No costume, no party, no problem! Whether you are stuck at home giving out candy, or merely having a quiet night in, here are some of my favourite scary movies.
Big Thoughts From A Small Mind's Top Films to watch on Halloween
11) Saw – The yearly, and vastly weaker, sequels has caused many to forget that the original Saw help to bring new life into the modern horror genre.
10) Ginger Snaps – Here is the first proof that the life of a teenage girl can be far scarier than any monster under the bed.
9) Carrie - Here is the second reason why you need to be wary of your teenage daughter. I am not ashamed to admit that the ending scared the heck out of me when I was younger.
8) Scream – Similar to Saw, the sequels have ruined this franchise for many. Yet Scream proved that you could bring the “slasher genre” back to life through witty deconstruction.
7) Night of the Living Dead – Still the best zombie movie ever made in my opinion!
6) Halloween – This one is all about the build up for me. There were many great slasher films I could have included on the list, but this one edged out the competition.
5) The Blair Witch Project – Forget the marketing hype that got bigger than the film itself. In an era of elaborate death and gore, all The Blair Witch Project needed was nature and a handheld camera to scare millions. It still holds up for me all these years later…yes even the highly debated ending.
4) Rosemary's Baby – A true horror classic. While not gory, the chills are all of a mental nature. The ending is both disturbing and fantastic all at the same time.
3) Child's Play – Yes the series has become a parody of itself over the years, but Child’s Play still remains one of my favourite horror films. In my opinion there is nothing scarier for a child than a creepy looking toy. Of course they may be a result of growing up in the era of “my buddy” and “kid sister”.
2) Let the Right One In – Not only was this my second favourite movie of 2008, but it is one of the best films to be released in the last decade. Forget Twilight, if you want a truly engaging vampire love story, that is equally disturbing at the same time, look no further than this underrated gem.
1) The Shining – Stephen King may not have loved this adaptation of his story, but I think Kubrick did a brilliant job. This is the one film that I never get tired of watching.
Honorable Mention: The Fly, Friday the 13th, Nightmare on Elm Street, Jaws, Psycho, Videodrome, The Descent, Misery, Shaun of the Dead, The Exorcist, Vertigo, The Eye (Japanese version).
Did your favourite scary movie not make the list? List your top horror films in the comments section below.
The Full List Of Big Thoughts From A Small Mind's 2009 Reviews.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Thursday, October 29, 2009
A day of contemplation and creativity
Today was one of those days you know you will remember for a while….
I woke up, ate breakfast and joined about 10 volunteers and staff members on a hike to a cemetery/Indian burial ground from the 1700-1800s. We got there, centered ourselves and decided to explore in silence, which added to the quiet, desolate and surprisingly peaceful atmosphere of the cemetery. It was a beautiful place. The mountains outlined the landscape and the stones were silhouetted on two huge mounds of earth. Some of the tombstones were corroded with moss and cracks in them, but they signified a life lived so long ago. Other stones were elaborate and included quotes and the age they were when they passed. There were so many people who were under the age of 10 that passed back then. One stone stood out to me. It was a man who had lived to be 98, back in the late 1700s, his inscription read “Solider of the Revolution”. He had survived the war and lived to be 98 in one of the most trying times in our history. Other tombstones of girls my age were also pretty jarring. It was such a contemplative and complacent morning. We all agreed that there was a certain energy there… When I got back I did a yoga class and ate.
Then as soon as I walked into work, I had my creativity flowing. I decided to create a Halloween costume in an hour before the work Halloween party. So, what did we do in the Marketing building? Made me a present billboard for our “Free Nights” promo going on. You can see the ad here http://kripalu.org/ . Here’s a picture of my ensemble:
I woke up, ate breakfast and joined about 10 volunteers and staff members on a hike to a cemetery/Indian burial ground from the 1700-1800s. We got there, centered ourselves and decided to explore in silence, which added to the quiet, desolate and surprisingly peaceful atmosphere of the cemetery. It was a beautiful place. The mountains outlined the landscape and the stones were silhouetted on two huge mounds of earth. Some of the tombstones were corroded with moss and cracks in them, but they signified a life lived so long ago. Other stones were elaborate and included quotes and the age they were when they passed. There were so many people who were under the age of 10 that passed back then. One stone stood out to me. It was a man who had lived to be 98, back in the late 1700s, his inscription read “Solider of the Revolution”. He had survived the war and lived to be 98 in one of the most trying times in our history. Other tombstones of girls my age were also pretty jarring. It was such a contemplative and complacent morning. We all agreed that there was a certain energy there… When I got back I did a yoga class and ate.
Then as soon as I walked into work, I had my creativity flowing. I decided to create a Halloween costume in an hour before the work Halloween party. So, what did we do in the Marketing building? Made me a present billboard for our “Free Nights” promo going on. You can see the ad here http://kripalu.org/ . Here’s a picture of my ensemble:
Creativity at it’s best. We used paper clips for the suspenders and Derek in graphic design printed out the actual banner. It was a lot of fun and nice to let out some laughs throughout the day… Good times.
My day went from one of deep spiritual contemplation to an all out, creative party in my office.
All in the spirit of Halloween:-)
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Sara Ramirez Hollywood Actress Sara Ramirez Pics
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Un-Profound
Happy Wednesday. My day started off really fast and busy and now is winding down and going slow. The weather is rainy and cold, so it doesn’t make me as bitter about being in my office all day. Tomorrow is Halloween dress-up day at work! I want to possibly go on this guided hike tomorrow during work (we'll see, wah wah) so I may have to bring my costume (haven't made it yet) with me. I also went to an open mic night last night, and got nostalgic thinking of singing in Colorado, and ate some bacon wrapper dates.....yummm. OH AND I moved into a new room, bigger, better and quieter than my previous room off the kitchen, so yay. And I'm obsessed with Mad Men. That's me summed up right now.
So, I’ve been reading “Julie & Julia” for the past couple weeks and I had a blog-related epiphany. Julie took something as simple as cooking a different meal from Julia Child’s book, wrote witty-honest and balsy entries based around this undertaking, and satisfied her readers, but more importantly satisfied herself. Before she began blogging, she was in a rut, had no focus, no inspiration and felt lost. In most situations like this, people make life-changing decisions or to put more blatantly really impulsive/sometimes bad ones. Then again sometimes they make amazing ones. In Julie’s case her decision did not include a monumental change like quitting her job. She did something bolder than the boldest of decisions. She gambled her life-changing happiness on this: a blog. One little blog in a sea of millions. I think it's more of a gamble than a huge life-altering change. She focused on writing and food, simply put.
It made me realize that sometimes I focus to much on the big questions I am bound to face in the near future; “Will I be here in a year”, “Who will I marry”, “Will I want to work here in a couple of months”, “What is HE up to”? “Will I ever fall in love”, “Will I ever lose more weight”? I should make like Julie, and ask myself, “What makes me happy”? “What do I get joy out of doing”? “Who can I surround myself with that makes me happy ”? Julie took her love of writing and fascination with cooking and channeled her blog, which channeled a book, which channeled a movie. All because she once was an unhappy girl, who stopped asking herself “When will things change”, and asked herself “What makes me happy”. A simple question, that when you answer it yourself, the answers reveal themselves through your actions. Act Don't React, my friends.
On that note, I think this blog needs some fall cleaning. I’m going to write to simply write. As simple as that. Whether it be profound or un-profound, monumental or mundane. I love writing, and setting parameters is out of the question. Who knows what may evolve?
Happy blogging,
Erin
So, I’ve been reading “Julie & Julia” for the past couple weeks and I had a blog-related epiphany. Julie took something as simple as cooking a different meal from Julia Child’s book, wrote witty-honest and balsy entries based around this undertaking, and satisfied her readers, but more importantly satisfied herself. Before she began blogging, she was in a rut, had no focus, no inspiration and felt lost. In most situations like this, people make life-changing decisions or to put more blatantly really impulsive/sometimes bad ones. Then again sometimes they make amazing ones. In Julie’s case her decision did not include a monumental change like quitting her job. She did something bolder than the boldest of decisions. She gambled her life-changing happiness on this: a blog. One little blog in a sea of millions. I think it's more of a gamble than a huge life-altering change. She focused on writing and food, simply put.
It made me realize that sometimes I focus to much on the big questions I am bound to face in the near future; “Will I be here in a year”, “Who will I marry”, “Will I want to work here in a couple of months”, “What is HE up to”? “Will I ever fall in love”, “Will I ever lose more weight”? I should make like Julie, and ask myself, “What makes me happy”? “What do I get joy out of doing”? “Who can I surround myself with that makes me happy ”? Julie took her love of writing and fascination with cooking and channeled her blog, which channeled a book, which channeled a movie. All because she once was an unhappy girl, who stopped asking herself “When will things change”, and asked herself “What makes me happy”. A simple question, that when you answer it yourself, the answers reveal themselves through your actions. Act Don't React, my friends.
On that note, I think this blog needs some fall cleaning. I’m going to write to simply write. As simple as that. Whether it be profound or un-profound, monumental or mundane. I love writing, and setting parameters is out of the question. Who knows what may evolve?
Happy blogging,
Erin
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Kate Hudson Famous Actress Kate Hudson Gallery
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MICHAEL BUBLE AND EMILY BLUNT HAVE SPLIT
British crooner Michael Buble and his girlfriend of three years, British actress Emily Blunt have called it quits.Michael Buble's publicist Liz Rosenberg tells exclusively to Perez Hilton, "Sadly, after three years, they have parted ways. They are both extraordinary people with huge talent. Let's wish them well."We wish the all the best too. These two were really one of the most goodlooking and
Monday, October 26, 2009
Carmen Electra wallpapers
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Clash of the TV Viewing Habits
When the new TV season started - FlashForward looked like an interesting show. Mr. Burns and I found ourselves aboard an airplane on the evening of it's premire, so we set the DVR that night and every Thursday night since.
Now, Mr. Burns doesn't find much he likes on regular network TV (ironic - as that is where I work, local TV - on the low numbered channels - that is) so it's a big effort to get him to agree to watch a series with me. This weekend, we sat down to watch the first two episodes. I found it intriguing. He isn't so impressed with drama - particularly the type that drags out.
In addition to that, we have different TV/Movie-watching styles. I'm a "I-didn't-hear-what-they-said-let's-rewind."- type of viewer. (I mean, what is rewind for if not that?) He is a "Let's-not-take-a-whole-hour-to-watch-an-hour-show"- type of viewer.
These two types can clash.
So after I twice asked for a rewind to make out some mumbled dialogue... I tried really hard not to miss anything for the rest of an episode. Just the sort of thing you do to make someone happy.
As the episode came to an end and a bit of information was revealed to answer a built-up mystery and keep you hooked for next week -- I said, "I pretty-much guessed that would happen."
Mr. Burns, declared that unfair. "You can't say you predicted something after it happens. That's cheating. You have to say so before it happens, or you could claim to have predicted everything!"
This is an annoyance he has voiced before. But, I felt caught in cross hairs.
"You don't want me to talk during the program, and you don't like to pause or rewind." I figured I had him.
He smirked and said, "Well, you can interrupt to tell me a prediction!"
(Okay, but some other people hate when people do that! - namely me!)
So we mockingly bickered back and forth about TV viewing etiquette - and he tried to trump me with his sound reasoning. Until I shot back... "You know, if I have to spend the rest of my life dancing around your delicate eco-system - this just isn't going to work!!"
I thought I had him.
Then he said, "I'd prefer it if you tip-toed around my eco-system."
Smart-aleck!!
Now, Mr. Burns doesn't find much he likes on regular network TV (ironic - as that is where I work, local TV - on the low numbered channels - that is) so it's a big effort to get him to agree to watch a series with me. This weekend, we sat down to watch the first two episodes. I found it intriguing. He isn't so impressed with drama - particularly the type that drags out.
In addition to that, we have different TV/Movie-watching styles. I'm a "I-didn't-hear-what-they-said-let's-rewind."- type of viewer. (I mean, what is rewind for if not that?) He is a "Let's-not-take-a-whole-hour-to-watch-an-hour-show"- type of viewer.
These two types can clash.
So after I twice asked for a rewind to make out some mumbled dialogue... I tried really hard not to miss anything for the rest of an episode. Just the sort of thing you do to make someone happy.
As the episode came to an end and a bit of information was revealed to answer a built-up mystery and keep you hooked for next week -- I said, "I pretty-much guessed that would happen."
Mr. Burns, declared that unfair. "You can't say you predicted something after it happens. That's cheating. You have to say so before it happens, or you could claim to have predicted everything!"
This is an annoyance he has voiced before. But, I felt caught in cross hairs.
"You don't want me to talk during the program, and you don't like to pause or rewind." I figured I had him.
He smirked and said, "Well, you can interrupt to tell me a prediction!"
(Okay, but some other people hate when people do that! - namely me!)
