Red West in the acclaimed 'Goodbye Solo'

Red West -- actor, teacher and influence for many local film people -- stars in the critically acclaimed indie "Goodbye Solo" premiering in Memphis Friday at the Ridgeway. I saw the film and Red at the Toronto Film Festival last September and he and the film by Ramin Bahrani are terrific. Here's John Beifuss' story in the CA with a link to my video interview.

After a half-century in movies and television programs, Red West probably is better known as a longtime friend of Elvis and key member of the so-called "Memphis Mafia" than as an actor.

That perception is changing, however, thanks to West's new movie, "Goodbye Solo," which opens Friday at Malco's Ridgeway Four.

West will introduce the film before its first evening screening (7:25 p.m.) and will answer questions afterward.

An independent production that has earned rave reviews (The Washington Post this month dubbed it one of the "Top 5 Most Anticipated" movies of the season), "Goodbye Solo" gives the former Memphian top billing and the first lead role of his career, at an age when other actors are considering -- or being forced into -- retirement.

For the full story, go here.