I am more than thrilled that we have this picture of my Dad, James Anderson, and Muhammad Ali. This picture was taken during the filming of the movie “The Greatest” as my Dad shot scenes playing George Foreman.

Set in a post apocalyptic world, The Book of Eli gives us a look into what could be the desolate and raveged post war world.  Here’s the deal, If you are expecting non stop action scenes with a lot of drama, this is not the movie for you. Notice I did not say you shouldn’t see the movie, but the pace, story  line and action are gradual.  “Eli” is one of those movies that you really need to pay close attention to, very close! There is a message in the madness, can you figure it out before the end? Without giving away the details, all I will say is stay focused, and listen closely.

Kudo’s Denzel Washington & Gary Oldman, who both give great performances.  I was also very impressed with Jennifer Beals who may deliver the best performance of them all. I would suggest you see “The Book of Eli”, I enjoyed the movie, but I’m not jumping up and down about it…either.

From the opening of the movie we see the lucky dancers that were chosen to dance with Michael on tour pouring out emotions while explaining how much of a “blessing” it was to be in his presence.  If that isn’t awesome power, then I don’t know what is.  Most of you are accustomed to seeing Michael from just an entertainer’s standpoint, but the way that he corrects his band when he doesn’t feel the “funk” proves that Michael was a perfectionist.  It’s going to be hard to not sing and dance in your seat while you’re watching this movie.  He rehearses such classics as “You Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin,” “Thriller,” “Smooth Criminal” and “Beat It” just to name a few.  You’re going to be amazed when you see Michael dancing on that stage as well.  I can tell you this: he did not look a day over 25 when he was on stage moving like the Michael of old.  His singing was like the Michael of old as well, although he did pull back at times because he wanted to “save his voice.”

Seeing the way that the pyrotechnics and the short films were going to be done, it’s extremely upsetting to know that I had a ticket to this grandiose event but I won’t get to ever see it.  The way “Smooth Criminal” and “Thriller” were going to be presented would have had us talking about this concert for months and years to come.  The make up on the zombie dancers for the “Thriller” segment was reminiscent of the classic video we all know and love.

He then went on to show his earth-conscious side with the performances of “Earth Song” and “Man in the Mirror” He laments about how we as man are destroying the earth with our constant pollution of the environment.  There’s a pretty strong message there folks.  All in all, I suggest that you ALL go see “This is it” for the sheer entertainment value, the nostalgia and to keep Michael’s memory alive in our hearts and minds.

My family has been around Michael Jackson for a long time, as our Dad James Anderson worked with, and for MJ for a number of years.  Here are a few of the pictures we wanted to share of happier days & tours with MJ.

Late 70's at Muhammad Ali's Training Camp. MJ & Dad on the right end.

Dad & MJ during "Bad Tour".

Backstage of the Jackson's Victory Tour with Sugar Ray Leonard

Of course, with Michael Jackson, everyone has there own thoughts and opinions about his life, how he lived it, and what he was all about. We dug one of those opinions up deliverd by none other than George Carlin, in his own words, summing up his feelings on Michael Jackson.

Prince

The Family with Ali at Deer Lake in 1978

The memory never escapes me: the phone rang at our house, and I picked up. I knew who it was immediately, but my Dad was unusually quiet. I remember asking him what was wrong, but I already knew: Muhammad Ali had just fought Larry Holmes. My Dad didn’t really say much, but we all watched the fight and it was painfully apparent Ali should not have been in the ring. I asked my father how he was doing; Dad was stoic, but he said “I never wanted to see this.” Larry Holmes had been a member of the family; he was a reliable and skilled training partner with Ali for years.  In fact, everyone who worked for Ali was family; Holmes was no different. This fight, and how it transpired, hurt the entire family. Muhammad Ali never gave up in any fight, ever. That toughness, pride and determination kept the aging Ali standing for the worst beating he had ever suffered. Every member of Ali’s staff felt those punches, and my Dad was no different. The words were slow and deliberate, but very clear out of my Dad’s mouth that night. He was hurt, he hurt for Ali, and he would never forget the Champ’s face after the fight. The pictures would come next. I remember vividly seeing post-fight photos because it was the first time in my life I had seen tears in my father’s eyes. Everyone who knew and cared for Muhammad shared the same experience that night. They all knew Holmes was going to be tough to beat, but they also knew Ali’s heart. In that heart there was a belief, or a hope, that he could pull off an improbable upset. On this night, and in this fight, that heart wouldn’t fail Ali, unfortunately many wish it would have.

