What is Screen Savers about?
Screen Savers is about 40 wonderful movies of the 20 th century that simply don't get the attention they deserve.
Why did you write this book?
I think it's unfair that the same movies are written about over and over, while other terrific movies are overlooked or underrated or forgotten. I wanted to put the spotlight on some favorites of mine that I'm sure will soon be loved by many other people.
How did you get started as an author of film books?
I was a theatre actor for a while and had become so disenchanted with my career's progress that I almost subconsciously drifted into writing, working on the quizzes that became my first book without really even knowing what I was getting myself into.
How would you describe your progression from your first book to your second to your third?
My first book, a film-trivia quiz book, And You Thought You Knew Classic Movies, gave me the confidence to tackle something more challenging with my second book, 100 Great Film Performances You Should Remember But Probably Don't , in which I wrote 100 short essays about individual performances. The second book gave me further confidence, allowing me to write Screen Savers, which consists of larger essays that deal with all aspects of the movies chosen, rather than just one performance. Each book has broadened my scope and made me a better writer.
How long did it take you to write Screen Savers ?
Oh, I believe the choosing of the films and the actual writing took about two years. I watched many movies that I considered and then rejected.
Was it difficult to choose which films to include, to narrow it down to 40?
Yes, it was very difficult. I avoided the 100 films that I wrote about in my previous book, and certainly any films that I deemed too famous and beloved. I tried to offer a nice variety in terms of genre (eight genres are represented) and era (the films range from 1927-1999). The most important criterion was my level of passion for each of the films. If I felt I had a lot to say about a film, and a burning need to share my thoughts, then I knew that that film belonged in the book.
Who is your intended audience?
I think my audience ranges from young people who have stumbled upon older films and become fascinated by them, all the way to older people who remember when many of these films were new. It's certainly a book for passionate film fans and serious cinephiles , but I believe that even those with a more casual interest in movies will find it entertaining and informative, as well as a handy Netflix aide.
What kind of opportunities have come your way because of your books?
The first two books led to my becoming a contributing book reviewer at the Washington Post, and also to my three current monthly columns about DVDs and other film-related topics. I've enjoyed doing seminars and lectures, both of which came about because of my being published. The books gave me a platform that also led to my interviewing some classic stars onstage at the Black Bear Film Festival in PA, first Farley Granger and then Arlene Dahl.
Who are some of your favorite film stars and directors?
I love all the obvious greats, but my favorites tend to be somewhat lesser-known. Among stars, I have special fondness for Joel McCrea and Ida Lupino , both seriously underrated. Among directors, I'm always championing Anthony Mann and Mitchell Leisen , neither a household name yet both extraordinary filmmakers.
Why the title Screen Savers ?
I like the catchiness, of course, but I think of the films in this book as being movies that deserve to be “saved,” rescued so that they can be properly appreciated and valued.
How is this book different from other books about great movies?
It's different from most other books because of the film selections, which are unexpected, often unfamiliar, and certainly due for reappraisal. My hope is that, instead of rehashing those same few hundred classics that get all the press, Screen Savers will offer movie lovers some refreshing alternatives.