The 10th Anniversary Ebertfest begins tonight in Urbana-Champaign. It is with some melancholy that I write these words on a legal pad in a hospital bed in Chicago. After consulting with my doctors, I have decided it may not be prudent to try to make the journey today with a fractured hip.
Sigh. I was really happy with this one. The films, the guests, the friends. Chaz, Nate Kohn, Mary Susan Britt and I had all the pieces in place. The only tweak I didn’t have time for was a proper full-length review of “Shotgun Stories.” It was on the to-do list. What I’m using now is what I wrote after seeing it at the Chicago Film Festival. The rest is almost a turn-key operation---the little festival that runs itself, with the help of countless volunteers.
It’s hard to express what it means to me that the festival is in my hometown. People never seemed to think I quite had a job. “And how is Roger?” my mother’s friends would ask. “Is he still just… going to the movies?”
Illness has been playing an unwelcome role in my life these days. After unsuccessful surgery in January, I ended up back in the friendly confines of the Chicago Rehabilitation Institute. Graduating from there in good shape to attend Ebertfest, I went to the wonderful Pritikin Longevity Institute for more exercise. I was there one day and -- whoops! -- my shoe caught on a rug and I fell and broke my hip. Nobody’s fault.
A broken hip adds to my tour of medical adventures. My current plan is to take it easy, obey the doctors orders, and start writing reviews again.
In the meantime, my heart will be in Urbana. Old friends like Bill and Carolyne Nack, Richard and Mary Corliss and Barry Avrich and Hannah Fisher will meet new ones. Chaz will be the Emcee. Again, David Bordwell and Kristin Thompson will add their gravitas and wit to the proceedings.
My “Ebert & Roeper” colleagues Richard Roeper and Michael Phillips will be on board. And damn, I wish I could be there for Michael Barker, Christine Lahti, Tom DiCillo, Paul Schrader, Timothy Spall, Rufus Sewell, Bill Forsyth, Ang Lee, Joey Pantoliano, Aida Turturro, Farmer John, Tarsem Singh, Jeff Nichols, Eran Kolirin and the great designer Eiko Ishioka.
But there will be the sad absence of Dusty Cohl, who the festival is dedicated to.
Jim Emerson, the editor of this site, will be blogging from Ebertfest for rogerebert.com, and also check out the blogs of David Bordwell, David Poland, Lisa Rosman and Peter Sobcynski. I will.
Roger you are missed! Get well soon!
Scott, Toronto, Canada
Roger, you are sincerely an inspiration to me in the world of film and criticism. Your sheer determination to do what you love will forever motivate me for this field! I wish you a full and restful recovery and can't wait to keep reading...
Roger,
At the age of 60 I've lost track of the number of years I've relied on your opinions and insights. Keep fighting to come back soon, and don't get mentally down which is easy for anyone to do who gets tired of being held back. You should be working your way up out of the medical valley at this point for another good 25-30 years.
For inspiration, maybe you can come up with a few dozen movie quotes to be plastered on the walls of the institute for everyone to use as motivation.
Rally
You're a good man to follow doctor's orders, and even better for you're love of film. No illness can destroy that.
I have nothing to offer except my sincere hope that you get well and feel better soon.
Best regards,
Matt
Get well soon Roger.
Still your happening!
This year I'll only have a chance to take in the films on Friday afternoon and evening (I've had to arrange a teaching substitute in order to see _Underworld_); but I'm hugely grateful for the chance you've given me to do so.
The festival has not only been a pleasure to attend for the last few years, but has helped protect and restore the beautiful Virginia Theater, which has continued to screen films and host performances throughout the year.
You're right up there in the pantheon of Illinois cultural forces, along with Hef and the late Mark VanDoren, and we hope to see you back again sometime very soon. Next year at the latest!
Get well soon Roger! We need you back out there for good!
Robert, New York, NY
You are the great master of movie reviews. Take it easy and get better soon. :))))
It's hard wanting to be somewhere you can't. :-( But I do hope that you are in good spirits. My mom is recovering right now from surgery (cervical cancer); to hear you are doing as well as can be for the situation is to hear happy news indeed.
Of particular interest perhaps... the Drama League Awards, according to press notes, "pay tribute to the season's best performers by honoring the nominees of The Distinguished Performance Award on a dais." The 74th Annual Drama League Awards dais will feature dozens of performers from the 2007-08 Broadway and Off-Broadway season, including the honorary co-chairs. Rufus Sewell is among the actors to be honored for his performance in the Broadway play Rock 'n' Roll.
