The Unforgettable Characters Behind the Scenes of a Comedy Classic
The world of comedy often thrives on the eccentric personalities both on and off screen. During the making of a recent film, several individuals truly stood out, leaving lasting impressions on everyone involved. Let’s delve into the stories of a few remarkable figures who contributed to the magic.
The Devoted Marianne: A Fan’s Unwavering Affection
One caller, more memorable than even the famously high-pitched Erik, consistently brightened our days. Every time she phoned, she’d exuberantly declare, ”HOWWWAD! IT’S MARIANN. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!” A playful squawking crow sound effect always accompanied her calls.
Remarkably, even a seasoned camera assistant, typically unfazed by celebrity, was entirely starstruck by Marianne’s infectious enthusiasm. Her genuine affection was truly captivating.
Larry “Ratso” Sloman: A Cultural Force and Unexpected Connection
Larry Sloman, known affectionately as “Ratso,” played the role of Marty’s uncle, Murray, in the film. This nickname wasn’t self-proclaimed; it originated with none other than Bob Dylan.
During Dylan’s Rolling Thunder tour, Sloman relentlessly pursued an interview. After three weeks of sleeping in his car and foregoing basic grooming, Dylan tapped on his window and greeted him as “Ratso!” Sloman, initially thinking he was being compared to Dustin Hoffman, was quickly corrected – dylan was referencing Midnight Cowboy’s iconic character, Ratso Rizzo. The name stuck instantly.
Ratso is far more than a memorable nickname, though. He’s a true cultural beacon, a prolific writer with a remarkable career.
Here’s a glimpse of his notable body of work:
* Autobiographies: He’s penned the life stories of mike Tyson and Howard Stern.
* Biographies: His subjects include Harry houdini and Anthony Kiedis.
* Tour Chronicles: He documented the legendary Bob Dylan Rolling Thunder tour.
* Hidden Contributions: He’s also contributed to numerous books without receiving formal credit.
Interestingly, Ratso was the one who introduced me to Penn Jillette.He and Jillette shared a connection through their mutual friendship with Al Goldstein. I first encountered Ratso at a national Lampoon book festivity at the New York Public Library.
The event was rather dry until Ratso took the stage. He captivated the audience by reading excerpts from a fabricated TV Guide, injecting much-needed humor into the proceedings. It was a truly unforgettable performance.
These individuals, with their unique personalities and contributions, exemplify the vibrant spirit that fuels the world of comedy. They remind us that behind every accomplished project, there’s a team of fascinating people working to bring joy and laughter to audiences everywhere.
