“Forgotten Hollywood”- May Review: Nevada Smith (1966)

April 30th, 2012

(#11 in a 12-part series to be printed at the beginning of each month)

Manny P. here…

NEVADA SMITH – Like Bite the Bullet, this is a forgotten classic Western. The motion picture was a prequel to The Carpetbaggers; Alan Ladd played an older version of the character. The story was based on the Harold Robbins’ 1961 novel. The plot-line of the movie was drawn from an actual 1960 comic book series, The Rawhide Kid, inked by Jack Kirby (known for his creation of Marvel Comics Captain America).

Back Story

   Respected director Henry Hathaway had a long career in the Silent Era and during Hollywood’s Golden Age. He discovered Randolph Scott, and he worked with John Wayne, Marlene Dietrich, Gary Cooper, and Marilyn Monroe. Hathaway received his only Oscar nomination in 1935 for The Lives of a Bengal Lancer. Other films in his career include The Dark Corner, North to Alaska, The Sons of Katie Elder, True Grit, and Airport.

   Nevada Smith featured a remarkable cast: Steve McQueen, Karl Malden, Arthur Kennedy, Suzanne Pleshette, Brian Keith, Martin Landau, Howard Da Silva, Pat Hingle, and Raf Vallone. Paramount Pictures brought in Alfred Newman to write the fabulous score.

Positives

   On heels of The Great Escape, Love with a Proper Stranger, and The Cincinnati Kid, Nevada Smith was released around the same time as The Sand Pebbles. When voted by film fans, Steve McQueen emerged as the most popular actor at the end of 1966.

   Nevada Smith was presented in an episodic format. McQueen’s character, Max Sand, sought revenge for the murder of his folks. The most compelling was the chain gang-segment, and it featured really strong performances from Kennedy, Pleshette, Da Silva, and Hingle. The evolution of Max Sand from a vengeful son to a responsible adult at piece with his life was crafted quite well in the screenplay.

    STEVE MCQUEEN

Negatives

   More time could have been spent in the development of characters played by Landau, Keith, and Malden, since they were such respected actors. Due to the length of the film, this was just not possible. I assume great performances were left on the cutting-room floor.

   Nevada Smith was made under a cloud of Alan Ladd’s apparent suicide in 1964. The coroner ruled his death was an accident, because of alcohol and drugs, though he had previously tried a number of times to kill himself. Alan Ladd-> had played an older Nevada Smith (Max Sand) in The Carpetbaggers, but died prior to its release.

Supporting Actor Spotlight

   If you want the complete story about Arthur Kennedy, check out Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History, which has an entire chapter devoted to this fine rugged actor.

   Instead, let me chat about Howard Da Silva, who began his stellar career on Broadway. He often returned to the stage, with success in the original Oklahoma, The Cradle Will Rock, Fiorello, and notably, as Ben Franklin in 1776.

<—Da Silva was a natural character actor in cinema. He co-starred in over  sixty movies, and was great in Abe Lincoln in Illinois, The Sea Wolf, Blues in the NightKeeper of the Flame, Sergeant York, The Lost Weekend, The Blue Dahlia, and Unconquered.

   After spending a decade blacklisted as an alleged Communist, Howard Da Silva was cast on television in the 1960’s. My personal favorite performance: Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev in – The Missiles of October. He also appeared in Ben Casey, The Outer Limits, The Man from U.N.C.L.E., The Fugitive, Gentle Ben, Mannix, Love American Style, and Archie Bunker’s Place.

   His name is almost forgotten, but, Howard Da Silva was a gifted addition to Hollywood productions.

Epilogue

   Harold Robbins is the most successful author of all time. He wrote over 25 amazing novels,  selling over 750 million copies in 32 languages.

   In 1966, Henry Hathaway was at the Autumn of his career. He’s remembered for steady work for almost half a century. On the other hand, Iron Eyes Cody, Strother Martin, and a young Loni Anderson have cameo parts in this film. They didn’t receive screen credit.

   Steve McQueen became the highest paid actor when cast in The Towering Inferno, and he remains a popular star. His estate limits licensing his image to avoid commercial saturation experienced by other deceased celebrities.

