The April Fools Were Out This Month!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                              Can you believe we are now through one-third of 2023??????????????

                             The April Fools were out, but lots of good things happened this month--Easter, the annual viewing of "The Song Of Bernadette," a well-done local production of "Lost In Yonkers," and, best of all, the wax buildup in my left ear, which was plugging my hearing is finally gone, thanks to a wonderful doctor here in Bay Ridge.  I feel almost reborn.  And my voice is back.

                             So, April, despite its sadness, was a pretty good month.  Though today is a double-edged sword day.  It is my father's birthday.  He passed away five years ago.  But it is also the sixth anniversary of my childhood friend, Doug's passing, and with my 50th high school reunion staring me in the face, that is doubly said.  Hard to believe all that time has passed.

                              The pretty bird pictured helps us bid a fond farewell to April, which turned out better than I could have hoped.

                                See you all next month!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

When I Asked Gojira About This One, He Said, "It Was Just A Paycheck!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

                                   To wrap up April Svengoolie is showing the 1968 film "Destroy All Monsters!"   The cast is headed by Gojira (of course!), Rodan, and Mothra (whom no one likes to work with) and some new Japanese monsters, thanks to some she-aliens!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                     Frankly, darlings, I cannot wait to see those she-aliens!  What will they look like? What will they wear?  How will they style their hair?  Pay close attention, girls, we may want to emulate their style.  Or, at least, think about it.

                                          I will be honest--if Gojira were not in it, I would not watch.  But, then what would one do with one's evenings on Saturday at 8PM????????????????????????

                                      Gojira invites us all to this screening, so let's make him happy, and join him.

                                      See you at eight, to cheer on Gojira!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

With Its Bud Westmore Make-Up For The Creatures, "The Mole People" Had Terrific Potential! Alas, Adding Humans Turned It Into An Ersatz, Cheap DeMille Knockoff!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                          Dancing girls?  Slave beaters?  The cult of Isthmus?  

                          I actually felt bad for the poor Mole People being beaten like slaves.  Maybe this film should be banned--it is no masterpiece.  Poor Alan Napier, reduced to this crap.  He had a big come-back as butler Alred in the Sixties TV show, "Batman," with Adam West and Burt Ward! And don't forger Madge Blake, as Aunt Harriet.  Was she Frances Bavier's twin sister??????????????

                            Such conjectures were more interesting with the film, which, if the humans had been eliminated, and it was just the Mole People menacing the earthlings from above, the film would have far more entertaining, as well as cut in half!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                               This film rips off H.G. Wells' "The Time Machine," and Rodgers' And Hammerstein's "The King And I."  Stick with those, dolls!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                  Here was a civilization that needed to stay buried!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 

Spring Greetings To Everyone On Here, From My Good Friend, Nicholas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                       Isn't he just the most loveable and photogenic cat?  I am supposed to have a visit with him this coming Tuesday, and I am so looking forward to it.  Nothing impedes Nicholas in his curiosity and love of exploration.  I bet he will take me on some kind of expedition on Tuesday, when I see him.

                         I have never bonded with a feline like I have with Nicholas.  And he saved my life a couple of summers back and took care to see that I was all right.  I will never forget what Nicholas did for me, and I know he will not forget me.

                          He sends his love to all in this special Spring photo pose of his.

                           We love you, Nicholas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bring Back The Midnight Drive -In Horror Show!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                            That's right girls, with Spring and Summer approaching, it is time to think about entertainment.  What could be better than Grindhouse Horror.  I have always wanted to see "Curucu, Beast Of The Amazon," and I will get to "The Mole People" later, but how about things like "The Bride And The Beast," "The Giant Behemoth," "The Bride Of The Gorilla," and "Daughter Of Dr. Jekyll?"  What a line up that would be, watching in the car, cuddling up to your honey, or favorite bowl of popcorn!!!!!!!!!!!!

                               To hell with the Marvel Universe!  Who needs it when there are these vintage trash items, and others I have not even mentioned.  Some old-time things deserve to come back.

