100 Movies in 100 Days
Movie 8 Day 8
Destination Wedding
Happy Valentine's Day everyone! It seemed like the perfect day to write about a romantic comedy. I know, that's two in a row. Hey, it's my blog and I get to write about the movies I wanna watch!
Destination Wedding is a movie about two people going to a wedding that they really don't want to be at. Keanu Reeves plays Frank, the disapproving half brother of the groom. Winona Ryder plays Lindsay, she is the ex-fiancee of the groom. Lindsay and Frank meet on the plane ride to the destination wedding and bicker the entire time. As fate would have it, they keep getting placed together since they are the only single people at the wedding. Hilarious banter continues the remainder of the movie.
Destination Wedding does something incredibly unusual, Lindsay and Frank are the only speaking characters the entire film! There are other characters but none of them ever say a word on camera. The entire film is the back and forth bickering between Frank and Lindsay. It took me a while to wrap my mind around this concept. Destination Wedding felt like a play rather than a movie movie. It seemed incredibly intimate and personal, like I was watching them without their knowledge. It was delightfully bizarre, knowing a secret before anyone else does.
I found Destination Wedding's script very entertaining. I never knew how funny Keanu Reeves could be. He plays the perfect, cynical bastard! Frank is so sick of life and love. He finds the idea of marriage and relationships completely unnerving. I caught myself laughing out loud at his sarcastic one-liners. He does a brilliant job keeping up with Winona, who stands on her own in the comedy department. She has a dry, bitter spinster attitude that I completely relate to!
Destination Wedding says what we are all thinking but don't have the guts to say out loud! Frank and Lindsay say the horrible things we think about society, siblings, parents and partners. It's refreshing to hear someone say the taboo things out loud. I think that's where the magic of this movie happens. It's like getting splashed in the face with cold water.
If you are a cynical person who enjoys a good laugh, check out this movie. It's only an hour and 22 minutes long. If anything, it will make you smile.
Thursday, February 14, 2019
Wednesday, February 13, 2019
Isn't It Romantic
100 Movies in 100 Days
Movie 7 Day 7
Isn't It Romantic
Oh the romantic comedy, the bread and butter of my high school years. I love getting butterflies in my stomach every time my dream couple has their first kiss, especially if it's on top of the Empire State Building. I held my breath when Harry finally told Sally how he felt. I cried when Julia heard Robbie sing I Wanna Grow Old With You in The Wedding Singer. I knew I had to see Isn't It Romantic when Rebel Wilson posted pictures on Instagram during production. I followed the production online and was so excited to see the trailer. Added bonus, it's the week of Valentine's Day! On this snowy, cold morning I fought the icy roads and treated myself to Isn't It Romantic. My favorite place is the movie theater and it's even better when you are the only one in the room. I had the entire theater completely to myself. I could laugh or cry as loud as I wanted. Talk about pure Heaven on earth!
Isn't It Romantic stars Rebel Wilson as Natalie, Adam Devine as Josh, Liam Hemsworth as Blake and Priyanka Chopra as Isabebella. Natalie is an architect living in New York City, she is shy and incredibly self-conscience. Her best friend is her coworker Josh who tries to tell her how great she is. One day Natalie hits her head and wakes up in an alternative universe where her life is a PG-13 romantic comedy. She is the only person who knows what's going on and everyone else is in a dream state. Even the city of New York is filled with flowers carts, charming cupcake shops and smells like lavender. If you have ever been to New York City, you know that it not the case. Natalie meets a rich billionaire named Blake who wants to sweep her off her feet. Josh meets a supermodel yoga ambassador named Isabella and they start dating. Natalie must decide how she wants her life to play out in the fantasy world. Does she want a traditional romantic comedy ending or does she want something real?
Relating to Rebel Wilson
Rebel Wilson is one of those actresses that you want to be best friends with. I want to have a few drinks and sing a karaoke duet with her. She brings a joy and glow to every character she plays. She looks like she is having fun and we want to have fun with her. I respect her because she looks like a real woman. It's so hard to watch a movie where the leading lady is a size 2, it feels like an unachievable standard. There is a moment at the beginning of the film where Natalie's mother tells her that she will never be like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman. Natalie is not some small blushing beauty and handsome men don't want average women, they want Julia Roberts. It's a heartbreaking moment but it's what women are taught. If we don't look a certain way, if we don't have perfect hair, money, and a yoga body then we are seen as less than other women. We are taught to always compare ourselves to someone else. Isn't It Romantic says no to the perfect body standard, it says embrace who you really are. Love yourself because we love you!
