Black Swan

Click Title above for link to IMDb.

I saw two movies Saturday. I find that when I have some free time I have to stop in for popcorn. When I got home my Netflix DVD was in the mailbox, so I popped it into the DVD player. I wanted to see it right away mostly because there was nothing worth while on satellite TV. I will NOT watch Wheel of Fortune. It's the longest half hour on television. The slowest and most boring show in American. Maybe the world.

Anyway. The two movies I watched Saturday can't be compared to each other. They were completely different genres. Not even similar. Yet they were opposites. One was American and one was British. One was good. The other one was bad. Guess which one?

All I can say is that I am not watching my way through all the Academy Award Nominees for Best Picture this year. In fact, I may never trust the Academy Awards again.

I already saw The King's Speech several weeks ago before it won Best Picture in the BAFTA & the Academy Awards.

I was expecting more from Black Swan. I thought Black Swan was so-so. It was not one of those movies you say "wow" when you come out of the theater. Not like, for instance, Inception.

I think some movies are done as "art." I usually appreciate them. Then there are the movies that are "art for the sake of art." Maybe that's what the Academy is looking for. I'm just looking for good movies.

The movie I didn't like was Black Swan. I must admit I went to see it out of curiosity so I passed on the 3-D version. Even so, the movie was mediocre. I suspect the 3-D version was also mediocre because there was nothing in the movie impressive enough to warrant 3-D except the performance of the black swan.

Natalie Portman won the awards for best actress both in America and Brittan. I never really cared for, or noticed, Natalie Portman (her acting, I mean. She's probably a great person in person.) I never thought she was a major star in major movies. So I'm baffled that she won the Academy Award. I had the sense that she was holding back in this movie. Strange that the movie was about a ballerina holding back in her performance.

Unusually when I come out of a movie about an insane person I feel a little insane. I'm impressed with movies that can draw me in like that. That's the test of a true psychogical drama. Black Swan didn't do that for me. (It was either the lack of intensity within the movie or my meds are working really well now.)

I think all Black Swan does is convince it's true what they say in psychology: a psychotic person doesn't know they are. If someone thinks they might be insane, they aren't.

The costumes were monotonous except in some of the fantasies. The whole movie was done in monotones. Albeit intentionally. I liked the dashes of pink. And the stuffed animals; they were good.

I'm still curious just what character Mila Kunis was playing. But she was super. I wonder why she didn't get the nomination for best supporting actress?

I realize other people have other tastes and, of course, we all appreciate and rave about different movies. Others love the movies that I think stink. That's why there is a wide range of diversity in entertainment. I think that's wonderful.

I thought Black Swan was an OK movie. It's worth watching but I recommend waiting til it comes out on DVD and pop your corn at home.

A Single Man

Directed by Tom Ford, novel by Christopher Isherwood, written for screen by Tom Ford and David Scearce. Produced by Artina Films, Depth of Field, Fade to Black Productions. Rated R for adult content (and brief nudity--barely.) (This movie was distributed in too many countries to list. It received numerous nominations and awards. See below.

I saw (Netflix rental) A Single Man Feb. 25, 2011. I now see this title can be taken two ways. A Single Man as in not married. And A Single Man as in one man in a population of millions--does that make him insignificant or more important to the overall culture?

I seem to be a couple years behind the rest of the world in viewing relevant movies. I have been on a trek to experience all of Matthew Goode's roles. I still marvel at his ability to be a different person in each movie. He's amazing. Minus Chasing Liberty. Oh well, "you can't win 'em all," so they say.

And I can't seem to find the perfect word to describe this quality in a movie...it's beyond good. (There are the B movies, I am sure you know what they are (lowbrow?) I suppose the really quality movies are A movies. Well, this one was definitely an A+ movie.

I was hesitant (heck, struck with anxiety) to turn on my DVD player. I read Wikipedia entry which said it was a movie about a depressed man who was still grieving the loss of his long-time partner. Since I have been battling severe depression as well as grief over losing my husband, I wondered if I should consider this movie.

This movie was not frightening to me after all. It was not depressing. (Maybe that's my Zoloft talking.) It seemed to be more of a British movie than an American one (i.e. not sappy.)

If you don't want to know the plot in advance, I suggest you not read the Wikipedia or IMDb entries. The important thing is, even read them I was more interested in watching it. (That and wanting to see Matthew Goode my favorite actor in all his roles.) The movie and the enjoyment of seeing it was not based on the plot. The movie is not "ruined" by knowing the story. It's not what it's about, it's how it's done.

A Single Man is not entertainment per se, it's art and a study in complex human nature. I'm happy to say, there were no stereotypes in this movie. It was a fresh take on these subjects even set 50 years ago in 1962.

The laid back performances were understated yet sincerely emotional. The cinematography was excellent. (Example: the way the colors were drab until George really looked at them with appreciation when they suddenly became bright and vibrant.) You're taken into the story with such skill you are no longer aware you're watching a movie. I think this movie was a joyous study of life and death. Also, I found a good deal of ironic humor in the movie.

Matthew as supporting actor was just as perfect as Colin Firth as were Julianne Moore and Nicholas Hoult. A mass of talent was obviously assembled.

Matthew used the generic American accent similar to the way he spoke in The Lookout though not as gruff, of course. It was impeccable from what I heard. (Is there such a thing as an American accent without dialect? It's as varied as UK accents. Though I do think Matthew sounds better with British and Irish accent, but maybe that's just me. I heard he's finished a movie about an Australian. I'm curious to hear how he does that.)

Good-bye for now. Sit down and WATCH it.

From Wikipedia: The film was nominated for the Golden Lion at the 66th Venice International Film Festival and won the festival's third annual Queer Lion.[19] Colin Firth was awarded the Coppa Volpi for Best Actor at the film festival for his performance in the film.[20] He received a BAFTA for best actor.[21] Firth received a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Motion Picture Drama nomination, a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role nomination, and an Academy Award for Best Actor nomination. For her performance, Julianne Moore was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress in Motion Picture. Abel Korzeniowski was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Original Score. On January 14, 2010, the film was nominated for, and later won, Outstanding Film - Wide Release at the 21st GLAAD Media Awards.

Buried

Click on word Buried above to see IMDb website

I can see now I have to add why I like a movie and and give illustrations (not pictures but examples.)

I didn't watch Buried. I rented it from NexFlix at the request of my daughter-in-law Rachel. She likes Ryan Reynolds.

Here's the IMDb blurb for this 2010 movie which was billed as "brilliantly twisted suspense."

Paul is a U.S. contractor working in Iraq. After an attack by a group of Iraqis he wakes to find he is buried alive inside a coffin. With only a lighter and a cell phone it's a race against time to escape this claustrophobic death trap.

Billed as Director: Rodrigo Cortés, Writer: Chris Sparling
Stars: Ryan Reynolds, José Luis García Pérez and Robert Paterson

Why I didn't watch it: I feel the same way about watching movies under ground as I feel about movies under water. Suffocated. I hold my breath. (Makes it hard to eat popcorn.)

Also, I can't stand those "race against time" movies.

I can't give you any tips on the acting. But if the subject matter of the movie is horrible, who cares how good or bad the acting is? Do you ever see a horror movie, for instance, for the acting? Right. You just want to be scared out of your head. No thanks, not me.

Buried might rival the movie I accidentally watched about the couple floating around in the ocean. It was just the two of them (deserted on a pleasure boat tour.) They talked and then disappeared one at a time. Besides being painfully suspenseful, it was boring.

If you want to watch Buried, fine, but be prepared.

Hollywood Teeth

I am so pissed off (I mean angry) that everyone in movies and on television has to have perfect, bright white teeth now.

What the hell? One's teeth are supposed to be as different from other's teeth the way fingerprints are different.

And let's face it. Bright white is NOT the color real teeth are "supposed to" be. White teeth aren't natural. They look rather like neon signs.

