Who: Bill & Melanie, and Melanie's co-worker/friend Liesl
What: Titanic-- The RiffTrax version
Where: On DVD, with RiffTrax commentary via Liesl's computer
Why: Who thought "Titanic" could be funny?
It's a sure bet most everyone (including myself and Melanie) has seen Titanic, the story of Jack and Rose-- he's poor and happy, she's rich and unhappy. They fall in love aboard the ill-fated Titanic. The ship hits an iceberg and it sinks. Jack dies. Rose lives. A depressing movie. But a MAJOR hit that brought Director/Producer/Co-Writer/Co-Editor James Cameron 11 Academy Awards, including Best Picture for 1997.
RiffTrax has its basis in the Mystery Science Theater 3000 series. RiffTrax's head commentator Michael J. Nelson was a host and writer on that show. With RiffTrax, you can download audio commentaries for selected movies from their website (for a fee) to your computer, and play them in sync with the movie. Such is the case with the recent addition with Titanic to their play list. Nelson, along with MST3K veterans Kevin Murphy and Bill Corbett, offer their "riffs" on everything from the characters (especially Jack, Rose and her snobbish fiance Caledon Nathan Hockley) to implausible situations, the ship's ultimate tragic fate, and the music as it concludes with an outrageously off-key rendition of Celine Dion's "My Heart Will Go On". We finished the movie full of tears-- from laughter. Hard to believe this could be done from such a melancholy movie such as Titanic, but somehow RiffTrax pulled it off. Some of the comments do fall flat but more often than not, they're on target.
Movie fans looking for a different "perspective" than the usual cast and crew commentary might want to check out RiffTrax.com.
Showing posts with label Drama. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Drama. Show all posts
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Williamsburg: The Story of a Patriot
Who:Bill & Melanie
What:Williamsburg: The Story of a Patriot
Where:Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center
Why: Colonial Williamsburg was one of our road trip stops.
Melanie and I recently returned from a two week road trip up and down the east coast. One of our visits was to Colonial Williamsburg where we spent a leisurely afternoon walking through the restored city, which served as Virginia's capital between 1699 and 1780. Before doing so, we stopped at the visitor center. In their large theater, an orientation film has been shown several times a day continuously since 1957. Thus, Williamsburg: The Story of a Patriot is the longest running motion picture in history.
The film is a dramatization of events in Williamsburg leading up to the time of American Independence. The story is told from the viewpoint of a fictional man named John Fry (played by Jack Lord), who does interact with real individuals such as Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, George Washington and others. For what is basically a introduction to Colonial Williamsburg, the movie boasts some outstanding production values starting with being filmed in and around the historical area itself. Co-produced with Paramount Pictures, the 40 minute presentation also includes full color wide-screen Vista Vision and an early use of stereo surround sound-- all very high tech for the 1950's and thanks to recent complete restoration efforts, holds up great for continued showings in the 21st century. Behind the scenes, director George Seaton won an Oscar for his work directing the original Miracle on 34th Street, and composer Bernard Herrmann worked with Alfred Hitchcock on numerous films including most famously Psycho. In front of the camera, Williamsburg: The Story of a Patriot marks the first starring role for Jack Lord. In 1968, he would begin a 12-year run as detective Steve McGarrett in Hawaii Five-O.
Currently, the only ways to see this movie is by visiting the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center or to purchase the DVD from the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.
What:Williamsburg: The Story of a Patriot
Where:Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center
Why: Colonial Williamsburg was one of our road trip stops.
Melanie and I recently returned from a two week road trip up and down the east coast. One of our visits was to Colonial Williamsburg where we spent a leisurely afternoon walking through the restored city, which served as Virginia's capital between 1699 and 1780. Before doing so, we stopped at the visitor center. In their large theater, an orientation film has been shown several times a day continuously since 1957. Thus, Williamsburg: The Story of a Patriot is the longest running motion picture in history.
The film is a dramatization of events in Williamsburg leading up to the time of American Independence. The story is told from the viewpoint of a fictional man named John Fry (played by Jack Lord), who does interact with real individuals such as Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, George Washington and others. For what is basically a introduction to Colonial Williamsburg, the movie boasts some outstanding production values starting with being filmed in and around the historical area itself. Co-produced with Paramount Pictures, the 40 minute presentation also includes full color wide-screen Vista Vision and an early use of stereo surround sound-- all very high tech for the 1950's and thanks to recent complete restoration efforts, holds up great for continued showings in the 21st century. Behind the scenes, director George Seaton won an Oscar for his work directing the original Miracle on 34th Street, and composer Bernard Herrmann worked with Alfred Hitchcock on numerous films including most famously Psycho. In front of the camera, Williamsburg: The Story of a Patriot marks the first starring role for Jack Lord. In 1968, he would begin a 12-year run as detective Steve McGarrett in Hawaii Five-O.
Currently, the only ways to see this movie is by visiting the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center or to purchase the DVD from the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.
Monday, August 3, 2009
The Bridge on the River Kwai
Who: Bill
What: The Bridge on the River Kwai
Where: Turner Classic Movies
Why: Had never seen this movie
When you're feeling sick and only have enough energy to do little or nothing, an excellent way to pass the time is to watch a three-hour long movie. And when its a GREAT movie, it is time well spent (sick or not). Such is the case with The Bridge on the River Kwai, a true cinema classic from 1957 that won seven Oscars, three Golden Globes, and numerous other awards.
Set in the middle of World War II, the story takes place in a Japanese prison camp. The newly arrived POW's are a group of British soldiers who will be forced to build a railroad bridge over the Kwai River. Their commander Colonel Nicholson (Alec Guinness) is steadfast in refusing to let all his men work on the bridge. He is punished by spending days in a locked box, about the size of a doghouse. He survives the ordeal and ultimately works out a deal with the camp leader Colonel Saito (Sessue Hayakawa) to supervise the completion of the bridge to the highest British specifications-- an odd move considering the condition the prisoners are being subjected. Meanwhile, an American POW named Shears (William Holden) escapes from the camp and eventually regains his health. Just before he is to be sent home, his true identity is uncovered and he is "persuaded" to join the British Special Forces in an attempt to destroy the bridge.
Based on the book of the same name, The Bridge on the River Kwai offers plenty of intense drama and outstanding performances from some of the finest actors of the 20th century. The film has been so highly regarded and significant in motion pictures, that in 1997 it was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry. Additionally, Alec Guinness and director David Lean would team again for the epic dramas Lawrence of Arabia(1962), Doctor Zhivago (1965) and A Passage to India (1984)
But even if you don't watch those other Guinness/Lean films, The Bridge on the River Kwai is a movie that should be a definite "must see".