The casting in Isn't It Romantic was hilarious and perfect. Liam had no problem making fun of himself, he just went for it. It was so funny to see this sexy man fall into all the cheesy romantic comedy cliches. He dramatically writes his phone number on rose pedals and dropping them on the ground for Natalie. Who does that!? Priyanka Chopra does a brilliant job keeping up with Rebel Wilson. I had no idea how funny Priyanka was! She has perfect comedic timing and I hope we see her in more comedies. Then there is Adam Devine, I swear I like him more and more with every film. He has this charming way about him, call it the "It" factor. You want to give him a big hug and we all fall a little in love with him, well I did! He's the cute boy next door you slowly fall in love with because he's genuinely there for you. Oh be still my beating heart!
Some slight spoilers ahead.....
Isn't It Romantic asks the question, would life be better if we lived in a romantic comedy? When you have everything you thought you always wanted, are you truly happy? Natalie takes a hard look at her life and sees that the only person holding her back is herself. She doesn't believe her work or ideas are extraordinary, so no one else does either. She assumes all the men she meets only see her as a friend. She hold herself back from loving herself. The real moral of the story is accepting who you are and not being afraid to create your own true happiness. It's a beautiful story and it's something that women and men need to remind themselves of all the time. One of my favorite Charlie Chaplin quotes is, "Life is a tragedy when seen in close-up but a comedy in long-shot." Isn't It Romantic fights the stereotypes with humor and grace. Teaching us that loving ourselves and creating our own happiness is what is most important.
If you are looking for a movie to make you laugh or if you have a passion for romantic comedies, Isn't It Romantic is for you. BONUS: Musical Moments! Director Todd Strauss-Schulson does a masterful job of finding cliche songs from romantic comedies and featuring them in Isn't It Romantic. Let's talk about Todd. Todd took as story that could have been so cheesy and made it into something poignant about love and life. Thank you Todd from reminding the audience, all we need is to love ourselves. We are responsible for our own happiness and we are perfect just as we are. Happy Valentine's Day everyone. Grab a girlfriend, boyfriend, best friend, sister, aunt, or mother and enjoy this wonderful romantic comedy. May you leave the theater with a smile on your face and a little dance in your step!
Movie 7 Day 7
Isn't It Romantic
Oh the romantic comedy, the bread and butter of my high school years. I love getting butterflies in my stomach every time my dream couple has their first kiss, especially if it's on top of the Empire State Building. I held my breath when Harry finally told Sally how he felt. I cried when Julia heard Robbie sing I Wanna Grow Old With You in The Wedding Singer. I knew I had to see Isn't It Romantic when Rebel Wilson posted pictures on Instagram during production. I followed the production online and was so excited to see the trailer. Added bonus, it's the week of Valentine's Day! On this snowy, cold morning I fought the icy roads and treated myself to Isn't It Romantic. My favorite place is the movie theater and it's even better when you are the only one in the room. I had the entire theater completely to myself. I could laugh or cry as loud as I wanted. Talk about pure Heaven on earth!
Isn't It Romantic stars Rebel Wilson as Natalie, Adam Devine as Josh, Liam Hemsworth as Blake and Priyanka Chopra as Isabebella. Natalie is an architect living in New York City, she is shy and incredibly self-conscience. Her best friend is her coworker Josh who tries to tell her how great she is. One day Natalie hits her head and wakes up in an alternative universe where her life is a PG-13 romantic comedy. She is the only person who knows what's going on and everyone else is in a dream state. Even the city of New York is filled with flowers carts, charming cupcake shops and smells like lavender. If you have ever been to New York City, you know that it not the case. Natalie meets a rich billionaire named Blake who wants to sweep her off her feet. Josh meets a supermodel yoga ambassador named Isabella and they start dating. Natalie must decide how she wants her life to play out in the fantasy world. Does she want a traditional romantic comedy ending or does she want something real?
