Sunday, October 31, 2010
Jessica Simpson is a singer and actress
Simpson has a total of records sales in Australia of more than 385,000 copies and was ranked in the # 113 on the 1000 artists chart of ARIA Music Decade Charts (1980–2010). In an interview for the March 2010 issue of Allure Magazine, Simpson stated that she is working on a new album. The album will end her contract with her label. It's not yet known if she will renew her contract or move
Cameron Diaz, American actress
Cameron Michelle Diaz (born August 30, 1972) is an American actress and former model. She rose to fame in the 1990s with such films as The Mask and My Best Friend's Wedding, and has received Golden Globe nominations for her performances in There's Something About Mary, Being John Malkovich, Vanilla Sky, and Gangs of New York. Other popular films include Charlie's Angels, What Happens in Vegas,
Ashley Tisdale
She's the new superstar and sexy girl. Ashley Michelle Tisdale (born July 2, 1985) is an American actress, singer and television producer who rose to prominence portraying the candy-counter girl Maddie Fitzpatrick in Disney Channel's The Suite Life of Zack & Cody and the female antagonist Sharpay Evans in the High School Musical film series. Her role as Evans required her to perform
Shilpa Shety, Indian actress and model
Shilpa Shetty (Tulu; born 8 June 1975) is an Indian film actress and model. Since making her debut in the film Baazigar (1993), she has appeared in nearly 40 Bollywood, Tamil, Telugu and Kannada films, her first leading role being in the 1994 Aag. Although she has been through years of decline during her career, Shetty has been willing to reinvent herself quite often. Her performances in Dhadkan
Larissa Riquelme Reloaled
Larissa Riquelme Biography: Larissa Mabel Riquelme Frutos, usually known as Larissa Riquelme (born February 22, 1985) is a Paraguayan model and actress at the city theatre in the Paraguayan capital Asunción. As of 2010, she is the best-paid model in Paraguay. Date of birth: February 22, 1985 Place of birth: Asunción, Paraguay Occupation: Model and actress Height: 1.70 m (5 ft 7 in)
Scarlet Witch, sister of Quicksilver
Real name: Wanda Maximoff Former aliases: Wanda Frank Identity: Publicly known Occupation: (current) Adventurer, (former) terrorist Legal status: Former citizen of Transia, naturalized citizen of the United States with no criminal record Place of birth: Wundagore Mountain, Transia, Europe Marital status: Married Known relatives: Vision (husband), Pietro Maximoff (
Jessica Jarred - Up and Running
Up and Running Oh, oh, oh, oh. (It’s the runners) Oh, oh, oh, oh. Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, eah. Now lemme’ tell you boy, i’m a little something more to deal with. Don’t play me like a toy, better come with the realness. Aye. Don’t wanna’ test me out, don’t wanna hit this ending road. You’re gonna’ love when i come around, you’ve never seen it like
Larissa Riquelme – Babe of the Month (September 2010)
Another product of the 2010 World Cup, the Paraguayan fan, Larissa Riquelme first appeared cheering for her country with a phone between her boobs. Later, she promised her nation was Diego Maradona promised his – she was going to strip butt-naked and run through her hometown if Paraguay was to win the World Cup. It was quite a task for Paraguay and Larissa finally said that she will strip if
Adriana Lima, Brazilian model
Adriana Francesca Lima (born June 12, 1981) is a Brazilian model best known as a Victoria's Secret Angel since 2000 and a spokesmodel for Maybelline cosmetics from 2003 to 2009. At age 15, Lima finished first place in Ford's "Supermodel of Brazil" competition and took second place the following year in the Ford "Supermodel of the World" competition before signing with Elite Model Management in
Jessica Biel, actress and model
Jessica Claire Biel (born March 3, 1982) is an American actress and model, who has appeared in several Hollywood films, including Summer Catch, the remake of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, The Illusionist, I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry and Valentine's Day. She is also known for her television role as Mary Camden in the long-running family-drama series 7th Heaven. Biel initially trained to
Rose McGowan
McGowan, the second-eldest of six children (plus two half-siblings), was born in Florence, Italy, the daughter of Terri, an American writer of French descent, and Daniel McGowan, an artist of Irish descent. Daniel McGowan ran an Italian chapter of the Children of God to which both he and his wife held membership until 1978. McGowan spent her early childhood amid the group's communes, often
Miley Cyrus as Hannah Montana
In 2008, Cyrus earned $25 million, up from her earnings of $18 million in 2007, and was ranked number 35 on Forbes magazine's "Celebrity 100" list. Parade magazine reported she was the richest teenage celebrity and that her franchise would be worth approximately $1 billion by the end of the year. With Cyrus's increased success came increased media attention. In a May 2008 interview with The
Selena Gomez is a young actress
Gomez began her acting career at age seven, playing Gianna on Barney & Friends. She said that she learned "everything" about how to act while on the show. Season 7 of Barney & Friends, when Selena Gomez was on the show, was held up for some time. Because of this, the episodes featuring Gomez did not air until she was in 5th grade. This resulted in some mild controversy/confusion as to
Friday, October 29, 2010
Expecting Rain
My priest recently told the story of a pastor of a rural church – in an agricultural community that relies on the earth and abundance for it’s economy.
They were suffering from severe drought – so one Sunday the pastor told his church that everyone should gather everyone they know, and come to church the following Tuesday, when they would all come together to pray for rain. Surely, if the entire community came together, God would answer their prayers.
Tuesday came, and the turn out was incredible. Everyone was there. The most amazing gathering ever. The crowd murmured, impressed with themselves.
But the pastor nearly felt defeated. He hung his head in his hands and said… “Oh, that we don’t all have the faith of our dear sister Alba!!”
The entire crowd turned to look at Miss Alba… the only person who bothered to bring an umbrella.
Personally, I have boiled the story down to remind myself… "If you’re going to pray for rain, have enough faith to carry an umbrella."
I shared that story a couple of weeks ago with McTwitchy - in reference to the great decision he has to make regarding the new job or keeping his business here.
I suggested that he determine what his Best Case Scenario is... then pray for that. But pray with the faith that God WILL make it happen.
Like me, McTwitchy is a bit rusty in his prayer life - so my suggestion is a real leap of faith for him. I don't know if he is praying or not - but I am.
Last week, McTwitchy called with news of a client meeting that left him speechless. This client who has not had work for him in a long while suddenly promises lots of business coming up! They need him! McTwitchy could barely register the information.
I found myself smiling from ear to ear as I recognized this as an obvious answer to prayer. I thought, "You can stay!" I also thought, "It's going to rain! I've got my umbrella!"
Still no definitive word on which way McTwitchy's decision will go.
We are truly enjoying this time together and I pray that whatever his decision - eventually he will decide he wants me at his side! I am crazy about this man. I am learning so much about him, it's like opening a different special gift every time I see him!
They were suffering from severe drought – so one Sunday the pastor told his church that everyone should gather everyone they know, and come to church the following Tuesday, when they would all come together to pray for rain. Surely, if the entire community came together, God would answer their prayers.
Tuesday came, and the turn out was incredible. Everyone was there. The most amazing gathering ever. The crowd murmured, impressed with themselves.
But the pastor nearly felt defeated. He hung his head in his hands and said… “Oh, that we don’t all have the faith of our dear sister Alba!!”
The entire crowd turned to look at Miss Alba… the only person who bothered to bring an umbrella.
Personally, I have boiled the story down to remind myself… "If you’re going to pray for rain, have enough faith to carry an umbrella."
My personal umbrella carrying is the mere fact that I am still dating!
I must believe that God has the ideal husband for me out there - or I would have
stopped dating years ago!
I shared that story a couple of weeks ago with McTwitchy - in reference to the great decision he has to make regarding the new job or keeping his business here.
I suggested that he determine what his Best Case Scenario is... then pray for that. But pray with the faith that God WILL make it happen.
Like me, McTwitchy is a bit rusty in his prayer life - so my suggestion is a real leap of faith for him. I don't know if he is praying or not - but I am.
Last week, McTwitchy called with news of a client meeting that left him speechless. This client who has not had work for him in a long while suddenly promises lots of business coming up! They need him! McTwitchy could barely register the information.
I found myself smiling from ear to ear as I recognized this as an obvious answer to prayer. I thought, "You can stay!" I also thought, "It's going to rain! I've got my umbrella!"
Still no definitive word on which way McTwitchy's decision will go.
We are truly enjoying this time together and I pray that whatever his decision - eventually he will decide he wants me at his side! I am crazy about this man. I am learning so much about him, it's like opening a different special gift every time I see him!
Price Checking Free Speech
Recently on the Puck Daddy Radio Show there was an interesting discussion on whether or not bloggers should put up a $10,000 bond to be allowed to cover professional sports. Globe and Mail writer Bruce Dowbiggin wrote a thought provoking piece regarding the fact that bloggers should face the same level of scrutiny, when it comes to things like slander, that journalist do. Currently bloggers can write whatever they want with very little repercussions, further more they often want to be treated like just regular journalist. What does this have to do with movies? A lot actually.
The movie industry is still trying to figure out how to handle the whole blogger situation. In many ways bloggers are the cockroaches to the industry’s messy house. There is no way to get rid of the bloggers and they seem to be expanding at an alarming rate. Worst of all, Hollywood still cannot figure out how bloggers help their bottom line financially. This past summer the one film that seemed to be on every bloggers tongue was Scott Pilgrim vs the World. The studio released a strong viral marketing campaign that was designed to attract both fans of the book and bloggers. Upon the film’s release it was unanimously well received from both critics and bloggers alike. Yet the film only managed to take the 5th spot in its opening weekend. Opening in 2,818 theatres Scott Pilgrim pulled in a disappointing $10,609,795. Clearly focusing on the bloggers did not payoff in the long run for the studio. Yet this is not the first time Hollywood has tried to appeal to the carnivorous blogging community.
