Posted by Donna - Cabaret West @ 05/31/2003 05:57 AM PST

I just saw Mr. Rudetsky a few days ago interviewing Janine LaManna and Scott Ellis - it was fun and I love it when the talk goes into overdrive whether or not Seth gets to speak.

Posted by Kit Lo @ 05/31/2003 06:00 AM PST

Ah, Long Beach Airport! A Jet Blue reference if I ever heard one! (Truth be told, there are other airlines that use LB, but Jet Blue is the one that has everyone else green with envy, if that isn't contradictory.)

I've often been told by total strangers that I resemble someone they know, but they can never quite remember who it is I remind them of. I alternate between saying that I feel sorry for the other guy, or that maybe they should consider hanging out with a better crowd.

As for television movies, I recall one starring Bette Davis as Madame Sin. It was supposed to be a pilot for a series where she was the star villian, but didn't get picked up. I can only imagine how campy the series would have been if they had gone forward with it.

I also remember, from 1971, an animated film called The Point, written by Harry Nillson. Mike Lookinlad supplied the voice of Oblio, the little boy who was ostracized because his head was round instead of pointed. Checking over at IMDB, I've just found out the voice of the father/narrator has changed over the years, with different telecasts giving us the voices of Dustin Hoffman, Alan Barzman, Alan Thicke, and Ringo Starr. Having a father whose voice changes so radically, and not even because of puberty, must have been very confusing for Oblio. I recall Nillson had a second-level hit song from the film, "Me and My Arrow," which by my simple mention of the song will cause someone out there in Internetland to hum the song all day. It's a pleasant song, so I'll consider that a good deed.

Posted by S. Woody White @ 05/31/2003 06:12 AM PST

Well, Mr. Martin Mull and I could indeed be twins who were seperated at birth. I have been told this for years and years, and looking at a few of the pictures take with the dear Betty Buckley at NYC's Bottom Line, folks have asked me who the two women are flanking Martin Mull. . .

Posted by td @ 05/31/2003 06:53 AM PST

Today's Topic: When I was in my late teens and early twenties, I got told a number of times that I looked a lot like Paul Peterson...what do I know.

It's a cruel joke that, with the passing of a few (!!!) years, I can go from looking like Donna Reed's boy to looking like Grandpa Walton! The calendar sucks!

Posted by MusicGuy @ 05/31/2003 08:03 AM PST

Dear esteemed, creative, cosmopolitan, and bi-coastal BK,

You be a good boy in NYC...work hard, create a lot, don't talk to strange ladies, take some fruit, and wear clean underwear in case you were in an accident.

Posted by MusicGuy @ 05/31/2003 08:06 AM PST

Well, when I was performing I was told by people that I resembled and sounded like Dick Cavett. I think I tried to cultivate that because at the time I thought he was most amazing. A short man from the midwest (Nebraska) makes good as an intellectual television personality. If he can do it, so can I. Didn't quite work out that way, but, hey, I'm happy with things the way they are now so all is cool.

Posted by Ben @ 05/31/2003 08:19 AM PST

Jose: Re. your late post yesterday... Yes, I'm a linguist, but I'm not a very cunning linguist.

I've been told many times that I should play Gary Sinese's brother because we look so much alike. I think its just the dark circles under the eyes. Personally, I don't find him to be attractive at all, so I prefer to think that I resemble Brad Pitt. And still people insist that I look more like Gary Sinese. I just don't understand! Hehe...

I've also been told by several people that I remind them of Kevin Spacey, but I think that is more in reference to my dry wit and strange sense of humor.

On the TV right now is the Trading Spaces for Kids. These poor kids are gonna work themselves to death!

Favorite TV Movie: A Very Brady Christmas. I don't know why...someone mentioned Mike Lookinlad, and it just made me think of the Bradys.