Relating to Rebel Wilson
Rebel Wilson is one of those actresses that you want to be best friends with. I want to have a few drinks and sing a karaoke duet with her. She brings a joy and glow to every character she plays. She looks like she is having fun and we want to have fun with her. I respect her because she looks like a real woman. It's so hard to watch a movie where the leading lady is a size 2, it feels like an unachievable standard. There is a moment at the beginning of the film where Natalie's mother tells her that she will never be like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman. Natalie is not some small blushing beauty and handsome men don't want average women, they want Julia Roberts. It's a heartbreaking moment but it's what women are taught. If we don't look a certain way, if we don't have perfect hair, money, and a yoga body then we are seen as less than other women. We are taught to always compare ourselves to someone else. Isn't It Romantic says no to the perfect body standard, it says embrace who you really are. Love yourself because we love you!
The casting in Isn't It Romantic was hilarious and perfect. Liam had no problem making fun of himself, he just went for it. It was so funny to see this sexy man fall into all the cheesy romantic comedy cliches. He dramatically writes his phone number on rose pedals and dropping them on the ground for Natalie. Who does that!? Priyanka Chopra does a brilliant job keeping up with Rebel Wilson. I had no idea how funny Priyanka was! She has perfect comedic timing and I hope we see her in more comedies. Then there is Adam Devine, I swear I like him more and more with every film. He has this charming way about him, call it the "It" factor. You want to give him a big hug and we all fall a little in love with him, well I did! He's the cute boy next door you slowly fall in love with because he's genuinely there for you. Oh be still my beating heart!
Some slight spoilers ahead.....
Isn't It Romantic asks the question, would life be better if we lived in a romantic comedy? When you have everything you thought you always wanted, are you truly happy? Natalie takes a hard look at her life and sees that the only person holding her back is herself. She doesn't believe her work or ideas are extraordinary, so no one else does either. She assumes all the men she meets only see her as a friend. She hold herself back from loving herself. The real moral of the story is accepting who you are and not being afraid to create your own true happiness. It's a beautiful story and it's something that women and men need to remind themselves of all the time. One of my favorite Charlie Chaplin quotes is, "Life is a tragedy when seen in close-up but a comedy in long-shot." Isn't It Romantic fights the stereotypes with humor and grace. Teaching us that loving ourselves and creating our own happiness is what is most important.
If you are looking for a movie to make you laugh or if you have a passion for romantic comedies, Isn't It Romantic is for you. BONUS: Musical Moments! Director Todd Strauss-Schulson does a masterful job of finding cliche songs from romantic comedies and featuring them in Isn't It Romantic. Let's talk about Todd. Todd took as story that could have been so cheesy and made it into something poignant about love and life. Thank you Todd from reminding the audience, all we need is to love ourselves. We are responsible for our own happiness and we are perfect just as we are. Happy Valentine's Day everyone. Grab a girlfriend, boyfriend, best friend, sister, aunt, or mother and enjoy this wonderful romantic comedy. May you leave the theater with a smile on your face and a little dance in your step!
Tuesday, February 12, 2019
Digging for Fire
100 Movies in 100 Days
Movie 6 Day 6
Digging for Fire
I decided to mix things up a bit and watch Digging for Fire. I've always wanted to watch this movie because I adore the talented cast. It's like a Where's Waldo of famous people. Director Joe Swanberg is known for casting his friends and family, this movie is no exception. Jake Johnson plays public school teacher Tim and Rosemarie DeWitt plays his yoga instructor wife named Lee. The film also costars Chris Messina as Tango, Sam Rockwell as Ray, Orlando Bloom as Ben, Anna Kendrick as Alycia, and Brie Larson as Max.
Fun trivia via IMDB Joe Swanberg and Jake Johnson co-wrote Digging for Fire in a 2 page outline. Joe Swanberg is known for filming movies with no active script. Digging for Fire was filmed with a loose outline and the rest is improvised by the actors. It's an unconventional way to direct but Swanberg seems to have it down pretty well. The actor's lines flow seamlessly, it's very impressive considering it's mostly improv.
