Shannon Wilcox, a character actor who appeared in 1984’s “Songwriter” alongside Willie Nelson and in five episodes of “Dallas,” died Sept. 2 in Los Angeles. She was 80.
Wilcox’s death was confirmed by her talent agent Peter Young.
Wilcox worked on such films as 1982’s “Six Weeks” with Dudley Moore and 1991’s “Frankie and Johnny” opposite Al Pacino. She also played the mother of Elisabeth Shue’s Ali Mills in John G. Avildsen’s “The Karate Kid” and appeared in other notable films throughout her career, including “Se7en,” “Runaway Bride,” “Raising Helen,” “The Princess Diaries” and its 2004 sequel, “The Border,” “Legal Eagles,” “For the Boys,””Exit to Eden,” “Dear God” and “The Other Sister.”
Wilcox made her onscreen debut on the action series “Starsky and Hutch” in 1976. She later guested on several series from the late ’70s to ’80s, including the short-lived sitcom “Sirota’s Court,” “Dog and Cat,” “Hawaii Five-o,” “Hart to Hart,...
Wilcox’s death was confirmed by her talent agent Peter Young.
Wilcox worked on such films as 1982’s “Six Weeks” with Dudley Moore and 1991’s “Frankie and Johnny” opposite Al Pacino. She also played the mother of Elisabeth Shue’s Ali Mills in John G. Avildsen’s “The Karate Kid” and appeared in other notable films throughout her career, including “Se7en,” “Runaway Bride,” “Raising Helen,” “The Princess Diaries” and its 2004 sequel, “The Border,” “Legal Eagles,” “For the Boys,””Exit to Eden,” “Dear God” and “The Other Sister.”
Wilcox made her onscreen debut on the action series “Starsky and Hutch” in 1976. She later guested on several series from the late ’70s to ’80s, including the short-lived sitcom “Sirota’s Court,” “Dog and Cat,” “Hawaii Five-o,” “Hart to Hart,...
- 11/6/2023
- by Michaela Zee
- Variety Film + TV
Shannon Wilcox, a character actress who appeared alongside Willie Nelson in Songwriter, with Dudley Moore in Six Weeks and opposite Al Pacino in Frankie and Johnny, has died. She was 80.
Wilcox died Sept. 2 in Los Angeles, her daughter, actress-director Kelli Williams — she played attorney Lindsay Dole on The Practice — told The Hollywood Reporter.
A life member of The Actors Studio, Wilcox also portrayed the mother of Elisabeth Shue’s Ali Mills in John G. Avildsen’s The Karate Kid (1994) and worked in many other notable films, among them Tony Richardson’s The Border (1982), Ivan Reitman’s Legal Eagles (1986), Mark Rydell’s For the Boys (1991) and David Fincher’s Seven (1995).
Wilcox was the resigned ex-wife of Nelson’s Doc Jenkins in Alan Rudolph’s Songwriter (1984) and the wife of a California politician (Moore) caught up with a woman (Mary Tyler Moore) and her sickly child (Katherine Healy) in Tony Bill’s...
Wilcox died Sept. 2 in Los Angeles, her daughter, actress-director Kelli Williams — she played attorney Lindsay Dole on The Practice — told The Hollywood Reporter.
A life member of The Actors Studio, Wilcox also portrayed the mother of Elisabeth Shue’s Ali Mills in John G. Avildsen’s The Karate Kid (1994) and worked in many other notable films, among them Tony Richardson’s The Border (1982), Ivan Reitman’s Legal Eagles (1986), Mark Rydell’s For the Boys (1991) and David Fincher’s Seven (1995).
Wilcox was the resigned ex-wife of Nelson’s Doc Jenkins in Alan Rudolph’s Songwriter (1984) and the wife of a California politician (Moore) caught up with a woman (Mary Tyler Moore) and her sickly child (Katherine Healy) in Tony Bill’s...
- 11/4/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
"Peaky Blinders" is part of a continuum of gangster movies and TV shows that dates back to the early 1930s when actors like James Cagney and Edward G. Robinson were making black-and-white films such as "The Public Enemy" and "Little Caesar." Even on television, "Peaky Blinders" was predated by prestige dramas like "The Sopranos" and "Boardwalk Empire," but one thing that set it apart from the bulk of its predecessors was its focus on a street gang in Birmingham, England, as opposed to the Italian mafia in America.
When Cillian Murphy donned his razor blade cap to play series protagonist Thomas Shelby in "Peaky Blinders," he was aware, as any actor would be, of those genre conventions, which "The Godfather" and "Goodfellas" helped popularize. In an interview with Deadline just before the final season of "Peaky Blinders" hit Netflix in June 2022, the actor said, "I think you make a gangster show,...
When Cillian Murphy donned his razor blade cap to play series protagonist Thomas Shelby in "Peaky Blinders," he was aware, as any actor would be, of those genre conventions, which "The Godfather" and "Goodfellas" helped popularize. In an interview with Deadline just before the final season of "Peaky Blinders" hit Netflix in June 2022, the actor said, "I think you make a gangster show,...
- 8/30/2022
- by Joshua Meyer
- Slash Film
Prolific actor and director Adam Arkin was uniquely suited to direct episode four of “The Offer,” about the making of 1972’s “The Godfather.” In that hour, streaming now on Paramount+, filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola (Dan Fogler) and producer Albert S. Ruddy (Miles Teller) finally meet with Marlon Brando (Justin Chambers), who auditions to play Don Corleone on the spot – and leaves the filmmakers almost speechless. It fell to Arkin to recreate that iconic and oft-discussed moment, but he knew where to start. After all, the three-time Emmy nominee as an actor who has directed episodes of some of the most acclaimed television shows in the last decade, including “Fargo” and “Succession,” had heard stories about what “The Godfather” star was like from his father Alan Arkin.
“Brando asked my father if he would come over and have dinner, just before he was going to do the film ‘The Freshman’ because...
“Brando asked my father if he would come over and have dinner, just before he was going to do the film ‘The Freshman’ because...
- 5/9/2022
- by Christopher Rosen
- Gold Derby
Stars: Corey Feldman, Corey Haim, Meredith Salenger, Jason Robards, Piper Laurie, William McNamara, Harry Dean Stanton, Matt Adler, Alex Rocco, Victoria Jackson | Written by Daniel Jay Franklin, Marc Rocco, Danny Eisenberg | Directed by Marc Rocco
For those that haven’t seen the film, Dream a Little Dream tells the story of Bobby (Feldman) who, after some spiritual shenanigans and yoga in the garden, swaps bodies with Jason Robards’ Coleman Ettinger. And Coleman’s wife (played by Piper Laurie) swaps bodies, sort of, with Bobby’s high school crush Lainie (Meredith Salenger). And like all good body swap films, Coleman must find a way to swap back tie Bobby by helping him get the girl… If he can survive high school and the aggressive, dangerous behaviour of Lainie’s boyfriend Joel (William McNamara).
Yes this is essentially a body-swap comedy but Dream a Little Dream is a lot more than that,...
For those that haven’t seen the film, Dream a Little Dream tells the story of Bobby (Feldman) who, after some spiritual shenanigans and yoga in the garden, swaps bodies with Jason Robards’ Coleman Ettinger. And Coleman’s wife (played by Piper Laurie) swaps bodies, sort of, with Bobby’s high school crush Lainie (Meredith Salenger). And like all good body swap films, Coleman must find a way to swap back tie Bobby by helping him get the girl… If he can survive high school and the aggressive, dangerous behaviour of Lainie’s boyfriend Joel (William McNamara).
Yes this is essentially a body-swap comedy but Dream a Little Dream is a lot more than that,...
- 3/24/2022
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
History was made at last year’s Primetime Emmys as, for the first time, two supporting actors (Dan Levy and Annie Murphy) won for their work on the final season of the same comedy series (“Schitt’s Creek”). Both champs, along with 2020’s drama supporting winners are out of the running this year, as are all of their lead counterparts. The resulting complete lack of potential for back-to-back victories in the continuing series acting categories is another momentous first and guarantees an exciting outcome.
This year, the TV academy has nominated 31 supporting players who represent 11 series, some of which recently premiered while others just aired their finales. When it comes to determining the four eventual winners, a great deal of insight can be drawn from examining the results of past ceremonies, especially in terms of which season numbers have led to the most triumphs.
The two comedy supporting prizes, which were...
This year, the TV academy has nominated 31 supporting players who represent 11 series, some of which recently premiered while others just aired their finales. When it comes to determining the four eventual winners, a great deal of insight can be drawn from examining the results of past ceremonies, especially in terms of which season numbers have led to the most triumphs.
