Five years before America’s bicentennial: A look back at 1971

In 1971, Charles Manson was found guilty of the Tate-LaBianca murders; Joe Frazier defeated Muhammad Ali in The Fight of the Century; The Ed Sullivan Show aired its final episode; Starbucks and FedEx were founded; The New York Times published The Pentagon Papers; Richard Nixon declared the War on Drugs; Walt Disney World opened; The… Continue reading Five years before America’s bicentennial: A look back at 1971

It’s Logan!

  It (2017) I watched the 1990 miniseries as a preteen and read the massive novel shortly after. I have a fond attachment for the performances of Annette O’Toole, John Ritter, Harry Anderson, Richard Thomas, and especially  Tim Curry as Pennywise. But, sadly, I watched it again a few years back and it doesn’t hold up. It’s… Continue reading It’s Logan!

An old man goes to a hell house and a flood breaks out

  Venus (2006) Elderly actor Maurice (Peter O’Toole) begins a relationship with Jessie, the much younger niece of his friend Ian.  Jessie tolerates his amorous advances because she’s struggling financially and Maurice provides her with a steady income, while the pursuit of Jessie provides Maurice with a purpose and renewed vitality. Richard Griffiths, Leslie Phillips, and… Continue reading An old man goes to a hell house and a flood breaks out