenn Ford) and Fireball 500 (1966; with Fabian, Frankie Avalon, and Annette Funicello).

In 1975 he released a singing album--his first.

Wills passed away from cancer at the age of 73 in December 1978

Trivia:

While campaigning for a Best Supporting Actor Oscar in 1960, Wills took out a series of ads with the declaration "Win, lose or draw, you`re all my cousins and I love you."It was signed "Your cousin, Chill Wills". One member of the Academy placed a response ad stating: "Dear Mr. Chill Wills, I am delighted to be your cousin but I voted for Sal Mineo. "It was signed, Groucho Marx!

Giant (1956)

2010-04-21T01:19:00.013-04:00

Cast:

Elizabeth Taylor ... Leslie Lynnton Benedict
Rock Hudson ... Jordan 'Bick' Benedict Jr.
James Dean ... Jett Rink
Carroll Baker ... Luz Benedict II
Jane Withers ... Vashti Snythe
Chill Wills ... Uncle Bawley
Mercedes McCambridge ... Luz Benedict
Dennis Hopper ... Jordan Benedict III
Sal Mineo ... Angel Obregón II
Rod Taylor ... Sir David Karfrey (as Rodney Taylor)
Judith Evelyn ... Mrs. Nancy Lynnton
Earl Holliman ... 'Bob' Dace
Robert Nichols ... Mort 'Pinky' Snythe
Paul Fix ... Dr. Horace Lynnton
Alexander Scourby ... Old Polo

Crew:

Director and Producer....George Stevens
Screenwriter.... Ivan Moffat
Editor... William Hornbeck
Director of Photography...William Mellor
Editor... Philip W. Anderson
Editor...Fred Bohanan
Producer...Henry Ginsberg
Composer ...Dimitri Tiomkin
Production Designer...Boris Leven
Screenwriter ...Fred Guiol
Costume Design...Moss Mabry and Marjorie Best

Production Notes:

Made for $5.4 million, Giant was filmed in Texas (Marfa, Valentine, Presidio County, Jeff Davis County), Charlottesville,Virginia (Albemarle County), California (Lake Arrowhead, Burbank, Los Angeles) and Arizona. Boris Leven designed the big Victorian mansion known as Reata in the movie, which rested near the small town of Marfa, Texas. Director George Stevens employed an open set during filming, with the Marfa townspeople venturing out to watch the production.

Casting Notes:

Elizabeth Taylor was not the first choice to play Leslie. Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn were considered before Elizabeth.

Bill Holden was first choice for Bick Bennedict and Robert Mitchum and Alan Ladd were considered to play Jett Rink.

Plot:

Giant premiered at New York City’s Roxy Theatre on October 10, 1956. Most People only know Giant as the last James Dean's last picture, but it is more than that, Giant is a plead for tolerance and equalty that should resonate today, specially for it's accuracy. Racial equality and Women's equal rights are themes in this film.

Based on Edna Ferber's novel, the film takes place across 25 years mainly around two characters: Doctor's daughter Leslie Lynnton (Elizabeth Taylor as beautiful as ever) and cattle baron Jordan "Bick" Benedict (Rock Hudson). They meet when Bick travels to Maryland to buy Leslie's horse (War Winds). Sparks fly and Bick ends up taking more than a horse back to Texas, He takes a wife. You do not see their wedding in the film. However, you do see her sister's marriage later in the film. Leslie leaves her family and fiance (Rod Taylor) and boards a train with Bick.

