Forgotten Hollywood

Manny P. here…

   Summer 2012 is expected to be a classic cinema lolllapalooza! Let me provide a couple of savory examples…

EXHIBIT A: Limited screenings of Christopher Plummer’s newest film release are now going on. As I heralded in a previous blog, the actor will profile the legendary John Barrymore. I’m really salivating over this new production, simply called Barrymore.

EXHIBIT B: A series of Blu Ray DVD releases are set to hit stores by June, and throughout the Summer. They include: The Gold Rush (1925), The 39 Steps (1935), Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956), High Noon (1952), Harold and Maude (1971), and Jaws (1975). Expect top motion pictures created by Charlie Chaplin, Alfred Hitchcock, Steven Spielberg, Gary Cooper, and Ruth Gordon in hi definition, and in the comfort of your own home.

EXHIBIT C: The Film Society of Lincoln Center is right in the heart of the Upper West Side of Manhattan, and in the middle of a classic film series called DYNAMIC DUOS. Upcoming fabulous motion pictures  include Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (June 17 and 18), The Big Sleep (June 23 and 24); and The Sting (June 30 and July 1). Bring your family to a weekend matinee by 2p at the spacious Elinor Bunin Munroe Film Center’s Amphitheater. You can purchase an affordable ticket price, plus a healthy lunch… First come, first serve.

EXHIBIT D: Free Movie on the Beach will be presented by our friends in Santa Cruz. Each Wednesday in July and August, enjoy surf, sand, smores, and a series of family-friendly films such as The Lost Boys (July 11), Grease (July 18), The Princess Bride (July 25), and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (August 8). Each evening’s activities are brought to you by the non-profit organization Save our Shores, the City of Santa Cruz. and several radio stations in the area.

   My suggestion is to enjoy the screening of a classic movie, or an upcoming release taking us back to Hollywood’s Golden Age… Your Witness!

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   The Brothers Grimm were known for children’s fables that concluded with harsh lessons. The Pied Piper of Hamelin took place during the Thirteenth Century in the very-real German town. As the tale goes: The mayor of the hamlet hires a minstrel to rid the town of rats. When the elected politicos refuse to pay the piper, the children of Hamelin are sacrificed; sent to drown in a neighboring river as payment for the duplicitous nature of the village officials.

   In 1957, NBC aired a televised special, based on a Robert Browning-related poem, with Van Johnson as the Pied Piper, and Claude Rains as the mayor. It was the only time Rains sang and danced in his screen career. Jim Backus, Doodles Weaver and Kay Starr co-starred. The program repeated in 1958, and was later syndicated. In the tradition of holiday specials, it was re-run annually on Thanksgiving. The movie was released in theatres in 1966. Johnson’s performance as the Pied Piper was so fondly remembered, he played a similar style crook – The Minstrel – that year on Batman.

   Now, the German city of Hamelin needs a new Pied Piper. The rats are reportedly back and creating havoc to the community. But, it seems the Brothers Grimm got it wrong. According to the fable, the minstrel also led the rodents to drown as an initial solution. It turns out, the pests are really good swimmers. City officials may still be  paying the piper.

   And so it goes…

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   The Griffith Observatory overlooking L.A. is as famous as the Hollywood Sign. Over the last decade, it’s received a facelift; due to the hefty contributions of science fiction-cinematic legend and his wife. The naming of the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon recognizes generous contribution by actors Leonard and Susan Bay-Nimoy to the Observatory’s renovation and expansion. A recent guest was legendary author Ray Bradbury.

   According to the Observatory website:

The Once and Future Griffith Observatory provides an exciting and compelling introduction to the history and unique public offerings of the Observatory. This 24-minute film, entertainingly narrated by Leonard Nimoy, reveals how the vision of one man led to the creation of an architectural, cultural, and astronomical icon for Southern California. The film offers an overview of the Observatory’s programs and exhibits and discusses how the building was renewed during the 2002-2006 renovation and expansion project.

The new 200-seat Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon presentation theater dramatically expands the Observatory’s programming and education capabilities.  Show Times: Every hour on the hour.

<— Leonard Nimoy is best known for playing Spock on Star Trek. He has appeared in genre-related cinema, including THEM!, a remake of Invasion of the Body Snatchers, and The Transformers series. On the small screen, Nimoy was a regular on Mission Impossible; and as a guest star on Sea Hunt, The Outer Limits, The Twilight Zone, and recently,  The Big Bang Theory.

