A site designed for all of the wonderful people out there in the dark and dedicated to the unabashed passion for silents, early talkies, all stars and all films.
Make 2014 a Year Under the Stars with the official FlickChick calendar!
And just because I am so thankful that you've kept me blogging for over 3 years, and because it is that thankful, festive and magical time of year, 5 lucky readers will have the chance to spend 2014 with some of our favorite stars.
Have a peek:
Gloria Swanson graces the cover
Cary Grant and Clark Gable: Mr. January and Mr. February. What a way to start the year!
Joan Crawford and Bette Davis usher in the springtime. I wonder how they feel about sharing the same season?
Gary Cooper and Errol Flynn are on hand in May and June. Swooning allowed!
Clara Bow and Gene Kelly sizzle over the summer
Greta Garbo shows Buster how to smile and still be mysterious
Gene Tierney and Irene Dunne wrap up a beautiful year under the stars
Ready to take a chance to win one?
Any time between now and December 1, 2013, just email me at flickchick1953@aol.com and write "Calendar Giveaway" in the comment section. 5 lucky winners will be chosen and notified.
Ann Dvorak is one of my favorite actresses. Not a star of the magnitude of Barbara Stanwyck or Joan Crawford or her Warner Brothers team mate, Bette Davis, she certainly deserves more than the usual “who”” or “I don’t know anything about her” that are the usual responses to my gushings about her. Her list of quality films is short (but her list of quality performances is not). She was not a household name or a world-class beauty and she lived a life largely out of the spotlight. Consequently, she has proved to be an elusive, even mysterious, idol.
When I got wind that Christina Rice was writing a bio of my darling Ann, I was over the moon. At last, I would have some insight into this lovely, magnetic woman who burned so brightly for a short time and then seemed to disappear in fits and starts in largely forgettable films. I have waited patiently for Ms. Rice to complete her work and I am thrilled to report that she did not disappoint this fan of Ann. Oh, it was a delicious feeling opening that Amazon package and at last holding the key to Ann Dvorak in my hands!
Christmas came early this year!!
And so now I know her story. The child of show business parents, Ann grew up on the sidelines but had the show business in her blood. Her father was a show biz entrepreneur of sorts and her mother was silent film star Anna Lehr. Anna who? Exactly. Anna Lehr was a reasonably successful silent film actress who was all but forgotten by the time Ann was breaking into films. She was always a cautionary figure to Ann of the ephemeral nature of fame.
Ann gave an electric performance as Cesca in "Scarface" (1932)
While the young Hollywood resident dreamed of a career as a journalist, practicality and financial circumstances dictated that Ann seek work in the town’s film studios. She eventually landed at MGM as a chorus performer, appearing in countless musicals as just one of the girls. She also had some teaching skills and served as a dance instructor. It was in this capacity that she was befriended by star Joan Crawford, who tried like the devil to get Ann some screen time. Sadly, MGM was just not interested. Another actress friend, Karen Morley, had better luck. It was through her that Ann eventually landed the Cinderella part of an inexperienced actress’ lifetime: that of Cesca in Howard Hughes’ 1932 film, “Scarface.” Ann is unforgettable and she seemed headed for the top. Warner Brothers wanted her badly and eventually she made that studio her home.
As a young contract player, Ann was paired with the best
But, it never was really home. Notorious for their slave-driver methods, Ann and Warner Brothers were never an easy fit. While her focus had always been on her career, that all changed when she met the man who would change her life (and not always for the better): Actor Leslie Fenton. It seems that it was love at first sight and it was a passion that endured much. Ann, almost a decade younger than Fenton, was bewitched by him as he assumed control of her life. Once she became Mrs. Fenton, her marriage took center stage and her career a back seat. Fenton was an actor/director with little respect for Hollywood, and under his guidance she abandoned her contract at Warner’s to take a year off and travel the world with her husband. No doubt with his encouragement, she spoke out to the press against her employer. As you can imagine, Warner’s were not pleased with their wayward star’s antics off screen.
