Reel Vixens

NEW SECTION: Top Movies 10/1/10

2010-10-01T10:11:00.000-07:00

This time last year I started working with my dear friend, and mentor, film and TV critic Candace Havens as her personal assistant. After some time attending screenings for her, she encouraged me to pursue entertainment writing. By March of this year I had a syndicated soap opera column, and by July I was writing for 3 high-profile Dallas film sites. I was learning to balance my day job with Fresh Fiction with my love of movie and TV writing. But I was also facing a new challenge. Each passing week I would see more movies than I could possibly write long-form articles about. I wanted to keep seeing them, and I needed to write more about them than just 140 character Tweets.

So, I decided to start a new section on ReelVixens. I'm going to put up some short blurbs about the movies I see each week and tell you why I think you need to head to your local Cinemark or Angelika (my theaters of choice) that weekend.

Let's jump right in shall we?? Movies are listed in my own, completely partial order. And yes, where relevant, I will also rate the movies based on their beard representation.

1) THE SOCIAL NETWORK
Starring: Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield (le swoon!!), and Justin Timberlake...among others
Director: David Fincher
Writer: Aaron Sorkin

The movie takes place from fall of 2003 through 2005, and is told through flashbacks while Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg (Jesse Eisenberg) is in litigation for two different lawsuits--one between he and his best friend Eduardo (Andrew Garfield, Never Let Me Go) and the other with the Winklevoss twins (Armie Hammer, "Gossip Girl") who claim Zuckerberg stole the idea for his site. The writing is stellar, and I believe that if this movie doesn't get nominated for writing there is something wrong in this world. The movie is over two hours, but it moves so quickly. Eisenberg fully embodies the character, and it's hard to see where he ends and Zuckerberg begins. Garfield is the heart that the movie needs, since the majority of the characters in it are so self-absorbed that they can't see past themselves. He definitely steals the movie.

And then there is Justin Timberlake. He plays the notorious Napster founder Sean Parker who comes onto help Facebook venture past a site for college students and into the phenom it is today. Timberlake's evolution through Parker's at one moment calm and charming character to a dark and paranoid wannabe is incredible. He's been trying to make an acting name for himself for so many years, and this is really the role he needed.

2) LET ME IN
Starring: Chloe Moretz, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Richard Jenkins, and Elias Koteas
Director: Matt Reeves
Writer: Matt Reeves
Plot: A bullied young boy befriends a young female vampire who lives in secrecy with her guardian. Based on the book and 2008 Swedish film "Let the Right One In."

Many people are going to compare it to the original film, which I watched this weekend also and loved. I think both movies stand on their own though. The original is much more visually stunning, while "Let Me In" simplifies the story more. It is more mainstream, embraces gore and violent feeding scenes, while still allowing the story to unfold slowly for the audience. The original left a lot of details ambiguous, where the remake goes deeper and focuses not only on the two children, but also the characters around them. Abby (Chloe Moretz, Hitgirl from Kick-Ass) and Owen (Kodi Smit-McPhee) had great chemistry and truly embodied their characters. I think Chloe's experience in Kick-Ass really helped her play the 12-year old vampire. While the movie isn't perfect, it's a great American horror movie and a very engaging and exciting vampire movie.

3) HATCHET II
Starring: Danielle Harris, Tony Todd, Kane Hodder
Director: Adam Green
Writer: Adam Green

Plot: Marybeth (Danielle Harris) escapes the clutches of the deformed, swamp-dwelling iconic killer Victor Crowley. After learning the truth about her family's connection to the hatchet-wielding madman, Marybeth returns to the Louisiana swamps along with an army of hunters to recover the bodies of her family and exact the bloodiest revenge against the bayou butcher. Sequel to HATCHET (2006)

This was hands down one of the more violent torture porns I have seen in years. (That was until I saw the remake of I SPIT ON YOUR GRAVE--but that's for next week). I think I only watched half the movie, because the other half I listened to with my eyes closed. It is definitely a gross-out movie and takes what the original did to new extremes. I love Adam Green (FROZEN, HATCHET, SPIRAL) movies, and fans of his will really get a kick out of it. It's funny and gory all at the same time--typical Adam Green. There isn't much plot, just a basic revenge film. Marybeth wants revenge for Crowley killing her family, and Crowley wants revenge for his father's death. Some may argue that the kills didn't really go far enough, but I say that those people are fucked in the head.

I also counted two beards--so bonus points for that

Oh, and Lloyd Kaufman makes a funny cookie-eating cameo. So, fellow Troma fans should go for that alone.

THE TWILIGHT SAGA: ECLIPSE Review

2010-06-30T08:44:00.000-07:00

Our good friends over at Big Fan Boy originally published this review. Go check out their site, because they are awesome!

As I’m just now getting my hearing back and my heart has finally stopped racing, I guess it is as good of a time as any to nail down my thoughts on the newest TWILIGHT SAGA movie. It may be too ambitious for me to jump right in and declare my undying love for Jasper…oh wait, I mean ECLIPSE (Jasper is a character, not a movie! Get your hormones in check Reyes!). But I’ve never been one to do what is expected of me. I’m an adult and I love/hate Stephanie Meyers’ TWILIGHT SAGA, that’s just something you need to know about me.

The two previous films, TWILIGHT and NEW MOON, bring out a certain level of 16 year-old girl in me that is not always pretty. I live in a magical world full of unicorns and cupcakes when I watch these movies, simply due to their engaging nature. I imagine what it would be like to live in Forks, Washington straddling the werewolf and vampire boundaries, tied to both sides by my love for two men. And just before our final, epic kiss/battle/death match I come crashing back to reality. Let’s be honest, this is a make-believe world for teens, and I’m no longer a teen.

Walking into ECLIPSE I had the same sickening feeling in my stomach when NEW MOON finished—the feeling that this movie was actually TRYING to be good. It no longer embraced the camp, and instead favored the serious. It didn’t work for me in NEW MOON, but ECLIPSE is a different story entirely. This time around I went with it and was rewarded with a guilty pleasure that I’m not ashamed to admit to everyone I really liked.

The recently reunited Bella Swan and Edward Cullen (Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson) are relaxed and incredibly comfortable with each other, a level of comfort we hadn’t seen in the previous movies. Yes, wolfy Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner) is still trying to win Bella’s affection, but he (and any TWILIGHT fan) knows that Bella belongs with Edward. It doesn’t stop him from brooding around and breaking stuff when he gets mad after learning that Bella loves both him and Edward. But unlike the book versions of these characters, Jacob and Edward both allow Bella to choose who she wants. Brownie points for that.

Director David Slade (30 DAYS OF NIGHT, HARD CANDY) brings another positive element to the saga—the visualization of the fan-favorite vampire army battle. I won’t go into too much detail, since there is something to be said for an intense fight scene, but trust me when I say even guys who are tricked into seeing this movie will be pleased. The special effects and action in that final scene are fantastically choreographed and amazingly satisfying. It was a moment even the most arduously judgmental Twi-hard will admit matched the book’s fervor.

I’m not saying that I love these movies because they are great works of sweeping romance and Oscar-worthy writing and acting, that would be laughable and a lie. I love them because they are so campy, cheesy, and downright hilarious that it’s impossible not to like them. If you go in ready to enjoy the next 2 hours full of teen angst and acting only a termite would love, then you are already in the right place.

And just so you know I’ve NEVER made a TEAM JASPER shirt. Okay, I totally have.

Trailer Time: KANE

2010-06-16T07:59:00.000-07:00

The good people at Singletree Productions make some hilarious films. I had the chance to meet Mark Potts and Brand Rackley during their stay in Dallas for the 2010 Dallas International Film Festival where they were showing their hairy short FOLLICLE FROLIC. For all my fellow hair lovers, it's pretty sweet.

However, the highlight of my time with these two gentlemen was watching a cut of a fake trailer they made for a remake of CITIZEN KANE. So, now that they have released the clip to the masses, it is my duty to share it too!

Check it out! And then hop over to Youtube and watch it again!

Nerdy Cinema: Sex and The City 2

2010-05-26T20:07:00.000-07:00

I’m going to say something that 90% of women my age always say: “I grew up watching ‘Sex and the City.’” It’s not a shocking or even an informative statement, it’s as expected as saying “I drink coffee” or “yes, one day I would like to get married.” The show is a part of our consciousness as women, and therefore it’s a part of all of us. We have all sat together on the couch or at brunch, confessing which SATC girl we each identify as (I’m a Miranda and a Samantha (Cynthia Nixon and Kim Cattrall), FYI), and assuring our one friend that it’s okay to be a Charlotte (Kristin Davis). We all bought the books, the DVD sets, and even those stupid Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker) inspired name necklaces—and let me tell you, it’s incredibly hard to find anything with the name Gwen on it. We hated the bad boyfriends and loved the good. Don’t even get me started on my extreme discomfort with Post-It notes (“I’m sorry, I can’t”). Ultimately, SATC shaped who we are, acted as a role model and sexual guide, and constantly lived up to its own hype.

