just over a decade ago, during my first year of film school, i recall being shown 3 Women (1977) in a class taught by the man who would later become the head of our film department.
this professor, a tall, svelte, extremely well-read and reserved elderly gay man, was an intimidating force to me in my first year on campus. he showed us wavelength, brakhage, the weather diaries and so much more experimental works unflinchingly. really made sure we knew what type of discipline this program was operating under. but he openly invited discussions with students outside of class. a teacher with a wealth of knowledge and lived experience, but one always willing to listen and respect those he taught.
after showing us 3 Women, a buddy and me approached this professor outside of lecture to strike up a conversation. my friend took the opportunity to talk about shelley duvall's performance. and i, uncultured little wisconsin teenager that i was, felt the desire to chime in with "yeah, that was that chick from popeye right?" and i'll never forget our professor, who always kept a stone straight face no matter his inflection, suddenly standing upright the moment i said this, looking me dead in the eyes and saying "that "chick" is shelley duvall, you know." and my ass just had to hold that for the rest of the day because i got sonned by the most respected teacher in my entire department.
i'm sorry shelley that i or anyone else on this earth ever disrespected you. i learned my lesson but god knows people on twitter debating your mental health state for the last 10 years sure haven't. may they atone for their sins in the next life. you deserved so much better and i'm thankful your soul can finally know peace.