Author Archives: donnamarie

The City in the Sky 🎆 Metropolis (1927)

Posted by donnamarie on

 

Metropolis

 

As a film student at The University of Michigan, I was exposed to the masters of cinema – Chaplin, Murnau, Kubrick, Lang, etc. There, we were challenged to critique and look beyond the surface to the underlying themes. “Metropolis” is supreme in incorporating intriguing layers of sub-texture and sub-plots.

 

Metropolis 1927

Moloch Machine – (Power for the City)

Austrian director Fritz Lang’s German Expressionistic masterpiece helped to develop the science-fiction genre, with innovative imagery from cinematographer Karl Freund, art design by Otto Hunte, Erich Kettelhut, and Karl Vollbrecht and set design by Edgar Ulmer.(set designer for The Phantom of the Opera) It was the last of Lang’s silent films. (Filmsite Movie Review)

 

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Friedrich Christian Anton “Fritz” Lang (December 5, 1890 – August 2, 1976)

 

“Metropolis” was not just some sci-fi flick from the silent era, it’s a visually-compelling, allegory set in the dystopic, 21st-century city of Metropolis and represents a brilliant critique of the repercussions of man vs. machine and the brutality of the never-ending class struggle.

Establishing the tone of the film, this statement is presented following the opening credits.

THE MEDIATOR BETWEEN HEAD AND HANDS MUST BE THE HEART!

 

“Metropolis” took over 2 years to complete at ten times the budget for the usual Hollywood production of the time and influenced visuals associated with classic films such as; Chaplin’s war against the machines in Modern Times (1936), the mechanical hand of Dr. Strangelove in Stanley Kubrick’s Dr. Strangelove, Or: (1964), the resemblance between the Maria robot and the droid C-3PO in George Lucas’ Star Wars (1977) trilogy of films, and scenes of Los Angeles in Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner (1982) to name just a few.

Blade Runner
Modern Times
Dr. Strangelove
C 3-PO Star Wars

This symbolic tale was written by Lang’s wife Thea Von Harbou (from her own novel). Her vision detailed a self-indulgent, futuristic, industrial world built of skyscrapers and bridges incorporating the Art Deco style of the 20s for the 2026 city of Metropolis.

An ultra elite, 1% privileged class of powerful industrialists is juxtaposed with a subterranean environment of the nameless, oppressed and exploited drone-like slave labor class.

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Made in Germany during the Weimar Period, Metropolis is set in a futuristic urban dystopia and follows the attempts of Freder (Gustav Fröhlich), the wealthy son of the city’s ruler, and Maria (Brigitte Helm), a poor worker, to overcome the vast gulf separating the classes of their city.

Brigitte Helm – Maria
Gustav Frohlich – Freder

Filming took place in 1925 at a cost of approximately five million Reichsmarks. The art direction draws influence from Bauhaus, Cubist, and Futurist design. (Wikipedia)

Metropolis

Fritz Lang directing the workers

As with all great films, “Metropolis” was influenced by the historical events occurring during its time. Centered around the developing Industrial Revolution and depressed economic times, the film also incorporates the rise of fascism in a pre-Hitler Weimar Republic Germany following World War I.

Another influence of the movie’s themes was the rise of the American labor movement and unions during the 1920s due to oppressive working conditions. “Metropolis”, like the Progressive, investigative journalists of the day, took on corrupt politicians and the establishment in an effort to make people aware of the contrast of poverty with the upper-crust classes of the opulent Roaring 20s.

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I’m a steadfast believer that understanding history is empowering. “Metropolis” tackles the rise of immigration into the US and exploitation of workers at the beginning of the 20th century along with Capitalists exploiting labor. It deals with the conversation of doing what’s right versus greed and the power of modern science.

The creation of the evil android Maria (Bridgitte Helm) was an abuse of science but that same knowledge powered the city in the sky and could have been used to enrich the lives of the subterranean slaves.

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Describing these themes and comparisons in “Metropolis” is like writing a piece for The Nation magazine today. The similarities are frightening like George Orwell’s “1984” or H.G. Well’s “The Time Machine”. It’s incredible to think that a film I critiqued back in the 70’s which was made in the 20’s is actually unfolding in the year 2016; only 10 years away from the 2026 Art Deco Metropolis city in the sky.

 

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Does art imitate life or life imitate art? I’m not sure, but in our “reality” tv driven news programming, a low information population and the “I don’t believe in science” faction, we might as well be living in the dystopian world of “Metropolis”.

Lest we forget.

THE MEDIATOR BETWEEN HEAD AND HANDS MUST BE THE HEART!

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This is a restored version of “Metropolis”

If you’ve never seen it, I highly recommend this viewing experience. But, lasting 2 1/2 hours, prepare to settle in with an extra large bag of popcorn.

