When the producers of Seinfeld approached Jerry Stiller about playing a recurring role on their show, they had to overcome an initial problem: Stiller had never heard of it.
“They said they want you to play the father of George Costanza on Seinfeld, and I said, ‘Who’s Seinfeld?’” Stiller told Pioneers of Television, per The Hollywood Reporter.
Stiller’s reps assured him the sitcom was very funny and not only that, very popular as well. “And I said, ‘Well, I am in a Broadway show. I am about to rehearse. I pass.”
What?
Stiller repeated himself. “I pass. I don’t want to do it.”
And that’s how actor John Randolph ended up as George Costanza’s first TV father. Randolph knew something about being a comedy dad — he was also Clark Griswold’s pop in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.
Everyone thought Randolph was a swell guy,...
“They said they want you to play the father of George Costanza on Seinfeld, and I said, ‘Who’s Seinfeld?’” Stiller told Pioneers of Television, per The Hollywood Reporter.
Stiller’s reps assured him the sitcom was very funny and not only that, very popular as well. “And I said, ‘Well, I am in a Broadway show. I am about to rehearse. I pass.”
What?
Stiller repeated himself. “I pass. I don’t want to do it.”
And that’s how actor John Randolph ended up as George Costanza’s first TV father. Randolph knew something about being a comedy dad — he was also Clark Griswold’s pop in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.
Everyone thought Randolph was a swell guy,...
- 6/20/2025
- Cracked
The 1973 Al Pacino-led crime drama Serpico has just arrived on a new streaming platform. The movie, based on the true story of Frank Serpico, is available on Paramount+.
While The Godfather and Scarface are typically the first films that come to mind when thinking of Pacino, the actor's role in Serpico is considered one of his best performances. The film is adapted from a biography of the real-life Serpico. Written by Peter Maas, the Oscar-nominated film sees Pacino as Frank Serpico, an NYPD cop on a mission to expose the corruption in the force. The movie was directed by Sidney Lumet and earned $29.8 million at the box office on a $3.3 million budget.
RelatedOne of Al Pacino’s Greatest Performances Came 51 Years Ago in This Oscar-Nominated Crime Drama
Based on a true story, Serpico is classic Pacino with a twist. With several awards and nominations, Serpico remains one of Pacino’s best films.
While The Godfather and Scarface are typically the first films that come to mind when thinking of Pacino, the actor's role in Serpico is considered one of his best performances. The film is adapted from a biography of the real-life Serpico. Written by Peter Maas, the Oscar-nominated film sees Pacino as Frank Serpico, an NYPD cop on a mission to expose the corruption in the force. The movie was directed by Sidney Lumet and earned $29.8 million at the box office on a $3.3 million budget.
RelatedOne of Al Pacino’s Greatest Performances Came 51 Years Ago in This Oscar-Nominated Crime Drama
Based on a true story, Serpico is classic Pacino with a twist. With several awards and nominations, Serpico remains one of Pacino’s best films.
- 3/5/2025
- by Olivia Thomas
- CBR
Seinfeld is undeniably one of the greatest TV sitcoms of the 1990s. With its unique blend of dark humor and relatable neuroses, it's still just as funny and clever as it was 30 years ago. A show about nothing should never have worked on paper. After all, how could it be pitched to executives at a network? (Seinfeld hilariously poked fun at this with a story arc in season four.) That's why credit for the show's success has to go to creator Larry David's razor-sharp writing and also to the incredible chemistry among the four main leads: Jerry Seinfeld as Jerry, Jason Alexander as George Costanza, Julia Louis-Dreyfus as Elaine Benes, and Michael Richards as Cosmo Kramer.
While the four leads are the heart of Seinfeld, viewers shouldn't overlook the equally interesting side characters that pop in and out throughout the series. Wayne Knight is a good punchline for Jerry's disgusted "hellos,...
While the four leads are the heart of Seinfeld, viewers shouldn't overlook the equally interesting side characters that pop in and out throughout the series. Wayne Knight is a good punchline for Jerry's disgusted "hellos,...
- 1/23/2025
- by Alyssa Mertes Serio
- CBR
Chris Columbus, the Hollywood director of films like Home Alone, Mrs. Doubtfire, and the first two Harry Potter films, recently spilled some hot Christmas tea, revealing more details about when he signed up to direct the holiday classic, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. It didn't work out for the young director in 1989 because he had to deal with someone who is often considered the most difficult and soul-crushing actor to work with — National Lampoon franchise star Chevy Chase. Columbus said he called it quits before things escalated.
Columbus recalled the event when speaking to Vanity Fair about his participation in Robert Eggers' Nosferatu (he's a producer on the film). In the late '80s, Columbus had already worked as a writer on Steven Spielberg productions like Gremlins, The Goonies and Young Sherlock Holmes. Naturally, he would eventually jump into the director's chair, and genre mastermind John Hughes saw Columbus' potential for his next script.
Columbus recalled the event when speaking to Vanity Fair about his participation in Robert Eggers' Nosferatu (he's a producer on the film). In the late '80s, Columbus had already worked as a writer on Steven Spielberg productions like Gremlins, The Goonies and Young Sherlock Holmes. Naturally, he would eventually jump into the director's chair, and genre mastermind John Hughes saw Columbus' potential for his next script.
- 12/24/2024
- by Federico Furzan
- MovieWeb
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation remains one of the most beloved holiday comedies ever made, though stories have since emerged about the alleged difficulties of working with star Chevy Chase. For his part, director Chris Columbus, who was originally set to direct the classic film, can still remember his own experience he had with Chase, which led to the filmmaker exiting the project.
In an interview with Empire Magazine (per Screen Rant), Columbus shared how Christmas Vacation seemed like a promising project for him at the start. He'd even started shooting some of the establishing shots to be used for the film. However, after he met Chase, Columbus' interest in working on the project dwindled dramatically, and he chose to walk away. However, as Columbus explained, it worked out for the best, as an offer for a certain other holiday classic came his way very quickly thereafter.
Related Arnold Schwarzenegger's...
In an interview with Empire Magazine (per Screen Rant), Columbus shared how Christmas Vacation seemed like a promising project for him at the start. He'd even started shooting some of the establishing shots to be used for the film. However, after he met Chase, Columbus' interest in working on the project dwindled dramatically, and he chose to walk away. However, as Columbus explained, it worked out for the best, as an offer for a certain other holiday classic came his way very quickly thereafter.
Related Arnold Schwarzenegger's...
- 12/22/2024
- by Jeremy Dick
- CBR
With the yuletide season in full swing, one movie that will be played repeatedly throughout many households during the holidays is National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. The third entry in the Vacation movie franchise turns 35 years old this December and still holds up as one of the most amusing and rewatchable Christmas comedies of all time.
Instead of traveling cross-country to Wally World, overseas to Europe, or Las Vegas to experience Sin City, what sets Christmas Vacation apart is witnessing the Griswolds at home in their Chicago element while hosting several family members for the holidays. As such, there's no better gift than catching up with the Griswolds and finding out what those still alive are up to in 2024 and beyond.
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National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation ComedyHoliday
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*Availability in US Release Date December 1, 1989Runtime 97 minutesCast Chevy Chase,...
Instead of traveling cross-country to Wally World, overseas to Europe, or Las Vegas to experience Sin City, what sets Christmas Vacation apart is witnessing the Griswolds at home in their Chicago element while hosting several family members for the holidays. As such, there's no better gift than catching up with the Griswolds and finding out what those still alive are up to in 2024 and beyond.
Your changes have been saved
Email is sent
Email has already been sent
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation ComedyHoliday
Where to Watchstreamrentbuy
Not available
Not available
*Availability in US Release Date December 1, 1989Runtime 97 minutesCast Chevy Chase,...
