Features Duets with Kristin Chenoweth, Gloria Estefan, John Legend,Johnny Mathis and Calum Scott.
HOLLYWOOD, CA – October 29, 2021 – “A Sentimental Christmas with Nat “King” Cole and Friends: Cole Classics Reimagined” is out today from Capitol Records.
A unique holiday album that weaves Nat’s distinctive, beautifully restored vocals with new arrangements and contemporary artists, the collection features virtual duets of holiday classics with Kristin Chenoweth, Gloria Estefan, John Legend, Johnny Mathis, and Calum Scott; a full tracklist is below. Based on archival photos of Nat, watch/share hand-drawn visualizers for each of the album’s tracks here.
Co-produced by Jay Landers (Barbra Streisand, Neil Diamond, Barry Gibb) and GRAMMY® Award winner and Oscar nominee Jorge Calandrelli (Tony Bennett, Lady Gaga), who also arranged and conducted, the album’s material was sourced from Cole’s timeless album, “The Christmas Song,” and other recordings from his esteemed catalog. The album was co-produced, mixed, and mastered by multi-GRAMMY-winning engineer and mixer Dave Reitzas (Natalie Cole, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion). Reitzas was responsible for mixing the historic Grammy®-winning virtual duet, “Unforgettable,” by Natalie and Nat King Cole.
The album is available on CD, vinyl, and all digital formats with an exclusive Rudolph Red vinyl available at Walmart; listen/buy here.
Born in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1919, Nathaniel Adams Coles was one of four sons of the First Baptist Church’s pastor Edward Coles. Nat’s mother, Perlina Coles, a choir director at the church, taught him piano at four. In 1921, the family moved to Chicago, seeking a better life in the prospering towns of the north. Nat became obsessed with the inescapable sound of Chicago jazz. Mastering the piano at a young age was central to his artistic development. Cole developed his style as a teenager adding in his own flair for the blues. His unique playing style and sultry baritone voice were fully formed when he worked his way from Chicago to Los Angeles.
Signed to Capitol Records in 1943, Cole released his initial album as the lead vocalist of “The King Cole Trio” in 1945, at the dawn of the LP format, and topped Billboard’s inaugural album chart. In his brief 20-year career, he recorded more than 150 singles that reached Billboard’s pop, R&B, and country charts and sold more than 50 million records. His phenomenal success led to Capitol’s iconic round building on Vine Street in Hollywood to be known as “The House That Nat Built.” Cole’s impressive catalog has since garnered six platinum and two gold album awards, with six-times RIAA- platinum-certified “The Christmas Song” initially released in September 1964.
In addition to his recognition as a musical trailblazer, Cole is also recognized as a champion for civil rights. The revolutionary American singer’s impact continues across the world’s cultural and political landscape. In 1946, he broadcasted a 15-minute national radio program, “King Cole Trio Time,” the first of its kind to be hosted by an African American musician. In 1956, he became the first African American to host his own national network television show, NBC’s “The Nat King Cole Show.” In addition to his warm and welcoming stage personality, Cole was a featured actor in films including China Gate and the Oscar-winning Cat Ballou.
TRACKLIST 1. Deck the Hall/Joy to the World (duet with Johnny Mathis)
2. O Come All Ye Faithful (Adeste Fideles)/The First Noel 3. The Very Thought of You (duet with Kristin Chenoweth) 4. Auld Lang Syne (Interlude) 5. (I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons 6. O Holy Night (duet with Calum Scott) 7. O Little Town of Bethlehem/Silent Night 8. We Wish You a Merry Christmas (Interlude) 9. A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square (duet with Gloria Estefan) 10. The Little Boy That Santa Claus Forgot 11. The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on An Open Fire) (duet with John Legend)
About Capitol RecordsFor more than 75 years, Capitol Records has played a significant role in popular culture as one of the world’s premiere music companies and the first label to be based on the west coast of the United States. Formed in 1942, by renowned songwriters Johnny Mercer and Buddy DeSylva, along with music retailer Glenn Wallichs, Capitol has been home to some of the world’s most important and acclaimed recording artists, including The Beatles, The Beach Boys, Nat King Cole, Peggy Lee, Linda Ronstadt, Frank Sinatra, Tina Turner, and countless others. In the 21st Century, Capitol continues its prominence in helping to define popular music and culture with a diverse array of artists that includes Beck, Halsey, Queen Naija, Katy Perry, and Sam Smith, to name only several. Capitol Records is the flagship label of Capitol Music Group, a subsidiary of Universal Music Group (UMG), and is headquartered in the world-famous Capitol Tower in Hollywood, California.
About Nat King ColeOne of the most identifiable and memorable voices of the 20th century, Nat King Cole recorded nearly 40 albums and over 100 singles that reached Billboard’s pop, R&B, and country charts and sold more than 50 million copies. As the first African American to host a radio show and a national television show, NBC’s “The Nat King Cole Show,” he was a civil rights pioneer. Cole appeared in several films, including St. Louis Blues and Cat Ballou. He won the Grammy®Award for Best Performance for “Midnight Flyer” and was honored with a Special Achievement Award from the Golden Globes. He was posthumously awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award from NARAS and inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. 2019 marked the 100th anniversary of the birth of Nat King Cole, born March 17, 1919.
90-Minute Special Features New Interviews with Nancy and Tina Sinatra and Gail and Deana Martin From Capitol Records Studio A.
Los Angeles, Calif. – Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, along with their respective families, joined together for this memorable Christmas celebration filmed in 1967, and not seen in its entirety since its original airing on December 21, 1967. In addition to more than a dozen holiday classics, Frank and Dean give viewers a special present: a medley of many of their most beloved songs. They’re joined by an all-star cast of friends and family: Nancy Sinatra, Frank Sinatra, Jr., Tina Sinatra, Claudia Martin, Craig Martin, Dean Paul Martin, Deana Martin, Gail Martin, Gina Martin, Ricci Martin, Jeanne Martin (Mrs. Dean Martin) and Sammy Davis, Jr. THE DEAN MARTIN AND FRANK SINATRA FAMILY CHRISTMAS SHOW is part of special programming premiering on PBS stations beginning Friday, October 29, 2021 (check local listings).
