40th Anniversary Screening of "The Poseidon Adventure"

As part of its "Real and Reel Sea Disasters" themed weekend of April 27 - 28, the Landmark Loew's Jersey Theater showed  The Poseidon Adventure. This theme was inspired by the 100th anniversary of the Titanic's sinking. I already have written about Friday, April 27's film, Lifeboat. Saturday night was a double feature of A Night to Remember and The Poseidon Adventure. I cannot lie. While A Night to Remember is a well made and historically informative film, I was thrilled at the prospect of seeing The Poseidon Adventure on the 50 foot screen. It has long been one of my favorite movies and it was a dream come true to see it as it was intended to be viewed.

This December marks 40 years since The Poseidon Adventure was released in theaters. The Loew's theater secured a copy from Twentieth Century Fox's vault and arranged a panel discussion prior to the film. The event was co-sponsored by Cinema Retro magazine. I have to say the panel discussion was a bit disappointing. I LOVE this film and when the panelists could not energetically answer why the film has become the cult classic it is, I was shocked. One panelist compared the journey of the passengers up the ship to Dante's Inferno. Really?! However, I did find out a few interesting pieces of information I did not know. For instance, Twentieth Century Fox was getting cold feet about the project. New studio head, Dennis Stanfill, was concerned because of the big budget bombs that put Fox in financial jeopardy during the late 1960's. However, Allen had already spent $250,000 of his own money securing the rights and various other expenses. Out of desperation, Allen asked Fox studio executives if he could raise half of the $5 million dollars it would cost to make The Poseidon Adventure, would Fox guarantee the rest. They agreed and gave Allen 24 hours. Allen took his story boards to his country club and managed to secure the $2.5 million he needed.

Another bit of trivia I learned was the other actors and actresses considered for roles in film. For instance, Esther Williams was considered for the part of Belle Rosen. Since Shelley Winters was so endearing in the part, it's hard to see Williams in the role. For the role of bachelor James Martin, Gene Wilder was considered. While Red Buttons is a great character actor, I must admit I think Wilder would have been great. Martin is a quirky, lonely man in whom Belle Rosen takes a motherly interest. Wilder is more age appropriate in my opinion. The role that I wish had been cast differently was singer Nonnie Parry. I have to admit Carol Lynley is not a favorite of mine. Therefore, when I heard Katharine Ross was also considered for the part, I thought YES! In my opinion, Katharine Ross is a better actress than Carol Lynley and would have infused Nonnie with a less shrill personality.

Perhaps, the panel was at a loss to explain why The Poseidon Adventure continues to be a fan favorite. I am not. First, there are many film fans who are my age (45) or older who grew up watching Irwin Allen TV shows like Lost in Space either first run or in reruns. Therefore, we identify the name Irwin Allen with positive experiences. Second, Allen ushered in the 70's disaster genre with this film. He did numerous big screen and TV movies that my generation grew up watching. I clearly remember The Towering Inferno and Earthquake being "must see" movies. These disaster films remain favorites of us older film fans because the effects were tangible -- NOT CGI! It is the cast and stunt people working themselves through dangerous sets. This makes the peril far more real to me.

However, I believe appeal of The Poseidon Adventure lies in its story telling. We are introduced to an ordinary group of individuals thrown into an extraordinary situation. They are not always heroic, we see their fears and doubts. The characters are often fighting with each as well as the force of the ocean. I have always liked the fact that there are many politically incorrect lines spoken with respect to Belle Rosen's weight. Honestly, in a life and death situation, I would think people lose the ability to filter their comments. It also makes the characters more human to me. They aren't perfect, they are just trying their best to get out of a capsized ship alive.

Out of respect for those who have not seen the movie, I will limit the spoilers in this article. The Poseidon Adventure opens with the ship in the midst of a storm. Young Robin Shelby (Eric Shea) chooses this inopportune time to accept an invitation to visit Captain Harrison (Leslie Nielsen) on the bridge. The twelve year old Robin is fascinated with the ship and how it operates. Harrison sends Robin back to his cabin because he not only battling the storm but Mr. Linarcos. Linarcos is the company's representative and he has been challenging Captain Harrison during the voyage. Linarcos is annoyed that the Poseidon is behind schedule. Everyday the Poseidon is late is costing the company more money. Apparently, this is Poseidon's last voyage, she will be demolished when they arrive in Greece. The demolition crew has been waiting for several days to do their job and obviously being paid to wait. Harrison tells Linarcos that it is unsafe to push an old ship to travel too fast. In addition, the waves in the Mediterranean Sea have been unusually high this voyage and the Poseidon is top heavy. Harrison wants to make a stop to add ballast to the Poseidon making her better bottom weighted. Linarcos threatens to remove Harrison as captain if he does not proceed at full speed to Athens. Harrison reluctantly agrees. Nielsen does a good job in this scene. We see a man in conflict. He capitulates to Linarcos knowing he will be stripped of power before he can add ballast. However, at least if he remains captain, he can do his best to lead his crew since he knows the ship well.