When Snakes on a Plane was in production, bloggers had a field day ripping apart the “leaked” version of the script. Online chatter got so bad that the makers of the film decided to tailor the film more to the bloggers liking by playing up the camp factor. The blogging world was soon a buzz with positive anticipation to the point that mainstream media took noticed. Many where expecting Snakes on a Plane to be the first internet driven blockbuster but it bombed once it hit theatres. While the film opened in the number one spot, it made a mere $13,806,311 despite being in 3,555 theatres. At the end of its theatrical run, Snakes on a Plane barely made back its 33 million dollar production budget.
After all the fuss and discussions, most bloggers opted to wait for the film to hit video. Would the outcome of the film have been different if bloggers had waited for the final product to be released in its original form before passing judgment? Should the studio have the right to sue bloggers for loss of revenue due to the slanderous things that were being written about their film? Especially since there was no basis for the comments as Snakes on a Plane was still in the production stages?
Ever since the rise of websites like Ain’t It Cool News there has been an increased obsession with knowing every little detail about a film before it is even made. Just the mention of a possible casting will shoot the film to the top of some bloggers Oscar nomination discussions. The problem with the need to know culture is that certain bloggers feel that a sense of entitlement seems to come with it. Some bloggers believe it is their duty to break the news on everything from conceptual designs for costumes to script excerpts before the directors has even made his/her final decision. Again should bloggers be accountable for their actions? Should the film industry there be a crackdown on reckless blogging the way they are attempting to crackdown on pirated movies? It would be tough to do but if they really wanted to institute some sort of policing policy they could.
Now before the freedom of speech picket signs are hoisted in the air. Let me say I am not advocating that the film industry should go to these extremes. Yet keep in mind that most film critics and journalist have standards to which they must adhere. As most blogs tend to take a journalistic approach, whether it is general film coverage or criticism, bloggers need to be mindful that they are not immune to repercussions for their words, podcasts, etc. While bloggers tend to be more harm than good for the mainstream film industry, the one area where bloggers can do the most good is when it comes to film festivals. Not necessarily the behemoths like Cannes, TIFF, etc., put the smaller local festivals that play in certain communities. A lot of these independent festivals need bloggers to spread the word about the films and filmmakers. Even in these circumstances, heck especially in these circumstances, bloggers need to be careful not to resort to slander as they never know when it may come back to haunt them at least from a legal standpoint.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Whatever Happened To...?
Haley Joel Osment
“I see dead people” is one of the most used catchphrases in cinema history. The line helped to usher Haley Joel Osment into the realm of stardom. There was a time when every director was itching to work with Osment and then, as suddenly as it hit, everything stopped. Despite doing a lot of voice over work, and a play on Broadway, Osment has been curiously absent from the big screen. I know there was the whole car crash incident that hindered things for a bit, but enough time has passed now. Osment is still at the prime age where quality roles should be abundant. The time is right for Hollywood to take another chance on Haley Joel Osment.
Career Highlights: The Sixth Sense (1999); Artificial Intelligence: AI (2001); Forrest Gump (1994); Secondhand Lions (2003);
Low Points: Pay It Forward (2000); The Country Bears (2002); Bogus (1996);
Last Seen On The Big Screen: Home for Giants (2007)
Where You Will See Him Next?: In the comedies Montana Amazon and Sex Ed. As well as the drama Truth & Treason co-starring Max von Sydow.
“I see dead people” is one of the most used catchphrases in cinema history. The line helped to usher Haley Joel Osment into the realm of stardom. There was a time when every director was itching to work with Osment and then, as suddenly as it hit, everything stopped. Despite doing a lot of voice over work, and a play on Broadway, Osment has been curiously absent from the big screen. I know there was the whole car crash incident that hindered things for a bit, but enough time has passed now. Osment is still at the prime age where quality roles should be abundant. The time is right for Hollywood to take another chance on Haley Joel Osment.
Career Highlights: The Sixth Sense (1999); Artificial Intelligence: AI (2001); Forrest Gump (1994); Secondhand Lions (2003);
Low Points: Pay It Forward (2000); The Country Bears (2002); Bogus (1996);
Last Seen On The Big Screen: Home for Giants (2007)
Where You Will See Him Next?: In the comedies Montana Amazon and Sex Ed. As well as the drama Truth & Treason co-starring Max von Sydow.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Russian Red - Cigarettes (It's very good)
CIGARETTES - RUSSIAN REDtell me what it is, it isn’t fairbut I’m wasting time, cos it isn’t my heart, it isn’t my faultand every situation understands, wellthe anecdote of chasing the locations to your doors’cos I’m wasting time, I’m wasting money againand all the cigarettes that I have never smokedand all the letters that I have never senthe was sitting by the swimming poolbut he was scared, ’
Words of Wisdom???
My 21 year old pregnant daughter told me the other day "If I knew being pregnant was going to be so complicated, I never, ever, ever would have had sex!" Oh, gosh girlie, if you think it's complicated now...watch out!!!
:-)
Plug: LAMB Acting School 101
As some of you know already, I run the LAMB Acting School 101 series over at The LAMB. Each month we will highlight a different actor/actress whose performances, for better or worse, have left a mark on the cinematic landscape. This month we look at...Jack NicholsonIf you are interested in taking part here is the material we are looking for:
- Articles on the actor's best performances
- Articles on the actor's worst performances
- General thoughts on the actor
- Reviews of the films the actor has starred in
Once you have the article and/or review posted on your blog, send the link to bigthoughtssmallmind@hotmail.com. As always multiple submissions are encouraged. The deadline for submissions is Wednesday November 24, 2010.
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Jennifer Aniston 2010 Hot Pictures
Jennifer Aniston was born in Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, California to actors John Aniston and Nancy Dow.Aniston is of Greek descent on her father's side, and of Scottish and Italian descent on her mother's side. Aniston has two half-brothers, John Melick (older) and Alex Aniston (younger).'s godfather as actor Telly Savalas, her father's best friend. As a child, Aniston lived in Greece for one
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Dial M for Murder Popular Phone App for Felons
Dial M for Murder
While doing the right thing is important in real life; in regards to the world of cinema, sometimes things would be better if the villain won. This is the case with Alfred Hitchcock’s Dial M for Murder, a film that would have been more satisfying had the scoundrel rode off into the sunset.
Margot (Grace Kelly) has been having an on and off affair with an American writer, Mark Halliday (Robert Cummings), while her tennis player husband, Tony Wendice (Ray Milland), was away. Now that Tony has given up the tennis life for good, Margot decides to put the put the relationship with mark to rest. The past comes back to haunt her when a love note that Mark wrote during their affair is stolen, and Margot is blackmailed via a series of anonymous letters. Little does Margot know that this is all part of Tony’s plan. After discovering that his wife cheated on him, Tony has devised the perfect murder for his revenge. Tony blackmails Captain Lesgate, a shady character from Tony’s past, to commit the murder. Tony is confident his plan is flawless but he soon learns that there is no such thing as the perfect murder.
Dial M for Murder is a film that works slightly better as a play than a feature. Although it is entertainingly suspenseful, the last act of the film really irked me a bit. I think my minor squabble with the film is directly linked to the characters of Mark and Chief Inspector Hubbard (John Williams). I found Mark to be rather annoying in the last half of the film. He goes from being the quiet “other man” who has been instructed by Margot not to say anything of their affair to Tony, to the guy who thinks he is in charge of everything. This is evident in the scene where Mark tries to convince Tony to make a false confession to save Margot. Mark essentially demands Tony to sacrifice himself so that Mark and Margot can live happily ever after. Mark’s assertiveness, not to mention his writer’s mindset, comes way too late in the film. His pleas should have come far before the trial even started.
The same must be said for Chief Inspector Hubbard’s sting operation. The whole final act is played out based on Hubbard’s hunch. At no point during the lengthy investigation does the answer occur to him. Yet just as one of the characters in Dial M for Murder is about to reach a critical juncture, he magically orchestrates his elaborate trap.
Despite qualms with the last act, the first two thirds of Dial M for Murder are wonderfully anchored by Ray Milland’s tantalizing performance. The film really jumps alive every time Milland is on screen. One of the best scenes in the film comes when Tony is implementing his plans to blackmail Captain Lesgate. Everything Tony does in that scene from walking with a cane to pointing out an old photo of when Lesgate was known as Alexander Swann, is calculated. It is a pleasure to watch Milland disarm Lesgate by systematically exposing one of his secrets. Ray Milland is so good in the film that I actually wish the ending had worked out in his favour.
Dial M for Murder may not be as strong as other Alfred Hitchcock films, but Ray Milland’s performance is reason enough to watch the film.
Alfred Hitchcock is the subject of this month’s LAMBs in the Director Chair series over at The LAMB website
Margot (Grace Kelly) has been having an on and off affair with an American writer, Mark Halliday (Robert Cummings), while her tennis player husband, Tony Wendice (Ray Milland), was away. Now that Tony has given up the tennis life for good, Margot decides to put the put the relationship with mark to rest. The past comes back to haunt her when a love note that Mark wrote during their affair is stolen, and Margot is blackmailed via a series of anonymous letters. Little does Margot know that this is all part of Tony’s plan. After discovering that his wife cheated on him, Tony has devised the perfect murder for his revenge. Tony blackmails Captain Lesgate, a shady character from Tony’s past, to commit the murder. Tony is confident his plan is flawless but he soon learns that there is no such thing as the perfect murder.
