Jan Wahl

1 month ago | sfbaytimes.com | Jan Wahl

By Jan Wahl–Once in a while a fascinating female comes into my life and takes me on an amazing journey. Most recently that was Tina D’Elia, who is a self-proclaimed “mixed race Latina lesbian queer artist.” As she explained, “I’ve always wanted to know my ancestors and celebrate others, especially combined with my passion for classic Hollywood.” You are definitely in my wheelhouse, Tina!It would be a challenge to find someone who loves classic Hollywood as much as I do, but Tina is right with me.

2 months ago | sfbaytimes.com | Jan Wahl

By Jan Wahl–Many of us feel we know Liza Minnelli, given her openness and lifetime in the spotlight. In my case, I went to at least four of her concerts in San Francisco, as well as to a tribute to her father, and a birthday party for her at the Fairmont San Francisco’s Tonga Room. My mother visited Liza in her dressing room. I also treasure the memory of being with Liza in a limo as we bonded over the joys—and challenges—of sobriety.

Feb 28, 2025 | sfbaytimes.com | Jan Wahl

By Jan Wahl–One of the most fascinating, lovely men I ever knew was Jacques Mapes. Google his name and you will see that he is most often listed as a film producer, with glittering photos of Jacques dancing and hanging out with classic stars. But I knew him as the fifty-year partner of legendary producer Ross Hunter and set decorator for Singin’ in the Rain.

Feb 15, 2025 | sfbaytimes.com | Jan Wahl

By Jan Wahl–It is a most particular American phenomena. It can be a giddy social history of our times. It’s a grand, grotesque Hollywood party with a good guest list. At its best, it reminds people of films that have little promotion but deserve to be seen. Welcome to the Oscars. Sometimes we get a moment of profound beauty in an acceptance speech, before awardees begin to read from a folded piece of paper. That should not be allowed. But when the words come from the heart, they are worth remembering.

Feb 3, 2025 | sfbaytimes.com | Jan Wahl

By Jan Wahl–Just when I was beginning to wonder if this was a weak period for movies, two came into my life and they are both a relief from the depressing, mundane, or disappointing. Yes, there were some recent releases that made my top list: Emilia Pérez, The Brutalist, and especially A Real Pain. But nothing had me reliving each scene until I saw these two: A Complete Unknown and The Last Showgirl. A Complete Unknown begins in 1961 when 19-year-old Bob Dylan arrives in New York City.