Posted by Jason @ 05/31/2003 08:36 AM PST

Ooh! How could I have forgotten?

~~~~~~Positive vibes for a safe trip for BK~~~~~~

Posted by Jason @ 05/31/2003 08:39 AM PST

Did BK say, "send May off with bangers and mash?" That sounds like a splendid idea!

Posted by The Queen Mum @ 05/31/2003 08:45 AM PST

I have been "likened" to Jon Voight and Michael Moriarty in my younger days (the Moriarty of "Bang the Drum Slowly").

Now I literally get stopped on the street by folks who INSIST I'm Drew Carey!

Now THAT's a sad state of affairs (but not as bad as going from Paul Petersen to Grandpa Walton...thanks, MusicGuy, for the imagery).

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 05/31/2003 08:54 AM PST

TV Alert
This was a last minute change in schedule, so your local listings may not mention it, but tonight at Nine (a Maurey Yeston reference and almost, but not quite, a Boch/Harnick reference) NBC is repeating Cybil Shepard as Martha Stewart in a film that should have been called "Martha Dearest". Don't tune in late or you'll miss the early scene when a young Martha has a birthday cake business.

To answer a late post from last night: "The Mickey Mouse Club" was a television series from 1955 to about 1959 produced by Walt Disney and broadcast every afternoon on ABC after "American Bandstand" for an hour (½ hour the last season). In addition to cartoons, serials, newsreels, etc. it featured a group of talented teenagers known as the Mousketeers who wore sweatshirts with their names and Mouse Ear hats. Each day they did a roll call announcing their first names directly to the camera. Many of them remained in show busines (Bobby Burgess, Cubby O'Brien) but the most famous was Annette Funicello, more known for growing boobs as the show progressed than for any particular talent. She later starred in "beach movies" and peanut butter commercials.

There were two follow-up series with the same name, both after the death of Uncle Walt. The one in the 70s was a pale imitation of the original. The one in the 90s on the Disney Channel (then a pay station) featured a group of Mouseketeers who refused to wear the ears and insisted on referring to the show as MMC instead of by its full name. Amoug these rebelous Mouseketeers were Justin Timberlake, Christina Agulara and Britteny Spears. When Uncle Walt is defrosted and sees these shows he will not be happy - although he will not be happy with most of what has gone on in his name for the past thirty-five years.

Posted by William E. Lurie @ 05/31/2003 09:33 AM PST

No one has ever accused me of looking like a celebrity, but when I was a freshman in high school, some people (a Gypsy reference) asked if my name was Kevin. Then in college, when I transferred to Western Wa. U. as a junior, a few people there asked if my name was Kevin! And they were different people. (Actually I assumed that they were different people--my junior year in college was long after and far away from first year in high school.) Very strange.

Posted by George @ 05/31/2003 09:42 AM PST

-Running late.. and if you look at the time stamp of my post late last night, you'll know why...

Favorite TV movie: -I'll have to think about it.. OH!!! "Senior Trip" - Liz Callaway was in it, and sang too! I saw it again late night a few years ago - would LOVE to see it again. Very angsty, but fun. And lots of neat little story lines. -Oh, and Mickey Rooney is in it too!

As for celebrities... Never really happened to me. Time to call the plastic surgeon I guess.

See you all after the second show.

Posted by Jose C. Simbulan @ 05/31/2003 09:44 AM PST

TV movie? Uh, I can't think of a single TV movie.

Celebrity? Uh, no.

Posted by Laura @ 05/31/2003 09:51 AM PST

Have any of you DRs been bothered with pop-up ads while reading or posting on this here site? I have a pop-up ad killer that works everywhere I go on the internet except HHW. For a while it was for a "Kill Sadam" Game and now it is for screen savers. I only get it once each time I log on. I have informed Mark Bakalor twice (sending him the URLs) to see if these ads are helping to pay for the site but he has not yet replied. Am I the only one who gets these?

Posted by William E. Lurie @ 05/31/2003 09:52 AM PST

George: You mean you never asked, "Kevin who?" McCarthy, Spacey, Costner?

I'll bet you gave some thought to your having a "twin" out there, didn't you? I've had that happen...people mistaking me for someone else (non-celebrity, of course).

I'm about to start getting ready -- I'm "fixin' to" get ready, that is -- for my ride into "The City" to see "Wicked."

Man! If it's over 3 hours, my butt's gonna hurt!

However, I've been involved in a couple of plays that had run-throughs that went on forever until we picked up the pace. I don't know if they can cut an HOUR out of the show, but anything will beat 3 hours and 15 minutes!!

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 05/31/2003 09:55 AM PST

Nope, I've never been told that
I resemble any celebrity. Just
not that many young, heavy set
celebrities will full red beards,
I suppose. :-)

WEL - I've never had a single
pop-up at this here site.

And I'm still laughing at the
Paul Petersen to Grandpa
Walton metamorphosis.

Posted by Jed @ 05/31/2003 10:37 AM PST

Well, I'm off to be E&T for the
rest of the weekend. A good
friend of mine has her senior
voice recital tomorrow, so I'm
heading down for that and to
see some of my other
university pals.

Keep it lively and sparkling, all
y'all!

Posted by Jed @ 05/31/2003 10:56 AM PST

Never a pop-up or any other type of ad here at HHW. Thanks for that, BK!

Posted by Laura @ 05/31/2003 11:32 AM PST

Through my teens and early twenties I seemed to have a twin running around town. I certainly was told so enough times (first time by Jeff Bridges when I was thirteen). I have often been told I look like a variety of actress, mostly due to my look at the time than to any real resemblance. When I was young and had the hair style, it was Veronica Lake. When I was blond and had freckles it was Doris Day. In fact I have a picture from high school with too much eye shadow and my hair swept up (I was trying to look older) where I look a bit like her-more so than myself at the time. Later as my hair color changed, mostly I'm a natural brunette, I was compared to different actresses. I quickly forgot the unflattering comparisons with a change of hair color and style.

