Thursday, August 30, 2007

Joanna Cassidy: From "Anderson's Cross" to "American Standards"

On "Dallas," Sally Bullock, wife of Mr. Eugene Bullock, was smart, shrewd and sexy as she cut a deal or two with the dastardly J.R. Ewing. Sally Bullock also was Ms. Joanna Cassidy, a prolific TV actress of many years. Her gigs have included CBS' "Dallas" follower "Falcon Crest," as well as the short-lived "Dukes of Hazzard" spinoff "Enos." She even did a voice (Maggie Sawyer) on the "Superman" animated series.

Now, Cassidy has several projects going on this year.

"Anderson's Cross," from Illumination Pictures, is written and directed by Jerome E. Scott. Cassidy plays Mrs. McCarthy in the film, which has been making the rounds this summer. The story revolves around the close friendship of three people. Kimmy Robertson of "Twin Peaks" pops up, as a teacher; she was also the memorable voice of Alice in the "Mad as a Hatter" episode of "Batman: The Animated Series," plus a "Batman Beyond" voice.

"Kiss the Bride," scheduled for release next March, has some other big names in it. Tori Spelling, for one, as well as Tess Harper and Robert Foxworth (who reportedly once turned down the role of J.R. Ewing). Cassidy portrays Evelyn in the movie, directed by C. Jay Cox and written by Tyler Lieberman. This one is also a comedy and deals with a longtime friendship / gay relationship.

In "The American Standards," Cassidy is front and center as Ann Jennings, with a nice shot on the film's promo poster. She's joined by James Brolin and Corin Nemec. And when is the last time you saw France Nuyen of that well-known vintage "Star Trek" episode, "Elaan of Troyius"? (And if you say, "As Dr. Chen in 'Santa Barbara,' " you get a gold star! She was the one who helped Cruz escape San Sebastian!) Anyhow, we do digress ... Written and directed by Joe Wehinger, the movie centers around the darker secrets of a seemingly perfect family. The flick was filming a couple years ago in Louisiana, though a release date is not clear. Learn more about the movie at the Skinny Giraffe Films site.

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