 

Will 2017 Be Our Groundhog Day⁉

Posted by donnamarie on

 

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I’ve always believed that we can’t move on to the next level in our life’s journey until we learn the lessons we need to understand. In “Groundhog Day”, Bill Murray has the fortune or misfortune of repeating and repeating again a day which becomes his own private hell.

 

 

Groundhog Day (1993) is a hilarious look inside a day in the life of arrogant Pittsburgh TV weatherman Phil Connor (played by Bill Murray) who, during an assignment covering the annual Groundhog Day event in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, finds himself in a time loop, repeating the same day again and again.

This fantasy-comedy directed by Harold Ramis, stars Bill Murray, Andie MacDowell, and Chris Elliott. It was written by Ramis and Danny Rubin, based on a story by Rubin.

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Andie MacDowell and Bill Murray

After indulging in hedonism and committing suicide numerous times, Phil begins to re-examine his life and priorities in his quest to end the tortuous nightmare of Groundhog’s Day.

The film is often considered an allegory of self-improvement, emphasizing that happiness comes from placing the needs of others above one’s own selfish desires; definitely, food for thought.

Doing my research I discovered that”Groundhog Day”, as an expression, has become shorthand for the concept of spiritual transcendence. As such, the film has become a favorite of some Buddhists who see its themes of selflessness and rebirth as reflections of their own spiritual messages. (Wikipedia)

 

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Once Phil decides to use his knowledge of the day’s events to try to better himself and the lives of the townsfolks, over many loops, he learns how to play the piano, sculpt ice, and speak French. He even befriends the relentless, Ned Ryerson, and sets out to avert accidents and disastrous situations that otherwise would have occurred.

 

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If you believe, you might see versions of reincarnation in the storyline and find great significance in the fact that Connors is saved only after he performs “good deeds” and is returned to earth, not heaven, to perform more.

 

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Imagining German philosopher Nietzsche’s directive to imagine life—metaphorically or literally—as an endless repetition of events is intriguing. I wonder how would this viewpoint shape our actions?

 

What would we choose to live out for all eternity?

 

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Awards

  • British Comedy Awards 1993 (Comedy Film)

  • Saturn Award for Best Actress (Film) (Andie MacDowell)

In June 2008, AFI revealed its “Ten Top Ten”—the best ten films in ten “classic” American film genres—after polling over 1,500 people from the creative community. Groundhog Day was acknowledged as the eighth best film in the fantasy genre.

The film is recognized by American Film Institute in these lists:

  • AFI’s 100 Years…100 Laughs – #34

  • AFI’s 100 Years…100 Passions – Nominated

  • AFI’s 100 Years…100 Movies (10th Anniversary Edition) – Nominated

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As we journey into 2017, maybe we should take the events of “Groundhog Day” to heart and strive to be more loving and giving in the coming New Year.

 

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The Coolest Guys to Ever Hit the Vegas Strip!

Posted by donnamarie on

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Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Jr.

 

The Rat Pack

 

This New Year’s Eve some of us movie junkies are staying in for the festivities. If you’re doing the same, I recommend adding to your viewing list, “Ocean’s 11.” It’s a great New Year’s Eve, buddy movie and heist caper all in one. What better way to ring in the new year than with the coolest guys to ever hit the strip.

 

Ocean’s 11 (1960)

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I can just hear Sinatra’s proposal.  How about this, we’ll shoot a film during the day in Las Vegas then party and work the Sands Hotel at night.  Unanimous vote.  (EE-O-Eleven.)

 

 Look out Vegas, here we come!

 

The Rat Pack: Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Jr.

Humphrey Bogart (regarded as the greatest male star by the American Film Institute in 1999) originated the concept of the “Rat Pack” with his “Clan.”  He was “the man”, holding court nightly in the 50’s at Holmby Hills. (home of Bogey and his wife Lauren Bacall)  He passed the torch to Frank Sinatra, (an original member of Bogart’s “Pack” who served as “pack master.”)  After Bogey’s death in 1957,   Frank’s boys became his “Rat Pack.”

 

Humphrey Bogart

Bogart

Performers commonly associated with The Rat Pack:  Joey Bishop and Peter Lawford.

Angie Dickinson and Shirley MacLaine were often referred to as the “Rat Pack Mascots.”

 

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Peter Lawford, Sammy Davis, Jr, Frank Sinatra, Joey Bishop, Dean Martin

 

Danny Ocean isn’t really a fictional character, he IS Frank Sinatra.  Believe it, his boys would do anything for him. Except for Dean, he was the only one who ever said no to old blue eyes.  Frank really dug Dean’s truthfulness.

The plot revolves around a group of former World War II army buddies (under the command of Danny Ocean) conspiring to rob, on New Year’s Eve, five casinos on the Vegas strip.  When Peter Lawford presented the story idea Frank Sinatra joked: “Forget the movie, let’s pull the job!”