Now having said that, the movies are an entirely different monster. Yes, just as much as we loved the show we anticipated the theatrical release of the first SEX AND THE CITY movie. It was 4 years in the making, and it felt like not a moment had gone by. The movie was a hit, even if the women we loved were changed. They were older, established, and more dream-like than the show ever portrayed them as. They were no longer the women we were, they were women we wanted to be. And that separated them from us, made us voyeurs and coveters of a lifestyle we could never have, and it worked in the first movie.

Not so much in the sequel. SEX AND THE CITY 2 had everything I loved about the first movie: beautiful clothes, beautiful men, and those 4 ladies who are each a part of me. However it took all the horrible elements of the first film (overt materialism, ridiculous relationship issues, and disgusting stereotyping) and pumped the volume up to eleven. I was often insulted and uncomfortable throughout the film.

It opens strong, reintroducing all the characters to us and even offering a glimpse at how each woman made their ways into Carrie Bradshaw’s life. We head off to a whimsical gay wedding between Carrie and Charlotte’s “best gays” Stanford and Anthony (Willie Garson and Mario Cantone). The wedding was hands down one of the best parts of the movie. It’s just unfortunate that it happens 15 minutes in. While there, Carrie and Mr. Big (Chris Noth) are asked by another couple if they plan to have children. This question is an easy answer for them both – no, it’s just not their thing. However, what is Carrie’s thing is attacking Big by declaring their new marriage boring and lacking “sparkle” once they return home from the wedding weekend. She is overwhelmed by insecurities in her marriage and worries that they have to spend the years as just the two without any glamor or excitement. Quelle horror!! A marriage that is comfortable and loving, I don’t really see a problem.

So, as a distraction from their lives, Samantha presents each of our ladies with an all-expenses paid trip to the uber-conservative Abu Dhabi. Once again, an excellent chance for the movie to reflect on real issues (Western and Eastern cultures colliding), however this falls even flatter than Carrie’s made-up drama over her marriage. This time it’s the highly sexual Samantha baring her shoulders and legs in front of traditional Muslims and then dismissing their culture. For a woman who is supposed to be the non-judgey one, Samantha’s lack of respect was a complete shift in character— a shift that comes off uneducated and bigoted. Badly done, Michael Patrick King, badly done.

I won’t even get into the ridiculously priced clothing, because that would just be a low blow. But if King’s intention was to give recession-minded women a taste of glamor, it comes off more ill-minded than CONFESSIONS OF A SHOPAHOLIC.

It’s a little heartbreaking for me to admit, but if this is what we are supposed to expect for this franchise, then I think the movies have run their course. I know that ladies, just like me, will go see this movie multiple times in the theater and even buy the DVD in six months, but I truly think I’d rather snuggle up with the series box-set. Yes, SEX AND THE CITY 2, that was your Post-It note.

Why, Zach Galifianakis, Why?

2010-03-07T21:58:00.000-08:00

Saturday Night Live this weekend had the opportunity of a lifetime as beard-tastic host Zach Galifianakis took over hosting duties. He is exceptionally funny, as you undoubtedly already know if you are reading this, and his beard is something I want around 24/7.

Unfortunately he blatantly chose to ignore my (and my fellow beardophiles') decoration of love and shaved his beard for the last segment. I honestly think he is testing us.

Anyway, I posted some of the best sketches from last night...in case you haven't already seen them!

His opening monologue was great, even if we've already heard some of the jokes on his DVD.

Digital Short: Zach Drops By The Set

My QOTD: "But is there a rollaway bidet?"

The Beard Destruction

More SNL videos

Sweet Briar College English Professor, Eleanor Salotto, MISSING

2010-02-15T07:41:00.000-08:00

This is more of a personal and serious post. My favorite and most influential professor from college, Eleanor Salotto, has been missing since Thursday (2/12). She was last seen in Lynchburg, VA wearing a lavender baseball cap, lavender sweater with a red shirt underneath, black pants, and tennis shoes.

Eleanor Salotto was one of my Film Studies professors at Sweet Briar College who taught me to love film passionately, and I often ask myself: "what would Eleanor say here?" If you know anything about Eleanor Salotto's whereabouts, please contact the Lynchburg Emergency Communications Center at (434) 847-1602 or the Lynchburg Police Department at (434) 455-6041.

Eleanor Salotto's Missing Person's Report

NERDY CINEMA: Jared’s Top Ten of 2009

2010-01-28T21:27:00.000-08:00

This is a post from our sister site NerdyPerv. Since we love movies, we thought we'd share Jared's list. Enjoy! Leave comments if you want to argue....

A Quick Disclaimer: Sorry it’s taken me so long to get to this. I had to wait until the rest of 2009’s movies trickled down to Houston (I swear we’re the anus of the cinematic release system). So, here are my top ten movies of 2009…

10. THE IMAGINARIUM OF DR. PARNASSUS – Dr. Parnassus (Christopher Plummer) and Mr. Nick (Tom Waits) continue their infinite battle; this time the wager is the first to capture 5 souls, with Parnassus’ daughter (Lily Cole) being the prize and imagination the battleground. Along the way they find a stranger (Heath Ledger, in his final role), who decides to help them with their traveling sideshow, but is it for good or evil? Terry Gilliam has a way of taking a simple conflict (in this case, good vs. evil) and using fantastic imagery to tell the tale. The last 30 minutes are a barrage of symbolism, which I can’t get enough of as a fan of film. Favorite Scene: The first meeting between Parnassus and Mr. Nick.

9. (500) DAYS OF SUMMER – Tom (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) dates Summer (Zooey Deschanel) for 500 days and consequently breaks up with her (spoiler alert?). The movie is an account of their relationship and the steps Tom goes through to cope with the end of it. An original love story in 2 main ways: 1) It skips around different days just like one would in remembering a relationship, and 2) It’s from a guy’s perspective, breaking the traditions of romantic comedies. Summer’s not necessarily a bad person, but the movie is biased because Tom is biased. No one ever wants to admit it when they both fail at it, but we have to come to that understanding sometime, including Tom. Favorite Scene: The morning after Tom sleeps with Summer and bursts into a musical number (thus making me conclude that Hall & Oates in the soundtrack never fails…they are the bacon of movie soundtracks).

8. THE ESCAPIST – Released in 2008, this British gem finally made its way stateside last year. Frank (Brian Cox) is in his 60s and has been in prison for quite sometime, content to pay the penalty for his crimes. But when he gets word that his only daughter is dying, he decides to break out in order to see her one last time. The movie starts with the escape and cuts back to the plotting done by Frank and his crew. First-time director Rupert Wyatt has put himself on the map with a gritty and suspenseful caper-type drama that is built around a stellar performance by Brian Cox, and a twist that ends the film on a peaceful and poignant note. Favorite Scene: The ending.

7. MOON– With 3 weeks left to go on his rotation at a lunar mining station, Sam (Sam Rockwell) starts to experience unusual circumstances, leading him to realize that he’s not alone on this rock and that he’s part of a corporate underlying that’s been occurring for years. This movie is all about Rockwell’s performance and conveying the mind-trip his character endures should have garnered him more acclaim. A great debut from director Duncan Jones; uses models for exterior shots when Sam leaves the station, which gives the film a special nuance. Very original and very intriguing. Favorite Scene: Sam goes to fix a harvester and comes to a disturbing realization.

6. UP – In my opinion, Pixar’s best movie to date. It has adult-oriented themes to build the characters but doesn’t make it too much for kids to handle. Carl Fredricksen (voiced by Ed Asner) misses his wife terribly. When city planners want to tear down his house, he realizes that he intends to fulfill the promise of going to South America he made to her before her passing, and does so by an intricate carrier system: balloons. As he makes his way through the sky, he finds a boy scout on his porch named Russell (voiced by Jordan Nagai), who just wants to earn his “Helping the Elderly” badge. The movie’s design are vibrant and colorful, balancing out the dull emotions that Carl has since his wife’s death. Carl and Russell embark on a whirlwind adventure and realize they need each other to help heal the holes in their lives. Favorite Scene: Rescuing Kevin (I laugh every time Russell slides along the glass…it lasts just long enough to make it hilarious).

5. AWAY WE GO – Sam Mendes’ first shot at making a comedy is incredibly on the mark. Burt (John Krasinski ed's note: Gwen's love) and Verona (Maya Rudolph) are having a baby, but want to search for a better environment to raise it. They embark on a road trip, trekking to various cities that friends/relatives reside, trying to find the perfect place to settle. All too often in a movie, it’s the main couple who have their separate issues and it gets in the way of their relationship. Burt and Verona get along and have a fantastic relationship. They just want a better place to raise their kid. Mendes uses his trademark of soft tones to film this movie, but is very lighthearted and made me laugh a whole lot more than I expected. Favorite Scene: Burt and Verona visit Burt’s hippie relatives.

