Golden Globes – johnrieber

Here’s a credit for you:

That’s right: a two minute scene in one of the early 70’s wildest counter-culture films lead to stardom for one VERY naked motorcylcle rider, also known as Gilda Texter!

Hollywood Gets “Naked” On Wheels!

Here is a fascinating piece of Hollywood trivia: a young Actress who makes her movie debut by riding naked on a motorcycle – and turned it into a movie career!

Here is the story: Gilda Texter was a young starlet in Hollywood in the early 70’s, when fame called on the back of a Harley! She got a very memorable role: she played a nameless, naked motorcycle rider in the cult classic “Vanishing Point!”

Texter was “discovered” when she rode this motorcycle naked across the desert for a few minutes in the film…a film that became a cult hit in 1971 – a classic cult film that celebrated hippies and outcasts at a time of civil disobedience in the US!

Here is the trailer for “Vanishing Point”, with a noticeable segment with Gilda:

From that one scene, Texter became a star, as “Vanishing Point” became a rallying cry against the establishment – a political anti-war, anti-police film that resonated with a young audience…oh, and it had a naked girl on a motorcycle as well!

Soon , Gilda Texter became the “IT” girl, a sex symbol getting tons of attention, which led to her acting in a film that had a poster that promised wild wild things on screen!

PLEASE NOTE: If you are shocked or embarrassed by total nudity and sexual activity, you are urged NOT to attend.”

I mean, C’MON…this movie poster is full of the craziest claims – and guess what? It worked! “The Runaway” was released the same year as “Vanishing Point”, and if to make sure that EVERYONE knew who Gilda Texter was, she had a THIRD film released that year as well!

“Angels Hard As They Come!”

Gilda was in another anti-establishment film in 1971, with a movie poster that was as exploitative as you can get! And the best part of this is that while Gilda Texter was promoted as a sex symbol, and achieved her greatest claim for a nude scene, she ended up with a great career in the costume and wardrobe departments of over 40 movies and television productions!

Texter was Costume Supervisor on a number of movies, such as “Romancing The Stone”, Brian DePalma’s “Snake Eyes”, and “The Green Mile” with Tom Hanks.

Yes, she was a Costumer Supervisor even thought her breakout role had her completely nude!

This is what makes the movie business so endlessly fascinating. Gilda Texter had a great career in the entertainment business, with a unique entree into it….and if you look at “The Runaway”, you will see that she worked with one of the greatest character Actors of all time:

William Smith has been in a ton of movies – a great character Actor who commanded the screen. He not only co-starred with Gilda Texter, but he also starred in one of the grittiest movies of the early 70’s:

Read all about the classic “Darker Than Amber” by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/03/01/darker-than-amber-film-noirs-legendary-fight-scene-a-brutal-hidden-gem/

And kudos to Gilda Texter for her career both in front of and behind the camera!

Amy Schumer & Jennifer Lawrence Piano Man Dance-Off!

Chicago music fans got a star-studded dance off on Thursday night when new BFF’s Amy Schumer and Jennifer Lawrence had an “Uptown Girl” dance off at Wrigley Field!

Legendary “Piano Man” Billy Joel performed at Chicago’s iconic Wrigley Field on August 27, and the highlight of the was an energetic, celebrity dance-off between Amy Schumer and Jennifer Lawrence!

The duo recently revealed they’re writing a screenplay together, took off their shoes and hopped on top of Joel’s grand piano as he sang his hit song “Uptown Girl.”

The song was featured in Schumer’s hit comedy “Trainwreck”, and Amy was in town doing an appearance, so it seemed natural for her to bring her Oscar-winning best friend to the show!

News first broke on Twitter Thursday evening when video was posted showing them at a rehearsal with Joel earlier in the day – and here is the video of the performance!

Clearly, everyone was having a great time, and I have to say, Billy Joe is sounding pretty good!

One of the 70’s biggest stars has become a shocking “True Hollywood Tragedy” – it’s the story of Jan-Michael Vincent, who starred in the most iconic surfing movie ever – and is now an amputee!

This is a real tragic story of Hollywood – and a reminder of the downside of fame…one of Hollywood’s brightest young stars is now struggling to survive!

Here are words uttered by Vincent in the iconic surfing film “Big Wednesday.”

“I don’t wanna be a star. Have my picture in magazines, have a bunch of kids looking up to me. I’m a drunk, Bear, a screw up. I just surf cause its good to go out and ride with your friends. I don’t even have that anymore.”

Jan-Michael Vincent’s Hollywood story is a familiar one: a handsome young Actor gets discovered, makes several hit films in a row and becomes the next “Hollywood Hunk”…

Vincent’s breakout hit was alongside Charles Bronson, one of the 70’s biggest action stars…

Vincent exuded raw sexuality and confidence as the young hit man who learns from the grizzled veteran Bronson…

“You always have to be dead sure. Dead sure or dead!”

The Mechanic – 1972

Here’s a classic trailer for the film, with the foreign title of “Killer Of Killers!”

“The Mechanic” was a smash hit, and Vincent was in demand, quickly becoming one of Hollywood’s hottest young stars. He cemented his stardom with a slew of other hits, including this muscular action movie:

White Line Fever – 1975

Here is the trailer:

It’s a classic “B” action film, with Vincent a returning vet who stands up to corrupt forces in his hometown. He got the chance to fight bad guys while charming the ladies…

“Surf’s Up!”

Finally, Vincent’s stardom was secured with the iconic 1978 surfing movie, “Big Wednesday”.

The Actor’s words from that movie are sadly prescient. Here is the film’s trailer:

Jan-Michael Vincent, Gary Busey and William Katt are three young California surfers in the 1960s. After a carefree life of beaches, girls, and waves, the Vietnam war arrives to shatter their idyllic lives.

The title “Big Wednesday,” is the mythical day for surfers when the greatest, cleanest, and most transcendent wave of all will come for them to conquer.

By the 80’s, Vincent switched to TV and starred in the hit TV series:

Airwolf!

We all remember this shows’ theme:

According to a great article on the actor in the UK’s Daily Mail newspaper, by the mid-80s, Vincent was earning $40,000 an episode as helicopter pilot Stringfellow Hawke in the top rated television series Airwolf.

Yet even while filming the TV show, Vincent had admitted to issues with drugs and alcohol and admits that he still struggles with alcoholism.

According to the newspaper, “when the show ended in 1986, acting roles dried up for Vincent as his demons got the better of him.

He also suffered his fair share of bad luck including two serious car accidents.
In the first incident in 1996, Vincent broke three vertebrae in his neck and sustained a permanent injury to his vocal cords that left him with a permanently raspy voice.”

The newspaper points to a second crash that occurred in 2008, and then in 2012 he contracted a leg infection as a result of complications from peripheral artery disease.

‘An infection in my leg got steadily worse,’ he told The Enquirer. ‘I felt like I was beaten with a whip.’

Vincent’s third wife, Anna, admits that doctors were left with no option but to amputate the lower half of his right leg.

Once an avid surfer, his other great wish is to get out on the waves once again – even if it is on a belly board now that he can no longer stand on a surf board.

There is more to this tragic story, and you can read the entire article here:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2824218/The-tragic-downfall-80-s-heartthrob-Jan-Michael-Vincent-Recovering-alcoholic-admits-s-lucky-alive-right-leg-amputated.html

Vincent’s story isn’t unusual: Hollywood is a tough town, and it has taken many great artists…

Cheryl “Rainbeaux” Smith was a 70’s starlet who succumbed to Hollywood – read her story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/09/20/hollywood-tragedy-70s-starlet-cheryl-rainbeaux-smith-the-runaways-caged-heat/

And it can be just as difficult for stars around the world…

Read the story of Soledad Miranda, the star of “She Killed In Ecstasy”, by reading my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/05/19/legendary-sex-kitten-soledad-miranda-ecstasy-vampyros-lesbos-new-cult-films-releases/

And good luck to Jan-Michael Vincent, I hope he can battle through and survive…

“Squeal Like A Pig!”

It is one of cinema’s most iconic lines. And one of film’s most intense moments of all time. I just spoke to someone who didn’t know even know that “squeal like a pig!” was from a movie – and certainly didn’t know it was from one of the greatest films ever made:

Deliverance!

“Deliverance” was a cultural phenomenon from the moment it was released in 1972 – a shocking story of friendship and survival – and now there is a fascinating oral history about the film, how Marlon Brando and Jack Nicholson were set to star in it, and the on-set fight between the Director and Author!

Lewis: Can that chubby boy handle himself?
Ed: Bobby? He’s rather well thought of in his field, Lewis.
Lewis: Insurance? I never been insured in my life. There’s no risk.

Burt Reynolds is outdoor fanatic Lewis Medlock, who is intent on seeing the Cahulawassee River before it’s turned into one huge lake. Lewis takes his friends, including the “chubby boy” on a river-rafting trip they’ll never forget.