So we mockingly bickered back and forth about TV viewing etiquette - and he tried to trump me with his sound reasoning. Until I shot back... "You know, if I have to spend the rest of my life dancing around your delicate eco-system - this just isn't going to work!!"
I thought I had him.
Then he said, "I'd prefer it if you tip-toed around my eco-system."
Smart-aleck!!
Sister retreat
I know i talk of all the amazing yoga classes, retreats, mediation talk and beautiful scenery at my disposal, but by far the best memory I have of being here so far was my sister's visit this weekend. A self-guided retreat with her was all I needed.
We went to Kripalu yoga classes, walked around town, went out at night, ate delicious food, went to Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, Barrington Brewery and a Harry Potter corn maze (well we broke into it, haha). Great weekend.
FIRST PHOTO: 'Beautiful and Smart' Ivanka Trump & Jared Kushner wedding photos
As Ivanka Trump's official wedding photos reveal, Ivanka Trump was a stunning bride in her custom Vera Wang gown and diamonds from her own fine-jewelry collection.
Ivanka Trump, 27, married Jared Kushner, 28, in a private Jewish ceremony at Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey, in front of 500 of their friends and family members. Among the star-studded guests were: Russell Crowe, Natalie Portman, Barbara Walters, Regis Philbin, former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani and the current New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo.
The bride, the co-host of Celebrity Apprentice and a vice president at her father's real estate company, and her new husband, who is the publisher of the New York Observer and an executive at the Kushner Companies, released few photos and kept most of the details of their wedding private. Donald Trump told PEOPLE he offered a simple toast to the couple: "Be happy and enjoy your life."
The newlyweds, who are planning to honeymoon in Africa, did spend most of the night dancing. "It was a great wedding," said the father-of-the-bride. "I'm very happy. They're really a beautiful, smart couple. I think you'll hear a lot of great things from them in the years to come."Sammy Sighs
Hi...remember me? Geez, Mom has not taken any dictation from me in a long while. I guess she forgot all about my stories.I have been doing ok. Sissy and I got to spend the night and day at Grandma and Grandpa's house a couple weekends ago while Mom and Dad went to Denver to visit Allison. It was really nice of Grandma and Grandpa to let us stay and I was especially good. Sissy was naughty. (0f course) She chewed out some hair and that worried my Grandma and Grandpa. But, I tried to tell them she just does that. Silly Sissy just has issues. She also bit at my feet when we would run in the big yard outside and she was mean and didn't want me to sit with them, she was being selfish. Silly Sissy. But, we had a nice time and I was really glad we got to stay there with family instead of having to stay with strangers at a kennel where you don't get to sit on laps and all that other good stuff. Thank you Grandma and Grandpa!
We went for a ride in the car the other day, and I was enjoying putting my head out the window when it rolled up and almost strangled me to death. I started screaming in my doggie voice. Mom started yelling at Dad because she thought he was rolling up the window! She was in a panic. Uh, oh...it was all my fault ... I stepped on the button myself and rolled up the window. I must really learn to be more careful. I did escape injury free at least!
Well, hope you are having a good day! I have missed writing on here! Love, Sammy. (the stud)
Megan Fox is beginning her promotional tour in Europe for Jennifer’s Body
Jesus. Has anyone told this girl, “Before you answer a question, just stop and think about the words you are about to say. Just think about what it sounds like.” Because this sounds like Megan wants to teach little girls how to act sexy. No, thanks, Megan. You’re not Miley Cyrus! Besides that, I think the reason Megan thinks “sexiness” is power is because that’s all she’s got. Just FYI, to all
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Penelope Cruz Pictures, Images Fashion Styles
allpaperOne of Spain's foremost leading ladies of the 1990s, Penélope Cruz has managed to make her mark with international audiences as well. Born in Madrid on April 28, 1974, Cruz was one of three children of a merchant and a hairdresser. After years of intensive study in ballet and jazz, she broke into acting in 1992. That year, she had starring roles in Jamón Jamón and Belle Epoque, two
Friday, October 23, 2009
Beware of Antichrist’s Deceptive Gardens
Antichrist
Just in time for the Halloween season comes Lars Von Trier’s first stab at the horror genre. After the suffering the tragic loss of their infant son, a couple (William Dafoe, Charlotte Gainsbourg) attempt to mend emotional wounds that the death has opened. The wife (Gainsboug) begins to have recurring nightmares about the woods near their cottage in Eden. The husband (Dafoe), who is a psychologist, believes that the best cure for his wife’s grief is to confront her deepest fears. After much prodding, the wife agrees to take a trip up to the cottage. At Eden the couple quickly realizes that facing ones fears may not quite be the medicine they were hoping for.
Lars Von Trier’s nightmare look at the stereotype of the sexes is, if nothing else, a film that will stick with you long after you see it. Whether this is a good thing or a bad thing is up to the individual viewer. This is not the type of film that you really need to see at 9 o’clock on a Saturday morning. The much publicized graphic scenes are indeed hard to watch and not easy to forget. Yet I found that those particular scenes were more distracting than anything else. They actually ruined everything that was so wonderfully set up in the first section of the film.
Antichrist is visually stunning at times, and raises a lot of interesting questions about the dispositions of both men and women. The theme of nature being Satan’s playground is fascinating. I really liked how Von Trier interprets the whole Garden of Eden story and juxtaposes it with the history of pagan women being accused and burned as witches. Lars Von Tier also touches on the idea of a woman’s pleasure being a punishable offense.
Unfortunately all these great ideas are overshadowed by the excessive later half of Antichrist which almost borders on torture-porn. When reflecting on the film you automatically think back to “the wheel” and other gruesome moments, instead of how wonderful Charlotte Gainsbourg’s performance is. While Antichrist is destined to be the subject of many film school papers for years to come; it is just not as strong, or as focused, as Von Trier’s previous works. The concept is great and the performances are good, but overall I would say this one is a rental.
On a side note, this film, oddly enough, reminded me of the Canadian film Lost Song that played at TIFF ‘08. That film was also about a disturbing tale about a couple that go to their cabin in the woods in an attempt to cure the wife’s postpartum depression. It would be interesting to watch both that and Antichrist back-to-back one day.
Just in time for the Halloween season comes Lars Von Trier’s first stab at the horror genre. After the suffering the tragic loss of their infant son, a couple (William Dafoe, Charlotte Gainsbourg) attempt to mend emotional wounds that the death has opened. The wife (Gainsboug) begins to have recurring nightmares about the woods near their cottage in Eden. The husband (Dafoe), who is a psychologist, believes that the best cure for his wife’s grief is to confront her deepest fears. After much prodding, the wife agrees to take a trip up to the cottage. At Eden the couple quickly realizes that facing ones fears may not quite be the medicine they were hoping for.Lars Von Trier’s nightmare look at the stereotype of the sexes is, if nothing else, a film that will stick with you long after you see it. Whether this is a good thing or a bad thing is up to the individual viewer. This is not the type of film that you really need to see at 9 o’clock on a Saturday morning. The much publicized graphic scenes are indeed hard to watch and not easy to forget. Yet I found that those particular scenes were more distracting than anything else. They actually ruined everything that was so wonderfully set up in the first section of the film.
Antichrist is visually stunning at times, and raises a lot of interesting questions about the dispositions of both men and women. The theme of nature being Satan’s playground is fascinating. I really liked how Von Trier interprets the whole Garden of Eden story and juxtaposes it with the history of pagan women being accused and burned as witches. Lars Von Tier also touches on the idea of a woman’s pleasure being a punishable offense.
Unfortunately all these great ideas are overshadowed by the excessive later half of Antichrist which almost borders on torture-porn. When reflecting on the film you automatically think back to “the wheel” and other gruesome moments, instead of how wonderful Charlotte Gainsbourg’s performance is. While Antichrist is destined to be the subject of many film school papers for years to come; it is just not as strong, or as focused, as Von Trier’s previous works. The concept is great and the performances are good, but overall I would say this one is a rental.
On a side note, this film, oddly enough, reminded me of the Canadian film Lost Song that played at TIFF ‘08. That film was also about a disturbing tale about a couple that go to their cabin in the woods in an attempt to cure the wife’s postpartum depression. It would be interesting to watch both that and Antichrist back-to-back one day.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Better Here....
Wow, I had a bug that kept me down and out a couple days. I stayed home from work on Tuesday and Wednesday! Wednesday I did a few things around the house, and thought, wow, am I sweating! (Sorry to be gross!). Maybe I sweat it out mostly because I got to feeling better. I came back to work today (Thursday) and you'd think I missed a month when you saw my voice mails, emails and messages! So, back at it...good and hard and very busy!
My niece had a tracheotomy this week to move the tubes and they also moved the feeding tube and that all went well. Keep the prayers coming, as each day there is slight improvement. Like I said, we hope for leaps and bounds, and forget it is going to be baby steps and we have to be very, very patient! Thank God for the miracles we have received so far! Keep the prayers coming, they are working!!! Remember, you can get updates at her caring bridge site!
My niece had a tracheotomy this week to move the tubes and they also moved the feeding tube and that all went well. Keep the prayers coming, as each day there is slight improvement. Like I said, we hope for leaps and bounds, and forget it is going to be baby steps and we have to be very, very patient! Thank God for the miracles we have received so far! Keep the prayers coming, they are working!!! Remember, you can get updates at her caring bridge site!
Little League Football
When we were in Denver, we were able to catch a game of little league football that Brooklyn plays in. (He is 8). Let me tell you, we enjoyed it. It was fun watching those little guys. They hadn't won any games, but won this one 58-0!
It was about as much fun watching his dad help out as it was watching him play!
For more photos click here: Brooklyn Football 2009
It was about as much fun watching his dad help out as it was watching him play!
For more photos click here: Brooklyn Football 2009
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Thumbs Up!
I tried out this juice, and I love it. In the case I 
bought, there were three flavors, and I liked them all.
Only 60 calories, and you get to enjoy juice, which is one thing that is hard to drink if you are watching calories. And, this is also an appetite suppressant, so they say.
Try it! Let me know if you like it, too!
bought, there were three flavors, and I liked them all.
Only 60 calories, and you get to enjoy juice, which is one thing that is hard to drink if you are watching calories. And, this is also an appetite suppressant, so they say.
Try it! Let me know if you like it, too!
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Britney Spears has cleaned up her act
Damn, I could use some corn chips right now. Is it wrong that I want corn chips for breakfast? It is, isn’t it? Before, I could always look at my food choices with some smugness, thinking to myself “Well, at least I’m eating better than Britney Spears.” No more! She does look really cute these days. Let’s hope that Britney didn’t just quit junk food, she quit the pink wig and all that it
Wisecrackers....
You can't see this really well, but my daughter and her boyfriend sent me this postcard. As you may remember, I had my "unfortunate jackalope incident" this summer. :-)Anyway, they sent me this card about riding jackalopes (they put on their own print about the fan club and riding jackalopes...hmm...I will have to think of something to get back at them ... especially that rascal, Adam!
Ideas welcome....
Monday, October 19, 2009
Airport Observations
I took another trip with Mr. Burns this weekend. He's making the rounds with me - making sure the people most important to him see just how fabulous I am! (at least that's my story)
The trip was great. We travel well together and just spending time together is good because he's been away for work so much lately.
So we spent some time in airports and let me tell you ... that's a fine place to find people doing stupid things!
Maybe not everyone has spent as much time in DIA as I... but I can tell you that the women's restrooms in the terminals all have the same layout. You walk in through a little curve and the first section is sinks only. You bypass the wash area to get to the toilet stalls.
That would be the blue line in this diagram.
The trip was great. We travel well together and just spending time together is good because he's been away for work so much lately.
So we spent some time in airports and let me tell you ... that's a fine place to find people doing stupid things!
Maybe not everyone has spent as much time in DIA as I... but I can tell you that the women's restrooms in the terminals all have the same layout. You walk in through a little curve and the first section is sinks only. You bypass the wash area to get to the toilet stalls.
That would be the blue line in this diagram.
Then you do your business and move on to the sinks.
I really don't see how anyone can miss this. It's pretty easy to surmise the layout the second you are in the room. There is even the benefit of mirrors to confirm that there is nothing in that first section but sinks.
I'm guessing tons of women are just looking at their feet! Those feet watching women follow the red line - walking straight in without paying attention. Then when I come out for the sinks (the orange line) I have to stand there and get all tangled up as they figure out what they missed, and head toward the toilet area! Gah! So annoying.
I wonder if I'm just more observant (and possibly more impatient). Or if it's really that tricky?
Just stay to the left going in.. and to the left again heading to the sinks and everyone stays out of every one's way!
Sheesh.
But the real annoyance was a mom in the Austin airport.
Her two kids were happily doing a little maypole dance around a group of those little line barriers... the kind where the strap retracts to inside the pole. When the TSA wants to form a nice little mouse maze - they connect the poles by pulling the strap out and sliding it onto the next pole.