- Joseph (uber fan)
I know you'll get better, there's no way you'd miss Indy 4.
In my teenage years, when the family still planned large trips, we booked a house in North Carolina right on the beach. My Grandfather, who was battling prostrate cancer for some time, was looking forward to the trip and its promised escape more than I can imagine, he fell and broke his hip in the bathroom the morning of. House booked, various family members en route, there was no rescheduling. As an avid questioner I found in my Grandfather a wealth of information that never failed to stimulate great thoughts, from the trip to the Wright Brothers museum, to surf casting and the sharing of new jokes found over the summer, his absence from these events made our presence lesser. Get well Roger an Ebertfest without Ebert seems a mean trick.
-wjp
I wish you a quick and full recovery Roger. Your words over the years have been inspiration for readers and critics alike.
Aaron- Van Nuys, CA
Dear Mr. Ebert,
I am a big fan of your reviews! Even when I have no intention of seeing a certain movie (though I see plenty) your reviews are always entertaining in their own right. I also love the Bigger Little Movie Glossary.
Are you allowed to watch movies at the Rehabilitation Institute to catch up or is that considered too taxing? Get well soon!
Dear ER,
We all know your soul is there at Ebertfest.You know, "where the mind is without fear, the head is held high.... "(Tagore).Into that heaven of freedom, you are always awake. Mere absence of your body in Ebertfest will not affect the glory of the festival. You have a bunch of real jolly goodfellas, not to mention Chaz, Jim, Hannah et all.
Cheers !
We're all still praying you big guy. :) I'm happy to see you on the blogosphere. Welcome! And all the best!
Hi Roger,
We'll miss you. I'm on the road, having stopped overnight in Kentucky on my way to Urbana for the film festival. We'll take good care of Chaz and all the guests and hope that you are able to join us later in the week.
Best wishes on your recovery
Don
Huntsville, AL
Roger: I am so sorry you and your wife have this new challenge to contend with. I have loved your reviews ever since I heard you and Gene discuss "The Return of the Secaucus Seven." I don't feel I have really seen a movie until I hear from you. The festival next year will just have to be extra special. Thank you for continuing to write and my best wishes are with you.
Dear Roger,
Best wishes and may all your dreams come true. Everyone is thinking of you and wants all the best for a special guy like you.
Thank you for starting a blog! It is an excellent addition to your amazing body of work. I wish you success and improved health.
Ebertfest won't be the same without you. A family member called to tell me that you would be absent from this year's Ebertfest, and upon hearing the news, sadness crept over me.
Last year, although you were unable to speak, your presence spoke to us. Your love of the festival was shown because your face shone. Your love of Champaign-Urbana and Ebertfest makes ME and other attendees happy and fulfilled.
I am so sorry that you had a mishap and landed back in the hospital. You are wise to stay close to the hospital personnel assisting you for the hip surgery and rehab so that you may recover safely and more quickly. How about a web-cam appearance this year--to give us two thumbs up to let us know you are okay? :-)
You will be missed by each and every person involved with Ebertfest, but we will do our best to make this year's festival the best yet, out of respect for you.
Our hearts are with you there in Chicago just as your heart is with us here in Champaign-Urbana.
All the best.
MK
Dear Roger-
I am very sad that you will be unable to make it this year- and even more sad that you can't make it due to being injured. I have cherished Ebertfest for the past 4 years and always feel very close to everyone who attends as we always share a common understanding and appreciation for the art on the screen and the discussions that unfold after each film. Your contribution to the CU community provides us with the opportunity to appreciate the diversity of art along with each other. It also creates a foundation for which we can move forward with a different take on life after having seen a film we may not have picked up as a rental or seen on our own.
It is always wonderful to have your face and thoughts on stage and in the crowd and I hope you know you will be sorely missed this year. As your heart is in Urbana, our hearts and thoughts are with you wishing you the speediest of recoveries so that you will be back together with us next year!
Sincerely,
Mollie Holman
Get well soon Mr. Ebert. The age of Superhero Movie crossovers may be coming and it needs you to be there.
Best wishes to you, Roger. And a belated thanks for the mention in your "Married Life" review.