4. PRECIOUS: BASED ON THE NOVEL 'PUSH' BY SAPHIRE – Precious (Gabourey Sidibe) is a teenager growing up in ‘80s Harlem, is pregnant with her second child by her father, and is constantly abused by her mother (Mo’nique). She wants to make her life better, and doesn’t know how until she starts going to an alternative teaching school. Before I saw this movie, I thought it had the framework of a melodrama, and Precious’ issues would be knocked aside for the “happy ending”. I was completely taken aback by how raw it was and that it didn’t pull punches. I loved the use of editing involved when something disheartening would happen to Precious, cutting to a happy place that she envisioned her life should be. It’s dramatic to be sure, with several emotional punches to the gut, but Lee Daniels’ direction and the fine acting involved made this a well-done and artistic film. Favorite Scene: Precious is finally on her own.

3. INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS – A complete retelling of world history, I didn’t care. The movie is fantastically outlandish and a lot of fun. The movie is centered on two stories in Nazi-occupied France: one being the American-Jewish vengeance group called the Basterds (as dubbed by the Nazi party), the other focuses on a woman trying to escape from the brutal slaying of her family. The Basterds, led by Lt. Aldo Raine (Brad Pitt), are to do one thing: kill some Nazis. The Basterds devise a plan to kill the heads of the Nazi party, and Shoshanna (Melanie Laurent) devises a plan to kill everyone, especially the man who killed her family, Col. Hans Landa (Christoph Waltz). Tarantino’s film has a lot of style and verve, complete with his trademark tongue-in-cheek humor and homage to cinema. Favorite Scene: Shoshanna gets the last laugh.

2. UP IN THE AIR – Simplistic in its story, yet complex in its characters, I greatly enjoyed the subtlety of this movie. Ryan Bingham (George Clooney) lives to travel for his job. Anything permanent is a hindrance…he even wrote a book about it. However the emergence of two women in his life, a love interest in Alex (Vera Farmiga) and an apprentice in Natalie (Anna Kendrick), have made him question the counter productivity his life represents thus far. I loved the camerawork Jason Reitman used, which interpreted the characteristics involved within Bingham. The acting and screenplay were honest and real, and that’s all you could ask for in a movie. Favorite Scene: Natalie uses her system for the first time
on the road.

1. THE HURT LOCKER – An original, engaging thriller revolving around an Army bomb technical unit (Anthony Mackie and Brian Geraghty) and its volatile leader Sgt. Will James (Jeremy Renner). They know that they need to stick together as unknown situations arise, but James is more focused on the rush and the addiction disposing bombs has developed within him. Even though the film is set in Iraq, it doesn’t go into political agenda. It focuses on the film itself and the life or death situations that can impact a soldier. Kathryn Bigelow’s direction is tight and tense, relaying the suspense of whether or not an explosion will end their lives. Cutting from the situation to various Iraqi citizens also implants the possibility of enemies nearby, and adds to the suspense ten-fold. A brilliant film and one I’ll watch repeatedly. Favorite Scene: The sniper stand-off.

Review: THE BOOK OF ELI

2010-01-15T09:25:00.000-08:00

I’m starting to think that I should no longer give my opinion of a movie right after I see it to any of my peers. Even if I’m not so impressed with a movie, I always try to come up with something vaguely positive to say about a movie. I’ll say something like “oh, the ending was a big surprise” (translation: I don’t really remember the rest of the movie) or “it was visually stunning” (translation: the colors AND the guys were pretty). When I was walking out of THE BOOK OF ELI this week I made the mistake of saying to a peer how I really felt at that moment, to which he replied:

“oh really? I thought it was great! Such a smart movie.”

I was dumbfounded. Had he seen the same movie as me? We were talking about THE BOOK OF ELI right?

Attempting to re-navigate the conversation, I threw my support behind THE BOOK OF ELI’s most enjoyable detail—the ending. Now, before you read too much into that, the ending does not contain an M. Night Shyamalan type twist, it was just a nice resolution to the almost two-hour hero’s journey we had just taken.

THE BOOK OF ELI opens with Eli (Denzel Washington) killing and eating a cat. It was gross, even if you hate cats. The world has been destroyed by a nuclear holy war, and all that's left is desert and bad teeth. He's traveled over 30 years carrying a Bible to a safe place. He stops in a settled community run by Carnegie (Gary Oldman) to get a charge for his battery pack and then he wants to be on his way. Carnegie's goons have been sent out to find books and they keep coming back with handfuls of books but not the one Carnegie wants. After a freak attack in Carnegie's bar, Eli stays the night and is visited by barslave Solara (Mila Kunis). Solara discovers that Eli has a book, more specifically the book Carnegie wants, and they quickly escape the town to continue on Eli's trek. Carnegie follows after them, never mind the unbelievability that a GMC Suburban can drive across the desert on a tank of gas--I'm just saying.

As I mentioned, THE BOOK OF ELI had a pretty clever ending. I liked that in this world books are sacred and a literate man could bring together people—for evil and for good. The whole Eli-can-kill-everyone-in-his-way thing didn't work so well for me, because I have trouble believing a holy man could so easily kill that many people--even if he was guarding God's book from evil people. Ultimately the action scenes were really good, but there was a lot of down time between them. Washington and Kunis were compelling but it felt like Oldman just phoned in his performance--and I could barely understand him through his mumbling.

Thankfully, I did not have to write my review right after watching the movie, I’m sure it would have been a lot different and less considerate. The action scenes in THE BOOK OF ELI were really good, and ultimately the plot was intelligent for an action film. It was a little hit-you-over-the-head religious for my taste, but it's definitely a story that religious and secular audiences can understand and enjoy.

P.S. I still don’t believe that a Suburban can make it across the desert on one tank of gas!

Top Movies 2009

2010-01-10T19:41:00.000-08:00

Soooo, this list is 1) long overdue and 2) not much different from anyone else's list. I saw a ton of movies this past year, and I've loved the opportunities I've had to work as a film critic. I guess that means I should actually post more reviews on my personal site, rather than just for work. So, for 2010 I'm actually setting a goal to write daily and post a review of every movie I've seen.

I've loved learning from some amazing film critics (Candace Havens and Gordon and the Whale) this year, and it's a great writing about movies. So look forward to some more reviews in 2010.

On that note, let's do this!

Reel Vixen's TOP 2009 MOVIES:

1. AWAY WE GO
2. UP IN THE AIR
3. A SINGLE MAN
4. STAR TREK
5. WHIP IT
6. THE HANGOVER
7. IT MIGHT GET LOUD
8. FANTASTIC MR. FOX
9. INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS

Movies in Bed: SECRETARY

2009-12-30T10:25:00.001-08:00

My oldest and dearest friend Jen has been in town from Vermont the last week, which of course leads to debauchery and adventures. If you read my Twitter feed, you probably got an eyefull this week.

Well, the other benefit of having Jen in town, besides an adventurous partner in crime, is her new-found minimalistic spirit. She moved all of her stuff into her mom's house a few years ago before packing up to study comic book art in Vermont, and this year promised her mom that she would finally purge her garage of all her old things. This is great for me because she's found tons of DVDs that I then proceed to steal from her. Yesterday I "borrowed" SECRETARY, a movie I had long been wanting to revisit. It's strange how innocent I was in 2002, because with my viewing last night I caught onto so many things that I completely missed the first few times I saw it.

I kind of feel like a review of this movie is not really necessary. It's a fun, sexy, and I guess thought provoking indie darling--launching the careers of one of Hollywood's most prolific actresses Maggie Gyllenhaal. For me, watching SECRETARY again last night, felt more like opening a time capsule and revealing a moment in time that doesn't hold up as well as I had hoped. Don't get me wrong, I still enjoyed it and have no intentions on returning the movie to Jen before she leaves, but I didn't feel the same wide-eyed curiosity as I felt in 2002. Granted, I watched it with my brother so I blocked a good portion of the movie out due to straight up awkwardness.

Yes, SECRETARY straddles a line between art and BDSM 101, which probably explains why so many of my ex lovers love this movie (and also why I've been so keen to rewatch it recently), but it's also a glorified fairtale. There is nothing wrong with fairetales, since, after all, that is what we want in our movies. But I take a slight issue with the fact that Lee's character needs to be rescued from her self-harm and the only person who could do it with success (since her shrink was unable to do it in the institution) is a man who feigns interest in her. Yes, ultimately he falls in love with her, but only after she has proven to him that she deserves his attention. Thus ignoring the fact that the Sub in a relationship has just as much, if not more, power in this type of relationship.

All the women in Lee's life are flakey and emotionally demanding, where as the men are there to "fix her." Be it her father, her goofy, asexual boyfriend, or the dominant Mr. Grey (James Spader)--they all want to make her right. I do find it hilarious that Mr. Grey's ex-wife scares the living hell out of Mr. Grey and tries to shame Lee by calling her "submissive." The bitterness in her voice alludes to the possibility that she was once his play thing, but then her own sexual needs and personality changed, while Mr. Grey's did not. Will this happen to Lee following her marriage to Mr. Grey? Or are we supposed to believe that the only way she can maintain happiness and self-love is through a submissive relationship with Mr. Grey? Who knows, really, because she was rescued from an emotionless marriage by a man who barely deserves her love--even after the sweet scene where Mr. Grey bathes and soothes her once he has decided to let her in.

