Judy Holliday..."Born Yesterday" mirrors communist issue! Bright star a legendary talent...

One of the good things about movie revival houses - especially if you are twenty-or-thirty-something -is that  they provide the opportunity for classic film buffs to catch flicks from the thirites, forties, and fifties on the wide screen instead of a cable network on the old boob tube.

In that regard, local theatres like the Aero, the Nuart - and especially the New Beverly Cinema - satisfy the bill to the max.

Last night, I caught Judy Holliday in a double-feature (both in black & white) which consisted of two of her most popular (successful films) "Born Yesterday" and "It Should Happen to You".

If you read this column regularly, you know that I am inclined to use the phrase "I wasn't born yesterday" alot when I am particularly annoyed with some bozo trying to pull a fast one over on me!

Of course, the Holliday film is where the expression was coined.

Holliday honed her stage skills in a night-club act before working in Broadway plays and musicals.

Her success playing the role of  "Billie Dawn" (in a stage production in 1946) led to her being cast in the film version (1950) for which she won the Academy Award for Best Actress and the Golden Globe Award:

Best Actress
Motion Picture Musical or Comedy

The fast-paced witty comedy also starred William Holden (a revelation in this role) and Broderick Crawford.

Garson Kanin originally wrote the play for friend Jean Arthur.


Shortly after the out-of-town engagements, Ms. Arthur became ill and was unable to take on the run in New York City; subsequently, Holliday stepped into her shoes in a role that sky-rocketted her to great success in theatrical circles.

Curiously, the subject matter may have hit home a little too close for Ms. Holliday in some respects.

The plot focuses on a gangster her character is romantically-involved with  who saunters into Washington to grease a few palms to force a bill amendment in his favor for an ongoing commercial venture.

Ms. Holliday's character tends to harp about the evils of big business and the perils of self-serving capitalism to the detriment of the "people".

In an intriguing twist, the charismatic star was called to testify before the Senate Internal Security Subcommittee to answer claims that she was involved in communism.

The "dizzy blond" was a highly intelligent talent, but lawyers advised her to play dumb (along the lines of some of the characters she portrayed on the silver screen) to save her pretty skin.

In her defense, she argued that she had been taken advatange of.

Although not blacklisted from films, Holliday was barred from performing on the radio and television for almost three years.

In the second feature that screened last night, Ms. Holliday played oppositie a young fresh-faced actor - Jack Lemmon - who was a total delight in every facet of his bang-on characterization.

George Cukor's directing - a handful of his camera shots showed-off stunning examples of his unique flair and individualistic style, for instance - was simply remarkable.

Judy was also hailed for her performance on Broadway in the musical - "Bells Are Ringing" - and won a Tony Award:

Best Actress
Best Performance/ Leading Actress in a Musical

The hit show inspired a screen version she also starred in (1960).

In this hilarious feature, the screwball comedienne played a telephone operator, inclined to get mixed up in the personal and professional lives of her clients.

"Bells are Ringing" is one of my favorite comedies - because it rustles up fond memories of  two friends of mine - who once owned a telephone answering service (with the old "plug in" board) in Hollywood proper (which I penned a post on about a year ago).

Post:  02/01/08
 
http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2008/02/raquel-welchhas-heavy-breather.html

Holliday began her show business career in 1938 as part of a night-club act called "The Revuers."

The popular Revuers landed gigs at New York hot spots such as the Blue Angel, the Rainbow Room, and the Trocadero (Hollywood).

Bernard Dick summed up Holliday's acting this way:

"Perhaps the most important aspect of the Judy Holliday persona, both in variations of Billie Dawn and in her roles as housewife, is her vulnerablity. Her ability to shift her mood quickly from comic to serious is one of her greatest technical gifts."

George Cukor lauded her, too.

"She had in common with the great depth of emotion, that unexpectedly touching emotion, that thing which would unexpectedly touch your heart."

Ms. Holliday was once-involved with the talented clarinet-player - David Oppenheim - whom she married in 1948 (Divorced 1958).

The loquacious character actress also maintained a long-term relationship with jazz musician Gerry Mulligan.

Ms. Holliday was interred in the Westchester Hills Cemetery in Hastings-on-Hudson in New York in 1965.

Holliday has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame  in Hollywood @  6901 Hollywood Blvd.

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Truth...quote!

The truth is like a healing rain

that engulfs the soul

and washes away the pain

Julian Ayrs

Divine Grace

Collection of Poems

http://www.thetattler.biz

An Education...solid no-frills Oscar contender entertains! Carey Mulligan stars...

Romantic tryst in Paris delights!

There weren't any smash-ups - or even any risque moments - offering up titillating gratuitous sex.

And, no special effects, to speak off.

But, Educating Rita - a well-crafted period drama shot on location across the big pond - has still managed to snag captive audiences and mesmerize them along the absorbing way.

The story focuses on a naive 17-year old student - Jenny (played expertly by Carey Mulligan) - who (while still at home with her parents)  embarks on a romance with a charming persuasive older man (Peter Sarsgaard).

Within a few short establishing scenes, David - a cultured man-about-town - manages to wangle his way into her tender heart (and bond with her parents, too).

