Johnny Kitties: Celebrating Johnny Depp Film #7--Arizona Dream (1993)

[What is Johnny Kitties? See Johnny Kitties: Celebrating Johnny Depp for all the details.]


Johnny's in your dreams.

"This is your brain on drugs." 

©New Line Cinema

After Edward Scissorhands, Johnny Depp showed up in Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare--a thank you to the people who cast him in his first movie. In this funny cameo appearance, he makes an anti-drug public service announcement on late-night TV. It's only a few seconds before Freddy interrupts the commercial with a classic slapstick move. I didn't draw anything for this--I don't want to ruin the surprise--but I thought I should mention it. If you're not an avid follower of the Nightmare on Elm Street series, you can find Johnny's cameo on YouTube. I was going to post it here, but Freddy Krueger makes The Kitties and me nervous.

Johnny has his own weird dream.
With that, we move on to Johnny's next movie. Yesterday, I found a 12-page research article, printed in the European Journal of American Studies in 2010, that analyzes how Arizona Dream reflects the director's European view of America and details all the intentions and symbolism that go into that. Maybe I'll read it someday, but my short analysis is that Arizona Dream, the first American project by Serbian film director Emir Kusturica, is a work of art. It sparks all sorts of emotions: happiness, sadness, fear, unease, confusion. The director manipulates the film throughout--smearing and blurring images, highlighting reflections, or maneuvering objects for a dreamlike state. The characters and situations are absurd, and there are flying fish and Eskimo dreams. I may never understand this movie fully--maybe I should read that study--but every time I play it, I find something new. Whatever it really means, Emir Kusturica's ingredients make this movie highly entertaining.

Johnny as Axel Blackmar, fishing in New York
©StudioCanal Image/Hachette Premiere

In this coming-of-age story, New Yorker Axel Blackmar (Johnny Depp) is dragged back home to Arizona to attend his uncle's wedding. Uncle Leo (Jerry Lewis), a used car salesman, guilts Axel into staying in town to help him run the business. On his first day, he meets Elaine (Faye Dunaway) and her step-daughter Grace (Lili Taylor). The three become involved in a relationship that is at times sweet, weird, hilarious, and toxic.

At their first meeting, Emir Kusturica and Johnny hated each other, but they shook off their first impressions and got along fine during their second meeting 3 weeks later. (Today, they remain great friends.) For unexplained reasons--Johnny doesn't even know--Johnny saw his character as a chicken, growing up and becoming a rooster. You'll notice this in his hairstyle, mannerisms, and impeccable impression. "He lets you do anything--anything!" Johnny said of working with Emir Kusturica. "If you go to any other director and say, 'I'd like to seduce her by becoming a rooster,' that's it. You're fired. Get out!"

What excited me most about this film was the people involved. I hadn't heard of Emir Kustrica at the time, but Johnny was working with Faye Dunaway, Jerry Lewis, and Lili Taylor! I was sold. Faye Dunaway is brilliant as Elaine, and while I never caught on to Jerry Lewis's trademark humor, he's really good as the grown-up in this movie. In a dream sequence during which Axel and Uncle Leo are Eskimos fishing in Alaska, they have a conversation in the native language. On the set, Jerry stopped Johnny from learning his lines in proper Eskimo, saying that they could just make it up during filming. (I think the Eskimos would notice, wouldn't they?) Johnny was terrified, but did his best trying to keep up with what Jerry Lewis could probably do in his sleep. I think it works, just as Jerry said it would. There's some talent in that, but you've got to love Johnny's preference for authenticity. The Eskimos probably would have appreciated that more too.

What's Tom Petty doing here? 
Amid filming, Arizona Dream was stalled a bit due to illness. During the break, Johnny made a quick trip to star in Tom Petty's latest music video, "The Great Wide Open." At the time, MTV was still playing videos, and Tom Petty was riding high as one of the art form's pioneers. His videos are like short films, and they became increasingly star-studded. Johnny plays Eddie in this story, but you'll also find him making a quick cameo as the tattoo artist working on Matt LeBlanc's arm. When Johnny asked Faye Dunaway if she would like to "meet my friend Tom" and shoot the video with him, he said she turned into a squealing teenage girl. Of course, Comet just dug this video out of the archives, and The Kitties are already singing along. Here it is:

Tom Petty - Into The Great Wide Open by mimie75

©MCA

Everybody get back to work! 
After that side job, Arizona Dream was completed. Johnny looks back on the film fondly: "Everybody in Hollywood, in the movie business, is always concerned about how much a movie's going to make in the box office and how many theaters it's in, how popular it becomes," he said. "Who cares about the numbers when you're able to experience something like this, live through something like this, and be involved in something as magical as this."

©StudioCanal Image/
Hachette Premiere

Though Arizona Dream did have a limited theatrical release somewhere in the world, I couldn't find it. "I imagine that when Warner Brothers saw this film, they must have been shocked,"Johnny said. Its sudden appearance on video and DVD 3 or so years later must have been a result of Johnny's increasing popularity. I think I bought the video through eBay, but I also saw the movie on cable, which gave me the full picture. Sadly, the video and DVD versions are not adjusted for letterbox format, a frustrating lapse. For example, you miss the full humor of the scene where Uncle Leo and Elaine are discussing Axel's future over a civilized cup of tea because Axel and his cousin Paul (Vincent Gallo)--who are rolling around in the dirt beating each other up in the background--are cropped out of the frame. The DVD is also missing the subtitles for the conversation between Uncle Leo and Axel in the final Eskimo dream sequence that I mentioned earlier, a conversation that touches on one of the film's main themes. Dedicated to the memory of his father, Emir Kusturica's film reminds us that, in order to grow, you need to remember your roots, respect your elders, and learn from your ancestors.

Despite these flawed products, the film still comes across well. I was absolutely thrilled when Roger Ebert featured the DVD on At the Movies, calling it a whimsical love story and pointing out the fine performance by rising star, Johnny Depp. (Why do I remember these things?) People listen to Roger Ebert, I thought; the movie will be seen now.

The Kitties and I are unanimous.
For Johnny Kitties, the scene to draw was clear: Axel and Paul enjoying their first dinner with Elaine and Grace. One of the great things about this movie is that so much is going on in each scene, and this 15-minute, hilarious, crazy scene tops them all.