   Consequently, Nevada Smith is an appropriate contribution to modern American Westerns, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Robbins, Hathaway, and McQueen.

Until next time>                               “never forget”

“Forgotten Hollywood”- Star-Filled Panel in El Segundo!

April 28th, 2012

Manny P. here…

   As I’ve noted before, I’ll be attending this year’s El Segundo Author Fair, Sunday, June 3rd. Ellen Cunningham, the Public Services Manager, has invited me to moderate a Pop Culture 60’s and 70’s panel discussion at the event. The El Segundo Library also now houses copies of  Son of Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History.

   Among the icons expected on the 2:30p panel dais:

* DYAN CANNON – An award-winning actress (Golden Globe) who starred in popular motion pictures, including Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice, The Last of Sheila, and Heaven Can Wait. Her television credits include Gunsmoke, Bat Masterson, 77 Sunset StripThe Rockford Files, and Ally MacBeal. Next to Jack Nicholson, Dyan is the most visible Los Angeles Lakers fan in Southern California.

   For three years, she was married to Cary Grant. She has written a book telling her personal story about their 1960s marriage.

* KATHRYN LEIGH SCOTT – For male television viewers of a certain age, she was a heartthrob during her run as Maggie Evans and Josette Collins in the daytime television program Dark Shadows. She was the love interest of Barnabas Collins, played by Jonathan Frid. The popularity of the soap opera spawned the film The House of Dark Shadows in 1970. She’s expected to have a cameo role in the 2012 version of Dark Shadows, produced by Tim Burton and Johnny Depp.

   Kathryn had a reliable television career, with roles in Cagney and Lacey, Magnum P.I., Matlock, The A-Team, The Incredible HulkStar Trek: The Next Generation, and Quincy, She also had a role in The Great Gatsby.

BILL HUDSON – One third of the Hudson Brothers singing group. He also had very familiar spouses, including Goldie Hawn and Cindy Williams. He’s the father of actress Kate Hudson.

   The Hudson Brothers hosted a weekly variety show that was a Summer replacement on CBS in 1974. A producer during the height of their output was Bernie Taupin. Bill’s new book chronicles his singing career, and his own family story.

* HENRY DILTZ – The official photographer at Woodstock and also participated at the Monterey Festival, Diltz was the prolific rock ‘n roll visual historian. Among the performers he has captured include Michael Jackson, The Doors, Paul and Linda McCartney, The Kingston Trio, Linda Ronstadt, Jackson Browne, The Mamas and Papas, The Monkees, The Byrds, Richard Pryor, and Frank Zappa.

   His photos were the canvas for iconic album covers of James Taylor, Crosby Stills & Nash, Jimi Hendrix, Joni Mitchell, The Eagles, and Garth Brooks. Over 100 musical acts have used the conceptual vision of Henry Diltz.

   I can’t wait to join these cultural luminaries at this year’s El Segundo Author Fair!

Until next time>                               “never forget”

“Forgotten Hollywood”- News That is Bond…and Beyond!

April 27th, 2012

Manny P. here…

Exciting news from the Spoke Art Gallery website:

Spoke Art Gallery is proud to release two new prints by superstar artist Max Dalton! Commissioned by the historic Castro Theatre in San Francisco, these commemorative James Bond 50th Anniversary prints come hand numbered and limited to an edition of only 250 each.
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   Check them out up-close-and-personal by clicking on the link below:
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 http://store.spoke-art.com/collections/the-castro-theatre-series
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   This press release has shaken (not stirred) the huge number fans of the iconic motion picture series. Who wouldn’t want #007 of these prints!
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   The eReader version of Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History is now nominated for a 2012 Global eBook Award. My work is up for consideration in Non-Fiction – Entertainment and Performing Arts (Music/Dance/Film). Finalists in each category will be announced on July 9th. I’m thrilled over this latest nomination for my first book.
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   Here’s a link to my nomination listed on the website (updated daily):
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 http://globalebookawards.com/non-fiction-entertainment-and-performing-arts-music-dance-film/forgotten-hollywood-forgotten-history-by-manny-pacheco/ 

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 Until next time>                              “never forget”

“Forgotten Hollywood”- Do You Dare Enter the Author’s Den?

