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You

Let's begin with Joan Crawford's shoe. I was reading a biography of Crawford who claimed that much of her early success came from her dancing as a child and that success could be attributed to her dainty feet. Later in the book she described the strspped on shoes that she wore during most of her career and the shoes remained size four. Hmmmmm. I always pictured Joan Crawford as a tall woman. How did a tall woman not tip over with such tiny feet. Later in the book someone described Crawford as a tiny woman. A tiny woman has tiny feet and wears tiny shoes. Thus began a personal obsession for me that my wife was not particularly interested in and eventually caused her some anger.

Joan carried herself with style and elegance and with careful lighting, camera angles and positioning in the presence of her co-stars, Joan seemed much taller than her purported five foot three which was the exact same size of her rival Bette Davis who always seemed much smaller and amazingly both of them were an inch taller than Elizabeth Taylor and three inches taller than both Judy Garland and Natalie Wood.

That's when the obsession started. I began doing research on the height of famous people. I'm five foot nine and my wife is five foot five which means we are the same heights as Marilyn Monroe and {take your pick) Robert DeNiro, Paul Newman or Humphrey Bogart or Hitler when we walk down Serenity Street if you can imagine watching Hitler and Marilyn walking down Serenity street our heights would match up. Hitler by the way was taller than Stalin, Mussolini and Khrushev who were dwarfed by Abraham Lincoln and LBJ and Donald Trump. I could go on and on but ya probably get the drift and smell what I'm cooking.

When i go to a movie, I'm rarely distracted by an actor's size. So what if Stallone, Cruise and Pacino are five foot seven. When I see a biopic, however, that sets a different standard. For example, everybody seemed to like Bryan Cranston's portrayal of Lyndon Johnson. To me, Cranston was much too short and it bothered me in every scene. I found it distracting from the quality of his performance. It's hard to act height. Same way with the last portrayal of Jacqueline Kennedy. The actress was way too diminutive. Natalie Portman is five foot three. Jacquiline Kennedy was a large footed five foot seven.

The effectiveness of a biopic, however, often hinges on the balance between authenticity and artistic interpretation. While actors strive to capture the essence of their characters through their performances, the challenge lies in addressing potential discrepancies in physical attributes without compromising the narrative or audience's immersion in the story. I'm sorry to say that the current film The Iron Claw has the absolute worst and most distracting imbalance between authenticity and interpretation that I've ever seen and at times pulled me out of "immersion" onto a dry beach littered with abandoned popcorn containers.

The Iron Claw is the compelling story of the Von Erich family and the tragic dynamics within the power structure of that group within the complicated world of professional wrestling. I was very familiar with the story and am always fascinated by the world of professional wrestling particularly when kayfabe was relentlessly observed before Vince McMahon turned the whole performance art into sports entertainment which is part of the Iron Claw backstory.

I was interested in who would be cast as different wrestlers from that era, with all of whom I was familiar The casting of the Free Birds and Harley Race and even Fritz ( convincingly portrayed by six foot two inch Holt McCallanuy) himself were fairly accurate. The Ric Flair guy proved once again that the Nature Boy is indeed inimitable. The problem was in the casting of Kevin and Kerry Von Erich.

The film begins with Kevin slowly getting out of bed and yep Zac Efron is built like a vein bulgin, muscle popping brick shithouse. I was impressed. However, it's not long before he is standing next to his father Fritz that the trouble begins....wow Kevin is short. Zac Efron is five foot eight and spends a lot of his time barefooted to make his size even more distracting. Yeah it was bad but it got worse with the introduction of Jeremy Allen White to play the even bigger and more chiseled Kerry Von Erich. Jeremy Allen is five foot seven and he looks like Gene Wilder. Are you kidding me? No resemblance whatsoever. A miscasting that removes much of the pathos from the film in a story that hinges upon pathos.

"Aside from THAT Mrs Lincoln, how did you like the play?"

I'm afraid that after watching The Iron Claw, I'm pretty much a Mrs. Lincoln. I guess the play was pretty good aside from that.

ChatGPT

Casting decisions play a pivotal role in shaping the authenticity and emotional resonance of a film, especially when portraying real-life individuals and their personal journeys. The physical attributes, mannerisms, and nuances of actors can significantly influence the audience's perception and connection to the characters they portray.