As a special treat for viewers, new interviews with Nancy and Tina Sinatra and Gail and Deana Martin taped at Capitol Records Studio A are featured in the 90-minute version of the program.
The special is brimming over with fan favorites, including solos by Dean (“I’ll Be Home for Christmas”), Frank (“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”), Nancy Sinatra (a special holiday version of “These Boots Are Made for Walking”); and Gail Martin (“Santa Claus Is Coming To Town”). Dean and Frank duet on a medley of their hits like “I Can’t Give You Anything But Love,” “Pennies From Heaven,” “A Foggy Day,” “The Lady Is a Tramp,“ ”All of Me” and more. Fathers Dean and Frank perform with sons Dean-Paul Martin and Frank Sinatra, Jr. on “How Do You Talk to Your Dad?” and with daughters Deana Martin and Tina Sinatra on “Do, Re, Mi.” And the entire cast joins in on “There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays” and a medley of beloved Christmas carols, including “Deck The Halls,” “O Little Town Of Bethlehem,” “Joy To The World” and “Silent Night.”
About Frank SinatraThroughout his seven-decade career, Frank Sinatra performed on more than 1,400 recordings and was awarded 31 gold, nine platinum, three double platinum, and one triple platinum album by the Recording Industry Association of America. The three-time Oscar® winner also appeared in more than 60 films and produced eight motion pictures. Sinatra was awarded Lifetime Achievement Awards from The Recording Academy, The Screen Actors Guild and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), as well as the Kennedy Center Honors, the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal. Frank Sinatra demonstrated a remarkable ability to appeal to every generation and continues to do so; his artistry still influences many of today’s music superstars. He remains a legend and an inspiration around the world for his contributions to culture and the arts. For more information about Frank Sinatra, visit sinatra.com.
About Dean MartinOne of the most popular and enduring American entertainers of the mid-20th century, Dean Martin was a five-time Golden Globe winner, a three-time Emmy Award winner and nicknamed “The King of Cool.” Throughout his five-decade career, he performed on stages, in nightclubs, and on audio recordings and appeared in 85 film and television productions. A multi-faceted artist whose talents crossed media boundaries, he has three stars on the Hollywood Boulevard Walk of Fame: one for recordings, one for motion pictures, and one for television, where he introduced Americans to Celebrity Roasts in the 1970s. His best knowns songs include “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head?,” “That’s Amore,” “Everybody Loves Somebody,” among others. With worldwide record sales that exceed 50 million, he recorded 32 original studio albums. For more information about Dean Martin, visit deanmartin.com
PBS special programming invites viewers to experience the worlds of science, history, nature and public affairs; hear diverse viewpoints; and take front-row seats to world-class drama and performances. Viewer contributions are an important source of funding, making PBS programs possible. PBS and public television stations offer all Americans from every walk of life the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television and online content.
Newhall, Calif. – The holiday season is just around the corner, and the City of Santa Clarita is excited to welcome the community back to the official holiday kick-off, Light Up Main Street! Join your family, friends and neighbors for an evening of entertainment and holiday cheer in Old Town Newhall on Saturday, November 20, 2021, beginning at 6:00 p.m. There is no better way to ring in the season than enjoying real snow, crafts, festive performances, shopping, snacking, reindeer and pictures with Santa.
“Light Up Main Street,” Santa and his reindeer Return to Old Town Newhall on November 20, 2021.
After a virtual event last year, residents can once again enjoy this festive event centering around the momentous lighting of our 25-foot-tall Christmas tree and thousands of lights. The official tree lighting will take place promptly at 6:30 p.m. in front of the Old Town Newhall Library, so be sure to arrive early!
Following the lighting, attendees can dance to the sounds of “Electric Vinyl” performing on the Main Stage until 9:00 p.m. Six different performances will also be held throughout the night by various groups on the Community Stage near 6th Street and Main Street outside of the Canyon Theatre Guild (24242 Main Street).
“Light Up Main Street,” Santa and his reindeer Return to Old Town Newhall on November 20, 2021.
Attendees will have the opportunity to play in 20 tons of real snow on Main Street, take photos with Santa Claus, write Christmas letters with the Santa Clarita Public Library, make crafts with DFY in SCV and much more. Be sure to visit local craft vendors who will be selling one-of-a-kind gifts for the holiday season, from handcrafted jewelry and candles to beautifully designed purses and watercolor paintings. In addition to local restaurants along Main Street, 10 food trucks offering a range of savory and sweet options will be on site.
Residents are asked to be mindful of road closures that will be in effect for Light Up Main Street. Lyons Avenue will be closed between Railroad Avenue and Newhall Avenue, and Main Street will be closed between Lyons Avenue and the roundabout. Residents are asked to use Railroad Avenue or Newhall Avenue as a detour. Both closures will begin at 10:00 a.m. and end at midnight.
Free public parking is available at the parking structure on 9th Street, as well as at the Newhall Community Center (22421 Market Street). To find more information about Light Up Main Street, please visit OldTownNewhall.com.
Las Vegas, Nevada. – Long revered as “The Singer’s Singer,” the tireless artist Jack Jones shows no signs of slowing down. His latest release, Every Other Day I Have the Blues, finds the multi-Grammy-winning singer co-producing, this time, with Tom Scott and executive producer/ Cavalry Productions founder, Paul Lowden.
Jack Jones ,“The Singer’s Singer,” releases newest album, “Every Other Day I Have the Blues” from Cavalry Productions.
“Tom Scott did a masterful job in helping me put this record together,” Jack Jones begins. “Joined by John Clayton, Jeff Hamilton, Tamir Handelman, and Graham Dechter, I couldn’t have been in better company. Special thanks to Dave Tull for writing the title track, and Keb’ Mo’ for bringing an undertone of humor to the project. And to Paul, Sue, and Chris Lowden of Calvary Productions, thanks for giving this project wings,” the singer concludes.
Recorded at Capitol Studios in Los Angeles California and Big Surprise Music in Encino, California the album features a veritable who’s who of jazz greats: Tom Scott, Jeff Hamilton, Graham Dechter, John Clayton, Tamir Hendelman, Chuck Findley, Paul Lowden, Andy Martin, Billy Hulting and Gene Cipriano.
