Dreaming in Black and White

Cars

2010-07-25T15:30:00.004-04:00

I know I hold the distinctly unpopular opinion of actually liking the movie Cars (2006). No; I don't just like that movie; I love it. If you asked me to list my top five favorite Pixar movies, Cars would definitely make that list. Now that is an unpopular opinion. It's taken me four years to see it. Everything I heard about it was quite negative. Pixar's worst film, boring, uninteresting, ecetera. I'll admit, I had my doubts. Pixar has always been one of my most favorite thing in the entire world, and I've been blown away by their creativity and dedication to story ever since I was five and saw Toy Story for the first time. But maybe I, like everyone else, decided a film about talking cars was rather pointless.

Thankfully, my opinion changed because I watched the movie for myself. And my thoughts were as follows: "People say this is a bad film??????" What I was watching was not Pixar's worst film; it was a film brought to me by a household name who has been bringing me quality films for 15 years now, John Lasseter. And I have too much faith in him and the rest of Pixar's team to ever think they could release a film that's less than stellar.

I've read the arguments against Cars. These are the ones I've come across: it is mainly geared towards young boys, the storyline is stupid, and it didn't allow for any character connection. This shouldn't come as a surprise, but I am not an eight year old boy. I genuinely enjoyed this movie, fierce loyalty to Pixar aside. Let's examine these arguments.

1. Cars is a movie only young boys are able to enjoy. Why is that? Are boys the only one who can like cars, whether they talk or not? For anyone who hasn't seen it, and if you have, this is not just a story about some cars being alive. Do you honestly think Pixar would release a film that focuses only on cars talking? Obviously there's a deeper meaning. You could make the argument that no one wants to see a movie where cars talk, but who would want to see a movie about toys that can come alive? Why would someone pay money to watch a movie where a clown fish is looking for his lost son? Who wants to see a movie about a grumpy old man tying some balloons to his house? You could make those arguments against movies like Toy Story, Finding Nemo, and Up. But no one does, do they?

2. That brings us to the second argument, that Cars has a stupid story line. For anyone who has ever thought such a thing, I have just one question: could you come up with something better? Pixar is able to personify their characters with human traits and failings. So in this case, it's a cocky race car (Lightning McQueen, voiced by Owen Wilson) who has to fix the damage he's brought to a small town. It is still entertaining to see him interact with the inhabitants and watch as he continues to foolishly depend on his ego. And when he finally realizes that the world doesn't revolve around him, he learns to care for others around him. Now why should the story be any less "good", simply because the protagonists are cars? If someone would suggest that as a reason for the stupid story line, then the idea that toys can represent bravery, friendship, love, and loyalty is also stupid; the story of a rat dreaming to be a chef is stupid too. The idea is also stupid that monsters can have hearts and are not as vicious as their reputations claim.

3. There's no connection to the characters. Well, allow me to introduce you to Doc Hudson. Doc, who was voiced by the late, great Paul Newman (aknowledged by Sally Fields and nearly everyone else as one of the perfect people God created), is distrustful of Lightning the minute they meet, all because he's a race car. Doc comes across as a rather cold and distant "grandpa car". Lightning gives him this nickname and of course, judges him far too early. When he learns of his painful past, and the reason for his distrust, he's understanding. The audience should be as well. Even after Doc hurts other members in his community, he is forgiven when he lends support to Lightning in the final scene. While Mater (Larry the Cable Guy) and the other supporting characters lend comic relief, Doc is truly the most human and in my opinion, the most dynamic.

If you didn't like Cars, more power to you. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, whether or not I agree, and whether or not I have a list of arguments to challenge those opinions. The main reason I posted this was to a) return to blogspot, which my pitifully lazy self has missed and b) to dispel the myth that this is the worst animated movie Pixar has released. I can't let that go without a fight.

Godspeed Lena

2010-05-11T22:00:00.000-04:00

Lena Horne passed away yesterday at the age of 92. Writing these words out fills me with sadness, as reading them did when I learned of her death. 92 years is certainly a long, fulfilling life. But like many others, I have a selfish wish that she could have stayed with us a bit longer. Long enough to receive a letter, or maybe even meet one of her fans. Of course she will endure. That powerful voice of hers can still be listened to, that striking face of hers can still thrill on a movie or television screen. Like all the wonderful talents that graced us, Lena Horne won't be forgotten, nor will she ever be gone.

She was a woman with amazing beauty, talent, and grace. The entertainment industry doesn't boast too many role models these days. Lena Horne however, was a role model, and not to just black women either. I believe her elegance and breathtaking presence transcend her skin color. She may have been admired for being one of the first successful African American stars, but she was loved for the moments she created in her songs and films.

"My identity is very clear to me now. I am a black woman. I'm free. I no longer have to be a 'credit'. I don't have to be a symbol to anybody; I don't have to be a first to anybody. I don't have to be an imitation of a white woman that Hollywood sort of helped me become. I'm me, and I'm like nobody else."

Truer words were never uttered. Rest in Peace, Lena.

I've been a horrible blogger.

2010-04-17T03:06:00.000-04:00

It's laziness, y'all. But I promise! After today, I'll try to post regularly on here again. So...I'll just leave this here.

Inglorious Basterds (2009); Christoph Waltz, Diane Kruger, Brad Pitt & Eli Roth.

Once upon a time, in non fleshie occupied blogspot…

2010-04-02T21:26:00.001-04:00

Bobby Darin aka Millie's Darlin' Darin

I made a blog for my newly fostered classic film obsession. My inspiration? Another blog devoted to everything classic run by a friend from the TCM message boards. I knew her as ILoveRayMilland. But that name was too long, so I and another shortened her username to Millie. And that’s how The Millie was born. (Well technically, The Millie was born 16 years ago yesterday). And that’s what this post is all about: fabulous Millie and her 16th birthday.

I’m not as awesome at birthday posts as she is. I wish I could be, and then I could turn out something truly spectacular, like she did for my birthday. No, instead, I’m going to tell you why Millie is so amazin’.

Number one: she’s been watching old movies since she was just a babe. I think that is so cool. Her mom was watching Pride and Prejudice the day she was born. For that reason, that movie and Greer Garson always remind me of Millie. So as you can see, classic movies are as just a part of Millie as apple pie is a part of America.

Number two: she does the most wonderful work in Sierra Leone (but she’ll be the last to say so). Her pictures and stories put the biggest smile on my face. At 16, she’s done more than anyone else I know, traveled a lot farther, and knows what’s really important in life. (I mean, besides old movies).

Number three: along with our cohort Sarah, Millie is a big creeper. Creeper love is deeper love y’all. The three of us have been creeping the web for quite some time, and it has made my online life a lot more…awesome? HECK YEAH.

Number four: she knows as much about old movies and old movie stars as Robert Osborne. I believe that statement; you should too. Half the inkling of information I know about Bob Hope came from the Millie herself.

Well, enough of all this text; here are the pretty pictures.

Happy Birthday Millie dear!

Here are some pictures of just a couple of your favorite people. (I couldn't very well put them all on here)!

Young Ray Milland, looking about 16 himself. :-D

Cutie Sandra Dee

Jack Lemmon!

Bob Hope, master of ceremonies. :-D

Gracie with some birthday flowers.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE MILLIE!!!!!

2010-04-01T21:41:00.000-04:00

MILLIE. MILLIE MILLIE MILLIE.

One of my first online classic movie friends turns 16 today!!!!!!!!!!! If you don't follow her blog,
Classic Forever, evaluate your life seriously and get to it! Millie is amazin' with a gigantic, capital A. She's one of the most HILARIOUS people you could ever encounter via the web. (And also one of the sweetest).

Unfortunately Mills, this is the best I could do for your birthday right now; a real post will come tommorow.

Happy happy birthday, you marvelous gal!

Ingy! :-D (Thanks to Miss Millie, this is what I call Ingrid Bergman now).

Happy Birthday Sarah!!!!

2010-03-14T17:22:00.000-04:00

Bogie & Baby are here to celebrate :)

Hello blogspot! Wow, it's been almost a month since I've been here, and what a way to return! Wishing a very spectacular birthday to one of my dearest blogging friends, Sarah of Cinema Splendor. If you're not following Sarah's blog, you should be. She's ~~quite possibly~~, one of the most hilarious people to ever creep the internet. ;-D

Sarah was one of my first blogging friends; ever since the TCM Message Boards. She's got the best taste in movies (the old sort of course), the best taste in music (Beatles anyone)? and she's one of the most amazing people ever. For some reason, I'm not as talented as Millie is when it comes to birthday love, so I'll just say it once more for good measure: HAPPY BIRTHDAY SARAH!!!!! and leave you with some pictures of gorgeous Natalie Wood.

Rest in Peace Kathryn Grayson

2010-02-18T22:39:00.001-05:00

I thought I would write a little something here for Kathryn Grayson. It won't be poignant or deep; you should check out Millie's post on Kathryn at Classic Forever, which is deeply sad and moving. No, I'm not that familiar with the late Miss Grayson. All I can say is that when she first appeared onscreen in The Kissing Bandit (thanks for the correction Vince), I thought she was incredibly beautiful, in the most naturally luminous way. I want to kick myself for not finishing that movie, because as silly as it may have been, she and Frank Sinatra were sure to not disappoint; after all, from what I saw of her, she was a talented performer, and had the most heavenly voice.

I still have a chance to see her movies, one of them being Anchors Aweigh, which has been on my mind lately. So while she may have passed on, we'll always have her movies. And those of us who have never had a chance to fully realize how wonderful she was before, can now.

February 9, 1922-February 17, 2010

Creative Blogger Award!

2010-02-07T20:14:00.001-05:00

I'm currently posting this when I clearly have homework to do, but I digress.

OK! This award was given to me by the spectactular Sarah of Cinema Splendor. The rules are as follows:

1. Copy the logo and paste it your blog. (Kate's a bad influence, b/c I'm not posting it either).
2. Link the person from whom you received this coveted prize.
3. List seven facts about yourself that people would find interesting. (I'm incredibly boring, so I wonder...)
4. Nominate 7 other bloggers and post links of the one you've nominated.
5. LET THEM KNOW AT ONCE ON THEIR BLOGS OR VIA TWITTER. THE CAPS ARE NECESSARY.

Here are my 7 random, completely uninteresting facts.

1. I'm an old movie fan. Hah. Yes, I'm obsessed with old movies, they stay on my mind all the time. Serious. (NO, SERIOUSLY).

2. Hipsters fascinate me. If I'm not pretending to act like them, ie, claiming everything is SO mainstream, (even old movies & CAPS LOCK), I'm accusing Old Hollywood stars of being hipsters, even though that is highly unlikely, seeing as how there were no hipsters back then. But anyways, check out this photo:

This is Norma Jean in 1961, nine months before she passed away. It's part of a series of photos that were taken of her at the home of poet Carl Sandburg by photographer Len Stecker, and if you haven't heard the story, you'll have to google it yourself because my computer is being extremely annoying and won't let me post the link. Wait, this had a purpose, Ah, yes! She looks like such a hipster; I'm almost certain she didn't even need those glasses.

3. I'm a tumblr addict.

4. My favorite book will forever be To Kill a Mockingbird. I love Atticus, fo realz I do, but Scout is the reason I fell in love with that book.

5. As evident above, I like using bad grammar for humorous purposes.

6. BOBBY KENNEDY & DR. KING ARE TWO OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL MEN I'VE EVER HAD THE FORTUNE TO LEARN ABOUT AND THEY ARE TWO OF MY EARTHLY HEROES. (Wow, I need to stop).

7. I'm certain that I suffer from acute procrastination.

That's all! :-D Sorry for the overload of randomness and completely irrelevant ramblings. On another note: Can someone please inform me of a time when this photo will not be relevant?

I hereby nominate: Meredith, Millie, Merriam, Lolita, Nicole, Vintage Vamp, Loes, Kate & Zoe. (Yup, I chose 9; I'M A REBEL WITHOUT A CAUSE).

OK, computer continuing to be annoying, so as a result, could not link to Vintage Vamp, Loes, or Zoe. Sorry guys. =/

The American Love Goddess

2010-01-31T19:48:00.002-05:00

Rita Hayworth, born Margarita Carmen Cansino, is one of the silver screen's most fascinating and enduring legends. Her beauty has always drawn people in; as well as her sultry portrayal of that famous femme fatale Gilda. She was christened the Love Goddess, though she was unlucky in love. (Ah, the irony). World War Two Soldiers fell in love with her and she became the definitive pin up during that time, much to her delight. Rita was always happy to contribute to the war effort and making the service men happy in turn gave her joy.

All of these things make her so fascinating; her beauty, talent, films, and her troubled private life. She had a sadness to her; a lovely kind of sadness which may account for all of the people who continue to adore her.

Hollywood wanted to mold her into the All American girl. They replaced her name and her hair, but never the girl. Rita was always shy and sweet; completely without vanity or ego. (Correct me if I'm wrong, but that seems much rarer today than it was back then in Tinsel Town). When Rita went in for makeup and hair, she would glance quickly at the mirror and say thank you, frustrating her hairdressers and makeup artists. When you're truly beautiful, you either don't care, or you're humble enough to not make such a fuss about it. Rita was one of those people who had a lovely soul. I find it amazing that Hedda Hopper once said that she didn't see what was so special about Rita; and for one, that her forehead was too small! (Enter the painful electrolysis which raised her hairline by a couple of inches). Of course, Hedda was only seeing the unsophisticated Margarita Cansino. Surely not a goddess, and not with a name like that.

Margarita. I'm still in complete disagreement with Hedda. She was already such a natural beauty even before Hollywood discovered her & did away with her raven locks.

Even without the large flower in her hair, you can tell Rita had some Latin roots. She looks like a Hispanic goddess here.

One of my very favorite photos of her. I don't believe her hair is auburn here, but this was taken while she was in the process of becoming Rita Hayworth. She often wore her hair in a bun, but it was replaced in favor of this softer hairdo. Still, there are traces of her Spanish heritage.

"Fully American" with all that red hair.

Stunning even as she moved to blonde.

What exactly was my point in posting this? To show how annoying gorgeous people like Rita are. You've seen all three of her hair colors; I've never known anyone who can pull off all three. Maybe the "real" point was to show that she was still a goddess even before Hollywood Americanized her. Not just because of her beauty but because of her kind spirit; she was such a wonderfully humble and internally beautiful human being. I don't think she was submissive to Hollywood's demands; she was just willing to be molded into a star. And she had a lot of people around her making the decisions, and telling her what was going to work. I think Rita was under a lot of pressure and I don't think she was very fond of Hollywood. But she gave us fantastic movies and memories, and she'll always be loved for them.

PS: Apologies, I wrote this rather hurriedly. Being lazy with the movie reviews. =P

No copyright infringement intended. Maybe I'll cite the book two of the pictures came from.

Happy Birthday to Dreaming in Black and White!

2010-01-24T14:29:00.000-05:00

It's a party. Frankie's arrived.

Technically, this little blog turned a year old yesterday, but I was a little busy, so here's the celebration (?) now.

So a year ago, I started this blog because I decided to share my love of Old Hollywood and it's stars & Millie over at the marvelous Classic Forever convinced me I should start one. Since this blog came about, I've come across some really fantastic people, seen a lot of wonderful films and photos.

It started out as a rather futile attempt to write well; I've actually felt rather embarassed reading some of my posts from last year. Such a random jumble! A laughable jumble! (REALLY). My first post, if you care to read, was rather ok; it was about two of my heroes, Dr. King, and Bobby Kennedy. I think it's fitting that yesterday the 23rd, was the day of an MLK event that I atteneded, on the first anniversary of my blog when my post was all about social justice and those two incredible men.

SO anyway, happy birthday to this blog of mine, and fingers crossed it has many more!

Rest in Peace Jean Simmons

2010-01-22T22:47:00.000-05:00

In Retrospect: Audrey Hepburn

2010-01-19T09:22:00.001-05:00

I had never before seen an Audrey Hepburn movie. I knew her as the girl in the long black dress, with the large black sunglasses, gazing into the window at Tiffany’s. However, the first Audrey film I watched was not Breakfast at Tiffany’s, a favorite of the mainstream media’s. The first Audrey film I watched was her first American picture, Roman Holiday; where she charmed just about everyone to the point of near confusion. Journalists scrambled for fresh new words to describe this doe eyed newcomer; this svelte beauty with the unidentifiable accent.