Here is the trailer:

“Deliverance” was one of the most iconic films of the 70′s, nominated for a slew of Oscars, but it’s a bit overlooked these days. In 1972, this was an extremely controversial film – “squeal like a pig!” was a hot topic of discussion. It was also one of the great action dramas of the seventies – Burt Reynolds became a superstar based on this film…

If you haven’t seen this brilliant movie, check out new blu-ray and DVD versions that have documentaries and commentary attached, and they are all worth viewing – and of course, there are the “dueling banjos!”

This was such a controversial film – brutal and violent, and of course “dueling banjos” and “Squeal like a pig!” became permanent fixtures in pop culture forever…and now there is a fascinating oral history about making the movie…here is what Director John Boorman had to say about casting the film:

Jack Nicholson And Marlon Brando Star In “Deliverance”!

Well, ALMOST! Here is the fascinating anecdote that speaks volumes about the movie industry.

JOHN BOORMAN: Warner Bros. wanted two major stars, so I went to Jack Nicholson [to play Ed]. He agreed to do it and asked, “Who will you get to play Lewis?” I said, “I don’t really know yet.” He said, “What about Brando?” So I went to see Marlon Brando—spent the day with him. Finally, he said he’d do it. I asked, “Who’s your agent?” He said, “I don’t have an agent.” I said, “Well, what’s your price?” And he said, “I’ll take the same as you pay Jack.” I went back to Nicholson’s agent and said, “What do you want for Jack?” He said, “Half a million.”

Now, Nicholson had never got more than $75,000. So I told studio head Ted Ashley. “Brando? Oh, God. He doesn’t mean anything anymore—he’s box-office poison.” Well, I thought Nicholson and Brando would work very well together. Ashley asked, “What does Jack want?” I said, “Well, he wants half a million.” “Half a million?!” Ashley almost went through the roof. Then he kind of calmed down and said maybe they would pay him that money because everyone in town wanted Nicholson. He said, “What does Brando want?” “I agreed to pay him the same as Jack.” Ashley then exploded, “I’d be laughed out of this town if I paid half a million for Brando.” I said, “Look, you asked me to get two stars. I got them. Now you’re saying you don’t want to pay them. What happens now?” He said, “Well, you make it for a price, go with unknowns, and let’s see what happens.”

So instead, the lead roles go to Jon Voight and Burt Reynolds, helping to cement them as two of the hottest stars of the 70’s…and more than 40 years later, this film still stands as a classic piece of filmmaking…

Read more of this fascinating oral history of the film by going to the entire article at the terrific “Garden&Gun” website here:

http://gardenandgun.com/article/delivering-deliverance

Oh, and here’s one more great story: the Author of the book “Deliverance”, James Dickey, broke John Boorman’s nose and knocked out his teeth!

James Dickey wrote the novel “Deliverance”, and he has a small role in the movie. Legend has it, he and John Boorman allegedly got into a fistfight on set, in which the writer broke the director’s nose and knocked out his teeth!

Dickey, who was also an alcoholic, clashed heavily with Boorman throughout the shoot, particularly after the director cut the first 19 pages of the shooting script. According to Jon Voight’s body double on the film, Claude Terry, Dickey would sit in a bar saying complaining about the film.

“God, they’re ruining my fucking movie, ain’t they? They’re not doing my book,” while Boorman says that Dickey was drunk on set, and became “very overbearing with the actors.” According to legend, things reached a peak when director and writer got into a fistfight which left Boorman with a broken nose and four teeth knocked out!

Read all the rest at indiewire, where they have great insight on classic and contemporary movies every day:

http://blogs.indiewire.com/theplaylist/5-things-you-might-not-know-about-deliverance-released-40-years-ago-today-20120730

Of course, Burt Reynolds went on to become one of the biggest movie stars of the 70’s, and also co-starred in the brilliant “Boogie Nights”:

Read about his greatest roles by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/03/26/long-yards-squealing-pigs-boogie-nights-burt-reynolds-greatest-roles/

If you want to know even MORE about Burt Reynold, then you need to see some of his less-acclaimed, but no less entertaining movies as well:

Yes, I wrote all about “hicksploitation”, and you can read about it here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/02/22/suck-down-some-white-lightning-hicksploitation-burt-reynolds-gator-good-ol-boy-action-classics/

Now, let’s imagine if Marlon Brando HAD starred in “Deliverance”, especially knowing how much trouble he was known to cause on sets!

Some of the best stories about “The Godfather” involve the behind-the-scenes hijinks of Marlon Brando…read all about them here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/07/19/the-godfather-screen-tests-robert-deniro-is-sonny-corleone-godfather-trivia/

And that wasn’t the only film that he acted up on…there is a fascinating documentary about THIS:

Yes, one of the worst films of all time – caused in large part by Marlon Brando’s escapades on set. Read all about the disaster known as “The Island Of Doctor Moreau” by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/03/04/madman-marlon-brando-lost-soul-of-dr-moreau-best-bad-movie-the-cinema-sewer/

Let me know if you agree that “Deliverance” is a brilliant film and a star vehicle for Reynolds – and what you think it would have been like with Brando!

Smile! It’s Halloween!

It’s my favorite time of year – when the scariest films of all time return to my TV screen! Everyone has a favorite horror film – you know, one that really scares you…and modern cinema has given us SO many incredible images to shake us up…

You get the idea – there are old classics and new favorites – all created to scare the hell out of you this Halloween season – I wanted to share some of my favorite horror films…and also highlight some lesser known films that deserve to be seen!

More on these incredible Twin Horror Directors in a moment, but first, we begin with what is, without question, the greatest horror film ever made – one that forced viewers to flee the theater because it was too much to watch!

Time To Celebrate “The Exorcist!”

I think this is the scariest film ever made…and without a doubt the greatest horror film of all.

Here is the original trailer, that only hinted at the intensity of this film:

In the more than forty years since it was released, “The Exorcist” has remained one of the most shocking films ever released….because of moments like this:

And of course, there is a scene that will never be forgotten – a scene that continues to shock an audience:

“Cue The Soup!”

The moment that little Regan unloads gallons of green liquid onto her guests is a legendary horror scene…but equally entertaining is the banter that the demon has with Fathere Damien:

Demon: What an excellent day for an exorcism.
Father Damien Karras: You would like that?
Demon: Intensely.
Father Damien Karras: But wouldn’t that drive you out of Regan?
Demon: It would bring us together.
Father Damien Karras: You and Regan?
Demon: You and us.

Great “Exorcist” Trivia!

Here is some great trivia about the film:

The refrigerated bedroom set was cooled with four air conditioners and temperatures would plunge to around 30 to 40 below zero. It was so cold that perspiration would freeze on some of the cast and crew. On one occasion the air was saturated with moisture resulting in a thin layer of snow falling on the set before the crew arrived for filming.

Oh yeah, and then there is the “head turn” sequence! As you can see in this picture, little Regan is holding a crucifix for all the wrong reasons…another scene that was so shocking that audience members fled the theaters when it was playing – this type of horror reaction just doesn’t happen any more!

This film is so intense and scary that the original teaser trailer, which consisted of nothing but images of the white-faced demon quickly flashing in and out of darkness, was banned in many theaters, as it was deemed “too frightening”.

And then of course, there is the projectile vomiting scene!

The substance that possessed Linda Blair hurls at Father Damien Karras is thick pea soup. Specifically, it’s Andersen’s brand pea soup. The crew tried Campbell’s but didn’t like the “effect.”

Tons of great stories and commentaries on the special edition blu-ray….check it out and relive a classic!

Of course, “The Exorcist” wasn’t the first movie to feature of child acting up…in fact, some evil begins before the baby is even born!

“Rosemary’s Baby!”

Mia Farrow’s performance as a young pregnant wife who feels something isn’t right with her new baby is the glue that holds this shocking classic together…

Roman Polanski’s horror film lives up to the hype – get a bunch of great behind-the-scenes stories about the movie here:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/10/26/rosemarys-baby-jessicas-scared-to-death-great-halloween-horror/

One of the greatest horror films of all time began as a Stephen King novel – his first novel in fact, and still the greatest film ever made from one of his books!

Classic “Carrie!”

One of the greatest honor films ever made is by the Master of Suspense, Director Brian DePalma!

The story of young Carrie White, ostracized in high school and tormented by her religious fanatic of a mother, is one of horror’s greatest achievements. Here is a bun of fun trivia about the movie, and a look at five of Brian DePalma’s greatest thriller!

http://johnrieber.com/2012/03/13/carrie-and-more-5-classic-brian-depalma-thrillers/

Of course, by the end of the 70’s, one film because the new standard for horror:

It was the night that “HE” came home! Director John Carpenter’s classic horror film made Jamie Lee Curtis the reigning “Scream Queen”…

“Terror Train!”

