Movie Review: My Sister's Keeper

Before I review the film I just have a quick note. Though I would have LOVED to see the Fanning sisters play opposite each other (and I honestly believe they would have done an amazing job), I was beyond giddy when I found out that Abagail Breslin was slated to play Anna (the younger sister). Alright then, carry on.





From the beginning I thought this movie was doomed to fail. Cameron Diaz as Sara? Let me get this straight. Cameron is going to play the mother two teenaged children? Just, no. When I heard they were going to make the sisters, Anna and Kate, younger for Cameron I was even more upset. They were playing with fire. They were taking an amazing story and changing the dynamic. BUT-I have to give Diaz props. I was blown away by her abilities. Still beautiful without make-up, she was somehow believable as a tired lawyer-turned-caretaker. Her emotional range was not only surprising but refreshing. I don't know about you but I think the sweet, girly, ditz has been played out by Diaz and I'm grateful that she can stick around doing dramas. She was incredible. Happily, she wasn't even the best part of the movie. Don't mistake me here, I think Abigail Breslin is a very talented young actress and is going to do great things but she is no where near the talent of Sofia Vassilieva. Vassilieva was amazing. I really don't know how else to put it. I was taken aback by her control on screen, her range of emotion, and her quiet beauty. To me, Vassilieva stole the show in an already well acted piece.

I'd like to give a shout out to Jason Patric (as the father), Evan Ellingson (as the brother), and Joan Cusack (as the judge). Well done, supporting cast, well done. I'd like to say shame on you Alac Baldwin for being intolerable and annoying.







Though the movie was amazing, it was not the book. The book far surpassed the movie in story line (yes they were different) and emotional depth. Whether you see the movie or the book first you will find that one will not ruin the other. They differ enough that you can enjoy them both without feeling like you already know what's going on.

To see or not to see?
See, but you can wait to rent it. Read the book first.

To read or not to read?
Read. Go on, you know you want to.

Movie Review: Dedication

I can't help it. I have this crazy love for Mandy Moore. I thought this movie was very well done. I didn't LOVE it love it. But I truly enjoyed it. Billy Crudup did a wonderful job and played the characters neurosis very well. I think it's difficult to play a character who is so completely mad and awfully mean but Crudup did an amazing job of bringing humanity to his character. We easily could have hated Henry Roth. And many times I found myself doing so. But something about the way Crudup played him made me forgive him (especially since Moore's Lucy Reilly could). Mandy Moore did an excellent job (I know, I'm biased) and I find that she really shines on screen. All in all I thought this was a strong directorial debut for Justin Theroux (another actor!). I think when a director is also an actor they can bring a strong asset to their films. And Theroux defiantly has done so.

To see or not to see.
To see.

Movie Review: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Am I the only person who was unimpressed with this film? It had an over the top budget, a slew of amazing actors, and yet there I sat, bored. I had hoped that the story would live up to the hype. Hoped but didn't think it could be pulled off by a bunch of big Hollywood people. The more money that goes into a film, the more hands that go into the cookie jar (case in point, the Newest Indiana Jones). When Brad Pitt looked like an old man (but was really a young man) he played an old man, not a young man in an old man's body (did that make any sense?). Cate Blanchett was beautiful, but she laked emotional presense onscreen. The acting was flat, aside from the amazing Taraji P. Henson.

The cinimatography was amazing. It was a visually beautiful film, but after all is said and done a flawless script and a few good actors are all a talented director really needs to pull off a moving film (Tom McCarthy anyone?).

To see or not to see?
Meh. Do what you want.

A Little Catch Up

It's been about five months since I've logged into my blogspot account. I've been trying to find my creative outlet in other areas, but bottom line, I really enjoy my little blogspot world. I watch entirely too many movies to give proper reviews to them all but my laptop recently died (blue screen of death) so any ability to enjoy a movie will have to be put on hold. I'm going to try to play catch up with the movie reviews as much as I can. So prepare to be overwhelmed with my cynical reviews.

You asked for it Toni, so here it goes.

Movie Review: The Visitor

So I saw this movie months ago and am just now getting to the review. Please forgive my absence. It's been a long few months. Onward:











As from my previous post I'm a new admirer of Tom McCarthy's. I think I made it pretty obvious that I respect and am awed by him as a director. This did not end with The Visitor. I was blown away by this film. McCarthy once again caught an honest and beautiful portrayal of humans in every day circumstances. And again, his casting was flawless. I think his experience as an actor has made him such a good director and screenplay writer. It's like having a professional wine taster pick out your glass of wine. You know that it's going to be thought out and considered and that you are going to drink one of the best glasses of wine you've ever had.



































