Over the last few weeks, I have been battling emotional/physical issues which largely affect my daily routine. Getting up each morning is a severe struggle. But this morning, I snapped awake and worked through a myriad of feelings. This morning, my trusty iPhone shocked me with the headline:
https://www.facebook.com/TheDoctorWhoHub/posts/1145954462104122
Do I know Lord Rickman of the Alan personally? No. Then, why do I care about the death of a stranger? Well, folks, I’ll admit that I am a strange bird. A Peacock, to be exact! And as a young peachick, whenever I recognized talent I would follow that person’s career. Each project would lead to cheers or confusion. “Why would anyone.stoop to that level. He is so much better than that” for example. Or a scream from the street of NYC: “NO! I just missed Ralph Fiennes in Hamlet!”
I especially admire thespians, and thus experience as much screen or stage productions as physically possible. During my last years in college, I was completely enveloped in the theater and functioned behind, on and above stage. That magical time still brings a spark to my eyes and soul. Being a part of the theater is like a different type of community and family.
Therefore, as you can imagine, most of my reviews and comments about performers and storytellers are very passionate. Arms flailing. Heightened voice. Exaggerated facial expressions. That’s me.
When I read the news about Alan Rickman passing away, I was sad for his struggle and family. And selfishly mad because he will not be able to share his gift with us anymore. Like Robin Williams, Alan Rickman was an original. That voice! That deep, deeeep, and haunting voice. Thank God, that brilliant Benedict Cumberbatch and others can mimic him and keep his legacy alive!
Which of course, Alan had to counter, appropriately with helium:
These wonderful clips with (another fav) Jimmy Fallon are one of the MANY reasons why I adore [PRESENT TENSE] Alan Rickman. Here is my tribute to the fabulous true thespian who will live forever in our hearts:
Die Hard (1988)
Who can EVER forget Hans Gruber??? A hero is only strengthened by the depth of his nemesis.
I was 16 years old when I saw Die Hard on the big screen in 1988. This was the first time I saw Alan Rickman, and immediately loved him. Anyone who can create such a delicious and despicable villain is a GENIUS in my book.
My other favorites extraordinary evil geniuses include: Tom Hiddleston/Loki, and Andrew Scott/Moriarty. Please comment below with your favs, so I can check them out too!
The January Man (1989)
As a die-hard Kevin Kline fan, I had to watch and own The January Man.
It’s all in the eyebrow 😉 but of course, the UK accent doesn’t hurt….
Truly Madly Deeply (1990)
Not the song… there was a movie long before the song. Such a real movie….
Another quality chunk:
Then, the heartbreaking part….
Bring the tissues when you see this one…
Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991)
Yes, ‘Sheriff’ Alan Rickman (under all that facial hair) rounds off a wonderful cast and crew around one-note Kevin Costner.
The original “pain or death”. Yes, I have a pretty dark stripe in my sense of humor.
Sense and Sensibility (1995)
This movie is one of my top favorite heartbreaking ones. The full-body, physical breaking of the heart, rocking in your seat kinda moments.
Col. Brandon was such a stiff and well-played role that I could not help but adore Alan Rickman in this scene from the movie.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qOCj-8RpWk
He tries so hard to be charming… his awkwardness is palpable.
Rasputin (1996)
Rasputin…. such an intriguing and frightening man in history.
AND, for this role: 1997 Golden Globes Winner for Best Actor!
Michael Collins (1996)
Dogma (1999)
Amusing movie. Check this out for so many reasons. I don’t want to spoil it for ya.
I mean, seriously, who ELSE could be Metatron?
Galaxy Quest (1999)
What? This man does comedy?? Galaxy Quest was my introduction into Alan’s comic genius.
Blow Dry (2001)
Tee hee – this was a silly and guilty pleasure.
Harry Potter (2001-2011)
Severus Snape seems to be one of the most familiar roles that people recognize. I do adore how Alan Rickman completely embodied the mostly villainous character from the book. I am a HUGE Harry Potter book fan, and my appreciation for the films grew with each chapter. There are few roles that seem custom-made for certain actors. Rickman was the obvious choice for Snape.
Love Actually (2003)
Rickman’s touch adds such depth to one of our top favorite romantic movies of all time.
Sweeney Todd (2007)
This gory musical is FULLY-LOADED with talent, and Rickman holds his own. Who knew he could sing 😉
Bottle Shock (2008)
I had no idea about this story and movie, until it was on DVD. This is such a delightful true story about American wine in the European market. You do not want to miss this entertaining story, and Rickman’s obnoxious Brit character.
Alice in Wonderland (2010)
Who ELSE can round out this WONDERFUL cast, as the Caterpiller?! Tim Burton and Alan Rickman reunite since Sweeney Todd.
The Butler (2013)
Surprise! Rickman plays American Ronald Reagan! He did very well, not just impersonating a caricature. He depicted a respectable version of the President. His infliction and physicality added to the role in the quality film.
And then, Alan Rickman brings his great voice back as Absalom, the Blue Caterpillar, in the new Alice Through the Looking Glass.
A Little Chaos – Directed by Alan Rickman!
An lush and enjoyable tale.
I hope my meager tribute list helps to honor Alan Rickman who will live on through his cinematic work. I would love to hear your comments about this marvelous man. May he rest in peace.