Oh, he's a smooth  operator, alright.

Before you can utter-  "swept off her feet" - he's wining and dining the young lass and introducing her to the intriquing world of art, elegant supper clubs, and a social whirl that soon ensnares her into a web of romantic bliss.

A trip to Paris bodes well for the newly-engaged twosome.

Suddenly, a twist in the road turns the rosy affair into a tawdry misstep for Rita and her parents.

By accident one day, the nubile young beauty stumbles on a handful of letters, and is shocked to discover that the object of her affection is a  married man (with a child, to boot).

The fact that her beau  is a petty thief - and con-man - is of little consequence now.

Having wasted precious hours - that should have been spent towards her studies - the ardous task of getting prepped for an entrance exam to Oxford looms large now.

Desperate, Rita enlists the aid of a tudor and works feverishy to get back on track.

Mulligan does a star turn here in role that suits her to a "t".

Sarsgaard, meanwhile, carves out a niche for himself in loftier thespian circles.

I expect there will be more offers to play cads and ne'er-do-well's in the future as Hollywood power-brokers zeroe in  on a talent that has been drifting beneath their radar 'til now.

Kudos to Alfred Molina and Cara Seymour for their strong credible performances in the roles of Jenny's parents..

Emmy Thompson appears in a throw-a-way role without much impact.

If you're into intelligent little gem flicks - that don't bang you on the head to get a point across - An Education is just right for your artistic sensibilities.

Nick Hornby's adaptation of Lynn Barber's memoir - set in 1961 London - caused quite a buzz at Sundance last year.

Everywhere I turned- elsewhere - film buffs were chatting-up the coming-of-age story or dashing off to catch it when it was in limited release around the country last year.

An Education won the Audience Choice award and the Cinematography award at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival, in fact.

Understandably, there have been nods from the Academy, too.

The Sony Classics release is nominated for three Oscars - Best Actress, Best Adaptation (of previously published material), and Best Feature Film.

Tune in to the 82nd Annual Oscars celebration on March 7th and see how the nominations pan out, eh?

http://www.thetattler.biz

Character...quote!

The character of a man is not determined

by the manner in which he carries himself

or presents a mask to the world

But, rather -

by kind word, unselfish deeds

&

a compassionate heart

Julian Ayrs
Divine Grace
Collection of Poems


www.thetattler.biz

Oscars...Sean Penn, Kate Winslet, Taylor Lautner, Zak Efron & Quentin Tarantino nabbed to present!

Oscar celebrations belong to young stars this year!

In a titillating move to rustle up a lot of frenzied exictement for the Oscar ceremonies next week, producers have begun to tease film buffs with news-breaking alerts about a bevy of high-profile stars to present the coveted prizes on March 7th!

The focus appears to be on youth, glamour, and popularity!

 For starters, it was announced that muscle-bound  stud - Taylor Lautner - has been slated to appear with Vampire actress - Kristen Stewart-  on his arm.

Yup!

Kristen was invited to the big top, a dazzling dream that eluded her last year.

Kate Winslet, a perennial favorite among Titanic fans, is expected to stroll down the red carpet just prior to her presenter duties early on in the proceedings, too.

Fans of heart-throb - Zak Efron - will be thrilled to hear that the handsome triple-threat talent will be appearing at the Kodak Theatre once again.

Unfortunately, no word from the Academy as to whether the popular stage performer will warble a tune or entertain with a snazzy two-step or three.

Quentin Tarantino (nominated for best director for Inglorious Basterds) will present the award for the Best Foreign Language Film.

Miley Cyrus will undoubtedly dream up an eye-catching gown - if only to cause a few tongues to wag and gossip-mongers like Perez Hilton to scream bloody murder!

I can't wait for the much-anticipated unveiling, can you?



Sean Penn, now a seasoned pro and respected actor in the biz, will also be on hand to present an award, too, shortly after the prestigious annual event strikes up the band and gets underway for the 82nd  year.

See 'ya there!

http://www.thetattler.biz

West Hollywood...Police State & Sheriff misconduct! Rights violations...

Now that the weather is perking up with days filled with glorious sun and clear skies, you may be inclined to roll up your sleeves and clean up your car at the curb in the street.

If you live in West Hollywood, you may want to think twice about that, unless you do not mind a shake-down by the local Sheriff's department.

One resident flung the doors of their late model vehicle open wide, and started an energetic purge, when a squad car cruised by.

Huh?

In a jiffy, the officer made a quick "u" tune, and proceeded to drive up the "wrong side" of the street (causing other drivers to shake their head in disbelief) and slowly ease his vehicle alongside the individual's car until his eyeline was just slightly forward of the back hatch which was wide open and revealed the contents packed inside.

"What are you up to, Sir," he asked in so many words.

Duh!

To most reasonably intelligent folks, it probably would have been obvious that some spring cleaning was going down.

Shaken, but not stirred (as James Bond might quip) the driver politely informed the Sheriff  that he was tidying up his vehicle since it was great weather to be outdoors and active.

At this point, the Sheriff (obviously with a stick up his butt)  asked the WeHo resident if he had any ID on him.

