BB Creations

Short, Short

2026-02-04T07:10:00.000-05:00

This week is theme week over at Monday Music Moves Me, and it is to find songs with “Short” in the title. The very first song I thought of is the Randy Newman song, “ Short People” which many used this week. My mom liked that song and said short people have issues and always feel they have to prove something and can be difficult. I looked at her and reminded her that she was only 5’2” tall, if that and she said “Yes” and continued on bringing up Napoleon as an example. I know I should have songs with “Short” in the title, but most have been used ( you should check it out, some great songs showcased), but I went with short singers with big voices…

1. EARTHA KITT SINGS SMOKE GETS IN YOUR EYES-1953

This is one of my all time favourite songs and has been sung by many people throughout the years. It was written by Jerome Kern with lyrics by Otto Harbach for the Broadway show, “Roberta” and was made into an Astaire/ Rogers movie of the same name. I thought Eartha, at only 5’2” tall, did a great version of this song.

2. JUDY GARLAND SINGS THE MAN THAT GOT AWAY-1954

We all know that Judy has a powerhouse of a voice, plus was a great dancer and actress but she was only 4’ 11 1/2” tall. I thought she was 5’ 4” but, nope. This is one of her iconic songs that she made her own in this film where she should have won the Oscar. This song was written by Harold Arlen with lyrics by Ira Gershwin which, also, should have won the Oscar ( over the dreaded, “Three Coins In The Fountain”).

3. EDITH PIAF SING LA VIE EN ROSE-1947

This 4’ 10” tall singer with a voice that could bring people to tears and who lived a life that was anything but boring wrote the lyrics to this song, written by Louiguy with Robert Chauvigny completing the music. This be me her signature song and she became known as the Little Sparrow.

Any songs you can think of with Short in the title or any singers who are short in stature but carry a big voice? I need to get rid of that Shorty Song sung by Fred Astaire that keeps running in my head.

February Star OF The Month-Charles Durning

2026-02-03T06:51:00.001-05:00

CHARLES DURNING

BIRTH: February 28, 1923

DEATH: December 24, 2012

AGED: 89 years

DIED FROM: Natural Causes

NICKNAME: Charlie

MARRIED: Twice

CHILDREN: 3 children

FAMOUS FRIENDS: Burt Reynolds

OSCAR WINS: none

OSCAR NOMINATIONS: Twice- The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas-1983 and To Be Or Not To Be-1984

TALENT: Ballroom dancing. His adeptness in acting

KNOWN FOR: his bravery and valour in WW2. His Privacy, his genial and helpful nature towards everyone.

This man was one prolific actor who appeared in many films, TV series and Broadway winning a Tony, Golden Glove and nominated for an Emmy 9 times, no small feat for an actor kicked out of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts for having no talent. Thankfully, he forged ahead, not listening to the so-called experts, and became one of the most respected and well-liked actors and men of his craft. He could play drama and comedy with equal aplomb making laugh every time he was on “Everybody Loves Raymond” as the priest who must deal with the Ramone family.

This actor came from a family of 10 children but, sadly, 5 of his sisters died from Scarlett Fever or Small Pox 3 in the span of 2 weeks. Honestly, I don’t know how his mom dealt with such loss, nor his dad. His dad died when he was 13 leaving his mom to run the family. Durning was always a fighter but with twinkle toes because he taught ballroom dancing at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in New York City! Yes, he was a professional ballroom dancer who caught the acting bug and got his break in Burlesque. From there, he worked he was to Broadway, onto TV and films. To say he was busy would be an understatement and he loved it. After his first marriage failed, he met up with his high-school sweetheart, marrying her and enjoying this second act. Sadly, they did separate in 2010 but remained married until he died.

War Hero!!! He never gave up and his bravery and luck got him through some of the most hellish experiences during World War 2. He was in the D Day invasion and was the only one from his unit to survive the landing on Omaha Beach. He was shot in the hip and leg( several times) where he convalesced for 6 months learning how to walk again. He pleaded, several times, to be released so he could join his unit in Belgium, but was told “No!” He left anyway and joined his unit in Belgium and fought in the Battle of the Bulge where he had hand to hand combat with a German soldier who stabbed him 8 times with his bayonet. Durning still found the strength to find a rock and kill the soldier with the rock. Shortly after this, he was captured by German Waffen SS. 90 U. S. Soldiers were marched by the German SS to Malmedy where they were grouped in a field only to be machine gunned down! The Malmedy Massacre is an infamous moment with only 3 survivors, Charles Durning was one of them. Durning mentioned he fell on to the bodies of his comrades faking death. I could not find more information how he survived the rest but, he did recuperating from all his wounds in a hospital until 1946. He took Ballroom dancing to strengthen his his and leg from the injuries he sustained. He did suffer from PTSD for years and rarely spoke about his experiences. Later in life, he worked on behalf of the Legion promoting the valour of the soldiers in all wars.

He received the Silver Star, The Bronze Star, 3 Purple Hearts, Good Conduct Medal, American Campaign Medal, European-African-Middle-Eastern Campaign Medal with Arrowhead Device, 2 Bronze Service Stars and World War 2 Victory Medal. He also received the Combat Infantry Badge, Expert Bade with Rifle Bar, Honourable Service Lapel Pin and, from the French, The Legion of Honour but, in 2008.

FILMS

1. Tootsie-1982

2. The Muppet Movie-1979

3. The Sting-1973

4. Queen of the Starduxt Ballroom-1975

5. North Dallas Forty-1979

6. True Confessions-1981

7. Dog Day Afternoon-1975

8. Tough Guys-1986

9. The Hindenburg-1975

10. Sharky’s Machine-1981

11. O Brother, Where Art Thou-2000

12. Dick Tracy-1990

Many TV Shows as a guest star including one from NCIS as a war veteran which I must see now.

1. Evening Shade with Burt Reynolds-1990-1994

2. Family Guy-199-Present

3. Everybody Loves Raymond-1998-2002

4. Rescue Me-2004-2011

Nuremberg

2026-01-29T06:25:00.002-05:00

It was World Holocaust Day this past Tuesday which coincides with the liberation of Auschwitz Concentration Camp by the Red Army( The Soviets). No words can express the horrors that had occurred to the millions of Jewish people as well as the the Romani (Gypsys), homosexuals, the mentally and visually handicapped and, like my Grandfather, Germans who opposed the vile regime. Despite morons who claim this never happened, it did and we should never, ever forget and we should visit one memorial, camp or museum that showcases these horrors. I am going to discuss 3 films that are all about the Nuremberg Trials that took place between 1946 to 1949.

1. JUDGEMENT AT NUREMBERG-1961

This, to me, is THE film about the Nuremberg trials that stars a ton of famous stars from Spencer Tracy as a presiding judge, Marlene Dietrich as a General’s widow, Maximillian Schell as the defense attorney, Richard Widmark as the prosecuting attorney, Montgomery Clift and Judy Garland as witnesses, Burt Lancaster as a defendant and other actors including William Shatner as an assistant to the judge. We follow the judge who must oversee this latest trial( there were 12) and wants to understand how the German people could follow such ruthless and disgusting thugs that ended up ruling and ruining a country. Burt rarely talks in this film, except near the end and you remember him. Judy Garland is in this film for a few minutes but she gives a stellar performance and one that lasts with you. It is one of the first films to show actual footage of the holocaust victims. This is a film to be studied and applauded.

2. NUREMBERG-2000

This is a docudrama, in a 2 part TV movie, produced mainly by Canadian TV, that stars Alec Baldwin as the main prosecutor with Brian Cox as Herman Goering along with Christopher Plummer and Max Von Sydow as a judge and lawyer. It is a film I watched back in 2000 but would love to revisit because it sticks to the real facts of the case. It’s a shame that so many people find history boring because by reading and watching films like this may prevent something like this to happen again…and it can happen again. Alec Baldwin is excellent as the prosecuting attorney and Brian Cox is brilliant as the evil F@#” Goering.

