The Godfather Returns to Theaters

The blockbuster film of 1972 was Francis Ford Coppola's The Godfather. 50 years later, it is returning to theaters so fans can view it on the big screen. I have watched this film probably 20 times at home, but it was nice to see it in a movie theater. The cast includes many big stars such as Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton and more. The term masterpiece is thrown around too much, but in this case I think it is applicable. Some may wince at the running time of almost three hours, but this is such an oustanding movie, that the length did not bother me. I think that the writing, acting, and cinematography are so well done that this qualifies as a film with no flaws. This has many iconic scenes and memorable quotes. The character of Clemenza says "Take the gun, leave the canoli." Later he says "Luca Brasi sleeps with the fishes." Luca Brasi practices his speech to Vito Corleone over and over..."Don Corleone, I am honored and grateful that you have invited me to your home on the wedding day of your daughter. And may their first child be a masculine child." Marlon Brando's character said "I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse." He also stressed the importance of family when he said "A man who doesn't spend time with his family can never be a real man." Two more of my favorite films are also 3 hours long...Casino and Scarface. I'd love to see those on the big screen as well.

Google Maps Street View Hollywood Tour

Google maps is amazing, especially the street view feature. Pick a city anywhere in the world and you can go there via cyberspace. I was "exploring" Hollywood and took some screenshots of some landmarks. Here's the famous Chinese Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard where you can see the hand prints and footprints of some of the biggest celebrities in the cement.



Next is an overhead view of Hollywood and Highland, where the red carpet is installed for the Academy Awards ceremony at the Kodak Theatre.



Next is a street view image of the Hard Rock Cafe and the Kodak Theatre.



Across from the Kodak Theatre is the venue where Jimmy Kimmel does his late night show.



Next I traveled to Sunset Boulevard to find the legendary club where some of the biggest comics have performed, The Comedy Store. Notice the KNBC-TV van out front.



Finally here's the famous Whiskey A-Go-Go club where bands like Van Halen have performed. Elton John was discovered here.