What: The Bridge on the River Kwai
Where: Turner Classic Movies
Why: Had never seen this movie
When you're feeling sick and only have enough energy to do little or nothing, an excellent way to pass the time is to watch a three-hour long movie. And when its a GREAT movie, it is time well spent (sick or not). Such is the case with The Bridge on the River Kwai, a true cinema classic from 1957 that won seven Oscars, three Golden Globes, and numerous other awards.
Set in the middle of World War II, the story takes place in a Japanese prison camp. The newly arrived POW's are a group of British soldiers who will be forced to build a railroad bridge over the Kwai River. Their commander Colonel Nicholson (Alec Guinness) is steadfast in refusing to let all his men work on the bridge. He is punished by spending days in a locked box, about the size of a doghouse. He survives the ordeal and ultimately works out a deal with the camp leader Colonel Saito (Sessue Hayakawa) to supervise the completion of the bridge to the highest British specifications-- an odd move considering the condition the prisoners are being subjected. Meanwhile, an American POW named Shears (William Holden) escapes from the camp and eventually regains his health. Just before he is to be sent home, his true identity is uncovered and he is "persuaded" to join the British Special Forces in an attempt to destroy the bridge.
Based on the book of the same name, The Bridge on the River Kwai offers plenty of intense drama and outstanding performances from some of the finest actors of the 20th century. The film has been so highly regarded and significant in motion pictures, that in 1997 it was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry. Additionally, Alec Guinness and director David Lean would team again for the epic dramas Lawrence of Arabia(1962), Doctor Zhivago (1965) and A Passage to India (1984)
But even if you don't watch those other Guinness/Lean films, The Bridge on the River Kwai is a movie that should be a definite "must see".
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince
Who: Amber & Jonathan
What: Harry Potter 6
Where: AMC Pleasure Island
Why: I just re-read the book
What: Harry Potter 6
Where: AMC Pleasure Island
Why: I just re-read the book
I just love everything and anything Harry Potter. I'm kind-of embarrassed about it, but I just can't help it. JK Rowling is some sort of genius.
Movie 5 ended with the death of Sirius Black, Harry's godfather and only real 'family'. Remember in movie 4 Harry's classmate Cedric Digory died? There seems to be a "movie ending with death" theme going on here … and movie 6 continues with that. Although I won't tell you who dies, but I guaranteed you'll be surprised (that is, unless you read the book).
This movie is less action and more character development. The Hogworts kids are all around 16-ish, so love is in there air. It's actually quite adorable. Hermoine is really into Ron, but he's such a doofis, so he has no clue. He just wants to date anybody to be cool, and Lavender Brown (a semi-ditzy girl) steps in. Lavender and "Won-Won" are snogging all over Hogworts. In the meantime, Hermoine is crying and obviously upset (Ron has no clue). Harry has a thing for Ron's little sister (Ginny), but it conflicted. #1, Ginny has a boyfriend. #2, it's Ron's little sister -- will that cross the line?
Did I mention that Ron's older siblings have a magic shop, and their hottest selling item is a Love Potion? Let's hope the girls at Hogworts don't get their hands on that! (duh - of course they will).
Besides all the lovely, dovey stuff, the main part of the story is Harry and Professor Dumbledore trying to learn everything they can about Lord Voldemort. They figure anything they learn about him will help. We see flashbacks to little Voldemort's life pre-Hogwards and life at Hogworts. Voldemort has discovered a very dark magic trick. You can actually split your soul into pieces and put your soul into a random object. This way, if your body dies, you don’t actually die! In typical Voldemort fashion, he's split is soul into 7 pieces. Dumbledore has found one of them, and takes Harry on a crazy journey to find it and destroy it.
I won't ruin anything else about the movie. The ending is a total shocker (if you've been living under a rock and didn't read the book … or had somebody who read the book ruin it for you) … so go see the movie!
Movie 5 ended with the death of Sirius Black, Harry's godfather and only real 'family'. Remember in movie 4 Harry's classmate Cedric Digory died? There seems to be a "movie ending with death" theme going on here … and movie 6 continues with that. Although I won't tell you who dies, but I guaranteed you'll be surprised (that is, unless you read the book).
This movie is less action and more character development. The Hogworts kids are all around 16-ish, so love is in there air. It's actually quite adorable. Hermoine is really into Ron, but he's such a doofis, so he has no clue. He just wants to date anybody to be cool, and Lavender Brown (a semi-ditzy girl) steps in. Lavender and "Won-Won" are snogging all over Hogworts. In the meantime, Hermoine is crying and obviously upset (Ron has no clue). Harry has a thing for Ron's little sister (Ginny), but it conflicted. #1, Ginny has a boyfriend. #2, it's Ron's little sister -- will that cross the line?
Did I mention that Ron's older siblings have a magic shop, and their hottest selling item is a Love Potion? Let's hope the girls at Hogworts don't get their hands on that! (duh - of course they will).
Besides all the lovely, dovey stuff, the main part of the story is Harry and Professor Dumbledore trying to learn everything they can about Lord Voldemort. They figure anything they learn about him will help. We see flashbacks to little Voldemort's life pre-Hogwards and life at Hogworts. Voldemort has discovered a very dark magic trick. You can actually split your soul into pieces and put your soul into a random object. This way, if your body dies, you don’t actually die! In typical Voldemort fashion, he's split is soul into 7 pieces. Dumbledore has found one of them, and takes Harry on a crazy journey to find it and destroy it.
I won't ruin anything else about the movie. The ending is a total shocker (if you've been living under a rock and didn't read the book … or had somebody who read the book ruin it for you) … so go see the movie!
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Bottle Shock
Who: Bill & Melanie
What: Bottle Shock
Where: Borrowed the DVD from our neighbor
Why: It takes place in the Napa Valley
In 1976 the Napa Valley had an emerging reputation of growing high quality grapes, which resulted in some outstanding wines. But outside of a handful of wine connoisseurs, few people were aware of this. Bottle Shock tells the story of a small family-owned winery called Chateau Montelena, and how its wines and other California-based wines (many produced in the Napa Valley) "shocked" the world when they bested the more-established French wines at a blind taste testing known as The Judgement of Paris.
Filmed primarily in the Napa Valley (with nearby Sonoma being used for scenes taking place in Paris), Bottle Shock is an entertaining and enjoyable story with a unique blend of actors of past and present "vintage": Bill Pullman as Jim Barret (owner of Chateau Montelena), Chris Pine as son Bo Barret, Alan Rickman as Steven Spurrier (the man who organized the blind taste test), Rachael Taylor as Samantha, Freddy Rodriguez as Gustavo, Eliza Dushku as a street-smart local bartender named Jo, and Dennis Farina as Maurice.
