#Rip Marlon Brando

[blueeyeddarkknight]

Happy 99th birthday anniversary to the godfather of cinema Marlon Brando 🎉🎂

Speaking about working with Brando, Kilmer said:

“Brando was everything you want the major icon in your world to be, a genius and a gentleman. I was getting divorced at the time and he was so gracious about offering me time and considered thought. He offered to call my ex on behalf of the children.

“He was one of the funniest men on earth. I still laugh out loud about some of the things he said and did. I mean he literally wore a salad bowl over his head.

Here's Val's hilarious Brando impression 😂🙌 (from inside the actors studio interview)

David Hudson teaches Marlon Brando and Val Kilmer how to play the didgeridoo at the Island of Dr. Moreau wrap party at Tanks Arts Centre in Cairns.

[tolstoytwofurious]

marlon is gonna lose this, but i gotta share propaganda of him in motion to cushion his fall!

Propaganda

Marlon Brando (A Streetcar Named Desire, The Wild One)—I MEAN HAVE YOU SEEN HIM

Paul Robeson (Showboat, The Emperor Jones)—this man's life was fucking wild [link to his Wikipedia]

This is round 3 of the bracket. All other polls in this bracket can be found here. Please reblog with further support of your beloved hot sexy vintage man.

[additional propaganda submitted under the cut—slightly NSFW]

Propaganda for Paul Robeson:

Propaganda for Marlon Brando:

Additional propaganda submitted with this photo: “The first time I saw this man was not a typical one of his roles it was Gus and Dolls and it is my favorite of his movies. The way he sings “luck be a lady” is so perfect I’m fussy when Frank or anyone else sings it AND that he doesn’t seem to have another musical. Plus he’s got those Sad Mad Bad Boy faces. And then there’s the things he does with his hands?! To emphasize points or whatever but they’re great”

[temuera-morrison-tournament]

Movies: Semifinals poll 2

Propaganda:

The Island of Dr. Moreau

After being rescued and brought to an island, a man discovers that its inhabitants are experimental animals being turned into strange-looking humans, all of it the work of a visionary doctor. You can watch it here or a less violent version here

Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back

The story of Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, Princess Leia, and the others did not end with the destruction of the Death Star, it continues in this movie. Imperial forces have since driven the Rebels to hide on the ice world of Hoth. But even on such an icy, backwater world, they cannot escape the evil Darth Vader's eyes for long, and he devastates the Rebel base in an assault with the Imperial AT-AT walkers. Luke flees to Dagobah to begin Jedi training with Master Yoda, while Han Solo, Chewbacca, Princess Leia, and C-3PO run the blockade of Imperial Star Destroyers in the Millennium Falcon. The Imperials pursue them across the galaxy and eventually catch up with them on Bespin. Now Darth Vader plans to use them as bait to lure Luke Skywalker to him, and turns Han Solo over to Boba Fett as a prize to be delivered to crime lord Jabba the Hutt. Luke learns a terrible family secret after losing a swordfight with the Dark Lord. Will he, and the others, escape the Empire’s clutches? I watched it on Disney+

[brw]

What kind of acting do you think Simon does I always imagine him in like a supernatural TV show like Buffy or in classic action flicks but in the most recent Avengers Academy it looked like he was in a fantasy show.

Historically Simon has seemed to be primarily employed in B and C tier Hollywood action films, although the first film he was ever in (sans the Mr Muscles kids TV show bit) was a spaghetti Western from Avengers #207. His big acting break was playing the villain in Arkon IV, acting across an early 80s Arnold Schwarzenegger, a role he lands in WCA v2 #6. The vibe of it is very sword-and-sorcery, Conan the Barbarian style, which was probably what the Avengers Academy film was referencing.

Simon also starred in the film Damage Control, with THE Marlon Brando and Shelly Long of all people??? from the hit marvel comic that everyone knows and loves, Damage Control v3 #3. Simon shows his entire bare booty ass in this comic, which is the most notable thing about the issue.

Beach Volleyball Bros 2 was mentioned in X-Force v6 #50, which when I heard it, I envisioned a terrible Baywatch (2017) rip-off, but it could really be anoying.

Simon was ALSO hired to star in an adaption of Macbeth, during Wonder Man v2. There's a few different films that he's brought on to work on during the course of this series, and Simon seems to struggle with being typecast in action-slop roles, which, given everything we listed so far, is not far off the mark.

Towards the 2000s with the gradual shift in media culture and what was popular, Simon gets numerous offers in different comics to be in reality TV shows. I don't think he accepts any of them, except for Wonder Man v3 where he's shooting a reality show to rehabiliate a villain lady?? I don't know, it's a truly awful comic so I rarely count it in Simon discussions.

