The Sand Pebbles Movie Message Board
(Although individual responses are not usually listed here, I do answer all email I receive)
From: William A. Stimson
Sent: Wednesday, July 07, 2010 4:47 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Career Military
I never served in the U.S. Navy, but was a soldier for 12 years, from 1947-1959. Few films have ever captured the unique esprit and culture of professional military man. "Sand Pebbles" does. Steve McQueen played beautifully the role of career people whose love is extremely narrow, embracing only their unit. They are cold to everything else. They are tough, tough men with little regard for most of the ideals imputed to them by politicians and generals (or admirals.)
Bill Stimson
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From: Stuart Fernie
Sent: Wednesday, July 07, 2010 5:23 AM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Sand Pebbles "video discussion" on Youtube
Hi Crispin,
We haven’t spoken for a while – remember I wrote the “Reflections on the Sand Pebbles” page? I thought I’d let you know that I’ve made a “video discussion” of my page – it’s in two parts on Youtube.
You’ll find part one at - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XnULp0oXtZg
And part two at - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z6o8L6fxGGA
I can’t say it’s exactly as I wanted it, but it’ll do as an introduction to some of the characters and main themes.
I’m delighted to see your site is still going strong – hope all is going well for you.
All the best,
Stuart (in the Highlands of Scotland)
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From: Tim
Sent: Tuesday, July 06, 2010 5:26 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: BAR
Got a BAR blank adapter that came from Hollywood Arms Supply Company. No documentation but they supplyed the 1918 BAR for the movie. Also for the series "Combat". Works well in reenactments.
Tim
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From: Robert Markowitz
Sent: Sunday, July 04, 2010 2:13 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles...
Dear Mr. Garcia;
Thank you so very very much for this magnificent website on The Sand Pebbles! I've visited your site several times in the past, but have spent the last two or three hours really checking it out. The Sand Pebbles has been one of my very favorite movies ever since I first saw it as a young lad. Being a Steve McQueen fan, I have always thought this was one of his best performances. I kept going on and on and found myself researching Robert Wise and Richard McKenna more than I did in the past. It's very sad that most of the great characters associated with this magnificent film have passed on but, you sir are helping to keep them alive forever. I have so much admiration for you and what you've done. A tremendous website, please keep up the good work and know that there are those of us out here that are very appreciative for what you've done and the wonderful way it is presented.
ALL my respect and thanks,
Robert Markowitz
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Myhan
Sent: Friday, May 21, 2010 5:11 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Sand Pebbles on the REALLY big screen in L.A. on June 18
The American Cinematheque will show what they are listing as a "digitally restored" showing of The Sand Pebbles on Friday, June 18, 2010 at 7:30 p.m. as part of a Steve McQueen series.
At the Egyptian Theatre on Hollywood Blvd. in Hollywood, USA. They have a really large screen that can do justice to any widescreen presentation.
This may simply be a digital showing. I don't know if it is actually "restored". In any event, it is the first showing of the SP in any movie theatre in the Greater L.A. in many, many years, as I have kept an eagle eye out for such things.
David Mayhan
Eagle Rock, CA.
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Response - David, thanks for the screening information. I plan to be there and encourage all TSP fans to attend if it's at all feasible. It has been confirmed by a reliable source, in addition to the Egyptian theater listing, that a Sharp digital projector will be used for the presentation. It will not be the new 35mm print struck in 2007. More information on the theater and its restoration can be found here:
http://sites.google.com/site/hollywoodtheatres/egyptian
The Sand Pebbles was digitally restored (both the picture and audio) during a lengthy period beginning in 2005 and completing in 2007. Richard W. Haines provides a description of the process on the Home Theater Shack website. - CG
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From: Trail, John M CIV NAVSTA Everett, N3175
Sent: Wednesday, May 12, 2010 4:19 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: USS "San Pablo" engine
Crispin,
In the early 1990's, I worked as a volunteer aboard the SS Lane Victory a restored and functioning Victory ship home ported and displayed in San Pedro, California. I was asked by the Captain of the ship at the time, John Smith, to drive down to San Diego a visit a freight yard to check on a antique marine engine that they had acquired from an estate there.
I cannot recall the name of the yard, but I arrived there and took a look at the triple expansion steam engine which they were ready to ship north to Long Beach. I was told it was originally from a Whaler built in 1926 in Vancouver (Canada or Washington, I do not know) and bought by 20th Century Fox to use in the movie "The Sand Pebbles." After the movie had been filmed and the engine removed from the set that they had built around it, I was told that a collector who liked old marine and railroad engines had purchased it from Fox and had taken it out to his estate and stored it in a barn.
I took some photographs of the engine, which was in pretty bad shape and then headed back to Long Beach. I reported to the Captain and he then told me that it was being shipped up to Long Beach and that they were going to put it in a lay-down yard near the Navy base at Terminal Island. He wanted me to check on it to see if it arrived in one piece. After it had arrived in Long Beach, I went down to the lay-down yard and immediately notice that the shippers had cut the shaft and had taken the thrust box off as the whole thing would not fit onto the short trailer bed that they had used to haul it up Long Beach. I was upset, but I figured that the people in charge knew what they were doing. I took some giant plastic sheets and covered it up as best as I could. But before I left, I had to put my hand on the throttle and say, "Hello engine, my name in John Trail."
I wish I could have stayed around to assist the SS Lane Victory association in restoring the engine, but I was transferred to Pearl Harbor, Hawaii in September of 1994.