                                And be sure to dress carefully.  Wear a short-sleeved sweater, so you can look and feel like the teenaged Lana Turner!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                

Problematic Heights Players' "Lost In Yonkers" Manages To Rise To The Occasion When Needed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                                 "I hate coming here!"

                                                  That opening line, spoken by elder brother Jay Kurnitz, alerts the audience that this is going to be a very different kind of Neil Simon play.  "Lost In Yonkers," his masterpiece, is never schlocky, but though fused with humor, is hard hitting in devastating ways.

                                                   The reason I say the production is problematic, is because some of the casting and actors are lacking in nuance.  Three exceptions are Nate Becker and Harry O'Neill, as brothers Jay and Artie. Their sibling connection is so palpable and believable the audience can feel it.  Ditto Alex Perone as Uncle Louie.  And Heather Lynn brings to life a character I had forgotten existed--Aunt Gertrude.  Kudos to her.

                                                      But without the same existing in the two central roles of Grandma and Bella, this play can fall apart, and when the actresses playing these roles began to go about their business, I feared for them.  Noelle McGrath did not seem embittered enough as Grandma, and Lisa Whitten seemed to go too far over the top with Bella.

                                                         However, in the two big scenes in Act Two, which are the play's heart, these actresses somehow manage to rise to the occasion drawing in audience members to this tangled relationship, and shedding tears for the two women.  Maybe the actresses were saving their energy for these scenes, which are strenuous physically and emotionally.  No one will come out of the theater dancing but will know they have seen a masterwork by a writer at the top of his form.

                                                            Which is why I wish this could have run longer.  I might have seen it again.

                                                             But I have a request--Celia Keenan-Bolger must play Bella in a Broadway revival.  Mercedes Ruehl was unforgettable, but the only actress extant I know who could do Bella justice is Celia.  Think about it, Celia.  And maybe Cherry Jones as Grandma.

                                                               When operating at full speed, "Lost In Yonkers" is both funny, heartbreaking and a master class in acting.

                                                                I commend The Heights Players for getting what needed to be gotten right here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Farewell To A Beloved Neighbor!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                  For the past 11 years David and I have been living in our apartment building, Nancy Daly, our neighbor on the fifth floor of the other side of the building, was quite a character.  She would hold court on the radiator board in the lobby, and everyone who came through that door knew Nancy, her sense of humor, her outgoing personality, and her understanding of others. Nancy was the kind one could talk to about anything.   At least, that is how I viewed her.

                  Sadly, on April 13, 2023, Nancy left us She was 83, and had been ill for awhile..  Ever since, that lobby has seemed cold and empty.  I keep expecting to see Nancy sitting there.

                    Nine days later, on April 22, at 11am a Memorial Service was held for Nancy, which David and I attended.  It was held at Christ Church, in Bay Ridge, at 7301 Ridge Boulevard, not far from our apartment building.  

                      The service was lovely and heartfelt, and there were coffee and cookies afterward.  Had I known that, I would not have eaten such a large breakfast.

                      Thanks to all who coordinated this event and attended.

                      But most of all, thank you, Nancy, for the time we got to know you on earth.

                     May you Rest In Peace!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Girls, Remember When We All Wanted To BE Her?????????????????????????

                                A lot happened this weekend that I never covered--Arbor Day, Shakespeare's Birthday, Shirley Temple's, a memorial service, a theatrical production, but when I saw April 24 on the calendar, I knew there was something none of us could forget--

                                   THE BIRTHDAY OF BARBRA STREISAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                    That is right--BARBRA!  Who turns 81 today!  Can you believe it?  Especially those of us who remember her opening at the Winter Garden in "Funny Girl," back in 1964, which is when I wanted to be her!

                                      So, BABS, dear, eat a gallon of coffee ice cream, and have James Brolin polish whatever or wherever you tell him to.  He has to somehow help pay the rent!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                        Happy Birthday, BARBRA!  "Yours is the music that makes me dance!"

Forty-Six Years Ago, Tonight.....Who Knew????????????????????

                            Who knew, on the evening "ANNIE" opened on Broadway at the then Alvin Theatre, that it would become the season's hottest ticket, sweep the TONY Awards, and create a lifelong career for Andrea McArdle, not to mention a signature song--"Tomorrow!"