What would you do if you were house sitting and you found a bone and a gun buried in the backyard? Have a booze and drug infused digging party.....duh! Digging for Fire starts with Lee and Tim arguing about finishing their taxes while house sitting. This also happens on the same day that Tim finds a gun and bone in the backyard. Lee decides to go to her parent's house for the weekend while Tim stays home. Tim calls his friends over, they get drunk, do a bunch of cocaine, smoke a bunch of pot and start digging in the backyard. They end up finding random items likes a license plate, a shoe, and more bones. Tim tries to call the cops but unless they find a real body, the cops won't send anyone out.
Lee decides to have a night out for herself and she meets Ben at a local restaurant. Ben defends Lee from a drunk guy hitting on her. Ben tries to escort drunk guy out and ends up with a cut on his head. Lee and Ben end up having a little adventure of their own but I'm not gonna give away any spoilers!
Digging for Fire is a ton of fun to watch. It asks the question, what happens when friends start to grow apart? Tim is a father but Ray and Tango are still partying and sleeping with random women. Lee loves her family but still has the question of what if. I know it sounds cliche but the characters are wonderfully human. I see myself and some of my friends in each character. I found myself connecting with these people. Ok, I might not obsessively dig in the backyard for God knows what but I can see why someone would.
After watching Digging for Fire, I really want to work with Joe Swanberg. The way he films his movies with no script is absolutely fascinating. The dialog moves smoothly and with ease. It must be a wonderful atmosphere on set to be free with these characters. I would love to be a part of a film like that. #BucketList
If you are looking for something fun to watch and have a spare hour and a half, check out Digging for Fire. It has an independent feel to it. It seems like a simple story but there is so much more lurking under the surface. Enjoy!
Movie 6 Day 6
Digging for Fire
I decided to mix things up a bit and watch Digging for Fire. I've always wanted to watch this movie because I adore the talented cast. It's like a Where's Waldo of famous people. Director Joe Swanberg is known for casting his friends and family, this movie is no exception. Jake Johnson plays public school teacher Tim and Rosemarie DeWitt plays his yoga instructor wife named Lee. The film also costars Chris Messina as Tango, Sam Rockwell as Ray, Orlando Bloom as Ben, Anna Kendrick as Alycia, and Brie Larson as Max.
Fun trivia via IMDB Joe Swanberg and Jake Johnson co-wrote Digging for Fire in a 2 page outline. Joe Swanberg is known for filming movies with no active script. Digging for Fire was filmed with a loose outline and the rest is improvised by the actors. It's an unconventional way to direct but Swanberg seems to have it down pretty well. The actor's lines flow seamlessly, it's very impressive considering it's mostly improv.
What would you do if you were house sitting and you found a bone and a gun buried in the backyard? Have a booze and drug infused digging party.....duh! Digging for Fire starts with Lee and Tim arguing about finishing their taxes while house sitting. This also happens on the same day that Tim finds a gun and bone in the backyard. Lee decides to go to her parent's house for the weekend while Tim stays home. Tim calls his friends over, they get drunk, do a bunch of cocaine, smoke a bunch of pot and start digging in the backyard. They end up finding random items likes a license plate, a shoe, and more bones. Tim tries to call the cops but unless they find a real body, the cops won't send anyone out.
Lee decides to have a night out for herself and she meets Ben at a local restaurant. Ben defends Lee from a drunk guy hitting on her. Ben tries to escort drunk guy out and ends up with a cut on his head. Lee and Ben end up having a little adventure of their own but I'm not gonna give away any spoilers!
Digging for Fire is a ton of fun to watch. It asks the question, what happens when friends start to grow apart? Tim is a father but Ray and Tango are still partying and sleeping with random women. Lee loves her family but still has the question of what if. I know it sounds cliche but the characters are wonderfully human. I see myself and some of my friends in each character. I found myself connecting with these people. Ok, I might not obsessively dig in the backyard for God knows what but I can see why someone would.
After watching Digging for Fire, I really want to work with Joe Swanberg. The way he films his movies with no script is absolutely fascinating. The dialog moves smoothly and with ease. It must be a wonderful atmosphere on set to be free with these characters. I would love to be a part of a film like that. #BucketList
If you are looking for something fun to watch and have a spare hour and a half, check out Digging for Fire. It has an independent feel to it. It seems like a simple story but there is so much more lurking under the surface. Enjoy!
