Expert: April - 7/19/2007

Question
Hi April -- I'm a pop culture freak so I check out a number of different websites including Entertainment Weekly (www.ew.com)which often has themed photo galleries to Hollywood history & its stars.  I'm 40 & really enjoy learning about classic film history.  Anyway, their latest photo gallery online today is about small roles that actors performed with big impact.  Yet, it is somewhat disappointing because they only go back to the 70's with Ned Beatty.  What comes to mind for you that goes back before the 70's?  Chances are NetFlix will have it & I'll be able to check it out.  Thanks!

Jim


Answer
sadly, i don't have much to offer you here.

i have several favorite old films, but as far as small actors w/ big roles?   not sure...i adore lucille ball, so any of her earlier work would qualify for me.   she was not always 'the star' she turned out to be.  her early films prove that.

mae clark in public enemy maybe.  w/ jimmy cagney?    talk about a classic.  the grapefruit scene?    often copied but never duplicated.