I went by the Virginia Theater early this morning where Jim Emerson was talking about the festival with Channel 3. In some way, you were there, too, as you will be throughout the festival, whether in the flesh or not.
The best to you as you recover. :-)
Judy (Cyberfest)
Get well soon. :) We're all praying for you. Godspeed.
Roger,
Wishing you a full and speedy recovery. Keep fighting the good fight! I have fond recollections of my days in Urbana at the U. of I. and I still recall a brief email exchange we had about film, oh, 15 years ago now. You're an inspiration.
Cheers, Matt
We LOVE YOU Roger!! Get well soon please! =P
First: continued best wishes. I cannot wait until you are writing regularly again. My weekly Friday ritual has been missed.
Second: Bill Forstyh! The Scottish director? I submitted an answer man question to you about the time you first became ill wondering whatever happened to him. He made so many wonderful movies then...nothing. Any information on what happened and the prospects for his return would be very welcome.
Best of luck on your recovery and we look forward to reading your reporting from next year's festival.
Man I mis your reviews Roger.
Best Wishes and a speedy recovery!
Ugh! How heartbreaking. You have my sympathies regarding your new "medical adventures". Just keep moving forward, making the most of the life around you. And with all the love and support surrounding you these days, that should not be too difficult.
Rest up friend.
John
Atlanta, GA
To: Ebert's heart
Bring a friend when you come to Champaign; ours will all be in Chicago with you! Thanks for the festival and all the amazing writing! Next year Raja!
Hi Roger,
I'm sorry to hear that you're not well and won't be able to attend your film festival this year. Hang in there! My dad (who's older than you) fell and broke his hip last year, and he's up and walking around again, just as good as new.
I wanted to let you know that you've been an inspiration to me. Your enthusiasm for great films led me to watch movies by Kurosawa, Lean, Ford, and so many other great directors. It's because of you that I've developed my own love and appreciation for films, and I can't thank you enough for that!
I wish you all the best and a speedy recovery!
To: Ebert's heart
Bring a friend when you come to Champaign; ours will all be in Chicago with you! Thanks for the festival and all the amazing writing! Next year Raja!
You are an inspiration to me, Mr. Ebert. Before too much time passes, please do a review of Hayao Miyazaki's "Castle in the Sky" (Known in Japan as Laputa: Castle in the Sky.) That is one of his best films and I would love to read your commentary on it. Take your time, recuperate thorougly, and get well soon! You are in my thoughts and prayers. Too bad I can't go to Ebertfest, though! Also, when I went to an impeachment rally two years ago, I mentioned two of your quotes and several documentaries you reviewed, and a couple kids in the front row gave you the thumbs-up! God bless you and yours, and all your friends.
Get well soon. This is just a intermission for you. The second half will be twice as good.
So many people "out here" love you, Roger, and send you our love and best wishes! You are such a courageous person to share yourself with us when things are not always thumbs up--thank you for inspiring me to make the most of every day like you do!
God bless you and your family!
Feel better soon, Roger. You will be missed this Fest, but your spirit will be in everything surrounding the place, from the dazzling lights of the Virginia marquee to the excited murmurings of guests waiting to enter the theater. Thank you for choosing such wonderful guests. We shall put them to good use...
I know it must be painful (literally) to miss your own film festival, but your health and longterm well-being has to come first. Feel better soon.
Looking forward to new reviews from my favorite film essayist...
Roger -- I have had a picture of you and Gene as my screensaver for years! You're looking up toward the screen from your old TV studio set.
Please get well soon! I wish you and Chaz all the best! I love your writing -- have all your books! Thank you for everything!
Hi, Roger,
Please get well soon. I've been a big fan since the earliest days.
Hi Roger- You rank right there with Mike Royko in my list of all-time favorite Chicago columnists. Your reviews are certainly worth the price of the paper. I especially like your reviews of the bad ones - they allow your natural wit to shine through.
Good luck with the recovery.
Roger, you are an inspiration to all writers and lovers of film! I will be cheering you on throughout your recovery!
Mr. Ebert: Nobody with any sense volunteers to be in a situation that would permit them to earn the designation of "inspiration" through their misfortunes, but you ARE an inspiration and a great source of admiration not just for your insights (nothing new) but also for the depths of character and courage which your illnesses have either developed or revealed -- probably a little of each.
It's safe to surmise that EVERYBODY who has been exposed to you is rooting for your recovery, for your continued optimism, and for the privilege of someday getting to shake your hand. All the best to you and to those who are there to support (and be supported by) you. But, you don't need my best wishes. You've got character and wisdom.