I've have heard of the new "dentures" that slip on OVER one's own teeth. I wish these contraptions could be removed along with costumes and make-up so the movie stars can go home to their real lives wearing their real teeth. Or they could go back to their "old" teeth in movies if their fans wanted them to.

I hate to see everyone on the screen getting their teeth straightened, capped, bleached and other miserable procedures so they can all have "perfect" teeth so they can all look alike. But at least the days are over when movie stars had all their teeth pulled and wore those sets of dentures that come out and soak in a glass all night. I'm not disparaging anyone who actually needs dentures, but movie stars who didn't need them got them. It was probably required in their contracts.

The fans don't really want their favorite celebrities to LOOK perfect. We want them to look unique and charming. We want to recognize them underneath the role they're playing.

Take Matthew Goode for instance (I know, I know, you're getting sick of me writing about him all the time.) I now know why he looks so different in Leap Year than in his other movies. It's his teeth. His teeth were different as well as his accent, hair and beard.

In his previous movies he had a charming way of talking. His front teeth were slightly misaligned with each other, and there was a small gap in his teeth on the left side. Evidently adapting over the years gave him a distinctive way of speaking. He no doubt felt he had to "protect" his irregularities from the camera, but his talking and smiling with the right side of his mouth was charming. I loved it. It was part of his delightful performance in Imagine Me and You.

I often notice the way an actor speaks and smiles. Maybe other people don't.

I can see why a person might feel conspicuous over less-than-perfect teeth. Crooked teeth, missing teeth, they may think, makes them look "bad." They want to get their teeth fixed, especially if they are very crooked or if they've had an injury to the face or mouth that altered their teeth. It's not just an ego thing because they're wanting to correct something unfortunate that they feel "ruined" their appearance. Even if it were the result of falling out of a tree when they were children or getting clonked in face with a football as a teenager.

So I don't blame Matthew Goode for having his teeth fixed. After all, he and other celebrities can afford the dental work when they become successful.

But I'm rather disappointed because I LIKED the ways Matthew talked and smiled in his various movies. He was adorable. (Additional COmments: I watched Matthew closely in Leap Year again and I think his smile is still his old one. Tho I saw him on YouTube in an interview and it did look like his teeth were different. It remains to be seen. His last movie was Jan. 2010. It's been a year. It's time we saw his new movies. Rah-rah.

Photo of Matthew Goode with cute smile

So if anyone can tell me more Matthew Goode and his teeth and/give me your own opinion, leave me some comments. Thanks.

Movies only

I've have eliminated discussing books on this blog.

I will only blog about movies here.

Movies old and new. Movies in theaters, on DVDs, Cable/Satellite and TV.

I will occasionally blog about books on my other blog ADVISING MYSELF

www.sandyschairer@blogspot.com

Thanks for reading me.

LONG LIVE THE MOVIES

The King's Speech

Clik on title above for BAFTA 2011 Awards


I saw The King's Speech yesterday. The theater is littered with retirees who don't have anything better to do in the afternoon. Including me.

Mostly I go to the theater for the popcorn. (I hope someone does a study to see how much each kernel costs in bag that's more than the cost of the movie tickets.) I don't go very often. I notice the theaters aren't popping as much popcorn anymore. You'd think if they lowered the price they could make it up in volume.)

I prefer to watch movies at home so I can rewind and listen again to the words I didn't catch. (I think with all the big movie complexes they ought to set up one with subtitles for the hard of hearing people and those who can't listen fast enough for the way people talk today. Especially the young people.) I love British movies but, you've heard me write before that I find that accent the hardest to understand. Though in King's Speech I believe they tried to tone it down for non-British listening audiences.

OK. So. King's Speech. It was a well-done movie. Nothing to rave about after you see it. Not being blown away with excitement by the story nor the acting. I would say it was good entertainment for an afternoon. But that's it. No feeling of amazement coming out of the theater. Though, not "What the hell was that about?" like after seeing Inception.

King's Speech is a bit understated. Perhaps that's how British like their movies? It's a bit tame for American viewers, though it's a movie that reaches a more cerebral viewer in the US.

I didn't know a thing about King George VI prior to seeing this movie. I certainly hope scriptwriters adhere to more of "the truth" than they did in older biographical movies.

The sets and costumes were impressive.

The King's Speech was nominated and won a series of awards from BAFTA (British film awards.) Best picture, best British film, best actor, best supporting actress, best supporting actor, and several other categories such as best original screenplay.

It's also nominated for numerous Academy Awards which air Feb. 27, 2011. It's probably going to be the same as watching the British Academy Awards this year.

The awards are seldom given to the movies I feel are the highest and best. Then sometimes I'm pleasantly surprised like when American Beauty won best picture number of years ago. And Little Miss Sunshine got an award for something. I did think that Phantom of the Opera should have won more than best song. It wasn't even the best song in that movie.)

I would like to see my favorite actors and actresses win sometimes too. I don't necessarily choose them for just that one role. I think you have to watch a number of movies of that actor/actress to appreciate just how good they are based on versatility and ability to act well from one movie to the next. I often choose them just because I like that person and their qualities in real life.

So, go see The King's Speech if for no other reason than to support the movie making industry and keep theaters from being overtaken by DVDs and Blue-ray. You can skip the popcorn.

The Lookout

Click on title to see IMDb info on The Lookout a 2007 crime/thriller drama

Written & Directed by Scott Frank
Starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Jeff Daniels, Matthew Goode, and Isla Fisher
Distributed by Miramax Films (USA) & Buena Vista International (Non-USA)

What can I say about this movie? (You know me, I can always say a lot.) It was reviewed (according to IMDb) 368 official times, not to mention all the clips and interviews and trailers all over the Internet, plus the amateurs like me who throw in their 2-cents worth.

I don't do reviews, I give my opinions. I try not to post spoilers. However, I'm sure everyone in the known Universe knows the story by now.

The plot is not the biggie here, though the script is excellent. It's what "they" say is a character-driven-story. I believe it was more thought-provoking than entertainment. I experienced this movie rather than just watching it.

Part of the problem in being a writer is that I can't just watch a movie without analyzing it. This movie created a feeling of impending doom, especially when I knew what was inevitably coming. The suspense became heightened with the premonitions woven into the story.

I watch a movie a second time (or more) just to enjoy it, rather than sitting there biting my nails dreading possible surprises. I can appreciate the details in subsequent viewings. I admit I am a coward when it comes to suspense especially if it hints at emotional pain and violence.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt was, without saying, wonderful. He carried the movie. I believe he was in every scene. He portrayed a complex character using a good deal of subtlety and power. It was his story, told from his point of view. The other characters/actors fully supported Gordon-Levitt. Not one of them tried to overshadow him or steal the attention for themselves.

Jeff Daniels, who received second billing (over Matthew Goode who got third billing) was the best I've ever seen him. He's gone from a weak but charming actor (mostly as Mr. Nice Guy in those made-for-Hallmark type movies) to a good actor who created here a multifaceted character integral to the story/movie.

I got the impression his was the type of character like Andy Taylor on Mayberry who could go from "Well, howdy there, y'all. Welcome to our quaint little village," to a guy who can say "Okay, asshole, cut the bullshit." Jeff Daniels showed this quality without an in-your-face attitude as an important character as Gordon-Levitt's closest friend.

Matthew Goode was good in his role as the leader of the bad guys. He did a fair American accent. His deep voice and the accent he affected reminded me of another actor's that I couldn't' quite place. He looked completely different in this movie (a given for him.) In the Special Features (which was excellent in itself) he surprised them by wanting to audition for the part appearing so inappropriate for the tough guy role based on his role in Match Point. Everyone was amazed that he literally transformed himself when he read for the part. The director said he felt that Matthew could do anything. I was pleased to hear that someone else noticed Matthew literally becomes a character. (The only other actor I have heard this about was Meryl Streep.)

