Thursday, December 17, 2009

The Gangster Of Hollywood

     There are probably some who don't know this but Hollywood had its gangsters beside actors, theaters, etc. One in particular was Benjamin "Bugsy" Siegal. He was born in Brooklyn, New York on February 28, 1906. He was a vicious gangster. No one dared to called Siegal "Bugsy" to his face if they wanted to live a long life. Siegal hated that nickname. Not even his friends called him "Bugsy" to his face. This was how vicious Siegal was. But then again, being in the Mafia it was rare for a gangster to die of natural causes any way. Why by trouble though?

     Siegal's violent method of doing business struck terror in the heart of his enemies and the public. His infamy was acknowledged by a journalist working for the Time as "the most famous mobster of his era". J. Edgar Hoover acknowledged Siegal as "America's most dangerous criminal". The Mafia called Siegal valuable.

     In 1937, Siegal moved west to Los Angeles to find new markets to further his career in the Mafia. At that time, California was booming economically. There was surely businesses to get involve in and extort, some people to blackmail.

     While living in California in 1946, Siegal began work on a multi-million dollar casino called The Flamingo in Las Vegas with William Wilkerson. When Wilkerson ran out of money to finish The Flamingo, Siegal took over. In taking over the additional financing Siegal used 5 million dollars of mob money, which belong to Lucky Luciano and Meyer Lansky. One does not take money from Lucky Luciano and Meyer Lansky without asking.

     On June 20, 1947 before midnight, Siegal was walking by the front window at his mistress's home. Gunshots rang out. Siegal was killed. He didn't get the chance to react, which is usually the case during a mob hit back then.

     Unfortunately for the Mafia, they should of brought an exorcist of some kind after the hit to make sure the deed was done. Rumor has it, Siegal's ghost haunts his mistress's house to this day. So if you ever go by the house don't call out "Hey, Bugsy", you might have more trouble than you bargain for.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea-Deadly Creature Below

 

     Here is the last and fifth video of 'Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea'. The episode is 'Deadly Creature Below'.

Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea-The Ghost Of Moby Dick

 

     Here is the fourth one of 'Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea'. The episode is called 'The Ghost Of Moby Dick'.

Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea-Submarine Sunk Here

 

     I am sorry I have been slacked in posting. I have been doing research and the Christmas thing. Here is the third video. This is the episode I did the music video on called 'Submarine Sunk Here'

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea: The Menfish

 

     Here is one of the color episodes. It is from the 2nd season of 'Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea'.

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea (TV Series)

DVD cover art of the 2nd season (Vol.

Image via Wikipedia

 

     In 1961, Irwin Allen created the movie then the television series both called 'Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea'. The show's main theme is underwater adventure. 'Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea' was broadcasted on ABC from 1964 to 1968.

     Out of the 110 episodes, 32 were broadcasted in black and white. The rest were in color. The first seasons took place in the then future of the 1970's. The last two episodes took in the 1980's.

Cast

  • Richard Basehart-Admiral Harriman Nelson
  • David Hedison-Captain Lee Crane
  • Bob Dowdell-Lt. Commander "Chip" Morton
  • Henry Kulky-Chief "Curly" Jones (1st season)
  • Terry Becker-Chief Sharkey (2-4 season)
  • Del Monroe-Kowalski
  • Arch Whiting-Sparks
  • Paul Trinka-Patterson
  • Allen Hunt-Riley
  • Richard Bull-The Seaview doctor (2nd season, 3 episodes)
  • Paul Carr-Casey Clark (1st season, recurring afterwards in stock footage scenes.)

Facts

  • The pilot episode 'Eleven Days to Zero' was filmed in color but broadcasted in black and white.
  • During season 2, the flying sub was introduce into the series.
  • Captain Crane was not captain of the Seaview during the pilot. The captain was Captain John Phillips. Phillips was killed and replaced by Crane.
  • In the film, Admiral nelson had a secretary named Cathy Connors, who worked on the Seaview. In the series, there is no Cathy Connors, only a long list of secretaries that worked on land and are basically interchangeable, and only last one episode.
  • The stock footage of the Seaview was used in the 'Wonder Woman' episode 'The Bermuda Triangle Crisis'.

    

 

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Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Smooth Criminal Featuring Fred Astaire

 

     When I saw this video, I had to put it up on my blog. I was completely amazed by it. The scenes were in the range of Michael Jackson's version.

     To find out the reason why this video was made you will have to go to Fred Astaire+Michael Jackson-Smooth Criminal and read the more info part.

Gene Kelly-Singing In The Rain

     This video is of Gene Kelly singing 'I'm Singing In The Rain' and dance from the movie with the same name.

     This video was put up on You Tube by Emeuh83.

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Forbidden Images From The Old Days

 

 

     These images are tame compare to what we watch today.

     This video was put up on You Tube by CineGraphic.

Some Comic Relief From A Drive-In Concession Stand.

 

     Well, you can't enjoy a good movie at the drive-in without some snacks or some food but at this drive-in it might be best to bring your own snacks and food. Don't get food from this concession stand. There is no telling what kind of stomach problems you can get. Unfortunately, the video doesn't mention which drive-in this concession stand is at. Enjoy some laughs from watching the video.

     This video was put up on You Tube from CineGraphic.

Monday, November 30, 2009

Movie Legends-David Niven

 

 

      The video was put up by basilnelson on You Tube.  The music on the video is an Overture called 'The Marriage of Figaro' played by James Last and his Orchestra.

