Best Of Tucson®

Q&A with Herb Stratford

Herb Stratford is the heart and soul of the effort to restore downtown's Fox Theater to its former glory as Tucson's premiere movie palace.

What's the best movie of all time?

Wow-loaded question. Depends on the genre. A few favorites include Brazil, Days of Heaven, Godfather I and II, Rivers and Tides, La Reine Margot, Tour Les Matins Du Monde.

What movie makes you think most of Tucson?

The film Bodies Rest and Motion really captures the Tucson vibe and was filmed just blocks from where I live. Great cast, great soundtrack, shot beautifully.

Who's your favorite movie personality?

I have to go with people behind the camera on this one: director Michael Mann (Heat), director Terrence Malick (Days of Heaven/Thin Red Line) and cinematographer Conrad Hall (American Beauty, Road to Perdition).

What's your favorite movie snack?

Popcorn. It's so good and yet sooo bad for you.

What's your favorite place in Tucson to catch a flick?

It depends on the film. For smaller films/documentaries, it's The Loft. For the big blockbusters with my wife and 8-year-old son, it's Century Theatres/El Con.

Any embarrassing cinematic experiences in your life?

The only traumatic movie experience that comes to mind is being super-scared watching Jaws and having to walk home from the theater alone in the dark.

Best reason to visit downtown?

We've got lots of good stuff down here--architecture, great restaurants and lots of history.

Business lunch?

Barrio on South Sixth Avenue. The food's great, and you never know who you'll run into there.

Best local film professional?

Shelli Hall at Tucson Film Office. A tireless cheerleader, professional and supporter of all things film-related in Tucson.

Best unknown local architect (deceased)?

A.P. Petit. His only remaining Tucson structure is the 1883 Arizona Star building on Church. Listed on the national Register of Historic places, it features redwood windows and cornice brought by train to Tucson in 1883.

Best local nonprofit organization volunteers?

The Fox volunteers. More than 200 strong, this group has made an enormous difference in the Fox project and can fill a Dumpster faster than anybody.