Pictured (left to right): Jack Jones, John Clayton, Paul Lowden, Tamir Handelman, Graham Dechter, Jeff Hamilton, Tom Scott. Photo courtesy of Cavalry Productions.
“The concept for “Every Other Day I Have The Blues” was inspired at a gig in the lounge of the ritzy Balboa Bay Club in Newport Beach, California…..Driving home that night the song was born.” – Jack Jones
The 12-track album showcases songs by the likes of Keb’ Mo’, Alan Bergman, Marilyn Bergman, Michel Legrand, Dave Frishberg, Les McCann, Todd Cerney and Gary Burr.
In his album notes, noted jazz critic Will Friedwald of The Wall Street Journal/Vanity Fair writes, “The blues deserve the velvet voice — and formidable depth of interpretation — of Jack Jones. It’s hardly surprising that Mr. Jones should surprise us with a new album of fresh songs that all have ties to blues form and harmony, delivered with stunning arrangements, and a swinging band and soloists. With Every Other Day I Have The Blues, he increases our understanding of this fundamental yet formidable musical form.”
Jack Jones ,“The Singer’s Singer,” releases newest album, “Every Other Day I Have the Blues” from Cavalry Productions.
The title track that inspired the album was written by veteran drummer, composer, and singer David Tull (Barbra Streisand, Chuck Mangione, Maynard Ferguson). “The concept for “Every Other Day I Have The Blues” was inspired at a gig in the lounge of the ritzy Balboa Bay Club in Newport Beach, CA. From the drums, I overheard a gentleman complaining to his friend about how much he was having to spend on repairs to his yacht. I turned to the saxophonist, Tom Kubis, and said, ‘Man, these people have no idea what the blues are!’ Then, thinking of Joe Williams’ iconic “Every Day I Have the Blues” I said, ‘Maybe they just get the blues every other day!’ Driving home that night the song was born,” he explains.
Jack Jones ,“The Singer’s Singer,” releases newest album, “Every Other Day I Have the Blues” from Cavalry Productions.
Jack Jones’ storied musical career is still going strong.
Native American Art Exhibit featured in The MAIN’s lobby, followed by a Special “10 by 10” Variety Night. The Art Reception and Variety Night events are free and open to all ages.
Santa Clarita, Calif. – The MAIN in Old Town Newhall will celebrate Native American culture on Thursday, November 4, during the “Through Our Eyes: The Art of Contemporary Native America” Art Reception and “10 by 10” Variety Night. The art reception will begin at 6:00 p.m., followed by “10 by 10” Variety Night at 7:00 p.m.
The MAIN in Old Town Newhall presents “Through Our Eyes: The Art of Contemporary Native America exhibit on November 4, 2021.
Attendees will have the opportunity to stroll through the art exhibit featured in The MAIN’s lobby, chat with featured artists and enjoy an all Native American “10 by 10” Variety Night during the event. The Art Reception and Variety Night events are free and open to all ages.
“Through Our Eyes: The Art of Contemporary Native America” features six Native artists, including Peggy Fontenot, Nadia Reed, Nadiya Little Warrior, Corina Roberts, Matthew White Bear McMasters and Corey Stein. The artwork is presented in a variety of mediums ranging from photography to sculpture, painting and more. Through the use of diverse materials and techniques, these artists create works of art that are fun, thought-provoking, interesting and beautiful.
From the art gallery to the stage, the “10 by 10” Variety Night will continue immersing attendees into Native American culture. The show will feature ten Native American performers, each with a ten-minute performance of their choosing. Some of the acts include Grass Dancing by the McMaster’s Dancers, comedy by touring comedian Cat Alvarado and music from Carlos Reynosa.
Learn more about the upcoming art reception and “10 by 10” Variety Night event by visiting Facebook.com/TheMAINNewhall. For email notifications, please sign-up for The MAIN’s eNotify (https://www.santa-clarita.com/city-hall/enotify) to receive up-to-date information on topics or events happening at The MAIN.
Panel discussions with Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Lyndon Barrois, Brooke Breton, Jimmy Chow, Nia DaCosta, J. Anthony Kosar, Erin Ramos, Doug Roble and more.
Los Angeles, Calif. – The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will present its 7th annual Careers in Film Summit on Saturday, October 30. The virtual event, taking place from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. PST, will provide high school seniors and college students the opportunity to learn about careers in the motion picture industry from Academy members and other industry professionals.
Across three panels, attendees will learn about a variety of filmmaking crafts, including visual effects, production design, cinematography, editing, location management, script supervision, and more. The event will kick off with an exploration of the recently released “Candyman” with members of the film’s cast and crew.
The program schedule is as follows:
PANEL 1 – Anatomy of a Production: “Candyman” 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. PST Panelists: Nia DaCosta (writer/director), Cara Brower (production designer), John Guleserian (director of photography), Catrin Hedström (editor), J. Anthony Kosar (special effects makeup department head), Yahya Abdul-Mateen II (actor) Moderator: Mike Muse, host of SiriusXM’s “The Mike Muse Show”
PANEL 2 – Roll Credits: Other Jobs in the Industry 11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. PST Panelists: Jimmy Chow (property master), S. Todd Christensen (location manager), Dawn Gilliam (script supervisor), Danny Gonzalez (gaffer), Katherine O’Keefe (intimacy coordinator), Melanie Ragone (best boy grip) Moderator: Mike Muse, host of SiriusXM’s “The Mike Muse Show”
PANEL 3 – Visual Effects in Film 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. PST Panelists: Lyndon Barrois (animation supervisor), Erin Ramos (head of effects animation), Doug Roble (Academy Scientific and Technical Award winner), R. Christopher White (visual effects supervisor) Moderator: Brooke Breton, producer, Breton Productions and Academy governor, Visual Effects branch
This program is supported by a grant from The James Irvine Foundation.
The event is free, but attendees must register here to obtain access.
