Farquardht

Nailing Oscar Nominations

2010-02-03T12:08:00.000-08:00

Okay, in August of 2009 I nailed two films for Oscar nominations. Bruce, I rest my case.

Pretty Ugly People

2009-11-15T10:56:00.000-08:00

This film was recommended to me by Del Shores. What a production! The theme centers on the reactions of each of a group of college friends who attend an "end of life" celebration. The cinematography is excellent because of the remote location, in the mountains, two or more hours from civilization. The characters' arcs are fully described and allowed to develop on the screen. Each of the characters work their way through decision-making crises that many of us might face in our own lives. Tate's use of humor, drama, sadness, and fear create moment-by-moment emotions as we witness solutions to the problems they face. I had the good fortune to spend some time with the director/writer/producer, Tate, during happy hour at the theater restaurant -- he was waiting for a Q&A session following the evening showing. What a tremendously talented guy. $700K to get it in the can and on some screens. I hope he breaks the nut. He also revealed that he acquired the rights to Kathryn Stockett's bestselling novel "The Help" and will soon begin shooting the film, hoping to release it in December 2010. At times, "Pretty Ugly People" gave him daunting challenges, because of the remote location and the fact that some of the cast were working in TV projects while the film was being shot. For example, a cast member was scheduled to shoot but was called back to "town" for work. Tate spent all night rewriting tomorrow's shoot. It all worked out, but I know what a chore that must have been. I was surprised by a question from him regarding a pivotal moment near the end. He was pleased that I agreed with his decision to keep the scene, rather than to give in to less violent action. He deserves all the kudos that were delivered by the audience during his Q&A. What a gracious gentleman.

The Hurt Locker

2009-08-10T09:29:00.000-07:00

When a woman is involved in the direction and control of a war film, I must go see it. This film is particularly noteworthy because of its cinematography and the presentation of the story. The screenplay is magnificent, the character arcs are incredibly believable, and the acting is outstanding. When is the last time you saw a positive movie about our military in Iraq or Afghanistan? So many others have denigrated the soldiers, depicting them as mass murderers and torturers. (That's why you'll not see comments in my blogs about films at that level.) The Hurt Locker just might get some nominations, at least, for Academy Awards. It doesn't matter. It's well worth seeing, no matter what your feelings about today's political climate and your position on the ongoing wars.

Julie & Julia

2009-08-10T09:17:00.001-07:00

My wife and I decided to see this film on opening day. What a surprise... the theater seats were almost totally filled. Age groups from 20's to 80's. It's a good feeling to see such success for a film like this. Meryl Streep does outstanding work in it. Everything from the physical mannerisms to the speech patterns of Julia Childs is spot on. Nora Ephron did a magnificent job with the screenplay and direction. Who would have thought that a story like this could ever be presented with drama? Well, she did. The cinematographer was able to frame shots that hid the means to depict Julia's six feet two inch height. You'll see what I mean when you see it. I can not say enough about the total ensemble of professionals who put this enjoyable movie on the "silver screen." I won't write a review, because there are already sufficient kudos presented by critics in the printed media, as well as the digital. Go see this film. You will certainly agree with me that it will garner some Academy Award nominations in many categories.

My Latest Project

2009-06-08T15:51:00.000-07:00

Okay, so it's not new, but it is my Latest exciting Project. When Bruce didn't hire me as a reviewer of local theater productions for the local paper, I decided, "Why not write something for him (or the salaried person he's taken on) to review?" He won't come to the play, because I doubt that he's a golfer. I've seen him, and... well, never mind... that's not what this posting is about. My latest project is a stage play about golf. Yeah, I know, you're asking: Will that work? Sure, it will. You ask: "Will the actors be swinging golf clubs?" Sure. "Aren't you putting the audience in danger?" you ask. My answer: Their only danger is if they paid for their tickets with the last of their milk and cookie money for the month. Hey! Can't they attend at the end of the month and go without cookies and milk for a day or two? Come on. My play about bowling was successful. Didn't you see "Doubles?" Lots of laughs and much applause. I wrote a screenplay around it, too, and we did begin filming it, but -- Blah! Didn't work. I knew better. I should have paid attention to the early movies that simply filmed a production of a stage play. Ever see one of those? Yeccch! My Latest Project is called "Foursomes." So far, it's funny on paper, but I haven't yet heard applause. Maybe in a few months I can hold some cold readings and see how it's working. Maybe at least one (or maybe all) of the actors will clap -- at least in appreciation. Maybe.