Simon's also offered another action-role in War of the Realms: Journey into Mystery, which he also rejects because he's a pacifist at this stage in his life.

(also in this series, Simon mentions a love for Westerns which is a cute tie-in to his first ever proper role!)

And finally, it's not comics but Simon is yet again in films that appear to be terrible c-tier action flicks in the M.O.D.O.K. show, from his appearance in episode 7. Sorry for the quality, but it is called "BRUTE FORCE 2: KANGARUDE AWAKENING" and has him with some animatronic canine? I don't know what this is, but it's something.

Anyway, so yeah, he's mosly been in bad action films, but I could see him segwaying into one of those kind of supernatural TV shows, or something CW inspired, like The Vampire Diaries or Riverdale. He does have it in him to do something a little more classy I think, but only if he/writers lent a little harder into him having a 1940s-50s Hollywood sensibility. They should give him a screwball comedy, not these action films, they aren't enriching enough for him.

[justaprimadonnagirl]

they just dont get it

Showed my sister my celebrity crush and she said who’s grandpa is that?? 😞

[caluski]

i also got a tiny dirt-cheap pocket version of "streetcar named desire" with a shirtless marlon brando on the cover. i think its from the mid 80s and although ripped up and old, its closed so tight like no one ever read it before. its funny since its a movie cover version of the play - and people hate seem to hate those so much

[topguru1]

Get the Look: Celebrity Leather Jackets That Define Iconic Style

Celebrity leather jackets are more than just outerwear—they are symbols of style, rebellion, and sophistication. From rock stars to Hollywood icons, these jackets have been the go-to choice for celebrities looking to make a statement. But the best part? You don’t have to be a superstar to wear them.

In this guide, we’ll explore iconic leather jacket styles worn by celebrities, show you how to recreate these looks, and provide expert tips on choosing the right jacket for your wardrobe. Whether you want to channel your inner James Dean or emulate the chic style of a modern-day icon, we’ve got you covered!

1. The Biker Jacket: A Classic with Timeless Appeal

a) The Rebel Look: James Dean and Marlon Brando

One of the most iconic leather jacket styles is the biker jacket, often associated with rebellious figures like James Dean and Marlon Brando. The biker jacket exudes cool confidence and a no-nonsense attitude, making it a classic piece for anyone who wants to add some edge to their look.

How to Style the Biker Jacket:

Pair it with a basic white tee and black jeans for a timeless rebel look.

For a modern twist, add chunky boots or high-top sneakers.

Accessorize with silver jewelry or aviator sunglasses to complete the look.

b) Celebrity Inspiration:

James Dean: The epitome of cool, Dean’s leather jacket look is legendary. His simple yet bold style continues to inspire.

Marlon Brando: Known for his role in The Wild One, Brando made the biker jacket iconic, pairing it with a tough-guy attitude and effortless charm.

2. The Bomber Jacket: Military Meets Modern Style

a) A Heroic Influence: Tom Cruise and Ryan Gosling

The bomber jacket, originally designed for pilots, has become a staple in the fashion world, thanks to its association with heroes like Tom Cruise in Top Gun and Ryan Gosling in Drive. The bomber jacket’s casual, military-inspired look is perfect for those who want to add a bit of edge to their everyday outfits.

How to Style the Bomber Jacket:

For a laid-back look, wear a bomber with a graphic tee and slim jeans.

If you're going for a more rugged vibe, pair it with cargo pants and combat boots.

For a night out, wear it with a fitted shirt and dark denim for a more polished look.

b) Celebrity Inspiration:

Tom Cruise: His aviator sunglasses and bomber jacket in Top Gun became a signature look, synonymous with American heroism.

Ryan Gosling: In Drive, Gosling rocked a satin bomber jacket, pairing it with sleek, minimalist pieces for a stylish urban look.

3. The Shearling Jacket: Cozy Chic for Cold Days

a) Luxury and Comfort: Kate Moss and David Beckham

Shearling leather jackets combine the sleek look of leather with the warmth of sheepskin, making them the perfect winter outerwear. Celebrities like Kate Moss and David Beckham have shown how to make shearling jackets stylish while maintaining practicality. This jacket is a fantastic choice when you want to look chic while staying cozy.

How to Style the Shearling Jacket:

For a boho-chic vibe, layer it over a sweater dress or with a pair of ripped jeans and ankle boots.

Wear it over a casual sweater and skinny jeans for a more urban look.

Keep accessories minimal, as the shearling jacket itself makes a bold statement.

b) Celebrity Inspiration:

Kate Moss: Known for her off-duty model style, Moss pairs shearling jackets with everything from skinny jeans to maxi dresses.

David Beckham: Beckham’s shearling jacket choices blend rugged appeal with refinement, making him a modern style icon.

