Natalie Wood – Movie Star Who Challenged Hollywood Bosses

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Natalie Wood was a movie star who didn’t let Hollywood bosses determine her career. She had the moxie to challenge Jack Warner and choose roles she wanted to make, including West Side Story.

Natalie Wood

The documentary interviews her daughter, Natasha Gregson Wagner, as well as friends and family (including Mia Farrow and Elliott Gould). But it focuses on the inescapable subject of her drowning on a weekend boat trip with husband Robert Wagner and co-star Christopher Walken in 1981.

A delightfully charming movie about a department store Santa Claus, Miracle on 34th Street became a beloved Christmas classic. Its star, Natalie Wood, was nominated for an Oscar and won a Golden Globe. The film also featured a fine supporting cast that included Elizabeth Perkins, Dylan McDermott, and Mara Wilson. This was the first time that Wood had a leading role as opposed to a supporting one, and her performance was lauded.

The actress was only 24 at the time of its release, and she had already established herself as a major star. However, she was a victim of tabloids in her personal life as well as the public’s distorted interest in her career. She reportedly struggled to maintain her privacy after the success of this film and found it difficult to cope with the constant intrusions on her family life and work.

This was one of the last films that Natalie Wood starred in before her death. After this, she took a hiatus from acting and only briefly returned to the screen in the ensemble disaster film Meteor (1979) with Sean Connery and the sex comedy The Last Married Couple in America (1980). The latter was a controversial and groundbreaking role for the actress, who used the word “fuck” during a frank discussion with her husband George Segal.

Even though Miracle on 34th Street is a Christmas classic, it was actually released in the summer of 1947. Early promotional materials emphasized the smiling faces of Wood and co-star John Payne, with nary a snowflake in sight. Edmund Gwenn, who played Kris Kringle, was relegated to the background. It wasn’t until the film was released that audiences learned about his amazing performance in this classic movie.

Rebel Without a Cause

Daring for its era, Rebel Without a Cause showed 1950s viewers that nice middle-class suburban kids could go wrong too. In the film, Jim Stark (James Dean) arrives at a new high school with his family and soon befriends sensitive misfits Plato (Sal Mineo) from a troubled home and Judy (Natalie Wood), who leads a gang-like clique of rebels. Eventually, she and Jim get involved in a dangerous nocturnal drag-race duel in stolen cars that ends with tragic consequences.

The film also sparked outrage and even threats of censorship for its exploration of teenage sexuality. While today it may seem dated in its depiction of teenage rebellion, it is still a compelling story that benefits from a strong cast. Dean and Wood are both excellent in their performances, with the latter displaying an astonishing emotional range that makes her performance even more powerful. Mineo is equally impressive, crafting a character who is both overwrought and touching.

Adding to the value of this 4K release is a terrific audio mix that emphasizes the movie’s dramatic score and allows its acoustic elements to come through clearly. The transfer is sharp and detailed, with rich colors and strong contrast.

Extras include an in-depth commentary by screenwriter Stewart Stern and a documentary called Defiant Innocents that discusses how the film developed. The featurette also features interviews with Natalie Wood and James Dean. Hopper is an engaging interviewee, and while his stories about his relationship with Dean can be a bit salacious, it is clear that he had enormous respect for his costar. A handful of deleted scenes with sound, black-and-white wardrobe tests and some fairly staged behind-the-scenes footage round out this fine release.

Splendor in the Grass

This 1961 melodrama about a small-town girl’s love for her high school football star seems very much of its time. Both the 1920s setting and the film’s Actors Studio production make clear its roots. But despite its age, it has become timeless because of its central performances and nuanced script. The story of Wilma Dean “Deanie” Loomis’ obsession with Bud Stamper (Warren Beatty) shows that even wholesome people can be driven to emotional instability, if not outright madness. In the end, a love affair that was forbidden by class and social mores drives Deanie to a suicide attempt that is both shocking and poignant.

It would be easy to argue that Splendor in the Grass is a cautionary tale of the dangers of loose morals and sexual freedom, but that is too simplistic. Instead, the movie illustrates how insidious and intangible forces can be, weighing down young minds with the weight of social expectation. The film also makes it clear that the most damaging blow to a youth’s self-esteem is not a physical assault but the rejection of their innermost desires.

