
Though all the writing, acting, and directing had been great, the story we now know really emerged during this editing process. As Woody, co-writer Marshall Brickman, and editor Ralph Rosenblum went over it (and over it and over it), they saw that the energy came from the relationship between Alvy Singer and Annie. In this first incarnation, the character of Annie was only briefly included, almost in the background.
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A series of comic sketches explored many of the themes that Woody would become known for, but they didn't connect together as well as Woody hoped and the film lacked an engaging narrative. The earliest incarnation of Annie Hall was called Anhedonia - meaning "the inability to experience pleasure" - and had even more of an introspective mood. He pondered philosophy, theology, and existentialism even as a child. Though he had been a success in comedy since his late teens, there had always been much more to Woody than just jokes. This was a "major turning point" in his career. With Willis by his side, Woody transitioned from his "early funny films" - such as Bananas and Sleeper - into the dramatic comedy of Annie Hall. I also became a huge fan of cinematographers because of the extraordinary lighting in his films (sometimes in black and white) and was introduced to many of my all-time favorites, such as Sven Nykvist, Carlo di Palma, and especially "The Prince of Darkness" himself Gordon Willis. Many artists, such as Diane Arbus and August Strindberg, were first introduced to me through Woody's dialogue and his soundtracks gave me an early education on jazz. I was blown away by the sophistication of New York and how much Woody filled that world with literary, musical, and cultural references. Woody's movies became an intellectual oasis for me - a place I could count on for that perfect combination of insightful writing and elegant style. Growing up as I did in Central Washington was wonderful if you were into the great outdoors, but the area was not exactly known as a cultural Mecca. Woody Allen films have always been a favorite of mine. Last year was the 40th anniversary of Annie Hall and menswear is still one of the strongest trends in fashion, so it's a perfect time to celebrate its ongoing legacy.
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I originally wrote the piece below several years ago, but wanted to update it and share again for any who attended my event along with those who were not able to join us. I appreciate it more every time I see it.

The style is stunning - so much detail to take in, especially when Diane Keaton is the queen of layering. One of the influential films I featured from that decade was 1977's Annie Hall and we also watched it on the big screen after my presentation. This past weekend, I presented the HISTORY OF FASHION IN FILM 1970s at the Egyptian Theatre.