- 12/14/2024
- by Jake Dee
- MovieWeb
The 1975 TV series "Wonder Woman" is deeply beloved by dutiful Gen-Xers who watched it as children. The show's combination of silly action, funky music, and campy humor hit a sweet spot, presenting the title heroine as bold, strong, and capable, but also upbeat, happy, and capable of whimsy. Also, because lead actress Lynda Carter is so dazzling, many Gen-Xers may confess to having a crush on Wonder Woman at some point. The series was a hit, lasting 59 episodes over three seasons. Along with 1952's "The Adventures of Superman," 1966's "Batman," and 1978's "The Incredible Hulk," "Wonder Woman" was, for many decades, one of the most celebrated superhero TV shows ever made.
"Wonder Woman" began its life as a 1974 pilot starring Cathy Lee Crosby, as a reimagined version of the character. That pilot didn't fly, but ABC was eager to do something successful with the character and launched a second pilot...
"Wonder Woman" began its life as a 1974 pilot starring Cathy Lee Crosby, as a reimagined version of the character. That pilot didn't fly, but ABC was eager to do something successful with the character and launched a second pilot...
- 9/17/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
While it’s tough to picture anyone other than Jerry Stiller playing Frank Costanza, the part of George’s hot-headed dad originally went to a totally different actor, a fact that has eluded many Seinfeld fans because Larry David promptly George Lucas-ed all of the original performer’s scenes for syndication once Stiller was cast.
Frank first showed up in Season Four’s “The Handicap Spot” and was originally played by actor John Randolph, who previously appeared in classic films like Serpico and Seconds, although he’s perhaps most recognizable to modern audiences as Clark Griswold’s father in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Apparently playing the dads of unhinged man-children was kind of his thing.
While David doesn’t remember whether or not Randolph was unavailable for Season Five, or if they simply made a decision to change the actor, Stiller was hired at the suggestion of Larry Charles.
Frank first showed up in Season Four’s “The Handicap Spot” and was originally played by actor John Randolph, who previously appeared in classic films like Serpico and Seconds, although he’s perhaps most recognizable to modern audiences as Clark Griswold’s father in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Apparently playing the dads of unhinged man-children was kind of his thing.
While David doesn’t remember whether or not Randolph was unavailable for Season Five, or if they simply made a decision to change the actor, Stiller was hired at the suggestion of Larry Charles.
- 7/31/2024
- Cracked
Chevy Chase and Randy Quaid reunite for holiday comedy, The Christmas Letter - a nostalgia trip for fans of Christmas Vacation. The directorial debut of Tori Hunter, The Christmas Letter stars Chase, Quaid, and revolves around a copywriter's quest to outdo a wealthy friend. While Chase has been active post-Christmas Vacation, Quaid's return to screens after legal issues makes The Christmas Letter a potential career revival.
Chevy Chase and Randy Quaid will be hoping to rekindle some festive movie magic as they reunite for the new holiday comedy, The Christmas Letter. The pair most memorably worked together 35 years ago in the classic National Lampoons Christmas Vacation, with Chase portraying the head of the Griswald family, Clark, and Quaid playing Cousin Eddie. While their new movie is not linked to the Vacation movies in any way, the reunion does have a certain nostalgic quality about it for fans.
The Christmas Letter...
Chevy Chase and Randy Quaid will be hoping to rekindle some festive movie magic as they reunite for the new holiday comedy, The Christmas Letter. The pair most memorably worked together 35 years ago in the classic National Lampoons Christmas Vacation, with Chase portraying the head of the Griswald family, Clark, and Quaid playing Cousin Eddie. While their new movie is not linked to the Vacation movies in any way, the reunion does have a certain nostalgic quality about it for fans.
The Christmas Letter...
- 5/31/2024
- by Anthony Lund
- MovieWeb
Jerry Stiller wasn't the original Frank Costanza, but his eccentric take on the character made him a fan favorite on Seinfeld. Stiller's portrayal of Frank brought over-the-top emotion and energy that was missing in John Randolph's more reserved version. Recasting Frank with Stiller was the right call, as he received critical acclaim and awards for his performance on Seinfeld.
While Jerry Stiller made Frank Costanza one of TV’s most iconic characters, he was actually the second actor to play the role after Seinfeld recast George’s father following season 4. Seinfeld was a series known for its memorable and zany supporting characters, but Frank Costanza stood out as one of the show's best. Frank is also one of comedian Jerry Stiller’s best-remembered roles, kickstarting a new phase in the career of the legendary comedian. However, it was John Randolph who originated the character in Seinfeld season 4.
Frank Costanza...
While Jerry Stiller made Frank Costanza one of TV’s most iconic characters, he was actually the second actor to play the role after Seinfeld recast George’s father following season 4. Seinfeld was a series known for its memorable and zany supporting characters, but Frank Costanza stood out as one of the show's best. Frank is also one of comedian Jerry Stiller’s best-remembered roles, kickstarting a new phase in the career of the legendary comedian. However, it was John Randolph who originated the character in Seinfeld season 4.
Frank Costanza...
- 2/18/2024
- by Colin McCormick, Jordan Williams
- ScreenRant
Seinfeld recast Jerry's dad, Morty Seinfeld, after season 1 to bring a more hilarious and cantankerous dynamic to the show. Frank Costanza also went through recasting in season 5 to make the character more involved and popular among viewers. The decision to recast both characters was successful, as the new actors made Morty and Frank iconic and integral to the series.
While Morty Seinfeld was originally played by Phil Bruns, Seinfeld recast Jerry's dad after season 1 (and George's later one). Among the many memorable recurring characters on the sitcom were Jerry and George's parents, Morty and Helen Seinfeld, and Frank and Estelle Costanza. Making several appearances across Seinfeld's nine-season run, the parents brought a hilarious dynamic to the show. Funny storylines involving Jerry's parents included Morty being impeached as community president after Jerry bought him a Cadillac. At the same time, some of Frank's best storylines included the running "serenity now" gag,...
While Morty Seinfeld was originally played by Phil Bruns, Seinfeld recast Jerry's dad after season 1 (and George's later one). Among the many memorable recurring characters on the sitcom were Jerry and George's parents, Morty and Helen Seinfeld, and Frank and Estelle Costanza. Making several appearances across Seinfeld's nine-season run, the parents brought a hilarious dynamic to the show. Funny storylines involving Jerry's parents included Morty being impeached as community president after Jerry bought him a Cadillac. At the same time, some of Frank's best storylines included the running "serenity now" gag,...
- 12/22/2023
- by Chris Agar, Tom Russell
- ScreenRant
Chicago – Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com appears on Ian Simmons’ Vodcast, Kicking The Seat, talking the 1973 Cop Drama classic, “Serpico” … it’s 50th Anniversary. Why was this particular anniversary film chosen? Because it was once parodied in Mad Magazine as “Serpicool.”
Frank Serpico (Al Pacino) is a New York City cop in the 1960s/70s. Unlike all his colleagues, he refuses a share of the money that the cops routinely extort from local criminals. As he goes undercover, nobody wants to work with Serpico, and he’s in constant danger of being placed in life threatening positions by his “partners.” Nothing seems to get done even when he goes to the highest of authorities, but he still hopes that one day the truth will be known.
‘Serpico’ on Kicking The Seat
Photo credit: Patrick McDonald for HollywoodChicago.com
Kicking The Seat is an Ian Simmons’ Joint covering the spectrum of film,...
Frank Serpico (Al Pacino) is a New York City cop in the 1960s/70s. Unlike all his colleagues, he refuses a share of the money that the cops routinely extort from local criminals. As he goes undercover, nobody wants to work with Serpico, and he’s in constant danger of being placed in life threatening positions by his “partners.” Nothing seems to get done even when he goes to the highest of authorities, but he still hopes that one day the truth will be known.
‘Serpico’ on Kicking The Seat
Photo credit: Patrick McDonald for HollywoodChicago.com
Kicking The Seat is an Ian Simmons’ Joint covering the spectrum of film,...