In 2006, I had a chance to visit my old haunts when my ship stood into San Diego for the weekend. I rented a car and drove north up to San Pedro to visit the SS Lane Victory and see the "Sand Pebbles" engine display. I am very pleased and happy that she has been restored as a visual display and have a lot of respect for the men that put in the long hours to do it. But, again, when no one was looking, I crossed over the tourist barrier and put my hand on the throttle repeating "Hello engine, my name in John Trail."
As a big fan of the movie, I have acquired an original movie poster and have it framed in my den. I also purchased a engine room Engine Order Telegraph exactly like the one used in the movie. I have restored most of it but the guts are missing so the bell will not work. I also bought a Steve McQueen "Great Escape" doll, and dressed in dungarees just like in the movie. It is on a prominent display on top of my TV.
Captain John M. Trail
Master
Pokagon YTB-836
QMCS(SW/AW)CM
USN (ret.)
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From: Peri Lyons
Sent: Sunday, March 07, 2010 1:18 AM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Hi: Charles Knox Robinson's niece here
Hi Crispin!
Peri Lyons here. My fiance and I just re-watched "SP" (he's an actor,next film "Wall Street 2:Money Never Sleeps")- and we were blown away by how great it was. I hadn't seen it for years...it's SO worth a re-visit!
Since my much-loved "Uncle Charlie" played the ensign in SP, wanted to say that if you want any background stories about filming, etc, feel free to drop me a line. My 80-year-old mom, CKR's sister, knows a lot of cool tales!
Oh, and to the person who asked about Charles Knox Robinson's info on IMDB, the answer is: IMDB gets a lot of stuff wrong. They had Charles and his father, the B'way playwright and screenwriter Charles Knox Robinson II, completely confused.
Best wishes
Peri
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From: David Mayhan
Sent: Thursday, March 04, 2010 6:23 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles (?) at American Cinematheque
Dear Mr. Garcia,
Came across your wonderful S.P. website.
Thought you'd like to know that in their recent monthly program listings, the American Cinematheque of Los Angeles, CA announces that upcoming they will have a series "The Films of Steve McQueen".
Please, if you have any influence, encourage them to show S.P., especially the roadshow or 70 mm. version, if it exists.
I have waited patiently in Southern California for ANYBODY to show S.P. on the big screen and it seems like it's been 15 or 20 years.
The AMPAS should also strike a new print with the help of 20th Century Fox.
Here's hoping! Thanks, David Mayhan, Los Angeles, CA.
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From: JB
Sent: Monday, February 15, 2010 12:29 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Jake's hometown
Just a quick question. Why Grover Utah for Jake's hometown?
What was the connection to Mr. McKenna as he could have picked a gazillion towns across the USA?
Thanks for taking the time,
John Barsevich
Woodbury CT
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Response - You ask a good question. In the novel "The Sand Pebbles" Jake Holman came from Nevada. I don't believe the exact town was ever mentioned in the book because he refused to talk about his past, unlike in the movie where he tells Shirley many things about his life in Grover Utah. Reportedly, Richard McKenna spent some time working with screenwriter Robert Anderson while the script was being written. Why the change from Nevada to Utah? Here's my guess. In the movie when Maily is quizzing all the sailors on their hometowns or states she displayed her education by matching each reference with a quickly recognizable geographic or historical landmark. Trenton, NJ (the Delaware), Philadelphia (the Liberty Bell), etc. Utah has a well known landmark (Salt Lake City) whereas Nevada in 1926 probably
did not. According to one website "Grover Utah" is a CENSUS CLASS U6 meaning "A populated place that is not a census designated or incorporated place having an official federally recognized name". Interestingly enough a picture of Grover Utah today just shows a wooden building there.
http://utah.hometownlocator.com/ut/wayne/grover.cfm - CG
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From: Rory
Sent: Friday, January 29, 2010 10:08 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Fox Ranch in TSP
Hi Cris,
I spotted Malibu Creek State Park in a current commercial for "Turbo Tax" and did a screen capture of it. You'll see what this has to do with TSP in the attached photo. I've already brought this to your attention, but here it is again!
Rory
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From: Moretti Olivier
Sent: Wednesday, January 13, 2010 4:29 AM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles...
Happy New Year, I send you two illustrations : a finished one and a work in progress, hope you'll like them...
Illustration #1
Illustration #2
http://oliviermoretti.blogspot.com/
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Response - Excellent, thank you! - CG
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From: John R. Parish
Sent: Thursday, December 31, 2009 11:01 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Matt Munro version of "And We were Lovers"
Mr. Garcia,
I very much enjoy the availability of Matt Monro’s version of “And We Were Lovers” on your website. This song is hard to find nowadays. Is there any place that I might purchase this track from? Thanks again for making this version available.
John Parish
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Response - John, although my copy was pulled off a 45 rpm record this song is also on a Matt Monro 3 CD collection titled "Matt at the Movies" which is available at Amazon and eBay. - CG
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From: Craig
Sent: Friday, November 13, 2009 9:27 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Sand Pebbles Memorabilia - Holman's Dungarees for Sale
Hello Cris,
Totally by accident, I stumbled upon this tonight and just had to send it on to you for your site!
Simply amazing to see something like this offered..and at a cool $5,000 at today's exchange rate!
I have no plans to purchase them myself, but perhaps one of the many fans of the site might.
https://www.frasersautographs.com/gallery.asp?stock_code=68229
Best regards,
Craig in NJ
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From: Burt Schneider
Sent: Friday, October 23, 2009 11:56 AM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Simon Oakland interview
Greetings,
Just came upon your site thru a link on beautifulinstrumentals.com.