I was charmed as well. I'm going to be cliche and say that I fell in love with her. She was spunky, she was adorable, she was sweet and utterly charming. When I first saw her in that film, it was so clear to me how naturally beautiful she was. There was just the slightest hint of makeup. I had never come across anyone so beautiful in the Hollywood of today. The only other women who seemed to compare with Audrey in the looks department were from ‘back then’; Vivien Leigh, Ingrid Bergman, and Grace Kelly. (Those were the few ladies I had discovered before Audrey as my classic film obsession began).

Audrey’s beauty is very much a relevant topic. She’s been described as a classic beauty; sometimes, unique. I like to think of her as the latter, because her looks were so different from her contemporaries. Stunning as she was, classic could not describe her face. Anthony Beauchamp, the photographer who discovered her in 1949, said of Audrey: “I couldn’t quite fathom that she was real. There were so many paradoxes in that face. Darkness and purity; depth and youth; stillness and animation. She had a fresh new look, a beauty that was ethereal.” Audrey had a quiet majesty about her; there was a regal glow to her face, but it wasn't overpowering. She was kind of like the girl next door; but ethereal.

Take note of how simply made up she is here, but that still doen't take away from her natural elegance.

Her eyes definitely play a large role in adding to her incredibly striking face. A friend of mine was once studying Audrey's picture on the cover of a biography I was reading and she remarked: "It's her eyes." I knew what she meant. Those eyes drew people in. They still do. It's easy to see how people noticed her right away even though she was just another dancer first starting out. She was known as the chorus girl with the eyes. Even as she aged ever so gracefully, those eyes of her remained mesmerizing.

I know Audrey never thought of herself as anything special. She didn't think much of her looks, or her talents. Like so many actors, she dismissed it. (Ava Gardner serves as another good example). But as her son Sean put it, Audrey was like a star that couldn't see it's light. That makes her infinitely more lovable. "She was a joy to work with- enormous talent, and no ego," Sidney Sheldon remarked. Sean points to his mother's dedication; she never quite understood how she landed in films, but she was always polite and courteous, and always on time. Simple maybe, but Audrey treasured simplicity, and so she wasn't ever quite the Hollywood type. And that my friends, further endears her to the regular girls next door.

And as if that wasn't enough, she spoke on behlaf of the children of the world. She was not an extraordinary humanitarian; she was an extraordinary human being. She was filled with true compassion and love, not just for her family and those closest to her, but to those children of war, sickness and famine. Her own experiences of growing up during World War Two certainly played a role in acting as an ambassador to UNICEF, but it's nothing short of remarkable. She was a child of war and tragedy. Perhaps that suffering made her even more beautiful. She still retained her optimism throughout the war, and throughout her life; as someone who knew the real horrors of mankind, she understood the importance of all the simple things we too often take for granted. I know it's been said countless times before, but it's important when talking about Audrey.

Throughout this post, I've mainly discussed Audrey as a beauty and as a woman. There hasn't been a lot of mention of her career, has there? After all, I discovered her first as an actress, as did many people. But I suppose this retrospect is paying tribute to the woman I've gleaned bits and pieces of information from. It'd be very easy to speak about Audrey's films and the characters she portrayed, and how she did indeed bring some of her own personality into Princess Ann, Sabrina Fairchild, Jo Stockton, Holly Golightly, and Regina Lampert. We know the Audrey from the movies; no matter how many biographies or quotes we read, we'll never know the true Audrey.

So I suppose this retrospect is paying tribute to a wonderful role model, who I've seen and admired as a person and as an actress, but only from afar. Like many of the Audrey lovers and devotees out there, I feel a connection to her. And I mean, if you're a true fan of hers, you can't help but fall in love with this lovely girl, and her large sad eyes. But how is it that she continues to enchant people of all ages, even years after her death? Maybe it's because Audrey's brand of je nais se quoi; her elegant spirit, are timeless, and really never go out of style.

I regard her as more than just a silver screen talent or a style icon, and that is my own retrospect. And I hope I've made some sense of how much and why I adore this woman!

Rest in Peace, Audrey.

May 4, 1929-January 20, 1993

"God kissed Audrey Hepburn on the cheek and there she was." -Billy Wilder

Happy Birthday to Me!

2010-01-17T00:54:00.002-05:00

Now normally, I don't like the whole "Hey look at me" bit that Brian Williams so vehemently opposes, but since I do author this blog, I feel it is relevant. I'm 19 today. I thought that meant I'd be cool like Lauren Bacall; have her looks, eyebrows, voice, when she was my age. Apparently not. But, I'm still thankful for reaching yet another milestone. AND, if you lovely followers would like to get me something, text Yele to 501-501 or Haiti to 9099 to help with the relief effort in Haiti! Please; only $15 in all is charged to your phone bill. :-D

But just look at all the cool people who came by to help me celebrate! (Frank Sinatra felt the need to appear in almost all of these).

^ This could very well be even more beautiful, if not for that ugly, evil watermark.

Look, Clark Gable brought his own party hat. ;-D

I'm pretty much the weirdest 19 year old ever. And thanks to Kate Gabrielle for her wonderful picture of William Holden and the birthday wishes!

Changing Audrey

2010-01-14T13:33:00.001-05:00

A while back, I had a post about my introduction to classic films. I got a lot of feedback on that post, but one of the comments I received managed to sit in the back of my mind for some time. C.K. Dexter Haven, of Hollywood Dreamland, mentioned that he would be curious to see how my interests would change over time. I figured I understood what he meant; as I watched more and more films, and got introduced to different actors, I would gain new favorites and perspectives. One thing I kept thinking was that over time, Audrey would stop being my favorite actress. Well that was something I refused to accept.

It's happened however. My new favorite actress:

Gene Tierney.

The reason behind this is all due to Gene's performance in The Ghost and Mrs. Muir (1947). I don't mean to say that this film is her best (although it is a favorite of mine), or that because of it I took her seriously as a performer. I've always thought Gene was remarkable; as a beauty and as an actress. But she endeared herself to me a lot more.

However, I still adore Audrey; as an actress, role model, what have you. It's just that my interests have started to shift.

Thanks to My Followers!

2010-01-08T13:17:00.003-05:00

I finally broke the 100 mark! I'm glad you guys find my posts interesting enough to read, and in this new year, I promise they'll be a lot better than some of those in 2009.

And I promise to follow back. :-D

A New Favorite: Golden Boy (1939)

2010-01-06T16:08:00.003-05:00

1939 is hailed as the greatest year in films. I’m not here to disagree. Gone With the Wind, The Wizard of Oz, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, The Women, and the list goes on and on. But while those films are truly remarkable, there were also the lesser known gems of 1939, such as Midnight and In Name Only. There’s also another 1939 hit that is forgotten, the star maker for William Holden at 21 years of age, and that film is Golden Boy, starring Barbara Stanwyck and Adolphe Menjou.

Obviously, the appeal for me in seeing this film was William Holden. Imagine my delighted surprise when I learned the supporting cast included Lee J. Cobb and Sam Levene. Cobb was twenty eight during the film’s release, just seven years older than Holden; an important fact especially when one considers he was playing Holden’s father. (Oh the wonders a handle bar mustache will do).

The film, directed by Rouben Mamoulian, was adapted from a stage play by Clifford Odets, the same man who gave us The Country Girl and The Sweet Smell of Success. In Golden Boy, the story is that of Joe Bonaparte, a young violinist turned boxer. At first, he seems genuine in wanting to pursue a career in the ring; Menjou, playing the boxing promoter Tom Moody, is at first reluctant to sign him, and more than a little annoyed. But Joe proves himself, and becomes a success, much to Moody’s delight. However, Mr. Bonaparte still nurses his son’s first dream; that of the violin.

William Holden at age 21 was…for lack of a better word, adorable. I think that’s all he could be as a dreamy musician, unsure of what he wants, with that full head of curly hair. The hair is relevant. It made him appear even more boyish; and this is the same actor who gained prominence playing such cynical roles in his later years. Here, he’s innocent but there’s a lot of substance underneath too. As an artist, he’s emotional, and that may add to his short temper, especially as a prizefighter.

And the story of his winning performance is attributed to his leading lady, Barbara Stanwyck, who urged producers to keep him in the production after they lost faith in him. She coached him through, and he turned in a performance worthy of the film. Stanwyck too delivers a remarkable performance, as Lorna Moon. She captures every single moment she’s on screen, and there are vulnerable and sympathetic sides to her character, just like Joe. Cobb never fails to disappoint (at least in the films I’ve seen), and is convincing with his impassioned delivery of the lines. Levene adds comic relief, but overall the film is an enjoyable, honest one. It has humor and tragedy; a life portrait.

5/5 stars for Golden Boy.

The Actress behind the Striking Face

2010-01-04T15:26:00.005-05:00

Happy 2010 everyone! I hope you all enjoyed your holidays!

I know I've been terrible at posting anything on here. I'm afraid I've been caught in the clutches of writer's block and laziness-really not a good combination. However, hoping to move past the laziness, and maybe I can overcome the writer's block as well.

Anyway, back to the topic at hand. This actress I'm referring to is non other than the incredibly beautiful Gene Tierney. In my opinion, you really can't speak about one without the other. But now, I think it may be impossible to forget what a powerful presence she brought to the screen. Not just as a beauty, but as a performer.

I recently watched The Ghost and Mrs. Muir (1947), a charming fantasy with elements of both comedy and drama. Her costars in the picture included Rex Harrison and the great George Sanders, whom I adore. Natalie Wood also appeared as Tierney's daughter, but her role was very small. (Review coming soon; fingers crossed).

If you haven't seen this movie, I recommend it. (After all, my opinion is so highly regarded, right)? Gene brings such an honest and enjoyable performance in a role that should have brought her an Oscar nomination. Any doubts to her clout as an actress will be cast aside. (At least, that's what I'm hoping. Especially when one considers the convincing way she portrayed an old woman. But we'll leave that for the actual review).

Gene at her most splendidly gorgeous as Lucy Muir.

My 20 Favorite Actresses!

2009-12-20T21:17:00.000-05:00

Thanks again to Kate Gabrielle. Concerning most of the extremely lovely ladies on this list, I still have quite a few films of theirs to see, but the dvr is keeping them for me. :)

So here they are:

1. Audrey Hepburn

I love those photos of her! Favorite films: Roman Holiday (1953), Sabrina (1954), & The Children's Hour (1961)

2. Ingrid Bergman

Favorite films: Intermezzo (1939), Rage in Heaven (1941), Casablanca (1943), Gaslight (1944), Spellbound (1945), Anastasia (1956), & Indiscreet (1958)
Sorry, but there's no way to pick just one!

3. Carole Lombard

Favorite films: Twentieth Century (1934), My Man Godfrey (1936), In Name Only (1939), & To Be or Not to Be (1942)
To Be or Not to Be was the second Carole film I saw, and I kept remembering that it was her last film, and that made me very teary. Since then, well, I've just loved this woman ever since. And her performances as well.

4. Grace Kelly

*muahahahahaha*

She was mind bendingly gorgeous.
Favorite films: Rear Window (1954) & The Country Girl (1954)

5. Linda Darnell

Favorite film: A Letter to Three Wives (1949)

6. Deborah Kerr

Favorite film: An Affair to Remember (1957)

7. Katharine Hepburn

Favorite films: Bringing Up Baby (1938) & The Philadelphia Story (1940)

8. Gene Tierney

Favorite films: Rings on Her Fingers (1942) & Laura (1944)

9. Ava Gardner

Favorite films: Mogambo (1953) & The Night of the Iguana (1964)

10. Rita Hayworth

Favorite films: You Were Never Lovelier (1942) & Cover Girl (1944)

11. Donna Reed

Favorite films: It's a Wonderful Life (1946) & From Here to Eternity (1953)

12. Lauren Bacall

Favorite films: The Big Sleep (1946) & How to Marry a Millionaire (1953)

13. Betty Grable

Favorite film: How to Marry a Millionaire (1953)

14. Marilyn Monroe

Favorite film: The Misfits (1961)

15. Judy Garland

Favorite film: Ziegfeld Girls (1941)

16. Natalie Wood

Favorite film: Splendor in the Grass (1961)

17. Jane Russell

Favorite film: Macao (1952)

18. Ann Sothern

Favorite films: A Letter to Three Wives (1949) & The Blue Gardenia (1953)

19. Jeanne Crain

Favorite film: A Letter to Three Wives (1949)

20. Emma Watson

Favorite films: The whole darn Harry Potter franchise. This choice may seem silly, but Em really is a talented actress. I'm curious to see what she'll do after Potter.

Grace Kelly

2009-12-17T22:47:00.004-05:00

A drawing of a princess, that my friend did. I named her Princess Grace and added the text.

Ok. So recently on tumblr, there has been a lot of Grace bashing. Now, being a Grace fan, I was offended. Not only because I love her so, but because she is deceased, and therefore, deserves to rest in peace. I won't repeat what was said, but a lot of Judy Garland fans felt the need to insult Gracie because they felt she was undeserving to win the Oscar in 1954. Ok, that's your opinion. Do you really need to be so disrespectful about it? They claimed we (we being the awesome Millie, Nicole, & Kate Gabrielle) were being too sensitive. They have the right to be as tactless and crude as they want, so we decided we would unfollow them. Is that being too sensitive? Or is it being classy and knowing that if you don't want to read that, you shouldn't have to?

Their other line was that we, or more I was judging them. No, just your actions. I'm sorry, but when you insult a deceased person who can't even defend themselves, that calls your character into question. Maybe I shouldn't have called them empty losers. But that's what they came across as. My favorite was when they said we should have retaliated with rude insults about Judy. Why? I adore Judy and why should I try and judge her when she too has passed on? They were being so disrespectful to both. Call me sensitive. I'd say I'm decent.

Well that's all. Review and 20 Actresses tag coming up soon! Can't waste any more space with them. Time to move on.

My 20 Favorite Actors!

2009-12-15T19:59:00.025-05:00

Well, looks like I'm jumping on the bandwagon too along with Kate Gabrielle. This is very fitting because I actually made this list today in the library. Ahem. Not everyone here is from Old Hollywood. [insert gasp]

1. William Holden

Favorite movies: Sunset Boulevard, Born Yesterday, (both 1950) & The Country Girl (1954). (Latter film included because it was my first Bill movie, and he caused me to not pay too much attention to Grace Kelly, so it wasn't until I watched a second time that I saw what an excellent performance she gave. And I think she deserved that Oscar)!

2. Gregory Peck

Gentleman's Agreement (1947)

3. James Stewart or Jimmer :)

Mr Smith Goes to Washington (1939) It's A Wonderful Life (1946) & Rear Window (1954)

4. Frank Sinatra

From Here to Eternity (1953) & Guys and Dolls (1955)

5. Montgomery Clift

From Here to Eternity (1953)

6. Cary Grant

Bringing Up Baby (1938) & The Philadelphia Story (1940)

7. Clark Gable

It Happened One Night (1934)

8. Humphrey Bogart

The Desperate Hours (1955) *insert evil laugh* I want to be random and different, and fyi, this was the first Bogie film that really made me HATE him.

9. Fred Astaire

You Were Never Lovelier (1942)! If there was any doubt in my mind as to loving Fred, it was wiped away after seeing him in this film. Love, love, love.

10. Fredric March

The Bridges at Toko-Ri (1954)--> Review coming up.

11. George Sanders

Rage in Heaven (1941)

12. Bing Crosby

The Country Girl (1954)

13. Gene Kelly

The Pirate (1948)

14. Burt Lancaster

The Sweet Smell of Success (1957)

15. Robert Mitchum

Macao (1952)

16. Charlie Chaplin

City Lights (1931) & Modern Times (1936)

17. Joseph Cotten

Shadow of a Doubt (1943) & The Third Man (1949)

18. Rainn Wilson

I don't evn know ^

19. John Krasinski

20. Steve Carell

This list is not final, cos much as I adore the last three, I'm still waiting to procure East of Eden & Giant so that James Dean makes this list. And Douglas Fairanks Jr. too. And Sidney Poitier. And well, you get the gist.

I Can't Seem to Write Something of Merit

2009-12-11T00:14:00.006-05:00

So instead I'm going to bore you to tears with my classic film journey!

It all began in the summer of 2007. Back then, I wasn't a classic film fan. I can't remember being a fan of anything. I was just sort of there, ya know? I can't even remember what celebrity or whatever I liked back then. But I heard about this AFI thing, counting down the 100 greatest movies of all time. I said to myself: "Oooh, this could be fun!" After all, I loved movies, and was sure I'd seen at least half of them.

Well, I began watching, fell in love with the promo song, and settled in to watch. Morgan Freeman was hosting, so I said: "Sweet, added bonus!" Anyway, film at number 100 was Ben-Hur (1959). Me: "Wow, they had movies back then? Weird." I KNOW!!!!! I said that!