The two comedy supporting prizes, which were...
- 9/6/2021
- by Matthew Stewart
- Gold Derby
Actor who brought subtlety and power to roles in productions from Live and Let Die to Homicide: Life on the Street
In the 1985 TV movie Badge of the Assassin, Yaphet Kotto, who has died aged 81, is told by Alex Rocco, playing an NYPD detective, that the only reason he has been assigned to the investigation of a black militant murder of two cops is because he is a black detective. As Rocco storms away, Kotto calls out to him: “Who told you I was a black detective?”
This could be a metaphor for Kotto’s career. His considerable acting talent was often subsumed by his appearance, almost the antithesis of what a Hollywood leading man, especially a black one, needed to be in that era. Tall and strongly built, Kotto was not a handsome Sidney Poitier, the breakthrough black actor of the 1960s. “I’m always called powerful, bulky or...
In the 1985 TV movie Badge of the Assassin, Yaphet Kotto, who has died aged 81, is told by Alex Rocco, playing an NYPD detective, that the only reason he has been assigned to the investigation of a black militant murder of two cops is because he is a black detective. As Rocco storms away, Kotto calls out to him: “Who told you I was a black detective?”
This could be a metaphor for Kotto’s career. His considerable acting talent was often subsumed by his appearance, almost the antithesis of what a Hollywood leading man, especially a black one, needed to be in that era. Tall and strongly built, Kotto was not a handsome Sidney Poitier, the breakthrough black actor of the 1960s. “I’m always called powerful, bulky or...
- 3/26/2021
- by Michael Carlson
- The Guardian - Film News
The 1990 Primetime Emmys ceremony didn’t have any sweeps, but a longtime TV favorite won an overdue award from an unlikely group of presenters, a record was set for the most ties in a single ceremony, a couple of legends were remembered and, despite Academy love being spread around, there were two shows that surprisingly ended the night with zero major wins. Hosted by the unlikely trio of Candice Bergen, Jay Leno and Jane Pauley, the 42nd Emmy Awards ceremony took place on September 16, 1990. Let’s flashback 30 years to the highlights.
Although “Cheers” had won Best Comedy Series three times, its lead actor failed to nab a trophy himself, despite being nominated seven straight years for the classic character. However, Ted Danson finally got his moment on the stage, winning for Best Comedy Actor for his role as Sam Malone on “Cheers.” He quipped, “I suppose this means you’ll be saying,...
Although “Cheers” had won Best Comedy Series three times, its lead actor failed to nab a trophy himself, despite being nominated seven straight years for the classic character. However, Ted Danson finally got his moment on the stage, winning for Best Comedy Actor for his role as Sam Malone on “Cheers.” He quipped, “I suppose this means you’ll be saying,...
- 9/9/2020
- by Susan Pennington
- Gold Derby
Stanley. Now there’s a name to inspire fear amongst the masses, yes? Well, this was the ‘70s, and wheels turned in the horror world whichever way the road to success was paved. Such is the case with the aforementioned Stanley (1972), a film looking to mooch off the big earnings of 1971’s Willard; but instead of rats, we get snakes. And a whole lot of them.
With Willard leading the charge, the ‘70s had a veritable menagerie of When Animals Attack films, with the films switching gears from smaller critters to big ‘uns following the blowout phenomena of Jaws (’75). But for now, we’ll focus on one of the many creature flicks that slithered through drive-ins the end of May; no good notices to be found, but for those who hung around for the second feature, they were treated to a revenge story with bizarre behavior, colorful characters, and some decent kills.
With Willard leading the charge, the ‘70s had a veritable menagerie of When Animals Attack films, with the films switching gears from smaller critters to big ‘uns following the blowout phenomena of Jaws (’75). But for now, we’ll focus on one of the many creature flicks that slithered through drive-ins the end of May; no good notices to be found, but for those who hung around for the second feature, they were treated to a revenge story with bizarre behavior, colorful characters, and some decent kills.
- 8/1/2020
- by Scott Drebit
- DailyDead
Prolific producer and director Arthur Marks, who worked on “Perry Mason” and blaxploitation movies including “Detroit 9000” and “Friday Foster,” has died. He was 92.
Marks died Nov. 13 at his home in Woodland Hills, Calif. His son, “Narcos” producer Paul Marks, confirmed his passing to Variety.
Marks was a native of Los Angeles who was born in 1927 into a show business family. His grandparents were actors in silent pictures and his father, Dave Marks, worked as an MGM assistant director and production manager who worked on “The Wizard of Oz” and “Easter Parade.” Arthur Marks worked as a child actor, getting work as an extra and bit player on “The Good Earth” (1937), “Boys Town” (1938) and Mickey Rooney’s Andy Hardy series.
Marks joined the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy during World War II and served with the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. He began working in the production department at MGM,...
Marks died Nov. 13 at his home in Woodland Hills, Calif. His son, “Narcos” producer Paul Marks, confirmed his passing to Variety.
Marks was a native of Los Angeles who was born in 1927 into a show business family. His grandparents were actors in silent pictures and his father, Dave Marks, worked as an MGM assistant director and production manager who worked on “The Wizard of Oz” and “Easter Parade.” Arthur Marks worked as a child actor, getting work as an extra and bit player on “The Good Earth” (1937), “Boys Town” (1938) and Mickey Rooney’s Andy Hardy series.
Marks joined the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy during World War II and served with the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. He began working in the production department at MGM,...
- 11/23/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
In this edition of Canon Of Film, we take a look back at Francis Ford Coppola‘s masterpiece, ‘The Godfather‘. For the story behind the genesis of the Canon, you can click here.
The Godfather (1972)
Director: Francis Ford Coppola
Screenplay: Mario Puzo & Francis Ford Coppola based on the novel by Mario Puzo
I’ve noticed how, The Godfather doesn’t get the same appreciation outside of the U.S. as it does here, lately. People even start discussing the entire trilogy as one film sometimes to justify their ranking of it so high, an act which would’ve been unheard by most, as we typically never considered The Godfather Part III legitimate, despite it showing amazing moments of greatness. And you know, as an American, an Italian-American at that, it be can hard to defend The Godfather at times to people who confront it. Some say Apocalypse Now was better,...
The Godfather (1972)
Director: Francis Ford Coppola
Screenplay: Mario Puzo & Francis Ford Coppola based on the novel by Mario Puzo
I’ve noticed how, The Godfather doesn’t get the same appreciation outside of the U.S. as it does here, lately. People even start discussing the entire trilogy as one film sometimes to justify their ranking of it so high, an act which would’ve been unheard by most, as we typically never considered The Godfather Part III legitimate, despite it showing amazing moments of greatness. And you know, as an American, an Italian-American at that, it be can hard to defend The Godfather at times to people who confront it. Some say Apocalypse Now was better,...
- 4/30/2018
- by David Baruffi
- Age of the Nerd
Roger Corman’s ferocious gangster epic (more squibs!) bounces back in a UK Region B edition, noisier and bloodier than ever. Jason Robards, George Segal, Ralph Meeker and a couple of dozen top-notch hoods replay the ugly events that led up to the notorious 1929 gangland slaying — which now almost seems tame — where gun massacres are concerned, today ‘Every Day Is a Holiday.’
The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre
Region B Blu-ray
Powerhouse Indicator
1967 / Color / 2:35 widescreen / 100 min. / Street Date April 30, 2018 / available from Powerhouse Films UK / £15.99
Starring Jason Robards, George Segal, Ralph Meeker, Jean Hale, Frank Silvera, Joseph Campanella, Richard Bakalyan, David Canary, Bruce Dern, Harold J. Stone, Kurt Kreuger, Joe Turkel, John Agar, Celia Lovsky, Tom Reese, Jan Merlin,Alex D’Arcy, Reed Hadley, Gus Trikonis, Charles Dierkop, Alex Rocco, Leo Gordon, Russ Conway, Jonathan Haze, Betsy Jones-Moreland, Dick Miller, Barboura Morris, Jack Nicholson, Joan Shawlee.
Cinematography Milton Krasner
Art Direction Philip Jefferies,...
The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre
Region B Blu-ray
Powerhouse Indicator
1967 / Color / 2:35 widescreen / 100 min. / Street Date April 30, 2018 / available from Powerhouse Films UK / £15.99
Starring Jason Robards, George Segal, Ralph Meeker, Jean Hale, Frank Silvera, Joseph Campanella, Richard Bakalyan, David Canary, Bruce Dern, Harold J. Stone, Kurt Kreuger, Joe Turkel, John Agar, Celia Lovsky, Tom Reese, Jan Merlin,Alex D’Arcy, Reed Hadley, Gus Trikonis, Charles Dierkop, Alex Rocco, Leo Gordon, Russ Conway, Jonathan Haze, Betsy Jones-Moreland, Dick Miller, Barboura Morris, Jack Nicholson, Joan Shawlee.
