If It Makes You Happy...

What a day for babies here at the Pop Culture Institute!

The day started with news of Dezi James and ended with news of Wyatt Steven, who was recently adopted by none other than Sheryl Crow herself.

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Screened: "Thirty Day Princess" (1934)

Any qualms I may have had concerning the picture quality of "Thirty Day Princess" going into it were immediately dispelled as its credits began to roll.

Universal's film restorers are continuing to outdo themselves. This film couldn't have looked as good in its initial theatrical release as it does today on DVD. Despite a couple of obviously missing elements (which are nonetheless well-glossed over) both picture and sound here are peerless. There is a full-range of tones present, making the black-and-white photography look almost creamy.

The story is slight, a bit formulaic, but addresses the Depression (which is rare for a film of that era) and features a sprightly, nuanced performance by Sylvia Sidney and fine work both by Cary Grant and Edward Arnold, as a crusading newspaper editor and a plutocratic banker respectively. There's even a bit of split-screen, in which Nancy Lane and Princess Zizzi (both played by Sidney) get to play a scene together.

I'll never know why Sylvia Sidney wasn't a bigger star (in this film she's billed above the title, and Grant's is the first name below it). Then again, not being a blonde might have something to do with it. Still, from her first picture, 1929's "Thru Different Eyes" to her last film "Mars Attacks" (1996) she never seemed to hurt for work, mainly thanks to television.

Now I can't wait to get to the rest of "Screen Legends Collection: Cary Grant". Up next: "Kiss and Make Up" (1934), co-starring Genevieve Tobin.
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Blog Fodder - A Moment of Gloating

I have just read in Xtra West where BC Bears Society has decided to "hibernate" for awhile, due to declining membership. If I can be permitted a moment to gloat:

In 1999 I tried to join BC Bears Society. My (then-, now ex-) partner and I had just moved here and my social network took a commensurate hit; I was looking for something to join. Vancouver Pride Society and Out On Screen (the queer film festival) had both rejected me despite my sterling credentials for both.

I went to Pride Day that year and afterwards, at the community fair, I spotted the BC Bears table. When I approached it and asked about joining them the skinny guy working there looked me up and down and in the bitchiest, faggiest way told me to come back when I'd gained a hundred pounds.

Well, I must have been three hundred pounds that day, at least a hundred pounds heavier than this guy. The fact that I'd been met with the same attitude everywhere else (only everywhere else I'd been told to lose a hundred pounds, rather than gain it) was not lost on me.

Since I obviously didn't fit into mainstream gay and I wasn't going to be accepted even at the fringes of the community, I withdrew from all gay community activities at that point. Maybe that wasn't the most sensible course of action, but what else could I do? Why would I continue to fight to be included in something that had already rejected me so many times?

I decided that day to focus on those aspects of humanity that I thought might be more appreciative of my efforts, namely the arts and social justice. Within Pandora's Collective and even COPE I have managed to make my contribution to society in more meaningful ways; even if neither has done anything to enhance my sex life, Pandora's Collective has at least introduced me to many fine friends I wouldn't have met if I'd stayed on Davie Street.

I suspect many other men were rejected by BC Bears in a similarly callous manner, probably by this same volunteer, which is likely what led to the declining numbers at their meetings. I can't say I'm not glad to hear it; editorial policy permits me to freely gloat whenever snobs and bigots and any kind of petty tyrant gets their comeuppance.

For those men whose lifeline this community was, I do feel bad, though. May I suggest leaving your ghetto behind and traveling amongst regular people for awhile?

There. I'm done now.
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Welcome Dezi James Cubiche

Leggy "My Name is Earl" stunner Jaime Pressly and her DJ boyfriend (the similarly leggy, similarly stunning) Eric Cubiche welcomed a little bundle today. Dezi James was born in Los Angeles at 7:31 AM local time, and weighed in at 6 pounds 4 ounces. He's named after Desi Arnaz (despite the misspelling) and Pressly's father.
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There's Something About Cary

How an English homosexual named Archie Leach became the quintessentially American ladies man Cary Grant is a greater story than any of those he told on film during his prodigious career.

To the many "stars" whose careers fizzle after a decade or less, the over seventy films he made between 1933 and 1966 ought to serve as a primer on survival in Hollywood. They are romantic comedies, screwballs, dramas, and thrillers, and among them are some of the finest of their type ever made.

At a time when Hollywood's romantic leading men were infected with a bland sameness, Grant was a definite brand apart. In that way he was more akin with Gary Cooper and Humphrey Bogart than Robert Taylor and George Brent.