Captain Harrison(Leslie Nielsen) argues with company rep Mr. Linarcos

We are then introduced the characters who will become part of the escape story. There is James Martin (Red Buttons), a haberdasher who spends his little free time exercising. Belle and Manny Rosen(Shelley Winters and Jack Albertson) are retired owners of a hardware store. The two are going to Israel to see their daughter and two year old grandson. The pair have never seen the little boy so there is a great deal of excitement for the couple. Belle has also taken an interest in Mr. Martin who she believes exercises so much because he is lonely. Manny observes that Belle just wants to see everyone married. She agrees, after all, they have made each other happy for many years.

The Rosens (Jack Albertson & Shelley Winters) with Mr. Martin (Red Buttons) on New Year's Eve

Robin Shelby is on board with older sister Susan (Pamela Sue Martin). The Shelbys are on their way to meet their parents on vacation. Reverend Scott (Gene Hackman) has caught the eye of Susan. She seems to have a crush on the reverend who is outspoken about God helping those who help themselves. Scott seems to have no patience for the weak. We discover during a conversation Scott has with the ship's chaplain (Arthur O'Connell) that Scott has been sent to Africa to perform his duties. Scott is actually excited to start anew. However, Chaplain John does remind Scott that it is their responsibility to minster to all -- weak as well as strong.

Robin and Susan Shelby (Eric Shea & Pamela Sue Martin)

Mike and Linda Rogo are a married couple from New York City. Mike (Ernest Borgnine) is a Lt. Detective with NYPD while Linda (Stella Stevens) is a former prostitute. This couple grabs our attention from the start. They are both strong willed and opinionated. Rogo kept arresting Linda so she couldn't make a living and would have to marry him. Despite the maneuver, we honestly see a spark and genuine affection in this couple. Linda didn't just marry Mike because he pursued her. Linda is too strong for that. Linda married Mike because he truly loves and accepts her as she is. We realize that when Linda questions whether they should accept an invitation to the captain's table because she thinks a crew member might recognize her. Mike makes it clear that he's not ashamed of her and is proud to be husband. To me, the casting of Ernest Borgnine and Stella Stevens as the Rogos was perfect. Both Borgnine and Stevens can play tough with an underlying pathos brilliantly.

Linda and Mike Rogo (Stella Stevens & Ernest Borgnine)

Getting ready for the New Year's Eve celebration are the waiters and band. Nonnie Parry (Carol Lynley) is rehearsing her big number, "The Morning After." One older waiter does not like the band, but a younger waiter named Acres (Roddy McDowell) does. Acres thinks the band will make New Year's Eve lively. The celebration is very lively. However, Captain Harrison is called to the bridge. Linarcos follows Harrison to the bridge where they are informed of an undersea earthquake. This means a huge tidal wave is heading their way. As the passengers are signing "Auld Lang Syne," Harrison orders a mayday call, sets off the emergency sirens, and tries to redirect the Poseidon. However, it is too late and a 90 foot wave capsizes the ship.

After the ship has been capsized, the question of what to do next emerges?  The purser demands they stay calm and remain where they are. He believes help will be there shortly. Acres calls down to the passengers because he was trapped in the kitchen during the tidal wave. He wants to join the others. It is then that Martin and Rev. Scott realize that they should go up to Acres because the ship is floating upside down. Everyone above them is now underwater. The way out is to climb up to hull. In order to get up to where Acres is, the passengers will have to climb a metal Christmas tree. Unfortunately, very few people are willing to take the risk and prefer to follow the purser. Scott is able to convince the Shelbys, Rogos, and Rosens to join him. Mr. Martin convinces Nonnie that she needs to leave her deceased brother and try to escape. Rev. Scott begs Chaplain John to join them. However, the chaplain tells Scott that they each have a task. We understand exactly what Chaplain John means -- Scott must lead the strong while the chaplain will stay with the weak.

Chaplain John (Arthur O'Connell) chooses to stay with those who will not follow Rev. Scott

Once Scott, Martin, Nonnie, the Rosens, the Rogos, and Shelbys have joined Acres in the upper deck, Scott makes one last plea for the others to join the group trying to escape. Moments after this plea, there is an explosion. Scott looks down and sees that water in flooding the dining room. In a panic, the passengers overload the Christmas tree and it falls down into the dining room. The only way up is now gone and the fate of those who chose to stay with the purser is obvious.Rev. Scott tells the small group what happened. The looks on the faces of the actors tells us that reality has set in for these people -- the others are dead and they're on their own!