At first sight, flat and dusty west Texas is a shock to Leslie, but she is determined to make her marriage work. This does not sit well with his sister Luz (Mercedes MacCambridge). A power struggle between the two women quickly developes and as a result of an accident, Leslie wins. War Winds and Luz lose. Through 25 plus years, Bick and Leslie try to keep their marriage afloat despite several bumps on the road, among them, the diferent expectations concerning their children, and a worker who later becomes a tycoon Jet Rink (James Dean) who secretly loves Taylor's character and envies Hudson's. Bick's racist view toward the Mexicans is also a recurring theme. That racism makes Bick a very interesting character who is asked to change constantly in the film. It makes Hudson's role is big challenge, but he pulls it off. Elizabeth Taylor, who did not have a character as deep as Hudson, carries the huge film and does a commendable job. She is particullary good in the scenes where she is standing up for her right to listen/speak, while her husband and his cronies talk politics. Watch for Texan Chill Wills..he is a bona fide scene stealer as crusty, cantankerous Uncle Bawley.

Chill Wills below:

James Dean, despite having a lot less screen time than the other two, shows why he had a huge future in film. Tragically, he would lose his life days after completing his portion of the film. Warner Brothers made Dean sign an agreement that he would not drive his racecar while working on the film. He was driving the Porshe to a race when someone pulled in front of him. He and his mechanic passenger were killed instantly when they hit the car.

Jett Rink becomes a destroyed man who, despite achieving all kind of wealth, all kind of power, is miserable, is nothing after not having the only thing he wants, the love of a Benedict. First it was Leslie, later it was her Daughter Luz (Carroll Baker).

Costumes/Makeup:

Another favorite Stevens' staple requires applying aging makeup to his lead actors, and Giant does this to great effect to its three main characters. Hudson and Dean wear padding to show the battle of the bulge that comes with middle age. Dean, Hudson and Taylor age effectively from the use of facial makeup and streaks of gray hair.

Moss Mabry and Majorie Best were the costume designers for Giant. Moss Mabry also designed the famous red jacket worn by James Dean in the classic Rebel Without a Cause (1955).

Giant (wardrobe for Elizabeth Taylor's character) was one of his most difficult assignments. The script called for Elizabeth to make 42 clothing changes.

Young Leslie

Middle aged Leslie and some special visitors-her real life children:

Middle aged Leslie and Bick below:

Middle aged Jett Rink below:

Review:

Dean gives a great performance for sure, this film has excellent performances all around, including a young Dennis Hopper. He plays the conflicted son of Bick and Leslie.

Young Dennis Hopper

Rock Hudson has to show Bick's gradual transformation is seen only through the broad strokes of arguments and fistfights, and his literal landing at the bottom the salad bar of Sarge's cafe to the tune of "Yellow Rose of Texas" adds the exclamation point.

Taylor shows off her notable acting talent in this film. Not only does the 23-year old actress look like a middle aged Texas matron during the second reel, but she moves like one and takes on the entire body language of a mature woman. She also changed to voice and gave it a weaker sound/cadence. Although Dean's performance is the one most remembered, Taylor's work is great too. One of her best.

The film is truly an epic as big as Texas. The cinematogrphy is GIANT as well. George Stevens has always had a knack for landscapes. The only downside was that the film slowed at Jett's Hotel opening. I like to call this film the original "Dallas". Definitely one of the best soapy films of the 1950's.

Trivia:

Edna Ferber based the Jett Rink Character on real life Texas oilman Glenn McCarthy. With his oil earnings he opened the Shamrock Hotel in Houston,TX . He spent over $1 million on the opening, dubbed "Houston's biggest party." He also had his own private jet.
Molassas was used as a substitute for oil
James Dean's last film. He died driving his racecar a few days after his portion of filming was completed.
War Winds is played by the same horse that was used in the film, BLACK BEAUTY.
George Stevens shot 860,000 ft of film for GIANT. It took 1 year to edit the 3 year project.
The Worth/Evans ranch in Marfa,TX was used as Riata for the film. The Reata Ranch House was only a 3 sided facade. Not many people know it, but the design for the Reata Ranch House is based on a real Texas mansion. It was based on the Waggoner Mansion. It still stands in Decatur, Texas, northwest of Fort Worth.
The large picture in the Reatta Ranch House was borrowed from a Hotel. It now hangs at the Menger Hotel in San Antonio, Texas.

