Robert Osborne’s Classic Film Festival was this past Thursday-Sunday at the Athens Classic Center here in Athens, GA.  It was the first time we have ever been to a film festival and it was wonderful.

On Friday night we saw Funny Girl with Barbra Streisand.  And Saturday we saw Sunset Boulevard with Gloria Swanson.  Both were spectacular.  But what made it especially interesting was the commentaries before and afterwards by Robert Osborne and his various guests.  They added so many tidbits that told me more about the movie.

 For instance, I never realized that Fanny Brice was a real person.  After I got home, I looked online about her and found all sorts of things–particularly about her husband  Arnstein– that were not as the movie depicted.  For instance, he was in Sing Sing before and she had visited him there.  They lived together for 6 years before they got married.  That he reportedly had no problems spending her money and that he never pled guilty and she used much financial resources for four years for legal expenses to fight his conviction.  And then apparently after he was let out he never saw her or their children again.  By the way, it also mentioned that she had two children by him, but by mutual agreement, the son is not mentioned in the movie.

It was a beautiful movie.  I swooned over the costuming.  I wonder if I could get some dresses like that…. Ha!  Such colors and styling.  Especially when she goes into the “seduction red room”.  She is wearing this yummy periwinkle blue gown with sparkly empire bustline, and then it falls to silk flowers around her knees and then drapes to the floor.  I’m not explaining it well, but it was spectacular…and I want one just like it!

Robert Osborne and Laura LeidenHere I am with Robert Osborne, head of Turner Classic Movies and our host for the event.  He was so knowledgeable, it was great to hear him talk.

Athens is a great place to live and be a part of the arts.  From its vibrant music scene, this wonderful annual film festival, the visual arts and performing arts, plus having the University of Georgia right here, there is lots to do and see!

 (Gotta a mention, if you know of anyone thinking of buying or selling a home in the Greater Athens, Georgia area, be sure to contact me with their name and number and I’ll follow up with 150% service).

Also you can search for a home at www.lauraleidenhomes.com.