I was relieved that the violence was underplayed as an inevitable part of the story. It wasn't one of those typical shoot-em-up, violence for violence's sake, or added for shock value. The one thing I felt bad about was the tragedy of one character who died who shouldn't have.

The movie was well-done and worth seeing, even the Special Feature section. It was enjoyable seeing the cast and crew talk about the movie and its production.

I hope you enjoy it. If you don't, push the eject button, send it back and miss a quality film.

Movie and Book Opinions Today

I haven't watched any new or used movies lately. So no reviews. Reading the same book--not finished yet. So no book reviews either. Sorry.

When I order a DVD to watch from NetFlix (mostly all of Matthew Goode's movies) I love them (except Chasing Liberty [yuck].) After I mail them back I miss them (him.) I want to watch it again. And again. It's a dilemma because I also want to mail them back as fast as I can so I can receive the next rental.

I like Matthew Goode because he's a real actor not just a movie star. He's so different in each role, it's mystifying. He tosses himself out and becomes the character. (You have to see it to believe it.) (In fact, he's such a good actor that if I were in a relationship with him, I'd NEVER believe a word he said.)

My first experience of him was in the romantic comedy Leap Year. After seeing that I assumed he was a bearded Irishman with curly black hair off screen too. But when I saw his internet interviews I was flabbergasted. He's nothing like his character in Leap Year. In fact, I still can't believe it's the same guy.

To make a long story short (no wait, I can't make a story short to save my life) I have a habit of buying a movie after I rent it, see it on TV or in the theater. (Fortunately my kids buy every new movie ever made so I can watch movies all day and night if I want to.)

I have graduated from watching Leap Year (about 50 to 100 times.) Then I saw Imagine Me and You. Then I bought it. I don't think I'll watch it 50 to 100 times, but, heck, why not? (I watch it for Matthew, not for the girls, by the way, in case you wondered. LOL)

Another movie I just love = Julie and Julia. I watched that a few times, and a few more times. Now I put it on to help me fall asleep at night. If I fall asleep during a movie that I've seen a zillion times, I don't worry about missing anything. I know what's going to happen and I can drift off. I guess I turn off the DVD player and the TV in my sleep, because it's off when I get up in the morning.

I do prefer falling asleep with movies that have no suspense, violence or gore. Maybe not even sexuality since it makes me too aware that I'm sleeping in a single bed alone now. (My husband died in 2009. He was a sexy little devil.)

I used to read myself to sleep. I read to escape into an alternate reality and therefore avoid this one--20th and now 21st century Earth. But that doesn't seem to work anymore. I find myself reading and reading and not sleeping. I get more into the book and unable to stop.

It's either absorption to the point of insomnia, or finding that the words just go in one eye and out the other with no comprehension whatsoever. (Is that adult on-set ADD?) Reading that way doesn't help me at all to stop thinking too much. I think about bad stuff like old age, the economy, the weather, sugary food...

So, if anyone can recommend any other movies to rent, let me know, so I can do more reviews in between Matthew Goode's movies. (I don't want to bore those of you who have no idea who he is.)

I am reading my way through my Agatha Christie library, if you recall.

In addition, I donated about 500 books out of my huge collection. (Still have too many.) So no book recommendations, please. I am a recovering bookaholic. I can't slip and go into the book store for anything more than coffee and a Danish.

Toddle-ooo for now. And thanks for reading me.

Oh, if you see Matthew Goode, please kiss him for me.

A Suitable Vengeance, Inspector Lynley Mysteries

Click title of movie above to see IMDb info

Director: Edward Bennett,
Writers: Elizabeth George (novel), Valerie Windsor (screenplay)
Staring Nathaniel Parker & Sharon Small and a cast of dozens
March 2003, BBC & PBS Masterpiece Theater

Jolly good mystery. Not your average detective story the way most Inspector Lynley cases are. This was one of those old-fashioned mysteries where the family and guests are all assembled in a gigantic old estate. When a crime or two happens, Inspector Lynley is drawn into helping local law-enforcement solve the case even if he suspects the perpetrator might be one of his own family.

The story begins with preparations for the dinner party for the Inspector, who happens to be known as Tommy, and his fiance Helen. The type of dinner party and mystery that happens around a 10-foot long table complete with candelabras, three forks and tuxedos, reminiscent of parties in the 1930's.

As the characters are introduced, we begin to see the relationships between them and more and more of their personal lives. Gradually we begin to see all -- the secrets, problems, resentments and unhappiness.

There are so many characters and story lines that one must pay close attention to follow the story and pick up on all the clues. And use closed captions or rewind button if you have trouble deciphering the Queen's English.

Now. You must remember the "rules" for screenplays. One, if it's a good script, there is nothing in the movie that does not relate to the plot and advance the story. In a true mystery there are clues as well as "false" clues (red-herrings.) But as a matter of fact, there are not many red-herrings in this movie. Everything has importance. Even though I doubt you'll figure out this mystery easily.

Two, in a good screenplay all the characters are shown or at least mentioned at the beginning of the movie (this also applies to well written novels.) This way no characters are brought in at the end to explain the solution. It's very frustrating when an author does that. It cheats the reader/viewer.

Three, cutting to another scene can indicate more happening than we are privilege to.

I particularly like the fact that British movies don't spoon feed us the way American movies do. By not handing us clues and explanations, they expect the viewers to understand the story for themselves. The cinematography is excellent, too, providing a good deal of the clues. Expressions and tones of voice are well done. Plus it was not overwhelmed with music in an attempt to manipulate our feelings.

Matthew Goode, again, was good, as was everyone else. As Inspector Lynley's younger brother, he plays a perfect combination of resentment and innocence. (Not to mention being the most handsome man in the movie with that black hair, big blue eyes and full lips. I could see his character Declan in Leap Year, more in this movie than in his other movies, especially the frowns and his delightful deep voice.)

It's an hour and a half long, but remember it's a made-for-TV movie. British television drama is often better than the average American drama on big or little screen.

This movie is excellent. You can rent or buy it along with other Inspector Lynley movies. This one was from Season 2. I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did.

My NetFlix DVD Rentals

My most recent DVD rental has been snowed-in in my post office box (the one on the end of Juan Tomas Rd. not INSIDE the post office. Duh.)

I am going to watch it now. I might write about it here, or not.

It's an Inspector Lynley Mystery (a PBS movie) only one and a half hours long.

It's one in which---guess---wait for it--Matthew Goode plays the Inspector's brother. I hope he's on more than two or three scenes. Heck, I suspect he might be the suspect.)

As you all know, or maybe didn't know me then, I was madly in love with Gerry Butler a few years ago. I realize he was just a movie star. I think I was hypnotized by all that singing in Phantom of the Opera. It was a few of the scenes where they were singing, "The Phantom of the Opera is now within your mind." Uh, ye-ah.

Quite a few middle aged (and heck, old) women fell for Gerry at that time. We used to discuss him on a fan yahoo group. It couldn't have been his handsome good looks, because he isn't really all that good-looking unless the role calls for him to be--wonders with make-up and costumes--but it was his sex appeal.

The one scene I loved in Phantom was him walking slowly down the stairs at the masquerade in that red suit and black mask. And oh, those tight black leather gloves.

So, my point is(I got side-tracked talking about Gerry for a minute) I fell out of love with Gerry and was thrashing around for someone else to love, especially in movieland, and came up with Declan in Leap Year played by Matthew Goode, the young British actor.

The big thing I noticed right off, is that Matthew Goode is an ACTOR not a movie star.

So wish me luck with Inspector Lynley tonight and seeing my sweetie Matthew Goode. (I can call him that because I'm old enough to be his mother. (Matthew's mother not Inspector Lynley's -- but maybe his too.

Good night. (PS--I also loved the scene in Dracula 2000 when Gerry Bulter is walking through the music store with his curly long hair and his long coat and that alpha male strut. Ummm.)