                               Dorothy Loudon defined Miss Hannigan, and when I saw the show on June 25, 1977, the orphans just walked off with the show.  I still recall who they were--

                                 Diana Barrows--Tessie                                                                                                                                       Danielle Brisebois--Molly                                                                                                                          Shelley Bruce--Kate                                                                                                                                      Robyn Finn--Pepper                                                                                                                                      Donna Graham--Duffy                                                                                                                                  Janine Ruane--July

                               I wonder where they are now.

                                It was not until I saw a spot of "ANNIE" featured on The TONY Awards that I ran into the city and purchased a ticket.

                                 

                             Here is that magical spot for all to see.  It was sheer musical theater magic.

                             Which we hardly get anymore!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
                                                                                                                       

                                 

"Deep Inside The Earth......A Lost Civilization....Millions Of Years Old!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

                                   Girls, be sure to join us tomorrow at 8PM, when "Svengoolie" presents the 1956 Universal classic, "The Mole People!"

                                     Imagine, John Agar, and two television veterans--Hugh Beaumont, and Alan Napier!

                                    Cynthia Patrick is the problem.  She is pretty enough, but not on the level of Faith Domergue or Julie Adams.  I would guess both turned down this one, tired of working in this genre..

                                    So, when Cynthia is menaced by the Mole People, all one can do is admire the creativity of the Universal make-up department.

                                      Still, it has to be seen!  Especiallly for those who never have!

                                      See you all tomorrow., at eight!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Happy Birthday, Patti!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                             Theater Queens know exactly whom I am talking about--Patti Lu Pone.  Patti turns 74 today--can you believe it? --and let us all hope we look as good and that our voices hold out as well as Patti.

                               It seems like yesterday she became the toast of the town for "Evita."  That was the first Broadway show I went to in the evening, because, to see Patti, one had to go then, as she did not do the matinees.  And she never stopped after that.  To me, she is second only to Ethel Merman in portraying Mama Rose in "Gypsy."

                                So, a happy birthday to Patti Lu Pone.  Celebrate the day in style, darling. and do whatever it is you want.

                                 And don't stop singing.

Girls, Let's All Read With Jenna!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                         Like being on anxiety meds, everyone seems to have a book club of their own.  I am still inputting the 125 books I read last year, and when it is ready, I will share that with you.

                           But, of all the book clubs out there, I find Jenna's (Can you imagine?  George Bush's daughter????????) to be leading the field.  She knows how to find literary fiction, not trash, some of her selections match mine, and when I see this logo, I generally go with buying the book.

                               Take a look at Jenna's picks so far for 2023--

                                1.  January--"SAM," by Allegra Goodman

                                2.  February--"Maame," by Jessica George.  This is on my shelf, waiting to be read.

                               3.  March--"Black Candle Women," by Diane Marie Brown

                               4. April--"Camp Zero," by Michelle Min Sterling

                                So, let's all Read With Jenna, girls!  As for reading with me, I am going to start inputting as soon as I publish this, so you can see what I suggest for everyone on here to read.

                                  Ta ta, dolls!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                 

With Its Lush 50's Technicolor, And Stunning Set Design And Art Direction, Not To Mention Faith Domergue, "This Island Earth" Really Should Be Seen On The Big Screen!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                       Now, girls, I am not saying it is a film masterpiece.  Far from it, save for the craftsmanship, Faith, and the brain-headed mutants, who get little screen time, the story is plodding and predictable.  But the visuals, in this 1955 film, darlings, are stunning!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                          Faith does not appear until 45 minutes into the film, and it is a long wait.  But it is worth it.  Every time a scene changes, she is wearing a different glamorous outfit.  There is a scene where she and Rex Reason, who is not too bad to look at, either tumble into a lake, and when they come out, in the next edited shot, Faith's hair and makeup are perfect!  Ah, the magic of Hollywood.

                             Universal must have spent a mint on this film.  Maybe they got wind of what MGM was doing with "Forbidden Planet," released the following year, 1956.   But their plot source was better--"The Tempest," by William Shakespeare.