Four Christmases - The Movie

2008-12-27T19:44:00.000-08:00

Wife and I went today. I didn't want to waste my time with another Holiday movie. I thought they can't be improved upon after National Lampoon's "Christmas Vacation." WRONG! It's been a long time since I've laughed aloud during a movie (while in the theater). "Four Christmases" is so funny, I was practically rolling in the aisle. Vince Vaughn is an excellent comic. His line delivery and demeanor is so attractive that I can not take my eyes off his work. Reese Witherspoon is also good. I've seen her in more dramatic roles than comedy, but this one tops her charts. Dwight Yoakam and Tim McGraw are unidentifiable, but great in their roles. Of course, Robert Duvall always gives you the most you can get. Carrie Snodgress does well in a role stretch. Mustn't overlook Jon Voight's poignant character, either. Every character in this movie was a gem. This movie is so entertaining, it's going to be a "Holiday" movie for years to come. I'm putting "Christmas Vacation" aside, and will purchase the "Four Christmases" DVD when available. Want a good laugh? Come over next year and watch it with me.

An American Carol

2008-10-06T17:40:00.000-07:00

A brilliant comedy that will be loved by those who love America, be hated by those who hate America, and will not be understood by those who ignore the damage being done to this great country by liberal, fascist thought. Zucker will catch hell for making this wonderful satire centered on Michael “Cheeseburger” Moore’s idiotic pseudo-documentaries. None of the moronic personalities who are part of his flock will even recognize the parodies made of them. I commend the brave souls who signed on to this hilarious outing – Kevin Farley, Tracy Adkins, Kelsey Grammer, Jon Voight, Leslie Nielson… undying patriots all. The Islamic fascists are portrayed to a “T.” Loved them for treating their roles seriously. Kevin is as good as Chris ever was – his casting was genius. Jon Voight’s George Washington is moving. Grammer’s Patton is refreshingly to the point. And Tracy… what can one say? He sings Charley’s patriotic song with a country passion – and he’s a damn good actor, too. Leslie Nielson tells the tale well, as he always does. And the kids, too, are true to form. Zounds! Why aren’t more films like this being made? I’m going to see it again on the big screen before it gets shut down. Can’t wait for the DVD to come out so I can watch it on election night. (Bruce: Eat your heart out.)

Wanted

2008-07-03T12:29:00.000-07:00

You want action? You get it with this one. It's filled with techno-gizmo-CGI stuff that works well. The plot is okay, too. It's not just shoot-'em-up to fill the screen. It actually makes sense. But, then, I'm an action film fan, so don't take my word for it. Jolie is her cold, sex-stuffed, self with the clinched eyes, but it's okay. That's what she does best. She's not much of an actor, but she's good at action and simmering and self-assured projection. Freeman is able to take any role and play it well, in my book. From The Bucket List to Wanted, his range is unlimited. The screenplay works, too. Go see Wanted, but sit near something to hang onto during the desperate moments of slash and burn by a wide range of interesting characters.

Don't Mess with the Zohan

2008-06-29T12:28:00.001-07:00

Not only do I not know what the Zohan is, I don't really give a $%#@! After 10 minutes of this sappy film, I was ready to ask for "double my admission fee" refund. Happy Madison, get a life. You have fooled too many people into paying $ for stupid. Adam Sandler is unable to make a film that holds your attention, no matter how many "names" play dumb cameos. Sandler must have a small pee-pee, because he seems obsessed by it. Do not see this film unless you're a student of film.