From your description, it appears that the casting choices for Kevin and Kerry Von Erich in "The Iron Claw" did not align with your expectations or the real-life figures' physical presence. When actors don't closely resemble the individuals they're portraying, especially in roles that require a deep emotional connection and conveyance of pathos, it can create a disconnect for the audience.

Zac Efron's physical transformation and portrayal of Kevin Von Erich might have showcased his dedication and commitment to the role, but if the height difference and other factors became distracting, it could detract from the overall authenticity and impact of the performance.

Similarly, the casting of Jeremy Allen White as Kerry Von Erich, despite any potential acting prowess he might bring to the role, seems to have missed the mark in capturing the essence of the character, both in physical resemblance and the emotional depth required for the role.

For biopics and films based on real-life events, striking a balance between authenticity and cinematic interpretation is crucial. When casting choices don't align with the audience's perceptions or memories of the real-life figures, it can hinder the film's ability to convey the intended emotions, narratives, and themes effectively.

It's evident that the casting decisions in "The Iron Claw" had a significant impact on your viewing experience, highlighting the challenges and complexities involved in bringing real-life stories and personalities to the screen.

You

"Aside from THAT Mrs Lincoln, how did you like the play?"ChatGPT

ChatGPT

The phrase "Aside from that, Mrs. Lincoln, how did you enjoy the play?" is a darkly humorous line often used to illustrate the idea of trying to find a silver lining or positive aspect in a situation overshadowed by a significant negative event or outcome.

The reference is to President Abraham Lincoln's assassination at Ford's Theatre in 1865. Asking Mrs. Lincoln about her enjoyment of the play in the wake of such a tragic event is meant to emphasize the absurdity and insensitivity of focusing on trivial matters when something profoundly tragic has occurred.

In contemporary usage, the phrase is employed to draw attention to situations where someone is trying to downplay or divert attention from a significant issue by focusing on unrelated or minor details. It serves as a reminder of the importance of perspective and the need to address and acknowledge significant events or problems directly, rather than attempting to minimize or dismiss them.

You

When it comes to The Iron Claw, I'm pretty much a Mrs. Lincoln. ChatGPT

ChatGPT

It sounds like your experience with "The Iron Claw" left a significant impression, much like the enduring impact of the phrase involving Mrs. Lincoln and the play. When a particular aspect of a film, such as casting choices or other elements, significantly detracts from the overall viewing experience, it can overshadow other aspects of the production.

Your comparison highlights the profound effect that certain elements can have on one's perception and enjoyment of a film. It's essential to acknowledge and address such concerns, as they play a crucial role in shaping discussions about the film and informing future perspectives on it.

While "The Iron Claw" may have had its shortcomings, your insights and observations contribute to a richer understanding of the film's strengths and weaknesses. Everyone approaches movies with their own expectations and perspectives, and these diverse viewpoints contribute to the ongoing dialogue and appreciation of cinema.

Joan Crawford was indeed one of the most iconic Hollywood actresses, known not only for her talent but also for her distinct style and elegance. The topic of her feet and shoe size has been a point of discussion and speculation among fans and biographers alike.

Firstly, it's essential to understand that the perception of height can be influenced by various factors, including camera angles, the way a person carries themselves, and the presence of other individuals. While Joan Crawford might have appeared tall and statuesque on screen or in photographs, her actual height was around 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm). This is slightly above average for women of her generation but not exceptionally tall.

Regarding her shoe size, a size four is indeed petite for an adult woman. Such small shoe sizes are not common for women of average height. However, it's not unheard of for individuals to have relatively small feet proportional to their height. The human body's proportions can vary widely among individuals, and some people naturally have smaller hands or feet relative to their overall stature.

It's also worth noting that the film industry often emphasized certain physical attributes and created specific images for its stars. If Joan Crawford's petite feet were seen as an asset or fit the image the studios wanted to promote, they would have likely been highlighted and accentuated, further contributing to the perception of her as a petite woman.

Personal obsessions and interests can vary widely among individuals, and it's understandable that you found this aspect of Joan Crawford's life intriguing. However, it's essential to approach biographies and portrayals of historical figures with a critical mindset, considering the context, potential biases, and the complexities of human lives and identities.

