I LOVED Ben Johnson! He was a true down to earth regular guy whose head never succumbed to Hollywood lifestyle and crap. Loong marriage with no scandal. Look at his early pictures and WOW he was so handsome, very manly without Hollywood influence. Thank you, Rob, for this excellent look back at this wonderful time in our lives.
Fascinating interview of Michael Blake who through connections of his father was either personally involved or through connections knew a lot about early westerns and old Hollywood. One of your best episodes ever.
This episode is so very good. Excellent ! Enjoyed all the stories he tells and really liked hearing about the makeup for films. When in high school my cousin and I did lots of drama plays together, then he went on to college and theatre acting… tho in high school he was the “makeup” guy. He continued doing that besides his acting. He quit acting a few years ago but does makeup work for the yearly community theatre production. It truly is a great work behind the scenes for the actors. I’m into certain Presidential history reading since high school (Washington, Lincoln. Teddy Roosevelt and Reagan) so I’ll have to check out Michael’s Teddy Roosevelt books. Thanks so much Rob - these Sunday shows are spectacular history of the western films world. Westerns history 👍.
More than wonderful and a snapshot of history of the American West and a tribute to Roosevelt and his love of the West. I hiked the Grand Canyon many times and reflect on the memories of extreme conditions and the simplicity of having everything you needed in a backpack. The luxury was the experience and the extremes of the landscape a teacher. We had it easy compared to Powell and the exploration of the Grand Canyon and mass migration into the West and the tracks left behind. Thanks Word on Westerns
WOW, what a great episode. I learned a pile of things that I had never heard from any other source. Michael Blake can tell a story. Now I've got to get hold of his books. Just when I think Rob's just going to maintain the high quality of this shows episodes, Nope, you raise the bar from unexpected sources. Sunday morning not to be missed.
When I was 19 I was able to attend the services for Mr. Ford with my dad and, like Michael, it was something I will never forget. We went to the rosary service, walked up the front steps and were greeted by Wingate Smith and chatted with him for a spell. After the rosary my dad introduced me to Duke. All I could do was shake his hand, I was speechless.. also being such a solemn event I knew it was not the place to be a fan. At the funeral we sat in front of Anna Lee and I watched as Chuck Roberson, Denver Pyle, Strother Martin, George O’Brien and so many other faces of my western heroes walked up the aisle to take a seat. Pat Wayne read the readings at the funeral Mass.
Nice bit of movie history in Rob's interview with Michael F. Blake, and also in your response to it, Mr. Cassidy. Thanks for sharing this information! Andy McKane, Molokai, Hawaii
@@michaelfblake4656 in a way….he was a broadcaster on KFAC radio in LA - he hosted the Gas Company’s Evening Concert and Luncheon at the Music Center programs. The luncheon show was an interview show with celebrities. That was a great venue for a star struck kid like me. I’d accompany dad to the Pavilion Restaurant at the Music Center where the show was done live. I got to have lunch with many famous people from the industry.
Thanks, you two. Mike is a terrific storyteller with lots of cool memories. And, Lone Pine is one of my favorite places. Going there in less than two weeks for the Film Festival and MORE interviews!
Yet, another great story that you've brought to us. Mr. Blake's stories were fascinating! Not many people left that actually went to John Ford's funeral. When I was a kid in the 60's my family watched everything that had a horse in it. AWOW let's us know all of the back stories. Thanks for always giving us something great to watch.
Another wonderful and rewarding interview, Rob! Having lived in Utah twice over the years for a total of about ten years, my two favorite places there are Moab and Goulding's Lodge in Monument Valley. I moved from Utah to Hawaii three and a half years ago. What I miss most of life on the Mainland are the many trips my wife and I took to Monument Valley and Moab. When it comes down to Ben Johnson vs anyone else (except Duke), I'll side with Ben Johnson every time! He was a gem of a human being. Dobe was another gem. As an aside, many years ago I learned that Admiral Nimitz arranged to get John Ford to Midway in time to film the upcoming Battle of Midway. James "Jimmy" Roosevelt was also present there (on behalf of his dad and Admiral Nimitz to witness the battle). For years our government denied the Navy was breaking the Japanese Navy's fleet operational code (JN-25) prior to the Battle of Midway. I strongly believe they kept that covered up because of Midway's proximity (6-months) to Pearl Harbor. I began serious research into Pearl Harbor in October 1983. I'm finally to the point where I've started writing a book, to be titled, Closing the Loop on Pearl Harbor. We had very good intelligence prior to 7 December 1941 just as we did at the time of the Battle of Midway in June 1942. Keep up your fabulous interviews and wonderful reporting via TH-cam! Your videos are always exceptional. Well researched, too! Thank you very much! Andy McKane, 25 September 2022, Maunaloa, Hawaii.
What great video, Mr. Blake is such a fount of knowledge. I really love the stories and the insights to people I love to watch in movies and television.
I’ve already for the festival, marked on my calendar! Another great interview! So informative! President Theodore Roosevelt is not only a Great President, but a GREAT AMERICAN!! Thank you Rob and thank you Michael!!