I was raised in Napa, so anytime I hear of a movie that takes place or was filmed there, it immediately gets my interest. Bottle Shock was one such film. It premiered at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival and had a limited run in theaters. Most people probably still have not heard of the movie. It is worth seeking out, not only for its compelling story, but for its incredible cast. In particular, Chris Pine wasn't well known when Bottle Shock was being filmed. That has since changed with his acclaimed performance as the young James T. Kirk in the recent re-launch of the Star Trek franchise. His comes from an acting family: mother Gwynne Gilford has had small roles in TV shows and movies over the years and father Robert Pine is best-known from co-starring in the long-running series "CHiPs". Eliza Dushku has appeared in many popular movies such as True Lies, Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back, and a recurring role in Buffy, the Vampire Slayer. She is currently starring and co-producing in Joss Whedon's latest television series Dollhouse. Rachael Taylor has appeared in a number of recent movies including the 2007 blockbuster Transformers.
Because Bottle Shock is about wines and wine-making, one enhancement to your enjoyment would be to watch the movie with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir-- preferably from the Napa Valley of course. Salud!
What: Bottle Shock
Where: Borrowed the DVD from our neighbor
Why: It takes place in the Napa Valley
In 1976 the Napa Valley had an emerging reputation of growing high quality grapes, which resulted in some outstanding wines. But outside of a handful of wine connoisseurs, few people were aware of this. Bottle Shock tells the story of a small family-owned winery called Chateau Montelena, and how its wines and other California-based wines (many produced in the Napa Valley) "shocked" the world when they bested the more-established French wines at a blind taste testing known as The Judgement of Paris.
Filmed primarily in the Napa Valley (with nearby Sonoma being used for scenes taking place in Paris), Bottle Shock is an entertaining and enjoyable story with a unique blend of actors of past and present "vintage": Bill Pullman as Jim Barret (owner of Chateau Montelena), Chris Pine as son Bo Barret, Alan Rickman as Steven Spurrier (the man who organized the blind taste test), Rachael Taylor as Samantha, Freddy Rodriguez as Gustavo, Eliza Dushku as a street-smart local bartender named Jo, and Dennis Farina as Maurice.
I was raised in Napa, so anytime I hear of a movie that takes place or was filmed there, it immediately gets my interest. Bottle Shock was one such film. It premiered at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival and had a limited run in theaters. Most people probably still have not heard of the movie. It is worth seeking out, not only for its compelling story, but for its incredible cast. In particular, Chris Pine wasn't well known when Bottle Shock was being filmed. That has since changed with his acclaimed performance as the young James T. Kirk in the recent re-launch of the Star Trek franchise. His comes from an acting family: mother Gwynne Gilford has had small roles in TV shows and movies over the years and father Robert Pine is best-known from co-starring in the long-running series "CHiPs". Eliza Dushku has appeared in many popular movies such as True Lies, Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back, and a recurring role in Buffy, the Vampire Slayer. She is currently starring and co-producing in Joss Whedon's latest television series Dollhouse. Rachael Taylor has appeared in a number of recent movies including the 2007 blockbuster Transformers.
Because Bottle Shock is about wines and wine-making, one enhancement to your enjoyment would be to watch the movie with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir-- preferably from the Napa Valley of course. Salud!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Escape from Alcatraz
Who: Amber
What: Escape from Alcatraz
Where: @ home on AMC
Why: I think Alcatraz is cool
What: Escape from Alcatraz
Where: @ home on AMC
Why: I think Alcatraz is cool
I was shocked to find out that Clint Eastwood played the main character (Frank Morris) in this movie. I read that in the credits. I didn't even recognize him! I'm so embarrassed.
This movie was slow moving, and not much action. And the title pretty much gives away the ending ... 3 men successfully escape from Alcatraz. After I watched the movie, I tried to find out if it was true, and nobody can really confirm or deny it. Nobody ever found the 3 men or their bodies. And they never got arrested again (even though they were career criminals - only the worst of the worst end up in Alcatraz).
Basically this movie shows how day to day life is in Alcatraz. You have a teeny tiny cell all by yourself. You eat crappy food. And working for 15 cents a day is a big time privilege.
Escape from Alcatraz chronicles Frank Morris and 2 brothers who hatch a plan to escape. Over the course of about a year, they slowly chip away at the grates in their cell. They made paper mache' (sp?) grates out of newspaper, so during the day nobody could see a huge gaping hole in the cell. They also made paper mache' heads, so guards would think they were sleeping at night.
They managed to steal small tools to chip away at the cement. They stole hair from the barbershop to make their paper mache'. And they stole some raincoats to make a life raft for the final escape across the San Francisco Bay.
There wasn't much action in this movie, but it was interesting to watch their plan, and see how it all worked out.
Now I'm in the mood to watch The Rock!
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Duel
Who: Bill
What: Duel
Where: Turner Classic Movies (TCM)
Why: One of the first movies directed by Steven Spielberg
Mild-mannered salesman David Mann (Dennis Weaver) is on his way to meet a client. Traveling on a remote two-lane California highway he gets behind a slow-moving, exhaust-spewing old tanker truck. He bypasses the truck, but very quickly the truck bypasses him. Soon, Mann finds himself in a high-speed, life-threatening "duel" between his four-door sedan and the menacing tanker truck, whose driver's face is unseen. Call it an extreme case of road rage.
Duel was first seen Saturday, November 13, 1971 on ABC's "Movie of the Weekend", which along with that network's Tuesday night "Movie of the Week", consisted entirely of made-for-TV feature films. Each movie was budgeted at no more than $450,000 and just long enough to fit into a 90-minute time slot. "The Movie of the Week" was a huge hit upon its debut in 1969, as viewers enjoyed the World Premiere of a new motion picture presented for free each week. When Steven Spielberg was assigned to helm Duel, he had already established himself as an ambitious young director for Universal Television, working on episodes for popular shows such as Rod Serling's Night Gallery, Marcus Welby M.D. and Columbo. What could have been an average TV movie thriller, Duel is made unique by Spielberg's direction with minimal dialog and effective camera angles which add to the overall suspense of the story. These are especially effective in the chase scenes between the plain red early-70's Plymouth Valiant and the dirty, sinister tanker truck squaring off in a fight to the death. Of equal merit is Dennis Weaver's performance as the stalked driver, who can't understand why he is being terrorized for simply passing another vehicle on a lonely road.
Duel is one of the most famous films presented as part of ABC's "Movie of the Week" franchise. A few weeks after its airing, another acclaimed TV movie had its premiere: Brian's Song. Both movies were so well received by critics and viewers that they were even given theatrical releases. In the case of Duel, this involved the addition of several scenes and some mild profanity. This is the version that has aired on TCM, and seen on a special edition DVD. Duel is recommend not just to observe some of the best early career work of Steven Spielberg, but as an effective suspense thriller.
By the way, if you want to see how Duel was first presented to viewers, check out its preview clip on You Tube by typing "ABC Movie of the Weekend" in the search box. You can also see openings from "The Movie of the Week" and other network movie programs from the 1960's through the 1990's.
