Joel Rose

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Congratulations!

Kill Kill Faster Faster this evening won Best Film in the category of International Features at the London Independent Film Festival. Congratulations to Gareth Roberts, the film's director, and the rest of the cast and crew.

What does Heath Ledger have to do with it? Just interested.

In light of the recent death of Heath Ledger, what exactly is the value and purpose of films like "BLACK LUST" and "Kill Kill Faster Faster"? I don't believe we the people needed a darker retelling of the Batman saga. I pity the poor souls who will have to answer for the creation of such rubbish.

My great,great Grandfather was Jacob Hayes. I know a little about him but would like to know more. I know he was the High Constable of the New York from 1800 to 1850. My mother saw his portrait on a visit to your city, years ago and wrote, "He looks just like daddy." What is the best source? Was he part of the first Tammany Hall that helped get Jefferson elected? I worked on "Gangs of New York" but never told Marty about the family connection. bill@wiredbay.com


Bill, I first came across Old Hays in an article in the Police Gazette. Eventually, I put him at the center of The Blackest Bird and imagined a daughter for him, Mary Olga, drawing largely on my own daughter and our relationship. The original piece that drew my attention appeared in 1845 and was called "The Publican, The Pewterer, and the Pugilist: An Astounding Case of Mistaken Identity." The article is part of a compilation called "Sins of New York" edited by Edward Van Every, published in 1930.

Hope this helps in some small way. Any more that I might add, feel free...all best, Joel Rose


I love your work. Have read every book!


Loved the blackest bird. What is next?


I'm working on another historical novel, this one about Buffalo Bill Cody and the dime novelist Ned Buntline, and their year on the road with Buntline's play, Scouts of the Prairie. JR