ABOUT THE ACADEMY The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is a global community of more than 10,000 of the most accomplished artists, filmmakers and executives working in film. In addition to celebrating and recognizing excellence in filmmaking through the Oscars, the Academy supports a wide range of initiatives to promote the art and science of the movies, including public programming, educational outreach and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 28: Jennifer Fox attends the “Velvet Buzzsaw” Los Angeles premiere at The Egyptian Theatre on January 28, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for Netflix)
Los Angeles, Calif. – Oscar®-nominated producer Jennifer Fox will return to produce the 12th Governors Awards for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Academy President David Rubin announced today.
Honorary Awards will be presented to Samuel L. Jackson, Elaine May and Liv Ullmann, and the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award to Danny Glover on Saturday, January 15, 2022, at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles.
“Having already brought us two extraordinary Governors Awards in recent years, we’re thrilled to welcome Jennifer back to kick off Oscar season with another joyous celebration of four legendary honorees,” said Rubin.
“I’m honored to once again produce the Academy’s Governors Awards and look forward to celebrating the extraordinary achievements of Danny Glover, Samuel L. Jackson, Elaine May and Liv Ullmann with a tribute so richly deserved,” said Fox.
Fox has produced or executive produced some of the most iconic films of the last 15 years, including Tony Gilroy’s directorial debut, “Michael Clayton,” which earned seven Oscar nominations. She began her film industry career in development and production at Universal Pictures, where she worked on several films, including “Erin Brockovich.” Fox spent the next six years producing with Steven Soderbergh and George Clooney’s production company, Section Eight, where she worked on such acclaimed titles as “Syriana,” “Good Night, and Good Luck.,” “A Scanner Darkly” and “The Informant!.” Her other film credits include “Duplicity,” “The Bourne Legacy,” “We Need to Talk about Kevin,” for which she received a BAFTA nomination, “Nightcrawler,” “Roman J. Israel, Esq.,” “Velvet Buzzsaw,” “The Report,” and her most recent film, “The Last Duel,” which was released this month. Fox also produced the Academy’s 2018 and 2019 Governors Awards.
The Honorary Award, an Oscar statuette, is given “to honor extraordinary distinction in lifetime achievement, exceptional contributions to the state of motion picture arts and sciences, or for outstanding service to the Academy.”
The Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, also an Oscar statuette, is given “to an individual in the motion picture arts and sciences whose humanitarian efforts have brought credit to the industry.”
The 12th Governors Awards is proudly supported by Rolex, the Exclusive Watch of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
ABOUT THE ACADEMY The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is a global community of more than 10,000 of the most accomplished artists, filmmakers and executives working in film. In addition to celebrating and recognizing excellence in filmmaking through the Oscars, the Academy supports a wide range of initiatives to promote the art and science of the movies, including public programming, educational outreach and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.
ACADEMY MUSEUM OF MOTION PICTURES ANNOUNCES VIENNA IN HOLLYWOOD SIX WEEKS OF PROGRAMMING, COMPRISING A SYMPOSIUM AND FILM SCREENINGS, EXPLORE THE IMPACT OF AUSTRIAN ÉMIGRÉS AND EXILES IN THE CLASSICAL ERA OF HOLLYWOOD.
ACADEMY MUSEUM OF MOTION PICTURES ANNOUNCES VIENNA IN HOLLYWOOD SIX WEEKS OF PROGRAMMING, COMPRISING A SYMPOSIUM AND FILM SCREENINGS, EXPLORE THE IMPACT OF AUSTRIAN ÉMIGRÉS AND EXILES IN THE CLASSICAL ERA OF HOLLYWOOD.
“During the classical Hollywood era, so many beloved films and so many components of the movie industry were developed and shaped by Austrian émigrés, including Erich von Stroheim, Max Steiner, Vicki Baum, Fritz Lang, and many others, said Bill Kramer, Academy Museum President. These Austrian émigrés included directors Billy Wilder, Fritz Lang, Fred Zinnemann, and Otto Preminger, actors Hedy Lamarr, Peter Lorre.
Los Angeles, Calif., October 25, 2021—The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures today announced Vienna in Hollywood, six weeks of programming comprising a symposium and film series that explores the large community of predominately Jewish, Austrian-born film artists and professionals who helped shape the films and industry of classical era Hollywood. This series is presented in collaboration with the University of Southern California (USC) Libraries and the USC Max Kade Institute, with support from the Austrian Consulate General in Los Angeles.
In the early 20th century, the nascent film industry in Hollywood was largely built by Jewish immigrants from Eastern and Central Europe, including many Austrians from regions of the former Austro-Hungarian Empire. In the 1920s, Austrian artists including actor-director Erich von Stroheim and composer Max Steiner came to the US seeking better opportunities in the American film industry.
A much larger wave of mostly Jewish émigrés arrived in Hollywood in the 1930s and 1940s largely due to Nazi persecution in Germany and the Anschluss in Austria. These Austrian émigrés included directors Billy Wilder, Fritz Lang, Fred Zinnemann, and Otto Preminger, actors Hedy Lamarr, Peter Lorre, and Paul Henreid, producers Eric Pleskow and Sam Spiegel, screenwriters Vicki Baum, Gina Kaus, and Salka Viertel, as well as composers Erich Wolfgang Korngold and Ernest Gold. These artists, along with many other émigrés who worked as writers, composers, actors, producers, cinematographers, talent agents, costume designers, and production designers, had a profound impact on Hollywood. The Academy Museum’s six-week Vienna in Hollywood series presents and contextualizes the work of these groundbreaking artists.
Bill Kramer, Director and President of the Academy Museum, said, “During the classical Hollywood era, so many beloved films and so many components of the movie industry were developed and shaped by Austrian émigrés, including Erich von Stroheim, Max Steiner, Vicki Baum, Fritz Lang, and many others. The Academy Museum is deeply committed to scholarly and dynamic explorations of film history. We are thrilled to be presenting the work and vision of these groundbreaking film artists and professionals who are a core part of our cinematic history.”
Doris Berger, Senior Director of Curatorial Affairs at the Academy Museum, said, “Many are familiar with the fascinating story that Jewish immigrants from Eastern and Central Europe were the founding fathers of Hollywood in the early 20th century. It is a privilege to collaborate with colleagues from USC and the Austrian Consulate to spotlight the lesser-known film and cultural history of the significant contributions of Austrian émigrés to the look and sound of classic era Hollywood.”
