Another dream came true last night when I had my second chance to chat real time with one of my idols: Maggie Renzi. I chatted with Maggie the first time when John & Maggie came to Chicago’s Gene Siskel Film Center as part of their “John Sayles Retrospective” tour in 2002. This was the very FIRST interview I ever did as a professional film critic & I was incredibly nervous. I had specifically asked the PR rep to set up an interview with Maggie, but when I got to their suite at the Four Seasons Hotel, John was there too. As I fussed with my tape recorder, Maggie graciously offered me drinks while John sat waiting for his next interview (with me?) in the big arm chair.
Finally, I was ready to begin. What to do? I took a deep breath & tremulously said: “Um, John, did anyone tell you I wanted to interview Maggie today…?” His eyes grew wide & he said: “Would you like me to leave?” Mobilizing every ounce of chutzpah I had, I said: “Um, would you mind…?” And he got up immediately & left the room. Maggie collapsed on the sofa in a fit of laughter. “Was that OK,” I asked with dread. “Oh, Jan,” said Maggie, “I’m sure John’s thrilled to have a moment to himself!” And with that, we were off!
About 30 minutes later John returned to the suite & signed a DVD cover of BABY IT’S YOU for my best friend Dorthea’s birthday gift. (It’s one of her all-time favorite films.) John & Maggie: You are two of the greatest people who ever lived!!! Click here for more on the 10/15 HONEYDRIPPER screening.