                              I wish I could say "This Island Earth" had campy moments.  Its ending, though, is rather sad.  But the only real reason to see this film is for the visuals.

                               If only the Film Forum would restore their Horror-Science Fiction Festival in the Summer.  This film would be a prime candidate, darlings.

                                Oh, yes, and Faith offers her all in the bosoms department!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I Have Always Wanted One Of These!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                       As I said in a recent post, I was not blown away by "The Phantom Of The Opera," when I saw it, but it did have a number of effectively moving moments.  One of these comes in the opening, when the auctioneer presents the music box, above, to those assembled, and it plays the opening notes of "Masquerade."  The elder Raoul takes possession of it, and asks the chilling question, "Will you still play when all the rest of us are dead?"  That was an outstanding moment.

                         Since then, I have always wanted this music box, though I am sure Baby Gojira is not going to be upstaged by a monkey!!!!!!!!!!!!!   He just couldn't be, he is so precious!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                        But isn't this object precious?  It just makes one want to have it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                       I am sure 'Phantom' groupies have this and other memorabilia.  

                      All I want is this music box!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                    "Masquerade, hide your face so the world will never find you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

                   

Oh, My God, Girls! I Have Such EXCITING Movie News For You! Something To Run To!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                            Beginning May 12, and continuing through early June, my headquarters are going to be at the IFC Cinema, what used to be The Waverly, and who knows, I may do a rendering of "Frank Mills."

                              On June 2, a documentary film called "Lynch/OZ" is opening.  This will explore what critics and theorists have thought for years--that every one of David Lynch's films bears a relationship with the 1939 classic we all love, "The Wizard Of Oz."

                                 Lynch has called it his all-time favorite movie!  He and I agree.

                                 To honor him, the IFC is kicking off a weeklong revival of "The Wizard Of Oz," running from May 12 through May 18.  You KNOW I am going to be there for several of those screenings--as many as I can take in.  To see this masterwork on the big screen is a gift, and at my age, who knows how many opportunities will be afforded me?

                                   Then, from May 19-June 1, the IFC will be offering a "David Lynch Retrospective."  And, yes, that will include "Blue Velvet," and "Mulholland Drive."  The same goes for these, as what I said for 'Oz.'

                                   So plan those calendars carefully, girls, and maybe I will see you at one of those screenings!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                    A weeklong revival of "The Wizard Of Oz!"  I am trembling, just thinking about it.

Happy Belated Birthday To Hayley Mills!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                               I was in such an emotional funk yesterday I did not post.  I should have called on Hayley Mills, whose birthday was yesterday. She could get anyone out of a funk.

                                How many of us boomers, when young, wanted to be Hayley Mills?  I know I went through a period when I did.

                               Yesterday Hayley turned 77, looking as radiant as ever!  But a 77-year-old Hayley Mills?  That sue makes me feel old.

                               So, happy belated birthday, Hayley Mills.  We who have loved you continue to.

                                  For so many of us, this will ALWAYS be Hayley Mills!  And a little bit of us, too!

Let Us Not Forget That Yesterday Was The Feast Day Of Saint Bernadette!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                     Now, girls, I know this may be hard to take in.

                                   Last week, which just happened to be Easter, we watched, as usual, "The Song Of Bernadette," with Jennifer Jones in her luminous, Oscar-winning performance.

                                    But yesterday has, and always will be, the Feast Day Of Saint Bernadette, herself.  She died at the age of 35 on this day, and 54 years later, on this day in 1933, was canonized a saint by the Roman Catholic Church.  I know; what took them so long?  Bureaucracy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                      She is the patroness of the sick, physical and emotional.  I carry a medal of her around my neck, wherever I go.  May a bit of her goodness shine forth in some of us.

                                        This is the real reason to celebrate April 16!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                        Be with us, Bernadette, at all times!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"Christine, You're Talking In Riddles!/And It's Not Like You!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

                                Girls, I had to say something.

                                Pictured above is the complete company of the show on its last performance.

                               I saw "The Phantom Of The Opera" on Broadway on January 12, 1988, two weeks before its actual opening.  The show was set.  What I recall most is the chandelier rising at the opening and going out over the audience.  I thought if there is a technical glitch here.....I did not want to think about it.