Paul Lerner, Professor of History at USC and Director of USC’s Max Kade Institute for Austrian-German-Swiss Studies said, “The Max Kade Institute is thrilled to partner with the museum and USC Libraries for this wonderful series of events on the unique Austrian contributions to Hollywood cinema and Austrian and American cross-cultural cinematic currents. Vienna in Hollywood perfectly embodies the Institute’s founding mission of documenting the lives and work of German-speaking émigrés and exiles in Southern California, those predominately Jewish refugees from Nazi-controlled Central Europe who shaped the landscapes and cultures of Los Angeles in the 1940s and beyond.”
SYMPOSIUM The initiative launches on December 10, 2021, with Vienna in Hollywood: The Influence and Impact of Austrians on the Hollywood Film Industry, 1920s–2020s, a two-day symposium organized by the Academy Museum, the University of Southern California (USC) Libraries, and the USC Max Kade Institute, with support from the Austrian Consulate General in Los Angeles.
Panels will take place at both USC (December 10) and the Academy Museum (December 11) and will feature a robust lineup of international scholars, filmmakers, artists, and programmers. Panels include Composers and their Legacies; Women Writers and Exile Networks; Vienna Film Exiles Below the Line; Directors; Wien Kultur; and Vienna and Hollywood Today. Click here for more information about the symposium.
FILM SERIES On December 11, the Academy Museum will launch a six-week film series called Vienna in Hollywood: Émigrés and Exiles in the Studio System, which runs until January 31, 2022. This series explores the work of Austrian-born Jewish film artists who made their way to Hollywood during the classical Hollywood era—many escaping persecution from the Nazi party and rising anti-Semitism in Europe.
The series opens with perhaps the most iconic émigré production of them all, a film about transit papers and escaping Fascism, Casablanca. Directed by Hungarian-born Michael Curtiz, scored by Austrian-born composer Max Steiner, and starring a pair of screen icons both from the former Austro-Hungarian Empire, Paul Henreid and Peter Lorre, the film is presented in a vintage nitrate print courtesy of the Museum of Modern Art and will be the first nitrate print publicly screened at the Academy Museum.
Other artists and films presented as part of the series include directors Max Reinhardt (A Midsummer Night’s Dream), Josef von Sternberg (Dishonored), Billy Wilder (Sunset Blvd., A Foreign Affair), Fritz Lang (Hangmen Also Die!), Otto Preminger (Whirlpool) and Fred Zinnemann (The Search), composer Erich Wolfgang Korngold (The Adventures of Robin Hood) and screenwriter Salka Viertel (Queen Christina). This series also showcases lesser-screened gems that feature the talents of exiles in various roles in front of and behind the camera, including The Girl Downstairs (starring Franciska Gaal), The Garden of Allah (the debut role for Tilly Losch), Hotel Berlin (written by Vicki Baum), and Dorothy Arzner’s big city melodrama Dance, Girl, Dance (also written by Vicki Baum). This film series is programmed by Bernardo Rondeau with thanks to Doris Berger, and notes by Kiva Reardon, Bernardo Rondeau, and Robert Reneau. A selection of the films follows below.
Casablanca Sat, Dec 11 | 7:30pm | David Geffen Theater (DGT) Everybody comes to Rick’s Café in Casablanca—for drinks, gambling, intrigue, Sam’s (Dooley Wilson) piano, and most importantly, exit visas. The romance of Hollywood’s classical era is central to this seminal film, full of iconic stars including Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, Claude Rains, and Habsburg Empire émigrés Paul Henreid and Peter Lorre. Émigré Michael Curtiz’s Oscar®-winning direction of this Best Picture winner is as elegant as the endlessly quotable dialogue is witty, and (another émigré) Max Steiner’s nominated score incorporates the unforgettable “As Time Goes By.” Director: Michael Curtiz. Cast: Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, Paul Henreid, Claude Rains. 1943. 103 min. USA. B&W. English. 35mm nitrate.
Grand Hotel Sun, Dec 12 | 2pm | Ted Mann Theater (TMT) “People come, people go. Nothing ever happens” laments the hotel’s bitter resident Dr. Otternschlag, but in this glamourous Best Picture-winning classic, the “people” include such cinema legends as Greta Garbo, John Barrymore, and a young and vibrant Joan Crawford, and the “nothing” includes burglary, murder, romance, and a dying man’s final wish. Austrian writer Vicki Baum penned the original, best-selling novel (Menschen im Hotel) before moving to Hollywood to launch a successful screenwriting career. Director: Edmund Goulding. Cast: Greta Garbo, John Barrymore, Joan Crawford, Wallace Beery. 1932. 115 min. USA. B&W. English. 35mm.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream Sat, Dec 18 | 2pm | TMT A group of top Hollywood stars took a rare venture into Shakespeare with this lavish filming of The Bard’s classic romantic fantasy, starring James Cagney as Bottom, Olivia de Havilland as Hermia, and a 14-year-old Mickey Rooney as Puck. A Best Picture nominee, the film is a collaboration between Max Reinhardt, a visionary of the Austrian theater, and German-born director William Dieterle. Hal Mohr’s luscious cinematography and Ralph Dawson’s editing both received Oscars®. Austrian composer Erich Wolfgang Korngold adapted the music of Mendelssohn for the film’s score. Sherry Shourds also received a rare write-in nomination for the short-lived category of Best Assistant Director. Directors: Max Reinhardt, William Dieterle. Cast: James Cagney, Joe E. Brown, Dick Powell, Jean Muir. 1935. 132 min. USA. B&W. English. 35mm.
Dishonored Sat, Dec 18 | 7:30pm | TMT A household name of the Austrians in Hollywood cohort is director Josef von Sternberg, who is also known for his collaborations with German American icon Marlene Dietrich. Working with the star for the third time, here von Sternberg sets his tale in his native country. Dietrich plays a Mata Hari-like secret agent, who, under the orders of the Austrian Secret Service in the early days of WWI, is sent on a deadly mission to spy on the Russians. Director: Josef von Sternberg. Cast: Marlene Dietrich, Victor McLaglen, Gustav von Seyffertitz, Warner Oland. 1931. 91 min. USA. B&W. English. 35mm.
