I have to admit now that the experience was very cool. At 84, Mr. Curtis walked down the aisle with the help of some assistance and sat down and with microphone in hand he was interviewed by the film critic from the local suburban newspaper. He told the group of 30 or so people assembled about his career and his childhood and although he rambled a bit, I took away a special message.
You see, Mr. Tony Curtis was a pretty good actor. He enjoyed acting and enjoyed his life. It wasn't all wine and roses but he was blessed to work in a profession that for him was very rewarding. He pointed to two things that actors need to be successful, and I think it applies to speaking as well.
"I had intelligence and a passion for what I was doing". Good actors according to Mr. Curtis have to be intelligent and think about what emotions, or ideas can be conveyed with the character they are to portray. They also have to be passionate about the responsibility of what they do. There was also the age old advice of "do what you love"
I'm sure others in the audience took away other nuggets as he told about his relationship with Marilyn Monroe. Her life, her death, and the special trouble he had with her on the set of "Some Like it Hot". I will tell you that I did get a question answered by Mr. Curtis.
I asked him, Of all the actors you had opportunity to work with, who was the one that was the one you felt most connected to, and enjoyed being with.
without hesitation he told of his meeting and working with the great Cary Grant for the first time. They worked on "Operation Petticoat" together, and it left quite an impression on Tony Curtis.
I want to thank you Tony Curtis. You made quite an impression on me.