In this picture, Dad is getting Ali ready to train.

Never far, Dad watching over Ali as he trained for the Holmes fight

We could not blame Larry Holmes, though; he was a great champion in his own right who earned his standing. Larry was in his prime, and Muhammad was 38 years old, clearly past his. Eight million dollars could tempt anyone, and when you’re Muhammad Ali you always find a way to win, right? Ali knew what to expect, and Holmes knew Ali. The rest is history….

Ali, Ringside of another fight before he decided to fight Holmes. Dad (standing) in the sunglasses, watching over Ali as usual

A few months ago, I was sitting in my office and my Dad called. He wanted to tell me about ESPN’s planned special on the Ali/Holmes fight. Apparently they wanted to speak with many of the members of Ali’s staff to discuss that fight and the events surrounding that night. My Dad rarely talked about that night, but he was willing to discuss his thoughts and feelings about the events surrounding that fight. Unfortunately, he was battling cancer, and fell ill. My Dad would eventually die in April, and was not able to participate in the special. Watching the special brought back many feelings and memories, and the few times in the footage I saw my Dad it was surreal. I will never forget the experience of being at Deer Lake, Ali’s training camp. The footage of the camp, and Ali’s interaction with everyone there was amazing. There will only be ONE Ali. On many occasions Ali said that he only wanted to be surrounded by the best; my Dad was the best. I wanted to share some of the stories surrounding the fight, because my Dad cannot. We are fortunate to always have his memory, and blessed that many of his experiences with Ali were photographed as well.

Dad in what would be his signature cowboy hat as Muhammad ate before training

My brother Jay, Larry Holmes & Me a few years after he defeated Ali. My Dad took this picture. Still a family, Ali would have it no other way

Here are a few clips from ESPN’s 30 for 30 special on the Ali v. Holmes fight.

A strong bond 30 years later. Ali would sign this picture for my Dad: "The Best to the Greatest"

Thanks for taking the time to read this post. Writing it brought back a flood of memories that I was happy to share.  Losing my Dad only a few months ago, the emotions are still raw, but what a life he lived protecting some of the Greatest ever.

J*A*M

The trailer gives you a pretty good idea of the premise of this movie, but trust me you will not be prepared for the sheer determination both of the lead characters display in defending their respective positions. For me, there is a select group of actors & directors that automatically get my attention based solely on a history of entertaining films, F. Gary Gray is definitely in that group.  The director of Friday, Set It Off, Negotiator & Italian Job once again proves he delivers cinematic quality.  Starring Jamie Foxx & Gerard Butler, who deliver good performances, this movie weaves an emotional and sophisticated plot that should keep you reaching for the next clue. This is NOT comedian Jamie Foxx, he is serious, even stoic, which was really nice to watch since we are so used to Jamie’s humor dominating.  Butler on the other hand is known for his intensity on camera, this film plays to his strengths. Butler is every bit as intense in this film, as the character everyone loved in 300. Expect to take a hard look at, and around , the dynamics of our the legal system. I don’t want to give anything away, but towards the end, I really didn’t know who I was pulling for?

I recommend this movie to all, and if you have kids, be prepared for more of a emotional experience with the familial plot aspects.  See this one, and let me know what you think?

Oh yeah, they blow up and shoot shit to with a gnarly collection of weapons! That’s always cool to see, especially when it actually applies to a good plot!

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