Dial M for Murder is a film that works slightly better as a play than a feature. Although it is entertainingly suspenseful, the last act of the film really irked me a bit. I think my minor squabble with the film is directly linked to the characters of Mark and Chief Inspector Hubbard (John Williams). I found Mark to be rather annoying in the last half of the film. He goes from being the quiet “other man” who has been instructed by Margot not to say anything of their affair to Tony, to the guy who thinks he is in charge of everything. This is evident in the scene where Mark tries to convince Tony to make a false confession to save Margot. Mark essentially demands Tony to sacrifice himself so that Mark and Margot can live happily ever after. Mark’s assertiveness, not to mention his writer’s mindset, comes way too late in the film. His pleas should have come far before the trial even started.
The same must be said for Chief Inspector Hubbard’s sting operation. The whole final act is played out based on Hubbard’s hunch. At no point during the lengthy investigation does the answer occur to him. Yet just as one of the characters in Dial M for Murder is about to reach a critical juncture, he magically orchestrates his elaborate trap.
Despite qualms with the last act, the first two thirds of Dial M for Murder are wonderfully anchored by Ray Milland’s tantalizing performance. The film really jumps alive every time Milland is on screen. One of the best scenes in the film comes when Tony is implementing his plans to blackmail Captain Lesgate. Everything Tony does in that scene from walking with a cane to pointing out an old photo of when Lesgate was known as Alexander Swann, is calculated. It is a pleasure to watch Milland disarm Lesgate by systematically exposing one of his secrets. Ray Milland is so good in the film that I actually wish the ending had worked out in his favour.
Dial M for Murder may not be as strong as other Alfred Hitchcock films, but Ray Milland’s performance is reason enough to watch the film.
Alfred Hitchcock is the subject of this month’s LAMBs in the Director Chair series over at The LAMB website
Monday, October 25, 2010
Movie Marketing Monday
Unknown White Male (aka. Unknown)
Why does it feel like I have already seen this film before?
The Fighter
I am not expecting Raging Bull level of intensity, but the casting has raised my level of interest for this film.
Why does it feel like I have already seen this film before?
The Fighter
I am not expecting Raging Bull level of intensity, but the casting has raised my level of interest for this film.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
My Funny Story...
I shared my story on Thursday with some family and friends, via email, but thought I'd share with you all now...
Wanted to share my story... I am proud of myself for accomplishing my task, but it wasn't easy......ha ha...
Hubby purchased a new (flat screen) tv for the bedroom.
I told him I'd rather it be on the wall than sitting. For one thing, it is too wide to sit where the old one did.
So hubby is gone. He had me pick up the tv (Kmart sale) (TRIP #1)
While there, I looked all around for a wall mounting kit, just in case, but did not find one.
Of course, I was right, the tv was too wide.
So, I called back to Kmart. Yes they had the kits. Of course, they were not by the tv's. Go figure...why would they be by the tvs? Silly me...
So, back to Kmart I go. I found a really nice kit on sale...it included the cord hider, a surge protector and a bunch of extra stuff. Fits most tvs' within the size range. (TRIP #2)
Got home, got everything out of the box.
Read directions.
Opened numerous packages of stuff in the box.
Decided I'd do the brackets on the back of the TV first.
Guess what, after several tries, I figured out that it would not work. The holes were not going to line up no matter what I did.
OK.
It fits MOST tv's not ours.
Frustrated, I boxed everything back up.
Went back to Kmart. (TRIP #3)
Exchanged the kit for another kit.
Cost me 10 bucks more.
Got home, smarter this time, I tried the brackets on the tv first.
WALLA! They fit.
Screwed them in.
Found studs in wall
Measured where the Wall Bracket would go.
Drilled holes.
Used level, made sure it was all perfect.
Put tv on the bracket.
By myself.
Worked GREAT.
This kit didn't have all the extra stuff, but worked great...TV on wall.
Looks great...
(I'll need to get a cord hider, because that will make me nuts)....
Go to turn on my tv.
Where is the remote?
Look through box.
Look all around.
Realize that I must have packed it up in the first mounting kit.
Go Back To Kmart (TRIP #4)
Ugh.
Go to service desk and explain.
Electronics brings up the kit, and we find the remote.
Yay.
Go home
Put batteries in remote.
Turn on TV:
Wowza!!
Realized later that night that I probably packed up the screws that go with the stand, in case I ever want to not have it wall mounted.
Don't care.
I can call the company and get screws.
I cannot go to Kmart one more time...
I just cannot...
I will not.
Hubby told me that night that I should ask a friend about putting it on the wall, so I was really proud of myself for doing it all myself.
And, it's done....tv was awesome!!!
OH, ya...then, I had to move all my pictures around on the walls since I took two down to hang the tv.
Oh, yea, had to move that swag..it was no longer centered correctly.
Now I noticed some cobwebs and some paint that needs fixed.
Hmmm....
Wanted to share my story... I am proud of myself for accomplishing my task, but it wasn't easy......ha ha...
Hubby purchased a new (flat screen) tv for the bedroom.
I told him I'd rather it be on the wall than sitting. For one thing, it is too wide to sit where the old one did.
So hubby is gone. He had me pick up the tv (Kmart sale) (TRIP #1)
While there, I looked all around for a wall mounting kit, just in case, but did not find one.
Of course, I was right, the tv was too wide.
So, I called back to Kmart. Yes they had the kits. Of course, they were not by the tv's. Go figure...why would they be by the tvs? Silly me...
So, back to Kmart I go. I found a really nice kit on sale...it included the cord hider, a surge protector and a bunch of extra stuff. Fits most tvs' within the size range. (TRIP #2)
Got home, got everything out of the box.
Read directions.
Opened numerous packages of stuff in the box.
Decided I'd do the brackets on the back of the TV first.
Guess what, after several tries, I figured out that it would not work. The holes were not going to line up no matter what I did.
OK.
It fits MOST tv's not ours.
Frustrated, I boxed everything back up.
Went back to Kmart. (TRIP #3)
Exchanged the kit for another kit.
Cost me 10 bucks more.
Got home, smarter this time, I tried the brackets on the tv first.
WALLA! They fit.
Screwed them in.
Found studs in wall
Measured where the Wall Bracket would go.
Drilled holes.
Used level, made sure it was all perfect.
Put tv on the bracket.
By myself.
Worked GREAT.
This kit didn't have all the extra stuff, but worked great...TV on wall.
Looks great...
(I'll need to get a cord hider, because that will make me nuts)....
Go to turn on my tv.
Where is the remote?
Look through box.
Look all around.
Realize that I must have packed it up in the first mounting kit.
Go Back To Kmart (TRIP #4)
Ugh.
Go to service desk and explain.
Electronics brings up the kit, and we find the remote.
Yay.
Go home
Put batteries in remote.
Turn on TV:
Wowza!!
Realized later that night that I probably packed up the screws that go with the stand, in case I ever want to not have it wall mounted.
Don't care.
I can call the company and get screws.
I cannot go to Kmart one more time...
I just cannot...
I will not.
Hubby told me that night that I should ask a friend about putting it on the wall, so I was really proud of myself for doing it all myself.
And, it's done....tv was awesome!!!
OH, ya...then, I had to move all my pictures around on the walls since I took two down to hang the tv.
Oh, yea, had to move that swag..it was no longer centered correctly.
Now I noticed some cobwebs and some paint that needs fixed.
Hmmm....
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Johnny Depp As Nick Charles?
William Powell and Myrna Loy were two of my favorite movie crime stoppers. They starred as Nick and Nora Charles in the Thin Man movies based on the novel by Dashiell Hammett, one of the legendary Black Mask writers. Hammett was a professional San Francisco private eye for 12 years and based a lot of his writing on his personal experiences.
Nick Charles was an ex private investigator who married rich and was comfortable being a semi alcoholic and trophy husband. He never intended to work again. But his wife and circumstances kept pulling him back onto the crime scene.
The first movie came out in 1934 and was written a lot like the radio scripts of the day. Dialogue tended to move the story along and fill in all kinds of background very quickly. As a result, the actors and actresses fill the screen with rapid fire witticisms and comebacks. Sarcasm was liberally salted throughout.
The formula of two rich people involved in crime and murder that dearly loved each other as well as their own company worked again in the 1980s with Jennifer and Jonathan Hart in the television series Hart to Hart. There have been riffs on that formula since, but none of them have enjoyed the success of the initial movies or of that television series.I just found out from several sources, including Paul Bishop's blog, but Johnny Depp has thrown his hat into the ring to become the new Nick Charles. I think he would be absolutely wonderful in the role. The only problem would be finding a modern-day Myrna Loy who could keep on equal footing in the scenes.
If you've never seen the original movies, I would encourage you to do so now. Amazon has got a full collection of a black and white set for a very good price.
Lindsay Lohan has re-appointed to the rehabilitation of January, no prison
Well, I started writing this before I knew what was going on with Lindsay Lohan in court today. No cameras allowed in the room, unfortunately. Lindsay came with her mother and her lawyer, Shawn Chapman Holley, to listen to 25 minutes before 8:30 pm in Moscow. I saw pictures of their arrival ... have been and what I can say that Lindsay left the Betty Ford clinic, and her mother waiting for a
Friday, October 22, 2010
Future Star?
This guy of ours is loving football this year!! We haven't been able to watch a game...but we get weekly phone calls all about them. His team is undefeated, and he is pretty fired up! They have had some big scoring games, and 4 out of 5 have been shutouts! This week he called and he said he had three sacks on the quarterback and one assisted tackle of the quarter back...so he had a great game. He's 10! His dad helps coach, and he gets pretty excited too. Thanks to technology, I got this photo on my phone on Sunday:
His games sound much better than the ones we have recently tried to watch (painfully) on television...Wyoming...Denver Broncos...and most recently Nebraska v Texas! Wow...
His games sound much better than the ones we have recently tried to watch (painfully) on television...Wyoming...Denver Broncos...and most recently Nebraska v Texas! Wow...
Blue Valentine E-Card A Relationship Killer.