Still the spanking scene is still pretty effing hot.

Le Swoon: North & South rivals Pride and Prejudice

2009-12-21T13:13:00.001-08:00

Last night I stayed up until 3AM watching the most beautiful BBC miniseries. I could not have imagined a more engaging and wondrous movie if someone had given me all the glitter, rainbows, and active imagination in the world. And this movie was all about the down-trodden and British Industrial Revolution. What’s the movie you ask? NORTH & SOUTH. Yes, you’re probably thinking I’m confusing the 1980s classic American Civil War miniseries starring the late Patrick Swayze; but my friends I am not talking about that NORTH AND SOUTH(although now that I think about it, I should really re-watch that one.)

The NORTH & SOUTH, based on the novel by Elizabeth Gaskel, I rented last night told the story of middle class Southerner Margaret Hale (Daniela Denby-Ashe), who, after her clergyman father leaves his post and uproots their family to the Northern industrial town of Milton, falls in love with the dashing (and my new imaginary husband) mill owner John Thorton (Richard Armitage). The film is not entirely a love story, although that is the overarching goal. It is about the trials and tribulations of a town based solely on the cotton milling industry and how the decreasing demand for cotton fabric over linen in London will destroy Thorton’s fortune and ultimately the town who relies on his factory for jobs.

People die, people live, people get corrupt and people stay virtuous. Basically, if you’ve read/seen PRIDE AND PREJUDICE you’ll know this story too, but it’s the compelling acting of and delectable chemistry between Denby-Ashe and Armitage that kept me awake longer than I should have been. From the moment Thorton sees Margaret in his factory he is enchanted by her and her free-spiritedness. She demands he treats his workers with respect and he, in turn, teachers her how to appreaciate and love her new home. Just like in PRIDE AND PREJUDICE we learn of Thorton’s love for Margaret early on (and his insecurities regarding Margaret’s feelings towards him), and we spend the last two hours holding our breath waiting for Margaret to get over her prejudices and just flipping kiss the guy already! I won’t spoil their final scene together, but just as a warning I should have brought tissues to bed with me. Thinking about it still gets my heart all fluttery. I have officially added Richard Armitage to my TiVo and Netflix lists.

Have you seen NORTH & SOUTH? Do you have a BBC recommendation for me? There is no better way to spend the holidays than cuddled up with a romantic British miniseries and I think I started off perfectly!

MICHAEL JACKSON'S THIS IS IT

2009-10-28T08:25:00.000-07:00

Michael Jackson’s THIS IS IT was way less creepy than I expected. I was honestly anticipating watching two hours of a gaunt and frail man walking the Staple Center stage, unable to breathe and keep up with the music he made famous. Fortunately the sickness and fragility he experienced was not seen by the audience. He was lively, happy, and most surprisingly encouraging to all his dancers and musicians. He lived for the stage and the moments that he was on it, he lighted up and “sizzled.” This man was born to perform and the moments that I would pull myself out of the movie and remember he was no more were the most tragic.

These were private tapes that were never meant to be seen by anyone other than MJ (as those close to him called him) and I think that he would have liked it to be kept that way. The majority of the film splices together rehearsal performances, however there are interviews with his dancers, musicians, costumers, and other production staffers. MJ spent so much of his adult life keeping the public a safe distance from his personal life, so it was a treat to be able to step in and watch his mastery. He was charming, childlike, and completely and totally in love with music and his fans. Every decision he made to tweak his performances was always for his fans, and he made sure to get everyone working with him to feel the same passion and love. His love will be missed.

Review: THE INFORMANT!

2009-09-18T09:30:00.000-07:00

Matt Damon (THE BOURNE IDENTITY) is hands down one of the most talented actors working today. If you had asked me ten years ago if I would say that, I would laugh instead of answer. However, over the past decade he has really proven himself and truly become not only a household name, but also a star. Director Steven Soderbergh (OCEAN'S ELEVEN) chose wisely when casting Damon as Archer Daniels Midland senior executive Mark Whitacre in THE INFORMANT!, because only he could pull off playing a completely self-diluted man with such charm.

THE INFORMANT is the loosely based true story of Whitacre’s two year gig as an FBI informant reporting on price fixing in the corn-product business. He spins entire stories about corporate bribery and blackmail, corruption, and embezzlement coming out of ADM. The most impressive part is that he lied about the whole thing—and people believed him. The film builds slowly as we watch Damon’s bumbling fool realize he’s caught red-faced in a lie and then convince whomever he’s talking to that something even more unbelievable is the truth. It’s fun watching him start with a very tiny lie and see it grow into a multimillion dollar scheme. By the end of the film, I started to believe Whitacre never spoke the truth. He lived in an imaginary world of his own making.

THE INFORMANT! was not a Soderbergh masterpiece by any stretch of the word, however it was enjoyable to watch Damon scramble around as Whitacre. The choice to film the entire movie in high fluorescent lighting was smart, because it captured the bleakness and uniformity of corporate America. And Damon’s subtle mannerisms, such as pulling on his toupee when he was questioned by the FBI about ADM price-fixing, were hilarious and well-crafted. In a time when watching corrupt corporate executives get their comeuppance generates great catharsis, THE INFORMANT! does not fail.

Ah, It's Refreshing to See Vampires With Teeth!

2009-09-11T13:40:00.000-07:00

I’m a pretty big fan of vampires. I have been ever since I was 14 and read L.J. Smith’s The Vampire Diaries and fell madly in love with Stefan Salvatore. As I grew and reread the series, I switched teams to Damon (I like my men a little rougher and tougher). I love this series so much, so naturally I was over the moon when I found out a TV show was in the works. I was incredibly excited to see how The CW could take one of the most romantic young adult vampire book series and make it something we haven’t seen before (cough cough TWILIGHT).

THE VAMPIRE DIARIES is helmed by Kevin Williamson (SCREAM,DAWSON’S CREEK), who I think is the perfect choice for the show, and director Marcus Siega. A collaboration between these two almost guarantees fast-paced, wordy, teen angst, and that’s exactly what we get. I’m aware that the books and show will be incredibly different (I’m loving the Ellena on the show, not so much from the books), that’s what will make it fun to watch. This isn’t TRUE BLOODor even Twilight, but it’s a version of the vampire mythology that we haven’t seen since the sensual heydays of BUFFY: THE VAMPIRE SLAYER(season two to be exact). We will get a new dose every week and every week you will have to read my blatherings about the show. CONGRATS!

This week’s Pilot just introduced the characters. Ellena is the human love interest that vampire brothers Stefan and Damon Salvatore will fight over. They fight over other things too, but mostly it always comes back to Ellena. She and her brother lost their parents in a car accident the year before, but she is determined to put that horrific time in their lives behind her. Her two closest friends, Bonnie and Caroline, fight over who is Ellena’s best friend (like I said, it’s all about Ellena) and eventually we will learn more about Bonnie’s declaration that she is a psychic—in the books she is, but I’m not so sure that’s the way the show will go. Blah blah blah, you get the idea. Two sexy vampire brothers love one sexy broken teenage girl, fighting and hopefully heavy petting ensues.

Lorne Michaels is on My List

2009-09-08T09:51:00.000-07:00

Left side out (Michaela Watkins top, Casey Wilson bottom. Right side in (Jenny Slate top, Nasim Pedrad bottom).

So last week NBC announced that Saturday Night Live had hired two new female players. I was super exited about this because that meant there would be 6 women on the show! I cannot express enough how awesome this is. Well, this morning my dreams of woman domination of SNL were crushed when it turns out that yes, Michaels hired two new women, BUT this came at the price of firing Casey Wilson and Michaela Watkins! Watkins was one of my favorites of the last season with her Bitch Pleaze skit and hilarious portrayal of Hoda Kotb. And Wilson, a stand-out on the show has such subtle comedic timing that you didn't realize you were laughing until your pants were already wet--yes, I'm saying this from experience.

Of COURSE Michaels promotes the fantastic (and only regular woman player) Kristen Wiig to Weekend Update with Seth Meyers, because, well she deserves it. But he also kept the "pretty" Abby Elliott. I would give my opinion of her, but since she was never given a strong part last season and all she is to me is nice looking, I don't really have an opinion.

Ultimately this SUCKS! This is a HUGE step backwards for women in comedy and once again proves that men have the power when it comes to saying what is funny and what isn't. Yeah, I just went feminist all over that, but it's true. And, if Michaels was going to fire someone to hire someone, why couldn't he have hired a black woman? Why did he have to hire two more "pretty" white women to fill in? I guess that would be asking too much--we can have a black president and a black first lady, but we have to get a Spanish man in black face to impersonate him on a comedy show and no one can play his wife. Yep, sounds about right!

Source: Seacoast Online, SNL Women: 2 Fired? 2 Hired?

Bon Appetit!

2009-08-07T09:54:00.000-07:00

Not since CHOCOLAT have I watched a movie with as much food-porn as JULIE AND JULIA. I recommend now, before you even consider a) reading the rest of this or b) seeing the movie, that you grab a snack. I went to the film on a full stomach, and after watching scene after scene of delectable meals, sauces, and desserts, I was incredibly thankful for my early dinner.

