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With my awareness of passages heightened by a turbulent year, I was moved to compile a list of all the amazing players who have left us over the past twelve months. Some were big movie stars and household names, others skilled and reliable featured players who spent most of their careers on the stage or television. 

Quarantining over these past three months has made me appreciate even more those elements of everyday life that give me comfort and joy at home. Among them, listening to music ranks high.

Over this tumultuous period, I am forcing myself to disconnect every once in a while — turn off my device, close my eyes, breathe deeply. This springs from my simple belief that in crazy times we must stay sane. Summer certainly helps. The flowers, the sun, that Vitamin D. A jump in the water, if you’re lucky enough to be near water.

There’s little question that director John Ford and actor John Wayne forged one of the most successful and enduring partnerships in the history of movies.

Back in 1988, The Film Society of Lincoln Center held a gala tribute for Yves Montand, one of France’s biggest movie stars, whose own story would rival any of his films for interest and color.