Blue Valentine
Yesterday I talked about the silliness behind Blue Valentine getting hit with an NC-17 rating, which at the time this review was written, was under appeal by The Weinstein Company who hold the distribution rights. So it is only fitting that talk about my views on the film itself. Directed by Derek Cianfrance, Blue Valentine is an intimate and honest look at what makes couples fall in love and fall apart.
Dean (Ryan Gosling) works his blue-collar job and takes pleasures in the simple things in life, mainly beer and his family. Although rough around the edges, Dean is a romantic at heart. Dean’s wife Cindy (Michelle Williams) is a nurse who is looking to further her career. Cindy is growing tired of Dean’s childlike ways and the distant between them begins to surface. In a last ditch effort to save their marriage Dean and Cindy decide to have a weekend away for just the two of them. Yet the trip hits a major bump in the road when Cindy runs into an old boyfriend, Bobby (Mike Vogel), at the store.
As I mentioned in an earlier post, Blue Valentine was my favourite film at TIFF this year. In many ways it felt like I was watching the fictional version of another great film I saw at TIFF, Allen King’s A Married Couple. Some will liken the film to Revolutionary Road, but I think it is more along the lines of François Ozon’s brilliant 5X2 more than anything else. Still, make no mistake Blue Valentine is a film that charts its own path. The reason I allude to 5X2 is because of the way time is manipulated in the film and the secrets which the manipulation reveals.
Blue Valentine continually jumps back and forth between the present and the past. Cianfrance gives equal weight to both the couple’s happier times in the past and their current turbulent state. As the film progresses, key details from past relationships are revealed as well as the ramifications they have on the present. This not only impacts the characters in the film, but how the viewer reacts to them as well. The film, similar to relationships themselves, is never as clear cut as you think it will be.
The key to Blue Valentine’s success is in the astonishing performances by Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams. Gosling brings so many layers to the role that you wish the film went on for another two hours just so you can delve into Dean’s mind a bit more. The thing that I loved about Gosling’s portrayal is the fact that Dean never goes to the level you expect him to physically. This is most evident in the “infamous NC-17 inducing” scene. Despite the amount of times Dean is prodded, he always keeps his values in check even when he has reached his breaking point. Michelle Williams is equally mesmerizing as Cindy. It is only in the flashbacks that the cracks in Cindy’s character begin to show. At first it appears that she is just fed up with Dean’s immaturity, yet there are much deeper issues at play. The fact that I could not stop wondering where the characters ended up after the film was over is a testament of the wonderful work of both actors.
Blue Valentine does not hit theatres until December 31st and hopefully the NC-17 rating will be re-evaluated by then. This is a film that needs to be seen for both the story and the performances. It may have taken Derek Cianfrance 11 years to get the financing together for Blue Valentine, but it was worth it in the end. It was my favourite film at TIFF; and is one of my favourite films this year.
Dean (Ryan Gosling) works his blue-collar job and takes pleasures in the simple things in life, mainly beer and his family. Although rough around the edges, Dean is a romantic at heart. Dean’s wife Cindy (Michelle Williams) is a nurse who is looking to further her career. Cindy is growing tired of Dean’s childlike ways and the distant between them begins to surface. In a last ditch effort to save their marriage Dean and Cindy decide to have a weekend away for just the two of them. Yet the trip hits a major bump in the road when Cindy runs into an old boyfriend, Bobby (Mike Vogel), at the store.
As I mentioned in an earlier post, Blue Valentine was my favourite film at TIFF this year. In many ways it felt like I was watching the fictional version of another great film I saw at TIFF, Allen King’s A Married Couple. Some will liken the film to Revolutionary Road, but I think it is more along the lines of François Ozon’s brilliant 5X2 more than anything else. Still, make no mistake Blue Valentine is a film that charts its own path. The reason I allude to 5X2 is because of the way time is manipulated in the film and the secrets which the manipulation reveals.
Blue Valentine continually jumps back and forth between the present and the past. Cianfrance gives equal weight to both the couple’s happier times in the past and their current turbulent state. As the film progresses, key details from past relationships are revealed as well as the ramifications they have on the present. This not only impacts the characters in the film, but how the viewer reacts to them as well. The film, similar to relationships themselves, is never as clear cut as you think it will be.
The key to Blue Valentine’s success is in the astonishing performances by Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams. Gosling brings so many layers to the role that you wish the film went on for another two hours just so you can delve into Dean’s mind a bit more. The thing that I loved about Gosling’s portrayal is the fact that Dean never goes to the level you expect him to physically. This is most evident in the “infamous NC-17 inducing” scene. Despite the amount of times Dean is prodded, he always keeps his values in check even when he has reached his breaking point. Michelle Williams is equally mesmerizing as Cindy. It is only in the flashbacks that the cracks in Cindy’s character begin to show. At first it appears that she is just fed up with Dean’s immaturity, yet there are much deeper issues at play. The fact that I could not stop wondering where the characters ended up after the film was over is a testament of the wonderful work of both actors.
Blue Valentine does not hit theatres until December 31st and hopefully the NC-17 rating will be re-evaluated by then. This is a film that needs to be seen for both the story and the performances. It may have taken Derek Cianfrance 11 years to get the financing together for Blue Valentine, but it was worth it in the end. It was my favourite film at TIFF; and is one of my favourite films this year.
Miley Cyrus is going to marry her friend instead of Liam, Yeehaw!
If it was someone else, I would say "shit," T "and settled in a night's sleep. However, I had to roll his eyes and murmured. "Jesus, I'm sure it's SH-T is the true" National Enquirer reports that Miley Cyrus is only 17 years, both gettin 'married to another Liam Hemsworth. A few months ago there was much more dramatic division and Liam Miley, and perhaps was cheatin 'and perhaps Miley was closed,
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Howie Celebrates....
what a hoot!
Debating the Rating
When it comes to filtering what is deemed acceptable in film, how much responsibility should to be placed on the viewer? Now I am not talking about the film buffs who can argue the merits of Spielberg and Kurosawa, I mean the average filmgoer. The person who helps Jackass 3D make 50 million dollars instead of supporting an independent or foreign film being shown in the same theatre. Currently the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) is the governing body that determines what rating a film will get. They are the ones who decide that Toy Story receives a G rating while Inglourious Basterds receives an R rating. When it comes to the MPAA, Alan Moore’s famous line “Who watches the Watchmen?” is often quoted. Yet I think the phrase “Who profits from the Watchmen?” is more appropriate.
This question has been on my mind for a few weeks now since I first heard that the MPAA had given the movie Blue Valentine an NC-17 rating. Giving a film an NC-17 rating is essentially the kiss of death for any film. Besides the fact that it restricts anyone under the age of seventeen from accessing the film, it also gives the stigma that the film is as offensive as pornography. After seening Blue Valentine at this year’s TIFF, I was stunned that the film received such a harsh rating. According to Deadline , the film received the rating for a scene “in which the characters played by Gosling and Williams try to save their crumbling marriage by spending a night away in a hotel. They get drunk and their problems intensify when he wants to have sex and she doesn’t, but will to get him off her back. That hurts his pride and the result is an upsetting scene that makes you squirm”
Having sat through the infamous scene in question, I can say, without spoiling the film, that there is no violence in the scene and things do not unfold they way you initially think it will. The scene is actually one of my favourite moments in the film for reasons which I will elaborate more on when I post my review. Still, the fact that a film can get such a harsh rating for simply making the viewer squirm raises concern over whose interest are the MPAA really serving?
Now this is by no means a rant for the abolishment of the MPAA, unlike most film lovers I actually believe the MPAA can be a useful organization. I just think that they have lost their way in regards to ratings. Instead of taxing big budget studio films that will be seen in 2000 plus theatres, the MPAA seems to more often than not punish the films that the average filmgoer would not be seeing in the first place. With the exception of Showgirls, which is a teenage boy's wet dream of a movie, how many of the following NC-17 rated films were the average underage person really eager to see: Crash (Cronenberg’s version)? Bad Lieutenant? Requiem for a Dream? Mysterious Skin? Lust, Caution;? Chances are good these films would not have played to a wide audience even if they had received an R rating. So why do these films get the NC-17 rating while other films like Inglourious Basterds, Predators, The Expendables, Splice and the Jackass movies are allowed to play in close to 3000 theatres?
Some may argue that it is an issue of escapist fare versus more realistic themes. How then do you explain Oscar nominated films like Precious? The main character in that film is repeatedly raped, has a television thrown at her, etc. While I really enjoyed Precious, it was just as, if not more, unsettling as Blue Valentine, yet no controversy at all. I wonder if Tyler Perry and Oprah had not produced the film if the ratings would be different. It is time for the MPAA to really look at the big budget studio fair with the same fine toothed comb it looks at the smaller independent films. There should be no reason that you can watch people die on screen in gruesome ways, yet intimate character studies, that would play primarily independent, get penalized so savagely.
Again, I am not calling for the disbanding the MPAA, they are an important organization to have around. Their intentions are valid, it just that their systems for ratings films needs to be updated and clarified. The easiest and most effect solution would be to first do market research on the films that the general public are most likely to see. The research should cover everything from age, types of movies the person regularly watches, the theatres they most often go to etc. Then, based on the overall feedback, the MPAA should adjust their overall standards accordingly. There is no reason small films that skew to a more adult audience, such as Blue Valentine, get slapped with NC-17 ratings while you can go into any multiplex and watch films like Machete, or The Town without even a second thought.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
What are my Chances?
I mentioned that I shaped up the lawn on Sunday....see how pretty it looks...even though it already had leaves falling on it...
And....across the street....they raked, and piled them up ... and left them....I bet they will be flying this way soon!!!
Aw, just enjoy, right?