Sorry, At this moment I simply can't think of a favorite television movie. I do remember The Point well and enjoyed it very much.

Posted by Jane @ 05/31/2003 11:41 AM PST

Over the past 2 years, I have been told a number of times that I look like Billy Joel (only I don't know whether this is a compliment or not - LOL). I think I sing better, but I'm certainly not as rich (nor do I smack up Mercedes' with a passion!)

The first time it happened was at the Huntington shopping Mall (about 20 min from where BJ lived at the time). I had gone Mother's Day shopping with my son and heard a gasp as we passed the makeup counter in Macy's. Then I overheard one of the salesladies say to the other "That's Billy Joel!". So we decided to have some fun when we went back to the exit. As we passed the counter on our way out, I looked straight at the salesgirl and winked.

BK - welcome back to NY!!

Susan and Jose - look forwards to meeting you over the next two days.

Jason - only 24 hrs to go!!!

Posted by Phil @ 05/31/2003 12:09 PM PST

IT'S HERE!! JUST RECEIVED MY COPY OF KRITZERLAND.

Posted by Jane @ 05/31/2003 12:42 PM PST

Welcome to New York, BK.

I bet you're asking yourself: In what Broadway theatre can I see a well-loved European comedy, performed with live incidental music, for free? Aren'tcha? Aren'tcha?

That would be Schnitzler's La Ronde at Circle-in-the-Square on 50th Street: Sunday, June 1 at 8; Monday, June 2 at 2 & 8. Utterly free: don't make a reservation, just walk in and take a seat. It's directed by Moni Yakim (Jacques Brel Is Alive and Well...) and I wrote the music, to lyrics by Broadway vet Peter Kellogg. It ain't The First Nudie Musical (as it's not a musical) but it IS very sexy.

Your money back if not satisfied.

Posted by Noel @ 05/31/2003 12:55 PM PST

Recently my neice's boyfriend told me I looked just like some current popular baseball player whose name escapes me...as I don't watch baseball much I didn't have any idea who he was.

Favorite TV movie: that would have to be a CBS made for TV movie called SUMMER GIRL. It starred Diane Franklin (whatever happened to her?) as a crazed teenage babysitter who torments the children she is supervising for the summer. She also gets a tad too friendly with the kids' father (played by Barry Bostwick) much to the chagrin of mom Kim Darby. A fun, fun guilty pleasure!

Have a great time in New York, New York BK!

Posted by MBarnum @ 05/31/2003 01:24 PM PST

The first TV-movie that comes to mind that truly made me lose it was BRIAN'S SONG, and I'm not a sports person at all. But it was beautifully done. THAT CERTAIN SUMMER was the first TV-movie about a gay father coming out to his son. That was certainly a ground breaker back in the early 1970s. And then there was one that kept me on the edge of my seat, DYING ROOM ONLY, a thriller with Cloris Leachman starring as a woman whose husband disappears at a roadhouse. It's very similar to the Kurt Russell movie BREAKDOWN, but in that it's the wife who goes missing.

Posted by Matt H. @ 05/31/2003 02:00 PM PST

Well, I am in NY, safe and sound. It's a bit rainy but seems to be clearing up now.

WEL: No, no one but you has EVER gotten a pop-up ad here because there are no pop-up ads here - we've never had such a thing nor do they pay for the site since they don't exist. I wouldn't have them if they PAID for the site.

Posted by bk @ 05/31/2003 02:41 PM PST

By the way (BTW, in Internet lingo), yesterday was the biggest day we've ever had here - we do tend to go up when we have new Unseemly Interviews, but yesterday we went WAY up. It's still not going to give us our best month (we'll probably come in second to that) because of last weekend's terrible numbers (and today's as well), but yesterday we wuz HUGE.

Posted by bk @ 05/31/2003 02:48 PM PST

"Crowhaven Farm." Hope Lange far from her Mrs. Muir personality.
"trilogy of terror." Miss Karen Black gets a doll attack, and she isn't interested in the valley of the dolls.
"The Legend of Lizzie Borden," which I would rank as my favorite tv-movie. Even recording artist Katherine Helmond appears as Lizzie's sister, Emma. But it is totally Elizabeth Montgomery's movie from frame one to the final freeze-frame.
There is another Kim Darby movie which I can't recall the title of, but, it's also about disappearing children. Or, is it the one with the voices throughout her home?
There's a nifty Bing Crosby tv-movie about a doctor with a mysterious garden.
As for pointless tv-movies, can we all give a big Bronx cheer to The Redgrave Sisters' "Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?"
"Who Will Love My Children" is a great little tearjerker, as is "Our Sons;" both feature Miss Ann-Margret, the latter features Dame Julie Andrews and Hugh Grant!

Posted by td @ 05/31/2003 02:55 PM PST

For a few years my students (one group in particular) called me "Howie" after Howard Cunningham (Happy Days)aka Tom Bosley. Can't remember a TV movie. No pop ups (or downs) here.

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 05/31/2003 02:56 PM PST

I was NOT frozen!!!!

My body was cremated and my
grave can be visited any time
at Forest Lawn in Glendale:

http://www.seeing-stars.com/I
magePages/WaltDisneyGrave
Photo.shtml

Posted by Walt @ 05/31/2003 03:00 PM PST

We have no pop up advertisements on this site. There are no pop up adverisements on any site I run. Often times popup ads show themselves AFTER you LEAVE another site and therefore may appear as if they arise when you go to a different site. No idea why you're getting them, though.

As well, I have not received a single email from you regarding this pop up question. What email address are you sending these to?

Posted by Mr. Mark Bakalor @ 05/31/2003 03:04 PM PST