3. NUREMBERG-2025

My hubby and I just watched this film this past weekend and I just don’t understand why it is not up for ny Academy Awards. Russell Crowe, who is really that fat, plays Goering bringing nuances to this person that is hard to do because he brought some, should I even say it, humanity to someone who is a psychotic, narcissist murderer. Just when you feel, like the psychiatrist portrayed by Rami Malek, that Goering has human qualities, you see his evil and how well he could manipulate anyone he comes across. I had no idea that a psychiatrist played an integral part in this famous trial and how this psychiatrist found that these psychos are/were normal joes who turned into monsters and that it can happen to anyone. I believe this film, with its not too subtle message considering the Thugs in the Oval Office right now, has been purposefully rebuffed from any awards show by the executroids because they have been bought/ cajoled by the regime in the U. S. Right now. Sadly, I can see it here, in Canada, my country which I will always defend. I love this movie and Richard E. Grant is superb as the British lawyer who saves the day.

Have you seen any of these films? What do you think?

Which Song Won The Oscar- 1979

2026-01-28T06:00:00.001-05:00

1979 is an interesting year for movies. You have the Muppets, politics and Sally Field ditching her flying nun and Smokey characters portraying a tough gal asking for a union. The music is pretty damn good so I chose 1979 for your guesses on which song won the Oscar, which was nominated and which got nadda plus I'm joining Monday Music Moves Me.

1. IT GOES LIKE IT GOES SUNG BY JENNIFER WARNES

This is from the film, "Norma Rae" which stars Sally Field as a woman who works in a plant and realizes the workers are getting the shaft. This song wasvwritten by David Shire with lyrics by Norman Gimbel.

2. THE ROSE SUNG BY BETTE MIDLER

This is a famous song written by Amanda McBroom, sung with amazing depth by the great Bette Midler for the film, The Rose."

3. THE RAINBOW CONNECTION SUNG BY KERMIT THE FROG

This great song was written by Paul Williams and David Ascher for the film "The Muppet Movie." The voice is by Jim Hensen as Kermit the Frog and is another famous song we all love.

So which song won the Oscar, which was nominated and which one came up with nuttin' honey?

January Happenings

2026-01-22T06:35:00.003-05:00

I was thinking, always dangerous, what events happened in January and, quite a bit to be honest. I decided to think of movies that correlate with the event in January and here we go…

1. ZULU-1964

This stars a young Michael Caine as an arrogant British officer, stationed in Africa, who must defend their stronghold against the Zulus who have decided to squish the British into dust. Much to the Zulu’s disbelief, the small band of soldiers give all they have to defend their small area winning the Zulus’ respect. I could have seen this film many times but just never felt the pull to see this. I’m glad I finally did because it is so well done. The acting, cinematography, direction is all superlative and the writing is sure to grab you and build the tension between the 2 armies.

2. A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS-1966

Good ole Henry the 8th is married but without a male heir. He notices the young and very attractive Anne Boleyn and soon his loins are wanting every inch of her…he was a pig after all. The problem? He’s already married and the church doesn’t like to see divorce, so Hank Baby is in a pickle. He asks his good friend, Sir Thomas More to side with him so he can be all horned toad with poor Anne but Thomas will not hear of it. Thomas believes in his convictions and will not budge ending with imprisonment and his head. Henry and Anne end up marrying in January but to what, end does it mean? Paul Schofield won an Oscar as Sir Thomas More, deservedly so, and Richard Burton plays the dashing king ( before the King’s excesses won out creating a Bloated jerk with syphilis).

3. THE TAKING OF PELHAM, ONE , TWO, THREE-1974

The first subway was in London in January in the late 1800s, but this takes place on a grubby NYC subway where 3 men take over this one subway and request money or else a person will die each hour..I think it’s an hour. The tension is strong with superlative acting by Robert Shaw as head of the gang and Walter Matthau as the head of the traffic. It’s so interesting how each person has to make their small parts carry and it does. It is so worth seeing without young hunks and barbies acting as if they are normal human beings. It's intelligently written and grips you from beginning to end.

Any films you can think of where the event took place in January?

January Is Not Over Yet

2026-01-21T07:14:00.002-05:00

Over at Curious As A Cathy, The Monday Music Moves Me is all about January. You can go by new beginnings, the history of this month, the wolf moon or just tht it is the double F…F%&@Ing Freezing. I do love the glitter of the snow like diamond dust and, when you walk, it feels like one is walking on powdered sugar. I so enjoy it, for now, ask me in March and you will get a different answer…lol. Here are the songs I have chosen..

1. SONG FOR A WINTER’S NIGHT SUNG BY GORDON LIGHTFOOT-1967

I love Gordon Lightfoot who is a Canadian icon and this song, about love, lost love, seems to suit this month since people are already bemoaning what a long winter we are having. Get ready, because we still have February and the dreaded March which has a bag of mixed weather tricks.

2. HAZY SHADE OF WINTER SUNG BY SIMON AND GARFUNKEL-1966

I love Simon and Garfunkel even if they can’t stand one another, they just harmonize so beautifully together. This is another great song that Paul Simon wrote.

3. WHITE WINTER HYMNAL SUNG BY FLEET FOXES-2008

I never heard of this improv folk band from the States until recently ( another blogger posted it on their site and I forgot who…I am so very sorry but thank you for introducing them to me) and I love the way they sound. I will hear more when I get the chance.

Bonus…

JUNE IN JANUARY SUNG BY JULIE LONDON-1956

I do love Julie London who sings like velvet all steamed up and ready to mingle. This was written by Ralph Rainger and Leo Robin. It’s from her album, “Calendar Girls.”

What songs make you think of January?

Who Should Have Won The Oscar

2026-01-15T06:00:00.001-05:00

The year of the movies was 1990 when Dances With Wolves was the big winner ( I am going by the year the films came out, not the year of the Oscars). Despite people hating this film, I still like it very much( except when the dastardly S.O.B.‘S kill the wolf...I can't see that scene..hurts too much). I am one of a few who just can't stand Goodfellas. I hate Ray Liotta's laugh and the whole film just makes me want to take a shower. It's repellent to me. I know, I’m one of the few. One film that didn't get much love at all was Edward Scissorhands and it should have been up for more Oscars including Best Original Screenplay.

1. EDWARD SCISSORHANDS

Edward Scissorhands should have one Best Original Screenplay because it is such an original fairy tale using the Frankenstein thinking but in a completely unique way. Dianne Wiest, who should have been up for Best Supporting Actress, is an Avon lady who decides to drive way up to this dilapidated castle where she meets a Dr. Caligari type “ monster” with scissors for hands. He is gentle but lonely so she decides to bring him home to live with her and her family, which includes her teen daughter, played by Winona Ryder. All the neighbours are curious about this scarred up young man including the local nympho who lets Edward cut her hair. He becomes the next best thing creating amazing hairdos along with great artistic pieces from neighbourhood bushes. The only one who can’t stand him is the girl’s boyfriend. The art direction is superb and seeing Vincent Price in a sympathetic role as his “dad” just is the cherry on the top. It should have been up for Best Picture and Best Score, even though I like Dances with Wolves score a Smidget better, but it’s all apples and oranges. Johnny Depp met Winona n the set and they became an item to the degree that he had her name tattooed on his arm. Of course, it didn’t work out so he changed his tattoo which now says Wino Forever.

2. GHOST

This film won Best Original Screenplay and…it shouldn’t have even though I love the movie. I think most of us have seen this film about a loving husband and wife when their lives are destroyed when he is murdered in a mugging. Of course, she is devastated but her dead husband is unsure why he is still roaming the streets. He happens onto a place where, it is claimed, this chick can talk to the dead. He wanders in and starts to laugh at the tactics that are being done to fleece the widows only to find out this gal hears him! Whoopi Goldberg was brilliant as the criminal who can hear the dead, for real. He enlists her help to talk to his wife, who does not believe her…at first. The story takes a dark turn when he finds out he was deliberately murdered for knowing too much and he has placed his wife in harm’s way. It is a sweet love story even though Demi Moore’s character could have been played by just about anyone. It’s a great story but it’s not as original as as Edward S. I always hope that Patrick Swayze is watching over his beloved wife and dancing with her when she is dancing. ( He could really dance and they met while dancing).

3. ALICE

There was a time that just about every year, Woody Allen was nominated in the Best Original Screenplay category before he had an affair with his step-daughter, the adopted daughter of Mia Farrow and Andre Previn, bringing an end to their marriage and creating a very vicious and public break-up. I mean, he didn’t do himself any favours when he left Mia for this girl whom he had known since she was, I think, 12 yrs old…maybe younger. This film stars Mia in a boring marriage who longs for some excitement and finds it via her dreams etc.. Woody Allen is brilliant in writing and creating complex characters who all may need a therapist, he should know since he has been going to one for decades.