The Sand Pebbles is one of my favorite movies, too. I was stationed in Taipei from 1967-1969 as a Navy lieutenant. I was officer in charge of Armed Forces Network Taiwan. We received our programs recorded on transcriptions. I remember a flap caused by an interview with Simon Oakland. I'm not sure on what program (It could have been Carson since we carried the audio as a radio program). Anyway, he was asked about the filming in Taiwan and he said something about President Chiang Kai Shek's "pipe dream of taking back the mainland of China." That remark offended some Taiwanese officials and I had to explain to my boss how we let such a comment out into the ether of our host country.
Thanks for the memories and your wonderful site.
Burt Schneider
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From: Robert Tilley
Sent: Monday, September 28, 2009 6:28 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles...
Do you know what a "UB" of whiskey is that Holman orders in both bars? This movie now ranks as one of my all-time favorites. Thanks. Bob
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Response - Bob, you misheard slightly. Holman asks for a UB and a whiskey. UB (United Breweries) is a brand of beer. So he's asking for today's equivalent of a "boiler-maker". - CG
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From: Christopher Akers
Sent: Tuesday, September 15, 2009 10:05 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Sand Pebbles ending
Hi,
You have a great website on the Sand Pebbles. I was looking for the alternate ending where Jake ends up living. I know that I saw it on a DVD or tv, but can't seem to find it now. Do you know where I can find it?
Chris
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Response - Chris, there is no alternate ending. I have read accounts that McQueen was unhappy with the ending but having the movie end any other way would have conflicted with the original story. - CG
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From: Geoff Cecil
Sent: Tuesday, September 01, 2009 2:13 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Sand Pebbles vehicle
Hi Crispin:
I just rewatched the film this past weekend and was prompted to poke around online for add'l info.
I thought that you, or one of your readers, would be interested in checking out my 1926 Whippet, that was used in the film … as far as I can tell, it was one of the background vehicles that was transferred from Australia that can be seen briefly from the deck of the ship when Candice Bergen is gazing out across the port. (Screenshot)
I have documentation on the form of a bill of sale, transferring ownership from the production company in Hong Kong, to an individual in Singapore. I will scan in the original receipt and post along with the car pictures.
Photos of the car can be seen here.
http://www.hemmings.com/users/209429/ride/6386.html
best.
gc=
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From: Rory Monteith
Sent: Thursday, July 09, 2009 11:16 AM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Corgi paperback...
Hi Cris,
A friend in Australia emailed me this paperback book cover image. He's reading the book for the first time. I wondered if you've seen it before?
Rory
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From: Wayne Dimech
Sent: Saturday, June 20, 2009 7:55 AM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles...
Dear Crispin,
I like your website. Very impressive!
I am a big fan of the Sand Pebbles.
I am looking for authentic memorabilia from the movie that is for sale.
Can you please help me.
Thanks.
Cheers,
Wayne
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Response - Wayne, sorry but the only source I know of are the random auctions on eBay. - CG
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From: Rory Monteith
Sent: Monday, June 15, 2009 12:47 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Fox Ranch in TSP
Hi Cris,
Remember I was going to tell you where you can see a little of what would be the Planet of the Apes in TSP?
If you watch the movie to 1:18:35 on the DVD (or Blu-ray) you see a shot of Ensign Bordelles knocking on one of the doors to the China Light Mission (As you know, this was a set built on the Fox Ranch up in the Santa Monica Mountains above Malibu. Fox sold the ranch to the state of California in the mid-seventies and the area is now the Malibu Creek State Park.), in the windows of the doors you can see reflected the "Goat Buttes" located west of the set. Click for photo. These buttes can be seen in "Planet of the Apes" in the scenes of the outdoor cage and the exteriors of the Ape town. An artificial waterfall was created alongside one of the buttes and the pool that Charlton Heston swims in is below where it was. That pool is still there.
I've attached a photo of the park (a photo of what's reflected in the windows) from an area that's probably a bit west and below where the China Light Mission set was built on the ranch (the set was on a small hill) so you can see what the location looks like today. Click for photo.
Rory
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From: Paul
Sent: Sunday, June 14, 2009 12:24 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles Fox Legacy TV Showing
Hi Cris,
Caught the Fox showing the other evening...Just in case you missed it...
Some observations...
1. No overture or entr'acte music-intermission card was missing. Thereby losing part of Goldsmith's classic score...
2. TSP actually does lend itself quite well to the faded monochromatic color scheme of the faded 70mm Roadshow print.
3. Red background of the main titles gave it away that it was indeed the Roadshow version.
4. Since I hadn't watched the Roadshow version in a while there is indeed a short section with Holman stating to Pohan hammer, hammer...which plays a part of the boxing match.
5. Fox Chairman Tom Rothman did not mention anything about the 'version' they were showing yet the clips shown before and after the proper film showing were from the restored color elements of the short version-he could have mentioned the history of cutting the film ...
The Roadshow version gives the characters a little more room to breathe. All in all I'm pleased that not only has Fox made it available to home video but is showing it on TV as well. With all the attention they have shown the TSP it's now apparent that they view TSP as an asset to their library of great films.
Best,
Paul
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From: Trace Havard
Sent: Saturday, June 13, 2009 12:25 AM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles...
Watched THE SAND PEBBLES on FOX MOVIE CHANNEL last night, it was my first opportunity to see the road show version. Really added depth, like watching it for the first time.
I was in the U.S. Navy (1975-1997) and one of the things that inspired me to enlist was THE SAND PEBBLES. I spent about 95% of my career stationed in ships homeported in Japan and Hawaii so I became very familiar with the Far East but unlike Jake, after I swallowed the anchor I returned back to Texas, married and settled down (somewhat anyway), but not much time passes when I don't think back to the old days.