Huh?

A uneasy feeling rippled through his body as he tried to fathom what was going down.

Was a Law Enforcement Officer legally entitled to ask for identification from a citizen without provocation or reasonable grounds to make such a demand?

The resident hesitated, and wondered to himself if he should perhaps deny the request, on legal grounds.

Because he'd heard horror stories - as he put it -  about what happens to individuals when they stand up to a cop's alleged authority (getting mouthy or treating them with disrespect in their mind set) he was inclined to hand over his license with some reservations.

The Sheriff proceeded to input his name and address into the computer.

Nada.

After noticing that the mailing address on the license was a P.O. Box he quizzed the driver about his home address.

Again, the WeHo resident was a little taken aback, bywhat he thought was an inappropriate question.

Was he entitled to obtain  that information - or request it - in this particular instance?

Needless to say, afraid that cop might react in a negative way (or try to find some fault to retaliate), he complied reluctantly.

When it came to the interrogator's attention that the owner of the vehicle lived a few blocks away, the bully demanded to know why the spring cleaner was "over here".

Gosh, the driver explained to moi, I didn't know there were so many silly restrictive  laws in West Hollywood.

Who would have thought that cleaning out your car on a sunny day was illegal, or travelling from one section of a neighborhod to another, required permission from the local Sheriff's department!

At this point, the smirking Sheriff  handed back the license, before slapping him in the face with some stupid comment like:

 "Have a nice day."

What an a**hole!

No wonder, when you consider the criteria for landing a job at the WeHo Sheriff's Department!

The candidate need only pass a GED (a "D" will squeak him or her through), stand at least five foot nothing, and love to gobble down doughnuts with sprinkles on top.

And, have a psycho yearning to wear a badge to bolster his manhood!

After all, I expect these wobbly-kneed jerk-offs were once nerds who got sand kicked in their faces, and laughed at day-in and day-out at school.

And, just try to fight a ticket in court, when these slippery characters show up to tell their side of things.

It is pretty much a given they will lie through their teeth.

What is a synonym for law enforcement officer?

Professional liar!

It's pretty obvious from other stories I've heard that WeHo Sheriff's have a flagrant disregard for citizen rights.

Because of it, the upscale community is fast-becoming a police state, of sorts.

They were scraping the barrel when they rustled up these pigs, one astute neighbour asserted.

Amen!

http://www.thetattler.biz

Compromise...quote!

The fool rushes in and fights to the bitter end

at all cost

The intelligent individual rises

 above it all

Inspired by the wisdom of compromise


Julian Ayrs
Divine Grace
Collection of Poems


http://www.thetattler.biz

Bill Clinton...fundraising for Democrats! Fighting Tea Party extremist battle...

Didn't I spy another sawbuck in that wallet?

The Democrats have put Bill Clinton's considerable skills for rustling up money (the Bill Clinton Foundation is proof of the pudding boy's capabilities in that arena) to good use this week.

For example, this morning when I checked my snail mail, I stumbled across a fundraising letter with the former President's John Henry on its face, tucked neatly amidst a handful of bills screaming out to be paid.

Bill prefaced his bid for big buck donations by noting that the American people - faced with challenging times and a tough republican party - have to win victories.

"That's exactly what our Democrats in the House of Representatives have been doing - winning progress - for you and your family."

Mr. Clinton cited the passing of the economic stimulus package as a shining example.

"According to the Congressional Budget Office, it created new jobs, boosted the economy, and won the largest increase in College Aid in History," he noted smugly.

In addition, slick Willy boasted that the Democrats also won "comprehensive financial reform" to rein in Wall Street and protect consumers.

"And, they passed a health care reform plan that lowers costs, expands access, and protects consumers from delayed or denied coverage."

Jumping the gun a bit?

The Washington swashbuckler moved on.

"The upcoming 2010 mid-term election will be one of the most challenging and most expensive contests in  History. The Republicans are already in the field spending millions of dollars on attack ads ($60 million provided by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce &  "60 Plus" - a phony Senior Group - designed to mislead the public and misrepresent votes cast by courageous Democrats in support of President Obama's agenda for change)."

At this juncture, Mr.  Clinton noted that in order to push back the Republicans, funds were urgently needed for the Democrats' own full-frontal attack.


"The last thing we want is to let the Republican Party - a party that has been hijacked by "Tea Party" extremists - to gain seats in November. That means we have to defend every threatened Democratic seat and take away a few more Republican ones as well."

Why does money matter?

Bill gets to the point.

"Money matters because (the Democrats) have to protect an unprecedented number of seats in a mid-term election when, historically, the party in power loses seats."

"Money matters because we (the Democrats) are faced with a highly motivated opposition that seeks to demonize President Obama and everything for which the Democratic party stands for."

"Money matters because Republican special interests have a financial and ideological stake in preventing reforms that benefit the American people and will put their immense wealth behind Republicans who vote against reforms and try to depress Democratic turnout by aruging that , as the President says, we haven't cleaned up the mess they (Republicans) made fast enough."

On that note, Clinton urges that Democrats plop the cash down to:

*Help the DCCC provide urgently needed resources for Democrats who voted for your interests.