Rev. Scott begs passengers not to panic

The journey to the propeller shaft is dangerous and we realize that there is no guarantee everyone will make it. The actors were apparently blackmailed into doing most of their own stunts by director Ronald Neame. Neame said that not doing certain stunts would result in an actor losing his/her closeups. The final result is that we see that strain and stress in the expressions of each actor. Perhaps, Neame went too far, but I can now see why the performances ring true with fear and desperation. Think about it, they are actually swimming in shafts and walking around fire!  In particular, I admire Shelley Winters and Stella Stevens who were willing to be shot in less than flattening circumstances to make the scenario seem more realistic.

Nonnie, Martin, and Linda try to avoid drowning

Seeing this film on a 50 foot screen was amazing! Hearing the John Williams theme against the enormous ship in the opening credits set the mood immediately.  I could truly appreciate the size and scale of the production. The scene where the ballroom/dining room flips is incredible. Those are actual tables, chairs, and other pieces of furniture flying through the air. The actors and stunt people are being thrown all over the place and are truly in danger. Perhaps the most memorable scene is the one where the man who falls into the stained glass ceiling panel. I've seen it so many times on TV but it so real on the big screen!

In closing, I can only say this film holds special memories for me. My brother Donn and I would watch together every time it was on TV. It was cool as a kid to see a kid in a movie be part of the solution. Robin's knowledge of the ship helps the group proceed correctly. We also adored Mike and Linda Rogo. Maybe, the Rogos are like so many people we knew --  loud and brusque but deep down kind-hearted. Even though  Mike Rogo constantly challenges Rev. Scott's leadership, we realize it is because he cares about the fate of himself, his wife, and the others. Linda can be abrasive too. It is Linda who quips," I'm going next. So if old fat ass gets stuck in there, I won't get stuck behind her." This is due to the fact that Belle Rosen got stuck in the Christmas tree and had to be pushed up by Rev. Scott. Linda fears Belle will get caught in the shaft they need to crawl through. However, that's part of what makes the movie work for me. Why would a straightshooter like Linda filter herself when she's in a life and death situation? Plus, Belle even asks her husband to push should she get stuck!

I think the humor in the film breaks the tension effectively. I crack up every time Rev. Scott struggles to place his hands on Belle's derriere and push when she is stuck in the Christmas tree. Scott apologizes by saying, " Excuse me for getting so personal, Mrs. Rosen." Belle then responds, "What else could you do? Mrs. Peter Pan I'm not."

Here are some other favorite moments of comic relief:

Reverend Frank Scott: Through the kitchen and go deeper and deeper in the ship till we reach the hull. That way!


Mike Rogo: Then you just kick out the bottom and we swim ashore, huh?

Linda Rogo: Or maybe you could just yell "This is the police" and it'll open right up!

Mike Rogo: Don't be a smart ass!
__________________________________________
(Linda is about to climb up the Christmas tree)
Reverend Frank Scott: Ok Mrs. Rogo, up you go. But you'll have to take off that long gown.

Mike Rogo: Like hell she will!

Reverend Frank Scott: She can't climb in it. It's too tight.

Mike Rogo: She's got nothin' under it!

Linda Rogo: Just panties. What else do I need?

Mike Rogo: What do you mean what else do you need?!
____________________________________________
Maybe, I love this film because it has no pretense. Irwin Allen wanted to capture our imaginations with some great special effects done on a huge scale. The screenplay by Wendell Mayes and Stirling Silliphant has humor and humanity. Silliphant was the writer for shows like Route 66 and Alfred Hitchcock Presents as well as the screenplay for the film In the Heat of the Night. Silliphant had a gift for telling a story and making us emotionally invest in the characters. Obviously, it took a superb cast to  make these ordinary people come to life. These characters were regular people with whom we could identify. In a sense, we need them to survive because they are us! Their ability to survive under such extreme circumstances I think gives us hope that we can overcome the obstacles in our own lives. But, that's just my opinion.

"Lifeboat" starts off "Real and Reel Sea Disasters" Weekend at Loews

Last night, The Landmark Loew's Jersey Theater kicked off its "Real and Reel Sea Disasters" themed weekend. The concept was inspired by the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the "Titanic." The first film of the weekend was Alfred Hitchcock's Lifeboat. I was very excited at the prospect of seeing this film on Loew's 50 foot screen because the film holds special memories for me. Lifeboat was my Dad's favorite Hitchcock film and one of his favorite films of all time. My Dad would watch it on TV every time it was shown. In the days before VCRs and DVRs, this meant some late nights and/or early morning showings. My grandfather would hear the opening and immediately know Dad was watching Lifeboat again. Apparently, the movie woke him on at least one occasion. This led to my grandfather's infamous question, "Is that damn boat sinking again?!"

