Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Charlie and Edna Christmas Gift ideas!

Still looking for that Charlie Chaplin and/or Edna Purviance gift?
Check out the DVD, music book guide!
DVD GUIDE | MUSIC | BOOKS | MORE BOOKS

UPDATE! Just learned from one of our loyal Edna fans, that Flicker Alley is having a special sale of the Chaplin at Keystone Collection for $59.96 with FREE SHIPPING. This is directly from the company selling them in the USA, so the best I have seen for NEW! LINK

SHE is the latest on Adventure Films

If you haven't listened, please do, as Garen and Murray Ewing talk,
in detail, about nine adventure films from King Kong to Raiders.
I've really enjoyed these all year, and learned new items about old favorites
and now have some new favorite films in the collection.
Two more shows to come!!! LINK

http://adventurefilmspodcast.blogspot.com/

The story behind the film HUGO

Martin Scorcese 3-D film HUGO is getting a buzz in the silent film world as the story centers around silent French filmmaker Georges Méliès. But the story actually comes from the 500+ page children's book 'The Invention of Hugo Cabret' by Brian Selznick. It's a richly illustrated children's story about an orphan boy who lives in the walls of a Paris train station. He meets Georges Méliès running a toy shop in the same station.

Martin Scorcese is getting a lot of attention for bringing the book to the screen, so I thought you like to mean the author the film is based on. First one is from NPR in 2007 where Selznick talked to All Things Considered. Second is a trailer about the book and the third is the current trailer from the film.

Edna .org is 10 years old today

Ten years ago, today, November 25, 2001, I launched Edna Purviance .org. I don't have any party balloons, party horns, big flowers or even a birthday cake.  No mile long special post, or much else today. Just a thank you to all the great supporters and fans over the last 10 years, with special thanks to Garen Ewing and Dominique Dugros, for their special support over the years. Edna's site has where we have been the last 10 years, keep following us to see where it goes in the future... Thanks, everyone!

Bill Douglas Part 6 & 7

Sorry for the low updates here, but have been spending time writing after work these days...

New York City Library - The Birth of Promotion exhibit

November 22 - January 2012
New York City Library

The Birth of Promotion:
Inventing Film Publicity in the Silent-Film Era

The evolution of motion pictures from invention to art form has spanned the century.  The basic elements of the promotion and distribution of film were established in the silent film era.  This exhibition focuses on the development of those elements -- posters, promotional magazines, advertising, and exploitation campaigns -- from pre-cinema to the transition to sound film.  The gallery visitor will be able to view posters, programs, advertisements, and lobby cards that were shown to the public from 1890 to 1930..." New York City Library

Scottish filmmaker, Bill Douglas Part 5

Scottish filmmaker, Bill Douglas Part 3 & 4

Part 3 - Bill Douglas: Intent on Getting the Image



Part 4 - Bill Douglas: Intent on Getting the Image

Scottish filmmaker, Bill Douglas

If you followed Edna's sites over the years, you know I have mentioned Peter Jewell and the Bill Douglas Centre at the University of Exeter. I met Peter Jewell 10 years ago in London. He was the founder for the Centre back in 1994.

He has been a longtime supporter of Edna, so it has been great to see this documentary about his longtime friend. Called 'Intent of Getting the Image' it covers his life and his years as a filmmaker and collector.

This month, Bill Douglas have been remembered at a special event in Scotland. In honor of this event, here is a look at this special documentary, that is available on The Bill Douglas Trilogy from BFI. It's about hour, so I will post in four parts. Part one and two today.





Link to the The Bill Douglas Centre

Happy Birthday, EDNA!

Happy Birthday, Edna Purviance!
with a new mural in Niles!
by San Francisco bay artist, Laura Ramie

"And of course, there is Edna Purviance, Charlie Chaplin’s leading lady for over thirty films. She is wearing her costume from the short In The Park (which was actually filmed in Golden Gate Park). I love Edna and Charlie– they are so cute together!" - Laura Ramie

Link to Ramie's full mural showing some of the history at Niles
and the stars and company owners of Essanay Studios. Also,
learn more about creation of the mural at Laura's site.

And the Edna Purviance 2011 Birthday Event winner is...

WE HAVE A WINNER! NAME COMING SOON!!!
NOTE: IF YOUR NAME WAS IN THE DRAWING, BUT YOU DIDN'T WIN, A SURPRISE COMING! STAY TUNE! ANNOUNCEMENT ON EDNA'S BIRTHDAY, OCTOBER 21TH!

 EDNA'S BIRTHDAY CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED! FIRST EMAIL WILL BE HAS BEEN SENT WITHIN THE HOUR. IF YOU RECEIVE AN EMAIL, YOU MUST RESPOND IN 24 HOURS, OR A NEW NAME WILL BE DRAWN. THAT'S THE RULES! GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!!!!

WE DON'T HAVE A WINNER, UNTIL SOMEONE REPLIES, SO PLEASE, STICK AROUND...