Elaine (The Mother Kitty) spends the evening talking about one of her obsessions, Papua New Ginea, a topic that is killing her step-daughter Grace, who threatens to yank the tablecloth off to destroy the table setting if she mentions it one more time. Meanwhile, Axel is explaining his recurring Eskimo dream (while keeping his eye on Grace's pet turtle, who has his mind set on escape.) Paul is focused on Elaine's legs--and the big plate of spaghetti in front of him--and Grace is playing footsie with Axel under the table. Through it all, the wobbly ceiling fan is threatening to crash on the party, and Django Rhinehardt's fantastic song "Minor Swing" is whirling in the background.

The Mother Kitty insisted on playing Faye Dunaway's role. No one could deny that she's perfect for it, though I hesitated considering Axel and Elaine's romantic entanglements later on in the story. But, if we're just doing this scene, I suppose it's okay. Simon was supposed to play the part of Axel's wily cousin Paul, but was bullied out of his seat once Norman saw all the food on the table and found out that all he had to do in the scene was eat the spaghetti. Ashes, who loves Lili Taylor as much as the rest of us, was excited to play Grace because she couldn't wait to smash the dishes. (She's disappointed that we didn't get to that point.)

I added some windows in the background to highlight some other interesting movie moments: The first introduces Uncle Leo (B.J.) and his new wife Millie (Paulina Porizkova/Lily) next to his newly planted cactus on the front lawn of his flamingo pink home. The middle window shows the Eskimo family in Axel's dream after Dewey, the dad, returns home with fish for dinner. (Simon was happy to switch roles with Norman and play in the snow with Mini here.) The last window displays one of Elaine's beloved flying machines, which Axel keeps building and Grace keeps destroying in this story.

None of this makes much sense does it? Well, I don't always say this, but listen to Roger Ebert and rent Arizona Dream. It still might not make complete sense, but it'll be worth it.

What's coming up? 
Simon is busy teaching Gordon his favorite circus tricks. He's practicing his pratfalls now.  
Next month, Johnny channels Buster Keaton in Benny and Joon. 

Who is Arthur Rimbaud?

Hi everyone,

I meant to start reading a new book sooner, but I didn't want to interrupt the Meet the Kitties series. Check out my new Meet the Kitties page!

So, I pile up nearly as many magazines on my floor as I do books. Since finishing Paul and Me by A.E. Hotchner, I've read through my stack of magazines, which included British Harper's Bazaar, Vanity Fair's Hollywood issue, Total Film, and Real Simple. (Vanity Fair always takes me weeks to finish reading. Do you have the same problem, or is it just me?)

Now that that pile is gone, I am about to start reading A Season in Hell and Illuminations by French poet Arthur Rimbaud. I must admit that this is a Johnny Recommendation. Last year, Entertainment Weekly published Johnny Depp's list of essential movies, music, and books. (Thank you, Entertainment Weekly!) While I don't run to the bookstore every time Johnny mentions a book (which is often), I bought this one because 1) I had Borders credit to use up, 2) you can't really go wrong with a book of poetry, and 3) how can I deny such a glowing recommendation?

Along with Charles Baudelaire's The Flowers of Evil (which I've also never heard of or read), Johnny calls Arthur Rimbaud's A Season in Hell and Illuminations "possibly the most divine writings in the history of the world." I'll take it.

This book is only about 100 pages. I decided to read it now, thinking it'll be a quick, easy read. But it's probably the kind of book professors choose to study in class for an entire semester. And, considering it's taken me more than a week to get through the 8-page author introduction by translator/editor Wyatt Mason (I've been sleepy!), this one might take me a while.  Here goes....

Duet

(Illustration Friday: April 1, 2011)

So this is what they do while we're out.

Meet The Kitties: Mini

Mini spends a lot of time on the stairs.

Years ago, my sister Julie moved from Cincinnati to Columbus, and Mini showed up at her work place in early 2010. Like B.J. Mini was a stray living outdoors and off the kindness of strangers. When she also contracted FIV, her original caretakers no longer wanted her because of her bothersome disease. Although sad and angry, she brushed off this rejection and instantly regained her sunny disposition in her new life with Julie. In Julie's house, she found several friendly cats, including a huge one who looked just like her! Like a long-lost relative, Norman saw her and called out, "Mini-Me!" He raced up—as much as Norman can race—and gave her a bear hug. They were instant friends, bosom buddies, and definitely an odd couple!

Much like Norman's kitten ways, but with unvarnished sweetness, Mini spends her days climbing, attacking, and exploring. She fears nothing and is ready for everything. She cannot grow up fast enough, and there is not enough time in the day for playing. She spends them chasing and attacking Norman, to the great amazement of everyone around her. She loves games, gossip, social engagements, and basically anything and everything exciting. At the moment, she is obsessively investigating the workings of the living room's mysterious giant clock. (It sets itself at random times—but why?) Her role models include Tallulah Bankhead, Oprah Winfrey, Shaun "The Flying Tomato" White, and James Dean.

But she eventually makes her way downstairs to great you.
(Illustration Friday--January 15, 2011: Chicken)

Meet The Kitties: Lily

Lily, seeing the world from her top perch

On a visit to my sister's office, I met Lily in October 2009. While it was love at first sight, it took a month or so before Lily could make the move by car, plane, and elevator from Columbus to my apartment in Washington, D.C.

We are best buddies, with daily games of Chase and Hide-and-Seek. She's proficient at batting practice and an expert at Dad's Blanket Game. While The Mother Kitty is the staring champ, Lily is a close second with her unprecedented dilated eye tricks. Currently studying the phases of the sun and moon, she spends her days researching the changing lights, shadows, and sounds throughout our apartment.

She loves jigsaw puzzles and brainteasers, movies, music, and hosting company and social events. Though she enjoys our quiet life, she chronicles the endless outdoor activities of the bustling city from the vantage points of her window seats. Like Mark Twain, she plans to have her radical findings published 100 years after her death.

Though she hates computers and wishes I'd throw mine out the window, she helps with sorting my markers and scanning my artwork. But she's really all about the breaks, often sabotaging my blog posts and stealing my sketchbooks to get her way. Her idols include Martha Stewart, Marilyn Monroe, Rosie Perez, and Amelia Earhart.

Lily is completely innocent here. (Illustration Friday--January 21, 2011: Dusty)

Meet The Kitties: B.J.