A Face from the Past

2008-06-27T10:19:00.000-07:00

On May 11, 2007, I blogged about a fellow who wants to write a screenplay. Read it below. I saw him a couple of weeks ago, and he said, "Hello." Wants to get back to his writing. I hope the story hasn't died; I hope the fire to write it hasn't ebbed. I gave him my phone number again. Care to make a wager on whether he calls me within the next 3 months? I hope he does. Even if he doesn't, I hope he continues writing the story. I want him to succeed. He doesn't have a chance if he doesn't write the tale.

Children of Huang

2008-06-26T11:49:00.000-07:00

After reading "The Rape of Nanking," I remain sensitive to the ruthless treatment the japs put upon the Chinese during WWII (for those ignorant educators who mistakenly call it World War Eleven, let me clarify: It was World War Two -- different from the world war we're currently engaged in, but with the same definition of purpose). The japs were purposely brutal and their tortures horrific. Unfortunately, the world governments pretended to be too occupied with their own troubles to vilify the japs for their invasion of China and the methodical brutality they rent upon the populace. Relief was left to the few individuals who were on the scene. At this movie's conclusion, survivors of the 700 mile march to safety convey their admiration and gratitude for the journalist-turned-savior, George Hogg. Soon, all witnesses to and survivors of the horrible treatment of the Chinese by the japs will be gone. It is important to document the facts and remembrances to preserve the legacy of these precious few. Oddly, we read today of Nazis being found and prosecuted (or, in Austria, protected), but nothing about the prosecution of the japs who were responsible for heinous war crimes. Communist China continues to suppress the Nationalists who fought the japs during WWII. What we're seeing in China today is the result of the politics of greed. It is sadly reminiscent of the Jacksonian era in the US, during which the American Indians suffered at the hands of the greedy and tortuous few. How could the people of America, Japan, and Germany turn their backs on what their governments were doing to fellow human beings, and deny knowledge of their actions? Don't you dare believe that the commonfolk did not know what horrors the governments were putting upon the citizens. There are diaries and journals that dispute that empty argument.

A New Stage Play

2008-06-21T11:45:00.000-07:00

It's been sooooo long. Okay, here's the latest skinny. I'm researching and writing a stage play. Those of you who know me remember "Those Tender Moments" and "Doubles." Both were relatively successful. I'm back at it again. Don't want to discuss it too much, because that seems to dampen the enthusiasm and weaken the writing energy. Let me say that it's along the lines of "Doubles" in staging, though it will be considerably easier to present. Hey, I live in a resort area -- nobody wants to work, do they? Especially me! I'll try to keep you current on my progress. After all, I just received the formatting program in the mail. Now I have to get down to it -- and write.

Into the Wild

2007-11-09T16:54:00.000-08:00

Uh, well... it's long, and they charge too much for admission. The acting is believable. The pace is s-s-l-l-o-o-w-w. Obviously, Penn has no directorial or writing ability. The story is weak. No character arcs, except for the father. And, it's a good thing Penn had a cinematographer with him. You can tell the ones Penn set up. Note to Penn: Don't let the actors acknowledge the camera's presence. If they do, don't let the editor include the shot. I didn't expect more from Penn, so the movie is predictable. Penn obviously has little mental capacity. Another note to Penn: Stick with acting. I'll bet Hollywood-ers will love this and nominate him for something. I've already done so. Moral of the story: Be sure to read the entire page when you're researching edibles in the wild.

Bourne Ultimatum

2007-09-05T14:23:00.000-07:00

Whew! Matt Damon might not be able to write a film (thank you, William Goldman), but he can act. Damon plays the Jason Bourne character to a "T," so this series is grateful for his availability and presence. I can think of no one who would have done a better job with Ludlum's troubled protagonist. Damon is maturing, as does the Bourne character, and his actions and reactions are so believable, you might be tricked into believing you're watching a film based on a true story. Ultimatum is the best of the three, so far. I'm now reading The Bourne Legacy, and it is proving itself to be as riveting as the prequel novels are. (Thank you, Eric Lustbader.)