REMINDER! Shasta 6th Annual Silent Film Festival!

October 21-22, 2011
Shasta County Arts Council
6th Annual Silent Film Festival
Redding, California
Hosted by David Shepard
MORE DETAILS

Edna Purviance October Birthday 2011 REMINDER!

Edna Purviance's birthday is October 21th! The special Birthday drawing for 'The Sea Gull' book will happen on THURSDAY, October 20th, just after NOON, Pacific Coast time. If you are already entered, please CHECK your EMAIL for the LAST REMINDER notice.

If your name is drawn on October 20th, you will receive a special email. YOU will have 24-hours to respond to that email, before the next name is drawn. We keep drawing, until we have a winner!

So PLEASE, watch your emails on October 20th, if in the drawing. We don't want you to miss out, but if you do, that's the rules. It helps keep the drawing for fans who really want the book, and not just entering, to just win something.

If you haven't entered, you still can. DEADLINE is NOON, October 20th, Pacific Coast TIME.

GOOD LUCK to EVERYONE! And WATCH THOSE EMAILS!!!

M-G-M: Hollywood's Greatest Backlot

Hollywood Heritage and the Hollywood Heritage Museum
Steve Sylvester and Michael Troyan
Evening @ the Barn
October 12, 2011 at 7:30 PM
book signing for their new book
M-G-M: Hollywood's Greatest Backlot
co-wrote with Steven Bingen. 

From Janet Hoffmann, Hollywood Heritage: Mr. Bingen is also the author of Warner Bros: The Stuff Dreams Are Made Of, and works as an archivist at Warner Bros. Studios.

Steve Sylvester has been an integral part of Hollywood Heritage through his extensive work at the Wattles Mansion and Gardens. You may also remember Steve's terrific documentary on art director Robert Kinoshita, which was presented at the museum in 2004.

Michael Troyan was a volunteer back when our museum was first named "The Hollywood Studio Museum." Since then he has authored A Rose For Mrs. Miniver: The Life of Greer Garson and contributed to Disney A-Z, The Disney Villains, and The Disney Poster Book. 

In addition to the authors sharing their knowledge of the legendary M-G-M Studio, the evening will also include a visual presentation and a short film Mr. Sylvester made on the former studio, followed by a question and answer session and book signing. So Come celebrate the legacy of what many believe to be Hollywood's greatest movie studio! 

HOLLYWOOD HERITAGE MUSEUM
Lasky-DeMille Barn
(Across from the Hollywood Bowl)2100 N. Highland Avenue, Hollywood, CA 90068

Doors open 7 p.m.; program starts 7:30 p.m.

MORE DETAILS

Reviews:
“Reading this was like being there. I know. I was there.” —Clint Eastwood

“The first ten films I made for MGM changed my life. Now you can go back in time—as I have—in the pages of this remarkable book, learning how and where the ‘Land of Make Believe’ became real. Once you take the journey, you, too, will be transported.” —Angela Lansbury

“What a cornucopia of valuable behind-the-scenes information and rare photos. I’ve got one word to describe this book: Irresistible!” —Leonard Maltin

“For anyone who has ever dreamed what it was like to live in the Golden Age of Hollywood, this visit to my grandfather’s studio will vividly re-create the experience. From hometown USA to eighteenth century France to medieval England to a village in China, the memories of all the great films that were made there will spring back to life.” —Daniel Mayer Selznick

“M-G-M: Hollywood’s Greatest Backlot is as good as its name. Building by building, soundstage by soundstage, even street by street, this comprehensive history uses detailed text and a wealth of behind the scenes photos to take you through the most storied of major studio lots. If you love classic Hollywood, this book is a knockout.” —Kenneth Turan

“ I was under contract with MGM for six years and twenty four films, and seeing this extraordinary new book of photos and commentary took me, and will take you, on a journey where Louis B. Mayer’s ‘More Stars Than There Are in Heaven’ acted on the magnificent grounds and sets of MGM’s five backlots.”—Richard Anderson

“What an achievement! Having spent a great deal of time on the backlot myself, this book brought forth so many memories. The description of the last days of MGM is brilliantly done, and the list of films shot on the various sets is incredible. All in all, it’s a spectacular project!” —Kevin Brownlow

Marilyn Nash has died, Chaplin's co-star in Monsieur Verdoux

Marilyn Nash (1926-2011), who co-starred with Charlie Chaplin in 'Monsieur Verdoux' has died. Here's a key scene of Charlie Chaplin and Nash in Monsieur Verdoux. (Thanks to Lisa Stein for the notice.)




UPDATE Oct 9, 2011: Here is a post from William Castle, who actually knew Marilyn Nash. He talks about Marilyn and her passing on October 6th, 2011. (Thanks to Garen for the correction on the date.) LINK

Conversations with Günter Buchwald & Serge Bromberg

Behind the scenes at Le Giornate Del Cinema Muto
Pordenone, Italy - 1-8, October 2011

Conductor, Günter Buchwald, talks about Charlie Chaplin's score for 'The Circus'

Serge Bromberg talks about Georges Méliès and the restoring of 'Trip to the Moon'

Edna's 10th Anniversary Drawing!