Reata Ranch House below:

The Waggoner Mansion below:

Quotes:

Adarene Clinch: "Why, Luz, everybody in this county knows you'd rather herd cattle than make love."

Luz Benedict: "Well, there's one thing you got to say for cattle... boy, you put your brand on one of them, you're gonna know where it's at!"

Jett Rink: Everybody thought I had a duster. Y'all thought ol' Spindletop Burke and Burnett was all the oil there was, didn't ya? Well, I'm here to tell you that it ain't, boy! It's here, and there ain't a dang thing you gonna do about it! My well came in big, so big, Bick and there's more down there and there's bigger wells. I'm rich, Bick. I'm a rich 'un. I'm a rich boy. Me, I'm gonna have more money than you ever *thought* you could have -- you and all the rest of you stinkin' sons of ... Benedicts!

Awards:

Academy of Motion Picture Sciences (Oscar)

Winner-Georgie Stevens- Best Director 1957
Nominated Oscar Best Actor in a Leading Role-James Dean
Nominated Best Actor in a Leading Role-Rock Hudson
Best Actress in a Supporting Role-Mercedes McCambridge
Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, Color-Boris Leven and Ralph Hurst
Best Costume Design, Color-Moss Mabry and Marjorie Best
Best Film Editing-William Hornbeck,Phillip Anderson, and Fred Bohanan
Best Music, Scoring of a Dramatic or Comedy Picture-Dimitri Tiomkin
Best Picture-George Stevens and Henry Ginsberg
Best Writing, Best Screenplay - Adapted-Fred Guiold and Ivan Moffat

Pal Joey (1957)-"Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered"

2010-04-11T21:06:00.005-04:00

Cast:

Rita Hayworth ... Vera Simpson
Frank Sinatra ... Joey Evans
Kim Novak ... Linda English
Barbara Nichols ... Gladys
Bobby Sherwood ... Ned Galvin
Hank Henry ... Mike Miggins
Elizabeth Patterson ... Mrs. Casey

The rest of cast listed alphabetically:

