The Rizzo Family of CITY ISLAND is a family of secret smokers. That smoke, though, is just a screen for the many other secrets that lurk amid this close-knit but volatile family, one that has no problem expressing itself, but not as much talent in sharing confidences. In fact, most of the secrets, smoking included,… Read More »
Katie Holmes & Peter Hedges Assemble PIECES OF APRIL
There is not a doubt in my mind that PIECES OF APRIL will be a new holiday classic. If nothing else, it gives the cooking-impaired among us hope as it pits heroine April against a balky stove and a raw turkey. When I spoke to APRIL’s star, Katie Holmes, and its writer/director, Peter Hedges, on… Read More »
Frederic Lilien Shares THE LEGEND OF PALE MALE
When Frederic Lilen ran away from home to avoid the family law business, becoming the cinematic chronicler of Pale Male, New York City’s most famous red-tailed hawk, wasn’t even on his radar. In fact, he’d never even heard of the bird and his loyal following until after a serendipitous lunch meeting. He was taking a… Read More »
Raymond De Felitta Takes Us to CITY ISLAND
For a labor of love like CITY ISLAND, Raymond De Felitta was happy to bide his time, waiting for the right actor, Andy Garcia as his lead, man with a secret Vince Rizzo. When I talked with de Felitta by phone on March 12, 2010, why only a great actor can make bad acting fun,… Read More »