Another of Jamie’s great thrill rides was on “Terror Train”! If you want to celebrate the “slash-tacular” horror films of the 80’s – and read about some great “Halloween” trivia, then check some of the best right here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/02/15/slash-goes-the-horror-time-for-the-bloody-splat-acular-80s/

For many, the face of horror changed forever when THIS guy showed up:

Say Hello To “Leatherface!”

It is one of the most unsettling films ever made – “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” introduced audiences to “Leatherface” – based on real events that shocked the nation. He is, without a doubt, one of cinema’s greatest horror characters…read about him here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/10/01/shocks-scares-chainsaws-the-best-halloween-horror-2014/

There is a lot of great new horror being made – not the creepy “found” footage stuff of “Paranormal Activity” and the like, but classic horror stuff with a fresh new twist like this:

Meet The Soska Sisters!

There’s a fresh new voice in cinema today, thanks to the Soska Sisters, who are making creepy, bloody horror films like “American Mary” – and they love to acknowledge their influences, like this picture that pays homage to “The Shining”:

The Soskas are currently hosting the horror game show “Hellavator” on GSN! If you want to read about their films, check out my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/06/07/modern-horror-twin-directors-the-soska-sisters-american-mary-dead-hooker-in-a-trunk/

So there you go, have a great night of shocks and screams!

Elevator Sex!

It is one of cinema’s most iconic erotic scenes – with Oscar winners!

Revenge!

And it is one of movie’s most shocking endings – a tale of revenge with one added bonus!

Boiling Bunnies!

Yes, it is true: that WAS a real bunny! Time to celebrate all that is the majesty of:

The “Oral” History Of “Fatal Attraction”!

First and foremost, remember this: “Fatal Attraction” was nominated for best picture of the year in 1987 – it was a pop culture phenomenon – that nobody wanted to make!

Empire magazine Writer Mark Salisbury did a great oral history of the film in the October issue of the magazine.

It’s a great story about a great movie that lives on decades later as one of Hollywood’s most explicit shockers!

Here are some of the highlights from the magazine article!

What A Credit!

The opening credits include this:

“Written by James Dearden based on his original screenplay”

That’s because Dearden’s short film “Diverson” told the story that became the first third of the film – his tale of a girlfriend who slits her wrists when her boyfriend tries to break up with her. That was the end of “Diverson”, but the inspiration for the rest of “Fatal Attraction.”

Producers saw the short film and asked Dearden to expand it into a feature length film…but as Producer Sherry Lansing said:

“Every studio passed on it at least twice. People would throw the script in my face and say, ‘i’m a happily married man, i would never cheat on my wife for absolutely no reason.’ They were really offended by it.”

For good reason! Some of the Oscar-nominated script included conversations like this, which began after Douglas has an affair with Close while his wife and daughter are out of town:

Dan Gallagher: You’re so sad. You know that, Alex? Lonely and very sad.
Alex Forrest: Don’t you ever pity me, you smug bastard.
Dan Gallagher: I’ll pity you… I’ll pity you. I’ll pity you because you’re sick.
Alex Forrest: Why? Because I won’t allow you treat me like some slut you can just bang a couple of times and throw in the garbage?

And that’s what was so controversial about the film – Douglas has almost NO regret for cheating on his wife, only for being caught up in a revenge tale from a woman spurned!

Brian DePalma Vs. Michael Douglas!

And then came the disasterous directorial dance with Brian DePalma, who had just made “The Untoucables” and wanted to take “Fatal Attraction” in a different direction – without Michael Douglas!

Luckily, The Producers said “no”, and DePalma left the project. Says Lansing:

“We never told Michael. He only found out many years later, after he was so hugely successful. He thought it was funny. At the time it would have really hurt him.”

And Douglass adds pointedly about Brian DePalma’s effort to replace him:

“I’ve always carried a grude with Bri. We didn’t get it resolved for like 20 years, when he came up to maat some party to try and explain. I just said, ‘Brian, it’s too late. Twenty years is too late.”

As for Glenn Close, she was told that she was too nice and earthy to be the vixen in the movie, so she showed up with her hair uncombed, frizzly and unmanageable…just like the character – and won them over immediately!

Director Adrien Lyne said after her audition: “I remember thinking her hair was a disaster, but that’s what people remember, that kind of medusa hair.”

As Michael Douglas admitted:

“I thought she was wrong before she came and in and absolutely right after she came in. She had that sexy, erotic, dangerous quality.”

And as for the sex scenes, Michael Douglas tells some funny stories about being goofy on set to take the tension out of the moment and Glenn Close was up for anything – IF she was kept awash in alcohol.

“I said, OK Tommy (the prop guy) you have to give me a pitcher of margaritas.”

Oh, and then there is this:

“The stench was unbearable!”

Yes, it was a REAL Rabbit used in that infamous scene…a dead one with the innards taken out but the fur left on, and it smelled horrible…because they really did boil it in a pot of hot water for the scene!

As For The Controversial Ending…

The film’s DVD and blu-ray releases have a lot of great stories about how the audience reacted to test screenings, including the original ending – and the magazine article goes into the controversy about that as well…

The film’s original ending was bleak, with Close committing suicide…but audiences wanted more, and so reluctantly, Glenn Close agreed to let her character show a more evil side at the end…

As she says now:

“The changes that were made with the ending, for better or fore worse for Alex, made it into the sensation that it became…I’m proud to be part of that movie. its part of our collective consciousness.”

If you want to see more, go to the Empire website – the magazine has a ton of great content every month:

And don’t forget that “Fatal Attraction” was part of the Michael Douglas “penis” trilogy…read the rest here!

http://johnrieber.com/2014/01/13/fatal-attractions-basic-instincts-full-disclosure-the-infamous-michael-douglas-penis-trilogy/

And if you are surprised that the film was Oscar-nominated, don’t be: Oscar has said “bravo” to X-rated films 13 times! Read about Oscar’s adult fixation by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2013/05/07/x-rated-butter-cowboys-droogs-oscars-x-flirtation/

And let me know what you think of “Fatal Attraction!”

Hollywood is such a funny place…critical and commercial acclaim one day can lead to direct-to-video films the next…the key is to keep working, no matter what the role is…there have been so many great movie stars – and virtually all have unique – and sometimes offbeat films – on their resumes…here’s a look at one such “True Hollywood Story: the talented Actress Olivia Hussey!

Olivia Rocks The Yellow Jumpsuit!

As I mentioned, everyone has a “strange choice, huh?” moment on their resume, and it’s no different for Actress Olivia Hussey. First, some background: she was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and first appeared on the London stage as Jenny in “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie”, opposite Vanessa Redgrave. That’s where Italian film director Franco Zeffirelli first spotted her.

Cue Instant Stardom!

Hussey was chosen out of 500 actresses to star as Juliet in Zeffirelli’s smash hit 1968 film “Romeo and Juliet”.

Hollywood’s New Star Of The Year!

The film’s success led to her winning the Golden Globe Award for “New Star of the Year!”

This was the end of the 60’s, when Sinatra, Dean Martin and his gang still ruled. After the acclaim for her Shakespeare role, Hussey then married one of The Rat Pack’s sons, and was entering Hollywood royalty when tragedy struck.

In 1971, Hussey married actor Dean Paul Martin, son of the singer Dean Martin. They had a son before divorcing in 1978. Dean Paul Martin died in 1987 when his National Guard F-4 Phantom jet fighter crashed in California’s San Bernardino Mountains.

From Shakespeare To Shock!

Known for her classic Shakespeare role, it was one of Hollywood’s darkest horror films that exposed Hussey to a whole new generation of fans…

1974’s “Black Christmas”

This low-budget shocker, directed by Bob Clark, is now one of the most beloved horror films of the 70’s – in fact, “Black Christmas” set the stage for a new wave of horror film like “Halloween”.

The plot was simple: It’s time for Christmas break, and a group of sorority sisters make plans for the holiday – but then the horrifying anonymous phone calls begin.

Here is the extremely creepy trailer for this classic horror film:

Margot Kidder also stars as one of Olivia’s sorority sisters, and she’s got a wicked sense of humor and an acid tongue…

Even though the film is a dark thriller, Hussey says the movie set was a very light and happy between takes. She did admit that Margot Kidder was distant from cast/crew during the filming.

What A Cast!

In addition to Hussey and Kidder, Kier Dullea also stars in the movie – Dullea of course was in Stanley Kubrick’s masterpiece, “2001: A Space Odyssey.”

Keir Dullea worked only for a week on this film, never meeting Margot Kidder and barely meeting John Saxon, but the film is edited in such a way that he appears to be present throughout the film…

During an interview with Bob Clark, the Director said Hussey’s decision to star in the film was based upon advice given to her by a psychic. According to Clark, Hussey said her psychic believed that the film would be successful and a wise career choice for her. She took the role.