Ann flashes her wedding ring with hubby Leslie Fenton
Once Ann returned to the fold (after all, the couple needed the money) Ann was reduced to thankless parts in mostly supporting films as she continued to battle the studio. It is interesting to watch the paths of both hers and Bette Davis’ careers during these years. At one time they were on the same level at the studio. You might even say that Ann had a leg up, as she certainly got the meatier roles in both “Three on a Match” and “Housewife,” the 2 films in which they appeared together. But Davis was single minded about her career and Ann was not. She wanted to live, see the world, be with her husband and experience more than the movies had to offer. Sadly, her career suffered mightily. She went on to pick an enormous fight with Warner’s that left her career in shambles. While she might have paved the way for those other Warner rebels Cagney, Davis and DeHavilland, Ann’s case against the company was not strong and she paid the price dearly. The promise of the dark beauty who enthralled in “Scarface,” “Three on a Match” and other pre-code dramas never came to fruition and Ann Dvorak became another good actress competing for decent parts.
Fenton, British by birth, went home to serve in the war. Ann accompanied him and did not sit home and knit booties. Our intrepid heroine joined the war effort as an ambulance driver. While London was being bombed, Ann chose not to wait at home in Hollywood, but to actually risk her own life to save others. When not driving an ambulance, she was entertaining the troops. During this time Ann changed from a dependent wife to an independent woman.
Ann had many varied interests and always had a green thumb
Sadly, her marriage to Fenton was a casualty of war, as well. Ann married 2 more times, both times not too well. Her fortunes waned over the years and, after her last film in 1951, she retired to Hawaii where she lived a life completely out of the spotlight. After the death of her beloved mother and her 3rd husband, Ann was alone and living on a very modest income. The life of a glamorous movie star was very far away when she died in Hawaii at age 68.
Christina Rice has produced a book of impeccable research. She writes with clarity and compassion and has given us a portrait of a woman whose life was filled with might-have-beens. While they do not look alike, Ann Dvorak has always reminded me a bit of Vivien Leigh. Perhaps it is their feline qualities. Both women followed their hearts and their men. But where Leigh followed the great Olivier, Ann followed men who did her little good.
The unforgettable Ann Dvorak
Lucky for us that Ann Dvorak’s finest performances are still with us. From her tragic Vivian Revere in 1932's “Three on a Match” to her pitiful Mary Ashlon in 1950's “A Life of Her Own” (films that bookend her career and, ironically, both end with her taking a swan dive out of a high rise window). Ann Dvorak might not have been the biggest star in Hollywood, but she was unlike anyone else. Once you see her, you never forget her.
This post is my entry in the What a Character Blogathon, sponsored by Once Upon a Screen, Outspoken & Freckled, and Paula's Cinema Club. Click on the links to these super blogs to read more about all of those marvelous characters that make the movies great!
There are not many 100% true statements in this world (movie-wise and otherwise), but this statement is 100% true: All movies are made better by Tony Randall's participation. But, you already knew that, didn't you?
What I really wanted to write about is how much better off Doris Day would have been had she chosen Tony over Rock Hudson.
Let’s examine:
Pillow Talk:
Doris, you dope, choose Tony!
Millionaire Jonathan Forbes (Tony) has a major crush on Jan Morrow (Doris). He knows what she does (an interior designer) and who she is (an independent working woman) and not only accepts her for it, but is positively gaga over her. Shameless wolf Brad Allen (Rock) spies Doris, likes her caboose, and plays all sorts of head games on her to get her alone and in a prone position.
Okay, Brad/Rock is a hunk, but Jonathan/Tony is no slouch. He is as cute as a puppy and he is a millionaire! He is a good dresser and I am sure he would worship the ground Doris/Jan walks on.
Bad call for Doris. The relationship with Brad will be doomed. In Pillow Talk 2, Jan comes to her senses and marries Jonathan, who rubs her feet every night and gazes dreamily into her eyes.
Lover Come Back
Always a great friend
Tony (Pete Ramsey) doesn't even get a shot at Doris (who never looked lovelier) here. In fact, the only amorous advances made at him come from a moose. But again, Rock’s Jerry is a shady guy who actually knocks up Doris. Tony’s Pete was a gentleman and a gentleman with money. Oh Doris, how successful you could have been as an advertising exec if you only hooked up with Pete!
Send Me No Flowers
Rock - stop standing between Doris and Tony!
Rock Hudson thinks he is dying and thinks he needs to select a successor husband for Doris. Hello! Best Friend Tony is right there – ready, willing and able. Die Rock Die and let Doris be happy at last!
Tony Randall was so much more than the supporting player of the Doris and Rock pictures. He was a capable leading player and, when supporting, could hold up his end mightier than any colossus. As a leading player, he was wonderful as Rocky in "Will Success Spoil Rock Hudson." It's not surprising movie goddess Jayne Mansfield called him "lover doll."
Jayne and her "Lover Doll."