Monday, February 11, 2019
The Shining
100 Movies in 100 Days
Movie 5 Day 5
The Shining
Another day, another Stanley Kubrick classic. I am in desperate need of a romantic comedy or a movie that is not 2 hours and 20 minutes long. I might need to watch The Mindy Project or When Harry Met Sally after The Shining. All Kubrick and no romance makes Amber GO CRAZY!
The Shining is based off of the Stephen King novel of the same name. The film stars Jack Nicholson as Jack Torrance, Shelley Duvall as Wendy Torrance, Danny Lloyd as Danny Torrance and Scatman Crothers as Halloran. Jack is a struggling writer who takes a 5 month position, as the winter caretaker, in a remote hotel in the mountains of Colorado called The Overlook Hotel. Jack, along with his son and wife, live in complete seclusion in this incredibly haunted hotel.
HOLY CRAP this movie is terrifying. Jack Nicholson plays an unhinged psychopath perfectly. I believed Jack was slowly descending into madness. The first time I saw The Shining I remember being way too young, I think I was 12. I remember not being able to sleep and having nightmares. I remember covering my eyes when Jack walks into room 237. The Shining has the power to haunt viewers years after watching it. I suppose that is part of the Kubrick magic.
It is nice to go back to a movie and observe things you may have missed the first time. I was always annoyed at Shelley Duvall's character but now I sympathize with her. Who knows the type of emotional abuse she endured at the hands of Jack before the movie starts. We hear about his bourbon fueled outbursts, it made me wonder how much verbal abuse she endured from him. We see she is a compassionate, loving and understanding mother. She is evening accepting of Danny's "imaginary" friend and asks to talk to him. She doesn't make her child feel different, she accepts who he is. What I find fascinating is her emotional breakdown. I read on IMDB that Kubrick intentionally alienated and belittled Duvall to push her emotional performance. Her performance looks emotionally exhausting, I mean that in the best possible way. How would I react if I'm locked in a haunted hotel with my crazy husband and mentally unstable child? I would probably be a hysterical mess too! Instead, Wendy fights through tears and exhaustion to save her son. She hits her crazy husband with a baseball bat and locks him in the pantry. Simply put, Shelley Duvall was a badass.
The Shining is very long and you feel every minute of it. I'm not sure if it's because we only have 3 characters to relate to and most of them are going crazy. The pacing of the film does start to drag until the last 20 minutes. The climax of the movie has you on the edge of your seat. You hold in a scream as Jack chops away at the bathroom door. You bite your nails as Danny tries to hide in the maze, knowing the Jack is close behind him. The Climax of the movie is what makes up for the slow pacing in the middle. I mean, how often do you see blood pour out of an elevator like a tidal wave?
Once again, Stanley Kubrick knew how to work a camera. Kubrick did a beautiful job portraying loneliness and seclusion by filling the screen with wide shots. The characters take up such a small amount of space in this larger than life hotel. All the wide shots add to the dramatic effect of the close up shots. The close up shots seem uncomfortably intimate, you are in a place or space you shouldn't be. It adds to the terror, you are seeing something you are not supposed to.
Most people don't notice this one but the sound mixing in this movie is breathtaking. Sound mixing is all the little sounds that add to the emotion of a film. I'm not referring to the music, which is eerie and unnerving, I'm referring to the little sounds. The clicking sound of Jack's typewriter seems amplified in contrast to the quiet seclusion of the hotel. The dramatic transition of Danny's big wheel as it goes from carpet to hard wood is almost painful to the ears. I became used to the silence and was jarred at any and all loud sounds. It added to the horror of the film. You become used to the silence. Another reason the ending is so effective, the jarring noise intensifies our emotional connection to the film.
It was the 80's.....
My biggest issue with the movie is YOU CAN NOT SAY THE N-WORD!! It is not ok, I don't care what year the movie was made. Was Kubrick trying to create dramatic effect or did he not find it as offensive as it is? It is said at least 4 times in a 2 minute conversation. Jack and ghost butler are referring to Halloran as the N-word. It bothered me more than anything else in the movie. I can handle a husband trying to ax-murder his family. I can deal with creepy ghost twins but I can not handle shock-value racism. I didn't like it and it felt unnecessary.
