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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

‘The Sound of Music’ evokes memories — yet again

Dan Webster

The first time I saw "The Sound of Music," I went with my then-girlfriend Terry Cornett to a downtown Norfolk, Va., movie house. This was either in late 1965 or early 1966 (the film premiered in New York in March 1965).

It was a special event. We'd had to buy reserved seats, which at that time was common only for concerts, not for movies. And though I was just a college freshman, I felt very grown up.

Movie memories such as these tend to rise whenever revivals occur, such as the one that will take place on two nights, Sept. 9 and 12, when "The Sound of Music" will again play locally, specifically at Regal Cinemas theaters at Northtown Mall and Coeur d'Alene's Riverstone Stadium.

The movie will screen at 2 and 7 p.m. on both days.

As most movie fans know, "The Sound of Music" was adapted from the Rodgers and Hammerstein stage musical. Directed by Robert Wise, and written for the screen by Ernest Lehman, the film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. Julie Andrews was nominated as Best Actress but lost out to Julie Christie for "Darling."

My late "Movies 101" partner Bob Glatzer never liked the film, which I can respect. Our different opinions always led to some spirited discussions. But as an example of a certain kind of Hollywood product, one that offers up a simple and satisfying fantasy, "The Sound of Music" has always made me smile.

Some memories tend to do that. They are, after all, some of my favorite things.