Horror Movie

Indeed, where to start with Christopher Lee? is a question that deserves pondering, for even when completely ignoring Lees illustrious film career his personal life can be considered by most as extraordinary.

Descended from Italian aristocracy with a lineage that traces back to Charlemagne, even his childhood contained unbelievable encounters, including meeting the men who assassinated Rasputin. Early adulthood was mired by World War Two, in which he not only volunteered and enlisted to fight in both the Finnish and British armies, but even served as an Intelligence Officer in the British RAF it goes without saying that some state secrets were taken to his grave and his real-life adventures served as an inspiration for a well-known literary character invented by his step-cousin Ian Fleming (James Bond).

Finally knighted in 2009, his life in itself would make a terrific plot for a movie regardless of his prolific acting career. However, like the rest of his life, this in itself is beyond remarkable.

With a career spanning across 8 decades and 286 acting roles, there isnt another actor that could boast equal longevity and sustained popularity. He was in the game long enough to have made acquaintances with the authors whose creations he would go on to play, including Mervyn Peake and J. R. R. Tolkien, and would be a part of the major movie franchises of the 20th and 21st centuries from James Bond to Star Wars.

No other actor has had a comeback as comparably star-spangled and successful as his, hitting the big screen in the role of Saruman the White in Peter Jacksons beloved Lord of the Rings Trilogy. He is arguably the face of British Horror and the archetypal villain. So, where can one possibly start with this truly ginormous and legendary filmography?

For those who dare tread forward, presented to you now is a guide to Christopher Lees most iconic roles, best performances and most beloved films, to help you truly immerse yourself in the cult of Lee. This isWhere to Start with Christopher Lee.

Christopher Lees film career and walk towards fame truly started off in the features produced at Bray Studios that would come to be known as Hammer Horrors. His first big break was playing The Creature in Hammers version of the Mary Shelley tale The Curse of Frankenstein (1957), a part he earned by his towering 64.5 stature, and the fact that his agent asked for 2 less than his competitor, Bernard Bresslaw.

Lee wasnt initially thrilled by this role, complaining to co-star (and soon to be best friend) Peter Cushing, that he had no lines; however The Curse of Frankensteins box office success had single-handedly revived the horror franchise, making Hammer productions its powerhouse and Lee one of its stars.

It is not the Frankenstein franchise that rocketed Lee into stardom, however. Hammer soon tried their hand with adapting Bram Stokers famous novel, and it is in the role of Count Dracula that Lee earns the accolade as the undisputed face of British Horror.

For all those who ventured out at Halloween as children with white faces, glow in the dark fangs and smeared fake blood, it is an homage to Lees Dracula we had unwittingly made as he was the first actor to portray Dracula with red blood dripping down his chin. Of course Bela Lugosis turn as the Transylvanian Count is nothing short of iconic, but Lees performance is arguably more synonymous with the image of Dracula as he is the first one to truly bring the bloodlust and animalistic edge to the screen persona, matching that of the character described in the original novel.

Lees performance in his first movie of the Hammer Dracula franchise is nothing short of tremendous with regards to characterisation: the Counts introduction is that of a unnervingly antiquated aristocrat, but of undeniable charm as he impresses an almost desperate courtesy onto his guest. All this is achieved in a mere handful of lines for after his welcoming of the ill-fated Jonathan Harker (John Van Eyssen) to his house, his next scene is the now iconic image of the red-eyed snarling Dracula, berating one of his brides, blood still staining his teeth.

Lee is mute for the rest of the film, save a few growls and grunts, but it is this beast-like predatorial version of the Count that has remained so memorable in this history of horror. It is through Lees facial expressions that we are convinced that Dracula is an unforgivably malignant and vile creature, and that more importantly he delights in his depravity. His eyes shine with delight as a huge grin spreads over his face when he realises he has the chance to convert his foes to vampirism; such as when the sun finally sets before Harker can stake him, and when Van Helsing (Peter Cushing) succumbs to being strangled, giving Dracula a brief chance to sink his teeth into his arch nemesis neck.

Draculas paradoxical existence of charming Count and demonic monster is best represented by his interactions with his female victims. As Lucy (Carol Marsh) and Mina (Melissa Stribling) are preyed upon, they wait for his night-time attacks with literal bated breath upon their beds in a show of unmistakable and exquisite sexual anticipation. Lees Dracula approaches these women like a tiger, quietly prowling forward, his focus unwavering. His pounce upon them is like an act of foreplay; with Mina he deeply inhales her scent with obvious pleasure as he drags his parted lips over her face before sinking onto the bed with her. Lees passion in this performance risked this scene being cut from the film altogether.

The ferocity and lust of Lees Dracula is seen throughout most of the Hammer Dracula series, but the suggestion to start with the first one (the so-called Horror of Dracula in the US) is because it is the first collaboration of Christopher Lee with long-time friend and fellow star Peter Cushing, in the opposing roles of Dracula and Van Helsing, and their on-screen chemistry is electric.