 

 

Whenever one of the “Pack” was performing at a club in Vegas, the others would show up to support and usually put on an impromptu performance.  While they were in town, Las Vegas was jam packed with admirers hoping to catch a show.

This performance was on June 20, 1965, featuring, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Jr.   Johnny Carson (known for The Tonight Show) served as the emcee, filling in for Joey Bishop who had hurt his back.

 

It would be their only televised concert together.

 

 

Robin and the 7 Hoods 1964

 

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Set in Prohibition-era Chicago, the film is a take on the classic Robin Hood tale.  This engaging musical features the Academy Award nominated song “My Kind of Town” sung by Frank Sinatra.

My favorite number is “Mr. Booze” sung by Bing Crosby.  I love this scene because Robbo’s (Sinatra) club miraculously converts into a mission (due to some clever architectural tricks) to fool the police during a raid.  Robbo’s gang breaks into the gospel version of “Mr. Booze” with Alan A Dale (Crosby) preaching and Little John (Dean) testifying on the lessons of temperance.

Peter Lawford was originally cast as Alan A. Dale, but due to a falling out with Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby took over the role.  At the time, Lawford’s brother-in-law was President John F. Kennedy and Lawford had arranged for The President to stay at Sinatra’s home.  However, because of concerns over Frank’s ties to the “Mob”, the plans were scrapped.

“Mr. Booze, Mr. Booze, Mr. B double O, Z, E, don’t ever choose.”

 

 

Other numbers include:

“Don’t be a Do-Badder” sung by Bing Crosby

“Bang, Bang!” sung by Sammy Davis, Jr.

“Style” sung by Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Bing Crosby

 

 

My favorite Rat Pack movie reference line is from Clueless (1995).

Cher’s dad talking to her date who is dressed circa 60’s “Pack” style:

“What’s with you kid? You think the death of Sammy Davis, Jr. left an opening in The Rat Pack?”   Too hilarious!!

 

Over 50 years later, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis, Jr. are still the coolest guys to ever hit the Vegas Strip!

 

Las Vegas
Ocean’s 11 1960
Sammy “Ocean’s 11” EE-O-Eleven
The Sands Hotel w/Pack
Peter Lawford
Striking the Deal
Walk Away “Ocean’s 11”
Frank Sinatra
Shirley MacLaine – “Rat Pack Mascot”
Dean Martin
“Ocean’s 11 Portrait
Sinatra, Dean, Sammy, Barbara Rush, Crosby
“My Kind of Town” Frank -Robin and The 7 Hoods
“Robin and the 7 Hoods”
Edward G. Robinson “Robin Hoods”
Peter Falk “Robin and the 7 Hoods”

 

Happy New Year!

 

 

 

 

 

Reeling Through The Year in Review Part 2 🎊

Posted by donnamarie on

 

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In Memoriam

2016 has been a challenging year in so many ways including the loss of some of our childhood idols and icons. As I reflect back on the year, these are some of my most heartbreaking moments.

 

David Bowie 

R.I.P. David Bowie

 

The loss of David Bowie truly touched my heart. I’ve followed and loved his music since 1972 with the release of the album  – “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars”.

 

“Starman” from the 1972 album The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars.

“If you’re sad today, just remember the world is over 4 billion years old and you somehow managed to exist at the same time as David Bowie”. – Dean Podesta

I’m appreciative of this tweet because I found it calming and it put Bowie’s passing in perspective. A true innovator. He will be missed.

 

 

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Gene Wilder

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Jerome (Gene Wilder) Silberman (June 11, 1933 – August 29, 2016)

Time reversed itself for a moment when I heard the news of Gene Wilder’s passing due to complications from Alzheimer’s Disease. He’s been a part of my life since “Willy Wonka” and his spirit helped me through the challenging and uncertain days of my fight against Colon and Breast Cancer.

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Our Prince is Gone – 1958-2016

 

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Ever since Prince came on the scene his music has been such a vital part of my life. His passing is a tremendous loss personally and his enormous talent leaves a hole in our collective souls.

 

As the memories flood my mind I flashback to Prince and Morris Day with The Time performing at Hill Auditorium on the campus of my alma mater – The University of Michigan. This was 1978 before Prince was PRINCE. I can still see the audience swaying, fully in tune with Prince’s dynamic energy and saw a sea change, realizing this was the last time I would intimately see this badass, revolutionary genius.

Now, PRINCE would belong to the world.

 

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To my dismay, more artists would follow

 

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And, the Greatest of All Time

muhammad ali

 

So, as we wind down 2016, let us remember the joys, and the sorrows, but look ahead in Faith of a bright and shining tomorrow.

 

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Have a Blessed and Happy New Year!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Year in Review Part 1 🎊

Posted by donnamarie on

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It’s that time of year for looking back and remembering some of my more popular posts from 2016. It’s also a time to say Thank You! for all your support and encouragement. You’re the best!

