Melodrama |Lost, Lonely and Vicious (1958) by Frank Myers | Colorized Movie

Melodrama |Lost, Lonely and Vicious (1958) by Frank Myers | Colorized Movie

In this town of Make-Believe, the truth behind the scenes is also filled with drama. This is a realistic documentary of how one young actor struggles with life. The glamorous town itself doesn’t breed this strange new type of actor. He is probably the product of a tense world in an age of power.

Against this Hollywood backdrop of fantasy, yesterday’s teenager, now growing up faces tomorrow, still searching for kicks but deeply searching for meanings. At the hangout for coffee sessions, their world revolves around the stage and with people whose work is pretending, realism is confusing. It is easy for the very young to become frustrated.

Our story deals with the motivation of a young star obsessed with death. Perhaps it is God’s way. However herein, real actors and actresses in this lost and lonely world give an honest portrayal, not on the great soundstages, but on the actual location, telling a sympathetic story of a sensitive youth.

He will be known as John Dennis. I’ve known Johnnie since he first hit pictures. We were, friends, but I never really understood him. Nobody can understand him. What about Tanya, his dramatic coach? I’ve told you before, Doctor, Johnnie has every reason to be happy.

He’s bound to be a star with his first picture. He has money, he could be a fine artist too. The latest thing he did was a portrait of himself. Half alive and half dead. Why, Doctor? Now, why does he bring death into his paintings? I just don’t understand him anymore.

Tanya, there is nothing I can do. I can’t possibly help this boy unless you bring him to me. I know. I’ll try again. Hey, Johnnie, big shot. What are you trying to make the headlines? Take a lead hard man. I’ll teach you how to drive. This is a great spot.

-Hey buddy, would you mind? -Out of the way. Too bad, all that energy is being wasted. Forget it, wise guy. Oh, no, honey. I’ve got too good a memory. Come on, Pig, lets get out. He asked me what kind of parts can I do, I asked him what kind of parts he had.

He ends up telling me I had to make up my mind. What is it to make up? All I want to do is act. I’m not particular. A day here, a day there, and I can pay the rent. -Hi, Pinkie. -Hi.

Who needs swimming pools? If I want to swim, I go to Santa Monica. One of these days, the worm is going to turn. When it does that, that script casting director, will be on the other side of the fence, you know what I mean?

Walt, do you ever feel you might be using the wrong approach? When will you learn you don’t get parts by breaking down the door? If I had your figure doll, somebody would open the doors for me. Hey, look at her, Pig. If you were stacked like that, you could walk in anywhere.

Have you ever run out of dialogue? Not when I’m talking to a dish like you, I’ll buy you a cup of coffee. -With what? -I got four bits. Oh, money. Well, I didn’t notice your T-Bird parked out back. I work for my hell. I heard… How’s ballet’s gift to the motion pictures?

-Cut it out, Walt. -Relax. Do you know something? Someday somebody’s going to slap you right in that pretty nose of yours and make a mess of it. So, I’ll do monster pictures, there’s more money in it. Hey, why don’t you come out from behind some of that paint?

-Some things are cheap in this town. -Especially phonies. Now who is a phony? Listen, doll, one of these days, I’m going to be big. Big! You better be nice to me, somebody has to take care of you in your old age. Excuse me, buddy, the smog is getting worse. Have a nice trip.

Do you mind if I sit down? I’m Pinkie. -Not at all, I’m Darlene. -This is Buddy. -How are you doing? -Sit down, Buddy. The breeze isn’t as strong over here. Still too close. You kids talk, I left my new records over on the counter.

Hi, doll. I hear you just got in from New York. You got a name? -My name is Darlene. -Welcome to the morgue, I’m Walt. The more you see of him, honey, the less you’ll want to see. When are we going to get that coffee you so rashly ordered?

-Think twinkle toes were there. -Cut it out, Walt. -Are you an actor? -Oh, that was the wrong question, honey. -Well, is he? -Do you want me to quote something? Excuse me, Pig! There’s a lovely creature of the opposite gender in need of my help. Resign yourself, honey. It’s practically painless.

Never fear, Daddy is here. How long have you been in town? Since the beginning of the week. I took a room on Hayworth nothing much. Just to get by for the first month. I plan to be working right away. I’ll make it. Everybody says I will.