I can understand more each time I watch Lifeboat why my father loved it. It is a fascinating character study which is well directed, written, and acted. The idea for  Lifeboat was Hitchcock's own. He wisely looked for a top notch writer to do the screenplay. Hitchcock found an excellent collaborator in John Steinbeck. Steinbeck was the perfect fit for this project because he could create multi-layered characters who the audience could relate to. In a film where there is a single set, the lifeboat itself, the action is going to be dialogue driven. This is where Steinbeck and Hitchcock impress me. Steinbeck created great moments for each character in the script. The important back story for each character is revealed as the characters begin to bond and confide in each other. Hitchcock makes the most of these conversations and successfully forces us to invest our emotions in these people.

In order for Lifeboat to succeed, the casting was crucial. The actors had to be able to work in a confined area and draw the audience into the Lifeboat. It is not a film that was designed as a star vehicle. Rather, it is a well constructed ensemble piece where each member of cast must deliver. That is what makes Lifeboat so riveting for me. Each actor is engaging when sharing his/her back story. However, what is more important is how each actor is able to stay in character when the focus in on someone else. If the actors were not in character at all times, the audience would notice since it is such a small space where the action takes place. We need to see the actors behaving as their characters would, otherwise, there would be a falseness to the story. In addition, the ability of each actor depict the physical and emotional deterioration of his/her character over the course of the film is outstanding. I can not imagine a better cast than the one assembled here.

Lifeboat opens with the sinking of a ship. Hitchcock then shows us the debris floating in the water. This debris tells us that life was unexpectedly interrupted and ended for many passengers. We then meet our first survivor alone in a lifeboat. She is dressed to the nines and clearly upset that her best stockings have a run in them. It is a great moment delivered by theatre legend Tallulah Bankhead. Bankhead portrays Connie Porter, a world famous reporter. Connie picks up crew member, John Kovac (John Hodiak). Apparently, Connie took a lifeboat that was deemed poor by others trying to escape. Her willingness to take this second rate lifeboat allowed her to take all her belongings with her. There is sexual tension and chemistry between Kovac and Porter immediately. She views this as the story of a lifetime that she has been able to capture on film. He realizes that they have a short time to save others who may be in the water. You see, not only was the ship torpedoed by a German U-boat, but so were the lifeboats. Kovac is pleased to report that the U-Boat itself was destroyed during the attack.

Tallulah Bankhead as Connie Porter

There aren't many other survivors. However, Kovac and Connie do save  Stanley "Sparks" Garrett (Hume Cronyn), Alice MacKenzie (Mary Anderson), Gus Smith (William Bendix), Charles D. "Ritt" Rittenhouse (Henry Hull), Mrs. Higgins (Heather Angel) and her baby, and George "Joe" Spencer (Canada Lee). Three of the survivors were Kovac's fellow crew members: "Sparks" was the radio operator; Smith was a coal stoker; and "Joe" was a steward. Alice is a nurse who was on her way to serve in London. "Ritt" is a rich American industrialist. Mrs. Higgins is a young mother taking her infant son back to England. Unfortunately, Mrs. Higgins was so traumatized by the attack that she was trying to drown herself and her son before "Joe" came to her aid in the water. Sadly, we discover that the baby boy is dead and Mrs. Higgins is still clinging to the infant's corpse. The last survivor turns out to be a Nazi (Walter Slezak) from the U-boat. Now, the stage is set for the the drama which ensues.

The dilemma is whether or not to allow the German who attacked their ship to remain on board. Kovac wants to throw the Nazi overboard and let him die. Connie, "Ritt", and "Sparks" believe he is a prisoner of war. Therefore, they believe he should stay aboard and be turned over to the allied forces when they are rescued. Ultimately, Kovac reluctantly agrees but makes it clear he does not trust the Nazi. Once the conflict is introduced into their midst, we begin to learn more about each character.

Walter Slezak as Willy

 In her short time on screen, Heather Angel is heartbreaking as the young mother who mentally breaks down. Angel does not overact, but effectively conveys the desperation and hopelessness of this young woman. When she attacks the Nazi for killing her child, we grieve with her and for her. Angel's nonverbal acting is outstanding, she is forlorn and her eyes have the empty quality someone in shock would have. Therefore, it not surprising that Mrs. Higgins is our first casualty.