B.J.'s chillin' out.

B.J. was tired by the time he decided to move into my sister Julie's home. At the time, he was living on the streets of Cincinnati with other alley cats, fending off his territory and scraping up any leftovers he could find. Julie fed him whenever she saw B.J. in her driveway, which he always appreciated. 

One day, he caught a cold, and Julie took him to the vet's office. He didn't like her as much that day, but it was a good thing they went. It turned out that he had contracted FIV from his pals, and his immune system had taken a recent hit. While B.J. dismissed this news as an annoyance, Julie insisted he come live in the safety of her warm, dry house. Always a lone traveler, he preferred the open air and sky. He had travelled all the way from the Wild West, and his early days under stars on the prairie forever remained in his blood. Still, although he was afraid he'd miss the outdoors, he couldn't pass up such a generous offer.

To his great surprise, being an indoor cat suited him just fine. Eternally grateful for his good fortune, B.J. became an increasingly happy-go-lucky cat. Named Bob, Jr., after Bob, an identical orange kitty Julie used to care for before he settled into a friend's home, B.J. shared Bob's good nature. He got along with everyone, except for Norman. (Comet and Ashes assured him that Norman rarely got along with anyone, but B.J. always tried.) He also loves watching Paul Newman and Jimmy Stewart movies, playing board games, and weight lifting. He most enjoys conversations covering the day's events. There's nothing better than a sunny spot by a window so he can keep up with his old pals, spy on new ones, and check out his neighborhood's happenings. He'll tell you all about it.

B.J. says hello!
(Illustration Friday--September 4, 2009: Strong)

Meet the Kitties: Norman

Norman, ready for his close-up. 

Norman muscled his way into my sister Julie's life after spotting her on a bike trail in Cincinnati, where somebody "took him on a little trip" and promptly disappeared. Confused and unsure of his situation, he spent hours trying to snag passersby, but to no avail. By the time he saw Julie on her bike, he was desperate and ran for it! Julie, hearing a constant pulsating cry, finally looked behind her and discovered she was being chased.

Once home, Norman immediately settled in—to the great dismay of Comet and Ashes. Julie named her new kitten Norman after Psycho's "Norman Bates" because he was and is completely mental. As a kitten, he attacked everything with a feverish, unsettling look. He jumped after anything, with no consideration of how or where he might land. Norman is a survivor.

The early trauma Norman experienced in that open field planted deep-seeded insecurities about belonging. Analysis was useless. Once he had the constant guarantee of scheduled meals, he also began his lifelong struggle with weight. The older he gets, the more of a bully he becomes to ward off any potential teasing in these sensitive areas. And, he doesn't always need to be provoked to lash out. While lazily content in his new life of luxury, he still gets that crazy glint in his eye every once in a while, so watch out!

Norman loves laps but not to be pet. He spends his time napping and eating or eating and napping, sitting, and randomly smacking whoever crosses his path—cat or human. Norman's heroes are Marlon Brando and Mike Tyson.

Of course, Norman has his good, lovable side too. Since his birth, Liam—Julie's now 7-year-old son— has been Norman's favorite person. They bonded and are best playmates, who over the years, have fought many dinosaur and Star Wars battles. Norman's newest dearest inseparable friend is Mini, the latest addition to Melissa's Kitties. Although he lights up at the mention of his new friend, Norman can't talk now. He's off to defend Iron Man against Liam's Harry Potter wizardry. I'm not sure who's winning yet.

"Cooookieeee!!!!"
With strategic flair, Norman picks out his own Halloween costume.
(Illustration Friday--December 4, 2009: Crunchy)

Meet the Kitties: Ashes

Ashes, keeping the bed warm for my nephew Liam in 2002

Ashes spent her early life in a Cincinnati cat shelter, uncertain of her future and always planning her escape. When my sister Julie brought her home, she happily found only one cat to deal with and room after room full of things to explore, climb, and possibly destroy. Every time she accidentally ruined something, she got warnings of returning to that crowded cat cell from which she came, but she could always talk her way out of that. Besides, she knew Julie was too kind-hearted to follow through with any such threats.

Ashes's bold, infectious personality is undeniable. Soon, everyone warmed up to her, including her best friend Comet. She's never understood the reasons behind Comet's shyness and spends her days trying to snap him out of it. He, on the other hand, teaches her the joy of sitting quietly for reflection. Typically, for Ashes, with some much to do and topics to discuss, there are never enough hours in the day. Some of her hobbies include singing, sewing, jewelry-making, and floor hockey. Some of her idols include Janet Jackson, Tim Gunn, and Joan Crawford.

"Good morning!" (Illustration Friday--August 28, 2009: Magnify)

Meet the Kitties: Comet

When Julie received her White Coat, a milestone in her veterinary studies, Comet was first to test it out.

Comet had a rough childhood, growing up in Cincinnati. At age 3, he was brought in to a veterinary office to be euthanized because his owner's boyfriend didn't get along with him! Can you imagine anyone not getting along with Comet? He couldn't either! He was—of course—saved by his undeniable cuteness and lovable personality. The veterinarians displayed him in a cage in the front office, trying to entice customers to take him home. That's where my sister Julie met him.

While Comet still struggles to conquer his shyness and fears, life with Julie was completely different. Days were full of love and fun, as they spent them playing Hide and Seek and Tag. A couple of years down the road, Julie brought Ashes home to be Comet's new friend. It took some adjusting, but now—as you know—they're inseparable.

Comet prefers the quiet life, and works on building up his courage every day. He spends his days hiding, wrestling with Ashes and listening to her endless stories, napping, and watching the birds. Comet enjoys reading the works of great, reflective minds—such as Abraham Lincoln, Richard Feynman, and Leonardo Da Vinci—and brave adventurers, including Howard Hughes, Jane Goodall, and the Cowardly Lion. He practices yoga, watches classic MTV, and enjoys musicals, silent films, and The Honeymooners.

Comet makes a cautious approach.
(Illustration Friday--March 5, 2010: Brave)

Meet the Kitties: Simon

Simon, helping Dad in the garage with his latest construction job, takes a work break. 

A few years after Gordon left home, Simon showed up outside my parents' office building. As we exited the front door, he sprung out from the bushes and circled the parking lot doing a handstand on the seat of a unicycle. We took him home immediately.

