Barry M. Grey
In a 30-year television career, I've written, produced, or supervised the production of more than 200 hours of programming for a quartet of cable networks -- including an 11-year ride at E! Entertainment.
I've been fortunate to be able to interview more than a thousand actors, directors, producers and other film and television professionals. I've shot programs across the United States. I've even served time with Joan Rivers.
A few years back, I contributed key interviews to the highly regarded 2005 biography Warren Beatty: A Private Man, by award-winning author Suzanne Finstad.
I studied journalism at Northwestern University and earned a Bachelor's degree in English from UCLA, where I was a city editor of the Daily Bruin. I began my career writing TV news for various Los Angeles stations.
I'm most passionate about classic films, but consider myself a generalist with an appreciation for most eras and genres. I'll admit a soft spot for the silent era; my daughter is even named for a silent screen actress.
My suite101 philosophy is simple: I want to give readers just enough information so they can decide for themselves whether to see a particular film. My critical essays aim to describe very generally what a particular movie's about, as well as its underlying themes. And I want to put films in the contexts of the eras in which they were produced.
I don't delve into movie grosses or other statistical ephemera available on fine sites such as imdb. And I won't give away too much about a movie's story or plot points; I ain't no spoiler.
I'm just a guy who loves vintage movies because of the way they tell a story, reveal things about the human condition and also tell the viewer about the times in which they were made.
Latest Articles
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TCM Programming Chief's Admission: "We'll Steal From Anybody!"
In an exclusive interview, the guy who picks the films for Turner Classic Movies reveals his programming philosophy - and how he came to run the joint.
Jan 31, 2012
- Barry M. Grey
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Citizen Kane Anniversary Set a Loving Sendoff For the DVD Format
The latest and best DVD release of Citizen Kane is a feast for Kane-ophiles, although a few of its many goodies are low-rent collectibles.
Dec 31, 2011
- Barry M. Grey
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Obscure Jean Arthur Films a Mixed Bag in New DVD Set From TCM
The only good thing to say about a new set of little-known Columbia titles is that it helps reveal how the great Jean Arthur became the great Jean Arthur.
Nov 8, 2011
- Barry M. Grey
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Silky-Voiced George Macready Excelled as Venomous Movie Villain
When it came to playing suave, scheming society men, few could touch George Macready, one of Hollywood's instantly recognizable nasty "types."
Oct 29, 2011
- Barry M. Grey
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Shack Out on 101 Among the Strangest Cold War Spy Films Ever
If there was a movie genre called Schizoid Cinema, 1955's Shack Out on 101 would deserve a prominent spot in its hall of fame.
Sep 29, 2011
- Barry M. Grey
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The Man Who Laughs a Silent Film Triumph For Conrad Veidt
What if sadistic thugs carved into your face a permanent, macabre smile making you an outcast in every conceivable way?
Sep 4, 2011
- Barry M. Grey
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Harper with Paul Newman a Post-Noir Gem from 1966
When great films of the 1960s are discussed, Harper usually gets short shrift. That's a shame, because this detective tale is easily among the era's best.
Aug 6, 2011
- Barry M. Grey
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Margaret Hamilton: Forever the Wicked Witch From The Wizard of Oz
Margaret Hamilton spent 50 years acting in movies and TV, but she's remembered mostly for a single, iconic and very scary role.
Jul 17, 2011
- Barry M. Grey
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Three Strangers Stars Sydney Greenstreet, Peter Lorre
Not every obscure noir is a classic, but Three Strangers deserves the unofficial honor thanks to an outstanding cast, perceptive script, and taut direction.
Jul 16, 2011
- Barry M. Grey
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Jack Warden an Uncommon Character Actor With the Common Touch
Jack Warden wasn't in every other film made in the last 60 years. It just seemed that way, especially when scripts called for gruff but warm-hearted types.
Jun 25, 2011
- Barry M. Grey
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