Murphy's Romance (1985) PG-13

[Mme. Defarge]

7. My mom and stepdad

managed a motel on the Long Beach Peninsula in Washington State during the 1980’s, where Harriet (Hank) and Irving spent their summers until they found some beach front property to buy. They adored my mother, and deservedly so, and, because of that they were very accepting of me.

In the early ‘90’s they invited the two of us to be their guests at their home in the Hollywood Hills. I’ll never forget the dinner party they had, which included the British film director, Jonathan Lynn and his Lithuanien, pagan, and psychotherapist wife, Rita. Shortly afterwards, his film, My Cousin Vinny, hit the theaters.

I still can’t believe I really had that experience.