4. The Leather Blazer: Elevated Elegance with a Twist

a) Sophisticated Edge: Angelina Jolie and Rihanna

For a more polished yet daring look, the leather blazer is the way to go. It adds a structured, sophisticated touch to your outfit while keeping that edgy leather vibe. Celebrities like Angelina Jolie and Rihanna have rocked the leather blazer on red carpets and casual outings alike, proving how versatile this piece can be.

How to Style the Leather Blazer:

Pair it with tailored trousers and a silk blouse for an elegant office look.

For evening wear, wear it over a mini dress or with leather pants for a daring outfit.

Opt for a sleek clutch and heels to elevate the look further.

b) Celebrity Inspiration:

Angelina Jolie: Known for her polished yet edgy style, Jolie often pairs leather blazers with sleek pants or dresses.

Rihanna: Rihanna’s leather blazer ensembles push the envelope, blending street style with luxury fashion effortlessly.

5. The Moto Jacket: Street Style with Power

a) Edgy Meets Chic: Beyoncé and Kylie Jenner

The moto jacket is a step up from the biker jacket, with a more polished appearance but still maintaining that rebellious edge. Celebrities like Beyoncé and Kylie Jenner have made the moto jacket part of their street style repertoire, often seen pairing it with everything from denim to dresses.

How to Style the Moto Jacket:

Combine it with a band tee and high-waisted jeans for an effortless cool look.

Pair it with a bodycon dress for an edgy yet feminine outfit.

Throw on ankle boots or strappy heels to complete the look.

b) Celebrity Inspiration:

Beyoncé: Queen B frequently sports moto jackets with bold patterns or metallic finishes, adding her signature glamour to this edgy style.

Kylie Jenner: Jenner embraces the moto jacket with chic street style, often pairing it with oversized sunglasses and sleek accessories.

6. Choosing the Right Leather Jacket for You

When selecting a celebrity-inspired leather jacket, it’s important to consider factors like fit, color, and style. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect jacket:

Fit: Choose a jacket that flatters your body shape. A tailored fit works well for most body types, while looser cuts can create a more relaxed vibe.

Color: Classic black and brown are timeless, but don’t be afraid to experiment with colors like deep red, navy, or olive for a more unique look.

Material: Make sure the jacket is made of high-quality leather for durability and comfort. Genuine leather often outlasts synthetic materials and develops a unique patina over time.

Conclusion

Celebrity leather jacket are more than just a fashion statement—they are a symbol of style, attitude, and timeless elegance. Whether you're looking to channel your inner rebel like James Dean or embrace the elegance of a leather blazer like Angelina Jolie, there’s a celebrity jacket style for every occasion.

At Top Guru Jackets, we offer a curated collection of celebrity-inspired leather jackets that combine durability, style, and sophistication. Find your perfect jacket today and get ready to make a statement wherever you go!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which leather jacket style is the most versatile?

The biker jacket is one of the most versatile, as it can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

How can I style a leather blazer for work?

Pair it with tailored pants, a button-down shirt, and classic pumps for a professional yet fashionable look.

What’s the difference between a biker jacket and a moto jacket?

A biker jacket is often more rugged and traditional, while a moto jacket offers a sleeker, more modern silhouette.

Can I wear a leather jacket in the winter?

Yes! Shearling and bomber leather jackets are perfect for colder months while keeping you stylish and warm.

How do I maintain my leather jacket?

Keep your jacket clean by wiping it gently with a damp cloth, condition it regularly, and store it in a cool, dry place.

[uptonil]

rip quicy jones thanks for giving us that immortal interview in which you said that marlon brando would fuck anything to the point that, quote unquote, "he'd fuck a mailbox". a phrase that truly changed my vocabulary forever.

[natikoko]

Marlon (my agent 8)stuff, because why not

Out of my main agents, I feel like I don’t talk about Marlon nearly as much as I should, so, here’s her background and everything else

Marlon (Last name unknown). 21 years old. She/her

- 5’9ft

- A common foot soldier in the Octarian military. Was sent on a scouting mission when she encountered agent 3 (Tilly) and fell into the Deepsea metro.

- Doesn’t remember much from her past, but still retains mentality and muscle memory. Unconsciously remains tense and laser focused oftentimes. Took awhile to shake the mentality of “there’s hundreds of foot soldiers, one loss doesn’t matter much in the grand scheme of things.”

- Her bond with Tilly is undoubtedly her most important relationship. She loves Adrian (agent 4) so dearly, but it’s something between her and Tilly that can’t be replicated. It’s a tender understanding and influence that Marlon has trouble expressing.