The Garden of Allah Sat, Dec 18 | 9:30pm | TMT The Garden of Allah was producer David O. Selznick’s first complete Technicolor saga. Set in the picturesque deserts of Northern Africa, the film tells the story of two wandering foreigners who find each other during a moment of personal crisis. Each cast against type—Marlene Dietrich is a wealthy, pious woman on a pilgrimage to the Sahara while Charles Boyer is a tortured Trappist monk escaped from his monastery—they embark on a romantic quest, albeit one marred by gibberish “Arabic” and a cast of supporting characters chiefly in brownface. Recipient of a Special Award for its color cinematography, this three-strip tour de force also features the unforgettable Hollywood debut of the Austrian-born ballerina-turned-actress Tilly Losch as a sensual café performer. Director: Richard Boleslawski. Cast: Marlene Dietrich, Charles Boyer, Basil Rathbone, C. Aubrey Smith. 1936. 80 min. USA. Color. English. 35mm.
Queen Christina Sun, Dec 19 | 2pm | TMT An actress in Austria and Germany, Salka Viertel joined her husband in his move to Hollywood in 1928 and took up screenwriting under contract at MGM. There, she worked predominantly on Greta Garbo’s films, contributing to the scripts for the actress’s most famous sound film roles including Anna Karenina (1935) and Queen Christina, in which Garbo plays the regent of Sweden. A biographical drama (only the third feature film to be photographed in three-strip Technicolor), the film follows the historical figure’s choice between her country and her heart when she falls for a Spaniard. Director: Rouben Mamoulian. Cast: Greta Garbo, John Gilbert, Ian Keith, Lewis Stone. 1933 . 99 min. USA. B&W. English. 35mm.
The Adventures of Robin Hood Sun, Dec 26 | 2pm | TMT Errol Flynn steals from the rich, woos the lovely Olivia de Havilland, battles the intrigue of Claude Rains, and clashes swords with Basil Rathbone in this lighthearted, swashbuckling, eye-popping Technicolor classic, which received three Oscars and a Best Picture nomination. Austro-Hungarian Michael Curtiz—whose peerless eye for staging is unmistakable—shared the directing credit with William Keighley, while Austrian Erich Wolfgang Korngold won an Oscar for one of cinema’s all-time greatest adventure scores. Directors: Michael Curtiz, William Keighley. Cast: Errol Flynn, Olivia de Havilland, Basil Rathbone, Claude Rains. 1938. 104 min. USA. Color. English. [Format TBD].
Dance, Girl, Dance Tue, Dec 28 | 7:30pm | TMT A best-selling novelist in Austria, Vicki Baum emigrated first to New York then to Hollywood in the early 1930s, where she worked at MGM and Paramount. Several of her stories and novels were transformed for the screen, including Dance, Girl, Dance (and Hotel Berlin and Grand Hotel, which screen in this series). Directed by Dorothy Arzner, the comedy-drama stars Lucille Ball and Maureen O’Hara as out-of-work dancers who turn to burlesque to make ends meet. A flop on its release, it has since gained critical recognition for its subversive take on the male gaze. Director: Dorothy Arzner. Cast: Maureen O’Hara, Louis Hayward, Lucille Ball, Virginia Field. 1940. 90 min. USA. B&W. English. 35mm.
The Girl Downstairs Tue, Dec 28 | 9:20pm | TMT Set amidst the upper crust of Berne, Switzerland, this screwball comedy finds playboy Franchot Tone posing as a chauffeur to gain access to the mansion of his love interest (Rita Johnson). Part of his plan involves seducing “the girl downstairs”—farm girl turned maid, played by Austro-Hungarian Franciska Gaal. Helmed by prolific studio director Norman Taurog, this rarely screened madcap film is one of Gaal’s final starring roles. Director: Norman Taurog. Cast: Franciska Gaal, Franchot Tone, Walter Connolly, Reginald Gardiner. 1938. 77 min. USA. B&W. English. 35mm.
Tarzan Triumphs Sun, Jan 2 | 2pm | TMT Five-time Olympic gold medalist for the United States, swimmer Johnny Weissmuller was born in the Austro-Hungarian Empire in what is now Romania. Immortal as the loin-clothed Tarzan in this early sound adaptation of Edgar Rice Burroughs’s iconic series, Weissmuller has a unique nemesis in this, his seventh film as the Ape Man: the Nazis. Directed by Austrian-born William Thiele, Tarzan Triumphs find the Third Reich descending on the lost jungle city of Palandrya and enslaving its people. Will Tarzan and his menagerie of animals come to the rescue? Director: William Thiele.Amm Cast: Johnny Weissmuller, Johnny Sheffield, Frances Gifford, Stanley Ridges. 1943. 77 min. USA. B&W. English. 35mm.
Hangmen Also Die! Mon, Jan 3 | 7:30pm | TMT The killing of Nazi Reich-Protector Reinhard “Hangman of Europe” Heydrich by members of the Czech underground in Prague inspired this fictionalized retelling, which went into production only four months after the assassination. Produced and directed by Austrian Fritz Lang, it doubles as a nail-biting thriller and a complex moral drama; German theater legend Bertolt Brecht cowrote the film’s story, and Austrian composer Hanns Eisler received an Oscar nomination for his brief but dramatic score. Director: Fritz Lang. Cast: H.H. v. Twardowski, Brian Donlevy, Walter Brennan, Anna Lee. 1943. 131 min. USA. B&W. English, German. DCP.
Hotel Berlin Sun, Jan 9 | 2pm | TMT Based on the novel by Vicki Baum (who also penned Dance, Girl, Dance and Grand Hotel), Hotel Berlin unfolds in a heavily bombed Berlin during the last days of WWII. The high-end hotel has become a crossroad for Nazis, an escaped prisoner, civilians, and spies alike. In these close quarters, tensions erupt as the characters seek a way out as Allied planes fly closer. The film stars Austrian-born Helmut Dantine (also seen in Casablanca). Director: Peter Godfrey. Cast: Faye Emerson, Helmut Dantine, Raymond Massey, Andrea King. 1945. 98 min. USA. B&W. English. 35mm.