Turner Classic Movies

Turner Classic Movie channel is having 31 Days of Oscar Winning movies, which started Feb. 1 through March 3. Uncut and commercial free.

Click on Turner Classic Movies above to see their website and schedule.

I like the movies from the 1930's and 1940's the best.

I was just wondering why the actors all spoke like Franklin Roosevelt. Was that supposed to be THE American accent denoting educated, upper class people? It sounds strange now.

The FX of the days weren't half bad either. I saw part of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde with Fredric March (1931.) The transformation of the doctor into his "evil twin" was well done. And it was all done without animation. Cool. The make-up was very well done even though Mr. Hyde looked a bit like a glorified ape.

The old movies give us a very good idea of what the fashions, hair designs, and style of make-up were popular in those days, as well as what the various buildings, furnishings and establishments looked like in those days. This was way way before the computer graphics used today.

Some of these old movies can be quite funny especially when they are serious. The seriousness may seem overly dramatic today.

The lines, too, are just so strange to us now. Take the line from Dr. Jekyll speaking to his fiance. "Marry me, darling, marry me. Marry me. I can't WAIT any longer." Now-a-days, we don't wait...if you catch my drift.

Enjoy an old movie on a TV near you today!!!

THE CHAMBER

Click on title above for website of movie

Director: James Foley
Written by: John Grisham (novel),William Goldman & Chris Reese(screenplay)
Stars:Chris O'Donnell, Gene Hackman,Faye Dunaway & Lela Rochon

I broke one of my own rules and watched a painful drama. It was accidental. I noticed the name of the movie on HBO. I had the book by John Grisham but never read it. Probably donated it to VA hospital, whatever.

Since I have enjoyed his other novels and the movies based on them, I let it play while I was playing on the computer. After the start of the movie, it got my undivided attention. Compelling. Even when I knew what was coming & the suspense built up, I couldn't stop watching.

This was a damn good movie. It pulled no punches. Brought up some serious issues. Very thought provoking. Be warned it uses some of the words that have become politically incorrect in order to stay true-to-life.

It was about a young lawyer (Chris O'Donnell) who seeks out his family whom he has not been close to and decides to take on the death penalty (in the South) and petition for an appeal for his grandfather (Gene Hackman) who was raised in the KKK and sentenced to death for murder. The movie takes us through a great deal of emotional scenes. There is some violence but the real drama is mostly psychological and emotional. The flashbacks are intense but bearable.

Chris O'Donnell and the supporting cast were good and held their own with the big star Gene Hackman. The days are over, I suspect, when Hackman is in every other movie made. So he puts a big performance into the roles he has. You can tell he's still got it.

So does Faye Dunaway. Excellent. Best I've seen her. Great role.

I recommend it so try to catch it on HBO or rental.

CHASING LIBERTY--YUCK

I got the next Matthew Goode movie from Netflix yesterday.

Director: Andy Cadiff; Writers: Derek Guiley, David Schneiderman

Stars:Mandy Moore, Matthew Goode and Mark Harmon .

I got the feeling the cast were "phoning in" their parts.

This was one of Matthew Goode's earlier films (2004.)

Chasing Liberty was a terrible movie. The actors were totally unconvincing. They looked as bored as I was. The girl was still a teenager, the guy was a bit older and should have been ashamed of himself. The general premise was stupid. It was just not believable. No heart. No intelligence. Dumb, dumb, dumb. I got the feeling they were rushing through the movie. I am also sure that the only people who would like this movie are 12 year old girls. Maybe not.

Wait, the scenery was good. But probably faked. The best parts of the movie were done by stunt people. So much for that. The bungee jumping was cool. And the crowd scene was awesome. That was it for me.

I can understand what Matthew Goode meant when he said in an interview that Leap Year was just Chasing Liberty all over again. (I see that but disagree.)Many of scenes in Leap Year were repeats of scenes in Chasing Liberty . The big difference is, in Chasing Liberty , these scenes were awful. In fact the whole movie Chasing Liberty was awful.

In Leap Year the the script was well written, the acting was more than good especially Matthew Goode and Amy Adams. That movie showed a great deal more heart & sensitivity. The young people were older and took life a bit more seriously. It was a comedy but touching. Believable. (The only bad thing about Leap Year was the editing and cutting. Too bad.)

So if it snows here for four days like the weather channel predicts, I will be snowed in with Chasing Liberty instead of the next Matthew Goode movie on my Netflix queue. WAAAAAAAAAA

Agatha Christie

Click on title "Agatha Christie" to see internet bio and book list

I've been a long time fan of Agatha Christie. I have a library of all her books. I've read all of them and some of them more than once. She wrote a number of mystery novels and short stories (in collections) and a few other stories under a pen name.

I have decided to read my way through her books starting with the mysteries. (Since I have forgotten most of them or gotten them confused in my head. I'm reading the whole library straight through IN THE ORDER they were written (published.)

I finished THE MYSTERIOUS AFFAIR AT STYLES (1920) her first book which introduced Hercule Poirot, her famous private detective.

What I like about Agatha Christie's books is the lack of description; it's kept to a minimum. I just can't stand too much description. I am not a visual person. I am an auditory person and I prefer to read dialog. I actually hear the dialog in my head as if it were really being spoken.

I also like the fact that Poirot and her other crime solving characters think a lot. (I once submitted a story in a contest and received the comment from the critiquer/judge that my characters spent too much time thinking. I disagree. I like characters who think a lot. I once read a novel that was ALL thinking. So there!)

In Christie's novels, besides talking and thinking, there is very little cliff-hanging adventure/action. I don't like those fast paced thrillers (well, maybe Davinci Code.) Not much suspense. I get too nervous if there is too much suspense.

I perfectly enjoy joining Christie's characters in there English country estates and reading about all their family and friends as they help Poirot solve the mystery.

Agatha Christie's mysteries are amazing in that she gives tons of clues to help the reader guess the culprit, as well as lots of red-herrings (false clues to mislead readers.) In some of the books she actually tells who committed the crime, but most of us read right over those and are surprised at the end that she really DID tell us who did it.

And I have never guessed any of them (except the one that had a list of characters in the front which gave descriptions of all of them. So don't read those lists, they tend to give away too much information.)

I love mysteries. My favorite genre. I read every word and never peak at the end. That would be ruining everything for myself.

They are fun books with nothing scary or gross. So join me in reading your way through Agatha's books.

WATCHMEN

Click on title to see IMBd listing

Watchmen was shown on MAX which doesn’t repeat movies as many times as HBO does. I caught Watchmen a few days ago...missed the beginning and most of the end. (Not a good idea.) I finally got to see it from beginning to end. Whew.

Watchmen is based on a graphic novel about “retired” superheroes that come out of retirement to find the person responsible for killing them one by one.

It’s in “cartoon” cinematography but not animated, except for the usual type of FX used to make a movie more “realistic.”

It’s a GOOD movie. I couldn’t get over how good it is. It’s about 3 hours long, so do what you have to do before you sit down to watch it. (I suggest watching it on a premium channel or a DVD rather than seeing it on a channel with commercial breaks.) It’s rated R, mostly for violence and sexuality.

One thing that makes the movie so good (surprise!) it’s dark but it’s FUNNY! There’s so much satire and parody. Many of the characters look like other actors and characters, i.e., Laurie Juniper looks like Xena and Rorschach sounds like a Clint Eastwood’s character. Another word- play: vicious dogs named Fred and Barney (remember The Flintstones?) The sets are another source of humor, i.e.: the restaurant across the street called Gunga Diner (remember Gunga Din the old old movie?)

I won’t point out anymore humor. No spoilers. But keep and eye and ear out. Take a good look at Jon (he’s the big blue guy.)

The movie is a bit gory. This movie is in a category by itself, but it’s worth seeing for the overall fun of it. It’s not for everyone, especially kids or sissies. Feel free to close your eyes if you can’t stand the sight of assorted mayhem.