- Doesn’t see much combat in the NSS anymore. Mainly works as the Squidbeak Splatoon’s resident medic

• patched up Tilly’s sprained tentacle in Alterna which led to major flirting and maybe some smooching

- Doesn’t really care for gender norms. Named herself Marlon after watching the Splatoon equivalent of Marlon Brando films after surfacing

- Level-headed but emotionally withdrawn. Her time in the Metro become an unspoken event between her and Tilly, mostly because Tilly doesn’t wanna upset her

• she’s working on it, though!

- is remarkably strong. Could crush a watermelon with her arms

- no sense of fashion whatsoever. Wears exclusively professional attire or else she’ll wear a trenchcoat and Hawaiian shirt with wrangler jeans outside

- Works with Sheldon at AmmunoKnights

- Her literal dream job btw

- Lives with Tilly and Adrian (agent 4). Used to live with Off the Hook and consistently visits. She owes her life to them

- Is protective of her friends and caretakers, and sees them as the first (and last) remnants of family she can’t afford to lose

- unnaturally perceptive with a strong sense of right or wrong

- Has chronic pain from the constant explosions in the metro. It’s sometimes debilitating, so she stays in bed stiff and feeling as if she’s being ripped apart. Tilly and Adrian is always there with a heating pack and some comfort food

- Initiated the relationship between Tilly and Adrian because these two are so painful with their emotions I mean it’s so obvious it almost hurts

- hates pictures for some reason

- Doesn’t do Turf War or ranked a lot because of the connotation with the metro. If she did, her anarchy status would be A+

- Has a motherly relationship with Neo Agent 3 (Ian) and is very close with him

- Plays the piano really well

- Drinks socially. Is a very rambunctious drunk. Once joined a crusty seanwich sponsored eating contest and almost died. Adrian has photography evidence

- Has plenty of propane tanks laying around

[blueeyeddarkknight]

My favorite cat dads of all times 😻👑🥺

Bonus : can't post a cat video without kitty boy making an appearance 💙

@erlysworld he said hi 😽

[hotvintagepoll]

rip marlon brando, may your massive badonkers keep you safe in the shadow realm with the rest of the vintage sadboy losers 💔💔💔💔💔💔

he'll be fiiiiiiiiiiiiiiine i'm sure nothing bad happens in the shadow realm

[mitchipedia]

"You've got me? Who's got you!" Rewatching the 1978 "Superman" movie starring Christopher Reeve

The 1978 “Superman,” starring Christopher Reeve, launched the superhero film genre as it exists today. We rewatched it recently, enjoyed it, and I recommend it.

However, the movie takes a painfully long time to get going.  

”Superman” starts with pages turning on the 1938 Action Comics issue that launched the Superman character, narrated by a child’s voice-over. We did not remember this from seeing the movie previously. We wondered whether we had accidentally rented the wrong version of “Superman.” We had not. Onward. 

Then we go to Krypton, where the movie creeps forward. We see Marlon Brando as Superman’s father, Jor-El, wearing white stunt hair and a turtleneck with the Superman logo in it.

I wish the phrase “phoning it in” was not a cliche so I could use to to describe Brando’s performance. He drones on and on, making one speech after another. 

He’s concluding the prosecutor’s statement in the trial of three insurrectionists (ripped from the 2020s headlines!), who end up being sentenced to the Phantom Zone. I’m sure we won’t see these insurrectionists again—they won’t be any trouble and will not turn up in “Superman II.”

General Zod, played by Terence Stamp, is the leader of the trio, and his scenery-chewing is the only good part of this scene.

I saw “Superman” with friends in the theater during its first run in 1978, and I was very excited to tell them after the movie all about the Phantom Zone. I even guessed that the three villains would feature in the movie sequel. I was very proud of myself for this. Possibly related: It took me a long time to lose my virginity.  

Jor-El warns the leadership council of Krypton that the whole planet is about to explode within a month. The leaders say this is fake news because they did their own research on YouTube. The council nopes out on evacuating the planet and tells Jor-El he can’t tell anybody about his beliefs or else he’ll be an insurrectionist (that word again). A sensible person would have told the council to fuck right off because the council was not going to have any clout after the ENTIRE FUCKING PLANET EXPLODES. But Jor-El just goes along with it.

Brando goes back home, where he and his wife (if her name is spoken, I didn’t hear it) put on matching glowy silver lamé jumpsuits. They put their baby in a spaceship. Before sending the baby off to Earth, Marlon Brando makes a very long speech, while his wife looks at him with an expression like she wants him to shut up because she needs to pee. 

Then we’re off to Earth, to whip through young Clark Kent’s childhood. The costumes and cars and brilliant. The scenery from the Kent farm is beautiful, but there is way too much of it. Can we get this movie moving already?