Legally Blonde was the perfect film to kick off a year full of twists and turns; highs and lows. A wonderful movie full of hope and inspiration that I thought was the perfect fit to set the new year off with a bang!

The follow-up, Part 2 of my Year in Review, will be a dedication to those we lost in what felt like a never-ending succession of profound emotions and memories.

 

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Legally Blonde (2001)

Thinking about what film to feature for this post I posed the question, what movie could entertain and at the same time set a positive attitude for the new year?

 

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Looking through my film collection, I came across “Legally Blonde” (2001) and thought, yeah, this totally fits the bill. A fabulously positive tale about sorority queen Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon) and her awesome dog “Bruiser”, who discovers her inner feminist and realizes she’s smarter, has her own power and possesses more heart than her stupid ex-boyfriend – Warner Huntington III (Matthew Davis).

Legally Blonde

I admit when I first heard of the film I figured it was light weight and would be so-so, but boy was I wrong. The message of “Legally Blonde” (Be True to Yourself) will always be relevant and the film can be an excellent opportunity to demonstrate to young girls and women the strength and determination of a focused woman!

Graduated Harvard Law with Honors

When Elle is dumped by Warner, (her stupid ex-boyfriend) she decides to apply to Harvard Law (where he’s attending) and win him back. This isn’t just some pipe dream. Although she graduated with a Fashion Merchandising degree from UCLA, she studies around the clock for her new goal, taking the Law School Admission Test which she scores 179 on, one point below the highest possible score.

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A perfect example of what I love about Elle’s style is that her law school application is chock full of personality. She creates a video essay demonstrating her unique qualifications (including, she was in a Ricky Martin video) and her resume is pink and sweetly scented. Proving you don’t have to change the essence of who you are to accomplish your goals.

Even though her initial motivation to attend Harward was wack, that path eventually led her to chart a new destiny for herself. Affecting how people perceived her (dumb blonde) into smart, original, diehard friend who doesn’t give up and encourages others to do the same. Like with her manicurist friend Paulette. Elle helps Paulette gain custody of her dog back from her ex-husband, and she also helps her seduce the delivery man on whom she has a crush.

Got into Harvard!
Elle and Bruiser
“If you’re going to let one stupid prick ruin your life, you’re not the girl I thought you were.”
First law class
Elle and friend Paulette
Words to live by

Hadn’t watched “Legally Blonde” in quite some time so I’m so glad I posed the question to myself – what’s a good positive new year movie? This film definitely qualifies and I love Elle, Bruiser and the enduring message of empowerment and friendship!

 

Gotta Love Her!

 

 

“Dancing and Singing at the Movies” 💃🏽🎶

Posted by donnamarie on

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It seems every time someone asks the question “What’s your favorite? (fill in the blank film) that’s what happens to me…BLANK; there are just too many.  So, I decided to prep for the next occasion.

With the new film “La La Land” starring Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone being touted as this generation’s “Singing in the Rain”, I decided to start with the Musicals genre. These are some of my favorites that also made AFI’s list of the Top 5 Musicals of all time!

 

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Can you name yours?  Let’s share.

# FILM YEAR STUDIO
1 SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN 1952 MGM
2 WEST SIDE STORY 1961 United Artists
3 WIZARD OF OZ, THE 1939 MGM
4 SOUND OF MUSIC, THE 1965 Twentieth Century-Fox
5 CABARET 1972 Allied Artists

 

Some of my favorite quotes!

 

Singin’ in the Rain (1952)

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Lina:  [with a voice to peel paint]  And I cayn’t stand’im.    Holy crap! This line makes the movie for me!!

 

This celebrated musical-comedy was directed and choreographed by Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen. Starring Kelly, Donald O’Connor, and Debbie Reynolds, it offers a lighthearted depiction of Hollywood in the late 1920s, with the three stars portraying performers caught up in the transition from silent films to “talkies.” (Wikipedia)

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West Side Story (1961)

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[singing]

Bernardo:  “I’d like to go back to San Juan.”

Anita:  “I know a boat you can get on!”

Ha!  Bernardo, you do you, cause I’m gonna do me!

 

Ah, the Sharks and the Jets who turn a knife fight into the coolest, choreographed ballet I’ve ever seen. I also have a particular fondness for this film having performed in a community theater stage production.

Jets

Jets

A musical romantic drama directed by Robert Wise and Jerome Robbins, the film is an adaptation of the 1957 Broadway musical of the same name, which in turn was inspired by William Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet. It stars Natalie Wood, Richard Beymer, Russ Tamblyn, Rita Moreno, and George Chakiris.