Friday, November 27, 2009

Yul Brynner And Deborah Kerr (The King And I)

 

 

The clip is from the 'The King And I' with Yul Brynner and Deborah Kerr. This video was put up on You Tube by dfactoryusa.

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Pink Panther-The Scarlet Pinkernel

 

 

     Okay, so I am a little kid at heart. I loved watching the Pink Panther when I was a kid and had to take a trip down memory lane.

     By the way there is a moral to this particular cartoon. "No good deed goes unpunished." Enjoy the cartoon.

Sunday, November 22, 2009

Perry Mason Moments

  

     I made this video of a few Perry Mason Moments from the old TV series. The clips are from the episodes of 'The Antic Angel', 'The Festive Felon', and 'The Shifty Shoebox'. The song on the video is 'Eyes Without A Face' sung by Billy Idol. 

     For those of you who rather just hear the words instead of music, you can listen to the video below. Just words. No Music. The videos are the clips I put in the music ones.

 

 

 

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

James Cagney-Death

 

     James Cagney died of a heart attack at the age of 86. He is buried at the Cemetery of the Gate of Heaven in Hawthorne, New York. Ronald Reagan, who was president at the time, gave the eulogy at Cagney's funeral. His pallbearers were boxer Floyd Patterson, Mikhail Baryshnikov, actor Ralph Bellamy, and director Milos Forman.

Monday, November 16, 2009

James Cagney-Political Views

Yankee Doodle Dandy

Image via Wikipedia

 

     Though Cagney claimed in his autobiography he had no political view when he was younger, the Fanzines in the 1930's says he views were radical. The view was exaggerated by his wranglings with Warners at the time, his joining of the Screen Actors Guild, and his revolt against the Merriam tax.

     Cagney supported the Thomas Moody's defense fund but he was repelled by the behavior of some of Mooney's supporters at the rally. During the Spanish Civil War, Cagney gave money for the Spanish Republican Army ambulance. Cagney also became involved with a liberal along with Ronald Reagan however both quit the same night.

     Cagney was accused of being a Communist sympathizer in 1934, and again in 1940. The 1934 accusation came about form a letter from a local communist official found by police alleging that Cagney would new members to meetings. Cagney denied the accusation. Lincoln Steffens backed him up saying the money he gave was to help striking cotton workers in San Joaquin Valley. The 1940 accusation was about the donated money for the striking cotton workers. Cagney was cleared of the charges.

     Cagney became President of the Screen Actors Guild in 1942. He took an active role in the Guild's work against the Mafia. Around this time the Mafia had taken an active interest in the movie industry. Because the Mafia couldn't scare Cagney and the Guild off, they called Billie to tell her Cagney was a dead man. Cagney said they did send a hit man to kill him by dropping a heavy light onto his head. Upon hearing about the rumor of the hit, George Raft canceled the hit.

     During World War 2, Cagney took part in raising war bonds in racing exhibitions at the Roosevelt Raceway and sold seats for the premiere of 'Yankee Doodle Dandy. He even let the Army practice maneuvers at his Martha's Vineyard farm. After the war, Cagney got involved with the presidential campaigns. Cagney supported Ronald Reagan's campaign. 

     As Cagney got older, he became more and more conservative. Cagney regarded the move totally natural because of the undisciplined elements in our country referring to the hippies and their mind set.

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Sunday, November 15, 2009

James Cagney-Personal Life

screenshot of James Cagney from the film White...

Image via Wikipedia

 

     James Cagney married Frances Willard "Billie" Vernon on September 28, 1922. They met on the chorus line of 'Pitter Patter'. In 1941, they adopted a boy and named him James Cagney Jr. They had a daughter, Cathleen "Casey" Cagney. While Cagney was willing to give press interviews, he still remain a private man. He also remained out of the public eye during his private times.

     When Cagney was a young man became interested in farming, do to a soil conservation he attended. During his first walk out from Warner Brothers, he bought a farm in Martha's Vineyard. The house on the farm was run down but Cagney loved it but Billie was reluctant at first to live in the house. As time moved on, Billie grew to love the place. Cagney began to spread a rumor that he was going to hire a gunman after he got inundated by movie fans. The ruse was so good that when Spencer Tracy came to visit, the cab driver wouldn't go up the drive way to the house. The cab driver told Tracy. "I hear they shoot!" Tracy ended up walking up the driveway.

     In 1955, Cagney bought a farm in Duchess County, New York. He named the farm Verney Farm, taking the first syllable from Billie's maiden name and the second syllable from his own surname. Cagney turned the farm back into working order. He expanded the farm over the years to a 750 acre site. Cagney's enthusiasm for farming got him an honorary degree from Rollins College. He surprised the staff by writing a paper on soil conservation because he didn't want to "turning up with Ava Gardner on my arm" was the way Cagney put it.

     Cagney was a sailor. He own boats on both the east and west coast of the U.S.A. Cagney enjoyed painting. Cagney only sold one of his paintings which was to Johnny Carson to benefit a charity.   

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Saturday, November 14, 2009

James Cagney-Retirement

Cropped screenshot of James Cagney from the tr...

Image via Wikipedia

 

     Cagney retired from show biz in 1961 and remained so for a little over twenty years. He made few public appearance. He preferred to spend winter in Los Angeles and summers either at his Martha's Vineyard farm or at Verney Farms in New York. When spending time in New York, Cagney and Billie had numerous parties at a restaurant called Silver Horn. both got to know the proprietress of the restaurant, Marge Zimmerman.