Leon Alton ... Printer Salesman (uncredited)
Isabel Analla ... (uncredited)
Robert Anderson ... Policeman (uncredited)
Maurice Argent ... Second Tailor (uncredited)
Tol Avery ... Detective (uncredited)
Rita Barrett ... Stripper (uncredited)
Eddie Bartell ... Barker (uncredited)
Steve Benton ... Electrician (uncredited)
Barry Bernard ... Vera's Butler (uncredited)
Gail Bonney ... Heavyset Woman (uncredited)
Sue Boomer ... Secretary (uncredited)
Paul Cesari ... Pet Store Co-Owner (uncredited)
George Chan ... Chinese Pianist (uncredited)
Barrie Chase ... Dancer in Daydream Sequence (uncredited)
Sydney Chatton ... Barker (uncredited)
Nellie Gee Ching ... Chinese Dancer (uncredited)
Jane Chung ... Flower Lady (uncredited)
Jean Corbett ... Dancer (uncredited)
Oliver Cross ... Bit Part (uncredited)
Judy Dan ... Hat Check Girl (uncredited)
Giselle D'Arc ... Vera's Maid (uncredited)
Jules Davis ... Red-Faced Man (uncredited)
George DeNormand ... Bit Part (uncredited)
Helen Elliot ... Travelers' Aid (uncredited)
Franklyn Farnum ... Person (uncredited) E
Elizabeth Fenton ... Chinese Dancer (uncredited)
Michael Ferris ... First Tailor (uncredited)
Bess Flowers ... Person (uncredited)
George Ford ... Electrician (uncredited)
Allen Gin ... Chinese Drummer (uncredited)
Everett Glass ... Pet Store Owner (uncredited)
Bob Glenn ... Sailor (uncredited)
Connie Graham ... Stripper (uncredited)
Bobbie Jean Henson ... Stripper (uncredited)
John Hubbard ... Stanley (uncredited)
Ellie Kent ... Carol (uncredited)
Cheryl Kubert ... Girl Friend (uncredited)
Pat Lynn ... Chinese Dancer (uncredited)
Ramon Martinez ... Headwaiter (uncredited)
Mara McAfee ... Sabrina (uncredited)
Henry McCann ... Shorty (uncredited)
Raymond A. McWalters ... Army Captain (uncredited)
Joe Miksak ... Barker (uncredited)
Ernesto Molinari ... Tony the Chef (uncredited)
Robin Morse ... Bartender (uncredited)
Jean Nakaba ... Chinese Dancer (uncredited)
Al Nalbandian ... Barker (uncredited)
George Nardelli ... Headwaiter (uncredited)
Bek Nelson ... Lola (uncredited)
Ilsa Ostroffsky ... Stripper (uncredited)
Roberto Piperio ... Waiter (uncredited)
Edith Powell ... Stripper (uncredited)
Jack Railey ... Hot Dog Vendor (uncredited)
Mabel Rea ... (uncredited)
Robert Reed ... Boy Friend (uncredited)
Hermie Rose ... Bald Club Owner (uncredited)
James Seay ... Livingston (uncredited)
Howard Sigrist ... Sidewalk Photographer (uncredited)
Jo Ann Smith ... Stripper (uncredited)
Genie Stone ... Girl (uncredited)
Frank Sully ... Barker (uncredited)
Betty Utey ... Patsy (uncredited)
Pierre Watkin ... Mr. Forsythe (uncredited)
Frank Wilcox ... Col. Langley (uncredited)
Frank Wilimarth ... Sidewalk Artist (uncredited)
Andrew Wong ... Chinese Club Owner (uncredited)
Lessie Lynne Wong ... Chinese Dancer (uncredited)
Barbara Yung ... Chinese Dancer

Crew:

John O'hara-Author
George Sidney: Director
Dorothy Kingsley: Writer - based on the musical play
Lorenz Hart: Source for Musical and Film
Richard Rodgers: Source for Musical and Film
Fred Kohlmar: Producer
Harold Lipstein: Cinematographer - Technicolor
Viola Lawrence: Editor
Jerome Thoms: Editor
Nelson Riddle: Musical Conductor
Walter Holscher: Art Director
William Kiernan: Set Decorator
Louis Diage: Set Decorator
Jean Louis: Costumes
Hermes Pan: Choreography
Ben Lane: Make Up
Helen Hunt: Hair

*This is the last post in the 3 part seris of movies based on John O'Hara novels/shortstories

Behind the Curtain:

The original 1940 Broadway production was directed by George Abbott and starred Gene Kelly. There have been several revivals since, including a 2008–2009 Broadway run, and this 1957 film adaptation starring Frank Sinatra,Rita Hayworth and Kim Novak.

It is based on a character and situations John O'Hara created in a series of short stories published in The New Yorker.

Lots of great songs featuring Frank Sinatra, with words and music from Rodgers and Hart. Rita's voice was dubbed by Joann Greer. Kim's voice was dubbed by Trudy Erwin.

"There's A Small Hotel"
"I Could Write A Book"
"The Lady is a Tramp"
"My Funny Valentine"
"Zip"
"What Do I Care For a Dame"
"A Great Big Town"
"I Didn't Know What Time It Was"
"That Terrific Rainbow"
"Bewitched"
"Do It the Hard Way"
"Plant You Now, Dig You Later"
"Take Him"
"Happy Hunting Horn"

Plot:

Frank Sinatra, riding high as an actor and a singer in 1957, the chance to play Joey Evans in the screen adaptation of the Broadway musical Pal Joey must have seemed irresistible, because Joey is nothing less than a failed Frank Sinatra. Frank sings several songs in the movie and he is great! He's a saloon singer who bounces from town to town, dame to dame, always hungry for the big time but too much of a heel and a phony to ever make it.