Cinematography Milton Krasner
Art Direction Philip Jefferies,...
- 4/21/2018
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
Rick Bieber, a producer of the original Flatliners back in 1990, has a new horror flick coming out in cinemas and on VOD tomorrow, September 29, 2017. The film is called Don't Sleep and Bieber directed, wrote and produced under his production banner Minds I Cinema. Screen Anarchy has an exclusive clip to share with you today in hopes that it might prompt some interest in the film. In this clip you will see actor Alex Rocco (The Godfather, Three the Hard Way and Smokin' Aces) in his final role. Don’T Sleep tells the story of two lovers (Sherwood and Dean) who move into a guesthouse together on an estate owned by Mr. and Mrs. Marino (de Matteo and Rocco). When bizarre events...
[Read the whole post on screenanarchy.com...]...
[Read the whole post on screenanarchy.com...]...
- 9/28/2017
- Screen Anarchy
Rick Bieber’s latest directorial effort is being released on the same day as the remake of Flatliners, the original 1990 version of which he produced. Whether or not that’s a coincidence, this tedious slog of a horror movie isn’t likely to provide much competition. Notable only for featuring Alex Rocco in his last screen role, Don’t Sleep practically begs audiences to defy its ill-chosen title.
The film begins with a prologue in which a young boy experiences a terrorizing nightmare set in a graveyard. That’s followed by an onscreen quotation from Nietzsche, which is the first sign that we’re in...
The film begins with a prologue in which a young boy experiences a terrorizing nightmare set in a graveyard. That’s followed by an onscreen quotation from Nietzsche, which is the first sign that we’re in...
- 9/26/2017
- by Frank Scheck
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Freestyle Digital Media has acquired domestic rights to Don’t Sleep, a thriller written and directed by Rick Bieber that stars Dominic Sherwood, Cary Elwes, Drea de Matteo, Charlbi Dean Kriek and Jill Hennessy. The pic also marks the final onscreen performance from Alex Rocco, who famously played Moe Green in The Godfather; Rocco died in 2015 of cancer at 79. Don’t Sleep will bow in theaters day-and-date on September 29. The pic centers on two lovers (Sherwood…...
- 8/23/2017
- Deadline
Here’s how one pushed the limits of good taste in 1974. James Caan and Alan Arkin run the gamut of racist, raunchy, sexist & homophobic jokes as bad boy cops breaking the rules, and director Richard Rush delivers some impressive, expensive action stunts on location in San Francisco. Does it get a pass because it’s ‘outrageous?’ The public surely thought so. If the star chemistry works the excess won’t matter. With Valerie Harper, Loretta Swit and Jack Kruschen.
Freebie and the Bean
Blu-ray
Warner Archive Collection
1974 / Color / 2:40 widescreen / 113 min. / Street Date August 8, 2017 / available through the WBshop / 21.99
Starring: Alan Arkin, James Caan, Valerie Harper, Loretta Swit, Jack Kruschen, Mike Kellin, Paul Koslo, Linda Marsh, Alex Rocco.
Cinematography: Laszlo Kovacs
Film Editors: Michael MacLean, Fredric Steinkamp
Original Music: Dominic Frontiere
Written by Robert Kaufman, Floyd Mutrux
Produced and Directed by Richard Rush
‘Buddy’ pictures have been around forever, but I...
Freebie and the Bean
Blu-ray
Warner Archive Collection
1974 / Color / 2:40 widescreen / 113 min. / Street Date August 8, 2017 / available through the WBshop / 21.99
Starring: Alan Arkin, James Caan, Valerie Harper, Loretta Swit, Jack Kruschen, Mike Kellin, Paul Koslo, Linda Marsh, Alex Rocco.
Cinematography: Laszlo Kovacs
Film Editors: Michael MacLean, Fredric Steinkamp
Original Music: Dominic Frontiere
Written by Robert Kaufman, Floyd Mutrux
Produced and Directed by Richard Rush
‘Buddy’ pictures have been around forever, but I...
- 8/8/2017
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
Imagine the following sentence in the “'80s horror trailer guy” voice. In 1982, a killer haunted the halls of Crippen High School, giving it the moniker “Horror High.” Now, in 1987, a movie crew returns to Horror High and may or may not survive retelling the story of these heinous crimes. There will be blood! Lots and lots of blood!
It's been a very long time since I've seen Bill Froehlich's Return to Horror High, starring Brendan Hughes, Scott Jacoby, George Clooney, Maureen McCormick, Lori Lethin, Alex Rocco, Vince Edwards, Al Fann, and Panchito Gómez. So, I was absolutely delighted to get the chance to re-watch this glorious horror comedy and discuss it with our readers as part of our celebration of the Class of 1987.
After decades of horror films that were wonderfully serious, a tonal shift started happening in the 1980s, and by the mid-'80s, horror comedies had really gained momentum,...
It's been a very long time since I've seen Bill Froehlich's Return to Horror High, starring Brendan Hughes, Scott Jacoby, George Clooney, Maureen McCormick, Lori Lethin, Alex Rocco, Vince Edwards, Al Fann, and Panchito Gómez. So, I was absolutely delighted to get the chance to re-watch this glorious horror comedy and discuss it with our readers as part of our celebration of the Class of 1987.
After decades of horror films that were wonderfully serious, a tonal shift started happening in the 1980s, and by the mid-'80s, horror comedies had really gained momentum,...
- 7/10/2017
- by Tamika Jones
- DailyDead
Stars: George Clooney, Maureen McCormick, Vince Edwards, Brendan Hughes, Scott Jacoby, Lori Lethin, Alex Rocco | Written by Bill Froehlich, Mark Lisson | Directed by Bill Froehlich
In 1982 Crippen High School was the scene of a series of brutal murders and yet the killer was never caught. Now a low budget film crew that includes an ill-fated leading man (Clooney), the pretentious director (Jacoby), a lecherous producer (Rocco) and numerous disposable cast and crew have all returned to Crippen High to film the story of the ’82 murders. But when members of the production staff are stalked and slaughtered one by one it appears the killer has returned… Who will survive? And what will be left of their careers?
So, did anyone see the first film? Actually I’m joking, much like the movie itself. Yes, Return to Horror High is that strange beast – part traditional slasher movie, part comedy, part parody. The...
In 1982 Crippen High School was the scene of a series of brutal murders and yet the killer was never caught. Now a low budget film crew that includes an ill-fated leading man (Clooney), the pretentious director (Jacoby), a lecherous producer (Rocco) and numerous disposable cast and crew have all returned to Crippen High to film the story of the ’82 murders. But when members of the production staff are stalked and slaughtered one by one it appears the killer has returned… Who will survive? And what will be left of their careers?
So, did anyone see the first film? Actually I’m joking, much like the movie itself. Yes, Return to Horror High is that strange beast – part traditional slasher movie, part comedy, part parody. The...
- 6/17/2017
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
Silver Skies debuts on DVD, Amazon and iTunes April 4th
When Dana Jung reviewed Silver Skies here at We Are Movie Geeks, he wrote “.…. there’s no better way to spend a couple of hours than skipping down memory lane with the old friends of Silver Skies.” Read all of Dana’s review Here
And read my interview with Silver Skies director Rosemary Rodriguez Here
With humor and compassion, Silver Skies chronicles the unexpected developments that occur when a group of eccentric seniors have their lives turned upside down by the sale of their beloved apartment complex. A refreshingly original story about getting older and trying to hold tight to the American Dream, the film features a cast of much-loved screen icons: George Hamilton, Valerie Perrine, Barbara Bain, Jack McGee, Alex Rocco, Mariette Hartley, Jack Betts, and Howard Hesseman. Far from playing their usual roles, however, the actors fully inhabit...
When Dana Jung reviewed Silver Skies here at We Are Movie Geeks, he wrote “.…. there’s no better way to spend a couple of hours than skipping down memory lane with the old friends of Silver Skies.” Read all of Dana’s review Here
And read my interview with Silver Skies director Rosemary Rodriguez Here
With humor and compassion, Silver Skies chronicles the unexpected developments that occur when a group of eccentric seniors have their lives turned upside down by the sale of their beloved apartment complex. A refreshingly original story about getting older and trying to hold tight to the American Dream, the film features a cast of much-loved screen icons: George Hamilton, Valerie Perrine, Barbara Bain, Jack McGee, Alex Rocco, Mariette Hartley, Jack Betts, and Howard Hesseman. Far from playing their usual roles, however, the actors fully inhabit...