The two distinct actors friendship often bled into their on-screen roles as they made a captivating pair: their shared screen time in The Horror of Dracula is very brief but is easily the highlight of the film, as naturally it contains a patented Cushing and Lee fight scene. Being from 1958, the fight lacks the choreography of modern movies, but what the pair lack in martial arts training they make up with dedication to their roles and sheer energy. Their near clumsy grapple with each other elicits a sense of anxiety as their desperation shows that both the Count and the Vampire Hunter know that to lose means certain death.

Recommended for you: Where to Start with the Cinema of Peter Cushing

Entering prominence and international stardom through his work in the Hammer Horror movies, type-casting was an issue Lee struggled with throughout his career; his intimidating stature and baritone voice alone would have him continually pegged as the villain or monster. Although this villainous reputation would lend itself to the revival of his stardom in his twilight years, it was a more legitimate frustration earlier in his career. Hence The Devil Rides Out represents an interesting point in Lees filmography and the history of Hammer Horrors itself.

By 1968, Lee was undisputedly one of Hammers biggest stars and was regularly being poached by alternative Horror productions such as Amicus; Lee was now able to wield far more influence upon the producers than what he could 10 years prior. The Devil Rides Out came about by Lees suggestion for Hammer to adapt the works of the author Dennis Wheatley, whose fantasy-adventure novels would often involve the occult and black magic. The result is a film often considered to be the pinnacle of Hammers output and Lees own personal favourite Hammer Horror. No wonder really, for Lee was able to break his type-casting by playing one of the heroes, the Duc de Richleau.

The so-called Duke arrives on the scene for a planned reunion with his close friends, but suspicion is aroused when only Rex Van Ryn (Leon Greene) turns up and not their young companion, Simon Aron (Patrick Mower). A curious investigation at Simons house (who seems to be having a party without his friends) reveals the bombshell that Simon has taken up black magic and is about to be initiated into a Satanic cult. Despite de Richleaus abject horror and outrage, Rex is sceptical until he witnesses and rescues Simon (and fellow postulate Tanith played by Nike Arrighi, who he conveniently falls in love with) from a Black Sabbat. The group run for sanctuary from their fellow musketeers, Richard Eatons (Paul Eddingtons) house, but are pursued by the devil-worshippers leader, Mocata (Charles Gray), furious that his initiates have been stolen from his grasp. After a failed hypnotic attempt to retrieve them, Mocata resorts to powerful black magic to assault the group and claim their souls.

Through the years of terrifying devil-focused cinema including the like of The Exorcistand The Omen, to an extent the topic of Satanism has been trivialised for audiences, resulting in the likes of The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and Ash vs The Evil Dead, so its definitely a curiosity to see a film that so wholeheartedly believes in the rituals portrayed within.

Lee states that the occult-themed Wheatley novels would be prefaced with the warning that black magic was real and was in fact highly dangerous: Dont think it doesnt exist. And, whatever you do, dont get involved. Indeed a warning that impressed upon the religious Lee so much that he took it into his own personal living philosophy. In fact, the whole production team were suitably spooked by the source material Lees influence over the movie continued due to the crews fears of doing any serious research into the portrayed witchcraft, resulting in Lee himself conducting most of the research, trawling through material in libraries to compose the spells and incantations the Duc de Richleau uses.

Christopher Lees hands-on approach in The Devil Rides Out results in one of his more larger than life performances, easily as memorable as his turns as a villain. Despite indulging in some unmistakeable scenery chewing (You fool! You damn fool!) and dialogue shamelessly used as a vehicle for needed black magic exposition, le Duc de Richleau is definitely a man youd have on your side: knowledgeable, resourceful and authoritative, with the wisdom to protect his friends from devilish trickery and the bravery to fight off a giant tarantula. Lees solemn performance, fuelled by a genuine wariness of the dark forces, takes easily the most ridiculous scenes and turns them into gripping moments of horror.

Before me, Raphael; Behind me, Gabriel.

Although our love for Lees villain roles comes from a place of genuine appreciation for his talents, The Devil Rides Out is a genuinely refreshing entry into his filmography as it finally proves his diversity as an actor, flourishing within the classic Hammer mentor role. Hopefully Lee relished in the success of this film and the influence he had over it, receiving the highest praise possible for any adaption: the author, Dennis Wheatley, was incredibly happy with the movie.

It is undeniable that Christopher Lee owes much of his fame and success to Hammer Productions, but this association was a double-edged sword as Lee did find himself on the receiving end of type-casting, leading to a dry spell of roles alongside the eventual decline of British Horror in the 1970s. However, it is thanks to this association that Lee got a role in a film that was part of Britains last horror hurrah within the genre considered folk horror. Oddly ironic, as The Wicker Man turned out to be an almost antithesis to the normal Hammer output.

Beloved as they are, classic Hammer Horrors have undeniably aged. There is no argument about their entertainment value, but any hardcore fan may struggle to convince casual viewers that these films are serious horrors with the capability to frighten modern audiences. For most, they will be seen as previous milestones in horror history, now fondly remembered and enjoyed for their camp quality. However, the same cannot be said for The Wicker Man. Nearly five decades on this film still holds the power to make the blood run cold through its creepiness alone, and continues to be an impactful watch.

