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Rex Reed and the Death of Expert Opinion We Thought We Didn’t Need

A personal remembrance of the legendary film critic, who died Tuesday at 87—and what the world lost when it decided it didn't need gatekeepers anymore.

When I saw Joan Collins move through the crowd toward Rex Reed, and by default, me, I got that special sickening feeling you get when you’re friends with a famous critic who’s known for blending unfiltered opinion with unbridled literary flair that—like nuclear fusion—creates a lot of unpredictable energy.  

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Joan approached— coiffed, bejeweled, with a blinding smile and raising one manicured finger toward Rex.  

“Hi Joan,” he Louisiana-drawled.

She wagged her finger and smiled even wider.

“Rex, you naughty, naughty boy,” she cooed in........

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