- 4/3/2017
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Every Halloween, Robert George Pickett rises from the grave. (Figuratively.)
The song that made Pickett famous (three times over), “Monster Mash,” spikes to 40 times its regular view and search volume on YouTube every Halloween, and with good reason. It is a uniquely ripe piece of American cheese, a novelty hit that stands among the best of a decade packed with them, and Pickett’s life — and dogged attempts to keep grabbing the brass ring he glimpsed with the song — represent a uniquely American story.
Pickett was in born in Somerville, Massachusetts, in 1938, right in the middle of Universal Studios’ reign atop the horror movie industry.
The song that made Pickett famous (three times over), “Monster Mash,” spikes to 40 times its regular view and search volume on YouTube every Halloween, and with good reason. It is a uniquely ripe piece of American cheese, a novelty hit that stands among the best of a decade packed with them, and Pickett’s life — and dogged attempts to keep grabbing the brass ring he glimpsed with the song — represent a uniquely American story.
Pickett was in born in Somerville, Massachusetts, in 1938, right in the middle of Universal Studios’ reign atop the horror movie industry.
- 10/27/2016
- by alexheigl
- PEOPLE.com
You can tell Halloween is right around the corner, as September 27th has over 20 different horror and sci-fi home entertainment releases looking to put a dent in your wallet. As far as new movies go, The Shallows, The Neon Demon, and Warcraft are all coming home on Tuesday, and for all you classic horror fans, there are new releases of An American Werewolf in London, Blood Diner, Chopping Mall, Lady in White, Slugs, and the 30th anniversary Blu-ray for Highlander.
Other notable releases for September 27th include Stephen King’s Cell, Count Dracula’s Great Love, The Mangler, Grimm: Season Five, and The Shape of Things to Come.
An American Werewolf in London: Restored Edition (Universal Studios Home Entertainment, Blu-ray)
Re-discover one of the most gripping horror films of all time with the cult classic An American Werewolf in London Restored Edition. Blending the macabre with a wicked sense of humor,...
Other notable releases for September 27th include Stephen King’s Cell, Count Dracula’s Great Love, The Mangler, Grimm: Season Five, and The Shape of Things to Come.
An American Werewolf in London: Restored Edition (Universal Studios Home Entertainment, Blu-ray)
Re-discover one of the most gripping horror films of all time with the cult classic An American Werewolf in London Restored Edition. Blending the macabre with a wicked sense of humor,...
- 9/27/2016
- by Heather Wixson
- DailyDead
A small town harbors a supernatural secret in Frank Laloggia's Lady in White, hitting high-definition courtesy of Scream Factory on Tuesday, September 27th, and we've been provided with three Blu-ray copies to give away to lucky Daily Dead readers.
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Prize Details: (3) Winners will receive (1) Blu-ray copy of Lady in White.
How to Enter: For a chance to win, email contest@dailydead.com with the subject “Lady in White Contest”. Be sure to include your name and mailing address.
Entry Details: The contest will end at 12:01am Est on September 30th. This contest is only open to those who are eighteen years of age or older that live in the United States. Only one entry per household will be accepted.
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From the Press Release: "Sometimes it takes a little help from the living for the dead to rest. Scream Factory™ proudly presents Lady in White for the first time...
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Prize Details: (3) Winners will receive (1) Blu-ray copy of Lady in White.
How to Enter: For a chance to win, email contest@dailydead.com with the subject “Lady in White Contest”. Be sure to include your name and mailing address.
Entry Details: The contest will end at 12:01am Est on September 30th. This contest is only open to those who are eighteen years of age or older that live in the United States. Only one entry per household will be accepted.
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From the Press Release: "Sometimes it takes a little help from the living for the dead to rest. Scream Factory™ proudly presents Lady in White for the first time...
- 9/24/2016
- by Derek Anderson
- DailyDead
As a young boy of about 11 or 12, I fell in love with Frank Laloggia’s 1988 ghost story Lady in White. Maybe that’s because it’s told from the perspective of a boy not too much younger than me at the time, or because that boy shared the same love of horror fiction and monster movies that I had growing up. I think, though, that my response had something to do with the fact that Laloggia had crafted that rare thing: a good story—a good ghost story, better yet—and had done so with grace, class, and a lot of heart. Even as a kid, that much was evident.
Horror author Frankie Scarlatti (an uncredited Laloggia) recalls one fateful autumn from his youth, shortly after the passing of his mother. Young Frankie (played in flashback by Lukas Haas) is seen growing up in his Italian-American home in the early 1960s,...
Horror author Frankie Scarlatti (an uncredited Laloggia) recalls one fateful autumn from his youth, shortly after the passing of his mother. Young Frankie (played in flashback by Lukas Haas) is seen growing up in his Italian-American home in the early 1960s,...
- 9/23/2016
- by Patrick Bromley
- DailyDead
Scream Factory takes horror fans back to a fateful Halloween night in 1962 with two high-definition clips and a trailer from their Lady in White Blu-ray, floating onto shelves on Tuesday, September 27th with a new director's cut.
From the Press Release: "Sometimes it takes a little help from the living for the dead to rest. Scream Factory™ proudly presents Lady in White for the first time ever on Blu-ray on September 27, 2016. This 2-disc set includes the never-before-released full-length director’s cut, extended behind-the-scenes footage, and many more special features.
For ten year old Frankie Scarletti (played by Lukas Haas), school isn’t just a place for learning. On Halloween of 1962, after being forced to spend the night locked in the coffin-like confines of his fourth-grade cloakroom, Frankie discovers the ghost of a little girl who was murdered in the very same room ten years earlier by a serial killer that...
From the Press Release: "Sometimes it takes a little help from the living for the dead to rest. Scream Factory™ proudly presents Lady in White for the first time ever on Blu-ray on September 27, 2016. This 2-disc set includes the never-before-released full-length director’s cut, extended behind-the-scenes footage, and many more special features.
For ten year old Frankie Scarletti (played by Lukas Haas), school isn’t just a place for learning. On Halloween of 1962, after being forced to spend the night locked in the coffin-like confines of his fourth-grade cloakroom, Frankie discovers the ghost of a little girl who was murdered in the very same room ten years earlier by a serial killer that...
- 9/23/2016
- by Derek Anderson
- DailyDead
Ever since it was announced on the day before Halloween last year, the Lady in White (1988) Blu-ray has been highly anticipated by fans of the cult classic. Originally scheduled to come out this spring before being slated for a June 21st debut, Scream Factory has now announced a later release date for the Blu-ray, although it sounds like it will be well worth the wait.
Scream Factory revealed on Facebook that the Lady in White Blu-ray is now set to hit shelves on August 30th. The film’s writer and director, Frank Laloggia, is helping to prep the home media release and some extra time is needed to get the best possible version ready for fans.
Below, we have the official announcement from Scream Factory, as well as the synopsis and trailer for those unfamiliar with the Halloween horror film.
From Scream Factory: “We wanted to let you know...
Scream Factory revealed on Facebook that the Lady in White Blu-ray is now set to hit shelves on August 30th. The film’s writer and director, Frank Laloggia, is helping to prep the home media release and some extra time is needed to get the best possible version ready for fans.
Below, we have the official announcement from Scream Factory, as well as the synopsis and trailer for those unfamiliar with the Halloween horror film.
From Scream Factory: “We wanted to let you know...
- 4/22/2016
- by Derek Anderson
- DailyDead
Abe Vigoda's daughter is furious that her father's name was left out of the Oscars "In Memoriam" segment last night. "Last night the Oscars dismayed many and cheated Abe Vigoda by not paying tribute to the immense professional energies and talents that he brought to the industry," Carol Vigoda Fuchs told TMZ. She added, "Let's not forget the personal and family sacrifices that were willingly made to achieve that essential devotion. The Oscars fell short in many ways and as my father Abe Vigoda said the Oscars have earned, 'one demerit.' " Vigoda, who's death had been falsely reported numerous times,...
- 3/1/2016
- by Michael Miller, @write_miller
- PEOPLE.com
Happy Leap Day - and Leap Year, too, of course. And if you're one of the few who happen to be born on this day, happy birthday - finally! Leap Day is literally the rarest of dates on which anything can happen, but it's not without its merits and its not without its share of historical happenings. It's just that it gets a lot fewer of them, as a result of a cruel quirk of the Gregorian calendar. In case you've written this day off as just an extra 24 hours tacked randomly onto the shortest month, well here's a list...