Clark challenges his father to run from the end of their driveway to the barn. Pa Kent has a heart attack and dies. Clark never mentions his own role in Pa’s death. That seems odd.

Next stop: the North Pole, where young Clark spends 12 years being lectured by the holographic Marlon Brando, and we, in the audience watching the movie, get to experience every painful second of those 12 years. 

All this time, Clark is played by an actor who is not Christopher Reeve and doesn’t even look much like Christopher Reeve. This guy:

But after 12 years at the North Pole, demonstrating powers of super-boredom-resistance, Clark becomes Christopher Reeve and emerges in his spiffy super-suit, which makes all the girls swoon. He is a hunka hunka burnin love. The suit is very flattering, but he really should be wearing something modest below the waist and above the knee to better cover his prominent super-johnson. Maybe bermuda shorts with a festive luau pattern? 

And we’re off to Metropolis and the movie takes off and keeps going. Finally! Lois Lane is fast-talking and smart; Christopher Reeve transforms from a nebbishy Clark into a charismatic Supe through the power of acting. Gene Hackman, Ned Beatty, and Valerie Perrine are the villains, and they chew the scenery delightfully. The sets are gorgeous, particularly Lex Luthor’s lair in the underground lobby of Grand Central Station. Why is Grand Central Station abandoned and apparently nearly forgotten in this movie? Does it even matter? No, it does not. 

Lois’s costumes are the height of 70s couture. The first thing we see her in is a nice skirt and blouse. And the skirt has pockets. And they look like BIG pockets. In some ways, technology has gone backward since 1978.

The Daily Planet newspaper takes up an entire skyscraper and has a helicopter to shuttle reporters around. I started work at a daily newspaper not long after “Superman” came out—we didn’t even have a budget to buy coffee for the staff. Employees had to pay for their own.  

Lois arranges an interview with Superman, which turns into a date. He flies her around the skies above Metropolis. She recites a love poem in her mind. The poem is painfully bad. It is like watching someone you like embarrass themselves in a talent competition.  

We see a very neatly dressed and well-groomed mugger. Nice blazer, turtleneck sweater. He needs a closer shave, but we’re otherwise good.

It’s part of a whole sequence of Superman’s day’s work, as he stops a cat burglar heist, rescues Air Force One after it loses an engine, and rescues a little girl’s cat from a tree. 

The ending of the movie, where Lois Lane dies (spoiler for a 45-year-old super-popular movie—don’t DM me!) is surprisingly dark. She’s smothered after being buried in an earthquake and we see all of it happening. But Superman quickly brings her back from the dead with his superpowers. 

Superman’s flying SFX are every bit as good and dazzling now as they were in 1978. Oh, some of the matte shots with the New York City skyline in the background are a little fake, but Superman’s movements are brilliant. A one-second bit where Superman changes from his Clark street clothes into his superhero costume while in flight is just wonderful—nothing much today but brilliant in the pre-CGI era that this movie was made in. Some of the other special effects, like Hoover Dam disintegrating and a downstream town flooding, are a little obviously done with miniatures but they still look fine.  

(Why do the sfx look fake now but not in 1978? I have a theory. In 1978, we saw these sfx on the big screen, where they looked great. They might still look great today on a big screen. Soon after, we saw the movie on smaller TVs, with lower quality screens than today, and the sfx still looked great. But today’s high-quality TVs make the sfx look fake—the screens aren’t big enough to compensate for the flaws revealed by the high definition.)

The movie can’t decide if it’s a camp superhero parody, or a serious superhero movie. It would have been better if it toned down the broad comedy and made Lex Luthor more scary.

Reeve’s acting carries the movie. There’s a scene that’s famous among fans where Lois Lane and Clark Kent are in the living room of her apartment. She leaves the room, and he decides to tell her he’s Superman. Until that moment, he’s a shlub, round-shouldered and with a goofy expression on his face. He stands up straight, squares his shoulders and jaw and takes off his glasses—and now he’s Superman. He starts to tell her. His voice as Clark is querulous and shaky, but Superman has a firm baritone. And he changes his mind, slumps his shoulders, puts on his glasses and now he’s Clark the shlemiel again. It all goes by in a few seconds, but it’s striking. 

Even the special effects are carried by Reeve’s acting. “You will believe a man can fly,” was the marketing slogan for the movie when it was released. You believe it in large part because Reeve was hanging from wires, moving like a person flying. Acting. )

I don’t have anything to say about John Williams’ musical score for the movie, except that it’s brilliant. I’m going to carry a Bluetooth speaker with me and play that score every time I enter a room. 

Overall, well worth a watch. Maybe skip the first 48 minutes though. You don’t need to see it. You already know Superman’s original story.  