Anyways, I'm watching and I say: "Chariots. Hmm. Fun. Who's this Charleton Heston guy?" So they get to 99, and it's Toy Story. I've seen that one.

And then we get to this movie called Yankee Doodle Dandy. 1942? Hmm...and then Debbie Reynolds is talking about the actor named James Cagney, and how he's this great dancer and blah blah blah. And for some reason, I find myself intrigued. I seem to like his dancing a lot in the scene they show. And now I still have the special saved to the dvr, and I keep re-watching that Cagney guy and his silly dance moves. And I attempt to copy them...

Fast forward to one month later. I am now quoting lines from movies I have never even seen. I am also supposed to be working on AP History. I come across the names of two "old movie stars" in my book. Greta Garbo (vaguely familiar) and Rudolph Valentino. I hop over to the computer to read up on these two.

(I can remember this clear as day. I was at my cousin's house, sitting on her bed, doing homework, and then I walked to her den to use the computer. See how important classic films are for me)?

But when I get on the AFI site, I read up on their list of the 100 greatest stars.
1. Katharine Hepburn. I know her. 2. Bette Davis. I kinda know her. 3. Audrey Hepburn. Um, I can't seem to remember if she's related to Katharine...*curses*

Now for the guys. 1. Humphrey Bogart. Hey, I know him too. 2. Cary Grant? Who is he? He's kinda cute. (I'm trying really hard not to hit myself). 3. James Stewart. ???? (UGH I could cry). 4. Marlon Brando. Whew, I know this one!

That's what happened the next couple of days. I would sit there and read up on everyone.

Me: "Hey Chantel, can you believe this actress was a princess? Her name was Grace Kelly. Wouldn't you want to be a princess and an actress?"
Chantel: "No."

Ok enough of that. I decide I want to see those movies I've never heard of. But how? Enter TCM. I find out what channel it plays on, and get set to record the ones I saw on AFI. (MY GOODNESS, dork alert). The first is Bringing Up Baby. I watch it about two days later and I'm hooked. This is in September. I watch The Wizard of Oz (uh huh, never actually watched the whole thing), A Streetcar Named Desire (knew about the play), and just in time for Christmas, It's A Wonderful Life. That was the first classic film to make me cry. And I mean bawl, with tears running down my cheeks and everything.

Well by that time, there wasn't much of AFI's list playing on TCM, but I developed a habit of constantly checking their website. And lo and behold, Casablanca, one of the greatest movies of all time is playing...on my birthday! Part of TCM's romance thingy. I watch, and was impressed, and at the same time, not. (I'm not getting into my Ingrid Bergman rant; or my Claude Rains one either). Just know that I liked it, and didn't like it.

Well TCM plays their 31 Days of Oscar and now I'm really happy because I see a lot of wonderful films, including another Jimmy Stewart called Rear Window, with that princess/actress Grace Kelly, and AFI's number one film, Citizen Kane. (Which failed to dazzle me). Films that did: It Happened One Night and Yankee Doodle Dandy.

And then, I learn about Roman Holiday. Oh yeah, Audrey. Well, let's see what all the fuss is about. I watched Roman Holiday on a Saturday in February of 2008, one day after watching The Red Shoes. My first reaction upon seeing Audrey was that she was incredibly beautiful. You could tell she wasn't even wearing a lot of make-up. Needless to say, from the moment she screamed and started to cry, she had my heart forever. I said: "Wow! She could act!"

After that, I saw quite a few of those AFI films, and many more. (Yeah, also Ben-Hur). I discovered wonderful talents, people I adore today, people I can't even believe I never heard of until that random June day when I wasn't a committed fan to anything.

It all started with James Cagney. Cary Grant and Katharine Hepburn made me fall in love. Judy Garland was awesome. Marlon Brando & Vivien Leigh blew me away. Jimmy was...perfection. Audrey stole my heart. (And later on, so did Greg). And Bogie. Ingrid, and Claude...well they were remarkable too. I owe something to these people; gratitude. They were the firsts I ever became aquainted with and who actually had an effect on me. That's how this blog started. That's how countless obsessions and Internet spawned creations began.

I'm quite happy it turned out this way.

PS: I'm TRYING to post reviews on here. Bear with me! As soon as finals are over, I will be back! And if you read this whole thing, um, sorry.

Linda Darnell: Story of an Obscure Hollywood Tragedy

2009-12-04T16:20:00.007-05:00

Hollywood Beauty: Linda Darnell and the American Dream
By Ronald L. Davis

Linda Darnell wasn't the only actress in Hollywood to build a career based on beauty. Nor was she the only one to die young. But among the more notable names of tragic deaths in Hollywood, hers is little known. And why shouldn't she be? Her screen presence failed to capture the world's imagination like Marilyn Monroe or James Dean. She was described as a competent actress, but with limited dimension. But what can you expect? Linda landed a contract with 20th Century Fox mainly because of her incredibly beautiful face. It's not fair to say she didn't posess any talent whatsoever; but as one critic pointed out, she was no Bette Davis.

Linda was born Monetta Darnell in Dallas, Texas on October 16th, 1923. Her mother, Pearl Brown Darnell was the main force driving Linda to Hollywood. Pearl had cultivated big dreams for herself. She had wanted to break into the movies, to become a star. When that dream was never realized, she passed it down to Linda. A classic case of "stage mom." Linda wanted very much to be a star, but a lot of it had to do with her mother's influence. She was described as being very shy and poised, yet she worked hard at lessons that were meant to elevate her to the Hollywood dream. While Linda would grow to resent her mother, they still shared some similarities. Both were alcoholics, and could turn violent during fights and arguments.

She was discovered at age 15 by a talent scout from Fox named Ivan Kahn. And as with all starlets, the publicity machine worked overtime promoting her, and in 1939, at age 15, she starred in Hotel for Women. She recieved positive reviews in that film, and others to follow, most notably as Tyrone Power's wife in Blood and Sand (1941)and as Lora May in A Letter to Three Wives (1949). She was praised for her beauty, but her performances as well. Robert Zanuck felt she lacked personality; which is at odds with what everyone else said of her. She was always called sweet, and lovely, but most everyone believed she didn't belong there. Linda was simple, and came from a simple hometown. A neighbor of hers, who had retired from working at an insurance company said: "I'm living the kind of life Monetta Darnell would have if people had left her alone."

Maybe life as a star isn't the American dream. Maybe working a nine to five is just as respectable a way to live, as long as your're happy. Linda managed to find happiness through her friends, her adopted daughter Lola, and the charities she lent her hand to. No one seems to want to discuss the fact that she set up a Girls Town in Italy, a country she was in love with, to aid young female orpahns. Or that she worked trying to help blacks, Native Americans, and the Kidney Foundation.

WILLIAM HOLDEN said Linda was an apple; "Beautiful on the outside, delicious on the inside." Obviously she had a quality that drew people in; most everyone adored her. It seems to me that she tried fitting into Hollywood by adopting a colorful vocabulary, which fooled no one, and putting up a tough exterior. Underneath it all, she would remain Monetta, a shy, beautiful young girl with a compassionate heart and a yearning need to be taken seriously in her profession.

Linda would die on April 10, 1965 from a house fire. Over ninety percent of her body was covered in 2nd and 3rd degree burns. That already is such a tragic way to die, but Linda had always had a fear of fire, and in cruel irony, her greatest fear took her life.

I would recommend this book, but only if you're genuinely interested in her life and complex story. It passes through rather quickly, but you do get a sense of the woman forgotten in Hollywood's history.

The Ingrid Bergman Quiz

2009-11-23T20:36:00.004-05:00

1. What's your favorite Ingrid film? Grrr. I'm gonna go with...Indiscreet. I adore Spellbound, but really, Indiscreet had me feeling like I wasn't even watching a movie. And she was hilarious in that role! (DAMNNNNNN) :)

2. Who's your favorite leading man from a film with Ingrid? Uh, Gregory Peck. Just Gregory. I could get into my rant about Spellbound, but just know: I FELL IN LOVE WITH THEM WHEN I WATCHED THAT MOVIE. TOGETHER. I'VE BEEN REALLY BIG ON CAPS LOCK LATELY.

3. Who would you LOVE to see her with? OMG WILLIAM HOLDEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! They would have made the perfect onscreen couple, in some comedy; or black comedy/drama where she drives him insane as the femme fatale.

4. What action film would you cast Ingrid in? REALLY. I have no clue.

5. In which current/classic TV show would she have been a great cast member? Haha, she so could play on The Office. Imagine her being the sassy foreign chick that Micheal thinks is "behind" in some things cos he's not all too bright himself. I can only imagine the one liners she'd throw at him.

6. Long hair Ingrid or short? I think she was positively, out of control gorgeous with that short blond hair in For Whom the Bell Tolls.

7. Ingrid in Sweden, Italy or U.S.? I'm proud to be an American, where at least I know I'm free! :D

8. Who's your favorite of her children? Um, I like them all? haha, Isabella reminds me the most of her, so I guess she would be my favorite. (Especially since once, when I watched an AFI special, she was talking about some film or other, and I yelled: "I love your mom!" Yes; I yelled at the TV screen).

9. Favorite photo of Ingrid?

REALLY? She was this beautiful?!

10. If you had to write a book report on Ingrid, what would it be called?
Ingrid: The Eyes behind Casablanca
(I know that sounds A LOT like Millie's, but I was going to write an essay about Ingrid and talk a lot about her eyes and performance in that film, and it's effect on me).

Harley's Revised List of Favorite Movies

2009-11-12T00:03:00.004-05:00

1. Roman Holiday (1953)
2. Guys and Dolls (1955)
3. Rear Window (1954)
4. The Philadelphia Story (1940)
5. It Happened One Night (1934)
6. Sunset Boulevard (1950)--> More to come on this very excellent film.
7. Bringing Up Baby (1938)
8. 12 Angry Men (1957)
9. Gentleman's Agreement (1947)
10. Sabrina (1954)
11. Twentieth Century (1934)
12. Arsenic and Old Lace (1944)
13. To Be or Not to Be (1942)
14. You Were Never Lovelier (1942)--> Again, excellence
15. Rings on Her Fingers (1942)
16. From Here to Eternity --> More excellence
17. Cover Girl (1945)
18. Indiscreet (1958)
19. The Third Man (1949)
20. Rebecca (1940)
21. Spellbound (1945)

Congratulate me! I've got 3 movies watched, and I hope to review them soon. I've got to share.

And what each of these movies have showed me (again), is how important they are to our culture and ourselves.

And for the time being, this list is quite temporary, and may not even be in order. yes, cos # 21 is way wrong! This needs more revising, but I can't wait to post these reviews! Cheers for now!

Birth of a Notion: Grace Kelly's Birthday Is Coming Up

2009-11-07T19:20:00.000-05:00

Birth of a Notion: Grace Kelly's Birthday Is Coming Up

Grace Kelly fans read this! I couldn't have said it any better myself David! Wonderful job, she truly is missed and loved!

My Current Obsession

2009-11-03T02:52:00.006-05:00

Photos of Audrey w/ Dean Martin & Jerry Lewis. 'nuff said. Take a look cos you can't blame me!!!!!!!!!! I <3 Dean + Audgers too of course, Jerry seemed cool. I go crazy when I see em. Thank you tumblr.

no Jerry; insert Frank, Shirley + William Wyler.

Ok, she was the most adorable thing...ever.

LOL

Style needs to come back in style

2009-10-31T22:45:00.010-04:00

That lovely jewel of a blogger Merriam posted this a while ago, and of course I missed it! What is this ‘it’ I refer to? Only her completely true/shout AMEN to the heavens post about how gloves need to come back in style. But not just gloves; hats, skirts, tights. In short, everything that made a woman look elegant and lovely back in yesteryear and which is being sorely missed in the here and now. So Merriam tagged us to post what needs to come back in style. She pretty much covered the list. But I can think of something else that I want to add to my wardrobe, because I hate slumming around in sneakers and hoodies. Nothing in my closet reminds me of Lisa Carol Fremont; sure I have my share of slim dresses, but when am I ever going to wear them causally? Merriam also made a point to mention that dresses are not worn casually anymore, as they once were so stunningly.

Ok, so here is what I want back:

Yup, scarves. I know, I see plenty of women ages 70+ wearing head scarves, but I want to wear them too! I’d pull an Audrey or a Grace or a Jackie and slip outside to do errands in a head scarf; or a neck scarf. Who says they’re only for winter wear? “Scarf” does not only mean wooly thing that needs to be worn with a jacket. It can be thin and perfectly accessorized, as by this lovely lady:

People seem to feel the same way about hats too. Sure I’ve got a beret, but I’m using it for bad hair day solutions nowadays. And I would totally wear this:

Fedoras are not just for guys! Pair this with a man’s collar shirt, or just skinny jeans, and who knows? Francine Sinatra, maybe??? Yeah, I’ve got a fedora in my house. Too bad it’s brown, belonged to my grandfather, and my father, who guards such things with jealous protection (i.e. they sit in a dark corner of the closet unseen and untouched until I get a hold of them) would yell at me if I put it on my head. Maybe a brown fedora could work; only black is my cup of tea. But these can be found in contemporary stores, in any color or pattern. Woo hoo for being a girl!

BUT, cloche hats rule too, and they are coming back in style. Whatever. Even if they weren’t, I’m still buying one, and wearing it whenever the hell I feel like it! Take that 2009!

Cloche hat courtesy of http://www.couturecreations.net/

Halloween =]...and I want to have sweet dreams

2009-10-30T00:18:00.009-04:00

Beauty...my sweet dreams

Anyone dressing up? I wanted to go for cute and charming; I'll be a dead cheerleader. There's my "I don't get your sarcasm" sarcasm.

Well my friend and I were on air for our school's TV network, and for the fun of Halloween, we counted down the top best horror movies.

NOTE: I don't watch horror movies. I have seen a couple, and the reasons are spelled out. And for that reason, NO CREEPY/SCARY movie stills.

5. Child's Play--> I was five; meaning my mother, brother, and sister made me watch it. Of course I would be terrified! And it still creeps me out because I've always had an aversion to glass dolls and ones that are possessed.

4. The Sixth Sense--> Ok, really, who hasn't seen this one? Yeah I know, it's not "scary". Ok, see some dead people walking around, and have a dead Mischa Barton show up and vomit in your tent, and then we'll see if it really isn't scary. Well, it has that psycological element, and there's no blood and gore.

3. Nightmare on Elm Street--> Confession: I only just saw this last week, and after seeing beautiful, 21 year old Johhny Depp get taken by Freddy Krueger, I screamed and ran from the room. Seriously, I went to sleep afraid that he would GET ME. (I know, what a dork; I hate acting scared like I'm 17 all over again).

2. The Shining--> Yeah, Jack Nicholson is crazy and terrifying and you got the REDRUM spelled everywhere. Um, the scariest part of this movie are those creepy dead twins. Shudders. I'm going to give myself nightmares if I keep talking about these movies!

1. Psycho--> Lead the way for all the aforementioned movies. I don't think any commentary is needed. It's just a good movie, regardless of genre. Hitchcock= genius, and the blood was scary even in black and white.

My friend's list:
5. 28 Days Later
4. Poltergeist
3. Nightmare on Elm Street
2. The Excorcist (NEVER EVER WATCHING THIS MOVIE)
1. Halloween

I'll Eat you up, I love you so

2009-10-27T19:06:00.006-04:00

You might think it'd be pretty impossible to turn a 10 paged children's book into a feature length film. But then again, Hollywood likes to embellish. That's what you get with Where the Wild Things Are. There's no mention of a pretty sucky older sister, loneliness, or being let down in the celebrated Maurice Sendak book. But in this film, director Spike Jonez manages to pull it all together, in a way that is neither forced, but intense, and even powerful. This movie will make you sad; it will make you gasp. But what it will not do is make you regret it. Yes, it is a children's film, but a good film nonetheless. I guess it doesn't matter if a movie is classic or contemporary; if it makes you think, if it leaves you feeling a little breathless, then it's done it's job.

Here's Carol, leader of the pack, adding flowers to the fort he, Max and the gang built. A monster gentle with flowers...

Max in his wolf suit and crown. The young actor who plays him, Max Records, is a pretty talented kid. He brings to life the Max of the book; mischievous and wild of course, but also a sad, and angry Max, a boy who grows disappointed and escapes to fantasy when reality proves less than appealing.

Carol and Max.

5/5 stars

Random...What I'm Loving: For now, forever, who knows?

