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Review of Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story documentary

Film- Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve StoryCast: Christopher ReeveDirector: Peter Ettedgui, Ian BonhôteRating: 3/5Runtime: 104m Christopher Reeve became the ultimate screen superhero with ‘Superman,’ went on to star in three sequels and a few other remarkable dramas and then the tragic accident that left him quadriplegic and dependent on a ventilator, happened. The irony that Superman couldn’t fly anymore,  is lost on no one. This documentary uses never-seen-before home movie and personal archival footage to reveal to us how Christopher Reeve went from unknown actor to iconic movie star. His life after the accident has largely been public knowledge. The near-fatal horse-riding accident in 1995, that left him paralyzed from the neck down, allowed him little moment yet his indomitable spirit did not allow him to say die, and for the next 20 years he became one of the foremost activists for spinal cord injury treatments and disability rights. Chris was a normal active person before the accident so adjusting to the new normal was a challenge that he and his family had to face and overcome. His attempts to retain a sense of self was a challenge that most people in his position would not have managed to scale. Yet he did it with unstinting support from his devoted wife/caregiver Dana, and his children Matthew, Alexandra, and Will . Directed by Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui, this biodoc is a compelling recant of the tragedy that befell the actor and how he gained redemption from his post accident pursuits. The creation of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, a non-profit whose goal is to cure spinal-cord injury and improve the quality of life for those with paralysis, was the first step to that achievement. The narrative takes us back and forth in time, paralleling  his breakthrough role in Donner’s 1978 film with his debilitating injury nearly two decades later. We get to see the making of the star, the incredible highs he experienced thus, contrasted against the abject lows he experienced in the hospital bed. We also become privy to Reeve’s suggestion to Dana: “Maybe we should let me go.” The personal archival footage, basically recollections from family and friends, is emotionally affecting. Close friends, Susan Sarandon, Glenn Close talk about Reeve’s work ethic and generous nature, Whoopi Goldberg and Jeff Daniels highlight other facets of his persona while his children give us a peek into the family side of him. We glean that Reeve feared marriage because of his troubled, fractured childhood. Reeve’s friendship with Robin Williams, which began when they both were roommates at Juilliard, continued steadfast right until Reeve’s death. Close even suggests that Williams might not have been disheartened enough to end his own life if Reeve had not passed away early. These reflections poignant and personal lend the narrative its emotional heft. The celebration of Dana Reeve’s contribution to the foundation and the complete immersion of self in Chris’ caregiving and activism is a worthy part of this documentary. Their children speak about what she went through in the years that followed his accident. The documentary does feel a bit manipulative in the manner in which it presents his sudden debilitation but it’s obviously for a good cause and therefore forgivable. The animation sequence symbolising Super/man’s fight to rise above post accident turbulence in his life was not necessary in the scheme of things. This film is essentially a memoriam to the actor who dared to make his own experience with disability become a beacon of hope for others who might suffer similar plights. It is rendered with love and care and makes you feel good that even in these materialistic times, families coming together with compassion and foresight could make a difference to those who have lost everything.