Rob, as usual another great video. I do really love the great information your guests share and the great insights given about the movies and actors, directors and makeup artists too!😊😊👍👍
A wonderful presentation, a unique and personal perspective, a long and varied career . Interesting note the difference in make up needed to shoot black and white film, to color and the different qualities of color film. Wondered the effort needed, the impact on film restoration, for preservationists (like RJ.) Thank you so much, Michael, for sharing; thank you, AWOW,Rob!
Sure remember seeing Michael's father many times on the B I G and small screens. Loved the anecdote about the flag on John Ford's casket. However, a flag from the WW2 period would have had 48 stars.
Hi Rob, great interview with William Blake. If you haven’t already, you should read Maureen O’Hara’s autobiography “Tis Herself” which gives a bit of a different take on what happened between John Ford and Ben Johnson. And she was there when it happened. She also writes in-depth about her experiences with John Ford. A good read.
@@AWordonWesterns Maureen says that Ford overheard Johnson saying a scene would have been better if it was done a little bit differently. Ford took it as an insult. No one could do it better than Ford, and followed it up with a massive castigation. When Ford was finished, Johnson quietly got up and walked out.
That's Michael F. Blake. Superb interview. I, too, had to check Blake's first name. One of these days I'll read "Tis Herself," as Ms. Ohara is one of my all-time favorites.
Absolutely love this channel. I just discovered it and I'm sorry it took me so long. My Dad was a western buff and historian son all things West from real life history to films and TV. He would have been in his glory watching these great videos and I know he would have sent me each new episode to discuss. Bravo. Visiting Moab was a thrill and I loved going into any diner or coffee shop in town and seeing the walls covered with old Hollywood 8x10's signed by the stars of some of the best westerns ever.
Welcome aboard, T. You've got lots of catching up to do. We've got over 500 episodes up. My Dad loved westerns too and we'd always drive west from Florida on summer vacations. Wish I were back in Moab now. Thanks.
Oh I have been devouring episodes and can’t get enough. I have long been a fan of westerns both in front of and behind the camera. As a kid my Dad introduced me to John Wayne movies and I was hooked. As I got older he turned me on to Randy Scott (so underrated by casual fans) and I still can’t believe that fight scene between Duke and Randy at the end of The Spoilers. But my Dad would hit me with all these tidbits of the B movies and supporting actors and crew and not players and TV westerns and locations so much so that I was forced (happily) into researching on my own. Your channel - feels like I’m having a conversation with my Dad again. I can’t give you higher praise than that. A few years ago my wife and I drove to Dodge City for Western Writers symposium to help with my western novel and seeing your interviews makes me hanker to take a road trip out west again back to Dodge or Tombstone or Moab and soak in all those great western locales again. Bravo and keep up the fantastic work!
ROB - that was AWESOME - Possibly the best Ever! - I think it connected with me for a few reasons: Michael and I are about the same age 2. He is Blue Collar and very Teddy spun - 3. His tales were the true observer conversational experiences I thought that often I don't think Actor to Actor or Director can duplicate. - if you get what I'm trying to say......... *BRAVO :) & Thanks* - m.
i admire johnson for his integrity in standing up to a mean old man. ford must have been very insecure. there is a book on ben johnson which is interesting. also a museum
Interesting guest and interview, Rob. I may have to get the biography of Lon Chaney. I am the Theodore Roosevelt trilogy ("The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt," "Theodore Rex," and "Colonel Roosevelt") by Edmund Morris. 👍😄
A little off subject, but my sister-in-law, now deceased, was John Waynes nurse in Newport Beach when he was there for a medical procedure. I've had the opportunity to interact with many movie actors. Either directly or indirectly when I walked by them or they walked by me or in one case where I met and got an autograph from an actress named Kiersten Dunst.
Oh you two are Good sure can listen to him all afternoon and not take a nap as hubby does! 😉😁He’s 105 so I know you will forgive him if he nods off as I do each day !
@@AWordonWesterns I know I am married to Frank for 21 years and we are asking grandkids to help us out now I just got worn out and he agreed he and I want to hang on to each other now more than ever now!
MICHAEL BLAKE was another interesting person to meet when we briefly worked together 10 years ago... talking about his father LARRY BLAKE, he forgot to mention that probably his most famous western appearance was ironically as the bar tender in HIGH NOON! Its also true that so many actors particularly in westerns had a drinking problem, but John Ford was notorious for that. In the 1950/60s it was common for him to not be up to working after lunch, at which time his assistant director and brother-in-law Wingate Smith would take over. Still drunk or sober, John Ford's work is hard to beat! The one surprising thing I've learned from studying John Ford through so many respected authors, is that he would've given up his whole HOLLYWOOD working life and Oscars for a career in the Navy, not just his Naval reserve and WWII role as honorary rear Admiral, but his love of the sea over any movie location. Ford said this himself, but then to most of us didn't he get to enjoy both? But its no surprise Ford was very complex, often petty and a bully but still sentimental. Michael Blake's books on the West, Lon Chaney and Make-Up are very definitive and detailed, well worth getting. Another big reason for shooting Monument Valley besides budget, was that although John Ford enjoyed a great beloved relationship with the Navajo Nation back then and could do anything he wanted, that same arrangement was rarely shared with other film directors... that's why very few westerns were ever shot there. Moab, Kanab, Sedona but usually when HOLLYWOOD went beyond its 30 mile Studio Zone that included all the movie ranches, and Palmdale, if they had to go on distant location but still stay in California, they usually preferred Lone Pine. As Rob and Michael have both said, the Lone Pine Film festival is a western fans dream come true!