The plot of The Wicker Man is focused on Sergeant Howie (Edward Woodward), a police officer from the Scottish mainland who has come to the far-off British island of Summerisle to investigate the anonymously submitted case of a missing child. It doesnt take long for the unease to set in during the beginning of his investigation as the odd behaviour of the islanders strays upon the outright unnerving.

The islanders flat-out deny the existence of the missing girl Rowan Morrison even though it quickly becomes obvious the girl was a citizen of the community; her own mother seems to be in on the act and even after her lies are exposed, she remains completely unfazed at her daughters potential peril. When Howie finds a place to stay for the night (as the answers he needs are not forthcoming), this curious behaviour accumulates as the apparent moral corruption of the entire island. As the innkeeper (Lindsay Kemp) directs his daughter, Willow (Britt Ekland), to show our hero to his room, the entire pub bursts into song paying homage to the womans easiness.

But I sing of the baggage that we all adore, the Landlords daughter.

The assault upon Howies strict Christian sensibilities doesnt stop there. In an attempt to quell his disgust by taking in the night air, he is met with the sight of countless couples partaking in an orgy on the village green.

50 years on, you would expect the film to have lost some of its impact: after all the struggle of sexual liberation has made leaps and bounds since the films release and, likewise, within this globalised and multi-cultural society the doctrines of Christianity hold less importance to many potential audiences (or are completely irrelevant to them). However, the depicted paganism in The Wicker Man not only defies logic and scientific truth, it seems to be in total rejection of human decency. The most liberal of individuals would still struggle not to be shocked by the portrayal of children being taught the veneration of the image of the human penis. Even those of the post-truth persuasion would struggle to reconcile the medieval practices to their alternative worldview, particularly the heinous concept of human sacrifice.

It is Christopher Lees performance as Lord Summerisle, the ultimate authority on the island, that is integral to the outrage caused by The Wicker Man, the Lord being one of the most complex villains Lee ever portrayed. He is chilling but not maniacal, one of the British nobility but utterly left-field, a pagan but also a man of science.

Lord Summerisle explains his rule over the island to Howie via the story of his grandfather: the Victorian entrepreneur brought prosperity to the previously miserable sheep-farming community by persuading the islanders to grow and harvest his newly bred varieties of fruit that could withstand the harsh Scottish climate. The initial work before the harvest was difficult, so the islanders were placated by encouraging worship to the old Gods to ensure a good harvest. The hugely successful harvest led to an enthusiastic conversion of the entire community, causing the last Christian Ministers to flee from the island. Thus, the Summerilse family line continued in the practice of paganism, leading to the enigma that is Lees Lord Summerisle and his clouded motivations.

The nobleman is clearly very aware that the islands previously bountiful harvests are the result of his Grandfathers scientific research and development (whilst possibly the rest of the island are left in the dark) and so must suspect the solution to the current failed harvest would lie in further scientific endeavour. So, does he believe in the ancient doctrines of the old gods or is this all manipulation and deception for his own personal gain? The films devastating climax proves he is capable of enormous manipulation and even murder, but throughout the film he is seen to be personally delighting in the islands religious practices whilst harbouring disgust towards Christianity, readily pointing out Howies religious hypocrisies:

I think I could turn and live with animals. They are so placid and self-contained. They do not lie awake in the dark and weep for their sins.

Thus is the enigmatic nature of Lord Summerisle that leads to much of the films horror. Is he a dutiful community leader doing what he must do as dictated by his hugely misguided faith to save his island from disaster, regardless of the cost? Or is he a greedy tyrant that struggles to survive through manipulation, who would easily use children and innocent men as human shields to save himself from the violent and lustful mob of his own creation, furious over their destitution? Either conclusion is truly terrifying, and it is through the sheer talent of Christopher Lee and his masterful performance that the true nature of Lord Summerisle remains a mystery.

Recommended for you: Where to Start with Universal Classic Monsters

To conclude, The Wicker Mans Lord Summerisle is another Christopher Lee villain that will be immortalised by the eternal praises of movie fans long into the future. A blessing or a curse, Lees type-casting was bestowed upon him because no one elses villains could so effectively steal a scene (or rather a whole film) in such unmissable performances.

I'm a massive nerd for movies and especially sci-fi, as I enjoy a good existential crisis when leaving the cinema. I have great a great adoration for the classics as I'm a bit pretentious (silent and black & white for the win).

Read the original here:
Where to Start with Christopher Lee - The Film Magazine

Girls talk, baking a wedding cake and visiting a traditional banquet venue Rebecca Lim had invited her idol, local actress Fann Wong, for all of these and more on her new show With Love, Becks.

In the series, Rebecca who is currently engaged herself invites six married female celebrities to discuss marriage, relationships and life in general. Other guests include Xiang Yun, Zoe Tay, Jesseca Liu, Annette Lee and Minister of State Sun Xueling.

