THERE IS SOMETHING TO BE SAID FOR OLD MOVIES

Tomorrow I head back to Los Angeles and in the evening plan to see the original 1942 version of  "To Be or Not To Be" starring Jack Benny and Carole Lombard at the Bing Theater at the Los Angeles Art Museum.

I've seen it before as well as the 1983 remake with Mel Brooks and Anne Bancroft.

Both versions are so funny that I jump at the chance to see them again. Some movies are like that. You never get tired of watching them. As an author, I believe it has to do with plot...can you watch it again even when you know what will happen?, the actors...like audio books good actors can make a bad movie seem good and vice versa. When you have both, well, it's on the list that qualifies for "see again." There are many other factors, of course, but I think those are the main two paired with the director and editing.

In this case, during the Nazi occupation of Poland, an acting troupe becomes embroiled in a Polish soldier's efforts to track down a German spy. What follows, regardless of which version you are watching, is totally belly laugh hilarious. No special effects, no list of credits that is longer than the movie...just great writing, great acting and great direction.

If you have theaters in your town that show classics like this, occasionally consider choosing a wonderful old movie instead of one that will be around for a while. Sometimes these are fleeting opportunities--a graphic look at what excellent writing and/or acting can create in the viewer's mind. They are a delight to watch on the big screen.

The terrific thing about the Bing, is being in close proximity to Hollywood, they often have one of the actors, directors or producers of these great old gems as special guests for a talk before the movie. Now, that's showbiz!

That's not to say there weren't lots of sappy, syrupy movies made in those days. They abounded. But then there were the pearls among the oysters. Those are the ones I watch for. Another favorite is "Now Voyager" with Bette Davis. What great acting!

Okay, now it's time to venture into the 100+ heat we're having in Las Vegas.

Keep cool.

Arliss