The Actors Room

My brother Dave and I further discuss the fascinating life and career of Sean Penn.  Movies like Dead Mans Walking, HurleyBurly, She's So Lovely, The Thin Red Line and Mystic River remind us how talented Penn really is. He has also struck up controversy with his recent novel. So much to delve into with this artist.  

Better get out of Sean's way if you're holding a camera because he is liable to give you a smack or a kick. This artist has a short fuse but tremendous talent. He is quite the controversial figure and my brother Dave and I talk in detail about his life and work. He is one of the best actors of the last century. Sit back relax and enjoy this episode featuring Sean Justin Penn.

Director Terry Gilliam brings to the screen a dark and creative film starring Robin Williams and Jeff Bridges. I highlight this wonderful work of art that I feel to be underrated. 

Here we go! Part 2 of this episode highlighting Tom Cruise. My brother Dave and I dive deeper into this interesting artist. Such a big star and we do our best to learn more about him as a person. Cruise is hard working and it shows in his work. And yes...we will discuss the controversial religion of Scientology as well.  So sit back, relax and enjoy our final episode of Tom Cruise. 

There is a lot going on with this guy! Wow! My brother and I dive deep into the life and career of the mega-star Tom Cruise.  He is one of the biggest movie stars of all time.  He is a dedicated artist who gives the audience entertaining performances.  His charisma is off the charts.  Join me in learning more about the talented and mysterious Thomas Cruise Mapother IV.

"If you built it...He will come." Join me as I discuss the Kevin Costner hit baseball film called Field of Dreams.  This film is one of my personal favorites because it has a clever plot and it captures your imagination.  James Earl Jones also gives a nice performance and worked well alongside Costner.  Always keep searching your heart for the answers and take some chances in your life.

Likeable is the best word to describe Michael J. Fox. He is also one of the most energetic actors I have ever seen. He came into our living rooms every Thursday evening as Alex P. Keaton in the sitcom Family Ties. America fell in love. He then went on to star in one of the biggest films of all time Back to the Future and changed history. Learn more about this artist that has touched our lives with...

...and the winner is...Gary Oldman! Yes! He got it and I'm happy. Come join me this week as I talk about the 90th Academy Awards. I break down the nights action in detail and give my input on the entire show.  I even have comments about the commercials as well.  My apologies to those expecting the Michael J. Fox episode but it has been pushed back.  I promise he is next up.

Learn how Woody Allen built up his resume to become one of the most successful directors in history.  He has been nominated for 24 Academy Awards.  Woody mastered writing one-liners, gags, sketches, one-act plays and then feature films.  All of the main aspects of filmmaking like writing, directing and casting were taken on by Woody because he wanted complete control.  I also touch lightly upon hi...

Black-rimmed glasses and humor.  Woody Allen puts a feel to his work that makes him unmistakable when comparing him to other artists.  He is an artist, musician, actor, comedian, director and writer.  I delve into Woody Allen's early life growing up in New York City. I hope you enjoy episode 1 of the talented and witty Woody Allen.

Hold onto your popcorn! Bill Murray can be looming around the theater plotting to take a handful and then say..."Nobody will believe you." He can also crash one of your parties and then do your dishes before he leaves. This is a spontaneous and talented man. We fell in love with him as a player on Saturday Night Live and it continued onto a funny and charming film career.  Come join me in learning...

Those that knew Robin Williams have stated that he was the greatest friend a person could have.  He was a giving and loving human being.  Robin had within him a spark that caught fire with his audiences.  He had an energy that was contagious and fun to watch.  His most notable films were Good Morning Vietnam, Dead Poets Society, Mrs. Doubtfire, Awakenings, Patch Adams and Good Will Hunting.  Come...

Heath Ledger was an artist that left us way too soon.  This was a young man that was wise before his years and so full of talent.  Ledger gave us many memorable performances in films like Monsters Ball, The Four Feathers, Brokeback Mountain and Dark Knight.  We will never forget his rendition of The Joker and how he took his acting to another level.  You are missed Mr. Ledger...there is no doubt a...

