He's dabbled in performing over the years, but Barry Levinson's reputation as a director of diverse and powerful subject matter is what'll go on his headstone. Diner, Good Morning Vietnam, Rain Man, Toys, Quiz Show... each one examined a different aspect of the American condition. Early assignments writing with Mel Brooks led to his best-remembered role, that of a jittery bellhop in 1977 Hitchcock spoof High Anxiety. Director Brooks wisecracked and warbled his way through the gag-laden tale of pyschiatrist Dr Thorndyke, who attempts to beat his fear of heights. He found a novel way to take off the Psycho shower scene, irking Levinson's character by repeatedly asking him for a newspaper. Reaching boiling point, the functionary attacked Thorndyke in the shower, screaming his frustration and stabbing at him with the papery knife of newsprint.