I did a lot of good TV parts back East. Our town is crawling with entertainers who came out from back east. However, I can act. I understand out here, everybody just walks to their parts. Nobody has any fire. Maybe we all better go to New York and get a little of this fire.

TV pays the rent. I figured that would be a good way to get into pictures. I have news for you, honey. Don’t count on anything. Nobody watches TV out here, they spend their days at the beach and their nights in the bars. -You got an agent? -I signed with one this afternoon.

Couldn’t promise anything. Things are kind of rough right now. -You got an agent? -Yes. He takes 10 percent of my debts on speculation. My agent’s name is Harriet Holly. Ever heard of her? Harriet Holly. Is she any good? She’d handle anybody. She just loves people. I shouldn’t have signed with her?

If she gets you work, why worry? Honey, she works with drama schools, she takes a cut of the tuition. She told me to have new pictures taken, some sexy shots. That’s one assignment you could fill, all right. You’re not very encouraging. Nobody’s very encouraging around here. We like being miserable.

-Excuse me, I have a dance lesson. -Are you still taking ballet? Ever since I was ten. -When are you going to learn the steps? -You’re a very funny man, Walt. -Here Pinkie, watch my records, will you? -Why don’t you lay off him Walt? -Oh, he’s a very nice boy.

Remind me to ignore him. If you ask me, he seems a little odd. Back in New York, I never knew any dancers. Just actors, we kind of stayed together. Well, out here, we mingle. It makes a better maladjustment. What? Have you seen Johnnie?

He hasn’t been around all day. Isn’t he out of town? No. He’s back. Thank you. I’ve often wondered why she and Johnnie should be such good friends. -He can certainly do better than that. -Well, he’s playing it cool. The oddball bit makes people talk. You know what I mean?

No, I don’t go for that. He’s not the type. He hates publicity. Who are we talking about? A guy named Johnnie Dennis just got his big break. A leading role in a picture after doing bits for years. -Oh, really? Who is she? -His dramatic coach, her name is Tanya.

Yes, she tucks him in at night. What’s the matter? Your boy is ignoring you? I don’t think that’s any of your business, Walt. Maybe not, but Johnnie’s a funny guy, he doesn’t keep friends very long. No, I’ve known Johnnie for three years. Three years. I guess your term is just about up then.

I have to give you credit, though, three years is a long time. -Now that Johnnie has made the grade… -What are you driving at, Walt? -We were just talking about Johnnie. -You were talking about Johnnie? Did he really stand you up again? All right. You fascinate me sometimes, Walt.

Right now you’re talking like a reporter of one of those cheap magazines. I could feel several issues. You know what I mean? I’m sure you could. However, put that little evil mind of yours at ease. Johnnie and I are not… How would you put it, that way about each other?

-I’m just a teacher. -Yes, one of the prettiest I’ve seen. Thank you, but coming from you, it’s completely out of character, so I’ll take it as a compliment. Nevertheless, I’m still a teacher. I thought all teachers were old maids, and their hair piled up on top of their heads.

You’ve been reading comic books, Walt. My father was a teacher at the age of 23, in one of the most important school in Europe. My only interest in Johnnie is his career. Is it? Yes. Disappointed? It doesn’t bother me in the least. I suppose Johnnie won’t be taking any of your classes now.

That’s up to Johnnie, of course, but a good actor never stopped studying. Maybe you could use another guy? For what? To teach. I’m always open to suggestions. Do you know someone with talent? Yes. Who? Me. You? Fortunately, Walt, I’m in a position to choose my students.

What’s the matter, am I not good enough for you? I’m as good an actor as Johnnie Dennis. All right, so he got got his break? If I got that break instead of him, I’d be driving a fancy sports car now, and he’d be sitting here like the rest of us bumming coffee.

Walt, I am not in the sports car business. Okay, I don’t need you, I don’t need anybody. I’ll make the grade, without one of Tanya’s diplomas. Walt, you need something I couldn’t possibly give you, talent. Hi. You didn’t call me? No, I didn’t call you.

I was hoping you’d want to talk to me. Why? Johnnie, since when have you and I needed a reason to be together? I worry when I don’t hear from you. Don’t, I could have left town. Johnnie, I… I don’t understand you, Johnnie. Who does? Two coffees, black.

If you’re interested, I’ve been in the library. For two days? I got lost. It’s a big place. A good place to be lost. Not for long. Then why did you go there? I had to look up something. Is that all you did? Yes. Don’t you want to know what I read?