Avalon, Green Card and Metropolitan were the other films up for this award. I’ve seen Green Card and not quite sure it should have been here. It’s nice but no match to the others.

What about you, do you agree with me, agree with The Academy or would you choose another?

Friendship

2026-01-14T07:06:00.000-05:00

I believe today is the day of friendship and my friend, Loretta and I, have been friends for over 40 years…crazy! The 80s do not seem to be 40 years ago, but it is…I find that wild. I’m posting 3 songs about friendship and these are songs that came into my head right away. I’m joining Monday Music Moves Me which is freebie week.

1. FRIENDSHIP SUNG BY LUCILLE BALL AND VIVIAN VANCE-1953

Loretta loves, I mean, Loves, Lucille Ball and who doesn’t?! This song, written by Cole Porter, was used in this episode to great effect when Lucy and Ethel sing this song together with great affection. This changes when, they show up at the benefit wearing the same dress. Jealousy ensues and mayhem takes the form of each gal slowly destroying the other gals’ gown.

2. THE WAY OLD FRIENDS DO SUNG BY ABBA-1979

I played this song for my friend who thought it was a bit sombre, aka, for funerals….she is wrong, of course, because I always think of Loretta and myself when I hear this song. I think it’s one of the most beautiful from this quartet.

3. WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM MY FRIENDS SUNG BY JOE COCKER-1969

This is just iconic as is Joe Cocker’s style when singing. This is a great song that I love listening to and never tired of. I believe John Lennon and Paul McCartney wrote this song for their band, you know…the Beatles.

What songs can you think of or, at least, what song makes you think of your best friend?

Cleanliness May Not Be Next To Godliness

2026-01-08T07:08:00.003-05:00

I’m going to let you guess the theme of these movies….let’s see if you get this right:)

1. KEY LARGO-1948

This is the 4th and last movie pairing of Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall who star in a Crime Drama that co-stars Edward G. Robinson, Lionel Barrymore and Clair Trevor in her Oscar winning role as the gangster’s moll. Lauren Bacall and her Father in Law, Lionel Barrymore, own a hotel when Humphrey Bogart arrives who was an old army pal of the man who died during the war and left his wife and dad alone. A hurricane is coming shutting down the hotel with them and some seedy guests. You are introduced to Edward G. While having a bubble bath and you very soon find out he is not Mr nice guy. He’s a brute who berates his girlfriend and even strikes the wheelchair bound dad, played by Lionel who really was in a wheelchair because of his severe Rheumatoid arthritis. They did not count on Humphrey who will not let these thugs get away. It’s quite a great film that I like better than, “The Big Sleep” and you can’t beat the scene stealing Claire as the alcoholic, doomed girlfriend of Edward G.

2. SOME LIKE IT HOT-1959

Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis play two down and put musicians, in the late 1920s who witness a gangster murder and must leave town ASAP. It just so happens an all girl musical group, with the lead singer, Sugar Cane, in tow, played by voluptuous Marilyn Monroe, need a bass player and a saxophonist. Enter Jack and Tony as Josephine and Daphne who board the train as the newest girls for this all girls’ band. They both vie for the affections of MM which turns into Uberdrive once they reach Miami. Tony finds out what MM would love in a man and up turns a wealthy man, with his yacht, who sounds remarkably like Cary Grant. Jack is not happy and mentions to MM that Josephine may want to hear about MM’s future love. All 3 run to the hotel with Jack hoping to catch Tony in his lie but, there is Tony, as Josephine, in a bubble bath and wins this round. Tony asks Jack to keep the old guy, played hilariously by Joe E. Brown, who owns the yacht busy while he woos MM. by the morning, Tony is happy, MM is in love and Jack is engaged to Joe E. Now enters the big gangster, played by George Raft, with his goons, to a convention of all the gangster big wigs where Tony and Jack have been fingered as the 2 witnesses and are now on the run. This is one hilarious movie that I can watch over and over again. I love Jack Lemmon and George E. Brown’s scenes with the tango scene always making me laugh.

3. THE SILENCERS-1966

This film was made when 007 films were huge and Dean Martin spoofed this genre in a series of films as super spy, Matt Helm, who must thwart all sorts of evil bad guys. In this film, it starts with a femme fatale, played by Cyd Charisse, shot and killed after she gives a performance. Next we see Matt Helm in bed which turns upright and throws him into a very big bubble bath along with his secretary. He is happy being retired from all the spy business until his old boss comes calling asking for his help. Before you know it, he is after a very bad man who tries every which way to thwart Matt Helm in hilarious ways. Dean Martin is perfect in this role and he plays it to the hilt never taking himself seriously. The gals and Victor Bueno as the evil genius is great. I love these spoofs and you can see where Mike Myers got many of his gags from for his Austin Powers films.

Did you guess my theme? You have a great week!!

A New Year

2026-01-07T06:00:00.002-05:00

A week has gone by since New Year’s Eve and over at Monday Music Moves Me, it’s about new songs one has heard but, since I’m still not well( I stayed home today), I can’t recall any new songs so I went with Happy New Year songs.

1. HAPPY NEW YEAR SUNG BY ABBA-1980

I love ABBA as you all know, so this had to be included. It’s part of their album called “Super Trouper.”

2. WHAT ARE YOU DOING NEW YEAR’S EVE SUNG BY ELLA FITZGERALD-1960

Ella had a great voice, although I’m not one for the scat singing, which I enjoyed so much when I hear her voice on different blog sites. She does a great job in her many years singing.

3. HAPPY NEW YEAR SUNG BY JUDY GARLAND-1957

I haven’t had Judy here for a while so I thought this was perfect.

I made it very short and sweet this week. Hope the new year has been treating you well so far. My dear friends, brothers, lost their mom on Monday and they are devastated even though it was the best thing. She was so thin and in way too much pain so it is for the best. She wanted to be with her husband which was his birthday on Sunday, so, a day later, she was able to be with him and without pain.

January Star-Anna May Wong

2026-01-06T08:30:00.000-05:00

ANNA MAY WONG

BIRTH: January 3, 1905

DEATH: February 3, 1961

AGED: 56 years

DIED FROM: Massive Heart Attack after years of drinking and heavy smoking

DISEASE: suffered from St. Vitrus’s Dance- cured using traditional Chinese medicine

REAL NAME: Wong Liu Tsong which means “Willow Frost Yellow”

NICKNAME: CCC- Curious Chinese Child.

MARRIED: Never

AFFAIRS: Marshall Nielan, Todd Browning, Irving Thalberg, Johnny Weissmuller, Eric Maschwitz etc. Rumour is she had an affair with Marlene Dietrich and Leni Riefenstahl but that’s just based on a photo and Anna’s chemistry with Marlene in Shanghai Express. I doubt she did from all I read.

CHILDREN: None

FAMOUS FAMILY: James Wong Howe, cousin and famous cinematographer. Mary Wong, her younger sister who appeared in films but, sadly committed suicide by hanging herself in 1940

TALENT: she could sing, dance. Knew Antonese, German, French and Italian. In the very early stages of sound film, many studios made 3 versions of the same movie, one in English and other usually, in German and French and or an Italian. Anna May Wong starred in all versions.

KNOWN FOR: Her privacy. Fashion icon. Intelligence, donating large amount to Chinese charities to help fight the Japanese.

If she was alive today, she would be a big name like Zang Ziyi( from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon) or Bai Lu, probably bigger, but she entered Hollywood at a time when prejudice ran rampant ( still does as we all know). Yet, she made a name for herself, most often, as a co-star, but, on a few occasions she was a star. She had to fight to get every role and some directors fought for her. She knew, early on, that she wanted to be an actress hanging around film sites so much that they called her CCC- Curious Chinese Child. This profession went against her own culture and her parents’ thinking. Her dad did not condone her choice because it was felt an actress was no better than a whore ( thankfully, he changed his mind and was very proud of her). So this poor gal fought the studios and her own family. I applaud her courage and conviction while still remaining true to her culture. Whenever she could, she would dress in her traditional outfits in honour of her parents and culture in the 1930s, but she loved fashion and was once voted Best Dressed actress in the world. Her glamour and look was heralded in the 1920s often being cited as best dressed and was one of the first to herald the “Flapper” look.