The Search preceded by Forbidden Passage Sun, Jan 16 | 2pm | TMT Winner of four Academy Awards® and working across several genres, director Fred Zinnemann’s films include A Man for All Seasons (1966), High Noon (1952), From Here to Eternity (1953), and Oklahoma! (1955). Zinnemann was interested in fusing documentary and fiction; in the case of The Search he returned to Europe for the first time since emigrating to film the story of a son and mother searching for each other in a postwar ravaged Europe. The Search plays with Zinnemann’s Academy Award-nominated short film Forbidden Passage, about a father who illegally enters the United States. Forbidden Passage Director: Fred Zinnemann. Cast: Addison Richards, Wolfgang Zilzer, Hugh Beaumont, George Lessey. 1941. 21 min. USA. B&W. English. 35mm. The Search Director: Fred Zinnemann. Cast: Montgomery Clift, Aline MacMahon, Wendell Corey, Ivan Jandl. 1948. 105 min. USA. B&W. English. 35mm.
A Foreign Affair Sat, Jan 22 | 2pm | TMT Austrian Billy Wilder returns to Europe for this black comedy set in postwar Germany. Featuring sequences shot in the actual ruins of Berlin, this Hollywood take on the rubble film (Trümmerfilm) finds straitlaced Iowa congresswoman Jean Arthur on a fact-finding visit to the American Occupation Zone where not everything is as it seems. As she becomes entangled in a love triangle involving the slippery Captain John Pringle (John Lund) and his German paramour, cabaret-singer Marlene Dietrich in her classic maneater mode, Wilder creates a riotous, decadent panorama of a world caught between the past and the future. Director: Billy Wilder. Cast: Jean Arthur, Marlene Dietrich, John Lund, Millard Mitchell. 1948. 116 min. USA. B&W. English. 35mm.
Whirlpool Sat, Jan 29 | 2pm | TMT Gene Tierney reunites with her Laura director—Austrian-born Otto Preminger—for this entrancing noir. Tierney plays the brooch-snatching wife of famous psychiatrist Richard Conte from whom she keeps her kleptomania a secret. She is lured by astrologist-turned-hypnotist José Ferrer for a cure and slowly becomes ensnared in a sinister plot out of her control. This twisty thriller from one of classic Hollywood’s most boundary-pushing producer-directors is also an incisive look at the mental and emotional toll of modern life. Director: Otto Preminger. Cast: Gene Tierney, Richard Conte, José Ferrer, Charles Bickford. 1950. 97 min. USA. B&W. English. 35mm.
Sunset Blvd. Mon, Jan 31 | 7:30pm | TMT Classic 1950s Hollywood crashes headfirst into the wreckage of silent cinema in this witty, haunting, and pitiless look at the perils of stardom. Gloria Swanson made herself a legend all over again in her Oscar-nominated role as the unforgettable Norma Desmond, William Holden (also nominated) is the perfectly charming and cynical hack writer Joe Gillis, and Austrian director Erich von Stroheim plays the heartbroken butler. Arguably the crowning achievement of producer-director-screenwriter Billy Wilder’s career, the film features an unsettling, Oscar-winning score by Franz Waxman, won Best Art Direction and Best Story and Screenplay, and was nominated for a total of 11 Academy Awards. Director: Billy Wilder. Cast: William Holden, Gloria Swanson, Erich von Stroheim, Nancy Olson. 1950. 110 min. USA. B&W. English. 35mm.
For high-resolution images and an electronic press kit, please visit academymuseum.org/press.
Images: (in order from left to right) Billy Wilder, Courtesy of Margaret Herrick Library, Paramount Pictures photographs collection, Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences; Vicky Baum, Courtesy of the Margaret Herrick Library, Core Collection, Biography files, Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences; Max Steiner, circa 1932, Courtesy of the Margaret Herrick Library, Core Collection, Biography Files, Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Photo: Fred Hendrickson ; Hedy Lamarr, Courtesy of the Margaret Herrick Library, Core Collection, Production files, Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
ABOUT THE ACADEMY MUSEUM The Academy Museum is the largest museum in the United States devoted to the arts, sciences, and artists of moviemaking. The museum advances the understanding, celebration, and preservation of cinema through inclusive and accessible exhibitions, screenings, programs, initiatives, and collections. Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Renzo Piano and Renzo Piano Building Workshop in collaboration with Gensler as executive architect, the museum’s campus contains the restored and revitalized historic Saban Building—formerly known as the May Company building (1939)—and a soaring spherical addition. Together, these buildings contain 50,000 square feet of exhibition spaces, two state-of-the-art theaters, an education studio, restaurant, retail store, and beautiful public spaces
Los Angeles, Calif. – Visiting Disneyland Resort in person is an excellent way for the young and old to see a fun, magical world and forget about day-to-day routines. However, physically going to the theme park may not always be feasible.
Fortunately, enjoying the magic of Disney can also be done from the comfort of your own home by using the Disney+ (Disney Plus) streaming service, and it only takes one or two hours to savor. Watching it independently or with family members is an excellent choice when interested in discovering some of Hollywood’s most significant works. Viewing shows and movies created by studios in the area can be done conveniently and comfortably using Disney Plus.
What Does Disney Plus Offer?
Getting your family together to watch a Hollywood movie is an excellent way to relax and watch quality content. Using the Disney Plus streaming service allows you to view some of the best flicks and TV shows LA-based movie studios have to offer, and it’s highly affordable. Monthly plans are available at $7.99 per month, and annual plans are offered at $79.99 per year.
One of the advantages of using Disney Plus is its ad-free content. There is also no contract or cable to contend with, and cancellation is allowed at any time. With over 7500 TV episodes and 500 movies available in the on-demand content library, one or more family members should find several suitable choices to watch.