April 25th, 2012

Manny P here…

   My literary peer, Reyna Grande, has introduced me to another book related-scribe site. It’s appropriately called the Author’s Den.

   This high-traffic website provides profiles of my personal broadcasting and writing career, combining what I share on LinkedIn with my Amazon Author Profile and Red Room pages. It’s an exciting prospect that I may reach more folks in my efforts to document the journey my Forgotten Hollywood Book Series has taken.

  

      Here are the official page links to this productive website:

http://www.authorsden.com/visit/author.asp?AuthorID=162579

http://www.authorsden.com/visit/viewwork.asp?AuthorID=162579&id=52056
http://www.authorsden.com/visit/viewwork.asp?AuthorID=162579&id=52059

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   Son of Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History  has been added to another library. Park Forest is just outside Chicago, and the local branch has ordered my latest work. It’s part of the SWAN Library System.

   The village of Park Forest neighbors Indiana. Famous names who have called the area home include actor Tom Berenger, Berry Oakley of the Allman Brothers, and college basketball coach Steve Fisher.

   33 libraries will soon carry my latest paperback. Overall, 96 literary branches intend to share both of my paperbacks to their enthusiastic patrons. Illinois is second only to California in the number of libraries stocking the Forgotten Hollywood Book Series (9).

Until next time>                               “never forget”

“Forgotten Hollywood”- Service Above Self…

April 22nd, 2012

Manny P…

   Over the next several months, I’ll be visiting weekly networking events involving local chapters of Rotary International; part of my Forgotten Hollywood-Book Series tour. Members of this fine service organization seem to enjoy my topic regarding the thread between Hollywood and history.

   Previously, I attended events in Brea, Los Alamitos, La Habra, Van Nuys (all in California); and earlier this year, in Boulder City, Nevada. Here are my next planned excursions:

* Wilshire Rotary Club / Network Lunch at The Ebell of Los Angeles (May 16th)

* Surf City Rotary Club / Network Breakfast at Meadowlark Golf Course in Huntington Beach (May 23rd)

* Santa Ana North Rotary Club / Network Lunch at Antonello Ristorante (June 6th)

* Huntington Beach Rotary Club / Network Lunch at Meadowlark Golf Course (June 7th)

* Fullerton Sunrise Rotary Club / Network Breakfast at Meridian Sports Club (June 21st)

* Rotary Club of Santa Fe Springs / Network Lunch at Candlewood Country Club in Whittier (August 14th)

   The Rotary International motto of Service above Self suits my goal of sharing seldom-told American stories, which is an educational arm of my work as an author with a purpose.

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 ~ Two branches of the Los Angeles Public Library have recently ordered copies of Son of Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History. It will rest alongside my first work at the Richard J. Riordan Central and Goldwyn Hollywood Regional locales.

 ~ Two shelves within the State Library of Ohio have just obtained Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History. The books are housed in New London (in the center of the Rust Belt), and Martins Ferry (near the Ohio River across from West Virginia). My initial paperback has been part of the online resource center for the state for some time.

   A notable from Martins Ferry: Hall of Fame NBA player John Havlicek.

~ The East Smithfield Public Library also carries Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History. Located northeast of Providence in Rhode Island, the branch is part of the Ocean State Library System, which connects the entire state. This branch is in a mill town, near the borders of two states: Massachusetts and Connecticut.

 ~ Finally, the Hughes Main Library of the Greenville County Library System in South Carolina makes available my first paperback. This confirms the 16th State housing my printed words.

   This enlightened city has been home to many famous folks, including sports figures (Kevin Garnett, Lucas Glover, Jay & Bill Haas, and the late Shoeless Joe Jackson); musicians (Peabo Bryson, Josh Turner, and Edwin McCain); politicians (the legendary Strom Thurmond and Jesse Jackson); and Oscar-winning actress Joanne Woodward.

