Spring Break Movie Post (22 March 2020)

As COVID-19 is changing the entire world, and people are faced with uncertain circumstances in their lives, my heart goes out to those who are struggling. I hope those who are sick will heal soon. I look forward to finding ways to help my fellow world citizens.

Two of the best ways I know to help is creative expression and film. I love to write. I encourage people to write, journal, jot down, take notes, and more. It is exhilarating, pensive, meditative, and thrilling. I finished my third novel manuscript rough draft, called “Portia,” which was a book I started in 2009. Part of my plan in finishing the manuscript is to make illustrations from the content. The picture featured at the top of this post is for the book. I cannot give you more details because I will spoil the novel.

Now, you probably are asking, “how is this related to film?” My inspiration for these types of drawings comes from the film, “Renaissance: Paris, 2054,” by Christian Volckman, featuring the rich voices of Daniel Craig, Romola Garai, Ian Holm, and Jonathan Pryce. The film features the expertise animation of Galvani Nicolas and fellow animators. If you have not seen it, yet, I hope you treat yourself to this enthralling science-fiction tale.

While making these illustrations for the manuscript, I watched tons of film, of course. I treated myself to 37 films, this Spring Break. Three stood out to me:

- “Tootsie” (1982) Sydney Pollack.

- “Dolemite is My Name” (2019) Craig Brewer.

- “The Wicker Man” (1973) Robin Hardy.

“Tootsie,” is a visual, writing, acting, and narrative treat. I have seen Dustin Hoffman in famous films, such as “Kramer vs. Kramer”, “The Graduate”, “Midnight Cowboy”, “Rain Man”, “Hook”, “Little Big Man”, and “All the President’s Men.” Can you see I’m a slight Dustin Hoffman fan? Yes, “Tootsie” is famous for Hoffman’s cross-dressing, but I didn’t pay attention to it; I was captivated by Hoffman’s character arc of growing as an actor, exposing the faults in the stage acting industry, and pointing out societal issues. Pollack’s excellent direction and Jessica Lange’s powerhouse performance helped propel the film higher and higher.

“Dolemite is My Name” is about the “Godfather of Rap” and star of blaxploitation films, Rudy Ray Moore; Moore is creatively portrayed by the talented Eddie Murphy. I have seen blaxploitation films such as “Super Fly”, “Cleopatra Jones”, “Shaft”, and Tarantino’s tribute film, “Jackie Brown.” However, I somehow missed seeing any of the Dolemite films. Now, I want to see, “Dolemite”, “The Human Tornado” and “Disco Godfather.” I recommend “Dolemite is My Name” because it is uplifting, inspirational, and hopeful. It is a lesson for aspiring filmmakers to never give up.

I will say it now, as I’ve said before: the 1970’s produced the greatest horror films. “The Wicker Man” is clearly in the bunch and joins famous films such as, “The Exorcist”, “The Last House on the Left”, “The Omen”, “Jaws”, “Halloween”, “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre”, “Carrie”, “Alien” and “Invasion of the Body Snatchers.” Isn’t it the greatest decade for horror films? Film fans are still enjoying these gems, and they’re still recommending them to new film fans! “The Wicker Man” is probably famous for one scene, and it is a masterful scene. In addition to this scene, I was creeped out by Edward Woodward’s persistent and committed role as the determined Sergeant Howie. I was not sure if I should be frightened or entertained by Britt Ekland’s dance scene. Above all, Lord Summerisle, played by the illustrious Christopher Lee, is one of the greatest characters featured on the silver screen. Wow, Lee’s performance was commanding, enthralling, entertaining, and completely terrifying.

“For believing what you do, we confer upon you a rare gift, these days – a martyr’s death” – Lord Summerisle.

Enjoy being creative and watching film!

Stay well and talk to you soon.

Alexander Wiley