2009-10-24T12:14:00.008-04:00

This is my future mode of transportation. Yes it's true. If not in pink, cherry red.

Yeah I've always been a big fan of bad ass red lipstick. Can we say 40s glam? Inspired by Gewn Stefani, fawned over by Harley.

Ryan Sheckler, skateborading phenom. This should make Millie and my friend Mary happy. I think I'm giving up Shia for The World's Illest White Boy, aka Ryan. Seriously, how could I forget my one and only Ryan? He was replaced by William Holden. Now, he's back.

Julez Santana. You guys probably aren't familiar. But once upon a time, yours truly used to be obsessed with hard core rap. *Shudders*. Yes very true. But along the way, Juelz slipped my mind and was replaced by Audrey. But now, he's back too. J'adore him.

I love this pic.

Perfect caption: "What happened last night?" ;)

Technicolor Beauty

2009-10-19T21:22:00.003-04:00

I'm in a real big Linda Darnell kick right now. I have to watch A Letter to Three Wives; I've been trying to since the summer. I miss Linda, and her movies. Another I'm hoping to check out is Summer Storm, starring miss lovely & the George Sanders. :)

Belated Wishes for the Love Goddess

2009-10-18T14:41:00.007-04:00

Rita Hayworth aka The Love Goddess (one of those rare creatures who is never underrated or overrated by anyone).
b. 10/17/1918-d. 5/14/1987

Well, I couldn't blog yesterday, on what would have been Rita's 91st birthday. And you see, I kinda love her a lot. So here are some photos. Rest in Peace, Rita.

Linda Darnell

2009-10-16T10:48:00.004-04:00

Linda Darnell b. 10/16/1923-d. 4/10/1965
Truly one of the screen's most authentic beauties and talented stars. A friend of mine told me yesterday that a dead person doesn't have a birthday; still, you should remember the day they were born. So happy birthday Linda, and rest in peace.

Classic Cinema Survey Revisited

2009-10-13T13:16:00.038-04:00

So I decided I would clean up my answers to Amanda's lovely survey, and add some pretty pics that were missing before. And this version is way better. :)

1. What is your all time favorite Clark Gable movie?

It Happened One Night. Perfect. Always.

2. Do you like Joan Crawford best as a comedienne or a drama-queen?
I’m not a fan of hers; but I think she worked better as a drama queen.

3. In your opinion, should Ginger Rogers have made more musicals post-Fred Astaire?
Maybe…

4.I promise not to cause you bodily (or any other serious) harm if you don't agree with me on this one. So please be honest: do you like Elizabeth Taylor? Hm?
She doesn’t bother me. I guess I do like her.

5. Who is your favorite off screen Hollywood couple?
Bogie & Bacall have a special place in my heart. :)

6. How about onscreen Hollywood couple?

Hard…probably Cary Grant & Deborah Kerr.

7. Favorite Jean Arthur movie?
You Can’t Take it With You.

8. What was the first Gregory Peck movie you saw?
Roman Holiday! My number one favorite!

9. What film made you fall in love with Alfred Hitchcock? (And for those of you that say, "I don't like Hitchcock" -- what is wrong with you?!)

Rear Window...and here is Lisa Carol Fremont, in all her glory.

10. What is your favorite book-to-movie adaption?
Laura...12 Angry Men...The Maltese Falcon...The Third Man.

11. Do you prefer Shirley Temple as a little girl or as a teenager?

I know her best as an adorable little girl. :) (Though really, I prefer the drink).

12. Favorite character actor?

Peter Lorre & Sidney Greenstreet...oh, hey Mary Astor.

13. Favorite Barbara Stanywck role?

Phyllis Dietrichson in Double Indemnity.

14. Who is your favorite of Cary Grant's leading ladies?

Probably Grace Kelly.

15. Bette Davis or Joan Crawford?

Bette all the way! She's one of the few mean people I actually admire and adore a lot. :)

16. What actors and/or actresses do you think are underrated?

Ava Gardner...she could never be underrated or overrated as a beauty, but as an actress, she isn't given much credit. (Which boggles my mind).

George Sanders...like Quentin Tarentino said, is there anyone like him anymore? Who else in Hollywood can tell you they're going to kill you, and still remain eloquent and charming?

17. What actors and/or actresses do you think are overrated?

Sometimes…Marilyn Monroe. I do adore her, and she really was extraordinary, but her hype tends to overshadow her talent and other greats.

18. Do you watch movies made pre-1980 exclusively, or do you spice up your viewing-fare with newer films?
I like to spice things up. This year I've seen Transformers 2 (really nothing noteworthy), Harry Potter & the Half-Blood Prince (:D), The Hangover (vulgar, crude, hilarious), Julie & Julia (wonderful), and The Informant!

19. Is there an actor or actress you saw in a film and immediately loved? If so, who?

Douglas Fairbanks Jr. Um, I kinda fell in love with him after seeing this photo.

Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday

Linda Darnell in Blood and Sand

Ingrid Bergman in Anastasia.

Gregory Peck in Gentleman's Agreement

Fell in love with Ingrid & Gregory in Spellbound :)

George Sanders in Rebecca

Joseph Cotten in The Third Man

20. Gene Kelly or Fred Astaire:
I adore them both! Grr, don't ask me to choose! (EVER).

21. Favorite Ginger Rogers Drama:

Stage Door. (Beautiful dress worn by Kate; adorable pajamas modeled by Ginger) =]

22. If you wrote a screenplay, who would be in your dream cast and what roles would they play? (Mixing actors and actresses from different generations is allowed: any person from any point in their career.)

A movie starring Ray Milland & Carole Lombard as two clumsy spies during the "Red Scare" of the 1920s.

23. Favorite actress:

Audrey Hepburn

24. Favorite actor:

Gregory Peck...looks just as good in a beard as he does w/o one.

25. And now, the last question. What is your favorite movie from each of these genres:

Drama:

The Best Years of Our Lives

Romance:

Indiscreet

Musical:

Guys and Dolls

Comedy:

Arsenic and Old Lace

Western:

High Noon

Hitchcock (he has a genre all to himself):

Dial M for Murder

Douglas Fairbanks Jr.

2009-10-11T17:16:00.004-04:00

I saw this face and I swooned...now I have to watch his movies! Shallow of me? Well, it was bound to happen anyway, what with him being so suave and all. Instant love affair!

Why I Love to Love Linda Darnell

2009-10-10T14:54:00.009-04:00

Ok, so I got inspired by Sarah from Cinema Splendor to write my own post about "overrated stars."

People know I love Audrey Hepburn. They associate her with me. Young girls my age love to gush and say: "I loveeeeeeeee her too!" These girls are usually the ones who have never heard of Irene Dunne or say, Carole Lombard. (I'm kind of in a Carole Lombard mood)! In fact, the fellow Audrey lovers I meet aren't fans of classic film in general. Unlike me and many of us, they didn't discover the world of old movies though Audrey; they've probably never even seen an Audrey film. They've only seen photos or ads. But they don't "know" Audrey. They just know her clothes.

Although, Roman Holiday wasn't the first classic film I saw. It was just the first Audrey I had seen, in which I declared it my new favrorite movie, and wanted to see more of the lovely actress. I think the first movie I saw and really loved was Bringing Up Baby. Cary Grant has been as much apart of my old movie life as Audrey is. (Most of the first films I watched starred Cary).

I once made a comment about Karl Malden passing away (one of my favorite actors by the way), and a boy I know reminded me that it was Olivia de Havilland's birthday. Um, a teenage boy who knows Olivia? That is not something you see or hear everyday. He even said: "She turned 93 today." Huh. And I thought I was alone in knowing the birthdays of classic film stars.

But what irks me the most is the fact that people don't know about the "big" stars. I've been in love with the 40s since I was about 10. No I didn't watch any of the movies or listen to the music, but I knew Bogart. People I worked with asked me who Audrey was, or looked at me weird when I said Ingrid Bergman was my second favorite actress. I remember one of the boys in my class remarked to me that Humphrey Bogart was a god among men. I disagreed; don't get me wrong, I love Bogie, but come on! What a cliche thing to say. (Not the comment itself, but the person the comment was about). Everyone knows Bogie, and if they don't, well, that's super annoying, as I have already stated.

That's what gets me; people know Marilyn Monroe, but that's it. There were others too, you know! Gene Tierney was STUNNING; does anyone ever mention her? No. And it's usually because if you mention her, they say: "Who was that?" And when I actually did introduce someone to Gene, they told me: "You're really on top of your black and white game." Thanks; too bad in the world of classic film lovers, Gene is anything but obscure!

I love knowing about the more obscure actors and actresses, because I love making arcane references. It gives me a chance to root for the underdogs! So I make a promise right now: to continue to search for the movies of the lesser knowns, just so I can hold a conversation about someone other than Audgers, or Marilyn, or Bogie. Maybe even talk about my lesser known faves, like Ingrid, Carole, or Gregory. George Sanders, even. I can't say he was a god among men, because um, I'm Catholic after all, but he certainly held a candle to Bogart!

So the next time someone comes across the picture of Linda Darnell on my phone, and says: "Who is she?" I can gush and gush and gush.

PS...Me: "Hey, Sandra, you know Katharine Hepburn, right?"
Sandra: "Who? Was she related to Audrey Hepburn?"
Sigh; you see what I mean?????

Classic Cinema Survey

2009-10-08T18:57:00.005-04:00

Thanks to Amanda from Noodle in a Haystack for coming up with this one!

1. What is your all-time favorite Clark Gable movie?
It Happened One Night.

2. Do you like Joan Crawford best as a comedienne or a drama-queen?
I’m not a fan of hers; but I think she worked better as a drama queen.

3. In your opinion, should Ginger Rogers have made more musicals post-Fred Astaire?
Maybe…

4. I promise not to cause you bodily (or any other serious) harm if you don't agree with me on this one. So please be honest: do you like Elizabeth Taylor? Hm?
She doesn’t bother me. I guess I do like her.

5. Who is your favorite off screen Hollywood couple?
Bogie & Bacall have a special place in my heart. :)

6. How about onscreen Hollywood couple?
Hard…probably Cary Grant & Deborah Kerr.

7. Favorite Jean Arthur movie?
You Can’t Take it With You.

8. What was the first Gregory Peck movie you saw?
Roman Holiday! My number one favorite!

9. What film made you fall in love with Alfred Hitchcock? (And for those of you that say, "I don't like Hitchcock" -- what is wrong with you?!)
Rear Window. And who can honestly not like him?!

10. What is your favorite book-to-movie adaption?
Laura...12 Angry Men...The Maltese Falcon...The Third Man.

11. Do you prefer Shirley Temple as a little girl or as a teenager?
A little girl. That’s how I know her.

12. Favorite character actor?
Peter Lorre.

13. Favorite Barbara Stanwyck role?
Double Indemnity.

14. Who is your favorite of Cary Grant's leading ladies?
Probably Grace Kelly.

15. Bette Davis or Joan Crawford?
Bette all the way!

16. What actors and/or actresses do you think are underrated?
Ava Gardner in terms of acting.

17. What actors and/or actresses do you think are overrated?
Sometimes…Marilyn Monroe.

18. Do you watch movies made pre-1980 exclusively, or do you spice up your viewing-fare with newer films?
I like to spice things up.

19. Is there an actor/actress who you have seen in a film and immediately loved? If so, who?
Linda Darnell in Blood and Sand. (Bet you were expecting Audrey, right? Well, I decided to be different since Linda's a relatively new discovery).

20. Gene Kelly or Fred Astaire?
Very hard! But in the end…both!

21. Favorite Ginger Rogers drama?
Stage Door.

22. If you wrote a screenplay, who would be in your dream cast and what roles would they play? (Mixing actors and actresses from different generations is allowed: any person from any point in their career.)
A movie starring Ray Milland and Carole Lombard as two clumsy spies during the “Red Scare” of the 1920s.

23. Favorite actress?
Audrey.

25. Favorite actor?
Gregory Peck.

26. And now, the last question. What is your favorite movie from each of these genres:

Drama: The Best Years of Our Lives.

Romance: Indiscreet.

Musical: Guys and Dolls.

Comedy: Arsenic and Old Lace.

Western: High Noon.

Hitchcock (he has a genre all to himself): Dial M for Murder.

Hey, I'm not an artist, but this is pretty cool...

2009-10-08T18:15:00.001-04:00

Lauren Bacall

The Carole Lombard Birthday Tag

2009-10-04T18:44:00.017-04:00

Carole Lombard aka The Profane Angel
10/6/1908-1/16/1942

101 years and she continues to steal hearts! Happy Carole Lombard Day!

"Don't tell me you forgot my birthday..."

With Robert Montgomery in a scene from Mr. and Mrs. Smith

"Better than cake!"

With "Pa" aka Clark Gable, enjoying some watermelon. =D

As Lily Garland in Twentieth Century.

1. Favorite Carole Film
To Be or Not To Be (1942)
Dark humor, serious subject matter, and the profane angel at her best. This being her last film, it holds a special place in my heart, as I'm sure it does for many people. I cried a little when it was over; it had been very entertaining, and yet it was her last.

2. Carole's career was cut tragically short in 1942. Though she worked with many amazing and talented actors, who would you have liked to see her with?
Humphrey Bogart. What a clash; she the screwball queen and he the cynical tough guy. What film might they have made together? Film noir, where she plays the dangerous femme fatale? Or a comedy, where her zany antics drive him crazy and make him fall in love?
The possibilities are endless...:)

3. Ok, so who was your favorite out of Carole's leading men?
No, not Clark Gable, though goodness knows I love him too. John Barrymore; they had such powerful chemistry in Twentieth Century. Truly my second favorite performance of hers, and they just hit it off so well together.

4. Do you think Carole's relevant today? if so, why?
Yes; her attitude, humor, and style were "modern" back in the day when she ruled Hollywood, so of course, she's very relevant.

5. Do you agree with contemporary views that someone like Cameron Diaz is the new Carole Lombard?
Maybe; she's zany and blonde. But she doesn't inspire the same kind of adoration that Carole did and still does.

6. On a scale of 1-10, how cool was Carole?

This picture says it all: 20.

Carole Lombard Pic Spam

2009-10-04T12:28:00.014-04:00

Hey guys: if you have any suggestions as to what questions should be posted for the Birthday Tag, leave them in the comment box. (Yay, I have a suggestion box)! And if anyone is a member of Golden Age of Hollywood, you've seen that I'm spreading Lombard Day mania over there too! And if you're my friend on facebook (Kate & Nicole), I've done the same over there. Anyway, enjoy the photos.

Currently the background on my computer. She looks so sweet here. "Thanks for the flowers on my birthday." :)

Vamp? Ice queen? Goddess?

I <3> The angel looks to Heaven...

Carole Lombard Day!!!!

2009-10-03T16:40:00.004-04:00

So in honor of the Profane Angel's 101st birthday, I decided I'd post some pic spam in the near future, and dedicate a nice birthday post just for her. It's actually going to be something new; a birthday tag survey, in which all devoted Lombard fans answer and post the survey on their blogs. It'll have questions like: Favorite Lombard movie, co-star, etc. Looking forward to that lovely day, October 6th! It's Carole Lombard day all day long!

Random Dose of Wisdom for 10/1/09

2009-10-01T18:57:00.002-04:00

"People have got to learn to love and appreciate one another. A life devoid of love and gratitude is an empty one indeed. Love and thanks have got to be given and received."
-Harley/Graciebird :)

Grace Kelly Pic Spam

2009-09-30T18:38:00.004-04:00

Because she really was this annoying...beautiful and photogenic. Enjoy this crap load of photos!

Random Dose of Wisdom for 9/29/09

2009-09-29T09:12:00.007-04:00

The road to success is paved with the amount of effort you're willing to put it into it. Take it from that gem Audrey Hepburn, who once said:

"I worked my ass off."

And well, look where it got her! So I remind myself, and all other college kids, that while distractions may be welcome, they're NEVER helpful. Here's hoping I stop fooling around, and indeed, work off my ass.

(She really could do anything; how many people do you know could pull off looking this good in a candid shot)?

Random Dose of Wisdom for 9/28/09

2009-09-28T10:47:00.004-04:00

When it comes to plastic surgery, take Sophia Loren's approach: "If you change your nose, you change your face." And really, who would want to change this face???

But even if you don't look like Miss Loren, take pride in the fact that you've got eyes to see, a nose to smell, lips to speak, and ears to hear. Embrace your face! If people want you to change it, they're not worthy to know the person beneath it.

Who I <3

2009-09-18T20:41:00.003-04:00

Jon Hamm...
looks like Walter Pidgeon

You guessed it: Kanye & Taylor Swift...and TCM Leading Ladies!