   32 libraries have requested to carry my latest paperback in the last 100 days, a remarkable amount. 79 libraries house my first work. Overall, 95 total literary branches now share my Book Series to their cherished readers.

   I’m immensely gratified.

Until next time>                               “never forget”

“Forgotten Hollywood”- Fenway Park Celebrates Centennial!

April 21st, 2012

Manny P. here…

   Glorious Fenway Park is 100 years old. It’s the first ballpark to reach this milesone in Major League history. Memories are etched in Boston baseball lore:

~ Curse of the Bamino   ~ The Splendid Splinter   ~ The Green Monster   ~ Yaz

~ Bucky @#%#%@ Dent   Fisk’s Homer   ~ Bill Buckner’s Ground Ball Gaffe

An Improbable Comeback Against The Hated Ones    ~ 2004 World Series Win

   Friday’s celebration began early with a live broadcast of CNBC’s Morning Joe from Fenway.  The show’s guests included historian Doris Kearns Goodwin and baseball analyst Peter Gammons (both unabashed Red Sox fans).

   Every living former player from the team were invited, including old-timers Johnny Pesky and Bobby Doerr; Hall of Famers Carl Yastrzemski, Carlton Fisk, Dennis Eckersley, and Jim Rice; local favorites Dennis Oil Can Boyd, Luis Tiant, Nomar Garciaparra, Bill Spaceman Lee, Tim Wakefield, Pedro Martinez, and Mo Vaughn; and former manager Tony Francona.

   Pre-game ceremonies provided A-list celebrities. Caroline Kennedy threw out the First Pitch.  Her great grand-father, former mayor John Honey Fitz Fitzgerald, was the first to perform this tradition in 1912 at the park. Current mayor Tom Menino also threw a ceremonial First Pitch.

   Oscar-winning composer John Williams conducted the Boston Pops, debuting his new composition, Fanfare for Fenway. Williams was commissioned by owners of the team to write the tune. Pops conductor Keith Lockhart led his orchestra in the Star Spangled-Banner. There was an Air Force flyover from World War II-era planes. Ted Williams had to be smiling from above.

   The actual contest was a rematch from the very first played in 1912 between the Red Sox and New York Yankees (then known as the Highlanders). It was the 719th consecutive sellout. Oh… and the Yankees beat the Red Sox 6-2. Remnants of the Curse of the Bamino was in full swing. I imagine, the Splendid Splinter was swearing from his perch in the heavens.

Until next time.                                 “never forget”

“Forgotten Hollywood”- TCM Cruising Along…

April 20th, 2012

Manny P. here…

   Turner Classic Movies has just announced their next major event. The Second Annual TCM Classic Cruise will spend five glorious days in Mexico. The Celebrity Constellation will travel from Miami to Grand Caymen and Cozumel. Advance pre-sale tickets are now available for this Hollywood-themed vacation. The Cruise sets sail on January 21, 2013.

   According to their promotional material:

Join TCM Hosts Robert Osborne and Ben Mankiewicz for the classic movie adventure of a lifetime! You’ll savor five days and nights on board the luxurious Celebrity Constellation — watching films, seeing the actors and talent who made them, hearing their stories from behind the scenes, enjoying special panels, and sharing it all with other passionate movie fans like you… it’s classic movie paradise at sea.

 Visit TCMcruise.com today to signup for the pre-sale and get access to the best selection of cabins. And, be sure to check back often for breaking news and special announcements.

(The Pre-Sale signup starts now and runs through Sunday 4/29. Beginning 4/30, all signups will be randomly assigned booking times, which may be used to book starting 5/3)

   As they say in the movies…. Ships Ahoy!

Until next time>                               “never forget”

“Forgotten Hollywood”- Dinner and Classic Movie in Antigua!

April 19th, 2012

Manny P. here…

   While planning a vacation, you might want to vistit the island of Antigua; located along the chain known as the West Indies in the heart of the Caribbean. The Carlisle Bay Resort is one of the most beautiful areas, nestled on a breathtaking beach, with an amazing backdrop of lush rainforest-covered hills.