But, much like married life itself, two is better than one, so Fanns husband, actor Christopher Lee, crashed the set.

Almost spitting out her drink in shock, Rebecca, 36, wondered if Christopher had come to visit Fann during lunch.

Ive come to give you a surprise! Christopher, 51, told her, adding to the audience that he would be asking her three questions. This show is about you getting married, how could I not be involved?

Rebecca, flustered, replied: Im a little starstruck seeing the two of you in front of me right now.

She added: To have two of your idols appear in front of you and chat with you like friends, I found it quite unbelievable.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CjxU_w5pc09

However, the awe was short-lived as Christopher started ribbing Rebecca right off the bat.

Were you desperate to get proposed to? he asked.

When Rebecca denied it, Fann, also 51, cut in, joking: Dont lie to us!

For a short while, seriousness resumed, as Rebecca said that she had wanted to date with the intention of getting married when she met her fiance Matthew Webster, so the prospect of marriage was discussed in advance.

She added: On some dates, when we were at a nice restaurant, Id jokingly say, Dont tell me youre going to propose now.

Christopher didnt wait a beat to absolutely roast her: Thats why I said she was desperate!

Rebecca also wanted to know why she wasnt invited to Fann and Christophers wedding in 2009, when she claimed the whole of Mediacorp was there.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CjxiEWJv9P3/

Unwittingly to her, she walked right into Christophers trap and became the butt of another joke.

There were people [at Mediacorp] I didnt like so they werent invited, he said. You must have been one of them.

In reality, it was because Fann and Christopher didnt know Rebecca well enough back then. Rebecca made her showbiz debut in 2006.

There was serious relationship talk too, of course, but never without an undercurrent of humour among the three of them.

Rebecca asked the couple: Must couples always have common interests?

[[nid:595333]]

Christopher denied the importance, while Fann added: You dont need common interests but you need common topics.

She added: There are some things the two of us can only share with each other.

If I cant talk about something outside, must I also keep mum at home? Christopher said. I must share it with my wife to feel better.

He agreed that such gossip between couples is an important part of any relationship, while Rebecca agreed that her own relationship with Matthew is similar.

She also said that, if she were ever to leave showbiz in the future to focus on her family, she would create a show first to talk about all the gossip I discuss at home!

Christopher, thrilled, demanded a draft contract be written up for such a show immediately.

drimac@asiaone.com

No part of this article can be reproduced without permission from AsiaOne.

More:
'Were you desperate to get proposed to?' Christopher Lee crashes Rebecca Lim's new show and roasts her while dishing out relationship advice - AsiaOne

With a hoard of fans spanning across the world, the work of American filmmaker Tim Burton has always been spiked with remarkable individuality. A lover of gothic styles inspired by early filmmakers such as Fritz Lang and Robert Wiene, Burton has demonstrated that he is a master of visual storytelling, holding the ability to magnetise almost any actor in Hollywood after having worked with the likes of Ewan McGregor, Johnny Depp, Colin Farrell, Danny DeVito and more.

While many consider him a contemporary filmmaker, Burton rose to success in the late 1980s when he released back-to-back cult classics,Beetlejuicein 1988 and the impressive comic-book adaptation ofBatmanin 1989. Setting new standards for comic-book filmmaking in the twilight of the 20th century, the directors camp and gothic take on the iconic superhero laid the groundwork for countless genre movies to come.

Further success followed Burton through the 1990s after releasingEdward Scissorhands,Ed Wood,Sleepy HollowandMars Attacks, subsequently making a name for himself as one of Hollywoods most distinctive voices. These days, the director helms projects for the big and small screen, most recently working with Disney for the live-action remake ofDumbo, withThe Addams Familyprequel seriesWednesdayalso due to hit Netflix later in 2022.

Having long been a horror fan, Burton revealed two of his favourites of the genre in a 2010 interview withRotten Tomatoes, naming one well-known classic and another more obscure pick.

The more left-field choice comes in the form of the 1970s flickDracula A.D. 1972by director Alan Gibson, a film that follows a group of people who manage to resurrect the titular monster, only to quickly regret their foolish decision. Starring Christopher Lee, Peter Cushing, Janet Key and Stephanie Beacham, the film is considered something of a cult classic, especially after having recieved a poor critical reception at the time.

Speaking about the 1972 horror, Burton states: Seeing that movie is one of the reasons I wanted to move to London, because its quite swinging its like this weird mixture of a Hammer horror film and swinging London. Speaking about his relationship with Lee, who died in 2015, Burton added: Ive gotten to know Christopher Lee over the years and I know that he would not say that this was one of his favourite filmsBut I enjoy mistakes sometimes.

Burtons first choice is pretty obscure, but his second pick deserves no such criticism, opting for the Robin Hardy horrorThe Wicker Man, also starring Christopher Lee. Its like a weird musical. That is actually one of Christophers favourite movies that he did, unlike the last one, Burton states about the iconic folk tale that tells the story of a policeman who travels to a remote Scottish island to investigate the disappearance of a young girl.

