The Deep (1977)

Retro Active Critique #17

"The Deep" is yet another 1970's film that gets too little attention (if any) in retrospect, similar to "The Last of Sheila". 

At the helm of this film, Peter Yates crafted some relatively advanced underwater filming for its time period. Much of the action takes place underwater and there are compelling moments throughout those extended scenes.

The greatest notoriety "The Deep" has maintained is its having images of Jacqueline Bisset in a wet t-shirt. Which is somewhat unfortunate, as the film does have its other merits. However, it should be noted that seeing Bisset and her co-star Nick Nolte appear together is worthwhile. They have natural chemistry and make a believable couple, as they discover a historic shipwreck while diving in Bermuda, only to be mixed up in a dangerous drug war.

The story is by Peter Benchley - the same Peter Benchley who wrote "Jaws". Apart from the action that takes place underwater, there is plenty above ground, as well. Extended fight scenes, for example... a choice one, in particular, between the two henchmen. The supporting cast consists of Robert Shaw (also of "Jaws" fame) and Louis Gossett, Jr. as the crooked and fierce Bermudan, Cloche.

I'm certain there have been a number of remakes (of sorts) for this over the years... but just watch "The Deep" for a classic action flick feel. And despite the slow pace in some scenes, it's worth viewing the entire thing to experience how the film rewards you by closing with an unexpected and completely unnecessary, cheesy, freeze-framed/disco-music-playing ending! 70's style.

Designing Woman (1957)

Retro Active Critique #16

The fun of watching 'Designing Woman' is threefold: there's the feel-good script, which won the Best Screenplay Oscar for its year; its stars, Lauren Bacall and Gregory Peck; and the charmingly dated feel of the whole production. 
'Designing Woman' has a great deal to love. While the film drags on just a little bit towards the end, the overall plot maintains great momentum and the film's execution by director Vincent Minnelli is top notch. Prior to 'Designing Woman', I wrote a post about another little known Gregory Peck film, 'Mirage'. I strongly suggest that anyone who hasn't enjoyed these two films, starring the great leading man, do so. And with 'Designing Woman', there's also the wonderful Lauren Bacall.

Peck plays a sportswriter getting into some hot water as he writes about some controversial mobsters; Bacall is the incredibly successful fashion designer with whom he falls in love. They are a couple of grownups with their own individual lives who decide to get married before they actually get to know one another.

It's an interesting story, but particularly so for the era during which it was told. In 1957, it was still quite rare for women to be career-oriented. Meanwhile, people generally got married when they were far younger than these protagonists. So their dilemmas, despite seeming dated, are particularly interesting considering the context of the film. If you'd like a bit of late 50's escapism and wit, I highly recommend 'Designing Woman.'

Turn to Stone - Electric Light Orchestra

Watch as the ELO gets ambushed by overzealous strings (a la 'more cowbell') and an overzealous, aerobicising Travolta. Notice the patient but troubled looks by Jeff Lynne & company... This is my take on 'Turn To Stone'.

Early MTV - Sound & Vision

Here's a blast from the past... an homage to early MTV videos I created several weeks ago. Hope you enjoy the 80's nostalgia as much as I do!

Classic.Sporty.Chic (Archives)

Here is a video I created featuring some of my favorite looks & moments in film & TV, ones that have resonated with or shaped me.

Film footage (mostly from the late 60's and early 70's) painstakingly gathered from my DVD archives... enjoy! :)

'Classic.Sporty.Chic' (Archives) from Klara Tavakoli on Vimeo.

The Evolution of Peter Garrett

Adulation for Aussie Peter Garrett could have been stirred years ago, as a feeling derived from both his music and demeanor as the front man for The Oils - or Midnight Oil, to those who are the band's less rabid fans. When I first heard and saw his presence in Midnight Oil, I immediately had my visual for what a person representing 'punk' as a positive could be - what, with that unique and disarming appearance and intensity in his performances, not to mention the sociopolitical verses to The Oils' music. So much that if I ever needed to imagine how one could be a political and passionate 'punk' force, but constructively so, Peter Garrett owned that vision in my mind.

It is rare is for a man to have such evident passion in his music to reach that level of success in a rock band (one of the best Aussie bands, in my opinion) but then to be evolved enough as to progress to take on leaderships roles in his native Australia, in direct defense of the issues and values that had always been his trademark. I won't give you his entire resume here, but you can see his impressive credentials on his Wikipedia page. Although I have no real idea about his policies or how they are received by Australians, he has been appointed several times over the course of many years and he has been actively involved in protecting the environment for decades. If he is not well received by his people, then his career evolution would also be ironic... if one were to juxtapose some of his famous Midnight Oil lyrics ("... still it aches like tetanus, it reeks of politics... signatures stained with tears...") alongside the positions to which he's been appointed.