@@andymckane7271 I was told we were related distantly but we never met, we're both British and he dies sadly and ironically trying to land his own plane in fog.
@@michaelfblake4656 If memory serves, we were day-playing on the MINDY PROJECT at Universal... we talked in the shuttle van, and you gave me your card. I was third-generation movie industry and also a studio historian. I started at Universal in 1977, a year before you back when Nick Marcellino was head of the make-up department. I was a TV story writer but found a more steadier work as a studio driver. At that time when MCA owned Universal, I was also one of their unpaid studio historians. Later I became the same for 20th Century-Fox for twenty years. Like you I was in the right place at the right time to meet so many iconic old-timers from the business, from actors to stunt men, makeup-artists to DP's and special effects etc. I produced demo video documentaries on so many things HOLLYWOOD and western movies and locations, including a 2hour salute to Iversons! We both enjoyed the very BEST of the business wouldn't you agree?
Wow! These stories!! Love them!!! Can we get Rob on TCM to host a westerns hosting block? He'd be great- much better than the current hosts, their attitudes towards westerns.
I KNEW that Michael Blake reminded me of someone which was President Theodor Roosevelt. Shame he isn't used in a movie as the President. He'd give Tom Berenger a run for his money :-D
i'm on the wifes channel again,but i have to say rob,you are ageless.i am only a couple of years older than you,and i look my age.sadly. you however look so much younger.but that means you will be putting out these great videos for a long time.god bless. ty santee
I sure do wish Pat Wayne, and Ben Johnston could have found financing, to film the Classic Western Novel, _The Cowboy and the Cossack._ What a great, and unique setting that novel had. 👍👍& 5⭐ To this Interview, ROb and RJ. 🐂🐎🐎🤠
I met 2 out of these 3! John Wayne invited me on his yacht wild goose where I walked into rear state room facing Ben Johnson elbows on fancy carved wooden bar!
John Wayne walks right infront of me an stops, asking best place in town too eat? I say, well, I'm best place, but how do you rate having 2 zodiacs, that my dive boat? Well, come out an I'll show them to you. 2 days later I motor out an see JW elbows on ships railings, I thought I'd see you yesterday. (So JW was thinking about me! I'm cool!) Come on over too starboard side an I'll bring you aboard! He reached down with that brass wristband to pull me aboard. He guided me on long starboard catwalk too rear stateroom, where I see Ben Johnson. My dad thinks your the best horseman in all Hollywood! Then I remember I'm standing right next too JW. He puts his left arm across my shoulders an picks up his glass off bar an toasts my father. Your father is a smart man! An all in state room raised glasses an toasted my dad!!! Then Ben Johnson asks me, who is best Hollywood horseman of all time? Well, Glenn Ford sat a saddle as well as anyone! An the place goes nuts with cheers! JW still has his arm around me, an pulls me into a hug! Want to see the rest if the ship? I thought you'd never ask! An the days adventures with John Wayne an crew continued! I get some thumbs up an I'll tell rest of the story!
@@timbarnett3898 Glenn Ford! Hysterical. But, true. What a wonderful day you had. I met Duke once but was only 8 years old!! Got the bug, though. Thanks for sharing your story, Tim. I look forward to hearing more. If you still live nearby, you should try and come to one of our tapings at The Autry Museum. Next ones are Nov 8, Dec 13, this year and Jan 17, 2023. 11am-1pm. Free.
John Wayne walks me through aft compartments then along starboard walkway too pilot house. I'm shocked by how small room is, JW guides me too the ship's wheel. But after looking at wheel I put my hands in my pockets. He asked my why I didn't touch wheel. That wheel so bristol fashioned, I wouldn't dare touch it. I get this big hand slap in back, he laughing saying, we might have a real sailor here? First mate leans down an says to me, you did good, no one touches that wheel without white gloves! Still laughing JW guides me down stairway from pilot house too engine room. Stairway so narrow JW has too walk down sideways! I'm stuck by how clean everything is! You could eat off any surface. JW guides me too bilge an puts his hand on back of my head. Check this out, he says an guides my head close to bilge, showing me how clean it is. At end of day, JW says, he's really happy I came by to visit. Why me? Your John Wayne! We talked about water, boating, scuba, an even knot tying, but you never once mentioned movies once all day, an I appreciate it! Story goes on!