Stardust

2007-09-05T14:19:00.000-07:00

C'mon, it's a good film. Not notable, but entertaining. Michelle Pfeiffer has an interesting role in it. You wouldn't expect her to play something so unflattering (at times), but she does it to perfection. Sure, some things are "over the top," but so was "The Princess Bride." It's a fantasy, for heaven's sake. Whoops! Was that a "spoiler" statement?

Once

2007-07-25T11:57:00.000-07:00

The movie... well, it's more of a documentary... no, it's a home movie about someone who sings in the street... no, he can't sing... So, maybe it's just a cell phone camera exercise with a video of a wannabe songwriter who is looking for a married or unmarried partner to help him and sleep with him because he is sad and obsessed about his ex-girlfriend who probably got tired of seeing his crummy old guitar and getting scratched by the long guitar strings that dangled around the big hole in the face of the guitar box that was caused by his fingernails scratching against the wood and the fact that his job was to repair vacuum cleaners and sing(?) in the street for donations and then putting his dirty old guitar in a case that he carried everywhere until he arrived at his filthy apartment which is probably the reason he wanted to move to a bigger city to be discovered... This piece of crap has received 4 stars in some of the reviews I have read, and I personally know one person who thought it was a great movie. I guarantee you that, unless you desire to hear endless songs -- one after the other -- with the same background music, you will be tempted to walk out after the first 10 minutes. My wife and I wanted to walk out, but we didn't. We could not believe that a movie could be so totally bad. Our theater audience consisted of perhaps 20 when the movie began. By the 15th minute, there were 5 of us remaining -- disbelieving that it would get no better. This is an event that I would recommend you go see, if you are someone I detest or are someone I need to repay for past wrongs.

And then I met a serious writer...

2007-05-25T11:28:00.000-07:00

Following my rant on 11 May, I was approached by another writer. This fellow has it together. He's already written and performed a one-act of which parts will be used in his screenplay. He believes he's not a screenwriter, so I met with him to assist in his further studies. I guarantee he'll market a screenplay before too long. He's industrious, hard-working, and serious about his goal. His story is one that is burning in his heart. And that's what it takes. He's also a songwriter, and he gave me his demo CD. A couple of his songs have been published, so he's proven himself in that category of creative writing. If he reads this blog, I want him to know that he has someone who supports his efforts. I've told him in person, but this puts it out there for everyone to know. By the way, I have still not heard from the (writer?) I mentioned in my May 11, 2007 blog.

Time Wasted Trying to Assist a (Writer?)

2007-05-11T11:10:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago, a fellow Guild member asked me if I would meet with him to discuss a film project that has been burning in his heart for some time. I didn't know what to expect, and I'm not sure he knew what he wanted from me. During the meeting, he briefly outlined the story to me, and I must agree that it is an interesting and compelling story. I gave him every indication that I was willing to help him get and stay motivated to write his project. I suggested that he write a Treatment. He agreed to a two week time frame (because he knows the subject so well), after which we would meet again, and I would read the treatment to lead him to the next step.
Let's go back a few months here, leading up to our first meeting: We ran into each other in a local casino. He was finishing a stint at a table game, when I approached him and asked what he'd been up to lately. It was then that he described his burning desire to do something with this idea. I told him at that time to e-mail me with a suggested meeting place and date. Almost two months elapsed before he contacted me and arranged the aforementioned meeting.
So, we met as I described above.
At least two months have gone by... I've not heard from him, but I've written an e-mail to him to which he did not respond, and I've seen him. It happened that my wife and I visited another casino in the area when I spotted him at a table recently. I don't know if he saw me. If so, he didn't acknowledge. I did not approach him because he was busy. If he saw me, I would be curious to know why he didn't at least e-mail me about his project.
Perhaps the meeting we had did not go well in his mind, and he no longer wants any contact with me, or he's embarrassed that he has not finished (or worked on) his project.
It's no skin off my neck, but I will be reluctant to go further in offering encouragement to this person without some explanation for his past behavior.
Caution: You who ask for help should assure yourself that you are truly eager to work on something, to see it through to fruition or mutual abandonment. Otherwise, you are only "burning a bridge" that might lead to success. Such audacious behavior is much like sending out a written work before it's ready to be seen by others.

