2025 TCM Classic Film Festival Reveals Additional Star-Studded Guests: Michael Mann, Rob Reiner, Kathy Bates, Aaron Sorkin and More to Attend

By

Hollywood Times

-

April 3, 2025

0

Turner Classic Movies (TCM) today announced additional talent and programming for this year’s 16th annual TCM Classic Film Festival running April 24 – 27, 2025 in Hollywood, including a Closing Night 30^th anniversary special screening of 1995’s epic crime drama Heat, in conversation with director Michael Mann. In addition to previously announced titles, the festival line-up will also include:

Director Rob Reiner in conversation with screenwriter Aaron Sorkin to introduce a 30^th anniversary of The American President (1995)

Misery (1990) with star Kathy Bates and Rob Reiner

Keir Dullea in attendance to present 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

Director Alexander Payne will introduce Ben Hur (1959)

The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975) with star Barry Bostwick

Blade Runner (1982) with star Sean Young

Danny Huston will attend to present Heaven Knows, Mr. Allison (1957)

Paul Schrader will join the festival to introduce Hud (1963)

Sound effects artist Ben Burtt and visual effects artist Craig Barron will return to the festival with a special presentation of Colossus: The Forbin Project (1970) with a guest appearance by star Eric Braedon.

For the first time since the 1950s, the TCM Classic Film Festival, in collaboration with Paramount Pictures, will host screenings of VistaVision films. Unlike standard 35mm film, which runs vertically through the camera, VistaVision shoots the negative horizontally, exposing the image across two 35mm frames. Using VistaVision projectors specifically installed for the festival, TCM will showcase two rare VistaVision prints: Gunfight at the O.K. Corral (1957) and We’re No Angels (1955) and will feature this year’s Academy-award winning cinematographer Lol Crawley. These screenings present an exceptionally rare opportunity to see VistaVision as it was meant to be experienced: on the big screen, in stunning clarity and with Perspecta audio.

Click HERE to see the festival schedule.

The festival will also be honoring the 90th anniversary of the British Film Institute’s National Archive, one of the most important film and TV collections in the world. Titles presented by the BFI in this celebration include Blithe Spirit (with an introduction from Christine Ebersole), Edge of the City, Mildred Pierce (a rare original 1945 nitrate release print), the premiere of new 35mm prints of To Be or Not To Be and The Private Life of Henry VIII (with an introduction by BFI Head of Conservation Kieron Webb), plus Jaws (a pristine original 1975 Technicolor dye-transfer British release print, with a special appearance by Lorraine Gary.) The treasures in the BFI National Archive’s will also be showcased in a special in conversation event as part of Club TCM, titled Across the Pond: Sights & Sounds of the British Film Institute to dive into the BFI’s archive with their CEO, Ben Roberts.

Additional Club TCM Presentations will include:

A Conversation with Michael Schultz

The TCM Classic Film Festival is proud to pay tribute to the work of prolific and award-winning director and producer Michael Schultz. A veteran of stage, film and television, Schultz has created memorable works for decades, working longer than any other African-American director. From films like Cooley High (1975) and the Cannes award-winning CAR WASH (1976) to television, from Starsky and Hutch and The Rockford Files to Ally McBeal and Black-ish, his talents have shone in multiple productions. Schultz also has an eye for new talent, casting Al Pacino in his first Broadway play, Does a Tiger Wear a Necktie?, winning the actor a Tony Award, and also cast Denzel Washington and Samuel L. Jackson in their first feature films. Join TCM for an in-depth conversation with Michael Schultz about his remarkable career and life.

Fantastic Footage and Where to Find It: Surprise and Delights from the World’s Film Archives

“Just when I thought I’d seen it all…” That familiar phrase might come to mind in this one-of-a-kind presentation. Among the millions of film and video works collected within the world’s archives, there exists an unseen tapestry of remarkable, astonishing and often unseen gems found on a multitude of sources—film and video formats of all shapes and sizes. From film fragments, blooper reels and outtakes, home movies, extraordinary commercials, even local news footage, and some things that just defy explanation, this curated presentation will reveal curious and eclectic wonders tucked away within the globe’s vast archival holdings.

In Attendance: Brittan Dunham and Ashley Swinnerton

From Here to Eternity: A Visit to the Final Resting Places of Hollywood’s Legends

Movies, by their nature, are intangible and ghostly projections conjured out of roughly equal portions of light and personality. So, it’s fitting that our favorite stars usually leave us with very little physical evidence of their existence – beyond their final resting places that is. Join renowned film historians and celebrity-cemetery sleuths Karie Bible and Steven Bingen for this all-access, whirlwind virtual tour of Hollywood’s most famous celebrity gravesites, many of which are as mysterious, inspirational, and eccentric as the legends they commemorate. Filled with personal stories, historic and contemporary photos and explicit directions about how you can find and visit scores of celebrity graves yourself, this reverent/irreverent presentation is a must for anyone interested in connecting the dots, and the last dot in particular, behind the lives of those fascinating faces on the screen.

In attendance: Karie Bible, Steven Bingen

The full 2025 TCM Classic Film Festival Programming Schedule of films, participating talent, special talks and presentations are now available. For all information, please visit http://tcm.com/festival.

About 2025 TCM Classic Film Festival

Movie lovers from around the globe will descend upon Hollywood for the 16th edition of the TCM Classic Film Festival, set to take place Thursday, April 24 – Sunday, April 27, 2025. Over four packed days and nights, attendees will be treated to an extensive lineup of great movies, appearances by legendary stars and filmmakers, fascinating presentations and panel discussions, special events, and more.

TCM Primetime Host Ben Mankiewicz will serve as official host of the TCM Classic Film Festival, alongside Jacqueline Stewart, Dave Karger, Alicia Malone, and Eddie Muller.

The festival’s official hotel and central gathering point will be The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, which has a longstanding role in movie history and was the site of the first Academy Awards® ceremony. The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel will also offer special rates for Festival attendees. Screenings and events during the festival will be held at the TCL Chinese Theatre IMAX®, the TCL Chinese 6 Theatres, the Egyptian Theatre, and a return to the historic El Capitan Theatre.

This year’s festival theme is “Grand Illusions: Fantastic Worlds on Film.”

For the latest news and information, follow us on social at #TCMFF.

About Turner Classic Movies (TCM)

Turner Classic Movies (TCM) is a two-time Peabody Award-winning network that presents classic films, uncut and commercial-free, from the largest film libraries in the world highlighting “Where Then Meets Now.” TCM features insights from Primetime host Ben Mankiewicz along with hosts Alicia Malone, Dave Karger, Jacqueline Stewart and Eddie Muller, plus interviews with a wide range of special guests and serves as the ultimate movie lover destination. With three decades as a leading authority in classic film, TCM offers critically acclaimed series like The Essentials and Reframed along with annual programming events like 31 Days of Oscar® and Summer Under the Stars. TCM also directly connects with movie fans through popular events such as the annual TCM Classic Film Festival in Hollywood and the TCM Classic Cruise. In addition, TCM produces the wildly successful podcast “The Plot Thickens,” which has had more than 9 million downloads to date. TCM hosts a wealth of material online at tcm.com and through the Watch TCM mobile app. Fans can also enjoy a classic movie experience on the TCM hub on Max.