The Oils' biggest international hit was 'Beds Are Burning'. I liked the song as a kid but found it fairly amusing: "How can we dance when the world keeps turning? How do we sleep while our beds are burning..." Years later, when I could actually absorb and decipher the lyrics, I was impressed by its deeply environmental meaning - although as it turns out, it was about the land belonging to Australia's aboriginal people. I particularly like when he sings, "The time has come, to say fair's far, to pay the rent, now, to pay our share." I can't think of many, if any, songs that capture a literal debt to aboriginal people - or to Mother Nature - in such a poignant way. And this was a song released in 1987; it wasn't exactly about being fashionable at that time. Here is an interview with Peter Garrett from 1980, at the brink of great success as front man for The Oils. 


My favorite Midnight Oil song is 'Forgotten Years'. I often have my iPod on shuffle when I'm running and when this song happens to come on I like listen to it on repeat. To think about Peter Garrett is like thinking about two men: Peter Garrett, iconic frontman of Midnight Oil; and Peter Garrett, an Australian hard at work for decades for his people and planet... Will he leave a legacy that the younger, idealistic version of himself as The Oils frontman would have been proud of? I expect that will be largely up to him to determine.

I Only Have Eyes For You

Another one for the romantics...

'I Only Have Eyes For You' by The Flamingos (featuring several of Natalie Wood's great film moments.)

This Must Be The Place (Naive Melody)

Home... it's where the fun is. 

Here's a little video I made for one of my favorite Talking Heads songs. Enjoy :-)

The Last of Sheila (1973)

Retro Active Critique #15

Directed by Herbert Ross, scripted by Stephen Sondheim and Anthony Perkins, 'The Last of Sheila' is a snappy whodunit that's fun from the get-go. Each moment has bite and the teeth belong to the splendid cast, stand-outs being the brilliantly dry James Mason as the burnt-out director, the crackling and buzzing Dyan Cannon as a loud-mouth Hollywood agent, the dour yet dapper Richard Benjamin as a defeated screenwriter and the irrepressible James Coburn as the wild man, Clinton, who pulls all the strings for his little marionettes.

Rounding out the bunch (beautifully) are Racquel Welch, Ian McShane and Joan Hackett. The film is about several friends, their Hollywood trappings, a murder, a colossal yacht, a sadistic host and one heck of a game –– but it's all in good fun. Or so Clinton tells them.

'The Last of Sheila' is so refreshing and it boasts enormous talent, in terms of its writing, direction and performances. Yet it remains rather unknown. Of course, it is from 1973, which explains its being reviewed here 'Retro-Active'ly. A mystery about a mystery –– within a mystery. What a film! 

For me, this is one of the best –– perhaps because it matches my personal preferences on so many levels. But I recommend this gem to anyone who can find a copy (and fortunately, this one is available on DVD, unlike some previous Retro Active recommendations I've made :-))

Indeed, who doesn't love a good mystery? Particularly one that's this tautly-written with a good, healthy dose of psychology mixed in. Each character is fully fleshed out. But what's more, the story is immensely fun and engaging. Interactive, if you will. In other words, if you like to THINK, you'll be sure to enjoy yourself. 

As if that's not enticing enough, you'll also feel as if you are going along for the ride, having a mischievous time on board the yacht. The entire film is a mass of jovial entertainment, but it's worth watching if only to see the masterful James Mason in the final scene. And Dyan Cannon gives a strong performance, particularly in one scene after she nearly drowns and is brought back onto the boat.

I could rave about this one to no end. But I am not just being a cheerleader. I already feel the urge to revisit 'The Last of Sheila' again, as I write this, despite having watched it only a few days ago. That is how much I love it. 'The Last of Sheila' could be one of the most entertaining films you've never seen –– or heard about –– before.

Here is a preliminary viewing to get you started, made with several clips & the song 'Winds of Barcelona' by Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass.

Jim & Pam ('Peace Frog')

Long before the TV Jim & Pam coupling came about in an office sitcom, there was the real-life (read, 'larger-than-life') Jim & Pam union in a rock & roll universe. (Didn't you know?)

"Indians scattered on dawn's highway bleeding. Ghosts crowd the young child's fragile egg-shell mind."

Here's a video I made for 'Peace Frog'. Enjoy.

Tighten Up

Time to get your party boots on and tighten up!

Here's a video I made, with love, for the peppy hit by Archie Bell & The Drells.

Rear Window - Grace Kelly & James Stewart for Halloween 2009

We dressed up as James Stewart (L.B. Jefferies) & Grace Kelly (Lisa Fremont) in a classic scene from 'Rear Window'.

Maybe Hitch would have been pleased with our efforts. We certainly had a lot of fun with this character-driven homage to 'Rear Window' for Halloween!