Wood’s performance is nothing short of astounding, and she carries off both fits of hysteria and the agonizing breakdown with grace and strength. She is aided by her co-stars, especially Beatty who makes his big-screen debut as Bud. Both he and Wood are backed by solid supporting performances from Audrey Christie (Deanie’s mother) and Pat Hingle (Bud’s father).

The film’s final scene is perhaps the most iconic of its kind in cinema history. It echoes William Wordsworth’s phrase, “Poetry is the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings.” Ultimately, though, it is Wood’s beauty and radiance that give the movie its transcendent sense of purity and strength.

West Side Story

After a decade of success as the daughter in family films, including Fred MacMurray’s daughters in Father Was a Fullback and Dear Brat, Wood moved to adult roles. Her role as Maria in Jerome Robbins’ and Robert Wise’s 1961 West Side Story, a modern allegory of Romeo and Juliet set among youth gangs and juvenile delinquency, was both a critical and box-office triumph.

Unlike her other roles, Wood sang and danced in West Side Story. However, her singing voice was dubbed by Marni Nixon, who had also dubbed Deborah Kerr’s singing voice in The King and I. Wood only learned of her dubbed performance on the final day of production, and was devastated.

Although she had a successful career, it was during this period that Wood’s private life began to crumble. She married actor Robert Wagner in 1957, a union that her mother vehemently opposed. They separated after two years and divorced in 1962. In 1969, she married British producer Richard Gregson, with whom she had a daughter, Natasha. Despite their rocky relationship, Wood and her daughter were the focus of media attention for their apparent closeness.

For her role in West Side Story, Wood earned an Oscar nomination. Her subsequent career hiatus included appearances in the ensemble disaster film Meteor (1979) with Sean Connery and a sex comedy called The Last Married Couple in America (1980). Her work in these films broke ground for an actress with a clean, middle-class image; she used the word “fuck” during a frank marital discussion with her husband (Segal). The film also marks her first starring turn as an older woman, a milestone that would become a trademark of her later work.

Gypsy

Naomi Watts can usually be counted on for a level of acting that’s at once both believable and affecting, but her talents were wasted on the clumsy scripts in this Netflix series about a Manhattan therapist with a taste for stalking. The show’s premise promises plenty of taboo drama and no shortage of conflict, but it never rises above the merely titillating. Jean Holloway, played by Watts, is a successful therapist with the kind of picture-perfect life it’s almost mandatory for characters to rebel against: she has an easygoing lawyer husband (Billy Crudup), a rambunctious daughter, and a beautiful home in Connecticut.

But beneath the surface, her quiet prosperity conceals a host of neuroses that begin to fester as she grows increasingly bored with her routine and begins to creep into her patients’ lives. Her sleuthing is most focused on Sidney, an ex-girlfriend who lives in a chichi suburb. It’s a little like In Treatment with more erotic intrigue, but it’s also a drowsy, unfocused lark that seems less necessary with every passing episode.

The cast—which includes Fifty Shades director Sam Taylor-Johnson as a thriller writer and TV veteran Scott Winant as Jean’s husband—works hard, but their performances are undermined by the incompetent writing. The pacing is logical but never suspenseful, and the characterizations are so muddled that even the most subtle hints are lost. It’s a shame that this fine cast was saddled with such a dull and predictable drama, but it’s just another example of streaming drift, where talented actors are stranded in a story that becomes less interesting with each passing hour. If you’re determined to watch it anyway, just be prepared for a long haul.

What You Need to Know About Dock Construction

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Dock Construction is a massive project that can be complicated, so it’s essential to work with professionals. They can help you decide on the type and size of your dock, and get the necessary permits.

Dock Construction

Another option is to build seating into the dock’s design, which improves functionality and saves on costs. This is a popular trend that also makes it easier to maintain your dock.