Review: Coachella Acapella Shines Bright at Palm Desert High School

By

Valerie Milano

-

April 2, 2025

0

Review: Coachella Acapella Shines Bright at Palm Desert High School — Party of Four

By Valerie Milano

Photos THT

Palm Springs, CA (The Hollywood Times) 4/2/25 – Last night, the Coachella Acapella delivered a spectacular performance at Palm Desert High School, leaving the audience mesmerized by their powerful harmonies, impeccable timing, and dynamic stage presence.

From the moment the chorus took the stage, it was clear that the Coachella Acapella was here to make a statement. Led by their energetic and passionate director, Alan Scott (a tall drink of water), who welcomed The Hollywood Times with open arms.

The women brought their A-game with a diverse selection of songs that spanned many genres, each piece more captivating than the last. Their vocal precision and ability to blend together seamlessly, in stunning four-part harmonies made for a truly immersive listening experience.

The evening’s performance began with a moving rendition of I’ll Be There For You, with the chorus’s careful phrasing and emotive delivery setting a reflective tone. However, the mood lightened quickly when Alan Scott jokingly threatened, “If you don’t sing along, we’ll just keep repeating it!” The crowd burst into laughter, and before long, everyone was singing along, embracing the fun and creating a sense of unity throughout the performance.

One of the highlights of the evening was their rendition of With A Little Help From My Friends, which showcased their ability to effortlessly shift between tender moments and energetic, full-bodied choruses. Each soloist had their moment to shine, and the collective power of the ensemble left the audience spellbound. The intricate vocal arrangements were performed with such energy and enthusiasm, further demonstrating the group’s deep love for music and their craft.

Spicy Girls (instead of Spice Girls, LOL)

Among the standout moments of the evening was their vibrant tribute to the iconic girl group Spice Girls with a fun and sassy rendition of Wannabe as The Spicy Girls. Another standout moment was, Party of Four, a celebration of four-part harmony, and a fitting title for a set that showcased the versatility of the chorus members as they split into small ensembles to highlight each singer’s strengths. The arrangement was a delightful mix of different genres, from classic pop hits to contemporary tunes, all delivered with the impeccable vocal precision and energy that the Coachella Acapella is known for.

What sets the Coachella Acapella apart is their dynamic stage presence. Their cohesive performances are not just about their voices; it’s their unspoken connection and the joy they clearly take in performing together that makes their shows so special. The group’s chemistry on stage is palpable, as they exchanged smiles, shared glances, and moved together in perfect synchrony, drawing the audience into their world.

In addition to their vocal prowess, the evening was also a celebration of community. The event brought together local families, students, and lovers of music from all over the Coachella Valley. The warmth and support from the audience fueled the chorus, creating a sense of unity that was felt throughout the performance.

Palm Desert High School’s auditorium, with its acoustics, proved to be an ideal setting for the chorus’s rich sound. The intimate venue allowed for the delicate nuances of their harmonies to be heard clearly, while the energy of the crowd added an extra layer of excitement to the evening.

As the performance came to a close, the Coachella Acapella found themselves facing a standing ovation and an audience with a sense of awe. It is clear that this group is not only a standout in the local music scene but also a force to be reckoned with in the world of choral music. Their passion, dedication, and undeniable talent were on full display, and we at The Hollywood Times are excited to see where their music will take them next.

The Coachella Acapella proved once again why they are a beloved fixture in the Coachella Valley, and tonight’s performance at Palm Desert High School was a powerful reminder of the magic that happens when voices come together in perfect harmony.

If you haven’t yet experienced this extraordinary ensemble, we highly recommend catching their next performance. This group is truly one of the valley’s brightest musical gems.

For more updates and event information on the Coachella Acapella, stay tuned with The Hollywood Times.

Guest Host, Shann Carr’s charm and wit brought an added layer of energy and warmth to the event. Known for her infectious humor, sharp wit, and extensive experience in the entertainment world, Carr effortlessly engaged the audience, guiding them through an evening of powerful choral music with her signature flair.

Remembering Val Kilmer: A Hollywood Icon Who Left an Indelible Mark on Cinema

By

Valerie Milano

-

April 1, 2025

0

Remembering Val Kilmer: A Hollywood Icon Who Left an Indelible Mark on Cinema

By Valerie Milano

Palm Springs, CA (The Hollywood Times) 4/1/25 – Val Kilmer, the versatile actor whose career spanned four decades and captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, passed away at the age of 65. Known for his dynamic range and larger-than-life presence, Kilmer leaves behind a legacy of unforgettable performances that continue to resonate with fans and filmmakers alike.

Kilmer’s career took off in the 1980s, when his captivating performances in films like Top Gun (1986) and Real Genius (1985) introduced him as a charismatic leading man. He became an instant icon with his portrayal of the confident, cocky fighter pilot “Iceman” in Top Gun, a role that remains one of his most iconic and beloved to this day. His sharp wit, charming demeanor, and undeniable star power made him a household name.

In the years that followed, Kilmer demonstrated his impressive range, taking on diverse and complex roles in films such as The Doors (1991), where he portrayed the legendary Jim Morrison, and Tombstone (1993), where his performance as the enigmatic Doc Holliday earned him critical acclaim. His portrayal of the charismatic yet tragic Holliday solidified his status as one of Hollywood’s most compelling actors of the era. His deep understanding of his characters, combined with his commitment to bringing them to life, made every role feel authentic and unforgettable.

Kilmer’s ability to fully immerse himself in a variety of roles was a testament to his remarkable talent. Whether he was playing the villain in Batman Forever (1995), the determined hero in Heat (1995), or the quirky yet lovable “Chris Knight” in Real Genius, Kilmer could shift between genres and characters with ease, captivating audiences at every turn.

But it wasn’t just his roles on the big screen that captured the world’s attention. Kilmer’s personal journey, particularly his battle with health challenges, brought even more depth to his legacy. After undergoing treatment for throat cancer, Kilmer’s struggle and subsequent resilience added another layer to his already multifaceted public persona. His candidness about his health journey, including his documentary Val (2021), gave fans a rare, intimate look into his life, showcasing his bravery and enduring passion for acting, even in the face of immense adversity.

Off-screen, Kilmer was known for his unique personality and strong sense of individuality. His artistic inclinations went beyond acting—he was also a talented writer, painter, and musician, frequently expressing himself through these mediums. His creativity and eclectic interests shone through in every aspect of his life, making him a true Renaissance man in the entertainment world.

Val Kilmer, variously man of Ice and Bat, has had a torrid time of it over the last decade.

As the years passed, Kilmer’s career evolved, and while his appearances became fewer, the impact of his earlier work continued to influence both fans and colleagues. In 2020, Kilmer returned to Top Gun for the long-awaited sequel, Top Gun: Maverick, reprising his role as “Iceman” for a poignant and heartfelt cameo that reminded audiences of the lasting power of his legacy.

Kilmer’s death leaves a void in Hollywood, but his unforgettable performances, his unique voice, and his indomitable spirit will continue to inspire generations of actors and fans. A true icon, Val Kilmer’s contributions to cinema and his lasting impact on popular culture will never be forgotten.

Val Kilmer is survived by his children, his family, and countless admirers who were touched by his work and his heart. His legacy will live on, both on the silver screen and in the hearts of those who cherished him.

“Only Josie Knows” Dead in Santa Anita Spill

By

Josie Goldberg

-

April 1, 2025

0

“Only Josie Knows” Dead in Santa Anita Spill

By Josie Goldberg

This is a time of year where I am extra careful as 10 years ago around this time, my thoroughbred racehorse “Only Josie Knows” lost her life on Palm Sunday at Santa Anita Racetrack in 2015.