   Rebel Without a Cause was famously filmed at this location in 1954. James Dean had memorable scenes in the motion picture. The Griffith Observatory is opened mostly every day. Parking is limited.

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   The final recordings of Louis Armstrong can be yours through the Smithsonian Institute.  Six months before Satchmo died, he made one final appearance in 1971 at the Inauguration of incoming National Press Club President Vernon Louviere, a fellow native of New Orleans. Armstrong’s signature voice and trumpet playing were captured, and put on vinyl a year later after his passing. Only 300 album copies were initially pressed. David Frost can also be heard, since he was the emcee at the event.

   These rare moments are now widely available for the first time from Smithsonian Folkways Recordings as part of their 11th annual celebration of Jazz Appreciation Month. The CD is entitled Satchmo at The National Press Club: Red Beans & Rice-ly Yours. Notable live versions include Hello Dolly, A Theme From The Threepenny Opera (Mack the Knife) and Boy From New York City. Own a piece of our cultural history!

   His health in decline, Louis Armstrong died in his sleep of a heart attack on July 6, 1971, a month before his 70th birthday. What a Wonderful World of jazz he left behind. His body-of-work in music and cinema is considered immeasurable.

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   As I mentioned last August in a major announcement, the Director’s Forever Stamps are finally available. Featured on each piece of postage is the face of iconic filmmakers, with a scene from representative motion pictures in the background. While mailing a letter, you can place a stamp featuring Frank Capra / It Happened One Night; John Ford / The Searchers; Billy Wilder / Some Like It Hot; or John Huston / The Maltese Falcon.

   The US Postal Service – Forever Series can be applied to a letter ad infinitum, even if the price of a stamp appreciates.

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   Son of Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History can be found in SEVEN BARNES & NOBLE locations in California and New York. In addtion to early additions at the Grove in Hollywood and Greenwich Village, you can purchase paperback at:

~ MANHATTAN / Tribeca Area of NYC

~ BURBANK – MANHATTAN BEACH – MARINA REY / Los Angeles County

~ FULLERTON / Orange County

   Tribeca is wonderful place to find my work, since Robert De Niro sponsors a nationally known Film Festival in the area. Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History is in 18 BARNES & NOBLE stores. Both books in the series are also available at your local B&N shop… on demand.

Great news all around!

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   The Hatfields and McCoys finally agree! The 19th Century infamous feud will be chronicled over three days on the History Channel, beginning Memorial Day. At a pre-screening, the large audience (mostly consisting of members from both families still living in Kentucky and West Virginia) have proclaimed the production as FANTASTIC and FAIRLY ACCURATE!

   Kevin Costner and Bill Paxton head an all-star cast in this upcoming cable mini-series.

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   In 1959, Kirk Douglas made a historic decision as co-producer of Spartacus. The actor wanted screen credit for blacklisted writer Dalton Trumbo, who had written many award-winning screenplays (including Roman Holiday) under a pseudonym. A courageous stand overturned a decade of ruined careers for writers, directors, and actors who were denied opportunities in Hollywood by movie studios. Columnist Hedda Hopper called for a boycott of the movie, when it was released in 1960. The public came, including President John Kennedy, who saw it in early 1961 at the Warner Theater in Washington. He showed support, saying it was a fine film. Jobs were again available to talented folks, whose politics were in question for a generation.

   Kirk Douglas will be honored on May 31st by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences at the Goldenson Theater; and celebrate the release of his memoirs, I am Spartacus! Making a Film, Breaking the Blacklist. It’s the actor’s 10th literary work, available as paperback edition, and an eBook on June 12th from Open Road Media.

`

   Joining Mr. Douglas will be Liam McIntyre and Steven DeKnight from the STARZ series – Spartacus: Vengeance. And, it will be moderated by Peter Hammond. The Goldenson Theatre is located at 5220 Lankershim Blvd. in North Hollywood. The event begins promptly at 7:30p.

   Spartacus was a leader, warrior, and inspiration to his people. His political and societal impact parallels the influential decisions made by a great actor and patriot who has called Hollywood his workplace for seven decades… the iconic Kirk Douglas!

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   Malabar Farm State Park is the former Ohio home of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Louis Bromfield. During the weekend of June 1st, this historic landmark is celebrating Hollywood’s Golden Age. The noted guests are the children of Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, and Tyrone Power.

   Stephen Bogart and Tyrone Power Jr. will host a series of panel discussions about personal family stories. The actor’s sons will offer commentary of movie clips and newsreel footage  focusing on their famous parents. They will also attend a series of tours, including at the Big House where Bogie and Bacall were married in 1945; plus, wagon tours of The Shawshank Redemption film location sites, and of the sprawling Malabar Farm.