Favorite TV movies: Well, I'll have to say the one that was filmed in the home of Dear Readers Kerry and MusicGuy. Ok, I didn't actually SEE the movie, but I'm sure it would be my favorite.

Posted by Laura @ 05/31/2003 03:24 PM PST

Regarding Ron's last post of
yesterday...

"You French always say
WHAT?"

....don't know what you mean
by that???? Granted, we're a
weird bunch but why would
"we" ALWAYS say WHAT while
WHAT is nor French...

As far as always saying
QUOI?; I may sometimes,
when i slag off, but I usually
make a point of being correct
and say "Pardon?" if I don't
understand someone talking
to me....

It's as restrictive as if I were to
say that French Canadian
always say "Hey?" at the end
of their sentences, or French
from the South always say
"Putain, con!" -- which they
tend to do!! and that's pretty
raunchy..-- or British people
always say "Indeed" or
"Splendid" or "Lovely"... etc etc

What in Heaven prompted your
remark/question????

Posted by François @ 05/31/2003 03:26 PM PST

Just to clarify Francois' post...

English Canadians say "eh" at the end of many of our sentences. I believe the French Canadian equivalent is "hien".

In the United States, they use "huh", while the British tend to say "yeh".

What do Aussies say?

Posted by Dave @ 05/31/2003 03:35 PM PST

td: Kim Darby was in The People with William Shatner (children), and also Don't Be Afraid of the Dark (voices throughout her house). The latter is supposedly one of the scariest TV movies EVER MADE (everyone who saw this as a child insists they have a sleep disorder to this very day as a direct result). I'd love to see it one day.

Another one I'd love to see is The Screaming Woman, starring Olivia deHavilland. And in a completely different vein, I also want to one day see Mrs. and Mrs. Bojo Jones.

Ones I've seen and enjoyed include When Michael Calls..., Trilogy of Terror, and The Initiation of Sarah (a Carrie ripoff featuring Shelley Winters and Morgan Fairchild).

Never been told I resemble a celebrity, but I have been told at various times that I look "just like my cousin/niece/friend's daughter!" Guess I've just got that kinda face.

JANE: If Jeff Bridges had said anything to *me* when I was 13, I would've swooned and/or fainted on the spot. I had a major crush on him at that precise age. :)

Posted by Lulu @ 05/31/2003 03:36 PM PST

Hello from New York City!

I saw The Producers last night!
Saw Thoroughly Modern Mille this afternoon.

And in a mere hour or so I will be seeing Hairspray!

I found a rare piece of Kimmel memorabilia, the cast album (read LP) for Together Again!

Thanks Kerry for the scans anyways!

Also found the DVD of Bruce in Forget-Me-Not-Lane on sale at Towers. It has been a non-stop day of shopping and theater.

DR Susan I sent you an email.

DR BK I also sent you an email

Posted by Michael Shayne @ 05/31/2003 03:51 PM PST

With its thought provoking script plus Hall Holbrook and Martin Sheen starring, That Certain Summer had to be great.

Lulu, Jeff was only 13 when I met him. Even so I did a bit a swooning.

Posted by Jane @ 05/31/2003 03:59 PM PST

Dave: Northern Australians (particularly those from Queensland) have an infuriating habit of ending their statements with "but". The practice has migrated south over the past decade and I noticed many of my students devoping the habit - for some reason it was often students whose second language was English! I fear my home state of Victoria is being over-run by Queensland "buts". Not attractive (unless you are a "But" fancier of course!).

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 05/31/2003 04:10 PM PST

How delightful to hear from Walt. Any chance of Disney movies finding their heart and soul again?
Should I bother with "Treasure Planet"?

Questions questions. Any chance of my last week's question being answered by a DR. Is the DVD of "The Magic Show" worthwhile? The only review I have read was on Amazon and thus possibly not of much benefit. (Mine Of BK's first book if of course an exception to the rule of taking Amazon reviews with a grain of salt).
I sill enjoy "Pippin" despite the flaws.
I watched a great UK movie last night. No action of course - just acting. "Last Orders" with Michael Cain, Tom Courtenay, Helen Mirren, Bob Hoskins and David Hemmings.

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 05/31/2003 04:17 PM PST

Can't think of a favorite made for TV movie. I can remember some that didn't work, like the Mary Tyler Moore & Valerie Harper "reunion" movie. Oh, I loved that show but the TV movie just didn't work.

I saw Long Day's Journey into Night this afternoon. It has a lock on Best Play Revival, Best Director, Best Actor and Best Actress, I think. I was reluctant to see it because I've seen other good productions but I kept hearing about it and decided to bite the bullet and got a single in the mezzanine for $60 odd dollars for this afternoon. I'm so glad I did. It's 4 and a quarter hours but it's (IMHO) stunning. Vanessa Redgrave is amazing as Mary Tyrone. I saw Talking Heads earlier in the week, with sister Lynn and that's one of the reasons I decided to try and see LDJ. Lynn was equally wonderful in her piece. I think I can forgive them for Baby Jane after seeing the two of them this week:-)

I so want Denis O'Hare to win Best Featured Actor in a Play for Take Me Out, but it will be close, betweeen him and Philip Seymour Hoffman as Jaimie Tyrone. If PSH wins I won't be surprised.

BK, welcome to our rainy city. Hope I am able to see all you NY area HKs tomorrow evening at Joe Allen's.

Posted by Ben @ 05/31/2003 04:19 PM PST

A lot of posts to read this afternoon.... When I was in my thirties, I had a full beard, and since my hair (and beard) turned gray / white when I was about twelve, I was often told I looked like Kenny Rogers. At the time it was a compliment. Then, back in the 90s (1990s, not my 90s), when George Clooney brought the Caesar haircut back in style, I started wearing my hair that way. I thought it looked good on me and it was easy to take care. Then all of a sudden people would stop me on the street and tell me I looked like ........... Captain Kangaroo. I have never worned my hair that way since.

