Amsel's lost art: THE ROSE / Remembering director Mark Rydell

Sad to hear of the passing of director MARK RYDELL, who died today at the age of 97. He made such films as THE FOX, THE REIVERS, THE COWBOYS, THE RIVER, and ON GOLDEN POND.

Rydell did two films with Bette Midler, FOR THE BOYS and THE ROSE -- both of which earned Midler Oscar nominations.

The latter film remains especially powerful, particularly due to the gravitas and personality Midler poured into the role. The superstar seemed to understand the character's heartbreak and desperation so completely, I can't help but wonder where the line between life and art was drawn. It's a challenging film to watch, but riveting at the same time.

My mother was a particular fan of the title song. We played it at her funeral, but it left me so emotionally devasted, I have hardly been able to listen to it since.

Richard Amsel did a number of sketches and designs for the film, but in the end, the posters featured photographic montages.

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