Nominated for 11 Academy Awards and winning 10, including Best Picture (as well as a special award for Robbins), “West Side Story” is the record-holder for the most wins for a movie musical. (Wikipedia)

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The Wizard of Oz (1939)

 

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Cowardly Lion:  ” Alright I’ll go in there for Dorothy. Wicked Witch or no Wicked Witch, guards or no guards, I’ll tear them apart. I may not come out alive, but I’m going in there. There’s only one thing I want you fellows to do.”

Tin Woodsman, Scarecrow:  “What’s that?”

Cowardly Lion:  “Talk me out of it!”

 Oh, Lion – you just gotta love him!

Produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, “The Wizard of Oz” is the most well-known and commercially successful adaptation based on the 1900 novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum. The classic stars Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale. The co-stars include Ray Bolger (The Scarecrow), Jack Haley (The Tin Man), Bert Lahr (The Cowardly Lion), Frank Morgan, Billie Burke, and Margaret Hamilton (The Wicked Witch of the West), with Charley Grapewin, Terry the dog (billed as Toto), and the Singer Midgets as the Munchkins.

Notable for its use of Technicolor, fantasy storytelling, musical score, and unusual characters, over the years, it has become an icon of American popular culture. It was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, but lost to “Gone with the Wind”. It did win in two other categories, including Best Original Song for “Over the Rainbow” and Best Original Score by Herbert Stothart. (Wikipedia)

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The Sound of Music (1965)

 

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Maria:  “When the Lord closes a door, somewhere He opens a window.”

 Without a doubt, Maria!  Amen!

 

This song by Christina Perri  “A Thousand Years” isn’t from the film but I felt it perfectly reflected the relationship between Maria and the Captain.

“The Sound of Music” was produced and directed by Robert Wise, and starred Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer. An adaptation of the 1959 Broadway musical The Sound of Music, composed by Richard Rodgers with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II it was based on the memoir The Story of the Trapp Family Singers by Maria von Trapp.

 

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Cabaret (1972)

 

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Sally:  ” I’m going to be a great film star! That is if booze and sex don’t get me first.”

This is a very prophetic quote considering the fate of many a would-be star.

 

This stylish, socially conscious musical drama was directed by the legendary choreographer Bob Fosse and stars Liza Minnelli, Michael York. and Joel Grey. The setting is Berlin in 1931 with the Nazis’ violent rise serving as a powerful, ever-present undercurrent in the film.

Liza Minnelli won the Best Actress Award for her portrayal of the flamboyant, cabaret performer, Sally Bowles, with the film also garnering Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor (Joel Grey), Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, Best Sound, Best Original Song Score and Adaptation, and Best Film Editing. It holds the record for most Oscars earned by a film not honored for Best Picture. “The Godfather” took the prize. (Wikipedia)

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Chicago (2002)

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Although the stylized, Jazz Age hit “Chicago”(2002) didn’t make the AFI Top 5, (#12), I couldn’t omit this sizzling number, Cell Block Tango. “He had it comin'”☺☺

 

A film version of Chicago was to have been the next project for Bob Fosse, who had directed and choreographed the original 1975 Broadway production but he died before realizing his vision.

Fosse’s distinctive jazz choreography style is evident throughout and he is thanked in the credits. The movie explores the themes of celebrity, scandal, and corruption in Chicago during the Jazz Age. (Wikipedia)

 

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Catherine Zeta-Jones, Richard Gere, Renée Zellweger

 

Starring Catherine Zeta-Jones, Renée Zellweger, and Richard Gere, “Chicago” centers on Velma Kelly (Zeta-Jones) and Roxie Hart (Zellweger), two murderesses who find themselves in jail together awaiting trial in 1920s Chicago.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah “Mama”

For her part, the multi-talented rapper, actress, producer, Queen Latifah’s role as Matron “Mama” Morton earned her a nomination for Best Supporting Actress. The movie was the winner of six Academy Awards in 2003, including Best Picture. The film was the first musical to win Best Picture since Oliver! in 1968.

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There are definitely a lot more for the list so please, let me know some of your picks in the comments!

 

I Am Spartacus – Celebrating Living Legend Kirk Douglas

Posted by donnamarie on

kirk douglas

Kirk Douglas’s personality has always been larger than life; with an incredible presence and life that has spanned these 100 years.

Kirk Douglas (born Issur Danielovitch; December 9, 1916) is an American actor, producer, director, and author. He is one of the last survivors of Hollywood’s Golden Age.

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Young Kirk Douglas

After an impoverished childhood with immigrant parents and six sisters, he had his film debut in “The Strange Love of Martha Ivers” (1946) with Barbara Stanwyck. Douglas soon developed into a leading box-office star throughout the 1950s and 1960s, known for serious dramas, including westerns and war movies. (Wikipedia)

 

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During a 64-year acting career, he has appeared in more than 90 movies and in 1960 (through his production company – Bryna Productions) helped end the Hollywood Blacklist by hiring blacklisted writer Dalton Trumbo to write “Spartacus” (1960) with an official on-screen credit. I gained a lot of respect for Douglas when I learned of this decision.

