Ran across an old friend

Peter Hedges Interview  (link)


Maybe it was the Oscars last weekend or maybe my mind just wandered away from my daily routine one day this week, but the other night I looked up Peter Hedges on Twitter and ran across this interview.  It's long so don't feel obligated to watch all of it.  But if you have the time it's a great interview with a super talented guy.  An all around feel good that will likely make you chuckle a bit like I did.

I am fortunate that for 5 weeks during the summer of 1988 Peter was my instructor at The National High School Institute at Northwestern.  It was an incredible summer and amazing experience all around, but the fact that I got to study under this guy who would go on to do incredible work still kind of amazes me.

I have a horrible memory so unfortunately I don't remember all of the details of each day but I know that the class he taught and the show I was lucky enough to be a part of was something special.  When I watched this interview it was like we were sitting in our morning acting class chatting it up with Peter.  He was and still is normal, and real, and creative, and hilarious and talented.  He went on to write and publish books, write screenplays and direct films.  And since he's originally from Iowa I feel even more of a connection to him.

When he published his first book, What's Eating Gilbert Grape, my mom sent me the big article from The Des Moines Register about the book and Peter (local guy doing well).  I have tried to follow his career and read his books and see his films when I can.  I have always wondered if I showed up at a book signing or film premier (because I go to a lot of those) would he recognize me?  If I introduced myself as Syd Killion from Red Oak, Iowa - NHSI Cherub Class of 1988 would he remember me?  I'd like to think so but even if he didn't he would make me feel like he did in a very Midwest way.  Some people are just like that I think.

I hope he continues to do great things and maybe someday I'll have the chance to reintroduce myself and congratulate him on his success and thank him for the fun summer in 1988.  Until then I will enjoy pieces like this and try to see things, people and situations a little more like the characters and stories Peter creates and shares with us.