Tis the Season...

Well, the Christmas season has officially kicked off. Like most classic movie and TV fans, I'm hoping to receive some great DVDs for Christmas. Since my mother and husband are also fans of Hollywood's Golden Age, they too hope Santa will bring some much desired DVD sets. Since David(my hubby) reads this blog, I can't say what he might receive from me. However, my mother has let me know some of the items on her wish list.

What does my mom, born a few years too soon to be called a "baby boomer," want?

1.) Hawaii Five-O: She owns most of the seasons released so far but has watched them all! Do NOT even suggest to Marge(mom) to watch the new version airing Monday nights on CBS. For her (and honestly for me too), Jack Lord is was and always will be Steve McGarrett. Honestly, to give any woman the gift of the Jack Lord seems like a good deal to me. He was certainly one of the most charismatic men to light up the small screen.

2.) Perry Mason: As many of you know from blogging at FilmPhiles, I grew up watching this show. Well, mom loves Raymond Burr as the iconic lawyer too. Not to mention Mason's team, Barbara Hale as mason's loyal secretary Della Street  and William Hopper as handsome PI Paul Drake. On the opposing side were William Talman as DA Hamilton Burger and Ray Collins as Lt. Tragg. These five actors were perfectly in their roles. As a result, the show ran for over a decade.

3.) The Bishop's Wife: Mom always loved this tale about an angel who helps a clergyman rediscover the joy in his life and work. Cary Grant is wonderful as Dudley, the angel. David Niven is the bishop whom Dudley is sent to help. In the title role, Loretta Young shines as Julia, the Bishop's wife. The beauty of this movie lies in its simple message: the everyday joys of life should be appreciated and celebrated. Three great character actor grace this film as well: Mony Woolley, Elsa Lancaster and Gladys Cooper. The cast is top notch and bound to draw you into this holiday tale.

Well, I'm off to see the Wizard today! The Lafayette Theater in Suffern, NY is showing the 1939 classic on the big screen. While there, I will be purchasing a gift for all three members of my household. On December 18, the Lafayette Theater will be showing It's a Wonderful Life at their theater. I plan to purchase our tickets today. I can think of no better holiday treat than to see Frank Capra's film as it was intended -- on the big screen! Merry Christmas to me!