What: Duel
Where: Turner Classic Movies (TCM)
Why: One of the first movies directed by Steven Spielberg
Mild-mannered salesman David Mann (Dennis Weaver) is on his way to meet a client. Traveling on a remote two-lane California highway he gets behind a slow-moving, exhaust-spewing old tanker truck. He bypasses the truck, but very quickly the truck bypasses him. Soon, Mann finds himself in a high-speed, life-threatening "duel" between his four-door sedan and the menacing tanker truck, whose driver's face is unseen. Call it an extreme case of road rage.
Duel was first seen Saturday, November 13, 1971 on ABC's "Movie of the Weekend", which along with that network's Tuesday night "Movie of the Week", consisted entirely of made-for-TV feature films. Each movie was budgeted at no more than $450,000 and just long enough to fit into a 90-minute time slot. "The Movie of the Week" was a huge hit upon its debut in 1969, as viewers enjoyed the World Premiere of a new motion picture presented for free each week. When Steven Spielberg was assigned to helm Duel, he had already established himself as an ambitious young director for Universal Television, working on episodes for popular shows such as Rod Serling's Night Gallery, Marcus Welby M.D. and Columbo. What could have been an average TV movie thriller, Duel is made unique by Spielberg's direction with minimal dialog and effective camera angles which add to the overall suspense of the story. These are especially effective in the chase scenes between the plain red early-70's Plymouth Valiant and the dirty, sinister tanker truck squaring off in a fight to the death. Of equal merit is Dennis Weaver's performance as the stalked driver, who can't understand why he is being terrorized for simply passing another vehicle on a lonely road.
Duel is one of the most famous films presented as part of ABC's "Movie of the Week" franchise. A few weeks after its airing, another acclaimed TV movie had its premiere: Brian's Song. Both movies were so well received by critics and viewers that they were even given theatrical releases. In the case of Duel, this involved the addition of several scenes and some mild profanity. This is the version that has aired on TCM, and seen on a special edition DVD. Duel is recommend not just to observe some of the best early career work of Steven Spielberg, but as an effective suspense thriller.
By the way, if you want to see how Duel was first presented to viewers, check out its preview clip on You Tube by typing "ABC Movie of the Weekend" in the search box. You can also see openings from "The Movie of the Week" and other network movie programs from the 1960's through the 1990's.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Changeling
Who: Liz
What: Changeling
Where: my living room
Why: I heard it was good
Angelina Jolie played mom Christine Collins, mom of Walter Collins. She is a supervisor at a telephone company in 1928 Pasadena CA. She has been called in to work and so she has to go, leaving Walter, a 9 year old, home alone for the day. When she gets home, Walter is gone, vanished. This movie is about her search for Walter. I thought it was a little slow going, but then, boy did it get better.
This is 1928 and I don’t know my history, but according to the movie, Los Angeles was filled with rogue cops and was really a corrupt place to live. Christine reports her child missing as soon as she gets home, but they tell her she has to wait 24 hours. So she does and then reports him missing. Time goes by and he is not found, then about 5 months later, the police claim to have found Walter. So she goes to the train station to pick him up and it’s not him, but the police insist it is and tell her to take him! Unbelievable! She knows it’s not her son and can get proof from the dentist, the neighbors, the teachers, and some others, but the police still don’t believe her and won’t continue to look for Walter. Case closed.
In the meantime, a decent cop is trying to find a young boy to deport back to Canada from a ranch and the boy ends up telling a really grisly story. There is also a minister who is trying to tell people about the corupt politicians and cops and he comes to help Christine.
What happens next is really scary to me and I have a hard time believing that this was the US and that people could be treated the way that Christine was treated. You'll have to watch the movie to see what happens!
I wouldn’t say this was a really enjoyable movie, but it kept me intrigued and wanting to root for Christine to get through this time in her life. I would say that this movie is not for everyone, its definitely not a “feel good” movie, but I liked it.
What: Changeling
Where: my living room
Why: I heard it was good
Angelina Jolie played mom Christine Collins, mom of Walter Collins. She is a supervisor at a telephone company in 1928 Pasadena CA. She has been called in to work and so she has to go, leaving Walter, a 9 year old, home alone for the day. When she gets home, Walter is gone, vanished. This movie is about her search for Walter. I thought it was a little slow going, but then, boy did it get better.
This is 1928 and I don’t know my history, but according to the movie, Los Angeles was filled with rogue cops and was really a corrupt place to live. Christine reports her child missing as soon as she gets home, but they tell her she has to wait 24 hours. So she does and then reports him missing. Time goes by and he is not found, then about 5 months later, the police claim to have found Walter. So she goes to the train station to pick him up and it’s not him, but the police insist it is and tell her to take him! Unbelievable! She knows it’s not her son and can get proof from the dentist, the neighbors, the teachers, and some others, but the police still don’t believe her and won’t continue to look for Walter. Case closed.
In the meantime, a decent cop is trying to find a young boy to deport back to Canada from a ranch and the boy ends up telling a really grisly story. There is also a minister who is trying to tell people about the corupt politicians and cops and he comes to help Christine.
What happens next is really scary to me and I have a hard time believing that this was the US and that people could be treated the way that Christine was treated. You'll have to watch the movie to see what happens!
I wouldn’t say this was a really enjoyable movie, but it kept me intrigued and wanting to root for Christine to get through this time in her life. I would say that this movie is not for everyone, its definitely not a “feel good” movie, but I liked it.
Fireproof
Who: Emily, Scott, & Kerri
What: Fireproof
Where: At home, On Demand special .01 movies
Why: Picked it at random
I really did like the story, and the message. It is rare that you mix so much faith in a Hollywood movie, especially concerning love and marriage. Generally movies are 'get out when the going gets tough' on marriage but this movie showed a man trying to save his marriage, and it wasn't until he understood the love of Jesus for us, that he realized how to truly love another. This kind of message is actually very powerful and I think everyone could learn from it.
The downfall of this movie? There was some really bad acting. The male lead is Kirk Cameron (you may know from Growing Pains!), but he seemed to be surrounded by people who'd never acted before in their lives, or were doing a local production of a play. At times I found that distracting. The actress who played his wife was beautiful, but at times her line delivery took me out of the movie.
Scott said it felt like an afterschool special for adults. And there's some truth to it.
I think if you can get past the acting, and listen to the message, you will take something valuable from this movie.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
The Reader
Who: Liz
What: The Reader
Where: my living room
Why: I heard it was a good movie
This was a fabulous movie. I believe Kate Winslet won the Oscar for this role. She played Hanna, and Ralph Fiennes played Michael. Basically, they were the only real characters in the movie. In the beginning of the movie it is 1958 and Michael gets sick in an alleyway and Hanna helps him out, it seems he has scarlet fever, so he goes to bed for three months. Michael comes searching for her to say Thank you after the 3 months and she seduces him. Mind you, at this stage of the game, Michael is only 15 years old and Hanna is about 35. They have this affair, yet she is very cold and he falls in love with her. He lets his life be run by Hanna. She wants him to read books to her and he does. Its very sweet. After a little while, of course an affair like this ends.