   Our love affair with these Hollywood icons will continue over a memorable series of lunches and dinners. For more information, click on the link below:

 http://www.malabarfarm.org/index.php/event-guide/hollywood-returns

<– Louis Bromfield won a Pulitzer Prize in 1927 for Early Autumn. The novelist is best known for penning The Rains Came and Mrs. Parkington, which were  adapted into popular cinema. These movies cast top actors of the day:  Greer Garson, Walter Pidgeon, Myrna Loy, George Brent, and… Tyrone Power. Hmm, I suspect a tie-in to the upcoming event!

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   I’ve discovered another literary locale that sells Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History (on demand). Bookshop Santa Cruz is located in a picturesque area the world in Northern California. Here’s a link to the site if you want to pick up a copy:

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

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   A statue of Marilyn Monroe is set to welcome visitors to Palm Springs. The sculpture of the iconic actress will stand at the corner of Tahquitz Canyon Way and Palm Canyon Dr. in the Downtown area. A creation of noted artist Seward Johnson, Forever Marilyn is grand at 26-feet tall. It was previously in Chicago, and took a week and $40,000 to transport.

   The life-like figure depicts the blonde in her famous pose from The Seven Year Itch. The scene of Marilyn pushing down her skirt as she stood on an air duct will come to life for the Southern California desert community. And, tourists are already getting a jump by taking lots of photographs. Much of the replica has been erected.

   Still being assembled, the official ribbon cutting is set for May 24th. There is little doubt, Palm Springs prefers Marilyn…

   With Monroe the face at the Festival Du Cannes currently going on, the tantalizing actress remains vital in 2012.

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   The self-proclaimed Friendliest Rotary Club in the Region did not disappoint. Held at the legendary Ebell of Los Angeles, the Wilshire Rotary conducted their Wednesday meeting at noon. During the luncheon, a variety of upcoming events were discussed; a recent international trip was shared; and friends of the Rotary (including a member from Virginia) were introduced. We even sang a chorus of Blue Skies (by Irving Berlin).

   After my presentation, which shared tales about Hollywood’s Golden Age, I was engaged with a lively Q&A. Then, a surprising presentation was made. Outgoing President Kyle Pierce gave me a Certificate of Appreciation. According to this most special of keep-sakes:

Perhaps more than any other challenge facing Brazil today, illiteracy remains a stumbling block in establishing itself as one of the world’s most powerful nations. Their public education system is consistently under-funded, inefficiently run, and to top it off, disproportionately benefitting the wealthy.

A contribution has been made in (Manny Pacheco’s) name to the humanitarian programs sponsored by our club, including a literacy development project for underprivileged kids in Brazil…

The concept is simple; investing in education builds economies, stabilizes democracies, and enriches the minds of future generations. Rotarians with their capacity for leadership and grassroots connections are able to make a difference. We reach within ourselves to embrace humanity.

`

   What a gracious gift of humanity and generosity by the Wilshire Rotary of Los Angeles. They are known to completely embrace the concept of Service Above Self. I can never repay the kindness presented by the membership. AMEN to this fine group of folks!

   Here’s a link to the Wilshire Rotary of Los Angeles website:

http://www.wilshirerotary.org/

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   The 2012 El Segundo Author Fair is Sunday, June 3rd. Expected are 35 local authors and poets, covering such topics as mystery, memoir, travel, cooking, children’s, music, and more. Authors will meet and greet the public at signing tables, while poets read their works in the Rose Garden Room. Of course, I’ll be autographing copies of my Forgotten Hollywood Book Series.

    I’m thrilled to be moderating a Pop Cultural Icon Panel at 2:30p, which should include a spirited discussion. Our guests are true legends in the field of cinema, television, photography, and music.

   The event has also received nice press clippings from the El Segundo Herald, the Daily Breeze, and the Beach Reporter, as noted below:

http://www.tbrnews.com/calendar/

   Here are the complete details:

   I hope you might visit a special afternoon of literary fun! This year’s Author Fair is cheerfully co-sponsored by the El Segundo Public Library and Friends of the El Segundo Public Library.

   Below are a couple of links to the 2012 El Segundo Author Fair homepage:

http://www.elsegundo.org/library/

http://www.elsegundo.org/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?BlobID=9676

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   In July 2011, I received 5-Stars from the prestigious Midwest Book Review for Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History. Less than a year later, I’ve got another 5-Star accolade. Son of Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History is the recipient of another positive critique from the Midwest Book Review.