19 October,2024 03:08 PM IST | Mumbai | Johnson Thomas
Still from Goodrich

Goodrich movie review: Keaton shines bright in an addled formulaic family drama

Film: GoodrichCast: Michael Keaton, Mila Kunis, Carmen Ejogo, Michael Urie, Kevin Pollak, Vivien Lyra Blair, Nico Hiraga, Danny Deferrari, Jacob Kopera, Laura Benanti, Andie MacDowellDirector-screenwriter: Hallie Meyers-ShyerRating: 2.5/5Runtime: 111m Oscar nominated actor Micheal Keaton makes this formulaic family dramedy count. This second effort from writer/director Hallie Meyers-Shyer, daughter of rom-com specialist Nancy Meyers, goes the rom-com way much like Meyers-Shyer’s debut feature ‘Home Again’ did.  Keaton is the one who enriches the experience with his presence and superb comedic timing. This is basically a comfortable and predictable comedy made worthwhile because of Keaton’s talents. A late life coming-of-age story of a neglectful man reflecting about the pain he has caused to the people he loves - that’s what this film is all about.   Andy Goodrich (Keaton), a struggling art dealer, who is on his second marriage - to a much younger woman, Naomi (Laura Benanti), suddenly finds himself upended. His wife has just checked herself into rehab and Goodrich is left with the responsibility of taking care of their nine year old twins Billie (Vivien Lyra Blair) and Mose (Jacob Kopera). It’s a much needed wake up call, albeit a little late in the day. He appears to be utterly clueless about them and their needs. It’s just not a realistic premise if you ask me. No one can be so out of touch with their own wife and children’s needs unless they are living on another planet. The overwork excuse just doesn’t cut ice. To top it off, his art business isn’t doing well and the wifey has decided she wants a divorce. His older, pregnant daughter Grace (Mila Kunis), who he has neglected all along, remains in his life, and agrees to help him. But she still bears resentment for the way she was ignored. Goodrich is presented as a good guy, who has made many mistakes in life and the only reason why we might believe such hogwash is because Micheal Keaton plays him with endearing sincerity. Meyers-Shyer shores up the script with some unbelievable lame tropes and trite subplots. Goodrich has no idea that the strict private school his kids attend doesn’t serve lunch, he is clueless about his child’s peanut allergy, and his children are forced to watch ‘Casablanca.’ Goodrich befriends a gay single father Pete (Michael Urie) who has a sick son and gets hit on, Grace goes into labor at an inconvenient moment, Goodrich reunites with his first wife (Andie MacDowell) and Grace gets to let loose her hurt at some point. The actors bring earnest effervescence to their roles. Kunis, Carmen Ejogo, Vivien Lyra Blair make their presence felt. Andie MacDowell has little to show here. The narrative includes some other peripheral characters that don’t matter much in the end. There are a few laugh worthy moments and some poignant ones too but overall the movie doesn’t have an involving arc. There’s not much to latch on to visually either. Shot by Jamie Ramsay, the montages just don’t create any impact. Christopher Willis’ music score is pleasantly entreating though. Goodrich is about a self-absorbed guy trying to be a better person - so it’s not all bad. But the film leaves no lasting impact, it’s Keaton who scores on memorability.

19 October,2024 03:02 PM IST | Mumbai | Johnson Thomas
Denise Richards. Pic/AFP

Denise Richards reveals she auditioned for 1995 film Showgirls

Actor Denise Richards recalled not being cast in the 1995 film 'Showgirls'. She shared that she auditioned for the film but was unable to get the project, reported People. During a panel at New York Comic Con where she reunited with the cast of the 1997 science fiction action film 'Starship Troopers', she recalled giving an audition for the 1995 film 'Showgirls' before landing the role of Carmen Ibanez in the sci-fi adventure film. Both projects were directed by filmmaker Paul Verhoeven. Richards said, "I auditioned for Showgirls and didn't get it." She added, "Which is probably a blessing," referring to Paul Verhoeven's badly reviewed film that starred Elizabeth Berkley. "I think that's why he brought me in to audition for Starship," Richards added, "It was right before." 'Showgirls' is a 1995 film directed by Paul Verhoeven, from a script written by Joe Eszterhas, starring Elizabeth Berkley, Kyle MacLachlan, Gina Gershon, Glenn Plummer, Robert Davi, Alan Rachins, and Gina Ravera. When 'Showgirls' was released, the film and Berkley's performance faced criticism, which contributed to disappointing box office numbers. Two years after 'Showgirl''s release, Verhoeven came up with 'Starship Troopers'. Richards played Carmen Ibanez in the film, a high school student who later becomes a spaceship captain when Earth goes to war against a race of giant alien insects, reported People. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

19 October,2024 07:58 AM IST | Washington | ANI
Alicia Silverston. Pic/AFP

Alicia Silverstone joins Emma Stone in Yorgos Lanthimos' 'Bugonia'