Predators Often Read "Eat, Prey, No Love"
Predators
If you really think about it, predators are the jerks of the alien races. Judging by the history of cinema, most aliens either want to take over the world by force; or are simple friendly creatures hoping to find their way home. Sure there are those aliens who like to stowaway on abandoned space stations, but they keep to themselves unless interrupted. Predators are the jerks of the species because they only care about their own amusement. They have no desire to take over the world, nor do they want to make friends. Similar to the how the wealthy indulge in golf and tennis, predators treat game hunting like it is a leisurely Sunday afternoon. It is just unfortunate for us, that their favourite game to hunt is man.
Royce (Adrien Brody) wakes up to find that he has been dropped in a jungle. At first it is not clear why Royce and the six other individuals (including Alice Braga, Danny Trejo, and Topher Grace) have been selected. Most are trained killers (mercenaries, enforcers, rapist, etc.) and one is a doctor (Grace), yet as they make their way through the jungle it becomes clear that they have bigger problems at hand than merely finding their way home. It becomes clear to Royce that the jungle is actually a big game preserve and they are the prey that is being hunted.
Although there have been four other in the series, Predators actually feels like a true sequel to the 1987 original, Predator, that featured Arnold Schwarzenegger. Unlike the outlandish Predator 2, Predators successfully captures the spirit of the original. It could even be argued that the film stays a little too close to the original at times. There are several nods to the original film throughout the film: Royce emerging covered in mud; the quiet but deadly character, Hanzo (Louis Ozawa Changchien), sacrificing himself to ensure the rest have a chance at survival; etc.
The area where Predators pales in comparison to the original is in the script. There is not much of a story in the film. Granted audiences go into Predators looking for action, but it is important to have a bit of substance to make the action sequence more compelling. The lack of a true story is truly evident when you look at the characters in the film. None of them are really all that memorable at all since we know so little about them. For example, Edwin’s (Grace) arc evolves too late in the film. As a result it comes off silly instead of being menacing as it was intended to be. The same could be said for the predator on predator fight scene. Sure the social class system is an interesting tidbit but watching two creatures, who we know little about, fighting to the death does little to enhance the film. That time could have been used to focus more on the main characters we have been following from the beginning.
While the story leaves much to be desired, director Nimród Antal does a good job of still keeping the film entertaining. Antal sets the stage perfectly with his thrilling opening sequence where Royce is free falling into the jungle. From there Predators moves at a very brisk pace. The action scenes are well done and Antal slips in just the right amount of humour. In regards to the humour, Laurence Fishburne does a nice job of providing the laughs in his brief cameo. Fishburne’s character, Noland, brings the right amount of over-the-top craziness needed for a character who has been on the planet for more years than he really should have been.
Despite some short comings with the script, Predators ended up being an entertaining way to kill a few hours. It is may not be a good as the original Predator, but Predators is a worthy sequel to Arnold’s action classic...which is something that cannot be said about Predator 2.
Royce (Adrien Brody) wakes up to find that he has been dropped in a jungle. At first it is not clear why Royce and the six other individuals (including Alice Braga, Danny Trejo, and Topher Grace) have been selected. Most are trained killers (mercenaries, enforcers, rapist, etc.) and one is a doctor (Grace), yet as they make their way through the jungle it becomes clear that they have bigger problems at hand than merely finding their way home. It becomes clear to Royce that the jungle is actually a big game preserve and they are the prey that is being hunted.
Although there have been four other in the series, Predators actually feels like a true sequel to the 1987 original, Predator, that featured Arnold Schwarzenegger. Unlike the outlandish Predator 2, Predators successfully captures the spirit of the original. It could even be argued that the film stays a little too close to the original at times. There are several nods to the original film throughout the film: Royce emerging covered in mud; the quiet but deadly character, Hanzo (Louis Ozawa Changchien), sacrificing himself to ensure the rest have a chance at survival; etc.
The area where Predators pales in comparison to the original is in the script. There is not much of a story in the film. Granted audiences go into Predators looking for action, but it is important to have a bit of substance to make the action sequence more compelling. The lack of a true story is truly evident when you look at the characters in the film. None of them are really all that memorable at all since we know so little about them. For example, Edwin’s (Grace) arc evolves too late in the film. As a result it comes off silly instead of being menacing as it was intended to be. The same could be said for the predator on predator fight scene. Sure the social class system is an interesting tidbit but watching two creatures, who we know little about, fighting to the death does little to enhance the film. That time could have been used to focus more on the main characters we have been following from the beginning.
While the story leaves much to be desired, director Nimród Antal does a good job of still keeping the film entertaining. Antal sets the stage perfectly with his thrilling opening sequence where Royce is free falling into the jungle. From there Predators moves at a very brisk pace. The action scenes are well done and Antal slips in just the right amount of humour. In regards to the humour, Laurence Fishburne does a nice job of providing the laughs in his brief cameo. Fishburne’s character, Noland, brings the right amount of over-the-top craziness needed for a character who has been on the planet for more years than he really should have been.
Despite some short comings with the script, Predators ended up being an entertaining way to kill a few hours. It is may not be a good as the original Predator, but Predators is a worthy sequel to Arnold’s action classic...which is something that cannot be said about Predator 2.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Colors
Green
Red
Orange
Yellow
Brown......
oh the color wheel of seasons.....
ahh the magic of simon and garfunkel playing to the changing seasons, if only this was a movie and songs played in the background all the time instead of just in my head...
sigh.
Fall at My House....
Often times, we get a freeze before our leaves get a chance to turn colors, so I am truly enjoying the beauty this year!!
Beautiful Boy More Than Pretty Packaging
Beautiful Boy
Since the events at Columbine there has been plethora of films that have dealt with school shootings. The majority of these films have focused on either the victims or the shooter(s). Rarely do these pictures shed any light on the impact it has on their parents. This is one of the reasons why Shawn Ku’s debut feature, Beautiful Boy, is such a unique film.
Bill (Michael Sheen) and Kate’s (Maria Bello) marriage is near the end of its rope. Kate is hopeful that a family vacation is what is needed to get them back on track. Bill, on the other hand, sees the situation as being beyond repair and starts to look into other housing arrangements. Bill and Kate’s relationship takes an unexpected turn when new breaks that there has been a shooting at their son’s school. Hearing that a shooting has occurred at their child’s school is scary enough, but nothing prepares the couple for the news that their eighteen-year-old son, Sam (Kyle Gallner) was not only the shooter; but took his own life when his shooting spree was over.
Beautiful Boy is an emotional look at how loss affects people in different ways. It is even tougher to deal with when it comes as a result of a public event. Bill and Kate where already isolated from each other emotionally and physically. After the shooting, they both found themselves being isolated from the public in general. The media is camped outside their home on a daily basis, and television personalities debate their lack of parenting skills. The general population, who get their information from the press, are quick to vilify them. There is a telling scene in the film where Bill goes to rent a motel room for him and his wife to hideout in and he encounters the owner (Meat Loaf) who is watching the news and verbally expressing his harsh thoughts about the parents...not realizing who Bill is actually standing in front of him. Even Kate’s brother (Alan Tudyk) and sister-in-law (Moon Bloodgood) start to argue over the impact that the couple is having on her own young son.
Although the final act draws out a tad longer than is necessary, it does not take away from the film’s overall impact. Emotionally raw at times, Beautiful Boy does not shy away from the pain that both parents feel. Carried by astonishing performances and skilled direction, Beautiful Boy is one of the better works to come out this year.
Bill (Michael Sheen) and Kate’s (Maria Bello) marriage is near the end of its rope. Kate is hopeful that a family vacation is what is needed to get them back on track. Bill, on the other hand, sees the situation as being beyond repair and starts to look into other housing arrangements. Bill and Kate’s relationship takes an unexpected turn when new breaks that there has been a shooting at their son’s school. Hearing that a shooting has occurred at their child’s school is scary enough, but nothing prepares the couple for the news that their eighteen-year-old son, Sam (Kyle Gallner) was not only the shooter; but took his own life when his shooting spree was over.
Beautiful Boy is an emotional look at how loss affects people in different ways. It is even tougher to deal with when it comes as a result of a public event. Bill and Kate where already isolated from each other emotionally and physically. After the shooting, they both found themselves being isolated from the public in general. The media is camped outside their home on a daily basis, and television personalities debate their lack of parenting skills. The general population, who get their information from the press, are quick to vilify them. There is a telling scene in the film where Bill goes to rent a motel room for him and his wife to hideout in and he encounters the owner (Meat Loaf) who is watching the news and verbally expressing his harsh thoughts about the parents...not realizing who Bill is actually standing in front of him. Even Kate’s brother (Alan Tudyk) and sister-in-law (Moon Bloodgood) start to argue over the impact that the couple is having on her own young son.
For a first film, Shawn Ku delivers a surprisingly effective and layered work. Ku is not afraid to take his characters deep into their grief. His script may appear simple on the surface but it offers much food for thought as the film progresses. Shawn Ku also has a wonderful understanding of what is needed to get the most out of his actors. Both Mario Bello and Michael Sheen deliver outstanding performances. While the film is too small to garner the Oscar buzz it rightfully deserves, their work in the film is award worthy nonetheless. Bello masterfully brings out her character’s mix of grief and quest for validation regarding her parenting skills. Sheen brings the right balance of anger and guilt to the role. At first he is the only one who is willing to look at his son’s actions as a crime; yet it is not long before Bill's own inner guilt, for not being there for his son when he was needed most, eventually consumes him.
Although the final act draws out a tad longer than is necessary, it does not take away from the film’s overall impact. Emotionally raw at times, Beautiful Boy does not shy away from the pain that both parents feel. Carried by astonishing performances and skilled direction, Beautiful Boy is one of the better works to come out this year.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Our Birthday Girl
We got to spend the day with our girl on Saturday, and her family...what a treat!!!
Movie Marketing Monday
Blue Valentine
Blue Valentine was my favourite film at this year’s TIFF. Look for my review of the film to be posted within the next week or so.
