Donna in Hollywoodland

Well, first I have been doing alot of cooking. I'm trying to eat more "natural" and without perservatives, so that means doing my own cooking. Usually, I like to roast a chicken and some vegetables. That way, I have something in the fridge to make sandwiches or whatever. And I'm not tempted to run out for fast food.

I took a seminar on "Self-Management for the Actor". It was very interesting, all about how to market yourself to agents and casting directors. The need for actors pictures, business cards, postcards, professional stationary and other things needed to make a good first impression. I never realized that writing letters is still very important - especially if you are an actor and want people in the entertainment business to notice you.

Yes, I am still trying to catch all the nominated movies. I saw "Mystic River" at The Egyptian Theatre. Clint Eastwood spoke after the film. That was really thrilling to see Clint Eastwood in
person. I really enjoyed Mystic River - very dramatic with outstanding acting performances. The only thing was that it was a sold out show. And I sat way up in the balcony of the theatre. Because there were so many people in the theatre, and since heat rises, it was really hot during the entire show. Oh, I will never sit in the balcony again.

Then one afternoon, I searched all over and saw Master and Commander playing in only one theatre in my area. So I drove over to Beverly Hills to see it. As I was getting in line, one of my coworkers from the office was right in front of me. We both commented that this one theatre was the only place it was playing. I did like Master and Commander, it was very entertaining.

Then I also saw The Last Samari. I also really liked this film. But bring kleenex ! I cried for like the entire last half hour of the movie, it was so moving. All I had was my sleeve to wipe away the tears. It is a very moving story.

My only complaint was I saw The Last Samari at the Mann at Hollywood & Highland. It is my least favorite movie theatre. After having lunch at California Pizza Kitchen, then seeing the movie, and walking around looking at a few stores - my parking bill was $ 7 !!! That included the first 4 hours being validated by the movie theatre. After that I was there only another hour and a half .... a grand total of 5 1/2 hours. And it cost me Seven Bucks. Then they wonder why no locals go there. They recently just sold the Hollywood and Highland Complex because the original owners have been doing so poorly there ... and I can understand why.