2009-09-14T16:46:00.003-04:00

I didn't think I would blog about last night's incident at the VMA's, but I couldn't help it. All in all, it was rather entertaining; Russell Brand is a little too forthright for my tastes, but I will admit, I am an old fashioned girl. (I was pleased with his Harry Potter reference however. ;-) And what about that New Moon trailer? Never read the Twilight series, don't plan to, but I think I might see it! Ok, enough delusional ramblings about wizards and vampires...seriously, you'd think I'd get a grip on my fantasy related escapisms, sheesh...)

ANYWAY, back to the topic that every one is talking about: Kanye West. First of all, how tasteless can you get? I mean, sure, I shouldn't care. I'm not Taylor Swift. But she seems like she's such a sweet girl, and that was after all her moment. I'm pretty sure Beyonce felt like crying in the bathroom because she didn't win. (Ahem, that's sarcasm for you). Is he just a shameless attention seeker? Does the fact that Taylor won a video music award (NOT the Nobel Prize mind you), mean that the genocide in Darfur won't end? Was cancer going to be cured if Beyonce got that particular moon man? It was just a classless, completely rude thing to do. All she had to do was thank the directors, yadda yadda, since she's living out her dream and all that. Should that moment have been taken away? I mean, it wasn't as if she was going to pull a Miley Cyrus if she won.

Miley at the Teen Choice Awards: "Who am I forgetting to thank? Oh, right, GOD, helloooo!"

Joel McHale of the Soup program: "I have to say helloooo because He's not following me on Twitter!"

Personally, not to be rude or even blasphemous, I'm pretty sure God doesn't care about the VMAs. He probably would have told Kanye, as Russell Brand did, it was a night of love. Love in memory of Michael Jackson, whose spectacular tribute was overshadowed because of Kanye's stupid little stunt. We should all love one another; it's something I try to remind everyone of, like say, when they use a deragatory term. I point to Jesus; but if MJ is able to unite people in the same way, then by all means, love one another at award shows you celebrities!

Final Note: I just bought TCM's Leading Ladies book and all I can say or mime is =OOOOOO. What a terrific treat! There was so much intelligence, fire, and beauty behind all that sex appeal and outer beauty. Molly Haskell is definitely right when she says that girls of today look up to those golden era actresses. I'm one of them!

Yikes! Check out Bellatrix Lestrange....

2009-09-09T16:29:00.002-04:00

Helena Bonham Carter is...

The Queen of Hearts

Yes, I do want to see Alice in Wonderland, which comes out in March of 2010. Until I get my movie review on here, look forward to more stunning visual shots of these extravagant characters from one of Walt Disney's most beloved movies. (And it's a classic; original released in 1951)!

Tim Burton is a genius...

I Doubt Anyone Really Cares...

2009-09-08T20:55:00.003-04:00

No surprise: I don't have a review. In fact, I don't know when I'm going to find any time to watch and review any movies. I start college tommorow and I am going to be uber busy with work and community service. But I doubt anyone really cares. So should I just give up the blog? Call it quits. I mean, if you enjoy reading my random rants because you could care less about my input on classic film, then, um, ok. But if this is just a waste of time, then Harley will stop the classic film blog for a bit. I don't want to. So I'll keep on with the random, and anything else that floats my fancy. But seriously, should I just call it quits? I'm trying guys, really I am! I miss my movies darn it!

Lighter note; what I'm LOVING:

Let me Know I'm Not Alone

2009-09-02T20:01:00.004-04:00

I've started another blog, purely for fun. I want to know I'm not alone over there, so please check it out. The above photo is linked to it in my sidebar, right above Mr. Michael Jackson. I know I've already got a bazillion other things to do and I'm trying hard not to fall behind on this one, but I wanted another place to talk about another passion. Please and thanks!

I Miss You...

2009-09-01T16:09:00.003-04:00

Audrey looks so sad in this photo. (As sad as anyone taking a publicity photo for their film can be). Considering the title of this post, I like to think in this particular photo, she misses me too. She's wondering why I haven't finished watching Love in The Afternoon...I point to my nephew...and COLLEGE! (And Harry Potter; he's more to blame than my sweet, angelic, absolutely irresistible nephew).

Look how cheerful she is in this one. I love this picture; it's wistful delight. I can't wait until I find a day to just sit and watch all the films TCM played for her love fest. What can I say? Audrey's one of those people who makes my world a little brighter.

You May Have Seen Me on C-Span or CNN Last Night...

2009-08-28T13:00:00.005-04:00

First off, let me say, Jesse Jackson is a line cutter. A woman behind us in line remarked, "Why is Jesse Jackson cutting the line?" My sister replied: "Because he's Jesse Jackson." But Jesse's appearance wasn't why I stood in line for almost three and a half hours without sitting, outside the JFK Museum. It wasn't why I, along with 25,000 yesterday, felt my knees sink when I saw how much farther I had to walk, how long I'd have to stay in line. No, all of that was to make the sign of the cross and whisper "God Bless him," as I walked past the flag draped coffin of Senator Edward Kennedy.

Have I ever met Ted Kennedy? No; that doesn't make a difference. I never met Bobby Kennedy, and yet, there I was, cradling my right hand because Max Kennedy shook it. It was monumental, thinking that the son of my hero, who touched his father's hands, touched mine. Everything that Ted stood for drove me to his repose at the museum. He was passionate, committed, and most importantly, authentic. He was one of the most prominent politicians of our age, and truly believed in his voters and making a change.

If I ever become a senator, I want to emulate Ted. I want to make a difference in the lives of my (potential)? voters. Like he said, wanting to change the world is not enough; we must also change ourselves. I like to think that I am like Audrey; romantic and idealistic, and not cynical. Ted Kennedy was not cynical; how could he be? He said the dream never dies. And it doesn't. As long as we're willing to move forward, it still lives on. And yesterday, to be that close to a legend, was worth the long wait and the long walk, and proved that the cause does indeed, endure.

He's joined his brothers because it's time for all of us to take up their cause. Justice, equality, liberty...they're not empty words anymore. When you see people like the Kennedys, dignified, gracious, and humble, who are products of privilege and money, and who have compassion for the poor and less privileged, it reminds you that all kinds of people are committed to preserving that American dream. Yesterday, people from all walks of life were present to pay their respects. it just reminds me, we're not so different after all.

"In my heart, I feel you are all my brothers." -Michael Jackson, Heal the World

And on a last note, as John McCain said, Ted was flawed, as all lions are flawed. Yes he made his mistakes, but who among us has not? McCain pointed out that history judges all of us; if you're like me, you may also believe that God does as well. That is why I do not.

Sweet Dreams

2009-08-19T00:18:00.005-04:00

Hey bloggers! Just thought I'd sneak in a little late night post before I went beddy bye...

What movie influences your dreams? I've just discovered that my "movie twin" Sabrina Fairchild inspires me. The moon reaches for me too, and I wish I could be just like her, dancing in the arms of my handsome crush, underneath the moon light, at a lovely party where lovely music is playing.

Isn't it romantic?

Good night. ;)

Change of plans: No more of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes(for now); instead, Love in the Afternoon review =D

I'm Still Here!

2009-07-27T19:44:00.002-04:00

AGAIN, I have neglected my blog. But I'm not M.I.A. I just want to make sure I get my review of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes spot on before I write an actual post. Please don't think I am one of those bloggers who just forgets all about her blog. I haven't. But it makes me feel a wee bit guilty...

The Half Blood Prince

2009-07-18T12:52:00.003-04:00

Yay, finally saw it. Unlike The Order of the Phoenix, this sixth installment of the mesmerizing series definitely surpassed all previous Potter films. While I may not have dressed up as Hermione and gone to the midnight showing on the 15th, I still loved every minute of it. It had everything; from action and mystery, to romance and suspense. And what's more, it stayed truthful to the book. Yes, they missed one pivotal plot detail-the engagement of Ron's elder brother Bill to the gorgeous part veela phlegm, Fleur. They also added some scenes that were never there. Nevertheless, it was still awesome. But then again, I am biased.

PS: I still have yet to see the bazillion movies on my tivo.

Just Thought I'd Share...

2009-07-08T20:23:00.003-04:00

Paris Jackson at Michael Jackson's Memorial

I've read that people thought her tears were fake. I don't know. To me it seemed genuine. Maybe I'm dumb; dumb to have a heart and believe the best of people, and believe that an 11 year old girl can show true pain when she loses her father. A man, whom I'm sure, only she and her brothers, grandparents, and aunts and uncles knew. Some people just aren't human. If you've read what I have read, you would probably be appalled by the lack of human capacity for understanding, love, and compassion.

Harley's Personalized Summertime

2009-07-06T18:05:00.009-04:00

9 More Days!!!!!!

Spoiler: SNAPE KILLS DUMBLEDORE!!!!!!! (But, if you read number seven, you "understand" why). I cannot wait.

Teen Vogue has become my newest guide. It's just the most darlin' magazine any one could ask for. And voila, here is lovely Emma in enchanted summertime gear at her photo shoot. There's a natural, woodland charm to all of these photos, and they remind me irresistibly of fairies, magic, and all wunderbar things about this gorgeous season of summer. The photo shoot was on location in Emma's own merry old England. I'd love to travel to the U.K. I don't think I'll be traveling anywhere this summer, except for the afternoon trips at camp, but study abroad will remedy that.

Guess whose getting this poster for free? Yes, that would be yours truly. I love this shot.

A beautiful breezy summer dress, and a lovely red jacket to boot.

Ribbon!

Madame Butterfly....look closely, there are a lot of butterflies in this photo.

One of the new ABC shows I want to see is 10 Things I Hate About You, the televised version of the Heath Ledger movie. And yes, the cutie on the left is starring in the upcoming series. His name: Ethan Peck. Does the name sound familiar? Guess who his legendary grandfather is? Gregory Peck! Are you serious? I was having a ball when I read that in Teen Vogue at the salon the other day. There does seem to be a slight resemblance and Ethan is handsome, very much like dreamy Gregory. I was so excited, I decided to watch just because of his family lineage. What can I say? Ethan is related to my favorite actor...a man I am in irrevocable love with.

10 Random Things About That Blogger Harley...

2009-07-02T19:54:00.002-04:00

Thanks Millie! A girl can never be too random. I swear it's a gift I have.

1. The song Say Say Say by Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney is stuck in my head, and it's my second favorite MJ song after Thriller.

2. I LOVE LOVE LOVE Zebra Cakes. They are totally delicious, and I ate four of them a couple days ago. In fact, I can eat four of them any day, since they come in packs of two. But they are that addictive, and my sweet tooth is that ridonkulus.

3. Like Nicole, I LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOVE Harry Potter. I started reading it when I was eight, and have been hooked on it ever since. I plan on seeing the 6th installment with my three cousins. They're all girls who really like Tom Felton aka Draco Malfoy, and they're all under the age of 12. I used to have a major crush on Daniel Radcliffe, who really is quite good looking. And he's British. Score!

4. I want to live in Switzerland, and not because Audrey Hepburn lived there, but because it's a neutral country, and is breathtakingly beautiful. Also, winters there would be awesome.

5. I'm not a fan of the movie Grease. Hope I didn't just commit social, or movie suicide...

6. I want 2 pairs of bright skinny jeans-one pink and one yellow.

7. I have a total of 12 nicknames.

8. I have two skitzophrenic movie versions of me: Sabrina Fairchild (Sabrina) and Jo Stockton (Funny Face).

9. My crush makes my name cound so much more nice whenever he says it. He has said it a total of four times today. ;-D

10. Andrew Johnson was the only U.S. president who never went to school. Yes, not a random fact about me, but that's what random is all about.

Rest in Peace Karl Malden

2009-07-01T19:18:00.007-04:00

Originally, I had planned on posting ten random things about me, but in my dashboard, I saw that David over at Birth of a Notion had some really sad news. Karl Malden has died at the age of 97. There have been many celebrity deaths lately, each one shocking. Malden lived to a ripe old age, and I'm glad that he was able to live such a long life. I consider myself a Karl Malden fan; he was one of old Hollywood's stoic, and dependable character actors. Rest in Peace.

More Emma Watson...again???? Please Classic Film Lovers, READ THIS!

2009-06-29T20:03:00.007-04:00

I haven't posted an Audrey picture in a while, so here she is, in all her glowing, beautiful glory. She was around 22 in this picture, since I believe it's a publicity shot for her 1951 film, Secret People. And the randomness rolls on!

Hey everybody! Geez, I have missed you guys and my blog like you wouldn't even believe. I haven't had time to watch any of the 70 (no kidding) movies on my tivo and that really bums me out. I miss my old movies, but I haven't found the time to watch them. It truly makes me sad. But not the sad, I have nothing better to do, what's the point of life kind of sad. I'm actually very happy right now. I'm learning to take everything in stride, and more importantly, to treat life like a gift and to treasure it. (That's Audrey's influence for you). So though yours truly feels this way, there's still that part of me that's really missing my TCM. (Though my tivo takes care of that). Alas alack, how classic film has shaped my life...or rather, how it's given me withdrawal symptoms.

So, I feel as if my fellow old movie lovers think I've abandoned them, or else they're getting sick of me and my posts on dear Emma Watson. Please forgive me guys! To quote the Jackson 5, I want you back! Don't worry; I am trying to watch one of my movies and get a review and pictures on here. Imagine reaaaaally wanting to watch A Letter to Three Wives because it's got two of your favorites, Ann Sothern and Linda Darnell, and not being able to because you're constantly getting interrupted.

In addition, I want to get a more personal post on here (don't worry, nothing too intimate), which brings together a lot of things on my mind and in my heart. Namely, old movies (of course), new favorites, what & who I'm hoping to check out, style, Audrey Hepburn, Emma Watson (ugh sheesh, I know), the task of peace making, and the death of Michael Jackson. This has impacted me because: I grew up listening to him and his death has reinforced for me the need to not only change the girl in the mirror, but to not judge. How important this has been for me, even before his death, I cannot tell you.

So please stick with me, and check out these photos of you-know-who. Sorry guys, but this "modern" actress has great style, and what can I say? I'm a fan.

Teen Vogue photo shoot, in a beyootiful BCBG dress.

There's the Dress!

2009-06-20T20:55:00.005-04:00

A somewhat longer shot of the dress Emma was wearing in the umbrella photo. Any surprise I really love it? Oh, and that's Harry Potter and Ron Weasley on either side of Emma. I mean, Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint.

Where are Harry's glasses? Or does Daniel not wear them in "real" life? ;-D

Emma Watson

2009-06-18T15:43:00.008-04:00

Emma Watson is one of those rare, current actresses that I actually like. She seems down to earth, she's natural, and she's really pretty in an unassuming kind of way. Not to mention, she plays Hermione Granger! Aside from Jordan Baker and Scout Finch, Hermione is my favorite (female) literary character of all time. Emma's British too, and I love those Brits; their accents are so totally delightful!

I like her style a lot too. Simple, girly, and pretty. Maybe it's because she's just a year older than me, but I really admire Emma, and I'm hoping she'll keep her head despite the crazy lure of young Hollywood. Please Emma, don't turn into another Lohan! And please Lindsey, get some help! I hate to think her career (and life) might be over before she's even 30.

Some vintage inspiration. Does that scarf not scream Audrey? Or Grace?

I really love this picture. There's such a 50s diner feel and look to it.

Again, the scarf. And j'adore the jacket in this photo too.

(those cupcakes also look tasteeee).

Awesome photo. Give me the vespa!

This is just too lovely for words.

I wish I could get a longer shot of this dress, but this photo reminds me of one of my most favorite Audrey umbrella poses.

Part glamor girl, part femme fatale...

Aside from Harry Potter, Emma has also done work in Ballet Shoes, a film I have not seen but will check out hopefully.

Ann Sothern?

2009-06-14T14:22:00.001-04:00

No, this adorable shot of this adorable actress and her adorable dog is not of Ann Sothern. (Though there does seem to be a slight resemblance).

Can you guess who it is?

I know these posts have been pretty random, short (and myabe even useless, you're thinking), but a film review is on it's way!

Let's Play The Name Game!!!!

2009-06-13T00:00:00.002-04:00

Why yes, I'm very bored!

Jane Greer
Greer Garson
Garson Kanine

Claire Trevor
Trevor Howard
Howard Keel

Strange, isn't it? Well, I'm off to bed now; sweet dreams all!