Debbie Reynolds and Tony enjoy a roll in the hay in "The Mating Game"
But Tony really was the guy who made all things better just by being there.
He was joy incarnate and a treasure in both film and TV. I love his Felix Unger because he made an essentially annoying character totally lovable. And how happy was I when, in 2003, he made an appearance in the Doris Day/Rock Hudosn homage/rip-off called "Down With Love"? Very happy.
A while back I posted a big gushing love letter to Mr. Randall and, much to my surprise a comment was left by his widow, Heather. Her comment, in part: Well I actually loved him! I'm his widow and I miss him all the time. Seeing these comments fills me with happiness and I'm so glad our kids will get to see these comments and understand how much he was admired and loved. (click HERE for the post and all comments) He was brilliant and generous of spirit and he loved his profession. And it is all contagious. He is a light, a feather, a chuckle and a wink.
No – this is not a post about the Beatles. It’s about the wonder and magic and endlessly enchanting internal journey that is my love of film. It’s why I write this blog – to give voice to and share that private and personal world of living stories in the dark.
Watching Movies: It's personal in public
Watching movies is such a curious experience. On one hand, you can share it with those in a theater (or sitting around a TV set). On the other, it is deeply personal. A look, a gesture, a snippet of a song can reach your heart in a way that echoes your own personal experience. Like a small tremor or a large earthquake, you can be shaken by the power of film.
Feeling the power
Unlike life, film never changes (though our reaction to it may). Bad day at the office? Cary Grant will always rescue Eva Marie Saint at the end of “North by Northwest.” Dog ate your homework? The Blind Girl will always see Chaplin at the end of “City Lights.” Spouse being a real took bag? The beans always win around the campfire in “Blazing Saddles.” People can let you down, but the movies never do.
The beans never fail
As with all art, it is what you bring to the experience that makes it unique. For instance, I have had a somewhat roller-coaster relationship with Irene Dunne, mainly because she looks like my mother. Now that I am older, I appreciate the hell out of her and treasure her in every way. But, not so much as a stupid kid. As for Shirley MacLaine, I should adore her. She has never offended me in any way and is generally a delight. However, she has the bad fortune of reminding me of someone who I can’t abide. Poor Shirley – I always have to steel myself before giving into your considerable charm!
More than a star, more than an actress
While I can appreciate great visuals and even technological trickery, it is always the power of human emotions that draws me in. Film is the greatest canvas of the human face and the thousand of emotions that it betrays.
The beauty of the human face
In December I will be participating in the CMBA Blogathon called Film Passion 101, which encourages us to share that first movie that got us hooked on classic film (for me it was James Cagney in “The Public Enemy.”). That was quite some time ago (no – I did not see the original release in 1931!) but not much has changed for me. I've been thinking about my relationship with film a lot lately and it amazes me that I am still moved by the power of film, new and old. It is constant, it is fixed, it is forever.
You'd didn't think I'd forget him did you? Another love that endures!
Oh joy! I have a beautiful new book on my coffee table!
Vivien Leigh: An Intimate Portrait by Kendra Bean is not a comprehensive biography of the actress. For that, you should refer to Anne Edwards' excellent biography published in 1977 or Hugh Vickers' bio published in 1989. Kendra's book focuses on Leigh's career as an actress, her passionate pursuit of and marriage to Laurence Olivier and the resulting legend that embraced and suffocated both of them. In fact, if there is one word to describe Vivien Leigh, it would be passionate. The book glides lightly over other important personal relationships, but deals sympathetically with the mental illness that plagued her and destroyed her marriage.
The Golden Couple of the British Theatre
For all of Vivien's gifts, hers is a sad story. Blessed with so much during her youth, much of it was cruelly robbed from her in middle age. One could not help thinking that Vivien Leigh was born too soon. Had she been alive today, new drugs and medical attention could have controlled her bipolar disorder. One also feels a bit of regret over her relentless pursuit of a stage career in order to work with Olivier. The camera loved her and Hollywood knew how to showcase her beauty and talents (she had 2 Academy Awards to prove it). But, she was a woman who was driven to follow her heart and, for her, all roads lead to Olivier.
Vivien triumphed as Lady Macbeth
But this is a coffee table book and, as such, it is beautifully done. The size is just right (not too big nor too small), the paper is heavy and glossy and it is loaded with photos, some previously unpublished. Kendra Bean is the fist Vivien Leigh biographer to have been granted access to the Laurence Olivier archives. The information contained in medical documents and intimate letters shed new light on Vivien's great struggles and great triumphs and serve to humanize this seemingly other-worldly creature. As mercurial as she was, Vivien had a great capacity for love and friendship and made many life-long attachments that, though tested greatly by her illness, remained intact. Her friends were as loyal as they come.