Anyway, there were about 4 poles corralled, out-of-use. 
The girl was 3 or 4 and the boy was 6 or 7 years old. They played follow-the-leader and London Bridge type games. The were reasonably quiet - to the point that they weren't annoying any neighboring passengers.
All a mom could dream of. No?
Not this mom. She ceaselessly barked orders. "Don't push your brother." "Don't pull on that strap." "Don't make your sister scream." (okay that was a good one, but she wasn't screaming!) "I said, don't touch that." "Do as I say."
I couldn't believe it. Here, her kids were A) burning off energy (good for pre-boarding) B) Entertaining themselves C) Reasonably quiet D) not hurting each other and E) not damaging property. For some reason this mom couldn't see that. She just barked and barked at them.
It made me wonder if she thought she was showing off her mom skills by micro-managing her kids' every move.
I thought she was doing a good job of turning them into little neurotics!
I don't want to judge other people's parenting - but come on - this lady probably watches them sleep and then gives them pointers in the morning!! Lighten up!!!
I asked Mr. Burns to make sure I never act like that if I have kids. He promised.
Well, now I feel compelled to end on a positive note - so... ummm.... I found no offenders of my baggage claim rule. I hate it when people crowd around the baggage carousel - creating a barrier for anyone who actually SEES their bag! I say, 5- 10 feet buffer between the crowd and the carousel... so that people can actually get in and claim their bag.
We didn't have to step on anyone the whole trip! Success!
Wild Thing You Make My Heart Sing
I attended the 1st Annual Autumn Harvest Short Film Festival this past weekend. Orchestrated by Damien Dornford, the festival not only showcased up-and-coming filmmakers but also raised money for The Children’s Aid Foundation charity as well. 15 short films, ranging from almost every genre you can think of, were screened for a very lively audience. Be sure to keep an eye of for future installments of this festival as it should not be missed.
Where the Wild Things Are
By the time the ending credits started to role on Spike Jonze’s latest work, Where the Wild Things Are, I was not sure how to process what I had just witnessed. The film was the complete opposite of what I had expected. After reflecting on the film over the last couple of days, it became very apparent that it has been quiet sometime since a live action children’s film really stuck with me like this did.
Adapted from Maurice Sendak's classic children's story, Where the Wild Things Are follows a young boy on a fantastical journey of self-discovery. Feeling isolated from his older sister, Max (Max Records) only has his mother (Catherine Keener) to cling to. Yet when Max’s mom invites her new boyfriend (Mark Ruffalo) over for dinner, Max fears that even she has giving up on him. After running away from home, Max comes across a small sailboat at a local dock. The boat eventually leads Max to a mysterious island where monstrous Wild Things roam. After tricking the Wild Things, most notably Carol (James Gandolfini), into believing he posses magical powers, Max is crowned king of the group. Max soon realizes that even on a mysterious island you cannot runaway from your problems.
While Sendak’s children’s story is considered to be a classic by many, do not go into this film expecting a standard children’s flick. One of the brilliant aspects to this film is that it defies many of the conventions you are use to seeing in most kid’s films nowadays. Hollywood has pushed so many traditional children’s pictures, especially of the animated and/or talking animal kind, down our throats over the last few years that it actually takes a bit of time to truly adjust to the different tone and rhythm of this film. Which is one reason I think this film will catch many off guard in several sections. Where the Wild Things Are is far darker than you initially think it will be. Even the wonderfully dark film, Coraline, seems downright sunny in comparison. Jonze not only captures the dark tones of the source material but he actually engulfs himself in it. Despite the fun Max seems to have with his new found friends, you always feel that Max is walking a very fine line. There is a constant uneasiness that, at any moment, either Judith or Carol will make good on their threats of eating Max.
Jonze is able to create this world that both horrifying and invigorating for a child, through the use of life size puppets and subtle special effects. Despite the fantastical aspect of the Wild Things mere existence the bulk of their world, and of Max’s imagination, is grounded in reality. In many ways the use of full size puppets and realism reminded me of some of beloved childhood films of my youth (e.g. The Neverending Story, Dark Crystal, etc). In an era where children are mainly marketed animated movies in 3D, it is nice to see a filmmaker not afraid to buck the trend. What makes Jonze’s accomplishment even bolder is the fact that all of the Wild Things have their own identifiable qualities. Although not all get equal screen time, you still get a strong understanding of both their unique personalities; and the overall role each plays in the group. Spike Jonze skillfully shows us how each one is a reflection of the different stages of Max’s current life. Although big and fearsome at times, the Wild Things are struggling with issues of family, loneliness, love, having their voices heard, etc. Max naively thinks that by being in charge he can fix in them everything that he fears in himself. Yet as the Wild Things world seemingly get worse it becomes clear to Max that life in general was never simple to begin with. It is this realization in Max, and the audience, that allows the abrupt ending to make perfect sense. Jonze does care about wrapping things up perfectly because that is not how life works.
There are times when Spike Jonze's unique voice makes the film a little too stylized for its own good. Certain freeze frames and camera tricks take you out of the picture momentarily instead of pulling you in further. Personally I think such techniques will probably play much smoother on repeat viewings. Regardless, I am willing to let these moments slide though as the majority of the film both engaging and visually stunning. Although this is one of the better children’s films released this year, parents should note that the film is too disturbing for really young children. Older kids should not have any problems with the material as Where the Wild Things Are perfectly captures the complexities of childhood without talking down to its audience. Jonze has made yet another good film that, similar to Sendak’s original work, will probably be analyzed for generations to come.
The Full List Of Big Thoughts From A Small Mind's 2009 Reviews.
Where the Wild Things Are
By the time the ending credits started to role on Spike Jonze’s latest work, Where the Wild Things Are, I was not sure how to process what I had just witnessed. The film was the complete opposite of what I had expected. After reflecting on the film over the last couple of days, it became very apparent that it has been quiet sometime since a live action children’s film really stuck with me like this did. Adapted from Maurice Sendak's classic children's story, Where the Wild Things Are follows a young boy on a fantastical journey of self-discovery. Feeling isolated from his older sister, Max (Max Records) only has his mother (Catherine Keener) to cling to. Yet when Max’s mom invites her new boyfriend (Mark Ruffalo) over for dinner, Max fears that even she has giving up on him. After running away from home, Max comes across a small sailboat at a local dock. The boat eventually leads Max to a mysterious island where monstrous Wild Things roam. After tricking the Wild Things, most notably Carol (James Gandolfini), into believing he posses magical powers, Max is crowned king of the group. Max soon realizes that even on a mysterious island you cannot runaway from your problems.
While Sendak’s children’s story is considered to be a classic by many, do not go into this film expecting a standard children’s flick. One of the brilliant aspects to this film is that it defies many of the conventions you are use to seeing in most kid’s films nowadays. Hollywood has pushed so many traditional children’s pictures, especially of the animated and/or talking animal kind, down our throats over the last few years that it actually takes a bit of time to truly adjust to the different tone and rhythm of this film. Which is one reason I think this film will catch many off guard in several sections. Where the Wild Things Are is far darker than you initially think it will be. Even the wonderfully dark film, Coraline, seems downright sunny in comparison. Jonze not only captures the dark tones of the source material but he actually engulfs himself in it. Despite the fun Max seems to have with his new found friends, you always feel that Max is walking a very fine line. There is a constant uneasiness that, at any moment, either Judith or Carol will make good on their threats of eating Max.
Jonze is able to create this world that both horrifying and invigorating for a child, through the use of life size puppets and subtle special effects. Despite the fantastical aspect of the Wild Things mere existence the bulk of their world, and of Max’s imagination, is grounded in reality. In many ways the use of full size puppets and realism reminded me of some of beloved childhood films of my youth (e.g. The Neverending Story, Dark Crystal, etc). In an era where children are mainly marketed animated movies in 3D, it is nice to see a filmmaker not afraid to buck the trend. What makes Jonze’s accomplishment even bolder is the fact that all of the Wild Things have their own identifiable qualities. Although not all get equal screen time, you still get a strong understanding of both their unique personalities; and the overall role each plays in the group. Spike Jonze skillfully shows us how each one is a reflection of the different stages of Max’s current life. Although big and fearsome at times, the Wild Things are struggling with issues of family, loneliness, love, having their voices heard, etc. Max naively thinks that by being in charge he can fix in them everything that he fears in himself. Yet as the Wild Things world seemingly get worse it becomes clear to Max that life in general was never simple to begin with. It is this realization in Max, and the audience, that allows the abrupt ending to make perfect sense. Jonze does care about wrapping things up perfectly because that is not how life works.
There are times when Spike Jonze's unique voice makes the film a little too stylized for its own good. Certain freeze frames and camera tricks take you out of the picture momentarily instead of pulling you in further. Personally I think such techniques will probably play much smoother on repeat viewings. Regardless, I am willing to let these moments slide though as the majority of the film both engaging and visually stunning. Although this is one of the better children’s films released this year, parents should note that the film is too disturbing for really young children. Older kids should not have any problems with the material as Where the Wild Things Are perfectly captures the complexities of childhood without talking down to its audience. Jonze has made yet another good film that, similar to Sendak’s original work, will probably be analyzed for generations to come.
The Full List Of Big Thoughts From A Small Mind's 2009 Reviews.
Precious Moments
In the midst of what is going on with Allison (our niece), these photos are especially precious.
We visited in Denver and got to see Allison, Rich, Pat, Jodi, Jeremy, Shannon and many more. It was hard, but we were glad to be there and hug them each and tell them how much we love them, and that we, and our extended family and friends are praying for Allisons recovery.
At any rate, seeing these precious two great nieces filled our hearts with much joy in the midst of the pain...these photos are of Tina with Bella (the baby), and Madisen (Bella's older sister). Both belong to our niece and god-daughter, Stacia.
There are a few more photos from the weekend you can see by clicking here: Fall, 2009
We visited in Denver and got to see Allison, Rich, Pat, Jodi, Jeremy, Shannon and many more. It was hard, but we were glad to be there and hug them each and tell them how much we love them, and that we, and our extended family and friends are praying for Allisons recovery.
At any rate, seeing these precious two great nieces filled our hearts with much joy in the midst of the pain...these photos are of Tina with Bella (the baby), and Madisen (Bella's older sister). Both belong to our niece and god-daughter, Stacia.
There are a few more photos from the weekend you can see by clicking here: Fall, 2009
Friday, October 16, 2009
Lindsay Lohan showed up in court today with her lawyer
Here's Lindsay Lohan appearing in court today after it was revealed she failed to complete the alcohol education classes required for her probation. She almost reminds me of Lara Flynn Boyle on The Practice if Lara Flynn Boyle bathed in coke and had the acting skills of a tit mouse.I'm only kidding, Lindsay. Arching your eyebrow totally has everyone convinced you're paying attention and not at
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
Our little Chloe Bean turned six today! I can't believe she is six! It seems like yesterday she was just born!
WE LOVE YOU CHLOE BEAN!
Shedding the past
The leaves are changing, then falling to the ground, shedding there beautiful colors all over the grass....it's pretty beautiful here....it got me thinking though about change.
As your reinvent yourself, along with it you should begin to shed different chapters of your past.
I’ve found that when I am in a situation where I feel like nothing is changing and my life is almost “stuck”, it’s harder to get over people or experiences of the past.
Since coming here, I have been on a mission to forget what happened this summer between me and a guy. I made my move a subconscious catalyst to forgetting it ever happened. I thought moving here would “shed” my past with him, and I would almost never think about what happened. Unfortunately, with all the amazing experiences, yoga classes, good conversations and mountain beauty, the past is still there. I have tried to talk about it, but when I round up the recap of what exactly happened, I am left with a question mark and an inadvertent “What the hell”? If him and I had been a book, there would be a search warrant out for the writer because quite frankly I am working with nothing from him.
This brings up a question I should be asking myself. How can I get over the past, when I don’t know if I can move him to the “past” box? I have no idea what he is doing, how he feels about me and most importantly, why it ended so hastily? From my end, I wish when I told him I was moving, we decided to remain friends. I wish I knew how he felt about it. If he cares I am gone. I wish I knew if he was dating again….And here I am; stuck in these whirlwinds of wondering and pondering and making myself crazy.
Presently, all I want is closure. I want to stop living in the past. I want to shed my skin and be strong enough to open myself up without the fear of someday having to shed the past again…I don’t want Mr. Wonderful to walk in and do it for me, I don’t want the mountains or the amazing experiences or even the great conversations to be the catalyst that moves me forward. I want reemerge and reinvent myself on my own…
I’ve found that when I am in a situation where I feel like nothing is changing and my life is almost “stuck”, it’s harder to get over people or experiences of the past.
