Considering it’s my fourth go-round with the Liebster Award,
you’d think it’s become old hat, but I’m still awed and humbled that anyone’s
paying attention to this little ‘ol blog. Words can’t adequately express my
sincere gratitude to Michaël Parent, proprietor of the eclectic movie site, LeMot du Cinephiliaque,
and the multi-talented Vern (aka: Jason Hemming), of The Vern’s VideoVortex
for nominating me.
I decided to do things a little differently this time with
my nominations. I realize that some folks regard the Liebster and similar
awards as the blogging equivalent of a chain letter, albeit, without the
horrifying consequences. Therefore, there are no rules, no tasks, or questions
to answer. To everyone listed below, feel free to bask in your moment of glory
with no strings attached.
Here are my answers to Mr. Parent’s questions:
- What is your best film related memory?
In the mid-80s, I was lucky enough to attend a special
screening of Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure
at Burbank Studios, the same location where Pee-Wee’s climactic bike chase
scene was shot. It was a truly surreal moment when reality and fiction
collided, and a genuine moment of cinematic serendipity.
- Citizen Kane or How Green Was My Valley? Why?
I’m ashamed to admit I haven’t seen How Green Was My Valley,
yet, so I’ll have to abstain from judging.
- Frank Capra or Howard Hawks? Why?
Both filmmakers made movies that are among my favorites, so
I’m calling it a tie. Capra wins points for capturing my heart in It’s a Wonderful Life and Lost Horizon, and Hawks scores for
engaging my brain in The Big Sleep
(watch for my review in November… maybe).
- What is your favorite movie genre?
I’ve never minced words about my undying love of science
fiction and horror, but it’s important to note some of my all-time favorites
fall into neither of these categories. Some of my best experiences have been
with films that crossed over multiple genres.
- Do you give much importance to lists like AFI’s 100s, the Sight and Sound’s Top 10, etc…?
Not really. My problem with many of these lists is how the
arbitrary opinions of “experts” obligate me to like a film, whether I actually enjoyed
it or not. Because someone deemed certain films culturally and/or artistically
significant, there’s the implication that there’s something wrong with my
evaluation if I didn’t care for a particular title. I’m not opposed to
referring to these lists as a rough guide, and they can be a terrific gateway
to exploring new cinematic territories, but to adhere to these lists as canon
seems constraining at best, and borderline obsessive-compulsive at worst.
- Is your daytime job related to films in any means?
Nope, and I’m thankful for that. Movies (and by extension,
writing about movies) have always been an escape for me, and it’s great to come
home after a particularly stressful day and immerse myself in my passion.
- How long have you been blogging about films and what keeps you going at it?
I’m not sure where the time went, but October will mark my
fifth (!) year with Cinematic Catharsis, blogging about the sort of movies I
enjoy the most. Everyone loves to get positive feedback, but the comments that
resonate the most are when someone states they need to check out a movie, based
on my write-up. That never gets old.
- What would be the movie that could define you? Why?
The Adventures of
Buckaroo Banzai: Across the Eighth Dimension. The title character is a
neurosurgeon, rock star, international crime fighter and fearless adventurer. I
don’t think I’ve quite reached those lofty heights, but it’s a worthy goal.
- Name a celebrity that could be your doppelganger?
When I was about 19, and in the hospital, a nurse once
remarked that I looked like Matthew Broderick. I can’t confirm or deny this,
since I was under heavy anesthesia at the time, and only learned about this
second-hand from my mother.
- What it the best film you’ve watched lately?
Ex Machina. Featuring
fine performances, a thought-provoking story, and impressive visuals, it left
me contemplating how our days as Earth’s dominant intelligence are numbered.
- Recommend a movie that almost no one has ever seen and that should be more recognized.
The 5,000 Fingers of
Dr. T. I reviewed this forgotten gem a few years ago,
and I consider it a timeless classic. The whimsical designs, song lyrics and
dialogue were credited to Dr. Seuss, and the film remains the best live action
realization of his work. Inexplicably, it was shunned by its creator and the greater
movie-going public. It’s a remarkable achievement, nonetheless.
10 Blogs You Should Get to Know Better
Tars Tarkas.Net http://tarstarkas.net/
Tales from the Freakboy Zone http://freakboyzone.blogspot.com/
Loud Green Bird http://loudgreenbird.com/
Prowler Needs a Jump https://prowlerneedsajump.wordpress.com/
Wide Weird World of Cult Films http://wideweirdworldofcult.blogspot.com/
Stabford Deathrage Shoots His Mouth Off http://stabforddeathrage.blogspot.com/
Pulp Curry http://www.pulpcurry.com/
The Cult of the Cinema http://www.pulpcurry.com/
Alex Vorkov Writer https://alexvorkovwriter.wordpress.com/
Gore Girl’s Dungeon http://goregirlsdungeon.tumblr.com/
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