I find it interesting that I've seen Richard Jenkins in a ton of movies over the past 20 years yet he's never really stuck out to me. But playing a man who is basically invisible and alone he shinned brighter than I've ever seen him. Not only did Jenkins completely surprise me with the quiet emotion he portrayed but Haaz Sleiman was pure gold on the screen. He was Tarek. Not to be overshadowed by two amazing male leads, the supporting roles played by Hiam Abbass (Tarek's mother) and Danai Gurira (Tarek's wife) only enhanced the cohesive bond of this film. I felt like I was invading someones private life by watching this movie. I have to say it: Tom McCarthy is my favorite director. I'm so sorry Baz Luhrmann.


To see or not to see?
Yes. Go. Enjoy it. Be moved.

Movie Review: The Station Agent

Receiving wide critical acclaim elsewhere, it seems the Oscars yet again disappointed by ignoring the best movie of 2003. Though a new admirer, my admiration for The Station Agent solidifies my love of the "indie" and Sundance film circuit.



I'm beyond stunned that this is Tom McCarthy's first screenplay, and even more amazed that he hasn't been discovered sooner! Though he is a noted actor his ability to write and direct go beyond anything I've seen him in. The ability he has to tell a story of the relationships between people makes me believe that the beauty of honest, organic, cinema is not lost to the big budget, poor acted, Hollywood proto types. I'm now a new and forever fan of McCarthy's (see: The Visitor).





















Peter Dinklage's portrayal of Finbar McBride was probably one of the best performances of the year. I felt every emotion that flickered on his face. I've never seen an actor in such control of their body before. His performance was only enhanced by the remarkable supporting cast. Patricia Clarkson, Bobby Cannavale, Michelle Williams... what a beautiful cast.






























I'm not sure how else I can express my dear admiration for this film.

To see?
A resounding yes.

Off-Broadway: Fuerzabruta

In trying to explain what I had just seen I told my friend that Fuerzabruta was an experience for all the senses. I wasn't sure what to expect but I'd heard great things about this show. Every year New York has a 20-for-20 where you come 20 minutes before the show and get tickets for only $20. This promo is a great way to see any off-Broadway show, especially since there is a standard $75 ticket for this show.

I loved everything about this show, and I honestly wished it had been longer. The one and only thing I'd say in regards to a change would be to have a maturity limit. Test out the audience with a few simple questions before allowing them in the room. And here's why: Repeatedly when the water sequence was going on throughout the room you could hear and see boys (who were most defiantly above the 18 age range) poking the performer's crotch. Seriously? Seriously. Other than their lack of common sense, this show was an experience everyone should have (who can handle themselves in a room with women).

After the performers took their bows they moved everyone to the dance floor and the music started banging, and then the water started. It was freezing out, but dancing like a child in the sprinklers on a hot summer day was well worth the cold ride home. I had never felt so free in my life.



Here are a few photos of some of the highlights. The pictures do no justice to the experience.



























Freddy Bosche and me. I kinda was amazed by him... seriously, couldn't take my eyes off of him.



















To see?
Yes, this is an amazing experience.

Broadway Review: Spring Awakening Part 2!

Oh Spring Awakening, we had quite a run. You sang to me, you brought me to tears. I loved you! I really did. But what on earth were you thinking with this new cast?

I sat on stage for my second viewing of Spring Awakening. I attended the Wednesday September 3rd evening showing (which may accounting for the sluggish performances). It was a little strange first because I was alone and second I had just cracked my tailbone 4 days before. I was excited to see the new cast, how they brought the characters to life. It was nice that Blake Daniel was still there (he is such a cutie). But the rest of the cast...oh dear....





Let's start with Hunter Parrish.

Why were you chosen for the role of Melchior? What possessed the team to pick you? No offense, I'm sure you are a great guy, but really? You looked like you were playing a part the whole time, where as Jonathan Groff became Melchior. I know it isn't quite fair because he IS Melchior, but this is Broadway baby, not some high school musical. Very poorly done, Hunter, very poorly done indeed.









Oh Gerard Canonico (Moritz), nice voice, not so good at the rest. I felt like I was watching a community production, NOT Broadway.










Alexandra Socha as Wendla was very nice. You definitely believe that she is young and naive where as Mia was more "learned." You did an amazing job. But, with that said, it just wasn't up to Broadway standards! I just don't understand!


All in all the new cast is a big let down. Strong roles thanks to the supporting cast but other then that not as good as even the second role changes.

Movie Review: Me and You and Everyone We Know

Eww. Gross. Disgusting. That's how I feel.

To see or not to see?
To see if you are into that kinda stuff...me however, I was very disappointed. Acting=good, script=disgusting.