- 2/29/2016
- by Drew Mackie, @drewgmackie
- PEOPLE.com
Stars: Robert Mitchum, Peter Boyle, Richard Jordan, Steven Keats, Alex Rocco, Joe Santos, Mitchell Ryan, Peter MacLean, Marvin Lichterman, Carolyn Pickman, James Tolkan, Margaret Ladd, Matthew Cowles | Written by Paul Monash | Directed by Peter Yates
One of the fun things about loving a particular medium is the aspect of things being recommended, and this is something which has really grown in prominence for me with the growth of social media and podcasts. Having so much immediate access to the thoughts and opinions of others you specifically choose to listen to, whether they align with your tastes or challenge them, enables the discovery of a great deal of content in which much pleasure can be derived. One such example of this is The Friends of Eddie Coyle, a film which I hadn’t heard of before seeing and hearing talk of it’s forthcoming release over the past few months. Seeing...
One of the fun things about loving a particular medium is the aspect of things being recommended, and this is something which has really grown in prominence for me with the growth of social media and podcasts. Having so much immediate access to the thoughts and opinions of others you specifically choose to listen to, whether they align with your tastes or challenge them, enables the discovery of a great deal of content in which much pleasure can be derived. One such example of this is The Friends of Eddie Coyle, a film which I hadn’t heard of before seeing and hearing talk of it’s forthcoming release over the past few months. Seeing...
- 1/24/2016
- by Ian Loring
- Nerdly
Silver Skies screens Sunday November 8th at 6:45pm at The Tivoli Theater as part of this year’s St. Louis International Film Festival. The film’s director, Rosemary Rodriguez, will be in attendance and will receive Sliff’s ‘Women in Film’ Award.Ticket information for the event can be found Here
Review by Dana Jung.
Today, more than ever, with our shortened attention spans, inundation by multi-media delivery systems, and almost obsessive need for instant information, it is easy to forget the wonderful actors of the 1960s, 70s, and 80s who inspired and influenced us. So many great moments created by sometimes iconic performers live on in the movies and television of certain eras. From Mr. Spock to Archie Bunker, Annie Hall to James Bond, or Mrs. Peel to Lieutenant Columbo, these and other memorable characters fueled everything from fashion choices to sexual fantasies. That’s why the new...
Review by Dana Jung.
Today, more than ever, with our shortened attention spans, inundation by multi-media delivery systems, and almost obsessive need for instant information, it is easy to forget the wonderful actors of the 1960s, 70s, and 80s who inspired and influenced us. So many great moments created by sometimes iconic performers live on in the movies and television of certain eras. From Mr. Spock to Archie Bunker, Annie Hall to James Bond, or Mrs. Peel to Lieutenant Columbo, these and other memorable characters fueled everything from fashion choices to sexual fantasies. That’s why the new...
- 11/7/2015
- by Movie Geeks
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Silver Skies screens Sunday November 8th at 6:45pm at The Tivoli Theater as part of this year’s St. Louis International Film Festival. The film’s director, Rosemary Rodriguez, will be in attendance and will receive Sliff’s ‘Women in Film’ Award.Ticket information for the event can be found Here
With humor and compassion, Silver Skies chronicles the unexpected developments that occur when a group of eccentric seniors have their lives turned upside down by the sale of their beloved apartment complex. A refreshingly original story about getting older and trying to hold tight to the American Dream, the film features a cast of much-loved screen icons: George Hamilton, Valerie Perrine, Barbara Bain, Jack McGee, Alex Rocco, Mariette Hartley, Jack Betts, and Howard Hesseman. Far from playing their usual roles, however, the actors fully inhabit characters of real complexity: Long-time pals Phil and Nick (Hamilton and McGee) tenderly...
With humor and compassion, Silver Skies chronicles the unexpected developments that occur when a group of eccentric seniors have their lives turned upside down by the sale of their beloved apartment complex. A refreshingly original story about getting older and trying to hold tight to the American Dream, the film features a cast of much-loved screen icons: George Hamilton, Valerie Perrine, Barbara Bain, Jack McGee, Alex Rocco, Mariette Hartley, Jack Betts, and Howard Hesseman. Far from playing their usual roles, however, the actors fully inhabit characters of real complexity: Long-time pals Phil and Nick (Hamilton and McGee) tenderly...
- 11/6/2015
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
The St. Louis International Film Festival has announced the films nominated for the Awfj Eda Awards.
Awfj will partner once again with Sliff to recognize the Best Female-Directed Narrative Feature and Best Female-Directed Documentary. The 24th Annual Whitaker St. Louis International Film Festival will be held Nov. 5-15, 2015. Check out the full lineup here.
Here’s a glimpse of the films that have been selected:
Narratives
Fidelio: Alice’S Odyssey – Lucie Borleteau (France)
A rare woman in the man’s world of seafaring, 30-year-old Alice signs on as a replacement engineer on the freighter Fidélio. Although she loves her job and does it well, Alice remains a woman even when wearing greasy blue overalls, and there’s some doubt that the all-male crew will remain totally insensitive to her charms. The situation has further complications: Alice has a fiancé back on shore, but when she discovers that the Fidélio is captained by Gaël,...
Awfj will partner once again with Sliff to recognize the Best Female-Directed Narrative Feature and Best Female-Directed Documentary. The 24th Annual Whitaker St. Louis International Film Festival will be held Nov. 5-15, 2015. Check out the full lineup here.
Here’s a glimpse of the films that have been selected:
Narratives
Fidelio: Alice’S Odyssey – Lucie Borleteau (France)
A rare woman in the man’s world of seafaring, 30-year-old Alice signs on as a replacement engineer on the freighter Fidélio. Although she loves her job and does it well, Alice remains a woman even when wearing greasy blue overalls, and there’s some doubt that the all-male crew will remain totally insensitive to her charms. The situation has further complications: Alice has a fiancé back on shore, but when she discovers that the Fidélio is captained by Gaël,...
- 10/27/2015
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
I had the pleasure of speaking with writer and director Rosemary Rodriguez in midtown Manhattan two days before her film "Silver Skies" will have its United States premiere at the Woodstock Film Festival on Saturday October 3.
Rosemary Rodriguez wrote and directed the feature, "Acts of Worship, "which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, was nominated for two Independent Spirit Awards, including the John Cassavetes Award for Best Feature. Her episodic TV work includes "Empire," "The Good Wife," (where she is a regular director), "Manhattan," "Rake," "Elementary" and "Vegas." She is currently directing the new Marvel series on Netflix, "Jessica Jones."
"Silver Skies," Rosemary’s second feature, chronicles a group of seniors whose lives turn upside down when their Los Angeles apartment complex threatens to be sold out from under them.
We began our conversation talking about the evolution of "Silver Skies."
Rodriguez : It took about ten years. I ended up going to the MacDowell Colony with an outline for "Silver Skies" and wrote the script while I was there. Then, when I directed a "Law and Order" episode, I hit it off with (star) Dennis Farina and he loved the script. He helped to get the movie made. Fast forward almost two years later I called Dennis and told him we got the money. We picked the start date, and then he passed away two weeks later. I was devastated when he passed away. But then things fell in place. Fred Roos and Arthur Sarkissian came to the reading of the script, and they said, ‘let’s do this movie.’ The movie is dedicated to Dennis. He was my guardian angel.
Kouguell: In "Silver Skies," the theme of ageism is tackled straight on. The characters in this ensemble piece are threatened with the possible loss of their homes and livelihood. You describe "Silver Skies" as very personal and inspired by your parents’ aging. The characters of Nick and Phil are inspired by your father, who was a bookie in Boston, and the character, Eve, by your mother.
Rodriguez : Valerie Perrine’s character always has flowers; that was my mother. I watched my parents get old when I was still young. I saw how their relationships changed. You think logic would say life would get easier when you get older, but the emotional truth is that life still happens on its own terms. I think seniors don’t have a voice in this world. These are people who want to have sex. They want to work. They want to spend money. Make money. Have money.
Kouguell: You don’t shy away from thought-provoking issues, facing this generation, including the sexual assault of one female character and another main character’s choice she made of personal survival that causes the death of her spouse.
Rodriguez : My role model for directors is Robert Altman. His movies were a slice of life. The ironic thing about being a human being on this planet is that you have no idea what is going to happen next. The movie is real life. You’re going on a roller coaster ride; there are parts you’re laughing because life is like that, and then the rug gets pulled right out from under you.
The issues women go through, and with this female character with her husband abusing her, and feeling guilty over surviving, doing whatever she had to survive, whatever way she needed to behave was maybe ‘not as a good girl’ would, and coming to terms with that. Sexual abuse to elders is real. Elder abuse is real. I wanted to bring that issue in, as well as bring in that feminist message in there.
