Movie Reviewed: Prisoner of Zenda(1922)
Prisoner of Zenda, the silent version (1922)
When a king is drugged the day before his coronation by his evil brother Grand Duke 'Black' Michael and then he could put a look alike to the throne. When people accept the look alike as real king then Michael could seize the throne from the look alike. This is the gest of the story, but in 1922, Metro Studio casted some of the best of players of Hollywood that included Lewis Stone, Alice Terry, Ramon Novarro and Barbara La Marr as Antoinette de Mauban, the mistress of the king's treacherous brother. La Marr was referred to as “The Girl Who Is Too Beautiful,” had a very brief career in Hollywood and died at the age of 29. Novarro and Alice Terry were reunited in “Lovers,” but the success of “Prisoner of Zenda” and “Scaramouche,” both directed by Rex Ingram was never repeated in later movies.
This is a tale of gallantry and addiction to power, which led to the production of at least seven screen versions, including this 1922 adaptation. MGM was still not officially formed until 1923 but this movie came out as a product of Metro Studios, and director Rex Ingram brought in Ramon Novarro as the “Latin Lover” to replace Rudolph Valentino who went to work for the rival studio. Ingram gave some of the biggest hits of the silent era. During the production of the movie, Alice Terry married director Rex Ingram. Although the marriage lasted a long time, she also socially mingled with mainly gay men like co-star Ramon Novarro, Barry Norton and others. She accompanied Novarro frequently to speakeasies with predominantly gay clientele. This may have been done with the blessings of the MGM Studios, since Novarro was becoming a big hit and lots were at stake; and the studio wanted him to have the appearance of a man who likes women.
The quality of the DVD is acceptable, but if you are a fan of either Ramon Novarro, or Barbara La Marr or Alice Terry, I think you would like this movie: Highly recommended to all fans of Hollywood’s silent era.
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
Thursday, December 18, 2014
Movie Reviewed: The Sin Of Madelon Claudet (1931), starring Helen Hays
Movie Reviewed: The Sin Of Madelon Claudet (1931), starring Helen Hays
Helen Hays in her Academy award winning role as Madelon Claudet
Helen Hays gives a marvelous performance in a story about mothers’ love for her child tear-jerker. The audience simply loved it. This is a story about a wrongly imprisoned woman who had turned to theft in order to support her son. Later, her son becomes a successful medical doctor but unaware of his mother’s sacrifices. In the final stages they reunite under unexpected circumstances. Helen Hays won her first Academy award in the category of best actress. The movie is based on a play by Edgar Selwyn who directed the film and the script written by her husband Charles MacArthur. It was practically a rewrite of Madame X. The movie is strongly supported by Neil Hamilton, Lewis Stone, Marie Prevost and Jean Hersholt. Robert Young, then a young MGM recruit gave a splendid support to her in this 1931 classic. This is a great movie to watch but a lot of drama.
Helen Hays in her Academy award winning role as Madelon Claudet
Helen Hays gives a marvelous performance in a story about mothers’ love for her child tear-jerker. The audience simply loved it. This is a story about a wrongly imprisoned woman who had turned to theft in order to support her son. Later, her son becomes a successful medical doctor but unaware of his mother’s sacrifices. In the final stages they reunite under unexpected circumstances. Helen Hays won her first Academy award in the category of best actress. The movie is based on a play by Edgar Selwyn who directed the film and the script written by her husband Charles MacArthur. It was practically a rewrite of Madame X. The movie is strongly supported by Neil Hamilton, Lewis Stone, Marie Prevost and Jean Hersholt. Robert Young, then a young MGM recruit gave a splendid support to her in this 1931 classic. This is a great movie to watch but a lot of drama.
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
Movie Reviewed: Mata Hari (1931), starring Greta Garbo and Ramon Novarro
Movie Reviewed: Mata Hari (1931), starring Greta Garbo and Ramon Novarro
The love story of Mata Hari
Was Mata Hari a spy for Germany? Did she betray France? Or was she a free spirited woman living in France, in early twentieth century, emulating other performers like Isadora Duncan and Ruth St. Denis, the female revolutionaries of exotic dance and entertainment in Paris. In this MGM classic of 1931, starring Greta Garbo and Ramon Novarro, Garbo offers a stunning performance as Mata Hari, a German spy but falls in love with a young Russian officer named Lieutenant Alexis Rosanaff (Ramon Novarro). It was one of her several glamorous movie roles and the story start with a seductive Mata Hari style dance that is quite erotic. Ben Mickiewicz said on TCM that the dance may have been done by a stand-in. However, historical figure Mata Hari, in real life was very promiscuous, flirtatious, and openly flaunted her body. She captivated her audiences with her seductive acts at the Musée Guimet in Paris. She posed as a Java princess born to priestly Hindu family, and deeply immersed in the art of sacred Indian dance. She imagined the dance movement of Hindu God Nataraja which is portrayed in a deeply insensitive manner in this film. The artistic performance must not be hurtful to the religious sentiments of others.
Ramon Novarro made an effective romantic foil in their only movie together. Lionel Barrymore, Lewis Stone and Karen Morley performed splendidly in their supporting roles in this George Fitzmaurice directed film. Though the title character was real, the events in the film are mostly fictional, and when this film was in production, it was rumored that Greta Garbo and Ramon Novarro were having an affair. But this couldn't have been the case since both had gay orientation. But they became very good friends after this movie. Mata Hari was certainly a box office hit that went on to make $2.23 million in total revenue. I very much enjoyed this movie and it is strongly recommended!
The love story of Mata Hari
Was Mata Hari a spy for Germany? Did she betray France? Or was she a free spirited woman living in France, in early twentieth century, emulating other performers like Isadora Duncan and Ruth St. Denis, the female revolutionaries of exotic dance and entertainment in Paris. In this MGM classic of 1931, starring Greta Garbo and Ramon Novarro, Garbo offers a stunning performance as Mata Hari, a German spy but falls in love with a young Russian officer named Lieutenant Alexis Rosanaff (Ramon Novarro). It was one of her several glamorous movie roles and the story start with a seductive Mata Hari style dance that is quite erotic. Ben Mickiewicz said on TCM that the dance may have been done by a stand-in. However, historical figure Mata Hari, in real life was very promiscuous, flirtatious, and openly flaunted her body. She captivated her audiences with her seductive acts at the Musée Guimet in Paris. She posed as a Java princess born to priestly Hindu family, and deeply immersed in the art of sacred Indian dance. She imagined the dance movement of Hindu God Nataraja which is portrayed in a deeply insensitive manner in this film. The artistic performance must not be hurtful to the religious sentiments of others.
Ramon Novarro made an effective romantic foil in their only movie together. Lionel Barrymore, Lewis Stone and Karen Morley performed splendidly in their supporting roles in this George Fitzmaurice directed film. Though the title character was real, the events in the film are mostly fictional, and when this film was in production, it was rumored that Greta Garbo and Ramon Novarro were having an affair. But this couldn't have been the case since both had gay orientation. But they became very good friends after this movie. Mata Hari was certainly a box office hit that went on to make $2.23 million in total revenue. I very much enjoyed this movie and it is strongly recommended!
Movie Reviewed: The night is young (1934), starring Ramon Novarro and Evelyn Laye
Movie Reviewed: The night is young (1934), starring Ramon Novarro and Evelyn Laye
Ramon Novarro, in his last film as a MGM actor, worked with British actress Evelyn Laye who interrupted her long stage career in London to star in this 1934 movie. The story is about the schmaltzy romance between an archduke (Novarro) and a ballerina (Laye) that falls flat. The movie produced two hit songs “when I grow too old to dream,” and the title number. The Film uses the talents of Sigmund Romberg for music and Oscar Hammerstein II (libretto) but never captured the musical zest of producer Harry Rapf’s Broadway Melody (1929). Rosalind Russell, Charles Butterworth, Edward Everett Horton, Donald Cook and Una Merkel show their comedic talents in this otherwise boring movie.
Ramon Novarro, in his last film as a MGM actor, worked with British actress Evelyn Laye who interrupted her long stage career in London to star in this 1934 movie. The story is about the schmaltzy romance between an archduke (Novarro) and a ballerina (Laye) that falls flat. The movie produced two hit songs “when I grow too old to dream,” and the title number. The Film uses the talents of Sigmund Romberg for music and Oscar Hammerstein II (libretto) but never captured the musical zest of producer Harry Rapf’s Broadway Melody (1929). Rosalind Russell, Charles Butterworth, Edward Everett Horton, Donald Cook and Una Merkel show their comedic talents in this otherwise boring movie.
Monday, December 15, 2014
Movie Reviewed: Ben-Hur (1925), starring Ramon Novarro
Movie Reviewed: Ben-Hur (1925), starring Ramon Novarro
The tale of Judah Ben-Hur
The biggest gamble of MGM in its first year of birth (1925) was to inherit the movie rights for this epic story of Lew Wallace, Ben-Hur, from Samuel Goldwyn Company. Sam Goldwyn acquired the rights for the film after signing away 50 percent of its future income. The stage production of this story was such a huge success that critics forecasted big return on the film version of the story. At massive production budget, the movie started filming in Rome where enormous sets were constructed. When Goldwyn studio became a part of the MGM Studio, the new President Marcus Loew himself sailed to Rome to rescue the sluggish production with some big time replacements. Fred Niblo was chosen as the new director and Ramon Novarro was cast in the lead as Ben-Hur. At that time, Ramon Novarro had just emerged as the matinee idol after Latin Lover Rudolph Valentino. When Ben-Hur started to suffer from massive costs, the new studio head Louis Mayer and Irving Thalberg intervened and brought the production to California. When the movie was finally released, it was one of the biggest hits in the history of the studio.
The story is about a Jewish Prince, named Judah Ben-Hur who loses his wealth and power and becomes a slave. At enormous odds, he comes back as a prince again, finally to be blessed by Jesus Christ. Although most film goers remember the 1959 remake (also by MGM) with Charlton Heston as Ben-Hur, which won 11 academy awards. This 1925 classic was released when the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences was not even born. This movie is certainly a gem and I am sure all silent movie fans would love the film. The highlight of the movie is the famous chariot race which is as memorable as it is in the 1959 movie: Very highly recommended.
The tale of Judah Ben-Hur
The biggest gamble of MGM in its first year of birth (1925) was to inherit the movie rights for this epic story of Lew Wallace, Ben-Hur, from Samuel Goldwyn Company. Sam Goldwyn acquired the rights for the film after signing away 50 percent of its future income. The stage production of this story was such a huge success that critics forecasted big return on the film version of the story. At massive production budget, the movie started filming in Rome where enormous sets were constructed. When Goldwyn studio became a part of the MGM Studio, the new President Marcus Loew himself sailed to Rome to rescue the sluggish production with some big time replacements. Fred Niblo was chosen as the new director and Ramon Novarro was cast in the lead as Ben-Hur. At that time, Ramon Novarro had just emerged as the matinee idol after Latin Lover Rudolph Valentino. When Ben-Hur started to suffer from massive costs, the new studio head Louis Mayer and Irving Thalberg intervened and brought the production to California. When the movie was finally released, it was one of the biggest hits in the history of the studio.
The story is about a Jewish Prince, named Judah Ben-Hur who loses his wealth and power and becomes a slave. At enormous odds, he comes back as a prince again, finally to be blessed by Jesus Christ. Although most film goers remember the 1959 remake (also by MGM) with Charlton Heston as Ben-Hur, which won 11 academy awards. This 1925 classic was released when the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences was not even born. This movie is certainly a gem and I am sure all silent movie fans would love the film. The highlight of the movie is the famous chariot race which is as memorable as it is in the 1959 movie: Very highly recommended.
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Book Reviewed: West of Sunset, by Stewart O'Nan
Book Reviewed: West of Sunset, by Stewart O'Nan
The troubled life of F. Scott Fitzgerald
This is partly a fictional biography of one of the greatest American writers of 20th century, F. Scott Fitzgerald. The book incorporates many real stories about his life, his struggling career and life in Hollywood during the "golden era." With his wife Zelda in a mental institution and Sheilah Graham, his girlfriend on the other, he struggled with booze, sex and writing screen plays for movies. He was once regarded as a great novelist and short-story writer, and some of his fans thought his writing was better than papa Ernst Hemingway himself.
His career began with a battle with alcoholism and obscurity, and then he moved to Hollywood in a desperate attempt to write for movies. He was hired by MGM Studios, and later he met many celebrities in movie business including Sheilah Graham, a British expatriate, and a Hollywood gossip columnist. Much of the book is devoted to his relationship with Graham; some of the stories narrated in this book are fairly accurate and it resonates with other literary work. The Fitzgerald-Graham love story is peppered with scintillating anecdotes about the movie stars and writers with whom they rubbed elbows at the trendy Sunset Blvd's apartment complex "Garden of Allah," a playground for rich and famous, and other trendy bars in its immediate vicinity.
After Fitzgerald's death, Sheilah Graham wrote about her romance with him in her book "Beloved Infidel," and a movie was also made with Deborah Kerr and Gregory Peck. There is a good deal of history in this book and I highly recommend this to anyone interested in the life of Scott Fitzgerald and the history of Hollywood.
The troubled life of F. Scott Fitzgerald
This is partly a fictional biography of one of the greatest American writers of 20th century, F. Scott Fitzgerald. The book incorporates many real stories about his life, his struggling career and life in Hollywood during the "golden era." With his wife Zelda in a mental institution and Sheilah Graham, his girlfriend on the other, he struggled with booze, sex and writing screen plays for movies. He was once regarded as a great novelist and short-story writer, and some of his fans thought his writing was better than papa Ernst Hemingway himself.
His career began with a battle with alcoholism and obscurity, and then he moved to Hollywood in a desperate attempt to write for movies. He was hired by MGM Studios, and later he met many celebrities in movie business including Sheilah Graham, a British expatriate, and a Hollywood gossip columnist. Much of the book is devoted to his relationship with Graham; some of the stories narrated in this book are fairly accurate and it resonates with other literary work. The Fitzgerald-Graham love story is peppered with scintillating anecdotes about the movie stars and writers with whom they rubbed elbows at the trendy Sunset Blvd's apartment complex "Garden of Allah," a playground for rich and famous, and other trendy bars in its immediate vicinity.
After Fitzgerald's death, Sheilah Graham wrote about her romance with him in her book "Beloved Infidel," and a movie was also made with Deborah Kerr and Gregory Peck. There is a good deal of history in this book and I highly recommend this to anyone interested in the life of Scott Fitzgerald and the history of Hollywood.
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
Movie Reviewed: Animal Kingdom (1932), starring Ann Harding and Leslie Howard
Movie Reviewed: Animal Kingdom (1932), starring Ann Harding and Leslie Howard
Divided heart
This star-studded movie is based on Broadway show entitled “The woman of his house” stars Leslie Howard as the Tom Collier who does the mistake of marrying a socialite (Myrna Loy) rather than the woman he really loves (Ann Harding). Very soon he gets bored with friends and the social atmosphere. His wife begins to dislike the butler (William Gargan) her husband hired; he happens to be an old friend of Tom, and the butler’s behavior with the guests is undesirable and sometimes annoying. When the relationship turns sour, Tom retreats to the arms of his real love (Ann Harding).
The work of director Edward Griffith was tasteful in handling the delicate matter of marital infidelity, and movie critics lauded his efforts. But at the height of great depression, this 1932 movie did not generate enough enthusiasm about the infantile problems of wealthy and spoiled. The movie went on make a loss of $110, 000 which was a lot of money at that time, and borrowing Myrna Loy from MGM turned to be very costly for the RKO Studio. Overall, this is still an interesting pre-code film to watch and I recommend this to all fans of pre-code films.
Divided heart
This star-studded movie is based on Broadway show entitled “The woman of his house” stars Leslie Howard as the Tom Collier who does the mistake of marrying a socialite (Myrna Loy) rather than the woman he really loves (Ann Harding). Very soon he gets bored with friends and the social atmosphere. His wife begins to dislike the butler (William Gargan) her husband hired; he happens to be an old friend of Tom, and the butler’s behavior with the guests is undesirable and sometimes annoying. When the relationship turns sour, Tom retreats to the arms of his real love (Ann Harding).
The work of director Edward Griffith was tasteful in handling the delicate matter of marital infidelity, and movie critics lauded his efforts. But at the height of great depression, this 1932 movie did not generate enough enthusiasm about the infantile problems of wealthy and spoiled. The movie went on make a loss of $110, 000 which was a lot of money at that time, and borrowing Myrna Loy from MGM turned to be very costly for the RKO Studio. Overall, this is still an interesting pre-code film to watch and I recommend this to all fans of pre-code films.
Thursday, December 4, 2014
Movie Reviewed: The Temptress (1926), starring Greta Garbo
Movie Reviewed: The Temptress (1926), starring Greta Garbo
The passion for Elena
MGM Studio picked Ibanez's novel for Greta Garbo's second film and assigned her Swedish mentor Mauritz Stilter as the director. But his slow working methods were reminiscent of recently fired Erich von Stroheim, therfore MGM quickly replaced him with Fred Niblo. The script was built around Garbo as a wicked and seductive woman with no morals. She attracted men like bees and then disgraced them, and drove some of them to suicide and murder and then led herself to the gutters. Her victims are Lionel Barrymore, Rory D'Arcy and Marc MacDermott. The story is a little depressing but Garbo looks as beautiful as ever. This movie produced much publicity and her next film with MGM Studios "Flesh and the Devil" released few months after Temptress exploded the box-office records. If you are fan of Greta Garbo, then you would certainly like this movie.
The passion for Elena
MGM Studio picked Ibanez's novel for Greta Garbo's second film and assigned her Swedish mentor Mauritz Stilter as the director. But his slow working methods were reminiscent of recently fired Erich von Stroheim, therfore MGM quickly replaced him with Fred Niblo. The script was built around Garbo as a wicked and seductive woman with no morals. She attracted men like bees and then disgraced them, and drove some of them to suicide and murder and then led herself to the gutters. Her victims are Lionel Barrymore, Rory D'Arcy and Marc MacDermott. The story is a little depressing but Garbo looks as beautiful as ever. This movie produced much publicity and her next film with MGM Studios "Flesh and the Devil" released few months after Temptress exploded the box-office records. If you are fan of Greta Garbo, then you would certainly like this movie.
Movie Reviewed: King of Kings (1927), dircted by Cecil DeMille
Movie Reviewed: King of Kings (1927), dircted by Cecil DeMille
Gospels Revisited
This is an epic that examines the life of Jesus Christ during his last few years of life leading up to crucifixion and resurrection. Director Cecil DeMille made this film in the hopes that it will be one of his finest creations. After watching this movie there is no doubt in mind that he is the master of movie making. Over the years, many versions of this movie have been made and my favorite is Cecil DeMille’s 1927 classic. This silent classic essentially captures the moment of Jesus’s crucifixion in a stunning photography and the resurrection scenes are magnificent. Much of the movie uses the apostolic verses from canonized gospels to narrate the story. This movie qualifies as one of the best holiday classics that must be aired during the holiday season.
The story begins with a social gathering at the home of Mary Magdalene played by Jacqueline Logan. When she finds that her friend Judas Iscariot was not at her house, but he is with his new friend Jesus. Mary pays a visit to Jesus and there she finds saintly Jesus performing miracles and healing the sick and poor. Some of the highlights of the movie I liked are: Jesus healing a blind girl; cleansing Mary Magdalene from the seven deadly sins; the ambitious Judas trying to cast the devil out of a possessed boy, and Jesus chiding him mildly after that incident; the stoning of an adulteress with Christ exposing her accusers' own failings; and the spectacular earthquake following the Crucifixion. The glow around Jesus after resurrection is amazingly captured.