Edna's 10th Anniversary!

Special November Drawing!
Click Image for Details

And don't forget Edna's October Birthday Event!

LINK!

London's 'Not So Silent Movies'

Starting October 2nd, Kings Place in London will start there 'Not So Silent Movies' series.

"In a brand new series, on the first Sunday of each month this autumn, top musicians will perform spontaneous soundtracks to the world's greatest silent films without watching the films or rehearsing in advance. " - Not So Silent Movies

If you live in or near London, sounds like a fun event to check out! (see latest below) More here and trailer:



Performers:
Guy Pratt bass - (Pink Floyd & Roxy Music)
Geoff Dugmore drums - (Killing Joke, Rod Stewart)
Pip Eastop horn - (London Sinfonietta)
Elspeth Hanson violin - (Bond)
Julia Thornton harp and percussion - (Bryan Ferry, Solus3)
Peter Gregson assorted tools - (Imogen Heap, Gabriel Prokofiev)
Mark Neary pedal steel guitar - (The Hours, Baxter Drury)
Philip Sheppard cello - (UNKLE, Jeff Buckley)

NEXT Show!

Interview with David Raksin

Composer David Raksin talking about creating the Modern Times score with Charlie Chaplin.

I have been busy writing, so please excuse the quietness. But don't go away. Special post starting about Oct. 3rd. Meanwhile, back to writing...

My Australia interview

From Newcastle, Australia, comes my very first interview conducted by Newcastle Silent Film organizer, Shana Dennis. The Newcastle Silent Film Fun Factory is having their first, ever, silent film event, thanks to the Australia Silent Film Festival.

I feel honored to be asked and hope you will pay a visit and support Shana's event. If you live in that area, I hope you will support the Newcastle events being held this November 12 and 13, at the Greator Union in Newcastle, as well as all the other film events this fall in Australia. LINK 

Writing and keep watching!

Finally getting back into writing Edna's family biography after a few months off. Updates could be a bit slow here...

In the meantime, with ednapurviance.org 10th year coming in November, I will be posting a new drawing to celebrate! Watch here or on Edna's home page for details!

Meanwhile, here is the link to win a copy of 'The Sea Gull' at  Edna's October Birthday event.

Like to chat? You can Like Edna Purviance's Facebook fan page.

Back to writing!

Charlie Chaplin's Speech from The Great Dictator

The Adventurer

September 17, 2011

Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum

Edna Purviance and Charlie Chaplin in
'The Adventurer'

Scene with Edna (left) with Charlie in The Adventurer.

Just one of many of the monthly silent films to enjoy.
See the full September 2011 schedule at this link.

Michael Jackson's 'Smile'

And the most popular version in the last 10 years... Michael Jackson's 'Smile'

Nat King Cole 'Smile'

The original version of 'Smile' by Nat King Cole.

'Smile' by guitarist Steve Howe and Martin Taylor

Very nice guitar version of 'Smile' by English guitarist Steve Howe and Martin Taylor.


Note: 'Smile' lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons (1954). First recorded by Nat King Cole (1954). Modern Times theme music (1936) by Charlie Chaplin, with the help of arrangers Edward Powell, David Raksin, and music director Alfred Newman. More about SMILE. Charlie Chaplin MUSIC.

'Smile' with Glee

Popular in the last year is this version of 'Smile' by Glee.

Toni Tennille singing 'Smile'

Not a great clip, but a very short one of Toni Tennille singing 'Smile'


Note: 'Smile' lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons (1954). First recorded by Nat King Cole (1954). Modern Times theme music (1936) by Charlie Chaplin, with the help of arrangers Edward Powell, David Raksin, and music director Alfred Newman. More about SMILE. Charlie Chaplin MUSIC.

'Smile' with Natalie Cole

Natalie Cole version of 'Smile'


Note: 'Smile' lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons (1954). First recorded by Nat King Cole (1954). Modern Times theme music (1936) by Charlie Chaplin, with the help of arrangers Edward Powell, David Raksin, and music director Alfred Newman. More about SMILE. Charlie Chaplin MUSIC.

'Smile' with Eric Clapton

Eric Clapton version of 'Smile'


Note: 'Smile' lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons (1954). First recorded by Nat King Cole (1954). Modern Times theme music (1936) by Charlie Chaplin, with the help of arrangers Edward Powell, David Raksin, and music director Alfred Newman. More about SMILE. Charlie Chaplin MUSIC.

Ray Quinn 'Smile'

Ray Quinn's version of 'Smile'


Note: 'Smile' lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons (1954). First recorded by Nat King Cole (1954). Modern Times theme music (1936) by Charlie Chaplin, with the help of arrangers Edward Powell, David Raksin, and music director Alfred Newman. More about SMILE. Charlie Chaplin MUSIC.