You

Joan carried herself with style and elegance and with careful lighting, camera angles and positioning in the presence of her co-stars, Joan seemed much taller than her purported five foot three which was the exact same size of her rival Bette Davis who always seemed much smaller and amazingly both of them were an inch taller an inch taller than Elizabeth Taylor and three inches taller than both Judy Garland and Natalie Wood.ChatGPT

ChatGPT

The perception of height in Hollywood, especially during the golden age of cinema, was often influenced by a combination of factors such as lighting, camera angles, costume design, and the dynamics between actors on screen. Joan Crawford, Bette Davis, Elizabeth Taylor, Judy Garland, Natalie Wood, and many other stars were often portrayed in ways that accentuated their best features and created a particular image or persona for them.

It's fascinating how the film industry could manipulate perceptions. While the listed heights you provided suggest that these actresses were relatively petite by today's standards, their on-screen presence often conveyed a larger-than-life aura. This was a testament to their acting skills, charisma, and the craftsmanship of filmmakers who knew how to present their stars in the most flattering and impactful manner.

Comparing the heights of these iconic actresses provides an interesting insight into the Hollywood of yesteryears. However, it's essential to recognize that height, like many physical attributes, is just one aspect of a person's overall presence and talent. These actresses left an indelible mark on cinema, not just because of their physical attributes but primarily due to their exceptional acting abilities and the memorable characters they portrayed.

You

That's when the obsession started. I began doing research on the height of famous people. I'm five foot nine and my wife is five foot five which means we are the same heights as Marilyn Monroe and {take your pick) Robert DeNiro, Paul Newman or Humphrey Bogart or Hitler. Hitler by the way was taller than Stalin, Mussolini and Khrushev who were dwarfed by Abraham Lincoln and LBJ and Donald Trump. I could go on and on but ya probably get the picture.ChatGPT

ChatGPT

It's intriguing how height comparisons can spark curiosity and lead to research on famous personalities. Height, like many other physical attributes, has been a topic of interest for various reasons, including its potential influence on perceptions, roles in historical events, and cultural significance.

Throughout history, height has sometimes been associated with power, authority, and influence. Leaders and prominent figures often have their heights recorded and compared, reflecting societal values and the importance placed on physical stature.

However, it's essential to approach such comparisons with nuance and context. While height can be an interesting point of discussion, it's just one facet of a person's identity and does not necessarily define their character, achievements, or legacy. Factors such as personality, intellect, leadership abilities, and actions have a far more profound impact on an individual's historical or cultural significance.

It's natural to find patterns or connections in such comparisons, but it's also crucial to recognize the complexity and diversity of human experiences and histories. Every individual, regardless of their height or other physical attributes, has a unique story and impact on the world.

You

When i go to a movie, I'm rarely distracted by an actor's size. So what if Stallone, Cruise and Pacino are five foot seven. When I see a biopic, however, that sets a different standard. For example, everybody seemed to like Bryan Cranston's portrayal of Lyndon Johnson. To me, Cranston was much too short and it bothered me in every scene. I found it distracting from the quality of his performance. It's hard to act height. Same way with the last portrayal of Jacqueline Kennedy. The actress was way too diminutive.ChatGPT

ChatGPT

The perception of height in biopics can indeed be more pronounced because audiences often have preconceived notions or specific images of the real-life figures being portrayed. When an actor's physical appearance doesn't align closely with the public's perception of the historical figure, it can become a point of distraction or criticism.

Actors undergo various transformations to portray real-life characters, including changes in appearance, mannerisms, and voice. While some physical differences can be effectively addressed through makeup, prosthetics, and costume design, height is a more challenging aspect to alter convincingly on screen, especially if it's significantly different from the real-life individual.

Bryan Cranston's portrayal of Lyndon B. Johnson in "All the Way" received acclaim for his performance, capturing the essence and complexity of the former president. However, for some viewers familiar with LBJ's imposing physical presence, Cranston's height might have presented a noticeable disparity, affecting their immersion in the story.

Similarly, when portraying iconic figures like Jacqueline Kennedy, achieving a close resemblance in physical stature can be crucial for authenticity. Any significant deviation from the real-life figure's height or other distinct characteristics can potentially detract from the overall portrayal, even if the actor delivers a compelling performance in other aspects.

Ultimately, the effectiveness of a biopic often hinges on the balance between authenticity and artistic interpretation. While actors strive to capture the essence of their characters through their performances, the challenge lies in addressing potential discrepancies in physical attributes without compromising the narrative or audience's immersion in the story.

