Somehow I got a hold of an address for Vonnegut shortly after making the Marx Brothers film. Vonnegut wrote back, saying that he had seen the Marx brothers film and loved it. That became the foundation of our friendship: old movies and comedies.

In this quote, Robert B. Weide reflects on how he formed a friendship with the famous author Kurt Vonnegut. He recalls how, after making a Marx Brothers film, he somehow managed to get a hold of Vonnegut’s address and reached out to him. Vonnegut’s response, which expressed his admiration for the film, became the foundation of their connection. This shows how shared interests, such as a love for old movies and comedies, can bring people together, even across distances or different fields.

Weide’s words highlight the importance of common ground in forming friendships. For him and Vonnegut, their mutual appreciation for the Marx Brothers films was a starting point that fostered a lasting bond. This suggests that friendships often begin through simple, shared passions, and it’s these connections that can spark deeper, more meaningful relationships over time.

The origin of this quote comes from Weide’s personal experience with Vonnegut, with whom he later worked on the film "Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck in Time." This story about how their friendship started illustrates the serendipitous nature of some relationships and how cultural touchstones like classic films can create unexpected and lasting connections between people in the creative industries.

Ultimately, Weide’s reflection emphasizes how shared interests can serve as the groundwork for strong, enduring friendships. By focusing on the love of old films and comedies, Weide highlights how such commonalities can transcend professional boundaries and lead to personal bonds that can last for years, even when they begin with something as simple as a letter of admiration.