'Smile' with Petula Clark

Live in Melbourne, Petula Clark singing 'Smile' and 'This is My Song'


Note: 'Smile' lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons (1954). First recorded by Nat King Cole (1954). Modern Times theme music (1936) by Charlie Chaplin, with the help of arrangers Edward Powell, David Raksin, and music director Alfred Newman. More about SMILE. Charlie Chaplin MUSIC. 'This is My Song' was the theme song for 'A Countess from Hong Kong' (1967). It became a hit song for Clark.

Rod Stewart 'Smile'

'Smile' with Rod Stewart


Note: 'Smile' lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons (1954). First recorded by Nat King Cole (1954). Modern Times theme music (1936) by Charlie Chaplin, with the help of arrangers Edward Powell, David Raksin, and music director Alfred Newman. More about SMILE. Charlie Chaplin MUSIC.

Janelle Monáe 'Smile'

Janelle Monáe 'Smile' live at the Hollywood Bowl, 2011...

Note: 'Smile' lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons (1954). First recorded by Nat King Cole (1954). Modern Times theme music (1936) by Charlie Chaplin, with the help of arrangers Edward Powell, David Raksin, and music director Alfred Newman. More about SMILE. Charlie Chaplin MUSIC.

Holly Cole Trio 'Smile'

Here is a twist to 'Smile' by Holly Cole Trio


Note: 'Smile' lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons (1954). First recorded by Nat King Cole (1954). Modern Times theme music (1936) by Charlie Chaplin, with the help of arrangers Edward Powell, David Raksin, and music director Alfred Newman. More about SMILE. Charlie Chaplin MUSIC.

Johnny Mathis 'Smile'

Johnny Mathis version of 'Smile'

Note: 'Smile' lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons (1954). First recorded by Nat King Cole (1954). Modern Times theme music (1936) by Charlie Chaplin, with the help of arrangers Edward Powell, David Raksin, and music director Alfred Newman. More about SMILE. Charlie Chaplin MUSIC.

'Smile' with Elvis Costello

Elvis Costello version of 'Smile'

'Smile' with Anne Akiko Myers

A sample of Anne Akiko Myers with Ryuichi Sakamoto performance of 'Smile' for the Japan Society 'Concert for Japan' last spring.

Neil Sedaka's Smile

Neil Sedaka - Smile

'Smile' sung by Judy Garland

Just one of Judy Garland's versions of 'Smile'


Note: 'Smile' lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons (1954). First recorded by Nat King Cole (1954). Modern Times theme music (1936) by Charlie Chaplin, with the help of arrangers Edward Powell, David Raksin, and music director Alfred Newman. More about SMILE. Charlie Chaplin MUSIC.

'Smile' by Djavan

Here's Smile with Brazilian singer and song writer, Djavan


Note: 'Smile' lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons (1954). First recorded by Nat King Cole (1954). Modern Times theme music (1936) by Charlie Chaplin, with the help of arrangers Edward Powell, David Raksin, and music director Alfred Newman. More about SMILE. Charlie Chaplin MUSIC.

'Smile' by Sun Ra

America jazz version of 'Smile' by Sun Ra with the Arkestra Band.



Note: 'Smile' lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons (1954). First recorded by Nat King Cole (1954). Modern Times theme music (1936) by Charlie Chaplin, with the help of arrangers Edward Powell, David Raksin, and music director Alfred Newman. More about SMILE. Charlie Chaplin MUSIC.

'Smilethon' Labor Day Weekend!

For the Labor Day holiday I will be continuing my 'Smile' postings with a 'Smilethon' weekend with the many different versions of 'Smile' with this early 'kick-off' disco version from 1975 by Pino Presti. So come by for a listen for an old favorite or a 'brand new' version!

Pino Presti, Italian disco version of 'Smile' from 1975.


Note: 'Smile' lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons (1954). First recorded by Nat King Cole (1954). Modern Times theme music (1936) by Charlie Chaplin, with the help of arrangers Edward Powell, David Raksin, and music director Alfred Newman. More about SMILE. Charlie Chaplin MUSIC.

Timi Yuro and David Whifield 'Smile'

More versions of 'Smile' as we look at the different recorded versions of 'Smile' over the years.

Soulful version from American R&B singer, Timi Yuro



British tenor, David Whifield



Note: 'Smile' lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons (1954). First recorded by Nat King Cole (1954). Modern Times theme music (1936) by Charlie Chaplin, with the help of arrangers Edward Powell, David Raksin, and music director Alfred Newman. More about SMILE. Charlie Chaplin MUSIC.

"Smile" by Sammy Davis and Dean Martin

Continuing with the different versions of 'Smile'

Sammy Davis Jr. singing 'Smile' on the Jerry Lewis Telethon:





Dean Martin on his comedy hour show:

Tony Bennett's 'Smile'

'Smile' has been recorded by many, so for the next several postings, I am going to post one each day of the most popular recordings of 'Smile.' These will not be in any order.

