Life, George, Larry, and the Pursuit of Independence
By Kelly MacConomy
Just as the film director John Edwin and actor John Franklyn-Miller, the star of Young Washington, a new historical narrative film from Angel Studios, were gathered for a special press screening at George Washington’s Mount Vernon, HBO premiered Life, Larry, and the Pursuit of Unhappiness, a new comedy series produced by President Barack Obama and Michele Obama.
Larry David, in inimitable form, poses as various undermining Zeligs of American history, whining and kvetching his way through scenes of pre-Revolutionary treasonous banter and iconic moments of Civil Rights righteousness. A cast of dozens of Seinfeld and Curb characters make appearances. Yes, and Jerry too – wigging out! Larry hasn’t enjoyed this much hair in decades.
The premier episode opens with President Obama introducing the series in the newly-opened education center at George Washington’s Mount Vernon. While touring the exhibit, now called George Washington: A Revolutionary Life, the former president takes us to the wax figures recreating Washington’s own inauguration in 1789. From behind our wax first President, out pops Larry David as Robert Livingston, giving script notes to our 44th President.
History has long come alive at George Washington’s Mount Vernon. The jewel in the crown of Alexandria, and American history, is making the most of it. Now, on screens large and small, the life and times of the General hits the big time. Just in time for the July 4 semiquincentennial soirée to end all soirées, the feature film Young Washington drops July 3 at a theater near you.
Young Washington stars William Franklyn-Miller as George Washington with an all-star cast: Andy Serkis as Edward Braddock, Kelsey Grammar as Thomas Fairfax, Oscar winner (Gandhi) Sir Ben Kingsley as Robert Dinwiddie, and Mary-Louise Parker as George’s mother, Mary Ball Washington. Ms. Parker has visited Mount Vernon’s Colonial Market and Fair event with family who live nearby.
If you are like me and can’t get enough of Mount Vernon and American history, July 4 is a very special day at Mount Vernon. There are historical reenactors, daytime fireworks, America’s birthday cake, and most special of all, the annual July 4 naturalization ceremony.
If you have never attended a naturalization event prepare to be moved to tears and goosebumps. Last year, former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger was the keynote speaker. This year’s speaker is John Avlon, author of Washington’s Farewell. What better way is there to celebrate 250 years of American independence and individualism?
As I always say….. If you haven’t been to George Washington’s Mount Vernon lately you haven’t been to Mount Vernon! Oh, and do see Young Washington sooner than soon! You’ll thank me later.