Dry docks are structures that remove ships from the water and allow them to be inspected, repaired and maintained. Usually they are built on land, although floating dry docks are also available. The structure is essentially a large basin with a gate that closes when the ship is in place. It is important that a ship undergoes regular maintenance to keep it safe and seaworthy. A good dry dock will have a crew that is skilled at carrying out repairs and maintenance.

A common use for a dry dock is for the graving of ships, which involves cleaning and maintenance work that can’t be done in the water. This can include removing barnacles and rust, painting and repairing the hull. The dry dock is anchored on the ground with concrete blocks, and a heavy gate seals it once the ship is in position. The walls of the dry dock are reinforced with steel or concrete and are shaped to match the shape of a ship.

The keel block and bilge block are used to support the weight of the ship while it is in the dry dock. They must be positioned correctly to avoid damage to the hull. The block material must be selected according to the hull’s structural members. Different materials react differently with the loads placed on them. It is also important that the bilge block and keel block are positioned in accordance with the docking plan of the ship.

When the ship is positioned in the dry dock, it is essential that there is some water left in order to maneuver it. This helps to prevent damage to the hull while it is resting on the bilge or keel block. The bilge and keel blocks should also be positioned on the floor of the dry dock in a way that will not interfere with the navigation light beams or propellers.

During dry docking, the vessel is sailed or towed into the area, which has been closed off with a cofferdam and dewatered using the same methods as for constructing a concrete dock. The dry dock is then constructed of normal concrete construction, with piles to resist uplift pressure from the high seawater levels. The piles may be made from a combination of concrete and wood.

Wet dock

A wet dock is a structure that allows boats and ships to be moored in the water. It has a quay or basin, deck work and an enclosing wall of concrete. The enclosing wall can have gates that can be closed to prevent flooding during high tides or storms. The wet dock also includes a berthing space for smaller vessels, such as ferries and tugs.

The wet dock can be made of wood or concrete and is shaped in different ways. For example, it may be straight or curved and can be divided into multiple segments to increase the dock’s capacity. It also has wingwalls that can be used to assist in guiding the ship into its slip.

A wet dock’s entrance channel should be deep enough to accommodate large ships. The entrance channel should be dredged regularly to ensure it is clear of silt and sediment. It is also important to ensure that the entrance channel is well sheltered from winds and water currents, which can cause damage to the vessel.

Wet docks are usually located near ports. The docks are often used for the repair and maintenance of ships, but they can also be used for cargo loading or unloading. In addition, a wet dock can also be used as a floating bridge, or as a base for submarines and other military vessels.

Typically, wet docks are made of wood or metal. Those constructed of wood are typically painted with creosote, a preservative that protects the timber from attack by wood-boring insects. In the past, many terminals used creosote-treated wood for their pile-supported trestles and vehicle loading structures. However, these structures were often prone to corrosion, and the use of metal supports has since become common.

Commercially available floating docks are an option for people who want to enjoy their waterfront property without the expense of constructing their own dock. While they do not look as aesthetically pleasing as a custom dock, they are a good choice for many applications. In addition, they can be easily assembled and dismantled. Another advantage is that they require less maintenance than a traditional dock.

Piers

Piers are an essential component of dock construction and play a vital role in ensuring that the structure above is supported. They are designed to transfer the weight of a building or wharf to the soil or bedrock below, reducing the risk of structural damage. In addition, piers can be designed to withstand high loads and seismic activity, making them a good choice for structures in earthquake-prone areas. Piers are constructed using different materials, including concrete and steel. They can be either drilled or driven into the ground, depending on the type of soil and the load requirements.

Drilled piers are typically used for larger projects that require deep foundations, such as bridges or oil platforms. They are inserted into the ground and filled with concrete to create a strong base for the structure above. These piers are available in various lengths and diameters, which can be tailored to the project’s specifications. They can also be made with a hollow section to reduce the weight and cost of the structure.

Other types of piers are also available, including helical piles and push piers. Helical piles are a good option for projects that require a larger footing, such as wharves or marinas. These piers are built into the ground with a screw-like mechanism that is driven by a hydraulic power pack. They can be used for both dry and wet docks.