I thought you would be interested to know that the toy soldier company KING AND COUNTRY has released a new collection based on the SAND PEBBLES. Unfortunately their advertisement calls the gunboat USS San Pueblo instead of the USS San Pablo. It's under the U.S. Navy section of the website and it promises to be a very extensive diorama set.
I'm sure that other SAND PEBBLE buffs would like to know about it.
It's been some time since I've checked out your site and you've added a few things so I'll let others who are interested know about it. You've created a fine tribute to, as former Yangtze Sailor ,Rear Admiral (ret) Kemp Tolley said "One of the best U.S.Navy movies ever made."
Fair Winds,
Trace Havard
DCC/Sw USN (ret)
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From: Rory Monteith
Sent: Sunday, June 07, 2009 12:04 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: June 12th Fox Movie Channel
Cris,
I don't know if you've gotten this news yet or not, so I guess I better pass it along. This would be for anyone who has the Fox Movie Channel on their cable or satellite system.
FOX LEGACY: THE SAND PEBBLES
Tom Rothman, Chairman of Fox Filmed Entertainment, introduces landmark 20th Century Fox films and provides insight about how these notable films were created.
8:00 pm Eastern June 12, 2009
Next airing:
10:00 pm Eastern June 21, 2009
Cast: Steve McQueen, Candice Bergen, Richard Attenborough, Richard Crenna, Mako
Director: Robert Wise
For anyone who hasn't seen the Fox Movie Channel, every Friday they show a particular 20th Century-Fox film of note that is introduced by Tom Rothman. He goes into the production and other aspects of what makes the film notable. He also returns after the film is over for some concluding comments. The Fox Movie Channel also now shows most of its films in the proper aspect ratio (meaning letterboxed) and in stereo if the film is that.
Rory
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From: Concordmine
Sent: Friday, May 29, 2009 6:04 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Fire Academy training based on Sand Pebbles
Sir,
I thought you might find it interesting to know the Georgia Fire Academy has purchased copyright permission to show Sand Pebbles during one of their advanced fire officer training course. I saw the film a number of years ago and discovered the San Pablo was identical to every dysfunctional fire station I had ever worked. The film is shown in its entirety during pausing for guided discussion on the final day of the week long training class.
Thought you might like to know.
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From: Ted Hicks
Sent: Thursday, May 28, 2009 9:51 AM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles...
Hi. I just discovered your website yesterday. I'd seen The Sand Pebbles the previous day at the Walter Reade Theater here in New York, showing in the Steve McQueen series that just ended. I was interested in more information than IMDb seemed to have, and found your site via a Google search. I've only begun to explore the many links, but wanted to tell you how impressed I am with what you've done. It's insanely comprehensive. I only wish more films had sites offering this depth of material.
By the way, I first saw The Sand Pebbles at a theater in San Francisco in 1967 while I was in the Air Force. I've seen it several times since then, but not on a theater screen for many years, so the opportunity to see it on a proper screen at Walter Reade was too good to miss. The running time for this print was listed as 179 minutes. This is surely one of McQueen's best performances.
Thanks again for your website.
Best wishes,
Ted Hicks
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From: Rory Monteith
Sent: Thursday, May 21, 2009 1:04 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: TSP "What else?"
Cris,
I'm sure you can appreciate what's been posted at Cinemaretro.com today. Boy, I wish I could have been there for that.
Rory
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From: Geoff Toole
Sent: Monday, April 27, 2009 1:14 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles NY Screenings
Hi Cris...thought you would like to know that The Sand Pebbles is showing on May 20th at 7PM and on May 25 at 1PM in New York City at the Walter Reade Theater at Lincoln Center. I belong to the Film Society of Lincoln Center..it is a big screen...very nice theatre.....good sound system...it is part of the Lincoln Center complex....comfortable.
According to the bulletin from the Film Society of Lincoln Center it is a NEW REMASTERED PRINT and running time is stated as 179M.
Geoff
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From: Alain Peron
Sent: Thursday, April 09, 2009 10:03 AM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: San Pablo / Nola D
Thank so much to Horrie Hunt for the pathetic picture of Nola D,
I think it could be a good idea to add it to the USS SAN PABLO folder.
Crispin, your website is a must !
Alain
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Response - I have created a new section on the website titled "The Demise of the San Pablo" that provides an approximate timeline for events involving the San Pablo that occurred after filming completed. My thanks to Horrie Hunt and Murray Bollen for their information. - CG
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From: Horrie Hunt
Sent: Sunday, March 29, 2009 5:06 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: San Pablo afterwards...
I noted that no one has come forward with info on the San Pablo. After the movie I believe it was sold to the DeLong Timber Company in the Philippines. It was renamed the “Nola D” after Nola Dianne Delong the owners wife or daughter. It was later sold to Seiscom Delta Exploration Company and used as a base camp in Indonesia until the late 1970’s. I was on it in 1974 and have a photo of it at that time. Back deck turned into power house Helipad on the top. I lost track of it after that. Click here for photo.
Regards
Horrie Hunt.
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From: Michael Proulx
Sent: Saturday, March 28, 2009 2:56 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: William R. Kiernan
Hi Crispin;
I notice that Set Decorator William Kiernan is missing from your Crew obits.
According to IMBD, Mr. Kiernan passed away 19 November 1973. Mr. Kiernan shared the nomination for "Best Art Direction - Set Decoration, Colour" along with Boris Leven, Walter M. Scott, and John Sturtevant, all of whom have passed away.
I know it's a small item, but I thought you'd want to include it.
By the way Richard Attenborough recovered from his fall and is set to resume his acting career - at 85.
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000277/news#ni0720890
Michael
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From: Robert G
Sent: Thursday, March 19, 2009 1:52 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: still at it I see ...
A few years ago I came across your website and I am glad to see you are still at it.