When MGM was going to make “The Good Earth” about a Chinese husband and wife and all that they must endure, Anna fought hard for the lead role and would have been perfect as O-Lan but there was no way in hell she was ever going to land this role that she deserved because her co-star was caucasian. Discrimination was rampant and there would be no way she, a Chinese person, could be the lover and wife of a white man in film, who is portraying a Chinese person. It was better to have white people made to look Asian than have actual Asians play the roles. Luise Rainer played the lead and won her second Oscar and, I have to say, to me, Rainer did a great job, but I would have loved to have seen Anna in the role. After this bitter disappointment, Anna left the States for over a year to visit her dad who went back to his ancestral home( her mom died in 1930 after being hit by a car) with her younger brothers and sister. The stress proved too much when she arrived to a huge gathering of her fans, the usual genial actress, suffering from depression, was rude and angry. The fans quickly turned to a mob and she had to leave quickly. While staying with her dad, she learned mandarin and her ancestral history which she embraced.

When she returned to Hollywood, she starred in B movies…starred and was also still a co-star but she now had the conviction to help her fellow countrymen and often donated large amounts to Chinese charities. She sold her costumes and gave a large portion of her money to their cause since they were fighting the Japanese invasion. She continued to star on Broadway and radio. In 1951 she had her own tv show called, “The Gallery of Madame Liu-Tsang.” She played an art dealer who ends up being a detective solving crimes along the way. Talk about a precursor to “Murder, She Wrote”. Sadly, the studio dumped all their tv shows into the New York Harbour…yup, they did that! Over the years, her smoking and drinking affected her health where she suffered a cerebral hemorrhage and cirrhosis of the liver, finally, dying in 1961, from a massive heart attack.

I’d love to see more films of hers and her TV spots. She died too young which is such a shame, but a special coin was created in her honour as well as a commemorative stamp. Very intelligent and fascinating person.

FILMS

1. Toll of the Sea-1922

2. The Thief of Baghdad-1924

3. Peter Pan-1924

4. Pavement Butterfly-1929

5. The Road of Dishonour-1930

6. Piccadilly-1930

7. Daughter of the Dragon-1931

8. Shanghai Express-1932

9. Java He’d-1934

10. Daughter of Shanghai-1939

11. King of Chinatown-1942

12. Lady From Chunking-1942

13. Portrait In Black-1960

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2026-01-01T08:25:00.000-05:00

Max Swain was in many Mack Sennett films and was a big comedian in the early days of film. Happy New Year everyone! Let’s hope Putin is defeated, Trump disappears, the White House is restored, Ukraine wins, The Hamas is defeated and the Pakistan people are able to rebuild. Etc, etc, etc….On personal notes, let’s hope we remain healthy as well as our families, we don’t suffer financial mishaps and our furbabes are all healthy and happy.

Now, on with the show and since this is New Year’s Day, let’s talk about movies where New Year’s Eve plays into a major plot point. Here re my 3…

1. HOLIDAY-1938

I just saw this film, last week, after decades…I think I was a teen when I saw it back in the Middle Ages…Nyuck, nyuck. This film came out when Katherine Hepburn was voted “box office poison” and the studio chiefs were reluctant to cast her in this film but, Cary Grant insisted because they got along so well and knew she was perfect in the role as the free spirited sister of his fiance. Cary Grant plays Johnny, a self man man who worked in investments and who now wants to travel and experience life. His fiancée, played by Doris Nolan, comes from a very wealthy family ruled by her domineering father, whom she adores. Johnny meets the controlling dad, the alcoholic son, played so well by Lew Ayres, and his fiancée’s free-spirited sister, Linda, played with perfect finesse, by Katherine Hepburn. Linda wants to throw the perfect engagement party, small and in their old playroom. Johnny loves it but not the fiancée. New Year’s Eve and the home is packed with insufferable people in all their fancy dress. This New Year’s, transforms some and others, sadly, still the way Daddy wants things. It’s very well acted with some serious overtones but met with classy humour. The cast is excellent and it’s great to see Cary Grant perform some acrobatic stunts without a stuntman. When he came to The States he was part of an acrobatic troupe which served him well in more than just film.

2. MADE FOR EACH OTHER-1939

This is such an underrated film with James Stewart and the luminous Carole Lombard meet, fall in love and marry in just one day. He is married to his work as well which does not sit well with Carole Lombard. She also must contend with Jimmy’s very controlling and manipulative mother who makes things difficult for these 2 lovebirds. They have a baby which only contributes to their stress which culminates at a New Year’s Eve party. They are amidst the celebrations but saddened knowing they will separate..until they find out their baby is very sick and needs a serum but a blizzard stops them from attaining that serum. Charles Coburn, Stewart’s boss, hires a plane to fly the serum in but will the pilot make it? This is a gem of a film with the 2 leads bringing dimension to their characters. New Year’s is the climax of the film when this dramedy turns into an adventure film fraught with intense emotions. Stewart got along well with potty mouthed Carole Lombard who everyone loved. Sadly, during the making of the film, a technician fell to his death when releasing balloons for the New Year’s Eve party.

3. THE POSEIDEN ADVENTURE-1972

I love this Irwin Allen disaster pic which were all the rage during the 70s. Like Airport, this film involves a who’s who of actors on a ship celebrating New Year’s Eve. A rogue wave throws the ship upside down killing poor Leslie Nielsen as the Captain. Gene Hackman ( what a horribly tragic death he had), plays a priest who tries to tell people they must leave and walk the bottom of the ship which is now at the top of the ocean. Most don’t want to leave, believing they will be saved if they stay put. A few decide to follow Hackman including an old couple , played by Shelley Winters and Jack Albertson, a bickering couple, Earnest Borgnine and Stella Stevens, the singer played by Carol Lynley, an older teen played by Pamela Sue Martin along with her kid brother. You also have Roddy McDowell who is a purser on the ship. They all climb the Christmas tree up to safety just before the glass roof cracks up and the ocean comes in killing everyone below. We follow these people as they keep climbing towards the bottom of the ship to safety, some don’t make it and Stella keeps losing her clothes. Shelley got an Oscar nomination for her role as the older lady who used to be a swimming champ. The song,”The Morning After” hit the charts and won the Oscar for best song. This is a fun movie and I love watching it.

What New Year’s movies can you think of? Did you celebrate, stay up to watch the ball drop or go to bed early?

Happy New Year!

End of the Year...Lets Have a Laugh

2025-12-31T07:03:00.001-05:00

It's still Christmas and, in case you don't know, that awful song, “The 12 Days of Christmas”, is between Christmas and 3 Kings Day- January 6th. So Christmas is still the way ta go! I'm still dealing with my weakness, cough and voice sounding weak, but I’m getting better. I'm joining in with Monday Music Moves Me even if it's Wednesday. To everyone, Happy New Year!

1. BLUE CHRISTMAS BY PORKY PIG-2011

When I first heard this, I laughed so hard, I had tears in my eyes. It's not Mel Blanc singing this but just a gifted individual at some party. Actually, I read it’s Seymour Swine and the Squeelers…ya, don’t know them either.

2. 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS BY BOB & DOUG MACKENZIE-1981

I loved SCTV with so many Canadian icons on this show from Bob Thomas and Rick Moranis to John Candy, Catherine O'Hara and Eugene Levy. This was a great show filmed out of Edmonton, Alberta and these 2 became a big hit for a while.

3. BING CROSBY NARRATES CHRISTMAS BY HOLDERNESS FAMILY-2020

I have watched a few of his videos with his very pretty wife and they are funny. They made it big on YouTube, Instagram, etc… and, I have to say, he makes me laugh and we need that now.

What will the new year bring? Let’s hope, on a personal front, we have no major costs this year. A new furnace, water heater, followed by major vet bills and then, this past year, having to rip out our beautiful ivy fence and install a wooden one that meets the guidelines, is enough. My hubby and I are looking to create…maybe I will have my bathroom on the main floor. This bathroom has been gone since January 6th, 2018 and I would love to not crawl up the stairs at 3am for my nightly pee. My hubby is hoping to put in his garden pond and finally have my secret garden.