Heather Angel as Mrs. Higgins

Gus Smith is a likeable everyman from Jersey City. (A point not lost on last night's audience!) Sadly, Gus has been seriously injured. It appears that his only hope for survival is to have his gangrened leg amputated. Bendix pulls at our emotions as he desperately begs to keep his leg. It seems his girl Rosie loves to dance and it is a passion they share. Gus worries that another guy will replace him in Rosie's life. The Nazi, Willy, has volunteered to do the surgery. This creates doubt in the mind of several passengers. Why would Willy want to help Gus? Does Gus really need the amputation? It is Alice and Connie that ultimately make everyone realize that Gus' life depends upon them trusting Willy to operate. We know that for Gus this extremely difficult. Not only does not want to lose his leg, but he abhors Willy. You see, Gus Smith is actually Gus Schmidt. Gus changed his name after World War I because he did not want to be associated with me like Willy.

William Bendix and Mary Anderson

We begin to see the nature of each person reveal itself. "Ritt" can't help but try to take charge. He is used to being in control in the real world, so he naturally sees himself as leader. On the other hand, "Sparks" has always taken orders as radio operator and has no desire to be in charge. "Joe" also seems content with helping rather than leading. However, Kovac has never had the opportunity to lead before and sees himself as the best man for the job. Ultimately, the strength of Kovac's character leads the others to recognize his leadership.

John Hodiak, Henry Hull, William Bendix with Hume Cronyn in background

Each woman finds herself attracted to one of the men. Connie is a strong woman and as such is drawn to Kovac. Alice, on the hand, feels a connection with "Sparks." Connie and Kovac have tangible sexual chemistry. There is definitely heat between Bankhead and Hodiak. We discover they are both from the south side of Chicago. Kovac embraces his modest background, while Connie has worked hard to move up in the world. One thing is clear: they have both survived in the world because they have had to fight for what they have. Alice and "Sparks" contrast nicely with Connie and Kovac. Both are thoughtful, soft spoken individuals who just want to contribute to the world community.

John Hodiak and Tallulah Bankhead

Perhaps, the most fascinating character is Willy. Walter Slezak is wonderfully ingratiating as the enemy who is rescued. He is capable of making Willy seem sensible and practical. Therefore, he does make the survivors wonder if maybe he can be trusted. Slowly, we see even Gus warms to Willy. Yet, the audience knows that Willy has a compass and controls where the lifeboat goes. Is it heading to Bermuda? Or does Willy have other ideas?

Walter Slezak and William Bendix

While this film is an ensemble piece, to me, there is one actor who dominates. As I watched Lifeboat last night, I kept wondering why Tallulah Bankhead did not become a huge movie star. She is magical. It isn't just that she is an outstanding actress. Bankhead has a presence that completely draws you into her world. There are times where Connie/Tallulah are merged. She incorporates her signature "darling" seamlessly into the dialogue. Her trademark gestures are woven into the character of Connie without robbing Connie of her persona. We watch as Connie is systematically robbed of all her possessions, yet she remains focused on being rescued. I wish Bankhead had left more performances like this one on film. However, Tallulah's first love was the theatre and when Hollywood did not present her with quality roles, she returned to the stage.

I can only say in closing that I consider this film a classic.  I judge a film based on how well it stands the test of time. The audience of several hundred people last night became silent once the film started. You could hear a pin drop during the film because everyone was so rapt up in the story. The reactions david and I heard on the way out confirmed this. Good to know that there are still fans of the Golden Age out there!

"Real and Reel Sea Disasters on Screen" Weekend at The Landmark Loew's Jersey Theater

I am SO excited about the upcoming showings at The Landmark Loew's Jersey Theater in Jersey City, NJ. The theme for the weekend of April 27 - 28 is entitled "Real and Reel Sea Disasters on Screen." The line up is AWESOME!

On Friday, April 27th at 8pm, Alfred Hitchcock's Lifeboat will be shown. In fact, the print will be from the vault of 20th Century Fox. I grew up watching this film everytime it was on TV. It was my Dad's favorite Hitchcock film and one of his favorites of all time.

On Saturday, April 28th at 6 pm, A Night to Remember will be shown. This film is being shown since this year makes the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic. I have always found stories about the Titanic interesting because of a family connection. My great grandfather worked at the New York piers for the White Star Line. His crew was preparing for its biggest job in April, 1912. Unfortunately, the Titanic never docked in NY.

On Saturday, April 28th at 8:25 pm, The Poseidon Adventure will be be shown. This is my favorite disaster movie of all time! I adore Stella Stevens and Ernest Borgnine in this movie. This 40th Anniversary Screening is co-sponsored by Cinema Retro magazine and will use 20th Century Fox's vault print.
Noted film critic Stephen Whitty will host and be joined by David Savage of Cinema Retro, Poseidon expert Chris Poggiali and critic Matt Forke to share info and insights about the movie and its production.