Robert, Army Riverboat, DMZ
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From: Daniel Saez
Sent: Friday, March 13, 2009 5:09 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: CONGRATS ON A CONTINUALLY WONDERFUL SITE!
Hiya Crispin!
While doing some research on Steve McQueen, I realized that it had been quite a while since I visited your wonderful site -- and when I did I was surprised and HONORED to see that you added the Athens News story about Tom printed in 1987, and attributed it to me -- how very kind of you!
I just finished emailing Tom Jung to let him know that you showcased him yet again -- I know he'll be thrilled as I am (probably more).
I really enjoyed the new additions, particularly the tribute to Emil Kosa Jr. -- thanks to you, his work will continue to inspire film fans forever.
Stay Brave, and be well always!
Your Fan,
Dan!
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From: Michael Proulx
Sent: Monday, February 09, 2009 11:03 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Death of Robert Anderson
Crispin;
Robert Anderson, who wrote the screenplay for The Sand Pebbles, has died.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Woodruff_Anderson
Regards
Michael
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From: John Norris
Sent: Sunday, January 25, 2009 1:45 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Sand Pebbles
Hi Crispin! It has been about 9 years or so since we exchanged notes on the Sand Pebbles (I was Steve's photo double and stand-in during Taiwan filming).
Anyway, I picked up 20 snapshots from my Mother's a few weeks ago that were taken during the filming and, at a party my parent's threw for the cast and crew at their home on Grass Mountain (a 'foreigner' enclave outside of Taipei).
I don't have a scanner or the ability to copy them. If you would like me to send them to you to review/post as you please send me a snail mail address and I'll get them off to you. I need a telephone number and an address for FedEx to deliver.
John
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Response - My appreciation and thanks to John Norris for this contribution. The photos are now available for viewing in the new John Norris Personal Photos (1965-1966) section. These photos are a companion to John's original post of August 2000. Enjoy! - CG
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From: haristas
Sent: Sunday, December 21, 2008 11:39 AM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Attenborough Stable In Hospital
Cris, just read this:
Attenborough Stable In Hospital
21 December 2008 5:57 AM, PST
Veteran actor Sir Richard Attenborough is in a stable condition in hospital after collapsing at his home in Surrey, England.
The 85-year-old Oscar winner fell and suffered a knock to the head last week (beg15Dec08). He fell into a coma and was admitted to St George's Hospital in Tooting, West London, where he is now said to be in a stable condition having regained consciousness.
Attenborough's niece, Susan, confirmed her uncle remains under the watch of medics but is hopeful he will be home before Christmas.
She says, "My uncle is still in hospital but doctors say there's no cause for concern. He had a fall and banged his head. He's not 30 anymore. He's 85 and falls hurt, you know. He's doing well. We don't know when he will be released or whether he will be home in time for Christmas, but we all hope so."
Attenborough was due to unveil an English Heritage blue plaque on Thursday in Surrey, England, where he was born. He was forced to cancel the engagement after being taken ill. British actor Tom Courtenay took his place at the event.
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From: Aikido Auckland Aikikai
Sent: Wednesday, November 26, 2008 5:56 AM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles...
Great work !
Was a pleasure to read through your site and reminisce on those days.
A great film and endearing story.
Thanks from
ROSSO FERNANDEZ
(in New Zealand)
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From: Murray Bollen
Sent: Tuesday, November 04, 2008 3:58 AM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Nola D (aka San Pablo)
Sir,
I happened to Google your page while writing my history for my children.
In 1975, I came across the "Nola D" - engineless and forlorn against a dock in Tarakan Indonesia. She was being used as a base camp / accommodation camp for a seismic survey company Delta Exploration, then a Houston Based company. I was at the time working on one of their other vessels, the Rio Das Contas and happened to see her in Tarakan. I did not realise what the significance of the vessel was as I had not seen the movie at that time. Only years later I saw the movie and can virtually confirm her to be one and the same.
Do you happen to know what happened to her after that?
Best Regards
Murray Bollen
Mandurah West Australia
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From: Rory Monteith
Sent: Saturday, September 06, 2008 3:22 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Lafayette theater screening of The Sand Pebbles
Cris,
Got this response from this site:
The print quality was OUTSTANDING! Not a line on it. The color was perfect, and had very fine grain. The sound was awesome, being an optical SR Stereo representation of the original magnetic L-C-R tracks. There was no doubt you were listening to stereo. Pete told me this was a 4K scan from the original camera neg, digitally cleaned up (no CinemaScope negative splice lines), and spit back out to film. Beautiful. It started with a curtain closed overture, film, intermission w/ music. Entre Act music, and walk out music. Pete handled the show like the true professional he is with 12 changeovers, all perfect. Thanks Pete! Great print, great film.
http://cinematreasures.org/theater/2897_0_2_0_C/
Rory
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From: Rory Monteith
Sent: Sunday, August 24, 2008 3:41 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Rare Sand Pebbles screening
Hi Cris,
I've known about this for several weeks, but it's only now been put up on their website.
People living in the area of Suffern, New York will have a chance to see THE SAND PEBBLES on the big screen. The historic Lafayette Theatre there will be showing a "new print from the Fox vault; in Panavision and Dolby SR stereophonic sound" on September 6, 2008!
Here's a link to their website: http://www.bigscreenclassics.com/indexlafayette.htm
Rory
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From: Willard Carroll
Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 8:26 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles...
Hi, Crispin:
I greatly enjoy your site. I saw the Roadshow engagement in Baltimore when I was 11 and have lost track of how many times I've now seen the movie.
In addition to many other collections, I have a fairly extensive soundtrack and film-related LP and 45 library.