- 9/30/2023
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Wednesday’s Conners culminated in a devastating reveal about Roseanne and Jackie’s childhood — one that has Jackie see her emotionally manipulative mother in a whole new light.
While searching for a caregiver for Bev, Jackie learned — via her mother’s medical history — that Bev once took a beating from Al to shield her daughters from their physically abusive father. Afterward, Bev sent Roseanne and Jackie to stay with Nana Mary — not because she was an unfit parent, as Jackie had always assumed, but because she didn’t want her kids to find out that Al broke her arm.
More...
While searching for a caregiver for Bev, Jackie learned — via her mother’s medical history — that Bev once took a beating from Al to shield her daughters from their physically abusive father. Afterward, Bev sent Roseanne and Jackie to stay with Nana Mary — not because she was an unfit parent, as Jackie had always assumed, but because she didn’t want her kids to find out that Al broke her arm.
More...
- 2/9/2023
- by Ryan Schwartz
- TVLine.com
Christmas is coming at us faster than Santa’s sleigh, which means ’tis the season for streaming Christmas movies. While there are plenty of family-friendly options for parents — from classics like “A Charlie Brown Christmas” to new entries like this year’s “Spirited” on Apple TV+ — some may prefer a slightly more raunchy selection, which is where 1989’s “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” comes in.
“Christmas Vacation” is streaming on several online platforms, including HBO Max, AMC+, The Roku Channel, fuboTV, Philo, and Sling TV. It can also be rented or purchased on VOD platforms, including YouTube, Vudu, Google Play, Apple TV, and Redbox, for 3.99. In addition, AMC will air the film throughout the next few days at 8 or 10 p.m. Et, including on December 21, December 22, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
Directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik, “Christmas Vacation” was the third and effectively final entry in the classic “National Lampoon” series...
“Christmas Vacation” is streaming on several online platforms, including HBO Max, AMC+, The Roku Channel, fuboTV, Philo, and Sling TV. It can also be rented or purchased on VOD platforms, including YouTube, Vudu, Google Play, Apple TV, and Redbox, for 3.99. In addition, AMC will air the film throughout the next few days at 8 or 10 p.m. Et, including on December 21, December 22, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
Directed by Jeremiah S. Chechik, “Christmas Vacation” was the third and effectively final entry in the classic “National Lampoon” series...
- 12/22/2022
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
Hello, dear readers! Before those of us in the States get ready to gobble down our Thanksgiving dinners later this week, we have a brand new batch of horror and sci-fi home entertainment releases to look forward to first. One of this writer’s favorite films of all time, Philip Kaufman’s Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1978) is getting the 4K treatment from Kino Lorber this Tuesday, and Arrow Video is resurrecting both The Snake Girl and the Silver Haired Witch and Phantom of the Mall: Eric’s Revenge on Blu-ray as well (this is also very exciting news in my world). Arrow is also re-releasing a handful of other titles—The Cat O’ Nine Tails, The Bird with the Crystal Plumage, and C.H.U.D.—and the first season of Rod Serling’s Night Gallery is headed to Blu-ray as well.
Other releases for November 23rd include Chupa, Lair,...
Other releases for November 23rd include Chupa, Lair,...
- 11/23/2021
- by Heather Wixson
- DailyDead
It started as a continuation of the misadventures of the Griswold family; it ended up becoming one of the most surprisingly popular and oft-quoted holiday movies of all time.
This month marks the 25th anniversary of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, in which beleaguered patriarch Clark Griswold – played by the inimitable Chevy Chase – tries to engineer the picture-perfect seasonal festivities: the best naturally procured tree, the biggest and brightest (literally) Christmas-light display on the block, the end-of-the-year bonus from his Scrooge-like boss. It’s the only comedy to appeal...
This month marks the 25th anniversary of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, in which beleaguered patriarch Clark Griswold – played by the inimitable Chevy Chase – tries to engineer the picture-perfect seasonal festivities: the best naturally procured tree, the biggest and brightest (literally) Christmas-light display on the block, the end-of-the-year bonus from his Scrooge-like boss. It’s the only comedy to appeal...
- 12/11/2020
- by Rob LeDonne
- Rollingstone.com
Maybe Treadstone isn't going to be a colossal waste of time after all.
Treadstone Season 1 Episode 8 was a decent hour that began setting up a conclusion.
Instead of keeping the characters apart on their plot strands that could be used on any other action show, the storylines are starting to mesh.
Is it too late in the game? Probably, but if we get some semblance of a satisfying conclusion during the final two episodes, then I'll call it a win.
Titled "The McKenna Erasure," it advanced all of the plots in a way that felt worthwhile. Doug surviving was no surprise, but faking his death was a biggie.
It was one of few moments that surprised me, primarily because he's had a "woe is me" attitude going for him throughout Treadstone Season 1.
If you watch Treadstone online, he's learned his whole life has been a lie, so he can have...
Treadstone Season 1 Episode 8 was a decent hour that began setting up a conclusion.
Instead of keeping the characters apart on their plot strands that could be used on any other action show, the storylines are starting to mesh.
Is it too late in the game? Probably, but if we get some semblance of a satisfying conclusion during the final two episodes, then I'll call it a win.
Titled "The McKenna Erasure," it advanced all of the plots in a way that felt worthwhile. Doug surviving was no surprise, but faking his death was a biggie.
It was one of few moments that surprised me, primarily because he's had a "woe is me" attitude going for him throughout Treadstone Season 1.
If you watch Treadstone online, he's learned his whole life has been a lie, so he can have...
- 12/4/2019
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
1966: The final episode of Never Too Young aired on ABC.
1983: Guiding Light's Nola & Quint were married.
1987: As the World Turns' Iva blurted out the truth about Lily.
1999: A gorilla plotted to interrupt Cass & Lila's wedding on Another World."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."
― Anselm Kiefer
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1946: Procter & Gamble radio soap opera Life Can Be Beautiful moved to the 3 p.m. Et timeslot on the NBC Radio network. The show had always run in the mornings previously. It would remain in this new timeslot until...
1983: Guiding Light's Nola & Quint were married.
1987: As the World Turns' Iva blurted out the truth about Lily.
1999: A gorilla plotted to interrupt Cass & Lila's wedding on Another World."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."
― Anselm Kiefer
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1946: Procter & Gamble radio soap opera Life Can Be Beautiful moved to the 3 p.m. Et timeslot on the NBC Radio network. The show had always run in the mornings previously. It would remain in this new timeslot until...
- 6/26/2019
- by Roger Newcomb
- We Love Soaps
1968: NBC daytime soap Hidden Faces premiered.
1983: Guiding Light's Phillip and Beth spent New Year's Eve in New York.
2002: The "Surrender" arc began on Port Charles.
2003: One Life to Live's Dorian visited All My Children's Pine Valley."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."
― Anselm Kiefer
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1963: ABC shifted General Hospital to the 3 p.m. Et time slot after nearly 9 months of airing at 1 p.m.
1964: On Another World, Pat Matthews (Susan Trustman) refused to give John Randolph (Michael M. Ryan) permission to access her medical records.
1983: Guiding Light's Phillip and Beth spent New Year's Eve in New York.
2002: The "Surrender" arc began on Port Charles.
2003: One Life to Live's Dorian visited All My Children's Pine Valley."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."
― Anselm Kiefer
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1963: ABC shifted General Hospital to the 3 p.m. Et time slot after nearly 9 months of airing at 1 p.m.
1964: On Another World, Pat Matthews (Susan Trustman) refused to give John Randolph (Michael M. Ryan) permission to access her medical records.
- 1/2/2019
- by Kevin Mulcahy Jr.
- We Love Soaps
1967: The Doctors' Althea turned in her resignation.
1997: General Hospital's Helena returned to Port Charles.
2008: All My Children celebrated the life of Myrtle Fargate.