If you are like me, the text of a coffee table book is important, but not as important as the photos and here the book does not disappoint. Vivien Leigh is a beautiful subject and we are treated to an eyeful of beautiful images.
Hollywood Beauty: Vivien photographed for Waterloo Bridge
We see Vivien at all stages of her life. From her youth to her early marriage to her charmed life as Scarlett O'Hara and Lady Olivier to the ultimate struggles with age, illness and loneliness, the pictures tell the story. And a big flat out thank you to Kendra Bean for including a beautiful full-page photo of Vivien as Scarlett O'Hara in my favorite dress from Gone With the Wind.
Scarlett's beautiful love bird dress designed by Walter Plunkett
This lovely portrait of a gallant and magical star has been a labor of love for writer Kendra Bean. Kendra is the author of the fantastic VivandLarry.com site that is all things Viv and Larry all the time. Vivien Leigh: and Intimate Portrait is available from a variety of sellers, including Amazon.
Welcome to 2013 - a year of scandals at A Person in the Dark. Yes, I love movies, but I confess I am a sucker for those juicy Hollywood scandals of old.
October's scandal: Clara Bow and the Hired Help
The irresistible Clara Bow
The troubled life of Clara Bow is legendary. Behind the vivacious and fun-loving persona of the "It Girl" was an uneducated woman whose mad mother had tried to kill her and whose drunken amd worthless father had most likely sexually abused her. Her trusting nature and lack of a support system that had her best interests at heart lead her to be taken advantage of by friends, lovers, family and employers. Paramount Studios had notoriously overworked her and exploited the quintessential flapper in movie after movie and, when she was worn out by life and frightened by the microphone, famously saw her as all washed up at age 25. Her no-good father continued to mooch off of her until his death and lovers used her to get their names in the papers.
Clara never thought she was beautiful, but we disagree
From 1923 - 1929 Clara Bow was one of Hollywood's biggest stars. She was also one of its most provocative, with scandals always swirling about her. Her parade of lovers was legendary (she had four fiancees: Gilbert Roland, Victor Fleming, Harry Richmond and eventual hubby, Rex Bell, as well affairs with Gary Cooper, a married doctor whose wife named her as the "other woman" in a divorce case and maybe Bela Lugosi who kept a nude portrait of Clara until his death) and her devil-may-care attitude shocked many of Hollywood's elite.
Clara's fiancees: Rex Bell, Gilbert Roland, Victor Fleming and Harry Richman
By 1930, Clara was worn out. Tired of the merry-go-round of lovers, the callousness of her studio and scared to death of sound films, Clara thought she had found 2 strokes of good luck when (a) handsome cowboy star Rex Bell entered her life, and (b) private secretary (and former hairdresser) Daisy DeVoe (originally DeBoe) began to set her affairs in order. There was only one problem: Bell and Devoe disliked one another and guarded Clara, and their position in her life, with equal jealously. In 1929, DeVoe opened a "special account" in which Clara's paychecks were deposited and from which DeVoe paid her bills. Under DeVoe's management, Clara went from near bankruptcy to financial health. However, she lost the power struggle with Bell, who accused Daisy of stealing from Clara and fired her. When Daisy asked for a severance settlement, Bell interpreted this as blackmail and notified the police. At Bell's and Paramount's request, DeVoe was arrested and questioned for 27 straight hours. Sticking to her guns, she refused to sign a confession and steadfastly asserted her innocence. She was then jailed without the opportunity to contact an attorney. Upon release, she sued the Los Angeles District Attorney for false imprisonment who, in turn, retaliated by charging Devoe with 37 counts of grand theft.
Clara is smeared
In the end, DeVoe was cleared of 34 counts and found guilty, unbelievably of only 1. It was unbelievable because it involved a check for $825 signed by Clara herself and made payable to the IRS for her income taxes. For this offence, DeVoe got 18 months in prison.
Clara testifies to the Grand Jury
But it was Clara Bow who received the harshest punishment. During the trial DeVoe divulged the most intimate and unflattering tales of Clara Bow's life. Tales of wild sexual encounters, drunkenness and gambling kept the public's attention glued to the trial. Smelling blood, a smarmy yellow paper called The Coast Reporter printed unsubstantiated tales of drugs, gang sex with the USC football team, sex in public, sex with multiple partners, sex with men, sex with women and even sex with dogs. Clara was ruined. In the court of public opinion, Clara Bow was morally unfit to appear in films. Adding insult to injury, Paramount cancelled her contract and screwed her out of the money owed to her.