Posted by TCB @ 05/31/2003 04:40 PM PST

Yep, a lot of Canadians say "eh". I do it myself A LOT, and get made fun of A LOT by Americans.

Posted by Jennifer @ 05/31/2003 04:58 PM PST

Tom,

If you want to enjoy an
entertaining Treasure Planet,
see Laputa; Castle In The Sky
instead...

What, what, what? -- oh, a
Camelot reference....

Posted by François @ 05/31/2003 05:00 PM PST

DR: I assume the "Talking Heads" is a few of the Alan Bennett plays. Were the two series shown on TV in the USA? IMHO wonderful writing and brilliant performances. The Maggie Smith "Bed Among The Lentils" was a delight. "Waiting For The Telegram" and "Playing Sandwiches" are superb writing from a Master writer of concise and moving drama.

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 05/31/2003 05:01 PM PST

Oh, yes, TV movies! I am ashamed to admit this, but my all-time favorite made-for-TV film is "Something for Joey" starring Miss Geraldine Page and Marc Singer. It is corny and cliched, and the acting is mediocre, but it is based on a true story and I have to watch it everytime it comes on TV. It tells of the relationship between Heisman Trophy winning football player Jon Cappelletti and his younger brother Joey, who is dying of leukemia. When Cappelletti accepted the Heisman, he gave the award to his brother, who he called the real hero. I remember vividly when the real Mr. Cappelletti broke down in tears as he told a stunned audience at the Downtown Athletic Club in New York what he considered the true measure of courage.

Like “Brian’s Song,” I have only to start thinking about “Something for Joey” and I get emotional all over again.

Posted by TCB @ 05/31/2003 05:06 PM PST

Is it New Yorkers who say "quio que ce soit" in a dismissive tone?

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 05/31/2003 05:07 PM PST

DR Tom: Yes, Talking Heads is the Alan Bennet work. It's been shown on PBS here in the states. for the theatre transformation they have taken 6 pieces and broken it into two nights of 3 each. I saw Miss Fozzard Finds Her Feet w/Lynn Redgrave, A Chip in the Sugar w/Daniel Davis and Her Big Chance w/Valerie Mahaffey. I was so impressed w/these three pieces that I plan on going back to Program A which is Kathleen Chalfant doing Bed Among the Lentils, Christine Ebersole in A Lady of Letters and Brenda Wehle in The Hand of God. They don't do Waiting for the Telegram as a regular part of either program, it's put in at certain performances and done by Frances Sternhagen. I'm not sure why they don't do it as part of one of the evenings. I know there are other Talking Heads pieces as well as the seven I just mentioned but they have taken these 6 (or seven depending on when you see one of the programs) for the stage here in NY.

Posted by Ben @ 05/31/2003 05:10 PM PST

Maybe I will get to Joe Allen's next year and meet some of you New Yorkers. I have stood outside but couldn't afford even a coffee on my limited tourist budget (which I had stupidly blown on an unmoving and after the first 10 minutes, dreary Broadway musical - The Lion King.)

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 05/31/2003 05:16 PM PST

Thanks Ben. Bennett's autobiography is also a worthy read.

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 05/31/2003 05:20 PM PST

Dear DR Tom from Oz: While there is always a chance that the films from the Disney studios will get their hearts, brains, and livers back where they belong, Treasure Planet proved not to be the film to do it. The script is a mess, all over the place like a spilled cola drink on a freshly waxed kitchen floor.

Better luck may be with them this fall, with the theatrical release of Brother Bear. A preview was included on the TP DVD, and it looked interesting from where I sat, with a post-ice age North America setting, the transformation of one young American into a bear, and music by Phil Collins. The themes of the desire for revenge vs. the meaning of brotherhood could help make this story rise like cream.

And, while it's questionable as to whether the Pixar films are "Disney" or not (complete with contract wranglings that would have distressed Walt thoroughly), they've certainly captured the old Disney spirit better than most. They've got another hit on their hands with Finding Nemo, just now being released.

The only thing that bothers me is why so many Disney films feature single parents (a trait that the Pixar films, including FN, continue). The only animated Disney feature that features two strong parents is 101 Dalmations, which came out when I was a sprig. (Remember, Simba becomes single-parented when Mufasa dies in Lion King...and runs away to boot.) That's too long to be without a mommy and daddy both. Heck, I'd settle for two mommies, or two daddies...wait, that's what Simba found when he was adopted by Timon and Pumba! I'd missed that detail before! Time for a happy dance!

Posted by S. Woody White @ 05/31/2003 05:20 PM PST

Dear DR Tom: Sorry, you posted again while I was writing, didn't know about what you thought of the Broadway LK until after my post went up. Interesting coincidence, though.

Posted by S. Woody White @ 05/31/2003 05:24 PM PST

DR Lulu, "Don't be Afraid of the Dark" is the one I was thinking of! Thank you! I don't think that it has caused ME sleeping disorders, but I remember it being quite scary.

In regards to TREASURE PLANET, on dvd, I found the blend of 2 and 3-d animation to be breathtaking, the voice talents behind Long John and The Captain to be outstanding and the updating to be worthwhile. There are a few minor problems, for one, it never feels like a "Disney" film (now, whether or not that is a good thing will depend on a viewer's expectations). Most viewers that I have talked to have complained about Martin Short's robot, B.E.N., that is, until they've seen Disney's live action classic TREASURE ISLAND, wherein that particular character is much more annoying and quite over the top.
