Tampa Film Fan

roger ebert gets star on hollywood walk of fame

Roger Ebert is going to get a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on June 23. Also, the city of Chicago plans to declare July 12 “Roger Ebert Day in Chicago” and dedicate a plaque in his honor at the Chicago Theater. A much-deserved tribute to a lifelong film lover who has been successful at what so many others dream of — writing and talking about movies for a living. I’ve always found him to be a little pompous and arrogant, but a few months ago I read his book The Great Movies and changed my mind. The Great Movies is a collection of Ebert’s reviews of certain “great” films, which makes for an entertaining read. But his absolute, committed, passionate love for film came through so strongly that I couldn’t help but like the guy. He is also interested in the filmgoers’ viewing experience and is able to recall when and where and with whom he saw certain movies. He’s a strong supporter of non-Hollywood type movies — classics, foreign, independent. Of course I can’t pass up this opportunity to give a “thumbs up” to Roger Ebert and those giving him these tributes.