There is some downside to this movie; actor H.B. Warner who plays Jesus is blonde and blue eyed and has very little appearance of a Jewish man who lived in Nazareth 2000 years ago. In addition Warner was 52 when he played the role of Jesus who was in his thirties. The movie depicts the relationship between Jesus and Mary Magdalene with utmost sensitivity and care, especially in light of the discovery of Gospel of Mary Magdalene at the end of 19th century along with many other gospels. Their interpretation by Biblical Scholars have been carefully examined and used in this story. In the movie, there appears to be some fondness between Judas Iscariot and Mary Magdalene which I was not familiar with from known Apocrypha. This movie is a great holiday classic and I highly recommend this DVD.
Gospels Revisited
This is an epic that examines the life of Jesus Christ during his last few years of life leading up to crucifixion and resurrection. Director Cecil DeMille made this film in the hopes that it will be one of his finest creations. After watching this movie there is no doubt in mind that he is the master of movie making. Over the years, many versions of this movie have been made and my favorite is Cecil DeMille’s 1927 classic. This silent classic essentially captures the moment of Jesus’s crucifixion in a stunning photography and the resurrection scenes are magnificent. Much of the movie uses the apostolic verses from canonized gospels to narrate the story. This movie qualifies as one of the best holiday classics that must be aired during the holiday season.
The story begins with a social gathering at the home of Mary Magdalene played by Jacqueline Logan. When she finds that her friend Judas Iscariot was not at her house, but he is with his new friend Jesus. Mary pays a visit to Jesus and there she finds saintly Jesus performing miracles and healing the sick and poor. Some of the highlights of the movie I liked are: Jesus healing a blind girl; cleansing Mary Magdalene from the seven deadly sins; the ambitious Judas trying to cast the devil out of a possessed boy, and Jesus chiding him mildly after that incident; the stoning of an adulteress with Christ exposing her accusers' own failings; and the spectacular earthquake following the Crucifixion. The glow around Jesus after resurrection is amazingly captured.
There is some downside to this movie; actor H.B. Warner who plays Jesus is blonde and blue eyed and has very little appearance of a Jewish man who lived in Nazareth 2000 years ago. In addition Warner was 52 when he played the role of Jesus who was in his thirties. The movie depicts the relationship between Jesus and Mary Magdalene with utmost sensitivity and care, especially in light of the discovery of Gospel of Mary Magdalene at the end of 19th century along with many other gospels. Their interpretation by Biblical Scholars have been carefully examined and used in this story. In the movie, there appears to be some fondness between Judas Iscariot and Mary Magdalene which I was not familiar with from known Apocrypha. This movie is a great holiday classic and I highly recommend this DVD.
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
Movie Reviewed: On the Moonlight Bay, starring Doris Day
Movie Reviewed: On the Moonlight Bay, starring Doris Day
It is a wonderful life at the Moon Light Bay
I am a big fan of Doris Day, but I can’t help but remember MGM’s stellar classic “Meet Me in St. Louis” starring Judy Garland. Similarities are stunning; the parents of Marjorie Winfield (Doris Day) in this movie look and act similar to parents in “Meet Me in St Louis.” The story is very similar and some critics suggested that this is Warner Brothers version of MGM’s Christmas classic. But anyone who likes Doris Day and the musicals would love this movie. In fact this movie was such a hit that the studio filmed another direct sequel “By the Light of the Silvery Moon (1953)” with all the actors playing the same characters.
The story is about the Winfield family who move into a small town in Indiana. Marjorie Winfield, the daughter of the family begins to romance William Sherman (Gordon MacRae) who lives across the street. Tomboy Marjorie slowly transforms herself into a beautiful young lady. Although Doris Day and Gordon MacRae are little old for the roles they play but their romance picks up and both display their vocal abilities in a number of songs. Jack C. Smith plays the role of Doris' persistent suitor who won't take no for an answer. Ellen Corby is a wonderful schoolteacher who tries to straighten the misbehaving Billy Gray, the brother of Doris Day and Mary Wickes as a maid who is constantly dropping the silverware. This is an outstanding movie despite the fact it has strong resemblance to “Meet Me in St. Louis.” I highly recommend this musical to all the fans of Doris Day.
It is a wonderful life at the Moon Light Bay
I am a big fan of Doris Day, but I can’t help but remember MGM’s stellar classic “Meet Me in St. Louis” starring Judy Garland. Similarities are stunning; the parents of Marjorie Winfield (Doris Day) in this movie look and act similar to parents in “Meet Me in St Louis.” The story is very similar and some critics suggested that this is Warner Brothers version of MGM’s Christmas classic. But anyone who likes Doris Day and the musicals would love this movie. In fact this movie was such a hit that the studio filmed another direct sequel “By the Light of the Silvery Moon (1953)” with all the actors playing the same characters.
The story is about the Winfield family who move into a small town in Indiana. Marjorie Winfield, the daughter of the family begins to romance William Sherman (Gordon MacRae) who lives across the street. Tomboy Marjorie slowly transforms herself into a beautiful young lady. Although Doris Day and Gordon MacRae are little old for the roles they play but their romance picks up and both display their vocal abilities in a number of songs. Jack C. Smith plays the role of Doris' persistent suitor who won't take no for an answer. Ellen Corby is a wonderful schoolteacher who tries to straighten the misbehaving Billy Gray, the brother of Doris Day and Mary Wickes as a maid who is constantly dropping the silverware. This is an outstanding movie despite the fact it has strong resemblance to “Meet Me in St. Louis.” I highly recommend this musical to all the fans of Doris Day.
Book Reviewed: Full Service: My Adventures in Hollywood and the Secret Sex Lives of the Stars, by Scotty Bowers
Book Reviewed - Full Service: My Adventures in Hollywood and the Secret Sex Lives of the Stars, by Scotty Bowers
Scotty Bowers from inside Hollywood
This book reads more like a trashy magazine sold at the checkout counters of the grocery stores. The author was a gas pump jockey and a part-time bartender at Hollywood private functions who rose to the level of a close confidant of well-known men and women in Hollywood, including the members of British Royal Family. The author likes to call “tricking” for his “escort service business.” It was a way of hooking of wealthy women and men for illicit affairs during late 1930s to 1970s. There is a long list of names and their fetishes and deviant sexual escapades. Some of his clients were also heterosexuals like Desi Arnaz, Bob Hope, and few others. The book paints a reckless and racy behavior of his clients that his book had to be vetted by a libel attorney before publication.
The author claims that he arranged various types of encounters for Cary Grant, Randall Scott, Tennessee Williams, Raymond Burr, James Dean, Tony Perkins, Montgomery Clift, Rock Hudson, Ramon Novarro, Charles Laughton, Tyrone Power, Edith Piaf, Noel Coward, Desi Arnaz, Spencer Tracy, Somerset Maugham, Lawrence Olivier, Vincent Price, Cole Porter, and finally Camelot couple of mid-thirties Duke (formerly King Edward VIII) and Duchess of Windsor. The author fondly refers to them as Eddy and Wally. Edward's womanizing (and gay) behavior was reckless during 1920s and 1930s. This worried British Prime Minister Baldwin, King George V and the Royal Family. Both Duke and Duchess were known to have many male and female lovers, and the author claims that he arranged the “escort service.” Jimmy Donahue, an heir to the Woolworth fortune also boasted to have a liaison with the Duchess.
Describing the individual nature of his clients, the author observes that Errol Flynn was quite a lothario; he drank so much that he could not satisfy the ladies. Katherine Hepburn did not get along with many people around her, and the author says that the studio generated rumor that she was “madly in love” with Spencer Tracy was false. According to him, there was no evidence of “love for Tracy” during his “close friendship” with Hepburn. In fact she liked ladies, especially young brunettes. Director George Cukor is another well-known homosexual and legendary for wild pool parties was also a top client of the author.
Several critics and book reviewers suggested that this book is partly fictionalized but author and playwright Gore Vidal said many stories are correctly documented.
Scotty Bowers from inside Hollywood
This book reads more like a trashy magazine sold at the checkout counters of the grocery stores. The author was a gas pump jockey and a part-time bartender at Hollywood private functions who rose to the level of a close confidant of well-known men and women in Hollywood, including the members of British Royal Family. The author likes to call “tricking” for his “escort service business.” It was a way of hooking of wealthy women and men for illicit affairs during late 1930s to 1970s. There is a long list of names and their fetishes and deviant sexual escapades. Some of his clients were also heterosexuals like Desi Arnaz, Bob Hope, and few others. The book paints a reckless and racy behavior of his clients that his book had to be vetted by a libel attorney before publication.
The author claims that he arranged various types of encounters for Cary Grant, Randall Scott, Tennessee Williams, Raymond Burr, James Dean, Tony Perkins, Montgomery Clift, Rock Hudson, Ramon Novarro, Charles Laughton, Tyrone Power, Edith Piaf, Noel Coward, Desi Arnaz, Spencer Tracy, Somerset Maugham, Lawrence Olivier, Vincent Price, Cole Porter, and finally Camelot couple of mid-thirties Duke (formerly King Edward VIII) and Duchess of Windsor. The author fondly refers to them as Eddy and Wally. Edward's womanizing (and gay) behavior was reckless during 1920s and 1930s. This worried British Prime Minister Baldwin, King George V and the Royal Family. Both Duke and Duchess were known to have many male and female lovers, and the author claims that he arranged the “escort service.” Jimmy Donahue, an heir to the Woolworth fortune also boasted to have a liaison with the Duchess.
Describing the individual nature of his clients, the author observes that Errol Flynn was quite a lothario; he drank so much that he could not satisfy the ladies. Katherine Hepburn did not get along with many people around her, and the author says that the studio generated rumor that she was “madly in love” with Spencer Tracy was false. According to him, there was no evidence of “love for Tracy” during his “close friendship” with Hepburn. In fact she liked ladies, especially young brunettes. Director George Cukor is another well-known homosexual and legendary for wild pool parties was also a top client of the author.
Several critics and book reviewers suggested that this book is partly fictionalized but author and playwright Gore Vidal said many stories are correctly documented.
Book Reviewed: Malibu: A Century of Living by the Sea, by Julius Shulman
Book Reviewed: Malibu: A Century of Living by the Sea, by Julius Shulman
Malibu and the oceanfront homes; a pictorial history
Malibu has been the place for rich and famous with its oceanfront homes and picturesque views. The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) that cuts through the city sits right next to the ocean but beneath the Santa Monica Mountains giving auto drivers the best view of Pacific Ocean. Ever since the city was founded in 1920s, Rancho Malibu attracted the Hollywood elite who came here for peace and tranquility. This also attracted well known architects and interior decorators to design and decorate the residences that gave a depth to the seaside living. Of course the wealthy residents could afford the cost to build the best houses; thus came the magnificent mansions in Malibu
In this book the author provides a pictorial history of Malibu. There are many pictures of homes of movie stars of 1920s/30s/40s who made Malibu as their home. There is also some discussion of the work of architects in designing these houses. Historically significant houses like the Adamson house is also shown in this book with several views of the ocean, and also the interior of the house. This house still sits at its original spot across from Malibu Colony, a thriving shopping center and the house is open for visitors. The chief architect of Adamson’s house was Stiles O Clement.
Some of the historical pictures that interested me are the following: a 1890 picture of Paradise Cove; 1929 picture of the opening of picturesque Pacific Coast Highway (then called Roosevelt Highway); a 1893 picture of Rindge family home; 1939 picture of Malibu Colony with its own private beach; and 1924 picture of actress Louise Fazenda’s house.
The highly unconventional Stevens house of Malibu was designed by the architect John Lautner; one of the twentieth century’s most extraordinarily gifted and experimental designers. His work is shown in several pictures of the house still located in Malibu Colony. Moore House, “Windcliff” on the top of Saddle Peak (elevation 2,800 feet); another beautiful house was designed by architect James Moore. This house has stunning views of the ocean. The Hodges Castle is a 15,200 sq. foot castle built by architect Thomas Hodges. This structure is known for crenellated skyline, astonishing mass and perfect sitting on the landscape overlooking Malibu Lagoon State Park. This is the private home of a real princess and the castle was renamed as Kashan Castle. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in Malibu, California; seafront homes; architecture and interior designing. This also makes a great book for your tea table.
Malibu and the oceanfront homes; a pictorial history
Malibu has been the place for rich and famous with its oceanfront homes and picturesque views. The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) that cuts through the city sits right next to the ocean but beneath the Santa Monica Mountains giving auto drivers the best view of Pacific Ocean. Ever since the city was founded in 1920s, Rancho Malibu attracted the Hollywood elite who came here for peace and tranquility. This also attracted well known architects and interior decorators to design and decorate the residences that gave a depth to the seaside living. Of course the wealthy residents could afford the cost to build the best houses; thus came the magnificent mansions in Malibu
In this book the author provides a pictorial history of Malibu. There are many pictures of homes of movie stars of 1920s/30s/40s who made Malibu as their home. There is also some discussion of the work of architects in designing these houses. Historically significant houses like the Adamson house is also shown in this book with several views of the ocean, and also the interior of the house. This house still sits at its original spot across from Malibu Colony, a thriving shopping center and the house is open for visitors. The chief architect of Adamson’s house was Stiles O Clement.
Some of the historical pictures that interested me are the following: a 1890 picture of Paradise Cove; 1929 picture of the opening of picturesque Pacific Coast Highway (then called Roosevelt Highway); a 1893 picture of Rindge family home; 1939 picture of Malibu Colony with its own private beach; and 1924 picture of actress Louise Fazenda’s house.
The highly unconventional Stevens house of Malibu was designed by the architect John Lautner; one of the twentieth century’s most extraordinarily gifted and experimental designers. His work is shown in several pictures of the house still located in Malibu Colony. Moore House, “Windcliff” on the top of Saddle Peak (elevation 2,800 feet); another beautiful house was designed by architect James Moore. This house has stunning views of the ocean. The Hodges Castle is a 15,200 sq. foot castle built by architect Thomas Hodges. This structure is known for crenellated skyline, astonishing mass and perfect sitting on the landscape overlooking Malibu Lagoon State Park. This is the private home of a real princess and the castle was renamed as Kashan Castle. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in Malibu, California; seafront homes; architecture and interior designing. This also makes a great book for your tea table.
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
Book Reviewed: The Tumbleweed Society: Working and Caring in an Age of Insecurity, by Allison J. Pugh
Book Reviewed: The Tumbleweed Society: Working and Caring in an Age of Insecurity, by Allison J. Pugh
Sociology of the divided mind: Tackling the mind-body disorders of the 21 century
The 21 century is becoming more like a tumbleweed society, where job insecurity is large and the economic disparities are wide. Will this eventually become 99.9 percent to 0.1 percent class system? What would be the future of let “free market” take care of itself so that the prosperity offered thus far will continue to get better, as many politicians like us to believe every four years when they need our votes. In this book, University of Virginia Professor Allison Pugh focuses on job insecurities and forging family connections. The insecurity resulting from the end of the traditional job and the traditional family (historically this was referred to married life between a man and woman) is already discussed by numerous sociologists, philosophers and management/business specialists. The premise is that we are moving away from an "insurance" state, where our basic security was protected by jobs and "till death do we part" marriages, with kids and moral support from parents/grandparents. There is no such thing as traditional marriage now, and the jobs could be anywhere in this global economy.
Professor Pugh sees a connection between the obligation of an individual to his/her job and the employer, and to his/her family. With greater sense of job insecurity, the individual turn to fulfilling family obligations and likes to develop intimate relationship to gain a sense of security. If family situation doesn’t pan out to be secure, then people construct stronger walls between themselves and the jobs and the family: The fabric of our connected lives weakens.
It is rather interesting to compare this work with the work of University of South Carolina Professor Jerald Wallulis who has studied this problem from a philosophical point, and concludes that the American dream of a well-paid job and greater prosperity for one's children is very remote and unrealistic romantic notion. Equally unrealistic is the expectation of sharing the American dream with the same partner for the rest of one’s life.
In this tumbleweed society, working and caring in an age of job insecurity is not a simple problem to tackle. We live in a global market where the goods and services are bought and sold across the borders. The global economy, technological advances and the multiculturalism is changing the way of life faster than we can imagine. Professor Pugh is seeing the problem through a very narrow window where she doesn’t even discuss how the tumbleweed society made of many cultures and age groups are affected by the new insecurities. There are many studies that suggest that age plays out differently on personal and professional insecurities. Younger generation handles things differently than older generations, and in the world of alcohol and controlled substances, moods and perceptions change, and priorities take whole new meanings.
Sociology of the divided mind: Tackling the mind-body disorders of the 21 century
The 21 century is becoming more like a tumbleweed society, where job insecurity is large and the economic disparities are wide. Will this eventually become 99.9 percent to 0.1 percent class system? What would be the future of let “free market” take care of itself so that the prosperity offered thus far will continue to get better, as many politicians like us to believe every four years when they need our votes. In this book, University of Virginia Professor Allison Pugh focuses on job insecurities and forging family connections. The insecurity resulting from the end of the traditional job and the traditional family (historically this was referred to married life between a man and woman) is already discussed by numerous sociologists, philosophers and management/business specialists. The premise is that we are moving away from an "insurance" state, where our basic security was protected by jobs and "till death do we part" marriages, with kids and moral support from parents/grandparents. There is no such thing as traditional marriage now, and the jobs could be anywhere in this global economy.
Professor Pugh sees a connection between the obligation of an individual to his/her job and the employer, and to his/her family. With greater sense of job insecurity, the individual turn to fulfilling family obligations and likes to develop intimate relationship to gain a sense of security. If family situation doesn’t pan out to be secure, then people construct stronger walls between themselves and the jobs and the family: The fabric of our connected lives weakens.
It is rather interesting to compare this work with the work of University of South Carolina Professor Jerald Wallulis who has studied this problem from a philosophical point, and concludes that the American dream of a well-paid job and greater prosperity for one's children is very remote and unrealistic romantic notion. Equally unrealistic is the expectation of sharing the American dream with the same partner for the rest of one’s life.
In this tumbleweed society, working and caring in an age of job insecurity is not a simple problem to tackle. We live in a global market where the goods and services are bought and sold across the borders. The global economy, technological advances and the multiculturalism is changing the way of life faster than we can imagine. Professor Pugh is seeing the problem through a very narrow window where she doesn’t even discuss how the tumbleweed society made of many cultures and age groups are affected by the new insecurities. There are many studies that suggest that age plays out differently on personal and professional insecurities. Younger generation handles things differently than older generations, and in the world of alcohol and controlled substances, moods and perceptions change, and priorities take whole new meanings.
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Movie Reviewed: Kiki (1926) starring Norma Talmadge
Movie Reviewed: Kiki (1926) starring Norma Talmadge
Kiki is a beautiful romantic comedy, starring Norma Talmadge
Norma Talmadge plays Kiki in this delightful comedy made in the silent era (1926). Kiki is a young Parisian woman who sells newspapers for a living, but her sights are set to sing in the local Follies revue. With some difficulty she arranges to audition for a role and gets the part with some trickery and deception. Her performance equals that of Lucille Ball; a real screwball slapstick. Very soon she develops romantic interests in the manager played by Ronald Coleman who is already engaged to another chorus girl named Paulette Mascar (Gertrude Astor). Some of the hilarious moment of the movie is when Kiki hides in Coleman’s office; his fiancée finds out and she gets outraged and storms out. Later Kiki goes on a dinner date with him where she has cat fight with Paulette.