                               I never imagined the show would run 35 years.  That is a record that in my lifetime will never be broken.  So attention must be paid.

                              I respected the show, though it never blew me away, as others have.  I have only seen it once, and for me that is enough.

                               I am sad for the closing, for altogether different reasons than what has been recounted.

                                Thirty-five years is a lifetime of work.  Hey, it was how long I worked at where I retired from.  A lifetime for actors, musicians, backstage workers, everyone on this show.  Gone.

                               And while everyone extols Andrew Lloyd Webber, and mourns the tragic loss of his son, let us not forget that this closing ends forever any stage imprint of......Harold Prince!

                               Webber wrote the music, Prince put the production up and running.  Yet he seems to be forgotten in the waves of tributes.

                                But not by me.

                                Goodbye, 'Phantom.'   You had the best run so far.

                                No matter what goes into the Majestic Theatre next--and something will--it will be impossible to live up to.

                               The end of an era, indeed.

I Told You, Girls!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "Camelot" Got Uniformly Bad Reviews!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                             Remember, darlings, you heard it first here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                             Let's start with this photo.  My guess is it is Phillipa Soo singing "The Lusty Month Of May."  But, really, can she match Julie Andrews????????????  Can anyone??????????  Of course not!

                               And doesn't this image look cheesy?  More like "The Wicker Man!"

                             Well, Aaron Sorkin was determined to take all the "magic" out of "Camelot," and that is what he has done.  I really don't care about the book; why anyone goes to see this is for the glorious score--just like with 'Merrily' and "RAGS."  And I fear the score has been tampered with.  I mean, Lancelot singing "I Loved You Once In Silence?"  Doesn't Guinevere at least get a reprise of it? 

                           So, God knows what has been done with the rest of the show now it has been "Sorkinized!"   Mr. Sorkin and Lin- Manuel Miranda are jointly destroying American Musical Theater, and I am here to tell them to stop.

                              No revival of "Camelot" in my lifetime has been received well or reaped financial gain.  I see no exception to that rule with this.

                               Lincoln Center Theater needs to get its act together, darlings!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                              And for who wish to hear the REAL "Camelot," listen to the Original Broadway Cast Album, with an unbeatable array of performers--Richard Burton, Julie Andrews, Robert Goulet, and Roddy McDowall.

                              So few we can count among their equals, today!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

.

It May Not Be Happy....But Today Is The Day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                         This is the date everyone uniformly hates.  I know the extension goes to the 18th, or a Monday, when it falls on a weekend, but let's face it--anyone who hasn't done a thing by now is screwed!

                        Despite technology, I bet the post offices are still filled with people at 11;55PM tonight, kneeling on the floor, desperately doing their taxes.  They either suffer from desperation or they get off on it.  I can't understand it, because my goal is to get all this over with ASAP, so I can go on and live my life.

                           When technology was not so prevalent, news stories at 11PM would show people in the post office on the floor, filling out forms, and I would laugh.  How foolish!  How stupid!  Why would they do such a thing?

                              But they still do.

                                    More people should be like "Uncle Pennybags," the master of Parker Brothers' game, "Monopoly."  Or everyone should have a "Rich Uncle," like him, which was a subsidiary game. manufactured by Parker Brothers.

                                      Pay up, everyone!!!!!!!!!  And then, move on with your lives!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                    Meaning why waste time better applied to other things, just because you feel it is easier to hang it over your heads, when it is not!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                      Don't get me started, hons!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A Distinguished Writer! A Convicted Murderer!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                           That is quite a resume for one's life.  But Anne Perry did it.

                            I read and loved several of her books.  Like many writers in the mystery genre, she was good and prolific.  To read her entire oeuvre would be like devoting one's reading career to no one else--something I am constitutionally unable to do.

                             But I admired Anne Perry for her writing.

