Today in Film History #AmericanGraffiti #RememberRobinWililams #HollywoodHistory
August 11th, 1973 saw the nation-wide premier of the coming-of-age classic American Graffiti. This nostalgic look at early 1960's Americana was very successful and ended up being nominated for five Academy Awards, including two for up-and-coming director/producer George Lucas. Lucas was nominated for Best Director, and co-nominated for Best Screenplay, as well as being a part of the Best Picture bid. Lucas would go on to write, direct, and/or produce such iconic Hollywood blockbusters as (some of) the Star Wars series, the Indiana Jones series, and many others. His contributions don't stop there, his films have also given rise to Lucasfilm Ltd. his production company, Industrial Light and Magic (graphics and animation), THX (surround sound), and all this on his personal playground Skywalker Ranch. The careers Richard Dreyfuss, Harrison Ford, and Ron Howard were also given a huge boost by American Graffiti.
Also, tragically, one year ago today the world lost a very funny and inspirational spirit in Robin Williams. Star of such wonderful films/shows as Mork & Mindy, Good Morning, Vietnam, DeadPoets Society, Mrs. Doubtfire, Good Will Hunting, and many more. Robin Williams was a hilarious and beautiful soul that definitely left the world with an empty spot upon his departure.
For more on each day's historical awesomeness, visit the History Channel website- that's kind of what they're in to.
Today in Film History #FilmHistory #Hollywood #CommunistsAreScary!
On this day (8 June) in 1949, several Hollywood celebrities were named as part of a growing group of Communist Party Members in Hollywood and the media industry. One of the most notable was Academy Award winner Frederic March who was outspoken about concern over the United States' growing nuclear arsenal. Singer Edward G. Robinson was also a prime target in the late 40's, though he adamantly denied these allegations claiming "I have played many parts in my life, but no part have I played better or been more proud of than that of being an American citizen."
These accusations didn't stop with Hollywood stars, but they were very focused on the notable stars of stage and screen. The term McCarthyism is used to describe the practice or act of making accusations of subversion or treason without proper regard for evidence (McCarthyism). Republican Senator Joseph McCarthy of Wisconsin was the figurehead of the movement to drive out Communism (real or not) from the United States' film and music industry. Many innocent actors, writers, directors, producers, and singers were wrongfully imprisoned as a result of his "witch hunt".
To learn more, follow this link to The History Channel.