First posting, Tony Bennett's.



Smile lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons (1954)
Music by Charlie Chaplin (1936) part of the music score for 'Modern Times'

The Great New England Hurricane

It was a September day in 1938. People were just going about their business, like any other day, not knowing a hurricane was on it's way... Amazing footage, from some brave cameraman.

The Great New England 1938 Hurricane

The latest trailer for 'The Artist'

The latest updated trailer for 'The Artist' (2011). The scheduled release is November 23rd.
UPDATE: Just saw it recently (TWICE) and just LOVED IT! Special film, in itself.

Newcastle Silent Film Screening!

November 12 and 13, 2011
Australia's Silent Film Festival
Newcastle Screenings
Greater Union

Charlie Chaplin Mutuals, Buster Keaton in The General, Harold Lloyd and the film Nosferatu all on schedule with live music. Visit the Newcastle Silent Film Fun Factory for the latest details!

'The Sea Gull' book at Newcastle Library!

What an exciting surprise today! 'The Sea Gull' A Woman of the Sea' by Linda Wada, is now part of the Newcastle Library collection in Newcastle, Australia! This great surprise, thanks to Shana Dennis, founder of Newcastle's Silent Film Fun Factory.

Shana, with help from the Australia Silent Film Festival, will have their first silent film event this November 12 and 13th, 2011 in Newcastle. If you live in Australia and love silent films, please support these events and follow Shana's site for the latest. 

Also, for all silent film fans in New Zealand and Australia area, check out and support the silent film event in New Zealand at the Opotiki's Silent Film Festival.

Edna Purviance October Birthday 2011 event!

Edna Purviance's
October 21st Birthday Drawing!
Chance to win a copy of 'The Sea Gull'!
DEADLINE TO ENTER - Oct. 20th - NOON Pacific Time

Click on the image to the Official Entry Form!
Update: Thanks for all the entries this week from east to west coast and overseas!

Edna Purviance birthday 2011 event coming SOON!

October 21 is Edna Purviance's birthday. Watch Edna's official home site for details for our first event coming very soon!

47th Annual Cinecon Classic Film Festival

From Janet Hoffmann:

The 47^th annual Cinecon classic Film Festival at the Egyptian Theater in Hollywood, California held over Labor Day Weekend, September 1-5, 2011, will pay tribute to the National Film Preservation Foundation with screenings of two recent NFPF funded projects, The Active Life of Dolly the Dailies– Episode 5, The Chinese Fan, produced by Thomas A. Edison, Inc. in 1914 and starring Mary Fuller as ace reporter Dolly Desmond; and Stronger than Death, released in 1920 by Metro Pictures, starring legendary Russian actress Alla Nazimova.

The Active Life of Dolly the Dailies was presented by the Academy Film Archive through a collaboration of the New Zealand Film Archive, the National Film Preservation Foundation, and the American archival community.  Stronger Than Death was preserved by the George Eastman House through a grant funded by the National Film Preservation Foundation.

The National Film Preservation Foundation is the independent, nonprofit organization created by the U.S. Congress to help save America’s film heritage.  Growing from a national planning effort led by the Library of Congress, the NFPF began operations in 1997.  It works directly with archives to rescue endangered films that will not survive without public support.

The NFPF provides resources that enable libraries, museums, historical societies, archives and universities to save American films not preserved by commercial interests.

Federal monies are authorized through The Library of Congress Sound Recording and Film Preservation Programs Reauthorization Act of 2008 and secured through the Library of Congress, with which the NFPF is affiliated.  These act as an incentive to donors who “match” the federal funds with private contributions of cash and preservation services.

The Active Life of Dolly of the Dailies and Stronger Than Death are two of nearly forty rare and unusual films to be screening during the five-day Cinecon Classic Film Festival.  Other title scheduled included Raymond Griffith’s Civil War comedy Hands Up! (1926); Stormy Weather (1943) featuring legendary black entertainers Lena Horne, Bill “Bojangles” Robinson, Cab Calloway, Thomas “Fats” Waller and the Nicholas Brothers; Beauty’s Worth (1922) produced by newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearst and starring Marion Davies; Blazing Days (1927) an early effort by future Oscar-winning director William Wyler; and The Brasher Doubloon (1947) a film noir classic based on Raymond Chandler’s novel, The High Window, with George Montgomery in the role of detective Phillip Marlowe.

In addition to the film screenings, Cinecon offers a movie memorabilia and collectibles show during the festival at the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel, 1755 North Highland Avenue in Hollywood.

Among those being honored with the Cinecon Career Achievement Award during the September 4, 2011 awards banquet are actors Julie Adams, James Lydon and Fay McKenzie.