*Help the DCCC back candidates to challenge vulnerable Republicans who need to be held accountable.

*Help the DCCC deploy more field workers to refute every lie and distortion uttered by the opposition.

 Powerfully potent political stuff, eh?

Par-tay party!

http://www.thetattler.biz

The Sports Club...LA fitness club has great ambience! Deceptive business practices...

One day I flung open the mail box and a slick high-quality brochure dropped into my open hand.

Upon close inspection, I determined that it was an invitation to try out a local gym in Beverly Hills.

On the surface, the offer tucked inside appeared to be quite a generous one.

At first glance, I gathered that the Sports Club (with locations in major cities around the U.S.) was urging me to take advantage of 1 free month at the gym.

Most work-out joints - like Gold's Gym & 24-hour fitness - tend to hand-out 7-day try-outs max.

I suppose I should have been suspicious when I realized later that because the envelope wasn't posted until approximately the 11th of February, I would only have the opportunity to take the club up on their offer for the remainder of the month (17 days).

Was the failure to pop the invite in the mail  'til the middle of the month deliberate or just an oversight?

Next to having a root canal, signing up for a "gym membership" tends to be high on my list of aggravations to avoid, if possible.

The reason is quite simple.

Once you're in the door - even before you have savored a free stint at the facility - high-pressure salesmen(sharks) will pester potential "suckers" until they cave in (or run straight-away to the nearest exit).

Sure enough, that's what went down, when I strode in the door and met up with  a company rep by the name of Ashton.

After taking me on a tour of the luxurious upscale facility, he gestured for me to plunk myself down and discuss the options (there were three to choose from).

Since I have dealt with many car salesmen over the years, I dug my heels in, and let him rattle off his speel.

Once the delivery was over, I noted that I was an adult (who didn't rush into things), and that I would prefer to try out the facility (per the offer) and reflect on whether to join or not.

At this juncture, Ashford informed me that I couldn't have the free month without buying a membership first.

Huh?

With a hand gesture, and a bit of misspeak, he stabbed a finger at one line in the middle of the page of the invitation.

"With an active membership. It says right here," he swiftly noted in a stern authoratative voice.

At this point, I was taken aback to learn that in addition to the month-to-month membership fees, each member was required to pay dues every four weeks as well.

Gosh, you'd think I was purchasing a Condo, for heaven's sake.

Over the past twenty years or so, I have joined a myriad of gyms - and not once - have I  encountered this kind of monthly/dues fee structure.

Later, when I scrutinized the invite up close with my reading glasses firmly affixed to my nose, I also discovered that  "Ashford" misrepresented the disclaimer for the offer which amounted to a deceptive business practice.

Although he asserted the phrase stated "with an active membership" - in truth - it actually read something else entirely different.

 "Call the club today to arrange for a membership," it read in much smaller print.

There was no disclosure (contrary to what Ashford said)  that a waiver of the "initiation fee" required that monthly dues (under one of the three plans) be purchased up-front first to receive the "special" offer.

Notwithstanding, who the heck wants to pay an initiation fee AND monthly dues each month?

What a crock!

When I attempted to discreetly bow out, Ashford was unrelenting.

"Okay. I'll let you have one free week to try out the Sports Club."

So, I took him up on it.

Even though his offer was pretty straightforward, he still  tried to screw me out of a day.

For example, when I strode in for the pep talk and to tour the club, it was February 13th.

After he presented me with a temporary membership card, I noticed later in the locker room, that he inserted February 19th as the expiry date.

I thought that 13 and 7 totalled 20.

 Doesn't it?

The first day I checked in tot he Sports Club to take oadvantage of the free pass, the counter person noticed the error right away.

We both shook our heads!

Although it is doubtful I'll join the club for the foregoing reasons - and because it is just too pricey in my estimation - I have to admit that the Sports Club is the finest gym I have run across in the Los Angeles area to date.

The decor was luxurious and aesthetically pleasing to the eye, for starters.

All the equipment was state of the art, kept up, and easy to use.

Also, the club boasts a spacious sundeck, junior Olympic swimming pool, basketball courts, laundry service, and tastefully-decorated locker rooms.

After working out each day, I was inclined to relax in the luxurious steam room, too.

In addition to the work out (weight)  rooms, there was a yoga center and a massage parlour situated in a subdued atmosphere out-of-the-way off the main thoroughfare.

Forget about hauling  a gym bag or a lock or deodorant to the Sports club.

The mensroom has an ample supply of razors, hair gel, body soap (and free towel service).

Select a locker that is available, plunk your clothes inside, then create your own password which releases the lock when you check out.

No tacky locks to fiddle with or coins to pop in.

There is also an entertainment center where guests (on the higher-end pay plan) can watch TV, snack on tasty treats, you name it.

While you're in the club, send out your day's wardrobe for cleaning and pressing, too.

Want to entertain friends for dinner?

Just make a reservation at Oliver's restaurant which fronts on Wilshire Blvd in tony Beverly Hills (in the golden triangle) a hop-and-a-skip away.

Maybe I'll reconsider if I win the lottery or a rich uncle dies!