It was one of the biggest losses of my life. It was unexpected, shocking and one of the saddest days of my life. I carried guilt for many years to come. I remembered the heading in many articles when I would go online “Only Josie Knows” DEAD in Santa Anita Spill. My life changed in a split second. It was unreal but very real to others who have been in Thoroughbred Racing as accidents do happen. After the race I saw all the other racehorses return to their trainers and I was left standing on the track. All alone about to have a breakdown. It was like watching war movies where wives of soldiers go to pick up their husbands after war and run towards the airplane door as it opens and realize in that spilt second that their husband did not make it home.

That was me on Palm Sunday in 2015. I ran on the track to see my horse and comfort her before they euthanized her. I did not want her to think I had abandoned her in her last moments. Security blocked me as I started crying, screaming and having a meltdown. I was told it was CHRB (California Horse Racing Board) Rule, no owners are allowed on the racetrack during racing. Everyone was so sad of those who attended Santa Anita Racetrack that day. I had a friend in security that day who let me go to the room where they kept her body before she was picked up. I looked at her and started reading the “Kaddish” (A Jewish Prayer of Praise and scarification of God, recited during mourning rituals, funerals, and memorial services). I was so sad, I even told her that you’re a Jewish horse this was not your holiday to die on) but as life went on, I realized “Only Josie Knows” was a Catholic and she died on one of the holiest holidays for Catholics.

When “Only Josie Knows” came into my life in 2011, it was around March or April 2011. I went to Santa Anita while HBO “LUCK” was filming to confront David Milch who was the Creator & Executive Producer of the series as he promised me a role that would be life changing for my nonexistent acting career, after one year of preparations with his coaches, handlers and production assistants, he changed his mind and I was out of everything that had to do with the HBO “LUCK” show. I was also on a Dr. Phil series, “Spoiled and Entitled” where I was casted to portray a character in demand, but Dr. Phil and his other famous guest started calling me crazy and going in a direction that was damaging to my career. In addition, I had this Kileod scar on my chest, that ruined my Playboy career, and to top it off the man aka my Jewish A-List Jewish director, that I thought was going to marry me, Brett Ratner put this supermodel girlfriend on the Cover of Playboy and laughed at me. I hit a very low point in my life, and I really thought my life was over and I honestly thought that there was never going to be a light at the end of the tunnel for my entertainment career.

“Only Josie Knows” Breaks Her Maiden At Betfair “ Hollywood Park Inglewood CA. May 18, 2013 – Alla Goldberg, Owner Phil Daniels & Josie Goldberg & Trainer Julio Canani and Alex Bisono

When I could not find David Milch that day at Santa Anita Race Track, I found a very wealthy handsome California Breeder and an even more handsome, successful owner that embraced me, and basically saved my life by gifting me pieces of three thoroughbred horses “Spoiled and Entitled”, “Only Josie Knows” and “Dem Josie Legs”. Horseman really have American values and these men embraced me and really gave me a chance to improve my life that I never dreamed I would have in my darkest times. I never imagined as my parents were legal immigrants from Former Soviet Union. The only way to have a good life was education and being a professional. No Entertainment industry and for sure no Horse business. Who would think one day I would be a successful thoroughbred owner and live in this lifestyle for many years to come.

David Milch (Center In 2001) With Jockey Jose Valdivia And Julio Canani Trainer Of The Milch Owned Val Royal And The Inspiration For Luck Character Turo Escalante (HBO) Series

I went to dinner one evening with David Milch as he shut down the restaurant for me. Very romantic and pretty amazing to have dinner with an A-list HBO writer/creator of many successful shows that won some EMMYs. David told me some things that initially I thought he was just trying to get in my pants. He told me that I am like him in many ways, and I need to learn patience. I kept trying to change my mind. He kept telling me he wants to develop me. That made me so mad, because I wanted a basic union small speaking part from him, not a series regular or something huge. I loved reality tv and being just a tv personality. David insisted I’m a DRAMATIC ACTOR.! He told me I remind him of accomplished actress Sharon Stone who he gave a start to. Then he told me about his relationship with his Trainer Julio Canani and his racehorses, and his huge wins at Gulfsteam Park in Florida and his Gulfstream private jet. My head was spinning! Then he told me about his gambling escapades that helped him pay off his bills until he made it as a big studio writer at HBO. Does all this sound familiar?

I ended up hiring David Milch’s trainer Julio Canani when HBO “LUCK”, got shut down after season 1. It was the perfect time to hire his people. They all needed horses and jobs as David had to liquefy his horses and basically get out of the business immediately, he took a major financial hit. His trainer would never have taken my horses with their non existent pedigree. I told his trainer Julio as a joke one day, there is no more David Milch and Julio. I am your new David Milch, it’s me and you MY JULIO and don’t worry, I am giving you your last good horse. I said it as a joke but unfortunately it was the truth. But he knew something about me was special or he would say “CRAZY’ but he LOVED it!

Thoroughbred Owner Josie Goldberg And Her Trainer Julio Canani In The Winners Circle At Del Mar Thoroughbred Club August 28 2014 For “ Only Josie Knows” Wins The Cal Bred Feature Race

I accidentally picked the best trainer ever with my vendetta for Mr. David Milch. Julio developed my horse “Only Josie Knows” into a champion. I fell in love with my horse, traveled to many fun places, made some money but most of all got out of the darkest times of my life. “Only Josie Knows” gave me a life that was so fulfilling. She taught me I could do the unthinkable. We started in the lower races and ended up winning the highest level race at the prestigious Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. I forgot about marring the A List Jewish Director, and my biggest failure of getting on the scripted tv show for HBO “LUCK”. I became so happy for many years and then it all ended in 2015. Back to drawing board as my Sicilian Friend/mentor Joe Scardino would say. “Only Josie Knows” was Julio Canani‘s last best horse, as he left training in 2016 and passed away in Feb 2021.

My partner Phil told me that Jesus told him to save my life and that’s what he did with giving me this opportunity. “Only Josie Knows” ran for about 4 years and my partner Phil always would say you better enjoy these times because they don’t last forever and you Josie are very lucky to have such a good run with a horse with a big heart, winning capabilities and most of all this horse that LOVES YOU!

Winners circle Del Mar Thoroughbred Club “Only Josie Knows” wins the Cal Bred Feature August 28’ 2014

When my horse died, I decided to cremate her and when I went to the Pet Crematorium to pick her up in a box it was such a harsh reality of life. Our whole relationship flashed before my eyes. I never thought it would end this way. (The glitz, glamour, equine therapy she did for me, her love, etc.). I had her as a baby and I could not believe when she made it to be champion, she died. I put her ashes in a box in my office, and from time to time I go over and speak with her.

I suffered for many years to come. I would go online and would read what people are saying on how I should have retired her before she died. I carried guilt and would wake up crying at night. But I know it did everything right. She had the best Doctors, handlers, trainers and care. It was just a fluke accident as she stepped in a hole on the Turf track and broker her leg and died. What people don’t understand is that Thoroughbred Horses are bred to run. If they can’t do what their meant to do, they act up and end up hurting themselves and many kill themselves. Like many professional athletes, horses too get sore and injured and need a lengthy turnout. “Only Josie Knows” would get vetted throughout her career and had to take many breaks and rest on the farm from time to time. When I would talk with her handlers, they said she would get in the mood and was mad to not be at the racetrack in training. Then when she would ship into training, she would give me the silent treatment for a couple of days, she was pouting because I listened to Drs Orders. Then when her racing saddle went on she would cry from joy! She loved her career as a Racehorse.