Meeting Steve Martin!

Hussey continued to act in film and TV for the next decade. Around 1986, she met Steve Martin to discuss a role in his hit film “Roxanne”, and Martin said this to Olivia:

“Oh my God Olivia, you were in one of my all time favorite films”!

Hussey assumed it was for “Romeo and Juliet” – and was surprised to find out that Martin loved “Black Christmas”, claiming to have seen it over 20 times!

Talking Turkey!

Finally, here is that “why would she do this film?” role – one of Hussey’s most unique movies was this sci-fi cult classic:

1981’s “Turkey Shoot!”

This futuristic thriller involved prisoners who were set free so they could be hunted down by rich people! A very unique choice for Hussey:

As I said, when you are a working Actor in Hollywood, the key is to work. And this movie has become a cult classic. One of the most interesting aspects of the film was Hussey’s choice to do a nude shower scene in the film!

“Blu” Turkey!

The film is full of crazy action sequences – and Hussey does a great job in the film, along with Steve Railsback – “Turkey Shoot” has built up a great cult reputation – and now it’s been remastered on blu-ray! Read all about this thriller by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/09/23/shocking-turkey-shoot-sex-and-gore-down-under-wake-in-fright-new-exploitation-blu-rays/

As for Hussey, she is now a very successful voice over talent in “Batman Beyond”, and also voiced the character of Kasan Moor in the PC game, “Star Wars: Rogue Squadron”. She was also in “Star Wars: The Old Republic”.

So there’s a look at a “True Hollywood Star” who did Shakespeare, horror and sci-fi equally well!

As you can see from her credits, Hussey has had a very successful career in entertainment.

I am fascinated by Artists who have long and varied careers…and I am equally interested in Artists who appear once then disappear forever:

“One And Done!”

Anne Sparrow did just that! This Actress starred in the cult euro-sleaze film “The Sinful Dwarf”, then disappeared forever!

That’s right, Anne Sparrow has never been seen in a film again! Read all about this Actress and her notorious motion picture debut by clicking on my story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/09/16/sinful-sex-kitten-anne-sparrow-the-mystery-of-a-disappearing-starlet/

And let me know if you’ve seen Olivia Hussey in this classic horror film!

Grab Your Six Shooters! Time To Saddle Up For Some Western Action!

I love the western genre. As a kid, these classic movies were all over TV at all hours of the day and night…starring some of America’s heroes, like John Wayne!

John Wayne starred in some of the greatest westerns ever made, like “The Searchers” – and also some of the most entertaining, like “The Sons Of Katie Elder”….in fact, one of his best westerns was so good he made it twice!

El Dorado!

In 1966 James Caan was a rising young Actor – and got the chance to saddle up alongside The Duke – as a cocky young gambler who had a way with a knife – which was a good thing since he couldn’t shoot straight AND he wore a funny hat!

239157-017.psd

Add Robert Mitchum to the cast and you have a great cult western. Along with some great action, Caan got to provide a lot of comic relief next to The Duke. Caan’s character was memorably named “Mississippi.”

John Wayne: Don’t you know better than to follow a man that way?
Mississippi: Sorry… I didn’t know there was another way.

This movie is actually a remake of a film made a few years earlier, starring John Wayne in the same role, but switching out Mitchum for Dean Martin and Caan for Ricky Nelson!

Both are very entertaining – and if you want to see more of James Caan, here is my list of his ten best movie roles:

http://johnrieber.com/2012/02/05/the-wrath-of-caan-james-caans-greatest-hits/

Of course, it was in 1969 that Oscar thanked John Wayne for a career of great work by giving him an Oscar for the western “True Grit!”

This classic western was remade by an unlikely duo – Joel and Ethan Coen, best known for “The Big Lebowski” and “Fargo”…

True Grit Times Two!

This remake is a classic western, with Jeff Bridges stepping easily into John Wayne’s boots…

John Wayne is just one of the many classic Actors who have starred in great western movies…

Burt Lancaster starred in a number of great western movies like “Lawman” and “Valdez Is Coming”…you can read all about these films here:

Valdez Is Coming! Lawman! Gun-Blazing Burt Lancaster Western Revenge Double Bill!

These legendary Hollywood Actors were replaced in the saddle by one of America’s most popular stars…

Clint Eastwood Rides Tall!

The face says it all…Clint Eastwood starred in a series of great westerns that highlighted the dangerous, chaotic world of the wild wild west…

“Unforgiven” was Eastwood’s revisionist western that won the Best Picture Oscar in 1992.

It was the supporting acting of Morgan Freeman and Gene Hackman that provided Clint with so much texture and depth to go along with his own lead acting performance. Hackman plays Sheriff Little Bill Daggett, a bad bad guy who runs his town the way he fits, until Eastwood shows up…Alex doesn’t like westerns, but she loved this movie!

This is one of Gene Hackman’s best roles…to see more of his great performances, click on my list here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/03/16/a-celebration-of-gene-hackman-an-amazing-actors-ten-greatest-roles/

And guess what? Hackman starred in a number of westerns, like “Bite The Bullet” and this obscurity from 1971:

The Hunting Party!

In 1971, Gene Hackman, Oliver Reed and Candace Bergen starred in this gritty western. Reed is the outlaw who wants to learn to read, and Candace Bergen is the school teacher he kidnaps to teach him…

But Bergen is not just a school teacher, she’s also the wife of cattle baron Gene Hackman – who wants his wife back…

Hackman rustles up a “Hunting Party” and begins to pick off the bad guys one by one. And what starts as a rescue mission turns into a grueling battle of survival…

This film was shocking for the amount of violence it showed…this was a time shortly after “The Wild Bunch” raised the stakes for violence in a film…

Lots of grindhouse violence here, but kind of interesting to watch a clear B-movie being acted out by some A-list Actors!

And speaking of “The Wild Bunch”, this is one of the greatest films ever made – a classic ode to a lost time in the American west…

Director Sam Peckinpah delivers his greatest film, the story of aging outlaws who want to pull off one last heist…the film stars William Holden, Ernest Bornine, Warren Oates and Robert Ryan…

If you want to find out more about this iconic western, as well as Peckinpah’s Bob Dylan western – yes, Bob Dylan! – read my post here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/08/05/the-wild-bunch-billy-the-kid-sam-packinpahs-soup-tossing/

“Pat Garret & Billy The Kid” is a misunderstood classic, and Bob Dylan co-starred and wrote the beautiful song “Knocking’ On Heaven’s Door” for the movie…

So there’s a look at some of the greatest westerns ever made…let me know your favorite!

Time To “Own Some Joan”!

The estate of Joan Rivers is putting up some of her personal items for auction, and it’s your chance to be part of her legacy!

The legendary Comedian/Host/Actress/Author died on September 4, 2014, and everyone who knew her, or just loved her work, were devastated by this loss…

Bravo, Melissa!

Joan’s daughter Melissa has done an incredibly classy job of keeping her Mom’s legacy alive, including this terrifically poignant and funny memoir released last year…

Christie’s Auction!

Now, news that Christie’s in New York is holding an auction on June 16-23 – your chance to own a piece of Joan’s life! The Auction will be conducted both online and in New York City.

It’s an incredible chance to be part of her legacy…

The Auction will include 200 lots, which are described as Joan’s “exceptional and eclectic taste, including decorative arts, paintings, fine French furniture and Fabergé.”

I found a terrific article in The Daily Beast by Tim Teeman – who gives details on the auction, as well as some great stories about Joan.

Here is what Teeman wrote:

“The live sale of Rivers’ possessions will coincide with an online auction of 80 lots selling “extravagant costumes made by Bob Mackie, couture and personal jewelry spanning esteemed design houses such as Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels and Harry Winston.”

In the last major interview Rivers gave, conducted with me for The Daily Beast just over a month before she died, she said, “I’ve left money so the dogs can be taken care of. I’ve said to [her daughter] Melissa, ‘Sell anything and everything you don’t want. Don’t feel beholden to my possessions.’ I feel almost hysterical on that. I don’t want them to have a sense of guilt.”

Christie’s also released a statement about the auction, which says:

“Among the personal objects, which reflect Joan’s connoisseurship of fine and decorative arts and her sense of wit and humour, include a beautiful Edouard Vuillard painting, Dans L’Atelier, painted circa 1915, (and) a jewelled nephrite study of a Lily of the Valley leaf by Faberge.”

And since Joan was always generous and giving to those less fortunate, a portion of the proceeds will benefit two of her favorite causes: “God’s Love We Deliver” and “Guide Dogs for the Blind.”

This must be a difficult transition for Melissa, but this charity will provide a lot of help to groups that can use it – just another example of how Joan and Melissa have given so much back to the world.