Kiki is very well restored in spite of the fact that it was reconstructed by the Library of Congress from incomplete English and French prints. A real gem and this must be treasured.
Kiki is a beautiful romantic comedy, starring Norma Talmadge
Norma Talmadge plays Kiki in this delightful comedy made in the silent era (1926). Kiki is a young Parisian woman who sells newspapers for a living, but her sights are set to sing in the local Follies revue. With some difficulty she arranges to audition for a role and gets the part with some trickery and deception. Her performance equals that of Lucille Ball; a real screwball slapstick. Very soon she develops romantic interests in the manager played by Ronald Coleman who is already engaged to another chorus girl named Paulette Mascar (Gertrude Astor). Some of the hilarious moment of the movie is when Kiki hides in Coleman’s office; his fiancée finds out and she gets outraged and storms out. Later Kiki goes on a dinner date with him where she has cat fight with Paulette.
Kiki is very well restored in spite of the fact that it was reconstructed by the Library of Congress from incomplete English and French prints. A real gem and this must be treasured.
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Movie Reviwed: Cain and Mabel (1936), starring Marion Davies and Clark Gable
Movie Reviwed: Cain and Mabel (1936), starring Marion Davies and Clark Gable
The main event
This movie is the brainchild of William Randolph Hearst to boost the film career of his mistress Marion Davies, and he persuaded Jack Warner to hire the services of Clark Gable from MGM studios. Davies starts as a waitress and turn herself into a star of a musical, and Gable stars as the heavyweight boxing champion. When they meet, the relationship is a little sour and even hostile but as the movie progresses, they fall in love. The romance is engineered by newspaper man Roscoe Karns to create a public image for both Davies and Gable. At the end they realize that they truly love each other and get rid of associated publicity to become private couples.
Gable offers his usual performance and Marion Davies is magnificent. The musical numbers are by Al Dubin and Harry Warren and it was staged by Bobby Connolly. In spite of collective effort, the movie was not a success. But it has many likable songs that include Coney Island, and Here comes Chiquita.
The main event
This movie is the brainchild of William Randolph Hearst to boost the film career of his mistress Marion Davies, and he persuaded Jack Warner to hire the services of Clark Gable from MGM studios. Davies starts as a waitress and turn herself into a star of a musical, and Gable stars as the heavyweight boxing champion. When they meet, the relationship is a little sour and even hostile but as the movie progresses, they fall in love. The romance is engineered by newspaper man Roscoe Karns to create a public image for both Davies and Gable. At the end they realize that they truly love each other and get rid of associated publicity to become private couples.
Gable offers his usual performance and Marion Davies is magnificent. The musical numbers are by Al Dubin and Harry Warren and it was staged by Bobby Connolly. In spite of collective effort, the movie was not a success. But it has many likable songs that include Coney Island, and Here comes Chiquita.
Movie Reviewed: Mexican Spitfire series, starring Lupe Velez
Movie Reviewed: Mexican Spitfire series, starring Lupe Velez
Lupe Velez is outrageously funny in this Mexican Spitfire movie series
Lupe Velez, the girl from Mexico plays Carmelita Fuentes and later as Carmelita Lindsay. Producer Robert Sisk Brought Lupe Velez back to the movies after 18 months of absence. She is cast as a fiery Latin entertainer who turns Manhattan topsy-turvy with her madcap activities; at best she is the Latin version of Lucille Ball. Donald Wood as bewildered ad-man becomes weak to the romantic onslaught of the Mexican Spitfire, and strongly supported by Leon Errol as uncle Lindsay/Lord Epping. Girl from Mexico became the pilot of the RKO's Mexican Spitfire series.
The Mexican Spitfire film is about Linda Hays as the former fiancée of Donald Wood and Elisabeth Risdon as her aunt to break up the marriage of Woods with Carmelita. Leon Errol plays the dual role of uncle of Donald Wood attempts to straighten the martial problems of the newlyweds and also as Lord Epping, the whiskey baron who is the client of Donald Wood acts in antagonistic fashion towards Linda Hays and his wife Elisabeth Risdon. RKO made a loss of $4,000 at a cost of $102,000 in 1939 in making this film, but it was hit in other ways and the studio went on to make several Spitfire movies that included; Mexican Spitfire out West, Mexican Spitfire's baby, Mexican Spitfire at sea, Mexican Spitfire sees a ghost, Mexican Spitfire's elephant, and Mexican Spitfire's blessed event.
This DVD set is an absolutely a great purchase and I am sure you will like Lupe Velez and her madcap acts. If you like Lucille Ball, you will like Lupe Velez.
Lupe Velez is outrageously funny in this Mexican Spitfire movie series
Lupe Velez, the girl from Mexico plays Carmelita Fuentes and later as Carmelita Lindsay. Producer Robert Sisk Brought Lupe Velez back to the movies after 18 months of absence. She is cast as a fiery Latin entertainer who turns Manhattan topsy-turvy with her madcap activities; at best she is the Latin version of Lucille Ball. Donald Wood as bewildered ad-man becomes weak to the romantic onslaught of the Mexican Spitfire, and strongly supported by Leon Errol as uncle Lindsay/Lord Epping. Girl from Mexico became the pilot of the RKO's Mexican Spitfire series.
The Mexican Spitfire film is about Linda Hays as the former fiancée of Donald Wood and Elisabeth Risdon as her aunt to break up the marriage of Woods with Carmelita. Leon Errol plays the dual role of uncle of Donald Wood attempts to straighten the martial problems of the newlyweds and also as Lord Epping, the whiskey baron who is the client of Donald Wood acts in antagonistic fashion towards Linda Hays and his wife Elisabeth Risdon. RKO made a loss of $4,000 at a cost of $102,000 in 1939 in making this film, but it was hit in other ways and the studio went on to make several Spitfire movies that included; Mexican Spitfire out West, Mexican Spitfire's baby, Mexican Spitfire at sea, Mexican Spitfire sees a ghost, Mexican Spitfire's elephant, and Mexican Spitfire's blessed event.
This DVD set is an absolutely a great purchase and I am sure you will like Lupe Velez and her madcap acts. If you like Lucille Ball, you will like Lupe Velez.
Movie Reviewed: Jungle Bride (1933), starring Anita Page
Movie Reviewed: Jungle Bride (1933), starring Anita Page
Jungle Bride (1933): Anita Page is gorgeous in this drama
This is certainly a little more interesting film than Hell Harbor, and if you are a fan of Anita Page, you would like this. The story is also a drama where a woman chases an entertainer around the globe in order to clear her innocent brother's name in a murder. When the ship sinks in the ocean only four people; the entertainer, his friend, the girl and a reporter land on a deserted island. There is a lot pre-marital sex, pregnancy, and partial nudity in this pre-code film just before Hay’s office started enforcing moral code.
Jungle Bride (1933): Anita Page is gorgeous in this drama
This is certainly a little more interesting film than Hell Harbor, and if you are a fan of Anita Page, you would like this. The story is also a drama where a woman chases an entertainer around the globe in order to clear her innocent brother's name in a murder. When the ship sinks in the ocean only four people; the entertainer, his friend, the girl and a reporter land on a deserted island. There is a lot pre-marital sex, pregnancy, and partial nudity in this pre-code film just before Hay’s office started enforcing moral code.
Movie Reviewed: Hell Harbor (1930), starring Lupe Velez
Movie Reviewed: Hell Harbor (1930)
A drama starring Lupe Velez
If you are a fan of Lupe Velez, you know that she is best at comedies. This movie is not as good as her Mexican Spitfire movie series where she performs beautifully. There is a lot of yelling and shouting’s in this drama in which her abusive father promises him to marry his only daughter to a much older merchant, played by Jean Hersholt, to pay off his debt. But Anita dreams of escaping the loneliness of her island home and go to Havana. During her struggles with her father, she meets an American and falls in love with him.
The movie is slow moving and boring; the dialogue and sound is awful and Velez’s performance is a little overdone.
A drama starring Lupe Velez
If you are a fan of Lupe Velez, you know that she is best at comedies. This movie is not as good as her Mexican Spitfire movie series where she performs beautifully. There is a lot of yelling and shouting’s in this drama in which her abusive father promises him to marry his only daughter to a much older merchant, played by Jean Hersholt, to pay off his debt. But Anita dreams of escaping the loneliness of her island home and go to Havana. During her struggles with her father, she meets an American and falls in love with him.
The movie is slow moving and boring; the dialogue and sound is awful and Velez’s performance is a little overdone.
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Movie Reviewed: Annie Oakley, starring Barbara Oakley
Movie Reviewed: Annie Oakley, starring Barbara Oakley
Barbara Stanwyck is magnificent as Annie, “the little sure shot”
Over the years historians have documented the rise of Annie Oakley, the five foot girl from Ohio who donned the Wild West stage with Buffalo Bill as a sharp shooter. In this movie, her legend is beautifully portrayed by Barbara Stanwyck. She captures Annie's wits and spirit. Some critics suggested that she was born to play Annie Oakley. Stanwyck captures the minds and hearts of the viewer's better than Ethel Merman on stage and Betty Hutton in the 1950 movie, "Annie get your gun." Her performance is magnificent. The story simply recapitulates on how hard it is for a woman to be a success in an entertainment type of show. In fact she was the first female superstar.
Part of the movie is focused on the love life of Annie and her boyfriend, coach and co-performer, Toby Wheeler. When she steals the minds and hearts of the fans, their relationship suffers; rivalry and distrust grows leading to misunderstanding and their separation. This is a familiar story that is tackled in numerous movies where a successful girlfriend or wife causes jealousy in the mind of a guy.
Barbara Stanwyck is magnificent as Annie, “the little sure shot”
Over the years historians have documented the rise of Annie Oakley, the five foot girl from Ohio who donned the Wild West stage with Buffalo Bill as a sharp shooter. In this movie, her legend is beautifully portrayed by Barbara Stanwyck. She captures Annie's wits and spirit. Some critics suggested that she was born to play Annie Oakley. Stanwyck captures the minds and hearts of the viewer's better than Ethel Merman on stage and Betty Hutton in the 1950 movie, "Annie get your gun." Her performance is magnificent. The story simply recapitulates on how hard it is for a woman to be a success in an entertainment type of show. In fact she was the first female superstar.
Part of the movie is focused on the love life of Annie and her boyfriend, coach and co-performer, Toby Wheeler. When she steals the minds and hearts of the fans, their relationship suffers; rivalry and distrust grows leading to misunderstanding and their separation. This is a familiar story that is tackled in numerous movies where a successful girlfriend or wife causes jealousy in the mind of a guy.
Sunday, November 16, 2014
Book Reviewed: Lonely Planet Discover New York City (Travel Guide) by Regis St Louis and Cristian Bonetto
Book Reviewed: Lonely Planet Discover New York City (Travel Guide) by Regis St Louis and Cristian Bonetto
Lonely planet’s New York City
This reference book has lot of useful up-to-date advice on what to see in Manhattan. The book is divided into six sections that detail the places to see and enjoy which includes. East Village and Lower East Side; the Financial District, Greenwich Village, Union Square, the Midtown Manhattan, Central Park area and Upper East Side.
While in Manhattan you get to see many museums, visit some of the best restaurants. If you are interested in bars, nightclubs or shopping then you may need this book. There is a wealth of information with maps; all in color, this makes your trip worthwhile with this book at your side.
Lonely planet’s New York City
This reference book has lot of useful up-to-date advice on what to see in Manhattan. The book is divided into six sections that detail the places to see and enjoy which includes. East Village and Lower East Side; the Financial District, Greenwich Village, Union Square, the Midtown Manhattan, Central Park area and Upper East Side.
While in Manhattan you get to see many museums, visit some of the best restaurants. If you are interested in bars, nightclubs or shopping then you may need this book. There is a wealth of information with maps; all in color, this makes your trip worthwhile with this book at your side.
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Book Reviewed: The Higgs Fake: How Particle Physicists Fooled the Nobel Committee, by Alexander Unzicker
Book Reviewed: The Higgs Fake: How Particle Physicists Fooled the Nobel Committee, by Alexander Unzicker
A provocative account of the discovery of Higgs Bosons
This is a daring and highly provocative account of the handling of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) data that led to the discovery of Higgs Bosons. This discovery is deemed extremely important since it confirms the existence of Higgs field in the early universe when matter first acquired mass. The author comes swinging right from beginning to the end, and spare no physicist of current era. He is most critical of well-known physicists like City University of New York Professor Michio Kaku, Harvard University Professor Lisa Randall, Caltech Professor Sean Carroll and University of Manchester Professor Brian Cox. He targets all those popular physics writers and physics television personalities who have cozy relationships with TV folks. He alleges that they are pleased to say exaggerating things on television; he cites several examples to prove his point.
Author Unzicker’s hits hard at the politics that goes behind the closed door; the way experimental data from LHC is handled by a large group of physicists where only a few have significant say in the interpretation. He suggests that all data be available to everyone, make smaller groups and listen to the alternative interpretation of the data. Transparency of the data is the key, says the author. It is common to find in all scientific disciplines that leading scientists use experimental data to support one’s own theory; then what is the problem? The author points to the costs of LHC which works with a budget of 7.5 billion Euros; the most expensive and highly extravagant operation ever conducted in science. His argument is that this huge tax payer’s money is badly mismanaged! The author thinks outside the mainstream of physics and speaks out loudly. He has to look at the outcome of LHC experiments; it proved the existence Higgs Bosons that supports standard model of physics. We have also made significant advances in science and technology which means that our science investments are still working. There is also non-financial reward, the goodwill and pride; it is the amount that you need to pay for national pride.
A provocative account of the discovery of Higgs Bosons
This is a daring and highly provocative account of the handling of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) data that led to the discovery of Higgs Bosons. This discovery is deemed extremely important since it confirms the existence of Higgs field in the early universe when matter first acquired mass. The author comes swinging right from beginning to the end, and spare no physicist of current era. He is most critical of well-known physicists like City University of New York Professor Michio Kaku, Harvard University Professor Lisa Randall, Caltech Professor Sean Carroll and University of Manchester Professor Brian Cox. He targets all those popular physics writers and physics television personalities who have cozy relationships with TV folks. He alleges that they are pleased to say exaggerating things on television; he cites several examples to prove his point.
Author Unzicker’s hits hard at the politics that goes behind the closed door; the way experimental data from LHC is handled by a large group of physicists where only a few have significant say in the interpretation. He suggests that all data be available to everyone, make smaller groups and listen to the alternative interpretation of the data. Transparency of the data is the key, says the author. It is common to find in all scientific disciplines that leading scientists use experimental data to support one’s own theory; then what is the problem? The author points to the costs of LHC which works with a budget of 7.5 billion Euros; the most expensive and highly extravagant operation ever conducted in science. His argument is that this huge tax payer’s money is badly mismanaged! The author thinks outside the mainstream of physics and speaks out loudly. He has to look at the outcome of LHC experiments; it proved the existence Higgs Bosons that supports standard model of physics. We have also made significant advances in science and technology which means that our science investments are still working. There is also non-financial reward, the goodwill and pride; it is the amount that you need to pay for national pride.
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
Book Reviewed: Jesus Is the Question: The 307 Questions Jesus Asked and the 3 He Answered by Martin B Copenhaver
Book Reviewed: Jesus Is the Question: The 307 Questions Jesus Asked and the 3 He Answered by Martin B Copenhaver
Is Jesus the Answer Man? (four stars)
Contrary to the common beliefs in Cristian faith, Jesus is not the ultimate Answer Man, but he was more like questioner. We are familiar with Jesus’s parables and aphorisms stated in the canonical gospels of the New Testament. Through this, it becomes clear that Jesus answers questions indirectly through parables rather than provide a direct answer. It is up to the questioner/inquisitive to find answers in his aphorisms. The fact that Jesus did not write anything complicated the matter even further, and in this book, author Martin Copenhaver of Andover Newton Theological School, and former pastor of Wellesley Congregational church in Massachusetts describes Jesus from a different perspective, that is, through his questions. In the Gospels, Jesus asks 307 questions; but his followers ask him 183 questions and only three of those questions get a response. Jesus modeled the struggle; finding personal connection with god is by understanding ourselves and our role in god’s creation. An answer to a question may be short lived or it may be followed up with a series of question which could become endless.
There are more than 50 gospels in Christian Apocrypha that narrate the life and works of Jesus, and only four of them were canonized and made their way into New Testament. Gnostic gospels like the gospel of Mary Magdalene, gospel of Judas, gospel of Thomas, gospel of Philip, gospel of Truth, and gospel of James are not incorporated into the Bible, but they are relevant. In fact, gospel of Mary Magdalene is one of the most important gospels since she was the closest disciple of Jesus and knew him better than the other apostles. Gospel of Thomas is also one of the most important apostolic works.
The book is written well and the chapters are divided into the nature of questions as it pertains to compassion, about identity, faith, love, healing, etc. Chapter 13, the last chapter gives a summary of Jesus’s questions and reflects upon his life. I recommend this book to readers interested in the historical aspects of Jesus and Biblical Apocrypha.
Is Jesus the Answer Man? (four stars)
Contrary to the common beliefs in Cristian faith, Jesus is not the ultimate Answer Man, but he was more like questioner. We are familiar with Jesus’s parables and aphorisms stated in the canonical gospels of the New Testament. Through this, it becomes clear that Jesus answers questions indirectly through parables rather than provide a direct answer. It is up to the questioner/inquisitive to find answers in his aphorisms. The fact that Jesus did not write anything complicated the matter even further, and in this book, author Martin Copenhaver of Andover Newton Theological School, and former pastor of Wellesley Congregational church in Massachusetts describes Jesus from a different perspective, that is, through his questions. In the Gospels, Jesus asks 307 questions; but his followers ask him 183 questions and only three of those questions get a response. Jesus modeled the struggle; finding personal connection with god is by understanding ourselves and our role in god’s creation. An answer to a question may be short lived or it may be followed up with a series of question which could become endless.
There are more than 50 gospels in Christian Apocrypha that narrate the life and works of Jesus, and only four of them were canonized and made their way into New Testament. Gnostic gospels like the gospel of Mary Magdalene, gospel of Judas, gospel of Thomas, gospel of Philip, gospel of Truth, and gospel of James are not incorporated into the Bible, but they are relevant. In fact, gospel of Mary Magdalene is one of the most important gospels since she was the closest disciple of Jesus and knew him better than the other apostles. Gospel of Thomas is also one of the most important apostolic works.
The book is written well and the chapters are divided into the nature of questions as it pertains to compassion, about identity, faith, love, healing, etc. Chapter 13, the last chapter gives a summary of Jesus’s questions and reflects upon his life. I recommend this book to readers interested in the historical aspects of Jesus and Biblical Apocrypha.
Sunday, November 9, 2014
Book Reviewed: Hatred: Islam's War on Christianity by Michael Coren
Book Reviewed: Hatred: Islam's War on Christianity by Michael Coren
Scholarly work
Islamists are persecuting and murdering Christians all over the world. Where in the world is Network news or our political leaders who downplays the atrocities perpetrated by Muslims against Christians and religious minorities? The murder of Christians, ethnic Kurds and others by Muslims are not episodic, but it is by design. It is part of a master plan to bully, threaten, intimidate and destroy or subject to mass evacuation. How would our politicians and media pundits would react if Christians were murdering Muslims, blowing up mosques, and driving Muslims from their homes.