Since coming here, I have been on a mission to forget what happened this summer between me and a guy. I made my move a subconscious catalyst to forgetting it ever happened. I thought moving here would “shed” my past with him, and I would almost never think about what happened. Unfortunately, with all the amazing experiences, yoga classes, good conversations and mountain beauty, the past is still there. I have tried to talk about it, but when I round up the recap of what exactly happened, I am left with a question mark and an inadvertent “What the hell”? If him and I had been a book, there would be a search warrant out for the writer because quite frankly I am working with nothing from him.
This brings up a question I should be asking myself. How can I get over the past, when I don’t know if I can move him to the “past” box? I have no idea what he is doing, how he feels about me and most importantly, why it ended so hastily? From my end, I wish when I told him I was moving, we decided to remain friends. I wish I knew how he felt about it. If he cares I am gone. I wish I knew if he was dating again….And here I am; stuck in these whirlwinds of wondering and pondering and making myself crazy.
Presently, all I want is closure. I want to stop living in the past. I want to shed my skin and be strong enough to open myself up without the fear of someday having to shed the past again…I don’t want Mr. Wonderful to walk in and do it for me, I don’t want the mountains or the amazing experiences or even the great conversations to be the catalyst that moves me forward. I want reemerge and reinvent myself on my own…
Megan Fox has been named the newest crotch of Armani underwear
I know I talk a lot of smack about Megan Fox (mostly about how much I want to smack her) but I don’t think this is a horrible hire for Armani. While I think Megan has jacked her face through extensive plastic surgery, her body is pretty great, and she’ll probably be a good underwear model and increase Armani sales. Meanwhile, Cristiano isn’t really a household name in America - but I’m sure
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Hilary Duff Hollywood actress Hilary Duff bikini pics
Hilary DuffHilary DuffHilary DuffHilary DuffHilary DuffHilary DuffHilary DuffHilary DuffHilary DuffHilary DuffHilary DuffHilary Duff
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Brr...and other random thoughts...
It is chilly willy outside. Freezing rain, slick streets. They say starting Thursday we will have better weather!I have been busy working. I worked even on the weekend, trying to get these NSSRS (Nebraska Student and Staff Reporting System) reports done. It is intense.
Thank you so much, blogging friends, for the prayers you have lifted up for Allison and all of us. She had a good night, so I am continuing to pray that she has a good day...one baby step at a time.
Oh, I didn't mention, but I may be doing better on my being directionally challenged. Last week, I drove to Kearney and found my motel, found my conference, and then found my way back home. Hmmm....(I did print out some mapquest maps, but hey....)
Have a good day...
Nicole Kidman famous actress pictures
Nicole KidmanNicole Kidmanactress Nicole Kidman WallpaperFamous Actor Nicole Kidman
Monday, October 12, 2009
Please Keep Praying....
Another surgery is scheduled this afternoon....you can get updates on the caring bridge website:
www.caringbridge.org/visit/allisoncasias
Please pray hard.
We love you, Allison....
www.caringbridge.org/visit/allisoncasias
Please pray hard.
We love you, Allison....
Olivia Wilde American actress Olivia Wilde gallery
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Saturday, October 10, 2009
Update and Thank You...
Thank you, blogger friends for your prayers. I appreciate them, as does my extended family. Our niece, age 30, was feeling ill, treated for migraines and dehydration, and got worse. She was taken to the ER, and later found to have venous clots in her head. They operated and think it went well, but just so much lies ahead. They started a Caring Bridge site for her at:
www.caringbridge.org/visit/allisoncasias
If you visit and leave a comment, let them know you are my blogging friend. Thanks for your continued prayers....
Friday, October 9, 2009
A Hypothetical Question & Something Very Good
I have a pretty large extended family, being Catholic and all. Most of my cousins are more than 15 years older than me - and only a handful of cousins in my age group. The beauty of this generational spread is the ability to learn life lessons from peers with a great deal more maturity and life experience.
My oldest cousin on my mom's side of the family is a brilliant and brilliantly witty man - married to a woman who is clever enough to keep him on his toes.
Shortly after their daughter was married, my cousin's wife posed a hypothetical question: "If you and (our daughter's husband) are both drowning... who do you want me to save?"
This question flabbergasted him. Suddenly, he was torn between being the man charged with caring for and protecting this lovely young girl for the past 25 years - and the knowledge that there was another man, whom God has chosen for her, given the same charge.
Perhaps more so, he was struck with the realization that his loving daughter's life might be affected much more dramatically from the loss of this 'new guy' than it might if he himself met an untimely demise.
It's an incredible, thought-provoking hypothetical.
Just what is love? What are you willing to sacrifice for the people you love the most? How do you determine what is best for them?
Last week, Mr. Burns shared his own realization with me. Said he; "I'm learning that I'm more concerned about your well-being than my own."
In the words of the incomparable Bridget Jones, "An excellent year's progress."
My oldest cousin on my mom's side of the family is a brilliant and brilliantly witty man - married to a woman who is clever enough to keep him on his toes.
Shortly after their daughter was married, my cousin's wife posed a hypothetical question: "If you and (our daughter's husband) are both drowning... who do you want me to save?"
This question flabbergasted him. Suddenly, he was torn between being the man charged with caring for and protecting this lovely young girl for the past 25 years - and the knowledge that there was another man, whom God has chosen for her, given the same charge.
Perhaps more so, he was struck with the realization that his loving daughter's life might be affected much more dramatically from the loss of this 'new guy' than it might if he himself met an untimely demise.
It's an incredible, thought-provoking hypothetical.
Just what is love? What are you willing to sacrifice for the people you love the most? How do you determine what is best for them?
Last week, Mr. Burns shared his own realization with me. Said he; "I'm learning that I'm more concerned about your well-being than my own."
In the words of the incomparable Bridget Jones, "An excellent year's progress."
Lindsay Lohan says
Overall the article does make me feel badly for Lohan, though that is clearly not its purpose. You have to read the thing in its entirety to really get the feeling that this does matter to Lindsay and she does believe in herself. And it makes me feel like a total bitch to be like, “Yeah, but you shouldn’t.” But… um… yeah, but you shouldn’t. How else do you put it? She did a terrible, terrible job
Chakra Can
Like my corny play on words? Happy Friday. I find I like writing the most on Fridays. My brain is already in weekend mode, and I can recap the week. Also, today marks my one month anniversary of arriving here. I made it! This week was pretty normal, then again here there is always something going on. Let’s see…
Last weekend was jam packed with hiking, biking and an intense yoga class, so by Sunday night I needed to unwind and went to the local pub with one of the volunteers here. It was nice to get off campus. Then Monday, work began and the week was kinda a whirlwind of work, yoga, and classes and eating somewhere in there. I still feel like a part of me is still landing here, and becoming comfortable with it all. You are basically around people all day everyday and alone time is precious.
I did a seminar last night on chakras and I had known some information about them but it was informative. I think I wasn’t fully in the mood to have a deep awakening within myself and face my demons. Chakras are the different energies that flow through your body and each individual person related differently to each one, or resonates more with another. The 3rd and the 5th were the ones I needed to awaken. It was a great way to compartmentalize my inner struggles and also realize I resonate the most with the heart chakra. I have no trouble there.
I also have decided to take part in the Reiki training offered here. Reiki is a Japanese word meaning "Universal Life-Force-Energy". Reiki is a system for channeling that energy to someone for the purpose of healing. I find I always tend to gravitate toward the mental and psychological side of understanding things, and I think taking part in this program will help me to better understand the power of energy and physical touch. I never wanted to fully delve into a massage programs etc… but I find I can integrate what I learn in the training into whatever road I chose to go down in life. Healing, helping and enriching the lives of others is definitely my number one reason for doing it. So yay.
Also, a lot has been going on with my family on a sad note. My grandma had major surgery, she is recovering fine, but sadly my cousin who has been battling cancer passed away. I hadn’t seen him since I was little; they lived far away and he was older, but he was my family, and my dad’s side is pretty devastated. I sometimes forget life is existing and flourishing and changing outside of where I am right now. This news definitely hit hard….my thoughts have been with my family. I think my decision to take the Reiki may have become stronger through dealing with this all lately.
I am on day 17 of my Kundalini experiment with my group (holding our hands up for 11 minutes), and I feel the vibrations and tingling during it throughout my body getting stronger each day. The pain is also becoming less. This also has been a great release each day.
I would say overall I am extremely fortunate and happy to be here. A lot of questions still pop up each day pertaining to my future here or just in general, and I am okay with that. Since being here, I’ve been able to face these questions instead of burying them and avoiding.
Tonight I am not sure what my play is yet. My one friend invited me to a gathering at someone’s house, but she’s not sure she’s going to go. Either way, it’s rainy and a perfect day for warmth, comfort and relaxation.
This quote rings true for me this week…
Last weekend was jam packed with hiking, biking and an intense yoga class, so by Sunday night I needed to unwind and went to the local pub with one of the volunteers here. It was nice to get off campus. Then Monday, work began and the week was kinda a whirlwind of work, yoga, and classes and eating somewhere in there. I still feel like a part of me is still landing here, and becoming comfortable with it all. You are basically around people all day everyday and alone time is precious.
I did a seminar last night on chakras and I had known some information about them but it was informative. I think I wasn’t fully in the mood to have a deep awakening within myself and face my demons. Chakras are the different energies that flow through your body and each individual person related differently to each one, or resonates more with another. The 3rd and the 5th were the ones I needed to awaken. It was a great way to compartmentalize my inner struggles and also realize I resonate the most with the heart chakra. I have no trouble there.
I also have decided to take part in the Reiki training offered here. Reiki is a Japanese word meaning "Universal Life-Force-Energy". Reiki is a system for channeling that energy to someone for the purpose of healing. I find I always tend to gravitate toward the mental and psychological side of understanding things, and I think taking part in this program will help me to better understand the power of energy and physical touch. I never wanted to fully delve into a massage programs etc… but I find I can integrate what I learn in the training into whatever road I chose to go down in life. Healing, helping and enriching the lives of others is definitely my number one reason for doing it. So yay.
Also, a lot has been going on with my family on a sad note. My grandma had major surgery, she is recovering fine, but sadly my cousin who has been battling cancer passed away. I hadn’t seen him since I was little; they lived far away and he was older, but he was my family, and my dad’s side is pretty devastated. I sometimes forget life is existing and flourishing and changing outside of where I am right now. This news definitely hit hard….my thoughts have been with my family. I think my decision to take the Reiki may have become stronger through dealing with this all lately.
I am on day 17 of my Kundalini experiment with my group (holding our hands up for 11 minutes), and I feel the vibrations and tingling during it throughout my body getting stronger each day. The pain is also becoming less. This also has been a great release each day.
I would say overall I am extremely fortunate and happy to be here. A lot of questions still pop up each day pertaining to my future here or just in general, and I am okay with that. Since being here, I’ve been able to face these questions instead of burying them and avoiding.
Tonight I am not sure what my play is yet. My one friend invited me to a gathering at someone’s house, but she’s not sure she’s going to go. Either way, it’s rainy and a perfect day for warmth, comfort and relaxation.
This quote rings true for me this week…
There is no enlightenment outside of daily life. – Thich Nhat Hanh
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Lovely Time In New York
New York, I Love You
From the creators behind the Paris Je T’aime comes the second film in the “love series”. Similar to Paris Je T’aime, New York, I Love You features numerous vignettes on the subject of love from 12 directors from around the world. These directors include: Mira Nair, Allen Hughes, Shekhar Kapur, Natalie Portman, Brett Ratner, and Scarlett Johansson just to name a few. The film also features an all star cast with the likes of: Julie Christie, Orlando Bloom, Natalie Portman, Shia LaBeouf, Ethan Hawke, Andy Garcia, Maggie Q, Chris Cooper, Justin Bartha, Robin Wright Penn, Blake Lively, Christina Ricci, John Hurt, Bradley Cooper, Anton Yelchin, Jame Caan, Kevin Bacon, Hayden Christensen, etc.
Personally I found the majority of the shorts hit the mark. There were five or so in particular that were blisteringly funny. One of my favourite vingnettes included, surprising enough, Brett Ratner’s segment with Anton Yelchin. Yelton plays a boy who is stuck taking a girl (Olivia Thrilby) in a wheelchair to the prom. Yelchin and Thrilby give great performance that are sure to have you laughing hard by time you reach the end. Some other standout segments include Mira Nair’s short with Natalie Portman, Yvan Attal’s with Ethan Hawke and Maggie Q, and Shekhar Kapur's with Shia LaBeouf and Julie Christie.
To be honest only a few segments really fizzle out. The weakest one being Scarlett Johansson’s Coney Island segment which stars Kevin Bacon. I have read recently that this segment has been left out of the latest version of the film (I saw the version screened at TIFF 08). Word is it will be on the dvd edition of the film. Which is fitting when you really think about it, the short is not bad but it does not fit with the overall production. It really does slow down the pacing of the film. New York, I Love You is another enjoyable installment in the growing love series. I am looking forward to seeing what the next two installments, set in Jerusalem and Singapore respectively, will bring.