A pier can be constructed of wood or concrete, and it can include railings, lighting, and fenders to protect people from falling off the pier. Piers also need to be able to withstand lateral and horizontal forces, as well as corrosion from water. It is important to choose the right material for a pier construction, as different materials have their own advantages and disadvantages.

The most common material for a pier is concrete. This material is renowned for its durability and strength, which makes it an ideal choice for pier and wharf construction. It can withstand a variety of environmental pressures and is resistant to marine borer attacks and corrosion. It is also less expensive than steel, making it a cost-effective alternative to other pier construction materials.

Berthing space

Berthing space is the area where a ship is berthed while it is in a port. It is important to design a well-constructed berthing space to meet the needs of different types of ships and their cargo. In addition, berthing spaces should be able to withstand severe meteorological and hydrological conditions. In general, a berthing space should be well-sheltered and designed to block strong water currents. It should also be easy to access and equipped with suitable facilities for the vessel’s crew to carry out maintenance work.

A berthing space should be constructed in a way that it can handle large vessels and containers. This is essential to ensure the safety of passengers and workers. In order to achieve this, the berthing space should be free from obstacles and must be easily accessible by vehicles. It should also be equipped with a control room to monitor the movements of ships. In addition, the berthing space should be able to accommodate a variety of docking systems and equipment.

Depending on the size of the ship, the berthing space should be constructed from different materials. For example, it may be made of steel or concrete. The material used depends on the type of ship and its cargo. A well-constructed berthing space will provide adequate protection and security for both the ship and its cargo. The berthing space should also be able to accommodate various cranes, which are used to load and unload containers.

The berthing space should also be well-connected to the shipping channel. This is important because it will allow for the safe transfer of goods between the container ship and land. It should also be dredged regularly to keep the shipping channel clear of debris and sediments. In addition, the berthing space will need to be connected to an electrical power source and a pump-out station for fuel.

In addition to being dredged frequently, the berthing space should also be inspected for potential damage to the vessel’s bottom. Moreover, it should be able to handle a high number of ships on a busy day. The berthing space should also include an administration area, a parking lot, and a fueling dock.

Tips For Motorcycle Detailing

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Motorcycles have a variety of upholstery, including coated leather and high-quality vinyl that feels like leather. These materials require special cleaners and protectants.

Motorcycle Detailing

Motorbikes also have chrome parts that should be polished to a shine. Keeping the bike clean not only improves its appearance but also makes mechanical problems easier to spot. Contact Motorcycle Detailing Perth for professional help.

A motorcycle’s paint and chrome are highly exposed, so they can be especially vulnerable to oxidation and corrosion. This is why it’s important to wash and rinse them frequently. This will help the bike look better and also keep it safe to ride.

Start by rinsing the entire vehicle with a garden hose or even just a bucket of water. This gets off the large pieces of dirt, and it prevents them from scratching your paint when you wipe it down with a cloth or sponge.

During this step, you’ll want to pay special attention to the leading edges of your controls and other components that face forward. They’ll likely have more bugs and grime on them than other areas of the bike. It’s a good idea to rinse your brush or sponge out often, too, as you go. This helps avoid transferring dirt from the dirty parts of the bike to the clean ones.

The next step is to clean the bike using a mild soap, either a liquid bike-wash soap or a gentle dish washing detergent. Don’t use harsh household cleaners as they can strip the wax coating on your bike and cause damage to its paint. You’ll need to rinse the soap thoroughly, too, and you may want to use a second bucket of water for this purpose.

Once the bike is thoroughly cleaned, it’s time to dry it. The first thing you’ll need to do is remove the spark plugs and the oil filter. You’ll want to take special care around the battery and any electrical connections, as they’ll be very sensitive to water.

You’ll also want to cover the radiator, as any acid that gets into it can damage the paint and the metal. Finally, you’ll need to reinstall the side covers, saddlebags and any other bodywork that was removed during the cleaning process.

Degrease

Even if you have taken the time to wash your motorcycle with soap and water, there is still likely dirt and grime that has bonded to the surface of the paint. This is why it is important to degrease your bike after you wash it.