For the record, I'll be giving BOTH dvds a write-up at Scarlet Street, and PLANET's dvd gets the higher marks, if only because ISLAND is moderately priced, with NO BONUS FEATURES WHATSOEVER.

Posted by td @ 05/31/2003 05:58 PM PST

Thanks for the feedback Hainsies. Has no-one any views on "The Magic Show"? DVD buying is risky for me as the postage costs almost as much as the DVD when I order from the States. (No free mailing for us on the other side of the world. Most movies are given Oz releases but theatre performances are usually only on import. I am waiting for Barbra Cook's concert to arrive and then "Passion".

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 05/31/2003 06:08 PM PST

Haven't seen the Magic Show DVD. If I had, I certainly would give my unfettered opinion. I do think that Barbara Cook will be well worth the purchase. Haven't seen the DVD but I saw her live and it was a great night in the theatre, on top of which, she is so sweet and willing to talk to her fans and treat them with respect that I love her even more.

Posted by Ben @ 05/31/2003 07:07 PM PST

I've been told a number of times that I sound like Dick Cavett (but only every once in a while, not every time I speak). Personally, I don't hear it.
As a kid I was compared to Dean Stockwell. In my twenties, a few people said I looked like him When he was in "Sons and Lovers." The resemblance seems to have passed.
I don't think anyone has told me I look like anyone these days. And MusicGuy is far from being Grandpa Walton (but I know how he feels).

Some favorite TV movies :

I, too, loved "That Certain Summer." "Trilogy of Terror" scared the crud out of me. I saw a spoof of it in later years done with a dildo (not dancing) instead of a voodoo doll. What a hoot.
I loved both "Queen of the Stardust Ballroom" and "Love Among the Ruins," but how could you not?
For fun, one of them would be "The Users" by Joyce Haber. Jaclyn Smith, Tony Curtis, George Hamilton. Very trashy, very dressy.
One that moved me deeply and I wish I could get a copy of was one form 1977 or 78 called "Peeg." It starred Bruce Davidson as a college student home for the holidays to visit his grandmother (played by Jeanette Nolan) who was in a nursing home. As he watched her, he kept having memories of all the fun times with his grnadmother. Barbara Rush, William Schallert and Barry Livingston were also in it. At teh time I saw it, we were going through a rough time with my grandmother (who I adored) who was in the middle stages of Alzheimer's, so the movie really hit home. It was shown around Christmas, and I sstunbled on it while wrapping presents. I cried so hard that the package I was working on got wet, and the colors of the ribbon ran. Very sweet movie. Hope I find it someday.

Posted by Kerry @ 05/31/2003 07:32 PM PST

I agree with those who champion TREASURE PLANET. I don't care if it did die at the box-office. I was thoroughly entertained by it, and the animation was just stunning.

I guess one reason I enjoyed it so much was my utter familiarity with the book. For years, I taught it to my seventh graders, and we'd also watch the 1950 live action version afterward to see what was changed, dropped, and added to the original. The script for TREASURE PLANET was actually quite witty and loads of fun, for me at least.

Glad to hear you folks are having a blast in NYC.

Posted by Matt H. @ 05/31/2003 07:43 PM PST

DR Kerry, another thing we have in common, both being compared to a similarity to Mr. Cavett. I knew there was a reason I liked you :-)

Posted by Ben @ 05/31/2003 08:25 PM PST

Made-For-TV Movies that I really like:

The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman. When I started watching this for the first time, I didn't see the beginning and I was wondering if it was a documentary with dramatized flashbacks.

Doing Time on Maple Drive. Jim Carrey in his first dramatic role, long before The Truman Show.

The Point. I downloaded the whole 30-minute album from an MP3 file sharing program.

Queen of the Stardust Ballroom. I bought the DVD.

Tom from Oz, I have the DVD to The Magic Show and I have to say that it's just okay. It's not horrible, but I don't think that it's a necessary purchase. I got mine fairly cheaply. It seemed very slapstick-y, like they made it to appeal to little kids (of course, I don't know anything about the original Broadway production, other than the recording). It was filmed for Canadian TV, maybe in the same series as Pippin. They cut half the score, mostly the better songs (West End Avenue and The Goldfarb Variations being the most missed; they had to cut West End Avenue because Didi Conn doesn't have the voice--a Phantom of the Opera reference). Some new, not-so-great songs were added and the guy playing the magician (played by David Ogden Stiers on the original recording) has a very unusual vocal … shall we say "technique"? Anita Morris is as sexy as ever and Didi Conn is as Didi Conn as ever (if you like Didi Conn, she's very appealing). I hope that this helps.

Posted by George @ 05/31/2003 08:45 PM PST

All right!

I’ve been home a couple of hours.

I spent 3 hours and 10 minutes (including a 15-minute intermission) of my life today totally transported by a f-a-b-u-l-o-u-s musical fantasy. It didn’t seem like more than a couple of hours.

It’s the first time I’ve seen a musical without having been familiar with the music beforehand. The surprise to me was that I fell in love with so many of the songs (21 songs – count ‘em – 21 – with 6 reprises), instantly loved two of the performers and grew quite fond of a third after not having been initially impressed.

This show offers many stunning surprises, plotwise, and the great news is that ALL the cast is not only up to the task, but totally at home in an Oz L. Frank Baum created but never imagined in quite this way.

First, Kristen Chenoweth is adorable as a ditzy blond G(a)-linda who eventually asks folks to call her “Glinda.” She plays the “blond” for all she’s worth and she’s worth a great deal.

