Garry Marshall - Actor, Director, Producer

By: Dino-Ray Ramos

Garry Marshall: Actor, Director, Producer—He Does it All

Garry Marshall is the successful director of films like "Pretty Woman" and "Beaches." He can also be recognized for his various roles in films like "Never Been Kissed" and in his sister Penny Marshall's film, "A League of Their Own." Probably his most popular roles have been as a writer for the classic television sitcoms like "Happy Days" and "Laverne and Shirley."

Marshall has been often dubbed as one of the best "chick flick" directors in Hollywood. His most recent film, "Princess Diaries II: Royal Engagement," is a follow-up to the first film that was released in 2001. This past year he also directed "Raising Helen" starring Kate Hudson, which will be released on DVD on Oct. 12.

With such an impressive resume as a director, writer and actor, it's plain to see why Marshall is so successful. Of all that he does, he feels that writing is at the top of his list.

"There's no better satisfaction than writing," Marshall says. "I feel that writing is the best and everything else comes with it."

Marshall's specialty genre of family/women-oriented story lines can become challenging considering all of the popular films laden with special effects, high-energy action and gore. Although it may be true, he tends to look in his own interest when making a film.

"I enjoy making films that personally interest me. Something with a good story that I want to tell like in ‘Raising Helen,'" he said. "I think film has evolved so much technically. You can do anything with movies these days. A lot of movies have not evolved story-wise. Americans like to watch movies about themselves, people who are like them — that's why reality shows are big. Stories need to evolve more — stories about loyalty."

When filmmaking comes to mind, Marshall tends to stray away from the goal of a blockbuster smash and gaining millions of ticket sales. Instead, he takes the low-key road and focuses on the story.

"It's a very tricky business. I made ‘The Other Sister' and ‘Frankie and Johnny' and those weren't big blockbusters. I don't like to make films just because they are going to big at the box office," he said.

The movie "Raising Helen" reiterates his belief on the premise and importance of story. Marshall says that it's about how to raise children, which is a big part of society. With its upcoming DVD release, Marshall tends to see it as a good second chance for the film.

"I love DVDs," he says. "There are a lot people with an interest in what goes on behind the scenes. They find it very interesting."

Not only has Marshall worked with Kate Hudson in "Raising Helen," he also worked with her mother, Goldie Hawn in the 1987 film "Overboard." His roster of A-listers keeps on going with Julia Roberts, Richard Gere, Bette Midler, Rosie O'Donnell, Diane Keaton, Juliette Lewis, and many more. Even though he's worked with tons of actors, there are still some that he would enjoy working with.

"I love Natalie Portman and Katie Holmes, they're both great. I would love to work with Jodie Foster more than anything."

Garry Marshall's voice can be heard in the upcoming animated feature, "Chicken Little" and he can be seen in the comedy "Lucky 13" next year. He also is on board to direct an opera in Los Angeles this fall.

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