My wife Alex saw them last when they appeared on Steve Harvey’s talk show, and it was a great reunion, as we remembered some great times we had together…

I posted a story about filming with Joan and Melissa at the Cannes Film Festival – making TV on the dock of the Carlton Hotel, the “Queen Of The Croisette”!

You can read that story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2015/05/12/melissa-rivers-new-memoir-joan-rivers-storms-cannes-joan-and-melissas-hilarious-cannes-fashion-review/

Joan and Melissa were the perfect team: Joan was hilariously funny and unapologetic, while Melissa grounded her and offered up her own deadpan acerbic barbs…it was the most fun I’ve ever had filming television…

I applaud all that Melissa has done to keep Joan’s memory alive in a positive, uplifting way…here is the entire story from The Daily Beast regarding the Christie Auction:

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2016/03/09/you-can-own-a-piece-of-joan-rivers-the-story-of-her-possessions-up-for-auction.html

And if you want to get more details on the auction itself, you can click on the Christie’s website here:

http://www.christies.com/multidaysales/the-private-collection-of-joan-rivers-june-2016/

Finally, I was lucky enough to work with Joan and Melissa for a decade, both at E! and TVGuide – some of the best times I’ve had…

I posted a few of those memories as a tribute to Joan when she passed away…you can see that story here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/09/04/rip-joan-rivers-a-world-class-person-is-gone/

Take a look at the incredible auction and remember the life of Joan Rivers!

“Hello, Honey!”

One picture. One iconic name: Honey Ryder. The FIRST Bond Girl! As she said at the time:

“This bikini made me into a success. As a result of starring in Dr. No as the first Bond girl, I was given the freedom to take my pick of future roles and to become financially independent.”

Time To Celebrate Ursula Andress – Nicknamed Ursula “Undress”!

Ursula Andress is a Swiss film Actress who has appeared with some of Hollywood’s all-time biggest stars, including Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley!

But she will also forever be known for this:

007’s First Bond Girl!

Andress achieved instant stardom in 1962 when she emerged from the water as Bond girl Honey Ryder in the first James Bond film, “Dr. No!”

Here is the scene from “Dr. No” when Sean Connery sees his first “Bond Girl”:

A Dubbed “Andress!”

Here is some great trivia: Ursula’s Swiss accent was so strong that her dialogue was dubbed – that’s not even her voice in the film! Still, it didn’t keep her from stardom. As Andress said:

“This bikini made me into a success. As a result of starring in Dr. No as the first Bond girl, I was given the freedom to take my pick of future roles and to become financially independent.”

And so she did, moving on to a series of big hit films with Hollywood’s biggest stars!

Andress co-starred with Elvis Presley in the 1963 musical “Fun in Acapulco”, and then moved on to another of America’s most popular singers!

Address also starred with Frank Sinatra, Anita Ekberg and Dean Martin in “4 for Texas” – and she also dated James Dean shortly before his death…

Ursula “Undress!”

Now, let’s discuss her nickname: how she earned it, and what she thought of it!

In 1965, Ursula Andress posed nude for Playboy – in what would be the first of eight times she posed for the magazine!

So THIS Is How She Earned Her Nickname!

Address appeared nude in a number of her movie roles, and posed for many pictorials, including one where she re-enacted her “Dr. No” pose – minus some wardrobe…

She was asked once why she had agreed to do the Playboy shoot – here is her succinct reply:

“Because I’m beautiful.”

OK then, within a few years she had earned her the nickname “Ursula Undress!”

Her film and TV work slowed down as she got older, but in 2006, on the occasion of the inauguration of the Swiss Consulate General in Scotland, Andress celebrated her 70th birthday on board the Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh in the company of an international crowd of celebrities.

Here is an article looking at her life now, still turning heads at 79!

http://www.express.co.uk/life-style/life/625780/Ursula-Andress-ultimate-original-bond-girl-where-is-she-now

Of course, Andress was just the first of many Bond girls – some who actually helped the movie plots, many of whom were wasted window dressing…some feel that this was the most beautiful Bond girl of all time!

Claudine Auger starred with Sean Connery in the fourth Bond film, “Thunderball” – also using the film’s beach locations to her benefit.

You can read more about Auger’s filmography, including one of Italy’s best giallo thrillers!

http://johnrieber.com/2015/12/18/sexiest-bond-girl-ever-sex-kitten-claudine-auger-james-bond-and-giallo-horror/

Another “Bond Girl” wasn’t in any of the official 007 movies, but in a spoof of Bond that was a smash hit in the late 60’s!

Barbara Bouchet was a “Bond girl” in the camp film “Casino Royale” – read more about it here:

http://johnrieber.com/2014/04/29/classic-sex-kitten-james-bonds-sexy-co-star-barbara-bouchet/

And since we are on all things “James Bond 007” – time for one of the biggest film debates of all time:

Who is the best 007? Who was the worst James Bond? Well, you can weigh in by clicking here!

http://johnrieber.com/2013/09/24/his-name-is-bond-james-bond-the-best-007-ever-the-worst-film-fight-club-begins-now/

For many, the best part of a Bond movie is the theme song – and we all know which one was the all-time best:

Paul McCartney and Wings rocked “Live And Let Die” to new Bond heights…but what is your favorite? Click here to vote – just don’t click “yes” for Madonna!

http://johnrieber.com/2013/11/05/rock-on-007-the-best-and-worst-james-bond-theme-songs/

And let’s take a moment to tip our hat to the first “Bond girl” ever!

The Best Lois Lane Of All Time!

With a new Superman film out, I want to look back at the best Lois Lane of all, Margot Kidder!

The Actress has had many big hits in her career, and a series of personal setbacks as well – but her body of work deserves some credit, so let’s get to it!

Kidder began her career in the 1960s, working in TV and film, and modeling as well…

Kidder was one of Hollywood’s most free-spirited new sex kittens, at a time when a new permissiveness was underway in the entertainment industry…

She appeared in Brian De Palma’s thriller “Sisters” in 1973, and then starred in the shock classic “Black Christmas” the following year.

Kidder was terrific as the caustic friend who helps Olivia Hussey search for a missing sorority sister. You can read all about this horror classic here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/11/28/the-last-christmas-black-christmas-its-a-horrific-grindhouse-holiday/

Kidder’s winning streak at the movies continued with her role in “The Amityville Horror”…

These roles were great, but she achieved her biggest success starring as Lois Lane in the classic “Superman” films with Christopher Reeve.

Cinema’s Best Lois Lane!

Kidder’s quick wit and “tough as nails” demeanor were the perfect foil for Reeve, and the chemistry between the two stars was perfect for the material…

The first two “Superman” films in the 80’s are considered by many to be the best superhero films ever made…and much of that credit goes to Kidder’s feisty performance…

Kidder’s Rough Stretch…

According to wikipedia, the Actress has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, which led to a widely publicized manic episode in April 1996. She disappeared for four days, and was found in a back yard by a homeowner and was taken by Los Angeles police to Olive View Medical Center in a distressed state. She was later placed in psychiatric care. In 2007, Kidder said that she had not had a manic episode in 11 years.

Kidder has since worked in numerous films as well as numerous television series and also starred in Rob Zombie’s 2009 film “Halloween II.”

Margot Kidder in her home for Celebrity Home Kathryn Kates story.

In 2015, she won an Emmy Award for her performance in the children’s television series “R.L. Stine’s The Haunting Hour.”

Congrats to Kidder – fans are happy to see her rebound and shine again!

Unfortunately, many Hollywood stars can’t overcome their personal demons…

The Shocking Tale Of Jan-Michael Vincent!

This 70’s star of such films as “Big Wednesday” and “The Mechanic” is now struggling, and had one leg partially amputated – you can read this story here:

Jan-Michael Vincent! From 70’s Sexiest Man To A “True Hollywood” Tragedy!

Another star from the late 60’s also fell from grace…

June Fairchild starred with The Monkees in their movie “Head”, but ended up on LA’s skid row!

You can read more about this tragic Hollywood story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/03/20/sex-kitten-june-fairchild-from-stardom-to-skid-row-a-starlets-shocking-death/

I am so glad that Kidder overcame her troubles and is having great success today!

“That’s Sexploitation” – Cinema’s Greatest Genre Is “Docu”-mented!

Fans of cult movies have a reason to rejoice – the “Godfather of Grindhouse Documentaries” is here!

Yes, even THIS “Psycho Cat” is happy about it!

First, check out this trailer – safe for work – yet also full of what makes “sexploitation” one of the most hilarious genres ever committed to celluloid!

There are so many scenes in that trailer that showcase what an “anything goes” genre of film “sexploitation” was!

Here is how the terrific website “Mondo Digital” describes the company behind this amazing documentary “That’s Sexploitation!”:

“You’d be hard pressed to find a company more responsible for creating exploitation video addicts than Something Weird Video, which started off as a grassroots VHS seller in the ‘80s but exploded into an incredible resource for sexy, scary gems either absent from movie screen for years or, in many cases, never seen at all!”