As always, Loews makes viewing affordable: $7 for Adults, $5 for Seniors (65+) and Children (12 & younger). If you live in North Jersey or the New York City area, check out this great venue! For more information, go to the Loews site http://www.loewsjersey.org/

What makes a film a "classic"?

After a very lively discussion at the CMBA Private Screening Room on Friday night, I have been thinking nonstop about what the word "classic" means in the context of films. Is it a movie made only during Hollywood's Golden Age? Is it an award winning film? Does it have to been an "A" picture? Or, is the definition of "classic" with respect to movies open to interpretation?

I think because we film lovers are a unique breed of people, one definition could never serve everyone. The library of films is so vast that each of us will naturally be drawn to different volumes in the collection. It starts first with personal taste. I love mysteries so I am immediately drawn to film adaptions of Agatha Christie, Erle Stanley Gardner, Raymond Chandler, and Dashiell Hammett. To me, several films which I love fall into this category. I consider The Thin Man, Witness for the Prosecution, and Murder on the Orient Express to be classics.

We must be honest enough to admit that our own likes and dislikes often do influence our choices of what we call "classics." That is why it is so important that we be open to the blogs of other film fans. It will educate us about films that we have perhaps unfairly over looked. For instance, many people look down on the science fiction films of the 1950's. However, I find The Thing from Another World and Them! to be well told stories with good production value. In addition, many of the films during that era reflect the thoughts and opinions of the people of living during that time. These films are classics if for no other reason than how they reflect post World War II attitudes. Sure, we could read about the era in our history books, but through film we experience the time period.

Another genre that fascinates me and I would consider "classic" is the serial. It never ceases to amaze me how many of these serials managed to entertain with limited budgets and lesser known stars. To me, they show the innovation that these filmmakers had to use to finish quickly and with limited resources. Many of these cliffhangers were produced during World War II. So again, we film fans get to see what film goers of that era were seeing. Film captures attitudes and feelings in a way that textbooks cannot. Yes, Spy Smasher and Agent X-9 are fun viewing but it is also interesting to watch these serials and see how the Allies and Axis Powers were being depicted on screen.

I don't know how many would agree with me, but the horror films of the 1950's and 1960's that had a campy element are "classics" too. Consider what William Castle did when he introduced audiences to The House on Haunted Hill and The Tingler. He created a genre of films that had decent plots and showmanship. I saw The House on Haunted Hill this past fall as it was originally shown in "Emergo!" This allowed a skeleton to emerge from behind the screen and its shadow to appear with Vincent Price in the climax of the film. Castle was the master of  giveaways and coined new techniques such as "Percepto" and "Illusion-O." To me, Castle's films are "classics" because they inspired filmmakers like John Carpenter that a decent horror film could be made on a tight budget. In addition, I believe Castle showed the power of merchandising and creating the movie as an "event" not just a viewing.

These are just a few examples of how "classic" could be applied to films. A classic film has an enduring quality. It stirs in the individual a memorable experience. A classic gives us insight we might not otherwise have. Film is a truly powerful medium because it is a snapshot of a moment in time. Are some "pictures" of better quality than others? Sure. However, that does not mean a film lover cannot find value in these "snapshots."

Great Book Finds at Meadowlands Flea Market

Yesterday, I shared my love of going to flea markets. Well, I also went to the Meadowlands Flea Market yesterday with David. We scored SIX great books to add to our collection of books about the Golden Age of Hollywood. How much did spend on these great finds you ask? TWENTY DOLLARS! Below are pictures of the books.

This is why I LOVE flea markets. I can find usual books that are no longer in print. I was especially excited about The Greatest Movis Stars: The Golden Years by David Shipman. My dad owned this great reference book and I grew up using it to look up movie stars. Unfortunately, his copy was ruined when our basement flooded and the box it was stored in got wet. Now, I've got my own copy!

The 7 X 7 Link Award

Earlier this week, I received a pleasant surpise. My pal Dawn at Noir and Chick Flicks has tagged this blog (and yours truly) with" The 7 X 7 Link Award." I greatly appreciate Dawn's friendship and her continued support of my efforts.

The rules are as follows:
1.) Tell everyone something that no one else knows about
2.) Link to one of my posts that I personally think best fits the following categories: Most Beautiful Piece, Most Helpful Piece, Most Popular Piece, Most Controversial Piece, Most Surprisingly Successful Piece, Most Underrated Piece, and Most Pride-worthy Piece

3.)Pass this award on to seven other bloggers


Here goes!
Tell everyone something that no one else knows about

I LOVE flea markets, antique malls, garage sales, Goodwill stores, etc. In general, I love places where I can find great pieces connected to the past! My husband David and I often go to the Meadowlands Flea Market. Some of our favorite items are "pre-owned." We found our kitchen table, pantry, and 2 cabinets at second hand venues. Not to mention all the glassware we collect and have found at these same venues.