Personally I found the majority of the shorts hit the mark. There were five or so in particular that were blisteringly funny. One of my favourite vingnettes included, surprising enough, Brett Ratner’s segment with Anton Yelchin. Yelton plays a boy who is stuck taking a girl (Olivia Thrilby) in a wheelchair to the prom. Yelchin and Thrilby give great performance that are sure to have you laughing hard by time you reach the end. Some other standout segments include Mira Nair’s short with Natalie Portman, Yvan Attal’s with Ethan Hawke and Maggie Q, and Shekhar Kapur's with Shia LaBeouf and Julie Christie.
To be honest only a few segments really fizzle out. The weakest one being Scarlett Johansson’s Coney Island segment which stars Kevin Bacon. I have read recently that this segment has been left out of the latest version of the film (I saw the version screened at TIFF 08). Word is it will be on the dvd edition of the film. Which is fitting when you really think about it, the short is not bad but it does not fit with the overall production. It really does slow down the pacing of the film. New York, I Love You is another enjoyable installment in the growing love series. I am looking forward to seeing what the next two installments, set in Jerusalem and Singapore respectively, will bring.
The Rock-y Road To Good Hair
Enjoy watching movies? Think you know which films will be a hit this? If so, you should try your and at EZ’s Box Office Challenge – Winter Edition. Created by EZ1 Productions, the Box Office Challenge is a fun way to test your movie knowledge. Basically you get to be in charge of your own movie studio and the fall/winter films that you think will be a hit. Best of all it is FREE to play. The grand prize is a $40 certificate to the theatre or online movie retailer of your choice. Did I mention that it is free? Enter the game here.Good Hair
This was originally posted in my 2009 Toronto Film Festival Recap. The review has been fixed up and re-posted as the film will finally be released this week.
In Jeff Stilson’s documentary, Good Hair, Chris Rock goes on a mission to try and understand the obsession black women have with “Good Hair.” Whether it is using the harmful chemicals found in a tub of hair relaxer; or spending thousands of dollars on weaves, black women are constantly striving to have European-looking hair. Rock’s journey will not only lead him across America but all the way to India as well. What he finds out along the way is equally hilarious and disturbing. Good Hair is definitely an eye opening look into the black hair industry. After the film, I discussed many of the points raised with my mom and she was echoing many of the same sentiments that the women in the documentary stated.Generations of women have grown up, and will continue to grow up, longing for “Good Hair.” Rock knows that there is nothing he can do to change this fact, which is why this documentary is more concerned with entertaining than shaking the status quo. Still it would have been nice if Good Hair had added a little historical context in regards to why many cultures covet the European style of hair. Actually it would have been interesting to have a few Europeans provide comments about black hair in general. The only non-blacks featured in the film are of Indian or East Asian decent.
Regardless, in the grand scheme of the picture, these are minor quibbles as Rock never intended the film to be a sermonizing tool in the first place. The segments in India are extremely effective in showing how out of hand the hair obsession in North America is. The same can be said for the business side of things, in which the film points out how much money the industry rakes in and who is really benefiting from it. While the film is filled with many great celebrity interviews, Rock really shines when he is interacting with regular folks in the beauty salons/barber shops. Some of the most amusing comments come when the interviewees explain why you cannot touch a black woman’s hair during sex. Good Hair may not strive to be a scathing social critique, but it is still an enjoyable film that is both funny and thought provoking.
Click this link to find more Big Thoughts From A Small Mind's 2009 Reviews.
Prayers, please!
I believe in the power or prayer, so I am asking my blogging friends to pray for our niece. She is in the hospital having surgery this morning. I will update later....
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Jessica Simpson American singer and actress
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Kate Winslet Titanic actress Kate Winslet hollywood
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Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Random Thoughts
I had to speak last night in front of the Board of Education. I think I said "um" a bazillion times.We are dog sitting Harley, our lab friend, and Sissy is loving it. The other day, John mentioned "Sophie" and both Sis and Sam ran to the window looking for her. Made me really sad.
My friend, S, had surgery yesterday on her rotater cuff (sp). I hope she'll have a speedy recovery. My other friend, SS, is having surgery tomorrow. I wish her well too...hope everything goes great.
Flowers are frost bitten and sad looking. The vines that were so pretty, gone. Fall is here, and summer is gone.
I finished the book "The Secret", don't think I'm a believer.
Have a great day!
Jessica Simpson’s dad "she looks heavier due"
Notice that even when Papa Joe is trying to make a larger point about both of his daughters, he always has to bring the conversation around to just Jessica? Yeah. Sometimes I really feel for Ashlee - it must suck for her in that family. Oh, and it was her 25th birthday on Saturday - she had a big party in Vegas. I can’t find any pictures of her dad at Ashlee’s birthday - but he was all over the
Monday, October 5, 2009
I'm a Little Peeved at Matt Damon Right Now
Mr. Burns and I rarely see movies at the movie theatre - so last night we thought it would be a treat.
We decided to go see "The Invention of Lying", but the only available showtime was later than we wanted. So Mr. Burns suggested "The Informant" and I agreed. Neither of us knew much about the movie except for a few clips that looked funny. And we figured, it's Matt Damon - how can ya go wrong?
Yeah. If you click that link and watch the trailer... funny funny funny.
Yet, at the movie theatre, the only laugh in the whole film was provided when Damon tugged on his toupee! Seriously, for the rest of the audience too!
It's not just the lack of laughs. While the movie was interesting it was dry dry dry. Now, I love dry humor but this was mostly just uncomfortable.
It was like a dry, made for TV movie about a guy ratting out his company - except with exceptional acting.
A friend tells me this morning that it's supposed to based on a "This American Life" episode that detailed the story of this guy who worked with the FBI to take down Agri-Giant ADM. That the TAL episode was a riot and the movie was supposed be spot on.
I asked him to please go see the movie and report back - whether we just missed the point - or if the movie really does stink!
From where I stand... Matt Damon owes us $31.50 for the movie tickets, popcorn and soda.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ah yes... I also wanted to share with you a lesson learned from this movie.
Damon's character, Mark Whitacre is working with the FBI to uncover a price-fixing plot in his company. Based on a true story. Whitacre is caught up in the excitement of being an informant. Whenever they reach what appears to be a dead-end, he either makes up something, or reveals information that can only hurt him worse. His wife wants to stand by him, but you start to think there is no way she can respect him.
It made me think... if my husband (presumably Mr. Burns) acted that stupidly, it would be really really hard to stand by him. I am confident that Mr. Burns is not that stupid, or arrogant, or selfish - but it was also a hard realization to think "Man, I would HAVE to leave!"
I told him so... and he said, "Thanks a lot!"
But seriously, please don't be that stupid.
We decided to go see "The Invention of Lying", but the only available showtime was later than we wanted. So Mr. Burns suggested "The Informant" and I agreed. Neither of us knew much about the movie except for a few clips that looked funny. And we figured, it's Matt Damon - how can ya go wrong?
Yeah. If you click that link and watch the trailer... funny funny funny.
Yet, at the movie theatre, the only laugh in the whole film was provided when Damon tugged on his toupee! Seriously, for the rest of the audience too!
It's not just the lack of laughs. While the movie was interesting it was dry dry dry. Now, I love dry humor but this was mostly just uncomfortable.
It was like a dry, made for TV movie about a guy ratting out his company - except with exceptional acting.
A friend tells me this morning that it's supposed to based on a "This American Life" episode that detailed the story of this guy who worked with the FBI to take down Agri-Giant ADM. That the TAL episode was a riot and the movie was supposed be spot on.
I asked him to please go see the movie and report back - whether we just missed the point - or if the movie really does stink!
From where I stand... Matt Damon owes us $31.50 for the movie tickets, popcorn and soda.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ah yes... I also wanted to share with you a lesson learned from this movie.
Damon's character, Mark Whitacre is working with the FBI to uncover a price-fixing plot in his company. Based on a true story. Whitacre is caught up in the excitement of being an informant. Whenever they reach what appears to be a dead-end, he either makes up something, or reveals information that can only hurt him worse. His wife wants to stand by him, but you start to think there is no way she can respect him.
It made me think... if my husband (presumably Mr. Burns) acted that stupidly, it would be really really hard to stand by him. I am confident that Mr. Burns is not that stupid, or arrogant, or selfish - but it was also a hard realization to think "Man, I would HAVE to leave!"
I told him so... and he said, "Thanks a lot!"
But seriously, please don't be that stupid.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Awww
Thanks for checking in on me.
I'm fine, just lacking for time and inspiration.
I have updates coming soon!
I'm fine, just lacking for time and inspiration.
I have updates coming soon!
On this Harvest Moon...
Happy Friday! I’ve been MIA from a lot lately. I visited home last week from Friday to Wednesday, and now am getting back in the swing of things. Being home made me feel refreshed. It’s like a big ball of comfort that’s soft, and cozy and indulgent. I am not saying being in Massachusetts isn’t. Here I am the person everyone has known for a month, and not who everyone back home has known for years. I guess what I am saying is, I am still carving my place out here and still feeling like my comfort ball is more like a rubber band ball, ready to snap at anytime.
Everything about living, working and even eating every meal here sounds ideal, and it is. There is such a schedule; you get to know everyone really fast because you are with them all the time and there is no cooking! Although I came here with every intention of feeling independent and having myself grow, I sometimes wish I could lay on a couch in my own living room, blast my own music while cooking a delicious shrimp/feta/orzo casserole. I guess accompanying change are reservations.
When I start to have these reservations, I stop and try to let my thought process be. When I do this, my overall mood is happy and content. So far, I feel all my experiences here have been positive, different from where I lived last summer. I think at this time in my life, this is where I should be. But I would love the occasional television show and bag of chips like us all:-)
I find a lot of the people that surround me here I can relate to, and they are all trying to gain something from this experience, not simply to fill a couple months of time. Everyone has there own demons and their own strengths, and it’s a harmonious cohabitation of driven individuals.
At times I feel alone, overly-stimulated, ecstatic, happy, excited and at peace, and when I collide with these emotions they are heightened. It may be the absence of distraction, or the presence of myself.
Maybe it’s just the harvest moon this Sunday that’s to blame for my feelings of fullness…
"Because I'm still in love with you
I want to see you dance again
Because I'm still in love with you
On this harvest moon." -Neil Young
A Game No More
This was originally posted in my 2008 Toronto Film Festival Recap. The review has been fixed up and re-posted as the film will finally was released in theatres today.
More Than A Game
First runner-up to Slumdog Millionaire for the “Peoples Choice Award” at the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival, More Than A Game is an uplifting tale about friendship, hardship, and determination. The documentary looks at how five friends growing up in Akron, Ohio defied all expectation and changed the way America looked at high school basketball. Through the help of Coach Dru, a businessman who knew little about the sport going in, the five young athletes are forced to overcome many obstacles on and off the court. Not only did four of the five men begin playing together in grade school; but one of them, a kid named LeBron James, would become the first high school student to be handpicked by Sports Illustrated as the next big thing. As the wins start to pile up and the media scrutiny become more rampant, egos arise, relationships become strained, and the adversities mount.
While LeBron James is the marquee name that will most likely bring people to the theatre; the audience will be cheering for Coach Dru and the other members of the aptly dubbed “Fab Five” (Little Dru, Sian, Willie, and Romeo) equally, if not more, by the end. Director Kristopher Belman skillfully gives enough weight to each person so that you get a good understanding of the boys bonds to each other and their coach. Belman could have easily just made a film that was nothing more than a basketball highlight reel. Instead Belman opts to make the basketball games a secondary aspect. The real story is how the boys worked hard to achieve what they wanted. We see the damage the game does to the relationship between Coach Dru and his son Little Dru. Belman also provides good insight to how every choice made by the players drastically changes where they end up later in life. Obviously depending on how much you already know about the LeBron James story may impact how you view the film. For me the film was an eye opener as I knew very little about LeBron prior to his NBA career. Uplifting without being sentimental, More Than A Game is definitely a crowd pleaser on several levels.
Looking for more Big Thoughts From A Small Mind's 2009 Reviews?
More Than A Game
First runner-up to Slumdog Millionaire for the “Peoples Choice Award” at the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival, More Than A Game is an uplifting tale about friendship, hardship, and determination. The documentary looks at how five friends growing up in Akron, Ohio defied all expectation and changed the way America looked at high school basketball. Through the help of Coach Dru, a businessman who knew little about the sport going in, the five young athletes are forced to overcome many obstacles on and off the court. Not only did four of the five men begin playing together in grade school; but one of them, a kid named LeBron James, would become the first high school student to be handpicked by Sports Illustrated as the next big thing. As the wins start to pile up and the media scrutiny become more rampant, egos arise, relationships become strained, and the adversities mount.While LeBron James is the marquee name that will most likely bring people to the theatre; the audience will be cheering for Coach Dru and the other members of the aptly dubbed “Fab Five” (Little Dru, Sian, Willie, and Romeo) equally, if not more, by the end. Director Kristopher Belman skillfully gives enough weight to each person so that you get a good understanding of the boys bonds to each other and their coach. Belman could have easily just made a film that was nothing more than a basketball highlight reel. Instead Belman opts to make the basketball games a secondary aspect. The real story is how the boys worked hard to achieve what they wanted. We see the damage the game does to the relationship between Coach Dru and his son Little Dru. Belman also provides good insight to how every choice made by the players drastically changes where they end up later in life. Obviously depending on how much you already know about the LeBron James story may impact how you view the film. For me the film was an eye opener as I knew very little about LeBron prior to his NBA career. Uplifting without being sentimental, More Than A Game is definitely a crowd pleaser on several levels.
