Home Projectionist

Beloved TCM on-air host Robert Osborne added a special guest to the Festival at the start of its second day: the Sun. After a cloudy, damp Wednesday, it was wonderful to soak up some warmth prior to entering the often too-chilled theaters.

On Thursday, pass holder gift bags were dispersed, Club TCM opened at the Hollywood Roosevelt, more feast goers arrived, trivia contests were played, a red carpet screening of FUNNY GIRL was held at Grauman’s (now TCL) Chinese (special pass required) and–most importantly–the first two blocks of films kicked-off. Which, of course, required some decision-making.

I was set to watch SOUTH PACIFIC poolside, but made a last-second switcheroo and, coffee in hand, bolted over to Stanley Kubrick’s THE KILLING. Co-star Colleen (pronounced KO) recalled receiving no direction at all, and suggested we pay special attention to actor Tim Carey’s teeth.

Next at 9 pm was my first-time seeing David Lean’s 1955 SUMMERTIME. Absolutely mesmerizing, for the amazing views of Venice as well as Katherine Hepburn’s face and touching performance. Lean certainly had a thing for trains, and for love’s bittersweet moments.

The Festival kicks into full-metal gear today, with a 14-hour schedule and dozens of movies. Among personal choices I must make: Burt Lancaster in THE SWIMMER vs. Bette Davis in LIBELED LADY, Jean Gabin inLA TRAVERSEEÉ DE PARIS or RUGGLES OF RED GAP, a discussion with Mel Brooks at THE TWELVE CHAIRS up against a live orchestra at Clara Bow’s IT and, last but no less difficult, there’s ON THE TOWN at the beautiful Egyptian theater, or a 3-D HONDO, or Billy Wilder’s A FOREIGN AFFAIR.

Whew. If only I could clone myself.