Stillwell has a plan
Episode Three: Preparation
Trying to create an original subject for a display was always a pleasurable past time. So much reading and researching became an enjoyable quest for knowledge. To discover information and link themes to develop a montage for the central display. On occasion the subject matter would be stumbled upon by accident and this would lead to an altogether different end product.
While dusting a row of titles, Stillwell picked up the cover of a 1965 film that would work well for the next major theme. A theatrical production, filmed at the height of fame of one of the main stars. A completely different style for this major film star, casting aside his fake hair for the first time to produce a subtle and restrained performance, whilst content for his fellow actors to take on the greater roles within the story. While deciding to promote this finely crafted black and white character study of men, both prisoners and gaolers dealing with the motivation of fear, an idea was forming to expand the promotion.
Studying the production credits for this harsh and brutal tale, a number of connections made it clear that a far superior display subject would be the creation of something memorable about the director. It was then a case of deciding which of this prolific director’s titles were available within the store, so a true representation could be assembled and offered, in celebration of this New York based directing maverick.
There were the main and most successful of his films already placed within the shelves and racks, but gaps in the director’s catalogue of work would require diligent searching.
How far back should he go? Start with ‘12 Angry Men’ which was released in 1957 and then work forwards. How many titles should he use for this new idea? He checked his inventory on the shop’s computer, then physically checked the stock he had out on the shelves and in the rear storeroom. He added up his list and was pleased that he could create a suitable tribute to this director, quite often overshadowed by others.
The older films in black and white would sit well within the collection, which would stretch to the 1990 release of the film ‘Q and A’. This major figure within cinema was known for his ability to direct at least one film a year. From over 30 films directed, Stillwell had fourteen titles to offer his customers. Additional marketing material was ordered which included original theatre posters and the habitual reviews and comments from various magazines, interpreting and deliberating on the quality of the finished product and the intensity of the drama. Major stars had been keen to work with this film maker. Some actors had made more than one film with him. Sean Connery had made four and it was the first of these that Stillwell had picked up that had caused him to adapt the display as an homage to the director and not just the film choice.
Tributes to him were sincere and plentiful after his death in 2011. Some stated that it was how he worked with his actors. The ability to get notable and great performances from the stars he used. Others were keen to summarise how he was the quintessential New York City director, one of the great chroniclers of the city. One star chose to mention how beyond the lens he was one of the most civilised humans and kindest of men. Martin Scorsese was quoted as saying, ‘Our vision of the city of New York has been deepened and enhanced by classics like ‘Serpico,’ ‘Dog Day Afternoon’ and above all the remarkable ‘Prince of the City’.
Working hard to carefully deconstruct the old display had taken time. The film posters were stuck to the walls with that sticky rubbery adhesive, strong enough to keep them up, but not too permanent, that they became damaged when removed. All the old material was carefully rolled and placed in cardboard tubes, labelled with their title, or folded and placed in a loose-leaf folder and then in a plastic box. A black marker pen describing the contents on the lid. The boxes were all airtight and when returned to the stock room, they were stacked along the back wall in such a way that each title was clearly visible. This material could form part of a future display, especially if, as in this case, the original subject matter had morphed into a different tribute piece altogether.
Once the wall space and other display stands were clear, it was necessary to clean the area. The faint marks from the sticky gum were removed with a damp sponge and the racks and stands were wiped clear of any dust and debris. Once completed, it was then time to create the new feature. A return to the rear of the premises and the extensive cardboard tubes revealed posters that would provide the backdrop he was looking to develop. He selected the ones he wanted and as he was affixing them to the wall, he wondered if any of his clients would see the connection.
The creation totally absorbed Stillwell. Every time he changed his main display, the construction of a new one became a passion. Something that he was committed to and not necessarily reliant on the approval of his customers. He always welcomed their affirmation of an interesting and thoughtful montage, but it was personal to him. The sales would naturally follow, because he understood his frequent visitors and their need for something more obscure. They wanted something to focus on once they entered, something to spark debate and build rapport with the quiet and taciturn proprietor.
The diligently researched and artistically created promotional wall also served as a yardstick of client suitability for Stillwell. To either converse in good natured badinage with his knowledgeable clientele or to watch the uninitiated fumble and fail to comprehend the visible test placed in front of them, if they had been foolish enough to enter his premises. A rare chance to indulge his most sinister and malevolent tendencies, as these crass individuals revealed their movie inadequacies.
He always started early on the morning he was to create a new display. The time savoured to get everything just as he wanted it. A final walk across the floor of the sales space to the door. A turn to look at the new visuals created in those past few hours. A slight nod of approval to no-one but himself, then once more to unlock the door and flip the sign to ‘Open’ and walked back to his counter and the comfort of his padded stool.
Today Stillwell muttered, “If you love a man’s garden, then you gotta love the man”, a slight grin, then he opened his notebook and began to write once more.