With the hint of a French accent, Simon explained his tenure with the Cique du Soliel. He had to quit his high wire act after a fall that broke his front paw. On the mend, Simon enjoyed his new surroundings at our home with The Mother Kitty, though The Mother Kitty was not as thrilled. It took years, but I think she secretly tolerates him now.

On a typical day, Simon roams the yard, inspecting every change from the day before—in the air and on land. He enjoys sunbathing by the fish pond, reading and writing philosophy, and helping Dad with his craft projects in the garage. More than anything, though, Simon loves a lap. In his spare time, he continues to practice his old circus tricks and to exercise, walking in circles and making frequent u-turns. These skills have helped him score a spot as star point guard for the Boston Celtics. You may know him as Rajon Rondo, but don't tell anybody.

Simon in the old days (Illustration Friday--September 17, 2010: Acrobat)

Meet the Kitties: Gordon

Gordon, camouflaged in one of our porch flower boxes

Born behind a piano in Northeast Ohio and named after a famous rock star, Gordon knew from an early age that he wanted to see more than his own backyard. A real outdoorsy type, Gordon spent his early years hunting and hiking, roaming our neighborhood daily. After his first few years at home, he bid his mom and the rest of our family adieu and set off on one of his many adventures.

Gordon excelled in the arts and has become a true performer—proficient in music like his namesake, Sting (real name: Gordon), and currently starring in the Johnny Kitties series, celebrating Johnny Depp. He attributes his lifelong love for classic films and Johnny Movies to his upbringing of afternoon lap naps in front of the TV for my movie marathons. He also has an encyclopedic knowledge of music, which makes him the favorite for DJing parties. While—of course—Sting is his hero, he leans toward guitar gods Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Jimi Hendrix.

Now traveling the world, exploring new cultures, religions, and languages, Gordon shares a worldly, ageless reputation similar to his mother's. He returns home with a flicker of a new indistinct accent, treats from afar to share, and tales and legends to tell. What's true? What's legend? Only Gordon knows.

Some of his favorite destinations include Mozambique, Taiwan, Italy, New Zealand, and New York. To counter his life on the road, Gordon spends his spare time taking long walks, reading, reflecting, practicing yoga, and catching a quick snooze between flights.

From somewhere south of the equator, Gordon sends his mother a sweet message.
(Illustration Friday--May 14, 2010: Equipment)

Meet The Kitties: The Mother Kitty

The Mother Kitty finds a spot in the sun.

The son of one of my dad's friends, who was attending the University of Akron, was looking for a home for the cat that lurked outside his dorm. One day, Dad brought her home.

After a scrubby bath, what we thought was a salt-and-pepper kitty turned out to be fluffy winter white. Her friends at the University of Akron called her Ghost. But, since she was the only cat we knew, we referred to her as The Kitty, a name that she approved.

Soon, The Kitty became The Mother Kitty, bearing six kittens. (One was kept—more on him later—while the others moved in with friends.)

The Mother Kitty—and all the kitties to follow—became instant family. She roamed our two-story house and surrounding yard and woods as if she owned it. (She did.) Indoors, she hunted through our belongings for barrettes, paper clips, business cards, and jewelry. At times, she’d trap me for hours, napping on my lap. Outside, she helped Mom out with the mail and her daily gardening. She climbed her favorite pine tree and always kept her eye on all the neighborhood happenings.

The Mother Kitty is a true lady, caring and stern, street smart and full of wisdom, opinionated and no-nonsense. Mom, Bette Davis, and Eleanor Roosevelt are just a few of her role models. Her eclectic pastimes include reading, gardening, fine dining, music and formal dancing, astrology, staring contests, and messing with her roommate Simon’s head.

The Mother Kitty with her kittens 

(Illustration Friday--May 8, 2008: Baby)

Her most distinctive feature, her multi-colored eyes, has always been a mystery. Some reports suggest that The Mother Kitty is thousands of years old and that her eyes mark the ages, serving as windows to the different eras and worldly locations she’s experienced. Others say her eyes reflect the level of her Jedi powers. Several studies explore their respective purposes and origins, but no conclusive or definitive comparisons have been drawn. Some have gone as far as to link her to Buddha, David Bowie, and Dorothy Parker. The Mother Kitty does not dispute any of these theories but will not discuss it. And she will stare you down until you stop asking her.

Toy

(Illustration Friday: March 25, 2011)

When Lily first arrived, I bought her lots of toys. It turns out, I didn't have to because all she needs is an old pen cap. But, it wasn't all a waste--Her trusty Wubbas never seem to fail to grab her attention.

Meet the Kitties!

Hi everyone,

I've been meaning to create a Meet the Kitties page for months now, and The Kitties are getting impatient. Instead of posting their stories all at once, I thought each Kitty deserved at least a day. (They again protested--saying they deserved much longer. True, but when I explained that they'll get their own page on my blog after the nine days is over, they were pleased again.) So, look forward to Nine Days of Kitties starting Monday, March 28, when each Kitty will get their close-up! Here's the plan:

• March 28: The Mother Kitty
• March 29: Gordon
• March 30: Simon
• March 31: Comet
• April 1: Ashes
• April 2: Norman
• April 3: B.J.
• April 4: Lily
• April 5: Mini

Enjoy!

Best,
Melissa

Cultivate

(Illustration Friday: March 18, 2011)

Happy First Day of Spring, everyone! (And, happy birthday, Dad!)

Snap!

(Illustration Friday: March 11, 2011)

This is a true story.

In Julie's house, there is no braver kitty than Mini.

Johnny Kitties: Celebrating Johnny Depp Film #6: Edward Scissorhands (1990)

[What is Johnny Kitties? See Johnny Kitties: Celebrating Johnny Depp for all the details.]

When these ads showed up,
I officially started pacing the floors.
©20th Century Fox

In the summer of 1990, magazine advertisements for Edward Scissorhands started popping up in my entertainment magazines. "Edward is coming" or "Edward was here" read the tag lines, looming above topiar or heads with strange haircuts. I knew Johnny Depp was working on this film about a guy who had some sort of scissors for hands. I was excited that Johnny was working with Tim Burton, whose movies so far, I loved--Pee-Wee's Big Adventure, Beetlejuice, and Batman.  Pee-Wee was hilarious and caught the perfect spirit. Beetlejuice was one of a kind and entirely imaginative. And, when Tim's version of Batman came out, I thought it was exactly as Batman should be: dark, twisted, and funny. These were all big hits, and  I was thrilled for Johnny, having snagged this interesting opportunity in a movie that was a little more mainstream. Unlike Cry-Baby, Edward Scissorhands had potential to show up at a theater near me. Then, everyone would start seeing Johnny's movies! Apparently, my inner cheerleader slipped out. As soon as it was released, we got to the theater. Dad walked up to the ticket counter and asked, "Can we have four tickets to Johnny Scissorhands?"