2011: One Life to Live's Roxy dreamed about Fraternity Row."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."
― Anselm Kiefer
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1966: On Peyton Place, Martin Peyton (George Macready) told a drunken Leslie Harrington (Paul Langton) that he had always been inferior.
1967: On The Doctors, Dr. Althea Davis (Elizabeth Hubbard) stopped by the home of Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett) to give him her official resignation from Hope Memorial Hospital.
1997: General Hospital's Helena returned to Port Charles.
2008: All My Children celebrated the life of Myrtle Fargate.
2011: One Life to Live's Roxy dreamed about Fraternity Row."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."
― Anselm Kiefer
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1966: On Peyton Place, Martin Peyton (George Macready) told a drunken Leslie Harrington (Paul Langton) that he had always been inferior.
1967: On The Doctors, Dr. Althea Davis (Elizabeth Hubbard) stopped by the home of Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett) to give him her official resignation from Hope Memorial Hospital.
- 12/19/2018
- by Roger Newcomb
- We Love Soaps
1966: The final episode of A Time For Us aired on ABC.
1968: David Selby debut on Dark Shadows.
1983: Chase found information about Falcon Crest in his grandfather's will.
1996: Another World's Jake planned to steal the Lassiter Christmas tree."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."
― Anselm Kiefer
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1957: On The Edge of Night, Peter Dalton (Stephen Elliott) refused Mike Karr's (John Larkin) resignation then argued that his leaving would be a disservice to the public.
1966: ABC aired the final episode of daytime soap opera A Time For...
1968: David Selby debut on Dark Shadows.
1983: Chase found information about Falcon Crest in his grandfather's will.
1996: Another World's Jake planned to steal the Lassiter Christmas tree."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."
― Anselm Kiefer
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1957: On The Edge of Night, Peter Dalton (Stephen Elliott) refused Mike Karr's (John Larkin) resignation then argued that his leaving would be a disservice to the public.
1966: ABC aired the final episode of daytime soap opera A Time For...
- 12/18/2018
- by Roger Newcomb
- We Love Soaps
1977: For Richer, For Poorer premiered on NBC.
1979: A mystery person tried to enter The Willows on Atwt.
1989: Guiding Light's Phillip tried to get through to Beth.
1995: Y&R's Ryan pitched a new Jabot ad campaign for teens."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."
― Anselm Kiefer
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1966: On Dark Shadows, Burke Devlin (Mitchell Ryan) realized that Victoria Winters was still at Collinwood.
1974: On General Hospital, Phil Brewer (Martin West) was murdered with a geode paper weight.
1974: On Another World, when a bitter and tearful Rachel...
1979: A mystery person tried to enter The Willows on Atwt.
1989: Guiding Light's Phillip tried to get through to Beth.
1995: Y&R's Ryan pitched a new Jabot ad campaign for teens."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."
― Anselm Kiefer
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1966: On Dark Shadows, Burke Devlin (Mitchell Ryan) realized that Victoria Winters was still at Collinwood.
1974: On General Hospital, Phil Brewer (Martin West) was murdered with a geode paper weight.
1974: On Another World, when a bitter and tearful Rachel...
- 12/6/2018
- by Roger Newcomb
- We Love Soaps
1985: Santa Barbara's Brick & Amy were married.
1995: Loving spinoff The City premiered on ABC.
1998: Guiding Light's Danny met Michelle.
2003: One Life to Live's Blair married Walker."The best prophet of the future is the past."
― Lord Byron
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1942: On Clara, Lu and Em, Emma "Em" Krueger (Helen King) threw a party.
1964: On Another World, Mitchell Dru (Geoffrey Lumb) asked John Randolph to take on Pat Matthew's case. Michael M. Ryan and Gaye Huston made their first appearances as John and Lee Randolph.
1967: On Dark Shadows, Julia Hoffman (Grayson Hall) panicked when Woodard's ghost appeared.
1979: On As the World Turns,...
1995: Loving spinoff The City premiered on ABC.
1998: Guiding Light's Danny met Michelle.
2003: One Life to Live's Blair married Walker."The best prophet of the future is the past."
― Lord Byron
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1942: On Clara, Lu and Em, Emma "Em" Krueger (Helen King) threw a party.
1964: On Another World, Mitchell Dru (Geoffrey Lumb) asked John Randolph to take on Pat Matthew's case. Michael M. Ryan and Gaye Huston made their first appearances as John and Lee Randolph.
1967: On Dark Shadows, Julia Hoffman (Grayson Hall) panicked when Woodard's ghost appeared.
1979: On As the World Turns,...
- 11/15/2018
- by Roger Newcomb
- We Love Soaps
2009: CBS aired the final episode of Guiding Light."The best prophet of the future is the past."
― Lord Byron
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1967: Love is a Many Splendored Thing premiered on CBS. The network, which hadn't premiered a soap in seven years, enlisted Irna Phillips in adapting a serial very loosely from a famous novel and movie. Love is a Many Splendored Thing concerned the in-laws of the book's protagonist Mark Elliot, who intermarried with other surrounding families in San Francisco. A stylish and refreshing story, it was a fabulous stepping stone for David Birney, Donna Mills and Leslie Charleson, all beautiful and talented young performers.
― Lord Byron
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1967: Love is a Many Splendored Thing premiered on CBS. The network, which hadn't premiered a soap in seven years, enlisted Irna Phillips in adapting a serial very loosely from a famous novel and movie. Love is a Many Splendored Thing concerned the in-laws of the book's protagonist Mark Elliot, who intermarried with other surrounding families in San Francisco. A stylish and refreshing story, it was a fabulous stepping stone for David Birney, Donna Mills and Leslie Charleson, all beautiful and talented young performers.
- 9/18/2018
- by Roger Newcomb
- We Love Soaps
1984: Guiding Light's Darcy held Beth and Alexandra hostage.
1984: Santa Barbara's Jade was upset when her brother was
called "Killer Perkins". 1985: Mike Horton arrived in Salem.
1994: General Hospital's Lulu was born."The best prophet of the future is the past."
― Lord Byron
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1968: On Another World, John Randolph (Michael M. Ryan) convinced his daughter, Lee (Barbara Rodell), that he still loved her.
1973: On The Doctors, Dr. Mike Powers (Peter Burnell) continued to pop pills before picking up Penny Davis (Julia Duffy) so they could go watch the eclipse.
1979: On The Edge of Night, Margo (Ann Williams) reminded David he owed her a favor.
1984: Santa Barbara's Jade was upset when her brother was
called "Killer Perkins". 1985: Mike Horton arrived in Salem.
1994: General Hospital's Lulu was born."The best prophet of the future is the past."
― Lord Byron
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1968: On Another World, John Randolph (Michael M. Ryan) convinced his daughter, Lee (Barbara Rodell), that he still loved her.
1973: On The Doctors, Dr. Mike Powers (Peter Burnell) continued to pop pills before picking up Penny Davis (Julia Duffy) so they could go watch the eclipse.
1979: On The Edge of Night, Margo (Ann Williams) reminded David he owed her a favor.
- 8/8/2018
- by Roger Newcomb
- We Love Soaps
1986: Another World's Cecile faced the guillotine.
1986: Santa Barbara's Mary died after a "C" fell on her.
1989: Guiding Light's Reva was rowed to her wedding.
2008: The Bold and the Beautiful's Bridget and Nick married."All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut."
― Anne Brontë in "Agnes Grey"
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1965: On Another World, John Randolph (Michael M. Ryan) persuaded his daughter, Lee (Gaye Huston), that going home after her battle with virus pneumonia would be alright.
1986: Santa Barbara's Mary died after a "C" fell on her.
1989: Guiding Light's Reva was rowed to her wedding.
2008: The Bold and the Beautiful's Bridget and Nick married."All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut."