Continuing his praise for the film, Burton adds, It was not a very successful movie when it came out, but its really quite a hypnotic and amazing film I think. Its like a weird dream.

Take a look at the trailer for the classic horror movie, which was disastrously remade in 2006 with Nicolas Cage, below.

Most popular

Go here to read the rest:
Tim Burton names his five favourite horror movies of all time - Far Out Magazine

EXCLUSIVE: Almost 50 years after the release of Robin Hardys horror classic, Andy Serkis and Jonathan Cavendishs The Imaginarium and Studiocanal-backed Urban Myth Films are turning The Wicker Man into a TV series.

BAFTA-winning Misfits and War of the Worlds writer Howard Overman has penned the script and Urban Myth and The Imaginarium have acquired the rights from Studiocanal. They are in the early stages of pitching to potential broadcasters, Deadline can reveal.

Originally starring Edward Woodward and Christopher Lee, Hardys original has become a cult horror classic. It follows Police Sergeant Neil Howle, who journeys by seaplane to the remote Hebridean Island of Summerisle to investigate the disappearance of a young girl. The devout Christian is dismayed to find the Islanders paying homage to the pagan Celtic gods of their ancestors and all hell breaks loose, ending in tragedy.

Having been remade for the big screen in 2006 for a feature starring Nicholas Cage, talk of a reimagining of the 1973 classic for TV has been going on for some time. Its a Sin producer Red Production Company had been examining the possibility after it was acquired by French powerhouse Studiocanal in 2014.

Overman said the TV adaptation will differ from the original but explore the same themes of sacrifice, superstition and ritual that were at its core.

The Imaginarium Co-Founder Cavendish said Overman has created a bold, shocking and unique series, pulling the themes and terrifying power of the original Wicker Man into a thrilling modern setting, while Urban Myth exec Johnny Capps called the show a fantastic collaboration.

Lord of the Rings star Serkis and Bridget Jones producer Cavendishs Imaginarium is currently in post production on Taika Waititi-directed soccer comedy-drama Next Goal Wins starring Michael Fassbender, while the companys Netflix YA series The Bastard Son & The Devil Himself will drop on the streamer later this month.

Studiocanal-backed Urban Myths third season of Overmans War of the Worlds recently dropped on Canal+ in France and Disney+ in the UK and the outfit is in production on a second season of Skys Lazarus Project.

Originally posted here:
The Wicker Man TV Series In Development With Andy Serkis The Imaginarium And Studiocanal-Backed Urban Myth - Deadline

As the seven members of South Korean pop sensation BTS prepare to start their mandatory military service, they are following in the footsteps of many other celebrities who have served their countries.

From acclaimed The Lord of the Rings and Star Wars actor Christopher Lees Second World War service to Song Joong-kis reconnaissance missions, here are 10 famous people who have earned their stripes

Before he found fame as Hannahs boyfriend Adam Sackler in the TV show Girls, Adam Driver spent two and a half years in the US military.

The Oscar-nominated star was inspired to join up at the age of 18 after witnessing the September 11, 2001 attacks on the Twin Towers in New York.

Joining the US Marine Corps, the Star Wars actor served as an 81mm mortarman assigned to the weapons platoon with 1st Battalion, 1st Marines at Camp Pendleton, California.

Before he was scheduled to be sent to Iraq and Afghanistan, the actor was injured in a car accident which forced him to leave the military. He later said, Being told I wasnt going to deploy was very devastating.

Indian actor Bikramjeet Kanwarpal is the son of Indian Army officer Lt Col Dwarka Nath Kanwarpal, who was a recipient of the Kirti Chakra, awarded for valour, courageous action or self-sacrifice away from the field of battle.

Bikramjeet joined the army in 1989 and retired in 2002, having achieved the rank of Major.

The following year, he made his Bollywood debut, going on to star in movies such as Grand Masti and Drive and opposite Anil Kapoor in the series 24.

After completing his training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, Prince Harry was promoted to the rank of lieutenant in 2008.

As he was considered a high-value target, the prince deployed to Afghanistan in 2007 amid a media blackout and served 10 weeks in the Helmand Province before German newspaper Bild and Australian magazine New Idea published information on his location, causing him to be withdrawn.

He returned in 2012, on a four-month combat tour as a co-pilot and gunner for an Apache helicopter.

The happiest times in my life was the 10 years in the army. Without question," he later told Parade.

Before he carved a long and lucrative career playing some of cinemas most terrifying and ghoulish characters, British actor Christopher Lee, 93, was a military man.

Even before Second World War broke out, Lee had already been fighting with the Finnish Army, before joining the British Royal Air Force.

The Lord of the Rings actor served in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Egypt and Libya during his career, although optic nerve damage prevented him from flying.

Becoming fluent in French, German and Italian, in his final months of service Lee worked with the Central Registry of War Criminals and Security Suspects tracking down Nazi war criminals.

The popular South Korean actor made his acting debut in 2008s A Frozen Flower, going on to star in many movies and TV shows, including 2012s award-winning A Werewolf Boy.