I have a few more recordings of "And We Were Lovers"/"Theme From The Sand Pebbles" - not on your site - by the following artists:
VIC DANA
DENNY MCLAIN
THE BRASS RING
THE HOWARD ROBERTS QUARTET
LEE EVANS
HORST JANKOWSKI
Would you be interested in these for your audio section of the site?
All the best,
Willard Carroll
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From: Michael Conley
Sent: Friday, July 04, 2008 11:06 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles...
Hello:
I was watching the DVD of SAND PEBBLES and decided to find out more about Richard McKenna. Various links led me to SandPebbles.com -- and I just want to tell you that I am blown away by the wealth of information on here! Thank you very much.
The accumulation of material is phenomenal. I always like looking at the artwork and posters -- and you have a link to a selection of Howard Terpning's various movie posters. I love the film's soundtrack, in particular, the "Getting Acquainted" track -- and you've got a link to two dozen artists performing the song from that music. I have a the original souvenir program book -- and you've got versions in other languages. Not to mention a collection of reviews, the Mad Magazine parody, interviews with people who were involved in the making of the film, and -- amazingly -- the WHAT'S MY LINE show with Steve McQueen.
My favorite film is DOCTOR ZHIVAGO, and I only wish there were something half as good as your site for that film. But fortunately, you've set the standard. Thank you VERY much.
Michael Conley
San Diego
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From: Manfred Kramesberger
Sent: Monday, June 09, 2008 7:40 AM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles...
Dear Mr. Garcia !
I am asking for permission to place a link from my site www.lordjim.at to your trailer-page (Missing scenes: dinner with Shirley) to show this trailer to my visitors.
www.lordjim.at is a private, non-profit site, dedicated to the memory of great artists.
Thank you in advance and kind regards !
Manfred Kramesberger
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From: Rory Monteith
Sent: Tuesday, May 27, 2008 3:24 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Early TSP Blu-ray review
Cris,
This is in today's post on FilmScoreMonthly.com. Nothing detailed, but sounds like the movie (theatrical version) looks as good as we expected:
"Making its Blu-Ray debut following a hugely successful DVD release last year is THE SAND PEBBLES (***, 183 mins., 1966, PG-13), Robert Wise's epic starring Steve McQueen (never better), Richard Attenborough, Richard Crenna and Candice Bergen in a story -- set in 1926 China -- that drew close parallels to the U.S.' then-recent involvement in Vietnam but offers numerous pleasures (McQueen's performance, its wide scope lensing and, of course, Jerry Goldsmith's score) to counteract its somewhat clunky pacing and uneven script.
Fox's Blu-Ray release of "The Sand Pebbles" is almost the definitive word on the film, offering an MPEG-2 transfer that falls somewhere between "Patton" and "The Longest Day" in terms of its HD presentation, but overall is spectacular when compared to any prior version of the movie you might've seen outside of a theater. The DTS-MA audio, meanwhile, does a fine job balancing Goldsmith's classic score with the dialogue.
When I say this release is "almost" definitive, it's because only the theatrical release edit (183 minutes) of the picture has been included here, while the prior DVD featured both that cut plus the premiere of the Roadshow presentation, offering 13 minutes of added footage that did appear faded in relation to the pristine quality of the theatrical print. Perhaps it's because of the latter that the decision was made to include only the theatrical version in HD, and offer the Roadshow scenes in the supplemental section. Either way, fans of "The Sand Pebbles" may want to hang onto their Special Edition DVD versions for that reason.
Extras, culled from that superb prior release, are on-hand in abundance. An isolated score track also includes comments from Nick Redman, Jon Burlingame, and veteran screenwriter/movie buff/historian Lem Dobbs, who rightly regard Goldsmith's score as one of his all-time finest, and intersperse Goldsmith's music with commentary on its creation (and even fragments of a 2000 interview with the great composer). An older audio commentary featuring Robert Wise, Candice Bergen, Richard Crenna and Mako is also on-hand.
Numerous featurettes comprise a detailed "Making Of" section while a slew of vintage materials (advertising reels, radio documentaries, TV spots, trailers) and additional "side bars" (a featurette remembering McQueen among those) round out a marvelous Blu-Ray disc -- a must for all "Sand Pebbles" fans."
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Response - One of the first online comparisons of the 2007 DVD and 2008 Bluray disc can be found at www.dvdbeaver.com - CG
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From: Monush, Barry
Sent: Friday, April 25, 2008 10:23 AM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Regarding Charles Robinson
I only just read today that Charles Robinson (Ensign Bordelles) had passed away almost two years ago in Palm Springs. So sorry to hear this.
I always liked his performance in The Sand Pebbles in addition to finding him a strikingly handsome man. I also remember him in films like The Interns, Splendor in the Grass, and Shenandoah. I notice that he does not seem to have many film or TV credits since the 1980s. Did he simply stop working and retire to Palm Springs? Does anyone know much about his later life? And did he actually change his billing on occasion to Charles Knox Robinson and Charles Robinson Knox as the imdb indicates? If so, does anyone know why? Just curious.
Barry M
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Response - Go to the Wikipedia website for more information on Charles Knox Robinson III - CG
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From: Rory Monteith
Sent: Tuesday, April 22, 2008 2:05 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: TSP Blu-ray
Cris,
The Digital Bits has info posted on the Blu-ray DVD for TSP. Looks like everything will be carried over from the 2-disc standard release -- except the Roadshow version, but "13 deleted 'Road Show' scenes" will be included as extras. This is good news, and I think Fox doing the right thing -- as long as they can't or won't restore those scenes properly (meaning 2.35:1 Panavision transfers equal in quality to the restored general version).