To Sarah, From Harley With Love ;-D

2009-06-12T10:40:00.001-04:00

Elaine Stewart, feeding her little brother Alvin, circa 1953. I know it's not as awesome as the poster Sarah was freaking out over in her blog post, but it's so adorable. =D And I immediately thought of Sarah when I saw it.

Hope that didn't sound too creepy!

Happy Birthday, Hubby!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-06-11T12:40:00.004-04:00

Happy happy birthday to my dear, wonderful, lovely, gorgeous, adorable Shia Labeouf. 23 years old today, congrats to making it this far! Now we're only five years apart, he and I.

Forgive me dear followers, if this sounds creepy, but I'm in love. And for the first time ever, my birthday post is for someone who is very much alive.

Transformers 2 comes out June 24th...guess where I'll be that day? It's actually the perfect way to hang out with Shia's other "wife", Mary and my best friend, Genie. Can't wait. Let the battle begin...who wins Shia in the end? Yeah, neither of us...but in the imaginary world, Shia technically belongs to Mary because I laid all claims to Gregory Peck.

Whatever, I've already had to concede Dana Andrews to Millie, so Shia is mine!!!!!!!!!!

There, I've done it. Had a completely random, rambling, delusional post! I hope I've made you proud, Millie!

Some New Favorites

2009-06-10T14:51:00.007-04:00

I am a high school graduate!!!! Hooray!!!! I guess graduation was a bittersweet experience...there are some teachers I will definitely miss, friends that I'll miss terribly, and others who I won't because I'll be seeing them all the time. I'm not completely through with school, but when those college years are gone, I will still be learning. Even when I'm 83 (God Bless me), I'll still be learning something new. I like that idea a lot. Learning more will help me to understand better. Anyway, back to graduation. If I could sum it up in one word, I would say HILARIOUS. People were throwing beach balls all over the place, and we booed the head of the English department when she took away one of our beach balls. Party pooper.

One of the funniest moments had to be when I opened my diploma and said: "I can't read this!" It was in Latin. As if five years of learning the stuff actually helped me...;-D

Anyway, while away from the computer, I got some awesome movie watching done. And I have some new favorites...well, they're on their way to becoming favorites of mine if I get to see more of their work. The movies underneath the photos are the ones I've seen and those in red are the ones I'm going to watch.

Note: Anne Baxter made this list, but not for All About Eve, though come to think of it, I really liked her in that.

Linda Darnell, Blood and Sand (1941) + Fallen Angel (1945)

A Letter to Three Wives (1949)

Vivian Blaine, Guys and Dolls (1955)

Something for the Boys (1944)

Anne Baxter, The Blue Gardenia (1953), one of my favorite new movies
The Magnificent Ambersons (1942)

Jean Peters, A Blueprint For Murder (1953)
Niagara (1953)

Ann Sothern, The Blue Gardenia (1953)

A Letter to Three Wives (1949)

I'm Back...sorta

2009-06-05T14:58:00.002-04:00

My computer is DEAD. That's the reason for my long absence. I hate it, I truly do.

My friend luckily did not miss prom because of swine, but she did acquire some good nicknames at the hands of her mother and another girl: Swiney and Swine Princess. Prom was uber cool; I had the time of my life. I wasn't able to reminisce over it properly however, because my mother got into a bad car accident the morning after. She's fine now, but she can't walk properly, and I'm worried that she won't make it to my graduation on the 7th. Ah, well, must have faith.

I've really missed you all but I won't be back for quite awhile...please don't forget me!

xoxo Harley/Gracie

Gene Tierney...and SWINE FLU

2009-05-26T14:17:00.009-04:00

I'm in a Gene Tierney kick right now. Gotta put her films at the top of my list, even before How to Steal a Million, but I'll always save Audrey for last. =D Here are some amazing shots of this talented and luminous beauty, whom I adore.

To watch: Thunder Birds (1942) and Black Widow (1954)

PS: A friend of mine has swine flu. GASP!!!!! Seriously, WHAT's the big deal?

Everyone is freaking out at school, which by the way, my friend hasn't even been in school ever since she reported flu like symptoms on the 20th. Swine flu only lasts a week, so she should be fine. I just wish people would learn to relax...I know there have been swine flu related deaths, and my heart and prayers go out to those victims and their families, but people die every single day from AIDS, murder and cancer. Why don't we learn to respect and treasure human life, and keep those who have passed on in our hearts and thoughts, instead of losing our heads over swine flu? Wash your hands and learn some hygiene!

Ingrid Bergman (180 Tag) Thanks Kate!

2009-05-22T23:16:00.008-04:00

So lovely Kate Gabrielle over at Silents and Talkies came up with the great idea of a 180 tag, which you can read all about by clicking on the link. This is my own.

Ok. You got me. I wasn't always a fan of Ingrid Bergman. In fact, I couldn't quite understand why everyone seemed to adore her. She was very beautiful of course, but other than that, I couldn't see what her appeal was. Gasp. To think, there was once a time in my classic film life that I did not love Ingrid Bergman. I didn't even like her. Who was I back then? Because as creepy as this may sound, old movies have changed my life. Gasp again.

But anyway, back to Ingrid.

So I watched Casablanca. Nothing quite special. In fact, when I first saw it, I figured I was like Bogie and Ingrid. I didn't really see what all the fuss was about, and neither did they. Ingrid did after all say that she had made lots of important films in her career, but people only wanted to talk about Casablanca. Here was where I was led astray...I turned on the tivo to watch that movie, and I kept thinking it would be this incredible piece of work that no other film would live up to. After all, that was what I had kept hearing. (Thanks a lot, William Friedkin, who coincidentally, shares the same birthday as Ingrid). And so I imagined that I wold be blown away by the leading lady.

Surprise: I wasn't. But the whole time, I kept thinking there was something wrong with me. What kind of movie aficionado doesn't love one of the greatest classics of all time? It was lost on me, I hate to admit. But as I eventually learned to appreciate Casablanca, so I learned to appreciate and admire Ingrid Bergman. You see, Ingrid was stunning. I thought she was the most beautiful woman to ever grace God's earth when she first appeared on camera. And as I watched her performance, I hate to say her acting did not stun me...at all. But wait, that can't be true. When Humphrey Bogart first sees her after Sam plays As Time Goes By, the look in her eyes mirrored my own. You see, that emotion she brought seemed to reach out to me, and like a hopeless romantic, I let a few tears slip. That was most likely a sign that neither the movie nor the actress was lost on me. But at the moment, I thought perhaps my tears were fake, and I really didn't like Ingrid, that maybe I was only making myself cry.

The same happened when I saw Notorious. I was a tiny bit jealous of her beauty, but I was not a big fan of the movie. Once again, I thought I had to like it. And so, it would take some time before I learned to appreciate that film, and Ingrid's performance in it.

Enter Gaslight. This time I came with an open mind. I had seen clips of the film, and knew it was one of Ingrid's best work. I guess I was curious to see if I would start to really love her, and not just see her as some actress with a stunning face. And finally, I saw that she really was a talented actress. She was perfect. Suddenly, I wasn't just wishing I looked like her, but also that I could act like her too. And then, I saw that she gave wonderful performances in the previous films I had seen. But she still hadn't become one of my favorite actresses. That didn't happen until I watched Anastasia. She blew me away, quite literally. And I also have to point out that she pulled off the blond hair very well.

After Anastasia, I loved Ingrid. Not only because she was stunning and could act, but because she had this glowing quality about her that was evident in all of her films. I've seen 12 of her films and I love them all, and she is my second favorite actress because of it. I guess it took a film that I had not heard any one lavish praise on to make me appreciate Ingrid Bergman's acting talent. And I'm glad it did, because though she has passed on, she is one of my most absolute favorite people in the world.

Uh, what the heck here?

2009-05-19T18:45:00.002-04:00

Ok, so I don't know if it has showed up in your dashboard, but I did write a post about two movies I saw.The only problem is this: the date on it is from two days ago. I posted it today, and I would like feedback, so if you're reading this now, be sure to read the post below this one, with the revised date. I couldn't be sure if anyone knew about it since on some blog lists, it says my latest post is from two days ago.

Please and thank you!

Sue me, sue me, I love these movies: Blood and Sand + Guys and Dolls

2009-05-19T16:03:00.000-04:00

This post concerns two reviews of movies that I watched and loved! And guess what? They’re my latest obsessions.

Up first: Blood and Sand (1941)
Starring Tyrone Power, Linda Darnell, Rita Hayworth, and Anthony Quinn

I didn’t know when I first watched this film that it would be a new obsession. But I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed it. It tells the story of Juan Gallardo, a Spanish matador who receives great fame and success, and the attention of a beautiful, but unsympathetic woman. The woman is Dona Sol des Muire, played perfectly by Rita Hayworth. I just hated her in this film. Why is it that the women who have been with so many men always take them from us less pretty, less experienced women? In this case, one of those “less pretty” would be Juan’s wife, Carmen, played by Linda Darnell.

NOTE: This is not the case for Miss Darnell. She was positively gorgeous, but next to worldly and educated Dona, she is supposed to seem second rate.

I adored Linda in this film. She’s actually a new discovery of mine, since this is the first film of hers I have seen. But she was such a stunning beauty and she, rather than Rita, really captured my attention throughout the film. I felt sort of attached to Carmen because I was rooting for her the whole time. Forgive me, but as one of those old fashioned people who believes in faithfulness to one’s spouse, of course I was going to want Juan to leave his mistress and go back to his faithful and loyal wife.

And the bull fighting scenes were real. It didn’t look at all fake or cheesy and …SPOILER ALERT: I literally felt my heart jump in my mouth when the bull gored Juan.

The one thing that didn’t really make me a fan of this film was the lack of Spanish accents. They all sounded so American. I at least thought Rita and Anthony could pull it off since they had Latin blood, but Anthony was the only one who didn’t disappoint in his accent. But even if they didn’t sound Latin, they certainly looked it.

Exhibit A: Tyrone Power as Juan Gallardo

Exhibit B: Lovely Linda Darnell as Carmen
Exhibit C: Rita Hayworth as Dona Sol
Exhibit D: Anthony Quinn as Manolo de Palma, Dona's "rebound"(?) after Juan

Here is a shot of our two sinful lovers: Juan and Dona Sol. Certainly this movie is about passion, and sinful passion at that!

Tyrone Power and Rita Hayworth locked in an embrace. I hate that she won't let him kiss her when they're alone, but when Carmen confronts her, she immediately lets him just to show off to Carmen.

Two somewhat random photos:

Linda Darnell's beautiful profile.

Tyrone Power's perfect profile...I wouldn't mind being caught in that gaze. ;-D

Now for the fashion...

Oh look, a gorgeous Travis Banton creation. I absolutely love this gown!

A side view of the gown...isn't it just wunderbar?

I know Rita's killer red nails are in the way, but check out the front detail of that loverly gown.

**************************************************************

Up Next: Guys and Dolls (1955)

Starring Marlon Brando, Jean Simmons, Frank Sinatra, and Vivian Blaine

How you have rocked my socks, Michael Kidd.

Seriously, I hate musicals with a passion. It wasn't until I saw Yankee Doodle Dandy that I began to realize that I'm actually a fan of musicals from Old Hollywood. Guys and Dolls is a new favorite movie of mine, and j'adore it. Musicals of today are so darn cheesy and corny to me. Pardon me if you're a fan of High School Musical, but those movies are just a useless excuse by Disney to make money. I know musicals aren't realistic, since no one breaks into song and dance on the street (I know, weird), but the songs and dance numbers are always so bad. At least in Guys and Dolls, the theme is something cool, like gambling. You don't just have guys singing and dancing about wild cats in their random high school in their random small town. Instead, you see guys dancing while they shoot dice. And the choreography...there's so much grace and purpose ( I don't know if that actually makes sense), but the mere look of it is beautiful.

Why else is this movie now an obsession for me? The songs, of course!

Currently stuck in my head right now: Guys and Dolls...did I mention that I've also fallen in love with Frank's voice, all over again? (Sigh). And Frank Loesser's lyrics too!

And as with Linda Darnell, I've found myself loving another lovely lady: Vivian Blaine! She was so adorable as Adelaide, my newest movie character inspiration. The way she says perfume as "payfume" and pearls as "payls."

And guess who I have a crush on? Nathan Detroit. (It takes a real man to run a crap game, and wear a pinstriped suit and polka dot tie).

"Good old reliable Nathan Detroit!"

I know this isn't a review, but I'm still trying to hone my writing skills.

There's so much I loved about this film, from the way they tried to speak properly ("Your cold does not seem to be getting better."), to the dancing scene in Havana. I was pretty wary about seeing Marlon Brando in a singing role, but he did not disappoint! And I loved Adelaide's dance numbers, and Jean Simmons' accent! I know, just a random jumble of thoughts, but that's what happens when I really love a movie, and especially one that's now a new favorite and obsession.

Off topic: Shout out to Merriam, who first pointed out that Jean Simmons looked like Vivien Leigh and Elizabeth Taylor. I could definitely see it in this film. But, she also reminded me a little of Sophia Loren too.

Well, those were my "reviews", but I think they're nicely, nicely. I will leave you know in my next post what other Guys and Dolls induced mania has taken over me! Including an ode I wrote to this wunderbar musical, and the very funny supporting cast.

Blood and Sand: 4 /5 stars

Guys and Dolls: 5/5 stars

"To Quote the Princess Bride: 'Marriage!'" -Michael Scott, Dunder Mifflin Paper Co. at the wedding reception for Mr. and Mrs. Bob Vans

2009-05-16T13:24:00.013-04:00

My Perfect Wedding

I think I would get married in the church I've been going to ever since I was three. Or if not there, the island my parents are from, Italy, or Switerland.(That's far too much of an Audrey influence, right there, who got married in both the latter places)! (One of my friends wants to get married on a hill top in Greece, which sounds like a dream). Everyone would be at my wedding. I only wish my grandparents and great aunt and uncle could be a part of it. Of course there would be a nice dedication to them during the service.

This of course, is my ideal wedding dress. It's divine.

My wedding song: La Vie en Rose by Edith Piaf (Yes, in French too). This song speaks to my soul.

My wedding reception will have a variety of music, ranging from Frank Sinatra to current.

Now for my possible reception dresses where I'll do my dancing and relaxing:

Rita Hayworth in You'll Never Get Rich (1941)

Audrey looking fun and flirty.

Audrey again.

Yes I know, quite typical, but these flowers are so beautiful. White roses have always held a special place in my heart because like weddings, they're pure and very lovely. Also, there's something so clean and impeccable about them. Yes, this is my choice for a wedding bouquet, or if not white roses, then calla lilies. (I always think of Katharine Hepburn in Stage Door when I hear or see those flowers).

I'm in a wedding kick right now, and this post was just an attempt by me to put some of my wacky and lovely ideas out there. But, I'm also curious about what everyone else wants their weddings to look like, so I'm tagging all of my female followers! (Guys just don't seem to get excited about stuff like this). If you don't want to get married, then consider yourself un-tagged. But have fun with this if you like.

Some Audrey to Brighten Your Day

2009-05-15T15:19:00.008-04:00

Audrey wears the wedding gown designed for her marriage to James Hanson, which never happened of course. Perhaps I'm biased, but I wouldn't mind this design for my own wedding. Or this one for that matter:

Audrey as Jo Stockton in Funny Face (1957). A very simple, yet gorgeous Givenchy creation.

Crazy Eights

2009-05-15T08:55:00.004-04:00

Thanks for the tag, Otin.

8 Things I look forward to:
1. Senior sign out
2. Prom
3. FRIDAY
4. Graduation
5. Watching old movies
6. Blogging
7. GETTING RID OF THE JABBERWOCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
8. Sleep

8 Things I did yesterday
1. Went to the library
2. Went to the emergency room
3. Blogged
4. Didn't do homework
5. Laughed
6. Took the creepy #10 bus
7. Got excessively annoyed on the creepy #10 bus
8. Took the green line

8 Things I wish I could Do
1. Travel around Europe and Africa
2. Save the world
3. Wear white gloves
4. Meet Olivia de Havilland
5. Meet Joan Fontaine
6. Guest host on TCM with Robert Osbourne
7. Watch nine movies in two weeks
8. Pretend to be a Republican senator from Louisania and filibuster on the Senate floor

8 Shows I Watch
1. The Office
2. The Soup
3. 30 Rock
4. The Colbert Report
5. The Daily Show
6. TCM
7. Project Runway
8. Miscellaneous Disney...

I tag 8 people now and they are:
1. Millie
2. Sarah
3. David
4. Lolita
5. Nicole
6. Coryn
7. Merriam
8. Kate Gabrielle

Tag yourselves!

Countdown...