My one friend will be going through a transformation, selling the home and divorcing that idiot who has told his 2 daughters not to give him any Christmas gifts and that he’s busy. Why? They dared to speak to my friend’s new boyfriend ( she used to go out with him when she was 20 and they met, by accident, at a festival in July and rekindled their relationship in September). My friend and her ex have been separated for over a year even though they still lived in the house. The ex found out, went ballistic, as I wrote before and made it about him and how he has been hurt by his wife blah blah. Now, he has kicked his 2 girls to the curb for “siding” with their mom, bringing back all their cards, school grades etc…that they gave to him over the years. Thankfully, this year, my friend can find her path.

My other 2 friends, they are brothers, have been caring for their mom, for over 20 years, since their dad died. They worked and, aside from vacations or the day they took off to Toronto, they spent every evening at their mom’s as well as the weekends. She is a good person but she has been manipulative making them feel guilty if they dared not be with her when they had a day off. This past summer, she fell and broker her pelvis and hip and has been bedridden since then. To say she has had physical ailments is an understatement, and she is tired. She is 89 years old and just wants to be with her husband and I can’t fault her for that. She is getting more confused and her body is literally broken. They have a sister and the 3 of them take turns being with her every day since she went home in October. They take shifts and a PSW, is with her from 11pm to 8am. I know she will soon meet up with her husband and it is so very sad. I wanted to visit her but couldn’t during Christmas because of my pneumonia. When she passes, the brothers will be lost because she has been a mainstay I. Their lives for the past 20+ years. I will make sure to invite them every month for dinner and be there for them whenever they need it.

Sorry for going on and on but it just shows how some of us will be meeting the New Year with big transformations and others, like my husband and I, are happy to have a year less eventful.

May all of you have a great year ahead without the major upheavals my friends will be experiencing. A boring life can be good too.

Happy New Year!🥳

Merry Christmas!!

2025-12-25T13:21:00.002-05:00

I had a wonderful Christmas with my Hubby and my brother. I did too much and am feeling the effects today so I am resting. Here are 3 films I hope to watch…

1. A CHRISTMAS CAROL-1951

This is my favourite version of a Christmas Carol and Alastair Sim is my favourite Scrooge

2. WHITE CHRISTMAS-1954

Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen all end up at an Inn ru; by their former WW2 Commander who may go bust since it is very warm and no snow. They decide to put on a show and t goes from there. You have the singing of Bing and Rosemary, the antics of Kaye and Vera-Ellen wows with her dancing.

3. A CHRISTMAS STORY- 1983

This is such a fun story about a young boy, in the late 1940s, who wants a certain BB Gun, but all he hears is, “You’ll shoot your eye out”. You follow him dealing with bullies, kid brother, parents, dogs, a freaky Santa, an horrible gift from an Aunt and the BB Gun. Well worth the watch.

I am very late here as I don’t feel too well but I wish all of you a Very Merry Christmas and may you feel peace, happiness, health and joy.

Merry Christmas!

2025-12-24T08:33:00.001-05:00

It’s Wednesday, Christmas Eve, it’s the big day for me as it’s when we open up the gifts and have the big meal this evening. Unfortunately, I am getting over pneumonia. I’m feeling much better from last week and got to the doctors in time, I finished my antibiotics but am way behind. Just so you know, I am making rouladen, with gravy, red cabbage, peas, carrots and mashed potatoes. I did make my shortbread and my traditional German cookies. I hope you enjoy the Christmas Music and am entering Monday Music Moves Me. Thank you…I truly mean it because you have red my blog and leave comments and I have been very bad in replying. I do sincerely thank you!!

1. GERMAN CHRISTMAS-1959

2. CHRISTMAS WITH THE BOSTON POPS AND ARTHUR FIEDLER-1959

3. CHRISTMAS WITH IVAN REBROFF-1970

Just enjoy these albums I grew up with and love with ll my heart!

Angels

2025-12-18T07:31:00.004-05:00

It’s less than a week before Christmas and my tree has lights on it…and nothing else! I usually have it all decorated, but I’m a bit late. It will get done and all will be ok…yeah..still have to go Christmas shopping too. It’s crazy..I know. With work being always crazy, feeling ill( will see the Dr tomorrow) and Bell being assholes, I thought of my mom and daddy and how much Christmas meant to them. I thought of angels and know they are angels and thought of the Christmas movies that involve angels so here we go.

1. BEYOND TOMORROW-1940

This is a little known gem, in my opinion, starring 3 character actors, Charlie Ruggles, C. Aubrey Smith and Harry Carey, who are successful businessmen celebrating Christmas with the diminutive Maria Ouspenskaya playing the Russian landlady. Harry is jaded about the goodness of men so the other 2 decide to prove him wrong and they throw their wallets out to prove men are good( Hahahaaaa). The first woman to find a wallet, takes the $10 out and pays a man to drive her somewhere. The other 2 are found by a young man and woman who deliver the wallets to the home and are invited in for Christmas dinner. They accept and the 3 men are delighted to see the 2 fall in love. Unfortunately, all 3 men are killed in a plane crash but their spirits return to the home they live at. Harry is still somber about mankind but the other 2 believe and realize the 2 lovebirds need help when they see the young man become famous but become stupid falling for a wretched woman forgetting the sweet gal he truly loves. Makes me think of what my Oma said, “ When the dick is up, their brains are up their ass!” Will the 3 angels see tru love triumph? Will the man wake up and realize he’s been an idiot? This is not a great film but it is a superlative B film which is held together by these 3 elderly actors especially the great Harry Carey as the disgruntled older man who does not believe mankind is inherently good. We can relate to this now, with all the sadness in the world and bitter, nasty words being said, we must see beyond this and know that goodness will win out. Look at the people who rose above and defended the defenseless. We will see good triumph.

2. IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE-1946

You know I will speak about this great film that stars James Stewart as George Bailey. He is a man ready to take his life believing he has done nothing to help the people he loves or the town until Clarence, played so well by Henry Travers, comes down from heaven to help George see how much he has helped his world he lives in. Clarence decides to show George what life would be like if he were not born and, boy, does George get a rude awakening when he see how cold and unloving the town and people are. This is my favourite film and I cry, every time, I see the ending…not out of sadness, but out of joy! Very few films can make a person cry out of sheer joy especially when George’s brother arrives. The cast is perfect but Jimmy Stewart drives the film and, I think, that is partly due to the PTSD he was dealing with after coming back from the war. His prayer scene is iconic and the tears are real.

3. THE BISHOP’S WIFE-1947

Cary Grant plays the debonair angel, named, of all things, Dudley, who comes to earth to help a Bishop raise funds for a cathedral. The bishop is truly thankful, but becomes very annoyed when Dudley ingratiates himself within his household, especially the Bishop’s wife, played by the holier than thou, Loretta Young. The Bishop, played by David Niven, becomes more jealous and dislikes Dudley even though the Angel is helping him. The casting is excellent ( well, anyone could have played the wife..like Donna Reed) and I can’t believe that Cary Grant was supposed to play the Bishop and David Niven was supposed to play Dudley. Thankfully, Cary Grant saw that Dudley was more to his liking and the powers that be agreed. This is a lovely film with an understated performance by Cary Grant and a shiny performance by Monty Woolley as the curmudgeonly professor who knows what Dudley is.

What other angel movies can you think of that takes place around Christmas? Are you all ready or like me?

Which Song Won The Oscar-1951

2025-12-17T07:08:00.002-05:00

I can’t believe Christmas is one week away! I’m back at work, I think I have a lung infection but I’m going to see the Dr on Friday. I am changing my tv, internet and phone to Bell…I’m in it now but this was a mistake. It’s been a nightmare…over 10 hrs on the phone last week, 5 technicians over at my home, I still don’t have my home phone connected nor the TV and I saw a bill I received from Bell for $599! This won’t do but will deal with it on Friday.

Today I am choosing the year of 1951, so let’s see if you can guess which song was nominated, which won and which got none! I’m joining Monday Music Moves Me on a Wednesday, like I normally do and it’s “Anything Christmassy”.

1. SILVER BELLS SUNG BY BOB HOPE AND MARILYN MAXWELL

I still need to see the film, “The Lemon Drop Kid” that stars Bob Hope and Marilyn Maxwell but this song is now a Christmas standard and I consider it a Carol, not just a song. This song was written by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans and it was originally called “Tinkle Bells” until Evans’ wife told him there is no way you can call it that because “tinkle” was a slang word for…you know.