Rory
Digital Bits:
First up, 20th Century Fox and MGM have set a number of classic war films for release on Blu-ray on 6/3, as part of their Father's Day promotion. They include The Longest Day, Patton, The Sand Pebbles, A Bridge Too Far and Battle of Britain (SRP $39.98). Each will include 1080p anamorphic widescreen video and DTS 5.1 HD audio. In terms of bonus material, The Longest Day will offer a historical audio commentary with Mary Corey, a film commentary with Ken Annakin, 4 featurettes (A Day to Remember, Longest Day: A Salute to Courage, Backstory: The Longest Day and D-Day Revisited), a stills gallery and the theatrical trailer. Patton will include an introduction and commentary by writer Francis Ford Coppola, 2 featurettes (History Through the Lens: Patton - A Rebel Revisited and Patton’s Ghost Corps), The Making of Patton documentary, a production stills gallery accompanied by Jerry Goldsmith’s complete musical score, a behind-the-scenes photo gallery accompanied by audio essay on the historical Patton, and the theatrical trailer. Finally, The Sand Pebbles will include audio commentary by director Robert Wise, Candice Bergen, Mako and Richard Crenna, the film's isolated score with commentary by music producer Nick Redman, film music historian Jon Burnlingame and screen writer/historian Lem Dobbs, a trivia track, 13 deleted “Road Show” scenes, 6 featurettes (The Making of Sand Pebbles, Steve McQueen Remembered, Bob Wise in Command, China 1926, A Ship Called San Pablo and The Secret of the San Pablo), a trivia track, the theatrical trailer and 2 radio documentaries (Changsha Bund and the Streets of Taipei and A Ship Called San Pablo)...
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From: Michael Proulx
Sent: Monday, April 21, 2008 9:09 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles...
Hello there!
Congratulations on an excellent site. I’ve become an avid fan. Your latest addition - Icelandic movie program - even sparked an interest in me to learn a word or two of the language!
I’d like to add a bit of trivia if I may: Saul Wurtzel – Production Manager – died November 19, 1984 (IMDb)
Thought you might like to add this to the CREW section.
Best regards
Michael Proulx
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From: Ted Magnuson
Sent: Monday, April 21, 2008 4:06 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: DVD's at COSTCO
Hi Crispin,
I blundered onto your website a while back, and enjoy it! I was in Taiwan as a young Navy officer in '65/'66, and saw & met many of the principal actors & crew members (including Steve McQueen & Robert Wise), and saw some of the filming take place. Maybe more of that at a later time. The main reason I'm writing, is to tell you that COSTCO has the "Roadshow" & "Theatrical" DVD set of The Sand Pebbles for sale right now, for a penny less than ten bucks, quite a good deal.
Best regards,
Ted Magnuson
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From: Peter A.Manic
Sent: Tuesday, March 25, 2008 1:56 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles...
Just want to drop a line commending you for a job well done. I've read the book and have the movie in my collection (DVD Widescreen). The movie itself is a timeless classic, and I feel bad the scene (which was filmed but was dropped from the final cut) when Holman was leaving his posting aboard a battleship (played by the U.S.S. Texas) and picking up when he arrived in Shanghai (where the movie begins)......THEY DON'T MAKE MOVIES LIKE THEY USED TOO!!!!!!!............
Peter A.Manic.......Atlantic City N.J.
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From: Fred Borgmann
Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 6:01 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles
Hi Crispin,
I watched the DVD of The Sand Pebbles last night and curiosity lead me to the web site. I saw this show when it was a new release and loved it and always remembered it. When in San Diego a victory ship named the Lane Victory was in port and I took a tour. I was surprised and delighted to find that what they claim was the engine used in the movie was on display in one of the holds. This wasn't the Cummins diesel actually used to propel the ship but the one used in the engine room scenes. It seemed smaller than I imagined but seeing it was the impetus for me to get the DVD which I greatly enjoy.
I got to use a line from the movie last week while in Las Vegas. Early one morning a lady stopped me on the walkway and asked if I would like some company. I was wearing my Green Township Fire Department cap and told my buddies, "The uniform gets 'em every time."
I would like to get the CD sound track from the movie but its kind of hard to find. Do you have any suggestions?
Thanks for your message board.
Fred Borgmann
Cincinnati Ohio
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From: Darren Wright
Sent: Friday, March 07, 2008 9:35 AM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles Bluray on Amazon.com
Cris,
Amazon.com now has The Sand Pebbles on Bluray up for pre-order:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00158K0UQ?tag=bluray-012-20
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From: PAUL KOVACS
Sent: Thursday, February 28, 2008 7:08 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles Audience Preview Version
Hi Crispin. Thank you for your quick reply. The other things that I recall were Jake climbing up the steps to get topside of the flagship that he was leaving, Jake telling the SP Captain, or the other officer, that a piston rod would go through the hull and sink the ship (which fascinated me), and a full side angle shot of Chien actually in the crank case holding the wrench on the connecting rod bearing cap bolt before the accident happened (I guess this shot was to show the audience how dangerous the work was). It was in B/W. As I mentioned in the previous message, I saw this on a NYC station (channel 11 or maybe 7 abc) on a Saturday or maybe a Sunday afternoon. I was maybe 13 at the time and it left an impression on me to say the least. One of these stations may still have it in their vault. You can find anything in NYC. Thanks again, Paul.