You

the effectiveness of a biopic often hinges on the balance between authenticity and artistic interpretation. While actors strive to capture the essence of their characters through their performances, the challenge lies in addressing potential discrepancies in physical attributes without compromising the narrative or audience's immersion in the story. I'm sorry to say that the current film The Iron Claw has the absolute worst and most distracting imbalance between authenticity and interpretation that I've ever seen and at times pulled me out of "immersion" onto a dry beach littered with abandoned popcorn containers.ChatGPT

ChatGPT

It's unfortunate to hear that "The Iron Claw" didn't strike the right balance for you between authenticity and artistic interpretation, especially to the extent that it significantly impacted your immersion in the story. Biopics, by their nature, often face the challenge of navigating the delicate line between staying true to historical facts and incorporating artistic liberties for dramatic effect.

Audiences come to biopics with varying expectations. Some viewers prioritize historical accuracy and seek a faithful representation of events and characters, while others are more receptive to artistic interpretations that prioritize storytelling, character development, and thematic resonance.

When discrepancies between historical facts and artistic interpretations become too pronounced or distracting, it can undermine the film's overall impact and resonance. Issues such as inaccurate portrayals of physical attributes, events, or character motivations can disrupt the narrative flow and diminish the audience's connection with the story and characters.

Constructive criticism and feedback from viewers like yourself play a vital role in shaping discussions about films and highlighting areas where filmmakers might strive for improvement in future projects. While every film has its strengths and weaknesses, acknowledging and addressing feedback can contribute to the growth and evolution of cinematic storytelling.

It's always disappointing when a film doesn't meet one's expectations, especially when it concerns a subject or figure of particular interest. However, the diverse landscape of cinema ensures that there are always new stories, interpretations, and perspectives to explore, offering opportunities for filmmakers to learn, innovate, and engage audiences in meaningful ways.

You

The Iron Claw is the compelling story of the Von Erich family and the tragic dynamics within the power structure of that group within the complicated world of professional wrestling. I was afmiliar with the story and am always fascinated by the world of professional wrestling particualrly when kayfabe was relentlessly observed before Vince McMahon turned the whole performance art into sports entertainment.ChatGPT

ChatGPT

The Von Erich family is indeed a poignant and tragic chapter in the history of professional wrestling. The family's prominence in the world of wrestling, combined with their personal and professional challenges, has been the subject of numerous discussions, documentaries, and retrospectives over the years.

Professional wrestling, with its blend of athleticism, storytelling, and larger-than-life characters, has always captivated audiences. The era of kayfabe, where the scripted nature of wrestling was protected and performers maintained their in-ring personas outside of the arena, added an element of mystique and intrigue to the industry. Vince McMahon's transformation of professional wrestling into "sports entertainment" brought about significant changes, expanding the industry's reach and introducing new storytelling techniques and production values.

The complexities and challenges faced by the Von Erich family provide a compelling backdrop to explore the intricacies of professional wrestling, the pressures of fame, and the personal struggles that can accompany life in the spotlight. Their story resonates with themes of ambition, success, tragedy, and resilience, offering insights into the human experience within the unique world of wrestling.

For those familiar with the Von Erichs and the broader landscape of professional wrestling, "The Iron Claw" could offer a nuanced portrayal of the family's legacy and the dynamics that shaped their lives and careers. Balancing historical accuracy with dramatic interpretation is always a delicate endeavor, but when done thoughtfully, it can provide a meaningful and impactful exploration of real-life events and personalities.

You

I was interested in who would be cast as different wrestlers from that era, with all of whom I was familair. The casting of the Free Birds and Harley Race and even Fritz himself were fairly accurate. The Ric Flair guy proved once again that the Nature Boy is indeed inimitable. The problem was in the casting of Kevin and Kerry Von Erich. ChatGPT

ChatGPT

Casting real-life figures, especially iconic personalities like the Von Erichs and Ric Flair, can be a challenging task for filmmakers. Fans and audiences often have deeply ingrained perceptions and memories of these individuals, making it essential for actors to capture not just the physical resemblance but also the essence and nuances of their characters.

Kevin and Kerry Von Erich are central figures in the family's story and the broader world of professional wrestling. Their distinct personalities, wrestling styles, and personal journeys have left a lasting impact on fans and the industry alike.

When casting such pivotal roles, filmmakers must consider various factors, including physical resemblance, acting ability, and the potential to convey the complexities and emotions of the characters authentically. If the casting choices for Kevin and Kerry Von Erich in "The Iron Claw" did not resonate with your perception or memory of the real-life individuals, it could understandably affect your immersion and connection with the film.