Roger, argh, very sorry you have to deal with another medical adventure. Thank you for being an inspiration through it all ... your insights, as always, are a source of strength and wisdom when it comes to both movies and to life. Have been dealing with CFS for a while now, but I always repeat to myself what you said ... being sick is no fun, but you can still have fun when you're sick! Yup. You are so right. Thanks for all and wishing you all the very, very best of healing, recovery and fun wherever it can fit. I am hoping to make it to an Ebertfest one day and am also hoping that by next year's fest, you will have long felt much, much better. Have missed you on TV, but thrilled you're feeling up to writing. Nobody does it better!
Roger. As a newspaper reporter and a fan of your reviews, I wish you a speedy recovery. I met you at a book signing one day about 15 years ago at a Chicago, North Suburban book store. I informed you that my brother had seen the 1960 epic, "The Magnificent Seven" nearly 80 times. And you, per my request, signed your latest book, a birthday present to my brother with, "Bill. I heard you've seen The Magnificent Seven nearly 80 times. Get a life! Roger Ebert". A priceless memory.
Hope you're doing very well, very soon. With everyone else, I'm thrilled to see that you have a regular outlet for your fine writing. Looking forward,
Daniel
Minneapolis
Dear Mr. Ebert,
Best wishes for your recovery. I can't tell you how many wonderful movies (past and present) you've pointed me to through your reviews. I've long admired your writing style as well. Take care and hang in there!
Roger, You are in our thoughts, especially here in Champaign-Urbana this week. I'm looking forward to attending Ebertfest for my first time. Thanks for all your work and dedication, encouraging and making possible great film experiences for the rest of us! Be well.
Get well soon, Roger. Your presence is sorely missed in the film world. I'd love to hear your thoughts on a number of films that are coming out soon.
I've only now just discovered your on-line journal. I hope these words find you as well as can be, and I look forward to many, many more entries to come. Thanks.
Roger, I am sorry you can't be with us, but you're here in spirit! I have only been attending Ebertfest for four years, but I knew after being there the first time that I would never miss it again. It's good that you're not endangering your health, but we'll certainly miss you! Your positive attitude is inspiring, and I'm sending you all my best wishes. See you next year!!!
Sorry to read about the latest medical escapade. Follow your own advice..relax, listen to the docs , get better and get back to doing what you do best. Every week I check rogerebert.com in the hope that I will again see a slew of reviews with your byline on them. Jim Emerson is a terrific critic and writer in his own right and I enjoy his work , but let's face it- there's only one Roger Ebert. Get well soon!
Sorry to hear of your accident; I've been a fan since "Siskel and Ebert" and I have always valued your insight into the world of cinema and look forward to more of that insight when you have recovered...soon I hope.
Best Wishes
MS
Roger, without you I would likely not know who Errol Morris is or about one of the greatest films of all time, "Gates of Heaven." Take it easy and I look forward to seeing a review from you of "Standard Operating Procedure."
Roger,
I've always regarded you as the preeminent critic and respected your reviews. I am also hoping for your quick recovery. Glad to see that you've got a blog up so we can post these. It's always been a regret of mine that I didn't write to Gene Siskel (who I was also a huge fan of) before his passing. You guys were such a great team, somehow remaining spot on even when in disagreement.
Lc
Roger,
Very sorry about this recent setback. I know you'll be up and around soon. I'm a long-time fan, I still have a copy of your movie reviews that you signed for me at the Virginia Film Festival back in 1993.
Take care,
Ken.
Most people in your situation would say they have a cloud over their heads. I am amazed at how together you are. I am glad you will be reviewing again and grateful the Internet allows me to read your reviews. Regardless of how you feel about a film, I can always tell from your review how I will react. I wish you could teach that, but I suspect it is instinct or natural talent. Good health to you.
Roger, I know you probably don't remember me, but I have interviewed you twice and e-mailed you once in a while and you have been kind enough to reply back. I wish you godspeed in your recovery and my wife and I will say prayers for you and Chaz. I can't wait to see your reviews again. And, although I am in Florida, we would help in any way to ensure that things go smoothly for you and your wife. You have been an inspiration, and when I go to Chicago some time in the September month, I will pick up my Friday Chicago Sun-Times and read your reviews out of a physical newspaper and not something printed online. There is something precious and dear about the tactile feel of a real newspaper that has always been with me since I was a writer in high school. I'm sure you would agree. Again, best wishes and may the Lord bless you and your wife.