If you want to tell me, you’ll tell me. I read a book, I couldn’t take it on, I didn’t have a library card, so I just stayed and read it right there. It was all about the human mind. A book called A Dark Continent of Motive and Desire. It’s about guys like me.

Did you ever know that some people go around wishing they were dead? Some of them love to attend funerals, and some of them just think about it. Did you find out why they do such a thing? I’m not sure, -sick of living, I guess. -Johnnie, you are not sick of living?

-No. -Then why do you read such a book? It was in the library. Johnnie. -What’s wrong? Are you mad at me? -Oh, no. -Can I get you something? A sandwich? -Hi, Johnnie. What do you know? I’ll see you around. How come you’re sitting back here all alone?

We were alone, and we’d hope to keep it that way. -Everybody else is up in front. -I noticed that’s why we’re back here. It’s not much of a star’s dressing room, is it? How would you know? -Temporarily, I’ll overlook that crack. -If you mind, Tanya and I are talking.

About something private, kind of an interview -in the star’s dressing room? -What’s bothering you, Walt? Nothing. Nothing’s bothering me. Just that, you’ve been ignoring your old gang lately. I’ve been busy at the studio, does that bother you? Oh, not particularly because I plan on being there very soon myself,

But when I get there, I won’t go around snubbing my friends. -Nobody is snubbing you, Walt. -No? Somehow I got the feeling, you’ve got a chip on your shoulder. Yes? If you have, forget it I don’t get mad very easily. -What is this part of the new Johnnie? -You better beat it, Walt.

-Please, Johnnie, ignore him. -That’s right. You’re a big star, now you can’t be bothered? You just take the madam’s advice. -Walt’s at it again. -Do they do this often? Lie down, darling. I’ll get some ice for your head. Suit yourself. I’m sorry Walt is so crude. He’s terribly jealous of you.

Here, put this under your head. You shouldn’t have hit him, really. No, I shouldn’t have hit him. I remember he asked for it. He’s mean, that’s all, he’s mean and frustrated. -Who isn’t? -Isn’t what? Frustrated. Tanya for Pete’s sake, you want me to get over this headache, go away and leave me alone.

Oh, if a bad temper is a requisite, you’re bound to be a star. Sometimes I think a good spanking, would be the best thing for you. Really getting into a fight. I should lock you up in my closet, take the key with me, then I know where you are.

Are you listening to me? Now what if you were making a movie, right now? What performance do you think you’d give in this condition? Do you want to know something? I don’t really care. Right now you look like a female dragon. Matter of fact, you sound like one too.

Much prettier as a woman. How did your mother ever put up with you? She didn’t. What’s the matter? No, pain shot through my whole arm. You probably have some bad bruises. Let me see. Sit down. You can’t expect to fight without getting banged up. Oh, quiet. Now you tell me if anything hurts.

Ouch. I’m sorry, but it serves you right. -A star can’t afford to be hurt, you know? -That sounds like Walt. Walt is jealous of you, can you understand that? Jealous? When I get a picture, what’s that got to do with anything? I feel more alone now, than I ever had in my life.

-Johnnie, I don’t understand you. -What’s with you? Every time we start talking, you say I don’t understand you, Johnnie. What’s there to understand? Am I so complicated? No, you are different. From what? From the Johnnie, I thought I knew. I’m sorry. I’m sorry, please sit down. Tomorrow night is your premiere. I know.

Aren’t you thrilled? I’m not going. -What? -I said I’m not going. -Why do I have to repeat everything? -Well, they expect you there. -I suppose so. -Well, then you’ve got to go. Why do I have to go? Who says so? What’s so special about a premiere?

Everybody stares at you. They yell a lot, that’s about all. What’s so special about a premiere? Johnnie, this is your first picture, everyone says you’re good in it. Therefore, I’m good. It will make you a star. You don’t know how lucky you are. What’s luck got to do with it?

I have been in this town for almost three years, now I make a picture, that’s luck? I’m not any better now than I was then. Well, then, what’s so special about me now? Can you tell me? There’s nothing special about you Johnnie. You’re just a very ordinary guy

Would you rather, the things you want to hear? Shut up! Do you hear me? Shut up! Maybe I’m going on a trip. Location? No, not on location. I didn’t mean making another movie. You don’t understand anything. Johnnie. People don’t live forever. I might be dead tomorrow.