This book is not rhetoric of the persecution of Christians in Islamic countries, but it is the most pernicious example of Christian genocide since the Holocaust. The recent rise of ISIS and it's atrocities in Iraq and Syria has continued unabated with numerous examples of death and destruction of some of the most ancient Christian communities. There is a significant complacency among much of Muslim population and the liberal media that there is no such thing Islamic terrorism. One example is the mass killings at Our Lady of Salvation Syrian Catholic Cathedral in on October 31, 2010, when ISIS murdered at least fifty-eight people and wounding more than seventy-five. For the first time in 1,600 years, Sunday prayers were cancelled at the Orthodox Monastery of the Virgin Mary and Priest Ibram in Degla, in Egypt. In Cairo, Franciscan nuns watched as the cross over the gate to their school was torn down and eventually the school itself was torched. Christians are systematically tortured, raped, beaten, arrested, forcibly converted; crucified, exiled, and murdered. Tragically the rest of the world, including Western countries are doing very little to stop this holocaust.
Middle East is the homeland of the Christian Church. Where is it heading to? At the current level of Muslim intolerance, Christians and religious minorities may be wiped out in Middle East within two to three generations. Quran preaches that non-Muslims pay a head tax, never preach publicly about their faith or try to convert Muslims into other faiths. Christians have to lead a life of subservience. Criminal laws punish non-Muslims much more harshly than Muslims, but Muslim men are treated with utmost respect by the Islamic law. These laws are currently in force in most Islamic countries.
We need awareness and need authors like Michael Coren to write their scholarly work about Islam so that the message is carried thorough to the larger population.
Scholarly work
Islamists are persecuting and murdering Christians all over the world. Where in the world is Network news or our political leaders who downplays the atrocities perpetrated by Muslims against Christians and religious minorities? The murder of Christians, ethnic Kurds and others by Muslims are not episodic, but it is by design. It is part of a master plan to bully, threaten, intimidate and destroy or subject to mass evacuation. How would our politicians and media pundits would react if Christians were murdering Muslims, blowing up mosques, and driving Muslims from their homes.
This book is not rhetoric of the persecution of Christians in Islamic countries, but it is the most pernicious example of Christian genocide since the Holocaust. The recent rise of ISIS and it's atrocities in Iraq and Syria has continued unabated with numerous examples of death and destruction of some of the most ancient Christian communities. There is a significant complacency among much of Muslim population and the liberal media that there is no such thing Islamic terrorism. One example is the mass killings at Our Lady of Salvation Syrian Catholic Cathedral in on October 31, 2010, when ISIS murdered at least fifty-eight people and wounding more than seventy-five. For the first time in 1,600 years, Sunday prayers were cancelled at the Orthodox Monastery of the Virgin Mary and Priest Ibram in Degla, in Egypt. In Cairo, Franciscan nuns watched as the cross over the gate to their school was torn down and eventually the school itself was torched. Christians are systematically tortured, raped, beaten, arrested, forcibly converted; crucified, exiled, and murdered. Tragically the rest of the world, including Western countries are doing very little to stop this holocaust.
Middle East is the homeland of the Christian Church. Where is it heading to? At the current level of Muslim intolerance, Christians and religious minorities may be wiped out in Middle East within two to three generations. Quran preaches that non-Muslims pay a head tax, never preach publicly about their faith or try to convert Muslims into other faiths. Christians have to lead a life of subservience. Criminal laws punish non-Muslims much more harshly than Muslims, but Muslim men are treated with utmost respect by the Islamic law. These laws are currently in force in most Islamic countries.
We need awareness and need authors like Michael Coren to write their scholarly work about Islam so that the message is carried thorough to the larger population.
Friday, November 7, 2014
Movie Reviewed: Divorcee (1930), starring Norma Shearer
Movie Reviewed: Divorcee (1930), starring Norma Shearer
Norma Shearer shines like a star in this pre-code film of 1930
This is one of the early pre-code films that test the nerves of Hays office that would later police the morality depicted in Hollywood films. Jerry (Norma Shearer) and Ted (Chester Morris) are happily married couple until their anniversary, when Jerry discovers that Ted is unfaithful to her. When confronted he dismisses it as "it doesn't mean a thing." In an hurtful mood, she responds with her own one night stand. One of the prominent features of this film is that not only discusses very openly the double standards in judging with regards to morality but Shearer offers an outstanding performance as a married woman who is hurt and angry. Rightfully so, the Academy honored her with an award in the best actress category.
The movie has a bit of history, when MGM was seriously considering Joan Crawford for the role but Shearer placed a bid on it. But her own husband and MGM executive Irving Thalberg thought she is not glamorous for the role, but after seeing her publicity shots made with photographer George Hurrell, he agreed to cast her in the movie. This caused a serious rift with Joan Crawford who was very interested in this project. The story is based on the novel Ex-Wife by Ursula Parrott, which was directed by Robert Z. Leonard
Norma Shearer shines like a star in this pre-code film of 1930
This is one of the early pre-code films that test the nerves of Hays office that would later police the morality depicted in Hollywood films. Jerry (Norma Shearer) and Ted (Chester Morris) are happily married couple until their anniversary, when Jerry discovers that Ted is unfaithful to her. When confronted he dismisses it as "it doesn't mean a thing." In an hurtful mood, she responds with her own one night stand. One of the prominent features of this film is that not only discusses very openly the double standards in judging with regards to morality but Shearer offers an outstanding performance as a married woman who is hurt and angry. Rightfully so, the Academy honored her with an award in the best actress category.
The movie has a bit of history, when MGM was seriously considering Joan Crawford for the role but Shearer placed a bid on it. But her own husband and MGM executive Irving Thalberg thought she is not glamorous for the role, but after seeing her publicity shots made with photographer George Hurrell, he agreed to cast her in the movie. This caused a serious rift with Joan Crawford who was very interested in this project. The story is based on the novel Ex-Wife by Ursula Parrott, which was directed by Robert Z. Leonard
Thursday, November 6, 2014
Movie Reviewed: Toast of New York (1937)
Movie Reviewed: Toast of New York (1937), starring Cary Grant and Frances Farmer
A drama based on historical facts and Frances Farmer is superb!
Toast of New York (1937) is a fascinating story of greed, treachery and love. The story is partly based on historical facts of Jim Fisk, a con-man who collaborates with fellow financier and American railroad builder Jay Gould and their attempt to corner the gold market in 1869. Jay Gould illegally issued new stock for Erie Railroads to compete with Vanderbilt, and Vanderbilt employed the Bowery Boys against Fisk over his meddling. Bowery Boys were a Manhattan gang later used in Martin Scorsese's "Gangs of New York."
The main story is the love triangle between Jim Fisk (Edward Arnold), Nick Boyd (Cary Grant) and Josie Mansfield (Frances Farmer). When the factious schemes of Fisk go awry, Josie finds love with Nick. The love triangle causes some anxious moments between two best friends; in real life Jim Fisk was shot and killed by Nick over Josie Mansfield.
I am a big fan of Frances Farmer and Cary Grant; I wished they had shown more romantic moments in the movie. Frances Farmer looks stunning in colonial attire and Cary Grant looks as charming as ever. I thoroughly enjoyed this movie and it is highly recommended.
A drama based on historical facts and Frances Farmer is superb!
Toast of New York (1937) is a fascinating story of greed, treachery and love. The story is partly based on historical facts of Jim Fisk, a con-man who collaborates with fellow financier and American railroad builder Jay Gould and their attempt to corner the gold market in 1869. Jay Gould illegally issued new stock for Erie Railroads to compete with Vanderbilt, and Vanderbilt employed the Bowery Boys against Fisk over his meddling. Bowery Boys were a Manhattan gang later used in Martin Scorsese's "Gangs of New York."
The main story is the love triangle between Jim Fisk (Edward Arnold), Nick Boyd (Cary Grant) and Josie Mansfield (Frances Farmer). When the factious schemes of Fisk go awry, Josie finds love with Nick. The love triangle causes some anxious moments between two best friends; in real life Jim Fisk was shot and killed by Nick over Josie Mansfield.
I am a big fan of Frances Farmer and Cary Grant; I wished they had shown more romantic moments in the movie. Frances Farmer looks stunning in colonial attire and Cary Grant looks as charming as ever. I thoroughly enjoyed this movie and it is highly recommended.
Movie Reviewed: Born to be bad (1933), starring Loretta Young
Movie Reviewed: Born to be bad (1933), starring Loretta Young and Cary Grant
Loretta Young plays “BAD” in this pre-code film
The highlight of this movie is Loretta Young playing a single mother and leading a wayward life. In fact she plays a bad mother completely ignoring the welfare of her son and even goes to the extent of bilking a fortune (in a fabricated law-suit) from a wealthy couple played by Cary Grant and Marion Burns. This is one of the several movies that Hollywood made openly challenging the moral code prescribed by Hay’s office. Many reviewers have rated this movie poorly, since it deals with a ’trashy’ story. I liked the performance of Loretta Young doing her best to portray the “image” of a bad mom. Cary Grant’s performance is acceptable. In fact he had just finished doing his best performances with Marlene Dietrich (“Blonde Venus”) and May West (“She done him wrong” and “I’m no angel”).
Loretta Young plays “BAD” in this pre-code film
The highlight of this movie is Loretta Young playing a single mother and leading a wayward life. In fact she plays a bad mother completely ignoring the welfare of her son and even goes to the extent of bilking a fortune (in a fabricated law-suit) from a wealthy couple played by Cary Grant and Marion Burns. This is one of the several movies that Hollywood made openly challenging the moral code prescribed by Hay’s office. Many reviewers have rated this movie poorly, since it deals with a ’trashy’ story. I liked the performance of Loretta Young doing her best to portray the “image” of a bad mom. Cary Grant’s performance is acceptable. In fact he had just finished doing his best performances with Marlene Dietrich (“Blonde Venus”) and May West (“She done him wrong” and “I’m no angel”).
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
Movie Reviewed: You Can't Fool Your Wife (1940), starring Lucille Ball
Movie Reviewed: You Can't Fool Your Wife (1940), starring Lucille Ball
Lucille Ball is outrageously funny in this screwball slapstick
I thoroughly enjoyed this comedy, starring Lucille Ball. When her husband of five years spend a little too much time at work than at home, it becomes obvious that he may be cheating on her. When he is thrown out of the house, his boss who is partly responsible for their break-up, tries to reunite the couple. Finally all ends well, but at the party where Lucille Ball had to impersonate a famous Latin American actress, Dolores Alvaredez, the real Alvaredez also shows up (also played by Lucile Ball). You must really watch this, and I guarantee plenty of laughs: Highly recommended.
Lucille Ball is outrageously funny in this screwball slapstick
I thoroughly enjoyed this comedy, starring Lucille Ball. When her husband of five years spend a little too much time at work than at home, it becomes obvious that he may be cheating on her. When he is thrown out of the house, his boss who is partly responsible for their break-up, tries to reunite the couple. Finally all ends well, but at the party where Lucille Ball had to impersonate a famous Latin American actress, Dolores Alvaredez, the real Alvaredez also shows up (also played by Lucile Ball). You must really watch this, and I guarantee plenty of laughs: Highly recommended.
Sunday, November 2, 2014
Book Reviewed: National Geographic Traveler: Peru, by Rob Rachowiecki
Book Reviewed: National Geographic Traveler: Peru, by Rob Rachowiecki
Helpful traveler’s guide
I have been interested to visit Mach Picchu for several years and this book seems to serve my interest. This is a beautifully illustrated book with many color pictures and descriptions of many destinations including my favorite Machu Picchu. The book focuses mainly on experiencing the culture, food and the beautiful countryside of Peru. You can find everything in this book from peaks of Andes Mountains to the wilderness around Amazon River. You get useful suggestions and tips for experiencing the city of Lima, the Southern Lowlands, Cuzco, high Andes or Machu Picchu. The author suggests many places of interest, hotels and restaurants to visit and enjoy. I like some of the tips on local food, and the walking tours along the famous Inca trail to Machu Picchu. I recommend this book to anyone interested in visiting Peru.
Helpful traveler’s guide
I have been interested to visit Mach Picchu for several years and this book seems to serve my interest. This is a beautifully illustrated book with many color pictures and descriptions of many destinations including my favorite Machu Picchu. The book focuses mainly on experiencing the culture, food and the beautiful countryside of Peru. You can find everything in this book from peaks of Andes Mountains to the wilderness around Amazon River. You get useful suggestions and tips for experiencing the city of Lima, the Southern Lowlands, Cuzco, high Andes or Machu Picchu. The author suggests many places of interest, hotels and restaurants to visit and enjoy. I like some of the tips on local food, and the walking tours along the famous Inca trail to Machu Picchu. I recommend this book to anyone interested in visiting Peru.
Friday, October 31, 2014
Book Reviewed: Hidden In Plain Sight 3: The secret of time by Andrew Thomas
Book Reviewed: Hidden In Plain Sight 3: The secret of time by Andrew Thomas
Physics and philosophy of time: Is time an illusion?
Our understanding of spacetime has advanced in the last couple of years which has led to new thoughts about spacetime and physical reality. Some physicists suggest that space is an illusion and time is real; but others propose that time is an illusion and space is real. The key to this question is to understand the nature of physical reality: How matter (and energy) formed our universe in spacetime? Is it strictly guided by the laws of physics, a set of universal constants and four natural forces? How spacetime is treated in classical and quantum physics? In this book the author tries to address some fundamental questions about time. There are ten chapters and only two chapters (5 and 10) address the question of time directly. The concept of time is discussed mainly from the point of second law of thermodynamics which states that the entropy (chaos) of the universe is increasing (transitioning from order to disorder). Hence this sets the arrow of time, going from past to future. This explains why in our common experience, when a glass of water is dropped on to the floor, it breaks, but it does not reverse itself (to re-assemble) to form the glass with water, because that would be going from an disordered to an ordered state. The author does not go into details of underlying physics but uses a highly simplified approach to the concept of time. The book falls short of a good discussion on time.
According to relativistic physics, time is stitched together with space to form four-dimensional space-time. The passage of time is not absolute - no cosmic clock ticks away the hours of the universe. Instead, time differs from one frame of reference to the next, and what one observer experiences as time, another might experience as a mixture of time and space. In this spacetime concept, the past, present and future all exist together. Space-time is a frozen fabric that does not evolve. Our own existence, from birth to death, is set out in space-time in a timeless way. There is no time flow and no place for now. The concept of time might be similar to that of integers (whole numbers). All numbers exist simultaneously, and it would be insensible to think that the number 1 exists before the number 20.
In quantum physics time plays a key role, keeping track of the ever-changing probabilities, and the wave function of the universe evolves over a clock residing outside this universe. In this scenario the universe is split into two parts: the quantum system being observed and the classical world outside. In this fractured universe, a clock always remains outside the quantum system. According to physicist Carol Rovelli’s thermal time hypothesis, time emerges as a statistical effect, in the same way that temperature emerges from averaging the behavior of large groups of molecules. Most physicists believe space and time are quantized at the most fundamental scale and perhaps exists as atoms; grainy in nature just like the quantum nature of matter (and energy.)
Recently well-known physicists like Lee Smolin and Sean Carroll have provided an in-depth look at the concept of time. For interested readers, I recommend the following books:
From Eternity to Here: The Quest for the Ultimate Theory of Time by Sean Carroll
Time Reborn: From the Crisis in Physics to the Future of the Universe by Lee Smolin
The End of Time: The Next Revolution in Physics by Julian Barbour
Physics and philosophy of time: Is time an illusion?
Our understanding of spacetime has advanced in the last couple of years which has led to new thoughts about spacetime and physical reality. Some physicists suggest that space is an illusion and time is real; but others propose that time is an illusion and space is real. The key to this question is to understand the nature of physical reality: How matter (and energy) formed our universe in spacetime? Is it strictly guided by the laws of physics, a set of universal constants and four natural forces? How spacetime is treated in classical and quantum physics? In this book the author tries to address some fundamental questions about time. There are ten chapters and only two chapters (5 and 10) address the question of time directly. The concept of time is discussed mainly from the point of second law of thermodynamics which states that the entropy (chaos) of the universe is increasing (transitioning from order to disorder). Hence this sets the arrow of time, going from past to future. This explains why in our common experience, when a glass of water is dropped on to the floor, it breaks, but it does not reverse itself (to re-assemble) to form the glass with water, because that would be going from an disordered to an ordered state. The author does not go into details of underlying physics but uses a highly simplified approach to the concept of time. The book falls short of a good discussion on time.
According to relativistic physics, time is stitched together with space to form four-dimensional space-time. The passage of time is not absolute - no cosmic clock ticks away the hours of the universe. Instead, time differs from one frame of reference to the next, and what one observer experiences as time, another might experience as a mixture of time and space. In this spacetime concept, the past, present and future all exist together. Space-time is a frozen fabric that does not evolve. Our own existence, from birth to death, is set out in space-time in a timeless way. There is no time flow and no place for now. The concept of time might be similar to that of integers (whole numbers). All numbers exist simultaneously, and it would be insensible to think that the number 1 exists before the number 20.
In quantum physics time plays a key role, keeping track of the ever-changing probabilities, and the wave function of the universe evolves over a clock residing outside this universe. In this scenario the universe is split into two parts: the quantum system being observed and the classical world outside. In this fractured universe, a clock always remains outside the quantum system. According to physicist Carol Rovelli’s thermal time hypothesis, time emerges as a statistical effect, in the same way that temperature emerges from averaging the behavior of large groups of molecules. Most physicists believe space and time are quantized at the most fundamental scale and perhaps exists as atoms; grainy in nature just like the quantum nature of matter (and energy.)
Recently well-known physicists like Lee Smolin and Sean Carroll have provided an in-depth look at the concept of time. For interested readers, I recommend the following books:
From Eternity to Here: The Quest for the Ultimate Theory of Time by Sean Carroll
Time Reborn: From the Crisis in Physics to the Future of the Universe by Lee Smolin
The End of Time: The Next Revolution in Physics by Julian Barbour
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Alice in wonderland (1933)
Movie Reviewed: Alice in wonderland (1933)
Enjoyable movie (four stars)
This movie is for children and adults alike; very enjoyable and quite imaginative. At some stages it sounds like a soft horror movie. The movie shows the experiences a young girl lost in looking mirror and enters a strange world where she has actual conversation with various animals. The performance of Charlotte Henry as Alice is magnificent.
There are several versions of this movie and my favorite is the original 1933 film with leading actors (who have lent their voices) which include W.C. Fields, Gary Cooper, Cary Grant, Roscoe Ates, Edward Everett Horton and Louise Fazenda.
Many astrobiologists have speculated that our interactions with aliens could be even stranger than Alice's in the wonderland. This is a very imaginative movie and it is recommended.
Enjoyable movie (four stars)
This movie is for children and adults alike; very enjoyable and quite imaginative. At some stages it sounds like a soft horror movie. The movie shows the experiences a young girl lost in looking mirror and enters a strange world where she has actual conversation with various animals. The performance of Charlotte Henry as Alice is magnificent.
There are several versions of this movie and my favorite is the original 1933 film with leading actors (who have lent their voices) which include W.C. Fields, Gary Cooper, Cary Grant, Roscoe Ates, Edward Everett Horton and Louise Fazenda.
Many astrobiologists have speculated that our interactions with aliens could be even stranger than Alice's in the wonderland. This is a very imaginative movie and it is recommended.