Nora Ephron (You've Got Mail) is a master at telling two parallel stories that eventually intersect. The movie opens with both Julie Powell (Amy Adams) and Julia Child (Meryl Streep) moving into a new apartment in a new city. They both struggle with finding their place in their new homes. Julie is a “drone in a cubicle,” working customer service during the aftermath of September 11, 2001, while Julia settles into her role as new housewife to Paul Child (Stanley Tucci), an American Embassy worker in Paris France.

Ephron tells their stories simultaneously as both women try to discover and actualize their passions. Julie stares down the big 3-0 with no accomplishments to her name, while all her friends are upper-level executives. She was the one who was supposed to achieve everything, but she hasn’t even been able to finish her novel. Julia married Paul, and after World War II, they move to Paris. She bounces from hobby to hobby until finally realizing that she should go to culinary school and eventually become the cooking icon we know today. Julie’s journey to discovering herself takes her through a culinary exploration of Julia’s landmark Mastering the Art of French Cooking. She sets a goal to make every recipe in the book in one year and blog about the process. So, while Julia is going to culinary school, teaching, and writing her book from the late 1940s to the 1960s, Julie is making her recipes in modern times.

JULIE AND JULIA is truly enchanting. Streep’s performance as the Amazon Child is breathtaking and so spot on that I started to believe I was actually watching Child in real life. Child is a legend, and only a true legend would have been acceptable to portray her. Once again, Streep proves that no other actress around can touch her. Adams, also an amazingly talented actress, gave Julie Powell’s character a heart. The real Powell comes off a little brash and unsympathetic, however Adams made her tender, relatable, and someone you would want to support and cheer for. You can’t help but want both women to meet in the end, embrace, and remain friends until the end of Julia’s long life. These two actresses have such strong chemistry with each other, even though they never share a moment on screen together. In the end, their stories remain separate; their only intersection occurs as both women share their love of cooking with the masses.

FUNNY PEOPLE...Are Tragic

2009-07-31T09:36:00.000-07:00

Judd Apatow’s newest, and sincerest, comedy FUNNY PEOPLE steps away from his typical gross-out humor. He has matured and now wants to address something other than virginity and accidental pregnancies. Apatow is a family man, and in the most fundamental ways FUNNY PEOPLE reflects his fear of abandoning his family – be it because of fame, infidelity, or death. He uses jokes to mask the fear of the unknown.

The entire movie chronicles George Simmons’s (Adam Sandler) race with time and his redemption once he “gets a glimpse of something people normally only see once in their lives.” George fights two wars, one against a life-threatening cancer and one against his own loneliness brought on from years of seeking instant gratification from those around him. He isolates himself from anyone that could possibly break through his carefully protected persona, essentially hurting them before he can get hurt. He is the typical man afraid of love and loneliness, and therefore denies himself the possibility of forming attachments with anyone who could leave him.

George hires Ira Wright, a shy, struggling stand-up comedian, played tenderly and respectfully by Seth Rogen, as his assistant. As his cancer advances, Ira convinces George to reach out to his friends and family. Once George reconnects with his ex-girlfriend Laura (Leslie Mann), he begins to finally recognize how lonely his life has become. His decision to live a fuller and more inclusive life makes a conceivably unlikable character lovable. Apatow truly knows how to redeem even the most heartless of people.

FUNNY PEOPLE is a love note to comedy, and Apatow reaches deep into the comedian’s soul. Under all the funny are pain and a need for praise. George even tells Ira that he has spent his entire life trying to make his father laugh, and he hasn’t done it yet. All comedians use their words and actions to draw people in, while still remaining distant enough to never get hurt. George and Ira both fear death but together they can at least laugh in its face.

Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian

2009-05-21T20:56:00.000-07:00

I had few expectations when I walked into the newest Ben Stiller family comedy franchise, Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian. As long as I had a seat in the theater (I did) and the movie ran from start to finish on time (ehh, better luck next time) it would have sufficed. I am quick to admit watching the original Night at the Museum provides me an excellent nap, and whenever it's on HBO, I still find myself dozing off twenty minutes in. Although it is a great concept, and something that attracts the inner 6 year-old, the original just never excited me.

I was pleasantly surprised when I was quickly drawn into the wonderfully whimsical world that lives after hours in the New York Museum of Natural History. Larry Daley (Ben Stiller) quit his security guard job at the Museum two years prior to pursue his dream of inventing infomercial gadgets. He returns the night before the Museum closes for upgrades and renovations, and discovers this is also the last night for the magical museum figures to walk the halls. As they do not match the Museum's new "modern" initiative, the aging pieces are being sent, unknowingly, to the Smithsonian Institute's National Archives. As the night comes to an end and the pieces repack themselves into their crates, Larry bids a silent farewell and returns to his new life--never expecting the frantic call for help from Jedediah (Owen Wilson) a few days later. Larry rushes to Washington D.C. to help his friends fight off the evil Kahmunrah (Hank Azaria) who has finally been brought back to life by the magical stone his father entrusted his younger brother with--the source that awakens all the other museum pieces. With the help of many Smithsonian favorites and a spunky and show-stealing Amelia Earhart (Amy Adams), Larry must battle for the freedom of all the museum pieces, before Kahmunrah makes his return a permanent one!

Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian is truly a family affair, matching historical figures with a sense of lively adventure. Now every time I go to the Air and Space Museum, I will secretly hope the Wright Brother's plane takes flight overhead.

Amy Poehler in new "Office" Spinoff???

2008-07-17T08:38:00.001-07:00

It's reported Amy Poehler is in talks to star in the new "The Office" spin-off in the works for NBC television. The new show currently scheduled for Thursday nights, will premiere in the winter with a boost from NBC's Super Bowl coverage.

You'll be missed

2008-01-22T15:04:00.000-08:00

Heath Ledger is one of my favorite actors. His ability to fully absorb any character he takes on has always left me impressed. His passing marks the end of an eclectic career. He will be missed.

Source

And They Oscar May Go To...

2008-01-22T12:15:00.000-08:00

Ahh, my favorite time of the year! It's fantastically wintry outside, I can bundle up on the couch with a good book (The Fine Art of Small Talk to be exact), and watch all the movies that didn't dare show their faces in the summer! Apparently, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences agree with me and have FINALLY announced their nominations for the 80th Academy Awards. Now, we all must hope that the show does not face the same fate as last week's Golden Globes (press conference anyone?). But I like to think happy thoughts that the Strike will be over soon...

Anyway, I've included the list of nominees, and I've made it my mission to see all of the "biggies" before February 24th.

'No Country for Old Men' and 'There Will be Blood' led this year's Oscar nominations with eight each, while Michael Clayton (Widescreen Edition) made a surprisingly strong showing with noms in five of the top categories: Best Picture, Director, Actor, Supporting Actor, Supporting Actress and Original Screenplay, while former front-runner 'Atonement' made a strong showing with seven nods but missed the Best Director and lead acting categories. Away from Her won an expected nod for Julie Christie but got a pleasant surprise with an additional nod for director Sarah Polley's screenplay. Ratatouille got an expected nod for Best Animated Film but also scored an additional three nominations.

OSCAR Nominees

BEST MOTION PICTURE OF THE YEAR

Atonement

Juno

Michael Clayton (Widescreen Edition)

No Country for Old Men

There Will be Blood

BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN DIRECTING

Julian Schnabel, The Diving Bell and the Butterfly

Jason Reitman, 'Juno'

Tony Gilroy, 'Michael Clayton'

Joel and Ethan Coen, 'No Country for Old Men'

Paul Thomas Anderson, 'There Will Be Blood'

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE

George Clooney, 'Michael Clayton'

Daniel Day-Lewis, 'There Will Be Blood'

Johnny Depp, Sweeney Todd

Tommy Lee Jones, In the Valley of Elah

Viggo Mortensen, Eastern Promises (Widescreen Edition)

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE

Cate Blanchett, Elizabeth - The Golden Age (Widescreen Edition)

Julie Christie, Away from Her

Marion Cotillard, La Vie en Rose (Extended Version)

Laura Linney, The Savages

Ellen Page, 'Juno'

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE

Casey Affleck, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford

Javier Bardem, 'No Country for Old Men'

Philip Seymour Hoffman, Charlie Wilson's War

Hal Holbrook, Into the Wild (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)

Tom Wilkinson, 'Michael Clayton'

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE

Cate Blanchett, I'm Not There

Ruby Dee, American Gangster (Three-Disc Deluxe Edition)

Saorise Ryan, 'Atonement'

Amy Ryan, Gone Baby Gone

Tilda Swinton, 'Michael Clayton'

BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY

Christopher Hampton, 'Atonement'

Sarah Polley, 'Away From Her'

Ronald Harwood, 'The Diving Bell and the Butterfly'

Joel and Ethan Coen, 'No Country for Old Men'

Paul Thomas Anderson, 'There Will be Blood'

BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY

Diablo Cody, 'Juno'