Sci-Fi Classics! "Destination Moon", "La Decima Vittima" and "Fahrenheit 451"

Here is a blog post I contributed to Ultra Swank, an essential location for your retro adventures.

So check out Ultra Swank for more retro-inspired fun.

Destination Moon (1950)

– The next rocket we build is going to the moon.
– Let’s go to lunch.
– I’m serious, Jim.

– No, you can’t be. It’s too fantastic! The moon?? Hmph! Impossible!

It is a fun jolt to see a film in which this dialogue is spoken without the slightest hint of sarcasm. “Destination Moon” was pure science fiction when it was released, and the first of its genre to be produced in the United States. Now it’s practically pre-historic, and certainly not as much about fiction. But that is what makes it so charming and a kitschy to watch. Pull out your old space suit and get ready for a trip! Anyhow, these gentlemen set about trying to get investors on board to build their outlandish and unheard of rocket ship to the moon. Their instructional film, within the film (a cartoon starring Woody Woodpecker, of all things!) is nothing short of awesome. It teaches in simplified terms how a rocket can indeed get to the moon with far less effort than perceived – for all the skeptics.

This film was released in 1950 and man’s first steps on the moon’s surface were taken in 1969 and that is why “Destination Moon” is a film that instantly reminds us of the science-fiction genre’s ability in, and reputation for, foreseeing the future. If it is a bright look, such as the idea of going to the moon, it is a welcome trait. (Disaster films that cloud the science fiction genre are deplorable, but that’s another topic.) Our imaginations can create our future and it’s important to realize the strength of our storytelling. “Destination Moon” also gives one a feeling of nostalgia for a time when science was all about the possibility of what is to come… as opposed to now, with our having to look rather far back in our history to find those peak moments of scientific achievement and excitement. If you’re in the mood for a little space travel, “Destination Moon” is definitely the retro sci-fi pick for you.

The Tenth Victim (La Decima Vittima) (1965)

Who doesn’t love watching a stylized, madcap, bachelor-pad-beat–filled sci-fi flick… in Italian? In the society depicted in “La Decima Vittima”, or “The Tenth Victim”, those with a violent nature have the chance to quench their tendencies by way of legalized murder. It’s a dangerous game - one is the hunter and the other the hunted, there are murderers and murderesses running amok with licenses to kill one another. Oh, but it’s all very organized and acceptable. Practically civilized. There are location scouts for where the big hunt’s finale will take place, contracts to consider, and so on… The public, similarly, can be entertained by this indulgent arrangement by way of broadcasts, as they anticipate and bet on who will win. Sound a little familiar? Its subject is far ahead of its time. You essentially have a look at what reality programs are today, but this was four decades in advance. Rather impressive!

Without “La Decima Vittima”, there would not have been a “Running Man” or any number of other films of this variety. (There is even a primo scene with Ursula Andress that inspired the Austin Powers bullet-bra wielding ladies.) This film is essential 1960’s viewing, as are the mod wardrobes. And, of course, there are the film’s leads - Marcello Mastroianni, Ursula Andress and Elsa Martinelli. All of whom are easy on the eyes. The Tenth Victim is a funny, stylish and exciting sci-fi romp… Italian style.

Fahrenheit 451 (1966)

“Farhenheit 451”, directed by Francois Truffaut and based on Ray Bradbury’s classic tale, is a slightly odd one to watch in that it takes the viewer through several dismal emotions, such as alienation and loneliness. In this sci-fi thriller, firemen do not put out fires, but create them. Their main objective is to burn books, since books are perceived to be dangerous. The government has determined to ban each and every work of literature because they can separate people and make them ‘unhappy’.

People are told it’s best for their well being to be uniform in their thinking. The story’s protagonist is Guy Montag, a dutiful fireman moving up in the ranks. Consequently, the situation is seen from the perspective of enforcer rather those who are the subjects of this rigid discipline. Montag’s wife, Linda, is also abiding in her endeavors, as she takes her calming pills and watches her TV ‘family’ or ‘cousins’ on their wall screen at home. Early on, Montag befriends a woman who opens his eyes to how he and his colleagues are perceived, and she is a major catalyst in his personal conflict. Montag is motivated to do well at his job, but begins to question his duties and starts to secretively and obsessively read the banned books he was meant to destroy. He finally tires of watching as his wife is brainwashed day after day with her pills and television, while he destroys all that really connects people to humanity and to their past.

“Fahrenheit 451” is a sad and forlorn portrait of what the world could be without books, and it makes you glad to have the option to read (though of course not many even do!) Ray Bradbury has said he was inspired by numerous book burnings and even the turn of the century witch-hunts to write this sci-fi classic. Truffaut’s stark film version stars Julie Christie and Oskar Werner. This is one of those films that’s perfect to watch a cold and rainy afternoon - and you’ll want to pick up a good book right after!

