Movies and Shows That Hold a Special Place in My Heart

There are certain movies and shows that capture our hearts and stay with us long after the credits roll. For me, these are not just entertainment; they are cherished memories and mentors. Here are some of the movie and shows that hold a special place in my heart.

Local Hero: A Captivating Sketch of Life

Local Hero (1983) is a movie that hardly needed a plot because each scene was like a captivating sketch of everyday life. Directed by Bill Forsyth, this film is a showcase of the lives of people in a small Scottish town. It tells the story of a visitor who brings development to the town, affecting the lives of the locals in unexpected ways. This film stands out not for its storyline but for its portrayal of character, atmosphere, and the nuances of rural life.

Trailer Park Boys: A Comedy with a Heart

Trailer Park Boys…Count Down to Liquor Day: Because it's Good to Laugh! is a weekly series that brings a unique blend of dark humor and heartwarming moments. Set in and around a trailer park in Nova Scotia, the show revolves around the lives of four friends and the chaos that ensues. Each episode promises a good laugh, making it a firm favorite for its relatable characters and humor.

A Personal Ritual: Broadway Performances

In Navy life, I was honored to join the Broadway cast of The Sound of Music as one of the two boys playing 'Kurt von Trapp' in 1960. This experience marked the beginning of a performing career and is a cherished memory. The show had been running for about 7 months, and one of the original boys was experiencing vocal changes. This was a learning experience for me, and the adult cast, directors, and mentors provided me with invaluable guidance and support.

A Musical Journey: 'A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum'

A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum is another series that holds a special place in my heart. I joined this production at the community theater in Augsburg, Germany, in 1972 and took on the role of 'Hero'. Over the years, I have played various roles in this comedic tale, including 'Pseudolus', 'Hysterium', 'Senex', and 'Miles Gloriosis'. In addition to performing, I have also directed the play twice. I still have aspirations to play 'Marcus Lycus' and 'Erronious', the two remaining male roles I haven't performed yet.

Timeless Truths: 'Band of Brothers'

Band of Brothers is a testament to the power of true stories. Based on the book by Stephen E. Ambrose, this miniseries tells the story of the American 101st Airborne Division's Easy Company during World War II. Each episode focuses on a different chapter, narrated by survivors, providing a personal and heartwarming perspective. The series is a reminder that the greatest heroes are not fictional characters but the everyday people who put their lives on the line for their country.

Nostalgia and Melodies: 'The Fantastiks'

"It's To Remember..." has been an earworm since Friday. This Broadway musical, which first opened in 1960, was a profound experience. I was a part of the 1960 stage production of 'The Fantastiks', with Rita Gardner and Jerry Orbach, and paid $45 a week for 8 shows. My musical comedy teacher at HB Studio further enriched my experience, teaching me the nuances of musical theater.

Endearments and Melodies: Indian Cinema

My love for movies extends beyond Hollywood and Broadway. South Indian themes and dialogues resonate deeply with me, and certain movies like 'Taqdeer', 'Vivah', 'Akele Hum Akele Tum', 'Krish', and 'Golmaal' bring back fond memories. These films have a special place in my heart, and their music and stories remain etched in my mind.