Nancy Oliver, Lars and the Real Girl

Tony Gilroy, 'Michael Clayton'

Brad , Ratatouille

Tamara Jenkins, 'The Savages'

BEST ANIMATED FEATURE FILM

Persepolis

'Ratatouille'

Surf's Up (Widescreen Special Edition)

BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM

Beaufort (Israel)

The Counterfeiters (Austria)

Katyn (Poland)

Mongol (Kazahkstan)

12 (Russia)

BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN ART DIRECTION

'American Gangster'

'Atonement'

The Golden Compass (His Dark Materials Book 1)

'Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street'

'There Will Be Blood'

BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN CINEMATOGRAPHY

'The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford'

'Atonement'

'The Diving Bell and the Butterfly'

'No Country for Old Men'

'There Will Be Blood'

BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN COSTUME DESIGN

Across the Universe (Two-Disc Special Edition)

'Atonement'

'Elizabeth: The Golden Age'

'La Vie en Rose'

'Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street'

BEST DOCUMENTARY FEATURE

No End in Sight

America at a Crossroads: Operation Homecoming - Writing the Wartime Experience

Sicko (Special Edition)

Taxi to the Dark Side

War Dance

BEST DOCUMENTARY SHORT SUBJECT

'Freeheld'

'La Corona (The Crown'

'Salim Baba'

'Sari's Mother'

BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN FILM EDITING

The Bourne Ultimatum (Widescreen Edition)

'The Diving Bell and the Butterfly'

'Into the Wild'

'No Country for Old Men'

'There Will be Blood'

BEST ORIGINAL SCORE

Dario Marianelli, Atonement

Alberto Iglesias, The Kite Runner

James Newton Howard, Michael Clayton

Michael Giacchino, Ratatouille

Marco Beltrami, 3:10 To Yuma - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

BEST ORIGINAL SONG

From Once: "Falling Slowly," Music and Lyric by Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova

From Enchanted: "Happy Working Song," Music by Alan Menken; Lyric by Stephen Schwartz

From August Rush: Music From The Motion Picture: "Raise It Up," nominees to be determined

From 'Enchanted': "So Close," Music by Alan Menken; Lyric by Stephen Schwartz

From 'Enchanted': "That's How You Know," Music by Alan Menken; Lyric by Stephen Schwartz

BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN SOUND EDITING

'The Bourne Ultimatum'

'No Country for Old Men'

'Ratatouille'

'There Will be Blood'

Transformers (Two-Disc Special Edition)

BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN SOUND MIXING

'The Bourne Ultimatum'

'No Country for Old Men'

'Ratatouille'

3:10 to Yuma (Widescreen Edition)

BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN MAKEUP

'La Vie en Rose'

Norbit (Widescreen Edition)

Pirates of the Caribbean - At World's End (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)

BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN VISUAL EFFECTS

'The Golden Compass'

'Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End'

'Transformers'

BEST ANIMATED SHORT FILM

'I Met the Walrus'

'Madame Tutli-Putli'

'Even Pigeons Go to Heaven'

'My Love'

'Peter and the Wolf'

BEST LIVE ACTION SHORT FILM

'At Night'

'Il Supplemente (The Substitute)'

'Le Mozart des Pickpockets (The Mozart of Pickpockets)'

'Tanghi Arghenti'

'The Tonto Woman'

Fanboys and girls unite for Cloverfield...but should they?

2008-01-17T17:30:00.000-08:00

My awesome brother Daniel wrote this review of Cloverfield, J.J. Abrams' audition piece for next year's new Star Trek movie. So, check it out. I've also included the trailer for Cloverfield. I would have included the trailer for Star Trek, but I couldn't find it. If you know where it is, hook a sister up!

Leaving the movie theater after seeing Cloverfield a voice near me exclaimed, “That was the best movie of the year!” I agree with him. However, this was my first movie of the year. Filmed using a hand video camera, Cloverfield is a first person account of a surprise farewell party which is violently interrupted. First by a mysterious shipping accident near the Statue of Liberty, then by an explosion and Liberty’s head crashing in front of the partygoers. Events unfold before the world’s toughest and most versatile camera operated by Hud (T.J. Miller) who’s best friends with brothers Rob and Jason Hawkins (Michael Stahl-David and Mike Vogel). With the group is Lily Ford (Jessica Lucas) as Jason’s fiancé and Beth McIntryre (Odette Yustman) who reluctantly comes to Rob’s surprise party hoping, and fearing, the visit.

I expected more when the movie began with a government/DoD subtitling describing how the following events where recorded from the Cloverfield incident in the Central Park sector in New York City. Hopefully, this meant a third person perspective would pull everything together. It did not and I was left struggling to understand the dialogue and make out the visuals from Hud’s very amateurish cinematography.

The characters are introduced through video postcards to Rob as a final present before his promotion sends him to Japan. During this we’re introduced to Marlena Diamond (Lizzy Caplan) who dated Rob some time ago, but the relationship crumbled when Rob received his promotion. For tension, Hud records the confrontation, Marlena’s angry departure, and Jason and Hud explaining to Rob that when in love you have to make a relationship work and not worry about physical distances or timing. Then the earthquakes and fires begin.

Because Cloverfield is first person POV, it struggles to show character development, and ultimately what is at stake for each of them. To do otherwise would make the perspective meaningless or require silly story gimmicks, ala the 2005 remake of War of the Worlds. At its core, Cloverfield is about survival. Everywhere they go they realize their situation is more perilous and outside anyone’s control. And, as a final attempt at shock value most of the recognized New York City structures are eventually decimated, coincidentally when the gang nearby!

Cloverfield is directed by Matt Reeves and written by Drew Goddard. Reeves wrote some movies in the 1990s but mostly worked as a producer and director of TV shows such as Felicity. Goddard joined up with J.J. Abrams after writing for TV’s Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel . He wrote and produced several episodes of Alias and Lost. Cloverfield airs throughout the US on January 18^th.

Movie Review- STOLEN LIFE

2007-11-05T12:43:00.001-08:00

STOLEN LIFE tells the story of a PI named Pi, played by video game actor Chris Jones, sent to investigate a robot work force that had gone missing on an asteroid for three years. He arrives on the asteroid to find that they had not disappeared, but had been shut down. Pi spends the film investigating the crew to find out why they were shut down and who was behind the decision. Throughout the film Pi learns that his guide, Kieru (played charmingly by Claudia Black) is hiding information about the asteroid mission from him. Pi discovers that since the crew is all sentient robots, they work behind his back to keep him from knowing the true objective of the asteroid mission. STOLEN LIFE’s main objective is to explain that once a creature, be it human or robot, gains sentient feelings, he can choose the route of his life. The creature can feel, think, and ultimately express opinions. The longer they are sentient, the more time they can keep others from telling them what to do.

Although the animation is not Pixar quality, and the writing style needs tightening, STOLEN LIFE’s story did follow the established noir rules. Pi’s hardboiled detective investigated what he could of the crime, and Kieru’s femme fatale distracted and misled him as much as she could. Claudia Black’s personification of Kieru was the best part of the film. The animation did not allow for facial expression, but Claudia brought heart and soul to her character. She was able to express the worry for her crew and her fear they would be found out without the help of facial tweaks. Black gave you hope that the crew was not really evil, but honestly trying to help space travelers by offering them a port to rest and refuel.

Interested in buying STOLEN LIFE? Go to the Nanoflix website and order your very own copy!

Dirty Sexy Money...and Todd FREAKING Manning!

2007-09-29T13:39:00.000-07:00

So far my new favorite show of the season is Dirty Sexy Money. I was not expecting to like this show, because well, I didn't think Peter Krauss could do more than look pretty. Clearly, I was mistaken. Within the first 15 minutes of the pilot I had already stopped my TIVO to set a season pass.

The show follows New York City's richest family, the Darlings, and their newest family lawyer (and son of their previous lawyer) as they deal with being too rich for their own good. Nick George tried to turn his back on the Darling family after his father's recent death, but it was virtually impossible when Tripp Darling (Donald Sutherland) dangled a $10 million endowment for a foundation in his father's name in his face. Nick prides himself on being moral and thoughtful, however he falls prey to the Darlings just as easily as his father did 40 years before. The pilot deals mainly with his decision to stay and his conclusion that someone killed his father.

I LOVED the show, but my favorite part was 3/4 of the way into the episode. Nick has fled the Darling parent's anniversary party after a catastrophic night, only to be chased down by Attorney General Patrick Darling in his limo on the way to meet his "tranny hooker" lover. Nick refuses to tell Patrick's paramour to buzz off, even after Patrick plies Nick with a sob story that he is unable to tell the woman himself. Suffice it to say, Patrick is left to share the message with Catalina himself. A little campy, but it fits perfectly with ABC's Ugly Betty. This show is just too much!!

PB&J...ohmyfreakinggod

2007-09-28T17:20:00.000-07:00

I just finished watching the season premiere of The Office, and it was everything I hoped it would be. The writers were definitely on their game, stretching their imaginations in ways to simultaneously make me laugh, make me awe, and then make me vomit my Alfredo sauce. Thanks for that one Greg Daniels!!