Clara comes back in "Call Her Savage" looking beautiful and supported by old friend Gilbert Roland
Clara, bruised and exhausted, married Bell and retreated from the public eye. She made a comeback with Fox Pictures in 1932 making 2 films that were successful. But, Clara had had enough. The remainder of her life was lived largely out of the public gaze, although Bell went on to have a political career in Nevada. While she struggled mightily with her demons for the rest of her life, she and Bell remained married and she had 2 sons who worshiped their mother until the day she died. Ex-fiancee Gilbert Roland never abandoned her completely and wrote her tender and affectionate letters throughout her life.
Although Clara and Rex had a rocky marriage, she was devoted to her 2 beautiful boys
The story of Clara's dysfunctional Hollywood home eventually found itself as the basis for the Jean Harlow film, "Bombshell." Directed by ex-flame Victor Fleming, he knew first hand how the leeches that surround a star can drain the life out of her. Although it was played for laughs, the vulnerability and hurt that was Clara's was never forgotten by the man who once loved her.
Clara as she is remembered best: sexy, adorable and modern
While not exactly Hollywood, New York City can puff out its chest when it comes to iconic movie sites and proudly call itself the most filmed city in the world. As both a tribute and an education, Turner Classic Movies and On Location Tours is offering a 3-hour tour (yes, a 3-hour tour) exploring the movie locations and inspirations of Manhattan.
On a glorious New York September Saturday, our tour started at the aptly-named Ellen's Stardust Diner on Broadway and 51st street (home of the singing wait staff).
Some of the tour highlights:
Okay, folks, I admit it. I NEVER get much of a chance to visit Manhattan's upper west side, since all of my friends and acquaintances don't travel in those tony circles. So, the sites in this neighborhood were a real treat for me.
The Ansonia Hotel
This gorgeous, historic structure was the setting for "The Sunshine Boys" starring George Burns and Walter Matthau, as well as the creepy "Single White Female." Hey - I'd answer an add to share an apartment in that building!
Zabar's
I know it's a food store, but what a food store! Ever since I saw Woody Allen and Mariel Hemingway shopping there, I was smitten.
Breakfast at Tiffany's
2 awesome iconic sites for this film: of course, Tiffany's
And, the outside of the glorious townhouse that was Holly's crash pad.
The Seven Year Itch
Who can forget Marilyn's famous subway grate pose? Sadly, there is no marker at the spot (although TCM is working on having a plaque made to mark the location).
This unforgettable image was actually shot in Los Angeles, since there were too many gawkers in Manhattan.
However, here is the actual subway grate and tour guide Jason and driver Harold did their best MM imitation. Thanks, guys!
The Dakota
The home of "Rosemary's Baby." Still looking creepy...
Cary Grant was here!!!
Just to be in the same spot where he stood, he breathed....ahh....
"An Affair to Remember"
I know the ape is famous for climbing this building, and Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks shared a moment here, but I'm all starry-eyed because Cary Grant waited there... all night....
North by Northwest (Grand Central Station)
Yes, Cary was here, too, eluding his captors....
North by Northwest (The Plaza)
And here, having a drink at the Oak Bar and sneaking into rooms.
Manhattan
This unforgettable image was filmed at the foot of the Queensboro Bridge (also known as the 59th Street Bridge and officially as the Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge). The bench shared by Woody Allen and Diane Keaton was strategically placed for the film.
So nice to know that Robert Osborne and I share a love for this film. If you're ever invited to Sutton Place, please let me know. I'd give anything to take a peak into those beautiful homes.
And this is just a taste of this very tasty tour. Stops also included Rockefeller Center, FAO Schwartz, The Waldorf-Astoria, Central Park and sadly, some sites that no longer exist. The saddest for me was that Meg Ryan's beautiful Shop Around the Corner in "You've Got Mail, " once a charming antique store, is now a cleaners. Ah, progress (but it is organic!).
I leave you with the very first film made in Manhattan, an 1896 moving image of mounted policemen in Central Park. Movies and Manhattan - the start of a beautiful love affair.
Many, many thanks to the Lady Eve for passing this opportunity my way. If you haven't familiarized yourself with her superb site, The Lady Eve's Reel Life, well, you simply must!!
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