Tony Beverly Hills!

 

http://www.thetattler.biz

Hurt Locker...disqualified from Oscars? Ouch! 11th Hour controversy...

In the 11th hour just before the Oscar vote count (ballots are due in on Tuesday March 2nd) "Hurt Locker" has conceivably been dealt a couple of blows that may affect the outcome of the Oscar race.

One of the producers of the nominated film (directed by Kathryn Bigelow) was roundly criticized overnight in many quarters for zipping off an e-mail to family, friends, and supporters (a handful of  which were Academy Members) urging that eligible voters snub the "$500 million-dollar flick" (Avatar?)  in favor of  "Hurt Locker".

According to the rules of the Academy, filmmakers are barred from engaging in negative campaigns against competing nominees.

The producer in question - Nicolas Chartier (one of four involved with Bigelow's directing effort) - fired off a second e-mail later in the week, however, when he learned for the first time (he swears!) that his actions were a violation of Academy policy.

Chartier cited naivete, ignorance of the rules, and plain stupidity for the gaffe.

Meanwhile, eleswhere on page one of the Los Angeles Times this morning, journalists reported that Military personnel were inclined to pooh-pooh "Hurt Locker" on the grounds that it did not accurately depict the subject matter.

In sum, a number of soldiers on duty currently (and veterans, too) say the film amounted to sheer fantasy.

"The filmmakers have portrayed the soldiers as renegades while failing to represent details about combat accurately," they lamented in so many words.

In particular, one consistent complaint pertained to the Army's Explosive Ordinance Disposal team and procedures for disarming stray or planted (concealed) explosive devices.

Some military critics quipped:

"The Hurt Locker is a good action movie if you know nothing about defusing roadside bombs or the military."

Sgt. Eric Gordon (Air Force EOD) wasn't inclined to pussy-foot around the issue.

"I would watch it with other EOD people and we would laugh," he chuckled.

At issue was one scene where the lead actor diffused a bomb with simple wire cutters.

"It's similar to having a firefighter go into a building with a squirt bottle," he added distastefully.

In my own review, I noted that the film was "flawed".

From a technical standpoint, there were obvious errors made in respect to editing, for example.

Also, I felt that Mark Boal's script was too pat and predictable and not of Oscar calibre.

Hurt Locker Movie Review

Post:  11/19/10

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2009/11/hurt-lockerintense-flawed-film-director.html

In addition to the authenticity question, Military personnel also griped that Bigelow and the producers deviated from (and shot scenes) not approved by the Government.

Lt. Col. J. Todd Breasseale accused the production outfit of shooting a scene in which soldiers acted violently towards detainees.

On that issue alone, the Government was forced to back out of its agreement to assist on the project, because the military does not provide help to films which depict violatons of laws of war (unless the producers also follow through on the consequences of such wrongful acts).

Breasseale has taken the position on record -  that the film is a great story and a "spectacular-looking movie" -  but summarized the project this way:

"If you're looking for realism and how military relationships really work, I believe she missed the mark."

Pentagon staff gave Bigelow and her creative team a slap on the wrist as well.

"The filmmaker's interest in drama and excitement exceeded what we felt were reasonably realistic portrayals," added Phillip M. Strub (Special Assistant Pentagon for Entertainment Media).

Meanwile, the Academy will have to wrestle with the Chartier breach of policy and determine if the incident cries out for disciplinary action.

Worse case scenario at press time?

The Academy may consider removing the film from best picture contention.

In the event Chartier and the Bigelow production escape that fate, in the end scenario there still may be one niggling hurdle to overcome.

Why, the almighty ballot, of course!

How will Academy members react to the controversy on the eve of the vote count?

We'll know come Oscar night when the winners are ceremoniously announced on March 7th.

Director Kathryn Bigelow at the helm!

http://www.thetattler.biz

Jason Reitman..Daniel Stern & Dennis Christopher "Breaking Away" stars interviewed @ packed house!.

Director Jason Reitman

(UP in the Air)

Flashbulbs popped, and a jolt of electricity streaked through the air, as Jason Reitman introduced two stars of the film - "Breaking Away" - at his last night of programming at the New Beverly Cinema in Hollywood.

In fact, Reitman (UP IN THE AIR) was blessed with packed houses over a 6-night (intermittent) stretch at the Revival House and a posse of excited fans who hung on every word during Q & Sessions which were funny, insightful, and downright entertaining.

It didn't hurt to have a roster of classic films to screen and a handful of high-profile actors to chat up.

Indeed, film buffs were inclined to edge closer in their seats on the occasions I attended, anxious to gobble up each juicy tidbit of behind-the-scenes scuttlebutt..

First up Wednesday night was  -" Breaking Away" - a charming film rife with family values that warmed the heart.

Actor Dennis Christopher laughingly recalled that the first day of the shoot was no piece of cake

The popular performer - who mingled with  fans in the lobby afterwards - inhabited the lead role of a cycling enthuisiast to perfection in this tight well-crafted film - noted for the record that the studio was about to drop him when he failed to show up on schedule to get his scenes in the can first day of the location shoot.