― Anne Brontë in "Agnes Grey"
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1965: On Another World, John Randolph (Michael M. Ryan) persuaded his daughter, Lee (Gaye Huston), that going home after her battle with virus pneumonia would be alright.
- 7/14/2018
- by Roger Newcomb
- We Love Soaps
1966: Final episode of ABC's Never Too Young. 1983: Guiding
Light's Nola & Quint were married. 1987: As the World Turns'
Iva blurted out the truth about Lily. 1999: A gorilla plotted
to interrupt Cass & Lila's wedding on Another World."All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut."
― Anne Brontë in "Agnes Grey"
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1946: Procter & Gamble radio soap opera Life Can Be Beautiful moved to the 3 p.m. Et timeslot on the NBC Radio network.
Light's Nola & Quint were married. 1987: As the World Turns'
Iva blurted out the truth about Lily. 1999: A gorilla plotted
to interrupt Cass & Lila's wedding on Another World."All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut."
― Anne Brontë in "Agnes Grey"
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1946: Procter & Gamble radio soap opera Life Can Be Beautiful moved to the 3 p.m. Et timeslot on the NBC Radio network.
- 6/24/2018
- by Roger Newcomb
- We Love Soaps
Out of all the winners (and losers) in the 26 competitive categories at the 2018 Tony Awards, several of them stand out as particularly noteworthy when considered in the context of history. So what were this year’s most interesting facts, records and milestones?
“The Band’s Visit” is the first Best Musical winner to have been based on a movie since “Kinky Boots” in 2013. Of its 11 Tony nominations it managed to win a whopping 10 awards (including Best Musical). The only prize it didn’t end up taking home was Best Scenic Design of a Musical for Scott Pask. It is now tied with “Hello, Dolly!” (1964) and “Billy Elliot” (2009) as the third most awarded production in Tony history, behind “The Producers” with 12 wins in 2001 and “Hamilton” with 11 victories in 2016.
“The Band’s Visit” is also the first Best Musical winner to have won every single acting award it was nominated for since...
“The Band’s Visit” is the first Best Musical winner to have been based on a movie since “Kinky Boots” in 2013. Of its 11 Tony nominations it managed to win a whopping 10 awards (including Best Musical). The only prize it didn’t end up taking home was Best Scenic Design of a Musical for Scott Pask. It is now tied with “Hello, Dolly!” (1964) and “Billy Elliot” (2009) as the third most awarded production in Tony history, behind “The Producers” with 12 wins in 2001 and “Hamilton” with 11 victories in 2016.
“The Band’s Visit” is also the first Best Musical winner to have won every single acting award it was nominated for since...
- 6/11/2018
- by Jeffrey Kare
- Gold Derby
He's coming back to the future — as a guest star on Roseanne! Christopher Lloyd is set to appear in tonight's episode as Roseanne (played by Roseanne Barr)'s mother Beverly's boyfriend, Lou. The actor will allegedly only appear in this episode of the sitcom (although he's so beloved we could see him continuing his stint on the show). In the sneak peek for the episode, we get to see Christopher with Beverly (played by Estelle Parson). If you can recall from the original series, Bev divorced Roseanne's dad, Al Harris (played by John Randolph), after she learned he had a mistress for 20 years. He later died, but before his death, we learned he was abusive during Roseanne's childhood. Ever wonder if you're supposed to tip your driver? #Roseanne pic.twitter.com/z6t7g77g5O— Roseanne on ABC (@RoseanneOnABC) May 1, 2018 In the funny clip, Bev introduces Lou to Roseanne...
- 5/1/2018
- by Samantha Faragalli
- Closer Weekly
The blackest of black comedies confronts us with an urban worst case scenario — Jules Feiffer’s ‘social horror’ movie is like a sitcom in Hell, with citizens numbed and trembling over the unending meaningless violence. What was nasty satire in 1971 now plays like the 6 o’clock news. Too radical for its time, Feiffer and director Alan Arkin’s picture is more painfully funny, and frightening, than ever.
Little Murders
Region B Blu-ray
Powerhouse Indicator (UK)
1971 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 110 min. / Street Date April 30, 2017 / Available from Amazon UK £22.99
Starring: Elliott Gould, Marcia Rodd, Vincent Gardenia, Elizabeth Wilson, Jon Korkes, John Randolph, Doris Roberts, Lou Jacobi, Donald Sutherland, Alan Arkin, Martin Kove.
Cinematography: Gordon Willis
Film Editor: Howard Kuperman
Production Design: Gene Rudolf
Original Music: Fred Kaz
Written by Jules Feiffer from his play
Produced by Jack Brodsky (and Elliott Gould)
Directed by Alan Arkin
Little Murders was one of the first new...
Little Murders
Region B Blu-ray
Powerhouse Indicator (UK)
1971 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 110 min. / Street Date April 30, 2017 / Available from Amazon UK £22.99
Starring: Elliott Gould, Marcia Rodd, Vincent Gardenia, Elizabeth Wilson, Jon Korkes, John Randolph, Doris Roberts, Lou Jacobi, Donald Sutherland, Alan Arkin, Martin Kove.
Cinematography: Gordon Willis
Film Editor: Howard Kuperman
Production Design: Gene Rudolf
Original Music: Fred Kaz
Written by Jules Feiffer from his play
Produced by Jack Brodsky (and Elliott Gould)
Directed by Alan Arkin
Little Murders was one of the first new...
- 4/24/2018
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
1979: One Life to Live's Karen Wolek confessed her past on the
witness stand in one of the most memorable scenes in soap opera
history."Whoever wishes to foresee the future must consult the past; for human events ever resemble those of preceding times. This arises from the fact that they are produced by men who ever have been, and ever shall be, animated by the same passions, and thus they necessarily have the same results."
― Machiavelli
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1927: William J. Bell, iconic soap opera writer and producer who co-created The Young and the Restless and The Bold and the Beautiful, was born. He died...
witness stand in one of the most memorable scenes in soap opera
history."Whoever wishes to foresee the future must consult the past; for human events ever resemble those of preceding times. This arises from the fact that they are produced by men who ever have been, and ever shall be, animated by the same passions, and thus they necessarily have the same results."
― Machiavelli
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1927: William J. Bell, iconic soap opera writer and producer who co-created The Young and the Restless and The Bold and the Beautiful, was born. He died...
- 3/8/2018
- by Roger Newcomb
- We Love Soaps
1968: Dark Shadows' Josette shocked Barnabas.
1981: Gh's Heather escaped from the sanitarium.
2009: Atwt aired a special fairy tales episode.
2009: AMC's Reese and Bianca were officially married,"Whoever wishes to foresee the future must consult the past; for human events ever resemble those of preceding times. This arises from the fact that they are produced by men who ever have been, and ever shall be, animated by the same passions, and thus they necessarily have the same results."
― Machiavelli
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1966: On Another World, John Randolph (Michael M. Ryan) tried to convince his doubtful wife, Pat (Susan Trustman), that Mike...
1981: Gh's Heather escaped from the sanitarium.
2009: Atwt aired a special fairy tales episode.
2009: AMC's Reese and Bianca were officially married,"Whoever wishes to foresee the future must consult the past; for human events ever resemble those of preceding times. This arises from the fact that they are produced by men who ever have been, and ever shall be, animated by the same passions, and thus they necessarily have the same results."
― Machiavelli
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1966: On Another World, John Randolph (Michael M. Ryan) tried to convince his doubtful wife, Pat (Susan Trustman), that Mike...
- 2/16/2018
- by Roger Newcomb
- We Love Soaps
1968: NBC daytime soap Hidden Faces premiered. 1983: Guiding
Light's Phillip and Beth spent New Year's Eve in New York.
2002: The "Surrender" arc began on Port Charles. 2003: One
Life to Live's Dorian visited All My Children's Pine Valley."History is a vast early warning system."
― Norman Cousins
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1963: ABC shifted General Hospital to the 3 p.m. Et time slot after nearly 9 months of airing at 1 p.m.