Johnny meets Edward and makes a new friend.
Edward Scissorhands is a story about a man created by an old inventor (Vincent Price) who dies before completing his creation. Edward is left with sharp shears for hands. He lived alone in a mansion on a mountaintop overlooking the town of Suburbia. One day, the local Avon Lady, Peg Boggs (Dianne Wiest) discovers him and brings him home to live with her family.

Tim Burton's Edward
©Tim Burton

Edward Scissorhands was written by Caroline Thompson, based on one of Tim's early drawings, and many say that the character is very close to Tim himself. (They do look alike, minus the scissors.) The story stemmed from his teenage feelings of isolation and misperception, a universal feeling that Johnny also connected to growing up and, more recently, when pushed into the TV spotlight surrounded by teenage mania.

"I read the screenplay to Edward Scissorhands and lost my mind," Johnny said in 2005. "It was one of the most beautiful things I ever read whether it was a book, a screenplay, poem--whatever. It was just a beautiful piece." After he read it, Johnny tried to cancel the meeting that his new agent, Tracey Jacobs, set up for him with the film's director. He figured everyone in Hollywood would want the part and assumed that he--mainly known as a TV actor and teen idol--would have no chance at the role. He wanted to avoid the rejection. Luckily, Tracey forced him to go! Not only did he get the part, but their 3-hour meeting over coffee and cigarettes was the start of a lifelong friendship and prolific working relationship that has led to 8 films so far. (They're working on their 9th collaboration right now!)

"After sharing approximately three to four pots of coffee together, stumbling our way through each other's unfinished sentences but somehow still understanding one another, we ended our meeting with a handshake and a 'nice to meet you,'" Johnny remembers in Burton on Burton by Mark Salisbury. "I left that coffee shop jacked up on caffeine, chewing insanely on my coffee spoon like a wild, rabid dog. I now officially felt even worse about things because of the honest connection I felt we had during the meeting. Mutually understanding the perverse beauty of a milkcow creamer, the bright-eyed fascination with resin grapes, the complexities and raw power that one can find in a velvet Elvis painting--seeing way beyond the novelty, the profound respect for 'those who are not others.' I was sure we could work well together, and I was positive, if given the chance, I could carry out his artistic vision for Edward Scissorhands. My chances were, at best, slim--if that."

It's true. All the big stars in Hollywood were fighting to play this part. People I can't imagine! William Hurt? Tom Hanks?? Tom Cruise???!!!

While Johnny waited for the phone to ring, he studied. After reading the script, his immediate impression of the character mirrored the unconditional love and innocence that newborn babies and animals possess. The character sparked memories of a pet dog he had growing up. He read child psychology books, children's books, fairy tales and whatever else he could get his hands on to prepare for the role.  "It was now not something I merely wanted to do, but something I had to do," he said. "Not for any ambitious, greedy, actory, box-office-draw reason, but because this story had now taken residence in the middle of my heart and refused to be evicted."

Johnny: "I am Edward Scissorhands!"
After weeks of waiting, he got the call. "When I met Johnny I knew right away that he was The One," Tim Burton said. "I had a feeling about it....He just had that quality. You could see it in his eyes."

How can you deny that face?
©20th Century Fox

I have to agree! Johnny has an amazing talent for saying volumes with a flicker of an eyeball. "It's a very tough thing to play somebody who is created--you know, other than the normal way," Vincent Price said of Johnny's performance. "What do you do? You're an unreal character, and yet he's in very real situations. And there are very few people with scissors for hands--fortunately!"

"I can remember when I finished Edward Scissorhands," Johnny said, "looking in the mirror as the girl was doing my make-up for the last time, and thinking, 'Wow, this is it. I'm saying goodbye to Edward Scissorhands.' It was kind of sad." Aside from all the critical acclaim--Edward Scissorhands still shows up on Most Memorable Movie Characters lists around the world--Johnny received his first of many Golden Globe nominations for his performance. He also won the 1990 ShoWest Award for Male Star of Tomorrow. (Yeah, he is!)

Most people I know find Tim Burton's work too dark or weird--or both--but I have always marveled at the worlds he creates. You know a Tim Burton movie when you see one. Edward's pale, scarred face, mangled hair, and scissorhands never frightened me. I don't remember even thinking that the idea of scissorhands was strange, but maybe I was just focused on Johnny's quiet, gentle performance. This movie does get dark. I find it hard to watch Edward Scissorhands in its entirety. If it's on TV, I often change the station before the neighbors start turning against Edward. No one should be mean to Edward.

This is sort of plopped in here, but I have to also mention the Edward Scissorhands soundtrack by the great Danny Elfman, Tim's frequent collaborator. (Didn't you already love him as the lead singer of Oingo Boingo in the '80s anyway?) The music is enchanting and timeless. It transports you to Christmas and gives you visions of snowflakes. Today, the themes are still copied and heard in other movies and TV commercials--everywhere. I'd yell at the thieves, but who can blame them?

How does Johnny Kitties Measure Up?
Of all the Johnny Kitties drawings so far, this one took me the longest--from coming up with an idea that would do such a special film justice to drawing what was in my head. I adore the first half of this movie, watching Edward experience Suburbia for the first time, meeting new people, and trying to fit in. There are so many memorable scenes--Edward trying to get dressed. Edward trying to eat his peas and carrots, Edward exploring Kim's room. (Kim is Peg's teenage daughter, played by Johnny's then-girlfriend Winona Ryder.)

There were too many moments and characters I wanted to capture in this drawing. Johnny worked with Vincent Price on his final film. Diane Weist, Alan Arkin, Kathy Baker--and everyone--made up a fantastic cast of extreme, yet believable Suburbia citizens. I couldn't make up my mind about any of it. Of course, Edward's world--the gothic mansion, the snow, the topiaries--was necessary, but all the other characters didn't live there. There's no way to mix them together on one sheet of paper. I feared that my Johnny Kitties project would end before it had hardly begun. While I was pondering how to avoid stalling Johnny Kitties indefinitely or creating some sort of Richard Scarry layout of Suburbia, Gordon busied himself by creating ice sculptures of some of our favorite moments. (He's so Method.) Problem solved!