Shows and Movies Available on Disney Plus
Choosing to use Disney Plus allows a family to view content from several different genres available from an extensive library of television episodes and movies. Several shows from LA-based movie studios, such as Hollywood Pictures, Searchlight Pictures, Touchstone Pictures and 20th Century Fox are available for viewing. These Walt Disney Studio subsidiaries and affiliates offer an excellent balance with other great content from notable video entertainment providers like HBO, SHOWTIME, and STARZ.
Using Disney Plus to Stream Content
Using the Disney streaming service is an enjoyable experience, which isn’t surprising considering the time and effort the Disney brand spends on making its products meet a specific user experience. Finding content to watch meeting a user’s expectations can typically be done quickly. Navigating the Disney Plus dashboard can be completed quickly and efficiently using several of the features offered.
Finding a Movie or Show to Watch
Disney Plus offers several different methods to discover fun and exciting shows or movies to watch. One of the first choices is usually to search directly by utilizing the search bar. Using one of the service’s curated lists is also an efficient way to find something to watch, based on the person’s interest, past use, current popularity with other viewers or specific trends. Browsing can be completed by using some of the following criteria:
– Curated List
– Internet Movie Database (IMDB) top-rated content
– Trending
– Emmy Nominees
– Genre
– Channel
Having Fun Watching Disney Plus With Family and Friends
Watching a movie or TV show with family members and friends who may be on the outskirts of LA or farther away may not always be possible to complete in person. Sharing reactions when watching a show is sometimes more enjoyable than the show itself. Utilizing the Disney Plus streaming service allows family and friends who are far apart to get together virtually with a feature known as GroupWatch, allowing everyone to watch through the app together as a group. Stream syncing is available to let everyone join in on the fun. The feature provides space for seven individuals, including a host and as many as four profiles on a single account.
Creating a Watchlist
Whenever a person finds a movie or shows they want to watch but can’t do it immediately, they can place it on their watchlist. Finding the watchlist can be done quickly as it is one of the first lists to pop up on the Disney Plus dashboard, making it easy and efficient to find content appropriate for watching. Clicking on the “+” is all that’s needed to add a show to the list.
Providing Kids Profiles
While Disney Plus has access to several LA-based studios offering movies for adults and children, it also provides several age-appropriate options for children to view. Sectioning off the shows that are more suitable for younger viewers can be done by creating a kids profile. Taking this action is simple as it only involves creating a new profile and switching the option to kids. Doing so limits the content to the following ratings:
– G
– TV-G
– TV-Y
– TV-Y7/Y7-FV
Premier Access and Several Compatible Devices
Disney Plus users can also watch the latest releases from LA-based studios via the Premier Access feature. Paying $29.99 per movie enables subscribers to watch the latest releases before they become available to standard subscribers of the Disney Plus streaming service.
Watching Disney Plus can be completed on several types of devices as the service is highly supported. Making a batch of popcorn and enjoying the latest movie with family and friends from the comfort of home is an excellent way to use this convenient streaming service.
Los Angeles, Calif. — The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has voted 17 students as winners of the 48th Student Academy Awards® competition. The Gold, Silver and Bronze Medal awards in the seven award categories will be presented by Oscar®-winning filmmaker and 1992 Student Academy Award® winner Pete Docter, Oscar-nominated filmmaker Asghar Farhadi, and filmmakers Marielle Heller and Nanfu Wang in a virtual program highlighting the winners and their films on Thursday, October 21.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has voted 17 students as winners of the 48th Student Academy Awards® competition.
This year, the Student Academy Awards competition received a total of 1,404 submissions from 210 domestic and 126 international colleges and universities. The 2021 winners join the ranks of such past Student Academy Award winners as Patricia Cardoso, Cary Fukunaga, Spike Lee, Patricia Riggen and Robert Zemeckis. Hosted by Amandla Stenberg, the 2021 ceremony is now available to view here.
The 2021 Student Academy Award medalists are:
Alternative/Experimental (Domestic and International Film Schools) Gold: “Frozen Out,” Hao Zhou, University of Iowa
Animation (Domestic Film Schools) Gold: “Unforgotten,” Sujin Kim, California Institute of the Arts Silver: “Barking Orders,” Alexander Tullo, Ringling College of Art & Design Bronze: “Slumber with Snakes,” Teagan Barrone, Cleveland Institute of Art
Animation (International Film Schools) Gold: “Les Chaussures de Louis,” Théo Jamin, Kayu Leung and Marion Philippe, MoPA (France)
Documentary (Domestic Film Schools) Gold: “When They’re Gone,” Kristen Hwang, University of California, Berkeley Silver: “Eagles Rest in Liangshan,” Bohao Liu, New York University Bronze: “Not Just a Name,” De’Onna Young-Stephens, University of Southern California
Documentary (International Film Schools) Gold: “Why Didn’t You Stay for Me?,” Milou Gevers, Nederlandse Filmacademie (The Netherlands)
Narrative (Domestic Film Schools) Gold: “When the Sun Sets,” Phumi Morare, Chapman University Silver: “Close Ties to Home Country,” Akanksha Cruczynski, Columbia College Chicago Bronze: “No Law, No Heaven,” Kristi Hoi, University of California, Los Angeles
Narrative (International Film Schools) Gold: “Tala’vision,” Murad Abu Eisheh, Filmakademie Baden-Württemberg (Germany) Silver: “Adisa,” Simon Denda, Hochschule für Fernsehen und Film München (Germany) Bronze: “Bad Omen,” Salar Pashtoonyar, York University (Canada)
First-time honors go to the University of Iowa and Cleveland Institute of Art.
All Student Academy Award-winning films are eligible to compete for 2021 Oscars® in the Animated Short Film, Live Action Short Film or Documentary Short Subject category. Past winners have gone on to receive 65 Oscar nominations and have won or shared 14 awards.
The Student Academy Awards were established in 1972 to provide a platform for emerging global talent by creating opportunities within the industry to showcase their work.
ABOUT THE ACADEMY The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is a global community of more than 10,000 of the most accomplished artists, filmmakers and executives working in film. In addition to celebrating and recognizing excellence in filmmaking through the Oscars, the Academy supports a wide range of initiatives to promote the art and science of the movies, including public programming, educational outreach and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.