Alicia Silverstone has joined the cast of Yorgos Lanthimos' new sci-fi movie 'Bugonia', which stars Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons, reported Variety. Best known for her iconic role as Cher in 'Clueless', Silverstone also acted in Lanthimos' 2017 psychological thriller 'The Killing of a Sacred Deer.' The Oscar-nominated filmmaker's latest picture follows two conspiracy-obsessed young men who abduct the high-powered CEO of a big corporation, believing she is an alien intent on destroying Earth. Emmy winner Will Tracy wrote the script, which is based on the 2003 South Korean comedy 'Save the Green Planet'. Silverstone's role is being kept under wraps, according to Variety. Alicia Silverstone made her film debut in the thriller 'The Crush', earning the 1994 MTV Movie Award for Best Breakthrough Performance. She also starred as Cher Horowitz in the teen comedy film 'Clueless'. In 1997, she starred in the superhero film Batman & Robin, playing Batgirl. In 1996, she starred in the direct-to-video thriller True Crime as a Catholic school student. Silverstone had three other film releases in 1995 including Le Nouveau Monde, Hideaway and The Babysitter. In 2023, she appeared in the crime drama thriller Reptile co-starring Benicio del Toro and Justin Timberlake, while in 2024 she was seen in 'Y2K' and Netherlands-produced comedy horror Krazy House. Bugonia is an upcoming science fiction comedy film directed by Yorgos Lanthimos from a screenplay by Will Tracy. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

19 October,2024 07:48 AM IST | Washington | ANI
The Wild Robot

'The Wild Robot' movie review: Pedro Pascal-starrer is a spirited adventure

Film: The Wild RobotCast: Lupita Nyong’o, Pedro Pascal, Kit Connor, Bill Nighy, Stephanie Hsu, Mark Hamill, Catherine O'Hara, Ving RhamesDirector: Chris SandersRating: 3.5/5Runtime: 102 min. Oscar-nominated filmmaker Chris Sanders who made his directorial debut at Walt Disney Animation with ‘Lilo & Stitch’ in 2002, takes a wonderfully tender, compassionate break from animation stereotype with Dreamworks’ ‘The Wild Robot.’ This film has a beautifully streamlined uncluttered story and is immensely captivating because of it. The screenplay by Sanders, adapted from the acclaimed children’s books by Peter Brown, is both emotionally moving and humorously entertaining. There’s also a whole lot of messaging hidden within its folds - some of which are conveyed with an unapologetic heavy hand. Teamwork, cooperation, coexistence, acceptance of those different from you, nurturing, surrogacy, adoption of those less fortunate, choosing love and caring over violence, protection of the ecosystem for survival of the species - are just some of the messages that come through powerfully enough. A bot named Rozzum 7134 or Roz(Lupita Nyong’o), gets washed ashore on an island populated entirely by anthropomorphic critters. Its packaging has come apart so it escapes from its box, and greets the eager ‘beavers’ and other wildlife with its pre-programmed eager-to-please opening statement. Roz is searching for a master/owner and when it questions the animals around, “Do you need assistance?” their curiosity turns to fear and they run away. Roz is stranded and literally a fish out of water. She is programmed to receive instructions and complete tasks but the animals around her are ill-equipped to understand that. Roz wanders off into the island’s wilderness, accidentally destroys a Goose nest leaving just one undamaged egg which it fights to save. Committed to caring for the lone surviving egg, Roz duels with a scheming, hungry fox Fink (Pedro Pascal) who sees the egg as food. Eventually they come to an understanding, the egg hatches and out emerges a tiny gosling Brightbill (Kit O’Connor), who follows Roz around. The three misfits later on form a family of sorts. Stephanie Hsu lends voice to threatening bot Vontra, Bill Nighy to Longneck, Catherine O’Hara to mother opossum Pinktail, and Mark Hamill to Thorn the grizzly bear. Eschewing toonish chaos, Sanders tells his story like a fairytale. The thrills here are underlined with tender human feelings and emotions. Sanders’ affection for the animal kingdom is doubly emphasized because of the lack of human characters here. The villains are all manufactured factory produced bots who are assigned the task of bringing back Roz from the wilderness. In a refreshing eye-pleasing break away from Animation tradition, Sanders and team with Jakob Hjort Jensen as head of animation leading the creatives, use an original paintbrush style to embolden the look of  storybook illustrations. The forest island’s lush landscapes and untamed wilderness are brought to life with gorgeous onscreen imagery in a unique manner. The titular android is remarkably resilient, self-sufficient, a linguist with an ability to talk to animals and uses intuition to save the day. The film has vivid colorful computer animation, accompanied by quirky characters with realistic design, a moving original score by Kris Bowers and an impressive voice cast lending sync support. The action set-pieces are spirited and rousing and the humour keeps you interested and involved. Go for it!