One more thing. As you know I am watching my way though sweetie Matthew Goode’s movies. In this, he’s blond; in his fight scenes not one strand of hair gets mussed. I knew it was him from his voice and the fact he’s tall and thin. He has an unrecognizable accent, though. Maybe it was done as humor, but it sounded like an Englishman trying to mix American and German accents and coming up with Irish. (As a matter of fact he sounded, near the end, a bit like Declan his Irish character in Leap Year. And I daresay the Irish had a good laugh at his Irish accent.) It was gratifying to hear him get mean and angry. And actually cuss—he called someone a son-of-a-bitch. So Brits can be macho. Way to go!

The Tudors

The series originally seen on Showtime is now showing on BBC America (cable and satellite) with commercial breaks, and I daresay, it's censored for adult content, but not much. It will probably never make it to network TV or PBS.)

The focus of the story is Henry the VIII played by Jonathan Rhys-Meyers, the good-looking British hunk from Match Point (already reviewed.)

I loved it on Showtime but missed a great deal of it. I was glad to see it on BBC on Wednesday nights at a reasonable hour. It’s done with big screen quality in one- hour episodes. You can see the previous episode the hour before the “new” one in case you miss an episode. I believe there are three seasons, but I’m not sure if BBC will carry all of them. It helps to start from Season 1 and Episode 1 when Henry becomes King. (I think you can see them on the internet, too.)

The acting, costumes and sets are super. It’s emotional without being painful. Literary and artistic but comprehensible. Music is period and unobtrusive, but most scenes are done with no musical background. Exceptional television show. British series often are. Try to catch it. It’s worth watching if you can on watch one episode. It’s spell-binding.

I don’t know how true to history the series is, but Jonathan is beyond good. (I’m running out of superlatives. Groan.) GOOD, truly, GOOD.

You get the message now I love movies and “critique” most of them as good (for lack of a better word.) In fact, I don’t think I’d watch a bad movie just to review it. I’m a reviewer not a critic. I think critics enjoy bad-mouthing movies. Not I.

Match Point 2005

Click on title above to see IMDb info about movie


Director: Woody Allen, Writer: Woody Allen
Stars: Jonathan Rhys-Meyers, Scarlett Johansson, Emily Mortimer, and Matthew Goode

Story is about a former tennis pro who falls for a sexy American girl who happens to be involved with his friend and soon-to-be brother-in-law. It takes him into a world he has never know before. Most of the movie is about falling deeper and deeper into that world. Does he ever really get out?

There's not much more I can say about this movie other than pointing to the list of nominations and wins in the film industry. Too many to list here with the acception of the Academy Award nomination for Woody Allen. (See link to these nominations and awards on IMDb.

Previous Woody Allen movies have not been any of my favorite movies--perhaps because of their type of humor. However, this was different (a drama thriller) and one of his best if not his the best. (Woody Allen agreed with this himself. See Wikipedia entry for Match Point.)

This movie was so suspenseful I could hardly stand it. It's impossible to figure out what's going to happen in advance (and I'm usually good at guessing since I'm a writer and have studied various types of writing including screenplays.) I always appreciate a story that keeps me guessing.

Everyone's acting was exceptional. And I got to see my favorite actor Matthew Goode. He's always good. (I don't ever expect to see him do badly in a movie even a bad movie.) Definitely rent and see this one.

See Jonathan Rhys-Myers as Henry the VIII in The Tudors series now being shown on BBC. (as of Jan. 2010.)

Night at the Museum: Battle at the Smithsonian

Click title to see IMDb page for this movie















HBO puts on the same movie a number of times in a month, spreading it out onto all the HBO channels to reach viewers at all times of the day and night.

Recently I have been watching Night at the Museum: Battle at the Smithsonian (2009, Ben Stiller, Hank Azaria, and Amy Adams, Robin Williams,and a large cast of other actors both big and small. (Some were very small--about 2 inches high not to mention the ones in Black and White. (You've got to see it.)

Ben Stiller is Ben Stiller. Sometimes more silly, sometimes less silly as he was in this movie. He's nearly the "straight man" which means setting up the scenes and jokes for the other characters, allowing them to be funny. He's less obnoxious in this movie than in some of his earlier movies. His newer movies seem to have more substance.

I thought the first Night at the Museum was a kid movie and wasn't impressed with it. But I thoroughly enjoyed this sequel. Enough to watch it more than once just for the enjoyment. It's one of the movie sequels that are better than the original.

First of all, the FX graphics and animation were very good. None of it looked goofy or fake. Well, maybe the Einstein bobble heads.

Hank Azaria was the funniest I've ever seen him. In fact, his acting was great. (I really haven't seen him "acting: before, he usually just plays Hank. He's done mostly television but he does well in this movie plus his costumes, the voice--all good. (Bravo, Hank. Hope to see more of that kind of role for you.)

Amy Adams did a great rendition of Amelia Earhart. She did well with speaking like Amelia and only slipped into the "Amy Adams accent" a couple of times. Though, I don't think half* the population would notice. Her clothes looked painted on. (*The men half of the population and some of the women. You know who you are.)

This is a movie worth seeing by kids and adults. Clean fun (whatever that is.)

Catch it on HBO or rent the DVD. (I love Netflix.)

Watchmen

Click title to see IMDb movie info


Oh man. I put Watchmen on my NetFlix queue and then moved it to the end of the list. But tonight I stumbled across it on MAX tonight. Missed the first 40 minutes so I am going to have to watch it again.

All I can say is this is a totally awesome. It's funny though gory. The retired superheros came out of retirement to track down the guy that was killing them off. There were flashback to things that happened when they were superheros in action.

Matthew Goode, again, is unrecognizable, hidden in his character. Blond with an American accent (sort of.) The other actors were unrecognizable, too. The girl in the movie (Malin Akerman) looked so much like Lucy Lawless (who played Xena, Warrior Princess.) Some of the puns, funny dialog, visual jokes are really funny.

One sticks out in my mind. One character asks, "What ever happened to the American Dream?" The other answers, "It came true."

Other tongue-in-cheek humor--the leader of the criminals in prison is a little person, and the Comedian wears a smiley face button (while he was shooting people.)

This movie is not for everyone. Especially not for children. Or squeamish sissies.

But it's a good movie. I say rent it if you like this genre.

Below: Malin Akerman and Matthew Goode (click to enlarge)

Imagine Me and You

As my loyal readers may remember, I fell in love with Leap Year and Matthew Goode's acting. I vowed to watch my way through all of his movies, even those in which he was a supporting actor. I joined NetFlix to expedite that end.

I recently did a review of Matthew Goode's movie Brideshead Revisited and frankly, I wasn't truly impressed with it, nor with Matthew's performance.

Tonight I watched Imagine Me and You (2005) on DVD. I thought it was a romantic comedy. Maybe it's just me being too manic-depressive, but I cried at the end. I realize now that it was a drama with a few laughs in it.

I was happy for the two women falling in love and finding a will and a way to be together. In a romance or a romantic comedy everyone ends up happily-ever-after. But not really this one. It was sad for at least one person. And for me.

It was Matthew Goode's character, Hector. The husband of one of the lead characters. In fact, he himself was one of the leads (is that...tri-stars instead of just co-stars?)

Matthew's performance was overwhelmingly good. Mainly, through his acting, I felt what Hector felt. Once again, in the same way he did in Leap Year, he convinced me that the character was completely real. Goode is a magician as I've said in other posts. He's an amazing actor. He had me in the palm of his hand. He was only 25 or 26 when this was filmed, so think how many more movies he can delight us with in the rest of his career. YES!

This movie was well done so please do watch it. (Even if you cry.) It much more than a comedy/drams It went much deeper than that. (Is that the way with European movies over American? We're spoon-feed movies in America.) And keep watching the start of the credits to see the real end of the movie.

The movie is a study in human nature. Personal. Touching. Believable. The title refers not just to a song, but to the fact that everyone imagines a relationship with a person they admire, including the 11 year old girl.