"Wild Hogs" - A Surprise

2007-03-15T11:36:00.000-07:00

My wife is not an avid movie-goer, but sometimes she surprises me. When she saw the trailers on television for "Wild Hogs" (the movie), she expressed an interest to go see it. We did. The theater was filled for a Saturday afternoon -- another surprise, given the beautiful desert weather. The movie opens with a bang, and has just the right punch lines and sight gags in the right places. Some years ago, I co-wrote a biker script titled "The Next To The Last Ride." It was hilarious (in places), but had too many characters, too many situations, and too little interest for the readers. The parallels in "Wild Hogs" with TNTTLR were fun for me to identify. The incompetent leader, the rival biker gang, the love interest, the sight gags -- things like that. I believe John Travolta was uncomfortable at times with his role, but he pulled it off anyway. William H. Macy is the consummate actor. I've not seen him in a role where he was not convincing. Martin Lawrence is always good for the subtleties and the comic takes. Tim Allen does his regular schtick quite well. Ray Liotta did his best. The denouement was a surprise and made good sense. I think that's something TNTTLR lacked. Go see "Wild Hogs" and laugh a little.

Academy Awards

2007-03-05T17:22:00.000-08:00

So, an Oscar went to Jennifer for "Dreamgirlz." Hmm. I almost walked out of the movie because I couldn't understand the spoken dialogue. (Obviously, Dreamgirlz was not nominated for Sound.) However, I shifted in my chair for another hour and more. Based on what I saw of Jennifer (and she has a great voice), I can hardly wait to see her next movie. I do not wish to denigrate what she did in her role, but I do hope that the Academy will nominate and select actors for acting. Jennifer obviously got the votes because the voters felt sorry for her for losing on American Idle. (I have never watched this TV reality show, but I have heard some of the singers that came from it. Taylor Hicks' was a winner, I believe. He isn't my kind of singer, though. He moves too fast on stage for my taste. I had a childhood friend who was also afflicted with cerebral palsy. I saw Hicks on a TV commercial -- for a car manufacturer? Or, was it a tomato sauce? Idolatry is dangerous due to contagion.) I was satisfied with the other Oscar selections, I suppose. "The Departed" was a good movie (see my previous blog on it). Martin Scorcese did a magnificent job with the film. He can not be taken to task for the casting. The script... uh... well... see my previous blog on the film. Helen Mirren was superb in "The Queen." And, "The Queen" was a good movie, as well. After all, I confess that I did not see all of the movies. I did not see all of the nominees. I would never go see Algore's abomination. Sorry to see that it was given a green light for more misinformation. I would like to see Algore address an audience of scientists. Perhaps he could learn something about Truth. I understand he avoids scientists like he avoids truth. He can parlay his info to laymen, but has problems explaining his views if he must base them on scientific fact. Let's hope that Roger Cheeseburger makes a comedy from Algore's material. I might go see that.