"He'll be the here," the director (Peter Yates) assured the worried execs who proceeded to toy with the idea of other prospects without any reservations.

Meanwile, Christopher was forced to balk at the wardrobe (and screen persona) the producers envisioned for his character which were downright preposterous.

"They wanted to darken my skin, slick back my hair, and squeeze me into tight black cycling pants," he recalled in disgust.

On the start-up day, he struggled through the nonesense like a real pro, but confessed to the director the following morning, that he couldn't take on the role with such a bizarre vision propelling his character forward.

I managed to catch his recollections on video.

HD Video / Part One

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xgIL3Ff66s

HD Video / Part Two

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFaK9vyf7Hk

Daniel Stern - who played one of the local boys (known as the cutters) - had no prior filmmaking experience to compare to the "Breaking Away" project since the comedy was his first.

In fact,  he didn't even audition, he confessed to slack-jawed fans who were all ears in the comfy theatre.

You know what they say -  it's not who 'ya know - it's who you blow.

Just kidding, Daniel.

"I was told to show up, so  I did.  On the set, I  found out  that I had the gotten the part."

Basically, the outgoing down-to-earth comic actor was spoiled from the beginning.

Christopher (on the other hand) perviously worked with Fellini and Robert Altman (twice) - so he was a seasoned pro - in essence.

Curiously, the script started off in a peculiar way, too.

According to Reitman - the screenwriter had written two separate projects - which were later combined into one script.

"Even still, "Breaking Away" went on  to win the Oscar for best screenplay. So throwing together two projects you don't know what to do with doesn't appear to be a bad idea," he joked in so many words.

Reitman was in great form last night.

In the interview with Luke Wilson on the subject of "Bottle Rocket" (the second feature on the double-bill) he got down to the nitty-gritty and scratched beneath the surface.

"So, how much money did you actually make on this film, anyway," he pointedly asked, as Wilson squirmed a bit on the floor of the stage up front.
The hilarious conversation that followed focused on the problems getting the quirky comedy to the big screen.

"I don't mean to be a dick," Jason stated flat-out when Wilson hesitated a beat.

Luke fessed up eventually, though, after a long drawn-out pause.

 $500,000 smackeroos.

Whew!

What a blow to a major studio like Columbia!

Wilson awkwardly recalled that the test screening in Santa Monica was a disaster, too.

After two weeks in theatres, the film dropped out of sight, and whimpered away.

Later, according to Reitman, the Independent became a hit with young filmmakers.

So, those in-the-know, dredged it up from oblivion for screenings here and there,' til it eventually gained momentum and reached a sort-of cult status among directors not established in the mainstream.

"When I caught this movie for the first time, I realzied it was the kind of INDIE I'd like to make," Reitman noted with a lot of sincerity.

Wilson (who co-wrote the script with his brother Owen) proudly boasted that one day Sean Penn gave him a surprise call to congratulate him on the Columbia underdog.

Frankly, the project was iffy from its shakey start.

Wilson touted producer Polly Pratt for getting the script out to well-connected friends who had pull with the suits at the studios.

James L. Brooks actually agreed to meet with the Wilsons at their apartment to discuss the possibilities.

"He walked in, took one look at our digs, and was taken aback. Like - whoa - this is how 'ya live?" he responded, a touch shocked.

If he was looking for the trappings of success, Brooks wouldn't find it  there!

A short way into the discussion, Brooks was suddenly drifting off and focusing on a basketball game that was broadasting on a television across the room mit out sound (without out sound).

Even without the commentary, Brooks was more interested in paying attention to the boob tube, than the Wilson boys' pitch.

It was bad, Wilson recalled.

"We went from a - 'let's make this "- to a "well, I don't know".

Word then came back that the studio might buy the project and go with two other actors.

Sure, said ever coopertive Luke, we'll catch you next time on the acting gig.

The stature of" Bottle Rocket" got bolstered when James Caan signed on.

Reitman pestered Wilson about what it was like to work with Caan.

"Did you talk to him?"

"Yeah, when we asked him what it was like to work with Brando, he said it was like us working with him."

That got a roar from the audience.

Finally, the green light came through from the powers-that-be.

Just like that, it was wrapped in  thirty-eight days on a shoe-string budget, with no looking back.

Frankly, it shows.

Last night was the  first time I ever caught the film.

Personally, I don't know what the fuss is all about.

There is a freshness about it, but it borders on awkwardness.

The storyline unfolds slowly, sideline plot twists surge out-of-whack, and  a mish-mash of ideas and sight gags don't end up gelling that well.

If  "Breaking Away" was the film with two scripts rolled into one successfully - in contrast -" Bottle" was the one with a multitude of drafted ideas that collided in ghastly confusion.

Wes Anderson - a first-time-out director was deadly serious - but lacked  the skills,experience, and  vision (at that time) to pull it off.

In sum, Bottle Rocket (for its time) was ballsy, ambitious - and except for a few stand-out  moments - basically a wash-out.

European filmmakers expert at capturing unspoken moments - the pauses in-between that speak volumes - may have gotten a handle on the elusive script.  Not so, here.