Yes, the terrific cult video distribution company “Something Weird Video” rescued films like “The Defilers” from obscurity. The review goes on:

“From there the company started racking up the catalogs of names like Harry Novak and Doris Wishman, not to mention the remaining H.G. Lewis titles, while also churning out countless volumes of loops (sexy short films) ranging from nudie cuties to vintage hardcore.”

Movies like “Forbidden Love” were classic “grind house” films – movies that played the grungiest theaters in America, like these on New York’s 42nd street:

I’ve posted many stories about these legendarily seedy movie theaters from the early 70’s, and you can read more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/11/23/sex-violence-grindhouse-have-a-purient-holiday-an-exploitation-gift-guide/

When Something Weird announced they were doing a documentary about this time in film, I knew it would be great!

Frank Henenlotter is the director of the cult classic “Basket Case” – another film that was part of the Something Weird brand – and “Frankenhooker”, a modern homage to “grind house” cinema. As Mondo Digital reports:

“His involvement with the company and friendship with the Vraney family included the beloved line of “Frank Henenlotter’s Sexy Shockers from the Vault” series, one of the company’s high points in its VHS prime, in addition to solidifying its voice by writing the vast majority of the incredibly witty and catchy copy for their releases.”

Henenlotter directed “That’s Sexploitation!”, and he had total access to the Something Weird catalog…this amazing new documentary also has a ton of extras! Here’s the product description from Amazon:

“From director Frank Henenlotter (BASKET CASE, BRAIN DAMAGE) and co-producer Mike Vraney (the late founder of Something Weird Video) comes the epic documentary critics call fascinating (Video Watchdog), titillating (Time Out Los Angeles) and jaw-dropping (Seattle Weekly): Henenlotter and legendary exploitation monarch David F. Friedman in his final film appearance are your hosts for this eye-popping expedition through the world of pre-code peekaboos, stags, sex-hygiene films, goona-goonas, nudie-cuties, roughies, druggies, white-coaters and more, featuring thousands of spicy clips from the SWV archives. And if that’s not enough. the Bonus Features include an additional 3+ hours of rare loops and shorts from five decades of Sexploitation history!”

Special Features on the Blu-Ray include:
Over 3 1/2 Hours of Sexploitation Shorts From The Something Weird Archives
Audio Commentary With Director Frank Henenlotter And Something Weird’s Lisa Petrucci
Trailer

I have mine pre-ordered so I can dig into this movie the day it comes out!

You can read Mondo Digital’s whole writeup of this incredible documentary here:

http://www.mondo-digital.com/sexploitation.html

And bravo to “Something Weird” for their passion for great cult films!

Sadly, SWV Founder Mike Vraney passed away two years ago, and I posted an homage to him here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/01/07/something-weird-wild-wild-cinema-celebrating-a-weird-genius-rip-mike-vraney/

I have also posted many stories about the “sexploitation” genre, films with provocative titles like this:

How can you go wrong with a movie title like that? Here is a look at some of the wildest movies of the genre:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/02/21/an-exploitation-primer-your-guide-to-the-world-of-classic-cult-spoitation-genres-cult-movies-to-make-you-blush/

There are so many great examples, it’s hard to cover them all – but as you see, they left almost nothing “covered!”

Here are some of the more “pandering” examples of the genre!

https://johnrieber.com/2015/07/20/sexy-bored-housewives-loves-agony-how-to-make-a-bed-classic-ecstasy/

Let me know what you think of this incredible new documentary!

“Loneliness has followed me my whole life, everywhere. In bars, in cars, sidewalks, stores, everywhere. There’s no escape. I’m God’s lonely man.”

One of cinema’s most compelling characters, brought to vivid life by America’s greatest Actor, who also uttered this line:

“Sometimes, it’s not so easy being Fearless Leader.”

Here Are Three Reasons To Love Robert DeNiro, And One BIG Reason To Hate Him!

He will always be considered on of our greatest Actors, with a body of work that got our attention with “Mean Streets” and “The Godfather Part 2″…

DeNiro’s reputation was cemented with his stunning work as Travis Bickle, “God’s Lonely Man” in “Taxi Driver”, which is celebrating its 40th year by holding a special screening at DeNiro’s Tribeca film festival!

TAXI DRIVER – 1976.

Simply put, it’s a masterpiece – and more timely today than ever.

Robert DeNiro is Travis Bickle, an ex-Marine and Vietnam War veteran living in New York City. As he suffers from insomnia, he spends his time working as a taxi driver at night…

Travis Bickle: “All the animals come out at night – whores, skunk pussies, buggers, queens, fairies, dopers, junkies, sick, venal. Someday a real rain will come and wash all this scum off the streets. I go all over. I take people to the Bronx, Brooklyn, I take ’em to Harlem. I don’t care. Don’t make no difference to me. It does to some. Some won’t even take spooks. Don’t make no difference to me.”

Here is the original theatrical trailer:

The film is a modern movie classic, a story of alienation, hatred and revenge…with some of the most searing dialogue ever written, thanks to Paul Schrader:

“Loneliness has followed me my whole life, everywhere. In bars, in cars, sidewalks, stores, everywhere. There’s no escape. I’m God’s lonely man.”

Robert De Niro worked twelve hour days for a month driving cabs as preparation for this role. He also studied mental illness.

“You Talkin’ To Me?”

Of course, the film is best known for this brilliant monologue: and yes, one of cinema’s greatest lines was written by DeNiro himself!

The scene where Bickle is talking to himself in the mirror was completely ad-libbed by DeNiro! The screenplay details just said, “Travis looks in the mirror.”

Travis Bickle: [Travis is trying his guns on the mirror] Huh? Huh?
[Draws]
Travis Bickle: Faster than you, fucking son of a… Saw you coming you fucking… shitheel.
[Reholsters]
Travis Bickle: I’m standing here; you make the move. You make the move. It’s your move…
[Draws]
Travis Bickle: Don’t try it you fuck.
[Reholsters]
Travis Bickle: You talkin’ to me? You talkin’ to me? You talkin’ to me? Then who the hell else are you talking… you talking to me? Well I’m the only one here. Who the fuck do you think you’re talking to? Oh yeah? OK.
[Draws]

The line “You talkin’ to me?” was voted as the #10 movie quote by the American Film Institute, and as as the #8 of “The 100 Greatest Movie Lines” by Premiere in 2007.

This film is absolutely saturated with the streets of New York – as it existed in the seedy seventies!

Taxi Driver (1976)
Directed by Martin Scorsese
Shown from left on the set: Jodie Foster, Robert De Niro, director Martin Scorsese

The 40th anniversary screening included a conversation on stage with the movie’s principal cast and crew…it would be fascinating to hear all of them talk about what this film has meant to them, and to our culture…of course, DeNiro collaborated many times since with Director Martin Scorsese, in brilliant films like “Raging Bull” and this criminally overlooked cult classic:

The King Of Comedy!

Scorsese and DeNiro re-teamed on a dark satire that was as prescient about stardom as “Network” was about television!

Check out the trailer:

Jerry Lewis gives an amazing performance alongside DeNiro, in the story of an aspiring comic who develops a dangerous relationship with a late night Talk Show Host, played by Lewis.

A terrific new blu-ray release digs into the movie, including a great “reunion” conversation with many of the film’s participants!

See more by clicking here:

“The King Of Comedy” Goes Blu! Amazing Extras! Scorsese Grills Pupkin!

In the 90’s, DeNiro showed us he could do comedy, playing a bounty hunter who just wants to get to LA by midnight Friday…against ALL odds:

Midnight Run!

This 90’s buddy comedy combined action with hilarious one-liners, and proved how adept DeNiro was at comedy:

Charles Grodin gives one of his best performances as an Accountant who steals from the mob. This classic comedy was also criminally under-appreciated upon release, but now has a great new blu-ray release as well.

See more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/11/28/fistophobia-the-brilliant-but-neglected-buddy-action-comedy-midnight-run/

DeNiro’s movie output increased noticably since the late 90’s…some were great comedic roles like “Meet The Parents”…and some were easy supporting roles like his work in “Silver Linings Playbook”.

However, look at some of these movie titles: “Showtime”, “The Fan” and “Last Vegas” are among the films of the last twenty years that show an Actor clearly working for a paycheck.

But one film stands out as the most egregious mistake he’s ever made – and one that made fans realize his days of “Raging” were over!

“Sometimes, it’s not so easy being Fearless Leader.”

The Disaster Of “The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle!”

Except for a big paycheck, it’s impossible to understand why America’s greatest Actor would make this film, based on the television cartoon “The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show”.

Check out the embarrassing trailer:

As you can see, a sad day for all concerned. The animated characters Rocky and Bullwinkle shared the screen with live actors portraying Fearless Leader (Robert De Niro), Boris Badenov (Jason Alexander), Natasha Fatale (Rene Russo).