Superman is my favorite superhero. He is optimistic and hopeful. He knows there is great evil in the world, but he knows that there is also great good, and he serves that good—“truth, justice and the American way." He knows some of what he says is corny and he says it anyway because he believes it. He is nearly all-powerful and invulnerable, but he is in awe of human beings because we are neither of those things, and yet we are capable of great kindness, nobility, and courage.

Sloppy Internet research

Four-year-old Clark Kent is played by an actor named Aaron Smolinski, who went on to a bit role in the 2013 Superman movie “Man of Steel” and also as Lex Luthor in a movie called “Superman: Solar,” which seems to be either an indy or fan-made Superman movie that got terrible reviews.

Larry Hagman has a cameo as an Army Major, making a joke that doesn’t age well. 

John Ratzenberger plays an air traffic controller. He went on to play Cliff from “Cheers,” and do a lot of voice-overs for Pixar movies.  

Kirk Allyn, who played Superman in 1940s Superman movies, has a cameo as Lois Lane’s father. When Clark is a boy in Smallville, little girl Lois sees Clark while passing through on a train, and Allyn appears in that scene. via

Noel Neill, who played Lois Lane in 1940s movies and the 1950s Superman TV series, also has a cameo. She’s Lois Lane’s mother in the same scene. via

“According to Sir Roger Moore’s autobiography, he witnessed Christopher Reeve walking through the canteen at Pinewood Studios in full Superman costume, oblivious to the swooning female admirers he left in his wake. When he did the same thing dressed as Clark Kent, no one paid any attention.” via

The Incomparable Mothership podcast did an episode about their “Superman” rewatch. They hated it. I don’t disagree with their criticisms, but for me, the virtues of the movie made up for its flaws. I enjoyed listening to the episode.

What happened to the actors

Marlon Brando continued working until his death in 2004. “Apocalypse Now” came out soon after “Superman.” His work in later life included two movies I quite enjoyed: “The Freshman” and “Don Juan DeMarco,” both of which are about charismatic rogues (though he only played the rogue in one of those movies). Brando also features in a delightful 2009 novel, “Chronic City,” by Jonathan Lethem, which explores the theme of whether we can believe anything or truly perceive reality. Brando isn’t a character in the novel. The characters can’t agree whether Brando is alive or dead, and the Internet is no help.  

Margot Kidder struggled with mental health in later life. Her 2018 death was ruled a suicide. via

As of April 2023, Valerie Perrine, age 79, was suffering from advanced Parkinson’s and needed a hydraulic lift to get into and out of bed. The Hollywood Reporter did an excellent profile—recommended reading: Ailing ‘Superman’ Star Valerie Perrine Finally Finds Her Hero: “The Guy Should Be Sainted”:

Perrine insists she wants no pity and regrets nothing about her Technicolor life: not one affair (she’s been romantically linked to everyone from Jeff Bridges to Elliott Gould to Dodi Fayed); not one hit of acid (she’s taken LSD more than 400 times, by her estimation); not one career move (well, she probably should have said yes to 1981’s Body Heat and no to 1980’s Can’t Stop the Music, the Village People-starring megaflop she says killed her career, but you can’t win them all).

She sounds fantastic. 

Gene Hackman has been retired for about 20 years. As of March, he was fit and healthy at age 93, spotted doing yardwork, buying and eating fast food, and pumping his own gas. 

Christopher Reeve died in 2004, after being paralyzed in 1995 in a horse-riding accident. 

Terence “General Zod” Stamp was one of the stars of “Priscilla, Queen of the Desert.” He played a drag queen named Bernadette. 

Sarah Douglas, who played Ursa, one of General Zod’s cronies, appeared in a lot of B science fiction movies and TV shows, including one called “Strippers vs. Werewolves.” 

Which Superman II?

We want to watch Superman II, which I remember as being even better than the first Superman, which was itself great. But which version?

Richard Donner directed the original movie and started directing on Superman II, but was fired, and Richard Lester was hired as a replacement. Donner had already done a lot of work, and Lester reshot many scenes and shot more. The Lester version was the original theatrical release, which I saw in theaters. We saw a fan cut of the Donner version in the early 2000s and did not care for it. It was unfinished. Some of the scenes were audition scenes; I remember some other scenes had cheap SFX that looked like they’d been done on 1990s home PCs.

Soon after we saw the fan cut of the Donner version, an official—and presumably more polished—version was released. We haven’t seen that.  

I think when we do a rewatch, we’ll go with the original, theatrical version, directed by Lester. According to Internet discussion—for example, here—the official Donner version, while more polished than the fan cut we watched, is still unpolished and unfinished. And the theatrical version is lighter than the Donner version, while still having some serious moments. Generally, I like my superhero movies light; when they get dramatic and heavy I start having difficulty suspending disbelief.