Comedy is her forte and they give her some dazzling opportunities to shine. First and foremost is her entrance at the start of the show -- descending in a bubble that spouts bubbles! Total kitsch played to the nth degree.

She has some wonderful songs, “Popular” being one of the best character numbers.

Idina Menzel is glorious as Elphaba (who would become the Wicked Witch of the West) and she has, by far, the very best songs in the show with the Act I closer “Defying Gravity” a house-bringer-downer. It’s chill-inducing and tremendously moving.

Norbert Leo Butz seemed, at first, a bit miscast. Primarily, it’s because his character is introduced in a number called “Which Way’s the Party” which is more of a dance number than a song, and Butz’s dancing moves aren’t up to the par of the company’s (which are MOST impressive). Once the emphasis is on character and song and not trying to be all jazzy and hep with dance, he settles into his character and rises up to the same level as Chenoweth and Menzel. He has an amazing voice!

Stellar support is lent by Carole Shelley as Madame Morrible (imagine a “Mrs. Slocum” type – “Are You Being Served” – without the British accent). The book is filled with wonderful made-up words – some almost malaprops, and Shelley has her share then some and delivers them with delicious aplomb.

Robert Morse’s wizard is a real treat. So, too, is the Throne Room “head” of the wizard with its glowing eyes and it’s stentorian voice. The “old” Bobby Morse is there – with quavering voice and cute expressions – but so, too, is the aging Morse and he fits the wizard extremely well. He has a number with Elphaba called “Wonderful” that is totally that…well, mostly. I’d make a cut in the last verse or so and shorten it a bit. I’d do the same with one of Elphaba’s big numbers – “No Bad Deed” – which is much in the vein as the first act closer, but it went on just a tad too long.

The dancers who performed as the flying monkeys are nothing short of amazing and they were well-rewarded by the audience at curtain call.

Sound was uniformly good, but I have to explain that I was on the second row, right orchestra, and 5 feet from the stage rim. Fortunately, I was treated to a lot of Chenoweth and Menzel as they had quite a few numbers that few feet from me. On the other hand, I was close to some of the speakers and the more powerful numbers are loud, bordering on shrieking. It probably didn’t sound that way five rows further back.

The set design and the lighting were SUPERB. And I thought the costumes a treat. That said, I can understand some folks NOT liking them. They were colorful, and not a little odd. I thought them Oz-like (comparable to costumes in the movie). That said, every character seems to have a full, unique costume and it's too much to take in. Also, with no contrast (simple togs, for instance), it overhwhelms.

The Oz sequences themselves, however, are PHENOMENAL – all that emerald green and lavish costumes and glorious lighting.

This was one of the seminal theatrical events of my life. There haven’t been that many, but I have to tell you that this show – even with a few quibbles (below) – is going to be a major hit.

Quibbles: Awkward moments with set changes; things falling; voices off stage of crew members attempting to get someone’s attention. A few songs that need trimming. A second act that seems to try to continue the story while also tying up many loose ends. There are a lot of songs in the second act and only a couple of them are too long. The others seem almost like set pieces, but they’re wonderful songs. There are some major plot surprises in the second act and they seem a bit hurried (in fact, there is a lot of quick change, no-pause-for-applause after a number). I have a feeling that the show may have been much longer and they've sacrificed some breathing room for pacing. I hate to say it, but they should probably cut a song or two rather than hurry through.

I have a new respect for Stephen Schwartz. This is a great storytelling opportunity and his music is definitely up to the occasion and then some. There’s a bittersweet ballad that both Elphaba and Glinda get to sing called “I’m Not That Girl.”

Oh! And one more thing: This show is Idina Menzel’s vehicle to superstardom.

You read it here first!

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 05/31/2003 09:52 PM PST

In case anyone doesn't know what the frell I'm talking about in my post above, it's "Wicked" -- a new Broadway-bound musical.

Posted by Ron Pulliam @ 05/31/2003 09:53 PM PST

I'm probably going to be the last to post considering how late it is. (It is 12:49 AM here in VA).

BK--Glad your trip to NYC went well, and so glad to hear about the new album. I hope I didn't miss anything in previous posts--what kind of CD is it? I mean, is there a theme or a composer being celebrated?

I'm sorry I'm going to miss the get-together! I'm going to be in New York from this Monday to Thursday visiting my grandmother--I'm seeing Gypsy on Wed.

As for looking like a celebrity, I've been told a few times I look vaguely like Helena Bonham Carter. Not exactly an insult--then again, while I admire her as an actress, it kind of irks me that she stole Kenneth Branagh from Emma Thompson, who is so, so awesome.

I haven't seen a lot of TV movies--the ones I have seem are too maudlin for my taste. But I did like My House in Umbria with Maggie Smith. And Merlin and the Mists of Avalon (do those count, since they were techically mini-series?) And I loved the Meron-Zadan productions of Cinderella, Annie and The Music Man.

I didn't know The Magic Show had a DVD made of it--don't know much about the show except that West End Avenue, as sung by Alice Ripley on BK's Stephen Schwartz album, was amazing so I may have to look into buying the DVD.

Posted by Maya @ 05/31/2003 10:02 PM PST

Since no one else has had anything to say about Magic Show, let me make my comments brief: DON'T.

It is not the original show, but was filmed some time down the road, with different actors, substituted songs. Even Hemming's magic looks like it needs a good paint job to cover up what has become tired. Listen to the OCR and use your imagination, you'll get a better show.