Movie Review: The Last Kiss

I didn't LOVE the movie, but I liked it. The ending was wonderful. It was well acted, just a little silly at times. I like that the ending was completely different from the original French film. I think I enjoy movies more when I see the "making of" because I see where people's hearts went into the film. So sometimes if I think a movie is "ok" I'll really like it after the "making of". The acting was really good, the script read like it was real life. I can see a lot of people going through what they went through.

To see or not to see?
To see.

Movie Review: Superbad

Super. Bad.

To see or not to see?
Seriously?

Movie Review: Lars and the Real Girl

I am a huge fan of Ryan Gosling thanks in equal parts to Murder by Numbers and Half Nelson. Besides, anyone who can go from Young Hercules to an Oscar nomination in less than 10 years deserves attention. It doesn't hurt he's from Canada (which brought us Joshua Jackson...)

But on to Lars and the Real Girl. It had wide praise from film festivals alike, but could Gosling really bring it to this movie or would Half Nelson be his only big hit? It seems that the independent industry is a bulls eye for Gosling because I can't complain about anything in this movie (having Patricia Clarkson and Emily Mortimer in the cast was a major plus). I was so impressed that I gave this movie 5 out of 5 stars on my Netflix queue, which is few and far between.

The emotional depth of this movie is hard to explain if you haven't seen it. From Lars' apartment, to the location, to the facial expressions on each character truly made this a film to remember.

To see or not to see?
To see, right now. Get in your car (or on your queue) and rent this movie immediately, or you will die.

Movie Review: Little Manhattan

This is probably one of the best "first love" films I've seen. Set in (obviously) New York City it's the tale of first love between two very different 5th graders. Not since The Wonder Years' Kevin and Winny have I seen such true, innocent, love. A movie worth watching, you know if your into that kind of sappy romance.

To see or not to see?
To see.

Movie Review: Mamma Mia!

Oh Mamma Mia! how I love you!

I went and saw this movie with my momma mia and we laughed the whole time (much to the dismay of other movie go-ers, we are loud, obnoxious laughers). Meryl Streep was amazing! She played the part so well! She had such high energy I couldn't help but dance in my seat. And what a lovely cast of "fathers"! I was excited to see my Mr. Darcy (your Colin Firth), the hilariously singing-challenged Pierce Brosnan (nothing says fish out of water like former 007 tenderly singing) and yes, even that perverted old man played by Stellan Skarsgard. But for me, seeing Amanday Syefried took the cake. As a big fan of Veronica Mars (I have the facebook scores to prove it) I was glad to support any former VM character. All in all, to break the blockbuster melodrama Mamma Mia is the perfect choice.

To see or not to see?
To see!

Movie Review: WALL-E

I'm not the biggest fan of cartoon movies. I have nieces and nephews so I see a lot of them anyway. But Pixar has surprised me time and again with their ability to create movies that entertain children and interest adults. I wouldn't say that WALL-E was the best cartoon of the year, I'd say it contends for one of the best films of the year.

Three reasons why WALL-E rocks:

1. Hardly any dialogue and it is able to carry such a deep emotional message

2. WALL-E's expressions are so full of emotions he doesn't even need to talk for you to understand him.

3. A chilling portrayal of the world's future if we don't do something to stop it.

Go see this movie, kids in tow are not necessary.

To see or not to see?
To see!!

Life Changing Experience at Dylan's Candy Bar

I had one of the worst days yesterday. It started out alright and everything. Just a normal run of the mill kind of day. But all that changed when someone who works in my building came up, down cast. He needed to talk to Ray. From the look on his face, and remembering the conversation he had with his co-worker, Chris, on Thursday, I assumed he was telling Ray he was quitting. The news he gave instead caught me off guard. His co-worker, Chris, had been killed by a car on Saturday night. Chris wouldn't be coming to do his rounds that day.

My first reaction, unbelief, second, sorrow.

The rest of the afternoon I spent crying off an on. He had turned 22 just the week before. He was younger than me. He was kind. He was funny. And now he is gone. He isn't in the hospital getting his tonsils out; he isn't sick at home with the flew; there wasn't an accident in his family; he is dead.

Tuesdays I go into physical therapy so instead of going home right away I hang out in the city a few hours longer than normal. After therapy (a painful one might I add), I decided that I needed a sweet pick-me-up. I wandered around Dylan's Candy Bar picking out my favorite candy talking to my mom on the phone, confiding in her the most painful situations relating to Chris. On my way to the cash register my mom began to pray for me. I took out the amount shown on the register, but it was pre-tax, so after the cashier pressed the "enter" button, a different amount came up. I shifted the $10.70 and went back to my wallet to get the $11.17.

"Talking on the phone while at the register, are you serious?" I heard a voice say directly behind me.