Julie Adams moved to California in the 1940s and worked as a secretary while studying acting.  After landing a small role in Paramount’s Red Hot and Blue (1949), she appeared in seven films James Ellison-Russell Hayden westerns for Lippert Pictures under her real name, Betty Adams.  She was signed by Universal Studios in 1949 and renamed Julia Adams, before settling on Julie Adams as her professional name in the early 1950s.  Among Julie’s best-remembered films are The Creature From the Black Lagoon (1954), Hollywood Story (1951), Bend in the River (1952), Six Bridges to Cross (1955) and Slaughter on Tenth Avenue (1957).

Jimmy Lydon made his Broadway stage debut in the 1937 play Western Waters.  Entering films in 1939, Jimmy appeared in such films as Tom Brown’s School Days (1940), The Mad Martindales (1942), Life with Father (1947), and The time of Your Life (1948), but will always be remembered for his role as teenager Henry Aldrich in the 1941- 1944 Paramount Pictures series.  Lydon starred in The First Hundred years on CBS, TV’s first daytime drama – or soap opera.  In the 1950s, Lydon started to split his time between assignments behind as well as in front of the camera, helping to create 77 Sunset Strip (1958) and becoming a TV production executive.

Fay McKenzie began her film career as a child in silent pictures.  Among her early films was the 1924 Photoplay Medal winner, The Dramatic Life of Abraham Lincoln.  As a teenager in the early 1930s, Fay appeared in a number of poverty row oaters with the likes of Wally Wales and Buddy Roosevelt.  Fay is best remembered for her work with Gene Autry at Republic Pictures, where she was the feminine interest in Down Mexico Way (141), Sierra Sue (1941) Home in Wyomin’ (1942), Heart of the Rio Grande (1942) and Cowboy Serenade (1942).  She also appeared in a number of films for director Blake Edwards, including Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961) and The Party (1968).

Previous Cinecon Career Achievement Award honorees include Don Murray, Celeste Holm, Luise Rainer, Roger Corman, Rose Marie, Mickey Rooney, Diane Baker, Rhonda Fleming, Marilyn Knowlden, Ray Harryhausen and many others.  Through its 45 year history other Cinecon honorees include such Hollywood legends as Colleen Moore, Myrna Loy, Hal Roach, Burgess Meredith, Alice Faye, Jean Simmons, Fayard Nicholas, Douglas Fairbanks Jr., Eleanor Powell, Jackie Cooper, Ruby Keeler, Jane Russell and directors Robert Wise, Delbert Mann, Vincent Sherman and Budd Boetticher.

For more details and registration information, visit the Cinecon Classic Film Festival. Thanks to Janet Hoffmann.

Happy Birthday, Lucy! Charlie Chaplin style

Happy 100th Birthday to Lucille Ball! Here is Lucy from 1962, playing Charlie Chaplin with Vivian Vance.

Charlie Chaplin look-a-likes, 1927 style

Delightful look back to the 1920s in Martinez, California on San Pablo Bay. A slice of real life, that includes the school children of the day, dressing up like Charlie Chaplin. Film about 14 minutes. Enjoy!

Santa Clarita 'Modern Times' Plaque

The presentation and unveiling of the special Santa Clarita Plaque honoring Charlie Chaplin's 'Modern Times' with special guest, Leonard Maltin.


SCVTV.com 2/5/2011 SCV Historical Society: Charlie Chaplin: ''Modern Times'' Plaque Unveiling from SCVTV Santa Clarita on Vimeo.

NAPOLEON! with Carl Davis 2012!

March 24, 25, April 1, 2012 - Oakland, California - NAPOLEON with Carl Davis and the Oakland East Bay Symphony - Paramount Theater - USA Premiere!

Special rare chance to see the full 5 1/2 hour restored film with breaks - One screening per day, four screenings ONLY - Tickets available in July through the San Francisco Silent Film site. LINK

Preview Trailer

Abel Gance's Napoleon from San Francisco Silent Film Festiv on Vimeo.



PRESS RELEASE - silentfilm.org

The San Francisco Silent Film Festival announces today that it will present the U.S. premiere of Abel Gance’s legendary NAPOLEON in its complete restoration by Academy Award®-winning historian, documentarian and archivist Kevin Brownlow, in four special screenings at Oakland’s Paramount Theatre on March 24, 25, 31 and April 1, 2012.

The Brownlow restoration, produced with his partner Patrick Stanbury at Photoplay
Productions in association with the BFI, is the most complete version of Gance’s masterpiece
since its 1927 premiere at the Paris Opéra.

The SFSFF screenings also mark the U.S. premiere of the renowned orchestral score, written over 30 years ago (and twice expanded since), by Carl Davis, who will conduct the Oakland East Bay Symphony.

The spectacular presentation at the 3,000-seat, Art Deco Oakland Paramount will be climaxed by its finale in “Polyvision”—an enormous triptych, employing three specially installed synchronized projectors, that will dramatically expand the screen to triple its width. The logistics and expense of screening Napoleon properly with full orchestra and special equipment have made it nearly impossible to mount. Gance’s Napoleon hasn’t been screened theatrically in the U.S. with live orchestra for nearly 30 years and there are no plans to repeat the SFSFF event in any other American city.