     Cagney was diagnosed with glaucoma and was taking eye drops for it but continued have problems with his eyes. Zimmerman recommended Cagney seeing another doctor. Cagney went to the different doctor and found out he was misdiagnosed. His problem was diabetes not glaucoma. Zimmerman took it upon herself to prepare Cagney's meals to help bring down his blood triglyceride level. She succeeded in bringing Cagney's blood triglyceride level down that he had lost 20 pounds and his vision improved before he made a rare appearance at Lifetime Achievement Award's ceremony.

     Many Hollywood stars attended the ceremony that it was said if a bomb went off in the room it would have been the end of the movie industry. During Cagney's acceptance speech of an award, he lightly chastised impressionist Frank Gorshin by saying "Oh, Frankie, I never said 'Mmmm, you dirty rat!' What I said was 'Judy, Judy, Judy!'." 

     In 1977, Cagney had a minor stroke. He spent two weeks in the hospital. Zimmerman became his full-time carer, traveling with Cagney and Billie.

     Cagney wasn't able to undertake many of his favorite pastimes. He became depressed. To help Cagney get over his depression, Billie and Zimmerman encouraged him to accept an offer to star in the film 'Ragtime'. Cagney accepted the offer.

     The film was shot at the Shepperton Studios in London. Cagney got a warm welcome from the British as soon as his ship dock. The officials said they had never seen anything like it even though they had experienced past visits from Marlon Brando and Robert Redford.

     During the filming, Cagney's sciatica worsened but he kept going. Cagney and co-star Pat O'Brien appeared on the Parkinson talk show. Cagney even made a surprise appearance at the Queen Mother's birthday performance. Cagney's appearance on stage prompted the Queen Mother to rise to her feet. It was the only time the Queen Mother did during the whole show. Later, she went backstage to speak with Cagney.

     In 1984, Cagney made a rare TV appearance in 'Terrible Joe Moran'. Afterward he completely retired.

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Thursday, November 12, 2009

James Cagney-Films

 

1930
The Doorway to Hell
Sinners' Holiday

1931
How I Play Golf, by Bobby Jones No. 11: 'Practice Shots'
Blonde Crazy
Smart Money
The Millionaire
The Public Enemy
Other Men's Women

1932
Winner Take All
The Crowd Roars
Taxi!

1933
Lady Killer
Footlight Parade
The Mayor of Hell
Picture Snatcher
Hard to Handle

1934
The St. Louis Kid
The Hollywood Gad-About
Here Comes the Navy
He Was Her Man
Jimmy the Gent

1935
Mutiny on the Bounty
A Midsummer Night's Dream
The Irish in Us
G Men
Devil Dogs of the Air
Trip Thru a Hollywood Studio
A Dream Comes True
Frisco Kid

1936
Great Guy
Ceiling Zero

1937
Something to Sing About

1938
Angels with Dirty Faces
Boy Meets Girl
For Auld Lang Syne

1939
The Roaring Twenties
Each Dawn I Die
Hollywood Hobbies
The Oklahoma Kid

1940
City for Conquest
Torrid Zone
The Fighting 69th

1941
The Bride Came C.O.D.
The Strawberry Blonde

1942
Yankee Doodle Dandy
Captains of the Clouds

1943
Johnny Come Lately
You, John Jones!

1944
Battle Stations

1945
Blood on the Sun

1947
13 Rue Madeleine

1948
The Time of Your Life

1949
White Heat

1950
The West Point Story
Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye

1951
Starlift
Come Fill the Cup

1952
What Price Glory?

1953
A Lion Is in the Streets

1955
Mister Roberts
The Seven Little Foys
Love Me or Leave Me
Run for Cover

1956
These Wilder Years
Tribute to a Bad Man

1957
Short-Cut to Hell
Man of a Thousand Faces

1959
Shake Hands with the Devil
Never Steal Anything Small

1960
The Gallant Hours
Fleet Admiral William F. Halsey, Jr.

1961
One, Two, Three

1968
Arizona Bushwhackers

1981
Ragtime

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

James Cagney-Early Career In Show Biz

keeler and cagney

     Cagney had learned from a colleague of a role in a upcoming production called 'Every Sailor'. It was a war time play in which the chorus is made up of servicemen dressed as women. He got the role. Cagney description of the role was: "For there I am not myself. I am not the fellow, Jim Cagney, at all. I certainly lost consciousness of him when I put on skirts, wig, paint, powder, feathers, and spangles."

     If Cagney's mother had her way, Cagney would of gone back to college instead of performing. She was proud of her son's performances but thought getting an education was more important. In deference to his mother's worries, Cagney got a job as a brokerage house runner. It didn't stop him from looking for more stage work. Cagney successfully audition for a chorus part in 'Pitter Patter'. 'Pitter Patter' wasn't successful but it did good enough to run 32 weeks. It allowed Cagney to join the vaudeville circuit.

     One of the troupers that Cagney joined was Parker, Rand, and Leach, taking over the latter position when Archie Leach left. (Archie Leach would later change his name to Cary Grant.)

     In 1924, Cagney moved to Hawthorne, California with his new wife, Frances Wilford "Billie" Vernon, to investigate the possibility of breaking into the movies and to meet his mother-in-law. They weren't very successful at first. Cagney had set up a dance studio with a few clients but it folded. After a while, Cagney and his wife decided to move back to New York. They went the way of Chicago to Milwaukee in hopes of making money along the way but failed in the attempt.