Both the woman leads in the movie are beautiful. And Matthew is gorgeous. His lovely blue eyes. And sweet smiles of which he has a magnificent repertoire, he a master at subtle but vastly varied facial expression.

I'm going to sign off now. No, not to cry but to watch it again, and as many times as I can before I need to send it back to NetFlix in order to watch the next Matthew Goode movie in my queue.

Incidentally, I told you that I have trouble understanding British accents. In this movie, the young people talk so fast, I found it impossible to listen, read the closed captioning, and watch the beautiful actresses and actor at the same time. That's a very good reason to watch it a time for each aspect.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Oh hell. I wish they would stop putting the end of a movie after the credits start. It's too easy to miss them. So be aware of this and watch it to the real ending. I'm glad I caught it after my second viewing of the movie. You will see a happier Heck. Happier ending for all. I loved Matthew's big smile at the end.

Yes. Good movie. Go for it.

Thanks and appreciation to: Director: Ol Parker, Writer: Ol Parker Stars:Piper Perabo, Lena Headey and Matthew Goode. Rated R. Fox Searchlight Movies.

Sherlock (PBS TV, Masterpiece Theater)

New series on PBS: Sherlock (a 21st century "consulting detective") starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman as Dr. John Watson. EXCELLENT. WONDERFUL. FABULOUS.

I loved the "old" Sherlock, too. But this show is phenomenal.

Cumberbatch is good, fascinating, and strikingly handsome in an exotic way (love that curly hair and blue blue eyes) but Martin Freeman is funny, cute, and a wonderful actor and I adore his Dr. Watson struggling to maintain equilibrium while following along on the radical adventures of the young Sherlock Holmes.

Watch it. It's good.

MORE MORE MORE ! We want more ! Tell BBC and PBS!!!

Brideshead Revisited

I watched the Matthew Goode movie Brideshead Revisited after falling in-love with Matthew, his character Declan and his performance in Leap Year.

First of all, I must say there is no comparison between a comedy and a serious drama, especially if the drama happens to be a rather artistic, British movie, and comedy an America fantasy (which romances happen to be.) American movies might not be the height of artistic endeavor but at least Americans and "Irishmen" know how to show emotions and laugh.

The second thing, I can't get over how different Matthew Goode looks, not just from movie to movie, but scene to scene. Some scenes he looks amazingly exotic, sometimes extremely good looking, in other rather strange with his receding chin, painfully thin physique, and rounded shoulders (are tall people that way because they tried to hide their height when they were growing up?)

Brideshead Revisited is a British movie, indeed, and I think one really has to be British to appreciate it fully. It was a bit dry, if not bland. I was rather disappointed with the lack of emotion (other than the emotions that the characters were feeling but not showing by intent.) Even the sex scene wasn't particularly sexy (at least the British are finally putting sex into their movies.)

The movie was good but not great. Matthew was good but not great. It had a strange flow as if it were a documentary. The scene I liked the most was at the end when Charles comes into the chapel,dips his fingers in the holy water with which, it was revealed, he intended to snuff out the chapel candle. Good for you, Charles, diehard atheist til the end.

Quite frankly, I feel no need to ever see this movie again. I think I will go back to watching Leap Year again and again until I find another Matthew Goode movie (or any movie)I like as much. I think perhaps Matthew'll be better in movies (and even more good-looking) as he gets older.

Another thing I would like to mention. I don't know if the articles on the internet are correct saying that Matthew wasn't happy with his performance in Leap Year, and in fact, didn't like the movie. I find that insulting to the viewers that loved it and/or enjoyed.

Personally, I have something to say about that: "Matthew, you are an actor. To be in the movies you have to be a whore. Not every movie is Shakespeare."

Good and Dead by Jane Langton

Image is from Jane Langton website
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I just finished reading an early book of Jane Langton's. It is loosely defined as a mystery and Homer Kelley as the sleuth. Good and Dead, about a group of people that all attend the same church.

It's less of a mystery than a study of human nature. Her characters are fascinating with humorous names. They do strange things. They're funny. Funny Ha-Ha, and Funny Strange. The narratives are funny.

And then, Jane's descriptions are rich and poetic. A new way of looking at things. Great metaphors and unique way of looking at things. Her stories are inventive and different. Entertaining and delightful.

It's refreshing to read a book with out a lot of creepy details about death and murder. (A few of the characters in this book die of natural causes.) It's not depressing or gory.

It's fun to read Jane's novels in the order they were written. I read one of the early ones recently (Transcendental Murders) in which Homer meets his wife Mary for the first time. I read the ones where they are a retired couple first, so it was a delight to see how they got together. Homer is a literary scholar and so is Mary. Homer is retired from the District Attorney's office as a law enforcement officer. The theme of the series revolves around people who love and study the New England poets and old American authors.

It's good to read a book from earlier years that doesn't have a lot of technology involved. The library had card files instead of computers to find a book (if you recall what they were.)

None of the characters is calling anyone from a cell phone. In fact, if cell phones had been invented, one of the guys wouldn't have gotten stuck in a snow storm.

So. Get yourself a Jane Langton novel. Enjoy yourself.

Matthew Goode

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SEE WHAT I MEAN ABOUT MATTHEW GOODE NOT EVEN RESEMBLING HIS CHARACTER DECLAN IN LEAP YEAR AT ALL?

Picture one: Declan, Picture 2: Matthew. Picture 3: Even when Matthew is "wearing" his hair and beard like Declan's, he still doesn't look like Declan. Declan was a scruffy, surly Irishman with a broken heart and a grudge. And a rather poor attitude towards life and women, until Anna from Boston came into his life much by accident than desire.

Matthew Goode looks like a young, sweet guy in his pictures. His interviews show a soft spoken, witty man with a British accent.

I am sure Matthew has played characters in other movies where he didn't remotely resemble himself. Like Watchmen for instance. And A Single Man either for that matter.

HOW DOES HE DO THAT?!?

AMAZING.

HE'S MORE OF A MAGICIAN THAN AN ACTOR.

I guess I am one of those women who are attracted to the "bad boys." I prefer Declan to Matthew. No offence intended.

All I can say is thank you to Matthew for creating Declan.

And thanks to the screenwriters. Good script. Good job.

Movies vs. Books

Okay, I admit I am not reading as many books as I used to. I was reading 52 books a year. Average one per week. Except for Diana Gabaldon's which count as three books on my lists. In 2010 I was a bit below that goal. I have a lot of excuses. My grandkids live here...so I'm busy, distracted, interrupted, too tired at night to do anything but fall asleep. I had a serious illness and stroke in 2008 and had to learn how to read again...knew the meanings of the words but read really slow at first. I had open heart surgery and my husband died in 2009. I sit around crying a lot with grief. Going places and doing more, I think. Worrying about getting old. Who me? Never.

So. Watching movies and TV is getting me out of myself for awhile. Does it solve problems or cause them?

Anyway, I read a review someplace about Amy Adams where someone said Amy looked and sounded, in Leap Year, exactly like she did in Enchanted.

WHAT!??!?!

I'm watching Enchanted now and (besides it being a kid movie) Amy Adams isn't even recognizable in Enchanted. Not only doesn't she look and sound the same as Anna in Leap Year, she doesn't even look and sound like Amy Adams.

In Enchanted, I think she sounds and looks more like Brenda in Catch Me If You Can. Except for the braces. I think putting her in Enchanted was akin to casting a grown-up in Wizard of Oz, but okay...

Having mentioned Amy Adams my thoughts jumped right to her costar in Leap Year, Matthew Goode. I realized tonight that I when I said in an earlier blog I have never seen Matthew Goode's other movies, I was wrong. At least I have seen a couple of them. I just never noticed him. First of all, it's that British accent. I simply cannot understand, out of all the accents in the world, the British accent in movies or on TV. At least if I'm in a conversation with a Brit, I can ask them to repeat. I have to rely on closed captioning for British accents. Unfortunately they don't usually have CC on foreign movies (filmed and DVD'd in other than the United States.) And they never have closed captioning in movie theaters. YET.

