So often we think of Hollywood kids in unflattering terms: troubled, entitled, squandered potential. This past weekend, however, I was charmed by an interaction between the children of two of Hollywood's greats.

Should we call him "Spartacus"? Or "Champion"? Both names certainly fit the man. Kirk Douglas turns 95 tomorrow, and he is still very much with us.

Sidney Lumet was a giant in his field, a director who always sought to make intelligent films that had the ring of truth.

On the first of this month, Walter Matthau, who left us just a decade ago, would have turned ninety. Ruminating on this unnoted milestone made me consider anew what a unique and gifted screen actor he was.

We all know that rare thing called good character is no prerequisite for a great actress, but Patricia Neal had this quality, in spades. We will not see her like again.

Given the sheer scale and complexity of the Presidency in modern times, it's no surprise that a host of great films have explored the nature of our country's highest office.

I have to admit it: the new Taking Of Pelham 123 wasn't as bad as I thought it might be.