Luke Wilson, however, exhibited a naturalness in his acting style that resonated  right on target for me.

He needed a director who was capable of fleshing-out his character better, though.

A title card that  announced the film at the start - crudely-crafted and lacking any aesthetic value - hinted at what was to come.

In sum, Bottle Rocket was an amateurish attempt at a dark off-beat film, that fell short of its mark.

If I were a studio, I'd bury it, too!

Dennis Quaid plays leaner meaner cutter!

(Breaking Away)

Bottle Rocket poster more exciting than movie!

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Fame...quote!

 

When you're relatively unknown

People don't give you the time of day

When you become famous, however

They're all over you like flies on sh**

Julian Ayrs

The Daily Planet

Collection of Poems

http://www.thetattler.biz/

American Idol...disc jockeys titter over an Ellen DeGeneres poke from Patti LaBelle! Ratings soar...

Bit** fight titillates Fox viewers!

This morning disc jockeys were all over the Ellen DeGeneres controversy like flies on sh** on the heels of this remark bypop icon  Patti LaBelle:

 "Someone shouldn't be on American Idol."

"Wonder who that could be?" they chortled in jest on one popular morning show.

"Well, three of the judges have been on Idol for years and nothing was said before. So, you figure it out," quipped one perky female jock.

All music pointers appeared to be jabbing at the podium in the direction of Ellen.

"The problem is she's a type "A" personality," one seasoned broadaster wailed.

"Simon too," a  gossip reporter retorted in an astute uptake.

Double-trouble, alright.

"She used to sit next to Simon - but when she complained that he was fondling her leg - they moved her," he snidely uttered in an aside.

Yeah, some men find the idea of bedding a lesbian a kinky erotic sexual turn-on, for sure.

"So, now you've got these two bookends on either side anchoring down the panel," they conceded unhappily.

The scuttlebutt actually bordered on nasty.

"Oh, there's a definite chill in the air on Idol now" they accused.

The general consensus was that Ellen - in the final anaylsis - managed to destroy the chemistry of the show.

Simon and Paula used to be the mom & dad on American Idol. Then, they brought in the uptight (bitchy) new wife, they argued somewhat convincingly.

Sloppy seconds?

They wondered aloud about the politicking, too.

"Simon used to have the last word. Ellen gets it now, did you notice?"

Must be a humilating castrating experience, eh?

In sum, the disc jockeys giggled with a tinge of incredulity in their voices that the high-profile Karaoke-style ratings-getter had become the Ellen DeGeneres American Idol show.

Come on, dudes (and dudette).

Maybe it was just that time of the month last night.

Hmmm!

What would acccount for her dismal performance last week?

A bad run of the unfunnies, I guess.

Elsewhere, backstage staffers at American Idol have been tittering that Ellen and Simon can't stand each other.

"He does things just to annoy her," one whispered in confidence.

Guess everyone loves a good  bit** fight, though.

Ratings on Ellen soared last week and  Wednesday  night American Idol beat out the Olympics to land in the No. 1 spot.

Will producers take advantage of the Ellen-Cowell power-struggle?

News at 11!

Patti LaBelle new guest Judge?

http://www.thetattler.biz/

Alvin Alley American Dance Theater...Divine soul-stirring performances! Orange CountyPerforming Arts Center...

Segerstrom Hall

(artist rendering)

According to the San Francisco Chronicle:

"Dance doesn't get more soul-stirring."

The critic was referring to the Alvin Alley American Dance Theater slated to appear at the Orange County Performing Arts Center next week (Segerstrom Hall)

Known for their remarkable breathtaking physiques, the celebrated African American Dance troupe will be showcasing those very attributes, during a week-long tribute to Judith Jamison in honor of her 20th Anniversay at the helm as Artistic Director.

The West Coast Premiere of  - "Dancing Spirit", "Among Us", and "Uptown" - will obviously be highlight performances to look forward to come curtain call.

Performances
March 2nd - 7th

Location
Segerstrom Hall
Orange County Performing Arts Center

Box Office
714.556.2787

Info:  OCPAC.ORG

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Mystic...fortune-teller's forecast right on! Fog is lifted...

Spirit healing!

(laying on of hands)

Mystical symbolism on U.S. Dollar

(Influence of Masons)

One day I was window-shopping on the 3rd Street promenade when I noticed a mystic offering up psychic forecasts to passers-by.

He was easy to spot; after all, his broad smile, wide shoulders, magnetic personality jumped right out among the multitudes drifting down the open-air marketplace.

Right away I knew he was authentic.

How?

Instead of propping up a make-shift sign with a fee etched on its face, he was inclined to accept donations only.

For those of you familiar with past posts, you probably remember the one I penned about my own psychic abilities and my involvement in the arcane arts many few moons ago!

Prophecy
A Gift from God

Post:  10/29/10

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2007/10/prophecya-gift-from-god.html

Because of my background in this area, I was able to discern from his approach - and the reading in general - that he knew his stuff (so-to-speak).

Of course, if you have ever had a reading, you know that sometimes a prediction can seem a little bizarre or beyond the realm of comprehension on the occasion it is uttered up.

