It’s time again for another episode of Shagbottom Theater!
August is the time of year that makes me think of home. It might have something to do with my dad’s birthday during the month, or the horse racing in my hometown (though I do not support it), or maybe it’s the shifting weather–semi-hot to fall. I’m starting to think of apple season, too!
When Fionn and I reflected on what Grant film we were going to choose for this month, in his year long homage to the late-great film star, Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House is the perfect fit. There are many echoes to hear here from all our lives, and it reverberates with the ideas of home and fatherhood.
I really like this story because Poppy built our home, finishing it just in time for my arrival. There was a lot of work involved in the process, too. My dad is no Jim Blandings, however. He built the house with his hands. Certainly, there were workers–those who poured the foundation and other heavy work. My dad has always been a capable carpenter, plumber, electrician, and automotive mechanic; one handy fella.
Mr. Shagbottom thought he would pay some respect to both Mr. Grant and his Poppy because of these things. So without further ado, let’s have the understandably frustrated dad, Mr. Blandings…
Jim Blandings: It’s a conspiracy, I tell you. The minute you start they put you on the all-American sucker list. You start out to build a home and wind up in the poorhouse. And if it can happen to me, what about the guys who aren’t making $15,000 a year? The ones who want a home of their own. It’s a conspiracy, I tell you – -against every boy and girl who were ever in love.
Source: IMDB.com
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