1964: On Another World, Pat Matthews (Susan Trustman) refused to give John Randolph (Michael M. Ryan) permission to access her medical records.
1968: NBC daytime soap opera Hidden Faces premiered. Created by Irving Vendig, the...
Light's Phillip and Beth spent New Year's Eve in New York.
2002: The "Surrender" arc began on Port Charles. 2003: One
Life to Live's Dorian visited All My Children's Pine Valley."History is a vast early warning system."
― Norman Cousins
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1963: ABC shifted General Hospital to the 3 p.m. Et time slot after nearly 9 months of airing at 1 p.m.
1964: On Another World, Pat Matthews (Susan Trustman) refused to give John Randolph (Michael M. Ryan) permission to access her medical records.
1968: NBC daytime soap opera Hidden Faces premiered. Created by Irving Vendig, the...
- 1/2/2018
- by Roger Newcomb
- We Love Soaps
1967: The Doctors' Althea turned in her resignation.
1997: General Hospital's Helena returned to Port Charles.
2008: All My Children celebrated the life of Myrtle Fargate.
2011: One Life to Live's Roxy dreamed about Fraternity Row."History is a vast early warning system."
― Norman Cousins
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1966: On Peyton Place, Martin Peyton (George Macready) told a drunken Leslie Harrington (Paul Langton) that he had always been inferior.
1967: On The Doctors, Dr. Althea Davis (Elizabeth Hubbard) stopped by the home of Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett) to give him her official resignation from Hope Memorial Hospital. Althea was pregnant and unmarried at the time,...
1997: General Hospital's Helena returned to Port Charles.
2008: All My Children celebrated the life of Myrtle Fargate.
2011: One Life to Live's Roxy dreamed about Fraternity Row."History is a vast early warning system."
― Norman Cousins
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1966: On Peyton Place, Martin Peyton (George Macready) told a drunken Leslie Harrington (Paul Langton) that he had always been inferior.
1967: On The Doctors, Dr. Althea Davis (Elizabeth Hubbard) stopped by the home of Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett) to give him her official resignation from Hope Memorial Hospital. Althea was pregnant and unmarried at the time,...
- 12/19/2017
- by Roger Newcomb
- We Love Soaps
1966: The final episode of A Time For Us aired on ABC.
1968: David Selby debut on Dark Shadows.
1983: Chase found information about Falcon Crest in his grandfather's will.
1996: Another World's Jake planned to steal the Lassiter Christmas tree."History is a vast early warning system."
― Norman Cousins
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1957: On The Edge of Night, Peter Dalton (Stephen Elliott) refused Mike Karr's (John Larkin) resignation then argued that his leaving would be a disservice to the public.
1966: ABC aired the final episode of daytime soap opera A Time For Us (formerly A Flame in the Wind), originally created by Raphael Hayes and Joseph Hardy.
1968: David Selby debut on Dark Shadows.
1983: Chase found information about Falcon Crest in his grandfather's will.
1996: Another World's Jake planned to steal the Lassiter Christmas tree."History is a vast early warning system."
― Norman Cousins
"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.
On this date in...
1957: On The Edge of Night, Peter Dalton (Stephen Elliott) refused Mike Karr's (John Larkin) resignation then argued that his leaving would be a disservice to the public.
1966: ABC aired the final episode of daytime soap opera A Time For Us (formerly A Flame in the Wind), originally created by Raphael Hayes and Joseph Hardy.
- 12/18/2017
- by Roger Newcomb
- We Love Soaps
Richard Condon and John Huston’s show is like a gangland version of Moonstruck, bouncing effortlessly between earnest romanticism and cynical satire. Hit man Jack Nicholson is a brass-knuckle Romeo, and Kathleen Turner’s mysterious bicoastal Juliet has nothing but surprises for him. Near the end of his career, Huston’s direction is as assured as can be.
Prizzi’s Honor
Blu-ray
Kl Studio Classics
1985 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 130 min. / Street Date August 29, 2017 / available through Kino Lorber / 29.95
Street Date September 16, 2003 / 14.95
Starring: Jack Nicholson, Kathleen Turner, Robert Loggia, John Randolph, William Hickey, Lee Richardson, Anjelica Huston.
Cinematography: Andrzej Bartkowiak
Production Designer: Dennis Washington
Film Editors: Kaja Fehr, Rudi Fehr
Original Music: Alex North
Written by Janet Roach, Richard Condon from his novel
Produced by John Foreman
Directed by John Huston
Who said that John Huston slacked off in his later years? True, his Annie could be fairly re-titled as Gambling Debts Paid,...
Prizzi’s Honor
Blu-ray
Kl Studio Classics
1985 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 130 min. / Street Date August 29, 2017 / available through Kino Lorber / 29.95
Street Date September 16, 2003 / 14.95
Starring: Jack Nicholson, Kathleen Turner, Robert Loggia, John Randolph, William Hickey, Lee Richardson, Anjelica Huston.
Cinematography: Andrzej Bartkowiak
Production Designer: Dennis Washington
Film Editors: Kaja Fehr, Rudi Fehr
Original Music: Alex North
Written by Janet Roach, Richard Condon from his novel
Produced by John Foreman
Directed by John Huston
Who said that John Huston slacked off in his later years? True, his Annie could be fairly re-titled as Gambling Debts Paid,...
- 8/22/2017
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
Psycho launched a thousand twisted sickos and pathological relationships in films, but none can best Noel Black’s fascinating, funny romance between a newly-released arsonist and a fetching high schooler, hungry for freedom and lacking a moral compass. The pairing of Anthony Perkins and Tuesday Weld is inspired.
Pretty Poison
Blu-ray
Twilight Time
1968 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 89 min. / Street Date November 15, 2016 / Available from the Twilight Time Movies Store / 29.95
Starring Anthony Perkins, Tuesday Weld, Beverly Garland, John Randolph, Dick O’Neill, Clarice Blackburn, Joseph Bova, Ken Kercheval.
Cinematography David L. Quaid
Original Music Johnny Mandel
Written by Lorenzo Semple, Jr. from the novel She Let Him Continue by Stephen Geller
Produced by Marshall Backlar, Noel Black, Lawrence Turman
Directed by Noel Black
Reviewed by Glenn Erickson
Although the dates don’t match up, I’m absolutely certain that I saw Noel Black’s theatrical short Skaterdater when it was screened as a warm-up for,...
Pretty Poison
Blu-ray
Twilight Time
1968 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 89 min. / Street Date November 15, 2016 / Available from the Twilight Time Movies Store / 29.95
Starring Anthony Perkins, Tuesday Weld, Beverly Garland, John Randolph, Dick O’Neill, Clarice Blackburn, Joseph Bova, Ken Kercheval.
Cinematography David L. Quaid
Original Music Johnny Mandel
Written by Lorenzo Semple, Jr. from the novel She Let Him Continue by Stephen Geller
Produced by Marshall Backlar, Noel Black, Lawrence Turman
Directed by Noel Black
Reviewed by Glenn Erickson
Although the dates don’t match up, I’m absolutely certain that I saw Noel Black’s theatrical short Skaterdater when it was screened as a warm-up for,...
- 12/6/2016
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
By Lee Pfeiffer
Charlton Heston fans will appreciate the fact that one of his few major films not to be released on home video has finally made it to DVD through MGM. "Number One" (released in certain countries under the title "Pro") is an off-beat vehicle for the superstar, who was then at his peak of popularity. The fact that the movie under-performed at the box-office and failed to score with critics didn't diminish Heston's status as a leading man. He would go on to star in such hits as "The Omega Man", "Skyjacked", "Soylent Green" "Earthquake", "Midway"and "Airport '75"- with cameos in the popular "The Three Musketeers" and "The Four Musketeers". The poor response to "Number One" doesn't diminish its many merits - and the fact that Heston was willing to play against type in a largely unsympathetic role. For the film, he reunited with director Tom Gries,...