[jimsmovieworld]

THE FRESHMAN- 1990 ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Clark (Matthew Broderick) moves to New York City to attend film school. He is ripped off by a local gangster immediately. The gangster takes pity on him and introduces him to mob boss Carmine Sabatini (Marlon Brando) and gets him a job that quickly gets him in trouble with the law...

Its strange, Marlon Brando is essentially playing Vito Corleone just in a different movie. People even reference how he looks exactly like the Godfather. When Brando was needed for an additional week of filming he demanded to be compensated an extra million dollars or he would badmouth the film in the press. He started doing that until he received his payment then started to praise it.

The scenes of Brando and Broderick hitting it off are quite nice. Easy to watch film.

[boricuacherry-blog]

Some of the books in MJ's library

Taj Jackson shared that his famous uncle loved the book The Law of Success by Napoleon Hill. He says Jackson loved this book and owned several copies of it.

According to biographer J. Randy Taraborrelli, in the early 80s, Jackson gave copies of the book The Autobiography of P.T. Barnum to both his lawyer and manager and told them, "Make this your Bible. I want my life to be the greatest show on earth."

The Old Man and The Sea by Ernest Hemingway

Rip Van Winkle by Washington Irving

The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale

Animal Language by Michael Bright

Complete Writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson

The 48 Laws of Power

Seagull by Jonathan Livingston

Poetry by Rabindranath Tagore

Robert Burns poems

White Nights: The Story of a Prisoner in Russia by Menachem Begin

Hagakure: The Book of The Samurai by T. Yamamoto

Books by Sri Aurobindo

Books by Kalki Krishnamurthy

The Greatest Salesman in the World by OG Mandino

Malcolm X by Malcolm Haley

The Red Balloon by Albert Lamorisse

The Complete Works of O. Henry

The Verger by Somerset Maugham

The Reluctant Dragon by Kenneth Grahame

The Children's Hour by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

The Tyger by William Blake

Sufi Poetry

The Bridge of Sighs by Thomas Hood

The Prophet by Khalil Gibran

Thoughts of Love: A Collection of Poems on Love by Susan Polis Schutz

Complete Stories and Poems of Edgar Allen Poe

They Cage the Animals at Night by Jennings Michael Burch

The Gift of Acabar by Og Mandino

Leaders of Men by Henry Woldmar Ruoff

Reflections in Black by Deborah Willis

Black in America by Eli Reed

Black Heroes of The 20th Century by Jessie Carney Smith

The Negro Caravan by Sterling A. Brown

Before the Mayflower by Lerone Bennet Jr.

How to Eat To Live by Elijah Muhammad

Your Creative Power by Alex Osborn

My Autobiography by Charlie Chaplin

Elvis Day By Day by Peter Guralnick

James Dean: An American Icon by David Loehr

Goldwyn: A Biography by A. Scott Berg

Duse: A Biography by William Weaver

Steps In Time by Fred Astaire

Bruce Lee: The Celebrated Life of the Golden Dragon by John Little

Songs My Mother Taught Me by Marlon Brando

Elia Kazan: A Life by Elia Kazan

The Rolling Stones: A Life on the Road

Abraham Lincoln by Carl Sandburg

Lincoln's Devotional by Carl Sandburg

Lennon in America: 1971-1980, Based in Part on the Lost Lennon Diaries, by Geoffrey Giuliano

Glass Onion: The Beatles In Their Own Words by Geoffrey Giuliano

The Beatles Illustrated Lyrics by Alan Aldridge

The Lost Lennon Interviews by Geoffrey Giuliano

Things We Said Today: Conversations with the Beatles by Geoffrey Giuliano

Books about Hitler - talking to Rabbi Schmuley Boteach, he said, "Hitler was a genius orator. To make that many people turn and change and hate, he had to be a showman and he was."

[rebeleden]

New bombshell book reveals James Dean had to pay his disgruntled gay lover in exchange for his silence on their homoerotic affair | Daily Mail Online

RIP GAY ICON JD

CC HIS PSYCHO ABUSIVE GAY LOVER MARLON BRANDO

CC FATAL POLY BS

CC ANCIENT DL GAY FOLLYWOOD

CC GAY VAMPIRE FLUFF DADDY

[zodiaczuka]

The Evolution and Significance of Casual Wear

Introduction

Casual wear, often characterized by comfort and simplicity, has become an integral part of modern wardrobes across the globe. Over the centuries, casual wear has evolved from simple work attire to a diverse range of styles reflecting cultural trends, technological advancements, and changing societal norms. This article explores the history, development, and importance of casual wear, emphasizing its influence on fashion and society.