In addition, I LOVE diners. Close to home, my favorites are Gotham City Diner, Bendix Diner, Tick Tock Diner, and the Jackson Hole. On the road, I enjoy the DuBois Diner and Twilight Diner in Pennsylvania and the Buckeye Express in Ohio. Give me simple comfort food over "fine dining" any day.

Most Beautiful Piece
"We're off to see the Wizard..."

http://randomramblingofabroadwayfilmtvfan.blogspot.com/2010/11/were-off-to-see-wizard.html
After seeing The Wizard of Oz on the big screen, I was inspired to write an article about not only viewing the film, but how it touched me personally.

Most Helpful Piece
"By the way, silent films DO have an audience..."

http://randomramblingofabroadwayfilmtvfan.blogspot.com/2010/11/by-way-silent-films-do-have-audience.html

After seeing Nosferatu in a packed Loews Landmark Jersey Theatre in October, 2010, I assured fellow moviegoers that there were not only venues to see silent movies but others who love these films too.

Most Popular Piece
"TCM Alert for fans of The Saint"

http://randomramblingofabroadwayfilmtvfan.blogspot.com/2010/10/tcm-alert-for-fans-of-saint.html
I got the most hits on this piece and it was just an announcement of a marathon of The Saint movies.

Most Controversial Piece
I honestly can't recall any aticle that was controversial.

Most Surprisingly Successful Piece
Two Great Friday Nights at the Landmark Loew's Jersey Theatre:Part One

http://randomramblingofabroadwayfilmtvfan.blogspot.com/2011/12/two-great-friday-nights-at-landmark.html
This article on 40th Anniversary showing of The Homecoming and Waltons cast reunion was very popular. I even had a German blogger ask permission to reprint it on his site!

Most Underrated Piece
"Any other Bonita Granville fans out there?"
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I adored Bonita Granville after seeing her for the first time as Nancy Drew. I had hoped more people would have read this piece about a truly gifted young actress. FYI, Granville retired from acting to produce the popular Lassie TV series.
 
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"Now Showing --- Dodsworth"

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I LOVE this film and seeing it on the big screen made me love it more!

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Gone Too Soon Blogathon: Linda Darnell

When I found out Jessica of "Comet Over Hollywood" was hosting a "Gone Too Soon" Blogathon, I immediately thought of Linda Darnell. Without a doubt, she was one of the most beautiful actresses of the 1940's. However, she never quite became as big star as perhaps she should have. I decided to find out more about Linda Darnell. I bought the book Hollywood Beauty: Linda Darnell and the American Dream by Ronald L. Davis on Ebay. This biography was a quick read and I did learn a great deal about Linda the person as well as Linda the actress.

Monetta Darnell was born in Dallas on October 16, 1923 to Pearl and Roy Darnell. Monetta would become known to movie fans as Linda. Her mother was the strong personality of the family. Roy was Pearl's second husband. She had been married before and had two children. However, she lost custody of the son and daughter from her first marriage because she had placed them temporarily in an orphanage. As a result, the children were adopted by other families. Perhaps, that is why Pearl felt the need to control her family with Roy. In any case, Pearl wanted a better life and saw an opportunity through Monetta to have that life. Pearl encouraged Monetta to make an appointment with Ivan Kahn in November of 1937. Kahn was a talent scout visiting Dallas in order to find new faces to screen test for Twentieth Century Fox. Monetta met with Ivan Kahn as her mother wished.

Several months later, Kahn contacted Monetta and asked her to come to Twentieth Century Fox Studios in Hollywood. Unfortunately, Monetta was not signed in 1938 to a contract. She was at that "in between" age and the studio wasn't sure what to do with her. In addition, it was obvious during the visit to Hollywood that Pearl was difficult woman. Kahn had no desire to deal with an interfering stage mother. However, Kahn decided he would keep tabs on Monetta because she was mature and had potential.

Monetta was smart too. She would regularly write to Kahn and let him know what she was doing. In fact, Monetta even entered a contest where the prize was a contract with RKO. This did catch Kahn's attention. Monetta wound up winning a contract with RKO. Kahn spoke with her and said he was still interested in Monetta for Fox. However, he could not sign her while she was under contract to RKO. Since the RKO contract was a short term one, Kahn speculated that Monetta's option would lapse unless RKO found a spot for her immediately. He was correct. However, he asked Monetta and Pearl not to tell anyone of the Twentieth Century Fox offer. Pearl nearly ended Monetta's career before it began by telling people about the Fox contract before it was officially announced. However, Fox signed Monetta in 1939 and she was on her way.