In our drawing for Edward Scissorhands, you'll find Edward in his mansion hard at work on one of his many ice sculptures. He's far away from his experience in Suburbia, but his memories are still clear:

• Smiling for the first time as The Inventor (B.J.) reads him poetry. 
• Meeting wonderful Peg Boggs (The Mother Kitty), who gave him a new set of clothes and introduced him to the rest of the world.  
• Getting his first hug, from his true love Kim (Lily)

Suburbia's at the bottom of the hill, but really--who wants to live among those crazy neighbors?

What's Next?

Filmed in Florida, I don't know how Johnny survived making Edward Scissorhands dressed in that leather suit and massive wig with such heavy make-up on in 90-degree weather every day. What's a few cases of heat stroke for the sake of art? Well, now he leaves one hot climate for another.

Tune in next month, when Johnny hangs out with Faye Dunaway and Jerry Lewis in Arizona Dream. 

Warning!

(Illustration Friday: March 4, 2011)

You can always tell when Lily gets excited. (It doesn't take much.) I'm not sure what caught her eye tonight, but you might want to get out of the way.

Paul and Me

Well, I read this book pretty quickly. Paul and Me: 53 Years of Adventures and Misadventures with my Pal, Paul Newman by A.E. Hotchner is exactly what the title says. It's not a Paul Newman biography but a  collection of moments from Paul and Hotchner's 53-year friendship. In the beginning, he recalls their love for fishing, even though they never caught anything and their boat was always on the verge of sinking. With a boat named Caca del Toro (and subsequent boats referred to as Caca II, III, and IV), I knew I'd like this book.

Paul and "Hotch" seemed to have fun with everything they did and never took anything too seriously, but the results were always solid. Paul had an amazing amount of luck and things seemed to happen on whims, as if he just woke up one day with random impossible ideas that came to fruition with relative ease. A good chunk of the book is devoted to their business venture into Newman's Own--from stirring the first batch of salad dressing in Paul's barn using a canoe paddle to convincing everyone that the first Hole in the Wall Gang Camp for seriously ill children could be built in a year's time. Paul's unwavering character--his infectious joy, thoughtfulness, and steady determination--come through on each page. "Paul Newman was an unadorned man. We was direct and honest and off-center and mischievous and romantic and very handsome," Hotchner writes. "He was the same man in 2008 that he was in 1955, unchanged despite all the honors and the fame, not a whisper of a change. That was something--the constancy of the man."

Years ago, I read the book Paul and Hotch wrote together called Shameless Exploitation in the Pursuit of the Common Good, which chronicles the haphazard creation of Newman's Own and its unexpected success. (One of my favorite books, I also highly recommend it.) Reading the letters and testimonials from the parents and kids who find refuge in the Hole in the Wall Gang Camps will touch anyone's heart. Paul and Me does the same. In the end, both books make me wish Paul Newman was still around.

Here's a scene from The Verdict, which I think is first movie of Paul's that I ever saw. It might make you fall in love too.

Frank Galvin's summation in The Verdict © 20th Century Fox

I'll pick a new book soon, but for now, I like having Paul Newman's picture on my blog. I hope he doesn't mind.

Swarm

                                   (Illustration Friday: February 25, 2011) 


I'm not sure where The Kitties are in this drawing. I asked them, but you know how they are. 

• Comet said he was just following Ashes and they found themselves here. 
• Ashes says they were participating in the giant Twister game finals. 
• Mini claims they found Oz and came to a four-way fork in the road. 
• Gordon says we were at the Mad Hatter's house. (He's method that way.) 
• Norman said this was a dream in which he found where the Easter Bunny stashed all the huge eggs. (Now, he's hungry.) 
• B.J. shrugged and said, "We just went for a walk." 
• Simon never answered me, but went on and on about all the circles. 
• Lily doesn't remember where they were, but that there a bug on the ceiling. 
• The Mother Kitty hasn't returned yet, but she called to tell me she's still staring at it.  

I am reading!

One of my new year's resolutions is to read more. Something about living in D.C. prevents me from picking up a book from the piles on my floor and tuning out everything else to focus on it. I keep buying books and planning to read them, but they just get dusty. I only read when I'm on a plane or at home visiting family. When I'm in D.C., I always have drawings to do, yoga class to attend, movies to watch, Lily to play with, and whatever else to distract me.

I just got around to starting my reading resolution this week. Even if I only read 10 pages a night, I tell myself, I'll at least be chipping away. I added an "I am reading..." section to my blog sidebar. I figure posting it here will remind me to keep going.

The first book I picked up from my floor selection is Paul and Me: 53 Years of Adventures and Misadventures with my Pal, Paul Newman by A.E. Hotchner. I was crushed when Paul Newman, one of my most favorite people on the planet, died in 2008. (The Kitties were too, see?) He was somebody I was always happy to see anywhere, anytime. I miss his thoughtfulness and wisdom, his charm and class, and his jokes. I ran out to buy this book as soon as it was published last year, but I resisted starting it: Written by one of his best friends, I thought I should savor what I was sure would be an honest account of the man. And, I also dreaded the imminent sad ending.

After spending the holidays in Ohio, I came back to D.C. and returned to my routines. I nearly tripped whipping around the corner from the kitchen when I heard a snippet of Paul Newman being interviewed on PBS Newshour. The report was about Newman's Own food company, which just celebrated hitting the $300 million mark in proceeds given to charity, proving that Paul's philanthropic efforts have outlasted him.

Robert Redford said that the world was a better place with Paul Newman in it, and I think he's right.

So, a year after I bought it, I'm finally ready to open the book. It might take a while to finish, but I'll let you know how it is when I do.

Look for a new book every once in a while if I can keep this up! What are you reading?

Layer

For this week's Illustration Friday topic, "Layer," all I could think of was clothing and fashion. But since Simon modeled his holiday sweater last week, I resisted working on tiered kitty dresses.

