My Joel Schumacher story.

Back in the late 90's, I went on the Warner Bros. studio lot tour. Our group was checking out a soundstage when I saw a tall gentleman with kinda wild hair walk by behind us.

Now I was that nerdy kid who actually knew who directed what film...

So without hesitation I blurt out:

"Excuse me. Aren't you Joel Schumacher?"

The man stops and looks at me. I'll never forget the look on his face. He seemed genuinely delighted to be recognized by some random kid on the lot.

His response:

"Yes, I am. And who are you?"

And at this point I'm tongue-tied that a big time Hollywood director even cares who the heck I am. I wondered if all directors were this friendly.

Joel and I had a bit of small talk. Can't remember the details 'cause I was in awe.

The rest of the tour group soon wandered over and by the time Joel mentioned that A TIME TO KILL was being released soon, the others caught on that he was a man of some importance. He was heading to work on the next BATMAN.

We all wished Joel good luck & he carried on his way.

For the rest of the day, all the other people on the tour kept referring to Joel Schumacher as my "friend."

"We're definitely going to go see your friend's movie!"
"Your friend seemed so nice."

RIP my friend Joel. You are one of the reasons why I work in Hollywood now.

Because everyone can and should be that good of a guy./