Hall Of Famer Jockey Kent Desormeaux & Owner Josie Goldberg After Kent Winning On “Only Josie Knows” Cal Bred Feature Race August 28, 2014

I look back and feel that God was testing me throughout her career. I was offered $175,000 dollars for her when she made it to the top. However, I always promised her that she would be in my life until either she or I died because I loved her so much. She was not for sale! We went from the bottom up and I loved her the same through it all. A lot of family, friends, critics & my Jewish community, say I don’t want to build with a man, and I want a readymade one (JOSIE GOLDDIGGER GOLDBERG). That is not true, my horse gave 100 percent, and I ended up choosing love over the money 175,000 to be exact. With these men in my life, they not only had no heart, but they had nothing to offer except some physical chemistry from time to time, that’s why I chose to build solo and with “ONLY JOSIE KNOWS”. I loved building with my horse because she gave me 100 percent. I realized that in a partner of any kind, that’s a number one quality I’m looking for in Mr. Right. One never knows who your savior will be and or partner to build one’s foundations to be fruitful in the future. For me it was with my racehorse “Only Josie Knows.”

They say tell God your plans and he will have a good laugh. I would always get sad because we all know in the entertainment industry you need a little push. I went on Dr. Phil series “Spoiled and Entitled” show with the intent of getting more of a Reality tv career, romance with an A-list Jewish Director, or exposure for various scripted tv shows. Many of my Playboy Model friends and Reality TV Stars had nepotism, or a chance with marriage with an NFL PLAYER, RAPPER OR ENTERTAINTER. I got my little push with a Thoroughbred Racehorse. It was not what I ever dreamed of, but Thoroughbred Horse Racing on the California circuit gave me a chance to get it and I did and will be forever grateful.

When “Only Josie Knows” died PALM SUNDAY 2015, that was just her physical death. Just like the biblical story of Palm Sunday & Easter when Jesus rose, my horse awakened me to rise again and be risen to new chapters of my life as a reporter and many more titles that I dream of to have one day!

The Jewish people say “Am Yisrael Chai”

Happy Passover and Easter to all my friends!

Billy Joel Posts Video Clip Urging Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to induct Joe Cocker

By

Hollywood Times

-

April 1, 2025

0

Billy Joel Posts Video Clip Urging Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to induct Joe Cocker

Billy Joel reads his letter to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame asking that Joe Cocker (right, at the Woodstock Festival that Joel attended) be considered for induction.

Billy Joel has made it no secret that he feels strongly that Joe Cocker should be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He let audiences know that he wrote a letter in 2014 when Cocker’s health was failing—he died at the end of December of that year—urging the Hall to induct the multi-faceted rocker. Until now, the content of that letter, which Joel hand-delivered to the Rock Hall, has not been revealed and had been the subject of speculation. At the end of last week, Joel, who had been a huge Joe Cocker fan since first hearing “With A Little Help From My Friends” and attending the Woodstock Festival, reposted a video from Joe Cocker’s social media platforms from 2016 in which he read the letter to filmmaker John Edginton minutes before taking the stage at Madison Square Garden. Edginton shot Joel’s reading during the filming of Joe Cocker: Mad Dog With Soul, his much-lauded feature documentary that premiered the following year but doesn’t include the scene in the final cut.

The posting was prompted by the fact that after 36 years of eligibility, Joe Cocker, a full decade after his death, is finally listed as a nominee on this year’s ballot. The video clip, in which Joel asserts that Joe Cocker was “The most powerful rock and roll interpretive male singer” he had heard “since first hearing the iconic early recordings of Ray Charles.” His letter goes on: “In my opinion no one has since come even close to him as one of the great primal rock and roll vocalists of all time.”

Billy Joel Read his letter. Watch here via YouTube:

Joel’s efforts are reflective of a groundswell of support for Cocker’s induction. Just last month, Paul McCartney crafted an open letter (addressed “Dear Rock and Rollers”) in which he wrote “Joe was a great man and a fine singer whose unique style made for some fantastic performances. He sang one of our songs, ‘With a Little Help From My Friends..’ which was very imaginative. All the people on the panel will be aware of the great contribution Joe made to the history of Rock and Roll. And whilst he may not have ever lobbied to be in the Hall of Fame, I know he would be extremely happy and grateful to find himself where he deserves to be, amongst such illustrious company.”

Billy Gibbons, whose band ZZ Top shared stages with Cocker going back to the early ‘70s is also publicly supportive of his induction. He called the nomination “Good news in view of the monumental recordings released and amazing performances,” calling Cocker “One of a kind” and “the very embodiment of rock and roll in terms of talent and spirit.” He concluded his commentary with an entreatment: “Let’s get him inducted!”

Gibbons is a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee as is drummer Pete Thomas as a member of Elvis Costello & The Attractions. Like Joe Cocker, Thomas was born in Sheffield, England and recently wrote, “If there’s a shelf of books about rock and roll, there’s certainly a mighty volume about Joe Cocker. Early on he did what the Beatles and the Stones did: he took American Blues and Soul and made it even better. For Joe Cocker not to be in the Hall is crazy; he’s about as rock and roll as it gets.”

When it became known that her late husband had been nominated for Rock Hall induction, Joe’s widow Pam Cocker recalled, “When the nominations were revealed he would be upset to realize that an artist that he thought had long been in the Hall hadn’t yet been inducted. He was an advocate for so many of these people that he felt were deserving but was never angry or upset that he, himself, had been overlooked. Though he certainly wanted that honor he wasn’t covetous of it and felt that it would someday come. He would have been delighted to have this recognition not only for himself but for other great artists he thought were deserving of it.”

Jo’e surviving brother Vic Cocker commented, “Joe was born in May 1944, a perfect age to hear the first wave of the new music of rock and roll. Eventually the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame honoured those heroes who created it. Later, as a performer himself in the second wave there were new heroes – some were part of incredible bands with whom Joe shared a stage and some whose genius he admired from afar. He was delighted to see them honoured too. Joe often closed his show with the words ‘Rock and Roll!’ It was a reflection of his musical passion. To be recognized among his heroes would be the greatest privilege he silently wished for.”

Screen grab of the letter Billy Joel sent to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame regarding Joe Cocker, dated September 16, 2014

PBS SoCal Debuts Earth Month Content Including “SoCal Snowy Owl” This April

By

Hollywood Times

-

April 1, 2025

0

PBS SoCal Debuts Earth Month Content Including “SoCal Snowy Owl” This April

PBS SoCal’s new Earth Month programming headlined by local documentary SOCAL SNOWY OWL. When a rare snowy owl appears in a California suburb—the first sighting in 100 years—it captivates residents, turning a quiet neighborhood into a global destination. SOCAL SNOWY OWL will premiere on Tues., April 1 at 7:30 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus and Mon., April 28 at 4 p.m. on PBS SoCal.

Local Wildlife Highlighted in PBS SoCal’s 2025 Earth Month Slate with World Broadcast Premiere and Local Events for New Documentary SOCAL SNOWY OWL

Additional Earth Month Highlights Include WILDLIFE ON THE EDGE – Featuring Mountain Lion P-22 and Other Diverse Wildlife in the Mountains Around LA, Narrated by Beau Bridges, THE FUTURE OF NATURE Narrated by Uma Thurman and PATAGONIA: LIFE ON THE EDGE OF THE WORLD Narrated by Pedro Pascal

Select programming will also be available to stream on PBS.org and the free PBS App. Members of PBS SoCal get extended access through PBS Passport.

