The Sheila Variations

I will now list my source

for the Brando/Clift anecdote below which so bothered one reader that he wrote me an email about it, and I quote:

I read the lead Brando/Clift story yesterday on your blog and, at first, was quite moved. Then I reread it and (no offense intended) it seems like absolute bull shit. Just curious, where did you come up with such a strange, unlikely tale? And the 'supposed' dialogue from Brando's mouth, did you come across that in some book? Which book? By whom? Were *you* a fly on the wall overhearing those silly emasculated words?! The tone and nature of Brando's language and intent appear thoroughly unlike him in every way! Plus your idea that he was "selfish" -- somehow needing Montgomery Clift as "competition"... No, that doesn't ring true either, Sheila.

I could be sarcastic and reply:

"Where did I get that anecdote? Well, it's time for me to come clean. I am actually 78 years old and I WAS Monty Clift's assistant!! I was there in the house at the time!"

Also, interesting - that an anecdote showing generosity towards another actor would be characterized as "emasculated".

Anyway - for you, Mr. I-Know-What-Brando-Spoke-Like, here is where I got it.

Feel free to read the book so you can double-check my work, if that's what floats your boat:

Montgomery Clift: A Biography - by Patricia Bosworth. Bosworth is a member of the Actors Studio, and a terrific writer. She did in-person interviews with all of the main characters in Clift's life - at least those who were still alive. Clift's assistant related the tale to Bosworth.

Maybe you want to write to Bosworth and see if she's lying or exaggerating or something.

It constantly amazes me that some people would be annoyed that I would put my own interpretation on certain things ... ON MY OWN BLOG. How dare I.

Carry on.

Update: The reader in question has apologized. Apology accepted.

Posted by sheila