Kouguell: In "Silver Skies," the trepidation and excitement of newfound love is complicated by raw emotion as seen in one character’s personal and financial insecurities with a recent widow.
Rodriguez : Love doesn’t stop people at a certain age, it doesn’t stop their desires. It doesn’t matter what age we are. To work with these wonderful actors and Alex Rocco in particular -- he was just like a teenage boy when doing his scenes with Valerie Perrine, saying: “I’m used to playing killers, I’m not used to playing lovers.”
(Alex Rocco passed away July 18 of this year.)
Rodriguez : The recent memorial for Alex was on the racetrack: “Friends of Rocco” – it was the seventh race, it was dedicated to him. I loved him dearly. I miss him dearly. It was intended as a celebration of this wonderful man. His character reminds me of my dad. As I told my dad when it became clear he had to retire, I told him, “You always wanted to go out a winner.”
Kouguell: The film stars Barbara Bain, George Hamilton, Jack McGee, Valerie Perrine, Mariette Hartley, Howard Hesseman, Jack Betts, and Alex Rocco. Did they have any input into the script?
Rodriguez : They definitely did. They stuck to the script a lot. I’m a big collaborator; I want to hear what people have to say. In the film George Hamilton’s character is in the early stages of Alzheimer’s. Jack McGee’s brother, George Hamilton’s mother, and my dad, all had Alzehimer’s and we shared our respective experiences to further develop George’s character. In a way it was a tribute for George to his mother, for Jack to his brother, and mine to my father.
Kouguell: You’ve earned great success as a director on "The Good Wife." How has directing television influenced your work as a director on "Silver Skies"?
Rodriguez : I can work efficiently and quickly, and in television that’s some of the skill set that gets developed. My instincts are very sharp. The idea out there is that we’re less creative working in television, but the real truth is we’re under such pressure that we can make decisions quickly, and also go with your heart and instincts. It’s very quick and very satisfying, and of course millions of people see your work in a shorter window of time and that is opposite of a movie.
Kouguell: Currently, you are the 4th Vice President of the Directors Guild of America. Although there is more media attention on the low percentage of women directors getting work in the industry, the numbers are still not rising fast enough.
Rodriguez : The DGA works very hard and we all work hard to address the issue of diversity. It’s been a problem for many years. My involvement in the DGA is reflective of how much the DGA cares about women directors and minority directors, and wants to get us out there. It’s a benefit to the Guild. There’s a lot of content there now and opportunity for diversity. I want to be meeting with you in a few years when this isn’t an issue any more; where there are not “female directors” – that there are just great storytellers and that we don’t have to separate each other.
Kouguell: Some final words about "Silver Skies"?
Rodriguez: The way these actors enriched my life was unexpected and so profound. These are people with 50 and 60-year careers in a tough industry. These actors showed up and put their hearts in these characters. They’re artists. They were there for the love for what they do. They just loved the characters. They had beautiful chemistry together. We are part of each other’s lives. I never could give back to them what they gave to me.
"Silver Skies" premieres at the Woodstock Film Festival on Saturday, October 3. http://www.woodstockfilmfestival.com/
Award-winning screenwriter and filmmaker, Susan Kouguell teaches screenwriting at Purchase College Suny, and presents international seminars on screenwriting and film. Author of Savvy Characters Sell Screenplays! and The Savvy Screenwriter, she is chairperson of Su-City Pictures East, LLC, a consulting company founded in 1990 where she works with writers, filmmakers, and executives worldwide. www.su-city-pictures.com, http://su-city-pictures.com/wpblog...
Rosemary Rodriguez wrote and directed the feature, "Acts of Worship, "which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, was nominated for two Independent Spirit Awards, including the John Cassavetes Award for Best Feature. Her episodic TV work includes "Empire," "The Good Wife," (where she is a regular director), "Manhattan," "Rake," "Elementary" and "Vegas." She is currently directing the new Marvel series on Netflix, "Jessica Jones."
"Silver Skies," Rosemary’s second feature, chronicles a group of seniors whose lives turn upside down when their Los Angeles apartment complex threatens to be sold out from under them.
We began our conversation talking about the evolution of "Silver Skies."
Rodriguez : It took about ten years. I ended up going to the MacDowell Colony with an outline for "Silver Skies" and wrote the script while I was there. Then, when I directed a "Law and Order" episode, I hit it off with (star) Dennis Farina and he loved the script. He helped to get the movie made. Fast forward almost two years later I called Dennis and told him we got the money. We picked the start date, and then he passed away two weeks later. I was devastated when he passed away. But then things fell in place. Fred Roos and Arthur Sarkissian came to the reading of the script, and they said, ‘let’s do this movie.’ The movie is dedicated to Dennis. He was my guardian angel.
Kouguell: In "Silver Skies," the theme of ageism is tackled straight on. The characters in this ensemble piece are threatened with the possible loss of their homes and livelihood. You describe "Silver Skies" as very personal and inspired by your parents’ aging. The characters of Nick and Phil are inspired by your father, who was a bookie in Boston, and the character, Eve, by your mother.
Rodriguez : Valerie Perrine’s character always has flowers; that was my mother. I watched my parents get old when I was still young. I saw how their relationships changed. You think logic would say life would get easier when you get older, but the emotional truth is that life still happens on its own terms. I think seniors don’t have a voice in this world. These are people who want to have sex. They want to work. They want to spend money. Make money. Have money.
Kouguell: You don’t shy away from thought-provoking issues, facing this generation, including the sexual assault of one female character and another main character’s choice she made of personal survival that causes the death of her spouse.
Rodriguez : My role model for directors is Robert Altman. His movies were a slice of life. The ironic thing about being a human being on this planet is that you have no idea what is going to happen next. The movie is real life. You’re going on a roller coaster ride; there are parts you’re laughing because life is like that, and then the rug gets pulled right out from under you.
The issues women go through, and with this female character with her husband abusing her, and feeling guilty over surviving, doing whatever she had to survive, whatever way she needed to behave was maybe ‘not as a good girl’ would, and coming to terms with that. Sexual abuse to elders is real. Elder abuse is real. I wanted to bring that issue in, as well as bring in that feminist message in there.
Kouguell: In "Silver Skies," the trepidation and excitement of newfound love is complicated by raw emotion as seen in one character’s personal and financial insecurities with a recent widow.
Rodriguez : Love doesn’t stop people at a certain age, it doesn’t stop their desires. It doesn’t matter what age we are. To work with these wonderful actors and Alex Rocco in particular -- he was just like a teenage boy when doing his scenes with Valerie Perrine, saying: “I’m used to playing killers, I’m not used to playing lovers.”
(Alex Rocco passed away July 18 of this year.)
Rodriguez : The recent memorial for Alex was on the racetrack: “Friends of Rocco” – it was the seventh race, it was dedicated to him. I loved him dearly. I miss him dearly. It was intended as a celebration of this wonderful man. His character reminds me of my dad. As I told my dad when it became clear he had to retire, I told him, “You always wanted to go out a winner.”
Kouguell: The film stars Barbara Bain, George Hamilton, Jack McGee, Valerie Perrine, Mariette Hartley, Howard Hesseman, Jack Betts, and Alex Rocco. Did they have any input into the script?
Rodriguez : They definitely did. They stuck to the script a lot. I’m a big collaborator; I want to hear what people have to say. In the film George Hamilton’s character is in the early stages of Alzheimer’s. Jack McGee’s brother, George Hamilton’s mother, and my dad, all had Alzehimer’s and we shared our respective experiences to further develop George’s character. In a way it was a tribute for George to his mother, for Jack to his brother, and mine to my father.
Kouguell: You’ve earned great success as a director on "The Good Wife." How has directing television influenced your work as a director on "Silver Skies"?
Rodriguez : I can work efficiently and quickly, and in television that’s some of the skill set that gets developed. My instincts are very sharp. The idea out there is that we’re less creative working in television, but the real truth is we’re under such pressure that we can make decisions quickly, and also go with your heart and instincts. It’s very quick and very satisfying, and of course millions of people see your work in a shorter window of time and that is opposite of a movie.
Kouguell: Currently, you are the 4th Vice President of the Directors Guild of America. Although there is more media attention on the low percentage of women directors getting work in the industry, the numbers are still not rising fast enough.
Rodriguez : The DGA works very hard and we all work hard to address the issue of diversity. It’s been a problem for many years. My involvement in the DGA is reflective of how much the DGA cares about women directors and minority directors, and wants to get us out there. It’s a benefit to the Guild. There’s a lot of content there now and opportunity for diversity. I want to be meeting with you in a few years when this isn’t an issue any more; where there are not “female directors” – that there are just great storytellers and that we don’t have to separate each other.