Joong-ki, 37, enlisted for his mandatory military service in 2013 at the 102nd draft camp in Chuncheon, serving in an infantry unit assigned to patrol and conduct reconnaissance missions along the DMZ.

Following his discharge in May 2015, he made his comeback in the hit drama Descendants of the Sun, in which he played a military officer.

Living as a soldier made me more mature and I was able to gain valuable lifes experience, he said.

The rapper and actor, whose real name is Tracy Lauren Marrow, joined the US Army in October 1977 at the age of 19.

Following basic training, he was assigned to the 25th Infantry Division, before going AWOL for a month while awaiting trial for the theft of a rug.

Marrow, 64, was later stationed in Hawaii where he began to get interested in rap music. He was honourably discharged in December 1979 after serving two years.

Oscar-winning actor James Stewart remains the highest-ranking actor in military history, achieving the rank of Brigadier General. Photo: US Air Force

Its a Wonderful Life actor and Oscar-winner James Stewart remains the highest-ranking actor in military history thanks to his involvement in the liberation of France during Second World War.

The amateur pilot joined the US Army when the country entered the war in 1941 and was sent to England to serve as the commanding officer of the 703rd Bomb Squadron.

Stewart went on to fly 20 dangerous combat missions in a bomber aircraft and was awarded two Distinguished Flying Cross medals and the French honour of the Croix de Guerre.

He served for 27 years, including missions in the Vietnam War.

The actor and model made his acting debut in South Korean TV series Prosecutor Princess in 2010 before his breakout role in the hit drama Secret Garden.

He would go on to win awards for his roles in Doctor Stranger and Pinocchio.

Jong-suk, 33, took a break from his career to complete his mandatory military service in 2019. However, injuries he sustained during a car accident when he was 16 meant he was unfit for active duty, so he instead worked as a public service officer.

He was discharged on January 2, 2021.

'The Hangover' actor captioned this Facebook post: '1st Lt. Rob Riggle on his way to Liberia circa '96. Refuelling at sea.' Photo: @Rob Riggle / Facebook

Long before he launched his comedy career in movies such as The Hangover, Step Brothers and The War with Grandpa, Riggle was a decorated US Marine.

Joining in 1990 after getting his pilots licence, he set his sights on becoming a naval aviator.

After serving nine years of active duty he left to pursue his comedy career, switching to the United States Marine Corps Reserve and serving in Liberia, Kosovo, Albania and Afghanistan.

He was awarded the Combat Action Ribbon for his tour of Kosovo and retired in January 2013 after serving 23 years.

People in show business rarely say what they're really thinking, he told Marine Mag. Marines usually shoot straight with you.

The Oscar and Golden Globe-winning actor enlisted in the US Air Force straight out of high school in 1955.

Turning down a scholarship to Jackson State University to study drama, Freeman wanted to pursue his love of flying and trained to be an automatic tracking radar repairman.

However, the Seven actors dream of becoming a pilot was dealt a blow when he began his training and realised it wasn't what he thought it would be.

"When I was getting close to being accepted for pilot training, I was allowed to get in a jet airplane," he told AARP The Magazine. I sat there looking at all those switches and dials, and I got the distinct feeling that I was sitting in the nose of a bomb. You are not in love with this; you are in love with the idea of this.

After four years in the Air Force, he was honourably discharged as an airman first class in 1959.

Actor Brad Pitt, right, and musician Nick Cave, left, with British artist Thomas Houseago at the opening of the exhibition 'Thomas Houseago - WE with Nick Cave and Brad Bitt' where Pitt debuted nine sculptures and Cave showed 17 glazed ceramics. AFP

Updated: October 18, 2022, 12:30 PM

See the rest here:
Ten celebrities who served in the military, from Adam Driver to Prince Harry - The National

These fellas are bona fide genre film royalty.

Although the term scream queen rolls off the tongue a little easier, there are plenty of talented fellas working in the genre space. Some of them are so prolific and so talented as to bear the distinction of being called a scream king.

What is a scream king, you ask? A scream king is an actor that doesnt merely work in genre cinema on occasion or by chance but a fella that does so deliberately and proudly embraces his horror credentials. Scream kings may branch out and work in other areas but gentlemen of this ilk always find their way back to the horror space when the right project comes along.

Now that were all on the same page regarding the terminology, I invite you to read on for 13 actors that have earned the right to call themselves scream kings.

To open the gates to departed thespians would have more than doubled the entries on this already lengthy list. So, please know I didnt forget Peter Cushing, Christopher Lee, Bela Lugosi, or any of their contemporaries. There simply wasnt room to give credit to all the greats in a single list.

Not only did Bruce Campbell famously star inThe Evil Deadtrilogy (even emerging as a final fella in all three chapters) he has also made a number of memorable turns in a multitude of genre pictures over the years. A few especially noteworthy outings include Campbell playing a fictionalized version of himself inMy Name is Bruce, portraying an elderly Elvis Presley inBubba Ho-Tep,and who could forget aboutManiac Cop? I could keep going. But the beloved actor is well known enough that I dont really need to sell you on his distinction as a scream king.