Los Angeles, Calif. – PBS SoCal, Southern California’s flagship PBS organization, announced earlier its 2025 Earth Month slate with 15 new titles and headlined by the world broadcast premiere of the new 30-minute documentary SOCAL SNOWY OWL that will be screened at two regional events over the course of the month. When a rare snowy owl appears in a California suburb—the first sighting in 100 years—it captivates residents, turning a quiet neighborhood into a global destination. The documentary explores how one bird fostered human connection, inspired conservation awareness and offered a moment of hope in a rapidly changing world. The film includes interviews with Cypress City Councilwoman Frances Marquez, California State Senator Josh Newman and more. SOCAL SNOWY OWL will premiere on Tues., April 1 at 7:30 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus and Mon., April 28 at 4 p.m. on PBS SoCal. Following the broadcast, the documentary will stream at pbssocal.org/SoCalSnowyOwl as well as on the free PBS App on April 1 and on PBS SoCal’s YouTube.

The Hollywood Times will have the opportunity to talk with the director of SoCal Snowy Owl, Chris Angel, who is also a Writer and Lifelong Birder. Stayed tune!

The program augments the robust lineup of relevant specials and documentaries that highlight environmental stewardship premiering throughout April for Southern California viewers in partnership with presenting sponsor Metrolink.

Two local screenings will highlight the locally-produced film that was the winner of the Audience Award at the Newport Beach Film Festival. On Thurs., April 10, SOCAL SNOWY OWL will screen at the Rivian South Coast Theater followed by a panel discussion with special guests and a general reception all starting at 6:30 p.m. For more information about the screening and to reserve your tickets, please visit https://rivian.com/spaces/laguna.

And on Thurs., April 24, PBS SoCal and the Natural History Museum will co-host a public screening of SOCAL SNOWY OWL along with the EARTH FOCUS episode “Transforming the Los Angeles River” starting at 6:30 p.m. in the Commons Theater followed by a panel discussion with special guests and a general reception afterwards. Guests are invited to enjoy a first look at the NHM Commons, a brand-new gathering space designed for community and conversation at the Natural History Museum.

For more information about the screening and to reserve your free tickets, please visit https://nhm.org/calendar/green-screen-our-planet-film-earth-focus-pbs-socal.

Another PBS SoCal Earth Month highlight includes the locally-produced documentary WILDLIFE ON THE EDGE which celebrates diverse regional wildlife such as Mountain Lions, Bears and Bobcats that live in the mountains around Los Angeles. The 30-minute film examines the many deadly hazards they must face living close to one of the world’s largest cities. Narrated by actor Beau Bridges (“Matlock,” “The Neon Highway”), the film also looks at P-22, a cougar that helped emphasize the need for wildlife protection. Featuring the words of California Governor Gavin Newsom and the team behind the new Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing, the program looks at solutions.

PBS stations across the country are also rolling out new content, continuing the network’s commitment to the environment including THE FUTURE OF NATURE narrated by Uma Thurman (“Kill Bill,” “Pulp Fiction”). The four-part series follows a growing number of inspiring people, fighting to save nature and understand the impact of carbon on our planet and how nature is helping to mitigate its effects. The program ushers in Earth Month a little early starting on March 30 with episodes that look at oceans, grasslands, forests and humans.

Also, debuting on PBS SoCal Plus in April is the CNN ground-breaking documentary series PATAGONIA: LIFE ON THE EDGE OF THE WORLD, narrated by Chilean-born actor Pedro Pascal (“The Mandalorian,” “The Last of Us”) that explores the wonders of one of the wildest places on Earth through the lives of the extraordinary animals and people that inhabit it. Filmed over the course of a year, the filmmakers reveal what it takes to survive and thrive at the edge of the world.

The 2025 Earth Month lineup also includes the return of the EARTH FOCUS Environmental Film Festival EFEFF). Southern California environmental film fans will be treated to a broadcast event every Saturday night in April starting Sat., April 5 at 9 p.m. PTon PBS SoCal Plus, with encores airing weekly on PBS SoCal beginning Wed., April 9 at 11 p.m. PT. Featuring four films that inspire a better understanding of current environmental issues, the broadcast lineup for the Festival includes SIX INCHES OF SOIL(2024), OUTGROW THE SYSTEM (2024), UNTIL THE LAST DROP (2023) and FIRE LINES (2024). Films will be available to stream on the free PBS App for the month of April, with an extended streaming window for PBS SoCal members with Passport.

Select content slated to air during Earth Month is listed as follows (*schedule subject to change):

THE FUTURE OF NATURE: “Oceans” – Wed., March 26 at 10 p.m. on PBS SoCal and Sun., March 30 at 9 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus – New!

See how carbon is drawn down by the oceans. Discover how plankton, whale waste, fish and the secret organisms at the deepest depths of the ocean play a fundamental role in removing carbon from the atmosphere.

WILDLIFE ON THE EDGE – Tues., April 1 at 7 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus and Mon., April 28 at 3:30 p.m. on PBS SoCal – New!

Mountain lions, bears and bobcats face many deadly hazards living in the mountains around Los Angeles. Interviews with California Governor Gavin Newsom and the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing team.

SOCAL SNOWY OWL – Tues., April 1 at 7:30 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus and Mon., April 28 at 4 p.m. on PBS SoCal – New!

Image from SOCAL SNOWY OWL as featured in PBS SoCal’s Earth Month lineup. (Courtesy of Roy Rausch and Henry Tran)

A rare Arctic snowy owl’s unexpected visit to a California neighborhood sparks wonder and unites a community and reveals the fragile connection between nature and the changing world. In the Orange County suburb of Cypress, the community find that their encounters with this visitor change their lives for the better.

Pictured: Images from SOCAL SNOWY OWL as featured in PBS SoCal’s Earth Month lineup. (Courtesy of Roy Rausch and Henry Tran)

THE FUTURE OF NATURE: “Grasslands” – Wed., April 2 at 10 p.m. on PBS SoCal and Sun., April 6 at 9 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus – New!

Glimpse into Earth’s grasslands, where the biggest animal numbers are found and see how animal life helps to draw down carbon. The latest science reveals these animals’ importance to our future and what we can do to restore them to health and abundance.

SIX INCHES OF SOIL – Sat., April 5 at 9 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus and Wed., April 9 at 11 p.m. on PBS SoCal – New! – EFEFF

The inspiring story of British farmers standing up against the industrial food system and transforming the way they produce food – to heal the soil, benefit our health and provide for local communities.

THE FUTURE OF NATURE: “Forests” – Wed., April 9 at 10 p.m. on PBS SoCal and Sun., April 13 at 9 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus – New!

Forests are the most effective carbon pumps on Earth, but only when they’re functioning well and rich in species. Meet people working to improve biodiversity, saving keystone species and using Indigenous wisdom to rebuild and restore forests.

OUTGROW THE SYSTEM – Sat., April 12 at 9 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus and Wed., April 16 at 11 p.m. on PBS SoCal – New! – EFEFF

In the midst of humanity’s climate crisis, the pioneers stand ready. Meet the new economic perspectives that have the potential to change the world at its core.

PATAGONIA: LIFE ON THE EDGE OF THE WORLD “The Desert Coast” – Sun., April 13 at 7 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus – New!

