Memories, part one
December 12, 2007Use this post’s comments to post your own memories of Sam.
I remember talking to Meghan Dowd about various filmmaking books written by directors. I was in love with one written by David Mamet.
She talked to Sam about it, and he said that that book was okay, but crappy. That I should read the book written by Sidney Lumet. I did. He was right, it was great. (Though I still love the other book).
What are your memories?
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I’m an old friend of Sam’s from high school. He told me to read the Lumet book as well, it was great. He also recently told me to read ‘No country for old men.’ A man of impeccable taste.
I don’t know who put this site up, but thanks for doing so. I just found out tonight, still trying to put words to it.
My love of movies came from Sam’s love of movies, which came from him watching Star Wars too many times as a child. The first time we hung out, he introduced me to Dr. Strangelove, because Ransom was sold out. Strangelove was definitely better.
I wasn’t a close friend of Sam’s but I always admired him and enjoyed time spent with him. He was definitely one of the smartest people I’ve ever encountered in the business, with great taste and a unique perspective. I am sad to see him go and know that he will be missed by many.
I sat next to Sam at Broder for nearly two years, while we both toiled away as lit assistants. Sam was an extremely sensitive, thoughtful guy who was always there as a confidant and sounding board. He was definitely in the film business due to his love of movies and nothing else. His end-of-year review e-mails and his countless script and film recommendations were just two of the many ways he professed his love for the big screen. I’ll remember grabbing lunch with him often, hitting up parties, and seeing Adaptation. I’ll also remember the countless sports arguments we got into, most lighthearted, as he was a Philly fan and I a New York one. Sam, wherever you are, our thoughts are with you.
Sam directed me when I was a sophomore and participated in NSTV at Northwestern. I admired both his acting and directing talent and aspired to be just like him and direct NSTV as a senior, which I did. He made me feel at home and organized a fun group of friends that I would spend countless hours learning from and laughing with.
I’ll never forget how patient he was when Dave and I couldn’t get through one of the sketch comedy scenes and we had to do over 20 takes. He made working on the show fun, even when we were under pressure. I wish we’d kept in touch. We miss you, Sam.
I can’t say that I knew Sam very well. In fact, Saturday night December 8th I was suppose to have dinner with him and play a spirited game of Cranium.
My name is Ellen. Rhiannon and I have been best friends since the 3rd grade, and she spoke so highly of your Sam.
The memory I have to share was at Rhiannon’s birthday dinner on November 11th. We all went to her favorite restaurant, Fritto Misto, and I had the pleasure of sitting across from Sam. About halfway through our dinner Rhiannon catches my eye with the twinkle in hers and quietly whispers, “so what do you think of Sam…isn’t he great!” Sam politely pretended he did not hear this and continued to eavesdrop on my positive feedback…”you seem so at ease…he’s so funny…I really like him!” Before Rhiannon could drill me for more feedback Sam’s face turned red – busted! He smiled modestly and gave me a nod for my approval.
I was really looking forward to our double date that Saturday night, but am finding some peace in knowing that my best friend is in good hands wherever they may be.
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