Dear Roger:
I have relied on your opinion to either "back me up" on my own opinion or explain plot lines, or sway me over as to WHY I should enjoy that film when I thought I didn't...the first thing I do after I watch a movie is look up your review! I have been watching movies ever since the time when I had to set an alarm clock for 2:30am to make sure I caught 'All About Eve' showing on channel 5 on a Sunday morning when I was 10 because my grandmother said it was a very good movie and I would enjoy it. Please get better, some of us out there who have an immense addiction to all types of films rely on you...no pressure or nuthin' :) I too know what it's like "to be stuck in bed" alot. Some of us truly NEED YOU.
Get well and take care Roger. We all love you. Glad to read your words again these past few weeks!
Drove again from Toronto, the 10th str8 year, to attend your film festival, which is my favorite week off, second only to our own film festival. You'll be sadly missed. I was planning on yelling out from the back of the balcony (love the back) EBERT 4 PREZ!!! since we didn't have enough nerve to do it 4 years ago. And look what happened because of it!
Picked up our passes today, and we could hear the run-through of Hamlet, and it got us so pumped.
Take care Roger, get well soon, and don't worry, we'll eat enough Steak 'N Shake for everyone! Hmmmmm.....if in sight, must be right.
feel better roger
i am praying for you
BIG summer movie season coming....
i hope you see IRON MAN on a dvd or some special screening room
I've always wanted to attend Ebertfest, but as it's a bit of a drive from Tulsa I've yet to do so.
In any case, I'll be there in spirit as well, and you (and Chaz) will be in our prayers.
We love you Roger. All of Chicago will celebrate when you are up and rolling again. Meanwhile, may the positive thoughts and well wishes of millions of movie lovers speed you in your recovery.
Dear Roger,
I have enjoyed your writing for years and before that your weekly movie review show. Such an unfortunate accident to miss your own fest in your own hometown. How wise you are to share your wisdom journey. Thank you for the gift of your art. May overflowing glasses of love offer you sustenance in this latest health challenge. Namaste.
Dear Mr Ebert,
I am saddened to hear of your latest health challenge. I wish only the best for you and yours and hope your stay at the Rehab Institute is short. Please do everything the nurses say (I'm a nurse) to avoid any other hazards of immobility (sorry, but I'm a worrier, too). This is probably not the best place for this, but I have been meaning to write to you re your review of A Walk on the Moon (couple years old now)--you couldn't be more wrong about that film! I read your reviews to either validate my own take on a film or to see what I missed in terms of appreciation. You have taught me much over the years--but you're wrong about that one film! :)
Roger,
Keep watching those movies from your bed. You are doing the right thing. You need to get reviews out instead of partying like a rockstar! There's probably a movie that you are supposed to really see instead of going. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ic8ChgV3IRM Review this while you are laying in the room. Let me know if you think it has any potential.
Take care of yourself and watch movies!
Dear Roger,
I'm very sorry to hear about you missing your festival in Urbana-Champlagne. That's a real shame. Look forward to your speedy recovery.
R.E.,
I had the honor of sitting next to you while screening Citizen Kane at the SCAD theater in Savannah Georgia. We talked for a while during and after. You were kind enough to give me several minutes of your time. I asked if you replied often to e-mails, and if you responded yourself or if they were sent via-auto-mailer. The one that stuck out the most to you was a letter I had sent reguarding Steven Spielbergs purchase of the Kane sled. Come to find out, you had replied to all 5 of my e-mails that I had sent to the movie answer man column. In fact, every letter I have ever sent.
That speaks a lot of your character, and further reminds me why I have so enjoyed the 12 years that I have been reading your reviews.
I know this may sound selfish (in a good way I hope) but, I am counting on you to get well again so that one day my films will garner an Ebert review, either make or break. It's a goal of mine, and has no doubt become a terrible cliche' that you are exhausted of hearing. Such as, as you mentioned in savannah, "Do you ever change your mind about a film after you have reviewed it...?"
Extremely long story condensed to the readers digest version: This is a thank you letter, for your years of service to the art and structure of good stories. Also, for the time you have devoted to one aspiring knucklehead. Just know you are in my prayers, and I will leave you with one piece of advice: Your hip is Calligula with a touch of Freddy Got Fingered - A sinister downer that must be defeated! If that doesn't motivate you, nothing will.