I have so many questions about this movie. Maybe I should read the book, it could explain things better. Can someone please explain the ending to me? Is Jack a reincarnated ghost? Did all this happen because the hotel was built on a Native American burial ground? How come the hotel isn't haunted during the summer? So many unanswered questions!
Does The Shining deserve the title of classic horror film? Yes, it is scary and beautiful. Stanley Kubrick made a film that stays with the audience long after the credits roll. The Shining is also a cult classic. Now I really want to watch Ready Player One. In Ready Player One, Spielberg does an uncanny homage to The Shining by recreating the movie as a video game level. I was on the edge of my seat but my 14 year old nephew didn't understand why I was freaking out. He kept asking, "What's in room 237?" Don't worry about it you sweet summer child, stay innocent.
The Shining is a movie that will never be far from my nightmares. How many times have you been in a hotel hallway and thought you saw the terrifying twins? You know you have thought about it and if you haven't, you will now! You're welcome.
Movie 5 Day 5
The Shining
Another day, another Stanley Kubrick classic. I am in desperate need of a romantic comedy or a movie that is not 2 hours and 20 minutes long. I might need to watch The Mindy Project or When Harry Met Sally after The Shining. All Kubrick and no romance makes Amber GO CRAZY!
The Shining is based off of the Stephen King novel of the same name. The film stars Jack Nicholson as Jack Torrance, Shelley Duvall as Wendy Torrance, Danny Lloyd as Danny Torrance and Scatman Crothers as Halloran. Jack is a struggling writer who takes a 5 month position, as the winter caretaker, in a remote hotel in the mountains of Colorado called The Overlook Hotel. Jack, along with his son and wife, live in complete seclusion in this incredibly haunted hotel.
HOLY CRAP this movie is terrifying. Jack Nicholson plays an unhinged psychopath perfectly. I believed Jack was slowly descending into madness. The first time I saw The Shining I remember being way too young, I think I was 12. I remember not being able to sleep and having nightmares. I remember covering my eyes when Jack walks into room 237. The Shining has the power to haunt viewers years after watching it. I suppose that is part of the Kubrick magic.
It is nice to go back to a movie and observe things you may have missed the first time. I was always annoyed at Shelley Duvall's character but now I sympathize with her. Who knows the type of emotional abuse she endured at the hands of Jack before the movie starts. We hear about his bourbon fueled outbursts, it made me wonder how much verbal abuse she endured from him. We see she is a compassionate, loving and understanding mother. She is evening accepting of Danny's "imaginary" friend and asks to talk to him. She doesn't make her child feel different, she accepts who he is. What I find fascinating is her emotional breakdown. I read on IMDB that Kubrick intentionally alienated and belittled Duvall to push her emotional performance. Her performance looks emotionally exhausting, I mean that in the best possible way. How would I react if I'm locked in a haunted hotel with my crazy husband and mentally unstable child? I would probably be a hysterical mess too! Instead, Wendy fights through tears and exhaustion to save her son. She hits her crazy husband with a baseball bat and locks him in the pantry. Simply put, Shelley Duvall was a badass.
The Shining is very long and you feel every minute of it. I'm not sure if it's because we only have 3 characters to relate to and most of them are going crazy. The pacing of the film does start to drag until the last 20 minutes. The climax of the movie has you on the edge of your seat. You hold in a scream as Jack chops away at the bathroom door. You bite your nails as Danny tries to hide in the maze, knowing the Jack is close behind him. The Climax of the movie is what makes up for the slow pacing in the middle. I mean, how often do you see blood pour out of an elevator like a tidal wave?
Once again, Stanley Kubrick knew how to work a camera. Kubrick did a beautiful job portraying loneliness and seclusion by filling the screen with wide shots. The characters take up such a small amount of space in this larger than life hotel. All the wide shots add to the dramatic effect of the close up shots. The close up shots seem uncomfortably intimate, you are in a place or space you shouldn't be. It adds to the terror, you are seeing something you are not supposed to.
Most people don't notice this one but the sound mixing in this movie is breathtaking. Sound mixing is all the little sounds that add to the emotion of a film. I'm not referring to the music, which is eerie and unnerving, I'm referring to the little sounds. The clicking sound of Jack's typewriter seems amplified in contrast to the quiet seclusion of the hotel. The dramatic transition of Danny's big wheel as it goes from carpet to hard wood is almost painful to the ears. I became used to the silence and was jarred at any and all loud sounds. It added to the horror of the film. You become used to the silence. Another reason the ending is so effective, the jarring noise intensifies our emotional connection to the film.