Charlton Heston fans will appreciate the fact that one of his few major films not to be released on home video has finally made it to DVD through MGM. "Number One" (released in certain countries under the title "Pro") is an off-beat vehicle for the superstar, who was then at his peak of popularity. The fact that the movie under-performed at the box-office and failed to score with critics didn't diminish Heston's status as a leading man. He would go on to star in such hits as "The Omega Man", "Skyjacked", "Soylent Green" "Earthquake", "Midway"and "Airport '75"- with cameos in the popular "The Three Musketeers" and "The Four Musketeers". The poor response to "Number One" doesn't diminish its many merits - and the fact that Heston was willing to play against type in a largely unsympathetic role. For the film, he reunited with director Tom Gries,...
- 5/21/2016
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
Since 1989, the National Film Registry of the Library of Congress has been accomplishing the important task of preserving films that “represent important cultural, artistic and historic achievements in filmmaking.” From films way back in 1897 all the way up to 2004, they’ve now reached 675 films that celebrate our heritage and encapsulate our film history.
Today they’ve unveiled their 2015 list, which includes classics such as Douglas Sirk‘s melodrama Imitation of Life, Hal Ashby‘s Being There, and John Frankenheimer‘s Seconds. Perhaps the most popular picks, The Shawshank Redemption, Ghostbusters, Top Gun, and L.A. Confidential were also added. Check out the full list below.
Being There (1979)
Chance, a simple-minded gardener (Peter Sellers) whose only contact with the outside world is through television, becomes the toast of the town following a series of misunderstandings. Forced outside his protected environment by the death of his wealthy boss, Chance subsumes his late employer’s persona,...
Today they’ve unveiled their 2015 list, which includes classics such as Douglas Sirk‘s melodrama Imitation of Life, Hal Ashby‘s Being There, and John Frankenheimer‘s Seconds. Perhaps the most popular picks, The Shawshank Redemption, Ghostbusters, Top Gun, and L.A. Confidential were also added. Check out the full list below.
Being There (1979)
Chance, a simple-minded gardener (Peter Sellers) whose only contact with the outside world is through television, becomes the toast of the town following a series of misunderstandings. Forced outside his protected environment by the death of his wealthy boss, Chance subsumes his late employer’s persona,...
- 12/16/2015
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
If the transformation is a character’s external change then the meltdown is the internal equivalent. Sometimes the most terrifying part of a horror film isn’t when the monster pops out, but when a character loses his or her grip on reality. The psychosis can begin gradually, exacerbated by stress, sickness, or an outside tormentor. Often the character begins a film in complete control of his or her mental faculties. But control is a relative term, and in a horror film, the illusion of control can be just as powerful as actual agency. The options: denial or embracement. The psychological break will come soon enough. The only question is, how broken will the person be once it does?
****
Alien (1979) – Ash malfunctions
The crew of the cargo ship Nostromo has just about had it. Awakened from a cozy hypersleep to answer the worst wrong number in interstellar history, they then...
****
Alien (1979) – Ash malfunctions
The crew of the cargo ship Nostromo has just about had it. Awakened from a cozy hypersleep to answer the worst wrong number in interstellar history, they then...
- 10/25/2015
- by Staff
- SoundOnSight
Body/mind transference, the central idea behind the thriller Self/Less, is so flush with opportunity that it’s frustrating to see this new movie fly off the rails so early and so completely. Self/Less has the premise for thought-provoking science-fiction, but it doesn’t have the gumption. It would rather be a blockbuster than a mind-bender but it turns out to be neither. Ben Kingsley stars as Damian Hale, a miserly real-estate magnate at death’s door who pays a quarter million dollars for the services of the shadowy corporation known as ‘Phoenix Biogenics’ (we know he’s rich because he’s shown in his Trump-style penthouse complete with solid gold doors and bannister). Albright (Matthew Goode), Phoenix’s spiffy young chief, offers his clients ‘Shedding’, a process of transferring the mind from the old and sick body into a healthy younger human grown organically in their lab.
- 7/10/2015
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
'San Andreas' movie with Dwayne Johnson. 'San Andreas' movie box office: $100 million domestic milestone today As the old saying (sort of) goes: If you build it, they will come. Warner Bros. built a gigantic video game, called it San Andreas, and They have come to check out Dwayne Johnson perform miraculous deeds not seen since ... George Miller's Mad Max: Fury Road, released two weeks earlier. Embraced by moviegoers, hungry for quality, original storylines and well-delineated characters – and with the assistance of 3D surcharges – the San Andreas movie debuted with $54.58 million from 3,777 theaters on its first weekend out (May 29-31) in North America. Down a perfectly acceptable 52 percent on its second weekend (June 5-7), the special effects-laden actioner collected an extra $25.83 million, trailing only the Melissa McCarthy-Jason Statham comedy Spy, (with $29.08 million) as found at Box Office Mojo.* And that's how this original movie – it's not officially a remake,...
- 6/9/2015
- by Zac Gille
- Alt Film Guide
Cult movie classic ‘Pretty Poison’ filmmaker Noel Black dead at 77 (photo: Tuesday Weld and Anthony Perkins in ‘Pretty Poison’) Noel Black, best remembered for the 1968 cult movie classic Pretty Poison, died of pneumonia at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital on July 5, 2014. Black (born on June 30, 1937, in Chicago) was 77. Prior to Pretty Poison, Noel Black earned praise for the 18-minute short film Skaterdater (1965), the tale of a boy skateboarder who falls for a girl bike rider. Shot on the beaches of Los Angeles County, the dialogue-less Skaterdater went on to win the Palme d’Or for Best Short Film and tied with Orson Welles’ Falstaff - Chimes at Midnight for the Technical Grand Prize at the 1966 Cannes Film Festival. Besides, Skaterdater received an Academy Award nomination in the Best Short Subject, Live Action category. (The Oscar winner that year was Claude Berri’s Le Poulet.) ‘Pretty Poison’: Fun and games and...
- 8/10/2014
- by Andre Soares
- Alt Film Guide
Chicago – John Frankenheimer’s “Seconds” with Rock Hudson was considered an unusual choice for The Criterion Collection when it was announced earlier this year. Never before available on Blu-ray and discontinued on DVD, the 4K restoration on this edition is the real draw, especially given that the film’s strength lies in its stunning visual compositions. With its canted angles and fish bowl aesthetic, Frankenheimer enhances what is actually a relatively weak script.
“Seconds” is a film that I want to adore given my love for the filmmaker’s other works (especially “The Manchurian Candidate,” another ode to ’60s paranoia) and how I love well-written “Twilight Zone”-esque tales, but repeat viewing of this release reveals the film to be thematically thinner than it should be. There are some great ideas here about personality, success, and apathy but they’re not explored and the final twist is one that modern...
“Seconds” is a film that I want to adore given my love for the filmmaker’s other works (especially “The Manchurian Candidate,” another ode to ’60s paranoia) and how I love well-written “Twilight Zone”-esque tales, but repeat viewing of this release reveals the film to be thematically thinner than it should be. There are some great ideas here about personality, success, and apathy but they’re not explored and the final twist is one that modern...
- 8/20/2013
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Selected for the Main Comp at the Cannes Film Festival in 1966, John Frankenheimer’s Seconds is a grim, nightmarish thriller that embodies many distinctive aspects of 1960s American cinema. Largely forgotten – one could argue for good reason – by all but the most devoted Frankenheimer fans, the film combines classic noir stylistics with the era’s emerging tremors of social revolution. Folded into the mix are elements of Sci-Fi and speculative fiction, creating a “what if” story filled with metaphors, meditations and mind-games.
