There are some major perks when living in LA. The culture here is so cool and laid back. The people are creative and exciting. And the city is near some of the country's best beaches. Though personally, for me, as a lover of film, the biggest perk is Hollywood itself!
After finishing art school in New York, I fulfilled my dream of living in LA to pursue my film career. Though it hasn't materialized just yet, I did get a nice apartment near Hollywood. And every day, I get to walk around the city that houses the industry's giants. Academy Award winners, acclaimed filmmakers, and more—I felt that I was in the precipice of greatness. There was even one time I will never forget. A somewhat chance encounter with someone I have long perceived to be the "King of Hollywood." It was none other than Clint Eastwood.
I say 'somewhat chance encounter' because it wasn't really that sudden. I knew where he was going to be and I went for it! You see, I heard from my neighbors that the industry icon was going to film a few scenes for his new movie in our area. So I knew that this was perhaps my one and only chance to get to see the star and possibly asked for his autograph. On the day of the said shoot, I gathered up my copies of the movie poster for "The Outlaw"—my favorite Clint Eastwood film—and went to the place where they were shooting.
I saw the great 'king' at his finest. Directing his actors, keeping up the crew's morale, and simply paying homage to the craft. During one of the breaks, a few people—myself included—headed over to where he was. Security was tight, and for a while he was ignoring us. However, he must have realized that if he didn't do anything then, the noise wouldn't stop and it would disrupt their filming.
After he heaved up a heavy sigh, he went on over to us and signed whatever we gave him. Some lucky fools even managed to get a few selfies with the guy. He didn't pose or anything like that, they just held up their phones and snapped away even though he wasn't looking. And Eastwood looked pissed! Heck, even I would be if someone did that to me.
That's why, when I got close to him, I simply asked for his autographs on my poster. As he wrote on them, I told him how much he meant to me and how much he has inspired me to further my film career. He only patted my back and went on his way.
To this day, I haven't forgotten that pat on the back. It was a small gesture, but it meant a huge deal to me. The "King of Hollywood" patted me on the back! That was insane!
Please note: Our inventory is limited as we may have only received a few posters in total. Most of our items are obtained from film premieres, studios, and from autographed hounds such as the one in the story above.