When I think of makeup, I think of stuff like mascara, rouge and false eyelashes. With most of it on a western especially being pretty much confined to the leading ladies and dance hall girls on the show, never to John Wayne. Bit of a buzz kill to think about it, him sitting in a chair having foundation and powder applied while wearing a paper bib around his neck to keep the stuff off his bandana. But hey, moon pitchers are make believe after all, and I'm reminded of Brian Donlevy, not in Wayne's class, but a good actor who had a long career playing mostly rugged masculine roles talking about his preparation even before hitting the makeup chair, of having to tug on a girdle to hold in his gut, stepping into his two inch lifts and putting on his toupee before driving to the studio. Robert Mitchum on the other hand according to his friend and sometimes leading lady, Debra Carr, often shunned such unmasculine foppery claiming as his excuse an allergy to the stuff, implying such vanities might be more usefully applied to his horse.
George O'Brien -- OMG -- will somebody please film A Way Of Life ,Like Any Other -- I see George Clooney as G. O'B. Spoiler alert: I'm a big Ben Johnson fan.
Ford had a high opinion of his importance. Ben Johnson was a cowboy first and then an actor. And Johnson was a man's man as was John Wayne, who was a close friend. Johnson did not use cursing in his vocabulary, but surely he let John Ford know he was not going to call him "stupid," speak to him like he was a child, or impotent man. Great episode!
I LOVED Ben Johnson! He was a true down to earth regular guy whose head never succumbed to Hollywood lifestyle and crap. Loong marriage with no scandal. Look at his early pictures and WOW he was so handsome, very manly without Hollywood influence. Thank you, Rob, for this excellent look back at this wonderful time in our lives.
Can never hear enough about Ford, The Duke, Ben Johnson, and Ole Dobe!
Great interview. Thanks, Rob!
What a great story!!! Love that about his dad’s rehab!!!
Would love to read the Lon Cheney book
Fascinating interview of Michael Blake who through connections of his father was either personally involved or through connections knew a lot about early westerns and old Hollywood. One of your best episodes ever.
Thanks, rich
This episode is so very good. Excellent ! Enjoyed all the stories he tells and really liked hearing about the makeup for films. When in high school my cousin and I did lots of drama plays together, then he went on to college and theatre acting… tho in high school he was the “makeup” guy. He continued doing that besides his acting. He quit acting a few years ago but does makeup work for the yearly community theatre production. It truly is a great work behind the scenes for the actors. I’m into certain Presidential history reading since high school (Washington, Lincoln. Teddy Roosevelt and Reagan) so I’ll have to check out Michael’s Teddy Roosevelt books. Thanks so much Rob - these Sunday shows are spectacular history of the western films world. Westerns history 👍.
Great interview, great Ben Johnson stories, thanks Rob
More than wonderful and a snapshot of history of the American West and a tribute to Roosevelt and his love of the West. I hiked the Grand Canyon many times and reflect on the memories of extreme conditions and the simplicity of having everything you needed in a backpack. The luxury was the experience and the extremes of the landscape a teacher. We had it easy compared to Powell and the exploration of the Grand Canyon and mass migration into the West and the tracks left behind. Thanks Word on Westerns
Thank you, Sue. I need to see Disney's TEN WHO DARED again about the exploration of the Grand Canyon.
WOW, what a great episode. I learned a pile of things that I had never heard from any other source. Michael Blake can tell a story. Now I've got to get hold of his books. Just when I think Rob's just going to maintain the high quality of this shows episodes, Nope, you raise the bar from unexpected sources. Sunday morning not to be missed.
Thank you for the kind words.
When I was 19 I was able to attend the services for Mr. Ford with my dad and, like Michael, it was something I will never forget. We went to the rosary service, walked up the front steps and were greeted by Wingate Smith and chatted with him for a spell. After the rosary my dad introduced me to Duke. All I could do was shake his hand, I was speechless.. also being such a solemn event I knew it was not the place to be a fan. At the funeral we sat in front of Anna Lee and I watched as Chuck Roberson, Denver Pyle, Strother Martin, George O’Brien and so many other faces of my western heroes walked up the aisle to take a seat. Pat Wayne read the readings at the funeral Mass.
Nice bit of movie history in Rob's interview with Michael F. Blake, and also in your response to it, Mr. Cassidy. Thanks for sharing this information! Andy McKane, Molokai, Hawaii
John: was your dad in the industry?
@@michaelfblake4656 in a way….he was a broadcaster on KFAC radio in LA - he hosted the Gas Company’s Evening Concert and Luncheon at the Music Center programs. The luncheon show was an interview show with celebrities. That was a great venue for a star struck kid like me. I’d accompany dad to the Pavilion Restaurant at the Music Center where the show was done live. I got to have lunch with many famous people from the industry.
Thanks for sharing your memories, John. What was your father's connection to Ford?
@@AWordonWesterns we were just fans. We wanted to pay our respects.
Rob , you out did yourself this time ! 😉 Well done , wonderful guest , great stories , beautiful scenery.
Thanks, you two. Mike is a terrific storyteller with lots of cool memories. And, Lone Pine is one of my favorite places. Going there in less than two weeks for the Film Festival and MORE interviews!
Thank you Rob for making me look so smart!🤠 Thank you everyone for your kind comments as they mean a lot.
You're a funny boy, Michael. It's easy! Thanks again.
Very much enjoyed your remembrances. Thanks for sharing them.
