03/02/08: Prime Mover: Thanks for the tips. . .

I forget who it was that said it, but I have heard that the truly wise man is the one who realizes how little he knows. I've been humiliated on these boards enough times to know how true that is and to realize the truly abbreviated extent of my knowledge.

For example, I had no idea who Preston Sturges was but now that I do and I have a list of his movies, I'll certainly check them out. I'm aware of Harold Lloyd but I'm not as familiar with his work as I probably should be.

As far as the Marx Brothers is concerned, "De gustibus non disputandem (Concerning taste, there can be no arguing.)." If everyone only liked vanilla ice cream and that was the only ice cream available, I might be tens of pounds lighter, but I would never have experienced the joy that is Ben & Jerry's Karamel Sutra.

Guilty Pleasures Department: I'm not a big fan of modern comedies, but there is at least one I can think of that I will make an exception for, and I expect howls of derision. I happen to own a DVD of "Head Over Heels," starring Freddie Prinze, Jr. and Monica Potter. I'm chuckling to myself right now just thinking about it and the inclusion of The Go-Gos music doesn't hurt. (Currently donning my asbestos suit.)

If you're a fan of Sherlock Holmes, you should definitely check out "Without a Clue." Sir Ben Kingsley plays Dr. Watson, who is actually the brains behind the Holmes/Watson team. Dr. Watson hired an actor, played by Michael Caine, to pretend to be Sherlock Holmes. It's sort of a "Remington Steel" take on the Sherlock Holmes story. Michael Caine is stellar as the painfully dense Sherlock Holmes, who can only solve crimes as long as Dr. Watson is feeding him his lines. A very funny movie; worth seeing and owning.

Finally, if I can throw out a question to this extremely knowledgeable class: I saw a movie years ago that I really liked but I can't remember the name of it. I can only describe it as a black & white, 1950s or early 1960s, British version of "Stripes." The movie follows a group of misfits through their induction into the British army and the British version of boot camp complete with the irascible drill sergeant. If anyone recognizes this film and can tell me the title of it, I'd really appreciate it. I must admit, however, that I've only been half-heartedly searching for it. Any assistance would be appreciated.

Best regards, Wallee

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