Who am I now?

After one of the DeMille films at The Paramount last winter someone asked me, "So what makes you an expert?" Naturally, I thought of the right answer ten minutes later and too late. I’m not an expert, I never claimed to be one. What I am is a film buff, just like the person asking that question, and I have an undying love of silent film. I’ve spent years reading about them, researching them and more importantly watching them, over and over.
The ability of motion pictures to express visual narrative has never been achieved more successfully than in the feature films of the silent era. The greatest irony is the final half-decade, which is arguably the best, would never have happened if the major studios hadn’t fought the introduction of sound. The films from that period are the most profoundly moving and visually perfect ever made. Add live musical accompaniment in a beautiful old theater and silent film becomes something of a religious experience.
Writing for me is recent development. It’s a way to share my enthusiasm and cultivate interest in these wonderful old films. I’m also extremely grateful for the opportunity to contribute. Originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, I spent several years of my childhood living in the East Bay not far from Niles Canyon. I recall being told about the cowboy pictures filmed there and my imagination did the rest. Before long I picked up a book, learned about Essanay, Tom Mix, Charlie and Edna and I’m still learning.