Nobody prepares for a role more passionately than Daniel Day-Lewis.  His dedication to perfecting his craft has given the audiences epic performances in My Left Foot, Last of the Mohicans, In the Name of the Father, Gangs of New York, There Will Be Blood, Lincoln and his most recent film Phantom Thread.  He recently announced his retirement from acting.  So sad.  We hope you miss the work and come...

Ted Kaczynski was captured by the FBI after the longest Manhunt in history.  They called him the Unabomber.  Ted struck fear into the nation by delivering boxes by mail that contained bombs within.  His distrust of the government and disdain for technology were the driving force in his mind to execute his deliveries.  I dive into the show Manhunt: The Unabomber because it influence me to do this e...

The Cleveland Browns were once a proud franchise delivering several championships to its dedicated fans.  There was a resurgence in the 1980's behind quarterbacks Brian Sipe and Bernie Kosar, but the team fell short of their dream of making it to the Super Bowl.  The franchise moved in 1994 when owner Art Modell decided that Baltimore would be the teams new home.  Since the Browns return in 1999 t...

The Robert Pattinson craze hit its zenith when the "Twilight" films reached the screen.  His life changed forever.  He came to regret taking the role that would place him among the most famous actors in the world.  Would he ever shed the dreamy vampire image?  Come join me in learning more about this underrated artist.  His most recent project called "Good Time" may convince those skeptics that th...

It is no surprise that "Christmas Vacation" starring Chevy Chase is one of the most popular Christmas movies to watch during the holiday season.  Clark W. Griswold and his family never fail to deliver in giving us the wonderful gift of laughter.  

Chris Farley is one of the funniest people I have ever seen.  His personality was larger than life and it showed in his comedy.  Saturday Night Live and Chris Farley were meant to be together.  The characters that Chris created were indeed trademarks in the mid 1990's.  He struggled with addiction and it ultimately got him in the end, but he left us some great memories.  There are also many storie...

I continue discussing the life and career of Gary Oldman.  His role in The Professional is without a doubt one of the best he has ever given.  I touch on The Scarlett Letter, Air Force One and the rest of the films that prove just how talented this man is.  Also a glimpse into his personal life about his father, alcoholism, and kids.  Part 2 of this series on Gary Oldman.  I hope you enjoy the sho...

Intense!  Gary Oldman is described as a man on fire when he steps in front of the camera.  He is not afraid to take his talent to the next level.  Gary has shown amazing work in films that include Sid and Nancy, Prick up your Ears, State of Grace, JFK, True Romance, Dracula and Darkest Hour.  It wasn't an easy road for Gary Oldman but whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger.  Join me in learn...

I put together an episode filled with comments, insight and advice from our favorite artists for your listening pleasure.  Sit back...relax and enjoy this special edition of The Actors Room.  Thanks once again for supporting this show.

River Phoenix captured our hearts with his engaging talent and aura.  His performances in Stand by Me, Running on Empty and My Own Private Idaho proved he was on his way to be one of the best.  He was a devout advocate in the protection of animals and children.  His childhood was interesting and I dive into how he broke into show business at an early age.  Come and learn more about the young and t...

Alfred Hitchcock is a man that redefined thrill and terror both on the screen and television.  His recognizable image and voice were evident in his television show called "Alfred Hitchcock Presents."  I discuss this mans early life, schooling and how he became one of the best directors of our time.  I also touch on the ghoulish story of Edward Gein, who was the man that inspired many horror films....

Stanley was a unique film director that brought us inspirational films such as 2001: A Space Odyssey, Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb, Lolita, Full Metal Jacket and Eyes Wide Shut.  He gave a new meaning to the word perfection in his work.  This is an intriguing man and artist that deserves the utmost recognition.