Overture

When I was a kid I used to fast-forward through the overture of an old film. I was impatient for the movie to begin and did not want to sit around listening to boring music waiting and waiting. How wrong I was then. Today, I love listening to the overture music. The medley of songs from the film prepares me for the story to come. I think of great musicals like My Fair Lady and Oklahoma! and the exquisite scores that complete the film and make it wonderful. And it all begins with the overture.

One thing I never realized as I watched old films as a kid was the amazing talent actors had in Hollywood’s prime era. If you stop to realize, most of them sang, danced, and/or played at least one instrument, in addition to their acting. The majority of Hollywood’s finest back then got their start in the theatre and therefore had a multitude of experiences on their resumes. Compare these talents to those of today. Unfortunately, the majority of Hollywood now can barely act well, let alone do anything else. As I watch old films now, I am amazed at the unmatched talent I see.

There is nothing quite like an old film to take the cares of the day away. To relax and allow yourself to be drawn into another time and place can give a much needed escape. Even more so now than when I was younger, I love curling up with a cup of tea and an old movie. Nothing relaxes me more. Some old films I have watched so many times I know them by heart have almost become like old friends to me. When I am in a bad mood, watching one of these films is like getting a visit from that great friend that can always lift you up when you are down.

I would love to share my passion for old films with you. I am sure that many of those I will mention you will have heard of or perhaps seen. I love watching a new film. Well, new to me anyway! Hopefully I can introduce some that may be new to you and encourage you to seek them out and find a new friend like I have. I hope you enjoy learning and discovering these treasures from the past with me and are encouraged to find some of your own. So grab a bag of popcorn and a bag of m&ms and enjoy some of yesteryear’s best creations.

And so is the end of the overture, on with the show!