I’m not really angry at DeNiro – everyone has the right to take a role for any reason…but it’s hard to see the monologue from “Taxi Driver” and then read this one from “Bullwinkle”:

“Have you liquidated Moose and Squirrel? Did you use the CDI? Are you talking to me? Are you talking to me? Then who else are you talking to? Are you talking to me? Well, I am the only one here, so you must be talking to me. And you are lying! Now catch Moose and Squirrel. And next time use the CDI on them.”

Yes, DeNiro’s fearless leader (Robert De Niro) actually says to Boris & Natasha “You talkin’ to me?…There’s no one else here, so you must be talking to me”.

Well, they can’t ALL be classics! As DeNiro says at one point in the film:

“Sometimes, it’s not so easy being Fearless Leader.”

Longevity in the film business is rare, so a career going on 50 years is one to applaud, even if DeNiro’s output now is spotty, to phrase it kindly. I will remember him this way:

Yes, it’s a picture of DeNiro auditioning for “The Godfather!” He missed out on the original, but was of course, Don Corleone in “Part II”…see his audition here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/07/19/the-godfather-screen-tests-robert-deniro-is-sonny-corleone-godfather-trivia/

And Bravo to the creative team behind the brilliant “Taxi Driver!”

Taxi Driver (1976)
Directed by Martin Scorsese
Shown from left on the set: Jodie Foster, Robert De Niro, director Martin Scorsese

Time For Some “Truth!”

I love documentaries. They can be deadly serious or comically absurd – they can be lurid, spiritual, political and everything in between – here are ten examples of great documentaries you need to see!

“Roger and Me”!

With the recent water events in Flint, Michigan, Michael Moore’s first documentary is even more prescient. He looks at the decline of his hometown, a decline that helped lead to the current crisis that exists today.

Here is the trailer for what many consider to be “The Godfather” of modern docus, “Roger And Me”:

Wow, time flies – it was more than 25 years ago when this “in your face” documentary was considered radical! Moore told the story of the decline of his hometown Flint, Michigan – and his attempts to meet with Ford’s Chairman Roger Smith.

What he did was usher in a new era of non-fictional storytelling, leading to some of these I want to share!

Workingman’s Death!

Some of the world’s most dangerous jobs are highlighted in this compelling documentary. These professions are virtually unknown to most people – like sulfur mining…

The filmmaker’s style allows us a voyeuristic look at the lives of these workers…like these miners who risk their lives to slide back into abandoned crevices where small chunks of leftover coal may still cling to the abandoned walls…

This is an incredible work of art, and the late Documentary filmmaker Michael Glawogger also made a film that looked at the world of prostitution:

You can read more about these compelling films by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/11/22/searing-expose-docs-workingmans-death-whores-glory-brilliant-documentaries-showcase-life-on-the-edge/

Sometimes, an interesting story turns into something much bigger as the filmmaker rolls the camera:

“My Kid Could Paint That!”

This heartbreaking documentary is about a child prodigy – or not. The filmmakers began the project when they heard about a four-year-old girl with special artistic abilities…but then it turned into a much more troubling story.

This story is so compelling – and so many questions are still unanswered – that is the power of the documentary – to reveal truths – and yet so sad…you can read more about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/03/25/killer-fish-kids-who-paint-and-mid-west-horror-best-documentaries-pt-1/

Now, to something that you would think is amazingly harsh, yet is in fact so “Happy!”

Celebrating The Harsh World Of “Happy People!”

Director Werner Herzog, who has made a number of terrific documentaries like “Grizzly Man”, took a long-form Russian TV documentary and turned it into a compelling two-hour journey to Siberia!

It is some of the most unforgiving land on earth, but the people there are happy! See more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/07/18/into-the-wild-siberias-happy-people-werner-herzogs-new-documentary/

And if you want to bring a smile to your face, have I got a joke for you…

America’s Funniest People Tell The World’s Filthiest Joke! Meet “The Aristocrats!”

The history of the world’s filthiest joke is hilariously profane, and amazingly insightful! Penn and Teller allow some of the world’s greatest comics to tell one joke – a legendary joke in the world of comedy – and each re-telling gets more and more obscene – which is the point of the joke!

The Aristocrats – 2005

Comedy veterans and Magicians Penn and Teller, along with Comedian Paul Provenza capitalize on their insider status and invite over 100 of their closest friends–who happen to be some of the biggest names in entertainment, from George Carlin, Whoopi Goldberg and Drew Carey to Gilbert Gottfried, Bob Saget, Paul Reiser and Sarah Silverman–to reminisce, analyze, deconstruct and deliver their own versions of the world’s dirtiest joke, an old burlesque too extreme to be performed in public, called “The Aristocrats.”

George Carlin: The joke leads me down one path and then it switches the path on me suddenly and hits me with a hammer. It’s just, “Here we go folks.”

The terrific website IMDB has some interesting trivia about the joke: “This joke has been used by comedians for years as a mental stretching exercise. They would tell the joke to each other as a warm up for their acts. While the setup and punchline remain the same throughout, the middle section, describing the actual family act, is always varied to get the juices going by throwing in the most they can and keeping it funny. There are stories of parties where performers will jam and keep it going for almost an hour.”

The late Robin Williams does a variation of the joke in the film, as does Princess Leia, whose Mom is Debbie Reynolds…who isn’t sacred for the sake of the joke…

Carrie Fisher: “My mother was a golden shower queen.”

According to his biography, “I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not”, Chevy Chase filmed a version of the joke as well. However, at the last second he decided not to sign the release form as he was afraid of what his daughters would think of the joke’s content.

The highlight is when the film ends with Bob Saget’s version of the joke – the most obscene, rambling and hilarious take on it imaginable…hilarious, profane, and insightful – how can you argue that?

And if profane is your thing…

Shed Some Clothes And Get Down With Some “American Swing!”

New York in the 70’s was a time of sex, drugs and swingers, and for awhile, there was actually a club that allowed casual sex among its members!

If you’ve never heard of “Plato’s Retreat”, it’s exactly the kind of place that Ted Cruz was railing against – and it was legal!

“American Swing” is a fascinating document of a long-lost time – as told by the people who partied there…see it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/04/06/how-can-i-offend-you-best-documentaries-pt-2/

Of course, the subject of sex is always a big seller – and here is an amazing look at the sexiest moments in cinema history:

“That’s Sexploitation” is a wild romp through the annals of grind house cinema, courtesy of Something Weird Video…read more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/04/20/thats-sexploitation-terrific-documentary-captures-the-seedy-majesty-of-grindhouse-cinema/

I know, you are getting a bit worked up right now…if you want a mellow change of pace, dig into the story of one of the greatest bands in the world:

Not Such A “Peaceful Easy Feeling!” It’s The History Of The Eagles!

A “warts and all” documentary, made all the more powerful because the members of the band – old and new – took part. Their brutal honesty, along with amazing archival material the band collected from day one, gives viewers a riveting inside look at one of America’s most beloved bands.

Fans were stunned by the recent death of Glenn Frey, who comes across as a very driven member of the band…this documentary lasts over four hours and digs into all the professional and personal conflicts in the band…

You can read more about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/10/04/eagles-no-peaceful-easy-feeling-here-just-heartache-tonight/

While we are on the subject of music, have you met’s rock’s craziest drummer?

“Beware” Of Rock’s Wildest Drummer!

Ginger Baker was the drummer in Cream, and has had one of the craziest lives imaginable, and one movie captures it all!

“Beware” is right, and if you want to know why, click here!

https://johnrieber.com/2015/01/13/beware-of-mr-baker-brilliant-ginger-baker-documentary-creams-drummer-throws-down/

As someone who loves to travel, I find the climate change debate sad – politics shouldn’t enter into the discussion, when there are entire countries at risk…

A Rising Political Tide! “The Island President!”

As the ocean levels rise, entire nations are at risk. Here is the inspiring story of a President who wouldn’t let his country drown due to inaction…

These islands will be underwater within our lifetime – unless something is done…and one courageous President allowed cameras to follow him as he tries to tell the world what lies ahead…

This is one of my favorite documentaries of all, read more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/05/07/the-island-president-a-tragic-compelling-documentary-a-nation-underwater/

There you have it – some of my favorite documentaries…leave a note to tell me your favorite!

Looking For Some Action?

Well, Steve McQueen is ready to deliver…and so is Clint Eastwood, who saw what McQueen was packing and decided to upsize it a bit!

A Gritty Action Explosion From The 70’s!

Here are five films that ooze grit, grime and action from the 70’s – a special time in movies – BEFORE SPECIAL EFFECTS – when cars ACTUALLY flew!

Enjoy “The Seven Ups!”

Here’s a movie starring Roy Scheider that flew down the streets of New York with one of the best car chases ever captured on film!

