hello kids,

granny has film and sitcoms on the brain today.  they've been showing
"Deer Hunter" over and over this month on cable and granny fades right
after the first Russian Roulette scene.  I've seen the opening with the
wedding and the hunting scenes about a million times though.  I've
heard this was shot in somewhere in Pennsylvania (?).  I'd like to
know which body of water the guys are near when they take their
micturation break.  Also, what is the name of the mountain range where
they shoot the deer?  and, for the heck of it, what's John Savage up to
these days?  short answers/links okay.

my other question is about sitcoms.  I can only think of two really
well-drawn characters in a sitcom -- Rev. Jim Ignatowski on "Taxi" and
"Dietrich" on Barney Miller.  Kramer on "Seinfeld" maybe a distant
third.  I know this is a subjective question but can you think of any
others and why are unforgettable characters so difficult to write on
sitcoms?  I know you're both excellent writers as I've followed
your progress here, so feel free to be creative with this one.  links
are okay too though.  as usual, granny's in no rush for her answer.

ever curious,
GB

p.s. dearest commenters, could you wait a day or so for the researcher
to get a crack at this question?  would also love to hear what you
have to say on these subjects as well.  thanks a lot.