I just bought a 5-movie box set of his earlier works, into which I am about to dive. Despite being familiar with Grant's oeuvre, not one of these titles was familiar to me. Their leading ladies are, though: Sylvia Sidney, Genevieve Tobin, Myrna Loy, and Joan Bennett. I was a tiny bit reluctant to buy it, as it's not released by a major studio, and films from the early 30s are of a notoriously poor quality due to print degradation.

Ultimately, I don't care; I'll squint through grit if I have to, in order to gain this glimpse into the early career of an enduring Hollywood legend.
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RIP Dwight 'Percy' Wilson

As of today, Canada has one remaining veteran of the First World War.

The second-to-last, Dwight 'Percy' Wilson, died today at Toronto's Sunnybrook Hospital. He was 106.

The remaining Canadian veteran of the conflict - John Babcock - lives in Spokane, Washington.

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Cause Of "Great Gray Malaise" Determined

Cranial examination of michael sean morris, director of the obscure blog Pop Culture Institute has revealed the source of the "great gray malaise" from which he was said to suffer.

"It turns out to be nothing more than existential angst, which exacerbated a pre-existing condition of Irritable Bowel Syndrome," morris said, when reached via email at the Institute's headquarters. "I found myself, night after night, sitting at the computer and wondering why I was doing it: writing, photography, blogging."

It seems spending all that time in your head isn't good for you, and then to spend most of it with your head up your ass only makes matters worse, especially if it irritates your bowel.

"It occurred to me," he continued, "That the most appropriate answer to 'Why?' is 'Why not?' The most successful people in show business are obviously not hindered by such angst. Otherwise there wouldn't be anything on TV. They just continue to churn it out."

Having discovered the source of his ailment, morris said he plans to move ahead on all the projects he'd planned, including an expanded blog, sitcoms, and novels. "Now that I don't always have to stop myself and think 'what's the point' I can continue to clutter the public consciousness with more useless memes and annoying catchphrases. As well as bringing my readers the best of such things from around the world and throughout time."

He concluded: "It's an exciting time."
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Queen and President: Duelling Speeches

On her last night in Washington, Elizabeth II hosted a return banquet at the British Embasssy for the President and First Lady.

To make a toast, Her Majesty rose first:

Mr. President, I wondered whether I should start this toast saying, "When I was here in 1776" -- (laughter and applause.)

Mr. President, it is a real pleasure to welcome you and Mrs. Bush here this evening. Over our six days in the United States, we have much enjoyed the chance to dwell on the history of the relationship between our two countries, as well as celebrating its present strength and vitality. I would like to thank everyone for the warmth and kindness extended to us.

I would also like to take this opportunity, on the day that has seen the formal transfer of power to the devolved Northern Ireland government, to thank you and your predecessors for your contribution to bringing peace to Northern Ireland.

May I ask everyone to rise and drink a toast to President and Mrs. Bush, to the future of our two countries, and the enduring friendship between Britain and the United States.

Mr. President.

(A toast is offered.)

The President then rose to acknowledge the Queen's kind and witty words.

Your Majesty, I can't top that one. (Laughter.)

Your Royal Highness, distinguished guests, thank you so much for a warm welcome. Laura and I appreciate your hospitality. I particularly want to thank Ambassador Manning and Lady Manning for inviting us to your home.

The friendship between the British and American people is one of the oldest and most enduring in history. This friendship has been built on the common ideal of freedom, and forged by our shared sacrifices in freedom's defense.

Your Majesty, I appreciate your visit to our World War II Memorial. I thank you for sharing your perspective last night on how the Atlantic Alliance that emerged from a great conflict has helped lay the foundation for freedom's triumph in Europe and beyond.

Today, British and American troops are following the example set by a previous generation. Troops from our two countries are serving side by side to bring the hope of liberty to regions that have not known it. Together we're supporting young democracies that are taking their first steps on the path to free and peaceful societies.

This morning the world witnessed yet another advance for freedom and peace -- the people of Northern Ireland took control of their future when Catholics and Protestants came together to form a new government that offers the prospect of peace and reconciliation after years of violence and division. In Belfast today, we're seeing once again how democracy and freedom can help heal a wounded world.

Your Majesty, thank you for your words tonight, and for the love and affection you have shown the American people over many years. In this spirit, I offer a toast to Your Majesty, to Your Royal Highness, and to our closest of friends, the British people.

(A toast is offered.)

The Pop Culture Institute offers you its own toast, Your Majesty:

Long may you reign!
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Queen In Space, At Mall

On the Queen's last full day in the US, she visited NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland.