But, remember, anything (and everything) is possible under the sun!

True to form, a couple of predictions threw me for a loop that day, although I was capable of holding judging  in view of my own personal and professional experiences over the years.

For instance, when he noted there would be quite a few cowboys around me  in the near future, I smiled.

There haven't been any men - of any stripe or persuasion  - in the picture for months!

Frankly, I haven't been in the mood (or right state of mind)  to entertain any romantic notions.

But, sure enough, two days later when I drove into Las Vegas, I suddenly found myself smack dab in the midst of a posse of Cowboys  because (unbeknowst to moi beforehand) the Rodeo had gallopped into town.

Subsequently, I ended up penning a post about that event, bolstered up with images of virile cattle men.

Surprisingly, about the same time, the Gene Autry Museum invited me to a special discussion on two celebrated western-style shirts (featured in Brokeback Mountain)  on exhibit there.

So, of course, I penned an article on that landmark event.

I laughed when he noted I was in a creative field of work and that I affected quite a few lives as a result.

Indeed - a good or bad review of a film, tv show, or red carpet event - has the capacity to do just that!

When he drifted on to planetary aspects, he was quite knowledgeable about the influence of the midheavens, too.

He pointed out that Pluto was in my chart quite prominently over the past couple of years (a negative influence) which caused some difficulties in my life.

Of course, I knew this cosmic pull  to be true, because years ago I had an in-depth horoscope prepared which indicated that Pluto factored into my destiny from time to time.

However, he noted that the probematic vibration was coming to an end, as the 9th planet  moved out of my chart.

True!

I confess that over the past year or so my health has been the worst it's ever been in my entire life.

Over the past few months, for instance, I have been hustled in and out of the hospital about a dozen times or so, in fact.

During that time frame, there were a dizzying number of tests and physical exams to undergo.

And, a raft of medicines and painkillers to quell the pain and discomfort, too.

Regular readers may recall posts in which I got the dates mixed up (some of that was attributed to computer glitches, I swear),  misspelled names, or wasn't as coherent in my reporting as I normally tended to be (for good reason, if the truth be known).

Yes, sometimes it was the painkillers (and/or prescription drugs) that were responsible for the fog that enveloped (and hindered) me.

On occasion, I'd return to my car, totally exhausted on the heels of performing a few chores.

Before I could turn the key in the ignition - on occasion, I simply passed out - overwhelmed with drowsiness and incapable of prying my eyes wide open to get through the tail end of the day.

Consequently, the uncontrollable struggles, may have caused a tongue or two to wag  after  passers-by happened across me in the neighborhood asleep at the wheel.

Uh-huh!

The locals probably thought I was a bit tipsy or high on drugs, eh?

Of course, then there was the issue of my sleeping disorder diagnosed this past year.

Rather than fall asleep at the wheel (like I did one day on Highway 15 on a trip back from Las Vegas)  I oftentimes elected to just curl up in the back seat of my vehicle until the exhaustion passes over (and I could - at long last - drive home safely).

I tried the "stimulants" my doctor prescribed as an alternative, but was forced to stop, when I found myself stuttering, grinding  my teeth, and staring blankly into space whenever I stopped into a cafe for a tea or coffee.

The heck with that!

But, then, in January - as predicted - Pluto started to shift.

Suddenly, in San francisco one day, I felt like I was coming out of a fog and able to function at full steam once again.

In retrospect, I am thankful I had my blog to focus on, because it was all that  kept me going in a very dark period during the past twelve months or so.

Now, thank God, I am starting to make plans and set goals and get enthusiastic about life again.

In a sense, I feel reborn, for some inexplicable reason.

Amen!

Edgar Cayce healed with help of spirit guides!

Pluto's orbit

(my birthday  is in May)

 

http://www.thetattler.biz

Proposition 8 Judge...gay! Ethical questions arise...

Apparently, the San Francisco Chronicle reported earlier this month that Judge Vaughn Walker - who is presiding over the same-sex marriage case in Federal Court in San Francisco-  is "gay".

According to the news report, an anonymous tipster revealed the sexual persuasion of his Honor, to set the record - um - straight.

Due to the sensistive nature of  the case - the caller was reluctant to provide many details (including his or her identity) - save to state the following:

"He (Judge Walker) has a private life and he doesn't conceal it (the fact he is gay), but doesn't think it is relevant to his decisions in any case."

On the contrary, one could easily argue that it is especially "not true" in this instant case, which arises from the Prop 8 initiative banning same-sex marriage.

For instance, early on in the proceedings, Judge Walker ruled that there would be "no jury".
.
Why is that?

So he could control the outcome, of course!

The National Organization for Marriage was quick to jump on the issue.

The spokesperson for the group asserted that Judge Walker was more "akin to an activist than a neutral referee."

I agree!

Andy Pugno, who is the lawyer in charge of general counsel for Prop 8 supporters, has allegedly taken sides with Judge Walker.

For the record, NOM has stated that if they lose the case, they will not make his sexual persuasion an issue.

I have to wonder, though, is that just a political posture they've taken to avoid angering the Judge before he hands his ruling down?

News at 11!

http://www.thetattler.biz