                             As for her other credential---

                            I walked into "Partners In Crime," a mystery bookstore that used to exist on Bleecker Street, in New York City.  I happened to be looking for an Agatha Christie book, where the murderer turns out to be a child.  Such things fascinate me.  I did not know the title of the book, so they were unable to locate it.  (Years later, I learned it was "Crooked Little House," and read it.)  While I was waiting for the clerks to complete their search, I spotted a group of people in the back, seated around a middle-aged woman with red hair.  This was post 1994.  I stared at the sight for a minute, then quietly asked the clerks if that was Anne Perry back there.  They confirmed it was, that she was doing a reading, and the first thing that went through my mind was not being in the same room with a distinguished author, but a convicted murderer.

                           When "Heavenly Creatures," directed by Peter Jackson, was released in 1994--right before my 40th birthday!!!!!!!!!--I was obsessed.  I saw it several times, and while the murder was depicted in all its horrific glory I felt for these two misguided girls, played by Kate Winslet (the Anne Perry character, born, and here named, Juliet Hulme) and Melanie Lynskey (whose career, based on this performance I thought should have gone through the roof like Winslet's, but did not, though she still works).

                             Next year will mark the film's 30th anniversary, and I hope it gets a revival screening, as I would like to see it again.  That opening scene, with the two girls running out of the park, screaming for help into the camera, their clothes and faces drenched with blood, is something I will never forget.

                              According to Miss Perry, she did it because she was afraid if she did not, Pauline would take her life.  I can understand that; being a suicide survivor (people I have known) myself, it is something hard to deal with.  She also stated theirs was not a sexual relationship.  That may have mattered on June 22, 1954, the day of the murder, but does it really matter now?

                              Pauline, last I heard, tends a horse farm in either England or Wales.  She may still be alive, or not.  She and Anne/Juliet have not seen each other since the 1950s, under order of law.  Taking her stepfather's name (her parents divorced) Juliet took the name Anne Perry and carved out a career for herself that stands alongside her notoriety  Interestingly, they never killed again.  If only hormonal therapy or antipsychotics had been available back then; alas, they were not.  It may have helped Pauline, who was then 16, and Juliet, then 15.

                                 I cannot imagine the guilt both had to live with.  It prevented Anne from marrying, as she was afraid of the consequences of any potential spouse finding out her secret.  Alas, ever since "Heavenly Creatures," it has become established, and is all over the Internet.

                                  So, finally maybe Anne can rest in peace, which is all I wish her.  Another reminder to me that fame comes with a price..

                                   Sometimes that price is too hard to pay.

                                   Farewell and Godspeed, Anne Perry!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.  

Darlings, Join Us Tomorrow Night, As "Svengoolie" Presents The Seldom Seen Sci-Fi Classic--1955's "This Island Earth!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

                                  I must confess this poster was all I knew about the film.  I feared it may still be one of those films, where the poster is better than the movie.  The brain headed mutants look interesting, and I do hope they get plenty of screen time.

                                    But I have a surprise.  This cast consists of a number of B horror veterans--Jeff Morrow, Rex Reason, Russell Johnson (before being the Professor on "Gilligan's Island") which is pretty much an all-star cast for this type of movie.

                                     The biggest surprise I saved for last.  I should have figured out from the picture of the woman in the lower right-hand corner.  You know who that is?  You know who is in this film?

                                       FAITH DOMERGUE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                       Just her presence alone will be enough to liven things up.  And as Baby Gojira is always looking for bosoms in 1950's movies, well.....Faith will offer plenty.

                                       So, it just might not be as dull an evening as first thought.

                                        Join David and I, Baby Gojira, Kerwyn, Pippin and Cucumbo and his friends for this surprise adventure!    See you tomorrow at eight!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 

                                         ADDENDUM:  I have not gotten to "The Old Dark House" yet, but I promise I will, and post, once I do!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                           

"April In Paris, Chestnuts In Blossom, Holiday Tables Under The Trees, April In Paris......................."

                      And wouldn't it be lovely, girls, at this time of year to walk along the Parc Monceau, in Paris???????????????????

                       The songs were right.  April is the best time to be in Paris.  Wander through the Parc Monceau before taking an acting class, or whatever passion one may be pursuing.  This place is where one figures out what one cares about.

                        I would love to transplant--for a visit--to here in Paris, this minute.  But I would first have to get a three month--or these days more--reservation to Tour D' Argent, before boarding a plane, provided I am comfortable with that.  Which I am not so sure I am.