Book Reviewed: The Goddess of small victories, by Yannic Grannec
Book Reviewed: The Goddess of small victories, by Yannic Grannec
Frau Gödel
"The Goddess of small victories" is probably not the title I would have used to write about the life and times of Adele Nimbursky (nee Porkert) married to one of the greatest mathematicians of 20th century, Kurt Gödel. This book is primarily a work of fiction but interwoven with many personal facts about the love, romance and the marriage of Adele and Kurt Gödel. One of the main pretexts of this work is that Adele refused to hand over the personal and professional documents of Kurt Gödel to Princeton University; hence the university assigned this task to someone who could retrieve these from Frau Gödel when she was living at a retirement home in Pennsylvania. Some of the facts may have been distorted here; Adele Gödel had given some manuscripts to Princeton, and recently Oxford University published five volumes of Gödel's collected works that included Gödel's Nachlass, a collection of manuscripts, notes, and correspondence.
Albeit partly fictional, the book brilliantly captures the lives of Adele and Kurt from 1927 when they were living on the same street in Vienna. She was a cabaret dancer and he was a young man strongly interested in mathematics, physics and philosophy. Their relationship had difficult beginning. Gödel's mother did not approve of Adele since she was divorced, a cabaret dancer and seven years older than Kurt. The political environment was unfriendly since the influence of the Third Reich in Austria was growing rapidly. Although Adele got to spend time with Kurt and many of his intellectual friends in Vienna, his mental illness had sent him to the sanitarium; at times he was severely ill and she cared for him with tender loving care, and loved him deeply as any dedicated woman would. Their early years were very happy despite some obstacles. After leaving Vienna, and arriving at Princeton, their horizon expanded, especially to Kurt Gödel. Kurt's strong friendship with other Princeton luminaries like Albert Einstein and John von Neumann produced fruitful exchange of thoughts of some of the greatest minds in physics and mathematics. Kurt Gödel and Einstein were neighbors living in Princeton and they were known to take long walks together to the Institute for Advanced Study where they both worked. Later in life, Kurt Gödel became a reclusive and for the fear of food poisoning, never ate food and eventually died of anorexia. There was one woman who stood by him, through thick and thin; that was Madam Adele. I recommend this book to anyone interested in the life of Kurt Gödel.
Frau Gödel
"The Goddess of small victories" is probably not the title I would have used to write about the life and times of Adele Nimbursky (nee Porkert) married to one of the greatest mathematicians of 20th century, Kurt Gödel. This book is primarily a work of fiction but interwoven with many personal facts about the love, romance and the marriage of Adele and Kurt Gödel. One of the main pretexts of this work is that Adele refused to hand over the personal and professional documents of Kurt Gödel to Princeton University; hence the university assigned this task to someone who could retrieve these from Frau Gödel when she was living at a retirement home in Pennsylvania. Some of the facts may have been distorted here; Adele Gödel had given some manuscripts to Princeton, and recently Oxford University published five volumes of Gödel's collected works that included Gödel's Nachlass, a collection of manuscripts, notes, and correspondence.
Albeit partly fictional, the book brilliantly captures the lives of Adele and Kurt from 1927 when they were living on the same street in Vienna. She was a cabaret dancer and he was a young man strongly interested in mathematics, physics and philosophy. Their relationship had difficult beginning. Gödel's mother did not approve of Adele since she was divorced, a cabaret dancer and seven years older than Kurt. The political environment was unfriendly since the influence of the Third Reich in Austria was growing rapidly. Although Adele got to spend time with Kurt and many of his intellectual friends in Vienna, his mental illness had sent him to the sanitarium; at times he was severely ill and she cared for him with tender loving care, and loved him deeply as any dedicated woman would. Their early years were very happy despite some obstacles. After leaving Vienna, and arriving at Princeton, their horizon expanded, especially to Kurt Gödel. Kurt's strong friendship with other Princeton luminaries like Albert Einstein and John von Neumann produced fruitful exchange of thoughts of some of the greatest minds in physics and mathematics. Kurt Gödel and Einstein were neighbors living in Princeton and they were known to take long walks together to the Institute for Advanced Study where they both worked. Later in life, Kurt Gödel became a reclusive and for the fear of food poisoning, never ate food and eventually died of anorexia. There was one woman who stood by him, through thick and thin; that was Madam Adele. I recommend this book to anyone interested in the life of Kurt Gödel.
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Book Reviewed: Religions and Extraterrestrial Life: How Will We Deal With It? by David A. Weintraub
Book Reviewed: Religions and Extraterrestrial Life: How Will We Deal With It? by David A. Weintraub
ET and the religion (four stars)
This is an interesting work of Vanderbilt University Professor David Weintraub in which he discusses aliens and religion. Many aspects of our interaction with aliens have been discussed in literature, on cable TV and other media. In this book, the author looks at another topic that has been overlooked, that is, how does earth based religions would deal with the discovery of aliens on a distant planet? What are the positions of scriptures with regards to life elsewhere? How do we introduce our religions to them? Do they have interest in spirituality, if yes; do they have their own religion?
Astronomers have always said that there are billions of planets in the universe and astronomer Frank Drake proposed a formula to calculate the number of planets with potentially advanced life forms, and his formula suggests that there are about 10,000 planets in Milky Way galaxy alone! About 1800 planets have been discovered so far and more being detected, with the launching of NASA’s Kepler mission and European Space Agency (ESA)’s GAIA mission. With future missions like Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) to be launched in 2017, and James Webb Space Telescope (planned launching in 2018), the probability of finding aliens is significant and near. In fact some astrobiologists claim that aliens had contact with ancient humans in the past; but this is largely speculative.
Christians believe if aliens have committed sin, then they have to accept Jesus as the savior. Evangelical Christians believe that we are God’s favorite children and would not easily accommodate the notion that aliens are also god’s favorite creatures. According to Genesis 1:14-19; God withheld the creation of the Sun, Moon and stars until the fourth day. Earth is always depicted as the center stage in God's Creation.
Hinduism and Buddhism are the most accommodating faiths since both religions believe in reincarnation. In principal, one could be reincarnated anywhere in the universe. The ancient Hindu scripture, RgVeda is especially supportive of the idea that aliens exist as illustrated in RgVeda 10.72.1 and 10.129.6. Judaism also provides scriptural support for aliens. In the Book of Judges (5:23), Deborah the prophetess sings about the victory of Barak over Sisera. In her song, she says, “Cursed be Meroz! Cursed, cursed be its inhabitants, says the angel of God!” The Talmud gives two explanations, one of them being that Meroz is a star or planet.
Some of the discussion presented in this book is somewhat imaginative since aliens may have different biology. Many astrobiologists suggest that their biological makeup could be radically different and if they ever find us, their needs are totally different. They could even be advanced computer machines that may have overtaken the living beings that created them. Looking for spirituality in these “life” forms is probably a long shot. Many experts have cautioned, notably cosmologist Stephen Hawing that aliens would not be good for mankind. If aliens invade this planet, most likely they will be looking for a permanent home in the universe since their own planet was destroyed. Such beings would not be eager to share resources of earth with human beings who will be seen as competitors or worse enemies. Professor Weintraub provides a glimpse of how established religions see aliens, and this is perhaps fascinating for readers interested in religion and aliens forms.
ET and the religion (four stars)
This is an interesting work of Vanderbilt University Professor David Weintraub in which he discusses aliens and religion. Many aspects of our interaction with aliens have been discussed in literature, on cable TV and other media. In this book, the author looks at another topic that has been overlooked, that is, how does earth based religions would deal with the discovery of aliens on a distant planet? What are the positions of scriptures with regards to life elsewhere? How do we introduce our religions to them? Do they have interest in spirituality, if yes; do they have their own religion?
Astronomers have always said that there are billions of planets in the universe and astronomer Frank Drake proposed a formula to calculate the number of planets with potentially advanced life forms, and his formula suggests that there are about 10,000 planets in Milky Way galaxy alone! About 1800 planets have been discovered so far and more being detected, with the launching of NASA’s Kepler mission and European Space Agency (ESA)’s GAIA mission. With future missions like Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) to be launched in 2017, and James Webb Space Telescope (planned launching in 2018), the probability of finding aliens is significant and near. In fact some astrobiologists claim that aliens had contact with ancient humans in the past; but this is largely speculative.
Christians believe if aliens have committed sin, then they have to accept Jesus as the savior. Evangelical Christians believe that we are God’s favorite children and would not easily accommodate the notion that aliens are also god’s favorite creatures. According to Genesis 1:14-19; God withheld the creation of the Sun, Moon and stars until the fourth day. Earth is always depicted as the center stage in God's Creation.
Hinduism and Buddhism are the most accommodating faiths since both religions believe in reincarnation. In principal, one could be reincarnated anywhere in the universe. The ancient Hindu scripture, RgVeda is especially supportive of the idea that aliens exist as illustrated in RgVeda 10.72.1 and 10.129.6. Judaism also provides scriptural support for aliens. In the Book of Judges (5:23), Deborah the prophetess sings about the victory of Barak over Sisera. In her song, she says, “Cursed be Meroz! Cursed, cursed be its inhabitants, says the angel of God!” The Talmud gives two explanations, one of them being that Meroz is a star or planet.
Some of the discussion presented in this book is somewhat imaginative since aliens may have different biology. Many astrobiologists suggest that their biological makeup could be radically different and if they ever find us, their needs are totally different. They could even be advanced computer machines that may have overtaken the living beings that created them. Looking for spirituality in these “life” forms is probably a long shot. Many experts have cautioned, notably cosmologist Stephen Hawing that aliens would not be good for mankind. If aliens invade this planet, most likely they will be looking for a permanent home in the universe since their own planet was destroyed. Such beings would not be eager to share resources of earth with human beings who will be seen as competitors or worse enemies. Professor Weintraub provides a glimpse of how established religions see aliens, and this is perhaps fascinating for readers interested in religion and aliens forms.
Sunday, October 19, 2014
Book Reviewed: Questioning Islam: Tough Questions & Honest Answers About the Muslim Religion by Peter Townsend
Book Reviewed: Questioning Islam: Tough Questions & Honest Answers About the Muslim Religion by Peter Townsend
This is an outstanding work of Peter Townsend, a highly respected scholar examines the Islamic scriptures to evaluate and determine the truth about this faith. Work of this kind is extremely important in light of growing influence of terror groups like Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), Al Qaeda, Khorasan, Taliban, Al Shabab, Boko Haram and many others. The security and integrity of United Sates and many Western countries are seriously threated with growing Islamic population and their influence. Much of terrorism is perpetrated in the name of Islam, but many politicians, community leaders and academics shy away from criticizing Islam for the fear being called "Islamophobic." Is there anything we can question about the teachings of Muhammad? In this book we have a brave scholar who is bold enough to ask basic questions and investigate in an academic fashion and without bias, the source books that created Islamic doctrine; the holy book of Quran, hadith (traditions), biography of Muhammad and the ancient history of Middle East.
This study reveals that Islam is standing on a very shaky theological and historical foundation. Muhammad did not have any moral standing or a good conduct worthy of a prophet. He had 13 wives; many of them were wives at the same time (sister-wives), and one of them was a nine year old girl. If he is married to a nine year old girl, could we call him a pedophile? How could we call him a prophet who encourages men to wed young under-aged women?
Hadith, which are a collection of historical documents that describes Muhammad's teachings and traditions, from several generations after his death is a suspect and most likely altered historical document. The book of Quran has undergone much modification over the last 1,400 years. Quran mentions Muhammad four times (Quran 3:144; 33:40; 47:2; and 48:29), and the literature of Sira that describes the life and works of Muhammad written in 8th and 9th century is completely lost.
Recently many politicians in both United States and abroad have called Islam a religion of peace? Is it true? After reading this book, we learn that this is a religion which encourages a high degree of intolerance to other belief systems; other faiths and cultures: This proves to be religion of piece not peace. How can we use the word peace that supports beheadings, rape, destruction of non-Islamic faiths and the establishment of global Islamic caliphate? Atrocities committed against Christians, Kurds, and other non-Islamic populations in Iraq and Syria speaks volumes about the followers of this faith.
This is an outstanding work of Peter Townsend, a highly respected scholar examines the Islamic scriptures to evaluate and determine the truth about this faith. Work of this kind is extremely important in light of growing influence of terror groups like Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), Al Qaeda, Khorasan, Taliban, Al Shabab, Boko Haram and many others. The security and integrity of United Sates and many Western countries are seriously threated with growing Islamic population and their influence. Much of terrorism is perpetrated in the name of Islam, but many politicians, community leaders and academics shy away from criticizing Islam for the fear being called "Islamophobic." Is there anything we can question about the teachings of Muhammad? In this book we have a brave scholar who is bold enough to ask basic questions and investigate in an academic fashion and without bias, the source books that created Islamic doctrine; the holy book of Quran, hadith (traditions), biography of Muhammad and the ancient history of Middle East.
This study reveals that Islam is standing on a very shaky theological and historical foundation. Muhammad did not have any moral standing or a good conduct worthy of a prophet. He had 13 wives; many of them were wives at the same time (sister-wives), and one of them was a nine year old girl. If he is married to a nine year old girl, could we call him a pedophile? How could we call him a prophet who encourages men to wed young under-aged women?
Hadith, which are a collection of historical documents that describes Muhammad's teachings and traditions, from several generations after his death is a suspect and most likely altered historical document. The book of Quran has undergone much modification over the last 1,400 years. Quran mentions Muhammad four times (Quran 3:144; 33:40; 47:2; and 48:29), and the literature of Sira that describes the life and works of Muhammad written in 8th and 9th century is completely lost.
Recently many politicians in both United States and abroad have called Islam a religion of peace? Is it true? After reading this book, we learn that this is a religion which encourages a high degree of intolerance to other belief systems; other faiths and cultures: This proves to be religion of piece not peace. How can we use the word peace that supports beheadings, rape, destruction of non-Islamic faiths and the establishment of global Islamic caliphate? Atrocities committed against Christians, Kurds, and other non-Islamic populations in Iraq and Syria speaks volumes about the followers of this faith.
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
Book Reviewed: World Order by Henry Kissinger
Book Reviewed: World Order by Henry Kissinger
Henry Kissinger makes a strong argument for world order
If we take a look around the globe; the future looks grim. Islamic terrorism, beheadings in Iraq and Syria; long and arduous engagement of American military in the Middle East; Russian aggression in Ukraine; China's domination in Asia; threat of Ebola in Africa; and the global economy that grew too fast; but economists worry that this is another big bubble which may burst at any time. Are we going to see a much bigger crash than 1929 or 2008? In the face of these threats, Americans are unsure about a peaceful and prosperous world ahead of them. In this book, Henry Kissinger, the Secretary of State in The Nixon and Ford administrations reflect on these global problems that are spinning out of control, and discusses passionately from the point of economics, national history, regional politics, geography and religion in trying to understand how we got here and where we can go next.
Different countries/regions had their own versions of world order. Islamic leaders are still oriented toward a division between the Dar al Islam (the Islamic world led by a caliph) and the Dar al Harb (or "house of war"), and the non-Islamic entities (non-believers, infidels) must be subjugated. This is particularly relevant with the rise of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria. There is a no effort to reform the faith; and its beliefs and practices are in direct conflict with Western civilization. But China, a communist super power, is highly bent on global domination economically and politically. Its domineering effect in Asian politics is highly visible.
Kissinger does not directly answer the question as how we bring world order, but suggest methods for organizing power-to-power relationships in the global arena. America alone cannot solve all problems of the world but it needs allies. This is clearly evident in Middle East where many Arab nations openly supported air campaign against ISIS to stop it and hopefully defeat it.
Secretary of State Hilary Clinton thinks United States is uniquely positioned to lead the world. The enduring strength of armed forces and the resilience of American economy and the leadership it showed in winning the cold war with Soviets is a great example of how we can bring some world order: The threat of nuclear war between United States and Soviet Union was averted by sheer diplomacy.
If the major players use different and largely incompatible methods for organizing the world, then we will continue to have problems. In presence of bipartisan politics in America and in the world of political correctness, it is a challenge to address real issues, but honest dialogue with all global leaders will help rebuild a political consensus to take on the perils.
John Micklethwait, reviewing for New York Times, suggest that "that every member of Congress should be locked in a room with - and forced to read (this book) before taking the oath of office." I am not sure he literally means that but he understands the depth and intensity of this book. I very much enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it to anyone who wants to understand the current state of affairs in the world.
Henry Kissinger makes a strong argument for world order
If we take a look around the globe; the future looks grim. Islamic terrorism, beheadings in Iraq and Syria; long and arduous engagement of American military in the Middle East; Russian aggression in Ukraine; China's domination in Asia; threat of Ebola in Africa; and the global economy that grew too fast; but economists worry that this is another big bubble which may burst at any time. Are we going to see a much bigger crash than 1929 or 2008? In the face of these threats, Americans are unsure about a peaceful and prosperous world ahead of them. In this book, Henry Kissinger, the Secretary of State in The Nixon and Ford administrations reflect on these global problems that are spinning out of control, and discusses passionately from the point of economics, national history, regional politics, geography and religion in trying to understand how we got here and where we can go next.
Different countries/regions had their own versions of world order. Islamic leaders are still oriented toward a division between the Dar al Islam (the Islamic world led by a caliph) and the Dar al Harb (or "house of war"), and the non-Islamic entities (non-believers, infidels) must be subjugated. This is particularly relevant with the rise of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria. There is a no effort to reform the faith; and its beliefs and practices are in direct conflict with Western civilization. But China, a communist super power, is highly bent on global domination economically and politically. Its domineering effect in Asian politics is highly visible.
Kissinger does not directly answer the question as how we bring world order, but suggest methods for organizing power-to-power relationships in the global arena. America alone cannot solve all problems of the world but it needs allies. This is clearly evident in Middle East where many Arab nations openly supported air campaign against ISIS to stop it and hopefully defeat it.
Secretary of State Hilary Clinton thinks United States is uniquely positioned to lead the world. The enduring strength of armed forces and the resilience of American economy and the leadership it showed in winning the cold war with Soviets is a great example of how we can bring some world order: The threat of nuclear war between United States and Soviet Union was averted by sheer diplomacy.
If the major players use different and largely incompatible methods for organizing the world, then we will continue to have problems. In presence of bipartisan politics in America and in the world of political correctness, it is a challenge to address real issues, but honest dialogue with all global leaders will help rebuild a political consensus to take on the perils.
John Micklethwait, reviewing for New York Times, suggest that "that every member of Congress should be locked in a room with - and forced to read (this book) before taking the oath of office." I am not sure he literally means that but he understands the depth and intensity of this book. I very much enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it to anyone who wants to understand the current state of affairs in the world.
Thursday, September 18, 2014
Book Review: Image of America; Carmel-by-the-sea by Monica Hudson
Book Reviewed: Images of America; Carmel-by-the-sea by Monica Hudson
Title: A celebration of the history of Carmel-by-the-Sea
This book is a celebration of the history of beach community of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Some of the most picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean lies along the coastal region of this town and its surroundings that spread south towards Big Sur. Using the archival photographs, the book presents the distinctive stories from the past that shaped the character of the community today. There are many examples that one can cite from the book to makes an interesting comparison with the community today. I found the following photographs very interesting; A group of Carmel residents walking on the Carmel Beach on a foggy summer of 1915; the 1880 view of Carmel Bay and Santa Lucia Mountains; the Carmel mission as it stood on the day of Nov 4, 1879; a picture of Hotel Carmel in downtown taken in 1915; a 1908 picture of growing downtown at the Ocean Avenue. The 1914 photo of a cottage of Stanford Professor Stewart Young at the corner of Lincoln Street and Fourth Avenue; A 1913 picture of the community church at the corner of Lincoln and Seventh Avenue.