2009-05-13T22:00:00.005-04:00

How I'm Feeling: Silly (and scared...)

Frank Sinatra and Gene Kelly being silly themselves.

The day of Senior sign out is on the 21st. That means I only have six days, not counting the weekend, of being a high schooler!!!! Oh me oh my...after six years in that institution, I mean school, it's hard to say whether I'm thrilled or terrified to leave. When I see the underclassmen, I can't wait to run through the doors and never look back. And yet, the real world frightens me! College...I remember when at the age of ten, I thought *18* was "grown up." I'm still a kid, for crying out loud! A somewhat mature, old soul kid, but a kid nonetheless. Yes, I'm moving forward in life and all that jazz, but can we slow down just a little bit?

UH NO!!!!! I have been counting down to sign out and prom since the beginning of the month. I have mixed feelings about leaving clearly. Ah, when will I follow my own advice? Take everything in stride. Get to those old movies on the tivo and relax. Maybe I'll take a film study class in college...

Prom is 15 days away. That picture of Frankie and Gene sums up how I feel about prom. =D

Oh Lordy, Here She Is

2009-05-12T14:30:00.000-04:00

Katharine Hepburn

May 12th, 1907-June 29th, 2003

A study in how to be obnoxious, yet still completely alluring. Happy Birthday, old girl.

The Ideal Prom Date

2009-05-11T14:30:00.018-04:00

I've compiled a list of the ideal prom dates. The ones that really make me wish I was a stunner, because then they would ask me to prom, and we'd be the best looking couple. And no, this list is not realistic, because all of these men are either dead, famous, married, or extremely older than me! But hey, I can dream, can't I? So without further ado...

The classic, Old Hollywood men (in no particular order except for the first two).

Gregory Peck

Robert Taylor

William Holden

Cary Grant

Gary Cooper

Clark Gable

Dana Andrews

And now, my list of modern men. Yes I have current guys on this list because as much as I LOVE all the previous ones, I can't take a corpse to prom. And I don't think that those fantasies will come true. And neither will these except I have a better chance because they're all alive, and two of them are unmarried and not 10 or more years older than me. Although, I do like older guys (hence everyone on this list).

Shia Labeouf...oh goodness me. What to do, what to do...

UNMARRIED!!!!

Milan Lucic (His nose is rather large and has been broken quite a few times, but that does not detract from his overall hotness).

UNMARRIED!!!! (20 years old, just two years older than me).

Johnny Depp

Eddie House

Matt Damon

Friday!!!!

2009-05-08T11:40:00.005-04:00

Hooray, today's Friday. So bored...here in my AP GOV class with the coolest combo of Irish and Italian, GB!!!!! Ok that's all for now....like my choice of visual? Very clever, yo sabe.

Mouth wateringly delicious Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell in His Girl Friday. (Totally going to name my daughter that; she'll be the younger sister of Wednesday).

Some more off topic stuff: We're hoping to get a silver fox Cary Grant look a like as our chauffeur for our limo come prom night. Cary was so silver and foxy in Charade...hopefully we're lucky.

Ariverderci for now.

Happy Birthday Anne Baxter and Gary Cooper

2009-05-07T20:09:00.005-04:00

A very happy birthday to the darling Anne Baxter, who would have turned 86 today. She died of a brain aneurysm, at the very young age of 62. Rest in peace.

I know TCM is playing a tribute to the drool worthy Gary Cooper, so a very happy, happy birthday to his soul, and may he rest in peace.

This photo makes me want to melt! Carole Lombard was so right when she nicknamed him studs!

Clark Gable and Co.

2009-05-05T15:40:00.016-04:00

Well, the results are in! You voted, and here are your choices for your favorite leading lady of the King, aka Clark Gable. Let's go in order, shall we?

Tied in last place with zero votes each are Norma Shearer, Ava Gardner, and Marilyn Monroe.

Dear Mr. Gable asks Norma why she lost.

Clark tries to comfort Ava.

Marilyn Monroe isn’t bothered at all.

Tied with one vote each are Joan Crawford and Grace Kelly.

Joan thinks the poll was fixed. Clark tells her it was…BY ME! (*insert evil laugh*)

Ava is still not too happy about Grace pulling ahead. (She won Clark in Mogambo, but not in the poll)?

With three votes is cutie Jean Harlow.

And Jean seems all right. (I love her hair bow)!

Tied at second place with four votes each are Claudette Colbert and Vivien Leigh.

Miss Colbert listens hard to Clark’s advice on how to win.

Poor gorgeous Vivien. Look at her face; she can’t believe she didn’t win. He’s not quite surprised by who did.

The Winner......................................................drum roll, please:

CAROLE LOMBARD!!!!! Hooray, La Lovely Lombard is everyone’s favorite! Ok, I lied. Not everyone voted for Carole, though I can’t imagine why…let’s see, how did Carole win? Oh that’s right, I fixed the poll!!! The five votes she got-three came from me. I don’t care that I fixed this poll. I love Carole more than anyone else on this list. Yes, even more than Grace Kelly. I saw that Vivien was pulling ahead, and I didn’t understand why. Then I remembered, oh right, Gone With the Wind. And now that I think about it, you might have voted for certain ladies because of their performance with Clark in a certain film. And seeing as how GWTW is the definitive romantic epic, of course she was going to win. The same goes for Claudette in It Happened One Night, one of my very personal favorites. Oh well, Carole was just darlin' in No Man of Her Own and she deserved it. (Deserved to win a fixed poll? you ask, no, deserved anything that has to do with being the best. And ok, maybe this poll asked who was your favorite; guess what, Carole's my favorite).

Be sure to vote in my next poll! (And I promise not to fix that one).

Happy Birthday Audrey!!!!!!!!!

2009-05-04T15:45:00.001-04:00

Lovely Audrey Hepburn, an elegant spirit was born today, May 4th, 1929. This dear woman would have turned eighty years old today, had she not succumbed to cancer at the very young age of 63. (It should also be stated that at age 60, she looked no older than 40). Why do I love Audrey? Hmm, this post could go on for ages and ages if I explained exactly why this amazing woman is my absolute favorite actress, inspiration, and role model. And also, I don't know how I could put any of it into words. She was so much more than an actress and style icon; humanitarian would be an excellent word to use, because she had such a profound sense of humanity, but once again, it's just a word. I guess I should use the words she herself would have used: mother, wife and friend. Simple words, for a woman who treasured simplicity. That's really all what life should be about. I can not only thank Audrey for showing me this, but also one of my favorite saints, Saint Therese, also known as the little flower for her beautiful advice: "Be simple and be small." When things are simple, there's more room for sincerity. When people are sincere, they show genuine love. And when people love, there is peace. (Audrey said people went to school to learn about war, but she said she would love a university of peace). I understood this through Audrey, which is why she inspires me so. Not just to make some sort of change, and to show compassion, but to love and have hope in humanity, as she did. If I could, I would post the entire memoir written by her son Sean, but I cannot. So instead, I'll write some very simple, happy words: Happy Birthday, Audrey and rest in peace.

The Splash Award

2009-05-03T14:50:00.007-04:00

The Splash award is given to alluring, amusing, bewitching, impressive, and inspiring blogs. When you receive this award, you must:
1. Put the logo on your blog/post.
2. Nominate up to 9 blogs which allure, amuse, bewitch, impress or inspire you.
3. Be sure to link to your nominees within your post.
4. Let them know that they have been splashed by commenting on their blog.
5. Remember to link to the person from whom you received your Splash award.

I received this lovely award from two darlings: Millie and Merriam. I would also like to return the favor by giving it to each of them in turn.

1. Millie of Classic Forever
The blog that inspired my own. Millie has such an extensive knowledge of classic film, and I truly j'adore that treasure of hers, Classic Forever. She always posts the most ah-mazing photos, and I get a kick out of her funny posts, and she's pretty hilarious herself. I also blame her for turning me into a Bobby Darin fan, although that's actually a great thing!

2. Merriam of Bygone Brilliance
Clearly as the title suggests, Merriam's blog is just brilliant. So much humor...her blog is a great read, especially for her movie reviews. Also, she gets me thinking. (Does Jimmy Stewart look like Ingrid Bergman?) Anyway, Merriam's blog is a true treat, and all of you should check it out.

3. Sarah of Cinema Splendor
This blog truly bewitches me. Sarah's posts and photos are always infinitely interesting! Plus, she's a genuis at photoshop.

4. Kate Gabrielle of Silents and Talkies
I don't know what can be said about Kate's blog; so her sketches should do all the talking!

5. David of Freedom Writing and Birth of a Notion
I always learn something new when I read on these two blogs. And David always keeps me up to date on important political news and such. I can discuss presidents with him, and classic film. And he also remembers people's birthdays, which is always nice.

There are many other noteworthy blogs that derserve this award, but I'm afraid my lack of colorful language prevents me from writing about any of them. And I have to study for my AP Government exam; wish me luck!

Audrey's Birthday

2009-05-01T16:25:00.005-04:00

Audrey Hepburn's birthday is three days away! This shouldn't make me that excited...wow. Ok, well, I figure if I'm not excited about it, I can least post some nice little something to her. I decided I would post this photo of her before her birthday because it is too darn adorable, and I've already limited myself to a short, simple post for her birthday on May 4th. And also, I'm a little bored and hungry, and I have to steal the tv away so I can watch Rage in Heaven! Ariverderci for now.

Movies of My Fabulous Four!

2009-04-28T19:22:00.009-04:00

This random post is dedicated to my top four favorite lovely stars:

1) Audrey Hepburn

2) Ingrid Bergman

3) Carole Lombard

4) Grace Kelly

This post also concerns those movies of theirs I have seen. It's actually a list, from most movies seen to least. And Audrey is not number one!

1) Ingrid Bergman: 11 films. (Will be thirteen; Rage In Heaven and Goodbye Again are on my tivo).

2) Carole Lombard: 10 films. (Will be eleven; Swing High, Swing Low is also on my tivo).

Tied at 3rd place (OF COURSE): Audrey and Grace with seven films apiece. (For Audrey it'll be ten. I've got The Children's Hour, How to Steal a Million and Two for the Road on the tivo).

I've decided to rate those movies; the ones I love the most, to the ones I like the most.

Ingrid Bergman's up first:

1) Spellbound

I fell in love with her and Gregory Peck while they fell in love on screen. Also, they were both absitively posolutely beautiful together.

2) Indiscreet

She and Cary Grant didn't even look like they were acting; quel chemistry.

3) Anastasia

She blew me away in this film. After watching it, I decided then and there that she was my 2nd favorite actress.

4) Gaslight

The film that made me say: "I want to be Ingrid Bergman!"

5) Intermezzo: A Love Story

It's so sweet and lovely. She was innocent, even while having an affair with a married man and also completely glowing.

...and the rest

6) Casablanca

7) Notorious

8) The Visit

9) The Bells of St. Mary's

10) Stromboli

11) Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

Next up, Carole Lombard (or as I affectionately refer to her, La Lovely Lombard):

1) Twentieth Century

She was HILARIOUS in this movie! I love how screwball she was, but at the same time, very believable.

2) My Man Godfrey

Another perfect screwball comedy that was only made even more so because of Carole's performance as scatterbrained Irene Bullock.

3) To Be or Not To Be

Her last film, and one of her very best. I can't explain why I'm so fond of this film...oh right, Carole's in it.

4) Mr. and Mrs. Smith

She and Robert Montgomery had such delightful chemistry. And I loved her wardrobe, designed by Irene.

5) In Name Only

Not a screwball comedy, but something romantic and sad. You don't even see her funny side in this film, and that just shows how versatile she was.

...and the rest

6) No Man of Her Own

7) Nothing Sacred

8) Fools for Scandal

9) Vigil in the Night

10) Lady by Choice

Next up, Grace Kelly:

1) Rear Window

One of my most favorite films; Gracie plays one of my favorite movie characters Lisa Fremont and she wears the perfect Edith Head gowns. Not to mention, it's an edge of your seat thriller, and it can terrify without any bloody scenes as well, unlike the horror movies of today. And Grace wasn't just eye candy in this film; she delivers a divine performance.

2) Dial M for Murder

Heart stopping; she and Hitchcock shined at their very best.

3) To Catch a Thief

Read my review here.

4) High Noon

The only western I've seen, but such an excellent, moving one. She and Gary Cooper made me very wistful and sad indeed.

5) The Country Girl

A truly wonderful performance. I never appreciated Grace's portrayal of Georgie Elgin until recently. It's one of the best I've ever seen. You should too.

...and the rest

6) Mogambo

7) High Society

And I've saved the best for last, Audrey:

1) Roman Holiday

My number one favorite film, across all genres. She's enchanting.

2) The Nun's Story

True, not one of my favorite films, but one of my favorite Audrey performances. It's so strong; she proved she could do dark, heavy drama.

3) Sabrina

Delightful film, dialogue, setting, script, and romance. A splendid Sabrina Fairchild, as only Audrey could play her.

4) Breakfast at Tiffany's

So Marilyn Monroe didn't play Holly Golightly; she's forever linked to Audrey, and she casts an unbreakable spell. Audrey, as Holly, that is.

5) My Fair Lady

I don't care what anyone says. Audrey was a gem in this film. J'adored her accent. She played this role to the nines. I fell in love with Eliza Doolittle; hilarious!

...and the rest

6) Funny Face

7) Paris, When It Sizzles

A Little Short Story

2009-04-26T20:24:00.002-04:00

Criticism is welcome, though please be nice; not too tough! If it's horrible, just say: "I like it Gracie, but you can make it better," or something of the like. Don't be too tough on me! Remember, I'm not a professional!

