Last Chance to Visit Film History: The Shalimar Diner, Used by Martin Scorsese, to Close
Another famous Queens location says goodbye.
It's no secret that Martin Scorsese, a fellow Queens-bred New Yorker, is fond of the borough he grew up in. With that admiration has come several cinematic moments of seeing Queens "landmarks" projected onto the big screen, most famously via the since recently closed (due to fire) Goodfellas Diner in Maspeth, a diner that changed to its current name due to fans of Scorsese's Goodfellas consistently coming in to visit the booth where Ray Liotta and Robert De Niro had their infamous lunch meeting in the 1990 film.
Now comes the unfortunate news of another prominent Queens diner's closure, one that was featured in Scorsese's The Wolf of Wall Street just five years ago and is set to close its doors for good this Friday, November 25th. As first reported by QNS, the Shalimar Diner, in continuous operation since 1974 (the year of release for Scorsese's Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore), is saying goodbye to the neighborhood due to rising rent prices.
The Karayiannis family opened the restaurant after arriving in the area from Greece and subsequently opened up two other New York eateries, one on Queens Boulevard and one in Manhasset.
Below is the scene (featured in the first two minutes of the accompanying video) in which the Shalimar Diner is featured in The Wolf of Wall Street, a crucial exchange given its serving as a meeting place for the two lead characters. Is it fate that brought them to the Shalimar (in the film labeled the Kacandes Diner)? If it is, it turns out to be a dark one indeed.
The Shalimar Diner is located at 63-68 Austin Street in Forest Hills, New York if you would like to visit before it closes this weekend.
And for some extra kicks, here's amateur video footage of the scene at the Shalimar Diner being shot.
What's your favorite Martin Scorsese filming location? Let us know in the comments below.
10 Storytelling and Directing Tips Inspired by Akira Kurosawa
Learn from one of the greatest directors of all time.
In the pantheon of cinematic greats, Akira Kurosawa stands as a towering figure, a master storyteller whose influence transcends time and borders. His works, characterized by their epic narratives, exquisite visuals, and emotional depth, continue to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike.
Kurosawa's unique approach to directing and storytelling has become a subject of study and admiration. As we explore the wisdom distilled from his illustrious career, we find timeless lessons that go beyond the confines of genre and culture. These principles serve not only as a blueprint for aspiring directors but also as a testament to Kurosawa's enduring legacy in the art of filmmaking.
The Humanistic Cinema of Akira Kurosawawww.youtube.com
1. Trust Your Gut
'Rashomon'
Credit: Everett Collection
Kurosawa emphasized the importance of a director's intuition. This suggests that when faced with creative decisions, it’s often valuable to listen to your gut feeling. This could mean choosing an unconventional shot or narrative direction that feels right, even if it challenges traditional methods or the opinions of collaborators.
2. Study The Masters
Akira Kurosawa working with a cinema camera on the set of
Credit: BFI
By examining the works of great directors, one can learn various aspects of filmmaking, such as shot composition, pacing, and storytelling.
Kurosawa himself was influenced by filmmakers like John Ford and Jean Renoir and believed in the value of understanding their techniques to refine his own work.
3. Collaborate With Your Actors
Credit: BFI
Actors bring characters to life, and Kurosawa believed in giving them space for interpretation. This includes working closely with them, understanding their perspective, and allowing them to bring their own creativity to their roles, which can result in more authentic and compelling performances.
4. Planning is Paramount
Akira Kurosawa's manual splicing
Credit:
Detailed planning and storyboarding were key to Kurosawa’s approach. He would often sketch out every shot before filming.
This level of preparation ensures that every visual element serves the story and can help in executing complex scenes more efficiently.
5. It's all in the Details
Akira Kurosawa on the set of ‘Yojimbo’
Credit: Film Magazine
In Kurosawa’s view, the minutiae of a film—such as the costumes, set design, and props—were crucial in creating a believable world.
Attention to these details helps to immerse the audience and can subtly enhance the storytelling.
6. It's Okay to be Silent
'Throne of Blood'
Credit: Toho
Silence can be as powerful as dialogue or music. Kurosawa harnessed silence to build suspense and convey emotion, using it to draw the audience in and focus their attention on the visual storytelling.
7. Learn From Mistakes
'High and Low'
Credit: Toho
Kurosawa was not afraid to recognize his own mistakes and saw them as learning opportunities. This principle encourages a mindset of continuous improvement and resilience in the creative process.
8. Keep a Handle on Emerging Technology
'The Hidden Fortress'
Credit: Toho
Always curious about the latest developments, Kurosawa integrated new technologies into his filmmaking. This openness to innovation can lead to new ways of storytelling and can give a unique aesthetic to films.
9. Maintain Your Vision
'Dreams'
Credit: Warner Bros.
A director must have a clear vision for the film and remain true to it throughout the process. This can sometimes mean resisting studio pressure or popular trends to create a work that is authentic and personal.
10. Let Passion Guide You
'Seven Samurai'
Credit: Toho
Kurosawa’s passion for filmmaking was evident in his dedication to his craft. This principle suggests that great art comes from a place of deep commitment and enthusiasm, and that passion is infectious, often inspiring the entire cast and crew to strive for excellence.
In honoring Kuroswas's legacy, we continue the quest for storytelling that resonates, transforms, and endures. For filmmakers and storytellers looking to craft their own masterpieces, let Kurosawa's spirit guide your cinematic adventures.
May your films be as bold, as beautiful, and as profoundly human as the ones he left us.
Now go make something.