The first attempt to create the community at this location was made in 1771 by a Spanish born Franciscan priest. Later, a women's real estate investment company first coined the name Carmel-by-the-Sea. The village grew rapidly after 1906 San Francisco earthquake when refugees started arriving at the beach community of Carmel; construction grew in downtown area .The photograph of a post office in 1903 which expanded after the arrival of the refugees illustrates the effect of growth on the village.
There are some interesting pictures of Clint Eastwood during his 1986 campaign for the Mayor of Carmel. During this time, there was a general fear among long time residents that growth and tourism may change the community for ever. So protective measures were taken to prohibit glaring neon signs, no large hotels, shopping malls or major business constructions. The protective measures are still in force and the development is limited and it still retains the beauty and tranquility of a beach community. Traditionally the town attracted large number of artists, writers and academics from Stanford and Berkeley who made their homes here.
This is one of the great books of the Images of America Series published by Arcadia Publishers. I strongly recommend this book to anyone interested in Carmel.
Title: A celebration of the history of Carmel-by-the-Sea
This book is a celebration of the history of beach community of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Some of the most picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean lies along the coastal region of this town and its surroundings that spread south towards Big Sur. Using the archival photographs, the book presents the distinctive stories from the past that shaped the character of the community today. There are many examples that one can cite from the book to makes an interesting comparison with the community today. I found the following photographs very interesting; A group of Carmel residents walking on the Carmel Beach on a foggy summer of 1915; the 1880 view of Carmel Bay and Santa Lucia Mountains; the Carmel mission as it stood on the day of Nov 4, 1879; a picture of Hotel Carmel in downtown taken in 1915; a 1908 picture of growing downtown at the Ocean Avenue. The 1914 photo of a cottage of Stanford Professor Stewart Young at the corner of Lincoln Street and Fourth Avenue; A 1913 picture of the community church at the corner of Lincoln and Seventh Avenue.
The first attempt to create the community at this location was made in 1771 by a Spanish born Franciscan priest. Later, a women's real estate investment company first coined the name Carmel-by-the-Sea. The village grew rapidly after 1906 San Francisco earthquake when refugees started arriving at the beach community of Carmel; construction grew in downtown area .The photograph of a post office in 1903 which expanded after the arrival of the refugees illustrates the effect of growth on the village.
There are some interesting pictures of Clint Eastwood during his 1986 campaign for the Mayor of Carmel. During this time, there was a general fear among long time residents that growth and tourism may change the community for ever. So protective measures were taken to prohibit glaring neon signs, no large hotels, shopping malls or major business constructions. The protective measures are still in force and the development is limited and it still retains the beauty and tranquility of a beach community. Traditionally the town attracted large number of artists, writers and academics from Stanford and Berkeley who made their homes here.
This is one of the great books of the Images of America Series published by Arcadia Publishers. I strongly recommend this book to anyone interested in Carmel.
Wednesday, September 10, 2014
Book Review: Lupe Velez and lovers by Floyd Conner
Book Reviewed: Lupe Velez and lovers by Floyd Conner
The tumultuous life of Lupe Velez, a Mexican hot tamale
I very much enjoyed reading this book about the life and works of one of the most successful actresses from south of the border. The author has researched her life pretty well and discusses many features of her life that are not reported in other works. Lupe Velez is widely known as Mexican Spitfire because of her tremendous outbursts and fights with anyone she has problems with. Her well publicized relationship with actor Gary Cooper and fear of loosing him to another woman makes her so jealous that she goes far enough of taking a shot at him with a fire arm. Cooper was on his way to Europe for a much needed vacation. At one time Cooper was strongly interested in marrying her except that his mother was against that union.
She was constantly in the company of leading men. She collected men as easily as she collected gems and furs. Lupe Velez's reputation as being a nymphomaniac is the worst kept secrets; she lured pretty much everyone she worked with into her bed. Lupe was also vocal about the sexual prowess of her lovers which caused some hesitation on the part of Clark Gable. She had the reputation of throwing the wildest parties; in early thirties she use to rival with Clara Bow in throwing the wildest parties in Beverly Hills.
Lupe brought a new kind of sex appeal to films. Her love scenes with Douglas Fairbanks Sr., in the movie "Gaucho" caused a sensation that many thought it was a pugilistic encounter. The author claims that she had affair with him with the knowledge of his wife Mary Pickford.
After returning from her Broadway career, RKO Studios offered her starring role in "The Girl from Mexico" which established her as the box office attraction and she went on to make eight Mexican Spitfire movies between 1939-1943. It is a series about s hot tempered south of the border fire cracker. Yet for most fans she was adorable. She is best remembered for these films.
Her last lover was Harald Ramond and she announced that she will marry the father of her unborn baby on Nov 27, 1944 and when he turned her down, she went into a state of depression. Two weeks later she commits suicide. It was neatly thought and well planned exit from this world. She goes to Hollywood premiere of her movie "Nana" with her best friend Estelle Taylor and Benita Oakie. Critics said that it was her best drama. She returned home in Beverly Hills with her two friends and they feast on a big Mexican dinner and the guests leave at about 3 AM. They didn't know that was the last time they would see her alive. Her bedroom was filled with fragrant gardenias and tuberose, lots of candles, and an overdose of Seconal sleeping pills. That was a sad end of a glamorous life who entertained fans across the globe.
This book nicely written and reads effortlessly. I recommend this book to her fans and anyone interested in Hollywood history.
The tumultuous life of Lupe Velez, a Mexican hot tamale
I very much enjoyed reading this book about the life and works of one of the most successful actresses from south of the border. The author has researched her life pretty well and discusses many features of her life that are not reported in other works. Lupe Velez is widely known as Mexican Spitfire because of her tremendous outbursts and fights with anyone she has problems with. Her well publicized relationship with actor Gary Cooper and fear of loosing him to another woman makes her so jealous that she goes far enough of taking a shot at him with a fire arm. Cooper was on his way to Europe for a much needed vacation. At one time Cooper was strongly interested in marrying her except that his mother was against that union.
She was constantly in the company of leading men. She collected men as easily as she collected gems and furs. Lupe Velez's reputation as being a nymphomaniac is the worst kept secrets; she lured pretty much everyone she worked with into her bed. Lupe was also vocal about the sexual prowess of her lovers which caused some hesitation on the part of Clark Gable. She had the reputation of throwing the wildest parties; in early thirties she use to rival with Clara Bow in throwing the wildest parties in Beverly Hills.
Lupe brought a new kind of sex appeal to films. Her love scenes with Douglas Fairbanks Sr., in the movie "Gaucho" caused a sensation that many thought it was a pugilistic encounter. The author claims that she had affair with him with the knowledge of his wife Mary Pickford.
After returning from her Broadway career, RKO Studios offered her starring role in "The Girl from Mexico" which established her as the box office attraction and she went on to make eight Mexican Spitfire movies between 1939-1943. It is a series about s hot tempered south of the border fire cracker. Yet for most fans she was adorable. She is best remembered for these films.
Her last lover was Harald Ramond and she announced that she will marry the father of her unborn baby on Nov 27, 1944 and when he turned her down, she went into a state of depression. Two weeks later she commits suicide. It was neatly thought and well planned exit from this world. She goes to Hollywood premiere of her movie "Nana" with her best friend Estelle Taylor and Benita Oakie. Critics said that it was her best drama. She returned home in Beverly Hills with her two friends and they feast on a big Mexican dinner and the guests leave at about 3 AM. They didn't know that was the last time they would see her alive. Her bedroom was filled with fragrant gardenias and tuberose, lots of candles, and an overdose of Seconal sleeping pills. That was a sad end of a glamorous life who entertained fans across the globe.
This book nicely written and reads effortlessly. I recommend this book to her fans and anyone interested in Hollywood history.
Tuesday, September 9, 2014
Movie: Safe in hell (1931), starring Dorothy Mackaill
Movie Reviewed: Safe in hell (1931), starring Dorothy Mackaill
A young lady in distress
Dorothy Mackaill is one the most beautiful women at the dawn of Hollywood and once predicted be a strong competitor to legendry actresses Carol Lombard and Jean Harlow, but unfortunately her career was short lived for lack of good opportunities. This is one of the most controversial movies of the pre-code era that tackled difficult topics but managed to pass the scrutiny of the church and the public.
One of the iconic photograph of the beautiful MacKaill sitting in a scantily cladded negligée with legs spread is from this movie, and this has been re-printed in many books about pre-code films. In this 1931 movie, brilliantly directed by William Wellman, the story revolves around gorgeous Mackaill. With a string of bad lucks in her jobs, at the height of great depression, she is forced to practice the "oldest profession" to pay her bills. In addition, she had to face a false rap that she murdered her male customer. She runs with her boyfriend and lives in a remote Caribbean island. The motel is inhabited by a group of lecherous and criminal men who try to make all kinds of unwanted advances towards her when her sailor boyfriend is away. But she staves off all their advances, because she loved her boyfriend. She waits for him until he returns from his business. Unforeseen circumstances develop that puts her into much deeper trouble. This is an outstanding drama and one of the best performances of Dorothy Mackaill. A similar themed movie was made by another sensational actress Tallulah Bankhead in the 1932 movie "Faithless" starring Robert Montgomery. I very much enjoyed watching this movie and I highly recommend this to anyone interested in the films of Dorothy Mackaill, Hollywood history, early Hollywood and pre-code movies.
A young lady in distress
Dorothy Mackaill is one the most beautiful women at the dawn of Hollywood and once predicted be a strong competitor to legendry actresses Carol Lombard and Jean Harlow, but unfortunately her career was short lived for lack of good opportunities. This is one of the most controversial movies of the pre-code era that tackled difficult topics but managed to pass the scrutiny of the church and the public.
One of the iconic photograph of the beautiful MacKaill sitting in a scantily cladded negligée with legs spread is from this movie, and this has been re-printed in many books about pre-code films. In this 1931 movie, brilliantly directed by William Wellman, the story revolves around gorgeous Mackaill. With a string of bad lucks in her jobs, at the height of great depression, she is forced to practice the "oldest profession" to pay her bills. In addition, she had to face a false rap that she murdered her male customer. She runs with her boyfriend and lives in a remote Caribbean island. The motel is inhabited by a group of lecherous and criminal men who try to make all kinds of unwanted advances towards her when her sailor boyfriend is away. But she staves off all their advances, because she loved her boyfriend. She waits for him until he returns from his business. Unforeseen circumstances develop that puts her into much deeper trouble. This is an outstanding drama and one of the best performances of Dorothy Mackaill. A similar themed movie was made by another sensational actress Tallulah Bankhead in the 1932 movie "Faithless" starring Robert Montgomery. I very much enjoyed watching this movie and I highly recommend this to anyone interested in the films of Dorothy Mackaill, Hollywood history, early Hollywood and pre-code movies.
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Fearless in Tibet by Matteo Pistono
Book Reviewed: Fearless in Tibet by Matteo Pistono.
This is a book for a specialist in Tibetan Buddhism
This book is written mainly for a reader knowledgeable in Tibetan Buddhism that focuses mainly on the life and works of nineteenth-century mystic Terton Sogyal, the teacher of Thirteenth Dalai Lama. Sogyal had incredible power to foresee things which he acquired through deep mediations and clear understanding of the teachings of Buddha.
There is one chapter on creating peace between Tibet and China that partly discuss the political situation at that time. The end of 19th century was a precarious for Tibet because of the threatening behavior of powers like China and Russia. Tibet was under constant threat of Chinese invasion and Dalai Lama sought help and counsel from Terton Sogyal. Sogyal used peaceful methods of Vajrayana and the vast knowledge of Buddhist teachings. He performed rituals to defend Tibet. He discovered terma treasures and received prophecies and gave specific directions. His counsel included building temples and Buddhist stupas that would deter an aggression. He advocated Tendrel Nysel, eliminating flaws in interdependence, a practice created to reduce conflict and establish harmony and peace. His instructions were timely at a delicate and dangerous moment in the history of Tibet.
I recommend this book to someone familiar with Tibetan Buddhism. A casual reader may be bored by the terms and words commonly used in Tibetan Buddhism.
This is a book for a specialist in Tibetan Buddhism
This book is written mainly for a reader knowledgeable in Tibetan Buddhism that focuses mainly on the life and works of nineteenth-century mystic Terton Sogyal, the teacher of Thirteenth Dalai Lama. Sogyal had incredible power to foresee things which he acquired through deep mediations and clear understanding of the teachings of Buddha.
There is one chapter on creating peace between Tibet and China that partly discuss the political situation at that time. The end of 19th century was a precarious for Tibet because of the threatening behavior of powers like China and Russia. Tibet was under constant threat of Chinese invasion and Dalai Lama sought help and counsel from Terton Sogyal. Sogyal used peaceful methods of Vajrayana and the vast knowledge of Buddhist teachings. He performed rituals to defend Tibet. He discovered terma treasures and received prophecies and gave specific directions. His counsel included building temples and Buddhist stupas that would deter an aggression. He advocated Tendrel Nysel, eliminating flaws in interdependence, a practice created to reduce conflict and establish harmony and peace. His instructions were timely at a delicate and dangerous moment in the history of Tibet.
I recommend this book to someone familiar with Tibetan Buddhism. A casual reader may be bored by the terms and words commonly used in Tibetan Buddhism.
Monday, August 25, 2014
Such Good Girls: The Journey of the Holocaust's Hidden Child Survivors
Book Reviewed: Such Good Girls - The Journey of the Holocaust's Hidden Child Survivors by R. D. Rosen
These real-life stories are absolutely fascinating!
This is truly a fascinating story of three women who survived the holocaust and lived to tell their stories. The author coins the phrase "Such good girls," to describe these women who were brave enough to live through one of the greatest genocide that ever occurred in modern civilization and tell the rest of the world what happened during the reign the Third Reich. Sophie Turner was raised by a Catholic family to protect her Jewish identity; Flora Hogman was also protected and raised by several members of Christian faith, and Carla Lessing struggled to live through the war and atrocities of gestapo with her family concealed by Dutch strangers when Holland was under occupation. All the three women grew up under terror, later migrated to United States and excelled in education and in their field of study to help the hidden child survivors. Finally it looked like the American dream came true, but it was built on the foundation of nightmares, tragedies and un-healing wounds. This book tries to re-create the event that took place, and as seen through the eyes young women who did not know that there is such an evil that lurks in this world.
Sophie, born as Selma Schwarzland in Lvov, Poland, lived in the Polish ghetto before escaping with her mother has the most vivid and frightening experience of the three women. She lived through scenarios where German shot and killed almost 5,000 Jews who were sick and elderly on Janowska Street in Lvov ghetto. 15,000 more Jews sent on their way to Belzec not far from Lvov for extermination. In the following few week almost 150,000 women, children and elderly lost their lives. Sophie under the constant protection of her mother lived with the imminent threat of death, and despaired to understand the cruelty perpetrated in the name of ethnic cleansing.
Over the years I have read many news stories and editorials about the struggle of Jews in German occupied Europe and this is one of the best books I have read and it is truly fascinating. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the history and the survival of Jewish people, especially children.
These real-life stories are absolutely fascinating!
This is truly a fascinating story of three women who survived the holocaust and lived to tell their stories. The author coins the phrase "Such good girls," to describe these women who were brave enough to live through one of the greatest genocide that ever occurred in modern civilization and tell the rest of the world what happened during the reign the Third Reich. Sophie Turner was raised by a Catholic family to protect her Jewish identity; Flora Hogman was also protected and raised by several members of Christian faith, and Carla Lessing struggled to live through the war and atrocities of gestapo with her family concealed by Dutch strangers when Holland was under occupation. All the three women grew up under terror, later migrated to United States and excelled in education and in their field of study to help the hidden child survivors. Finally it looked like the American dream came true, but it was built on the foundation of nightmares, tragedies and un-healing wounds. This book tries to re-create the event that took place, and as seen through the eyes young women who did not know that there is such an evil that lurks in this world.
Sophie, born as Selma Schwarzland in Lvov, Poland, lived in the Polish ghetto before escaping with her mother has the most vivid and frightening experience of the three women. She lived through scenarios where German shot and killed almost 5,000 Jews who were sick and elderly on Janowska Street in Lvov ghetto. 15,000 more Jews sent on their way to Belzec not far from Lvov for extermination. In the following few week almost 150,000 women, children and elderly lost their lives. Sophie under the constant protection of her mother lived with the imminent threat of death, and despaired to understand the cruelty perpetrated in the name of ethnic cleansing.
Over the years I have read many news stories and editorials about the struggle of Jews in German occupied Europe and this is one of the best books I have read and it is truly fascinating. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the history and the survival of Jewish people, especially children.
Did Muhammad Exist? An Inquiry into Islam's Obscure Origins by Robert Spencer
Book Reviewed: Did Muhammad Exist? An Inquiry into Islam's Obscure Origins by Robert Spencer
This is another great book by scholar Robert Spencer who is a fearless leader in pointing out the evil effects of Islamic terrorism and Islamic culture across the globe. I have been following his timely articles on his website JihadWatch.org and also read instant messages on his Twitter account; it is an honor to know that we have a fearless scholar amongst us who dares to say that Islamic terrorists are savages and substantiate his statements with facts. We need to read works such as this at times when various Islamic terrorist organizations like Hamas, Hezbollah, and ISIS are waging war against order and civilization. The Islamic culture is truly barbaric and the savage acts of ISIS in Iraq and Syria are becoming yesterday’s news and much of the Islamic world not only tolerates such evil acts but also help promote it. Recently a well know Islamic cleric by the name of Hussein bin Mahmoud invoked Qur’an 47:4: “When you meet the unbelievers, strike the necks…” and suggested that ISIS beheadings are sanctioned by Islam.
This book explores the life of Muhammad and his prophetic career. The historical records discussed in this book casts doubt on his existence. A careful investigation shows that the Qur’an is not Muhammad’s revelations, but actually borrowed from the Jewish and Christian scriptures. His order is nothing but a terrorist fraternity filled with intolerance to other faiths. The concept of forgiveness reflected throughout the gospels and New Testament is a sharp contract to the preaching of Muhammad. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and recommend this to anyone interested in the long term influence of global jihad.
This is another great book by scholar Robert Spencer who is a fearless leader in pointing out the evil effects of Islamic terrorism and Islamic culture across the globe. I have been following his timely articles on his website JihadWatch.org and also read instant messages on his Twitter account; it is an honor to know that we have a fearless scholar amongst us who dares to say that Islamic terrorists are savages and substantiate his statements with facts. We need to read works such as this at times when various Islamic terrorist organizations like Hamas, Hezbollah, and ISIS are waging war against order and civilization. The Islamic culture is truly barbaric and the savage acts of ISIS in Iraq and Syria are becoming yesterday’s news and much of the Islamic world not only tolerates such evil acts but also help promote it. Recently a well know Islamic cleric by the name of Hussein bin Mahmoud invoked Qur’an 47:4: “When you meet the unbelievers, strike the necks…” and suggested that ISIS beheadings are sanctioned by Islam.
This book explores the life of Muhammad and his prophetic career. The historical records discussed in this book casts doubt on his existence. A careful investigation shows that the Qur’an is not Muhammad’s revelations, but actually borrowed from the Jewish and Christian scriptures. His order is nothing but a terrorist fraternity filled with intolerance to other faiths. The concept of forgiveness reflected throughout the gospels and New Testament is a sharp contract to the preaching of Muhammad. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and recommend this to anyone interested in the long term influence of global jihad.
