I am proud of myself for having read several Charles Dickens books (and liking them). I have read Jane Austen (one), I have read Robert Louis Stevenson, I have read both Charlotte AND Emily Bronte. I adored “The Picture of Dorian Gray.” I wrote many papers on “Tess of the d’Urbervilles.” I have read Shakespeare. I’ve read “Heart of Darkness” (excuse me for loathing this book). “Mutiny on the Bounty?” Check. “To Kill a Mockingbird” and “1984?” Check, check. You see, I am at least somewhat well-read.
But when it comes to movie classics? I am sadly illiterate. I have seen Casablanca. I have seen Gone with the Wind. I have seen. . .hmm, I cannot think of any others. You see my problem.
Fortunately, this problem can be remedied if you have friends like Ralphie. If you should be fortunate enough to also have a friend like Ralphie, I propose that you follow this simple script (I feel like Dr. Phil):
“Ralphie, I know you and your husband like old movies. I know you even OWN old movies. I would like to see old movies but I need help picking out ones to see. What if you had an old movie night at your house once a month, where you pick a movie and we and other choice friends come and see them? You could also provide desserts.”
(Did you see how I invited myself over? And I also suggested SHE institute something for MY enjoyment? You might want to make sure your friends are as wonderful as Ralphie and don’t mind that you did that).
So, last night was the first of (I hope) many old movie nights. We watched “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.” Have I heard of this movie my whole life? Yes. Have I ever seen it? No. Did I love it? Yes. It was a lovely lovely time with a few of my favorite people.
(Frankly, it would have been a good evening even if the movie had been lousy because I brought this: Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Ball of Happiness. After you find a Ralphie, make sure you rustle yourself up a Kayla to provide you with fabulous recipes that may kill you).
Gretchen says
I’m so depressed that I can’t attend movie nights with you guys. Maybe someday M’s meeting will move to another night and my neighbors’ bible study group too. So many things to do, so little time…
Maybe I’ll just do it independent study. As soon as you guys finish a movie, Ralphie will lend it to M and I so we will be just as cinematically cultured even if we’ll be lacking in the fabulous dessert and company department.
Melanie says
I’m the same way, I’ve read hundreds of works of classic literature, but I’m at a total loss when people start quoting movies. I can suggest one though: The Color of Paradise. It’s not an American classic, but it’s really good. It’s an Iranian film that has beautiful cinematography and a very provoking message.
TheMoncurs says
A. I LOVE classic movies. Mr Smith goes to Washington? Fabulous. And I’m glad you finally got to see it. I also recommend pretty much anything Hitchcock, An Affair to Remember, Portrait of Jenny, All About Eve, Schindler’s List and…this will keep going if I don’t stop myself here. And I hope you’ve seen It’s a Wonderful Life already. If not..I’m kind of embarrassed for you right now.
B. I did a happy dance when I saw that you are spreading the gospel of the cheese ball. I made myself one last night and ate way, waaay too much. I’ve got a bunch more mocking me from the fridge as I type. It knows I can’t say no…
Kristi says
I am so sad that I couldn’t come! It’s a good thing though because I cried like a baby when I saw that movie and I was so tired I probably would have fallen asleep on you and drooled on your shoulder, and that would not have been fun. Maybe I can tag along for Gretchen’s independent study version!
Kristi says
And yes, everyone needs a Ralphie and I would argue that everyone needs a Janssen to make the yummy dessert too 🙂
Ralphie says
Janssen,
It was a most fabulous evening. I’m so glad you enjoyed it as much as we did. I woke up this morning feeling happy because that’s just what good friends and a movie does to me. Please invite yourselves over more often. Our door is always open to the Bradshaws!
-R- says
I love “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington”! I’m a sucker for old movies.
Karen says
Why don’t you try Random Harvest. I’ve been thinking about it lately, as George is teaching WWI and Modernism and doing Return of the Soldier by Rebecca West. Though I haven’t quite finished the book, it reminds me of this movie, which I find quite fascinating. P.S. It does have a happy ending.
Megs says
Hey, although this doesn’t sound nearly as fun as inviting yourself to an activity such as this, if you ever want a list of good old movies, I will be more than happy to give you one. In fact… I may have to post a blog about it soon. Hmm.