A Fairytale Gone Wilder: BALL of FIRE

Before he came to Hollywood, Billy Wilder had written this story concept years earlier in German, “From A to Z.” He said Thomas Monroe helped him “Americanize it”. Here, his story fully evolves into a screwball comedy with a twist on SNOW WHITE and the SEVEN DWARVES (1937). We see many references to the Disney animated version of the classic fairytale. But this is not … Continue reading A Fairytale Gone Wilder: BALL of FIRE

Christmas in Connecticut – Holiday Classic or Feminist Screwball?

For classic film fans, the holiday season represents a time to wax nostalgic over those classic films that pop up this time of year. Everyone has his or her own must-see favorites. Perhaps you prefer a mainstream flavor like WHITE CHRISTMAS or IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE, or perhaps you go for something a bit under the mainstream radar like HOLIDAY AFFAIR or IT HAPPENED ON … Continue reading Christmas in Connecticut – Holiday Classic or Feminist Screwball?

Do Moms Deserve a 2nd Chance For Love?

Motherhood is historically a symbol of nurturing love and sacrifice. If a mother is married, and her partner/spouse dies, as a widow her role as mother marches on. But does that mark an end to her shot at happiness beyond parenting? Doesn’t mom deserve romance… again? As we approach the month of mothers’ special day (May 10th), I want to explore the notion that romantic … Continue reading Do Moms Deserve a 2nd Chance For Love?