Best,
A.H.
Roger,
Wishes for a speedy recovery. I will be enjoying Ebertfest with your cousin Tim, whom I went to school with. I have known im for 20+ years, and are still good friends. We will miss you, but we know that your heart will be with us all who attend. Get well soon Roger.
Roger,
Wishes for a speedy recovery. I will be enjoying Ebertfest with your cousin Tim, whom I went to school with. I have known im for 20+ years, and are still good friends. We will miss you, but we know that your heart will be with us all who attend. Get well soon Roger.
Roger,
Thank you very much for all your year's of advice.
A little something I wrote for a Zine review of Beyond The Valley Of The Dolls that I just finished.
Like many people of my generation Roger Ebert has been a profound influence on my life as a film geek. I may have taught myself to love film, but Ebert taught me to be an explorer. How to mine a director’s oeuvre like a rich vein of gold, how to push myself past my comfort zones and watch films that dared to challenge me. He introduced me to filmmakers like Werner Herzog, Ozu, and Truffaut, and taught me how to truly see filmmakers that I loved like John Ford, and filmmakers who I hadn’t understood before like Altman.
He also taught me how to write, with clear eyes, a generous heart, and the least amount of pretension I could manage. While I would never claim that I’ve been anything but a poor student, I always try to keep those elements in whatever I write.
And lately he’s been teaching me how to live with dignity, humor, and perseverance. For those of you who have been in space for the last couple of years, after a disastrous surgery, tough recovery, unsuccessful second surgery, and now a broken hip, Ebert has endured. Far from shrinking from his calling, he’s now writing more then ever, having just started a blog, from his hospital bed. Yes in circumstances that would have probably broken me down into a weeping puddle of goo, Ebert has become a beacon of strength and courage.
Since I started religiously reading his reviews, eagerly awaiting each Friday and Sunday, Ebert has been a kindly and patient mentor. Despite the fact that the only personal contact I’ve had with him was a very kind email he sent to a sixteen year old kid whose “Answer Man” question did not quite make the cut, Ebert has been a huge influence on what I write and who I am and I can be nothing but thankful, for everything he has done for me.
Roger,
Wishing you all the best and a speedy recovery. I've relied for years on your comments to build up my DVD library here in India. I sorely miss your reviews!. They are simple and insightful and a great help to so many movie-lovers.
Get well soon!
Raj Gandhi, India
Welcome at long last to blogland, Roger.
May your hip heal quickly, and may you keep coming back. Stay serene.
I've been watching your reviews with Siskel on YouTube from the early 1980s.
Right now you are reviewing the classic "War Games." I also saw where siskel gave "The Karate Kid" a marginal thumbs up. I love listening to the guy, but many times he's completely off the mark.
Marginal? And saying "The Karate Kid" is too long?
A movie critic's job is tough though, because you can't agree with everyone all the time. If your favorite film critic and you are agreeing 70-80% of the time, that's a high rate.
But even when I disagree with you, I love your brilliantly insightful reviews. I've seen films I completely disagreed with you on and then read your review and thought, "His review is dead-on, even though we disagree."
I used to tape all your shows and my friend and I would watch them together and have such a great time.
And I think it's hilarious how Siskel would give also any film with dancing in it a thumbs up. Like "Lambada." That's a classic review.
Dear Mr Ebert
I have been a great fan of yours since back when you and the late Gene Siskle debuted with your television program on PBS which I faithfully watched. I was a young woman who adored movies (I always said I would be happy to climb into a black and white movie and live there!)..and now am a bit longer in the tooth, and now living in the UK.. But I still read your reviews courtesy of the internent.
My English husband says: "IF Roger doesn't like it.. we won't like it!"
I wish you well Mr Ebert, hang in there and know what a profound influence you have on so many film fans and film students.
Your Mom is proud of you!
I have been feeling guilty about the greedy reaction I've had to your medical troubles. My first, kneejerk reaction is that if you are in hospital, you won't be able to enlighten my perspective on the films I have seen (and hundreds I have not) with such witty, elegant and often profound prose.