Why do you read things that depress you? Some people live to be 100. I don’t want to be 100, understand? Johnnie, this is not up to you to decide. Don’t worry. I got to go. Johnnie, forget about the book, you’ve got everything to live for.

It’s easy enough for you to say, did you ever try it? Forget this, you never started it for five years. Thanks for the call, Tanya. I guess I should use more of them. Bye, baby. -Hi, Glen. -Hi. -I’ll see you later, say hello to dad. -Okay, bye. All right. Do you remember me?

-Wait, please wait. -Noisy, isn’t it? -A little. I want to talk to you, just for a minute, please. -All right. -Would you step into my office? It’s kind of there, my furniture hasn’t arrived yet. A lot of fuss for nothing. I don’t know. It’s kind of exciting to the right people.

Maybe we’re not the right people. -You look like you’re hiding from someone. -Who’s hiding? I’m watching the premiere. -Do you like movies? -I can take you believe me. -This one has a new actor. -Yes, I know. They say he’s tremendous, what’s his name? -Johnnie Dennis. -What? Johnnie Dennis.

No, that’s not it, it’s Jerry, Ronnie, or something like that. Take my word for it, it’s Johnnie Dennis. Okay. I read a lot about him in the magazines. -They say he’s kind of strange. -Who says? The magazines. It seems he’s not very cooperative. Of course, it’s probably different than they say.

Maybe not, you can’t tell until you really know someone. Don’t I know you? I’m sure I’ve seen your face before. I wanted to apologize for yesterday. I didn’t mean to scare you, honestly. Well, you did. I was furious. You almost ran over me. However, later on, I forgave you.

You looked so serious with that book in the library, I just couldn’t be angry. I guess I am kind of odd sometimes. -You’re not a criminal, are you? -No, but I’ll give it my consideration. I’ve seen your picture before, I know I have. Turn your face a little bit. -You’re him. -Who?

Him, Johnnie Dennis. That picture. Don’t tell me you’re not because I’m never wrong. Okay, you’re never wrong. That’s your first picture, and you didn’t go? I got scared. -What? -I got scared, do you mind? -Please don’t laugh. -I’m sorry. It’s just so funny all those people over there waiting to see you,

And you’re not even going to be there. I just don’t like crowds. -You’re a movie star. -I only made one picture. -I better go. -Wait, don’t you want my autograph? -What for? -Well, someday I might be famous. Okay, never mind. Where do you have to go in such a hurry?

-Why, I go every Thursday night? -What for? A swim, I like to swim. Do you mind? Don’t be hard to get along with now, I’m not going to bite you. -I’m not the one who’s afraid. -Yes, that’s right. Is everybody in movies as crazy as you are?

I don’t know, I haven’t been in movies long enough to find out. My car is over there, you mind if I drop you off? -It’s only a few blocks. -No charge, delivery guaranteed. Why don’t you go to the premiere, where you belong? It’s more fun over here.

Come on, I’ll have you there in one minute flat. You probably don’t even know where it is. Well. All right, let’s go. -I really shouldn’t be doing this. -Why not? -Daddy wouldn’t like it. -You’re not afraid, remember? You’re impossible. -It’s the secret of my split personality. -I’d hate to be the other guy.

Oh, he’s very well-adjusted. Let’s go. It doesn’t scare me when it’s standing still, will I be safe? As safe as you would be in your own bedroom. -Sure, it’s pretty. -It’s paid for. -The way is back there. -Can’t hear you. -Where are we going? -I still can’t hear you.

Where are you taking me? I can’t hear a thing you say. If I had a rock, I’d use it right now. You should have seen your face when… Hey, where are you going? -Looking for a rock. -Well, see if you can find a soft one.

I’d like to bash your head in, you tricked me. I’m sorry, there was no left-hand turn. You were supposed to take me to the Y, is this the Y? Yes, give me that, right now, you look like a tiger ready for the kill. There’s nothing funny about being kidnapped.

-I figured you could use the fresh air. -I had a date at the Y to go swimming. Do you want to go swimming? We’ll go swimming. My date was with my girlfriend. I’m sorry, it was just one of those things that jerks like me, are always pulling like this bus driver I read

About the other day. He had the same bus route for 20 years. One day, he got to the end of the line and just kept on going. -Didn’t you ever want to do that? -What? Drive a bus? No, keep on going. You’re just about the weirdest character I’ve met.