18 October,2024 10:02 PM IST | Mumbai | Johnson Thomas
In pic: Smile 2 poster

Smile 2 movie review: A fairly crusty genre

Film: Smile 2Cast: Naomi Scott, Kyle Gallner, Rosemarie DeWitt, Lukas Gage, Miles Gutiérrez-Riley, Peter Jacobson, Raúl Castillo, Dylan GelulaDirector: Parker FinnRating: 3/5Runtime: 127 min. Smile 2 picks up right where Smile left off. It’s six days later… and for those who haven't seen ‘Smile’ it’s not a problem because this sequel has a standalone story.  In the opening long-take shot itself writer/director Parker Finn calls attention to what he is all about. This disorienting story of a megastar experiencing mental health issues merges with the terrors of a communicable horror body invasion. The narrative is effectively horrifying even when it fails to deliver on consistency and tempo. We follow the trail of the communicable entity at the center of the Smile universe. The victim of horror here is global pop icon Skye Riley (Naomi Scott), who is returning to the gruel of a performing artist after a period in rehab and a lengthy hiatus due to a gruesome car crash that left her mentally scarred and killed her actor boyfriend Paul (Ray Nicholson). About to embark on a new world tour, Skye is traumatized by increasingly terrifying and inexplicable events. Overwhelmed by the pressures of fame and the added horrors of possession, She is forced to face her dark past in order to regain control of her life before it spirals out of control. The superstar protagonist is rarely alone, constantly surrounded by managers, hangers-on, assistants, fans, etc. Finn packs in characters that increase the threat perception for the megastar. Whatever happens to her happens in the full view of the public…Skye may not have touched booze or coke since her recovery, but her dependence on prescription painkillers because of her severe injuries from the crash, makes her seek out her old high school drug dealer who happens to have been infected by the demon in the opening sequence. The dealer Lewis (Lukas Gage) bashes his own head open with a 35-pound weight, and after, things begin to go haywire. Thereafter, Skye begins to have visions of  Lewis as well as that of Paul and the ‘smiles’ that indicate a demonic possession is not far off.    Finn creates visually dazzling sequences to fit in with the popular expectations of a megastar performing live - dazzling over-the-top costumes, dancers performing energetically highlighted by brightly colored lights and all. Interspersed with that are sequences laden with shocking gore. The disparate contrasts play on your mind. Skye is in a waking nightmare, unable to tell the difference between the real and the imagined and Finn panders to that effect time and time again before withdrawing back to reality. As a result, even though Scott’s performance is convincingly real, the audience fails to feel all that sympathetic towards her plight. Towards the end we start feeling cheated by the pointless trickery that Finn employs to put forward the addiction demon metaphor. ‘Smile 2’ had a great concept but the repetitive overloads by Finn and team put a damper on the horror stakes.

18 October,2024 07:41 PM IST | Mumbai | Johnson Thomas
A still from The Apprentice

Ali Abbasi refuses CBFC's edits, stalling India release of The Apprentice

First Monkey Man, then Punjab ’95, and Emergency—in each instance, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has pulled out its scissors, much to the dismay of the concerned filmmakers. Now, another movie has been subjected to the CBFC’s snip-happy attitude. Ali Abbasi’s The Apprentice, which was scheduled to hit Indian theatres today, has been postponed. It is heard that the filmmaker, known for his uncompromising stance on creative integrity, has refused to comply with the censor board’s recommended cuts.  With Sebastian Stan playing Donald Trump and Jeremy Strong, his lawyer Roy Cohn, the biopic chronicles the former US President’s early years as a real-estate mogul. It opened in US cinemas on October 17, while its India release hangs in the balance. So, which scenes in the biopic are in contention? A source from the CBFC shared the details, stating that the suggested snips make it a 122.42-minute affair. “The cuts weren’t drastic. The CBFC requested for the deletion of nude scenes wherever they appear in the film. This was more than a minute-long content. What upset the director was the CBFC’s request that the scene, which depicts Trump having non-consensual sex with [then] wife Ivana Trump, be reduced by 75 per cent. The board members also asked the studio to provide the source from where this information has been obtained. Abbasi and the studio countered that the scene has been put for a reason and not with the objective of titillation. The filmmaker, through his representatives, made it known that reducing the sequence takes away its impact altogether. The word ‘Negro’ was also instructed to be dropped, while the standard disclaimers in drinking and smoking scenes were asked to be added.” Examining officer Govind Mishra had presided over the CBFC viewing.  Ali Abbasi PVR Inox Pictures has partnered with the makers to bring The Apprentice to India. A source from the studio revealed that the film now stands indefinitely pushed. “Making cuts to the film is something Abbasi ethically stands against. We thought we could probably negotiate and release it a little later, but there is no scope for it. He believes that these cuts would diminish the impact of his work. He would rather halt the India release than agree to them,” said a source. mid-day texted Abbasi, who did not respond till press time. 