     In 1925, Cagney got his first non-dancing role in a play called 'Outside Looking In' as a tough guy. The play got good reviews. After the play ran its course, Cagney went back to vaudeville for a couple of years. He received varied success. During this period, Cagney met George M. Cohen, who he would later portray in 'Yankee Doodle Dandy'.

     Cagney later secured the lead role in the play 'Broadway'. The show's management insisted he copy Broadway's lead Lee Tracy. Cagney was uncomfortable doing. When the play headed for England, Cagney got replaced. Cagney was devastated and decided he was quitting show biz.

     Cagney didn't quit show biz for long. The Cagney's were doing run-by-the-play contracts. they were doing chorus lines. During this time, Cagney established a dance school for professionals, which got him appointed the choreographer in 'Grand Street Follies of 1928', Cagney got a part in 'Maggie the Magnificent'. The critics didn't like the play but did love Cagney's performance.

     Joan Blondell played opposite of Cagney in 'Maggie the Magnificent' then would star again with him a few months later in 'Penny Arcade'. Al Jolson sensing a potential film success with 'Penny Arcade', bought the rights for $20,000. He then sold it to Warner Brothers with the stipulation that Cagney and Blondell be cast in the film version. The film version was retitled 'Sinners' Holiday'. The studio liked Cagney so much they gave him a three week contract which turned into a seven year contract.      

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

James Cagney-Early Life

James Cagney Taxi

     James Cagney was born on July 17, 1899 in New York City, New York to James Sr. and Carolyn. He was the second born of seven children. Two of Cagney's siblings died with months of being born Cagney, himself, was sick at a young age that his mother thought he wouldn't make it before he was baptized. Cagney later attributed it to the poverty he grew up in.

     After graduating from high school in 1918, Cagney went to Columbia College. He intended to major in art but quit after the first semester up the death of his father.

     Cagney had a range of jobs in his life from bellhop to copy boy. All his earnings went to help his family.

     Cagney learned to tap dace as a boy. he got the nickname 'Cellar Door Cagney' from his habit of dancing on slanted cellar doors. Cagney was a good street fighter. He once defended his older brother, Harry, against all comers. Cagney engaged in amateur boxing. He was a runner up in the New York State lightweight title. He was encouraged to become a professional boxer but his mother wouldn't let him. Cagney also had entertained a dream of becoming a professional baseball player. He once played for a local team in semi-professional baseball.

     When visiting an aunt in Brooklyn, who lived opposite of Vitagraph Studios, Cagney would go and watch the filming of John Bunny films. He became involved in amateur dramatics. He started out as a scenery boy for a Chinese pantomime at the London Hill Settlement House. His brother, Harry, performed there. Cagney enjoyed working behind the scenes until on night Harry became ill. Because Cagney had helped his brother rehearse his lines, he ended up filling in for his brother. Afterwards, Cagney joined a number of companies as a performer. 

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Tribute To James Cagney

 

 

 

Born
James Francis Cagney, Jr.
July 17, 1899(1899-07-17)

New York City, New York, U.S.

Died
March 30, 1986 (aged 86)
Stanford, New York, U.S.

Occupation
Actor/Dancer

 

Links To Learn More About James Cagney

James Cagney (Wikipedia)

James Cagney (Virtual History Films)

James Cagney (Biography)

James Cagney (Answer.com)

 

Have Gun Will Travel-Citizen Soldier

 

 

I have been wanting to do some more music videos on some old time TV series, old movies, and stars I enjoyed when I was younger. This is one of those TV series I enjoyed. The clips are from the episode 'Three Bells to Perdido'. The song on the vid is 'Citizen Soldier' by 3 Doors Down.

Monday, November 2, 2009

Clark Gable Reports For Duty.

This video is a short documentary on Clark Cable reporting for service in the military.

Friday, October 30, 2009

William "Billy" Wilkerson's Ghost

The Man Who Invented Las Vegas Book Cover

Image via Wikipedia

 

In late 30's and 40's, William Wilkerson founded several nightclubs along the Sunset Strip, among them was the Ciro's and Cafe Trocadera. These two industries alone helped earn William Wilkerson the nickname "Father of the Sunset Strip".

William Wilkerson was also a ladies man. He had a eye for female talent. One of the female talents he discovered was Lana Turner.

Though Wilkerson had founded several nightclubs, his real baby was the 'Hollywood Reporter' which was founded in 1930. The Hollywood Reporter was the first Hollywood-based daily trade newspaper covering the entertainment industry.

In 1936, Wilkerson created a beautiful office for the Hollywood Reporter. A visitor would describe entering a long hand-finished wood hallway with floor-to ceiling mirrors that led to a marble fireplace and a grand staircase to Wilkerson's offices on the second floor. The hallway was Wilkerson's domain. He loved walking up and down it, looking into the offices. Wilkerson put is heart and soul into the Hollywood Reporter. The Hollywood Reporter is where his heart and spirit remain. Though he died in 1962, the remodeling of his former offices seem to have Wilkerson pacing the halls again.

In 1992, the Hollywood Reporter moved to larger quarters. But the following year, another paper took over the space. The other paper is called the L.A. Weekly. Before the L.A. Weekly moved in Jerry Brake, a construction worker, worked on the building's seismic upgrading. Brake set up offices in the front hall, watched as the interior of the entryway was gutted and stripped back to brick. Everything was demolished except for Wilkerson's office on the second floor.

