Two nights ago, I watched a fascinating interview on TCM - Turner Classic Movies. The actor Peter O'Toole (79 years old) told riveting and charming stories of his life before and during his stage and screen career. He's probably best known for his role as writer, T.E. Lawrence, in Lawrence of Arabia. Mr. O'Toole recounted hilarious tales about himself and one of his co-stars, Omar Sharif, during the filming of the famous "charge" scene, and how both tried to stay in the camels' saddles. (Can you believe they didn't use stunt men?) He talked at length about his various roles and co-stars and was highly entertaining.
(Lawrence of Arabia - 1963)
(age 79 - 2011)
Toward the end of the interview, Mr. O'Toole spoke about his writing. He's written two memoirs; Loitering with Intent: The Child and Loitering With Intent: The Apprentice. He said he is working on his third book, but didn't specify what it was about. But, he did say this about writing:
I love it, the writing process, but I don't have to like it. It's so frustrating. You feel you've written rubbish and you tear up the papers and walk around the room in circles. But it's a love affair. I like getting down there and putting on to paper. I never wanted to write until I was 40 or 50.
I didn't use quotes with the above, because I'm sure I don't have it verbatim, but it's very close. I especially enjoyed learning he didn't think about, or want to write until he was "older." I'll definitely check out his memoirs. If his writing is anywhere near as marvelous as his acting, then he's been given more than one precious, gift of talent.
One more thing. Sometimes we forget that although it takes a very good/great actor to create extraordinary performances.....none of it can happen without superb writing.....Writers make the world go 'round.....
"Writing is a kind of performing art, and I can't sit down to write unless I'm dressed. I don't mean dressed in a suit, but dressed well and comfortably and I have to be shaved and bathed." - -- Peter O'toole
Hi Becky! I just heard about his death tonight on the news. I had no idea we were so close in age. I am 77. My husband is 80, so we looked at one another with that "uh oh!" look that says, yep, we are now up in that department. Friends are passing away and movie stars and singers that at one time we thought would NEVER die any more than we would! Now here we all are. It's frightening. It really is. Tick tock, tick tock! :)
ReplyDeleteHi Mona. I know...three of my friends died in the past year or so, and one was a best friend for many years. It really is hard to lose a close friend...so much like a family member. But hey...don't be frightened! There's no Tick Tock for us! I'm going to live to be a mentally and physically fabulous 90 year old! :)
DeleteI agree, writers make the world go around! I also admired Peter o' Toole and loved him in Laurence of Arabia. Thanks for remembering this great man. Have a wonderful day, Becky. (((Hugs))) Jo
ReplyDeleteHi Jo! Thank you! I will always remember that interview and so glad I saw it.
DeleteLovely tribute to a great actor. Have a marvellous Monday.
ReplyDeleteBest wishes Molly.
Thank you, Molly!
DeleteLoved O'Toole in dramatic roles. I first saw him in BECKETT during the 60;s
ReplyDeleteI don't think I ever saw him in a movie that I didn't like.
DeleteGoodness, this has been the year for death. We lost three loved ones this year. I loved Peter O'Toole, too.
ReplyDeletexo
Sheila
Hi Sheila ~~ yes, he was much loved.
DeleteWhat a lovely tribute to that very fine actor Peter O'Toole. I loved him in Lawrence of Arabia. He was so handsome when he was younger, with such gorgeous blue eyes! He was also quite the hellraiser in his time as well, quite often accompanied by Richard Harris. He also had the most beautiful voice (well, I thought so anyway!).
ReplyDeleteHi Diane! I agree with everything!
DeleteHe was such an amazing, talented artist. The first time I saw Lawrence of Arabia was in college with this film student who promised me it would be amazing. He was right!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great memory, Johanna! Thank you so much for sharing it with us!
DeleteNice tribute. I think he was a marvelous actor. I think I may look up his memoirs, he must have had many interesting experiences.
ReplyDeleteHi Myrna ~ Yes, more books I'd love to read. Someday maybe there'll be the technology that we can listen to books while sleeping, and remember everything!
DeleteHello all you wonderful people!! I apologize for not replying individually to all of you, but I certainly appreciate all of you and that you took the time to leave a comment! Big Hugs to Y'all! :)
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