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Kirk Douglas as Spartacus

Screenwriter Dalton Trumbo was blacklisted at the time as one of the Hollywood Ten. The ten writers and directors who were cited for contempt of Congress and blacklisted after refusing to answer questions about their alleged involvement with the Communist Party.

Douglas publicly announced that Trumbo was the screenwriter of Spartacus, and President-elect John F. Kennedy crossed American Legion picket lines to view the film, helping to end blacklisting. The author of the novel on which it is based, Howard Fast, was also blacklisted, and originally had to self-publish it. (Wikipedia)

 

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The film became the biggest moneymaker in Universal Studios’ history until it was surpassed by Airport (1970).

This scene from “Spartacus” is very apropos; rebels standing up for Spartacus the way Douglas stood up for Dalton Trumbo.

 

I love this cinematic moment reflecting the truth that when we stand together, we are a mighty force!

Douglas’s image as a tough guy and international star were established in his eighth film, “Champion” (1949) after producer Stanley Kramer chose him to play a selfish boxer. He received his first Academy Award nomination and the film earned six nominations in all. Variety magazine called it “a stark, realistic study of the boxing rackets.” (Wikipedia)

 

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From that film on, Kirk decided that to succeed as a star, he needed to ramp up his intensity, overcome his natural shyness, and choose stronger roles.

Douglas’early films include Young Man with a Horn (1950), playing opposite Lauren Bacall and Doris Day; Ace in the Hole opposite Jan Sterling (1951); and Detective Story (1951). He received a second Oscar nomination for his dramatic role in The Bad and the Beautiful (1952), opposite Lana Turner, and his third nomination for portraying Vincent van Gogh in Lust for Life (1956). (Wikipedia)

 

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As an actor and philanthropist, Douglas has received three Academy Award nominations, an Oscar for Lifetime Achievement, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. As an author, he has written ten novels and memoirs. Currently, he is No. 17 on the American Film Institute’s list of the greatest male screen legends of classic Hollywood cinema, and the highest-ranked living person on the list.

 

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Wife Anne and Kirk Douglas

A birthday gala was held for Douglas in the Sunset Room at the Beverly Hills Hotel on December 9th. In keeping with his larger than life persona, he entered the celebration with the theme from “Rocky” blaring over the speakers.

 

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Son, Michael Douglas kicked off the proceedings, saying that it’s not just about age, but about the life he’s lived and what he’s accomplished.

 

Kirk Douglas, seated left, holds hands with his wife Anne Douglas, seated right, as they pose with family members, their son Michael, standing second left with his wife Catherine Zeta-Jones, and their children, Carys Zeta Jones, left, and son Dylan

Kirk Douglas, seated left, holds hands with his wife Anne Douglas, seated right, as they pose with family members, their son Michael, standing second left with his wife Catherine Zeta-Jones, and their children, Carys Zeta-Jones, left, and son Dylan CREDIT:CHRIS PIZZELLO/INVISION/AP 

 

As clips from Douglas’ films played in the background, fun and poignant stories were shared about the legend from Don Rickles, Steven Spielberg, friends, and family.

“My wife Anne and I always use these happy occasions to give presents to the institutions we support through our foundation,” he wrote. “Giving is a selfish act, I maintain because it makes you feel so good. I am always asked for advice on living a long and healthy life. I don’t have any. I do believe, however, that we have a purpose for being here. I was spared after a helicopter crash and a stroke to do more good in the world before I leave it.” Kirk Douglas

 

Happy 100th Birthday, Kirk!

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“Hair” A Time for Peace and Love ❤✌🏼

Posted by donnamarie on

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Hair: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical with a book and lyrics by James Rado and Gerome Ragni and music by Galt MacDermot is a product of the hippie counterculture and sexual revolution of the late 1960s. Several of its songs became anthems of the anti-Vietnam War peace movement.

Gimme head with hair
Long beautiful hair
Shining, gleaming,
Streaming, flaxen, waxen
 
Give me down to there hair
Shoulder length or longer
Here baby, there mama
Everywhere daddy daddy
 
Hair, hair, hair, hair, hair, hair, hair
Flow it, show it
Long as God can grow it
My hair!

 

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The musical’s profanity, its depiction of the use of illegal drugs, its treatment of sexuality, its irreverence for the American flag, and its nude scene caused much comment and controversy. The musical broke new ground in musical theatre by defining the genre of “rock musical”, using a racially integrated cast, and inviting the audience onstage for a “Be-In” finale.

 

Controversial – Yes! Statement of the times – Yes! If I were doing a time capsule this is one of the films I would include. A snapshot of changing times and a declaration of pride in being who you are and standing up for what you believe.