                         What I wanted was to offer you all a lovely fantasy to get you through the day.  My reference to walking along the Parc Monceau comes from the Original Broadway Cast Album of Maury Yeston's "Nine."  So, pull that out, and listen to it.

                            As for "April In Paris," here is Frank Sinatra!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Girls, We Need To Be Wearing More Stella McCartney And Versace!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                          Oh, my God, darlings, Spring is here; the time we go to our closets and assess what we have that is worth wearing, keeping, or throwing out.  After all, and I speak for myself, we are not about to be overdone by Blake Lively!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                            I am all about brightness and color, and as lovely as these offerings I found are, my suggestion is to go brighter and bolder.  Sizzling reds, yellow brick yellow, candy pink, and fruity orange .  That is the way I would go; but it is up to you to create your own design system.

                                            Stella is very "in" this season, and Versace goes anywhere, anytime.  You cannot go wrong with him.

                                              And if it is not too much trouble, I would add a little Givenchy, and Christian La Croix.  You cannot go wrong with those French designers.

                                               Cannot wait to see how your closets work out, girls!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                            

Gojira Comes In Peace And Aid To Humanity!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                       So, darlings, I was talking to Gojira the other day, when I discovered on YouTube this film of him saving New York City from a tsunami.  What I could not tell was if it was a promo for some kind of forthcoming narrative film, or a public service film.

                        Gojira, being as sweet and modest as he is, just cast down his eyes, and looked at me sheepishly.  Whatever, he wants to keep things a secret for now.

                        But he is not afraid to face a tsunami.  And with his flaming breath he could stave it off and save New York City.  Gojira can be relied on.  He is one of the good guys.  Which is why I just love him.

                        Attached is the film I saw.  Well done, but the ending is some kind of teaser.

                        As for what, that is up to Gojira to tell us.  And he is not talking.

                       But he is loved by all.

                     Here is the film.  Doesn't he look handsome and heroic????????????????????

                        

                      

Dexter Wishes Everyone A Happy Easter!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                           Lovable Dexter, owned by our neighbor, Michael, and loved by all on here, wants to wish everyone a happy Easter.  I wish Dexter could watch 'Bernadette' with all of us, but such things are not to be.  Nevertheless, I know he is filled with love for all, and would want everyone on here to have the happiest of Easters.

                          I am sure Dexter is doing something exciting, and he wishes the best to all of you.

                         Happy Easter, Dexter!  You make the day better with your love for all!

"At Dawn, On The First Day Of The Week, Mary Magdalene Carried Spices To The Tomb, To Anoint The Body Of Jesus!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

                                  This is what Easter is all about, darlings.  Due to being overwhelmed by last night's Solemn Easter Vigil, the screening of 'Bernadette' ha been postponed until 2PM, so I have some time to get in some writing, and wish all my readers, and anyone who happens by, a happy and joyous Easter.

                                   I used to get up early, as a child, on Easer morning, to imitate Mary Magdalene, but those days are gone.  At dawn, I can barely open my eyes.  And I never looked as good as the two Marrys, pictured here, at dawn!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                     They must have had some special make-up secret I am not aware of.  Or maybe it was a miracle.

                                      In any case, they were the first to know of the Lord's resurrection, and spread the word.  And so came to be Easter!

                                       Have a happy one, darlings!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 

                                       

It Is Holy Saturday, Girls!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                             Now we wait, until Easter.

                            But today celebrate what the Lord is doing for us, and try to do something for Him, like being kind to the elderly, vulnerable and animals.  Which is what I intend to do.

                              I wish all a quiet, contemplative Holy Saturday.

                             And Mary Magdalene is standing by!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Two More Days, Girls, Till The Annual Screening Of "The Song Of Bernadette!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

                         I hope those of you who can will join us for this special event. Made extra special by a celebratory anniversary--this year, "The Song Of Bernadette" turns 80!  And it still holds up.

                         Jennifer Jones' stun-the-world performance, Arthur Miller's cinematography (black and white) and Alfred Newman's music score were three of the five Oscars honored this production, the most honored of 1943.