My immediate second reaction is that I am amazed at the strength of a person who would continue to work, in spite of such troubles, to satisfy my own selfish consumption of his writing. I also know that this type of writer, the rarest type of writer, must feel passion equal to his strength. And so, I'm making the trip from Indiana to Urbana-Champaign to pay homage to such a man, one of the finest writers in America today, and one of the few American icons whose truth we can depend on.
Dear Roger,
Let me just say that as a far of movies, I've loved reading your reviews, they can sometimes offer great insight, and even when I would most vehemently disagree with you, I'd still find an interesting take on the subject. Your writing has always been worth reading, and I hope you keep it up for a long time to come.
Best wishes, Karl
I'm truly sorry to hear this, Roger. You are an inspiration to cinema fans all over the world, and we wish you a speedy recovery from this latest setback. Your eloquent words have been much missed by your readers.
Holy jumpins! As they say around these parts: if you didn't have bad luck you'd have no luck at all. Have they prefected hip transplants yet? Because you can have mine - i haven't been hip for years.
Of course, the silver lining of any convalescence is: reading! I had a vasectomy last year, and was laid back for three days and all I could do was read. I told my wife: I think I'll get a vasectomy every year.
All the best, Roger. Worldwide goodwill must have some positive effects, if not on the hip then on the heart.
God speed a complete and total recovery, Roger Ebert. All the best to you and yours.
Thank you, (and to Gene Siskel as well), for giving movie critics the attention and publicity they deserve. Without critics all people would have would be commericals and word of mouth to know how good a film is. Thanks for Rottentomatoes.com, the movie critic website as well.
I'm not much for sentiment or even empathy, but I've always enjoyed and respected your writing and warm personality. I sincerely hope that you recover completely and are able to do what you love. Mr. Ebert, so many people care about you and wish you well. It's a sign of tremendous respect and appreciation.
Take care,
Xander Pennock
Keep your chin up Roger. My Dady was rushed to hospital at the exact time you went in in 2006 when his aorta blew and he was very lucky to survive. In March he again went in for an aneurisym on the artery to the kidney. So I have an idea how you feel.
Keep writing those great reviews. They make my week.
Best wishes
Linda
I sure hope you get to feeling better. Maybe it's high time one of these science fiction films came true and we could invent time travel. Young Roger might get quite a kick out of meeting present-day Roger. I loved your commentary on Citizen Kane, ever thought about recording your own podcast commentaries on films that we could download?
Get well soon.
Kevin
First, let me say I'm so sorry you won't be able to make it to your festival this year. You will be missed. But I'm so happy you're blogging!! I've been a fan of yours for years, first through the TV show, (which my parents still refer to as "Sneak Previews",) and later through your print reviews online. Reading your new reviews has been a Friday ritual of mine for a long time, and I've sorely missed them during your absences. I'm thrilled that you have a new venue for your writing, (and I hope we can expect some new reviews soon, as well.) Feel better, and know that there are a whole lot of people out here pulling for you :).
Dear Roger:
Simply put, you are an inspiration and a hero to those who respect and cherish the sacred dignity of the human spirit and the divinity of the creative soul. Get well soon, this sad little planet needs you!
I hope you get better soon and that your luck turns, because we miss you!
Take care and all the best,
Cybele
Your faithful readers, fans and friends know that your heart is with the festival. But everyone wants you back in the best shape possible which will take some time. Get plenty of rest and godspeed on your recovery!!
To: Roger Ebert - Okay, I just read about this somewhere and zoomed over here. Honestly, this is getting ridiculous. I actually gasped out loud and my shoulders sagged. We who read you, also get sick with you. Sick of the cancer, sick of not having your reviews to read, sick of your high spirits and insights not being on the television show. And now this. It's too much. I am now absolutely not going to see the new Iron Man movie because anything that film offers would pale in comparison to someone who is obviously the real Iron Man. And that would be you: Mr. Ebert. Seriously, I am just so deflated. I wish there were something I could do. Do you have a favorite charity we can donate to? If I lived in Chicago, I'd volunteer to drive you around and to push your wheelchair to screenings. But I know you've got the fabulous Chaz for that. Oh boy, is this rough news. Good luck and please - no more. I know you must be thinking the same thing. Any gallows humor you can share? Be healthy.
So many talented actors own their careers to you - Amy Adams, Angela Bassett, Whoppi Goldberg...pushing hard and promoting their performances before anyone else. You have insight and passion that doesn't seem to exist with today critics. So many sellouts and stroking Studio crap - You are the only true blue critic we have. Get well soon big dog - Film lovers and talented actors need you.