Says Stacey Wisnia, Executive Director of the San Francisco Silent Film Festival, “This will be ‘the cinema event of a lifetime’ and for once that’s not just hype, considering that we may never have another chance to see Napoleon presented on this scale, and with Carl Davis’ magnificent score. But we’re also referring to the lifetime of passion that Kevin Brownlow has devoted to bringing Abel Gance’s original vision back to life.”

Mr. Brownlow, who last year became the first film historian ever honored with a special Academy Award, became fascinated with Gance’s film when, as a schoolboy in the 1950s, he ran two 9.5mm reels he had stumbled upon at a street market.

“I was stunned by the cinematic flair,” says Brownlow. “I was exhilarated by the rapid cutting and the swirling camera movement. What daring! I had never seen anything comparable—and I set out to find more of it.” That determination led to a lifelong quest.

The first major Brownlow/BFI restoration culminated in a screening at the Telluride Film Festival in 1979, with 89-year-old Gance watching from a nearby hotel window.

Under the auspices of Francis Ford Coppola and Robert A. Harris, a version of this restoration, accompanied by a score composed by Mr. Coppola’s father Carmine, was presented to great acclaim at Radio City Music Hall and other venues in the U.S. and around the world in the early 1980s. Mr. Brownlow and the BFI did additional restoration work in 1983. The current restoration, completed in 2000 but not previously seen outside Europe, reclaims more than 30 minutes of additional footage discovered since the 1979 screening and visually upgrades much of the film. This unique 35mm print, made at the laboratory of the BFI’s National Archive, uses traditional dye-bath techniques to recreate the color tints and tones that enhanced the film on its original release, giving a vividness to the image as never before experienced in this country.

Each screening of the 5 1/2-hour epic will begin in the afternoon and will be shown in four parts with three intermissions, including a dinner break. Tickets will be available online through the SFSFF website, www.silentfilm.org, beginning July 18.

Abel Gance’s NAPOLEON is being presented by the San Francisco Silent Film Festival, in association with American Zoetrope, The Film Preserve, Photoplay Productions, and the BFI. Technical services will be provided by Boston Light & Sound.

Founded in 1994, the San Francisco Silent Film Festival has showcased the finest films of the silent era as they were meant to be seen: on the big screen with live music composed and performed by accomplished artists. While its annual July festival remains its flagship event, the SFSFF now produces special events throughout the year.

Says Robert Byrne, SFSFF board president, “This extraordinary presentation of Gance’s masterpiece is a major cultural coup, not just for our festival, but for the whole Bay Area.”

John Bengtson's Silent Film Location Lecture

Santa Clarita Historical Society - Charlie Chaplin film location lecture and slide presentation by author of 'Silent Traces' John Bengtson. Given at the 2011 Chaplin celebration in Santa Clarita. This detailed program is about 20 minutes.


SCVTV.com 2/15/2011 SCV Historical Society: Charlie Chaplin: An SCV Connection from SCVTV Santa Clarita on Vimeo.

Learn more about the Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society at this link.

Note:'Tillie's Punctured Romance' co-starred Charlie Chaplin. The movie was filmed & directed by Mack Sennett.

1906 'A Trip Down Market Street' repeats!

July 10, 2011 - Tonight on '60 Minutes' the 1906 'A Trip Down Market Street' will be shown again. So if you missed last falls broadcast, good time to tune in again. Morley Safer will be talking with archivist Rick Prelinger and historian, David Kiehn (with the Niles Silent Film Museum).

Academy of Motion Pictures 2011 Summer of Silents

Summer of Silents - Academy of Motion Pictures

July 11, 2011 - The Covered Wagon (1923)

Will Ryan & the Cactus County Cowboys perform  their new score by Will Ryan, Benedikt Brydern and Dean Mora for the "Best Picture of 1923"   Paramount's "The Covered Wagon"

Starring J. Warren Kerrigan and Lois Wilson
featuring Charles Ogle and Alan Hale

35mm print courtesy of the Paramount Pictures Collection at UCLA. This epic adventure of pioneers on a dangerous journey along the Oregon Trail is considered one of the first great Western films and features scenes filmed on location in Nevada and Utah.

With live musical accompaniment provided by Will Ryan and the Cactus County Cowboys.

Preceded by surviving fragments of 1924’s Photoplay Medal recipient ABRAHAM LINCOL Never-before-seen 3-D images of Lon Chaney's "Phantom of the Opera" (glasses will be provided) THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME (1923) 

 

Also Coming in July!
with special guest Kevin Brownlow

July 18 - THE BIG PARADE (1925)
July 20 - THE GENERAL (1927)

Both introduced by film historian Kevin Brownlow

Follow these links to learn more and to secure tickets.

Information and thanks to Janet Hoffmann
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences
8949 Wilshire Blvd
Beverly Hills, California

Happy 4th of July with the REAL John Philip Sousa!