It was the 80's.....
My biggest issue with the movie is YOU CAN NOT SAY THE N-WORD!! It is not ok, I don't care what year the movie was made. Was Kubrick trying to create dramatic effect or did he not find it as offensive as it is? It is said at least 4 times in a 2 minute conversation. Jack and ghost butler are referring to Halloran as the N-word. It bothered me more than anything else in the movie. I can handle a husband trying to ax-murder his family. I can deal with creepy ghost twins but I can not handle shock-value racism. I didn't like it and it felt unnecessary.
I have so many questions about this movie. Maybe I should read the book, it could explain things better. Can someone please explain the ending to me? Is Jack a reincarnated ghost? Did all this happen because the hotel was built on a Native American burial ground? How come the hotel isn't haunted during the summer? So many unanswered questions!
Does The Shining deserve the title of classic horror film? Yes, it is scary and beautiful. Stanley Kubrick made a film that stays with the audience long after the credits roll. The Shining is also a cult classic. Now I really want to watch Ready Player One. In Ready Player One, Spielberg does an uncanny homage to The Shining by recreating the movie as a video game level. I was on the edge of my seat but my 14 year old nephew didn't understand why I was freaking out. He kept asking, "What's in room 237?" Don't worry about it you sweet summer child, stay innocent.
The Shining is a movie that will never be far from my nightmares. How many times have you been in a hotel hallway and thought you saw the terrifying twins? You know you have thought about it and if you haven't, you will now! You're welcome.
Sunday, February 10, 2019
A Clockwork Orange
100 Movies in 100 Days
Movie 4 Day 4
A Clockwork Orange
How do I write a review for a movie I have been avoiding for 14 years? I tried to watch A Clockwork Orange when I was 18 and dating a guy who loved cult classic films. We sat down to watch it and I made him turn it off in the first 15 minutes. I didn't feel comfortable watching a violent rape scene with my boyfriend. I have avoided the movie ever since but the whole point of these reviews is getting outside of my comfort zone. I decided to give it another try because it is considered a classic.
For those of you that don't know, A Clockwork Orange is a 1971 movie directed by Stanley Kubrick. The story is narrated by Alex, he goes around England with 3 friends raping, robbing, assaulting, and murdering people for fun. He is caught and the government tries a form of brainwashing to try and cure his cravings for criminal activity.
What did I think of A Clockwork Orange? I absolutely HATED IT. I did not find A Clockwork Orange enjoyable at all but I am here to review the film regardless of my personal feelings. There are parts of the film that I can appreciate from a creative perspective. So I will start with what I hated and then move to the parts I can respect as a film critic.
Director Stanley Kubrick was known for pushing the envelope. He seemed to enjoy making his audience feel uncomfortable and exposed. A Clockwork Orange portrays women as objects and uses rape and nudity as a lazy plot device. There is nothing artistic watching multiple women being terrorized and objectified for the pleasure of the men on screen. Maybe it's the feminist in me but I hated every moment of this film. I saw it as glorified pornography, showing the secret violent sexual fantasies of deplorable men. I know there was more to the story than gratuitous violence and rape but I had a hard time separating it.
SPOILERS AHEAD
The ending enraged me. He gets away with everything! He gets out of prison 12 years early because the criminal cure worked. The side effect for the cure is if he thinks of committing a crime he becomes violently sick. So the government believes he is cured and release him back into society. Alex does not have it easy upon his release. His family wants nothing to do with him. He runs into his old crime pals, who are now cops and they kick the crap out of him. He wanders into the house of one of his victims, the victim remembers him and tortures Alex. Alex then jumps out of a window to end it all but he doesn't die. He wakes up in the hospital and the government is worried he will sue, so they offer him a job with tons of money. Not only does Alex get away with everything but he's rewarded!! What the actual heck is that!? He is a violent, horrible criminal and he is going to be awarded for it. How does that make any sense? What a terrible moral of the story. I'm sure Kubrick was trying to be profound and say it was the government's fault and bad people still end up on top. I get that but it does not mean I have to like or agree with it! I wasted 2 hours and 17 minutes for the rapist to get away with everything. HORRIBLE ENDING
Ok I know I'm ranting. You should see how fast I am typing, I'm so fired up. To be fair, there are a few things I can appreciate as a film maker. The portrayal of Alex by Malcolm McDowell was brilliant. Even if I hated the character, I still believed the performance. He was charismatic, charming and a sociopath. I appreciated how the character almost never blinks, it made me completely uneasy. He delivered his lines with an eerie rhythmic cadence that stays with you until the credits roll.