While there Her Majesty listened to three astronauts describing their duties onboard the International Space Station.

After leaving Goddard the Queen is expected to lay a wreath at the WWII memorial on the National Mall before returning the favour by hosting the President and First Lady to a banquet at the British Embassy.

The Queen and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, return to London May 8th.
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A State Dinner Fit For A Queen

130 guests joined the President, First Lady and the royal couple at the White House Monday for the first white-tie affair of the Bush Administration.

The menu featured British cuisine, and the speeches subtly disagreed, and a marvellous time was had by all.

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Queen Arrives At White House

The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh were warmly greeted at the White House Monday by the President and First Lady.



There followed the usual speeches, including a now-famous flub made by the President, a lunch and a garden party.

The royal couple will not be staying in the White House, but rather at nearby Blair House, where guests of state stay.

The six-day visit wraps up this evening, with the Bush Administration's first-ever white-tie dinner. The Queen and Prince Philip fly back to London tomorrow.

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No Comment: When Readers Attack

On a site like Gawker there are so many commenters that they can afford to delete a few every so often. They do this in a way which is designed to not offend the remaining commenters, but nevertheless sends the message to its users about expected modes of behaviour while on the site in a suitably hip and humourous way.

The posts where this occurs usually fall under the grim heading of Commenter Executions; in preparing this piece, a simple search at Gawker yielded 342 examples, making Gawker's Commenter Executions a more-or-less weekly event.

Well, I'm not executing anyone, but I did receive a trio of comments which I will not be moderating. Instead, they will be placed here, where they can be dissected and studied. This is just one of the risks of dealing with me; anything that happens involving me is potential blog fodder. It remains to be seen whether such a policy will ultimately draw more people to me or drive them away. Anyway, "them's the risks", as they say; also, since it's my blog, "nanny nanny poo poo" if you don't like it.

Firstly, this trio of comments were published anonymously. Now, when I started this blog I was anything but adept at managing it, and so I'd had it set up that only other Blogspot members could leave comments. After about the sixth or seventh post, I was informed that this was the case (by another frequent commenter) and I remedied the situation.

The commenter in question (let's call him Mr. X) has been informed of this change of status, but still publishes anonymously, although lately he's at least taken to putting his name in the body of the comment. That, and given the calibre of the comments themselves, is what we in the business call "too little too late".

I realise it's a bit of a hassle to leave a comment, what with the mystery word and all, and I thank all of you who willingly undergo this precautionary step in order to do so. Given the nature of this blog, and the type of subject matter being dealt with, I feel it's my responsibility to protect it and its readers from flamers and haters of all kinds.

I'm sure I will give this practise up once there are so many comments that moderating them cuts into my writing time.

* * *

On the post "Now Showing - Jimmy Carr" Mr. X wrote:

"stodgy brit wit, though i want more american patronizing"

Nothing wrong in that per se but it should be pointed out that Jimmy Carr wasn't just patronising to Americans, but to the British audience as well. Thus the joke. Had Mr. Carr only been patronising towards Americans, I doubt I'd have found it as funny. In fact, it can be argued that Mr. Carr wasn't poking fun at Americans at all, but rather at himself. Wanting "more american patronising", Mr. X comes dangerously close to hater territory. I also disagree with the word "stodgy", but as Mr. X is entitled to his opinion, I won't make any judgement about that.

On "Queen's Address To Virginia Assembly" he wrote:

"that peacock-looking violet-blue and coral red hat is garish, gaudy and god-awful...definitely the ugliest hat ever!"

No word about the speech, just straight to the hat.

Now the hat may be garish and gaudy but as it is an exemplar of the kind of hats the Queen always wears it is hardly exceptional; as for the ugliest hat ever, that would be a hardhat. The second ugliest hat ever is the do-rag Mr. X himself has worn every single day since 1988. The Queen's hats are an admittedly touchy subject with me; here is where the policy "if you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all" comes most fully into play.

His final comment was in response to On This Day in Pop Culture (1931):

"when u do finally fuck off to nyc, don't bother going up there -- too damn crowded with tourists"

Since if I didn't want to go where there are tourists a) I wouldn't travel, b) I wouldn't travel to New York, and c) I definitely wouldn't go to the top of the Empire State Building, this comment seems like a shitty opinion wrapped up in a greasy bit of passive-aggressive advice then lobbed through my picture window. Not going somewhere just because there are tourists there kind of negates the entire reason for travel in the first place.

