It’s a new year and with that comes the media’s year in review stories, which includes the top news stories, health crises, entertainment gossip and of course those in the limelight who are no longer with us.
The world lost some great talents this year including Robin Williams, Lauren Bacall, Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Mickey Rooney, Eli Wallach, James Garner, Shirley Temple, Joan Rivers, Bob Hoskins, Sid Ceasar and the list goes on.
Although I never personally knew any of these famous talents, I can’t help but feel that most of them impacted my life in unique ways.
My husband once said to me, “Some actors are like old friends you never meet. You remember the words they speak, songs they sing and roles they play.”
There are some who may say, “What do these people have to do with me or world events?”
But in reality, they do.
Each week, people around the world flock to movie theaters to screen the latest drama, comedy or action movie.
For me, going to the theater, is cathartic. It’s a couple of hours I spend not thinking about my problems. I laugh, cry and even cringe (especially if it’s a particularly bad movie).
My favorite movies are those based on books, although at times it can be disappointing if the film version doesn’t live up to the way the novel played out in my mind. I enjoy having intelligent conversations with people about movies, books and plays.
Take Shirley Temple for example. My childhood is filled with memories of watching her sing, dance and tear your heart out. I remember walking around the house singing “On the good ship Lollipop,” and feeling joy when “The Little Princess” discovered her father was alive.
As a fan of classic movies, I remember listening to Bacall’s raspy voice and Mickey Rooney performing duets with Judy Garland. And of course, Joan Rivers could always make me laugh.
There are many ways to entertain ourselves when we aren’t working or spending time with family and it can include watching movies and television shows, playing video games, reading books or whatever hobby the heart desires.
My point is, I believe it’s important to sit back, relax and laugh once in a while. This world can oftentimes be a terrifying place and I’m grateful for these talented people who have the ability to make the world laugh and feel emotions.