"Stars and Stripes Forever" was composed by John Philip Sousa in 1897. While his music was recorded, he personally didn't conduct his own band for a sound recording until 1931. So here is John Philip Sousa not only conducting the Sousa band, but introducing his most famous music... Happy 4th!

Adventure Films 'Hidden Fortress'

Garen and Murray are back with number four of their talks about Garen's favorite Adventure Films. This time, they take us to Japan with the work of Akira Kurosawa 'Hidden Fortress' from 1958. This film is known as the one that inspired George Lucas for his Star War series.

If you haven't seen it, you should add to your must see list. Surprisingly funny and masterfully directed. This is a detailed talk, so filled with spoilers, but delightful chat about the film that inspired Garen to do this podcast series. LINK

Hidden Fortress Trailer

July summer fun at Niles Silent Film Museum!

 

 Friday July 1, 2011
8:00 PM - Suggested donation $5
Fremont Occasional Theatre Presents
Celebrating the American Movie Musical
Yankee Doodle Dandy (1942, Warner Bros)

 Saturday July 2
7:30 PM - Suggested donation $5
Frederick Hodges (piano)
The Wrecker (1929, Gainsborough Pictures)

Preceded by shorts:
Ask Father (1919, Rolin) Harold Lloyd, Bebe Daniels, Margaret Joslin
The Ropin’ Fool (1921, Pathe) Will Rogers in the complete 2–reel version – more rope tricks!

 Saturday July 9
7:30 PM - Suggested donation $5
Frederick Hodges (piano)
Raffles, the Amateur Cracksman (1917, L. Lawrence Webber Photo Drama, tinted)

Preceded by shorts:
Fox Trot Finesse (1915, Vitagraph) Mr. & Mrs. Sidney Drew
The Silent Trailer (1926, Van Pelt Productions

Sunday July 10
4:00 PM - Suggested donation $5
LAUREL & HARDY TALKIE MATINEE
Washee Ironee (1934) Our Gang
Be Big (1930) Stan Laurel, Oliver Hardy
Canned Fishing (1938) Our Gang
Chickens Come Home (1931) Stan Laurel, Oliver Hardy

July 16 and 17, 2011
Film Fundraiser to Protect Niles Canyon
Join the Alameda Creek Alliance and Save Canyon
Includes showing of 'River of Renewal'

Friday July 22
8:00 PM - Suggested donation $5
Fremont Occasional Theatre Presents
Celebrating the American Movie Musical
On the Town (1949, MGM)

Saturday July 23
7:30 PM - Suggested donation $5
Greg Pane (piano)
COMEDY SHORT SUBJECT NIGHT
Triple Trouble (1918, Essanay) Charlie Chaplin, Edna Purviance
No Father to Guide Him (1925, Hal Roach) Charley Chase
The Balloonatic (1923, Buster Keaton) Buster Keaton
The Finishing Touch (1928, Roach) Laurel and Hardy

Saturday July 30
7:30 PM - Suggested donation $5
Bruce Loeb (piano)
The Night Bird (1928, Universal, tinted)
 

Preceded by shorts:
Why Pick on Me? (1918, Rolin) Harold Lloyd, Bebe Daniels
Movieland (1926, Lupino Lane Comedy Corp.) Lupino Lane

Sunday July 31
4:00 PM - Members $6, non-members $8
Back by Popular Demand
Tom Wyrsch’s Remembering Playland at the Beach(2010), a full length documentary about San Francisco’s famous 10-acre seaside amusement park located next to Ocean Beach.

Here is a preview:

Contact the Niles Silent Film Museum in Fremont, California for more details.
Don't forget to stop by it heading for San Francisco Silent Film Festival in July!

2011 San Francisco Silent Film Festival

 July 14-17, 2011
Castro Theatre - San Francisco
with special guest, Kevin Brownlow

With live music by...

Alloy Orchestra (USA)
Stephen Horne (UK) on piano, accordion, flute
Dennis James (USA) on the Castro’s world-famous Mighty Wurlitzer
Matti Bye Ensemble (Sweden)
Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra (USA)
Donald Sosin (USA) on piano, also conducting a small ensemble on opening night
Giovanni Spinelli (USA) on electric guitar
Visit the official site for more details

Herb Alpert's tribute to Charlie Chaplin

In 1966, I didn't know about Charlie Chaplin, but I did know Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Band. My father would pump quarters into the cafe table side juke box and play 'Whipped Cream' many times on a Friday night dinner out. Being a Charlie Chaplin fan now, wonderful to see this charming tribute by Herb Alpert and the band, on the Charlie Chaplin Studio lot. (Thanks to the Kansas Silent Film Festival for the link.) Enjoy!

"City Lights' on TCM Essentials

July 2, 2011- Turner Classic Movies will celebrate the 4th of July weekend with a viewing of Charlie Chaplin's 'City Lights' on this week's The Essentials with Alec Baldwin and Robert Osborne. Also mark your calender for a full day of Paulette Goddard, August 2, as part of 2011 'Summer Under the Stars' on TCM.