Kouguell: Some final words about "Silver Skies"?
Rodriguez: The way these actors enriched my life was unexpected and so profound. These are people with 50 and 60-year careers in a tough industry. These actors showed up and put their hearts in these characters. They’re artists. They were there for the love for what they do. They just loved the characters. They had beautiful chemistry together. We are part of each other’s lives. I never could give back to them what they gave to me.
"Silver Skies" premieres at the Woodstock Film Festival on Saturday, October 3. http://www.woodstockfilmfestival.com/
Award-winning screenwriter and filmmaker, Susan Kouguell teaches screenwriting at Purchase College Suny, and presents international seminars on screenwriting and film. Author of Savvy Characters Sell Screenplays! and The Savvy Screenwriter, she is chairperson of Su-City Pictures East, LLC, a consulting company founded in 1990 where she works with writers, filmmakers, and executives worldwide. www.su-city-pictures.com, http://su-city-pictures.com/wpblog...
- 10/2/2015
- by Susan Kouguell
- Sydney's Buzz
It’s definitely been a week for good-byes.
My daughters and I spent the weekend in the beautiful, still somewhat quaint small town of Auburn, California, helping to lay to rest and celebrate the life of my dear aunt Mary Pascuzzi, my fraternal grandmother’s sister, who was the centered matriarch of her own family and a stabilizing force for all of us in her extended family as well. She, and my grandmother, were big fans of classic-era American movies and enthusiastically encouraged my interest, just one reason why they’re both held dear in my heart and in my memory. And being Italian, they both had more than a casual interest in The Godfather when it came out in 1972. I remember my aunt Mary talking to me about having seen it and wondering, me at the ripe old age of 12, if I’d had a chance to go yet.
My daughters and I spent the weekend in the beautiful, still somewhat quaint small town of Auburn, California, helping to lay to rest and celebrate the life of my dear aunt Mary Pascuzzi, my fraternal grandmother’s sister, who was the centered matriarch of her own family and a stabilizing force for all of us in her extended family as well. She, and my grandmother, were big fans of classic-era American movies and enthusiastically encouraged my interest, just one reason why they’re both held dear in my heart and in my memory. And being Italian, they both had more than a casual interest in The Godfather when it came out in 1972. I remember my aunt Mary talking to me about having seen it and wondering, me at the ripe old age of 12, if I’d had a chance to go yet.
- 7/23/2015
- by Dennis Cozzalio
- Trailers from Hell
By Lee Pfeiffer
Alex Rocco, whose hard scrabble life on the streets of Boston prepared him to successfully play crime figures in films and on television, has died from pancreatic cancer at age 79. During his youth, Rocco ran with the notorious Winter Hill Gang, which was founded by the infamous Whitey Bulger. His association with the gang led him to be incarcerated as well as being suspected of having driven a getaway car used in a murder. At one point, his first wife was almost killed when a bomb exploded in a car she was driving. Rocco, who was born Alexander Petricone Jr, took the stage name of "Rocco" on a whim when he saw a bakery truck bearing the Rocco name on it. Fearing that his associations of the Boston mob would lead to his demise, he spontaneously decided to move to Hollywood. He took an acting class that was taught by Leonard Nimoy,...
Alex Rocco, whose hard scrabble life on the streets of Boston prepared him to successfully play crime figures in films and on television, has died from pancreatic cancer at age 79. During his youth, Rocco ran with the notorious Winter Hill Gang, which was founded by the infamous Whitey Bulger. His association with the gang led him to be incarcerated as well as being suspected of having driven a getaway car used in a murder. At one point, his first wife was almost killed when a bomb exploded in a car she was driving. Rocco, who was born Alexander Petricone Jr, took the stage name of "Rocco" on a whim when he saw a bakery truck bearing the Rocco name on it. Fearing that his associations of the Boston mob would lead to his demise, he spontaneously decided to move to Hollywood. He took an acting class that was taught by Leonard Nimoy,...
- 7/23/2015
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
Theodore Bikel, the Oscar- and Tony-nominated actor and folk singer, died Tuesday morning in Los Angeles at the age of 91. Bikel died at UCLA Medical Center, his publicist Harlan Boll announced. He earned an Oscar nomination in 1960 for his role in “The Defiant Ones,” starring Tony Curtis and Sidney Poitier. Also Read: Alex Rocco, Actor in 'The Godfather,' Dead at 79 He also originated the role of Captain Georg von Trapp in “The Sound of Music” on Broadway and for playing Tevye in thousands of onstage performances of the musical “Fiddler on the Roof.” He made his first appearance as Tevye in.
- 7/21/2015
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Wrap
Us actor best known for his role as the mobster Moe Greene in The Godfather
Alex Rocco, who has died of cancer aged 79, might have had bigger and more challenging parts than the Jewish mobster Moe Greene in the first part of Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather trilogy (1972), but it remains his most celebrated role.
“The Godfather gave a great boost to my career – although casting directors would always see me as ‘the guy with the bloody eye’, even years later after I had gone in a few different directions,” Rocco commented. “The guy with the bloody eye” was one of several murdered victims who had refused an offer presented to them by Mafia boss Don Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando).
Continue reading...
Alex Rocco, who has died of cancer aged 79, might have had bigger and more challenging parts than the Jewish mobster Moe Greene in the first part of Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather trilogy (1972), but it remains his most celebrated role.
“The Godfather gave a great boost to my career – although casting directors would always see me as ‘the guy with the bloody eye’, even years later after I had gone in a few different directions,” Rocco commented. “The guy with the bloody eye” was one of several murdered victims who had refused an offer presented to them by Mafia boss Don Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando).
Continue reading...
- 7/21/2015
- by Ronald Bergan
- The Guardian - Film News
In today's roundup: A Ben Rivers installation in London and a Tsai Ming-liang exhibition in China. Revisiting Stanley Kubrick's A Clockwork Orange and The Shining. Adrian Martin on mise en scène. Plus articles on Jean-Luc Godard, Catherine Breillat, Billy Wilder, Errol Morris, Takashi Murakami, Guy Maddin, Penelope Spheeris, Kris Swanberg and Josephine Decker. And word on Kanye West and Steve McQueen's video, Oleg Sentsov's trial and Cate Blanchett's television series. And we remember Alex Rocco and George Coe. » - David Hudson...
- 7/21/2015
- Keyframe
In today's roundup: A Ben Rivers installation in London and a Tsai Ming-liang exhibition in China. Revisiting Stanley Kubrick's A Clockwork Orange and The Shining. Adrian Martin on mise en scène. Plus articles on Jean-Luc Godard, Catherine Breillat, Billy Wilder, Errol Morris, Takashi Murakami, Guy Maddin, Penelope Spheeris, Kris Swanberg and Josephine Decker. And word on Kanye West and Steve McQueen's video, Oleg Sentsov's trial and Cate Blanchett's television series. And we remember Alex Rocco and George Coe. » - David Hudson...
- 7/21/2015
- Fandor: Keyframe
Alex Rocco, a character actor who has acted for fifty years and is most famous for starring in "The Godfather," has died after long battle with cancer. He was 79 years old. In "The Godfather," Rocco played casino owner Moe Green. In a 2012 interview, the actor said that the role was "without a doubt, my biggest ticket anywhere. I mean that literally." Rocco has appeared in "Magic City," "Episodes," "The Simpsons," "The Facts of Life," "Batman," "Get Shorty," "A Bug's Life," "The Wedding Planner," "Smokin' Aces" and countless other projects. He won an Emmy in 1990 for best supporting actor in a comedy series for "The Famous Teddy Z."...
- 7/21/2015
- WorstPreviews.com
George Coe, one of Saturday Night Live‘s original “Not Ready for Primetime Players,” died on Saturday after a long illness, our sister site Variety reports. He was 86.
RelatedAlex Rocco, of The Famous Teddy Z and Facts of Life, Dead at 79
Following SNL’s freshman run, Coe appeared in TV series such as (but not limited to) the CBS sitcom Goodnight, Beantown, Hill Street Blues, Scarecrow and Mrs. King, Max Headroom, L.A. Law, the ABC sitcom Working and The West Wing.
Coe returned to his SNL stomping grounds as recently as 1986, playing a judge in the infamous “Get a Life!
RelatedAlex Rocco, of The Famous Teddy Z and Facts of Life, Dead at 79
Following SNL’s freshman run, Coe appeared in TV series such as (but not limited to) the CBS sitcom Goodnight, Beantown, Hill Street Blues, Scarecrow and Mrs. King, Max Headroom, L.A. Law, the ABC sitcom Working and The West Wing.
Coe returned to his SNL stomping grounds as recently as 1986, playing a judge in the infamous “Get a Life!