Posted by S. Woody White @ 05/31/2003 10:18 PM PST

Maya, first of all, you're not the last to post. It's only 10:25 on the West Coast.

Secondly, let me reiterate (see my earlier post just before Ron's great revue of "Wicked"): the song West End Avenue is NOT on the DVD! W.E.A. is on the (now out of print) original Broadway cast album or CD, which is a somewhat different score than what's on the DVD.

Also, while typing out this post, I'm having the strongest sense of deja vu! Spooky!

Posted by George @ 05/31/2003 10:24 PM PST

George--
I had read the previous post, but thanks again. I just meant that based on the strength of that song, I should check out the show (even if W.E.A. was unwisely excised). :)

Posted by Maya @ 05/31/2003 10:27 PM PST

Back in the days when the Beatles were popular, people used to come up to me on the street and tell me that I had the same eyes as Paul McCartney. No joke.

More recently, I'll notice someone staring at me, and when I look at them inquisitively, they'll say, "Has anyone ever told you that you look like Diane Keaton?" (Does she know?)

Posted by Susan @ 05/31/2003 11:21 PM PST

Ron Pulliam: Wow! I haven't read a review like that in AGES. I'm so glad you liked the show, and I simply cannot wait for it to come to New York. I love Kristi, and I think Idina is incredibly talented. I hope this is the real break she needs (I thought Maureen in RENT would have done it, but apparently it didn't.) I really can't wait to see the show. Yay!

BK: Welcome to rainy, gross, humid, sticky, sloshy, damp, slimy and all-around unpleasantly moist New York City. The city that never dries. They're predicting thunderstorms tomorrow. Bring your umbrella!

I FINALLY spoke with the director from Bucks Co. today. I leave next Sunday for Pennsylvania. I'm getting pretty excited, but I'm a tad bit "first day of school-ish" scared, too. I don't know anyone who is working there, and I have to have a roommate that I've never met before, and that kind of freaks me out. I know that I'll make friends (and quickly), but sometimes I really am a wallflower. I don't know if anyone will have a computer there, and since mine is a desktop PC, I can't haul it with me on the bus, so I'm not sure how often I'll be able to check the notes. That saddens me greatly, but I'll do my best to get to a library or something so I can check in on you guys.

Anywho, its 2:33 in the a.m. and I have to get my beauty rest (there is never enough of it [beauty or rest]) for the gathering tomorrow. I can't wait to meet you guys!!

Posted by Jason @ 05/31/2003 11:34 PM PST

Well, Maya, it is now 2:51AM here in Virginia, and I'm posting now - as is my habit to do here late at night.

Good shows of 1776 today - great audiences who weren't afraid to laugh at the humor. Some people have commented - for this production and other productions - that they feel "weird" seeing the founding father portrayed so humanly (drinking rum, wanting to have sex, have self doubt, etc.). -Well, they were human, Blanche, they were... Not today's audiences, however. One laugh moment was long enough to throw the stage timing off! Just means they're lisening out there in there in the house! YEAH! So, Maya, please feel free to laugh - and cry - when you come to see the show.

Oh, and Maya - what time will you be coming into NYC? -It looks like there will be another impromptu gathering at Joe Allen on Monday... So... -I know I'll be there. :-)

DR WEL: As for pop-ups, I don't get them either. However, I did come across during a scan, that I had a virus-like executable that prompts pop-up ads. It's "harmless", but it would trigger pop-up ads regularly. I used McAfee, and it found it. Something to look into.

Oh, and back to TV movies... Thanks for all the reminders and memories:

"Doing Time On Maple Drive" - Is that the one where Billy McNamara (great lips) comes out to his family?

And on a related theme, "An Early Frost" with Aidan Quinn in the first TV movie dealing with AIDS.

"Trilogy of Terror" and "Don't Be Afraid of the Dark" - Both of these were shown on the afternoon movie program when I lived in Connecticut. They would do theme weeks, and the horror weeks always included "Trilogy" - the final image of Karen Black opening her mouth... And "Dark" really is scary.

Oh, and what about "Smile"? So many great songs in the show - would love to see it given another shot.

And then there was the "Twirl" later on which starred Erin Moran and Lisa "Facts of Life" Whelchel.

And I know it was more of a mini-series, but I thought they did a nice job with the first "Salem's Lot" - David Soul, if I recall correctly.

DR Donna - I know you missed Roll Call, but, please feel free to post about yourself anytime. We - especially all the new DRs - would love to hear about you and your life and loves. And I believe another DR asked for the Roll Call to be kept open all weekend so that everyone could get a chance... -François...

And now, Goodnight.

Posted by Jose C. Simbulan @ 05/31/2003 11:51 PM PST

I've been told many times that I look just like Ellen Greene ("Yeth, Docta!"), even mistaken for her once...also Beverly D'Angelo, without the overbite. The worst someone has ever compared me to is an Afgan Hound.

TV Movie that I never missed an episode: Holocaust.

Posted by KT @ 06/01/2003 12:31 AM PST

Thanks for the Magic Show info. I will resist. I saw it in Melbourne (on stage) and it starred Samantha Sang who has an amazing ppowerful voice that should never have been allowed to be smothered in Bee Gees.

Ron: Thanks for the review. I so wish for success for the show and its composer. I loved the book and if you don't have one, buy a copy of the BK Schwartz CD. Brilliant performances of terrific songs.

Posted by Tom from Oz @ 06/01/2003 01:16 AM PST

Maya, it's about 3:45 Mountain time, and we're still posting! We'll post right up until BK posts the next day's notes.

Posted by Laura @ 06/01/2003 03:38 AM PST