For Classic Film Lovers

For those who are fans of classic film, there were two programs of note last night that were worth your time.  First, an interview on TCM with Luise Rainer, recognized as the oldest living Academy Award Winner.  The occasion for broadcasting this was her 101st birthday, which was yesterday.  She won back to back Oscars in 1936 and 1937, for "The Great Ziegfeld" and "The Good Earth", and to date, is the youngest person to win two Oscars.  Despite her age, she is still vibrant, feisty and theatrical.  Obviously she doesn't travel much anymore, so it was a rare and real treat to hear her memories of studio boss Louis B. Mayer and co-star Paul Muni.

Later, PBS broadcast an "American Masters" on Jeff Bridges.  He's starred in some of the biggest movies of the last 40 years, and so I consider him a film classic.  I've seen many of his movies over the years, the most recent being "True Grit", and it was fascinating to hear him talk about his working process, his many interests, and to hear reflections from his directors and co-stars.

Needless to say, it was a terrific evening.  On the one hand, it was a glimpse into Old Hollywood and the workings of the studio system.  On the other, it was a glimpse into the film business as it exists today.  Fascinating.