   According to AntiguaNice.com, we have found another unique reason to stay at this heaven-on-earth locale. Carlisle Bay Resort is now offering dinner and a classic motion picture. Here are the details from their website:

Join us for a delicious meal in either East or Indigo on the Beach; then relax and watch a classic movie in our luxurious Screening Room – it’s the best cinematic experience on Antigua!

The full season includes a fabulous selection of classic cinema:

One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest – Friday 27 April
Cool Hand Luke – Saturday 28 April
The Postman Always Rings Twice – Friday 4 May
Citizen Kane – Saturday 5 May

   Previous cinematic selections have included 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, and Rebel Without a Cause. What a great way to end a perfect day on the beach, or while at other points of interest.

   Antigua is home to noted personalities, such as Timothy Dalton, Robin Leach, and Eric Clapton. In fact, Clapton has established an Antiguan drug treatment centre on the south of the island. ——–>

   Back at Carlisle Bay Resorts, the evening begins with dinner from 7p, and film screenings starting at 9pm.

Until next time>                               “never forget”

“Forgotten Hollywood”- Bandstand Loses its Conductor…

April 18th, 2012

Manny P. here…

   Dick Clark, television pioneer who created American Bandstand, the Pyramid game show series of programs, and New Year’s Rockin’ Eve has died. He was known as America’s oldest teenager by generations of small screen viewers.

   Though born in New York, for many years, Clark called Philadelphia his home. A neighbor was Ed McMahon (he famously introduced to Johnny Carson).  DICK CLARK –>

   American Bandstand is credited in bringing rock ‘n roll to a mainstream audience. Among his many early guests, included Elvis Presley, Little Richard, and Jackie Wilson. After moving Bandstand to Hollywood, Clark was able to showcase Leslie Gore, Stevie Wonder, and The Shirelles (among others). The theme song was a big hit for Barry Manilow.

    Dick Clark took his show on the road with his annual  Caravan of the Stars. Stars such as Chubby Checker, Pat Boone, James Brown, The Supremes, Smokey Robinson, and Chuck Berry were headliners while they toured the country. Musical artists played to sold out crowds.

   A television spinoff of the concert tour,  Where the Action Is,  debuted in the mid-1960s.  Clark also created The American Music Awards in 1973. He appeared in Peggy Sue Got Married, which starred Kathleen Turner. He lent his persona to documentaries Bowling for Columbine and Confessions of a Dangerous Mind. As an actor on television, Dick had noted guest roles on Perry Mason and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.

   Dick Clark Productions was formed by earnings made from American Bandstand, and it continues to this day. It’s created a number of successful game shows and television specials over the years. As a youthful host, Clark garnered four Emmys and a Peabody Award. His work earned his entry into the National Radio, Broadcasting Magazine, Rock and Roll, and the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Halls of Fame.

   On a personal note, Clark hired my good friend, Shawn Parr, a few years back. The mentor secured a number of lucrative jobs for the announcer, including the backstage assignment on the Golden Globes.

   Dick Clark was 82.

Until next time>                               “never forget”

“Forgotten Hollywood”- My Holiday Bonus Finally Arrives!

April 17th, 2012

Manny P. here…

   Thanks to info from Danforth Distribution, along with sales  announced from Amazon Kindle and Barnes & Noble Nook eBooks. I have surpassed 2400 copies of FORGOTTEN HOLLYWOOD  FORGOTTEN HISTORY (my first book) sold. I also teeter at 100 downloaded eBooks of my first work, while advancing past the year anniversary (projected total by the end of April).

  

   I received my monthly distributor report (which is always a little over ninety days behind)  confirming Fall and Winter purchases through Amazon, Partners West, Baker & Taylor, and Ingram. Reliably, as the holidays approach, my first work has resonated with literary shoppers.

    

   For many reasons, today’s the day I start celebrating Christmas, 2011!

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   I’ve added a Navigation Bar link in the Hollywoodland section (on the left) to a fantastic site that positively targets devotees of classic films. ClassicFilmSchool.com is currently providing vivid interviews conducted at last weekend’s TCM Film Festival, and an insightful overview. This is quite a savvy place to visit.