2. IN THE COOL, COOL, COOL OF THE EVENING SUNG BY BING CROSBY AND JANE WYMAN

Another film I need to see, “ Here Comes The Groom” that stars Bing Crosby and Jane Wyman(. Ronald Reagan’s 1st wife), introduces this famous song that was written by Hoagy Carmichael with lyrics by Johnny Mercer. This is a fun song and quite catchy.

3. A KISS TO BUILD A DREAM ON SUNG BY KAY BROWN

This song was written by Bert Kalmar, Harry Ruby and Oscar Hammerstein 3rd. The first 2 write it for a Marx Brothersk movie but never used it. Oscar found it and reworked it for this film, “The Strip” that stars Mickey Rooney. Yup, another film I need to see.

So, which film won the Oscar, which was nominated and which came up nadda?

Who Should Have Won Best Actor-1987

2025-12-11T07:12:00.000-05:00

I’ve had the week off for decorating purposes since I can no longer work, come home and start decorating. I just hate that and am trying to come to terms with this shit…oops, sorry. My decorating is coming along but I still have to put some more decorations up, iron the Christmas table cloths, put up my Nativity Scene and my Village..oh and the Christmas Tree which we still need to buy. I still have to bake too…I hope to visit some of your blogs very soon and thank you so much for visiting mine and commenting. I just so very much appreciate it🥰.

I am going to choose whom,I’m think, should have won Best Actor, for 1987, and, yup, he was not, even nominated, if he was, I bet they would have placed him in Best Supporting category even though he is equal to his acting partner. Let’s see if you agree with me or offer someone different or agree with the academy.

1. JOHN CANDY IN PLANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES

I watch this, almost, every year and, even though this takes place over the American Thanksgiving, it could easily be a Christmas movie. It stars the great John Candy and Steve Martin as 2 very different men, from different classes, who keep meeting up until they must join forces to get Steve Martin home for Thanksgiving. Much to Martin’s chagrin, Candy finds a motel room when their plane must land in Wichita because Chicago got belted with a snowstorm. One horrible event after another occurs, all the while Candy’s character tries to help Steve get home. This is an endearing, warm and very funny film where we can recall scenes smiling when we do. Steve Martin and John Candy are great together and, if Candy lived longer, I bet they would have worked together in other films. The scene, above, just shows the range that Candy had as an actor and the words were improvised by Candy! The director loved it that he kept it in the film and so glad he did. You find out what a dick Martin is and how he loosens up and becomes more human, thanks to Candy’s Character. Candy was not even nominated and this whole film was neglected. Steve Martin deserved a nomination as well as the actual film, the directing and that score! The music is so well placed in every scene that just adds to the richness of each scene.

2. MICHAEL DOUGLAS IN WALL STREET

Michael Douglas finally won Best Actor in this film that co-stars Charlie Sheen as a young up and comer Wall Street broker who is taken under the wing, by Michael Douglas, a corporate Raider. It shows the underbelly of this world that I would never want to be part of. Oliver Stone showcases both actors to their best advantage and Douglas is excellent in his role as the evil Gordon Gekko who will do anything to make more money. I have seen this film and, while it is excellent, I could not get into the characters. I watched it and, promptly, forgot about it. Douglas deserved more accolades for the films, “Falling Down” and “The Wonder Boys.”

3. ROBIN WILLIAMS IN GOOD MORNING, VIETNAM

Robin Williams wowed the critics and the audience about this real life DJ who shook things up in Vietnam and winning over the soldiers who are fighting in a war that they can’t win. Robin deserved the nomination since he explodes on the screen with his riffs, all spontaneously done by Robin, as well as his serious side coming through when he meets the soldiers who are fighting against all odds. This film could not exist without Williams who makes the audience laugh and cry in the span of 10 minutes. It’s a film worth seeing.

Do you agree with my assessment or would you agree with the Academy..or would you choose someone completely different?

Christmas Music

2025-12-10T09:21:00.002-05:00

I’m on vacation this week so I am late reading people’s blogs and writing here. I’m just going to have some Christmas music I love…

1. WALKING IN THE AIR SUNG BY KATHERINE JENKINS-2020

This comes from an animated Christmas film from 1982, composed by Howard Blake. This is a Finnish film that has become a staple Christmas favourite in Finland and in England. This song has grown in stature over the years, and rightly so. I love this song nd my hubby considers it one of the best Christmas carols.

2. O BAMBINO SUNG BY THE HARRY SIMONE CHORALE-1965

I love this song and it is one of my all time favourites. It was originally written by Remo Capra, Tony Verona with music by Alfonzo Maria De’ Liguori but became most famous by Harry Simone from his arrangement. To me it is one of the most beautiful of carols.

3. SUO GAN SUNG BY CHARLOTTE CHURCH-2001

I tried to find the version sung by John McDermott from his album, “Christmas Memories” but I couldn’t find it, so I found this version sung by a young Charlotte Church, a child prodigy who has an amazing voice. This is a traditional Welsh lullaby created by an anonymous writer from around 1800. It’s such a pretty song and one I love listening to.

Any songs you love that are not traditional carols? Check out Monday Music Moves Me to see what the others have chosen this week.

Christmas Films I Finally Saw!

2025-12-04T07:01:00.001-05:00

There are some films that have escaped my viewing until now. You won’t believe the first film that I have not seen until last weekend! Actually, you won’t believe the second film I have not seen until last year Christmas. So let’s start…

1. CHRISTMAS IN CONNECTICUT-1945

Yes, this classic film is one that has escaped my viewing until last weekend. To be honest, I found this film in the bin in Walmart for under $6. Bucks! This is such a funny film and one I a. So happy to say I have finally seen and own. It starts off with 2 sailers who have survived the sinking of their ship by a German Submarine and were finally saved after adrift for many days. In the meantime, the head of a major corporation, wants his star of the magazine, to invite this sailer to her home in Connecticut for a splendid Christmas meal. Barbara Stanwyck plays this early version of a Martha Stewart who cooks up a storm of great meals while living at her cozy home in Connecticut, that she has decorated in her own style that people love to copy. The problem is that she has no home in Connecticut and has no idea how to cook! Now, she must entertain a soldier there for Christmas as well as her boss, played so well by Sydney Greenstreet and she is at a loss as well as her publisher. In comes a very rich man who wants Barbara as his wife who lets her use his home provided she finally accepts his marriage proposal. They all travel to that nice home, with an great fireplace, I might add, bringing along her fatherly friend, S. Z. “Cuddles” Sakall, who is the real chef behind her famous recipes. When the soldier, played by Dennis Morgan, arrives, sparks fly between him and Barbara but the ruse must continue which contains many funny moments. It’s a great movie and one I will watch every Christmas.

2. HOME ALONE-1990

Yes, I never saw this film until I, reluctantly, saw this with my hubby and the end of Christmas last year and really enjoyed it. I remember when it came out and became this mega hit with so many interviews with MacCauley Caulkin, that browned me off wanting to see this movie especially because of this smarmy kid. I did my very best to avoid any movies starring this brat, as you can tell, I am not a lover of children who are smart asses, but, over the years I have seen a few like “ Uncle Buck” and “Home Alone 2”. Now, after all these years, I watched this movie and got a kick out of the antics the 2 dumb ass robbers get into when they try to rob the home that the kid is living in. It starts off when the family are travelling to Paris for Christmas, but when the kid takes a hissy fit, mom, played by the golden Catherine O’Hara, sends him to the attic to sleep overnight. In all the chaos, the family take off for Paris forgetting about the brat. Kevin, the brat’s name, is happy being on his own, at first, but soon misses his family especially his mom. He notices the 2 bozos who want to rob the place and sets up booby traps all over the house. The 2 robbers, played so well by Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern, have one mishap after another evoking the old Warner Bros. Cartoons that Wile E. Coyote got into. It is funny and strangely endearing even though the family are truly bad…who forgets their son!? Mom realizes she has left Kevin at home, while on the plane to Paris and does everything she can to get home. It is a fun movie, not a great one, but a fun one.