The movie jumps 8 years and by this time Michael is in law school and Hanna is on trial for being a guard in Auschwitz….who knew? There wasn’t an indication in the beginning of the film. I don’t want to give away the rest of the movie, I just want to note that Kate Winslet definitely deserved the Oscar for this role. She played Hanna with such fervor. This woman ,whose life just got away from her and didn’t really turn out the way she wanted. Ralph Fienne’s character’s life is also consumed by her. This movie showed how one event can change someone’s life forever. Sometimes we have to let things go and just can’t. It was a great movie. Be aware there is a definitely adult theme in this film, as well as nudity.
What: The Reader
Where: my living room
Why: I heard it was a good movie
This was a fabulous movie. I believe Kate Winslet won the Oscar for this role. She played Hanna, and Ralph Fiennes played Michael. Basically, they were the only real characters in the movie. In the beginning of the movie it is 1958 and Michael gets sick in an alleyway and Hanna helps him out, it seems he has scarlet fever, so he goes to bed for three months. Michael comes searching for her to say Thank you after the 3 months and she seduces him. Mind you, at this stage of the game, Michael is only 15 years old and Hanna is about 35. They have this affair, yet she is very cold and he falls in love with her. He lets his life be run by Hanna. She wants him to read books to her and he does. Its very sweet. After a little while, of course an affair like this ends.
The movie jumps 8 years and by this time Michael is in law school and Hanna is on trial for being a guard in Auschwitz….who knew? There wasn’t an indication in the beginning of the film. I don’t want to give away the rest of the movie, I just want to note that Kate Winslet definitely deserved the Oscar for this role. She played Hanna with such fervor. This woman ,whose life just got away from her and didn’t really turn out the way she wanted. Ralph Fienne’s character’s life is also consumed by her. This movie showed how one event can change someone’s life forever. Sometimes we have to let things go and just can’t. It was a great movie. Be aware there is a definitely adult theme in this film, as well as nudity.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Rachel Getting Married
Who: Liz
What: Rachel getting Married
Why: I heard about it and wanted to see it.
Where: home on DVD
Well this movie was kind of intense. I loved it. Anne Hathaway did a fabulous job as Kym, the addict sister.
This movie starts out when Paul and his wife, Carol, pick up his daughter, Kym, from rehab to come home for her sister Rachel’s, wedding. Apparently, Kym has been in trouble with drugs for a long time and is only clean for about a month this time. This film is about the family’s interactions with Kym over the weekend of the wedding. Kym is so self absorbed. She has to make everything about her. Rachel is upset about this and just for once since she is getting married, would like to have the family pay some attention to her and not Kym. Paul, the dad, is such an enabler. Finally, we meet Kym’s mother, played by Debra Winger…she was excellent.
This movie is filled with interesting characters. Sidney, the groom, has a cousin, Joe, who is in the army and on leave for the wedding. He always has a video camera in his hand and Paul twice alludes to him “coming back, safe and sound”. Sidney has horrible glasses, I mean really, a little ridiculous. I couldn’t tell if the wedding was supposed to be non-denominational or whatever…but they all dress in Indian garb. The ceremony takes place in the family home, with the reception later on, outside. Lots of music and singing and a universal cast of characters.
Some scenes were hard to sit through, but sometimes I think movies need to be a little more reality based, rather than these fantasies of “happily ever after”.
I think if you like movies with a little substance, you will want to see this film.
What: Rachel getting Married
Why: I heard about it and wanted to see it.
Where: home on DVD
Well this movie was kind of intense. I loved it. Anne Hathaway did a fabulous job as Kym, the addict sister.
This movie starts out when Paul and his wife, Carol, pick up his daughter, Kym, from rehab to come home for her sister Rachel’s, wedding. Apparently, Kym has been in trouble with drugs for a long time and is only clean for about a month this time. This film is about the family’s interactions with Kym over the weekend of the wedding. Kym is so self absorbed. She has to make everything about her. Rachel is upset about this and just for once since she is getting married, would like to have the family pay some attention to her and not Kym. Paul, the dad, is such an enabler. Finally, we meet Kym’s mother, played by Debra Winger…she was excellent.
This movie is filled with interesting characters. Sidney, the groom, has a cousin, Joe, who is in the army and on leave for the wedding. He always has a video camera in his hand and Paul twice alludes to him “coming back, safe and sound”. Sidney has horrible glasses, I mean really, a little ridiculous. I couldn’t tell if the wedding was supposed to be non-denominational or whatever…but they all dress in Indian garb. The ceremony takes place in the family home, with the reception later on, outside. Lots of music and singing and a universal cast of characters.
Some scenes were hard to sit through, but sometimes I think movies need to be a little more reality based, rather than these fantasies of “happily ever after”.
I think if you like movies with a little substance, you will want to see this film.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Take the Lead
Who: Amber
What: Take the Lead
Where: @ home off cable
Why: I like dancing movies!
Based on a true story, this movie is all about a ballroom dance teacher, Pierre (Antonio Banderas) and a group of good-for-nothing teenagers.
One night Pierre sees to see a boy destroying a principal's car. The following day (for some odd reason) Pierre goes to the school to speak to the principal. He doesn't tell her that he knows what happened to her car, but he overhears that nobody is available to 'teach' detention and volunteers. The director has little confidence in this idea, but figures "what the heck!"
The kids, who (of course) prefer hip-hop to any ballroom dance music are against learning dance. Then Pierre brings in a hot, sexy, tango dancer and they are hooked! Pierre convinced them to even sign up for a dance competition.
As a former teacher, it's a little hard to believe that a bunch of kids would flock to a prim and proper teacher trying to teach the foxtrot. And why does detention seem to last all day? And why is one of the math teachers so against Pierre teaching dance? These kids were kicked out of your math class for a reason - enjoy a classroom full of kids who want to learn! I know when there is a trouble maker in your class, it just consumes you!
The ending of this movie was great. It wasn't about who wins or loses the dance competition, it was all about learning about yourself, trying hard, and making a better life for yourself. Kudos to ballroom dancing!
What: Take the Lead
Where: @ home off cable
Why: I like dancing movies!
Based on a true story, this movie is all about a ballroom dance teacher, Pierre (Antonio Banderas) and a group of good-for-nothing teenagers.
One night Pierre sees to see a boy destroying a principal's car. The following day (for some odd reason) Pierre goes to the school to speak to the principal. He doesn't tell her that he knows what happened to her car, but he overhears that nobody is available to 'teach' detention and volunteers. The director has little confidence in this idea, but figures "what the heck!"