A journey along Patagonia’s Atlantic coast where the land may be barren but the sea is rich with life; in this wild and unforgiving place, killer whales risk it all to survive, while huge male elephant seals battle for the chance to breed.

THE FUTURE OF NATURE: “Humans” – Wed., April 16 at 10 p.m. on PBS SoCal and Sun., April 20 at 9 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus – New!

As the ultimate ecosystem engineers and keystone species, people can work with nature to make this world thrive. Visit the metropolises of China, the outskirts of LA, the bogs of Ireland and the favelas of Rio for a deeper look.

UNTIL THE LAST DROP – Sat., April 19 at 9 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus and Wed., April 23 at 11 p.m. on PBS SoCal – New! – EFEFF

The documentary exposes the global cost and consequences of the destruction of nature. Life-giving rivers have been especially badly hit. Shot on location in Canada, the Netherlands, Italy, Switzerland, Albania and Poland, the film conveys a strong message about one of the greatest threats to human civilization: the growing freshwater crisis.

RIVER’S END: “California’s Latest Water War” – Sun., April 20 at 8 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus – New!

Filmmaker Jacob Morrison reveals California’s complex struggle over who gets fresh water and how moneyed interests manipulate the system. Battles over uncertain water supplies herald an impending crisis – not just in California but around the world.

PATAGONIA: LIFE ON THE EDGE OF THE WORLD “Fjordlands” – Sun., April 20 at 7 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus – New!

Along Patagonia’s Pacific coast are deep, sheltered fjords. In summer, the nutrient-rich waters are in high demand from both animals and people, which threatens the natural balance.

EARTH FOCUS “Loving Joshua Tree” – Tues., April 22 at 7 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus

Love for Joshua Tree endangers the local life—both people and ecosystems. The allure of the high desert has drawn generations to the region, from socialites of the early 20th century to social media users today. Amid a boom of tourism and short-term rentals, conservationists and locals hope this love for Joshua Tree can be practiced more sustainably for everyone—and everything—that calls it home.

EARTH FOCUS “Diablo Canyon: California’s Last Nuclear Power Plant” – Tues., April 22 at 7:30 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus

Diablo Canyon ignites conversations about nuclear power in the state’s energy future. Challenged by extreme weather events and eyeing clean energy goals, California reversed its decision to close its last nuclear power plant. This is a set-back for anti-nuclear activists, welcome news for climate activists, and a minor detour in the YTT Northern Chumash’s journey to reclaim their ancestral lands.

CHANGING PLANET: “River Restoration” – Wed., April 23 at 10 p.m. on PBS SoCal and Sun., April 27 at 8 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus – New!

Two ambitious river restoration projects are aiming to bring life back to the Klamath in northern California and the Seine in Paris, France. Dr. M. Sanjayan returns to northern California, where the largest dam removal project in U.S. history is aiming to resuscitate the river Klamath.

FIRE LINES – Sat., April 26 at 9 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus and Wed., April 30 at 11 p.m. on PBS SoCal – New! – EFEFF

In northern California, climate change and 150 years of forest mismanagement have led to some of the most catastrophic wildfires in the state’s history, including the Dixie Fire, which in 2021 devastated the Lost Sierra’s already struggling communities. In the face of that destruction, one group turned to trails for hope and to the past for a better future.

WEATHERED: “Inside the LA Firestorm” – Sun., April 27 at 9 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus – New!

Fire chiefs, survivors, community responders and climate scientists talk about the events that led to the Los Angeles wildfires and what can be done to save lives and homes in the future; hosted by Maiya May.

PATAGONIA: LIFE ON THE EDGE OF THE WORLD “Mountains” – Sun., April 27 at 7 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus – New!

A journey from the low grasslands, where pumas roam, to the towering peaks of the Patagonian Andes, where only the toughest people and animals can survive.

EARTH FOCUS “The Tortoise, the Raven and Us” – Tues., April 29 at 6:30 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus

Ravens threaten Mojave Desert tortoises, and solutions call on shifts in human behavior. While they are one of the smartest birds in the world, their success can pose an existential threat to other wildlife. Scientists and community members work to provide solutions to this increasing environmental problem, which are revealing deep insights into humanity in the process.

EARTH FOCUS “Reimagining the Los Angeles River” – Tues., April 29 at 7 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus

The L.A River is reimagined through explorations of history, hydrology, and architecture. Designs by local visionaries hope to transform the channel in new ways that benefit both the environment and people. But some residents along the river wonder if these changes will bring more harm than good to their communities.

EARTH FOCUS “Transforming the Los Angeles River” – Tues., April 29 at 7:30 p.m. on PBS SoCal Plus

A transformed L.A. River is envisioned by the communities that live at its edge. In the process, residents also must reconcile with the river channel’s past. From artists in Elysian Valley to store owners in Chinatown to Indigenous leaders, these communities are working to ensure everyone is included in new plans for the river’s 51 miles.

For more information, follow us on social at @pbssocal

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

PBS SoCal’s Earth Month content is supported by generous institutional funders and partners including Metrolink. Environmental programming is supported, in part, by Edison International.

About PBS SoCal

PBS SoCal uses the power of public media for good, strengthening the civic fabric of Southern California and providing our community with an essential connection to a wider world. As a local, donor/member-supported non-profit organization, PBS SoCal programming is available to viewers on all key streaming platforms via the free PBS App and PBS KIDS App as well as over-the-air, via seven channels — including 2 primary broadcast channels, PBS SoCal and PBS SoCal Plus. With a commitment to make content available anytime and anywhere for free, PBS SoCal reaches nearly 19M viewers in the region with programming that reflects the diversity of Southern California and showcases the full schedule of beloved and trusted PBS content spanning Education, News, Environment and Arts & Culture. PBS SoCal also sparks the sharing of ideas at in-person cultural events and community conversations as well as prepares children for kindergarten and beyond by bringing bilingual, hands-on learning experiences to the community for free.

About Metrolink

Metrolink regional passenger rail service offers reliable, safe, affordable, and environmentally sustainable transportation throughout an interconnected six-county network. Metrolink has 545.6 total service line miles and 67 stations across Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, and San Diego counties, connecting people, communities, and businesses and serving as an essential link in the region’s mobility landscape. Metrolink also operates the Arrow service, a nine-mile extension of the San Bernardino County Line linking the cities of San Bernardino and Redlands.

Metrolink is committed to promoting sustainability, and we’re proud to be a part of this global effort. Small acts, like taking the train, can add up to a big green impact and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable Southern California.

The Chase Gala 2025: A Night of Glitz and Giving

By

Teri Kinne

-

March 31, 2025

0

By Teri Kinne

Palm Springs, CA The Hollywood Times 4/26/25 -The Chase Gala welcomed guests with a pink carpet entrance that transformed into a glittering runway of creative self-expression. The event reached its pinnacle with a diamond bracelet, major financial pledges, and a keynote message that boldly declared, “We’re not going back.” DAP Health’s 31st annual Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards, presented by Desert Care Network at the Palm Springs Convention Center, ultimately raised over $1.9 million to support an essential cause: healthcare for all, regardless of race, gender, or economic status.

As the ballroom doors swung open, a live DJ guided the crowd down a vibrant walkway into a dazzling space, where glowing spheres floated above more than a hundred silver tables. A center stage-in-the-round and a bandstand were set for the post-awards concert, creating an atmosphere of anticipation.