The Departed - The Movie

2007-02-02T14:37:00.000-08:00

Phenomenal direction and capable acting by a couple of the actors. Some of the dialogue was trite, overused, cliched. Some of the jokes' punch lines were old, old, old. And, the Bostonian curse word was definitely overused. Is it true that Bostonians speak that way? Mitt Romney should declare or decree that the "F" word is not Boston's, it belongs to the world. Matt Damon and the Affleck kid overused it in Good Will Hunting. Everyone overused it in The Departed. The movie is brutal in realism. Jack Nicholson's character is easy to hate or love, depending upon what he's up to at the moment. Jack is Jack, and he does this character well. We've all seen it before, and no one can do it the way he does. Ultra-brutal, but lovable as he smiles at his own brutality. Leonardo Di Caprio is masterful in his role. Martin Sheen's emoting is boring. I've yet to see something he's done that is remarkable. Wahlberg's acting is one level -- insult everyone on screen. I can't remember if Alec Baldwin was in this movie, or in another one that I saw recently. Doesn't matter. His acting level in everything I've seen him in is forgettable, perhaps hidden under layers of fat. He's unable to show much talent; but when an actor has no talent, and his good looks are gone... Yet, the movie is interesting. Can't fault Scorcese on this one. The actors he chose either did a wonderful job, or they acted at the highest level of their ability. You identify who's who. The script needed work, too. Maybe that's what confused those less capable actors.

Children of Men - The Movie

2007-02-02T14:34:00.000-08:00

Wow! If this movie doesn't get a nomination, I'll be surprised. It is unrelenting in action and suspense. The sets are devastatingly eerie. Michael Caine is wonderful in his role. I'm going to see this one again, as well. So much happening, one wonders how anyone can really remember the sequence of events.

End of the Line

2007-01-08T18:26:00.000-08:00

No, it's not the final entry for my blog site. It's the title of my novel. Takes place in the 70's. Dan, a 20-year-old, is forced by circumstances to leave his small midwestern town and flee to the big city -- Omaha, Nebraska. Dan tries to keep a low profile, but he stumbles into a situation where he is threatened, then witnesses a murder. If only he weren't in trouble in his hometown, he could report to the authorities and explain the self-defense. It is not an option. Toeless, an old man, a hobo since the 1940's, befriends him; needs him to make one last run on the westbound Union Pacific rails. Dan doesn't know Toeless's circumstances, but he does see that Toeless always has money in his bindle. Money means nothing to Toeless, and he is often robbed of his clothes, shoes and money during his drunken sleep on the street. Unaffected, Toeless disappears for a few hours and returns with clothes, shoes, and pockets filled with money. Dan agrees to accompany Toeless on his westward journey. He learns much about living a hobo's life. In the 70's, it's considerably different than it was in the 40's, and Toeless is surprised at times by the dangerous changes. Dan and Toeless encounter numerous other characters during the trip; some are friendly but most are threats. Toeless reveals to Dan where his seemingly endless flow of funds come from. It is here that I borrow from history, and interweave an unfinished and unsolved true happening with my tale. In the end, alone, Dan finds his way to California property owned by Toeless. It is now Dan's. (My second book will take it from there.)

Thoughts on Apocalypto-the movie

2006-12-15T10:51:00.000-08:00

Could be the most impressive film I've seen. Certainly, I've not seen one like it in the past couple of years. I was most excited by the means that Gibson and his co-writer used to put forth subtleties that might have been overlooked or unrecognized by non-screenwriters. I'm going to see it again -- with a notepad on lap to capture some of those unique and riveting twists they used without interrupting the flow of the story. I hope it does win accolades from the Oscar crowd.

Yesterday's Screenwriting Seminar

2006-11-19T22:34:00.000-08:00

I think it went well. I had aboout 20 people who sat in raptured silence as they listened to my rantings about critique groups and ravings about William Goldman. Basically, I used the writings of William Goldman for the seminar. I think the comments were graciously received. I appreciate all of the comments the attendees made and I wish them well in their screenwriting endeavors.