Drive Angry 3D
Nicolas Cage going over-the-top once again...just the way we like him. Hopefully Drive Angry 3D will be much better than both the awful Gone in Sixty Seconds and the horrendous Ghost Rider.
Blue Valentine was my favourite film at this year’s TIFF. Look for my review of the film to be posted within the next week or so.
Drive Angry 3D
Nicolas Cage going over-the-top once again...just the way we like him. Hopefully Drive Angry 3D will be much better than both the awful Gone in Sixty Seconds and the horrendous Ghost Rider.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Forgiveness
My attempts at seeking spiritual guidance have been less than fruitful.
A few years ago, I met with my parish priest to discuss forgiveness. You see, 25 years ago this month, my older sister was brutally murdered. Then 4 years ago the parole board let her murderer out of prison.
So I've been dealing with the concept of forgiving this man. It's a big job. Believe me. The only reason I can even consider it, is that I think my sister knew she would live a short life. When I think about her spirit, I'm sure she accepted her death. I can't tell you how I came to believe this but it does give me peace.
When I talked to my priest, he told me he thought that there are some things that are unforgivable - and this is probably one of them.
I don't like his answer. After all, God forgives all of us. Was he saying that even God wouldn't forgive my sister's murderer? I don't believe that is what the bible says. I mean, isn't that what the cross was all about?
McTwitchy and I were talking about this. He says he agrees with the priest - and that he can't imagine a heaven in which murderers, child-rapists and the like are in the same place as the rest of us.
Hmmm.
I see his point.
But I explained that I think we, mortal humans cannot comprehend the magnitude of God's grace. We won't possibly understand it until we see salvation.
We talked some more, McTwitchy asserting that even the greatest forgiveness couldn't possibly justify such deeds. Even God couldn't forgive the Jeffrey Dahmer's of the world.
That idea made me uncomfortable. I started to think, "I hope He does." I hope God's grace and forgiveness IS that big. Because if not... if God doesn't absolve the most atrocious sins... then my 'small' sins don't deserve forgiveness either.
I'm not saying that I can begin to imagine how big this grace, forgiveness and majesty is... but I think I do believe that it is big enough to forgive even the truly horrendous.
Do you?
A few years ago, I met with my parish priest to discuss forgiveness. You see, 25 years ago this month, my older sister was brutally murdered. Then 4 years ago the parole board let her murderer out of prison.
So I've been dealing with the concept of forgiving this man. It's a big job. Believe me. The only reason I can even consider it, is that I think my sister knew she would live a short life. When I think about her spirit, I'm sure she accepted her death. I can't tell you how I came to believe this but it does give me peace.
When I talked to my priest, he told me he thought that there are some things that are unforgivable - and this is probably one of them.
I don't like his answer. After all, God forgives all of us. Was he saying that even God wouldn't forgive my sister's murderer? I don't believe that is what the bible says. I mean, isn't that what the cross was all about?
McTwitchy and I were talking about this. He says he agrees with the priest - and that he can't imagine a heaven in which murderers, child-rapists and the like are in the same place as the rest of us.
Hmmm.
I see his point.
But I explained that I think we, mortal humans cannot comprehend the magnitude of God's grace. We won't possibly understand it until we see salvation.
We talked some more, McTwitchy asserting that even the greatest forgiveness couldn't possibly justify such deeds. Even God couldn't forgive the Jeffrey Dahmer's of the world.
That idea made me uncomfortable. I started to think, "I hope He does." I hope God's grace and forgiveness IS that big. Because if not... if God doesn't absolve the most atrocious sins... then my 'small' sins don't deserve forgiveness either.
I'm not saying that I can begin to imagine how big this grace, forgiveness and majesty is... but I think I do believe that it is big enough to forgive even the truly horrendous.
Do you?
Friday, October 15, 2010
The Philadelphia Story Lacks Cheesy Steak Sandwiches
The Philadelphia Story
It is interesting to experience classic films with modern eyes. There are times when you wonder how certain film elements, which would be considered politically incorrect now, even made it to the big screen. Though, you are secretly glad the film was able to express itself in a manner that fit the time it was made. The Philadelphia Story is one of those films. It delivers on both the comedic and romantic front, while also serving as a reminder of how far the battle of the sexes has come…and how little it has changed.
Two years after her marriage to C.K. Dexter Haven (Cary Grant) fell apart, socialite Tracy Lord (Katharine Hepburn) is ready to remarry. Her pending marriage to businessman George Kittredge (John Howard) is the talk of the town. As the wedding approaches Dexter, in a last ditch attempt to get revenge, convinces the editor of a tabloid magazine that he can sneak a reporter, Macaulay Connor (James Stewart), and his photographer, Elizabeth Imbrie (Ruth Hussey), into the exclusive wedding. The unexpected presence of Dexter and his two guest leads to much anarchy. Soon Tracy finds herself questioning who her heart really belongs to? Is her true love current flame George? her past love Dexter? Or is there a potential future with Macaulay.
One thing that modern audiences will notice right away is how The Philadelphia Story takes a rather nonchalant approach to domestic abuse. Dexter has a great moment where, after remarking that that he thought all writers drank excessively and beat their wives, he looks at Tracy and slyly states “at one point I wanted to be a writer.” The line is clearly a direct reference to Dexter’s alcoholic and abusive tendencies when he was married to Tracy. Similar to most of the dialogue in the film, lines like theses are played up for great comedic effect. While humour like this would be deemed insensitive by today’s standards, it was consider harmless humour back in the 1940’s.
The key to enjoying The Philadelphia Story is to simply take the film for the romantic comedy it is and nothing more. In many ways the film feels like another take on Shakespeare’s classic play The Taming of the Shrew. The majority of the men in the picture constantly refer to Tracy as Goddess. Her high standards and unforgiving nature are constantly blamed for many of the male issues in the film. Even Tracy’s father alludes to the fact that his being unfaithful to Tracy’s mother is directly linked to her cold demeanor. The interesting thing is that the being placed on a pedestal is the farthest thing from what Tracy wants. She is simply interested in being love not worshipped.
What keeps the romantic element so engaging is that you are never sure who Tracy will choose until the very end. The Philadelphia Story is able to sustain the multiple romances for so long partly due to the work from the three leads. Katharine Hepburn is the driving force that keeps the story moving. Her character is often required to switch modes from sharp tongue socialite to fragile woman looking for lasting comfort. As Dexter, Cary Grant is hilarious at the loveable rogue who will do just about anything to disrupt the big day. He clearly is remorseful for his past errors but is too proud to let it be known to Tracy. While Hepburn and Grant have fantastic chemistry, the real surprise in the film is James Stewart. Macaulay has all the angles covered but is quickly sized up and disarmed mentally by Tracy. Stewart brings the perfect mix of angst towards the uppers social class and heart to the role of Macaulay.
While one could look into the deep social issues lurking behind The Philadelphia Story, it would only take away from the films true intentions. The Philadelphia Story is nothing more than a fun romantic comedy that shows that love is complicated no matter what era you may be in.
Two years after her marriage to C.K. Dexter Haven (Cary Grant) fell apart, socialite Tracy Lord (Katharine Hepburn) is ready to remarry. Her pending marriage to businessman George Kittredge (John Howard) is the talk of the town. As the wedding approaches Dexter, in a last ditch attempt to get revenge, convinces the editor of a tabloid magazine that he can sneak a reporter, Macaulay Connor (James Stewart), and his photographer, Elizabeth Imbrie (Ruth Hussey), into the exclusive wedding. The unexpected presence of Dexter and his two guest leads to much anarchy. Soon Tracy finds herself questioning who her heart really belongs to? Is her true love current flame George? her past love Dexter? Or is there a potential future with Macaulay.
One thing that modern audiences will notice right away is how The Philadelphia Story takes a rather nonchalant approach to domestic abuse. Dexter has a great moment where, after remarking that that he thought all writers drank excessively and beat their wives, he looks at Tracy and slyly states “at one point I wanted to be a writer.” The line is clearly a direct reference to Dexter’s alcoholic and abusive tendencies when he was married to Tracy. Similar to most of the dialogue in the film, lines like theses are played up for great comedic effect. While humour like this would be deemed insensitive by today’s standards, it was consider harmless humour back in the 1940’s.
The key to enjoying The Philadelphia Story is to simply take the film for the romantic comedy it is and nothing more. In many ways the film feels like another take on Shakespeare’s classic play The Taming of the Shrew. The majority of the men in the picture constantly refer to Tracy as Goddess. Her high standards and unforgiving nature are constantly blamed for many of the male issues in the film. Even Tracy’s father alludes to the fact that his being unfaithful to Tracy’s mother is directly linked to her cold demeanor. The interesting thing is that the being placed on a pedestal is the farthest thing from what Tracy wants. She is simply interested in being love not worshipped.
What keeps the romantic element so engaging is that you are never sure who Tracy will choose until the very end. The Philadelphia Story is able to sustain the multiple romances for so long partly due to the work from the three leads. Katharine Hepburn is the driving force that keeps the story moving. Her character is often required to switch modes from sharp tongue socialite to fragile woman looking for lasting comfort. As Dexter, Cary Grant is hilarious at the loveable rogue who will do just about anything to disrupt the big day. He clearly is remorseful for his past errors but is too proud to let it be known to Tracy. While Hepburn and Grant have fantastic chemistry, the real surprise in the film is James Stewart. Macaulay has all the angles covered but is quickly sized up and disarmed mentally by Tracy. Stewart brings the perfect mix of angst towards the uppers social class and heart to the role of Macaulay.
While one could look into the deep social issues lurking behind The Philadelphia Story, it would only take away from the films true intentions. The Philadelphia Story is nothing more than a fun romantic comedy that shows that love is complicated no matter what era you may be in.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Wow...this hits home today.