During construction, Brake usually was alone in the building. On occasion, at his desk, he would catch movement from the corner of his eye like a shadow of someone going by his door.  During those times, Brake would dismiss it as a trick of light. The lighting had been strung, casting eerie shadows across the floor. One night when Brake was by himself in his office, he felt a tap on his back. He looked to see who it was but no one was there. Brake went out of his office and looked up and down the hallway. Nothing. Brake walked past a room to the left of his office and saw a figure in the corner. Brake looked past it, to a mirror that stood in front of them both, but he only saw himself in the mirror. When he looked back towards the figure, it was gone.

A few days later, Brake was again alone in the building. He heard a noise and went towards the sound down the hall towards the stairs. Brake clearly heard footsteps in front of him and ran after them. When he came around the corner, he could of sworn he saw a figure but the lighting was bad. Brake went to check the rest of the building to find the figure but didn't find it.

Brake told a co-worker the story when suddenly the co-worker went white and pointed to an open side door. The co-worker stammered he saw a man there with gray pants and black shoes.

The thing was it was pouring rain outside and the floor was dry. After that incident, the co-worker never came back to work.

As the remodeling progressed, the grand staircase was removed, an elevator was the only access to the second floor. Late one night, the architect, Ted Powell, was in Wilkerson's office talking with a woman. The two were alone in the building. Suddenly the pair heard what sounded like a broom handle on the ceiling under them. It was no easy feat because the ceiling was nine feet high. Both took the elevator down, searched around but found no one. Just as they became sure it was nothing, both heard footsteps above them in the office. Both made a quick exit out of the building.

Brake stated that out of the 15 different things he saw he dismissed 10 of them as his imagination. But there was five time, he couldn't dismiss it, Brake swore he felt the presence of Wilkerson in the room.

Hope you enjoyed this recounting of Wilkerson's ghost. Have a Happy Halloween everyone.

*I found this story on the Britannica Blog.  It was written by Laurie Jacobson. I did my best at putting the story in my words instead of hers.  You can find her version at: http://www.britannica.com/blogs/2009/02/haunted-hollywood-9-wilkerson-the-hollywood-reporter-10-oscar-related-ghost-stories-in-honor-of-the-academy-awards/

 

 

 

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Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Friday, October 23, 2009

Perry Mason-The Case Of The Restless Redhead

 

 

Okay, so I love these old classics. I definitely loved Perry Mason. I loved the way he won his cases. They don't make lawyers like Perry Mason anymore.

Yes, I will be putting up 4 more episodes of 'Perry Mason'. Enjoy this old classic. You can see more of the 'Perry Mason' episodes on 'Perry Mason' CBS.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Perry Mason (TV Series)

Perry Mason et Della Street

Image via Wikipedia

 

     'Perry Mason' is an American TV series that is produced by Paisano Productions. The series ran from 1957 to 1966. It was based on the book series written by Erle Stanley Gardner.

     'Perry Mason' was originally one of the longest running lawyer series at one time.

     In 1973, CBS brought back 'Perry Mason'. This one ran for only one season. It starred Monte Markham as Mason instead of Raymond Burr.

     Ray Burr returned as Mason in TV movies that aired from 1985-1995.

Cast

Raymond Burr-Perry Mason

Barbara Hale-Della Street

William Hopper-Paul Drake

William Talman-Hamilton Burger

Ray Collins-Lieutenant Arthur Tragg

Richard Anderson-Lieutenant Steve Drumm

Wesley Lau-Lieutenant Andy Anderson

Facts

  • Each episode was practically the same. The first part of episode shows prospective victim as deserving to be murdered. Mason's client is accused of the victims murder. Mason dramatically demonstrates the quilt of another character.
  • In a few episodes, B7urger and Tragg are shown assisting Mason and Drake in catching the killer.
  • All but one episode of 'Perry Mason' was filmed in black and white.
  • In 'The Case Of The Sardonic Sergeant', neither Burger or Tragg appeared in the episode.
  • Perry Mason's office phone number is MA5-1190 (MA meaning Madison exchange.) The Madison exchanged covers Hollywood and Huntington Park areas. Mason's office is downtown Los Angeles.
  • In 'The Case Of The Fugitive Nurse', Lieutenant Tragg offers Mason's phone number to Mrs. Morris.
  • The series was stapled in syndication to TBS and recently to the Hallmark Channel. 'Perry Mason is still shown in local markets and distributed by CBS.
  • In 1973, CBS attempted to recreate 'Perry Mason' but it only lasted half a season. The recreation was called 'The New Adventures of Perry Mason'.

Perry Mason TV Movies

     Dean Hargrove resurrected Mason's character in a series of Television movies for NBC in 1985. Raymond Burr and Barbara Hale reprised their roles as Mason and Della. William Katt, Hale's real life son, played the role of Paul Drake's son.

     There were a total of 30 movies. When Raymond Burr died in 1993, Paul Sorvino and Hal Holbrook starred in the final four episodes titled 'A Perry Mason Mystery'.