Looking for more Big Thoughts From A Small Mind's 2009 Reviews?
Man, Why So Serious?
This was originally posted in my 2009 Toronto Film Festival Recap. The review has been fixed up and re-posted as the film will finally was released in theatres today.
A Serious Man
After last year’s misstep, Burn After Reading, the Coen Brothers find themselves back on track with A Serious Man. Set in Jewish suburbs of Minnesota in 1967, Larry Gopnik (Michael Stuhlbarg) tries hard to live a good and upstanding Jewish life. Despites his best efforts to a “serious man”, Larry cannot seem to stop this downward spiral he seems to have found himself in. His wife (Sari Lennick) has fallen in love with another man and wants Larry to grant her a religious divorce so she can remarry within the faith. Larry’s children only talk to him when they want money or the television fixed. To make matters worse, Larry’s application for tenure at the University is in jeopardy due to a series of mysterious and damaging letters that have suddenly appeared. Looking for guidance, Larry does what any “serious man” would do…seek counsel from the elusive Rabbi Nachtner (George Wyner).
Due to the underlying bleak tone, and the abrupt ending, A Serious Man is bound to divide audiences. Personally I loved the film, as it was a funny commentary on faith and human nature. Larry does all the right things and his life gets worse by the day; whereas everyone else is committing sinful deeds and seemingly living well. Even the religious leaders, who are the most “serious men” of all, are merely going through the motions. All of the various Rabbis in the picture are quick to provide random stories and rhetoric yet none of them can apply the tales to the actual matter at hand. The performances in this film are fantastic even the bit players provided wonderful moments. Stuhlbarg is by far the standout though. Stuhlbarg brings so much comedic subtly to the role that it is easy to miss upon first glance. As I mentioned before the ending will rub many the wrong way, but I found it rather fitting when looking back at the overall themes of the film.
Looking for more Big Thoughts From A Small Mind's 2009 Reviews?
A Serious Man
After last year’s misstep, Burn After Reading, the Coen Brothers find themselves back on track with A Serious Man. Set in Jewish suburbs of Minnesota in 1967, Larry Gopnik (Michael Stuhlbarg) tries hard to live a good and upstanding Jewish life. Despites his best efforts to a “serious man”, Larry cannot seem to stop this downward spiral he seems to have found himself in. His wife (Sari Lennick) has fallen in love with another man and wants Larry to grant her a religious divorce so she can remarry within the faith. Larry’s children only talk to him when they want money or the television fixed. To make matters worse, Larry’s application for tenure at the University is in jeopardy due to a series of mysterious and damaging letters that have suddenly appeared. Looking for guidance, Larry does what any “serious man” would do…seek counsel from the elusive Rabbi Nachtner (George Wyner).Due to the underlying bleak tone, and the abrupt ending, A Serious Man is bound to divide audiences. Personally I loved the film, as it was a funny commentary on faith and human nature. Larry does all the right things and his life gets worse by the day; whereas everyone else is committing sinful deeds and seemingly living well. Even the religious leaders, who are the most “serious men” of all, are merely going through the motions. All of the various Rabbis in the picture are quick to provide random stories and rhetoric yet none of them can apply the tales to the actual matter at hand. The performances in this film are fantastic even the bit players provided wonderful moments. Stuhlbarg is by far the standout though. Stuhlbarg brings so much comedic subtly to the role that it is easy to miss upon first glance. As I mentioned before the ending will rub many the wrong way, but I found it rather fitting when looking back at the overall themes of the film.
Looking for more Big Thoughts From A Small Mind's 2009 Reviews?
The Man Is Always Greener on the Other Side
This was originally posted in my 2008 Toronto Film Festival Recap. The review has been fixed up and re-posted as the film has finally be released in theatres.
The Other Man
Richard Eyre follows up his brilliant film Notes on a Scandal, with this story about love, friendship and adultery. After losing his wife Lisa (Laura Linney) to cancer, Peter (Liam Neelson) discovers that she was having an affair with a man named Ralph (Antonio Banderas). Filled with anger Peter flies to Italy in hopes of tracking down, and killing, this mysterious Ralph. Once in Italy, Peter begins to play game of chess, both a literal and figuratively, with Ralph. While not revealing who he really is, Peter slowly tricks Ralph into opening up about the nature of his steamy relationship with Lisa.
While the premise is interesting, The Other Man does not have enough gas in it to sustain the whole film. The film ends up being merely average at best. While Neelson, Linney, and Banderas are all very talented and capable actors; they can only do so much with the material they are given. One thing I found interesting about this film was how each character viewed the affair. Peter, the cuckold, immediately wants to seek revenge. Ralph sees his time with Lisa as the greatest love story he has ever encountered. Whereas Lisa merely views it as nothing more than I choice she has the right to make. This view is also echoed in another film released already released this year Cloud 9, as well as the upcoming film Partir (which I saw at the ’09 TIFF). One of the many issues I had with The Other Man is that it strives too hard to reach an ending that can only be described as neat. It seems like the last half of the film is merely one big set up for a rather substandard finale.
Looking for more Big Thoughts From A Small Mind's 2009 Reviews?
The Other Man
Richard Eyre follows up his brilliant film Notes on a Scandal, with this story about love, friendship and adultery. After losing his wife Lisa (Laura Linney) to cancer, Peter (Liam Neelson) discovers that she was having an affair with a man named Ralph (Antonio Banderas). Filled with anger Peter flies to Italy in hopes of tracking down, and killing, this mysterious Ralph. Once in Italy, Peter begins to play game of chess, both a literal and figuratively, with Ralph. While not revealing who he really is, Peter slowly tricks Ralph into opening up about the nature of his steamy relationship with Lisa.While the premise is interesting, The Other Man does not have enough gas in it to sustain the whole film. The film ends up being merely average at best. While Neelson, Linney, and Banderas are all very talented and capable actors; they can only do so much with the material they are given. One thing I found interesting about this film was how each character viewed the affair. Peter, the cuckold, immediately wants to seek revenge. Ralph sees his time with Lisa as the greatest love story he has ever encountered. Whereas Lisa merely views it as nothing more than I choice she has the right to make. This view is also echoed in another film released already released this year Cloud 9, as well as the upcoming film Partir (which I saw at the ’09 TIFF). One of the many issues I had with The Other Man is that it strives too hard to reach an ending that can only be described as neat. It seems like the last half of the film is merely one big set up for a rather substandard finale.
Looking for more Big Thoughts From A Small Mind's 2009 Reviews?
TIFF 09 Recap Part 3
Youth in Revolt
While on vacation with his mother (Jean Smart) and her latest deadbeat boyfriend (Zach Galifianakis), cynical teenager Nick Twisp (Michael Cera), meets the girl of his dreams, Sheeni Saunders (Portia Doubleday). Unfortunately for Nick, the distance between where he and Sheeni each live is a huge road block in their budding relationship. The only remedy is for Nick to get kicked out of his mother’s house and be sent to live with his father (Steve Buscemi). In order for this plan to work an upstanding individual like Nick will be required to do some truly bad deeds. Luckily for Nick, Francois Dillinger (Michael Cera) is an expert at creating havoc. As Francois sets Nick’s plan into motion, Nick is forced to deal with the unexpected consequences.
As Francois Dillinger, Michael Cera finally gets a chance to break away from his usual awkward teenager role. Yes, as Nick, Cera is still doing the same deadpan teenager role we are all use to, but most of the memorable moments in the film come courtesy of Francois. Youth in Revolt is a far more entertaining teen comedy than Nick and Nora’s Infinite Playlist. Granted Sheeni, is not as well rounded a female character at Kat Denning’s Nora was in that film. Still, Youth in Revolt greatest asset is its wonderful supporting cast (e.g. Smart, Galifianakis, Buscemi, Fred Willard, Adhir Kalvan, Justin Long, Ray Liotta, etc.). Besides providing some great laugh out loud moments, the supporting cast also help to keep the comedic pace moving briskly. I also liked how the breezy script allowed Miguel Arteta to incorporate a few stylistic touches, such as animation, into the film. Arteta wisely does not overwhelm the film with it, but it never feels out of place when it is included. While Youth in Revolt may not bring too much new to the coming-of-age genre, it does have enough comedic moments to satisfy for a few hours.
B+
Bitch Slap
In Rick Jacobson’s homage to 70’s sexploitation movies, Bitch Slap, three buxom femme fatales set out to steal 200 million dollars from a criminal kingpin. At first everyone role in the heist is clearly defined. Hel (Erin Cummings) is the brains of the operation, Trixie (Julia Voth) is the bait, and Camero (America Olivo) is the muscle. As plans begin to spiral out of control, and secrets are revealed, the women roles are blurred and allegiances are question. It quickly becomes clear to all that the women need to fear each other just as much as they fear the kingpin.
If you enjoy Russ Meyer’s movies, or any cheesy sexploitation flick for that matter, chances are good that you will be entertained by Bitch Slap. The movie is tongue-in-cheek from beginning to end with some inspired cameos (e.g. Kevin Sorbo, Lucy Lawless, Renée O’Connor, etc). The one major flaw with Bitch Slap is that it gets fairly repetitive after a while. There is only so many girl-on-girl slow motion fight scenes, witty references for female genitalia, and over-the-top action sequences a person can take. As a result of all the excess, the movie takes far too long to get to the big twist (which you see coming in the first twenty minutes). Jacobson and crew have so much fun playing things up that they left out the most important aspect of the original 70’s genre…the moral subtext. Frankly the cheesy, and often horrific, moral lesson is what made the Russ Meyer’s movies so entertaining. With the exception of the one dimwitted cop, and even he is a stretch, there is no character is truly corrupted by the women. Bitch Slap does have many enjoyable moments but ultimately it does not hold a candle to the 70’s sexploitation movies that it is honoring.
C
Ajami
The conflicts between Israeli’s and Palestinians have been widely documented on a global scale but rarely do we see what goes on daily in average neighborhoods. Ajami looks at how the lives seemingly separate individuals are intertwined. There is the story of a family who must pay for one uncle’s heroic act. Another story looks at an Arab who wants to live in Israel. There is also the story of the cop who is desperate to find his missing brother. To give any more of the plot away would be a great disservice to the film.
Ajami is a film very much in the same vein as City of God as provide a unique look at a world that few of us really know about. Not only does Ajami show what life is like for Arabs living in Israel, but also the constant conflict between religion and honor. One of the shocking things about Ajami is how the structure and rules are said to be in God’s name, yet all it seems to do is breed more criminal activity. Of course the cultural conflicts are present as well, but directors Scandar Copti and Yaron Shani care more about the human element rather than the historical debate. Ajami does not make any grand political statements, nor does it choose side. Instead it provides a fascinating, and at times heartbreaking, look at how corruption and violence can ruin communities no matter where in the world you are.
A
Micmacs (Micmac à tire-larigot)
Bazil’s (Dany Boon) life is turned upside down after a drive-by-shooting leaves a bullet lodged in his head. Homeless, and aimlessly roaming the streets of Paris, Bazil stumble upon an eccentric cast of characters who invite him to join their makeshift family. With the help of his newfound friends, Bazil devises a scheme to get revenge on the two weapons manufacturers that have caused him a lifetime of distress.
Second runner-up for the festival’s people choice award, which was on by Precious, Micmacs is truly a crowd-pleaser. Jean-Pierre Jeunet brings his whimsical imagination that he has displayed in numerous films, including Delicatessen and Amelie, to the caper movie genre. Despite the subject matter, Jeunet is not really interested in making a grand political statement. Micmac’s main goal is to entertain and, as far as screwball comedies go, it succeeds on several levels. The romantic subtext is nowhere near as engaging as Amelie but, to be honest, it really only plays a minor role in the story. The real fun of Micmacs is watching Dany Boon’s physical comedic timing. Boon’s performance helps Micmac’s achieve the Chuck Jones level of insanity that it strives for. Micmacs may not have the emotional resonance of some of Jeunet’s other films, but the film had me laughing more than any other film I have seen so far this year.
A+
Director Jean-Pierre Jeunet held a very entertaining Q & A after the screening.