Enjoy your videos. Westerns are not what they use to be today but, thank goodness we have our Ole Westerns.
@@AWordonWesternsyou've earned every word.
Thank you so much for doing this interview.
Thanks, Joe
Yet, another great story that you've brought to us. Mr. Blake's stories were fascinating! Not many people left that actually went to John Ford's funeral. When I was a kid in the 60's my family watched everything that had a horse in it. AWOW let's us know all of the back stories. Thanks for always giving us something great to watch.
Thank you, Janetta
Great story telling! Love hearing these behind the scenes stories. Thanks again Rob! Keep them coming.
Thank you for sharing this wonderful interview with Michael Blake.
I always enjoy these interviews. Puts a personal touch to these icons by someone who actually met and worked with them.
Great show, worth watching again!
Another wonderful and rewarding interview, Rob! Having lived in Utah twice over the years for a total of about ten years, my two favorite places there are Moab and Goulding's Lodge in Monument Valley. I moved from Utah to Hawaii three and a half years ago. What I miss most of life on the Mainland are the many trips my wife and I took to Monument Valley and Moab. When it comes down to Ben Johnson vs anyone else (except Duke), I'll side with Ben Johnson every time! He was a gem of a human being. Dobe was another gem. As an aside, many years ago I learned that Admiral Nimitz arranged to get John Ford to Midway in time to film the upcoming Battle of Midway. James "Jimmy" Roosevelt was also present there (on behalf of his dad and Admiral Nimitz to witness the battle). For years our government denied the Navy was breaking the Japanese Navy's fleet operational code (JN-25) prior to the Battle of Midway. I strongly believe they kept that covered up because of Midway's proximity (6-months) to Pearl Harbor. I began serious research into Pearl Harbor in October 1983. I'm finally to the point where I've started writing a book, to be titled, Closing the Loop on Pearl Harbor. We had very good intelligence prior to 7 December 1941 just as we did at the time of the Battle of Midway in June 1942. Keep up your fabulous interviews and wonderful reporting via TH-cam! Your videos are always exceptional. Well researched, too! Thank you very much! Andy McKane, 25 September 2022, Maunaloa, Hawaii.
Thanks for the history and background, Andy. Aloha! Did you see my zoom interview with Don Stroud from his home in Hawaii? Check it out.
Another interesting interview. Many thanks, Rob!
Some of the Quiet Man! Love it!
What great video, Mr. Blake is such a fount of knowledge. I really love the stories and the insights to people I love to watch in movies and television.
Thank you for the kind words.
Thanks it’s nice to know these little known facts. Would of love to hear what Ben said to pappy lol.
Love these interviews Rob, keeps these great westerns and legends alive, thank you👍
Thanks, Doug.
You have great stories and you present them so well hope you write them down or make a book about your travels and experiences
Great episode! Michael's recall and story telling was quite interesting and fun to listen to.
Thank you!
Ben Johnson is one of my favorite actors.
What a great guest !! Well done!
Rob thanks for sharing I enjoyed listening to Mr Blake's story
I’ve already for the festival, marked on my calendar! Another great interview! So informative! President Theodore Roosevelt is not only a Great President, but a GREAT AMERICAN!! Thank you Rob and thank you Michael!!
See ya soon, Don
Rob, as usual another great video. I do really love the great information your guests share and the great insights given about the movies and actors, directors and makeup artists too!😊😊👍👍
Just great! Such a great guy + storyteller! Oh, and then --- these cowboys passin' through in the background!
We had a live feed, monitor, set up on the sidewalk outside, red, and people would stop and watch. Horses were kinda neat.
Oh boy. Got no further than the Midway flag on the coffin and I lost it. Phew. Great episode as usual Rob. Enjoyed this do much.
You are not the only one who "lost it" over the Midway flag on John Ford's coffin.
I think a LOT of folks at Ford's funeral felt the same way when they saw the coffin & flag.
That was a great interview Rob 👍
A wonderful presentation, a unique and personal perspective, a long and varied career . Interesting note the difference in make up needed to shoot black and white film, to color and the different qualities of color film. Wondered the effort needed, the impact on film restoration, for preservationists (like RJ.) Thank you so much, Michael, for sharing; thank you, AWOW,Rob!
another great interview Rob, and ya cant beat a couple of cowboys riding past the window!
Planned it that way!
Really good video once again. Thanks Rob!
Thanks, Rob. Rarely known insights of the film business.
Another great episode! Thanks Michael Blake! Keep these episodes coming Rob!
Thanks. They make me happy, Boy.
Sure remember seeing Michael's father many times on the B I G and small screens. Loved the anecdote about the flag on John Ford's casket. However, a flag from the WW2 period would have had 48 stars.
True
Mike looks like a cross between Wilford Brimley and Teddy Roosevelt. I like it. Another great episode Bob thanks again.
Hi Rob, great interview with William Blake. If you haven’t already, you should read Maureen O’Hara’s autobiography “Tis Herself” which gives a bit of a different take on what happened between John Ford and Ben Johnson. And she was there when it happened. She also writes in-depth about her experiences with John Ford. A good read.
