October 31: A Day of Death and Recollections

Tonight is October 31, which is Hallowe'en. It originally was called All Hallows' Eve, since it was the evening before All Hallows' Day or All Saints' Day. The holiday of Hallow's Eve begins at sunset; it is the beginning of Allhallowtide, which lasts through November 2. This is a Christian holiday for remembering the saints …

“The Emperor Waltz:” Austria is Going to the Dogs Indeed!

The Emperor Waltz is a 1948 musical set in Austria's early twentieth century. It tells the story of the dual romance between an Austrian countess and her pedigree poodle and an American traveling salesman and his lovable mutt. It is set against the background of beautiful Austrian locations, which are enhanced by Strauss melodies and …

Katharine Hepburn in “Woman of the Year ” from 1942: Tess Harding as a Woman

For my second article for The Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn blogathon, I chose to write about Woman of the Year from 1942. This was the famous couple's first movie pairing, but you can immediately see how marvelous they were together. This picture tells the story of a sports writer who gets into an argument …

“Holiday” from 1938, The Pathway to PEPS

When I heard that Crystal is hosting "The Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn Blogathon," I knew I had to join for three reasons. Firstly, I love Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn. Secondly, Crystal has been so sweet and supportive of me. Thirdly, it would be a swell opportunity to write about some marvelous films which …

THE GREAT BREENING BLOGATHON: DAY 4!

This weekend was very busy, and everyone, including myself, was not able to finish all his articles by Sunday. Thus, I've extended the blogathon through this week. I'm excepting new articles as they come in. Next week I will post the final roster which will feature all the articles. Today, two articles were published as …

THE GREAT BREENING BLOGATHON: “Twinkling Stars:” An Original Movie from 1937 by Tiffany Brannan

This article was written by Tiffany Brannan, the public relations manager and one of the founders of the Pure Entertainment Preservation Society. I have written more than one article about the pathetic smallness of the amount of musicals with James Cagney, who was extremely gifted with musical talents. In my article honoring his birthday, I …

THE GREAT BREENING BLOGATHON: DAY 3!

Today is the third day of the Great Breening Blogathon, but I have a sneaking suspicion that it won't be the last! Due to the fact that several participants, including myself, have not submitted all their articles, I am extending the blogathon through tomorrow. Even if you can't get your article done by tomorrow, don't …

THE GREAT BREENING BLOGATHON: Breening “Footlight Parade” from 1933 by Promise E. Pope

This article was written by Promise E. Pope, the director of social media for the Pure Entertainment Preservation Society. Footlight Parade was the third musical that our dear friends the Warner Brothers made in 1933. Naturally, it was the best because it featured the most talented actor at the studio, Jimmy Cagney. Why the brilliant …

THE GREAT BREENING BLOGATHON: Breening “The Pleasure of His Company” from 1961

This article was written by Teresa Brannan, James's wife, Tiffany and Rebekah's mother, and the inspiring force behind PEPS, like all Brannan endeavors. The Pleasure of His Company is a 1961 comedy film starring Fred Astaire and Debbie Reynolds, directed by George Seaton and released by Paramount Pictures. It was based on a 1958 play …

THE GREAT BREENING BLOGATHON: Breening “The Tender Trap” from 1955 by James Brannan

This article was written by James Brannan, the president of the Pure Entertainment Preservation Society. Frank Sinatra, also known as “Old Blue Eyes,” perhaps the most famous singer of all time, is seen in the distance on a vast sound stage. His hands in his pockets, dressed in a stylish 1950s suit with his signature …