Hair, the 1979 musical war comedy-drama film is an adaptation of the 1968 Broadway musical Hair: An American Tribal Love-Rock Musical.The film focuses on the lives of two young men in the Vietnam era against the backdrop of the hippie culture, race and class issues of the 1960’s.

 

 

Set in the late 1960s, Claude Hooper Bukowski (John Savage) is a naive Oklahoman sent off to see the sites of New York before beginning his enlistment in the US Army. On his arrival, he hooks up with a group of hippies lead by George Berger (Treat Williams) which results in his questioning everything he was brought up to believe.

 

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John Savage (Claude), Treat Williams (George)

Claude has to decide whether to resist the draft as his new friends have done or to succumb to the pressures of his parents (and conservative America) to serve in Vietnam, compromising his pacifistic principles and risking his life.

The film was directed by Miloš Forman, who was nominated for a César Award for Best Foreign Film for his work. Cast members include Treat Williams, John Savage, Beverly D’Angelo, Nell Carter, and Charlotte Rae.

 

Dance scenes were choreographed by the legendary Twyla Tharp and performed by the Twyla Tharp Dance Foundation. The film was nominated for Golden Globe Awards for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy and New Star of the Year in a Motion Picture (for Williams).

These are the social times and political issues I grew up with and I wear my hippie status with pride. The revolution for love, peace, and equality has been hard fought but what we’ve come to realize is that the struggle will always continue.

A group of women belonging to the Jeanette Rankin Brigade march in protest of the Vietnam War. Jeanette Rankin, the first female congress member, stands holding the banner at center (wearing eyeglasses). January 15, 1968 Washington, DC, USA
With the U.S. Capitol in the background, demonstrators march along Pennsylvania Avenue in an anti-Vietnam War protest in Washington, on Moratorium Day, November 15, 1969. (AP Photo)

I think we need to shake the world up again with this eternal message of peace and love. Yes, I’m a “liberal progressive” and I believe love is love, women’s rights are human rights and Black Lives Matter.

Just like in the 60’s these social and equality issues are still pressing. Every time there’s progress, there are those who want to take us back. We must acknowledge these forces and continue the fight for ALL of our rights.

 

PEACE AND LOVE

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When the moon is in the Seventh House
And Jupiter aligns with Mars
Then peace will guide the planets
And love will steer the stars
This is the dawning of the age of Aquarius
The age of Aquarius
Aquarius!
Aquarius!
 

The Struggle Continues…

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How Understanding Film History Impacts Your Film Appreciation

Posted by donnamarie on

film history

Hollywood’s Golden Age

 

While watching Marlene Dietrich’s sultry performance of “The Laziest Gal in Town” in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1950 thriller,”Stage Fright”, I asked my husband if the song and performance seemed familiar. Because I’ve raised him right (on film history that is😎), he remarked, “of course, Madeline Kahn’s performance of “I’m Tired” in the Mel Brooks satirical Western comedy classic, “Blazing Saddles” (1974).

Marlene Dietrich “Laziest Gal in Town”

Madeline Khan

Madeline Kahn “I’m So Tired”

 

(Top) Marlene Dietrich (Bottom) Jane Wyman

I loved hearing his response because it’s the main reason I pen this post; for the history and appreciation of films. Understanding a writer or director’s references to past movies in theirs adds to the richness of the production. It helps young people comprehend that few things in life are original and imitation can be the sincerest form of flattery.

 

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History of Film

 

Sometimes the homage in a movie isn’t to a particular scene in a film but the music. I love Minions period but I especially enjoyed the “Minions” movie’s 1960’s soundtrack that made the perfect nod to James Bond type villains (“Minions”Scarlet Overkill) and the time period of the setting.

 

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As a child of the ’60’s I remember turning to my husband in the theater saying, 99% of the people in here weren’t even born yet and I wonder if any of them appreciate the inclusion of the classic songs of this era.

 

The song is “Hair” from the iconic 1968 counter-culture and controversial stage and film production “Hair”

 

 

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I’ve spent my lifetime watching and loving the cinema and have educated my children with a more sophisticated palette for black and white films and how they just don’t make them like that anymore.😊

Hundreds of full-length films were produced during the decade of the 1940s; during Hollywood’s Golden Age. The great actor Humphrey Bogart made his most memorable films in this decade. Frank Capra’s masterpiece It’s a Wonderful Life and Orson Welles’s cinema genius production of Citizen Kane were released. The film noir genre was at its height. Alfred Hitchcock made his American debut with the film Rebecca and made many classics throughout the 1940s. (Wikipedia)

 

1940's/ 1950's Movie Stars

(Top) Cary Grant, Audrey Hepburn, Marlon Brando (Middle) Lauren Bacall, Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly (Bottom) Humphrey Bogart, Marlene Dietrich, Clark Gable

Movie Stars of the 1940’s & 1950’s

 

Of course, I want you to visit my website as a source of reference material, but if you want to see these full-length gems for free, I recommend tuning into the Turner Classic Movies channel. They show everything from the great silent films, Chaplin, Buster Keaton, etc. through Hollywood’s “Golden Age”.