Using the degreaser that is recommended for your motorcycle, spray it liberally over the areas with a bad buildup of grease and oil. Give the degreaser a few minutes to work and then use your scrub brush and a little elbow grease to get those hard-to-reach areas. When you are done, rinse and dry thoroughly with a microfiber towel.

After you have rinsed and dried your motorcycle, it is a good idea to protect its rubber components with a high quality rubber protectant to help keep the sun from damaging them. This is particularly true on the seat and any other areas where the bike will be parked outdoors, like the fenders. A motorcycle cleaner with built in UV protection will help to keep the rubber components in good condition.

It is a good idea to use a cleaner that also provides UV protection for the dash of your motorcycle as well. Keeping this area clean will not only make your motorcycle look better, but it will also help to prevent the cracking and discoloration that can occur over time.

One of the biggest advantages of detailing your motorcycle regularly is that it can help to increase its resale value. Potential buyers will be more likely to pay top dollar for a clean, shiny motorcycle that is in good working condition.

Taking the time to clean your motorcycle can make it easier and more fun to ride. Plus, it will help to protect your investment and extend the life of your motorcycle. So if you haven’t done so lately, take the time to wash your motorcycle and degrease it, then polish it up and protect it with a coat of protective wax. It will be well worth the effort.

Polish

The paintwork of a motorcycle is more fragile than that of a car. That’s one of the reasons it’s so important to polish it often – it protects it and keeps it looking its best. The other reason is that bikes tend to have more intricate metal parts than cars – and they need special attention to make sure they shine.

When polishing the painted surfaces, be careful not to get too close to the edges and curves of the body. It’s also a good idea to work in the shade if possible, as bright sunlight can cause the polish to dry too quickly and leave water spots.

Once the polished areas are smooth and glossy, you can move on to the chrome and other non-painted surfaces. For chrome, it’s important to use a product designed for the type of metal that it is (not all chrome products are created equal). The same goes for other non-painted finishes on the bike – using a product made for plastic or rubber will help you avoid dulling them. If you have leather seats or handlebars, it’s a good idea to use a conditioner or reviver to keep them soft and flexible.

After you’ve buffed the chrome and other non-painted areas, apply a coat of wax to help protect your hard work. Waxing your bike will also give it a deeper, more reflective shine that will look like it just came out of the showroom.

Be careful when applying the wax – it’s a good idea to buff it with small circular motions and moderate pressure. Don’t forget to wipe away any excess wax that finds its way into the crevices or around the emblems – this can dry out and damage them. Once the wax is buffed to a haze, your motorcycle will have a shiny, showroom-quality finish that will last. And it’ll feel and ride better, too! It’s well worth the effort.

Clean the Chain

The chain is the grimiest part of a motorcycle, and it’s essential to start the detailing process by cleaning it. Many professional detailers use a special bike-chain cleaner, but you can use the same products that you would for your car engine (but never spray the chain directly with a pressure washer, as this can loosen the components of the chain).

If you don’t clean your chain, it will quickly wear out and need replacement, and it may even affect your riding experience by creating a rattle or buzzing sound from the loose, misaligned chain. You should also scrub the sprockets to remove any dirt that’s accumulated, and a toothbrush or chain-specific brush works well for this.

Some motorcyclists skip this step, but lubricating the chain is an important part of detailing and helps your motorcycle perform at its best. If the chain isn’t lubricated, it will wear out three to four times faster than one that is properly oiled.

A lubricated chain will also improve the efficiency of your motorcycle, as it won’t have to work so hard to transmit power. This will give your ride a smoother, more consistent feel, and it will also reduce the amount of wear on the rear sprockets.

After you’ve scrubbed your chain and sprockets with a toothbrush or a chain-specific brush, put the motorcycle on its center stand or paddock / chain lube stand. Then move the rear wheel by hand slowly to see if the chain is smooth and free-moving at all times. If it’s tight at some spots, you need to clean and re-lube the chain.

Once your bike is clean and lubed, it’s ready to shine. Whether you’re heading out to the next bike night or looking to sell it, a meticulously detailed bike will get more attention and draw a higher price than an unsightly, grimy one. Remember that it takes time and patience to do a good job, but the rewards are worth it!