Fun Run opens with a tour of Michael Scott's condo and the big reveal that Jan is still shacking up with her Scranton honey. It was fantastic to see Jan Levinson sprawled out across Michael's bed, completely unaware of the camera's intrusion into the house. Also fantastic, Michael hitting Meredith with his car and then coming into the office late only to tell everyone that the doctors did everything they could to save her...and that she is going to be fine. OHMYGOD, Stanley's response "what's wrong with you?" was the greatest thing I have EVER heard on The Office. Yes, better than Jim confessing his love to Pam in Casino Night. Now, I could spend the entire day talking about JAM, or PB&J, but I'm not going to. Okay, just this--how great was it to see them outed by the frustrated camera crew? So great...

Let's move on to my other favorite couple (however unstable) Dwight and Angela. They have some of the funniest chemistry on TV, but they are still so sweet and believable. I especially loved Dwight's quick acceptance to feed Angela's cat, even though two seconds later you could sense that Sprinkles wasn't going to last long after Dwight's visit. I loved so much in this episode, which I guess you could say is because it has been an excruciatingly long summer of waiting. I do have to agree, however, with some critics who are saying that the episode felt a little long in spots. I have not been a fan of the three one hour long "episodes," because often they sound impressive, but then they seem to drag on. Yes, Fun Run was really just two episodes in one, but I much preferred the second part with the actual RUN, than the mowing down of Meredith. We have three more Thursdays with hour-longs, and they will be phenomenal just because it is The Office. Fun Run provided me with an hour of excellent entertainment, and left my appetite watered for next week's episode Dunder Miflin Infinity.

If Time is Bendable, Can You Get It Back?

2006-11-25T19:54:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I know, a little late, but it’s the thought right? Thanksgiving was pretty crazy at my house; we had a huge dinner and an unexpected houseguest. Mom, Daniel, and I made everything in advance for the big day, so day of went fairly smoothly. We’ve been eating leftovers for the last few days, and I think if I never see a turkey again, it will be too soon.

Right now, Mom and I are on the road for our big Tour De Reyes, Part Deux expedition. We are driving from Plano to Ephrata, Pennsylvania—with a few stops along the way. I’m super excited because I get to see some college buddies and family. It’s great to finally see some SBC peeps, one of whom I haven’t seen since last December. I’m also taking the opportunity to check out where James works to consider applying for a position there. I’ve been battling with the decision to move away from Dallas, so checking out some options are key. Other than that, we are just driving, working, and having a great time away from the houseguest.

Other than celebrating Turkey day, I have watched a few movies. I saw Casino Royale, Happy Feet, The Fountain, and Stranger Than Fiction. Although not all disappointing, they didn’t capture my fancy. Casino Royale featured a great performance by Daniel Craig, but I found the plot boring and unimaginative. AND, there were no toys!! How can you have a James Bond movie with no toys? Honestly!

While Casino Royale lacked a strong plot, Happy Feet forced environmental issues down my throat. Now, I am always one for political themes, but using cuddly penguins as a ploy—that’s just mean. I seriously went into the movie expecting a 90 minute penguin dance sequence, but I was quickly proven wrong. I did enjoy the movie, but because it was a cartoon the filmmakers had to put in a happy ending. No easy cure for global warming and animal habitat destruction exists. Telling kids that all international disputes can end because a dancing penguin warns the people at Sea World that Antarctica is melting is lofty and misleading. Had it just been a movie about a penguin on a great journey, and all the people he meets along the way, it may have left me happier.

The Fountain? Now that was a waste of time. They only nice thing about the movie was Hugh Jackman. I love Darren Aronofsky, as well as Hugh Jackman and Rachel Weisz, but watching this movie was better than Ambein—works automatically and never addicting. Mean, I know, but it really was awful. the film was too easy to figure out, and if Aronofsky had bashed me over the head with religious and literary symbolism one more time I would have puked. Yes, Darren, I do need to have symbolism spelled out for me sometimes, but when your character is obviously Frankenstein trying to stop death, we all know what happens.

Finally, Stranger Than Fiction. I was really excited to see this movie. It wasn’t Little Miss Sunshine, but it made me laugh. Daniel didn’t like it much, since he thought it was going to be more Old School funny, but he was sweet to sit through it. Maggie Gyllenhaal and Will Farrell did wonderful jobs, but I loved seeing Emma Thompson in an unlikable role. It’s refreshing to see a movie that blurs reality and fiction together so well, and leaves you comfortable when the two worlds collide.

Song of the Day: Apple Red Happiness. A great little ditty I learned when I was sent away to Jesus camp long ago. I hated those summers…

Movie of the Day: White Christmas. Yes, the movie came first and then the song.

Why Gwen likes to watch comedies

2006-11-11T21:13:00.000-08:00

So, my dad's birthday was this weekend. He always complains that we don't watch movies in the theatres anymore, so we decided to take him to a movie of his choice tonight. He chose Flags of Our Fathers. Now, I really really tried hard to convince him to see Stranger Than Fiction, but I lost. The movie was crazy intense, and way more violent than I ever needed to see. It made me very depressed, and I got very close to walking out during the Iwo Jima scenes. I really enjoyed when the three heroes were back in America trying to sell war bonds, but the flashbacks just hurt so much to watch. I'm glad I saw it, but I just don't think I can handle war movies right now. A nice comedy would have felt so much better.

To make up for it, I'm now going to watch this week's ep. of Grey's Anatomy and just try to not think about blown up body parts and reluctant heroes.

I'm also currently looking for movie suggestions. If you have any, please send it my way and I'll be happy to give it a try and write a review about it.

Movie of the Day: Flags of Our Fathers, even though it was one of the most violent films I have seen since Irreversible, it was beautifully shot, exceptionally well acted, and completely moving. The film brought me to tears multiple times, and left me understanding how difficult it must be to be considered a hero by so many, when you don't believe it yourself. These men died protecting their friends, not necessarily trying to make a bigger impact.

Song of the Day: "Scene is Dead" by We Are Scientists

Attempts: Day One

2006-11-10T12:05:00.000-08:00

For the past two weeks I have been obsessed with House, M.D. I have watched the past two seasons back to back, and I just want more. I wonder what my next obsession will be, since I'm almost done with the second season. Any suggestions?

Movie of the Week: Stranger Than Fiction

Song of the Week: "In The Sun" by Joseph Arthur

I heart Jon Stewart

2006-10-18T08:19:00.000-07:00

I have officially decided that Jon Stewart is not a good MC. Don't get me wrong, I love the man--have ever since his late night show on MTV in the early 90s. But, he just cannot handle the pressure of Emceeing an entire show. Last night, instead of staying up late to watch Veronica Mars and Gilmore Girls, I decided it would be a good idea to watch my TiVoed Comedy Central's: Night of Too Many Stars. Unfortunately for Jon and Co. I passed out 10 minutes in. I'm not sure if it's Jon's fault, I think I'm personally going to blame Adam Sandler and his lameness (and my before bed cocktail). I have yet to finish it, but I am guessing it will end up being my weeklong nightime entertainment.

Back to Jon, maybe his problem is formating. For instance, he does very well when he has an audience full of people wanting to hear him make "fake" news. I use "fake," because like most people, I actually believe Jon and Stephen Colbert more readily than I would ever believe other news people. It's his self-deprecating style, I suppose. I have to watch the news every day, and some days you just want someone to cackle like Bush or fumble over Mahmoud Ahmadinejad name, instead of hearing about how we should all cower in fear or how the Republicans are working with the Oil Industry to lower the gas prices right before the election. (and don't get me started on Pediphila amongst certain groups... I'm looking at you Foley!) And, apparentally many people feel the same way.

So, Mr. Stewart, stick to what you are good at--satire. Stay away from over-exposure. I, like many others, want you to be around for a long time, but remember you are only one man. Bush has impersonators, maybe it's time for you to get one too. Hell, isn't Colbert free, he only has one show, he doesn't have as many Emmys, and he looks almost as good in a tux as you...

Okay, I totally did not mean for that to turn into a rant and open letter to Jon Stewart. Oh well.

So, speaking of politcal satire, I was one of a very small group of people who saw Man of the Year this weekend. I really enjoyed it, however Daniel and I decided that it's not a movie to see twice--at least not right away. Barry Levinson makes great movies, and this was no different. Robin Williams gave a great subtle and endearing performance, and Christopher Walken wasn't evil or crazy. But the highlight of the film was Lewis Black. Sometimes when you see comedians do stand-up you forget that they have acting potential too. Black was outstanding as the cynical producer-cum-political advisor. He had the best lines in the entire movie, and he wasn't even playing the political commentator.

Man of the Year gets 4 out of 6 Vixens for not only being funny but for also being smart. Extra points to Lewis Black for saying "that guy smiles too much, he's making me uncomfortable."