18 October,2024 10:19 AM IST | Mumbai | Mohar Basu
Taylor Swift (Pic/AFP)

Taylor Swift ‘devastated’ by Liam Payne’s passing, will pay tribute at Eras Tour

As fans worldwide mourn Liam Payne's passing, a source has shared that Taylor Swift might pay tribute to him on the first night of the final leg of her Eras Tour. The 34-year-old singer is said to be deeply upset by the former One Direction member’s death. Liam Payne Death: Taylor Swift to pay tribute at Eras Tour? Taylor Swift, who gained fame alongside the band from 2010 to 2016, is reportedly heartbroken over the news. She and Payne were close friends, partly due to her past relationship with his bandmate, Harry Styles. Sources say she plans to honour Payne during her tour, which kicks off today in Miami. An insider revealed to DailyMail.com, "She is really sad about this because she came up with those boys and she had a lot of love for Liam. He was always good to her." About Liam Payne's Death Former One Direction singer Liam Payne, 31, was found dead on Wednesday after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, according to local officials. Police in Buenos Aires reported that Payne fell from the third floor of the Casa Sur Hotel in the Palermo neighbourhood, a popular area in Argentina's capital. The fall caused severe injuries, and medics confirmed his death at the scene. Pablo Policicchio, the communications director for the Buenos Aires Security Ministry, told The Associated Press that Payne "jumped from his room's balcony." Police responded to an emergency call around 5 p.m. local time about an "aggressive man possibly under the influence of drugs or alcohol," he said. In a 911 call obtained by the AP, the hotel manager can be heard saying they had “a guest who is overwhelmed with drugs and alcohol ... He’s destroying the entire room and, well, we need you to send someone, please." The manager's tone became more frantic, mentioning that the room had a balcony. Alberto Crescenti, the head of the state emergency medical service, told Argentina’s Todo Noticias TV that authorities were looking into the details of Payne’s death and performing an autopsy.  After the news spread, dozens of One Direction fans from around Buenos Aires gathered at the Casa Sur Hotel, forming lines that extended into the blocked-off street where police were stationed. Forensic investigators were seen leaving the hotel, and Payne's body was taken away about three hours after the fall. Heartbroken fans, mostly young women recording on their phones, were in shock as a memorial with candles and flowers quickly formed outside the hotel.