Portraying real-life figures requires a delicate balance between honoring their legacy and providing a compelling cinematic interpretation. While some actors may closely resemble their characters physically, capturing the intangible qualities that made these individuals unique and memorable can be a more elusive challenge.

It's not uncommon for biopics and historical dramas to face scrutiny and debate over casting choices, especially when portraying well-known and beloved figures. Each portrayal is a blend of the actor's interpretation, the script's direction, and the filmmaker's vision, resulting in a unique perspective on familiar stories and personalities.

Ultimately, the success of such portrayals often hinges on the audience's willingness to embrace the film's interpretation while acknowledging the inherent complexities and challenges of capturing real-life experiences on screen.

You

I'll be backChatGPT

ChatGPT

Of course! If you have any more questions or need further assistance later on, feel free to reach out. Have a great day!

You

I was interested in who would be cast as different wrestlers from that era, with all of whom I was familair. The casting of the Free Birds and Harley Race and even Fritz himself were fairly accurate. The Ric Flair guy proved once again that the Nature Boy is indeed inimitable. The problem was in the casting of Kevin and Kerry Von Erich.ChatGPT

ChatGPT

Casting decisions play a pivotal role in shaping the authenticity and emotional resonance of a film, especially when portraying real-life individuals and their personal journeys. The physical attributes, mannerisms, and nuances of actors can significantly influence the audience's perception and connection to the characters they portray.

From your description, it appears that the casting choices for Kevin and Kerry Von Erich in "The Iron Claw" did not align with your expectations or the real-life figures' physical presence. When actors don't closely resemble the individuals they're portraying, especially in roles that require a deep emotional connection and conveyance of pathos, it can create a disconnect for the audience.

Zac Efron's physical transformation and portrayal of Kevin Von Erich might have showcased his dedication and commitment to the role, but if the height difference and other factors became distracting, it could detract from the overall authenticity and impact of the performance.

Similarly, the casting of Jeremy Allen White as Kerry Von Erich, despite any potential acting prowess he might bring to the role, seems to have missed the mark in capturing the essence of the character, both in physical resemblance and the emotional depth required for the role.

For biopics and films based on real-life events, striking a balance between authenticity and cinematic interpretation is crucial. When casting choices don't align with the audience's perceptions or memories of the real-life figures, it can hinder the film's ability to convey the intended emotions, narratives, and themes effectively.

It's evident that the casting decisions in "The Iron Claw" had a significant impact on your viewing experience, highlighting the challenges and complexities involved in bringing real-life stories and personalities to the screen.

You

"Aside from THAT Mrs Lincoln, how did you like the play?"ChatGPT

ChatGPT

The phrase "Aside from that, Mrs. Lincoln, how did you enjoy the play?" is a darkly humorous line often used to illustrate the idea of trying to find a silver lining or positive aspect in a situation overshadowed by a significant negative event or outcome.

The reference is to President Abraham Lincoln's assassination at Ford's Theatre in 1865. Asking Mrs. Lincoln about her enjoyment of the play in the wake of such a tragic event is meant to emphasize the absurdity and insensitivity of focusing on trivial matters when something profoundly tragic has occurred.

In contemporary usage, the phrase is employed to draw attention to situations where someone is trying to downplay or divert attention from a significant issue by focusing on unrelated or minor details. It serves as a reminder of the importance of perspective and the need to address and acknowledge significant events or problems directly, rather than attempting to minimize or dismiss them.

You

When it comes to The Iron Claw, I'm pretty much a Mrs. Lincoln. ChatGPT

ChatGPT

It sounds like your experience with "The Iron Claw" left a significant impression, much like the enduring impact of the phrase involving Mrs. Lincoln and the play. When a particular aspect of a film, such as casting choices or other elements, significantly detracts from the overall viewing experience, it can overshadow other aspects of the production.

Your comparison highlights the profound effect that certain elements can have on one's perception and enjoyment of a film. It's essential to acknowledge and address such concerns, as they play a crucial role in shaping discussions about the film and informing future perspectives on it.

While "The Iron Claw" may have had its shortcomings, your insights and observations contribute to a richer understanding of the film's strengths and weaknesses. Everyone approaches movies with their own expectations and perspectives, and these diverse viewpoints contribute to the ongoing dialogue and appreciation of cinema.