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Tinseltown: Murder, Morphine, and Madness at the Dawn of Hollywood by William J. Mann
Book Reviewed: Tinseltown: Murder, Morphine, and Madness at the Dawn of Hollywood by William J. Mann
William J. Mann is a well-known Hollywood historian with many books to his credits. He has researched in this field widely and written several books about the role of gays and lesbians in Hollywood during golden era. In this book he focusses on the well-known murder mystery of director and actor Desmond Taylor during 1922 that has been discussed and opined upon by numerous authors, investigators and close associates of Taylor himself. This homicide has all the intrigues of a typical Hollywood film that makes the reading this book even more fun. The murder occurred around the time of another celebrity Roscoe Arbuckle who was on trial for the murder of a young actress named Virginia Rappe. A spate of newspaper-driven Hollywood scandals included the death of Olive Thomas, the mysterious death of Thomas H. Ince and the drug-related deaths of Wallace Reid, Barbara La Marr, and Jeanne Eagels was bad for the image of Hollywood studios which were struggling to establish themselves as the leading players in the world of movie industry. Studios were too powerful, Los Angeles Police Department was too corrupt and the newspapers were too scandalizing and in some cases fabricating the circumstances of murder. This did not help to solve the homicide and hence Tayler's case went cold. Several suspects were named in this mysterious killing, the leading names were Desmond Taylor's much younger girlfriend, Mary Miles Minter and her mother Charlotte Shelby. Shelby was the chief suspect for a long time. She was consumed by the greed and the career her daughter in a highly competitive world of movie business. Learning that Taylor had no interest in marrying her daughter or helping her career, Shelby took matters into her own hands. The most compelling evidence was her rare .38 caliber pistol with unusual bullets that were similar to the kind which killed Desmond Taylor. The author discusses in light of many recently acquired FBI files and police records. This is certainly a good book to read in light of author's own investigation but does little to solve this 1922 case where all witnesses have passed on. I recommend this book to anyone interested in the history of Hollywood and murder mysteries of the golden era.
William J. Mann is a well-known Hollywood historian with many books to his credits. He has researched in this field widely and written several books about the role of gays and lesbians in Hollywood during golden era. In this book he focusses on the well-known murder mystery of director and actor Desmond Taylor during 1922 that has been discussed and opined upon by numerous authors, investigators and close associates of Taylor himself. This homicide has all the intrigues of a typical Hollywood film that makes the reading this book even more fun. The murder occurred around the time of another celebrity Roscoe Arbuckle who was on trial for the murder of a young actress named Virginia Rappe. A spate of newspaper-driven Hollywood scandals included the death of Olive Thomas, the mysterious death of Thomas H. Ince and the drug-related deaths of Wallace Reid, Barbara La Marr, and Jeanne Eagels was bad for the image of Hollywood studios which were struggling to establish themselves as the leading players in the world of movie industry. Studios were too powerful, Los Angeles Police Department was too corrupt and the newspapers were too scandalizing and in some cases fabricating the circumstances of murder. This did not help to solve the homicide and hence Tayler's case went cold. Several suspects were named in this mysterious killing, the leading names were Desmond Taylor's much younger girlfriend, Mary Miles Minter and her mother Charlotte Shelby. Shelby was the chief suspect for a long time. She was consumed by the greed and the career her daughter in a highly competitive world of movie business. Learning that Taylor had no interest in marrying her daughter or helping her career, Shelby took matters into her own hands. The most compelling evidence was her rare .38 caliber pistol with unusual bullets that were similar to the kind which killed Desmond Taylor. The author discusses in light of many recently acquired FBI files and police records. This is certainly a good book to read in light of author's own investigation but does little to solve this 1922 case where all witnesses have passed on. I recommend this book to anyone interested in the history of Hollywood and murder mysteries of the golden era.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Bachelor Apartment, starring Irene Dunne and Lowel Sherman (Movie Review)
Movie Reviewed: Bachelor Apartment, starring Irene Dunne and Lowel Sherman
This is a wonderful comedy about a rich playboy played by Lowell Sherman who falls in love with a working girl named Helen Andrews (Irene Dunne.) With much reluctance she accepts the job of a secretary to work for him and then finds herself protecting him from a jealous husband who comes storming into his apartment with a gun. Lowell Sherman plays wonderfully as a smooth seducer with charm and magnetism who befriends several women. Two notables are the sister of Helene Andrews played by Claudia Dell, and a married woman, Agatha Caraway played by the beautiful Mae Murray, the “girl with bee-stung lips.” The content of the movie is quite mature and the Hollywood went ahead in producing these controversial films in the pre-code era. The story is very funny but it also deals with sexuality, teasing, infidelity, rich playboys, the influence of wealth in seducing women, etc. I very much liked the scenes in which Mae Murray appears as she steals the show with witty remarks and making unwelcome advances towards Sherman. The movie is also directed by Lowell Sherman, and written by Walter Ruben and John Lawson. One of the witty dialogues is as follows:
Rollins, Wayne's Butler: [holding up a diamond bracelet] Er, I found this, sir.
Wayne Carter: You find the strangest things in a bachelor's apartment.
Rollins, Wayne's Butler: Do you suppose the lady lost anything else, sir?
Wayne Carter: Well, if she did, she didn't lose it here.
This is a wonderful comedy about a rich playboy played by Lowell Sherman who falls in love with a working girl named Helen Andrews (Irene Dunne.) With much reluctance she accepts the job of a secretary to work for him and then finds herself protecting him from a jealous husband who comes storming into his apartment with a gun. Lowell Sherman plays wonderfully as a smooth seducer with charm and magnetism who befriends several women. Two notables are the sister of Helene Andrews played by Claudia Dell, and a married woman, Agatha Caraway played by the beautiful Mae Murray, the “girl with bee-stung lips.” The content of the movie is quite mature and the Hollywood went ahead in producing these controversial films in the pre-code era. The story is very funny but it also deals with sexuality, teasing, infidelity, rich playboys, the influence of wealth in seducing women, etc. I very much liked the scenes in which Mae Murray appears as she steals the show with witty remarks and making unwelcome advances towards Sherman. The movie is also directed by Lowell Sherman, and written by Walter Ruben and John Lawson. One of the witty dialogues is as follows:
Rollins, Wayne's Butler: [holding up a diamond bracelet] Er, I found this, sir.
Wayne Carter: You find the strangest things in a bachelor's apartment.
Rollins, Wayne's Butler: Do you suppose the lady lost anything else, sir?
Wayne Carter: Well, if she did, she didn't lose it here.
Hidden In Plain Sight: The fundamental link between relativity and quantum mechanics (Book Review)
Book Reviewed: Hidden In Plain Sight: The fundamental link between relativity and quantum mechanics, by Andrew Thomas
In this book, the author describes a simple link between relativity and quantum physics to understand physical reality in a nutshell. He argues that both theories share a common root in terms of the universe’s inability to describe physical reality in absolute terms. This book is not an attempt to unify the two theories as loop quantum gravity and string theories try to mesh them, but he tries to find a simple link so that one can understand and appreciate that both theories are played out on a common ground using the same principles.
The author seems to dismiss many ideas of physics including multiverse, the concept that allows the existence of parallel universes to explain certain fundamental questions regarding spacetime and the origin of the universe. He also dismisses the significance of anthropic principles that offers explanations for the unique values of universal constants, the physical structures and chemical properties of matter that support life. He also minimizes the importance of reductionist approach in understanding the most fundamental questions. He firmly believes that the answers for all basic physics questions lie within this universe and everything we observe. The secret of physical reality is hidden and but insists that we need to look more closely. His views are rather radical and a departure from traditional thinking.
In this book, the author describes a simple link between relativity and quantum physics to understand physical reality in a nutshell. He argues that both theories share a common root in terms of the universe’s inability to describe physical reality in absolute terms. This book is not an attempt to unify the two theories as loop quantum gravity and string theories try to mesh them, but he tries to find a simple link so that one can understand and appreciate that both theories are played out on a common ground using the same principles.
The author seems to dismiss many ideas of physics including multiverse, the concept that allows the existence of parallel universes to explain certain fundamental questions regarding spacetime and the origin of the universe. He also dismisses the significance of anthropic principles that offers explanations for the unique values of universal constants, the physical structures and chemical properties of matter that support life. He also minimizes the importance of reductionist approach in understanding the most fundamental questions. He firmly believes that the answers for all basic physics questions lie within this universe and everything we observe. The secret of physical reality is hidden and but insists that we need to look more closely. His views are rather radical and a departure from traditional thinking.
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
America: Imagine a World without Her (A book Review)
Book Reviewed: America: Imagine a World without Her, by Dinesh D'Souza
This is a thought provoking book that discusses the decline of American values and American pride. He says the American dream is on the decline because some of the leaders are responsible for it. He observes that if this decline continues, then United States of America as we know it will cease to exist, essentially committing in a national suicide. D’Souza is especially critical of the policies of Obama. His policies have led the nation to stagnation, impoverishment, indebtedness, and decline. At its heart, America is a celebration and we must rejoice with all its intellectual and material wealth. America is worth saving, and we have the tools to do so in our DNA, just waiting to be harnessed, but socialist devils like Obama and Hilary Clinton are progressively killing this potential. There is a good deal of American history written in this book and it reads effortlessly.
This is a thought provoking book that discusses the decline of American values and American pride. He says the American dream is on the decline because some of the leaders are responsible for it. He observes that if this decline continues, then United States of America as we know it will cease to exist, essentially committing in a national suicide. D’Souza is especially critical of the policies of Obama. His policies have led the nation to stagnation, impoverishment, indebtedness, and decline. At its heart, America is a celebration and we must rejoice with all its intellectual and material wealth. America is worth saving, and we have the tools to do so in our DNA, just waiting to be harnessed, but socialist devils like Obama and Hilary Clinton are progressively killing this potential. There is a good deal of American history written in this book and it reads effortlessly.
Saturday, July 19, 2014
Movie: Anna Karenina (1935), Starring Greta Garbo and Frederic March
Movie Reviewed: Anna Karenina (1935), Starring Greta Garbo and Frederic March
This is the tragic story of a married woman, Anna Karenina who falls in love with Count Vronsky, and follows her heart despite her husband's refusal to grant a divorce. Both Anna and Vronksy face a great deal of social repercussions. This is further complicated by her longing to see her son still living with husband. In this star-studded film, Greta Garbo offers an outstanding performance in the lead category as Anna Karenina in displaying her emotions. Once, director Clarence Brown stated that Garbo does not need gestures to convey happiness, despair, hope, joy or tragedy; she registers her feelings by radiating her thoughts to you. I became a believer of his observation after watching this movie. This film is strongly supported by the work of Fredric March, Maureen O'Sullivan, May Robson and Basil Rathbone.
According to author of the story, Tolstoy, the genesis of Anna Karenina was derived from two specific events; a story about a woman who deserts her husband for another man, based, in part, on the life of his sister Marya, and a newspaper story about the mistress of one of Tolstoy's neighbors, after being abandoned by her lover, hurls herself under a train. His epic story covered in 976 pages is masterfully condensed by the screen writer Salka Viertel, a close confidante of Greta Garbo. The movie is brilliantly directed by Clarence Brown, one of the proud possessions of MGM studios who worked with many of the industry's most illustrious performers. Anna Karenina is a human story and emerges as the masterpiece of man’s endless struggle to make sense of life while coming to terms with reality of material world where everyone wants nothing less than happiness.
This is the tragic story of a married woman, Anna Karenina who falls in love with Count Vronsky, and follows her heart despite her husband's refusal to grant a divorce. Both Anna and Vronksy face a great deal of social repercussions. This is further complicated by her longing to see her son still living with husband. In this star-studded film, Greta Garbo offers an outstanding performance in the lead category as Anna Karenina in displaying her emotions. Once, director Clarence Brown stated that Garbo does not need gestures to convey happiness, despair, hope, joy or tragedy; she registers her feelings by radiating her thoughts to you. I became a believer of his observation after watching this movie. This film is strongly supported by the work of Fredric March, Maureen O'Sullivan, May Robson and Basil Rathbone.
According to author of the story, Tolstoy, the genesis of Anna Karenina was derived from two specific events; a story about a woman who deserts her husband for another man, based, in part, on the life of his sister Marya, and a newspaper story about the mistress of one of Tolstoy's neighbors, after being abandoned by her lover, hurls herself under a train. His epic story covered in 976 pages is masterfully condensed by the screen writer Salka Viertel, a close confidante of Greta Garbo. The movie is brilliantly directed by Clarence Brown, one of the proud possessions of MGM studios who worked with many of the industry's most illustrious performers. Anna Karenina is a human story and emerges as the masterpiece of man’s endless struggle to make sense of life while coming to terms with reality of material world where everyone wants nothing less than happiness.
Friday, July 18, 2014
Movie: One million B.C (1940)
Movie Reviewed: One million B.C. - An interesting pre-historic movie
This is an adventure filled prehistoric movie where you will also come across many scary creatures and wild fights of cavemen and very little conversation. The story is about two prehistoric people; one, the brutish rock people, and second, the peaceful shell people. This film, produced by Hal Roach has many scientific inaccuracies. One million years ago, there were no humans, in fact humans are around for a little more than 100,000 years and the dinosaurs were extinct 65 million years ago. They couldn't be in a movie that was about one million years ago, and how come that the cavemen have a domesticated dog? Notwithstanding these inaccuracies, it still generated lot of interest in 1940 when this movie was released, partly because it is a fantasy with lot of action. When I saw the fights and brutality with all those monster creatures, it made me remember another horror movie, King Kong (1932). The special effects of King Kong is lot better than this movie. Overall, this movie is OK to watch, and Carol Landis and Lon Chaney Jr. do wonderful jobs in their roles. For a pre-historic movie, Carol Landis is surprisingly fully clothed with almost no nudity in the film.
This is an adventure filled prehistoric movie where you will also come across many scary creatures and wild fights of cavemen and very little conversation. The story is about two prehistoric people; one, the brutish rock people, and second, the peaceful shell people. This film, produced by Hal Roach has many scientific inaccuracies. One million years ago, there were no humans, in fact humans are around for a little more than 100,000 years and the dinosaurs were extinct 65 million years ago. They couldn't be in a movie that was about one million years ago, and how come that the cavemen have a domesticated dog? Notwithstanding these inaccuracies, it still generated lot of interest in 1940 when this movie was released, partly because it is a fantasy with lot of action. When I saw the fights and brutality with all those monster creatures, it made me remember another horror movie, King Kong (1932). The special effects of King Kong is lot better than this movie. Overall, this movie is OK to watch, and Carol Landis and Lon Chaney Jr. do wonderful jobs in their roles. For a pre-historic movie, Carol Landis is surprisingly fully clothed with almost no nudity in the film.
Movie: Brewster's Millions (1945)
Movie: Brewster's Millions (1945), starring Dennis O'Keefe. A real screwball slapstick and outrageously funny
There are several versions of this movie and this version was produced in 1945 is an absolute classic. Dennis O'Keefe as the lead character Monty Brewster has outperformed himself in this screwball comedy. The story is about a former serviceman Monty Brewster inherits eight million dollars from his wealthy uncle with a stipulation that he spend the first million in just two months to qualify for the rest of inheritance, the seven million dollars. It becomes the sweetest gift just before his wedding, but it also stipulates that he keep this secret for himself and not reveal to his friends and family. Desperate to spend, he starts businesses and makes intentionally bad investments. But things go awry as he begin earn wealth.
The movie is strongly supported by Helen Walker, Gail Patrick, June Havoc and Eddie Anderson. The jealousy of his fiancé played by Helen Walker becomes dominant factor when Monty starts attracting ladies like June Havoc and Gail Patrick with his charm and money. Allan Dwan has done a terrific job of directing the movie; it moves fast and the story is highly engaging. Another key feature of this movie is the family servant played by the black actor Eddie Anderson who has many funny lines and works wonderfully with the rest of actors in the story.
The 1985 version starring Richard Pryor and John Candy is also great movie released under the same title but I like this 1945 version much better.
There are several versions of this movie and this version was produced in 1945 is an absolute classic. Dennis O'Keefe as the lead character Monty Brewster has outperformed himself in this screwball comedy. The story is about a former serviceman Monty Brewster inherits eight million dollars from his wealthy uncle with a stipulation that he spend the first million in just two months to qualify for the rest of inheritance, the seven million dollars. It becomes the sweetest gift just before his wedding, but it also stipulates that he keep this secret for himself and not reveal to his friends and family. Desperate to spend, he starts businesses and makes intentionally bad investments. But things go awry as he begin earn wealth.
The movie is strongly supported by Helen Walker, Gail Patrick, June Havoc and Eddie Anderson. The jealousy of his fiancé played by Helen Walker becomes dominant factor when Monty starts attracting ladies like June Havoc and Gail Patrick with his charm and money. Allan Dwan has done a terrific job of directing the movie; it moves fast and the story is highly engaging. Another key feature of this movie is the family servant played by the black actor Eddie Anderson who has many funny lines and works wonderfully with the rest of actors in the story.
The 1985 version starring Richard Pryor and John Candy is also great movie released under the same title but I like this 1945 version much better.
Movie: Annabel takes a tour, starring Lucille Ball
Movie Reviewed: Annabel takes a tour, starring Lucille Ball,it is a Non-stop wackiness!
This is the second movie of the Annabel series starring Lucille Ball which is based on characters created by Charles Hoffman. I am sure you will enjoy the continuation of non-stop wackiness of the first movie, Affairs of Annabel. In this screwball comedy, Annabel's press agent played Jack Oakie help to revitalize her flagging career. He plumbs to the bottomless well of outrageous ideas that builds into an absolutely hilarious story. When she falls in love with a Viscount played Ralph Forbes, Oakie does not give up, but when the nobleman's wife and children shows up, Annabel's dream world collapses instantly and come back to earth only to be reunited with Oakie. Lucile Ball plays a scatterbrained actress colorfully with all the charms of her future character Lucy. Oakie is perfect for offbeat comedy like this and the humor is fresh and outrageously funny
Lew Landers directed this movie and the cast also included very funny lady Ruth Donnelly along with Bradley Page and Alice White. Unfortunately RKO cancelled this series in 1938, but retained Ball as a major asset of the studio for future projects.
This is the second movie of the Annabel series starring Lucille Ball which is based on characters created by Charles Hoffman. I am sure you will enjoy the continuation of non-stop wackiness of the first movie, Affairs of Annabel. In this screwball comedy, Annabel's press agent played Jack Oakie help to revitalize her flagging career. He plumbs to the bottomless well of outrageous ideas that builds into an absolutely hilarious story. When she falls in love with a Viscount played Ralph Forbes, Oakie does not give up, but when the nobleman's wife and children shows up, Annabel's dream world collapses instantly and come back to earth only to be reunited with Oakie. Lucile Ball plays a scatterbrained actress colorfully with all the charms of her future character Lucy. Oakie is perfect for offbeat comedy like this and the humor is fresh and outrageously funny
Lew Landers directed this movie and the cast also included very funny lady Ruth Donnelly along with Bradley Page and Alice White. Unfortunately RKO cancelled this series in 1938, but retained Ball as a major asset of the studio for future projects.
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Movie: This is the night, starring Cary Grant and Thelma Todd
Movie Reviewed: This is the Night: Delightful comedy starring Thelma Todd and Cary Grant
This is not the night for two love birds; Claire (Thelma Todd) and Gerald (Roland Young) who are having a torrid affair when it is rudely interrupted by Clair’s husband played by ever charming Cary Grant. When Stephen suspects the adulterous affair, Gerald hires Germaine (Lili Damita), a young French actress to pose as Gerald’s wife. This pretentious arrangement irks Clair who actually loves Gerald. At the end, the plot turns into a real screwball slapstick. This is absolutely funny comedy, but running on a very provocative story like this at the height of great depression was also a bold move on the part of the Paramount Studios (pre-code era.) This is Cary Grant's first screen appearance, and also one of the funny films of French star Lili Damita.
