Let’s get this straight first: My Life as a Mankiewicz: An Insider’s Journey Through Hollywood was written by Tom Mankiewicz (and Robert Crane). Tom Mankiewicz was the son of Joseph L. Mankiewicz, the writer-producer-director of All About Eve, Guys and…
Read more →Monthly Archives: October 2012
Christopher Guest: Nigel Tufnel vs. Corky St. Clair
One actor. Two film roles. You tell us which portrayal was the best. The most memorable. Or iconic. Or simply your favorite. But before you pass judgment, a few words defending the “character” of each…
Read more →It Came from Beneath the Sea (1955): A Horror Movie Review
It Came from Beneath the Sea Movie Review Over the last couple of years I’ve gradually been overcoming my lifelong aversion to science-fiction films by watching some of the classics of the genre. In 2011 I saw both War of…
Read more →This Week In Film History, 10.21.12
October 25, 1925: France’s star of silent slapstick comedy Max Linder, 41,and his young wife are found dead in a Paris hotel, victims of an apparent suicide pact. October 23, 1950: Al Jolson, legendary entertainer and star of the seminal…
Read more →The Phantom of the Opera (1925): Classic Movie Review
The Phantom of the Opera (1925): Classic Movie Review What is the price of fame? According to this 1925 silent classic staring Lon Chaney a deal with the devil…no, no, no that’s Faust; I mean a creepy Phantom. Please excuse…
Read more →Who’s Your Favorite Movie Werewolf?
The William Desmond Taylor Murder Mystery
Today’s guest post that focuses on the unsolved killing of early film director William Desmond Taylor: When it comes to unsolved mysteries, the murder of William Desmond Taylor is one that continues to fascinate. There have been reams written about this case….
Read more →Create-a-Caption: Dracula
You know the drill. Below is a classic movie photo from 1931’s Dracula with Jason’s caption. You’re encouraged to leave your own suggestion in the comment section below! “Greetings. I am Dracula. I bit you welcome. BID…I bid you welcome. (Drat, I…
Read more →Jean Arthur: Tough Veneer, Tender Core, Hollywood Icon
While Hollywood only managed to maximize Jean Arthur’s talents over a period spanning less than a decade, the petite blonde with the inimitable nasal delivery and indomitable demeanor accrued a resumé laden with indisputable comedy classics. Born in upstate New York…
Read more →Six Pix: Dashiell Hammett
Six Pix presents a sextet of movie posters representing a particular actor/director/genre. You pick the one you feel is visually the most artistic or best sums up the film. The focus in this Six Pix is film versions of Dashiell…
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