-What are you doing? -I’m looking for my swimming trunks. -Don’t bother. -Here, hold these. I found them. Let’s go. Hey, where’s your bathing suit? I have it on. Please, won’t you take me back? It’s silly. Why do you want to go to the Y? We’ve got the whole lake to ourselves.

-Does your keeper know you’re out? -I climbed over the wall, come on. I’ll be in the men’s dressing room. The only thing I can figure out is you must be a mental case. Thanks. I’m not trying to be nice. I am. Hey, you’ve started to undress yet? No. Okay.

You are a nice kid, do you have a job? I work at the drugstore across the street from the theater. I don’t even know your name. I know yours. You’re Johnnie Dennis, the famous movie star. Oh, what are you trying to do, spoil my whole evening?

Well, are you going to tell me your name, or do I have to make one up? Hey. You are going to talk to yourself or go swimming? You want to play, huh? Come on, slowpoke. -Wasn’t that better than the Y? -It sure was.

You mean you don’t have a swimming pool in a 20-room house? No, that’s for poor people, and I live alone. -Somebody better have a talk with you. -They have, but I don’t listen. -Do you live alone? -No, with my dad. He hasn’t been too well.

-What kind of work does he do? -Aircraft. He’s a welder. -Nice job. -Not when you have to work all night. Yes. It must get lonely for you. I am at the job at the drugstore with my friends. -You’re lucky. -Do you like them, kind of screwball? Meaning I’m a screwball?

I meant it as a compliment. Let’s swim. I still don’t know your name. Well, my last name is Preacher and my first name is Helen. Hi, Preach. The name is Preacher. -What’s wrong with calling me Helen? -Well, everybody calls you that. -So? -So, I’ll call you Preach. -Being an individualist, huh? -Why not?

You’re pretty. Johnnie, I think we better go home. Okay. Hey, Pig! Dig this. Although it is his first picture, the general opinion in theatrical circles, is that this performance will warrant an Academy Award nomination come spring. Academy Award. What? Hey Pig, do you want to go for a ride? All right?

Give me some money. Two beers. -Last stop, end of the line. -Conductor, I have a transfer. I’m sorry sir, all transfers are cancelled for the night. Then I’ll just have to use my railroad pass. I’m sorry, but passes are no good West of La Brea.

-Do you mean I’m stranded? -Until the next bus comes along. -I don’t mind missing one bus. -Okay, you come in for a little while. What do you do when you’re not in the movies? -Books. -Must be nice. -Not when you’re bored. -Why should a young guy like you be bored?

Why shouldn’t I be? It’s like being suspended in space. You get tired of it. You cut yourself down and fly away. I thought of that. Where was your home, John? Pennsylvania, a little town you’ve never heard of. I’d like to live in a small town. I was born in New Orleans.

Dad brought me here after my mother died. Big towns can be lonely. -Little towns can be lonely, too. -I guess it depends on the people. I guess. I knew a professor back home. Funny old fellow, built himself a chicken house for a hobby. He was retired. Manny asked me to help him out.

The evenings got tough for him, so I used the money to buy a bicycle. I was about 12 years old then, every night after feeding the chickens, we used to sit around and talk. He talked about everything under the sun. Made me kind of happy just to listen to him.

One day his wife came around to our house. She told me she had some bad news for me, but I told her I knew he had died. I cried for an hour. I still miss him. I guess we all have somebody when we’re young.

I’d like to take you back to Pennsylvania with me Preach. It’s green, It’s got hills and woods and creeks that make a lot of noise. -I’ve seen pictures. -It’s not the same. Funny how you forget. Ever so often, I find myself walking along the street, I look up and I see a tree.

Have you ever really looked at a tree? Do you ever notice the leaves? They make a funny little laughing sound, especially in the wind. You can almost feel it. Yes. You know… You know how it feels. Yes, I know how it feels to be lonely. -Do you want a Coke? -Yes.

Hi, am Preach. Johnnie. You don’t know that you’re just about as homesick as anybody I’ve ever met. Why don’t you go back home? Forget all this movie stuff. -I got to stay here. -Why? Got to make hay while the sun shines. -Be miserable? -After a few years, I’ll get used to it.

I never get used to it. Everybody is so busy going places. They’re all going to be movie stars. Everybody can’t be a movie star, even I know that. Some of them give up and settle being waitresses and bellhops. -Why don’t they go home? -They can’t. They only bought a one-way ticket.