The kids, who (of course) prefer hip-hop to any ballroom dance music are against learning dance. Then Pierre brings in a hot, sexy, tango dancer and they are hooked! Pierre convinced them to even sign up for a dance competition.
As a former teacher, it's a little hard to believe that a bunch of kids would flock to a prim and proper teacher trying to teach the foxtrot. And why does detention seem to last all day? And why is one of the math teachers so against Pierre teaching dance? These kids were kicked out of your math class for a reason - enjoy a classroom full of kids who want to learn! I know when there is a trouble maker in your class, it just consumes you!
The ending of this movie was great. It wasn't about who wins or loses the dance competition, it was all about learning about yourself, trying hard, and making a better life for yourself. Kudos to ballroom dancing!
Monday, February 16, 2009
Gran Torino
Who: Scott & Kerri, with some friends of ours
What: Gran Torino
Where: Showplace 16 Rockford IL
Why: We got a call, 'let's go to the movies' so we went!
I've been wanting to see this movie, but haven't had the chance to get to the theatre. I figured I'd have to wait til the DVD. I am glad we went.
This movie had a lot of funny moments, wrapped in a very serious film. Clint Eastwood plays a widower who does not get along with his neighbors, his kids, his grandkids, his priest.. you get the picture. Old Curmudgeon doesn't even begin to describe him. He's living in the house he raised his family in, and the neighborhood is now mostly Chinese Immigrants, but it's the gangs that are the real problem. He doesn't set out to be a hero, he really just wants to be left alone, and for people to stay off his lawn.
When the older cousin of the teenage neighbor (Tao) insists that Tao join his gang, things go bad. Tao is a quiet kid who doesn't know what he wants to do with his life, except he knows he doesn't want to be in a gang. There are no men in his life, his mom and sister are constantly bossing him around. He is very much in danger to being lost to the gangs, until Walt steps in.
Tao's mother feels Tao owes a debt to Walt (Eastwood), so she makes Tao work for Walt. Slowly Walt starts to warm to Tao, and especially Tao's sister, Su. In the course of events, Walt ends up saving both of them at different times from gang activity. Su and Tao do eventually befriend Walt, even against his will, he cares for them as well.
I do not want to give away the ending, it's very powerful, and in some ways shocking. But you leave that theatre with a "Wow." There was a lot of funny stuff through the entire film, I know when we watch it again on DVD, there's going to be a lot more dialogue we pick up on since there was such laughing in the theatre! But once you get to the end of the film, it was dead quiet in the theatre.
I'd heard this was a great film, although I think it's even better than I'd expected.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
The X-Files: I Want to Believe
Who:LaRelle
What: X-Files: I Want to Believe
Where: my living room
Why: I love X-Files
Well I finally got around to watching this movie. I'm surprised it took me so long considering when the series was on tv it was practically my religion. Although I was kind of putting it off because I had heard very mixed reviews on it and that a lot of die hard fans were disappointed.
Well I wasn't disappointed at all. I thought the story was decent. Yes, it didn't really go too far into the supernatural stuff that the show used to....there were no ghosts, or monsters or anything like that......but the show wasn't always like that.
And the best part was just seeing Mulder and Scully on screen together again. David Duchovny (hottie!) and Gillian Anderson always had incredible chemistry together on the show, and they still have it. I wish that there would have been more "inside jokes", so to speak, related to the tv series. There were a couple of things at the very beginning related to Mulder's character, but it would have been more enjoyable if they had thrown more in throughout the movie.
I wasn't a huge fan when I had heard that Amanda Pete was going to be in this movie because she kind of annoys me...but she actually wasn't too bad. And Billy Connolly was very good in his role as a psychic priest.
So overall it was done pretty well. I'd definitely recommend it if you were a fan of the tv show at all. And even if you weren't it can stand alone, and is a decent thriller/drama type movie.
What: X-Files: I Want to Believe
Where: my living room
Why: I love X-Files
Well I finally got around to watching this movie. I'm surprised it took me so long considering when the series was on tv it was practically my religion. Although I was kind of putting it off because I had heard very mixed reviews on it and that a lot of die hard fans were disappointed.
Well I wasn't disappointed at all. I thought the story was decent. Yes, it didn't really go too far into the supernatural stuff that the show used to....there were no ghosts, or monsters or anything like that......but the show wasn't always like that.
And the best part was just seeing Mulder and Scully on screen together again. David Duchovny (hottie!) and Gillian Anderson always had incredible chemistry together on the show, and they still have it. I wish that there would have been more "inside jokes", so to speak, related to the tv series. There were a couple of things at the very beginning related to Mulder's character, but it would have been more enjoyable if they had thrown more in throughout the movie.
I wasn't a huge fan when I had heard that Amanda Pete was going to be in this movie because she kind of annoys me...but she actually wasn't too bad. And Billy Connolly was very good in his role as a psychic priest.
So overall it was done pretty well. I'd definitely recommend it if you were a fan of the tv show at all. And even if you weren't it can stand alone, and is a decent thriller/drama type movie.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Zodiac
Who: Bill
What: Zodiac
Where: The Movie Channel-- offered free during January
Why: Portions of the movie were filmed near my hometown.
During the late 1960’s-early 1970’s, there were a series of unsolved murders in the San Francisco Bay Area. The suspect identified himself as the “Zodiac” through a number of taunting letters mailed to local police and area newspapers. To date, the case technically remains unsolved, although there is strong evidence of who was the actual culprit.
Zodiac follows the intense investigation by the police and newspaper reporters, focusing primarily on San Francisco Chronicle cartoonist Robert Graysmith (Jake Gyllenhaal), who takes an interest in the case after deciphering some of the cryptic codes in the killer‘s letters. Also covering the story is Chronicle writer Paul Avery (Robert Downey, Jr.). Early scenes alternate between the reporters and the investigators that include San Francisco police detectives Dave Toschi (Mark Ruffalo) and Bill Armstrong (Anthony Edwards), Vallejo Police Officer Jack Mulanax (Elias Koteas) and Napa County Sheriff’s Officer Ken Narlow (Donal Logue). The latter half of the movie follows Graysmith’s near obsession with the “Zodiac” as he writes a book on the case, in which he concludes the killer was a man named Arthur Leigh Allen (played in the movie by John Carroll Lynch). Allen was identified as a suspect and interviewed by detectives in 1971, but despite strong circumstantial evidence, there was never enough physical evidence to charge him with the "Zodiac" crimes. Allen died in 1992.
At almost three hours, Zodiac covers a lot of detail and many years (1969 to 1991), but holds your attention. The period detail is impressive thanks to excellent digital photography and realistic computer-generated effects shots. There is some blood seen when three of the actual Zodiac murders are depicted early in the film, but these are more suspenseful than horribly graphic (it still may disturb some viewers). One way to approach the movie is by seeing it as an expanded R-rated version of Law and Order. So if you have the time and enjoy a good (true) mystery, Zodiac is highly recommended.