   Here’s a direct link:

http://www.classicfilmschool.com/ClassicFilmSchool/Home.html

Until next time>                               “never forget”

“Forgotten Hollywood”- History Channel Attract “A” List Stars

April 16th, 2012

Manny P. here…

   Hollywood and history is offering an enormous Hollywood-and-Vine moment on Memorial Day. The History Channel is debuting Hatfields & McCoys,  a three-part miniseries starring Kevin Costner, Powers Boothe, and Bill Paxton.

   The actors are no strangers to Western-themed cinema, with Costner winning an Oscar for Dances with Wolves, and appeared in Silverado, Wyatt Earp, and Open Rangeand Paxton in Tombstone and Frank and Jesse. Mare Winningham co-stars in the saga. The television event is produced by Leslie Greif, who is best known for co-creating Walker, Texas Ranger. The History Channel is currently running a graphic trailer promoting the program.

  

   The Hatfield / McCoy feud involved two large nineteenth century families that lived along the border of the West Virginia and Kentucky back country. A simple misunderstanding touched off a 25-year feud leading to an extreme number of revenge slayings. This showdown forced a resolution by the US Supreme Court. The upcoming small-screen special is expected to chronicle events in detail.

   The feud entered the lexicon of folklore as a metaphor for any bitter activity between rival parties. Ma and Pa Kettle were a cinematic gun-toting family based on the historic feud. Tom Dooley, the #1 song by The Kingston Trio, has its folk roots tied to the Hatfields & McCoys.  References were made in movies by Buster Keaton and Abbott & Costello; and in an animated  one-reeler created by Warner Brothers Merrie Melodies starring Bugs Bunny. Television also joined the fray in cartoon episodes of Huckleberry Hound, The Flinstones, and Scooby Doo; and in programs, including Star Trek and The Andy Griffith Show.

   Descendents are quite aware of their past. They fittingly appeared together on the game show… Family Feud in 1979. In fact, the program was created by producers, inspired by the famous vendetta. After appearing on two episodes, the Hatfield & McCoy families tied at 1-1.

   In 1999, the Hatfield and McCoy Historic Site Restoration was completed. Many tourists travel each year to parts of West Virginia and Kentucky to analyze the remaining relics. The Hillbilly Days fest in Pikeville, Kentucky is an annual Shriners fundraiser. It was reportedly founded by one member from each of the two families. Recently, an account of the feud was  presented on How the States Got Their Shapes; a History Channel program.

   Part of my Memorial Day television viewing is now set, I’m thrilled to admit.

Until next time>                          “never forget… y’all”

“Forgotten Hollywood”- Key Largo Aboard African Queen!

April 15th, 2012

Manny P. here…

   Talk about mixing your Bogie-metaphors! The African Queen has been restored to offer tours along Key Largo, Florida. Set to be scrapped, the steamboat instead was given a heavy facelift to the delight of tourists. It took $60,000 to fix.

   The wooden slip was built in 1912 by the British East Africa Railway Company, and was the official transport for missionaries, big game hunters, and cargo through the Belgian Congo and Uganda. Huston and Sam Spiegal purchased the boat in 1950, giving it a focal personality throughout this classic.

   It’s fantastic to see a national treasure restored, bringing back a bit of cinematic history to a new generation of film lovers.

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   The Buena Park Historical Society is currently housing Son of Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten HistoryCalifornia Welcome  Center is right next door, and this location has a quaint gift shop. Patrons visiting Orange County seem to have a vast curious nature about everything classic Hollywood, so its is a great partnership.

   While at the Center, you can pick up statewide tourist-site maps,  Knott’s Berry Farm’s famous jellies; and spin their wheel-of-fortune to win cool prizes.

   The Buena Park Historical Society is located at 6631 Beach Blvd. (near the 5 freeway), and is a non-profit organization. Their tour is a fascinating look at living conditions during early Orange County in the houses of the founding fathers of Buena Park, California.

   Below is a link to the Buena Park Historical Society website:

http://www.historicalsociety.org

    Here’s the specific link to the Buena Park Chapter of the California Welcome Center:

http://www.visitcwc.com/BuenaPark/

   Historical societies and tourist centers, in general, are astounding places to carry my Book Series, since my paperbacks combine Hollywood history with American folklore.

