Welcome To My Book Blog

A place to update and discuss facts surrounding the controversial, tragic death of legendary Hollywood film actress, wife and mother, Natalie Wood who drowned mysteriously Nov. 29, 1981 off Catalina Island. Thank you for visiting.

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Rebel Without A Cause

Cruz Nite


Natalie and James Dean in Rebel
Last Thurday night I attended our town's "Cruz Nite". held once a month in summer. Our Main Street is historic, so with the cars and surroundings, it can feel as if you are walking around in the 1950's or in a 50's movie like "Rebel". When there, I thought about the famous scene in "Rebel Without a Cause" where Natalie breathlessly starts the drag race. I believe that's the scene that put Natalie on the map of adult stardom...forever!
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4 comments:

  1. AnonymousMay 17, 2011 at 12:17 PM

    Marti,
    Concerning what you wrote previously about being insulted by people on another blog; recently,I learned a beautiful quote by the choreographer, Martha Graham. It is a brilliant insight from a brilliant woman. I think it applies to all of us.

    "There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action. And because there is only one of you in all of time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is nor how valuable nor how it compares with other expressions. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open. You have to keep open and aware directly to the urges that motivate you.....no artist is pleased…there is only a queer divine dissatisfaction, a blessed unrest that keeps us marching and makes us more alive than others”

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  2. Marti RulliMay 17, 2011 at 5:33 PM

    Wow, Kevin, thank you. I needed this! I would be lying if I said I do not become emotional over all Dennis and I have been through since Natalie's death. But emotion has never clouded my objectivity. Hell, I always wanted to write fun fiction books, or even kids' books -- PARTtime! I once loved writing music lyrics, even though I do not have a talented singing voice (but Dylan didn't either, right?)... I always knew I would follow my creative streak, but when in 9th grade, my English teacher told me that she had no doubt I would one day write something serious and important. She said it became more clear to her with every paper I turned in which she always said needed no correcting and hit the mark. She told me she envied me, and she explained how envy is a compliment, whereas jealousy is a threat. I have never forgotten her because she inspired me and still does to this day, every time I think of her. Mrs. Brett.

    But, I never had an inkling that an enormous story such as Natalie's death would cross my path. My previous writing was for newspapers, some entertainment stuff, and then business articles. I believed that was
    "serious/important" enough and I was always content doing it.

    GNGS was the challenge of a lifetime and I knew of only one way to approach it: in as honest a manner as possible through my own experience with the subject and my friend, Dennis. It's true that I always admired Natalie, but I had to learn to know her through Dennis. He made it easy.

    So, sometimes, I still allow my emotions to sometimes react in ways the left part of my brain would never. I think of ways to make this story understood, KNOWN, and ways to help people understand why it's me who told it. When your deepest, most genuine intentions are questioned and challenged, plain and simple: it hurts.

    Then I realize how strong a force this mission has now become, and I remain true to myself, and then others and you go and help me with assurance and comments like yours here, and honestly, my gratitude is immeasurable. Thank you. Martha Graham truly must be brilliant.

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  3. MuirmaidenMay 20, 2011 at 12:11 PM

    This comment has been removed by the author.

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  4. MuirmaidenMay 20, 2011 at 12:12 PM

    Looks like a neat experience - I was clearly born in the wrong decade, as many have told me.

    What you accomplished with GNGS is phenomenal, you and Dennis opened up a door that Wagner tried to keep nailed shut forever. Finally, there are some who come right out and question what really happened that night, who researched and put so much effort in getting justice for Natalie. Some may have dismissed it with a "why bother all these years later" but the passing years does not take away the importance. Having admired Natalie since I was a teenager, and having heard the "official story" on her tragic death, I just had a feeling there had to be more to it. I'm so grateful to have gotten a copy of GNGS so I could find out for myself. It couldn't have been easy to work on, with everything stacked against you, and I'm sure it was painful for Dennis to relive that night over and over again. But I really think the truth will prevail, and that is in very large part to you and Dennis. I'd like to think that Natalie is smiling down on both of you.

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