2
Oct
2009
Favorite Fridays: Movie Theme Edition
Lindsay chose: Tara’s Theme from Gone With The Wind
Written by Max Steiner, this theme is sweeping and epic. The memorable melody is heartbreaking and optimistic at the same time – a perfect fit for the tone of the film. The countermelody (heard as the melody sustains the last note of each phrase) gives the piece power and keeps it from being too saccharine. Steiner wrote a boatload of classic film scores, but Gone With The Wind was his best.
Alix chose: Lawrence Of Arabia overture
Composer Maurice Jarre, who was a relative unknown at the time, created this hauntingly beautiful theme (which begins at 0:40 of the video) that captures both the beauty and emptiness of the Arabian desert. The score is one of the most memorable in film history and is easily recognizable due to its distinct sound. Jarre went on to score three other films for director David Lean including Dr. Zhivago which is also well known for “Lara’s Theme.”
Tell us your favorite!
17
Sep
2009
Supporting Actor Spotlight: Claude Rains
Claude Rains is the Star of the month on Turner Classic Movies, so it’s only fitting that we give our own salute to one of our favorite actors.
Name: William Claude Rains
Famous Roles: Sen. Joseph Paine in Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939), Capt. Louis Renault in Casablanca (1942), Job Skeffington in Mr. Skeffington (1944), Alexander Sebastian in Notorious (1946), Mr. Dryden in Lawrence of Arabia (1962).
Trademark: His distinctive, raspy voice and ability to adeptly play a wide range of roles.
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Achievements and Awards: Nominated for four Academy Awards, but never won. Won a Tony for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Play (Darkness at Noon, 1954).
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Why we love him: In the words of Bette Davis, “He was a pip! The best!” and we agree. He could be a convincing dramatic actor in one film and the witty comedic role in the next. Next time you watch “Casablanca” keep an eye on him – the delivery of lines such as “I like to think you killed a man. It’s the romantic in me” is flawless. Even in supporting roles, Rains was never overshadowed by big stars in leading roles. His superb acting created some of the most memorable characters in film and Rains is always enjoyable to watch.