Onward to Next Things

2006-11-05T09:41:00.000-08:00

Last night's BlogFest was incredibly fun. After photos were taken (see them at BlogFest.com), and visitors and friends were greeted and seated, the festivities began (Odette doesn't know, at this moment, that her picture is on www.). Alan's presentation of each Blogger was professional and speedy. That lent a solid base for each Blogger's presentation. Borders was so accommodating. The initial set-up for the evening would not have been comfortable for those who might have happened upon the event and wished to sit and enjoy the readings; the configuration of seating was changed so that many more could be seated facing the "stage." My thanks to Borders for their quick response to that need. Every Blogger had an exciting piece to read, of course. I would like to think that mine was the best, but I know that not to be necessarily true. All of them were entertaining. Of course, the star, Paul Krassner, kept us riveted by his jokes, stories, and readings. What a life this fellow has had. His "Mormon" joke is unforgettable. Reminds me of another author (gone now), Mickey Spillane, who once explained at the PS Film Noir festival, a bet he made with an editor. They were having a drink or two and were talking about mystery writers. The editior was touting one writer's ability at being so inventive because of the brevity of words and sentences to get the story told. Mickey Spillane, bravely ventured that he could write a mystery with a beginning, a middle, and an end (necessary to all good storytelling) in three words. The editor bet him a thousand dollars he couldn't do it; they had more drinks, and Spillane went home. In a few months, Spillane submitted his short story that consisted of three words: "Harold did it." Now, perhaps I've changed the antagonist's name, but that's the tale that Spillane recited to us that night. I wonder how he spent the easily made thousand dollars. Okay, back to the BlogFest -- I'm honored to have been a part of this event with Paul Krassner. I knew many of the other readers because of their affiliation with the Palm Springs Writers Guild. But, I did not realize of the depth of their talent. Kristin, John, Leslie, Fran (have I forgotten anybody?), and Paul: I admire your stuff. Fran brought a copy of her recent book I'd asked her about, The Prettier Sister, and she autographed it for me. I'm looking forward to reading it. She held it high before her reading, responding to an unspoken question each of us probably had: "Are you the 'prettier' sister?" Read her book to find out. I was at the BlogFest; perhaps you readers of this blog weren't. And, I finally got to meet Leslie. What a delight, and what a sense of comedy. How many of us who live in the desert didn't relate to her blog reading? Can't wait to get her book, too. It must be revealing. And, yes, Leslie, we would buy your book. Why not? If it's anything like what she read, it'll keep us in stitches. Paul's lead-in with a favorite joke, and personal stories about his life, set the tone for his reading. If you haven't heard this man, you're missing out on some great satirical observations about many subjects. Is it that he keeps nothing sacred? I particularly enjoyed his explanation of the truth behind Lenny Bruce's ostracization. But, then, Paul was on the cusp of many injustices brought to the fore that changed social conscience. As a matter of fact, Paul still resides and thinks on that same cusp, I believe. He is a funny and insightful writer who is unafraid of the truth. A question I might ask him today is: "Who were the two young men who seated themselves up front and truly enjoyed his remarks?" When I write "young men," understand that I'm describing two fifteen- or sixteen-year-olds. I wonder, now, how such an evening could be topped by another such event. Alan is a bright fellow with marvelous ideas. He explained his 9timezones blog name to me. I know he has a success story at every turn. I wish him good luck; it's sure to continue his way. It made me happy that Odette attended this event. I was wondering if she would enjoy it. I also extend a thank you to Gail and Bill, and Lee for coming to hear my reading, and staying for the entire program. I also noted that Marci and Jack, Harold, Dawn, and Phyllis responded to my reminder and came to enjoy their PSWG counterparts. Enjoyed meeting Randy; hope you come by the meeting today, though I know the events in the Valley make it difficult to select what to do this day. What a busy place! Joan, thank you for your phone call inquiring how it went. Marilyn, thank you, too, for taking a moment from your busy morning to ask about it. And, to all of you who responded to my e-mail alert about this event -- thank you for your good thoughts and wishes for a successful evening. It definitely was!

