The Rothmans, in a 45-minute question-and-answer session in the Charles' theatre two, offered amusing (and sometimes poignant) insights into the movie biz. Proud papa Donald was content to let his sons do most of the talking, although he did avow that, as a young man, his career choice between acting and lawyering came down to whether he wanted to eat regularly or not. He chose the law.

John, who has appeared in more than 80 films and TV shows since 1980, spoke about his appearance in the upcoming Reservation Road, and how he had to convince director Terry George to write him back into the film after his character had been written out. And Tom, whose films as a Fox executive have brought in more than $23 billion, told of how his career almost sank with Titanic. He was head of production of the studio that was helping to bankroll that film, and as the budget kept ballooning -- it eventually went over budget by more than any previous film had ever cost -- he wasn't at all sure he'd be remaining the studio head for long.

The evening ended with an auction which proved that, while Baltimoreans love John Waters, they love the chance to hobnob with beautiful actresses even more. A suitcase packed by Waters, its contents unknown, sold for a whopping $1,550. But the chance to play an extra in He's Just Not That Into You, which will be shooting in Baltimore next month, raised even more. Egged on by the auctioneer, who repeatedly pointed out that the cast includes Jennifer Aniston, Drew Barrymore, Jennifer Connelly and Scarlett Johansson, a starstruck movie-lover bid $2,300 for the privilege.

For comparison purposes, a package of Wire-related items, including two tickets to a premiere party for next year's season 5, went for $350. Against Jennifer, Jennifer, Scarlett and Drew, poor David Simon didn't stand a chance.