Michael
Mr. Ebert-
I am very glad you continue to maintain a postive outlook and attitude despite setbacks in your recovery. Reading your reviews and watching your show has become a weekly ritual for me. I still look forward to reading your reviews as soon as they hit the web. Your writing has taught me alot about cinema and even alot about life. Despite the bum hip, your most vital tools are still in working order and that is great to hear.
Best wishes,
Andrew Lapointe
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Good Luck Roger. And get well soon. We all miss you.....
Dearest Roger,
I'm so glad that your loyal, devoted wife, Chaz is carrying on your duties as the chairwoman of Ebertfest, and I'm sure she is doing it well. I know you have been through so much these past two years, and no matter what, you keep plugging through. Everyone knows that you are an inspiration. Just think - Chaz, Richard Roeper, Michael Phillips, Gene from heaven above looking down at you, Gene's family are all there for you and so are all your loving, devoted fans.
With love from a fan,
Jill
Roger,
At the age of 28 I have grown up reading your reviews and trusting you as the most trusted review a film have. Your name will live in the industry for as long as the industry lives itself.
Love and Happiness~
Greetings Roger!
Very sorry to hear of this mishap.
I'd like to add my voice to the many others who have paid tribute to your wonderful ability to ignite passion for movies (and by extension, life) through your brillaint writing.
From your friends in Nova Scotia, Canada, who consider you one of the greatest Americans of our generation, have s safe and speedy recovery and know that you are very much loved.
Chris
If you're looking for a film that will cheer you up right now, here's my prescription: watch Tom Selleck in Folks! (1992). Although I doubt you have the family troubles Selleck's character endured in this film, the physical calamities that befall him go from the "ridiculous to the sublime" until there's nothing left to do but laugh.
I do hope you're able to keep your sense of humor about this latest moneywrench, not because it's funny, of course, but because I know from personal experience that sometimes laughter can get you over some pretty tough stuff.
Take care, and know how much you mean to many folks who have never met you in person, but feel they know you from your wonderfully one-of-a-kind film reviews.
Kathleen
Mr. Ebert,
Few people inspire me - but you do: I think you're brilliant.
I am soo sorry to hear that you broke your hip! I was just wondering why all of the reviews on your website were by Jim Emerson... I hope you feel better soon! Speedy recovery! We love you!
I've always suspected that exercise is bad for a person. Sorry that you confirmed my suspicion.
Bummer about not being able to make this year's Festival; is it too early to start planning for next year? Thanks for the reviews past and those still to come.
Roger,
I've been keeping up with everything to do with the Film Festival this year (and the last few years) through my sister-in-law Betsy Hendrick (well, that is Jim Hendrick is my ex, so does that make her my ex too?). Every year I think I may be able to attend the festival but its always the same week that is one out of two weeks that I make most of my living selling my artwork (through our Open Studios here in San Francisco)- I hope someday to be famous enough or rich enough not to have to worry about Open Studios in April.
This year Betsy has brought my brother and his family over for the Film Festival. I am delighted that they will get to know a little piece of Champaign Urbana through the eyes of Betsy and your festival. What a great welcome to the US. They will be coming to visit me in San Francisco next week and so I'll hear all about Timothy Spall, et al and all the films.
Jim Hendrick is also visiting Champaign for the week, so the whole gang's there.
I just wanted to say thank you keeping these movies out there - I've always been a great fan of independent and/or overlooked movies.
Take care of yourself and I wish you a speedy recovery.
Regards,
Irene Hendrick
As a person of about your age who reversed your life journey (I grew up in Chicago and live in Urbana) I have always felt a bond of sorts with you and followed your career.
As a casual moviegoer, I knew your reviews were written for me and not the New York literati. The background information you wove into your writings enabled me to appear smarter :) and the "thumbs up" style reviews you and Gene Siskel initiated changed the way all critics had to approach film.
Thank you for the festival.
Roger Ebert, for years you have been my window to the world of new movies. When you went out of commission (shortly before the release of A Scanner Darkly, for which I was eagerly awaiting your review,) the window just closed. I've never really transitioned to another window. Until you come back to us, so many films will pass under the radar.
EBERT RESPONDS: I'm back.
I just found your blog by a random search for movies to download and came across it. I'm glad I did! Great site and love the nice clean design. Nice reading too.
I'll be a regular for sure :-)