Vengeance
After his daughter, Irene (Sylvie Testud), is seriously injured, and Irene’s husband and children killed, restaurant owner Frank Costello (Johnny Hallyday) is determined to find the people responsible. Leaving France for the foreign land of Hong Kong, Frank enlists a trio of hitmen (Anthony Wong, Lam Suet and Lam Ka-Tung) to assist him in the search. As Frank and the hitmen trek forward it becomes clear that both sides are keeping secrets. One secret in particular may not only jeopardize the partnership, but Frank’s life as well
Although Vengeance is director’s Johnnie To’s first English language film, his trademark “bullet ballet” is still intact. While I am a big fan of some of To’s previous works I found Vengeance to be a huge disappointment. Part of the problem is that the story falls apart halfway mark when one major twist is revealed. When To introduces a Memento-style subplot it ends up stifling the whole production. Pretty much everything after that becomes pointless, this is especially apparent in the shootout at the trash yard. Many of the shootout scenes, normally To’s strong point, feel lifeless as a result of the inept plot. Sure there a few nice stylistic touches but nothing we have not seen To do better elsewhere. Vengeance would have been better served to leave the twist out completely. Without it, To would not have to use lame plot devices, such as resorting to “divine intervention”, in order to keep the story moving. Vengeance is misguided on many levels and will leave you frustrated more than anything else.
D
Le Refuge (The Refuge)
Mousse (Isabelle Carre) and Louis (Melvill Poupaud) have just received their latest stash of heroin and plan for a night of drug induced ecstasy. This results in Mousse waking up in the hospital days later, after going into a coma, and she is told that Louis has died from an overdose. If that was not shocking enough, Mousee also finds out that she is pregnant. Deciding to keep the baby that is growing inside her, Mousse retreats to a quiet home in the countryside to live life in peace. Things get complicated for Mousse when Louis’ brother, Paul (Louis-Ronan Choisy), pays her an unexpected visit and feelings start to develop.
Francois Ozon’s latest film, Le Refuge, is a film that is almost too subtle for its own good. The set up of Le Refuge leads you to think that you about to witness a gut-wrenching drama, when the film is actual a quiet meditation on isolation and sexuality. The connection between Mousse and Paul is built up slowly and rarely goes the path you think it will. A lot of the tension that arises between the two is more a result of Paul’s physical resemblance to Louis more than anything else. Le Refuge felt like a much somber version of The Swimming Pool in several ways, partly because of the themes Ozon is playing with. While not as strong as that film, Le Refuge does have many interesting elements going for it. Just do not go into the film expecting any grand moments as the whole film is rather anti-climatic.
C
The Ape (Apan)
Krister (Olle Sarri) wakes up the bathroom floor one morning. He is not sure how he got there or why there is blood on him. Disoriented, and extremely late for work, Krister frantically get ready for another day as a driving instructor. As he goes about his day, it soon becomes clear that Krister’s life is about to change forever.
The brilliance of The Ape does not reveal itself immediately; to be honest I was not fond of the film upon first viewing. Yet I could not stop thinking about it after the screening was over. The more played certain scenes over in my head, the more it became apparent how brilliantly deceptive the film actually is. Despite its conventional appearance The Ape is anything but that; which is why the film is both frustrating to watch, and upon reflection, immensely rewarding. After the opening scene, you expect that the full mystery to be revealed, when the truth is director Jesper Ganslandt is not interested in the mystery at all he only cares about the present. While certain answers are given, the film is really about how Krister copes with the events that happened before we (the viewer) started following him. The relatively calmness Krister exudes for most of the day, coupled with some of the choices he make, is what really makes this film chilling. While The Ape is not the easiest film to sit through but it definitely warrants repeat viewing to truly grasp how good it actually is.
A
A Gun to the Head
Trevor (Tvgh Runyan) has left his criminal ways behind him and is now living the typical suburban life with his wife Grace (Marnie Robinson). One night, while out getting wine for a dinner party Grace is hosting, Trevor gets a call from his troublemaking cousin Darren (Paul Anthony). Although he really should get back to his dinner party, Trevor just cannot pass up the temptation of one quick beer with his cousin. Soon enough Trevor finds himself in middle of a dispute between Darren and local a drug dealer, Sam (Hrothgar Mathews). This not only puts Trevor’s life at risk but his wife’s as well.
Although Blaine Thurier is more known for his musical talents (he plays keyboard in The New Pornographers) he shows a lot of promise as a director. His third feature is an enjoyable dark comedy that manages to find fresh laughs in rather familiar territory. The premise is nothing you have not seen numerous times before; but the performances from the cast, especially Anthony and Mathews, are what really keep your interested. The actors do a good job of finding the right comedic rhythm for the dialogue. Some of the funniest moments arrive in the dinner party scenes when Grace’s boss tries valiantly to convince to Grace into partake in a threesome. Frankly, you may never look at Japanese culture the same way again. Although the film is enjoyable for the most part it does lag a bit towards the end. The darker toned ending does not quite fit with the overall picture.
B –
Director Blaine Thurier and cast members Marnie Robinson, Hrothgar Mathews, Benjamin Ayres held a Q & A after the screening.
If I Knew What You Said (Dinig Sana Kita)
Nina (Zoe Sandejas) is the lead singer of a rock band but cannot seem to keep out of trouble. Facing expulsion from school Nina has no choice but to attend an experimental camp that combines hearing impaired students with regular students. It is at the camp where Nina meets Kiko (Romalito Mallari), a deaf student with a passion for dance. Despite the emotional baggage they both are carrying a genuine friendship is formed between Nina and Kiko. Unfortunately their bond will be put to the test as their individual lives start to spiral out of control.
At first glance Mike Sandejas’s film looks like it might be just another “after school special”-style film about acceptance. Yet as the film progresses you realize that there is much more going on than you initially expected. Sandejas creates realistic and well-rounded characters in Nina and Kiko. Zoe Sandejas and Romalito Mallari provide strong performances to make the characters believable. If I Knew What You Said does tug at your heart a few times but it never over does it. There are rarely any moments in the film that feel false or forced. Granted the film wraps up a little too sweet for my liking, but really that was a minor complaint as the rest of the film had me hooked far more than I ever expected it would.
Director Mike Sandeja, Zoe Sandejas and Romalito Mallari held a Q & A after the screening.
A-/B+
Life During Wartime
In Life During Wartime, director Todd Solondz revisits many of the characters that he brought to life so vividly in Welcome to the Dollhouse and Happiness years earlier (14 and 11 years respectively). After once being married to a pedophile, Bill (Ciarán Hinds), Trish (Allison Janney) is happy that she has finally found herself a normal guy, Harvey (Michael Lerner). Trish and Harvey plan to marry but things are complicated when Bill is released from jail. Meanwhile Trish’s sister Joy (Shirley Henderson) and her husband, Allen (Michael K. Williams), are having problems due to Allen’s immoral habits. As Joy takes a solo trip to reconnect with her family she is haunted by the ghost of a lover past. Both Trish and Joy must figure out if it is better to forgive or to forget.
Life During Wartime is like warmed over comfort food in many ways. You really do not need it but it satisfies for a brief time before you are hungry again. As a big fan of Solondz’s previous films I had no problem with the fact that he used a completely new cast for each role. Yet since it had been so long since I saw both Dollhouse and Happiness it did take a while for me to reconnect with the characters. While I liked the casting (Janny, Henderson, William, Charlotte Rambling, and Paul Rubens are good in their given roles) I could not help but wonder what the original actors (especially from Happiness) would have done with this material. I think that is one of the main things that hinders the film overall. Happiness was such a good movie that it really did not warrant a sequel. Todd Solondz trademark dark humor is still intact but somehow the film seems to play things much safer than his previous films. Solondz doe raise some interesting questions on the lengths of human forgiveness but ultimately he has covered this theme better elsewhere. At the end of the day Life During Wartime made me want to rent Happiness again more than anything else.
B-/C+
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus
After making a bet with Mr. Nick (Tom Waits), who is more commonly known as the devil, Dr. Parnassus (Christopher Plummer) wins the gift of immortality. Several years later Mr. Nick and Dr. Parnassus make another bet that would ultimately save the life of Parnassus’ one true love. Unfortunately for Dr. Parnassus this bet comes at a grave price as he is forced to give up his first born child, Valentina (Lily Cole), to Mr. Nick upon her 16th birthday. Now on the eve of Valentina’s sweet sixteen, Dr. Parnassus and Mr. Nick decide to make another bet that may either save Valentina or damn her forever. The bet is simple, Dr. Parnassus must convert five souls through is mystical “Imaginarium” travelling show before Mr. Nick converts five souls. Dr. Parnassus knows that the devil always has a trick up his sleeve, which is why his randomly meeting with Tony (Health Ledger) is so intriguing. Is Tony a gift from above? Or is Dr. Parnassus taking his biggest risk yet?
It has been well documented that this film features the final performance of Heath Ledger. It is also no surprise to hear that Colin Farrell, Johnny Depp, and Jude Law were asked to fill in for Health in certain scenes. What may come as a shock is how seamlessly the injection of the new actors is. Since most of the non-imaginarium scenes were shot prior to Health’s death, Farrell and crew were only needed for the fantasy sequence. Once you see the film, the limitless possibilities of the Imaginarium will make perfect sense. The two performances that probably deserver the most praise are that of Christopher Plummer and Tom Waits. Sure Health is charming as ever, but it is Plummer and Wait who really make this film a treat. Waits in particular does a great job as the devil, you can see how easily a man like Dr. Parnassus could be swayed by his deceitful charm. Director Terry Gilliam does a good job at keeping the film grounded in reality despite all of its fantastical moments. This film is far better than his last two works, The Brothers Grimm and Tideland, though not as strong as some of his earlier films. The one major flaw with the film is the Imaginarium scenes with Farrell in the third act. I found the whole sequence from the children’s benefit up to the stairs chase just went on far too long. The film needs a little tighter editing near the end. Still, despite the somber events surrounding the film, The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus is an enjoyable ride that is a fitting final chapter to Health Ledger’s canon of work.
B
Terry Gilliam introduced the film and held an engaging Q & A after the screening
While on vacation with his mother (Jean Smart) and her latest deadbeat boyfriend (Zach Galifianakis), cynical teenager Nick Twisp (Michael Cera), meets the girl of his dreams, Sheeni Saunders (Portia Doubleday). Unfortunately for Nick, the distance between where he and Sheeni each live is a huge road block in their budding relationship. The only remedy is for Nick to get kicked out of his mother’s house and be sent to live with his father (Steve Buscemi). In order for this plan to work an upstanding individual like Nick will be required to do some truly bad deeds. Luckily for Nick, Francois Dillinger (Michael Cera) is an expert at creating havoc. As Francois sets Nick’s plan into motion, Nick is forced to deal with the unexpected consequences.
As Francois Dillinger, Michael Cera finally gets a chance to break away from his usual awkward teenager role. Yes, as Nick, Cera is still doing the same deadpan teenager role we are all use to, but most of the memorable moments in the film come courtesy of Francois. Youth in Revolt is a far more entertaining teen comedy than Nick and Nora’s Infinite Playlist. Granted Sheeni, is not as well rounded a female character at Kat Denning’s Nora was in that film. Still, Youth in Revolt greatest asset is its wonderful supporting cast (e.g. Smart, Galifianakis, Buscemi, Fred Willard, Adhir Kalvan, Justin Long, Ray Liotta, etc.). Besides providing some great laugh out loud moments, the supporting cast also help to keep the comedic pace moving briskly. I also liked how the breezy script allowed Miguel Arteta to incorporate a few stylistic touches, such as animation, into the film. Arteta wisely does not overwhelm the film with it, but it never feels out of place when it is included. While Youth in Revolt may not bring too much new to the coming-of-age genre, it does have enough comedic moments to satisfy for a few hours.
B+
Bitch Slap
In Rick Jacobson’s homage to 70’s sexploitation movies, Bitch Slap, three buxom femme fatales set out to steal 200 million dollars from a criminal kingpin. At first everyone role in the heist is clearly defined. Hel (Erin Cummings) is the brains of the operation, Trixie (Julia Voth) is the bait, and Camero (America Olivo) is the muscle. As plans begin to spiral out of control, and secrets are revealed, the women roles are blurred and allegiances are question. It quickly becomes clear to all that the women need to fear each other just as much as they fear the kingpin.
If you enjoy Russ Meyer’s movies, or any cheesy sexploitation flick for that matter, chances are good that you will be entertained by Bitch Slap. The movie is tongue-in-cheek from beginning to end with some inspired cameos (e.g. Kevin Sorbo, Lucy Lawless, Renée O’Connor, etc). The one major flaw with Bitch Slap is that it gets fairly repetitive after a while. There is only so many girl-on-girl slow motion fight scenes, witty references for female genitalia, and over-the-top action sequences a person can take. As a result of all the excess, the movie takes far too long to get to the big twist (which you see coming in the first twenty minutes). Jacobson and crew have so much fun playing things up that they left out the most important aspect of the original 70’s genre…the moral subtext. Frankly the cheesy, and often horrific, moral lesson is what made the Russ Meyer’s movies so entertaining. With the exception of the one dimwitted cop, and even he is a stretch, there is no character is truly corrupted by the women. Bitch Slap does have many enjoyable moments but ultimately it does not hold a candle to the 70’s sexploitation movies that it is honoring.