 

  1. Perry Mason Returns (1985) (TV)
  2. Perry Mason: The Case of the Notorious Nun (1986) (TV)
  3. Perry Mason: The Case of the Shooting Star (1986) (TV)
  4. Perry Mason: The Case of the Murdered Madam (1987) (TV)
  5. Perry Mason: The Case of the Lost Love (1987) (TV)
  6. Perry Mason: The Case of the Scandalous Scoundrel (1987) (TV)
  7. Perry Mason: The Case of the Sinister Spirit (1987) (TV)
  8. Perry Mason: The Case of the Avenging Ace (1988) (TV)
  9. Perry Mason: The Case of the Lady in the Lake (1988) (TV)
  10. Perry Mason: The Case of the Lethal Lesson (1989) (TV)
  11. Perry Mason: The Case of the Musical Murder (1989) (TV)
  12. Perry Mason: The Case of the All-Star Assassin (1989) (TV)
  13. Perry Mason: The Case of the Silenced Singer (1990) (TV)
  14. Perry Mason: The Case of the Defiant Daughter (1990) (TV)
  15. Perry Mason: The Case of the Desperate Deception (1990) (TV)
  16. Perry Mason: The Case of the Poisoned Pen (1990) (TV)
  17. Perry Mason: The Case of the Fatal Fashion (1991) (TV)
  18. Perry Mason: The Case of the Glass Coffin (1991) (TV)
  19. Perry Mason: The Case of the Maligned Mobster (1991) (TV)
  20. Perry Mason: The Case of the Ruthless Reporter (1991) (TV)
  21. Perry Mason: The Case of the Fatal Framing (1992) (TV)
  22. Perry Mason: The Case of the Heartbroken Bride (1992) (TV)
  23. Perry Mason: The Case of the Reckless Romeo (1992) (TV)
  24. Perry Mason: The Case of the Skin-Deep Scandal (1993) (TV)
  25. Perry Mason: The Case of the Telltale Talk Show Host (1993) (TV)
  26. Perry Mason: The Case of the Killer Kiss (1993) (TV)

Perry Mason Mysteries (1993)

  1. A Perry Mason Mystery: The Case of the Wicked Wives (1993) (TV) (starring Paul Sorvino)
  2. A Perry Mason Mystery: The Case of the Lethal Lifestyle (1994) (TV) (starring Hal Holbrook)
  3. A Perry Mason Mystery: The Case of the Grimacing Governor (1994) (TV) (starring Hal Holbrook)
  4. A Perry Mason Mystery: The Case of the Jealous Jokester (1995) (TV) (starring Hal Holbrook)

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Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Pretty Woman - Hollywood Beauties

I quess you couldn't tell I like some of the old time classic stars. This vid was put together by gloomyscout.

Friday, October 16, 2009

Friday, October 2, 2009

The Rifleman-Get The Point?

 

 

     I thought this video was amusing and had to share it. It was put together by cowgirltoot.

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Bat Masterson - "Who'll Bury My Violence?"

I vaguely remember seeing episodes of 'Bat Masterson' when I was young. But I loved watching the reruns when they were on.

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

1963 The Great Escape Music Video

 

     I didn't make this video but I liked it a lot. I just had to share my discovery, lol.  This video was put together by CliptonsWife. Enjoy.

My Prayer Commitment

 

MY PRAYER COMMITMENT

I commit to pray daily for
the individual U.S. military person whose name appears below and
his or her family, thereby supporting the President and our
great nation, The United States of America.

MILITARY PERSON
Harper Price

BRANCH OF THE MILITARY
Marines

 

Faithfully Serving Our Country

Commitment made on
Sunday, August 17, 2008

 

ONE NATION UNDER GOD

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord" Psalm 33:12a

www.presidentialprayerteam.org

Friday, September 25, 2009

1961 CBS Saturday Night Preview With Raymond Burr

A preview from the past of CBS featuring Raymond Burr. Got to love some of these old shows from the past.

 

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

The Rat Patrol-The Exhibit A Raid

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The Rat Patrol
Episode: Mask A Raid
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I don't own the rights to this video. All
rights go to the makers and the TV stations
of 'The Rat Patrol'. The video is up for
evaluation and entertainment purpose only.
I am not making money from this.
*********************

The Rat Patrol-Mask A Raid

 

 

*********************
The Rat Patrol
Episode: Mask A Raid
*********************
I don't own the rights to this video. All rights
go to the makers and the TV stations of 'The
Rat Patrol'. The video is up for evaluation and
entertainment purpose only. I am not making
money from this.
*********************

The Rat Patrol-The Holy War Raid

 

 

*********************
The Rat Patrol
Episode: The Holy War Raid


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I don't own the rights to this video. All
rights go to the makers and the TV stations
of 'The Rat Patrol'. The video is up for
evaluation and entertainment purpose only.
I am not making money from this.

Monday, September 14, 2009

The Rat Patrol-The Fire And Brimstone Raid

 

*********************
The Rat Patrol
Episode: The Fire And Brimstone Raid


*********************


I don't own the rights to this video. All
rights go to the makers and the TV stations
of 'The Rat Patrol'. The video is up for
evaluation and entertainment purpose only.
I am not making money from this.


*********************

The Rat Patrol-Take Me To Your Leader Raid

 

    

*********************
The Rat Patrol
Episode: Take Me To Your Leader Raid
*********************
I don't own the rights to this video. All
rights go to the makers and the TV stations
of 'The Rat Patrol'. The video is up for
evaluation and entertainment purpose only.
I am not making money from this.
*********************

Saturday, September 12, 2009

The Rat Patrol (TV Series)

ratpatrol1

 

'The Rat Patrol' aired on ABC during 1966-1968. It is about the exploits of four allied soldiers (3 Americans and 1 British). They were part of a long range desert patrol group in the North African campaign during World War 2.

The show was inspired by and loosely modeled on the New Zealand/British/Rhodesian Long Range Desert Group. The title of the program refers to the nick names given to some of the small desert groups like 'Rats of Tobruk' and 'Desert Rats'.