What: Zodiac
Where: The Movie Channel-- offered free during January
Why: Portions of the movie were filmed near my hometown.
During the late 1960’s-early 1970’s, there were a series of unsolved murders in the San Francisco Bay Area. The suspect identified himself as the “Zodiac” through a number of taunting letters mailed to local police and area newspapers. To date, the case technically remains unsolved, although there is strong evidence of who was the actual culprit.
Zodiac follows the intense investigation by the police and newspaper reporters, focusing primarily on San Francisco Chronicle cartoonist Robert Graysmith (Jake Gyllenhaal), who takes an interest in the case after deciphering some of the cryptic codes in the killer‘s letters. Also covering the story is Chronicle writer Paul Avery (Robert Downey, Jr.). Early scenes alternate between the reporters and the investigators that include San Francisco police detectives Dave Toschi (Mark Ruffalo) and Bill Armstrong (Anthony Edwards), Vallejo Police Officer Jack Mulanax (Elias Koteas) and Napa County Sheriff’s Officer Ken Narlow (Donal Logue). The latter half of the movie follows Graysmith’s near obsession with the “Zodiac” as he writes a book on the case, in which he concludes the killer was a man named Arthur Leigh Allen (played in the movie by John Carroll Lynch). Allen was identified as a suspect and interviewed by detectives in 1971, but despite strong circumstantial evidence, there was never enough physical evidence to charge him with the "Zodiac" crimes. Allen died in 1992.
At almost three hours, Zodiac covers a lot of detail and many years (1969 to 1991), but holds your attention. The period detail is impressive thanks to excellent digital photography and realistic computer-generated effects shots. There is some blood seen when three of the actual Zodiac murders are depicted early in the film, but these are more suspenseful than horribly graphic (it still may disturb some viewers). One way to approach the movie is by seeing it as an expanded R-rated version of Law and Order. So if you have the time and enjoy a good (true) mystery, Zodiac is highly recommended.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Slumdog Millionaire
Who: Liz
What: Slumdog Millionaire
Where: AMC at Pleasure Island
Why: I really wanted to see it,heard it was good and had the day off!
I absolutely loved this movie! It kept your attention, wasn't too violent, and had a compelling story. One older couple did leave towards the beginning, maybe they didn't like the subtitles. I didn't mind them, though from where I was sitting, I had to lean forward to see a few of them. It was really crowded for a Thursday afternoon!
This movie was about a "Slumdog", Jamal. Jamal and his brother Salim, grew up in some large city in India, they mentioned Mumbai and Bombay, but I couldn't tell where they grew up.
It starts out with Jamal being questioned about how he is winning at "Who wants to be a Millionaire". Apparently the police think he is cheating. So the movie tells the story of how Jamal knew all the answers with the flashbacks of his life.
When Jamal and his older brother, Salim are young, they live in a horrible slum and their mom gets killed and they go off and live on their own. They meet this girl, Latika, and she and Jamal bond. They are like maybe 10 and 11. Then they get picked up in a "orphanage" raid. This guy takes them to live on a "farm" with all these other kids and they have to go out begging for money every day. I don't want to give too much away, it was really intense and they got away, but just Salim and Jamal, Latika let go of Jamal's hand as he was on the train.........
The rest of the story is about the atrocities of Jamal and Salim's life and Jamal's quest to find Latika. I loved the way the present day and the flashbacks were interwoven.
It was mostly in English, except for when they are children and then most of those scenes are subtitled.
The ending was excellent, I won't tell you whether he wins it all or loses it all, but it's a movie, so you can probably figure that out!
Like I said, I really enjoyed this and can understand why everyone seems to like it!
What: Slumdog Millionaire
Where: AMC at Pleasure Island
Why: I really wanted to see it,heard it was good and had the day off!
I absolutely loved this movie! It kept your attention, wasn't too violent, and had a compelling story. One older couple did leave towards the beginning, maybe they didn't like the subtitles. I didn't mind them, though from where I was sitting, I had to lean forward to see a few of them. It was really crowded for a Thursday afternoon!
This movie was about a "Slumdog", Jamal. Jamal and his brother Salim, grew up in some large city in India, they mentioned Mumbai and Bombay, but I couldn't tell where they grew up.
It starts out with Jamal being questioned about how he is winning at "Who wants to be a Millionaire". Apparently the police think he is cheating. So the movie tells the story of how Jamal knew all the answers with the flashbacks of his life.
When Jamal and his older brother, Salim are young, they live in a horrible slum and their mom gets killed and they go off and live on their own. They meet this girl, Latika, and she and Jamal bond. They are like maybe 10 and 11. Then they get picked up in a "orphanage" raid. This guy takes them to live on a "farm" with all these other kids and they have to go out begging for money every day. I don't want to give too much away, it was really intense and they got away, but just Salim and Jamal, Latika let go of Jamal's hand as he was on the train.........
The rest of the story is about the atrocities of Jamal and Salim's life and Jamal's quest to find Latika. I loved the way the present day and the flashbacks were interwoven.
It was mostly in English, except for when they are children and then most of those scenes are subtitled.
The ending was excellent, I won't tell you whether he wins it all or loses it all, but it's a movie, so you can probably figure that out!
Like I said, I really enjoyed this and can understand why everyone seems to like it!
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Gran Torino
Who: Liz and Jay
What: Gran Torino
Where: Regal on I-Drive (Pointe Orlando)
Why:Jay wanted to see it
This was a serious drama! I went because Jay wanted to see this movie or “The Day the Earth Stood Still” (or something like that) and I refused to see it. I don’t like sci-fi and I draw the line at ridiculous movies that I think are pretty far-fetched! I wanted to see “Marley and Me”, I know, I am odd.
Anyway, so I agreed to see Gran Torino, as this was a choice we could basically agree on. I like Clint Eastwood, so off we went. We went to Pointe Orlando, since our son banned us from going to the Loop! He is 13 and doesn’t want to be greeting his old, obnoxious parents in the movie theatre or any where in the vicinity. You have to pay for parking at Pointe Orlando, but the movie theatre validates! Remember to bring your parking ticket!
I thought the movie was okay, I mean, I am definitely not a real critic, who “knows” her movies. I think they gave this movie high marks. I am not a big fan of random scenes in movies and a few scenes just didn’t make sense to me. I mean, Clint plays this hard ass guy and in one scene, he is totally out of character, going to the neighbors house and sitting and chatting and eating with the other guests. That didn’t make sense and the scene with the neighbor girl and her “date” walking down the street and encountering the “thugs” was sort of just thrown in there, too.
To me, it was simply a movie with some action and raw scenes. I wasn’t that thrilled.
