Feb 17, 2023

On YouTube---Jayne Mansfield: Beyond the Squeals

 


Jayne Mansfield was no dumb blonde, but to become a star she played one. Unfortunately she became trapped in that image and was never able to share everything she had to offer as a performer. However, she did do a lot more varied work than is commonly believed. She wasn’t all about the squealing. I talk all about that in my new video:


Feb 13, 2023

YouTube Video: Black in Classic Film Fashion

 

Lately I've been fascinated by the power of color in classic film fashion. It can almost be a character in itself. I made a video about how black is used in vintage film costumes. Yes, it isn't technically a color, but it is one of the most powerful hues for making a memorable garment. I make some commentary to tie it all together, but my focus here is on displaying the clothes and their amazing variety.

Feb 1, 2023

Podcasts for Classic Film Fans: January Round-up

The release of the Sight and Sound poll results was typically dramatic and led to some great podcast episodes. Two of my favorite responses to the list are in this month's roundup. 

Unspooled 
January 11, 2023 

This is the perfect discussion about Jeanne Dielman…, which was recently the subject of controversy when it topped the Sight and Sound pool. It taps into what makes this lengthy, often challenging film so mesmerizing. I love how thoroughly the hosts research each topic episode; I always learn so much from them.
I Saw What You Did 
January 17, 2023 

Millie and Danielle are such phenomenal podcast hosts. They’ll have you snort laughing with their free-form opening conversation and then get you emotional when they get to the film discussion. I found their discussion of Ali, Fear Eats the Soul and Harold and Maude to be especially sensitive and revealing.
Pure Cinema Podcast \
January 9, 2023 

Brian and Elric respond to the Sight and Sound list with their own picks for the cinematic canon. I love their choices because the films tend to be both immensely entertaining and great cinema. Many great entry points for those new to exploring movies, but I also found some new viewing ideas in addition to realizing there were a few films I wanted to rewatch.
Forgotten Hollywood 
January 22, 2023 

It’s wild to me that the 2005 and eventual recovery of a pair of ruby slippers Judy Garland wore in The Wizard of Oz (1939) is still being discussed. This is an interesting discussion about some of the ins and outs of the incident with the author of a book about the case.