Cast

Christopher George played Sgt. Sam Troy, who was the units leader.

Gary Raymond played Sgt. Jack Moffitt, who is the only British member of the patrol. The Character Sgt. Moffitt was the expert on the desert and on the local Arab Tribes, which inhabited it. Moffitt speaks fluent German and Arabic, as well as able to read some dead, ancient languages.

Lawrence Carey played Pvt. Mark T. Hitchcock. The patrol calls him 'Hitch'. Hitchcock is a Ivy League college man turned soldier. If you watched a few episodes you'll noticed Hitchcock often chews bubblegum.

Justin Tarr played Pvt. Tully Pettigrew. Troy calls Tully one of the army's best wheelman. The story of Tully is he grew up in Kentucky and gained his driving skill by running moonshine.

Hans Gudegast (now known as Eric Braedon) played the character of Hauptmann Hans Dietrich. Dietrich is a dedicated, honorable German officer. He is the Rat Patrol's main nemesis.

During the second season, the storyline required the absence of Tully for a few episodes. Three different characters took turns rounding out the team Tully's absence.

  • Peterson-Darwin Joston
  • Andy-Mac McLaughlin
  • Bo Randall-Bo Hopkins

Facts About The Production:

  • 'The Rat Patrol' was filmed in Almeria, Spain during part of the first season.
  • The threes part storyline of 'The Last Harbor Raid' was released in some venues as 'Massacre Harbor'.
  • After the first season, each major cast member was shown a prospective script in which he was killed in action to prevent the actors fro asking for raises.
  • A jeep overturned, injuring Christopher George. The injury lead to a bad heart that contributed to his subsequent death.
  • As was the norm for low-cost productions, other equipment was substituted for original ones. The German vehicles were substituted with American Patton tanks, M7 Priest self-propelled guns, M3 half-track and M35 2 1/2 ton cargo trucks were painted in desert sand colors.
  • The submachine guns used by the squad by the squad were props meant to look-like assault rifles or Thompson submachine guns.
  • Sgt. Troy wore a slouch hat during the series. When 'The Rat Patrol aired in Australia, veterans of both World Wars were critical of Christopher George wearing an important symbol of Australian courage and sacrifice. It was seen as cheaping and sensationalizing the memory and spirit of the ANZACs, who died fighting Fascism. Christopher George, who was of Greek extraction, insisted his character wear the slouch hat to honor the Australians, who fought in Greece.

The Rat Patrol (TV Series)

The Rat Patrol-Take Me To Your Leader Raid

The Rat Patrol-The Fire And Brimstone Raid

The Rat Patrol-The Holy War Raid

The Rat Patrol-Mask A Raid

The Rat Patrol-The Exhibit A Raid

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Santa Claus Ask For Bailout

The Recession is getting bad when Santa has to go to Congress for a bailout. Just think of all the children not getting presents at Christmas if Congress refuses him. Just think what was once a time of happiness and giving will be...don't want to think about it.

 

 

I hope you enjoyed the video. And no it isn't true. This is a clip from National Lampoon website. It is a joke.

Monday, August 31, 2009

Journalism From Back In The Day

 

 

      This is old school journalism. I remember some of the teachers I had showing films in black and white like this one in classes I had but on different subjects. It brought back some old memories from back in my school days. I had to share. 

     I did take a journalism class in high school (the early 1970's). I don't recall my journalism teacher showing this film but I do remember a film she showed on war coverage. The only other thing I remember about this class was my teacher drilling "to be objective and fair" in reporting news. It seems to me they just don't teach this kind of journalism any more.

Have Gun Will Travel-Silver Convoy

 

 

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Show: Have Gun Will Travel

Episode: Silver Convoy

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I got this episode from the CBS website. I like to thank them for sharing this classic TV series and letting us being able to share it with others. CBS has more episodes of 'Have Gun Will' than the five I am putting up. So if you are interested in seeing more of the episodes of 'Have Gun Will Travel', you can start on this link. 'Have Gun Will Travel' CBS

By the way, CBS has some other old classics TV series you can watch like 'Perry Mason', 'MacGyver, 'Twin Peaks', and some others.

Have Gun Will Travel-The Colonel And The Lady

 

 

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Show: Have Gun Will Travel

Episode: The Colonel and The Lady

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I got this episode from the CBS website. I like to thank them for sharing this classic TV series and letting us being able to share it with others. CBS has more episodes of 'Have Gun Will' than the five I am putting up. So if you are interested in seeing more of the episodes of 'Have Gun Will Travel', you can start on this link. 'Have Gun Will Travel' CBS

By the way, CBS has some other old classics TV series you can watch like 'Perry Mason', 'MacGyver, 'Twin Peaks', and some others.

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Have Gun Will Travel-The Silver Queen

 

 

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Show: Have Gun Will Travel

Episode: The Silver Queen

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I got this episode from the CBS website. I like to thank them for sharing this classic TV series and letting us being able to share it with others. CBS has more episodes of 'Have Gun Will' than the five I am putting up. So if you are interested in seeing more of the episodes of 'Have Gun Will Travel', you can start on this link. 'Have Gun Will Travel' CBS

By the way, CBS has some other old classics TV series you can watch like 'Perry Mason', 'MacGyver, 'Twin Peaks', and some others.