Clarification

2006-11-01T14:26:00.000-08:00

I told you that I would clarify something written to you in a recent e-mail. Remember Cleve Leuce? That once was the inner me. A pseudonym developed by using numerology, that I used for decades. He's gone now. Did his thing. A remarkable person who dwelt inside of me for, oh, too long. Greswald Farquardht (notice that there is no "i" and no "o" in Greswald) has taken his place with new and wonderful things bound to occur every day. Don't you remember seeing Farquardht on stage, and in film?
So now you know. But those who did not access this blog might never know the truth about Cleve's disappearance. So, sue me. Go figure. Get f..., uh, first in line. Hope you make it to BlogFest Saturday night, the 5th of November. I'll be there FOFO. That's First On First Off, 8 p.m., reading "Small Peanuts."

Time is Running Out

2006-10-27T14:55:00.000-07:00

Nov 4 is fast approaching. Reminds me of something George Clayton Johnson once said about time running out. He and I often discussed such ethereal subjects. If he's reading this blog, I want him to know that I finally have the answer (I think) to a question of quantum physics that he posed to me some 20 years ago. George, "Light" and "Dark," remember? I have an answer for you after, lo, these many years.
So, anyway, November 4 is upon us in a week. After the Jacqueline Cochrane Regional Airport air show earlier in the day, I'll gather up my "Small Peanuts" and rush to Borders Books and Music Store at The River in Rancho Mirage. Several of my good friends who know that I write real good trash will be there to hear me read this hilarious bit to a riveted audience.
Hey, maybe I'd better write and phone everyone I know to tell them I'll be "on stage" with several other writers. Who knows, some of those writers might be better than me. Doubt it; but one never knows until you hear it all.
Almost forgot -- Palm Springs Writers Guild meets at 2 p.m. on November 5. Maybe I'll get some valuable feedback from any one of that prestigious group who might have seen me in action the night before. Hmmm.
Come to think of it, you're invited, too. We meet on the first Sunday of every week. Is that right? No... the first Sunday of the month. Come by and see if you like it. It's free, as of this writing, to visitors -- but I suspect this is going to soon change. If you're a member, you already know you can get in without paying, to participate in our invigorating and exciting programs.

More on Screenwriting Seminar

2006-10-18T16:52:00.000-07:00

The seminar is filling up fast. Only a few spots left. Because of interest generated by the last seminar, I'm changing the content of this one. I thought I wouldn't have to, but so many who signed up for the last one have re-signed for the one on November 18. It's gonna dazzle.

Screenwriting Seminar

2006-10-09T14:27:00.000-07:00

Saturday, November 18, 2006 -- PSWG will host a Screenwriting Seminar. If you haven't already signed up, do so now by e-mailing pswgmembers@hotmail.com. Participation is limited to 25. It's free to Coachella Valley residents and visitors. This session will be different from the one held in May. Callie Khouri's "Thelma and Louise" is a revolutionary screenplay, and stimulates discussion about screenwriting. We're going to study it, and discuss it. Let me know if you're going to attend.

BlogFest

2006-10-02T22:31:00.000-07:00

Here's the skinny on where to come hear the best blogger storytellers in the desert:

Come and get it!

Small Peanuts

2006-09-30T12:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Dr. Ruth,
I ain't never writ much, but I am taking pen in hand... 'cause my wife Gruyere told me about your TV show. I ain't got time to watch TV 'cause I am a farmer growing peanuts on this place... Gruyere says you answer husband and wifely questions on your show...
(This is a sample of one of my writings. Come see a reading of the whole thing at the upcoming BlogFest at Borders, Rancho Mirage.)

An Idea Sold

2006-09-28T14:41:00.000-07:00

Because putting meaningful words together is such a big part of a writer's life, I've been almost forced to open this blog. My book requires another rewrite, my spoken presentation requires refreshing, and my desk top needs cleaning. So what am I doing with a blog? I am looking for more ideas. Since ideas are not copyrightable, I intend to use every posted worthwhile idea to monetary benefit. You have been forewarned... Farquardht Stough is for sale -- cheap.