They write in the May 2012 edition:

Small Press Bookwatch / Theater-Cinema

Son of Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History
Manny Pacheco
Book Publishers Network
PO Box 2256, Bothell, WA 98041
9781937454142, $18.95, www.bookpublishersnetwork.com

The glue that holds great movies together are the supporting cast, who often don’t get the credit they deserve. “Son of Forgotten Hollywood History” chronicles the supporting roles throughout the golden era of Hollywood film-making, discussing the people who stood by the stars and made their own mark in film. A follow up to his previous volume, Manny Pacheco continues to bring lesser known Hollywood history to the forefront. “Son of Forgotten Hollywood History” is a strong addition to any community library film collection.

   It’s a marvelous appraisal in the journey taken by the Forgotten Hollywood-Book Series.  Here’s the official link to the review site to confirm their unsolicited comments:

http://www.midwestbookreview.com/sbw/may_12.htm#Theatre/Cinema

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   The historic Ebell of Los Angeles is the site of my next booksigning. The Wilshire Rotary Club of Los Angeles is having their weekly lunch meeting  on Wednesday, May 16th at this iconic spot.

   The Ebell of Los Angeles is a women’s club with a clubhouse building and the renowned 1,270-seat Wilshire Ebell Theatre. The complex has operated since 1927.

   Remarkable appearances at the Ebell include the final press conference by Amelia Earhardt,  before attempting her 1937 around-the-world flight in which she subsequently vanished; and where Judy Garland was discovered while performing as Baby Frances Gumm in the 1930s. She was singing to MGM producers George Sidney and Joseph L. Mankiewicz, who happened to be  in the audience. They later met the 13-year-old backstage at the Ebell, determined to bring her to the attention of studio mogul Louis B. Mayer. A number of scenes from The Artist were also recently filmed at this location.

   The Wilshire Ebell was declared a Los Angeles Cultural Historic Monument in 1982. In 1994, the locale was added to the National Register of Historic Places. It’s also been designated an Official American Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

   Wednesday’s fellowship allows Rotarians in the area the chance to tie Hollywood history with Americana, and the Rotary International’s vast relationship with our national story. Service Above Self and the Goal to Eradicate Polio actually relate to cherished tales I plan on sharing in this unique journey through Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History.

   The Ebell of Los Angeles is located at 743 S. Lucerne Blvd. along the outskirts of Hollywood (of course).

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   Chaplin, the new musical depicting the dramatic life of the silent screen legend, will begin its official run on August 21st at the chic  Barrymore Theatre, according to the New York Times. Previously entitled Becoming Chaplin, the production will be directed and choreographed by Warren Carlyle (Finian’s Rainbow), and features music and lyrics by Christopher Curtis from the book by Curtis and Tony-winner Thomas Meehan (The Producers).

   Chaplin shares the story of the man behind the iconic films as The Gold Rush, The Kid, Modern Times, The Great Dictator, and City Lights, The actor forever changed the way America went to the movies. And, he was the last major star to shun the concept of talkies.

 

   The new musical comes to Broadway following a 2010 stint at the San Diego La Jolla Playhouse, when it was then called Limelight: The Story of Charlie Chaplin. Casting is currently underway. Just a thought… Robert Downey Jr. might rock the title role if he was inclined to consider the opportunity.

   Opening night is set for September 10th.

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   George Herman Babe Ruth’s contract was purchased by the New York Yankees from the Boston Red Rox in 1919. Three years later, The Bambino bought a two-acre property Sudbury, Massachusetts. He called it Home Plate Farm. The baseball legend sold the property in 1926 after divorcing his wife, Helen.

   Though the farm is gone, the house is still in place. The property also includes a large barn, as well as, a garage. Today, the over-5,000 square foot home has been renovated with modern-day conveniences, including a gourmet kitchen with cherry wood cabinets, a spacious sunroom, and cheerful living areas with exposed beams, stately Rumford fireplaces, and built-in cabinetry. The Sultan of Swat would recognize original features  intact. For example, the living room floor contain burn marks from Ruth’s cigar ashes.

   The property is being offered for $1.65 million. The listing is found on www.realtor.com, and the agent is Scott Adamson of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. Now’s the time to get in on this piece of history!

Manny P. here…

   My visit on Saturday, May 19th to Ventura County is taking me to Mrs. Figs’ Bookworm, a premier book store in Camarillo. According to their flyer:

Until next time>                                “never forget”