Have Gun Will Travel-The Yuma Treasure

 

 

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Show: Have Gun Will Travel

Episode: The Yuma Treasure

*************************

I got this episode from the CBS website. I like to thank them for sharing this classic TV series and letting us being able to share it with others. CBS has more episodes of 'Have Gun Will' than the five I am putting up. So if you are interested in seeing more of the episodes of 'Have Gun Will Travel', you can start on this link. 'Have Gun Will Travel' CBS

By the way, CBS has some other old classics TV series you can watch like 'Perry Mason', 'MacGyver, 'Twin Peaks', and some others.

Have Gun Will Travel-The Last Laugh

 

 

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Show: Have Gun Will Travel

Episode: The Last Laugh

*************************

I got this episode from the CBS website. I like to thank them for sharing this classic TV series and letting us being able to share it with others. CBS has more episodes of 'Have Gun Will' than the five I am putting up. So if you are interested in seeing more of the episodes of 'Have Gun Will Travel', you can start on this link. 'Have Gun Will Travel' CBS

By the way, CBS has some other old classics TV series you can watch like 'Perry Mason', 'MacGyver, 'Twin Peaks', and some others.

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Have Gun Will Travel (TV Series)

havegunwithbronson

 

     'Have Gun Will Travel' aired on CBS from 1957-1963. It is an American Western television series. On the Nielsen ratings, 'Have Gun Will Travel' rated in the three and four range during the first four seasons it was aired.

     The show follows the adventures of Paladin, who is a gentleman/gunfighter. When Paladin wasn't working he lived in the Carlton Hotel in San Francisco, wore formal attire, ate gourmet food, and attended the opera. When Paladin was working, he wore black cowboy clothes, used calling cards, wore a holster that carried a chess knight emblem, and carried a derringer under his belt.

Cast

Richard Boone-Paladin

Kam Tong-Hey Boy (Kim Chang)

Lisa Lu-Hey Girl (season 4)

Facts

  • 'Have Gun Will Travel' was one of the few shows that spawned a successful radio show of the same name. It debuted on November 23, 1958. It broadcasted 106 shows.
  • In 2001, a trade paperback book called 'The Have Gun-Will Travel Companion' was published. It documented the history of the television and radio series. The book was authored by martin Grams, Jr. and Les Rayburn.
  • There are three novels based on 'Have Gun Will Travel'. The first is a children's hardback written by Barlow Meyer and illustrated by Nichols S. Firfires. It was part of a series of novelizations of the series. The second was for adults by Noel Lomis in 1960. The third is based on the episode 'Genesis' of 'Have Gun Will Travel'. (The 'Genesis' episode was written by Frank Rolfe.) This novel is the only source where a name is given to Paladin, Clay Alexander. Diehard fans of the show don't consider this name canonical.
  • Dell Comics published a number of comic books based on the television series.
  • Many of the writer, who worked on 'Have Gun Will Travel', gained fame elsewhere. Gene Roddenberry-'Star Trek', Bruce Geller-'Mission Impossible', Harry Julian Fink-'Dirty Harry'.
  • There was a rumor of a movie of 'Have Gun Will Travel' being made in 1997 but it never was made.

 

 

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Friday, August 28, 2009

Jimmy Stewart Bomber Pilot

 

 

This is about history of James Stewart stint as a Bomber Pilot during World War 2. You can find more about this video on page "Jimmy Stewart Bomber Pilot"  on You Tube under 'more info'.

Bob Hope Entertains the Troops

 

 

Bob Hope entertained service personnel from World War II through Desert Storm. Enjoy the video.

 

 

 

 

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Audie L. Murphy-Legacy

 

  • The Audie Murphy Patriotism Award is named in honor of Murphy. The award is annually presented to an outstanding American person or group who exemplifies the true 'Spirit of America'.
  • A veterans hospital in San Antonio, Texas was dedicated on November 17, 1973. It was named Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital. There is a eight foot bronze statue of Murphy in battle fatigues holding a rifle with a bayonet. Inside the hospital is a museum that contains items of  Murphy's like his uniform, other clothing, books, and pictures.
  • The U.S. Army established the Sergeant Audie Murphy Club at Fort Hood, Texas in early 1986. The elite membership group recognizes noncommissioned officers (Sergeants) that exemplified the abilities and personal ethics of Audie Murphy. The Sergeant Audie Murphy Club spread throughout the Army in 1994 to installations retaining their own selection process for their noncommissioned officers.
  • Then Governor George W. Bush declared June 20 (Murphy's birthday) as "Audie Murphy Day".
  • The U.S. Highway 69 North was renamed "The Audie Murphy Memorial Highway". The renaming was the stretches of the North Greenville city limits to the Fannin County line of the highway.
  • In 1996, Murphy was inducted into the Western Performers Hall of Fame at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
  • An annual celebration of Audie and other veterans in all branches of service has been held at the American Cotton Museum on the weekend closest to Murphy's birthday in Greenville and Farmersville. The museum has the largest collection of Audie Murphy memorabilia. Also recently the American cotton Museum has been renamed the Audie Murphy/American Cotton Museum.
  • In 2000, a portrait of Audie Murphy was placed on a thirty-three cent postage stamp.
  • In Fort Hood, Texas, there is a middle school named in Audie Murphy's honor called Audie Murphy Middle School.  

 

Links to the rest of the segment of Audie L. Murphy.

A Tribute To Audie L. Murphy

Audie L. Murphy-Early Life

Audie L. Murphy-Film Career

Audie L. Murphy-Music Career

Audie L. Murphy-Personal Life

Audie L. Murphy-Military Service And Battles

Audie L. Murphy-Post War Illness

Audie L. Murphy-Death

Audie L. Murphy-Living Legend Status