 

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These classic films bring me great joy and I hope you’ll find a special place in your heart for them, too!

 

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“Simply the Best” Miss Tina Turner!

Posted by donnamarie on

Happy Birthday, Tina!

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Anytime I feel I’m running on low energy I just channel Tina and my body can’t help but pulsate.

Today we celebrate Tina Turner’s 77th birthday and the life of an icon and true RockStar! I marvel at her eternal youth and vitality. I wanna be just like her when I grow up!

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Tina Turner, born Anna Mae Bullock on November 26, 1939, is an acclaimed recording artist, dancer, actress, and author, whose career has spanned more than half a century, earning her widespread recognition and numerous awards.

Born and raised in Nutbush, Tennesse, she began her musical career in the mid-1950s as a featured singer with Ike Turner’s Kings of Rhythm, first recording in 1958 under the name “Little Ann.”

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Anna Mae Bullock

Her introduction to the public as Tina Turner began in 1960 as a member of the Ike & Tina Turner Revue. Success followed with a string of notable hits credited to the duo, including “A Fool in Love”, “River Deep – Mountain High” (1966), “Proud Mary” (1971) and “Nutbush City Limits” (1973), a song which she herself wrote. (Wikipedia)

Tina Turner

Ike & Tina Turner Revue – (Tina center)

Imitating Miss Tina was part of my childhood as my girlfriends and I would shake our booties whipping our hair and working it out with the ladies.

This is an early performance of the gift that is Miss Tina Turner!

In her autobiography, I, Tina, she revealed several instances of severe domestic abuse against her by Ike Turner prior to their 1976 split and subsequent 1978 divorce. Raised as a Baptist, she encountered faith with Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism in 1971, crediting the spiritual chant of Nam Myoho Renge Kyo, which Turner claims helped her to endure during difficult times. (Wikipedia)

 

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This concert footage is part of Tina’s “comeback” tour after those early, disastrous years with Ike Turner. I wrote in a previous post about Tina’s life as portrayed by Angela Bassett in “What’s Love Got to Do With It?”and what a remarkable life Tina has endured.

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Tina Turner (l) Angela Bassett (r) “What’s Love Got to Do With It”

She’s always been my idol since I was a child and after seeing Tina looking hot in this white leather outfit and her boundless energy I stopped boohooing about baby weight gained after my daughter and got my butt back into the gym.

Seeing her in concert was a night I’ll always treasure. That woman is all that and no one compares. If you haven’t had the pleasure.

 

Enjoy!

 

After her divorce from Ike Turner, Tina rebuilt her career through live performances. In the early 1980s, she launched a major comeback with another string of hits, starting in 1983 with the single “Let’s Stay Together” followed by the 1984 release of her fifth solo album Private Dancer which became a worldwide success. “What’s Love Got to Do with It”, the lead single won three Grammy Awards including Record of the Year. (Wikipedia)

 

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Her solo success continued with the multi-platinum albums Break Every Rule and Foreign Affair and with singles such as “We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome)”, “The Best” and “GoldenEye” for the James Bond film of the same name. “What’s Love Got to Do with It” was later used as the title of a loosely based biographical film adapted from her autobiography.

 

In addition to her musical career, Tina has also experienced success in films, including the role of Acid Queen in the 1975 rock musical “Tommy”, a starring role alongside Mel Gibson in the 1985 action film Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome, and a cameo role in the 1993 film Last Action Hero. (Wikipedia)

Tina’s critically acclaimed role as “The Acid Queen” in The Who’s “Tommy” (1975) was outstanding! Still a classic today.

 

If you weren’t on acid, you sure felt like it!

One of the world’s best-selling music artists of all time, she has also been referred to as The Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Tina has been called the most successful female Rock ‘n’ Roll artist, receiving eleven Grammy Awards, including eight competitive awards and three Grammy Hall of Fame awards.

Miss Turner has also sold more concert tickets than any other solo performer in history. Her combined album and single sales total approximately 180 million copies worldwide, making her one of the biggest selling females in music history.

 

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Her Tina!: 50th Anniversary Tour became one of the highest selling ticketed shows of 2008–09. Rolling Stone ranked her no. 63 on their 100 greatest artists of all time and in 1991, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. (Wikipedia)

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Tina Turner’s career has been a marvel to watch. Despite all odds, she brought herself up from Nutbush to the pentacle of success in music, film, and continues to be an inspirational figure.

Thank you, Tina, for uplifting my life and demonstrating that you can accomplish whatever you want with determination and faith. You are simply the best!

Love you!

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