Originally posted on Backlots:
A magnificently crafted screenplay and powerhouse comedic performances by Carole Lombard, William Powell, and Alice Brady are the hallmarks of this beloved zany comedy that is unmatched in its blend of screwball camp and surrealist humor. It has become one of the most respected comedies to come out of Hollywood, and its… Continue reading
I Welcome Middle Age
Kansas is a fickle state, weather-wise. Yesterday was in the mid 70’s. But today dropped like brick to a cold, wet and brisk 30’s. Today’s brutal awakening to the change of season is what I typically expect for my birthday week. Yup, my birthday is approaching in just a few days. So, it’s more than Autumnal leaves that seem to be changing in my life. … Continue reading I Welcome Middle Age
Originally posted on Backlots:
The extraordinarily talented Natalie Wood, who stole our hearts at the age of 9 in Miracle on 34th Street (1947) and made the rare successful transition to meaningful roles as an adult, was tragically taken from us 31 years ago in an accident off Catalina Island. Last year, the case of her death was reopened when law enforcement gained some new information about… Continue reading
Originally posted on Once upon a screen…:
Years ago, while taking a film course on Hollywood’s, “The Studio Years,” I was given what I thought then was an odd assignment. We were discussing the period in Hollywood when an acting “technique,” for lack of a better word, referred to as “The Method” changed attitudes toward acting, acting preparation and filmmaking to some degree. Based on… Continue reading
Originally posted on cinematically insane:
People in old movies don’t seem to know how to kiss. Without a doubt, there are plenty of iconic lip locks from the films of the 1930s and ‘40s, often accompanied by lush orchestrations that infer burning passion. But characters rarely make out like they mean it. Classic film kisses tend to be rigidly closed-mouthed, as if the lovers are trying… Continue reading
Originally posted on Ticklish Business:
With the mad rush of Halloween I’m behind on putting out my TCM Top Twelve for November. Thankfully, I only had to drop one movie that’s already run. The twelve assembled are a mix of iconic films and some that just sound interesting. None of the documentaries playing this month struck my fancy, so we’ll keep our eyes peeled next… Continue reading
Originally posted on Backlots:
It’s happening again! That’s right readers, it’s time for those sassy sparring ladies (or gentlemen, we’re all for gender equality here at Backlots) to get out their foils and do some serious dueling! The Dueling Divas Blogathon is back for its second year, and this time there is a twist. The rules remain the same as last year. As a refresher,… Continue reading
Originally posted on Ticklish Business:
Halloween has come and gone and we’re back on our weekend schedule; starting with a return to the Disney Vault! We last left Disney at Bambi (although I did post up the Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad early for Halloween). We’re entering into Disney’s period of short “package” films that would carry them through the 1940s into the 50s.… Continue reading
Outspoken & Freckled 