* * *

None of these comments is particularly hateful in itself, but rather point to a certain attitude which indicates that Mr. X just doesn't get it. I try to make the Pop Culture Institute a welcoming place, if nothing else, and expect the same of my readers. Whatever else Mr. X's comments are, "welcoming" isn't one of them. If you must be intemperate or snide, at least be funny, well-informed, or willing to enjoin in some serious badinage.

There. Now that's done I can apologize for the clunky syntax here and go back to nursing my hangover. I got a little wild celebrating my 600th post last night, and I'm feeling it today. I'm afraid there isn't enough Calgon in the world to take me away from this headache.

Thank you for your time and patience in this matter.

MSM
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There's An Israel Day Parade?

Why was I not told about this? How do I keep missing these memos? Oh, that's right. I don't live in Manhattan.

Since "move to Manhattan" is already at the top of my To-Do list, and this year's parade is already over, I guess I've done all I can do for now.



Not that I'm, like, a Zionist or anything... Per se. It's just that Jewish guys are kinda hot.

Thanks to Joe.My.God for the 411.
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Blog Fodder: The Brain Fart

Wouldn't you know, the longer I do this the easier it gets. It also gets easier to make mistakes, like preparing posts then forgetting to publish them. It must have been all that fresh air I got today. Either that or all that lack of sleep.

Anyway, as you can tell from the tag, this is my 600th post, but as promised, the next big retrospective is scheduled for the end of June, at the 1000th post. At that time I think I'd like to clarify my aims a little better with regards to the Pop Culture Institute. As the name implies, an Institute is for study, and study, at least in terms of depth, is not something I've not done too much. Yet.

Pop culture, of course, is all about patterns. Or, if you prefer, trends. Which of those trends endures becomes history. Thus the incredibly catchy tagline you see at the top of this page.

I've tried to bridge high culture and low here, and obviously I'm having fun doing it. The minute something stops being fun, that's it for me. Unless, of course, the un-fun activity pays the rent, in which case I smile through gritted teeth and try to find the fun in it where I can.

Well, all I have to say is that my teeth are never gritted when I'm working on this. It's a blast: researching the stories, putting photos with words, laughing over mistakes, and meeting all my new commenters. Honestly, I think I've discovered what it is I want to do, and I thank each and every one of you for allowing me to experiment with it on you.

MSM
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Queen Enjoys Kentucky Derby

The Queen fulfilled her lifelong dream of watching the Kentucky Derby today, accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh. "Queen Elizabeth is certainly the most prestigious guest we've entertained in the modern-day history of the Kentucky Derby," track president Steve Sexton said. The race was won by Street Sense, who came from next-to-last place to pass Hard Spun by two and a half lengths and claim a purse worth more than $2 million US.

Her Majesty and His Royal Highness will spend the next two days near Lexington, Kentucky, at the farm of William Farish; in addition to being a former US ambassador to the Court of St. James, Mr. Farish is a horse breeder like the Queen.

On Monday the royal couple will visit the White House, where the first white-tie event of the current administration will be held in their honour.

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ONE IS NOT AMUSED

[Elizabeth II assumes the usual expression for chatting with Darth Cheney at Jamestown. God bless you, Ma'am.]
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Are You Enjoying America, Ma'am?

[Elizabeth II, beaming during a visit to William and Mary College in Williamsburg VA.]
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Segolene Royal Kicking Ass, Taking Names

Following a victory in last Sunday's Presidential election run-off, Segolene Royal strode into the Presidential debates and whupped some serious Sarkozy ass. Now she has "dared" France to elect a woman President. Nice... Very feisty.

I'm already seeing Juliette Binoche in the movie version.

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Queen Tours Jamestown

The Queen made her tour of historic Olde Jamestowne accompanied by Virginia governor Timothy M. Kaine and Darth Cheney.

Which means, I guess, that Her Majesty's handbag was stuffed full of digitalis, virgin's blood, and epinephrine suppositories (or whatever it is they're using to keep that criminal alive).

She was also greeted by Sandra Day O'Connor, like the queen an equine enthusiast.

Though she made no speech, the Queen made animated remarks throughout her tour, which included an armoury and the excavation of the nearby Fort, which was thought to be lost when she last visited in 1957.

The Queen's next stop is William and Mary College.

(photo: Jason Reed/Reuters via The New York Times)
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Steinbeck Trove Uncovered

Rare and valuable manuscripts by Nobel Prize-winning writer John Steinbeck have been found in a home in the Hollywood Hills. They include an unpublished story, several letters, and a draft of Sweet Thursday, the sequel to Cannery Row.

The papers are expected to fetch upwards of half a million dollars at auction.

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