Before this movie, Cary Grant (CG) decided to use this name because the initials stood for good luck. He was thinking of other successful stars like Clark Gable (CG) and Gary Cooper (GC) for whom these initials worked. Looking back in history, Cary was absolutely right!
Actress Thelma Todd died tragically five years after making this film in 1937. The death was ruled an accident but it is widely suspected as a murder. Many reporters and private investigators criticized the way LAPD handled this case; at that time LAPD was known to be very corrupt in the nation.
There is some interesting conversation in the movie;
Claire Mathewson: [they are seated in the back of their car; Claire has had her dress torn by the car door] Gerald, aren't you going to do anything?
Gerald Gray: Here?
Claire Mathewson: No, no. I mean about discharging your chauffeur
Gerald Gray: Oh, oh let me keep him. I've let you keep your husband
Claire Mathewson: I haven't kept him
Gerald Gray: What?
Claire Mathewson: He left this morning
Gerald Gray: For good?
Claire Mathewson: No, no, for the Olympic Games at Los Angeles. He's in them, you know. Haven't you ever heard of Steve Mathewson, the javelin thrower?
Gerald Gray: Javelin thrower?
Claire Mathewson: ah ha
Gerald Gray: Do you mean those long, murderous harpoon things? [After she nods]
Gerald Gray: Claire, the moment you meet a man, right after you've said 'how do you do?' you should add 'my husband throws javelins'.
This is not the night for two love birds; Claire (Thelma Todd) and Gerald (Roland Young) who are having a torrid affair when it is rudely interrupted by Clair’s husband played by ever charming Cary Grant. When Stephen suspects the adulterous affair, Gerald hires Germaine (Lili Damita), a young French actress to pose as Gerald’s wife. This pretentious arrangement irks Clair who actually loves Gerald. At the end, the plot turns into a real screwball slapstick. This is absolutely funny comedy, but running on a very provocative story like this at the height of great depression was also a bold move on the part of the Paramount Studios (pre-code era.) This is Cary Grant's first screen appearance, and also one of the funny films of French star Lili Damita.
Before this movie, Cary Grant (CG) decided to use this name because the initials stood for good luck. He was thinking of other successful stars like Clark Gable (CG) and Gary Cooper (GC) for whom these initials worked. Looking back in history, Cary was absolutely right!
Actress Thelma Todd died tragically five years after making this film in 1937. The death was ruled an accident but it is widely suspected as a murder. Many reporters and private investigators criticized the way LAPD handled this case; at that time LAPD was known to be very corrupt in the nation.
There is some interesting conversation in the movie;
Claire Mathewson: [they are seated in the back of their car; Claire has had her dress torn by the car door] Gerald, aren't you going to do anything?
Gerald Gray: Here?
Claire Mathewson: No, no. I mean about discharging your chauffeur
Gerald Gray: Oh, oh let me keep him. I've let you keep your husband
Claire Mathewson: I haven't kept him
Gerald Gray: What?
Claire Mathewson: He left this morning
Gerald Gray: For good?
Claire Mathewson: No, no, for the Olympic Games at Los Angeles. He's in them, you know. Haven't you ever heard of Steve Mathewson, the javelin thrower?
Gerald Gray: Javelin thrower?
Claire Mathewson: ah ha
Gerald Gray: Do you mean those long, murderous harpoon things? [After she nods]
Gerald Gray: Claire, the moment you meet a man, right after you've said 'how do you do?' you should add 'my husband throws javelins'.
Perfect Understanding, starring Gloria Swanson and Laurence Olivier
Movie Reviewed: Perfect Understanding, starring Gloria Swanson and Laurence Olivier
This is a story about a young couple who decide to marry under the condition that they agree never to disagree. The contract states that "Never to be husband and wife, but lover and mistress and above everything else, to remain individual." But this agreement does not stand the test of time. When Nicholas Randall (Laurence Olivier) is vacationing alone in Cannes, France cheats on his wife Judy (Gloria Swanson) and later begs for forgiveness. The divorce case heads to the court and there the drama ends in much unexpected way. Judy agrees to forgive Nicholas and they elope from the court proceedings. The court has no choice but to dismiss the case and it all ends in a very happy note.
For most silent movie buffs like me, it is refreshing to watch this movie, since Gloria Swanson made very few talkie movies. The most striking feature of the movie is Swanson working with Laurence Olivier who was eight years younger than her; brings me the memory of Sunset Boulevard where she also romances a much younger man in William Holden. She told her friends that she was deeply attracted to the charm of Olivier while making this movie. At that time Swanson was living in London; Douglas Fairbanks, Sr., had suggested that she start her own studio to surmount her financial difficulties. This movie was tightly budgeted but later became every expensive since Olivier had to miss shootings because of an auto accident not related to the movie; Swanson had to cancel few days because she had flu; and then the studio where the film was being developed, caught fire and the film was destroyed. They had to recreate with whatever was left in a studio in United States. It became so expensive Swanson had to sell her stocks in "United Artists" Company.
The boat race in Cannes, France is fun part of the movie, and Swanson does a splendid job as Judy Rogers. This love story reminds me of Love Story (1964) in many ways; for one, young Laurence Olivier bears strong resemblance to Ryan O'Neal. It is a lot of fun to watch this movie.
This is a story about a young couple who decide to marry under the condition that they agree never to disagree. The contract states that "Never to be husband and wife, but lover and mistress and above everything else, to remain individual." But this agreement does not stand the test of time. When Nicholas Randall (Laurence Olivier) is vacationing alone in Cannes, France cheats on his wife Judy (Gloria Swanson) and later begs for forgiveness. The divorce case heads to the court and there the drama ends in much unexpected way. Judy agrees to forgive Nicholas and they elope from the court proceedings. The court has no choice but to dismiss the case and it all ends in a very happy note.
For most silent movie buffs like me, it is refreshing to watch this movie, since Gloria Swanson made very few talkie movies. The most striking feature of the movie is Swanson working with Laurence Olivier who was eight years younger than her; brings me the memory of Sunset Boulevard where she also romances a much younger man in William Holden. She told her friends that she was deeply attracted to the charm of Olivier while making this movie. At that time Swanson was living in London; Douglas Fairbanks, Sr., had suggested that she start her own studio to surmount her financial difficulties. This movie was tightly budgeted but later became every expensive since Olivier had to miss shootings because of an auto accident not related to the movie; Swanson had to cancel few days because she had flu; and then the studio where the film was being developed, caught fire and the film was destroyed. They had to recreate with whatever was left in a studio in United States. It became so expensive Swanson had to sell her stocks in "United Artists" Company.
The boat race in Cannes, France is fun part of the movie, and Swanson does a splendid job as Judy Rogers. This love story reminds me of Love Story (1964) in many ways; for one, young Laurence Olivier bears strong resemblance to Ryan O'Neal. It is a lot of fun to watch this movie.
Book Reviewed: Place not Race by Sherryll Cashion - A clear discussion of the nature of affirmative action
Book Reviewed: Place not Race by Sherryll Cashion: A clear discussion of the nature of affirmative action in higher education in America.
This is a very well discussed book about the structural barriers to accessing higher opportunities in colleges and universities not only by racial minorities but also economically challenged Caucasians. The affirmative action does not necessarily mean African Americans, but it also includes other races, who were not given opportunities in a political and economic system that is rigged in favor of those who are economically well-off, says Georgetown University Law Professor Sheryll Cashin. Professor Cashin is an expert in this field and has researched and published widely in academic journals. The performance on the SAT scores mirrors family income because the system is skewed against poor people of all color. Access to a good public school depends on your neighborhood. This provides clear and unchallenged opportunities to the upper class citizens of the country.
The racial diversity is important for the nation. The armed forces are racially diverse and they put their lives online everyday so that the rest of us can have freedom and live in peace. Nobody is voicing their protest of highly visible African Americans in the Army, Navy or Air force, then why would it become a problem if they are in living our neighborhoods or in schools and colleges. Racial diversity in the society must be an inclusive policy; it should not be a reverse discrimination or denial of fairness. The author discusses many cases in states of California, Texas, Michigan and other states that are working in a fair manner. She makes some of the strongest points for acceptable social, economic and political policies that focus on inclusion.
This is a very well discussed book about the structural barriers to accessing higher opportunities in colleges and universities not only by racial minorities but also economically challenged Caucasians. The affirmative action does not necessarily mean African Americans, but it also includes other races, who were not given opportunities in a political and economic system that is rigged in favor of those who are economically well-off, says Georgetown University Law Professor Sheryll Cashin. Professor Cashin is an expert in this field and has researched and published widely in academic journals. The performance on the SAT scores mirrors family income because the system is skewed against poor people of all color. Access to a good public school depends on your neighborhood. This provides clear and unchallenged opportunities to the upper class citizens of the country.
The racial diversity is important for the nation. The armed forces are racially diverse and they put their lives online everyday so that the rest of us can have freedom and live in peace. Nobody is voicing their protest of highly visible African Americans in the Army, Navy or Air force, then why would it become a problem if they are in living our neighborhoods or in schools and colleges. Racial diversity in the society must be an inclusive policy; it should not be a reverse discrimination or denial of fairness. The author discusses many cases in states of California, Texas, Michigan and other states that are working in a fair manner. She makes some of the strongest points for acceptable social, economic and political policies that focus on inclusion.
Saturday, July 12, 2014
Diary of a mad diva: Joan Rivers is hilarious in this politically incorrect book
Book Reviewed: Diary of a mad diva
I have always enjoyed watching Joan Rivers on television and liked her brand of comedy. She is one of the outstanding standup comedians of our time. She is politically incorrect and jabs at anyone who deserved to be made fun of. In this book she pokes at about 135 celebrities that include Kim Kardashian and Kanye West’s lavish wedding; Lena Dunham's fondness for flashing; Gwyneth Paltrow’s irritability and Anne Hathaway’s teeth.
Once she was asked if she ever thought that the United States will see the first gay president or the first woman president. She replied, "We already have it with Obama, so let’s just calm down.” Rivers has been criticized on numerous occasions for making jokes that are insensitive. She was criticized for making jokes about singer Adele's weight. Following the birth of Adele's son in 2012, Rivers said "Congratulations to Adele on the birth of her 68 pound 8 ounces bouncing baby boy." Rivers jokes about women like Miley Cyrus is very funny. It is a lot fun to read this book and if you like Joan Rivers, you would love this book.
I have always enjoyed watching Joan Rivers on television and liked her brand of comedy. She is one of the outstanding standup comedians of our time. She is politically incorrect and jabs at anyone who deserved to be made fun of. In this book she pokes at about 135 celebrities that include Kim Kardashian and Kanye West’s lavish wedding; Lena Dunham's fondness for flashing; Gwyneth Paltrow’s irritability and Anne Hathaway’s teeth.
Once she was asked if she ever thought that the United States will see the first gay president or the first woman president. She replied, "We already have it with Obama, so let’s just calm down.” Rivers has been criticized on numerous occasions for making jokes that are insensitive. She was criticized for making jokes about singer Adele's weight. Following the birth of Adele's son in 2012, Rivers said "Congratulations to Adele on the birth of her 68 pound 8 ounces bouncing baby boy." Rivers jokes about women like Miley Cyrus is very funny. It is a lot fun to read this book and if you like Joan Rivers, you would love this book.
Thursday, July 10, 2014
American Silent Film: Movies and studios from silent era - An historical perspective
Book Reviewed: American Silent Film by William K. Everson
This is one of the best surveys of the movie industry from its beginnings that covers the entire silent era which spanned from 1905 to 1928 and then the talkie movies took over from silent movies. The author discusses the work of great directors such as D.W. Griffith, Frank Borzage, John Ford, Erich von Stroheim, Josef von Sternberg, and King Vidor. The book also recognizes the work of performers such as Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, Douglas Fairbanks Sr., Mary Pickford, Lillian Gish, Mae Marsh and numerous others. The book also discusses the movies under categories such as; comedies, Westerns, horror movies, gangster movies, love story and family dramas along with innovation and development in the areas of art direction, production, design, camera techniques and screen writing. The book is incredibly informative for anyone interested in the history and archeology of early American cinema.
A brief summary is as follows: The American movies flourish across the globe, and it all started in the wake of industrial revolution. The industry was built on firm foundation and it evolved rapidly when the movie making was still a fantasy of few dreamers and artists in Europe. This was before the first Nickelodeon opened in United States in 1905. When European countries were in the middle of war, the European movie businesses were badly hurt. In sensing that the competition is minimized, American movie businesses were strengthened and lead over European movie industry was lengthened considerably. This was the critical period when the American cinema achieved total mastery of the art of making movies, from screen writing to production and marketing of the product. Directors like Griffith, Stroheim, and Flaherty, Murnau, and Welles were mainly responsible for the artistic progressions, and technical and artistic innovations. They often used “A” stars like Rudolph Valentino, Mary Pickford, Colleen Moore, Clara Bow and Douglas Fairbanks for making box office hits. The revenue generated helped for more artistic experimentation and variety and creativity in Hollywood. Many less known directors during the silent era also made impressive movies, but not often box office hits. This list included; William Seiter, Irvin Willat, Harry Pollard, and Emory Johnson. In 1919 D.W. Griffith, Douglas Fairbanks, Charlie Chaplin and Mary Pickford formed United Artists to give themselves greater freedom in making movies and greater profits for their investments, which interested other investors to invest in movie business that helped Hollywood to grow at a faster rate.
Another key step Hollywood would take is to tap into European expertize during 1910s and 20s. There was a strong presence of imported directors and actors/actresses from the other side of the “pond.” The early influences of Gustaf Molander, Ernst Lubitsch, Dmitri Buchovetski and F. W. Murnau in Hollywood were real and significant. In fact much of the important names in Swedish movie business had moved to Hollywood including Greta Garbo resulting in complete collapse of the Swedish movie industry.
The comedy films have a rich history in Hollywood. Hollywood greats such as Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, Mack Sennett, Harold Lloyd and Laurel & Hardy made great silent comedies. But talkie films brought new talents like W. C. Fields. It’s a gift, Duck soup, Blessed event and Love me tonight are some of the finest comedies. The ultimate end of silent era was evident in 1926 with the making of Don Juan and more significantly The Jazz Singer in 1927.The silent industry was dying with much resistance from leading directors like Borzage, Ford, Stroheim, Sternberg, and King Vidor. They thought that would lessen the commercial value of Hollywood movies in European market and it would also destroy the unique form of art. Several leading actors and actresses supported that view. Greta Garbo was the last holdout because she was afraid that her heavy Swedish accent will not be accepted by American audience. Her last silent film “Kiss” was released in late 1929. The transition also kicked-in pretty strongly with stage directors like James Whale, George Cukor, John Cromwell, and Rouben Mamoulian. New performers from stage like James Cagney, Paul Muni, Humphrey Bogart, Clark Gable and Spencer Tracy made lasting impact on talkie movies. Lubitsch’s “Trouble in Paradise” and Mamoulian’s “Love me Tonight” restored all the elegance of silent era, but several talkie movies of 1930 and 1931 also made strong showing in keeping the artistic forms of the silent movies. It was at the end of 1931 that “Hollywood holdouts” realized that the end of silent era has just passed by.
This book contains a number of photographs about art direction, and still photographs of several stars of the silent days; they are immaculate and rare pictures to treasure. In the appendix section of the book, the author discusses several published books about the history of Hollywood, which are helpful for readers interested in American movie history. This is a great book to read and it is highly recommended.
This is one of the best surveys of the movie industry from its beginnings that covers the entire silent era which spanned from 1905 to 1928 and then the talkie movies took over from silent movies. The author discusses the work of great directors such as D.W. Griffith, Frank Borzage, John Ford, Erich von Stroheim, Josef von Sternberg, and King Vidor. The book also recognizes the work of performers such as Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, Douglas Fairbanks Sr., Mary Pickford, Lillian Gish, Mae Marsh and numerous others. The book also discusses the movies under categories such as; comedies, Westerns, horror movies, gangster movies, love story and family dramas along with innovation and development in the areas of art direction, production, design, camera techniques and screen writing. The book is incredibly informative for anyone interested in the history and archeology of early American cinema.
A brief summary is as follows: The American movies flourish across the globe, and it all started in the wake of industrial revolution. The industry was built on firm foundation and it evolved rapidly when the movie making was still a fantasy of few dreamers and artists in Europe. This was before the first Nickelodeon opened in United States in 1905. When European countries were in the middle of war, the European movie businesses were badly hurt. In sensing that the competition is minimized, American movie businesses were strengthened and lead over European movie industry was lengthened considerably. This was the critical period when the American cinema achieved total mastery of the art of making movies, from screen writing to production and marketing of the product. Directors like Griffith, Stroheim, and Flaherty, Murnau, and Welles were mainly responsible for the artistic progressions, and technical and artistic innovations. They often used “A” stars like Rudolph Valentino, Mary Pickford, Colleen Moore, Clara Bow and Douglas Fairbanks for making box office hits. The revenue generated helped for more artistic experimentation and variety and creativity in Hollywood. Many less known directors during the silent era also made impressive movies, but not often box office hits. This list included; William Seiter, Irvin Willat, Harry Pollard, and Emory Johnson. In 1919 D.W. Griffith, Douglas Fairbanks, Charlie Chaplin and Mary Pickford formed United Artists to give themselves greater freedom in making movies and greater profits for their investments, which interested other investors to invest in movie business that helped Hollywood to grow at a faster rate.
Another key step Hollywood would take is to tap into European expertize during 1910s and 20s. There was a strong presence of imported directors and actors/actresses from the other side of the “pond.” The early influences of Gustaf Molander, Ernst Lubitsch, Dmitri Buchovetski and F. W. Murnau in Hollywood were real and significant. In fact much of the important names in Swedish movie business had moved to Hollywood including Greta Garbo resulting in complete collapse of the Swedish movie industry.
The comedy films have a rich history in Hollywood. Hollywood greats such as Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, Mack Sennett, Harold Lloyd and Laurel & Hardy made great silent comedies. But talkie films brought new talents like W. C. Fields. It’s a gift, Duck soup, Blessed event and Love me tonight are some of the finest comedies. The ultimate end of silent era was evident in 1926 with the making of Don Juan and more significantly The Jazz Singer in 1927.The silent industry was dying with much resistance from leading directors like Borzage, Ford, Stroheim, Sternberg, and King Vidor. They thought that would lessen the commercial value of Hollywood movies in European market and it would also destroy the unique form of art. Several leading actors and actresses supported that view. Greta Garbo was the last holdout because she was afraid that her heavy Swedish accent will not be accepted by American audience. Her last silent film “Kiss” was released in late 1929. The transition also kicked-in pretty strongly with stage directors like James Whale, George Cukor, John Cromwell, and Rouben Mamoulian. New performers from stage like James Cagney, Paul Muni, Humphrey Bogart, Clark Gable and Spencer Tracy made lasting impact on talkie movies. Lubitsch’s “Trouble in Paradise” and Mamoulian’s “Love me Tonight” restored all the elegance of silent era, but several talkie movies of 1930 and 1931 also made strong showing in keeping the artistic forms of the silent movies. It was at the end of 1931 that “Hollywood holdouts” realized that the end of silent era has just passed by.
This book contains a number of photographs about art direction, and still photographs of several stars of the silent days; they are immaculate and rare pictures to treasure. In the appendix section of the book, the author discusses several published books about the history of Hollywood, which are helpful for readers interested in American movie history. This is a great book to read and it is highly recommended.
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