Until next time>                               “never forget”

“Forgotten Hollywood”- Grauman’s Two-Bits Classic Offer!

April 14th, 2012

Manny P. here…

   To celebrate Grauman’s Chinese Theater’s 85th birthday, the movie palace is proudly offering 25 Cent Movie-Mondays. For two Mondays in April and May, four classic films can be enjoyed for just a quarter. The listed motion picture playbill had their original West Coast premiere at Grauman’s. If this promotional idea gets an enthusiastic response, the location promises to extend the special bi-monthly offer for the rest of the year.

   Tickets go on sale today at noon. Below is the complete schedule:

   Grauman’s had its own premiere in 1927, and the first motion picture presented was Cecil B. DeMille’s King of Kings. Three Oscar ceremonies have taken place at the theater. It’s known as the iconic locale where Hollywood’s elite have left their hand and footprints in cement. Tens of thousands of tourists visit the front facade each year.

Until next time>                                “never forget”

“Forgotten Hollywood”- Girlfriend of Clark Gable’s Son Dies…

April 13th, 2012

Manny P. here…

   Christiane Candice Lange, a celebrity makeup artist, and beau to John Clark Gable (the son of the iconic actor), was found dead in her Malibu home. According to the coroner’s initial report, there is no indication of foul play. However, prescription medication may have led to a possible heart attack. An autopsy is pending. And, the LAPD is conducting an investigation, including A toxicology test, to determine the exact cause of death.    CHRISTIANE LANGE  ——->

   She was best known for giving Pam Anderson her signature look. Lange’s family roots were tied to Hollywood, since her parents owned a famous boutique along the Sunset Strip during the 1960’s. Their clients included Cher, Tina Turner, Carole King, Janis Joplin, Julie Christie, Barbra Streisand, and Liza Minnelli.

  John Gable was born in 1961, a few months after the demise of his famous dad. Clark’s death was tied to heart stress related to a variety of vigorous stunts performed on location in the desert while filming The Misfits with Montgomery Clift, Marilyn Monroe, and Eli Wallach.

   John has vowed to cooperate with detectives in the upcoming investigation. After Gable tried to revive his girlfriend Wednesday morning, he immediately called authorities. He’s reportedly in shock over the tragedy.

   Christiane Lange was just 41.

Until next time>                                 “never forget”

“Forgotten Hollywood”- Herman Wouk Pens a New Novel…

April 10th, 2012

Manny P. here…

   One of the great writers of the last century has a new book set for release. Despite being 96, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Herman Wouk’s new work is ready for the Fall. It’s called The Lawgiver, which chronicles a new movie to be made about the life of Moses. Switching publishers from Little, Brown and Co., Simon & Schuster will distribute the novel.

   Wouk is known for fine literature, including The Caine Mutiny, The Winds of War, and War and Remembrance. Humphrey Bogart, Natalie Wood, Robert Mitchum, Gene Kelly, Van Johnson, Jose Ferrer, Topol, Ralph Bellamy, and John Gielgud have all spoken the words of this prolific scribe. His contributions have translated well onto celluloid. Wouk penned Aurora Dawn in 1947, his first book; and he also created Marjorie Morningstar. Ironically, his first publisher was Simon & Schuster.

   Wouk adapted The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial, turning it into a stage play in 1953. Three decades later, Charlton Heston portrayed Capt. Queeg in the inaugural production at the Henry Fonda Theatre (along Hollywood Blvd.). On a personal note, I saw this script come to life, and it was one of the finest live performances I’ve ever witnessed. Heston also directed this version.

   Herman Wouk has now produced a new novel about a subject, made  cinematically famous by Charlton Heston. And, so it goes…

 

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   A Burrough in the Big Apple is now the latest independent literary location that proudly carries Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History. The Greenlight Bookstore is located at 686 Fulton St. in Brooklyn. If you don’t live in the New York, you can order the book online at:

http://www.greenlightbookstore.com/book/9781935359166

Until next time>                               “never forget”