It doesn’t make sense. Pride never does. What do they have got to be so proud of? Trying, I guess. Trying to be something big. -Here. -Thanks. It’d be better to stay in a small town, and raise chicken as a hobby.

-Do you think you’ll ever do that? -I don’t think I can squeeze it in. I’d rather make another movie. You don’t make sense either. You don’t like Hollywood, yet you don’t want to leave it. -I’m kind of like Teddy here. -His name is Toby.

-I’ve had him since I was a baby. -Then he’s as old as you are. So? Someday he’s going to get wounded, and suddenly this is going to fall out. -I won’t let it happen. -Oh, but it will. It happens to the best of teddy bears.

When all the sawdust is gone, nothing is left but a limp old rag. -Really? -Just a limp old rag. Nobody will remember you, nobody but Preach. That’s the way Coke affects you, remind me not to give you any more. You can give it to Toby.

He’s going to be a nimble rag, he won’t need it. Will you, Toby? Toby says you shut up and drink your coke. Toby’s a slaunder. Well, he can see through you, and so can I. You’re feeling sorry for yourself. That’s your trouble. I feel sorry for myself?

We’re not all great big martyrs, carrying the world on our shoulders. Who wants to? I’d rather be happy with someone I really liked. So would I? Well, why don’t you find someone then? Instead of going around with that pained expression on your face.

What am I supposed to do, run an ad in the newspaper? I suppose you expect to stumble over her, or having her come up for an autograph. I noticed you didn’t. When I want it, I’ll ask for it. How long is that going to take?

You’ll be too busy feeling sorry for yourself to even notice. -Daddy. -Hello, general. What are you doing at home so early? tired and sick, foreman told me to take the rest -of the night off. -You better sit down. Who is your friend? This is Johnnie. Johnnie, this is my father.

-How are you doing, Mr. Preacher? -Johnnie, I don’t know what came over me. -Everything got dark and I couldn’t see. -I’ll get your medicine. She’s a sweet girl, I’m mighty proud of her. You have a right to be. When the mother dies, it isn’t easy. The general kind of raised herself.

-She’s done a good job too, hasn’t she? -Preach is tops. -Preach? -A nickname I gave her. Preach, it’s cute. You worked at the drugstore, too? -No, sir. -Just friends? -Just friends. -Well, you look like a good boy. Nice clean cut, I’m glad to know you. The general needs company.

-Here, let me help you, sir. -Thank you, son. -Why do you call her the general? -That’s a little joke between us. The fact is, she bosses me around. I don’t look after her. She looks after me. Must be nice. Not many fathers, have a daughter like mine.

-What have you two been talking about? -You, of course. I suppose I’ve got to take this. This is the most awful-tasting– Stop complaining and drink it. Did you take it this afternoon? You’ve got spies. She’s got eyes in the back of her head. -I surrender. -I think you didn’t want to get well.

Why should he want a nurse like you? He won’t have me for long if he doesn’t do as I say. -Now, sir, go to bed. -Right now? -Right now. -I’d hate to be in your regiment. I’d be on KP all the time. Good night son, it’s nice to have met you.

Good night, Mr. Preacher. -He tells me he calls you Preach. -Go to bed. I’m going. I’ll be in to check on you. I know you will, General. Dad is playing hooky. He does it every so often. I think he likes you. Come here. What about you? I haven’t made up my mind yet.

Why did you put up with me tonight? I don’t know, John. You could have told me to mind my own business, you know that. Say something. I have decided to take a job as a car hop. Just temporarily, of course. -A car hop? -Well, what’s wrong with that?

Lots of stars got discovered in drive-ins. -I don’t mean to get personal honey, but– -However, nothing. I know what you’re thinking, Pinkie. However, it’s just until I get established to make the right contacts. Have it your own way. A steady job will pay the premiums Pinkie. -Premiums on what? -Looks insurance.

I know an easier way. Why don’t you find yourself… I’m not interested in getting married. I came out here for a career, and I’m going to have one. Nothing’s going to stop me, nothing. Okay, but there’s no rule against having fun while you’re waiting, is there?

-Oh, go dance with Buddy. -You have problems so does everybody. You’re not going about this in the right way. I get what I want from this town, and I don’t have to settle for room and board. -Where are you going? -Outback, Walt is fixing his car.

-Don’t tell me you and Walt are… -Just friends. That’s the most satisfactory arrangement, a girl can have, lots of friends. -I thought you hated his insides. -He’s a little mixed up. Boy, if he talked to me the way he talks to you, -I’d have slapped his face. -I’ve done that.

I don’t know, there’s something about him. He’s a phony, but he’s a good-looking phony. You can’t expect everything in a man. What does the studio executive have to say this evening? I can’t start my next picture until I find the right blonde. She has to be so tall, and have a good suntan.

-I spend two hours in the sun every day. -With nothing on but a sunlamp. It’s better than vitamins. No, I haven’t found the right blonde. What are you doing? You wouldn’t understand even if I drew you pictures. Why don’t you get a car that works? Cadillacs don’t break down.

-I couldn’t afford Cadillacs. -I know a lot of people who drive Cads. Yes, I bet your agent isn’t one of them. Start it, Pig. Okay, cut it. -Did you bleach your hair again? -I’m a natural blonde. Oh, come on, get off it. Everybody knows you’re a natural brunette. Start the motor, Pig.

Okay, cut it. -Get lost, will you? I’m busy. -Busy hiding from Johnnie Dennis. I don’t hide from anybody, least of all Johnnie Dennis. If he thinks he can slug me and get away, he’s off his lid, because nobody pushes this little boy around.

See if there’s any pushing to be done, I’ll do it. -So, I noticed the other day. -What? It’s the truth, isn’t it? You picked a fight, and Johnnie knocked you silly. -Shut up! -Why should I? It’s the truth. Okay, stick around, Johnnie will be here. Pig and I are waiting for him.

-You got yourself a ringside seat. -What makes you think he’ll be here today? -He always meets Tanya here, doesn’t he? -Tanya’s not here. No, look over there. We’ll see how good your ex is in the fresh air. You’re scared of him Walt, you’re just talking as usual. Stick around.

You hurt him, and I’ll call the police. -Which side do you want darling? -He is a nice guy, that’s all. Why do I ever get mixed up with the bum like you? That’s right. Sell tickets, and make a big production out of it.

Well, if he runs, it’ll be easier. Big brave movie star. We might even get a newspaper plug out of it. Relax, will you, Pig? Hey Pig, lean under the dash and see if you can feel this wire. -Hi, Johnnie. -I didn’t figure you’d be talking to me. What’s one sore jaw between friends?

That was a really cool switch, the other night. Not going to your own premiere, real cool. Do you have a press agent or something? -Walt? -Yes. Yes, you’re going to be a big man, Johnnie. A couple more oddball stunts like that, put you right up on top of the heap.

You know what I mean? I might not be around to see it, I might not live that long. One day, somebody’s going to stick a pin in you and let all that hot air out. -Be careful, Johnnie. -Stay out of this. -Careful, Johnnie. -Johnnie.

I told you to stay out of this, now get back inside. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings. For a minute there, I forgot who you were. Tell me walt, you write home every week? You give a list of the pictures you’re in?

Which one of me is supposed to be doing that? You got a house in the hills? I suppose that piece of junk over there is really a continental. How about your kid sister? Does she sell pictures of you back home? You are beginning to bug me, Johnnie.

As I said Walt, somebody’s going to stick a pin in you, and you’re going to melt down to nothing, but a stain on the sidewalk. No footprints in concrete for you, Walt, just a stain, you know what I mean? Stop it, you two. Please stop. Are you insane, Johnnie? Come.

-Johnnie! -Go away! Leave me alone. Johnnie! You’re bleeding. -Don’t look at me. -Johnie, you’re hurt. -I know I’m hurt. Listen to me, Tanya. -I am listening, Johnnie. -You’ve got to do something for me. -Anything Johnnie, what do you want? -Here, take this. -What is it?

-Never mind. Do you see the address? -Yes, can it wait? -Just deliver the letter. -Yes, where are you going? -I don’t know. -Johnnie, you’re hurt. -Deliver the letter. -Yes, is it that important? Just see that Helen Preacher gets it, and nobody else, understand? -She’s someone you know? -Yes. -From Pennsylvania? -Yes, from Pennsylvania.

Bye, Tanya. Johnnie, I’m afraid. Afraid of what? For a second, you look like that horrible painting. Pinkie. Yes, I’m Helen Preacher. -I am Tanya Pernaud. -How do you do? A mutual friend, asked me to deliver something to you. From the drugstore? -The drugstore? -Where I work. Oh, no. Johnnie Dennis.

Oh, you know Johnnie, won’t you come in? However, why should Johnnie write me a letter? Perhaps he had something to say, that he forgot to tell you, the last time he saw you. I was only with him once. Didn’t you know him in Pennsylvania? No. The farthest east I’ve been is Louisiana.

Oh, I see. I really should go, I have an acting class this evening. -Johnnie was one of my favorite students. -You taught him to act? No, that was something he was born with. I’m afraid there was very little, I was able to give Johnnie. From what I gathered, he didn’t need very much.

Johnnie was a very self-sufficient person. I’m very glad to have met you, Ms. Preacher. You are very different from most of Johnnie’s friends. Thank you. You better read your letter and don’t bother I’ll let myself out. Thank you. Goodbye, miss… Just call me Tanya, everybody does. Goodbye, Tanya. Dear Preach,

I was never much for letter-writing, but what I have to say, I could never put into words. Maybe I can put some of it on paper. Last night, when I came home, I couldn’t sleep, I kept staring at the ceiling and seeing your face. We spent only a short time together, Preach,

So I can’t understand why it should affect me so, but it does. With you, I saw myself. You were a mirror that showed me what I am and it scared me. If only we had met somewhere else, say back in Pennsylvania, we would have gone for walks in the woods in the fall.

You’d like that. We wouldn’t care what day or year it was, but we’d know we belonged. That’s how it might have been, Preach. Did you know some people go around wishing they were dead? They call it a death wish. -Johnnie. -People don’t live forever. I might be dead tomorrow.

Johnnie, it’s not up to you to decide. I’ve never said this to anyone before, but I think I love you. Nothing seems important without you. I want it so much for you to like me a little, to remember me.

A couple more oddball stunts like that, put you up on top of the heap, you know what I mean? I might not be around to see it, I might not live that long. Are you insane? Johnnie, I’m afraid. Afraid of what? For a second, you look like that horrible painting. Johnnie.

Until last night, I never cared how much I hurt everyone who loved me. Self-pity and selfishness had become, such an intolerable weight. I just couldn’t find the strength to struggle free. However, I know now, I know I love you darling Preach.

Therefore, with an actor’s dramatics, John Dennis comes to a crossroads in life, knowing that of man’s inner conflicts, the greatest struggle is with reality. Understanding this, he can find himself, and the beginning of life.

Boys and Girls Clawing Their Way to Success in Hollywood!
Johnnie Dennis, a rising Hollywood actor, becomes fixated on death and consorts with his older-woman dramatic coach. His obsession leads him to the brink of suicide. However, his path crosses with Barbara Wilson, an innocent drugstore clerk, who intervenes and talks him out of taking his own life.

Original title: Lost, Lonely and Vicious (1958)

Black & White version: https://youtu.be/rJe0pFAij0c

This film has many subtitle options

Director: Frank Myers
Writer: Norman Graham
Stars: Ken Clayton, Barbara Wilson, Lilyan Chauvin
Genre: Colorized classics, Drama, Melodrama, Psychotronic

00:00 Full Movie
01:55 Behind-the-scenes drama of a young actor’s struggles in a captivating town, seeking meaning in a world of imagination and reality.
09:29 Drama unfolds in a small town as characters interact and discuss their ambitions, relationships, and struggles.
15:30 Intense drama unfolds as a teacher navigates a complex relationship with a talented student and his coach, leading to feelings of isolation and longing.
21:34 Tension and conflict arise among the characters as they navigate through jealousy, loneliness, and a sense of being lost.
28:53 Struggle of an artist to attend a movie premiere, facing fear of crowds and self-doubt.
34:40 A famous actor encounters a strange encounter while on his way to a swimming pool, leading to a series of bizarre interactions.
42:01 Loneliness, personal connection, and memories are discussed during a conversation between Preacher and Johnnie.
48:33 Struggles of Hollywood actors and their aspirations to be recognized in the industry, family dynamics, and personal relationships.
52:43 Drama unfolds as characters navigate relationships, careers, and personal decisions in a small town setting.
57:44 Drama unfolds as Johnnie and Tanya have a tense conversation, leading to Johnnie getting injured and leaving a mysterious letter for Tanya.
1:06:34 A dramatic portrayal of inner turmoil and self-discovery, as Johnnie struggles with love, fear, and the conflict of reality.

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