Tony Todd made such an impact on horror fans via the Candyman series that many genre film enthusiasts didnt think they could bear to see anyone else tackle the role when Nia DaCosta resurrected the franchise. But Todd is notjustthe Candyman. He has also recurred as William Bludworth in theFinal Destinationfilms. Oh, and did I mention Todd also features in more than one installment of theHatchet franchise? And there was his turn as Ben in Tom Savinis Night of the Living Dead remake. And the list goes on. Very impressive, indeed.

Although his name may not be all that well known, Lochlyn Munros face certainly is.This character actor has been appearing in the genre space for decades and his horror credentials are quite impressive. Munros film appearances includeFreddy vs. Jason,Margaux, Dracula 2000, Scary Movie, Needful Things, Trancers 4: Jack of Swords,and more.And thats to say nothing of his TV credits, which include seven episodes of the originalCharmedseries, a guest appearance on the USA NetworksThe Dead Zone,and two guest spots onThe Outer Limits.

Thanks to my friend Will for making sure I didnt leave this prolific scream king off this list!

Brad Dourif is an Oscar-nominated actor with the ability to slip into different roles like a chameleon. But he is gracious enough to keep returning to the horror space time and again. His genre efforts includeEyes of Laura Mars,The Exorcist III,Chain Letter,Urban Legend, and, of course, theChilds Playfranchise. What a guy and what an impressive CV he has.

Aside from appearing in everyPhantasmfilm to date, Reggie Bannister also starred inBloody Bloody Bible Camp,Wishmaster,Silent Night, Deadly Night 4: Initiation,andThe Mangler Reborn.The Reg-Man is a down-to-earth dude and has a real knack for playing an everyman type that rises to the occasion and turns heroic.

Bill Moseley has featured in a number of memorable horror roles. Among his most noteworthy turns are Chop-Top inThe Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2and Otis Driftwood in Rob Zombies Firefly trilogy. Additionally, Moseley appeared inSilent Night, Deadly Night 3: Better Watch Out,Tom SavinisNight of the Living Dead remake, andArmy of Darkness.And thats barely scratching the surface of this scream kings horror credentials.

Jeffrey Combs is a brilliant character actor with a versatility that allows him to step into each role in such a way that he is unrecognizable from one to the next. Combs impressiveresume includesRe-Animator,Dark House,Would You Rather,The Frighteners and so many more!

Lance Henriksen hasnt just made a handful of horror features. This dude has made a career out of starring in violent and fantastical genre fare. To date, this scream king has appeared inPumpkinhead,Near Dark, Aliens,Alien3,Alien vs. Predator, Scream 3, Mom & Dad,Mans Best Friend, The Pit and the Pendulum,and more. Henriksen has entered the living legend phase of his career and we are here for it.

In addition to being a funny, self-deprecating good time on social media, Devon Sawa also has an impressive amount of genre credits to his name. This scream king has starred inCasper, Idle Hands, Final Destination, Hunter Hunter, Black Friday, The Exorcism of Molly Hartley,andtheChuckyseries on SyFy. Whats more, Sawa made it to the end of bothIdle HandsandFinal Destination, making him not only a scream king but also a two-time final boy. Thats pretty impressive.

Robert Englund has portrayed Freddy Krueger in sevenNightmare on Elm Streetfilms, plusFreddy vs. Jason. That, in and of itself, qualifies this masterful thespian for inclusion on this list. But his genre cred doesnt stop there. He has also famously featured inWishmaster, Urban Legend, Strangeland,Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon,and many, many others.

Kane Hodder is in several of the least lovedFriday the 13thfilms of the franchise. Yet everyone holds him up as the gold standard for playing the Jason character. To break out as a fan favorite from four films that all have their fair share of detractors is really a testament to what an iconic talent Hodder is. Moreover, his impressive genre cred extends far beyond theFridayseries. Hodder has made a name for himself as a scream king by way of appearances in films likeWishmaster,theHatchetfranchise,Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon, Chillerama,and so many more!

Frequent John Carpenter collaborator Kurt Russell has dazzled genre film enthusiasts with many iconic turns in the horror genre and many more horror-adjacent projects. Amongst his most memorable appearances areEscape from New York, Escape from L.A., The Thing, Death Proof,Bone Tomahawk,andThe Hateful Eight.He brings a certain swagger and charisma to the roles he plays. And he is an undisputed scream king.

Tom Atkins is a bona fide badass with an unbelievable amount of killer turns in genre projects under his belt. Among his most noteworthy appearances areNight of the Creeps, Halloween III,Trick, Maniac Cop, The Fog, My Bloody Valentine 3D, Drive Angry,and Creepshow. I am content to keep watching Atkins kick onscreen ass for as long as hes willing to continue doing so.

If youd like to chat more about scream kings, feel free to hit me up on Twitter @FunWithHorror

More here:
These 13 Actors Have Earned the Right to be Called Scream Kings - Dread Central

David W. Smith, 67, of Elba, N.Y., passed away peacefully on Monday, Oct. 10, 2022, at Unity Hospital with his loving family at his side.

