10 DAYS OF MCQUEEN BEGINS SUNDAY!

"Steve McQueen was from a time when you didn't know every little dirty thing about our public figures. He and James Dean were very mysterious, archetypal American heroes."

Sheryl Crow

"I would rather wake up in the middle of nowhere than in any city on earth."

Steve McQueen

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(Photos Courtesy of Donna Redden)

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Whenever your hard work is balanced by a good laugh or two, you know that you are on the right track. For example, between telephone calls and e-mails from friends, I've actually fielded the following inquiries about "The 4th Annual Steve McQueen Film Festival":

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• "Hey, I'm just sorry I won't have time to fly in for the festival. But I'll be with you in spirit!"
• "Where exactly is the festival and I also need to ask you about parking. Call me."
• "Michael: You left out the address and time. We have the dates, but how will we know where to go without directions from the airport?"

No, I'm not exaggerating either! That's why it is funny and as I write this, I've had a chance to laugh with the friends who left me these messages, so no feelings are hurt in sharing them. It's only natural when we hear that a "Festival" is taking place to assume that a proper venue such as a building or outdoor theater will be the gathering site. Many expect an Admission charge. When I explain that this "Festival" takes place entirely on the worldwide web--specifically, on my personal website--reactions can range from silence on the other end of the telephone, to a narrowing of the eyes and a puzzled facial expression in-person. A Festival on a website? Listen, I won't lay claim to having the only Festival on the worldwide web, but I can honestly say it is unique.

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Typically, those who participate can read my commentary and then watch the DVD of the McQueen film selected. NetFlix is used quite a bit (from the feedback I've received in recent years). But the public library is also a good source to check out DVD's for free! The depth of selections depends of course on the library inventory. As a general rule, the larger downtown libraries might have a selection that the satellite library locations are missing. Intra-library loans are often arranged to accommodate these requests. Others already have McQueen movies in their private collections, and it becomes enjoyable to reach up and pull a featured selection off the shelf.

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In summary, over the years the "Festival" has really grown and matured into its own. This year, we removed the emphasis on presenting movies in any kind of chronological order; the selections are slightly fewer but with an expanded presentation, and of course as noted earlier we have the privilege of two VIP Guests. Author Marshall Terrill will talk about an exciting new McQueen Tribute Book he is preparing to release, and he will share never before-revealed information about the legend of Steve McQueen. In addition, Jeb Rosebrook who is the Screenwriter of the 1972 McQueen film "Junior Bonner" will share his first-hand reflections about being on the filming location for the entire shoot. We'll hear about Director Sam Peckinpah, the supporting cast, and specific scenes that make this movie so memorable. All of this makes for a richer, fuller experience and I am greatly indebted to having access to Marshall and Jeb who were generous with their time and knowledge with me. I sincerely hope you enjoy the next 10 Days of McQueen!

Michael