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From: PAUL KOVACS
Sent: Tuesday, February 26, 2008 6:04 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles DVD
I just visited your site. Very well done. I can remember seeing the version of the movie back in the early 1970's on a NYC Saturday afternoon movie station (probably channel 11 which was PIX at the time) that actually showed the crankshaft straightening scene. I recall this because back then my JHS shop class friends and I were convinced that the work in this scene was next to impossible to be done right. We liked engines too. Last week I happened to see the movie for the second time on AMC and this part was not included. What DVD should I buy that would include the proper engine room work scenes and other missing scenes. BTW I'm an Engineer also, like Jake was. There are very few movies made that show this kind of action. Thanks for your kind attention on this, Paul Kovacs.
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Response -
Thanks for your email and for confirming that you saw the crankshaft straightening scene which you may be surprised to learn is only remembered by a few people.
The scene is not in the 182 minute theatrical version and was not even part of the original 195 minute roadshow version available on the 2-disc DVD set released in June 2007.
It was part of the 200 minute audience preview version screened in the selected cities of Los Angeles, Minneapolis and Dallas.
Interestingly enough the 200 minute version was allowed to circulate without fanfare in a few cities like Detroit and San Francisco which likely happened because Twentieth Century-Fox did not want to destroy these expensive prints and did not want to bother to re-edit these versions.
The crankshaft scene was not in the original script and was probably added in toward the end of shooting for reasons unknown, but I suspect at the insistence of Steve McQueen who wanted to show his (and Jake Holman's) mechanical prowess. Robert Wise was trying to trim the 200 minute version down to 190 minutes before its 1966 premiere in NYC but only managed to excise 5 minutes and the crankshaft scene was evidently part of what he saw as expendable. A shame since it sounds interesting and I was never able to see it myself.
So enjoy your memories of this scene since it may never surface again...but then again who knows what treasures Fox has buried in their vaults.
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From: Quinn Bastian
Sent: Tuesday, February 26, 2008 3:56 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: DVD
Hi Cris,
First of all, my thanks for persevering and getting a “restored” DVD of this fine film out. I know that it took quite an effort and I am gratified that Fox finally relented and released the DVD we have. I must say that seeing restored scenes, some of which I was involved with, was a thrill since it has been so many years since I last saw them. I was particularly gratified with the” battle of the boom” sequence. I screened it with my family and was able to give them a personal commentary which really brought back many memories of being associated with so many hard working skilled and brilliant people. I do wish that they could have restored the road show print (and restored some still missing scenes) but at least we do have a partially restored film which is better than nothing. I was out of the country for quite a while (in Peru and Ecuador) and by the time I got back Mr. Wise had passed. To say I was both shocked and saddened is an understatement because he truly was one of a kind and a real gent. They just don’t come like him anymore.
Many thanks again.
Best regards,
Quinn
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From: Mitch Carter
Sent: Wednesday, February 13, 2008 6:21 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: The Sand Pebbles...
Hi
Great site! I’ve been several times and continue to uncover gems. The latest is John Norris’ page. He mentions having several shots of him with Steve, both on the SP set and The Getaway. His description makes them sound very much worth seeing. Can you get those posted on the site as well? Thanks.
Oh, by the way…I am making a strong effort to be considered to play Steve in the upcoming biopic. While at this point, it’s only an option on Neile’s book, I figure it’s never too early to start lobbying. I was an actor for 14 years, often compared to Steve, got out 10 years ago and am making a “comeback” to try to get this. You can see pics at mcqueenonline.com. We are shooting two scenes from the Getaway this weekend and those will be posted on YouTube once the editing is done—assuming they turn out in such a state that I think they will withstand international exposure and scrutiny. I’ve been a fan of Steve’s for years and, if I never did another acting job, this one would leave me happy, doing the biopic.
Thanks again.
Mitch Carter
West Hills, CA
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From: Haristas
Sent: Tuesday, January 15, 2008 4:55 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Interesting news
Cris:
From TheDigitalBits.com Jan. 15, 2008:
"The other Fox note today pertains to the anticipated release of Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World on Blu-ray Disc, which had been set for 2/5. TCFHE's marketing team has apparently decided to delay the title and bundle it with others as part of a large Father's Day promotion in June. Among the additional titles set to be included in this promotion are Mrs. Doubtfire, Patton, The Longest Day, The Sand Pebbles, A Bridge Too Far and Battle of Britain among others. The exact street dates and specs are TBA."
Sounds unlikely the roadshow version of TSP is what will be on Blu-ray, most probably the general release (and restored) version -- of course! But, TSP has certainly come to Blu-ray faster than I expected.
Rory
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From: Jim Myers
Sent: Sunday, Jan 13, 2008 2:22 PM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: San Pablo
I have always been curious as to the fate of the "U.S.S. San Pablo" after the movie. Any idea?
Jim Myers
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Response - This is a question that comes up from time to time. The trail seems to end in Vietnam 1966 when the boat was sold to a contractor rebuilding bridges there. In the 10 years that the TSP website has existed no one has come forward with any additional information. Perhaps someday.
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From: Pascal Dupont
Sent: Saturday, January 05, 2008 2:01 AM
To: Crispin Garcia
Subject: Jerry Goldsmith French Website online !
Crispin - Hello and Happy New Year 2008.
As I had promised you, here is the announcement of the official launch of our site.
www.goldsmith-themusicallaw.net
I come back often to your wonderful site with a lot of nostalgia. The Sand Pebbles is one of my favorite movies. Steve McQueen and Candice Bergen are fantastic. I think Steve McQueen should have earned a gold statuette for this role. Because of its splendid music, I decided to do something for Jerry Goldsmith in France. Today, it's done! And I am pleased that you can share that with me. I created a link to your remarkable site...and thanks to "The Sand Pebbles" between France and the United States, now there is only a passion.
Happy New Year Crispin - Good continuation and long life for your site!
Sincerely,
Pascal and Quentin
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Past years of the Sand Pebbles Movie Message Board are available below: