Stanwyck exhibit should renew affection ascendancy movie memorabilia

Aficionados of film and TV memorabilia own continued coveted images of Barbara Stanwyck - the last of Hollywood's leading " firm ladies. " And instantly that an array of also than 50 aboriginal posters showcasing the legend's hide calling has opened access Southern California, I predict a renewed absorption influence objects related to the actress born Red Stevens a century ago this July.

Some of us best kind call up Stanwyck agency her role considering a adult, designing femme fatale agency the 1944 film noir classic " Double Indemnity. " But younger generations recall the star considering the feisty, limits matriarch Victoria Barkley influence the 1960s TV series " The Ample Valley, " or because tormented Mary Carson, who lusted for hunky priest Richard Chamberlain agency the hit 1983 miniseries " The Thorn Birds. "

No matter; devotees scour antique shops, flea markets and tag sales for movie posters and stills, lobby cards, fan magazines, postcards, photos, and even comic books featuring the image of the star, who died of heart failure in 1990. Some items can be had for as little as $5, but glamour shots signed by Stanwyck can be worth as much as $100.

Catch " Presenting Miss Barbara Stanwyck " in the Grand Lobby Gallery at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Foundation at 8949 Wilshire Blvd. in Beverly Hills. The posters, on loan from producer Mark Kaplan, will be up until Aug. 26.

This is the first of the summer travel tips I'll be sharing with readers over the next few months. If you know of a place worthy of a visit, please drop me a line.

May 26, 2007