Honoree Lynn Hammond with the 2025 Partners for Life Award t Band Presented by .

Local caterer and philanthropist Lynn Hammond was honored with the 2025 Partners for Life Award in recognition of her long-standing commitment to the community and her years of service to DAP Health. DAP Health CEO David Brinkman took the stage for a keynote address that balanced gravity with hope. He reminded the audience that, while the evening was celebratory, the mission remained urgent.

DAP Health CEO David Brinkman took the stage for a keynote message that balanced gravity with hope. He reminded the crowd that while the night was festive, the mission remained urgent.

DAP Health CEO David Brinkman gave an inspired keynote speech

Throughout the night, Board of Directors Co-Vice Chair and Event Chair Kevin Bass kept the energy high. The excitement reached new heights when KC and The Sunshine Band took the stage, igniting a dance party that celebrated the collective effort everyone was now part of.

DAP Health’s journey has been nothing short of impressive. The nonprofit now serves over 88,000 patients across 25 clinics, from the Salton Sea to the San Diego coast. This includes farmworkers, LGBTQ+ individuals, the uninsured, and underserved populations across 240 zip codes, both rural and urban. Services span from gender health to dental, OB-GYN, radiology, mental health, affordable housing, and food assistance, with dignity at the heart of every service provided.

The Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards began in 1984 with a single act of defiance and compassion when interior designer Steve Chase co-founded the Desert AIDS Project in response to the crisis and the homophobia that it intensified. In today’s political climate, it is crucial to continue this vital work and “not go back.”

Board of Directors Co-Vice Chair and Event Chair Kevin Bass

The Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards began with a single act of defiance and compassion in 1984, when interior designer Steve Chase helped found the Desert AIDS Project in response to the crisis and homophobia it intensified. With the current political climate, it is important to continue the work and “not go back.”Generous sponsors made the night possible, including major names like Amazon, Eisenhower Health, and Barry Manilow & Garry Kief, alongside producing sponsors Mark Adams & Tyler Wibstad, and major donor groups like the Grace Helen Spearman Charitable Foundation.

The Chase Gala 2025 dazzled with its pink décor, disco energy, and formal elegance. But beneath the fizz, what shined was a collective determination to continue the fight for accessible healthcare and dignity for all.

For more information visit DAP Health

Enjoy highlights of the evening:

2025 JQ Impact Awards

By

Juan Markos

-

March 31, 2025

0

I attended the 21st annual JQ Impact Awards on March 30th, 2025. The event took place at Sinai Temple in Los Angeles, where we gathered to honor and award three Jewish leaders in the community. It began with a welcome message from the event co-chairs, Asher Gellis, Alison Rosenthal, and ASM Rick Zbur. This year, JQ presented the JQ Trailblazer Award to Henry Platt, the Allyship Award to Adena Smith, and the Leadership Award to LJ Small.

I viewed profoundly moving videos showcasing each recipient prior to their awards presentation. I was seated adjacent to Ms. Hadar Dohn, the newly appointed Managing Director of JQ International, who graciously shared her background and her impressive qualifications in education before joining the organization. I inquired about the award selection process and the criteria used for choosing recipients. This event marked the inaugural attendance of both her and her husband; she became affiliated with JQ following last year’s celebration. They exhibited a warm and welcoming demeanor, and I perceived that they may have recognized my non-Jewish background.

The event concluded with an inspiring address by Samantha Eisenberg, whose narrative elicited tears from me. She articulated the valuable assistance provided by JQ and underscored the significance of its international initiatives in fostering a sense of community among the LGBTQ+ Jewish populace. It is my understanding that there are few Christian organizations that inclusively embrace LGBTQ+ individuals, and I am immensely grateful to have witnessed the three award recipients who have found acceptance within this community. I hold a deep appreciation for the progressive philosophy of Judaism and for those establishments that honor and celebrate our diverse identities. Through community engagement, educational initiatives, and support services, JQ is dedicated to creating a vibrant and supportive future for LGBTQ+ Jews and their allies, fostering opportunities for connection, learning, and prosperity.

If you’re not familiar, JQ International provides community building, support services, and educational programming that support LGTBQ+ Jews and their allies. You can learn more at jqinternational.org

“Being Maria” – Actress Maria Schneider and Bertolucci’s “Last Tango in Paris”

By

Robert St. Martin

-

March 31, 2025

0

“Being Maria” – Actress Maria Schneider and Bertolucci’s “Last Tango in Paris”

By Robert St. Martin

Currently on screen at several Laemmle Theatres in Los Angeles is “Being Maria” (France, 2024) – not be confused with the similarly titled Pablo Lorrain film about opera diva Maria Callas. “Being Maria” (released in France as “Maria”) is a 2024 biographical drama film directed by Jessica Palud from a screenplay by Palud and Laurette Polmanss – in turn, freely adapted by Vanessa Schneider’s 2018 memoir “My Cousin Maria Schneider.” The film recounts the life of actress Maria Schneider (1952 – 2011) and dramatizes her experiences working on Bernardo Bertolucci’s feature film “Last Tango in Paris” (1972). Starring Anamaria Vartolomei as Maria Schneider, with Yvan Attal as her actor-father Daniel Gélin, Matt Dillon as Marlon Brando in the Bernolucci’s film, Giuseppe Maggio as Bernardo Bertolucci, and Céleste Brunnquell as her lesbian lover Noor.

Shooting A Scene From Last Tango With Anamaria Vartolomei & Matt Dillon

19-year-old Maria Schneider grew up in Paris with her volatile mother and far away from her estranged father, French actor Daniel Gélin. Always fascinated with movies, at age 17 she found a way to visit her father and the studio heads with the intension of being an actress. Maria Schneider (played by actress Anamaria Vartolomei) was “discovered” by Italian director Bernardo Bertolucci, who selected her for is 1972 erotic drama “Last Tango in Paris.” In the work she stars alongside the celebrated American actor Marlon Brando (here played by Matt Dillon). The story follows an older American man who meets a young French woman in an apartment in Paris where they begin an anonymous sexual relationship. Maria became a star overnight through the role of Jeanne but is unprepared for the fame and scandal that the film triggers.

When “New Yorker” film critic Pauline Kael wrote a long and heated rave of Bertolucci’s “Last Tango in Paris” after its premiere in 1972, she stated, among other things, that “this is a movie people will be arguing about for as long as there are movies.” Kael may have been overdoing it when she stressed the monumental importance of “Last Tango,” claiming it was a “movie breakthrough” and that it “altered the face of the art form.” But in terms of people arguing years later about the film’s legacy, she was spot-on.

“Being Maria” is the new biopic of tormented French actress Maria Schneider, who at age 19 starred opposite Marlon Brando in the Bertolucci movie – the feat that launched her career as a promising new international actress while destroying her life at the same time. The reasons for this are well known, and resurfaced over the past decade alongside the many #MeToo scandals that rocked the film world: For the infamous sequence in “Last Tango” in which Brando’s character, Paul, anally rapes Schneider’s character, Jeanne, using butter as a lubricant, the actress was never forewarned. The scene wasn’t in the original script nor was she ever asked for consent. Brando and Bertolucci conspired to take her by surprise, and while the sodomy was simulated, the butter was real, and the entire humiliating experience would have a life-changing effect on Schneider.