Saturday, I went to Yin Yang Yoga class, during which we are asked to hold positions for several minutes at a time. It's supposed to help release your inner tissues, tendons, and cartilage, which are harder to reach during the more active classes. Pigeon pose is common in Yin Yoga.

• Seated, place one leg so that your shin is parallel with the front of your mat--or as parallel as you can get it. 
• Your other leg goes straight back, in line with your hip. 
• At first, you prop  yourself up on your hands and "open your heart" toward the sky for a slight back bend. 
• Then, roll forward until your forehead touches the mat. (Depending on how far you can go, you can rest on your forearms or on a prop, such as a block.) 
• Our instructor added a twist to this pose, suggesting that we rest on one side with our bottom arm outstretched. (I could do the twist well on one side but not the other.)

A huge hip opener, Pigeon pose is always a struggle for me. Whether it's slightly better or much worse depends on the day. I suppose it doesn't help that I work all day at a desk and then draw all night on the couch.

While I was lying there trying to focus on my breathing but really wondering  how long five minutes could last, I started to imagine my hip breaking free of whatever crud and cartilage I was feeling. The longer we stayed put, the looser my hip felt. That's when the instructor started talking about his theme for the day: Layers.

He spoke of how yoga helps to peel away the layers of obstacles--stress, fears, preconceptions, and whatever else is holding you back. However slowly, these layers fall away and you then can focus on individual elements of yourself--be it your hip, your breath, your flexibility, your mind, your openness, or something even deeper. You work toward peeling these layers one by one until your completely open physically--and maybe more important--mentally.

I told The Kitties all about this when I got home, and Gordon got all fired up about getting on his mat. He took charge of Sunday's Kitty Class, and here they show off how good they all are at Pigeon pose.


(Illustration Friday: February 18, 2011)

Yeah, well, they're cats.

I must point out, though, that Norman was already too exhausted for Pigeon pose and opted to rest in Child's pose instead. (We'd all stay in Child's pose for the whole class if he had his way!) And, The Mother Kitty, who has bad knees, opted for an alternative pose. As they always say in yoga class, every body is different.

Sweater

Of all of The Kitties, The Mother Kitty and Simon could use sweaters since they spend their time outdoors or in the garage. The Mother Kitty rolled her eyes at the thought of wearing one because, she says, "Cats who wear outerwear are idiots."

I think that gave her ideas. One Christmas, Simon was proudly wearing a personalized gift from his housemate.



(Illustration Friday: February 11, 2011)

I took away her knitting needles for a while after that.

Johnny Kitties: Celebrating Johnny Depp Film #5--Cry-Baby (1990)

[What is Johnny Kitties? See Johnny Kitties: Celebrating Johnny Depp for all the details.] 

"You big ol' cry-baby..." Johnny Depp as Wade "Cry-Baby" Walker.

"The reason this movie plays on television all over the world is because of the great star Johnny is and what a great actor he is. I'm very thankful that we got to work together--late in my career and early in his. It seemed like the right thing to do at the right time." 

Director John Waters

Most people know film director John Waters from his most popular movie, Hairspray, which went on to great success on Broadway and spawned a popular remake in 2008. Because of Hairspray's success, every studio wanted to make his next movie, Cry-Baby. "There was a bidding war!" he said. "It's never happened before or since."

The Cry-Baby Gang

A teen musical that spoofs Elvis Presley movies and the 1950s stance on juvenile delinquency, Cry-Baby follows the lives of teenagers from Baltimore society's two social groups--the Squares (the law-abiding goody two-shoes type) and the Drapes (the greaser, delinquent type). In the film, Drape gang leader Wade "Cry-Baby" Walker (Johnny Depp) falls for Square princess Allison (Amy Locane), and they struggle to cross cultural lines and bring their two worlds together.

Throughout his career, John Waters has earned the nicknames "The Pope of Trash" and "The Prince of Puke." His movies are an acquired taste, often shocking, and sometimes hard to take. But you've got to  admire a guy who is so outside of the box, casts actors from all walks of life, and never quits in getting his movies made or bringing his views to light. "I was a big admirer of John's films," Johnny said. "He was so outside the system and such a great radical of a filmmaker." 

His movies were out there! After we saw Hairspray, my sister and I sought out some of John Waters's earlier films. I don't remember their plots so much as I do their strangeness. In these movies, things were unpolished and unHollywood. I saw people I didn't know existed--people from the outskirts of society--and I wasn't sure if I wanted to know them. I remember feeling simultaneously unsettled and intrigued.

Many fans consider Cry-Baby pretty tame compared to the director's earlier works, but I always felt Cry-Baby was  an unmistakable John Waters movie. Where else are you going meet a family in which the grandmother and uncle are in a steamy, committed relationship bringing up a gang of juvenile delinquents with hearts of gold? And, don't forget the detailed lessons on French kissing this movie offers!

What I find most interesting about Cry-Baby is how much is based on real life. Growing up in Baltimore, Maryland, John Waters knew Drapes and Squares and filmed in locations that accurately portrayed 1950s Baltimore. The story was inspired by a newspaper article from that time about the murder of a 14-year-old girl. He overheard people dismiss the sensational story: "This is what happens when you're a Drapette." John Waters says he was not a Drape would have loved to be one.

A Fresh Start

For Johnny, this film was the beginning of a new life. Having escaped the constraints and unwanted attention of 21 Jump Street, Cry-Baby gave him a chance to wipe the slate clean: "It was a chance to really make fun of the image that had been shoved down America's throats by the company that I worked for," he said. "Cry-Baby for me was the first time out of the gate where I was able to say, 'All right, this is what I want to do. This is the direction I want to go in.' It was the first one."

John Waters found and chose Johnny as his leading man from the racks of teen magazines that Johnny so hated. (Ironic, no?) He said that of all the stars he's worked with in his career, Johnny was the one who fit into his group the fastest and easiest--from Day 1. Johnny confirmed this notion, "For the first time in quite a while, I felt free when I went there to Baltimore. I really felt like I had been accepted into that family."

To me, Cry-Baby reflects that joy and spirit. Sure, it's extreme and over-the-top, but at its heart is a simple, universal love story. And--above all--it's fun and funny!

Stranded in Ohio

I didn't get to see Cry-Baby in the theaters when it was first released. I don't think my parents yet realized that my unwavering devotion to that guy from 21 Jump Street was not going away. (Or, maybe they were just hoping it would.) There was no convincing them to drive me 45 miles to the only little theater in the area showing his movie. Instead, I sighed at the Cry-Baby TV commercials and waited for its video release. (Don't worry--I did  finally get to see this movie on the big screen a few years ago.)

