Seems like it was a return to Old Hollywood week, when I attended the World Premiere of the Rock Hudson documentary at the Chinese Theatre in Hollywood — and later the premiere of the feature film As Long as I’m Famous at the Laemmle Ahrya Fine Arts in Beverly Hills.
David Chokachi as Gene Tunney (Photo Credit: Victoria Rowe)
The Rock Hudson evening also included a book signing for the tome “All That Heaven Allows” written by Mark Griffin, who attended the celebration, along with film stars, Piper Laurie & Illeana Douglas. This is the book that the devastatingly gorgeous leading man wanted printed.
Gavin Adams as Monty Clift (Photo Credit: Victoria Rowe)
Drawing from more than 100 interviews with Co-Stars, family members & former companions, the book details the complex portrait of this Hollywood Legend. Griffin goes deeply into the Oscar nominated icon’s life conflict with his closeted homosexuality & his battle with Aids. The disclosure that this revered public figure had contracted the illness focused world-wide attention to the epidemic. News Flash: Universal Pictures is moving ahead to make a feature film on Griffin’s book — and we can’t wait!
Cast of As Long As I’m Famous (Photo Credit: Victoria Rowe)
Then, a few days later we were invited to the film premiere of “As Long as I’m Famous’ exploring the splendor & secret passions in 1948 Hollywood. Director-Screenwriter Bruce Reisman inspired by the real events that took place, tells the tale through then unknown writer & director Sidney Lumet. His relationship deals with the famed playwright Joshua Logan (South Pacific-Annie Get Your Gun) and his colorful friends in the Golden Age of Hollywood. Among these was boxing champ, Gene Tunney — portrayed in the film by David Chokachi, which is as far away from “Baywatch” as he could get.
Superstar Rock Hudson (Photo Credit: Victoria Rowe)
A real star turn is gorgeous Gavin Adams who stars as screen legend Montgomery Clift. Although Clift’s sexuality was the worst kept secret in Hollywood, is bro-mance-plus with Lumet was unknown to the public. Did you know that among other things, such relationships were illegal in 1948? The chemistry & the unique style of this film, should fascinate audiences of all ages. Kudos to the multi-talented cast & brave cinematographer Ryan Brown. The gorgeous detailed period costumes, designed by Victoria Rowe, who also created the meticulous make-up & hair, lent authenticity to the production. Donations from this event went to Stand Up to Cancer — a most worthy cause from the most worthy film we have seen in a long time.
Recent Comments