I have always taken great pride in the fact that I am one of the few people to say that I know, and I mean truly know, Lana Mary Hatch. She was, as the quaint phrase goes, famously beautiful. Her beauty shocked most people when they laid eyes on her, for she wasn’t beautiful in any conventional way. In fact, her face was sharply accentuated; hard and clear. Eyes as silver and round as quarters beamed out from her thin, angular face and were framed by a pair of arched, almost mean eyebrows. Her nose was slender with two alert nostrils perched at the end. Her mouth was the only part of her face that wasn’t thin; it was a full, upturned mouth that often snuck snide little grins into conversations. Lana’s body was just as slender and sharp as her face; she was rail thin and often played up this body type of hers in belted suits and gowns. Her hair was always worn loose, in dead straight, unaffected strands. Not one hair was ever out of place on her head. In short, she was perfect, and took great pains to make it so.
One night, she hosted a party and a man named Joe got extremely drunk and told Lana that he loved her. It might have been the liquor, but he had known Lana so long that he might have been speaking the truth. They were both standing in the middle of the room, and as he slurred the words, loudly at her, everyone else watched in amusement. A color of deep scarlet rooted itself in her face, but she kept her cool. That wide mouth of hers formed itself into a disapproving pout and she said to him: “You’re making an absolute fool of yourself.” His lips trembled as he stared at her desperately. I don’t think he realized just how indecent his delivery was. Lana swept from the room then, leaving an air of perfumed iciness in her wake.
I think by that time, Lana had sort of given up on love. She probably knew now that men didn’t fall in love with her, but with the idea of her. A self assured, self made, successful business woman who was tough enough to bear the burden of any man. But a man cannot rely on steel will and hard common sense alone; a wife must be kind, compassionate, loving. Unfortunately, Lana was never any of those things which is why both her marriages ended in divorce.
We had spent an afternoon in early summer on her deck, sipping coolattas as the sun beat down on us and all the other tired people in the city. We stayed on the deck until the pale, colorless moon rose into the sky, bathing us in its light. I turned to Lana who had since removed her dark glasses. Her eyes reflected the moon in a sad way; I could see her life painted in those large ovals. She wasn’t happy, and her eyes were tired.
“Do you think you’ll ever remarry?” I asked tentatively.
“No.” her voice was hard and flat. “I’m not very good at being a wife, am I?”
“Do you want to be a good wife?”
“What does that even mean?” she snapped impatiently. “A good wife? I never received lessons on what a good wife was supposed to be or do. And remember, I was just nineteen when I got married, so I never had any idea. And in any case, I was too young and stupid. I wasn’t a good wife when I was nineteen nor when I was twenty-six, and I won’t be at any age.”
My nineteenth birthday was less than a month away. I knew I couldn’t see myself as anyone’s wife; maybe there was a certain age a girl had to be, enough experience she needed to be considered a good wife. I wouldn’t make a good wife now, and I suppose because Lana had become a wife so young, that when she remarried, she made the same mistakes all over again. It was a rather depressing way to live.
“I’m not trying to discourage you from getting married,” she continued.
“You’re not?” I asked skeptically.
“Of course not,” she replied. “Every girl ought to be married; even if it doesn’t last.”
“That’s pretty stupid,” I muttered.
“It isn’t,” she sang. “I wasn’t always miserable when I was married. In fact, some of my nicest memories are with my husbands.”
I detested the plural. Call me old fashioned, but I have always believed that marriage was meant to last until, well, death due you part.
Lana rolled over in her chair and yawned delicately. “If you do plan on getting married, get married at a reasonable age.”
“What’s reasonable?” I inquired.
“After 24 and before 30.”
She gazed up at the moon, winking sadly down on her, and turned and went back into the apartment. I turned to stare at the silver expanse hanging in the sky. The moon to me was always so beautiful and regal; to Lana it might just have been a white circle. I turned to go inside as well. Lana was going away on a business trip, and she was letting me house sit. I was very dorky about the whole thing. I pretended as if I was the successful, beautiful woman living alone in a swanky apartment while all sorts of tragic people came to me for advice and all sorts of gorgeous men called me up on the phone, begging for a date.
Nothing of the sort happened. I woke up in the morning, relishing the fact that I was sincerely alone, but there wasn’t much to do. I was pretty sure Lana didn’t jump for joy in the middle of her living room or flip through the TV channels in boredom. It was a Saturday, and I hadn’t made any plans. I was so afraid that if I left the house for one minute, it would be robbed or something like that, so I hunkered down and watched daytime TV, feeling my brain turn to soft serve ice cream.
At around two o’clock the doorbell rang. I jumped up and in my haste knocked over the chair. I quickly turned off the television and hurried to the door, smoothing my hair as I went. I don’t know who I was expecting, but if they were calling for Lana, it had to be someone infinitely interesting.
A woman in her late twenties was standing on the threshold. I recognized her as Lana’s younger sister, Laura.
“Who are you?” she asked rather rudely.
“I’m Jordan; I’m house sitting for Lana.”
“Oh.” She walked past me into the house.
“Where do you know Lana?” she asked.
“I intern at her firm.”
“Oh right. I thought your face looked familiar.”
I was going to ask her if I could help her with anything, but she walked right over to the liquor cabinet and removed a bottle of bourbon from within.
“You don’t mind do you? But then again, it’s not your liquor.” She unscrewed the bottle and poured herself a glass. “I’m just dropping this off,” she explained, indicating a plain square box that she threw carelessly onto the couch.
She swilled the drink in her mouth and smacked her lips. “Bourbon always reminds me of Lana,” she said, staring into the glass. “She got drunk silly off it the night before her divorce was finalized.” Giving me a square look under her eyebrows she added: “Her second one. Yup, I’d never seen her like that before. And the next day, while at the lawyer’s, she was sitting next to Richard as calm as day, as if only air was between them. You wouldn’t think she was the same girl of the night before, crying into a bottle of bourbon, slopping the drink down the front of her gown, crying, waling.” Laura downed the rest of her drink before she finished the story. “And the whole time I kept wondering at how big her mouth was.”
I stared as she lit a cigarette. “You don’t mind?” she asked.
“Not my apartment,” I pointed out.
“Good point.” She took a long drag and then looked at me. “Trying to quit,” she said dispassionately. She poured herself another glass and in between smoking, sipped at the drink. It was the kind of thing I saw in movies.
“You and Lana must be pretty close.”
I shrugged. “She trusts me, I guess.”
“You’re lucky. She doesn’t trust many people.” Laura finished the last of the bourbon and stamped out the cigarette in the ashtray. Lana didn’t smoke, but her sister would come over often. I didn’t even see how they could be so close, when they were clearly so different. Laura wasn’t as beautiful as Lana, but she had a certain beauty to her nonetheless. Her hair was chestnut brown like Lana’s but was more careless, and less strict. Her dull gray eyes were deep set under her eyebrows and her lips were far thinner. Her face was warm and round, as was the rest of her body, which she did nothing to compliment. Her clothes were thrown together carelessly and hung off her hips in a slack way.
“Well, I’d better head off. It was nice meeting you Jordan.” She smiled wanly. I couldn’t say it’d been a pleasure meeting her. Laura had a distinct indiscreet air; she had been able to volunteer private, embarrassing, almost unbelievable information about her sister with no apparent qualms at all.
I dwelled on this until the early evening, when I sat down to dinner by myself. I knew Lana didn’t spend this much time in her apartment alone, but that was because she had people over most of the time. Everyone wanted to be with her, whether to share a meal or whatever. But as I sat in the kitchen, the sky slowly changing from blue to ruby red, to a pearly gray, I wondered how lonely Lana got. Even in the face of all the glowing company that surrounded her, was she ever really happy? Last night I had seen that she wasn’t when we had lounged underneath the moon on her deck.

A week later, when Lana returned from her trip, she took a business lunch with a broker who I had seen around the firm, named Ian Andrews. He was very handsome, in a masculine, hard sort of way. His eyes were filled with a crinkly black color, and glittered beneath his wavy black hair. His nose, a square fixture, jutted from his face over a thin, hard lined mouth. His chin was distinctly dimpled, and sturdy. He towered over many of the other men, and was always bright and cheery.

To be continued….

Starring Who? Poll Results

2009-04-24T12:50:00.006-04:00

With 0 votes: Jimmy Stewart and Audrey Hepburn.
Although I heard the two were actually good friends.

With one vote: Cary Grant and Lauren Bacall. Romantic comedy maybe?
I got the idea for this pair from Lauren herself. When she first came to Hollywood, she was given the chance to either make her first film with Cary, or Bogie. Well, we all know who she ended up working with, but she did say she was more than willing to work with Cary Grant.

With two votes: William Holden and Ingrid Bergman.
I voted for this pair; who else did? I keep picturing them in a war film, or a comedy. Any other ideas?

The winners: Paul Newman and Grace Kelly.

They won with eight votes, so I suppose the majority of voters would have been really curious to see these two stars paired together. It just makes me wonder: what kind of film might they have made? It would have to be something pretty dark and dramatic, just because they were both so beautiful, and I at least, cannot picture them in a light, romantic comedy. I keep thinking they would have to be star crossed lovers, or two people who have fallen in love though they're already married to other people. But you know who I would have liked to see Grace Kelly with? James Dean. I heard that the 1958 version of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof was supposed to have starred Graciebird with James Dean, but the lead roles of course went to Paul and Liz Taylor.

Be sure to vote in my newest poll!

Just Thought I'd Share...

2009-04-21T11:50:00.009-04:00

While away from blogspot, I found ways to entertain myself. I got some good reads, courtesy of F. Scott Fitzgerald (Tender is the Night), Feodor Dostoevsky (Crime and Punishment), and two biographies based on Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe. So this lovely and random post features the latter two books, as well as some cute pics. Enjoy!

Audrey Hepburn, An Elegant Spirit: A Son Remembers by Sean Hepburn Ferrer. Really, one of the most moving biographies I've ever read. Granted, I pretty much know all there is to know about dearest Audrey, so there wasn't too much I hadn't already read before stumbling across this book. But it has the most ah-mazing collection of photos and features Audgers at her best. There are some tear filled excerpts too; Audrey inspires. I encourage all of you to read this if you haven't and don't worry, my book review is coming in the near future. There are also the most unbelievable family candids. I say unbelievable because they're all so natural and beautiful.

Marilyn, published by Parragon in 2008. I bought this for only $8.00! It features rare and darling photographs, two of which are pictured below.

Marilyn touches up her face. I love, love, love this shot of her.
She was so sweet.

Marilyn reads a script, circa 1946, in the most ah-dorable outfit I've ever seen. I can already see myself in this come summertime, though not in the French Connection version which costs $128. Yikes!

Happy Birthday William Holden! 4/17/1918

2009-04-16T19:18:00.010-04:00

Dear William at just 21 years of age...he turned from a dreamboat to a hunk!

Look at those eyes, that brow...William in his early famous years.

With his pretty wife Brenda Marshall in 1952. LOVE her suit and white gloves. They're my latest obsession.

Presenting Audrey with her Oscar in May of 1954, the same year they both won.

"I had a crush on Audrey even before I met her." -William Holden

With a jubilant Grace Kelly at the 1955 Oscars as she proudly displays her statuette. (He looks so dapper in his suit).

With Sophia Loren in 1957. They look so adorable.

William Holden b. 4/17/1918-d. 11/12/1981

Happy Birthday, dear William. William Holden would have turned 91 today. I wonder how he would look today. I wonder if he would be happy. I wonder how the amount of praise would be bestowed upon him, if he was a living Hollywood legend. But though William died a tragic death, one that makes me very sad, though it happened 27 years ago, his legend does live on. No, he was a not perfect man, but who among earthly men is? (Clearly Jesus does not fall in this category ;-D). But he was a damn good actor, and like anyone with their own demons to deal with, he made his mistakes. But William found love, I just wonder if that love could have saved him from that accident over 27 years ago. I thought it would be sweet to dedicate this post to him because it's always nice to have your birthday celebrated. So happy birthday William and rest in peace.

Good-Bye Again? Hello Again!

2009-04-14T17:12:00.006-04:00

Aw, Dorothy Dandridge welcomed me back!

Ok, so I know I'm three days early, but I could not resist. Easter marks the end of Lent, and it ends on Pentecost Sunday. So what does this mean? I HAVE to continue to pray, and exercise self control, all year round, but especially during this Easter season.

In the absence of blogging and old movies, I feel that through much self reflection and prayer, I have changed. I am not perfect, but I am not working to be perfect, I'm working to be better. I guess it's always a journey, no matter who you are or what season it may be. Everyone should try and become a better person, because you may discover some very important things. I discovered the importance of loving everyone, not just family and friends. I have discovered the importance of being completely non judgemental. It's very nice when you stop yourself from making mean comments. I have found myself wanting and trying more to be "rich in kindness" (taken from a very beautiful psalm about, who else, Jesus!) rather than being rich in sarcasm. And I also have learned to be forgiving, and to take everything in stride. Life is way too short to sweat the small stuff.

And I am still struggling to combat laziness, but blame it all on senioritis. And, yours truly has realized how un-important I am; in other words, I'm not as selfish as I used to be. It doesn't matter anymore about how expensive the clothes at Nordstrom are; what matters is that an AIDS victim in Africa can get their medication for less than a $1, but people spend $1000 on a simple dress. I have always known how blessed and truly rich I am, but now it makes me feel that it is grossly unfair that I have a roof over my head, clothes on my back, and food to eat, but children in countries all over the world die from hunger every single day. And you know what it also makes me realize? That I'm meant to share my blessings and help those less fortunate.

Yes, I'm terribly idealistic, but how else am I supposed to preserve, aid, and LOVE humanity, without dreaming about it first?

Look forward to my Sunset Boulevard review on the 20th; as well as a review of the absolutely wunderbar book, Audrey Hepburn, An Elegant Spirit, by her son, Sean Hepburn Ferrer.

I Will Return!

2009-03-06T15:32:00.003-05:00

Hello my dearest blogging buddies. I am terribly sorry to tell you this, well, partly sorry anyway, that I will be taking absence of you and my blog in celebration of the Lenten season. I will blog again after Easter Sunday, which takes place this year on April 12th. But, because Easter is more like a season itself, and should be regarded as much more than the end of Lent, I will not blog until April 17th. That will have been a five day week, and senioritis will have kicked in definitely, so I will grace you once more with posts etc. on that day. You can also look forward to a review of Sunset Boulevard, which I will be watching on the 17th as well, the day that would have been William Holden's 91st birthday!!!! I am also giving up old movies, so that's why I won't watch Sunset until then.

I really hope it works out for me, because I want to be able to sacrifice with joy, and emerge a better, newer, more compassionate, considerate person; maybe praying instead of blogging or TCM-ing (MY own creation ;-D) will help me do this.

Just know that I will miss you all terribly, and the wonderful posts you make on your own blogs. I know my lovely followers will always keep me updated, so when I do come back, it'll be like I never left.

And in the spirit of leaving blogspot and classic movies, I leave you with this, until April 17th, 2009:
Ben-Hur: "I pray that you live until I return!"
Messala: "Return?"

Do not worry however. Not even Messala could keep me away; I will return!!!!

And if that isn't cheery enough (if you even care that I'll be gone), I leave you with this:
Simonides: "Judah Ben Hur! You've come back to us like a returning faith! Oh Judah, I should like to laugh again. Let us laugh!"
Ben Hur: "We will laugh." (Millie)!

Hugs and Kisses to all!

Princess Ann/ Anya "Smitty" Smith

2009-03-02T14:46:00.014-05:00

Roman Holiday is absitively posolutely (done on purpose, read The Beautiful and Damned) my number one favorite movie, and this post is dedicated to the lovely Princess Ann/ Anya "Smitty" Smith, who stole our hearts as we viewed this irresistible romantic comedy. I love Princess Ann because she was an Audrey Hepburn original, and while it is hard to differentiate from the princess and actress, I will limit this post of mine to the reasons why I love and admire the character, and not the lovely lady who portrayed her.

1) Her clothes are just divine.

Simple ensemble, yet loverly. The understated clothes are the ones that make the greatest impression. (Most of the time).

The hat, the hat! The pearls, the pearls! I wish I could get a longer shot of this gown. Its so Audrey...and Edith Head as well.

A truly lovely Edith Head gown, designed for a princess.

So here are my top three reasons as to why it would have been cool to be "Smitty."

1. She gets to fall in love with Gregory Peck, and dance with him in the very romantic moonlight. (UGH, no picture)!

2. She gets to ride on an uber cool vespa with Gregory Peck.

3. She gets to spend the night with Gregory Peck... ;-D

Anyone else notice that my posts usually transition from Audrey Hepburn to Grace Kelly and back again? Haha, I'll try and limit it. So the next time I do a character post, look forward to neither Audgers or Grace, but Ava Gardner. ;-D

To Catch a Thief (1955) Review

2009-03-01T21:19:00.013-05:00

Well, after four months of waiting, I finally watched the stylish To Catch a Thief! And let me tell you, it was well worth the wait! I am just thrilled that I have this jewel of a film in my classic DVD collection. For those of you who haven't been fortunate enough to see it, it was marvelous. And for those of you who have, it was marvelous!

Let me count the ways...all the reasons I love this film:
1) The casting. Cary Grant, one of my absolute roses, and Grace Kelly, one of my favorite actresses, together...not only are they both gorgeous, but they make the film so enjoyable. They're a pair of talented actors who make the film so perfect; you wish you could be Francie Stevens (played by Grace), and that your love interest would be John Robie (played by Cary). It doesn't need to be said that he's the most debonair creature to grace God's earth, so you know you're in for a pleasant treat since he plays the reformed jewel thief romancing Graciebird. Ah, la amour, la amour....

2) The gowns, of course!!!! Now, what film review would be complete without me drooling all over the Edith Head designs? I adore her. She clearly had an eye for style and fashion, and maybe because Grace Kelly was just perfect, all the gowns look even more divine. Now, am I saying that I want all the designs in this film? Of course!!!!! I can dream, can't I? Here are a few:

The perfect Edith Head gown; simple, elegant, dazzingly white, absolutely gorgeous!!!!

An absolutely breathtaking bathing suit. And one lovely hat!

I know, not a gown, it's just Gracie, but I adore this still of her. Isn't she just positively stunning? And she's wearing a lovely scarf, wouldn't you agree? And I love her hair!

Another gorgeous Edith Head creation...loverly.

One of my gowns...haha, I wish.

A positively ah-dorable bathing suit, and matching sunglasses. (And j'adore the scarf as well). I would love to show up at a beach exactly like this. Completely fifities, dahlink!

3) It's a Hitchcock original. NO MORE needs to be said. I laughed out loud when I saw his cameo. He was just an absolute rose.

4) It was filmed on the French Riviera. All I can say is what breathtaking scenery and lush picturesque plant life!

I know that wasn't exactly a review, but it is a recommendation to watch! If I could describe it now, review style, I'd say it's a stylish mystery directed brilliantly, with just the right amount of wittiness, suspense, and romance. Watch it if you haven't; and if you have, watch it all over again! (I'm trying to tantalize you by not summarizing the plot; GO AND WATCH IT)!

My favorite funny line from the movie, that made me genuinely LOL...
an irate Francie, after John has escaped out the window of her mother's suite, comes in with the police to try and find him. Francie's mother (played by the wunderbar Jesse Royce Landis) denies of ever hearing of John, and the police search the room. The camera pans to the roof where John is stealthily hidden and Francie's voice floats through: "Mother, that book you're reading is upside down." LOL LOL LOL.