What sparked your interest in classic film?
My fascination with the golden age of Hollywood dates as far
back as 1999. I was 12 years old, and in my final year of primary school. Midway during that year it was announced that “us” the graduating students were
going to do The Wizard of Oz for the end of year graduation play. This
meant that we had to undergo many hours of rehearsal, as well as sitting
through repeated viewings of the film. As a result, I developed an extreme
obsession for Judy Garland, and I was on the quest to find out as much about her
as I possibly could. Although she had piqued my curiosity, I was still too
young to prolifically research her life and dig deep into her filmography. My
method of study was to flood my Mother and Grandmother with questions
pertaining to Garland. The one aspect that shocked me the most was when I
discovered that Dorothy ( Judy Garland ) had died in 1969 of a prescription
pill overdose. The fact that Judy was no longer alive upset me greatly. I
suddenly realized that I would never have the opportunity of meeting the woman
that I idolized immensely, but I was richer for having discovered her and I
knew that a world full of Garland treasures were awaiting me.
My interest in Judy Garland escalated during high school
when my Grandparents gifted me her movies on DVD. While watching Garland's
films, I began to take notice of her co-stars and I would collect their films
whenever I could. This exposure led me to pursuing the likes of the other stars
from the golden era, and gradually I broadened my horizons and branched out of
the Judy Garland circle. It also helped that my Mother, Grandmother, and my Late
Great Aunty Pat supported me on my journey into the world of classic cinema.
They have fond memories of watching the old movies on television when they were
young and they were constantly giving me recommendations and telling me which
actress or actor I should discover next. I could go on and on telling you my
discovery story, but I'm afraid I'm boring you all – so I will end it there.
What other film genres do you favor?
I love classic films in general, but like most people I have
my favorite genres. Usually, I tend to watch more drama, comedy, Film Noir, and
thriller/mystery type productions, but I am occasionally in the mood to see a
great western. It depends on the films synopsis and what I feel like watching
at the time.
Name three films that most classic film fans love, but you
hate, and if you can tell us why?
My answers could have me dodging bullets. I understand that
the films that I'm about to list are high on everyone's radar – so the fact
that I dislike them will probably shock most people, but please remember that
this is just my opinion. Without further ado, here are the movies that I find
terribly overrated and downright boring:
It's A Wonderful Life ( 1946 )
Double Indemnity ( 1944 )
His Girl Friday ( 1940 )
I know you are a big admirer of Katharine Hepburn. What is it
about Hepburn that connected with
you?
I think what initially connected me with Katharine Hepburn
was her films and her indomitable presence on screen. I first discovered her
during an interstate visit back home. I remember my Great Grandmother watching On
Golden Pond in the back room of my grandparents house. I wandered in to see
what she was doing and she automatically summoned me to sit on the bed with her
and watch the movie that was about to commence on the television. My initial
reactions were filled with enthusiasm. I had no idea what the movie was about,
but the thought of cozily snuggling up in bed and drinking cups of tea and
eating deserts with my beloved Great Grandmother thrilled me. As soon as the
film started, I instantly knew that it was going to draw my attention, and
needless to say, I was right. It would be an understatement to state that I was
immersed in the story alone. I was also impressed with Katharine Hepburn and
even then I had a slight inkling that she would one day become my all-time
favorite. At the time of my introductory, I had just finished year 10 – so I
had not yet read any biographies on Hepburn, nor did I know anything about her.
Less than a year later a news flash ran across the television announcing her
death. I was saddened to learn of her passing, but it made me want to discover
her even more. Shortly after, I purchased a Hepburn biography that was reduced
in price at my local Borders book store. Upon reading about her life, I
realized that my connection with her was much deeper than what I had initially
witnessed on the exterior. To my surprise, many of Katharine's personality
traits closely mirrored mine, and we actually had a lot in common. I also
admired her for making pants fashionable for women, and even to this day I'm
still in debt to her for that.
I know you’re working on a book about Hepburn. Is there
anything you can reveal to us about:
biography, photo-book, look at her films, etc. ?
Writing a book is a lengthy process. The most important step
is research and assuring you have amassed enough information. Never rely solely
on the internet or media as your major source. In order to produce an accurate
and loving biography is to interview family members, former co-stars and those
closest to the person you’re writing a book on. I also strongly advise any
aspiring authors to detour away from the myths. If you are writing a biography
on a person who has had previous books published on them, it is essential to
approach a different angle and try to unleash all the rare stories pertaining
to the actor or actress. During the research stage for my Katharine Hepburn
book, I've managed to tap into unknown sources by reaching out to people who
have not been interviewed for any previous biography on Hepburn. I've also
learnt to never leave a stone unturned. As I've discovered, you can attain
really interesting and unique stories in the most unusual places.
At the moment I'm not going to reveal any of the rare
information that I've uncovered. I would much rather keep everyone in suspense
until my book is published. All I will say is that the research phase is very
rewarding. I've spoken to some renowned people on the phone, and I have many
more interviews lined up. I feel honored to be writing the Great Kate's life
biography. Moving forward, my publishing company has assigned me my next book
project, and I'm beyond thrilled to announce that Lucille Ball is the subject
for my next biography. Stay tuned.
What do you find is the most rewarding thing about blogging?
For me, the most rewarding thing about blogging is the
recognition. I'm a person who yearns for feedback, but unfortunately, I find
that my articles receive very little comments, which can be very frustrating
when you spend hours researching and writing an article. The most important
thing however, is that I enjoy writing about classic cinema. I also find it a
bonus when I give the criminally underrated and lesser-known films more
exposure.
What movies would you recommend to someone who “hates”
classic films?
This depends on each individual taste. If the person was
more into comedies, the first film I would recommend is Bringing Up Baby. However,
I would also urge them to delve into Lucille Ball's filmography and television
series, for example I Love Lucy. I think Lucy would serve as a great
stepping stone into the world of classic cinema. But if their preferred genre
was thriller, I'd strongly advise them to watch The Spiral Staircase, or
a great Film Noir title starring Joan Bennett or Barbara Stanwyck. Another
movie that stands as the perfect introductory to the golden age is Guess
Who's Coming To Dinner, which in my opinion is quality entertainment that
everyone can enjoy.
What makes a film "classic" in your opinion?
I consider any film made during the silent era right up to
1969 a classic. In my opinion, movies that were made in 1970 and onwards lack
the quality and aesthetics that the films from the golden age possessed.
Do you have an interest in other pop culture arts?
Yes. I have a diverse range of interests. While classic
cinema is the main foundation of my obsession, I am also passionate about the
golden age of television, and music – especially Judy Garland, Petula Clark,
Mario Lanza, Neil Diamond, and Nat King Cole – though my music tastes transcends
many genres. In addition to that, I have
a great interest in cooking and travelling.