What: Gran Torino
Where: Regal on I-Drive (Pointe Orlando)
Why:Jay wanted to see it
This was a serious drama! I went because Jay wanted to see this movie or “The Day the Earth Stood Still” (or something like that) and I refused to see it. I don’t like sci-fi and I draw the line at ridiculous movies that I think are pretty far-fetched! I wanted to see “Marley and Me”, I know, I am odd.
Anyway, so I agreed to see Gran Torino, as this was a choice we could basically agree on. I like Clint Eastwood, so off we went. We went to Pointe Orlando, since our son banned us from going to the Loop! He is 13 and doesn’t want to be greeting his old, obnoxious parents in the movie theatre or any where in the vicinity. You have to pay for parking at Pointe Orlando, but the movie theatre validates! Remember to bring your parking ticket!
I thought the movie was okay, I mean, I am definitely not a real critic, who “knows” her movies. I think they gave this movie high marks. I am not a big fan of random scenes in movies and a few scenes just didn’t make sense to me. I mean, Clint plays this hard ass guy and in one scene, he is totally out of character, going to the neighbors house and sitting and chatting and eating with the other guests. That didn’t make sense and the scene with the neighbor girl and her “date” walking down the street and encountering the “thugs” was sort of just thrown in there, too.
To me, it was simply a movie with some action and raw scenes. I wasn’t that thrilled.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Valkyrie
Who: Amber & Jonathan
What: Valkyrie
Where: AMC Pleasure Island
Why: Jonathan picked
What: Valkyrie
Where: AMC Pleasure Island
Why: Jonathan picked
Let me start by saying I had NO desire to see this movie. I don't like war movies and I'm not a Tom Cruise fan. I was going to split up from Jonathan and see ANY OTHER movie at the theater, but there was nothing! Not one single thing I wanted to see. So I sucked it up and saw Valkyrie.
And I actually enjoyed myself!
If you know your history (which I don't, and I knew this!), Hitler is not assassinated. So you know from the get go that Tom Cruise's plan isn't going to work. Yet the movie is still interesting to see how many people hated Hilter, and how many people tried to assassinate him over and over again.
This movie got a little heat because of how un-German Tom Cruise is. However, the first 5 minutes kind-of clear up that fact. It's hard to explain, but I actually enjoyed a 100% English movie. No super fake accents or hard to understand dialogue.
What would've made this movie great for me, is to show a montage at the end of the real men involved. For example, Tom Cruise was General Staffenburg. I wanted to see who the real General Staffenburg was. I love when "real story" movie actually show the real people at the end - like the football movie Invincible!
Saturday, January 3, 2009
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Who: Monica & Mom
What: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Where: Hiram, Georgia
Why: We both like Brad Pitt and had time on our hands.
I usually love anything starring Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett is pretty great as well. I should have known when I saw it is nominated for 5 Golden Globes that it wasn't going to be my kind of movie.
The movie take places from the end of World War 1 into the 21st Century. There is a bit of back and forth, putting the story and characters together. I wasn't quite prepared for where the story was being told from either, but I'll let you see that for yourself. The main location is set in New Orleans in an assisted living house and then throughout parts of the world where Benjamin Button travels.
Bejamin is born a little different from the rest of us. He is born the size of a baby, but looks and has the medical conditions of a senior citizen. As he "grows", he gets bigger and younger. The movie is the story of his life, his travels and those he meets. Love, friends, people in your life all come and go for a season. He appreciates things in a different way of course. That part of the story I liked and could have went with, from there it was all downhill for me.
I didn't like this movie at all! It seemed forever long. (159 minutes to be exact) I thought there was so many parts that could have been left out while leaving the story intact. (You need an extrodinary movie to keep me focused for that long) I didn't like the circumstances in which the story was being told and wish it could have had a different reason for the narrative. I guess if you understand Benjamin's "condition" you also know that the ending is going to have to be different than you might like.
I love movies, but this just wasn't my kind at all.
Good luck!
What: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Where: Hiram, Georgia
Why: We both like Brad Pitt and had time on our hands.
I usually love anything starring Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett is pretty great as well. I should have known when I saw it is nominated for 5 Golden Globes that it wasn't going to be my kind of movie.
The movie take places from the end of World War 1 into the 21st Century. There is a bit of back and forth, putting the story and characters together. I wasn't quite prepared for where the story was being told from either, but I'll let you see that for yourself. The main location is set in New Orleans in an assisted living house and then throughout parts of the world where Benjamin Button travels.
Bejamin is born a little different from the rest of us. He is born the size of a baby, but looks and has the medical conditions of a senior citizen. As he "grows", he gets bigger and younger. The movie is the story of his life, his travels and those he meets. Love, friends, people in your life all come and go for a season. He appreciates things in a different way of course. That part of the story I liked and could have went with, from there it was all downhill for me.
I didn't like this movie at all! It seemed forever long. (159 minutes to be exact) I thought there was so many parts that could have been left out while leaving the story intact. (You need an extrodinary movie to keep me focused for that long) I didn't like the circumstances in which the story was being told and wish it could have had a different reason for the narrative. I guess if you understand Benjamin's "condition" you also know that the ending is going to have to be different than you might like.
I love movies, but this just wasn't my kind at all.
Good luck!
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Waitress
Who: Amber & Jonathan
What: Waitress
Where: @ home - recorded off cable
Why: Jonathan picked it
What: Waitress
Where: @ home - recorded off cable
Why: Jonathan picked it
I was surpised when Jonathan picked this movie. I think he thought it was a comedy. It was kind-of funny, but it was way more drama than comedy.
Jenna is a waitress at Joe's Pie Diner. She is a pie making genius (makes crazy named pies called "Earl's a Jerk Apple" and "Mermaid Marshmellow"), but she's stuck in a loveless marriage. Her husband Earl is a total jerk, but he does show flashes of niceness. It's an odd character, he's controlling (Jenna isn't allowed to have a car and she has to bake for him 24/7), but he does love her. You have to hate him, but you're torn at the same time.
The opening scene shows Jenna and her 2 work friends in a bathroom. Jenna is holding a pregnancy test ... it's positive! She is upset. She's trying to save money to run away from Earl.
I don't want to give a lot away, b/c it's a really cute movie. Jenna deals with the pregnancy the smart way, she eats properly, goes to the doctor all the time, but she's not excited about it at all. Don't tell her "congratulations", that's for sure.
Did I mention she does to the doctor all the time? That's because her doctor is really cute. Dr. Palmater thinks Jenna is cute too. Too bad he's married.
Will Jenna run away from Earl? Is the doctor really married? Will Jenna win the pie contest, and win a bunch of money?
One sad note, one of her pie co-workers is the writer of the movie. Unfortunately she was murdered before this movie aired at the Sundance Festival. She was a great actress and obviously a great writer.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