I'll order that book, Sally. Thanks. What does she say about the altercation?
@@AWordonWesterns Maureen says that Ford overheard Johnson saying a scene would have been better if it was done a little bit differently. Ford took it as an insult. No one could do it better than Ford, and followed it up with a massive castigation. When Ford was finished, Johnson quietly got up and walked out.
That's Michael F. Blake. Superb interview. I, too, had to check Blake's first name. One of these days I'll read "Tis Herself," as Ms. Ohara is one of my all-time favorites.
Your interviews are always the best.
But
This interview is one of the best of the best.
Ben Johnson was a great cowboy actor. He played big roles in some great movies.
Wow. I always thought Rio Grande was shot in monument valley. Great stuff!
Yeah, I did too.
Wonderful episode, Rob! Michael has so many fascinating insights about those days and John Ford, The Duke, and others! Loved it!
Another great interview! Thanks Rob!
Really fascinating details about film I would never have thought of. Thank you!
Our pleasure, BD. Thanks.
Great interview. You have a real skill in finding interesting speakers. Like others, off to look up his books now.
Thank you.
New books to buy and read!
Absolutely love this channel. I just discovered it and I'm sorry it took me so long. My Dad was a western buff and historian son all things West from real life history to films and TV. He would have been in his glory watching these great videos and I know he would have sent me each new episode to discuss. Bravo. Visiting Moab was a thrill and I loved going into any diner or coffee shop in town and seeing the walls covered with old Hollywood 8x10's signed by the stars of some of the best westerns ever.
Welcome aboard, T. You've got lots of catching up to do. We've got over 500 episodes up. My Dad loved westerns too and we'd always drive west from Florida on summer vacations. Wish I were back in Moab now. Thanks.
Oh I have been devouring episodes and can’t get enough. I have long been a fan of westerns both in front of and behind the camera. As a kid my Dad introduced me to John Wayne movies and I was hooked. As I got older he turned me on to Randy Scott (so underrated by casual fans) and I still can’t believe that fight scene between Duke and Randy at the end of The Spoilers. But my Dad would hit me with all these tidbits of the B movies and supporting actors and crew and not players and TV westerns and locations so much so that I was forced (happily) into researching on my own. Your channel - feels like I’m having a conversation with my Dad again. I can’t give you higher praise than that. A few years ago my wife and I drove to Dodge City for Western Writers symposium to help with my western novel and seeing your interviews makes me hanker to take a road trip out west again back to Dodge or Tombstone or Moab and soak in all those great western locales again. Bravo and keep up the fantastic work!
Nice! Looks like I'll be having some more books added to my Amazon list.
ROB - that was AWESOME - Possibly the best Ever! - I think it connected with me for a few reasons: Michael and I are about the same age 2. He is Blue Collar and very Teddy spun - 3. His tales were the true observer conversational experiences I thought that often I don't think Actor to Actor or Director can duplicate. - if you get what I'm trying to say......... *BRAVO :) & Thanks* - m.
Thank YOU, Marvin.
Thank you, Marvin.
Lone Pine is a fabulous area, great show . The entertainment of your information is outstanding!
Great interview..luv the behind the scenes stories 👏
Thanks, Dennis
Very nice video.
An exciting trip of memories. Fantastic. I'd love to go there myself...
You should, Doug. It's one of the most interesting, non-National Park locations. Lots to admire. There's a wonderful Film History Museum there, too.
Awesome.
Great interview! Got to get myself to the Lone Pine Film Festival next year!
You've still got time THIS year, Lee.
Interesting,great man.
Great one Rob!
I freakin love this channel good job as always thank you
You're flippin' me out, Rick. Glad you enjoy it!
i admire johnson for his integrity in standing up to a mean old man. ford must have been very insecure. there is a book on ben johnson which is interesting. also a museum
ford a coward and bully. i really admire ben johnson for standing up for himself and his dignity. calling people hey stupid doesn't fly.
Great guest and as always Great interviewer. South Carolina
Thanks, Russ
John Ford a great director 4 Oscars for it and won a legion of merit in wwtwo
Interesting guest and interview, Rob. I may have to get the biography of Lon Chaney. I am the Theodore Roosevelt trilogy ("The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt," "Theodore Rex," and "Colonel Roosevelt") by Edmund Morris. 👍😄
A little off subject, but my sister-in-law, now deceased, was John Waynes nurse in Newport Beach when he was there for a medical procedure. I've had the opportunity to interact with many movie actors. Either directly or indirectly when I walked by them or they walked by me or in one case where I met and got an autograph from an actress named Kiersten Dunst.
Oh you two are Good sure can listen to him all afternoon and not take a nap as hubby does! 😉😁He’s 105 so I know you will forgive him if he nods off as I do each day !
Oh wow! 105. Naps are good at any age, Toini.
@@AWordonWesterns I know I am married to Frank for 21 years and we are asking grandkids to help us out now I just got worn out and he agreed he and I want to hang on to each other now more than ever now!
MICHAEL BLAKE was another interesting person to meet when we briefly worked together 10 years ago... talking about his father LARRY BLAKE, he forgot to mention that probably his most famous western appearance was ironically as the bar tender in HIGH NOON!