18 October,2024 09:54 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Selena Gomez. Pic/AFP

Selena Gomez opens up about sleepless nights due to mental health struggles

In a candid discussion at Wondermind's inaugural Mental Fitness Summit, Selena Gomez revealed the profound impact her mental health challenges have had on her personal life, particularly her relationship with her bedroom. The summit held virtually on World Mental Health Day, served as a platform for Gomez to share her experiences and insights into her ongoing mental health journey, according to E! News. Gomez, the star of 'Only Murders in the Building', spoke openly about why she no longer feels comfortable sleeping in her own bedroom. "I spent too much time in my bedroom that I actually don't even sleep in my bedroom anymore," she explained, adding, "I associate it with such a really dark time." The 32-year-old artist described the debilitating nature of anxiety, reflecting on how it kept her from leaving her bed for years. "You have to believe in yourself and do the work that will truly enlighten you a little bit," she emphasized, underscoring the importance of personal growth in overcoming mental health challenges. During her talk, Gomez recounted a particularly restless night leading up to the summit. "As recent as last night, I was in bed and I couldn't fall asleep 'til about four, and it was just because my mind was simply racing," she said, adding, "I just kept saying over and over again, 'This will pass. Just let it go through your body and it'll go away,' and of course, eventually, I fell asleep." Having previously opened up about her battles with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, Gomez highlighted the value of discussing her struggles with trusted individuals. She expressed gratitude for the support of her mother, Mandy Teefey, with whom she co-founded Wondermind. "I still have days where I need my mom, like, my mommy," Gomez shared, adding, "And then there are also moments for me, I just allow myself to be vulnerable and cry and just talk it out." Gomez also spoke about the liberation she found in sharing her mental health journey. "I tend to isolate. There are moments, of course, where you need to be on your own and feel things," she noted. "I didn't accept help; I just wouldn't. And I found complete freedom in sharing everything I've been walking through because I know that other people feel that way too," the 'Rare' star added, as per E! News. She concluded by emphasizing the importance of acknowledging mental health struggles. "I hope no one ever looks at me and thinks, 'Oh, her life is perfect.' Because that's just simply not true," Gomez stated, adding, "We're all humans, and feelings are very real. I think it definitely needs to be talked about, and we need to educate people more about it." This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

18 October,2024 08:45 AM IST | Washington | ANI
Tom Holland with Zendaya. Pic/AFP

Zendaya reveals why she won't take dance classes with Tom Holland

In a lighthearted revelation, actress Zendaya shared her reasons for not wanting to take dance classes with her boyfriend, Tom Holland. During an interview reported by E! News, the 'Euphoria' star expressed her reluctance to hit the dance floor alongside the 'Spider-Man' actor, citing his impressive skills as a primary concern. "He's too good, it would piss me off," Zendaya admitted, highlighting her preference for a dance partner who shares a similar level of ability. "I would want to take someone who could be equally as bad as me," she added. Fans may recall Tom Holland's viral performance of Rihanna's "Umbrella" on Lip Sync Battle in 2017, which solidified his reputation for captivating dance moves. In a previous interview with The Hollywood Reporter, he humorously noted, "I've really worked hard in my career, and I've really been calculated in deciding what it is I do and when I do it." The 'Spider-Man' actor said, "And for all the movies that I'm incredibly proud of, the Lip Sync Battle is what I get the most compliments for." Despite her talent--having showcased her dancing skills on 'Dancing with the Stars'--Zendaya indicated that she would prefer to share the dance floor with someone less experienced. "You know who would be fun at it? Honestly, my little niece who's 8. I would like to take a dance class with her. That would be fun," she remarked. While Zendaya may shy away from dance classes, she is open to trying a kayaking date with Holland. She explained that kayaking requires teamwork and synchronization, which could lead to some amusing moments. "With the kayak, you have to be in sync with the person," she said, adding, "And I think it would be hilarious because we are both very controlling and we both want to be in charge. So it would be funny to watch us be like, 'No, we're going to go this way. No, we're going to go that way.' And I think it would be a good story after the fact." This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

18 October,2024 08:43 AM IST | Washington | ANI
Representational Image. Pic Courtesy/iStock

Canadian director Alvin Rakoff passes away

Veteran Canadian filmmaker and producer, Alvin Rakoff, best known for directing Laurence Olivier in 'A Voyage Round My Father', is no more. He passed away at the age of 97. The cause of death was "old age," his agent told Variety. He died on October 12 at home, surrounded by his family. Over a career spanning more than four decades, which began when television was still only available in black-and-white, Rakoff was involved in over 100 television, film and stage productions as well as writing novels. According to his representatives, he was still working into his '90s. Rakoff was the third of seven children born to Sam and Pearl Rakoff in Toronto in 1927. His parents owned a dry goods shop but the director grew up in poverty after the Great Depression hit in 1929. He would later recount the experience in his novel "Baldwin Street." After seeing his first film in a theatre at the age of 6, his love of film and television was ignited. He went on to graduate with a degree in psychology from the University of Toronto before becoming a journalist. But it was watching Marlon Brando in a stage production of Tennessee Williams' "A Streetcar Named Desire" that changed the course of his life. After leaving the play, Rakoff vowed to build a career in show business. He went to work for the Canadian Broadcasting Company (CBC) as a writer, which sent him to the U.K. when he was 25. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

18 October,2024 08:14 AM IST | Los Angeles | ANI
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