If you feel like all your abilities aren't being put to use at the moment, you'll really be eager to get things going right now. Just take the time to carefully consider your position. And if you're not happy with some things, it'd be a good time for you to start speaking up.
It ought to be a very busy day for you. But if you feel that your efforts are not being fully appreciated by everyone around you, just remember that you have the responsibility for making the situation better for yourself. And now would be the perfect time for you to start doing something about it. Mantra: Responsibility.
It ought to be a very busy day for you. But if you feel that your efforts are not being fully appreciated by everyone around you, just remember that you have the responsibility for making the situation better for yourself. And now would be the perfect time for you to start doing something about it. Mantra: Responsibility.
Strangers on a Train Agree Long Wait is Murder
Strangers on a Train
The name Alfred Hitchcock is synonymous with films such as The Birds, Psycho, and Vertigo. While Hitchcock will be remembered for those iconic films, it his work on Strangers on a Train that instantly comes to mind for me.
While on the train one day, professional tennis player Guy Haines (Farley Granger) meets Bruno Anthony (Robert Walker). Bruno appears to be an avid fan of Guy’s and slowly begins to win his trust, which eventually allows him to pry into Guy’s personal life. Over the course of their discussion, Bruno reveals that he has come up with the perfect crime involving two strangers exchanging murders. Bruno would kill Guy’s wife, Miriam (Kasey Rogers), who refuses to give him a divorce, and Guy would kill Bruno’s father. Guy assumes that the conversation is just mindless banter. That is until Bruno shows up at his door with news of Miriam’s death. Bruno pressures Guy to hold up his end of a bargain that he never agreed to. Unable to go to the cops, and fearful ruining his relationship with current girlfriend Anne (Ruth Roman), Guy must find a way to stop the deranged Bruno.
What makes Strangers on a Train standout is the brilliant, and creepy, performance of Robert Walker. From the minute Walker’s Bruno is introduced you feel uneasy. Bruno is a compelling character because he represents that dark facet that can be found in all of us. He even points out in one scene that everyone has a moment of anger in which they wished someone else harm.
The fact that Bruno has the ability to instantly charm whoever he meets makes him even more dangerous. Guy can sense there is something a little off with Bruno when they meet on the train but he never is uncomfortable enough to leave the compartment. Bruno always makes a point to put Guy’s mind at ease. Bruno is such a smooth talker that he not only gets two socialites to reveal how they would commit a murder, but is able to convince one of the ladies, who has never met him before, to participate in a mock strangulation exercise. An exercise that nearly has fatal consequences.
Walker’s stellar performance only enhances the tension that fills Alfred Hitchcock’s film. Many of the chills in Strangers on a Train are a result Hitchcock placing Bruno in the background of many scenes. Whether it is at a Washington landmark or in the crowd observing tennis practice, Bruno is always present intently focused on his subject. This is best exemplified in the build up to the death of Guy’s wife. Miriam assumes that Bruno is merely a handsome man who is interested in her romantically, so she engages in an unspoken form of flirting. Yet Hitchcock clearly shows that Bruno has alternative motives. Using carnival rides, such as the merry-go-round and the tunnel of love boats, Hitchcock is able to set the stage for chase that only Bruno is aware they are a part of. Hitchcock smartly intercuts Miriam’s screams of glee when being tickled by friends, with the larger than life image of Bruno’s shadow on the cave wall in the next boat. Watching the stalker and prey game that Bruno plays with Guy’s wife is riveting.
Strangers on a Train is everything most modern day thrillers hope to be. It has a great premise, strong performances and it manages to maintain the tension after numerous viewings. Alfred Hitchcock has given the cinema world many gems over the course of his career but, for me, Strangers on a Train shines brightest.
*Alfred Hitchcock is the subject for this month’s LAMBs in the Director Chair series over at The LAMB website*
While on the train one day, professional tennis player Guy Haines (Farley Granger) meets Bruno Anthony (Robert Walker). Bruno appears to be an avid fan of Guy’s and slowly begins to win his trust, which eventually allows him to pry into Guy’s personal life. Over the course of their discussion, Bruno reveals that he has come up with the perfect crime involving two strangers exchanging murders. Bruno would kill Guy’s wife, Miriam (Kasey Rogers), who refuses to give him a divorce, and Guy would kill Bruno’s father. Guy assumes that the conversation is just mindless banter. That is until Bruno shows up at his door with news of Miriam’s death. Bruno pressures Guy to hold up his end of a bargain that he never agreed to. Unable to go to the cops, and fearful ruining his relationship with current girlfriend Anne (Ruth Roman), Guy must find a way to stop the deranged Bruno.
What makes Strangers on a Train standout is the brilliant, and creepy, performance of Robert Walker. From the minute Walker’s Bruno is introduced you feel uneasy. Bruno is a compelling character because he represents that dark facet that can be found in all of us. He even points out in one scene that everyone has a moment of anger in which they wished someone else harm.
The fact that Bruno has the ability to instantly charm whoever he meets makes him even more dangerous. Guy can sense there is something a little off with Bruno when they meet on the train but he never is uncomfortable enough to leave the compartment. Bruno always makes a point to put Guy’s mind at ease. Bruno is such a smooth talker that he not only gets two socialites to reveal how they would commit a murder, but is able to convince one of the ladies, who has never met him before, to participate in a mock strangulation exercise. An exercise that nearly has fatal consequences.
Walker’s stellar performance only enhances the tension that fills Alfred Hitchcock’s film. Many of the chills in Strangers on a Train are a result Hitchcock placing Bruno in the background of many scenes. Whether it is at a Washington landmark or in the crowd observing tennis practice, Bruno is always present intently focused on his subject. This is best exemplified in the build up to the death of Guy’s wife. Miriam assumes that Bruno is merely a handsome man who is interested in her romantically, so she engages in an unspoken form of flirting. Yet Hitchcock clearly shows that Bruno has alternative motives. Using carnival rides, such as the merry-go-round and the tunnel of love boats, Hitchcock is able to set the stage for chase that only Bruno is aware they are a part of. Hitchcock smartly intercuts Miriam’s screams of glee when being tickled by friends, with the larger than life image of Bruno’s shadow on the cave wall in the next boat. Watching the stalker and prey game that Bruno plays with Guy’s wife is riveting.
Strangers on a Train is everything most modern day thrillers hope to be. It has a great premise, strong performances and it manages to maintain the tension after numerous viewings. Alfred Hitchcock has given the cinema world many gems over the course of his career but, for me, Strangers on a Train shines brightest.
*Alfred Hitchcock is the subject for this month’s LAMBs in the Director Chair series over at The LAMB website*
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Yee-Haw!! Rancho Diablo Is Live At Amazon!
Bill Crider, James Reasoner, and I joined forces to create this series. SHOOTER'S CROSS is the first book in this hard-hitting series.
Go here to order from Amazon for your Kindle, Kindle for PC, or Kindle for Mac. You can also read it on your iPads.
Reel Asian Int.Film Festival Announces Full List of Films
The 2010 Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival will celebrate its 14th year as Canada’s longest-running and largest showcase of contemporary cinema by East Asian and Southeast Asian moviemakers from Canada and around the world. From November 9 to 15, 2010, the festival will present more than 50 films and videos from 12 countries, including Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, China, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Canada and the U.S. Reel Asian strives to develop programming that reflects the cultural diversity of Canada and increases public understanding and appreciation of the artistic, social and cultural contributions of those of Asian heritage through film. This year, the festival has been expanded by two days to provide an even larger selection of screenings and events! Highlights include:
GALAS & CENTREPIECE:
• OPENING NIGHT GALA: GALLANTS (directors: Clement Sze-Kit Cheng & Derek Chi-kin Kwok, Hong Kong 2010; Toronto premiere, director in attendance)
• CENTREPIECE PRESENTATION: GOLDEN SLUMBER (director: Nakamura Yoshihiro, Japan 2010; Toronto premiere)
• CLOSING NIGHT GALA: AU REVOIR TAIPEI (director: Arvin Chen, Taiwan/USA 2010; Toronto premiere, director in attendance)
INTERNATIONAL FEATURES: a selection of award-winning and noteworthy films
• Vietnam/France/Germany — BI, DON’T BE AFRAID! by Dang Di Phan, winner of SACD Best Screenplay Award at Cannes International Critic’s Week (2010)
• Japan — DEAR DOCTOR by Nishikawa Miwa, winner of more than 21 awards in Japan, including the Japanese Academy Award for Best Screenplay (2009)
• South Korea/China/France — DOOMAN RIVER by Lu Zhang received a Crystal Bear Special Mention at the Berlin International Film Festival (2010) and the Special Jury Prize at the Paris Cinema International Film Festival (2010)
• South Korea — EIGHTEEN by Jang Kun-jae, winner of the Vancouver International Film Festival’s Dragons & Tigers Award for Young Cinema (2009)
• Philippines/USA — THE MOUNTAIN THIEF by Gerry Balasta, winner of the Special Jury Prize at the San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival (2010)
• China — OXHIDE II by Liu Jiayin was part of the Quinzaine/Directors’ Fortnight at the Cannes Film Festival (2009) and won the Blue Chameleon Award and White Chameleon Award at the Cinema Digital Seoul Film Festival (2009)
CANADIAN PROGRAMMING:
• HOME — Reel Asian’s Canadian Spotlight on Desiree Lim
• ONE BIG HAPA FAMILY (director: Jeff Chiba Stearns) and MARKER (director: Louise Noguchi)
• REDRESS REMIX (director: Lesley Loksi Chan)
• Best of Canadian Shorts Presentation: ON THE FLIP SIDE
• TOILET (director: Naoko Ogigami, Japan/Canada, 2010) was shot in Toronto and features a all-Canadian cast
• SPECIAL PRESENTATION: SUITE SUITE CHINATOWN — a new commission of works by Chinese Toronto-based directors on the theme of “Chinatown,” with new music and a live performance by the Mary Ward Secondary School Stage Band
SPOTLIGHT PRESENTATION: KOJI YAMAMURA — MASTERY OF THE FORM
Oscar-nominated Koji Yamamura (FRANZ KAFKA’S A COUNTRY DOCTOR), one of the most successful animation filmmakers in Japan today, will be giving a master class as part of the Industry Series, followed by a screening of selected works
GALLERY INSTALLATION: RMB City by Cao Fei (aka China Tracy) at A Space Gallery
The first solo show by internationally-acclaimed Chinese art star Cao Fei, who recently exhibited at the Venice Biennale and completed a new commission for the Guggenheim in New York City.