Historical Background

The concept of casual wear is relatively modern, emerging prominently in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Before this period, clothing mainly served a functional purpose and was influenced by one's social status.

The Industrial Revolution played a significant role in changing these dynamics. As factories and urbanization grew, so did the need for practical clothing that could withstand the rigors of work.

In the 19th century, working-class men wore simple trousers and shirts, while women donned long skirts and blouses. These garments were made from durable fabrics like cotton and wool, reflecting the practical needs of the time. The idea of clothing as a form of self-expression was limited to the upper classes, who could afford elaborate and fashionable attire.

The Birth of Casual Wear

The early 20th century saw significant societal changes, including the rise of leisure activities and a growing middle class. This period marked the beginning of casual wear as we know it today. The 1920s, often referred to as the Roaring Twenties, brought a shift in fashion with the introduction of looser, more relaxed clothing styles. Women began wearing shorter skirts and looser dresses, while men embraced more relaxed suits and trousers.

The Great Depression of the 1930s reinforced the need for practical and affordable clothing. During this time, casual wear became more common as people sought durable and versatile garments. Introducing synthetic fabrics like rayon provided more affordable options, further popularizing casual styles.

Post-War Changes and the Rise of Denim

The post-World War II era saw a significant shift in fashion. The war had a democratizing effect on clothing, as military uniforms inspired functional and practical designs. The introduction of denim jeans as casual wear became a defining moment in fashion history. Originally designed as workwear for miners and cowboys in the late 19th century, jeans became a symbol of rebellion and youth culture in the 1950s and 1960s. Icons such as James Dean and Marlon Brando made jeans popular, cementing their role casually.

The 1960s and 1970s were times of significant cultural change, and fashion reflected these shifts. The counterculture movements embraced casual wear as a rejection of traditional norms. Hippie fashion, characterized by bell-bottom jeans, tie-dye shirts, and ethnic-inspired garments, reflected a desire for freedom and self-expression. The rise of rock and roll and the influence of musicians further propelled casual wear into the mainstream.

The Evolution of Casual Wear in the Late 20th Century

The late 20th century saw the diversification of casual wear into various substyles and trends. The 1980s were marked by bold colors, oversized silhouettes, and the rise of athletic wear as casual attire. Brands such as Nike and Adidas became widely recognized, making tracksuits and sneakers essential components of casual fashion.

The 1990s brought a grunge aesthetic, characterized by flannel shirts, ripped jeans, and a generally unkempt look. This trend, popularized by bands like Nirvana, was a reaction against the excesses of the 1980s. At the same time, the hip-hop culture brought baggy jeans, oversized T-shirts, and sportswear into mainstream fashion.

The rise of technology in the late 20th and early 21st centuries also influenced casual wear. The tech industry's informal dress code, often referred to as "Silicon Valley casual," emphasized comfort and practicality. This shift was epitomized by tech leaders like Steve Jobs, who popularized the black turtleneck and jeans as a uniform.

Contemporary Casual Wear

Today, casual wear encompasses a wide range of styles and influences, reflecting the diverse and globalized nature of fashion. The lines between casual and formal wear have blurred, with many people opting for more relaxed and versatile clothing even in professional settings. Athleisure, a trend that combines athletic wear with everyday fashion, has become particularly popular, driven by a focus on health and wellness.

Sustainability has also become a significant factor in contemporary casual wear. Consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their clothing choices, leading to a rise in eco-friendly and ethical fashion brands. Organic cotton, recycled materials, and sustainable production practices are now important considerations for many shoppers.

The Cultural Significance of Casual Wear

Casual wear has always been more than just clothing; it is a reflection of cultural and societal changes. Throughout history, casual wear has symbolized freedom, rebellion, and individuality. It has provided a platform for individuals to express themselves and push against conventional norms.

In many ways, casual wear has democratized fashion. It has made style accessible to a wider audience, breaking down the barriers between different social classes. Casual wear allows people to express their personalities and preferences without the constraints of formal dress codes.

The Future of Casual Wear

As we look to the future, several trends are likely to shape the evolution of casual wear. Technology will continue to play a significant role, with innovations such as smart fabrics and wearable tech becoming more integrated into everyday clothing. The rise of virtual fashion and digital wardrobes may also influence how we think about and engage with casual wear.

The influence of global cultures will continue to diversify casual wear. As people travel more and the world becomes increasingly interconnected, fashion will draw inspiration from a broader range of cultural traditions and styles. This fusion of influences will create new and exciting possibilities for casual wear.

Conclusion

Casual wear has come a long way from its humble beginnings as practical work attire. It has evolved through the decades, influenced by cultural shifts, technological advancements, and changing societal norms. Today, casual wear is a staple of modern wardrobes, offering comfort, versatility, and a means of self-expression.