Reviews and Blog Posts: film

10. Hear French Metro-inspired accordion music played by a real live Frenchman. (Sunday, 2p, Central Library) ('Frenchman' is an exaggeration as accordionist is actually from New Zealand)

9. Find a rare first edition of The DaVinci Code or an ABBA cd amongst the treasures at the Denver Public Library Used Book Sale. (Thursday-Sunday, hours and info, Central Library) (The DaVinci Code not rare)

The dream of Mayor Robert Speer (1855-1918) to make civic Denver into a world-class city is all around us. The City Auditorium, which housed the historic 1908 Democratic National Convention, still stands as a testament to Speer's endeavors. As does the beautiful Civic Center Park. Even Speer Blvd is a tease of what might have been -- a spectacular street for an American Paris.

Hers is a life worthy of a Hollywood movie. Doris longed for a simple life of marriage and kids, but a mother with aspirations toward dancing and singing pushed Doris into performing. By the time she was 17, she was singing on a local radio station and was discovered by bandleader Barney Rapp, who changed her last name to Day.

Whether you're a lover of love or a conscientious objector, Bette Davis' 1941 confection The Great Lie will have you on the edge of your seat -- it's a love thriller. The twists and turns on the way to the ending (happy for some, stoic for others) are custom made for two of Hollywood's notorious scenery-chewers: Bette Davis and Mary Astor. 

Arrive early for the tortilla feast! Doors open at 5:30 p.m., movie begins at 6:30 p.m. seating is limited and on a first come, first served basis. All events are FREE and open to the public, except for parking in some cases. Free parking is available on the street for those that arrive early. Lots are available for $3.00 on the north and south sides of the theater.

Su Teatro at The Denver Civic Theater--303-296-0219.

The term Christmas in July can be traced to Southern hemisphere celebrations -- for countries that celebrate Christmas but where the winter months fall around July. In the U.S., sponsoring a Christmas in July celebration became popular at summer camps for children in the 1920s and 30s. But it took a Hollywood film directed by Preston Sturges to turn the phrase into a part of the vernacular of the common people.

 gaslight -- (verb) gaslights (third-person singular simple present), gaslighting (present participle), gaslighted (simple past and past participle).

1. (slang; origin UK) To manipulate someone psychologically such that they question their own sanity.

Fortunately, there are a few gems that were filmed just prior to Bette becoming the queen of Hollywood that showcase Miriam Hopkins at her best. She had swell comic timing, and a beautiful face made for closeups.