Anyway, Matthew Goode has had some supporting parts in a few movies and TV shows I have seen. (Inspector Lynley on PBS for one, Match Point.) But he's starred in some artsy movies that I never considered watching. I guess I'll have to go back and try them if even to verify my assertion that he is an amazing actor.

I am sad to say, without that growling, knitted eyebrow look he used in Leap Year, he's really not appealing to me. He's so youthful looking, way too slender, and, what is it? Clean-cut? White-bread? British? And witty to the point of sounding sarcastic. Oh well. It's not like anyone is going to set me up on a blind date with him. (And good since I am old enough to be his mother. In fact, I have kids older than he.)

Regarding Enchanted. Did Amy Adams really do her own singing? (I can't believe she even did her own talking.)

I guess Amy Adams, Matthew Goode (and even Leo Dicaprio) are the lucky ones that will still look 16 when they are 50. Sigh.

Leonardo DiCaprio

A word about Leo's movies. I loved Leo when he played nice, sweet, young guy roles. He was good. And cute. Some serious roles and he has been fantastic. I can't believe he hasn't won an academy award by now (since he has been nominated.)

But I don't trust his movies anymore. I think maybe he's stuck in the horror genre.

First it was Titanic, that started it all for me. I refused to see it until someone told me the end. They advertised it as a "love story." I know enough to know the difference between love stories and romances. Romances have happy endings. In love stories, one or both of them die. so I knew in advance his character didn't survive the north Atlantic icy waters.

Then was in that true story where he played the guy who went through life as an impostor and forger, Catch Me If You Can. (By the way, I can remember seeing the original guy on "What's My Line" about a hundred years ago.) Leo's character languished in a foreign jail for years and nearly starved. Icky. However, my BFF movie star Amy Adams is in this one too. Brava.

Then it was Blood Diamond. It was a violent, politically apropos story. And he dies at the end. Heart breaking. Horrible.

And then The Departed. I should have known better. Hel-lo!!! Departed means dead. Everyone died at the end but that one guy and I can't remember if he was one of the good guys or bad guys. They had undercover good guys in the nest of bad guys, and bad guys serving as cops. Leo was an undercover good guy but did everything the bad guys did, so it was hard to decide. I was disappointed to see Leo bite the dust but glad to see Matt Damon finished off. (I seriously don't like Matt. It's not that he's a bad actor. He just doesn't act at all. He may have made a turn for the better in Hearafter. Clint Eastwood actually squeezed a real performance out of Matt.)

I was recently freaked out by the DVD of Shutter Island. This movie makes Leo a bonafied horror movie star. He is insane in this movie and undergoing some weird & awful therapy. When he remembers the real circumstance of why he is in an asylum for the criminally insane, believe me, the most sane thing he could have done was go insane. It was genuinely horrible. And it's unusual that I saw it in the movie theater about a year ago and don't even remember it. Maybe I belong in an asylum for the forgetfully insane. (Is bonafied a word?)

So, I would love to see Leo in a romantic comedy. Come on, all the other popular actors have had to endure them, why not you? Get into a chick flick and learn to be a little lighthearted for us women. Laugh it up a little.

Jane Langton books

I have been watching movies (quality ones) that I have forgotten about books.

That's a joke because even tho I have recently donated about 500 books to thrift stores in my neighborhood, I still read despite the movies that are keeping me enthralled.

Just for the record, I love Jane Langton's books. They are loosely described as mysteries, are well-written, the characters are charming, the author is delightful and witty with her descriptions.

Thankfully these books are older and might be out of print, but you can look for them in the thrift and used book stores.

And I wonder if Amy Adams has read any Jane Langton? (See my movie reviews below.)

I know authors don't like used book sales, but if it turns on the readers to a certain author so that they begin to buy the new editions, I say "Why not?"

Julie and Julia, Meryl Streep and Amy Adams

To rent or buy. Go for it.

I have been watching several movies with Amy Adams and feel, by now, that Amy Adams is my best friend.

I absolutely love Julie and Julia. Both actresses are wonderful.

It's well done and parts of it are delicious.

It is destined to sell a lot of books..Julia Child's cook books, memoires, and bios, and Julie Powell's books, too, if you like her sort of book. I am told not to base her readability on this movie, but you may if you prefer.

As the credits say at the beginning, the movie is based on two true stories.

In my opinion this movie, as far as true stories go, is more entertaining that Eat, Pray, Love.

Don't miss it. Fun movie and good acting all around.

I can't be called a critic because I love most movies. Except The Departed. Even Attack of the Killer Tomatoes is better than The Departed. Oh, that goes for the HORROR movie, too, Shatter Island. Horrid movie. Broke my heart. Avoid it.

Leap Year --Good Movie with Amy Adams and Matthew Goode

Leap Year is now on DVD and HBO with Amy Adams and Matthew Goode in leading roles.

The last time I fell totally in love with a movie as much as I have Leap Year it was The Phantom the Opera. (As some of my friends remember, I fell totally in love with Gerard Butler too, but that's another story.)

I LOVE this movie. I might have set a world record in how many times I've seen it. Every time I see it, I still enjoy it. It's cute and funny but often serious and sensitive.

It's a "feel-good movie." I know it might be classified as a romantic comedy and a chick flick. But it's a genuine, enjoyable entertainment. The plot goes much deeper than just a formula romance.

Amy Adams is always good. She put in a perfect performance and made the movie into a worthwhile & mainstream movie.(Amy Adams could be in a movie about dead mice and still be great.)

Adam Scott was good playing the rather bland boyfriend...I mean that's what he was supposed to be and did it well.

I haven't seen any of Matthew Goode's other movies yet, but all I can say based on Leap Year is that Matthew Goode is an AMAZING actor.

I fell in-love with his character Declan O'Callaghan Matthew created. Matthew is a creative genius. What makes him even more amazing is the fact that he completely submerged himself into Declan O'Callaghan. I couldn't find any resemblance whatsoever between the character and the actor.

Declan is a scruffy, obnoxious, quiet man with an Irish accent. I was surprised to see Matthew is a young, clean cut, witty, Englishman (and a bit stuck on himself in my opinion.) He acting such a feat of magic, a conjuring trick, he completely submerged himself into the character. (Even with 300 I could still see Gerry Butler inside that costume.)

I think the story is best revealed in the facial expressions, so watch carefully. Matthew Goode is excellent in conveying so much more than expected with a look and body language.

One of the most important keys to the story is what happens in the B & B. If you decide it's "yes" the rest of the movie and the interplay between the characters makes absolute sense. If you think it's "no" then watch it again assuming you're wrong, and you'll see what I mean. Many things after that become clear.(I have a list of 38 "hints" that support a "yes" decision on my other blog Advising Myself.) An example of how good Goode is at conveying what's really going on between the main characters, watch his expression in the scene on the bridge when Declan says, "Apparently not" and first looks towards Anna and then directly at her. He's saying so much more than "apparently not."

I can't really say anymore without giving it all away. (Well, we know a romance has a happy ending, the enjoyment is seeing just how that unfolds. In this case, I think the romance is done with a reverse plot--a man is waiting for a girl to grown up and take things seriously, rather than the typical plot of the girl waiting for a guy to come to his senses. Very innovative.)

If you are good at reading hidden clues and facial expressions, you are going to like this movie. It's well written with good direction as well as being extremely well acted. Director: Anand Tucker and Writers: Deborah Kaplan, Harry Elfont.

On a scale of 1 to 10, I give it a 9 (less than a 10 because of some cutting/editing problems that aren't that noticeable.)

Hearafter

Hearafter: GOOD movie. Even Matt Damon was good. I thank Clint Eastwood for getting Matt to act. Wonderfully done movie. Loved it. Go see it.