The Seven Ups!

Here is the gritty trailer:

This movie isn’t well known, but has been released on DVD, so you can take a tour along New York’s seedy west side highway for an incredible car chase…

This is just one of the great 70’s action films that uses New York as a “set”…check out more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/09/07/new-yorks-gritty-movie-streets-taxi-drivers-subway-hijackings-cop-chases/

Clint Eastwood had a string of big action hits in the 70’s, but this is my favorite:

Thunderbolt And Lightfoot!

This 1974 action film is a classic, criminally overlooked Clint Eastwood heist movie – Jeff Bridges was Oscar-nominated for his role here – and it is directed by Michael Cimino, who would go on next to do the Oscar-winning best picture of 1978, “The Deer Hunter!”

Check out the trailer:

Jeff Bridges Flirts With Oscar!

That’s right, Jeff Bridges was Oscar-nominated for this film, and he is terrific as always! Clint Eastwood plays a bank robber par excellence with a flair for explosives who is being hunted by his former partners, who think he has their loot from their last job.

Bridges is his eager apprentice and sidekick, who helps him escape; when Eastwood finally makes peace with his hunters, Bridges convinces them to try a daring robbery–but things inevitably go awry.

Now, if this whet your appetite for “Big guns”, then look no further than here:

Eastwood’s most iconic role from the 70’s was a Detective Harry Callahan- AKA “Dirty Harry”:

This is a great film, one of the best films of all time…read more about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/01/24/the-greatest-70s-action-films-ever-biggest-stars-with-the-biggest-guns/

Some of the classic early 70’s films were all about the war in Vietnam, and the impact back here at home:

Electra Glide In Blue

This obscure classic starred Robert Blake as a “good cop on a bad road”…

Here is the trailer, which begins with a great instrumental from members of the band Chicago:

There are so many interesting things about this film, including the fact it was directed by the Producer of the band Chicago! Read more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/04/19/electra-glide-in-blue-forgotten-masterpiece-robert-blakes-best-role/

One of the 70’s more unusual action stars is none other than iconic Comic Actor Walter Matthau:

The Laughing Policeman

Matthau made several gritty action films in the 70’s including this one, where he plays a weary San Francisco detective trying to solve a vicious crime…check out the trailer:

Bruce Dern stars in this as well…obscure but worth finding…see more here:

Bank Robbers And Bus Massacres! Charley Varrick! The Laughing Policeman! Walter Matthau, Action Star!

The other huge action star of the 70’s was also one of Hollywood’s “coolest” Actors:

The Getaway!

In 1972, Steve McQueen and Ali MacGraw blew the doors off movie screens around the world in Sam Peckinpah’s action masterpiece “The Getaway.”

Here is the original trailer:

McGraw and McQueen had an affair while making this film, and Sam Peckinpah was his normal “out of control” self when directing…see more on this legendary Director here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/08/05/the-wild-bunch-billy-the-kid-sam-packinpahs-soup-tossing/

Let me know what your favorite 70’s action film is!

Linda Blair Makes Heads Spin Again!

She may be best known for one of the most shocking scenes in movie history – the moment in the classic horror film “The Exorcist” when the little girl Regan “turns” around to address someone – without moving her body!

Yes, it’s just one of many stunning images from this classic film – so what could Actress Linda Blair do to “out do” it?

Well, when she grew up, she did THIS!

Hello, Linda!

Time to look at one of the more controversial moves that Linda Blair made in her career – her decision to pose topless in the “Gentleman’s” magazine of that era, Oui!

I will refrain from showing any of the more explicit topless pictures, but I will share a link later in the story if you choose to get more info yourself…

First, let’s look at Linda Blair’s road to her provocative photo spread!

Linda Blair’s Breakthrough Movie!

Linda Blair has had a long and acclaimed career, but she got her start in the biggest way possible – by starring in “The Exorcist” when she was just thirteen years old. She was Oscar nominated and won a Golden Globe for her performance, which is one of the most shocking performances of all time…

Here is the original trailer, that only hinted at the intensity of this film:

In the more than forty years since it was released, “The Exorcist” has remained one of the most shocking films ever made….because of moments like this:

“Cue The Soup!”

The moment when Linda Blair unloads gallons of green liquid onto her guests is a legendary horror moment that never fails to shock…

Great “Exorcist” Trivia!

Here is some great trivia about the film:

The air was saturated with moisture, resulting in a thin layer of snow once falling on the set before the crew arrived for filming!

Oh yeah, and then there is the “head turn” sequence! As you can see in this picture, Blair is holding a crucifix for all the wrong reasons…another scene that was so shocking that audience members fled the theaters when it was playing – this type of horror reaction just doesn’t happen any more!

You can read more great “Exorcist” stories here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/10/31/the-shining-room-237-the-exorcist-the-greatest-horror-movies-ever-made/

And now, back to some more Linda:

Making Controversial Choices!

Linda Blair took many courageous chances when she was young – such as starring in the TV movie “Born Innocent” in 1974, portraying a 14-year old girl sentenced to a women’s prison!

The film’s most notorious scene involved the rape of Blair’s character in the prison’s communal showers by a girl gang – with a plunger handle! This was the first all-female rape scene aired on American television!

Blair had a run of cult 80’s films as well, including “Savage Streets” – where she played a vigilante seeking revenge for her sister’s brutal rape and friend’s murder!

As you can see, Blair had a provocative pose in the film’s poster, as the Actress was pushing boundaries in her career.

Perhaps the most surprising choice she made was this one:

Oui! Oui!

However, in 1982 the Actress showed her most “adult” side by appearing in a photo spread for Oui magazine!

The pictures show the Actress in various stages of undress, and it was only a year later that Blair showed up in an Italian Playboy pictorial as well!

She wasn’t “little Regan” any more! If you want to see more of her Oui magazine pictorial, check out this story on the great “Cinesploitation” website:

http://www.cinesploitation.com/2016/03/photo-gallery-linda-blair-oui-magazine.html

The Actress has had some personal and professional issues over the years, but she has also become an animal rights activist. Blair also devotes time to a non-profit organization she organized, the Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation, focused on rescuing abused, neglected and mistreated animals.

Linda Blair has also written a Vegan Cookbook, and appears in various TV shows and films as well…

Bravo Linda for your varied career!

Blair wasn’t the only star who went from “innocent” to “provocative”…remember Ann Margret?

She starred with Elvis in a 60’s musical comedy, but in the early 70’s she ended up in bed with Art Garfunkel!

Legendary “Naked” Motorcycle Starlet! Hollywood Sex Symbol Gilda Texter! Fascinating Nude 70’s Movie Icon!

Amy Schumer! Jennifer Lawrence! “Piano Man”! See These “Uptown Girls” Dance On Billy Joel’s Piano! Wrigley Field Dance-Off!

Jan-Michael Vincent! From 70’s Sexiest Man To A “True Hollywood” Tragedy!

“Squeal Like A Pig!” Marlon Brando’s “Deliverance?” Cult Classic Casting Coup!

Blood! Sex! Possession! Five Horrific Halloween 2015 Classics! The Exorcist! Carrie! Chainsaw Massacres!

Elevator Sex! Boiled Bunnies! The Wild “Oral” History Of “Fatal Attraction!”

From Shakespeare To “Naked” Turkey Shoots! An Olivia Hussey True Hollywood Story!

Grab Your Six-Shooter! True Grit! Clint Eastwood! Bob Dylan! Classic Westerns!

Celebrating Joan Rivers! The Amazing Christie’s Auction! Own Some Joan!

Ursula Andress – Or “UNDRESS!” 007’s First “Bond Girl”! Honey Ryder Was 60’s Sex Kitten!

Margot Kidder! Gotham’s Greatest Lois Lane! From Sex Kitten To “Superman”!

“That’s Sexploitation!” Terrific Documentary Captures The Seedy Majesty Of Grindhouse Cinema!

Travis Bickle Turns 40! “Taxi Driver” Tribeca Screening! 3 Reasons To Love Him! ONE BIG REASON To Hate!

Ten Amazing Documentaries! Sex! Death! Comedy! Siberia! Fantastic Non-Fiction You Need To See!!

Gritty 70’s Action Explosion! Hollywood’s Biggest Stars! Classic 70’s Action Hits!

Linda Blair’s Head-Spinning Photo Shoots! From “Exorcist” To “Explicit” TV Movie “Born Yesterday!”

“The Godfather”! “Star Wars!” Simon Cowell! My Favorite Movie Trivia!

RIP Gene Wilder! Iconic “Willy Wonka!” Richard Pryor Partnership! Mel Brooks “Frankenstein!”

Gene Wilder’s Brilliant Movie Debut! Real-Life “Bonnie & Clyde” Undertaker!

Amazing “Heat” Reunion! DeNiro-Pacino Showdown! New Oscar Face-off!