PITCH COMPETITION
Reel Asian's 5th Annual Pitch Competition—So You Think You Can Pitch?—is back for 2010! A collaboration between Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival and Charles Street Video (CSV), this competition features prizes worth a combined value of more than $31,000. Ten teams of filmmakers will have six minutes to pitch their projects to vie for $1,500 in cash; distribution through Ouat Media; more than $10,000 (emerging category) and $18,000 (professional category) worth of production, post services and artist's fees at CSV.
REEL ASIAN HEADS TO RICHMOND HILL!
As part of our initiative to reach new audiences beyond the downtown core, Reel Asian includes the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts in its official programme and will be presenting Hong Kong blockbuster IP MAN 2 on October 18, and an encore presentation of this year’s closing night film, AU REVOIR TAIPEI, on November 15.
SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE (chronologically by date)
Special presentation | Mon Oct 18, 7:00 pm | Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts IP MAN 2 | Dir. Wilson Yip | Hong Kong 2010 | Toronto Premiere
In 1949 Hong Kong, Wing Chun martial arts master Ip Man struggles to start a new school and finds himself up against corrupt British authorities. Based on the true story of Bruce Lee’s master, and starring Donnie Yen and Sammo Hung.
Opening Night Gala | Tue Nov 9, 7:00 pm | Bloor Cinema GALLANTS | Dir. Clement Sze-Kit Cheng, Derek Chi-kin Kwok | Hong Kong 2010 | Toronto Premiere
In a hilarious homage to action stars of yesteryear, two washed-up masters and an unlikely hero must stand up to a gang of ruthless developers. Presented by Rogers Communications Inc.
Youth Presentation | Wed Nov 10, 11:00 am | NFB Cinema REDRESS REMIX | Dir. Lesley Loksi Chan | Canada 2010
A contemporary look at the controversial 2006 government apology to the Chinese Canadian community for the Head Tax and Exclusion Act of 1923.
Youth Presentation | Wed Nov 10, 1:30 pm | NFB Cinema DAYS OF RAIN | Dir. Andreas Hartmann | Germany/Vietnam 2010 | North American Premiere Thirteen-year old Quynh and his family live in a small village in Vietnam threatened by nearby landmines and relentless flooding. When offered the chance to relocate, they turn to a local fortune-teller to help them with their difficult decision.
Canadian Spotlight | Wed Nov 10, 6:30 pm | Innis Town Hall
HOME | Dir. Desiree Lim | Canada/Japan/Malaysia 2009 | North American Premiere
A documentary-drama project by queer-feminist Canadian Malaysian director Desiree Lim gives voice to the plight of Burmese refugees in Malaysia.
Feature Presentation | Wed Nov 10, 8:30 pm | Innis Town Hall
DOOMAN RIVER | Dir. Zhang Lu | South Korea/France 2010 | Toronto Premiere
Chang-ho and Jeong-Jin live on opposite sides of the Dooman River, which divides China from North Korea. Amid growing tension, the two young boys form an unlikely friendship. Berlin Film Festival Special Mention 2010.
Shorts Presentation | Thu Nov 11, 6:30 pm | Innis Town Hall
ON THE FLIP SIDE: Short films focusing on everything from a ‘playful’ kidnapping to a Fresh Prince dance-off. New work by Paul Wong, Ann Marie Fleming, Howie Shia, Tadaaki Hozumi, Gloria Kim and more …
Feature Presentation | Thu Nov 11, 9:00 pm | Innis Town Hall BI, DON’T BE AFRAID! | Dir. Dang Di Phan | Vietnam/France/Germany 2010 | North American Premiere
Told through the innocent eyes of six-year-old Bi, this family drama takes a frank look at sexual desire and repression in modern-day Vietnam.
Youth Presentation | Fri Nov 12, 1:00 pm | NFB Cinema
DRAWING ON THE ART OF HAND & FOOT: A selection of animation and adventure films that showcases a sensational range of techniques and compelling storytelling.
Gallery Reception | Fri Nov 12, 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm | A Space Gallery RMB CITY | Dir.Cao Fei (aka China Tracy) | China 2007–2009
Cao Fei (a.k.a. China Tracy) is a guide, philosopher and tourist in Second Life virtual utopia RMB City.
Special Presentation | Fri Nov 12, 7:45 pm | The Royal
SUITE SUITE CHINATOWN This commission by Chinese Toronto-based directors on the theme of “Chinatown” includes new music and a live performance by the Mary Ward Catholic Secondary School stage band.
Centrepiece Presentation | Fri Nov 12, 10:00 pm | The Royal GOLDEN SLUMBER | Dir. Nakamura Yoshihiro | Japan 2010 | Toronto Premiere When an unassuming deliveryman finds himself framed for the assassination of the Japanese prime minister, he must count on the kindness of old friends and a wanted killer to evade the authorities, in this wild adventure based on Kotaro Isaka’s novel. Presented by Kim Orr Barristers P.C.
Spotlight Presentation | Sat Nov 13, 12:00 pm | NFB Cinema KOJI YAMAMURA — MASTERY OF THE FORM: One of the most successful auteur animation filmmakers in Japan today, Yamamura will be in Toronto for a master class and curated program by Michael Fukushima and Marco de Blois.
Feature Presentation | Sat Nov 13, 2:15 pm | Innis Town Hall OXHIDE II | Dir. Liu Jiayin | China 2009 | Toronto Premiere A father, mother, and daughter (the filmmaker) make dumplings together in this brilliant feature film in which simple actions become mesmerizing and meaningful.
Feature Presentation | Sat Nov 13, 5:00 pm | Innis Town Hall THE MOUNTAIN THIEF | Dir. Gerry Balasta | Philippines/USA 2009 | Canadian Premiere In the world’s largest dumpsite town, the lives of scavenger Julio and his young son Ingo take a turn for the worse when Julio is accused of murder. Cast from among real residents of the Payatas dumpsite in the Philippines.
Feature Presentation | Sat Nov 13, 7:15 pm | Innis Town Hall TOILET | Dir. Naoko Ogigami | Japan/Canada 2010 | North American Premiere Three siblings — a nerdy engineer, a brilliant pianist, and an air guitarist — struggle to relate to their estranged Japanese grandmother after the death of their mother. Shot in Toronto and featuring a Canadian cast.
Feature Presentation | Sat Nov 13, 10:00 pm | Innis Town Hall
EIGHTEEN | Dir. Jang Kun-Jae | South Korea 2009 | Toronto Premiere In Seoul, two young lovers are forbidden from seeing one another until they have completed their studies. Tae-Hoon, unable to accept this order, is driven to irrational and increasingly desperate action.
Special Event | Sat Nov 13, 10:00 pm | Rivoli
RICE DREAMS: A night of Asian pop-psychedelia. Visualizations by multimedia artist Jeff Garcia, with live music by Vowls.
Feature Presentation | Sun Nov 14, 2:00 pm | Innis Town Hall DEAR DOCTOR | Dir. Nishikawa Miwa | Japan 2009 | Toronto Premiere A young medical school graduate is assigned to a small mountain village and its beloved long-time doctor. When the doctor goes missing, the truth about his past begins to emerge.
Shorts Presentation | Sun Nov 14, 4:45 pm | Innis Town Hall ONE BIG HAPA FAMILY | Dir. Jeff Chiba Stearns | Canada 2010 | World Premiere Some 95% of Japanese Canadians marry interracially, the highest rate of any ethnicity in Canada. Jeff Chiba Stearns embarks on a journey to discover why. Preceded by Marker by Louise Noguchi. Closing Night Gala | Sun Nov 14, 8:00 pm | The Royal
Encore Presentation | Mon Nov 15, 7:00 pm | Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts AU REVOIR TAIPEI | Dir. Arvin Chen | Taiwan 2010 | Canadian Premiere A lovesick boy, a passive-aggressive bookstore clerk, a jaded mob boss and a flamboyant gangster come together in this brilliant adventure-romance caper. Presented by National Bank.
INFORMATION:
SCREENING AND INDUSTRY SERIES VENUES
Bloor Cinema, 506 Bloor St. W., at Bathurst
The Royal, 608 College St., at Clinton
Innis Town Hall, 2 Sussex Ave., at St. George
National Film Board (NFB) Cinema, 150 John St., at Richmond
Munk School of Global Affairs, 1 Devonshire Place, at Hoskin
Advance sales: start Oct. 13 for all shows
Online sales through www.reelasian.com — click on Buy Tickets
Walk-up sales through T.O. Tix at Yonge-Dundas Square — Tuesday to Saturday, 12:00 to 6:30 pm
Charge by phone: 1 888 222 6608. Group sales: 416 703 9333
DURING THE FESTIVAL
Future-day tickets: starts Nov. 10 at Innis Town Hall — from noon until 20 minutes into the last screening
Online sales: through www.reelasian.com (powered by Ticketweb) — until 11:55 pm the day before the show — click on Buy Tickets
Walk-up sales: at Innis Town Hall — until the day before the show — cash only
Charge by phone: 1 888 222 6608 — until 11:55 pm the day before the show
Same-day tickets: available one hour before the screening
Walk-up sales at each venue — cash only
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