3. LAST CHRISTMAS-2019

Emilia Clarke is one big fuck-up..sorry for the swear word but it really deserves to be used here. She drinks too much, sleeps around, has no care for other peoples’ stuff and is always late at work which she wishes she could be anywhere else. She works, in downtown London at a year round Christmas store run by the evocative Michelle Yeoh, who keeps giving this gal 2nd and 3rd chances. After burning her last friend, she must endure living back home with her overly dramatic mom, played so well by Emma Thompson who wrote the script and produced the film. Her dad drives a cab who would rather work all the time than be home with his wife who centers on the negative a bit too much. Her sister is fed up with her ..um..fucked-up sister, believing people cater too much to Emilia. While at work, Emilia sees a young guy on his bike and goes out to speak with him. They are drawn to each other and start spending a lot of time together where he starts showing her that her life is precious and should not be burned nor the people around her. You find out that this girl, who has the gift of a beautiful voice, suffered a severe illness which affected her heart resulting in a heart transplant. Over time, she starts to realize that this young guy really believes in her and they fall for each other. This is a witty movie and I love Michelle Yeoh’s quips as well as her budding romance with a Dane. Emma Thompson rules her scenes as the a former Yugoslavian who her and her family had to escape the war in her country, and focuses on the negative. There is also real chemistry between Emilia Clarke and Henry Golding as her love interest. What’s very strange is that Emilia Clarke, when on “Game of Thrones” suffered 2 brain aneurysms, in 2011 & 2013, and almost died. This is a good movie and worth seeing.

Which Christmas movie is still on your radar to see or have you just seen it?

Are They Christmas Songs?

2025-12-03T06:00:00.003-05:00

It’s the Christmas Season and it’s whatever music moves you over at Monday Music Moves Me and it is all about Christmas this month so I’m starting off with music that isn’t about Christmas but they have become Christmas songs. Now, one, I understand but the other 2, I don’t quite get. Let’s not pussyfoot around and let’s get to it….

1. WINTER WONDERLAND BY GUY LOMBARDO-1934

This is a song that seems to be played every hour on the hour during the Christmas season and just bout every singer has sung this. The music is by Felix Bernard and the lyrics, by Richard Bernhard Smith who thought up the words when he saw Honesdale Central Park, PA. Covered in snow. This became a huge hit for the Canadian Guy Lombardo and his band, 91 years ago. There are over 200 different recordings of this song.

2. BABY, ITS COLD OUTSIDE SUNG BY RICARDO MONTALBAN AND ESTHER WILLIAMS-1949

This has become such a controversial song and I think most of us need to take a pill and settle down. This song was written by Frank Loesser along with his wife, Lynn Garland who sang it at their dinner parties when they thought it was time for the guests to leave. It became a huge hit and has been covered by many singers over the decades and somewhat done to death. Later in the film, the roles are reversed with Betty Garrett chasing Red Skelton while singing this song and it is very funny.

3. MY FAVOURITE THINGS SUNG BY JULIE ANDREWS AND THE KIDS-1965

Nothing says Christmas than the warm summer sun, greenery and, oh yeah, Nazis! This song is sung by Julie Andrews to the kids who are scared by a thunderstorm( wussies). Christmas is mentioned in the song, written by Rodgers and Hammerstein, so that makes it a Christmas song. It is a great song, sweet and fun before the meanie Christopher Plummer stops the singing with one cold stare.

So, what songs are played at Christmas, but it is not supposed to be a Christmas song? Let me know.

Bonus…BETTY GARRETT AND RED SKELTON…

Star Of The Month-Jeff Chandler

2025-12-02T07:11:00.001-05:00

JEFF CHANDLER

BIRTH: December 15, 1918

DEATH: June 17, 1961

AGED: 42 years

DIED FROM: pneumonia and blood poisoning after back surgery

REAL NAME: Ira Grossel

NICKNAME: Big Grey

MARRIED: once, to Marjorie Hoshelle-divorced

AFFAIRS: Esther Williams, Gloria DeHaven, Ann Sheridan, Julie Adams, Barbara Shelley, Mamie Van Doren(who didn’t!), Marilyn Maxwell, and Eartha Kitt

CHILDREN: 2 daughters. Both died in the early 2000s from cancer. His Aunt, Uncle and Grandfather also died from cancer. Genetic link to this horrible disease.

FRIENDS: Susan Hayward, Gordon MacCrea, Sammy Davis Jr.

OSCAR NOMINATIONS: Broken Arrow for his role as Cochise

OSCAR WINS: Nil

TALENT: singer, violinist, song writer

KNOWN FOR: Grey Hair and Chiseled features plus body hair. That had to be shaved for the movies so he was, often, quite itchy. An avid Democrat, proud of his Jewish Heritage and into civil rights.

What is sad is that Jeff Chandler is known more for what Esther Williams wrote in her autobiography, which was proven to be false, by her own admission, than for his acting ability plus his many other talents. She wrote that he was a cross dresser and loved to wear women’s clothing, panties etc… while playing a he-man in his many films. This disgusting gossip went “viral” with all the TV shows, like “ Entertainment Tonight” plus even regular news, discussing Chandler’s “hidden” fetish asking Esther Williams about his life. She loved talking all about this which made her book a best seller. Much later, it came out that she was asked to spruce up her autobiography so she decided to ruin this man’s reputation just to sell her book. She is not a nice person, sadly. I don’t care if a man wears women’s clothing as long as he is a nice person…let him do whatever he wishes, but when a man is not a cross dresser and can’t even defend himself because he has been dead over 40 years, that’s just very, very wrong.

Jeff Chandler was very proud of his Jewish heritage starring in a couple of films and supporting them when they attacked Egypt which caused a stir. He formed his own production company, was a radio star plying the love interest to Eve Arden in “Our Miss Brooks” plus he was a singer and violinist. He played many Indians in film, which is now considered in bad taste, but these were the times so let’s get over it and move on. He also played many heroes from chivalrous heroes to swashbucklers and adventurers.

He had many affairs which is understandable given his rugged good looks and his silver hair which started to turn white when he was 18. His chiseled features became the model for the main character in the comic, “Johnny Quest”. He loved baseball, was in WW2, and was a devoted friend. He went to school and became a life-long friend of Susan Hayward, and, when Sammy Davis Jr lost his left eye in a car accident and his right eye was feared to be affected, Chandler volunteered to have one of his eyes taken, but the technology was not ( and is not) available. He had many talents but, sadly, he died suddenly and it was blatant malpractice. On the set of one of his movies, he injured his back ( playing baseball with U. S. soldiers who were extras in the film) and underwent surgery but his artery was knicked, developed blood poisoning and died. His family sued and won the case.

This man should be known for his acting, his devotion to his friends plus his many talents not the gossip that was proven to be false.

FILMS

1. Broken Arrow-1950

2. Cochise-1950

3. Two Flags West-1950

4. Smuggler’s Island-1951

5. War Arrow-1953

6. Foxfire-1955

7. Merrill's Marrauders-1961

8. Thunder In The Sun-1959

9. The Tattered Dress-1957

10. Man In The Shadow-1957

Who Should Have Won Best Actress 1965

2025-11-27T07:06:00.004-05:00

I post this on the 2nd week of each month and …I forgot! So, I’m posting it now and this one is close to my heart. In October1972, my mom took my brother and I to Europe to visit family, but before we traveled to Graz, Austria, we went to Vienna and then, to Salzburg. I loved every moment and my heart belongs to the mountains. When The Sound of Music made its premiere on TV, without editing, I was beyond excited! I remember watching the clock all day and telling my dad that we must watch this, not the news, and it starts at 7pm. That opening, showing the beauty of the land, had me enthralled and then, there was Julie twirling on that mountain in love with life. To say I was overjoyed, would have been an understatement and I bought the record, memorized all the tunes and dreamed of going back to Salzburg ( which I did in 1980 and 1993). So, I bet you can guess whom I think should have won for Best Actress…

1. JULIE ANDREWS IN THE SOUND OF MUSIC

This scene just captivated me and brought my tween romantic self out in full tilt! In this scene, not only did Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer dance this Liedler so sweetly, with great ease plus they show how much they have fallen for each other. While Christopher has that confidence, Julie shows raw emotion from love, sexual tension, realization and embarrassment. This, to me, showcased her acting range plus Julie carried the movie. She is in almost every scene with her strength, exuberance, charm and wondrous voice taking control of every part of the film. She won the previous year for Mary Poppins but, I think, she should have won for this film.