Maria Schneider (Anamaria Vartolomei) In Her Dressing Room

“Being Maria,” directed by Jessica Palud (“Revenir”), who adapted the script from a book by Vanessa Schneider – a journalist for “Le Monde” and Maria’s younger cousin – is built entirely around that pivotal incident, both for better and for worse. Like the actress herself, whose life and career exploded with the success of “Last Tango” – while unraveling at the same time, the movie loses its way after the scandal surrounding Bertolucci’s film fizzles out.

Before that happens, Palud paints a rather honest portrait of a young woman from a troubled background whose connection to the movies was more personal than professional. When we first meet Maria (the excellent Anamaria Vartolomei from the film “Happening”) she’s on a film set admiring the work of her estranged father, the actor Daniel Gélin (Yvan Attal), who abandoned her as a child.

French Actor Daniel Gélin (Yvan Attal) With Maria Schneider

The girl is already 16 and lives with her mom (Marie Gillian), a former model who raised her daughter alone and doesn’t want Maria to go anywhere near her dad. When she finds out the two are getting to know each other, she explodes with rage and viciously kicks Maria out of the house, which winds up inadvertently propelling her daughter into stardom.

Through the help of Daniel, Maria starts working as an actress, playing small roles in a handful of films. Soon she’s 19-years-old and sitting in a café opposite Bertolucci (Giuseppe Maggio), who’s decided to cast her in “Last Tango,” studying her like a caged tiger fascinated by its prey. Bertolucci fans beware: The director comes across here as a pompous and careless prima donna who only cares about his own art.

Director Bertolucci (Giuseppe Maggio) Explaining Sex Scenes To Maria Schneider

Brando (played quite convincingly by a heavily made-up Matt Dillon is much more charming and paternalistic, initially taking Maria under his wing to show her the ropes of his profession. In one early scene they shoot together, Maria admires how Brando manages to shed real tears on set, to which he responds: “I wasn’t acting.”

This comes back to bite Maria big time when we arrive at the rape scene and the actress is caught completely off-guard. She trusted both Brando and Bertolucci, but the two wanted her reaction to be so real that they deliberately failed to warn her. After the scene is in the can and Schneider storms off to cry in her dressing room, she’s forced to come back and shoot the second part of the sequence. Like a pro, she does it, and nobody apologizes to her. The best Brando can say is: “It’s only a film.”

Palud, who previously worked on movie shoots as an assistant — including, ironically, on Bertolucci’s 2003 explicit three-way romance, “The Dreamers”– recreates the “Last Tango” production with both authenticity and emotional aplomb. The fatherless Maria finds a surrogate dad in Brando, only to be sadistically betrayed by him, in an act that would wind up breaking her. No matter how successful “Last Tango” would become, Maria would only remember that scene.

Maria Schneider (Anamaria Vartolomei & Marlon Brando (Matt Dillon)

The problem with “Being Maria” is that “that scene” happens about a half hour in, after which we’re left with a downward and rather predictable spiral that fails to maintain our interest. We see Schneider losing it soon after “Last Tango” becomes a scandalous sensation – it received an X-rating in the U.S. and was legally banned in Italy, where all prints of the film were burned – partying all night long, dating a heroin addict and becoming one herself, nodding off on set and failing to remember her lines.

Vartolomei is a compelling actress, and the camera truly loves her, but there’s only so much she can do with a script that doesn’t have much of a second or third act. Had Palud set the entire movie around the “Last Tango” shoot and its immediate aftermath, the drama would have perhaps been more compact. Instead, we’re left watching Maria dance in lots of nightclubs, go through withdrawal, get hospitalized, fall in love with a young female film student (Céleste Brunnquell) doing a thesis on women in movies, and try to kick her habit for good. Plenty of stuff happens, but there’s no real arc to sustain the material.

This doesn’t mean “Being Maria” lacks value, as a film about how some major films need to be reconsidered in light of our evolving standards. Not everyone loves the idea of an on-set intimacy coordinator, but Schneider certainly could have used one on “Last Tango.” Sure, the scene might have been less jarring in the end, but Bertolucci might not have traumatized his actress for life. In “Last Tango in Paris,” she performed several nude scenes. After the film release, she decided never to work nude again. Her next successful film was Michelangelo Antononi’s “The Passenger” (1975), where she plays an unnamed young woman in Barcelona who runs into Jack Nicholson, an unsuccessful war correspondent who takes the risky path of co-opting the identify of a dead arms-dealer acquaintance.

Maria Schneider (Anamaria Vartolomei) With Lesbian Lover Noor (Céleste Brunnquell)

In the later part of “Being Maria,” we see Maria Schneider giving interviews to journalists about her on-going acting roles. In early 1976, she abandoned the film set of Tinto Brass’ “Caligula” (1979) and was replaced by Teresa Ann Savoy. She was originally cast to play the part of “Conchita” in Luis Buñuel’s last film “That Obscure Object of Desire” (1977). She did not get along with the Spanish director and rejected his stereotypical ideas of women for the role he had in mind. After a few days of shooting, she was replaced by actresses “Ángela Molina and Carole Bouquet). In an interview, Schneider recalls how much she liked working with Jacques Rivette and starring opposite Joe D’Allesandro in “Merry-Go-Round” (1980).

Palud’s film “Being Maria” asks us to contemplate whether art should always triumph over real people, using Maria Schneider’s sad true story as proof that certain things aren’t worth doing to make a “movie breakthrough.”

Broadway’s “Good Night, and Good Luck”’s Other Movie “Star”

By

Gordon Durich

-

March 31, 2025

0

Broadway’s “Good Night, and Good Luck”’s Other Movie “Star”

By Gordon Durich

“The fault dear Brutus, lies not in the stars, but in ourselves. ” Shakespeare.

Many moons ago, George Clooney must have known he was onto something, when he helmed the ambitious movie project about legendary broadcaster Edward R. Murrow, “Good Night, and Good Luck.” The title came from the signature sign-off phrase of Murrow’s at the conclusion of his CBS TV reports.

The film directed by Clooney, and co-written and co-starring this triple-threat went on to reap multiple awards including Best Picture and Best Director at the Academy Awards.

A passion project, the electrifying story, has now spawned a stage adaptation, starring Clooney in the lead role, his Broadway debut. Playing at the Winter Garden theatre, the show opens on April 3, after March previews. The subject of the now screen-to-stage work is personal to the multi-talented Clooney, as his father is journalist Nick Clooney. Clooney senior has a background as TV anchorman and host.

Journalism was a huge influence on Clooney junior, as his father instilled in him a respect for the values of truth and transparency. With an unconventional approach, George approached the film like a journalist. With a lot of fact checking. The groundwork paid off.

The plot? The infamous clash between protagonist Murrow and anti-communist political figure Joseph McCarthy. Tension… and verity. The film resembles a docudrama.

The play’s production design is noteworthy for more than one reason. (The film version was awarded Best Production Design, also at its multi-award winning 2006 Oscars triumph). Technically challenging, it features period sets and authentic props reflecting this vintage American era, circa early 1950’s. One significant prop(erty) is a Movieola on loan to “Good Night, and Good Luck” by The Museum of Interesting Things’ founder Denny Daniel.

“I was asked to loan the Movieola, one of the most special things in the Museum and was happy to! It was used by Tim Burton to do Pee Wee Herman’s Big Adventure. I remember rolling it down Broadway to them.” A new documentary about the Museum of Interesting Things in New York City is in the works.

Start spreading the news, this new take on drama and media is enthralling. Hopefully, this new production will make it one day… make that night to the City of Angels.

www.goodnightgoodluckbroadway.com

www.museumofinterestingthings.org