NaNoWriMo

I am taking the challenge. National Novel Writing Month 2010. I am writing a novel in Nov. I have two rought drafts under the bed but must come up with a new idea by Nov. 1 and write my fingers to the bone all of November. I hope a character speaks to me in my dreams tonight and lets me know what s/he thinks the plot should be, heck, the genre. Wish me luck.

I have been reading a lot of non-fiction books

Hello. I am out searching for my true self. If I should get back before I return, please keep me here and ask me to wait. Confusing? Yeah, tell me about it...

OK. I am reading a lot of non-fiction books. Mostly to help me with my tendency to get depressed. I mean, basically, to deal with it and get over it!!! Believe me an illness and a compulsion is not something people do to enjoy themselves. We don't intend to get depressed and don't choose it and when we try to stop it--it's nearly impossible. Unfortunately it gets worse if we try to ignore it.

My doc took me off the antidepressants and my depression lifted immediately. It also stopped my compulsive eating. I wish I had realized this would happen. I would have stopped my meds (and emotional eating) 10 pounds ago.

I am on a low dosage of mood stabilizers and thank goodness I am feeling hopeful now and occasionally joyful.

Wowee.

I am currently reading, among other books by Beverly Engle and Pia Melody about emotional healing and codependency, FACING LOVE ADDICTION.

All can say is "WHEW." I thought I was going crazy. I have been under the influence of a an addiction of sorts, similar to overeating, codependency, and alcoholism, and attempting to relate to a person who has some "addictions" that mesh with mine and trap us both in a toxic non-relationship.

I decided to be the wise and strong one and break out of the pattern and call it quits. It is out of respect for myself and my buddy. The relationship was working, just in a way opposite the way we hoped and wanted. Sort of love/hate relationship with attraction/avoidance cycles that were making us both worse and worse.

I am wanting to recommend that my partner in crime, my former bestfriend will read it too, but it's not my job anymore to fix him anymore that it was my job to contribute to the whole relationship of love/avoidance addictions in the first place.

I want to thank the author Pia Mellody with Andrea and J. Keith Miller co-authors as well as my therapist who recommended the book.

I feel like I am born-again and on the verge of a new style of life as a single/widowed middle-aged woman.

I am thinking of changing my name to JOY like I always wanted to.

Hope and Joy, Ahhhhhhhhhh

Sandy

DVD & VHS movies at the Library

The Rio Grande Library system has movies to "rent" for free. They are donated, so if you have some movies you don't want anymore, drop them off at the library.

I go to the Tijeras Branch of the Bernalillo County Rio Grande Library System.

I redcently watched:

Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day

Really really good. Amy Adams was adorable. Frances Dormand was wonderful. It's a chick flick but especially for everyone of all ages.

Also:

An Unmarried Woman

Wow. Jill Clayburg was in great shape back then. What ever happened to her? Don't see her in movies now. It was good to watch because I am single now that I am a widow. But I'm a little bit older than she was. It was a good movie.

Of course, I've seen some movies at the theater. Avatar in 3D twice. Loved it.

And Shutter Island with Leo. He's one of my favorites along with Johnny Depp and Gerard Butler. Leo D. sure did a lot of frowning in that movie. I liked it a lot because it kept me guessing. As a writer I love to watch a screenplay that is new and different and keeps me guessing. It's a good movie when I can't guess what's coming next and don't guess the ending. WQrth watching. It's a suspense/thriller and detective mystery (maybe) not a horror movie like the trailers on TV seemed to present.

I watched a movie I'd seen before. I always enjoy watching Gerry Butler in anything. I could watch him just standing on the stage smiling.

Movies: Our modern mythology where we learn about the secret meanings of life.

Avatar

Awesome. Fabulous. See it twice, better the second time. 3D is wonderful. And I am going to see it in HD 3D on a Dynamax screen (Century Rio 24) next. Then prob. buy it. I think it should be KEPT on a screen at all times for the next 20 years...especially in 3D.

See it.

Star Trek

Ahhhh.

Rented it. Watching it. Loved it.

For trekkies, of course, but also good for science fiction and space adventure stories. Excellent movie.

The actors were great!!! Especially the actors playing Spock (his voice could have been a little deeper) and Bones--Dr. McCoy-- was dead-on. Delightful. The rest were good, too.

I wondered for a long time where Scotty was, then theyadded him to the crew--he was one of the cuties that played Dr. No on BBC series. Too small, too thin. But just as lovable.

And the romantic interest was a surprise as was the appearance of an actor and character from the old TV series.

The familiar Kirk personality from the 1960's was brought in by the actor at the very end of the movie when we got a glimpse of the good old Captain Kirk-to-be coming forth. It was very satisfying. (Of course I missed Jeffery Hunter as Capt. Pike but many people won't even remember him.)

Definitely worth renting and watching.

NOTE to the producers: Bring Star Trek series back to the big screen, and we wouldn't mind a weekly series with the new, younger cast.

I'm gonna buy this one.

Insomnia

My inner child is being so bad....she will NOT go to sleep.

She is playing on the computer.

It is 1:50 AM and I have to answer to NOBODY. (Except God, and I doubt He judges me for what time I fall asleep.)

Why am I worrying about I should this, and I should that?

Serious RULE: Do not should on yourself.

Sandy Insomniac and/or Night Owl

Gamer -- Possibly the best Gerard Butler movie to date

I am so glad I got to the movies to see Gamer on the big screen. It is possibly the best Gerry Butler movie to date. Not only was he exceptional, so was the entire cast. Excellent. The cinematography, the script, the acting, the FX, some of the best I've seen.

The fact it was filmed in Albuquerque made it more exciting to see our "hometown" on the screen and guess or recognize the sets in Albuquerque. I remember being in the downtown Albuquerque area when they were filming parts of the movie in Nov. two years ago, and stopped to watch with a small crowd. Unfortunately the actors were far at the end of a long street and smoke machines were puffing smoke all over the scene, so the actors were not only a half an inch high from were we stood, but were hazy too from the smoke. (Also, I think the screenwriters were on strike and picking about that time, and did see them on the streets with signs--or was that on the nightly news? I don't know who wrote this script, but I loved it. Thank you, thank you.

I fully intend to buy this movie and watch it again & again. And not just to gaze on GB's glorious muscles. It's a shame the movie wasn't more popular when it was in the theaters but should have a DVD splurge as soon as it comes out. I recommend seeing it at the "last-chance" movie theaters in your hometown. Or rent it (better yet, buy it and tell all your friends to rent or buy it too.)

Let's stop ordinary Americans from saying "Gerry who"? every time his fans mention one of his movies. He's been in over 30 movies and numerous TV shows in Scotland and England, and on recent talk show appearances here--Jay Leno even in the new 9 PM slot. Gerry does romantic comedy (PS I Love You), silly drama (RocknRolla), and ... DUH ... Gerard (pronounced Jarod) Butler, the lovable and talented Scot was THE PHANTOM OF THE "FRIGGING" OPERA. Get a clue.

He now owns production company called Evil Twins, I believe, which was listed as one of the producers of Law-Abiding Citizen. He's in that too. so he may be the only actor this week with two movies in the same theater! AND he was in nearly every scene of Gamer and was clearly the featured star. The story revolved around his character/him.


The R rating of Gamer was unfortunate. I think it's an excellent movie and the violence and sexuality wasn't any worse than that graphic-novel movie 300. (If you recall, Gerry Butler was the scrumptious King and leader of the 300!)

Gamer is fast paced and keeps your interest throughout. It keeps you guessing unlike most American movies that seem to spell everything out and clarify everything at the end. Instead it unfolds for the viewer with suspense and surprise and is never predictable. It gives you the opportunity to pay close attention so you can realize exactly what is going on and when. Very good. Very good.

And the popcorn at the dollar-movies (Cinemark) isn't bad either.

Thanks. Sandy, Critique who loves movies.