Its also true that so many actors particularly in westerns had a drinking problem, but John Ford was notorious for that. In the 1950/60s it was common for him to not be up to working after lunch, at which time his assistant director and brother-in-law Wingate Smith would take over. Still drunk or sober, John Ford's work is hard to beat!
The one surprising thing I've learned from studying John Ford through so many respected authors, is that he would've given up his whole HOLLYWOOD working life and Oscars for a career in the Navy, not just his Naval reserve and WWII role as honorary rear Admiral, but his love of the sea over any movie location. Ford said this himself, but then to most of us didn't he get to enjoy both?
But its no surprise Ford was very complex, often petty and a bully but still sentimental.
Michael Blake's books on the West, Lon Chaney and Make-Up are very definitive and detailed, well worth getting.
Another big reason for shooting Monument Valley besides budget, was that although John Ford enjoyed a great beloved relationship with the Navajo Nation back then and could do anything he wanted, that same arrangement was rarely shared with other film directors... that's why very few westerns were ever shot there. Moab, Kanab, Sedona but usually when HOLLYWOOD went beyond its 30 mile Studio Zone that included all the movie ranches, and Palmdale, if they had to go on distant location but still stay in California, they usually preferred Lone Pine.
As Rob and Michael have both said, the Lone Pine Film festival is a western fans dream come true!
Thanks, Graham. It's a small world after all.
Graham Hill!?! Any relation to the late Graham Hill who drove the Rover-BRM gas turbine car at Le Mans? Andy McKane
@@andymckane7271 I was told we were related distantly but we never met, we're both British and he dies sadly and ironically trying to land his own plane in fog.
Graham: where did our paths cross?
@@michaelfblake4656 If memory serves, we were day-playing on the MINDY PROJECT at Universal... we talked in the shuttle van, and you gave me your card. I was third-generation movie industry and also a studio historian.
I started at Universal in 1977, a year before you back when Nick Marcellino was head of the make-up department. I was a TV story writer but found a more steadier work as a studio driver. At that time when MCA owned Universal, I was also one of their unpaid studio historians. Later I became the same for 20th Century-Fox for twenty years.
Like you I was in the right place at the right time to meet so many iconic old-timers from the business, from actors to stunt men, makeup-artists to DP's and special effects etc.
I produced demo video documentaries on so many things HOLLYWOOD and western movies and locations, including a 2hour salute to Iversons!
We both enjoyed the very BEST of the business wouldn't you agree?
Wow! These stories!! Love them!!!
Can we get Rob on TCM to host a westerns hosting block? He'd be great- much better than the current hosts, their attitudes towards westerns.
Thanks, Emily. I'm usually disappointed about the lack of enthusiasm and knowledge of the western genre. They do a fine job on the films they like.
I have to mow my yard and I glance at TH-cam and there is a new edition of your TH-cam show so I can't mow my yard until you're done.
Good call, Tom!
great video.
Glad you enjoyed it, john. Thanks.
More respect for Ben Johnson
Second time watching m this wonderful, enjoyable video! It got even better!!!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Lately I am rewatching many of your videos related to John Ford + John Wayne. Always entertaining and even more enjoyable each time.
The hat and bandera Michael is wearing are very similar to those worn by Duke in Hondo I think? He’s obviously a huge fan like myself ☘️
He is that, Derek!
wow, Michael is a very interesting guy.....good interview👍👍👍👍
Thanks, Buzz
Loved the show. One of these days I will go out to Lone Pine and soak in the atmosphere.
Well worth the trip, steve
I KNEW that Michael Blake reminded me of someone which was President Theodor Roosevelt. Shame he isn't used in a movie as the President. He'd give Tom Berenger a run for his money :-D
i'm on the wifes channel again,but i have to say rob,you are ageless.i am only a couple of years older than you,and i look my age.sadly. you however look so much younger.but that means you will be putting out these great videos for a long time.god bless. ty santee
Thanks, ty. This month marks 9 years of weekly A WORD ON WESTERNS episodes. I'm planning on going for 10 years.
i hope the young rob steps in when you retire.
@@grammyhall53 I’m working on it.
At first I thought you were interviewing Wilford Brimley, then I realized it was Teddy Roosevelt. ;-)
Funny, Col!
Ben Johnson was a great guy. Easy going. But there are some people that will not be bullied.
My God, this guy is a really intresting fella. If he ever needs anyone to help him pimp his books, I'd love to help.
Thank you. As far as your offer...you're on!🤠
I sure do wish Pat Wayne, and Ben Johnston could have found financing, to film the Classic Western Novel, _The Cowboy and the Cossack._ What a great, and unique setting that novel had. 👍👍& 5⭐ To this Interview, ROb and RJ.
🐂🐎🐎🤠
Would have been a classic, OD. Thanks.
@@AWordonWesterns Might even have rivaled Red River. 😲
Take your job and shove it.. well done Ben Johnson
That was real good!
Thanks, Kyle.