The snappy plot begins with some odd occurrences in the quietly desperate life of Arthur Hamilton (John Randolph), a 50-ish, dry as toast bank manager who commutes into the city every day from his tidy colonial in leafy Scarsdale. Recently, the unnerved Hamilton has been receiving phone calls from an old college buddy long thought to be dead. This voice from the past entices Hamilton with vague promises...
The snappy plot begins with some odd occurrences in the quietly desperate life of Arthur Hamilton (John Randolph), a 50-ish, dry as toast bank manager who commutes into the city every day from his tidy colonial in leafy Scarsdale. Recently, the unnerved Hamilton has been receiving phone calls from an old college buddy long thought to be dead. This voice from the past entices Hamilton with vague promises...
- 8/13/2013
- by David Anderson
- IONCINEMA.com
Seconds (The Criterion Collection)
The Earrings Of Madame De... (The Criterion Collection)
Scary Seconds And Jewel-laden Irony
By Raymond Benson
Among the new releases this month from The Criterion Collection, that Cadillac of Blu-Ray/DVD labels, are two oldies-but-goodies—and very different ones—that will impress both the average film lover and the hardcore art house enthusiast. For me, the most anticipated title was Seconds, the 1966 paranoia-science fiction-mystery-thriller directed by John Frankenheimer, and starring Rock Hudson in a cast-against-type role. There’s no question that the picture was ahead of its time. The circumstances sound familiar—it was a very intelligent, well-made, strikingly photographed genre movie that audiences found too strange or unpleasant, and it flopped... but later, because it really was good, it became a cult classic.
Seconds is a shocking film today; in 1966, it was radical. It was considered an “adults-only” movie, even though its release was prior...
The Earrings Of Madame De... (The Criterion Collection)
Scary Seconds And Jewel-laden Irony
By Raymond Benson
Among the new releases this month from The Criterion Collection, that Cadillac of Blu-Ray/DVD labels, are two oldies-but-goodies—and very different ones—that will impress both the average film lover and the hardcore art house enthusiast. For me, the most anticipated title was Seconds, the 1966 paranoia-science fiction-mystery-thriller directed by John Frankenheimer, and starring Rock Hudson in a cast-against-type role. There’s no question that the picture was ahead of its time. The circumstances sound familiar—it was a very intelligent, well-made, strikingly photographed genre movie that audiences found too strange or unpleasant, and it flopped... but later, because it really was good, it became a cult classic.
Seconds is a shocking film today; in 1966, it was radical. It was considered an “adults-only” movie, even though its release was prior...
- 8/8/2013
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
Where would a horror movie be without a classic death scene – or two? We’ve had some great ones over the years: Janet Leigh’s shower to end all showers in Psycho (1960); the ill fated nude swim in Jaws (1975); David Warner’s famous decapitation in The Omen (1976); John Hurt’s serious indigestion problem in Alien (1979); and the exploding head in Scanners (1980). And let’s not forget the gruesome ends that befell pre-stardom Kevin Bacon and Johnny Depp.
Hang on a minute! I’ve just mentioned all the classic ones! Well let’s face it, so much has been written and discussed about those famous demises, they’ve been pretty much done to death (sorry!). Therefore, the following ten are horror-related deaths that deserve some kind of classic status, a couple of which are notable for their surreal and ambiguous nature.But beware...since most of the best death scenes are...
Hang on a minute! I’ve just mentioned all the classic ones! Well let’s face it, so much has been written and discussed about those famous demises, they’ve been pretty much done to death (sorry!). Therefore, the following ten are horror-related deaths that deserve some kind of classic status, a couple of which are notable for their surreal and ambiguous nature.But beware...since most of the best death scenes are...
- 10/22/2012
- Shadowlocked
Seconds
Directed by John Frankenheimer
Written by David Ely and Lewis John Carlino
1966, USA
Not for weak sisters! May not even be for strong stomachs!
John Frankenheimer’s ultimately terrifying Twilight Zone-like, futuristic thriller Seconds, received mixed reviews, and was critically panned at the Cannes Film Festival. But what do they know? Seconds is a chilling character study and a distressing examination of happiness, loneliness, consumerism, and the American dream. This paranoid take on the legend of Faust remains widely unseen. Thankfully repeated showings on late night television helped the film find a much deserved cult following.
A New York businessman Arthur Hamilton (John Randolph) is recruited by the services of an secret organization which provides unhappily married middle-aged businessmen with new lives. Arthur is told that with some highly evolved plastic surgery, physical reconditioning and a promise of a new career, he can become a young man again and begin a new life.
Directed by John Frankenheimer
Written by David Ely and Lewis John Carlino
1966, USA
Not for weak sisters! May not even be for strong stomachs!
John Frankenheimer’s ultimately terrifying Twilight Zone-like, futuristic thriller Seconds, received mixed reviews, and was critically panned at the Cannes Film Festival. But what do they know? Seconds is a chilling character study and a distressing examination of happiness, loneliness, consumerism, and the American dream. This paranoid take on the legend of Faust remains widely unseen. Thankfully repeated showings on late night television helped the film find a much deserved cult following.
A New York businessman Arthur Hamilton (John Randolph) is recruited by the services of an secret organization which provides unhappily married middle-aged businessmen with new lives. Arthur is told that with some highly evolved plastic surgery, physical reconditioning and a promise of a new career, he can become a young man again and begin a new life.
- 10/11/2012
- by Ricky
- SoundOnSight
by Nick Schager
[This week’s "Retro Active" pick is inspired by Len Wiseman’s who-am-i? sci-fi action remake Total Recall.]
Freedom is both a coveted dream and a terrifying trap in Seconds, John Frankenheimer's superlative sci-fi drama about the double-edged sword of escape and reinvention. Based on David Ely's novel, Frankenheimer's 1966 film plays like a prolonged Twilight Zone episode except with even greater narrative tension and aesthetic dexterity, detailing with almost overpowering intimacy of emotion the sorry plight of Arthur Hamilton (John Randolph). One of the myriad suit-and-tie commuters who trudge into NYC from their suburban homes each day via the Metro North rail line, Hamilton has a cushy job at a bank where he soon hopes to become manager, and an upper-middle-class home in Scarsdale with his wife Emily (Days of our Lives legend Frances Reid). That cozy life, however, is a prison to Hamilton, whom Frankenheimer introduces being stalked through Grand Central in a series of tight close-ups of the man’s...
[This week’s "Retro Active" pick is inspired by Len Wiseman’s who-am-i? sci-fi action remake Total Recall.]
Freedom is both a coveted dream and a terrifying trap in Seconds, John Frankenheimer's superlative sci-fi drama about the double-edged sword of escape and reinvention. Based on David Ely's novel, Frankenheimer's 1966 film plays like a prolonged Twilight Zone episode except with even greater narrative tension and aesthetic dexterity, detailing with almost overpowering intimacy of emotion the sorry plight of Arthur Hamilton (John Randolph). One of the myriad suit-and-tie commuters who trudge into NYC from their suburban homes each day via the Metro North rail line, Hamilton has a cushy job at a bank where he soon hopes to become manager, and an upper-middle-class home in Scarsdale with his wife Emily (Days of our Lives legend Frances Reid). That cozy life, however, is a prison to Hamilton, whom Frankenheimer introduces being stalked through Grand Central in a series of tight close-ups of the man’s...
- 8/4/2012
- GreenCine Daily
Variety reports that director Jonathan Mostow has signed on with Paramount to helm a remake of the John Frankenheimer thriller Seconds, pending a rewrite by the director himself. This marks Mostow's second attachment with the film, as he left development of it a few years back to take on Terminator 3; Jon Amiel was then slated to direct, but ultimately left the project. The original 1966 film, something of a cult classic, starred John Randolph as an older man who, thanks to a secret society, undergoes cosmetic surgery, gets a new face and body (that of Rock Hudson) as well as a new identity according to his specifications. However, the transition proves to be incredibly problematic. Hal Lieberman and Mace Neufeld are slated to produce.
- 1/2/2004
- IMDbPro News
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