I turned around immediately to see who it was. It was an older man and his wife, clearly he was peeved with me.

"Excuse me?" I asked him. His wife colored a little
"Nothing." She said.

I was not in the mood to just sit there and let him be so rude to me.

"My friend just died and that's why I'm on my phone at the register."

His wife look completely embarrassed.

"I'm so sorry, I'm so sorry." She said.

I got out of that store as soon as I could, tears streaming down my face. It was all so ironic walking out of the brightly colored store, pink bag full of candy, and me, sobbing.

But that situation taught me a lot. It was like I had this whole new perspective of people all around me. Whether it's someone pushing me on the subway, bumping my purse off my arm in the street, or cutting me in line at the train station; I don't know what that person has just experienced. I don't know if that person is lost in remorse, oblivious because of an exciting event, or just plain exhausted from being over worked.

I wouldn't have learned that if it weren't for Chris.

I wish I could say Chris would want it that way, but honestly I wasn't given the opportunity to get to know him well enough to say that. So I'll just say it's something I learned only thanks to Chris.

To get information on Chris' untimely death, please see the Staten Island Advance (www.SILive.com/obits) for Christopher Nowak.

Critical Review: Dating Younger Guys

Three Reasons Why I Will Consider Dating Younger Guys.

Those who know me know that I'm not only picky but that I have strict "rules" for dating. One of them is based on the maturity gap between guys and gals.

Thanks to my brother (19) and his girlfriend (25) I've changed that silly opinion of mine. Ok, well it really isn't because of them. It's because of them:


Shia LaBeouf, recently turned 22





What can I say? Sometimes good girls enjoy a little dirt. How cute is he in Disturbia? And how slightly disturbing is he in A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints?




Lorenzo Delloye, 19





A man after my own heart. The son of "radical" politician, adores his mother, and smokin' good looks...sign me up.






Ed Westwick, turned 21 last week





Not that Ed needs to be explained but here goes:
1. British accent, and so well spoken!
2. Plays in a hot band
3. Oh that hair






So from now on people, I vow not to judge a man by his birth year...

Gypsy

I went to see Gypsy with absolutely no idea who Pattie LuPone was (I'm so sorry!). I went with a friend who was visiting good old Broadway (the same one that "forced" me to go to Spring Awakening). I had head about Gypsy but had no idea what I was in for. After waiting to be impressed and daring the actors to woo me I found my self dumb struck at how amazing it was. The actors (um how had I not known who Patti LuPone was? I believe she was CREATED to be Rose), the music (though all is amazing, I was blown away by the duet with the sisters), the score (goosebumps worthy). All in all I was impressed and even cried a few times. Well done, well done.







I almost think walking into a show with absolutely no expectations, no critics words looming in your brain is the best way to approach Broadway (when you're as ignorant about it as I am)

Thanks for dragging me to yet another amazing show, Tiffany.

News Still Sucks, But People Suck More

Slightly ironically I am reading The Best American Nonrequired Reading of 2007. One day after the cyclone in Myanmar I was reading about Scott Carrier's experience there (Rock the Junta, pg 84). And what I found sad was how controlled the people are by their government. The government censors everything, and I mean everything the people see, saw, listen to, watch, eat, and basically think. What made this reality of restriction so apparent is the way the government will refuse to allow outside sources bring aid.




Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej said that Myanmar doesn't want any aid because, "they have their own team to cope with the situation." I understand a government being self sufficient, but to be completely against (or in their minds above) help just shows their limited views on society and a lack of common sense. Instead of putting their pride aside for the welfare of their people, they choose to "lock" their country from help of others.



And what makes this even worse is the threat of another cyclone in the next two days. God save the people.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121075281328191547.html?mod=yahoo_buzz

Critical Review: The News Is Bad

I'm not sure what else to do. In order to keep myself from becoming completely jaded by the evil things in this world I have to stop reading the news.

Case in point:
The biggest news story right now is about a seemingly "personable and well-liked" person locking his daughter in his basement (along with three of the seven children he had with her). If reading about the disgusting things he has done to everyone involved isn't enough, he may only get 20 years for ruining eight people directly (his daughter, their six children, and his wife) and numerous indirectly.











(news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080430/ap_on_re_eu/austria_captive_daughter_43)







First of all, how can something like this happen? Second, why does something so evil get so much attention?




Why can't we read about this on the front page:


Create Providence:

Professional artists from New York City embracing and empowering communities in extreme poverty, making space for God to move.
















(www.createprovidence.org/)



Until our society can change it's fascination with evil, I'm boycotting the news(ok I'm being a little dramatic). I honestly don't know how I can invest time in a media outlet that is sensationalizing all the evil without mentioning all the amazing things people are doing all around our great country.