C
Ajami
The conflicts between Israeli’s and Palestinians have been widely documented on a global scale but rarely do we see what goes on daily in average neighborhoods. Ajami looks at how the lives seemingly separate individuals are intertwined. There is the story of a family who must pay for one uncle’s heroic act. Another story looks at an Arab who wants to live in Israel. There is also the story of the cop who is desperate to find his missing brother. To give any more of the plot away would be a great disservice to the film.
Ajami is a film very much in the same vein as City of God as provide a unique look at a world that few of us really know about. Not only does Ajami show what life is like for Arabs living in Israel, but also the constant conflict between religion and honor. One of the shocking things about Ajami is how the structure and rules are said to be in God’s name, yet all it seems to do is breed more criminal activity. Of course the cultural conflicts are present as well, but directors Scandar Copti and Yaron Shani care more about the human element rather than the historical debate. Ajami does not make any grand political statements, nor does it choose side. Instead it provides a fascinating, and at times heartbreaking, look at how corruption and violence can ruin communities no matter where in the world you are.
A
Micmacs (Micmac à tire-larigot)
Bazil’s (Dany Boon) life is turned upside down after a drive-by-shooting leaves a bullet lodged in his head. Homeless, and aimlessly roaming the streets of Paris, Bazil stumble upon an eccentric cast of characters who invite him to join their makeshift family. With the help of his newfound friends, Bazil devises a scheme to get revenge on the two weapons manufacturers that have caused him a lifetime of distress.
Second runner-up for the festival’s people choice award, which was on by Precious, Micmacs is truly a crowd-pleaser. Jean-Pierre Jeunet brings his whimsical imagination that he has displayed in numerous films, including Delicatessen and Amelie, to the caper movie genre. Despite the subject matter, Jeunet is not really interested in making a grand political statement. Micmac’s main goal is to entertain and, as far as screwball comedies go, it succeeds on several levels. The romantic subtext is nowhere near as engaging as Amelie but, to be honest, it really only plays a minor role in the story. The real fun of Micmacs is watching Dany Boon’s physical comedic timing. Boon’s performance helps Micmac’s achieve the Chuck Jones level of insanity that it strives for. Micmacs may not have the emotional resonance of some of Jeunet’s other films, but the film had me laughing more than any other film I have seen so far this year.
A+
Director Jean-Pierre Jeunet held a very entertaining Q & A after the screening.
Vengeance
After his daughter, Irene (Sylvie Testud), is seriously injured, and Irene’s husband and children killed, restaurant owner Frank Costello (Johnny Hallyday) is determined to find the people responsible. Leaving France for the foreign land of Hong Kong, Frank enlists a trio of hitmen (Anthony Wong, Lam Suet and Lam Ka-Tung) to assist him in the search. As Frank and the hitmen trek forward it becomes clear that both sides are keeping secrets. One secret in particular may not only jeopardize the partnership, but Frank’s life as well
Although Vengeance is director’s Johnnie To’s first English language film, his trademark “bullet ballet” is still intact. While I am a big fan of some of To’s previous works I found Vengeance to be a huge disappointment. Part of the problem is that the story falls apart halfway mark when one major twist is revealed. When To introduces a Memento-style subplot it ends up stifling the whole production. Pretty much everything after that becomes pointless, this is especially apparent in the shootout at the trash yard. Many of the shootout scenes, normally To’s strong point, feel lifeless as a result of the inept plot. Sure there a few nice stylistic touches but nothing we have not seen To do better elsewhere. Vengeance would have been better served to leave the twist out completely. Without it, To would not have to use lame plot devices, such as resorting to “divine intervention”, in order to keep the story moving. Vengeance is misguided on many levels and will leave you frustrated more than anything else.
D
Le Refuge (The Refuge)
Mousse (Isabelle Carre) and Louis (Melvill Poupaud) have just received their latest stash of heroin and plan for a night of drug induced ecstasy. This results in Mousse waking up in the hospital days later, after going into a coma, and she is told that Louis has died from an overdose. If that was not shocking enough, Mousee also finds out that she is pregnant. Deciding to keep the baby that is growing inside her, Mousse retreats to a quiet home in the countryside to live life in peace. Things get complicated for Mousse when Louis’ brother, Paul (Louis-Ronan Choisy), pays her an unexpected visit and feelings start to develop.
Francois Ozon’s latest film, Le Refuge, is a film that is almost too subtle for its own good. The set up of Le Refuge leads you to think that you about to witness a gut-wrenching drama, when the film is actual a quiet meditation on isolation and sexuality. The connection between Mousse and Paul is built up slowly and rarely goes the path you think it will. A lot of the tension that arises between the two is more a result of Paul’s physical resemblance to Louis more than anything else. Le Refuge felt like a much somber version of The Swimming Pool in several ways, partly because of the themes Ozon is playing with. While not as strong as that film, Le Refuge does have many interesting elements going for it. Just do not go into the film expecting any grand moments as the whole film is rather anti-climatic.
C
The Ape (Apan)
Krister (Olle Sarri) wakes up the bathroom floor one morning. He is not sure how he got there or why there is blood on him. Disoriented, and extremely late for work, Krister frantically get ready for another day as a driving instructor. As he goes about his day, it soon becomes clear that Krister’s life is about to change forever.
The brilliance of The Ape does not reveal itself immediately; to be honest I was not fond of the film upon first viewing. Yet I could not stop thinking about it after the screening was over. The more played certain scenes over in my head, the more it became apparent how brilliantly deceptive the film actually is. Despite its conventional appearance The Ape is anything but that; which is why the film is both frustrating to watch, and upon reflection, immensely rewarding. After the opening scene, you expect that the full mystery to be revealed, when the truth is director Jesper Ganslandt is not interested in the mystery at all he only cares about the present. While certain answers are given, the film is really about how Krister copes with the events that happened before we (the viewer) started following him. The relatively calmness Krister exudes for most of the day, coupled with some of the choices he make, is what really makes this film chilling. While The Ape is not the easiest film to sit through but it definitely warrants repeat viewing to truly grasp how good it actually is.
A
A Gun to the Head
Trevor (Tvgh Runyan) has left his criminal ways behind him and is now living the typical suburban life with his wife Grace (Marnie Robinson). One night, while out getting wine for a dinner party Grace is hosting, Trevor gets a call from his troublemaking cousin Darren (Paul Anthony). Although he really should get back to his dinner party, Trevor just cannot pass up the temptation of one quick beer with his cousin. Soon enough Trevor finds himself in middle of a dispute between Darren and local a drug dealer, Sam (Hrothgar Mathews). This not only puts Trevor’s life at risk but his wife’s as well.
Although Blaine Thurier is more known for his musical talents (he plays keyboard in The New Pornographers) he shows a lot of promise as a director. His third feature is an enjoyable dark comedy that manages to find fresh laughs in rather familiar territory. The premise is nothing you have not seen numerous times before; but the performances from the cast, especially Anthony and Mathews, are what really keep your interested. The actors do a good job of finding the right comedic rhythm for the dialogue. Some of the funniest moments arrive in the dinner party scenes when Grace’s boss tries valiantly to convince to Grace into partake in a threesome. Frankly, you may never look at Japanese culture the same way again. Although the film is enjoyable for the most part it does lag a bit towards the end. The darker toned ending does not quite fit with the overall picture.
B –
Director Blaine Thurier and cast members Marnie Robinson, Hrothgar Mathews, Benjamin Ayres held a Q & A after the screening.
If I Knew What You Said (Dinig Sana Kita)
Nina (Zoe Sandejas) is the lead singer of a rock band but cannot seem to keep out of trouble. Facing expulsion from school Nina has no choice but to attend an experimental camp that combines hearing impaired students with regular students. It is at the camp where Nina meets Kiko (Romalito Mallari), a deaf student with a passion for dance. Despite the emotional baggage they both are carrying a genuine friendship is formed between Nina and Kiko. Unfortunately their bond will be put to the test as their individual lives start to spiral out of control.
At first glance Mike Sandejas’s film looks like it might be just another “after school special”-style film about acceptance. Yet as the film progresses you realize that there is much more going on than you initially expected. Sandejas creates realistic and well-rounded characters in Nina and Kiko. Zoe Sandejas and Romalito Mallari provide strong performances to make the characters believable. If I Knew What You Said does tug at your heart a few times but it never over does it. There are rarely any moments in the film that feel false or forced. Granted the film wraps up a little too sweet for my liking, but really that was a minor complaint as the rest of the film had me hooked far more than I ever expected it would.
Director Mike Sandeja, Zoe Sandejas and Romalito Mallari held a Q & A after the screening.
A-/B+
Life During Wartime
In Life During Wartime, director Todd Solondz revisits many of the characters that he brought to life so vividly in Welcome to the Dollhouse and Happiness years earlier (14 and 11 years respectively). After once being married to a pedophile, Bill (Ciarán Hinds), Trish (Allison Janney) is happy that she has finally found herself a normal guy, Harvey (Michael Lerner). Trish and Harvey plan to marry but things are complicated when Bill is released from jail. Meanwhile Trish’s sister Joy (Shirley Henderson) and her husband, Allen (Michael K. Williams), are having problems due to Allen’s immoral habits. As Joy takes a solo trip to reconnect with her family she is haunted by the ghost of a lover past. Both Trish and Joy must figure out if it is better to forgive or to forget.
Life During Wartime is like warmed over comfort food in many ways. You really do not need it but it satisfies for a brief time before you are hungry again. As a big fan of Solondz’s previous films I had no problem with the fact that he used a completely new cast for each role. Yet since it had been so long since I saw both Dollhouse and Happiness it did take a while for me to reconnect with the characters. While I liked the casting (Janny, Henderson, William, Charlotte Rambling, and Paul Rubens are good in their given roles) I could not help but wonder what the original actors (especially from Happiness) would have done with this material. I think that is one of the main things that hinders the film overall. Happiness was such a good movie that it really did not warrant a sequel. Todd Solondz trademark dark humor is still intact but somehow the film seems to play things much safer than his previous films. Solondz doe raise some interesting questions on the lengths of human forgiveness but ultimately he has covered this theme better elsewhere. At the end of the day Life During Wartime made me want to rent Happiness again more than anything else.
B-/C+
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus
After making a bet with Mr. Nick (Tom Waits), who is more commonly known as the devil, Dr. Parnassus (Christopher Plummer) wins the gift of immortality. Several years later Mr. Nick and Dr. Parnassus make another bet that would ultimately save the life of Parnassus’ one true love. Unfortunately for Dr. Parnassus this bet comes at a grave price as he is forced to give up his first born child, Valentina (Lily Cole), to Mr. Nick upon her 16th birthday. Now on the eve of Valentina’s sweet sixteen, Dr. Parnassus and Mr. Nick decide to make another bet that may either save Valentina or damn her forever. The bet is simple, Dr. Parnassus must convert five souls through is mystical “Imaginarium” travelling show before Mr. Nick converts five souls. Dr. Parnassus knows that the devil always has a trick up his sleeve, which is why his randomly meeting with Tony (Health Ledger) is so intriguing. Is Tony a gift from above? Or is Dr. Parnassus taking his biggest risk yet?
It has been well documented that this film features the final performance of Heath Ledger. It is also no surprise to hear that Colin Farrell, Johnny Depp, and Jude Law were asked to fill in for Health in certain scenes. What may come as a shock is how seamlessly the injection of the new actors is. Since most of the non-imaginarium scenes were shot prior to Health’s death, Farrell and crew were only needed for the fantasy sequence. Once you see the film, the limitless possibilities of the Imaginarium will make perfect sense. The two performances that probably deserver the most praise are that of Christopher Plummer and Tom Waits. Sure Health is charming as ever, but it is Plummer and Wait who really make this film a treat. Waits in particular does a great job as the devil, you can see how easily a man like Dr. Parnassus could be swayed by his deceitful charm. Director Terry Gilliam does a good job at keeping the film grounded in reality despite all of its fantastical moments. This film is far better than his last two works, The Brothers Grimm and Tideland, though not as strong as some of his earlier films. The one major flaw with the film is the Imaginarium scenes with Farrell in the third act. I found the whole sequence from the children’s benefit up to the stairs chase just went on far too long. The film needs a little tighter editing near the end. Still, despite the somber events surrounding the film, The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus is an enjoyable ride that is a fitting final chapter to Health Ledger’s canon of work.
B
Terry Gilliam introduced the film and held an engaging Q & A after the screening
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