Born on July 15, 1955, in Medina, N.Y., he was the son of the late Earl Smith and Mary (Fred) Morrow.

David attended Albion School and on Aug. 21, 1976, he married the late Terry Green and together they raised three children. He was employed with O & E Growers in Elba, L-Brook Farms in Byron and lastly with OXBO International of Byron. He was a muscle and racecar enthusiast and was proud of his prize-winning 87 SS Monte Carlo. Since the age of 5, he was an avid coin collector. He was known for his bountiful vegetable gardens and even later on with a disability, made raised garden beds to continue his passion.

David is survived by three children, Jamie Lynn Smith of Chatsworth, Ga.; Lisa Marie (Sam) Fichera of Batavia; Christopher Lee Donnelly of Chatsworth, Ga.; five grandchildren, Season Dills, Shyanne Dills, Jeremy (Susie) Hall, Kyra Rhodes, Monica Avila; six great-grandchildren, Brailynn, Jayden, Damian, Nayla, Anthony, and Ian. Also surviving are three siblings, Paul (Charleen) Morrow of Batavia, Thomas Morrow and Jeff Morrow, both of Elba; and several nieces and nephews.

There are no calling hours. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family.

Memorials may be made in Davids name to the family or to the Elba Fire Department, 4 S. Main St,, Elba, NY 14058.

Arrangements were made to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St., Medina, NY 14103. Please light a candle or share a memory of David at: http://www.bogantuttlefunerals.com

Originally posted here:
David W. Smith | Obituaries | thedailynewsonline.com - The Daily News Online

Image Source: Christopher Polk/@polkimaging

Jennifer Hudson has been blessed with some extraordinary mentors in life. Like many of us, the first was her mom, who always told her: "Jennifer, all you can do is the best you can do." That guidance served Hudson well through the years, especially when she landed her Oscar-winning role of Effie in 2006's "Dreamgirls." "I remember when I was getting ready to shoot 'Dreamgirls' and record the 'And I Am Telling You' song, and I'm like, 'What is left for me to do to this song?'" Hudson tells POPSUGAR. "My mom said, 'All you can do is the best you can do.' And something as simple as that. It's been something to carry me throughout my life when I get in tough situations and can't figure out things."

As the EGOT-winning artist embarks on her latest role as host to her own daytime talk show, "The Jennifer Hudson Show," she's now rubbing shoulders with her mentors. Sheryl Lee Ralph, who originated the role of Deena in the 1981 Broadway production of "Dreamgirls," appeared on the Sept. 20 episode of "The Jennifer Hudson Show" and performed just a bit of "Dreamgirls" with Hudson, which Hudson says left her "fanning out" and "having a moment." "Sheryl Lee Ralph was a mentor to me, whether she knows it or not," Hudson says about the surreal moment. "She's the original Dreamgirl. So to be able to share that moment with her and have her on 'Jennifer Hudson Show' was, well, you guys got to witness it in real time!"

"I wanted to make her proud," Hudson adds. "Unconsciously, she's taught me so much. And to be able to catch up you want to be able to catch up to your mentors at some point in life . . . I would have never guessed that one day I would be able to have a moment like that with her."

Ralph wasn't the first original Dreamgirl Hudson has performed with, though. She performed with Jennifer Holliday, the original Effie, on multiple occasions following her turn as the character in the 2006 movie. "To be able to have another 'Dreamgirl' [mentor] was a dream."

These days, Hudson is paying forward all the mentorship she's received. She's partnered with Mastercard for its Strivers Initiative, which provides Black women small-business owners one-on-one mentorship sessions with celebrity entrepreneurs like Hudson and experts in their fields, as well as grants to help their businesses thrive. "I love being a mentor . . . that's the job of a mentor: to help steer somebody, be a reflection, be a support. I love that Mastercard is . . . giving women the support they need to pursue their goals and dreams. They even inspired me to say, 'Wow, well, what more can I do to see myself as a businesswoman?' I didn't necessarily see it that way. But it's like, yes, we have businesses . . . we have goals. And now we have support."

Image Source: Mastercard

Her best advice for businesswomen? "Know what your goals are, and don't settle . . . [Your business] is a representation of you. And it will be your legacy. Uphold it as such, and people will respect it in that way," she says.

Hudson isn't quite sure what her legacy will be, but at the very least, she wants to be remembered for leading with her heart. "I'm still living this life, so I'm busy doing it," she says with a laugh. "I haven't had much time to say, 'Huh, what do I want my legacy to be?' . . . I do want to look back at it as a mighty businesswoman that pursued her dreams and her goals and was fearless in doing so . . . but most of all, [that I] allowed my heart and passion to drive me to do it."

You can watch Hudson lead with the heart on "The Jennifer Hudson Show," which airs weekdays at 11 a.m. on Fox.

Originally posted here:
Jennifer Hudson Recounts "Fanning Out" Over Duet With Sheryl Lee Ralph: "I Wanted to Make Her Proud" - POPSUGAR