- 7/20/2015
- TVLine.com
Alex Rocco, a veteran character actor most famous for starring in Hollywood classic "The Godfather," has died. He was 79.
Rocco's daughter, Jennifer Rocco, revealed the actor's passing in a series of Facebook posts, writing that her father passed away on July 18 after a long, private battle with cancer. Jennifer Rocco thanked his fans for their support, writing, "I know he is watching over us."
Alex Rocco's prolific career spanned decades, but the actor became synonymous with "The Godfather," the 1972 Oscar-winning film in which he played casino owner Moe Greene. In a 2012 interview with The A.V. Club, Rocco said that that role was "without a doubt, my biggest ticket anywhere. I mean that literally."
Rocco parlayed that fame into a lengthy, eclectic resume in both film and television. He starred most recently on Starz series "Magic City," "Episodes," and "Maron," and also appeared on shows including "The Simpsons," "The Facts of Life,...
Rocco's daughter, Jennifer Rocco, revealed the actor's passing in a series of Facebook posts, writing that her father passed away on July 18 after a long, private battle with cancer. Jennifer Rocco thanked his fans for their support, writing, "I know he is watching over us."
Alex Rocco's prolific career spanned decades, but the actor became synonymous with "The Godfather," the 1972 Oscar-winning film in which he played casino owner Moe Greene. In a 2012 interview with The A.V. Club, Rocco said that that role was "without a doubt, my biggest ticket anywhere. I mean that literally."
Rocco parlayed that fame into a lengthy, eclectic resume in both film and television. He starred most recently on Starz series "Magic City," "Episodes," and "Maron," and also appeared on shows including "The Simpsons," "The Facts of Life,...
- 7/20/2015
- by Katie Roberts
- Moviefone
Actor Alex Rocco died of cancer this weekend at the age of 79, Variety reports. Rocco went from being a "wannabe gangster" as a kid in a rough Boston neighborhood to playing an actual gangster in Francis Ford Coppola's classic film The Godfather. The actor, who trained under Leonard Nimoy in the 1960s, starred in dozens of films and TV shows and won an Emmy Award in 1990 for his turn as a Hollywood agent in The Famous Teddy Z. Though he had a career replete with roles as heavies, thugs, cops, and entertainment big shots, he remains best known for his performance as Las Vegas casino owner Moe Greene in The Godfather. Greene’s untimely demise at the behest of Al Pacino's Michael Corleone during the baptism/murder climax — one of the great scenes of American cinema — signifies the changing of the regime, as Michael literally and symbolically becomes the Godfather.
- 7/19/2015
- by Greg Cwik
- Vulture
Character actor Alex Rocco has died at the age of 79.
His daughter Jennifer Rocco announced his passing on Facebook. No other details of his death have been announced at this time.
Born Alexander Federico Petricone in 1936, Rocco made his film debut in 1965's Motorpsycho but became known for his appearance as mobster and Las Vegas casino owner Moe Greene in 1972's The Godfather.
Rocco later went on to star in many more films and TV shows over the years, including roles in Tom Hanks' That Thing You Do!, The Simpsons and Pixar's A Bug's Life.
More recently, he starred as Jennifer Lopez's father in The Wedding Planner, and appeared as Dick LeBlanc in Episodes.
The actor took home an Emmy Award in 1990 for his role as a Hollywood agent in The Famous Teddy Z.
Rocco is survived by his wife, actress Shannon Wilcox, his daughter Jennifer and his son Lucien.
His daughter Jennifer Rocco announced his passing on Facebook. No other details of his death have been announced at this time.
Born Alexander Federico Petricone in 1936, Rocco made his film debut in 1965's Motorpsycho but became known for his appearance as mobster and Las Vegas casino owner Moe Greene in 1972's The Godfather.
Rocco later went on to star in many more films and TV shows over the years, including roles in Tom Hanks' That Thing You Do!, The Simpsons and Pixar's A Bug's Life.
More recently, he starred as Jennifer Lopez's father in The Wedding Planner, and appeared as Dick LeBlanc in Episodes.
The actor took home an Emmy Award in 1990 for his role as a Hollywood agent in The Famous Teddy Z.
Rocco is survived by his wife, actress Shannon Wilcox, his daughter Jennifer and his son Lucien.
- 7/19/2015
- Digital Spy
Alex Rocco, best known for his role as Moe Greene in The Godfather, has died at age 79. The actor, who lived in the Los Angeles area, passed away on Saturday. His daughter, Jennifer Rocco, confirmed his death on Facebook. "Alex Rocco aka Alessandro Federico Petricone, Jr. passed away just hours ago on July 18, 2015," she wrote. "February 29, 1936 - July 18, 2015 Rip Dad, be with Mom and Marc....I will see you but not for a while...." Alex is also survived by survived by his wife, actress Shannon Wilcox, son Lucien and a grandson, Variety reported. Alex was born in Boston began his onscreen acting career in the '60s. He took acting classes taught by Star...
- 7/19/2015
- E! Online
Alex Rocco, the Emmy-winning character actor best known for playing wise guys like the Las Vegas casino owner Moe Green in “The Godfather,” died Saturday at age 79. His daughter Jennifer Rocco announced the news on her Facebook page; no cause of death was mentioned. He won an Emmy Award in 1990 for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy for playing an abrasive Hollywood agent Al Floss in the short-lived CBS sitcom “The Famous Teddy Z.” Also Read: Hollywood's Notable Deaths of 2015 (Photos) The show starred Jon Cryer and was based on the true story of Jay Kantor’s up-from-the-mailroom rise in the.
- 7/19/2015
- by Thom Geier
- The Wrap
Actor Alex Rocco, who played casino owner Moe Greene in the first "Godfather" film, has died. Rocco was the voice of Itchy & Scratchy Studio boss Roger Myers, Jr. on "The Simpsons." And he has a slew of other TV credits, including "The Rockford Files," "Starsky & Hutch" and "Facts of Life." He won an Emmy for his role on Jon Cryer's "Famous Teddy Z." Rocco was 79. Read more...
- 7/19/2015
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Alex Rocco, the instantly recognizable character actor who, as casino owner Moe Greene provided The Godfather with one of its most memorable killings, died Saturday. His daughter Jennifer Rocco confirmed his passing on Facebook, attributing his death to cancer, and posted a link to Rocco’s final interview. The actor was 79. With his streetwise Italian demeanor and a gravelly voice that could sound as much Brooklyn as his native Boston (he once described his Boston youth…...
- 7/19/2015
- Deadline
Alex Rocco, an Emmy Award winner for his turn as seasoned colleague to Jon Cryer’s Famous Teddy Z in the 1989 CBS sitcom, died on Saturday at the age of 79.
The veteran actor’s daughter Jennifer shared the news via her Facebook page, saying, “Rip Dad, be with Mom and [their son] Marc….I will see you but not for a while….” A cause of death was not given.
Perhaps best known as casino owner Moe Greene in the original Godfather film, Rocco’s myriad TV credits included the 1975 CBS drama Three for the Road, episodes of Police Story, The Rockford Files and Starsky & Hutch,...
The veteran actor’s daughter Jennifer shared the news via her Facebook page, saying, “Rip Dad, be with Mom and [their son] Marc….I will see you but not for a while….” A cause of death was not given.
Perhaps best known as casino owner Moe Greene in the original Godfather film, Rocco’s myriad TV credits included the 1975 CBS drama Three for the Road, episodes of Police Story, The Rockford Files and Starsky & Hutch,...
- 7/19/2015
- TVLine.com
Rest in peace. Alex Rocco, a character actor perhaps best known for his role as mobster Moe Greene in The Godfather, died of cancer at his Studio City, Calif., home on Saturday, July 18. He was 79. The actor’s death was first announced on Facebook by his daughter Jennifer Rocco in a touching tribute on Sunday, July 19. “Dad… Please don’t see just a boy caught up in dreams and fantasies,” she wrote. “See what I see,/ A gregarious soul that love me,/ I was with you Dad [...]...
- 7/19/2015
- Us Weekly
Alex Rocco, the veteran tough-guy character actor with the gravelly voice best known for playing mobster and Las Vegas casino owner Moe Greene in The Godfather, has died. He was 79. Rocco died Saturday afternoon of cancer at his home in Studio City, his son, Sean, said. Rocco, who studied acting with the late Leonard Nimoy, a fellow Boston-area transplant, also was the voice of Roger Meyers Jr., the cigar-smoking chairman of the studio behind “Itchy and Scratchy” on The Simpsons, and he played Arthur Evans, the father of Jeffrey Dean Morgan’s character, on the stylish
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- 7/19/2015
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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