                           Gladys Cooper and Anne Revere were up against each other as Best Supporting Actress for their roles here.  And Charles Bickford earned an Oscar nomination for this film, as well.

                              A screen masterpiece, and wait till you see the dramatic scene when Ermadean Walters runs through the village, and then Anne Revere with her.

                             The screening starts at one, so if you can, darlings, join us!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                             Another year, another viewing of 'Bernadette!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!'

If You Don't Have A Go-To Easter Movie, Here Are Some Suggestions!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                          Now, girls, anyone who has been reading on here for some time knows what MY go-to Easter movie is.  Of course, I will discuss it, but in case you may want alternatives, here are some suggestions.

                                                                               

                                   1.  "Easter Parade," 1948--For those preferring Easter with a light-hearted touch, this is the film for you.  Shot in glorious Metro Technicolor, and featuring the title tune, plus Garland and Astaire doing some of their best routines, like "When The Midnight Train Leaves For Alabam" (pictured above), and of course. the classic "We're A Couple Of Swells."  Frothy, romantic, the entire film is in itself a celluloid Easter basket.  Perfect for lighthearted viewers.

                                                                              

                            2.  "The Ten Commandments," 1956--Oh, God, what can I say?  The visuals in this film are extraordinary; they actually outdo the dialogue.  Like when Yul Brynner says, " So it is written, so it shall be done," and then, of course, Anne Baxter saying, "Oh, Moses, Moses, you wonderful, wonderful, wonderful fool!"  And don't forget Yvonne De Carlo as Sephora, and Debra Paget as Lilia.  Oh, my God, Debra Paget!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Girls, just wait till you see Olive Deering as Miriam, writhing before the golden calf!  Practice makes perfect, dolls!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                                                           

                          3.  "The Greatest Story Ever Told," 1965--At the time, this was said to be 20th Century-Fox's most expensive film, at fifteen million dollars!  My advice to you, girls, is see this one while you are young and naive, before you realize that what is being used as a location for the Holy Land is Monument Valley, Utah, where John Ford made so many of his westerns.  I cannot believe this played over a year at the Clarridge Theater, in Montclair, New Jersey.  I was taken to see this when I was either 10 or 11, and when The Slaughter Of The Holy Innocents was dramatized on screen, I swear I ducked underneath my chair.  I was still small enough to do so.  I never want to see that again.  But the film does have one immortal moment.  When Jesus dies on the cross, and the storm starts, the camera cuts to John Wayne, as The Centurion, who utters, in those Wayne tones, "Clearly, this man was the Son Of God!!!!!!!!!!!!"  If for only this, watch it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                                                          

                         4.  "Ben-Hur," 1959--This is the flip side of 'Greatest Story', probably the finest Hollywood Biblical epic ever made.  William Wyler directed, and what a cast.  Charlton Heston deservedly won as Oscar for this, and Martha Scott and Cathy O' Donnell are moving throughout as Miriam and Tirzah, and the miracle scene--oh, my God, I wept copiously.  My parents took me to see this the Sunday Judy Garland died, and I cried through the whole thing.  Seen recently, it is a visual spectacle, and a moving, narrative film.  If looking for the best Hollywood Biblical, this is the one!

                                                                             

                      5.  "The Song Of Bernadette," 1943--You know I could not let this one go, girls, as this has been my Easter go-to movie for well over twenty years.  And it will be this Sunday.  I learned so much from this film, when I first saw it at the age of 13--Be true to what you believe, and do not let your persecutors get to you.  Oh, and those who see themselves as so holy and self-righteous may not be quite what they are at all.  Some daring lessons for a film espousing Catholic faith.  Very forward thinking for its time.  Visually gorgeous and acted, this to me is the finest religious film ever made.  If not this Sunday, make a point to watch it, especially those who have never seen it.

                        Well, there's a list for you.  Sorry, no Beatrix Potter or bunnies.  My sensitivity to animals, not to mention diabetes, prevents me from eating chocolate rabbits and such.  And now I hear certain colored Peeps--which I will never eat--can cause cancer!  I mean, OK, but don't spoil Easter for the children.

                          Have a happy one, hons!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!