Oscar winner Sidney Poitier (1927-2022) talks about the 1st movie he ever saw! A WESTERN! R.I.P.

Sidney Poitier was a Pioneer! No, not pulling a horse-drawn covered wagon and heading West pioneer, but a true Pioneer of American Cinema. From very humble beginnings, Sidney (Feb 20, 1927-Jan 6, 2022) was raised in the Bahamas with no plumbing or electricity. Overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles, Sidney Poitier became a much honored and respected actor and role model. In person, he was a charming man and storyteller who electrified any room with his presence. He was an inspiration. In 2004, the Golden Boot Awards Committee said they would be honoring me in August of that year. I was thrilled and honored, of course. Did I have a suggestion for my presenter? YES! Sidney had shared a personal story with me of his very first film going experience. It happened when he was 10 1/2 years old and it was a western! He had told me the story with joy in his eyes and a rollicking, infectious laughter in his voice. I knew I wanted him to be my presenter and to share that story with the packed room of western fans who would attend the annual charity event, which raised monies for the Motion Picture and Television Fund and Hospital. Knowing of our common love for western movies, I asked him if he could spare the time from his busy schedule and he quickly accepted. It was a wonderful, unforgettable night! I don't think I've ever been as nervous as I was that night. Sidney's introduction left me speechless. His movie going story, as I knew it would, filled the room with laughter and love of a favorite genre. When Sidney began directing movies in 1972, his first choice to helm was a western, BUCK AND THE PREACHER, co-starring his long time friend, Harry Belafonte. His autobiography is entitled "This Life." I hope you enjoy Sidney's amazing, true story of a young boy discovering, for the first time, movies and the magic of cinema. Memories that we all still cherish. On January 6, 2022, Sidney passed away peacefully in his sleep at home in Beverly Hills with his wife, Joanna, by his side. We remember him with fondness and are grateful for the amazing body of work he left behind. Condolences to Joanna, Sidney's children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and all of his many friends and fans. Rest in Peace, my friend.

This video excerpt from the GBA was directed by Michael Emerson, produced by Pat Curtis.

Видео Oscar winner Sidney Poitier (1927-2022) talks about the 1st movie he ever saw! A WESTERN! R.I.P. канала A Word on Westerns