After being kicked out of one town he ends up in San Francisco. He winds up at a floundering saloon that has lots of pretty dames for him to make passes at. An old friend,Ned Galvin (Bobby Sherwood)is the saloon piano player. One of the dancers is wholesome Linda English (Kim Novak) and Joey he is floored by her. Joey shows the owner that he can sing by belting out "There's a Small Hotel." The owner hires him on a temporary basis. Later that evening, the entire band is hired by society widow Vera Simpson (Rita Hayworth). It turns out that she is a former stripper and is talked into performing her signature song "STRIP " at the charity auction. Joey flirts and makes passes at Vera while Gawking at Linda. Vera shoots him down,but Linda does not have a clue at this point in the movie.

Next Ned walks Linda home, and Joey tags along. There happens to be a room available in Linda's building and Joey rents it. Very Interesting!

A few nights later, Vera Simpson (Rita Hayworth) comes into the bar and claims she wants a serenade; after giving Joey the brush off at the auction, but she falls victim to his street-smart charms, especially after he croons "The Lady Is a Tramp." The look on Vera's face is priceless. Later, Vera sings "Bewitched ,Bothered and Bewildered." Rita's songs were dubbed by Joann Greer.

At one point Linda (Kim Novak) mouths "My Funny Valentine." Actually sung by Trudy Stevens.

Joey and Vera become a couple and she sets the crooner up in the swankiest nightclub on Nob Hill, to be called (what else?) Chez Joey, while also installing him on her lavish houseboat.

Will Joey be a kept man, complete with a fully monogrammed wardrobe, or go for true love? Hey, it was the '50s, so you can probably guess the ending. Also, I did not mention "Scruffy." He is a pooch that Linda and Joey adopt.

Goofs:

When Vera Simpson is singing "Bewitched" there is a very obvious mismatch between her lips and the words as she is turning away from the window.

Watch Frank behind Rita Hayworth during the auction scene and "Strip" number. Swinging Frank looks like he is having a ball!

Quotes:
Linda English: What did I do last night?
Joey Evans: You kissed me.
Linda English: I wasn't myself.
Joey Evans: Whoever you were, you were great!

Joey Evans: You treat a dame like a lady and a lady like a dame.

Awards:
1958 Academy AwardsNominated Best Art Direction
Nominated Best Costume Design
Nominated Best Film Editing
Nominated Best Sound Recording
1958 Golden GlobesWon -Best Actor (Music/Comedy)-Frank Sinatra
Nominated-Golden Globe Best Motion Picture-Musical/Comedy

Review:
With gorgeous location photography, a Richard Rogers score, and three terrific lead performances,add a cute doggie, and Pal Joey is worth your time. It's a Gasser Man!

Gliches on Blog-Applications

2010-04-06T21:46:00.002-04:00

Hello All!

I have been having issues with internet explorer and my laptop hard drive. Health issues too. At the moment, I am using Mozilla/Firefox to briefly pass along this update, it may be a few days before the next "real" post will be added to the blog. I am also re-designing it.

You may notice that you are unable to see my Music Application, and Celebrity Birthday Application. These are really "fluff" items, but it makes me mad just the same.

I will be adding several pages devoted to Retro Fashions,hair styles, vintage hat/glove (photos of my collection)and Classic Celebrity Recipes for food and drink.

See you soon!
Beth

30's-50's Retro Hairstyles (under construction)

2010-04-05T04:20:00.000-04:00

1930's Hairstyling (UNDER CONSTRUCTION)

2010-04-05T03:30:00.000-04:00

New Tabs Added to Blog

2010-04-01T19:02:00.000-04:00

I have added some tabbed pages below the header. They are:

Cary Grant's Cocktail Lounge
Recipes of the Stars
Vintage Hairstyling and Make Up
Vintage Fashion (coming soon)