Now, I have and highly recommend the director's cut DVD. For some reason, there are several versions of this movie out there, including the one from the theaters and one that was edited for TV. Don't watch the latter; John Waters hates it. Instead, watch the director's cut, which includes a fantastic dance scene missing from the theatrical release. Uncle Belvedere (Iggy Pop) has some serious moves!

 Watching Cry-Baby for Johnny Kitties, I was surprised by how many scenes I loved that didn't include Johnny! The family atmosphere on the set he described is probably what made the cast work so perfectly. Aside from Johnny and the eclectic cast, my favorite ingredient in Cry-Baby is its '50s rockabilly soundtrack. John Waters has good taste in that area. Several songs from the this movie are on my ipod. "Cry-Baby is my favorite musical," John Waters said recently. "With Johnny Depp in his prime--You can't get better than that!"

The Kitties are with the Drapes

This illustration depicts a mixture of two scenes, includes many of the memorable cast members, and--I hope--captures spirit of the film. I never thought I'd do a kitty drawing featuring a confederate flag, but John Waters--who felt the same way about including one in his movie--defends its use because it was historically accurate. "That was Baltimore in the '50s," he said. "It was the South."

For the Drapes, The Jukebox Jamboree is an annual musical celebration. If you watch the movie, you'll find all these dancers in the crowd. I loved that while they all danced in different styles, their bodies were glued together--as only Drapes would know how. Slow dancing here to the great song "I'm So Young" by the Students, the Mother Kitty is featured as grandmother Ramona Rickets (Susan Tyrell) dancing with B.J.'s Uncle Belvedere (Iggy Pop). The other kitties were happy to play extras on the dance floor. You'll find Comet paired with Ashes, Norman swaying with his girl, Simon with a twin partner, and Mini as Cry-Baby's little niece dancing with her brother.

Meanwhile, Cry-Baby--having rescued Allison (played by Lily) from the Squares' own annual talent show--arrives and introduces her to his world. The Cry-Baby girls come to greet her. They include Wade's pregnant sister Pepper (Ricki Lake), Hatchetface (Kim McGuire), and Wanda (Traci Lords). "Dig it, Babes," Wanda greets Allison. "You need a new look!" They offer to give Allison a Bad Girl Beauty Makeover. Here, she goes for it and Cry-Baby is all about it. Ah, young, true love. It'll be smooth sailing from here, right? See the movie and find out!

Next month, see Johnny in one of his favorite roles as Edward Scissorhands. It marks the start of a beautiful friendship....

(Aside from my drawing, all images ©Universal Studios.) 

Reverse

Congratulations all around to Coach Doc Rivers and some of my favorite Celtics--Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett, and Rajon Rondo--for being chosen by the league's coaches for this year's NBA All Star Game!!! Watch for them February 20!

And, welcome back to Kendrick Perkins, who made his long-awaited return to the team last month! We missed you!

In honor of all these happy moments, here's a drawing of a recent game.

(Illustration Friday: February 4, 2011)

Check out how Simon--er, Rondo--flies past the team and scores an easy reverse layup. I was going to specify the other team, but he does this all the time to everybody.

Yay, Celtics!!!

Surrender

(Illustration Friday: January 28, 2011)

I don't know who will surrender first during this staring contest. Experts give The Mother Kitty (reigning champ) the edge with her years of experience, but don't count Lily out. She is the new prodigy in this area. Place your bets.

Dusty

A couple of weeks ago, I wrote about how Lily sparked deja vu with her many Mother-Kitty-like habits. Here's another one:

You may remember that The Mother Kitty used to groom herself incessantly until a clouds of white furballs surrounded her. (See here.) I used to think Lily didn't shed much at all, but I've noticed quite a few gray furballs rolling out from their hiding places and wafting through the apartment lately. When I ask Lily about them, she--as usual--tilts her head thoughtfully and then suggests, "Dust?"


(Illustration Friday: January 21, 2011)

Chicken

Since Mini came to live with my sister Julie, she's been The Queen of the Upstairs. if you go up to see her, she may act timid at first. But, she's no chicken.


(Illustration Friday: January 15, 2011)

Happy Birthday, Melissa's Kitties!

Hi everyone,

Today marks Melissa's Kitties' 5th anniversary! And I thought it would only last a few weeks....

Thanks to Anastasia for getting things rolling by introducing me to Illustration Friday. While it's been hard work, it's also been lots of fun! Last year, I took Kelly Ray Roberts' Flying Lessons and Holly Becker's Blogging Your Way e-courses, which were both really fun and helpful in improving my blog. I hope you're enjoying it as much as I am.

To mark this momentous occasion, I've finally added an About the Artist page. (Better late than never, right?) I don't have many photos of myself and keep asking my sister for them. We forgot to take some over Christmas, but this one is from last summer at North Market in Columbus, Ohio. I'm smiling because I'm eating a giant strawberry and banana crepe smothered in Nutella. Mmmm, I can still taste it.

Look forward to a "Meet the Kitties" series and page soon to come!

Thanks to everyone who has been following my blog and encouraging me along the way. Here's to the next 5!

Best,
Melissa

Deja Vu

Lily is the first cat I've had on my own. Soon after she came to live with me in 2009, I started noticing habits that reminded me of the other older kitties. She plays Hide and Seek like Comet. She talks a lot like B.J. and complains like Ashes. Like Norman, she gets a case of the crazies--but only once in a while. And, she tends to curl up into a ball for her naps like Simon. 

Of course, Lily has her own fantastic traits and personality, but she reminds me most of The Mother Kitty. Like her, Lily is independent and can act aloof sometimes. I notice her taking over the apartment in her own little way, but she can also be extremely affectionate, so I let her be. 

Most often, I see Lily staring like The Mother Kitty. The champion starer, the Mother Kitty could spend hours looking at you and "tell you" exactly what she wants. I don't always figure out what Lily wants, but she is always staring.

(Illustration Friday: January 7, 2011)

You can see the similarities above. Lily must have learned from the best. The Mother Kitty is happy to take some credit but admits that Lily has developed some of her own unique strategies. Who knows what's behind those giant pupils?