John Ford also talked been Johnson to do the last picture show which won Johnson an Oscar for best supporting actor
I met 2 out of these 3! John Wayne invited me on his yacht wild goose where I walked into rear state room facing Ben Johnson elbows on fancy carved wooden bar!
You lucky dog!!
John Wayne walks right infront of me an stops, asking best place in town too eat? I say, well, I'm best place, but how do you rate having 2 zodiacs, that my dive boat? Well, come out an I'll show them to you. 2 days later I motor out an see JW elbows on ships railings, I thought I'd see you yesterday. (So JW was thinking about me! I'm cool!) Come on over too starboard side an I'll bring you aboard! He reached down with that brass wristband to pull me aboard. He guided me on long starboard catwalk too rear stateroom, where I see Ben Johnson. My dad thinks your the best horseman in all Hollywood! Then I remember I'm standing right next too JW. He puts his left arm across my shoulders an picks up his glass off bar an toasts my father. Your father is a smart man! An all in state room raised glasses an toasted my dad!!! Then Ben Johnson asks me, who is best Hollywood horseman of all time? Well, Glenn Ford sat a saddle as well as anyone! An the place goes nuts with cheers! JW still has his arm around me, an pulls me into a hug! Want to see the rest if the ship? I thought you'd never ask! An the days adventures with John Wayne an crew continued! I get some thumbs up an I'll tell rest of the story!
@@timbarnett3898 Glenn Ford! Hysterical. But, true. What a wonderful day you had. I met Duke once but was only 8 years old!! Got the bug, though. Thanks for sharing your story, Tim. I look forward to hearing more. If you still live nearby, you should try and come to one of our tapings at The Autry Museum. Next ones are Nov 8, Dec 13, this year and Jan 17, 2023. 11am-1pm. Free.
John Wayne walks me through aft compartments then along starboard walkway too pilot house. I'm shocked by how small room is, JW guides me too the ship's wheel. But after looking at wheel I put my hands in my pockets. He asked my why I didn't touch wheel. That wheel so bristol fashioned, I wouldn't dare touch it. I get this big hand slap in back, he laughing saying, we might have a real sailor here? First mate leans down an says to me, you did good, no one touches that wheel without white gloves! Still laughing JW guides me down stairway from pilot house too engine room. Stairway so narrow JW has too walk down sideways! I'm stuck by how clean everything is! You could eat off any surface. JW guides me too bilge an puts his hand on back of my head. Check this out, he says an guides my head close to bilge, showing me how clean it is. At end of day, JW says, he's really happy I came by to visit. Why me? Your John Wayne! We talked about water, boating, scuba, an even knot tying, but you never once mentioned movies once all day, an I appreciate it! Story goes on!
Actually, the tallest mountain in the United States is Denali in Alaska.
Over 20,000'
Ford was tough to work for true but look at the work he got outta people cast and crew
True
Let's all take in that Ben was telling Ford to shove a $5000 a week contract. Now that's a man.
Another Good Word!
Ha! Thanks, Craig
When I think of makeup, I think of stuff like mascara, rouge and false eyelashes. With most of it on a western especially being pretty much confined to the leading ladies and dance hall girls on the show, never to John Wayne.
Bit of a buzz kill to think about it, him sitting in a chair having foundation and powder applied while wearing a paper bib around his neck to keep the stuff off his bandana.
But hey, moon pitchers are make believe after all, and I'm reminded of Brian Donlevy, not in Wayne's class, but a good actor who had a long career playing mostly rugged masculine roles talking about his preparation even before hitting the makeup chair, of having to tug on a girdle to hold in his gut, stepping into his two inch lifts and putting on his toupee before driving to the studio.
Robert Mitchum on the other hand according to his friend and sometimes leading lady, Debra Carr, often shunned such unmasculine foppery claiming as his excuse an allergy to the stuff, implying such vanities might be more usefully applied to his horse.
Ford made "Wagon Master" with Johnson in the lead in 1950. I had heard that was when Ford blackballed both Johnson and Harry Carey Jr.
That's correct, MrR. Claude Jarman went into detail about it for us in one of his AWOW episodes. Quite the story. Dobe wasn't blackballed, only Ben.
Such a shame Ben would have been great in the Searchers
George O'Brien -- OMG -- will somebody please film A Way Of Life ,Like Any Other -- I see George Clooney as G. O'B. Spoiler alert: I'm a big Ben Johnson fan.
The word is "cavalry", not calvary (which is where Christ was crucified) but I have seen western movies where they use those words interchangeably.
Robert montgomery told john ford
On the set of they were expendable
To lay off wayne about his ww2
Participation!
Or should say non partcipation
Quite right in movie trumbo
Theres an altercation between trumbo and wayne about service
In ww2!
👍
dissension
Ford had a high opinion of his importance. Ben Johnson was a cowboy first and then an actor. And Johnson was a man's man as was John Wayne, who was a close friend. Johnson did not use cursing in his vocabulary, but surely he let John Ford know he was not going to call him "stupid," speak to him like he was a child, or impotent man. Great episode!
Ben Johnson was in the movie Mighty Joe Young, I liked that movie, saw it as a kid.🦧🦧