If The Love Fits Wear It, Baby

Another video I made recently... featuring the great Astaire dancing with three of his ladies, some swans, love, fun - and lots of pink:

Must Be the Season of (Bewitched)

Here is a video I made for Donovan's "Season of the Witch", starring two episodes of Bewitched. Another one for Halloween. Enjoy!

Werewolves of London

Here's a Halloween montage for werewolf aficionados, set to Warren Zevon's 'Werewolves of London' –– and, for the most part, the excellent John Landis film 'An American Werewolf in London'.

My response to a MadMen blog (madmenfootnotes)

http://retroactiv.tumblr.com

History of Claudine Longet: Demure Entrance, All Too Dramatic Exit

Gentle Claudine, who sings in a lilting whisper. (She did what?!)

I first learned about the incident from someone when discussing "The Party" back in 2001. He said, "You know the songbird in it, Sellers' love interest, killed someone in real life?" I couldn't believe it. After that, I gathered whatever info I could about Claudine Longet. It occurred to me this could be a fascinating biopic to write, after investigating it a bit. And to think what today's tabloids would have done with her back then. Being a fan of "The Party" and quickly becoming a fan of her recordings –– and out of respect for her 'victim'/then-boyfriend, the skier Spider Sabich –– I couldn't bring myself to want to do it. I'd want it to be a first-hand account, if anything. Not some skewed perspective from what little information there is about it. 

What I know is this: Claudine Longet started out as a showgirl and became a rather demure chanteuse and actress who married Andy Williams, had kids with him and sang lullaby cover versions of pop songs in the 1960's. She later broke off their marriage to live in Aspen with celebrated Olympic skier Sabich. This was the 1970's, and drugs were definitely involved. One day, she 'accidentally' shot him. Tragically, he died. The trial must have been rough but she was exonerated for the most part. People have and always will suspect her of a drug-infused measure of foul play although she claims that the gun went off by mistake. Ever since, she's disappeared and still living on in Aspen -- not alone, but with the man who was her defense attorney for the trial... which amounts to a bit of good fortune for her, I would think, since she was considered a social leper after the incident and still today. A dramatic story, indeed.

Personally, I have been satisfied to leave it alone and listen to her sweet songs. I'm already considering taking down this post. Does anyone need to know about this really? I actually like Claudine Longet and her music a great deal, so I wanted to write about her -- and this is what happened. Maybe I'll do another post focusing on her albums.

One of my favorite cinematic moments, from Blake Edwards' "The Party" -- here's Claudine singing Mancini's "Nothing To Lose", while Sellers' Hrundi Bakshi desperately waits to relieve himself...! :-)

My friend Rebecca shared this next wonderful video with me. Fits with this, as well as one of my earlier posts, Please Don't Stop The Moog Or The Modness.

Gil Scott Heron - King of Mortal Conscience

What can I say about this man? The very thought of him is enough to make me feel a certain zeal for mankind, for being able to claim him as ours, somehow. He's the flawed, fallible hero who sinks to depths others have yet to accept –– if only to rise above them and relay his findings. And his story is our country's collective, sometimes forgotten, and all-too-often ignored one.

This gifted, educated man might have been told by his surroundings and circumstances that he's not meant to be the one to embrace and share the hardships found in the black experience, but he adopted and held them like his own child. He took the responsibility others would have resisted. He'd denounce those ills while he lived them. He became addicted to its drugs, but this is a man I would excuse even the greatest weakness because he is honest. A king of conscience who has lived in such a raw state of acute consciousness, it is understandable he'd require some level of escape. Because he's always so present and aware.

I have nothing at all to do with the experiences he's put forth in his music, but Gil Scott Heron is my hero.

And he's still definitely got it. I was lucky to see GSH perform for my birthday this year. Here he is in San Francisco. He was his witty, inspiring self and the entire audience was smitten and mesmerized. It felt like good company. This video was shot on my small digital camera, and I couldn't help but dance –– so it doesn't do the experience justice. But he sounds great, so enjoy :-)

The Shrimp & The Big Day

The inspiration

Wedding day 

The look that inspired my recent wedding was inevitably that of Jean Shrimpton. I had bought the film "Privilege" years ago - and in it, discovered my 'wedding look'. It was one of Jean's dresses, a perfect, simple, strikingly beautiful long-sleeved mini her character wears in a party scene.

Look I was originally going for from 'Privilege'

When my actual wedding day approached, I came across this other look of hers in a photo (shown above) and was struck - yet again. I worked it out in my own way. Seems I would have been inspired by The Shrimp on my big day no matter what, and regardless!

And here is a little video I made, sort of to capture the mood I was going for on our simple wedding day - and in our life together so far. Without footage of our own, I used some people I like. Enjoy :-)