2. JULIE CHRISTIE IN DARLING

I confess, I still must see this film so it’s somewhat wrong of me to say Julie deserves the Oscar more but, I know I would still vote for Julie….Andrews. Julie Christie won the Oscar playing the selfish, mod model/actress who values her career and surface fun over people and their feelings. She dabbles through men to get ahead using her wiles to get where she wants, but she doesn’t even know what she wants. Julie Christie had a big year in 1965 playing the narcissistic model as well as playing Lara, the beautiful paramour to Omar Sharif’s Dr. Zhivago. I must see this movie in the on coming year…if I can find it.

3. CATHERINE DENEUVE IN REPULSION

I have no clue why Catherine Deneuve was not even nominated for this demanding role as a beautiful but emotionally detached woman who lives with her sister, but has an inability to cope with life. When her sister leaves with her boyfriend for Rome. While they are gone Deneuve’s character falls deeper and deeper into madness and Deneuve carries the role so well. Seeing her descent is very unnerving especially when she kills the man who loves her. You realize she was broken long ago and those cracks she concentrates on, are the cracks she is experiencing in her mind. It’s considered a horror film, but you can easily call it a thriller. Maybe because of the chilling motif, she was not even nominated, but this is a crime.

Have you seen Darling? Would you agree with Oscar or with me? Do you think someone else should have won? Love to know:)

FYI- I love the Glasgow Gallanter and read it every week but, for the last few weeks I can’t log in and leave comments! I tried logging in the normal way and even via Facebook and …nothing. It’s very frustrating. She has a great blog and my hubby and I had the privilege to meet her and her hubby and take them around Niagara Falls for the day. I love all her walks and what she sees.

Which Song Won The Oscar 1945

2025-11-26T07:00:00.001-05:00

I’m late, as per norm, but doubly late since I, normally, have this post in the 3rd week of each month. Why now? For the big reason that…I forgot! Better late than never, I always say and this week, over at Monday Music Moves Me, the theme is to choose songs that can make you happy and this fits for the Oscar songs from 1945. Let’s see if you can pick the song that won the Oscar, which was nominated and which came up short…

1. THE WORRY SONG SUNG BY GENE KELLY AND JERRY THE MOUSE

This song, written by Sammy Fain and Ralph Freed, was a breakthrough moment in film production because Gene Kelly dances with a cartoon character. Gene danced with one of his favourite off-screen partners, Carol Haney and the. The animators got to work and created Jerry the Mouse dancing to Carol Haney’s movements and, through the creativity and magic of film, have Gene teach Jerry that this King can sing and dance and that everyone has talent. It’s a wonderful fantasy sequence in the film, “Anchor’s Aweigh” and one of the highlights in musical film

2. IT MIGHT AS WELL BE SPRING SUNG BY LOUANNE HOGAN

Jeanne Crain plays the lovely daughter of farmer parents who have entered the state fair, Mom for her mincemeat pie and dad for his boar, Blue Boy. Jeanne longs for something more while her brother is disheartened that his girlfriend can’t make it to the fair. This is the only musical that Rogers and Hammerstein created for film, not Broadway. This is a romantic comedy musical, not just romance between Crain and Dana Andrews (who actually had a great singing voice) but romance with family and happiness in the simple things.

3. ACCENTUATE THE POSITIVE SUNG BY BING CROSBY AND SONNY TUFTS

This is a famous song written by the famous team Johnny Mercer and Harold Arlen originally sung by Bing Crosby and Sonny Tufts in the film, “Here Comes the Waves”, it was made more famous when Bing sang the song with the Andrew Sisters. I always loved this fun and happy song even though this song was sung in blackface, with the help of the WAVES, on a war ship to the troops. I could not find the excerpt from the actual film so, I hope, this version will do. Just an FYI, WAVES stands for Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Services.

Ok, so can you guess which song won, which was nominated and which got 0 love?

Movies in the Sahara Desert

2025-11-20T07:49:00.001-05:00

I realized I totally missed my Oscar events in music and in film so I hope to do this next week…we shall see:) I was gone last week, Thursday to Saturday for our early Christmas party in Toronto and fell behind here which is typical, sadly. My work put on a great event during the day. We ate at their local synagogue and the food was delicious. They hired 2 ladies to teach us line dancing, but since we were in the synagogue, women and men had to be separated. I tried the line dancing but my pain would not let me continue so I sat on the sidelines and the women were great. Since my pain was quite intense, I could stay and watch the men…that was hilarious especially when they had to do some hip movements…hahahaaaa. The night was at an Italian restaurant and it was excellent. I forgot how many courses comes before the main course followed by some decadent cakes…there must have been a dozen different cakes. I cheated and had carrot cake and strawberry shortcake.

Now, my friend, VJ, had a great time riding a camel into the desert Staying overnight in a tent which is another tick off his bucket list. I am continuing the desert and Moroccan theme choosing 3 pics that fit this theme..

1. MOROCCO-1930

This is Marlene Dietrich’s first U.S. film and she was nominated for an Oscar for her film role in this drudge of a film. Yup, I said drudge because it seemed all so exciting at the beginning when she first meets Gary Cooper, playing a French Legionnaire. She plays a Cabaret headliner, in her men’s tuxedo with top hat, who ends up kissing a girl. To say this is racy, in pre-code Hollywood, is an understatement and made Marlene a huge star. In this film, she is damaged goods who does not want to fall in love with cad, Gary Cooper, a handsome, narcissist who screws them and leaves them. They fall in love despite his reluctance and knowing she would have a better life with rich, secure Adolphe Mengou, who wants to marry Marlene. This all take place in Morocco and the Saharan desert and the famous ending where, spoiler alert, she runs into the desert with her high heels before taking them off and going barefoot…in the Sahara..it gets extremely hot n the day and quite cold at night. It’s an early sound film and it’s neat to see Marlene at a young 29 and Gary, the same, but I was not enamoured with this movie, but, maybe, I need to give it a second chance.

2. CASABLANCA-1942

Even though this Classic, brilliant film was all filmed on a set, it really evokes all the intrigue and drama that did take place in this Moroccan city. If you haven’t seen this film yet…what the F#@, are you waiting for…lol. Humphrey Bogart plays Rick, who owns Cafe American, where intrigue and drama takes place every minute. His best friend, Sam (Dooley Wilson, who couldn’t play a note) plays the piano and we meet many characters including the bartender, played by S. Z. “Cuddles” Sakall, Madeleine Lebeau as the floozy involved with Rick, Peter Lorre as Ugarte who has Letters of Transit ensuing 2 people to leave this port, the great Claude Rains as the corrupt Capt. Renault, Sydney Greenstreet as Ferrari who would love to own Rick’ Cafe and the evil Nazi, Major Strasser, played by Conrad Veidt. Conrad was German, married a Jewish lady and was openly hostile against the Nazi regime. He was held by the Nazis and, due to British government intervention, he was allowed to leave. Actually, many German Jews played Nazis in films including this one. Anywho, enter Paul Henreid as Victor Lazlo with his wife, the stunning Ingrid Bergman as Ilsa where you soon find out she had an affair with Bogie back in Paris. The acting, directing, art direction and cinematography is excellent and the writing? The writing is great with so many one liners that became famous. It’s a must see.

3. THE FLIGHT OF THE PHOENIX-1965

I love this film, starring James Stewart, as the pilot bringing back a group of men, mainly oil workers, to Benghazi but they run into a Sandstorm and crash in the Saharan desert. They have only enough water for 10 days or so and try to find water, make friends with some very bad Arab men( it didn’t turn out well) and try not to kill each other. A German aeronautical engineer feels they can fix this plane and get it running to get home, so the men are all tasked to help fix the plane. I find the acting brilliant and the writing, the same. There is a shocker I did not see coming near the end of the film which also made me laugh. It’s a great thrill of a movie.

Bonus…

THE SHEIK-1921

I have to include this luscious film that stars Rudolph Valentino as a Sheik who abducts an independent British lady, played by Agnes Ayers, and brings her to his home in the Saharan desert. Women swooned watching this film hoping Rudolph would take them away and make love to them under the sandy stars. This was a mega hit and solidified Rudolph’s immortality.