Marshall and the Movies

Today, “The Origins Project” focuses on Branden of “Foolish Blatherings.”  He has been a great commenter since November when he discovered this blog through my review of “Precious.”  He stepped away from the blogosphere for a few months in the spring for training camp in the military, but now he is back in full force.  Needless to say, we are all glad to have him back.

What movie began your love affair with cinema?

It would have to be “Brokeback Mountain.” I wished I had my blog back then to tell about the visceral expierence I had when I saw that film at the local indie theater in town. The line going around the building, the theater being packed, completely sold out, everybody going on a journey with the characters.

When did you starting blogging?

I started writing for “Foolish Blatherings” in September 2008.

Why did you start blogging?

A couple of my friends had their own movie blogs and I loved reading their words about the movies they have seen. I wanted to get my opinion of movies myself. I decided to give it a try. I’m glad I did.

What has kept you going?

I think what kept me going in the dialogue that I have with fellow movie bloggers. The comments kept me motivated to continue to evolve and make my writing better.

Has there been a particular person (or people) that has helped you along the way?

I think being a part of LAMB has opened my eyes to different people and different styles of writing. We support each other even if we disagree on certain things.

What’s the best part of being a blogger? The worst?

The best part of being a blogger is having my work out there for tens of people to read and enjoy. The worst thing is the stigmata that bloggers have. People think that the word “blogger” is bad word. Grouping everyone into the Perez Hiltons of the world. I don’t think it’s fair.

Has blogging increased or diminished your passion for movies?

I believe that blogging has increased my passion for movies, because it pulls me to movies that I might not get the chance to see if I wasn’t blogging. I’m very grateful for that.

What’s your proudest moment as a blogger?

My proudest moment is when a friend of mine, Tassoula — who writes her own movie blog — recommended me to write an article about Kathryn Bigelow and her success with “The Hurt Locker.” I was honored.

What advice would you give to someone looking to follow their passion? To someone starting a blog of their own?

My advice would be to make absolutely sure that you are ready. Do you have a thick skin? When you put my opinions out there, people will give you nasty comments. You have to take it with a grain of salt. If you could set aside that, then you could be a movie blogger. You never know what opportunities could be around the corner if you do take that step.