Award-winning actor Brian Dennehy talks movies with library's Film Society

The Atlantic City Free Public Library Film Society received a special telephone call from award-winning actor Brian Dennehy following a viewing of “First Blood” on Feb. 6. Dennehy portrayed Sheriff Will Teasle in the film.
Dennehy, a friend of Film Society coordinator Theresa Hawkins, talked with the group for 45 minutes, answering questions about the movie and his career. Hawkins has known Dennehy since interviewing him as a school newspaper reporter at Hunter College (NY), where she earned a degree in Film Production.
“For an actor of his stature to take the time to speak with us about his life and career —and a film he worked on 34 years ago — is a testament to what a wonderful man he truly is,” she said. “The Film Society members were beyond thrilled to have this special event with Brian.”
“It was really amazing to talk to Brian Dennehy,” Film Society member Abdul Salaam said. “He was so down-to-earth, and he answered every single question. It was a beautiful experience.”
The Film Society meets twice every month. The first meeting of the month is to watch a movie and discuss it. The second meeting is a classroom session, which focuses on a particular aspect of cinema.
Adult Atlantic City Free Public Library members (18 years of age and older) in good standing are invited to join the Film Society. Library and Film Society applications are available online and the Main Library Circulation Desk.
The Film Society has talked with other industry experts over the years. Entertainment publicist Gary Springer, head of New York City-based Springer Associates PR; Ed McGinty, an actor and historical consultant for HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire” and Diane Raver, founder of the Garden State Film Festival have appeared at the library to speak with the Film Society.