The highs and lows of Hollywood
ROAMING THE GRID
One of the most famous intersections in the world: Hollywood and Vine. Photos by Tom Victoria
By Tom Victoria
Hollywood is where stars are made and dreams are dashed.
Creative projects are born in the Los Angeles neighborhood, which is the site of such entertainment juggernauts as Capitol Records and Paramount Pictures.
The glitz and glamor of Tinseltown is tempered by the reality of artists vying for work.
The headquarters of Paramount, the film production company.
Actor and model Shayne Pax, who is based in Los Angeles, summed up the famous locale.
“Hollywood is a dreamlike urban sprawl that is entirely what you make of it,” Shayne said.
Fellow thespian Caleb Lowell cited the highs and lows of the city overall.
“The city will show you what’s possible, the heights and depths of human achievement,” Caleb said. “I find who I am more and more each day in the City of Angels.”
The iconic Hollywood sign is a historical landmark.
Walking along Hollywood Boulevard, one can see the stars literally. The Walk of Fame, which extends to adjoining roads, showcases the famous with their own stars.
Among the many stars is the one recognizing a major star of the early days for cinema. Buster Keaton gained fame during the silent film era as a comedian specializing in physical comedy.
Along with contemporary celebrities lined along the edges, the middle rows highlight classic Hollywood, including the fiery intensity of Kirk Douglas, the exceptionally talented Sammy Davis Jr., the iconic Audrey Hepburn and the influential Marlon Brando.
The TLC Chinese Theater hosts one of the largest movie screens in North America.
Hollywood also boasts historic music venues such as the Hollywood Bowl and Dolby Theatre, where the Oscars ceremony is held.
Musician Drew Taylor described the renowned neighborhood.
“Hollywood is a hypnotic dream — heaven for some, a nightmare for others,” Drew said. “Between the facades and the riches, one thing's for sure: all that glitters isn't gold. The greatest truth about trying to make it in this town? Trust no one, don't be too kind, and remember - nothing comes for free.”
The Capitol Records building is a 13-story landmark on Vine Street. Below, the Hard Rock Cafe and the Dolby Theatre are attractions along Hollywood Boulevard.