Song of the Day: "Make a Girl Cry" by Band Marino. I was supposed to see them in two months, however they have recently changed their performance date, so alas, no BM for Gwen. Ehh...enjoy them anyway (http://www.myspace.com/bandmarino)

Turning over a new leaf

2006-06-27T10:22:00.000-07:00

Ah, yes. I am alive. I have been away for, oh, a year it seems. I graduated from Sweet Briar, and did not get into Law School. But I'm actually very relieved by the last part. I'm currently looking for a job, but am enjoying a summer break.

I've been watching tons of movies since I've been home. Right now, I'm watching the classic Gilda staring Rita Hayworth and Glenn Ford. I found this to be a perfect time to catch up on the films that I studied at school.

Well, I will report more tomorrow. I just wanted to post something today. I will leave you with favorites for the day...

Movie of the Day: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Johnny Depp and purple velvet...I don't think I need to say more.

Song of the Day: Miami by Taking Back Sunday. Their new album Louder Now is the best release by this gaggle (oh yeah, I said gaggle) of Long Island post-punk rockers. Check it out.

Well, I am alive

2005-10-15T02:10:00.000-07:00

So, what has it been, three months? Not much has happened, really. I took my LSATs (I get my grades back at the end of the month, until then, I'm not talking about them). I also started my last year at SBC. Well, that is if I get my ass in gear and write my damn papers. I have a crazy case of lazy ass disease. Hopefully it is not contagious.

I also got to see Better Than Ezra! I finally met them, well 2/3s of them. Travis and Tom. So nice, even though I only said like two words. I would show a picture, however my dear friend Trigger could not figure out how to push the button (channeling Dane Cook right now! If you have no idea what I am talking about, I will make you a copy of his new album). But I did get to "try" to take a picture with them twice, where I will tell myself that they touched my butt. However, this may not be the complete truth...but it's my world!

I also started my new radio show with Tess. We are the best, everyone thinks so--well, really just us. We play all the new stuff, and we have an almost consistant fan base. We are just going up from here man! So if you are in the Lynchburg area, tune in on Mondays to 89.9 FM

I'm going to try to update more, but I am too lazy and too opposed to blogs sometimes. Although, I will leave you with my favorite part--Favorites of the weeks...and this week has a least favorite of the week too. Politics are a bitch.

Movie of the week: Old School. I have been wanting to watch this forever, and I can't find my copy. If you are a attractive young gentleman (sexy-nerdy type a plus) with a copy, email me. We'll set up a time.

Song of the week: Dance, Dance by Fall out Boy. Cliche, but I am addicted to the song. Okay, I also love Hey Now Now by the Cloudroom. Two this week. Bonus!

Hate of the week: SGA...oh, did I just say that? Yeah I did bitches! However, I should thank them at the same time, since the budget(or lack of allocation) cleared my schedule for next semester. So, thanks SGA. Y'all are the BEST!

Gotta testify, come up in this spot, looking extra fly. For the day I die, I'm touch the sky..." My man Kanye West

Gwen

What has the world come to?

2005-07-02T13:21:00.000-07:00

So, I'm at home today, baking some cookies for a cook-out tonight. (Yes, I live in the suburbs and I'm going to a fish-fry dammit!) And, while I'm waiting for the next batch to finish, I decide to Google one of my stay-true searches: Gideon Yago. Now, anyone who knows me has experienced the unfortunate situation where I go on and on about this guy. And, it was only a matter of time before he made his way onto this here blog. Well, turns out that he will have his very own reality-based TV show on MTV in the next season. I could lie and say this is awful, my man being put weekly into America's households, but I'm actually pretty excited.

Supposedly it is about him taking a camera around and interviewing people in crisis. Now, since True Life happens to be one of my favorite MTV shows, this new show seems to be in its shadow. Oh well, we will just have to wait until the fall to find out!

In other news, work sucks. Not really new information, but it has kept me from staying up and watching movies. I did have to opportunity to see Bewitched when I was down in Austin visiting Jen. Alas, it has as bad as one would expect. I'm trying to convince Daniel to see March of the Penguins with me sometime this weekend, but since it is his birthday on the 3rd, we may not be able to.

Well, cookies are done, and now I have to take a shower. But, if you guys get bored, google me and see what happens!

G

Movie of the day: Young Adam, although I haven't finished it yet, it is very good so far!

Song of the day: Everything I Once Had by the Honorary Title

New Orleans Rockstar...

2005-06-05T06:42:00.000-07:00

Ahhh, Deadwood. The quotes from that show keep me entertained. Anyway, I was suppossed to post two days ago after my concert, but life got in the way. Friday night Daniel and I went to see one of our favorite bands Better Than Ezra. Now, either you will know this band or not, but I love them--5 times I've seen them now. Jen and I saw them back in the day (Winter of 2002) and I've been in love with them ever since. The show was great, and we were close enough to notice Kevin's crazy faces.

I bought their new CD on Tuesday, and I spent the rest of the week listening to it in anticipation for the show. I wanted to know the words, because going to a concert and not knowing the words just sucks.

Well, before BTE played, we had to stand through Adam Richman. Now this kid confused me. He came out with a freakin' mohawk--which I thought was cool. Right away I imagined he would be this hard rocking guy, totally not the case. He comes out with this mohawk, full on faux-punk style, and plays WHAT??? Singer-Songwriter shit. I spent his whole show completely confused. Thanks Adam Richman, I will not buy your album anytime soon.

BTE rocked the place, although they didn't play long enough I believe. When Jen and I saw them they played a two hour set, I want to go back to those days. Oh, well. I got their live album
You all should check it out over at Amazon. Go through Fresh Fiction though, so Mom gets a cut of the profits--gotta pay for my education some how and, I ain't prostituting.

Anywho, gotta run. Lex wants to play, and I have to take a shower. Later all. My apologies for lack of movie review this time, but in the next few days I will have something for everyone.

Gwen

PS. Well, okay, you pulled my leg. I watched We Don't Live Here Anymore the other day. This movie was okay, but seemed a lot like any other movie dealing with adultry. It was good only for Mark Ruffalo, who I adore.

What I'm watching: Scrubs: the Complete First Season

Song of the Day: Burned, by Better Than Ezra

Star Wars, Tea, and Eddie Izzard

2005-05-28T21:54:00.000-07:00

As we speak, I am in the middle of an all night movie/TV marathon. So far we have watched Eddie Izzard's Circle, Good Eats on the Food Channel, and are working on the first two Star Wars. I love the part in Empire where Luke shoves himself in the camel thing--Brilliantly disgusting!!! But, I hate Lucus because he feels the need to add all this SHIT into the original films--they were great without the out-of-place special effects.

Anyway, gotta get back t o Empire. Checkin' out!

G

Movie of the Day: ...Uh, I think it is Empire Strikes Back

Song of the Day: I Seen All Good People- Yes

Waiting, always waiting

2005-05-27T07:08:00.000-07:00

Good morning all. It is way too early for me, but as a daughter of Suburbia I have certain responsibilities I must perform. This morning's is waiting around for our cleaning people to come. Lex and I are locked in the kitchen drinking coffee and eating dog food. (Me the coffee, Lex is enjoying the tasty dog food)

Anywho, last night, before the circuits in my room started shorting, I began watching I Heart Huckabees. Very funny movie so far, but it could just be the philosopher in me. I will definitely need to buy this movie in the near future. Jason Schwartzman is on his game in this movie making random comments, while his subtle style steals scenes from anyone else on screen. I know I know, I'm late to watch this, but without a car at school it was impossible for me to see until it came to DVD.

Tonight Madacascar starts!!!!!!!!!! As you can possibly tell by the numerous exclamation points, I am a wee bit excited--"The Penguins are psychotic!" Hopefully Daniel and I can make a trip to the theatre to see it tonight. He also wants to see Layer Cake, which I really wanted to see, but now not so much. Eh, I'll probably just rent it. There are tons of movies coming out in the next few weeks. I will fill you all in with my opinions--wanted or not--as I see them!

Movie of the day: I Heart Huckabees--didn't see that one coming did ya?????

Song of the day: When You Heard You by the French Kicks. Well, this song is actually yesterday's song, but it will work for today too.

Gwen

Hello Ground!

2005-05-24T09:05:00.000-07:00

Hello world! Okay, so I hate blogging, but as my lovely mother says, it is an important tool of the new world. Anyway, I hope that this switch to Blogger will be my last hop, since I have gone to more than three providers in the last year for this damn blog. Most blogs I read use this format, so there ya go.

Anyway, say hello to the new ReelVixens.com! I will update you all in the next few days. Since I am home for the next three weeks, hopefully I will have lots of stories and other ramblings to post here. I just bought my tickets for Better Than Ezra on the 3rd at Gypsy Tea Room!!! I'm soooooo excited. I'm also on assignment to see how their live show goes over--To see if we want to book them next semester or not. I'm voting for yes, if you couldn't tell. =)

Well, I have to get going, I appologize for the blah blah blahing. I'm going to get a digital camera in the next few weeks, so maybe a picture or two will make its way here. Later days!

Gwen

Movie of the day: Hitchhicker's Guide to the Galaxy

Song: Sugar, We're Going Down by Fall Out Boy---I don't like the song, it's just stuck in my cranium.