Monetta's name was changed to Linda. Her first film was Hotel for Women. While it was not a great film, Linda made an impression and Darryl Zanuck was committed to making her a star. So what happened? Why didn't Linda become a bigger star with such a promising beginning? Part of it was sheer competition. Fox had other female stars who were great talents like Jeanne Crain and Gene Tierney. In addition, Linda was her own worst enemy. Linda had issues with alcohol and overeating. Both of these vices were ways to deal with her frustration and insecurities. For instance, Linda regretted giving up Captain of Castile with Tyrone Power and Cesar Romero to do Forever Amber. Linda seemed to focus on missed opportunities, so as a result, she became more depressed and turned to her vices.

Linda in "Forever Amber"

Linda Darnell died when she was only 41 years old in April of 1965. She died as a result of burns she received in a house fire. Linda was staying with some friends in the Chicago area while preparing for a stage role. Linda apparently was afraid to jump out of a second floor window. Instead, she tried to escape through the front door on the first floor. The door knob was too hot to touch and Linda became trapped in the house. She had burns over most of body and died 33 hours after being taken to the hospital.

In some ways, I wished I had not read about Linda Darnell's life. She was a tormented soul who seemed to be unable to find happiness. The love of her life was Joe Mankiewicz who was married and had no intention of divorcing his wife for Linda. In fact, it is believed that Linda may have been his inspiration for the Maria Vargas character in The Barefoot Contessa. Linda had assumed she would be offered the role and was very disappointed when the role was given to Ava Gardner. Supposedly, this is what ultimately ended her affair with Mankiewicz.

What I was most surprised to discover was that Linda was a close friend of Ann Miller. The two met at a benefit on Catalina Island in 1940. In some ways, it is not surprising the two women connected. Both became stars at a young age and were playing characters older than they were in real life. However, Ann was the polar opposite of Linda. Ann had a positive attitude and did not let lost parts prevent her from moving forward. I wish Linda had been able to adopt Ann's positive outlook on life. Perhaps, if she had, Linda would have had learned to enjoy her successes and led a happier life.

Linda with pal Ann Miller

In spite of her personal struggles, Linda Darnell managed to provide film lovers with a number of excellent portrayals. My favorite has always been Lorna Mae in A Letter to Three Wives. Linda's performance is outstanding. She is able to show Lorna Mae as an ambitious woman who ultimately just wants to be loved by a good man. Lorna Mae can be smart cracking but is kind hearted. She marries a rich man, but brings her mother to live with her. Her chemistry with Paul Douglas in the film is wonderful and makes their pairing very believable.

Linda as Lorna Mae

Like Joan Crawford, I hope learning about Linda's personal life does not taint her legacy for fans. After all, movie stars are just people. They struggle like the rest of us to find peace and fulfillment. An actor's off screen imperfections should not diminish his/her body of work. Linda Darnell left some wonderful performances for us to enjoy. She was stunning in Mark of Zorro and Blood and Sand. Linda proved her dramatic skills in My Darling Clementine and Hangover Square. Perhaps her most memorable and touching appearance on film is as the Virgin Mary in Song of Bernadette.

Linda in "My Darling Clementine"

If I had to pick a role that showed Linda's actualization of her potential, I would choose Ellen Stryker in Zero Hour! Despite only being 34 years old, Linda has great maturity in this role. Darnell plays the estranged wife of Ted Stryker (Dana Andrews). Ted has never overcome the guilt he feels over a decision that cost the lives of six pilots in his squadron. In Zero Hour!, Ellen has decided to leave Ted and is taking their son with her. Ted finds out what plane the two are on, and buys a ticket for himself. Ted is determined to convince Ellen to stay with him. Unfortunately, food poisoning hits many of the passengers including the pilot, co-pilot, and Ted's son. Ted is forced to fly the plane. He convinces Ellen to be his co-pilot. It is during their scenes in the cockpit that Darnell does some her best acting. Linda had learned her craft and was able to convey the Ellen's fear and her strength. Ellen still loves Ted, but is conflicted about allowing  herself and her son to be exposed to his self pity. Darnell beautifully plays Ellen as having a quiet strength and determination to make a good life life for herself and her child.

Linda with Dana Andrews in "Zero Hour!"

In closing, I must admit have one regret about Linda Darnell's career. I have always thought Linda would have been the perfect Pearl Chavez in Duel in the Sun. However, she left enough great performances for me to enjoy!