The cinematography was beautifully shot. Kubrick had a way of making wide shots seem intimate. You see so much in one frame, almost like a vulnerability of the characters. The colors and images contrast the emotions of Alex. When he finally hits rock bottom, everything is muddy, dark and gray. When he feels empowered the scenes have an orange, red and white tone. It was beautifully filmed.
I understand why A Clockwork Orange is considered a classic. It is beautifully filmed and the script is witty and unique. Only Stanley Kubrick could pull off a violent story and make it seem like art. This also shows, just because a film is considered a classic, it doesn't mean I have to enjoy it. I didn't and I never will. I hope I never have to watch this movie again. I was bored and disgusted, not my cup of tea at all.
Movie 4 Day 4
A Clockwork Orange
How do I write a review for a movie I have been avoiding for 14 years? I tried to watch A Clockwork Orange when I was 18 and dating a guy who loved cult classic films. We sat down to watch it and I made him turn it off in the first 15 minutes. I didn't feel comfortable watching a violent rape scene with my boyfriend. I have avoided the movie ever since but the whole point of these reviews is getting outside of my comfort zone. I decided to give it another try because it is considered a classic.
For those of you that don't know, A Clockwork Orange is a 1971 movie directed by Stanley Kubrick. The story is narrated by Alex, he goes around England with 3 friends raping, robbing, assaulting, and murdering people for fun. He is caught and the government tries a form of brainwashing to try and cure his cravings for criminal activity.
What did I think of A Clockwork Orange? I absolutely HATED IT. I did not find A Clockwork Orange enjoyable at all but I am here to review the film regardless of my personal feelings. There are parts of the film that I can appreciate from a creative perspective. So I will start with what I hated and then move to the parts I can respect as a film critic.
Director Stanley Kubrick was known for pushing the envelope. He seemed to enjoy making his audience feel uncomfortable and exposed. A Clockwork Orange portrays women as objects and uses rape and nudity as a lazy plot device. There is nothing artistic watching multiple women being terrorized and objectified for the pleasure of the men on screen. Maybe it's the feminist in me but I hated every moment of this film. I saw it as glorified pornography, showing the secret violent sexual fantasies of deplorable men. I know there was more to the story than gratuitous violence and rape but I had a hard time separating it.
SPOILERS AHEAD
The ending enraged me. He gets away with everything! He gets out of prison 12 years early because the criminal cure worked. The side effect for the cure is if he thinks of committing a crime he becomes violently sick. So the government believes he is cured and release him back into society. Alex does not have it easy upon his release. His family wants nothing to do with him. He runs into his old crime pals, who are now cops and they kick the crap out of him. He wanders into the house of one of his victims, the victim remembers him and tortures Alex. Alex then jumps out of a window to end it all but he doesn't die. He wakes up in the hospital and the government is worried he will sue, so they offer him a job with tons of money. Not only does Alex get away with everything but he's rewarded!! What the actual heck is that!? He is a violent, horrible criminal and he is going to be awarded for it. How does that make any sense? What a terrible moral of the story. I'm sure Kubrick was trying to be profound and say it was the government's fault and bad people still end up on top. I get that but it does not mean I have to like or agree with it! I wasted 2 hours and 17 minutes for the rapist to get away with everything. HORRIBLE ENDING
Ok I know I'm ranting. You should see how fast I am typing, I'm so fired up. To be fair, there are a few things I can appreciate as a film maker. The portrayal of Alex by Malcolm McDowell was brilliant. Even if I hated the character, I still believed the performance. He was charismatic, charming and a sociopath. I appreciated how the character almost never blinks, it made me completely uneasy. He delivered his lines with an eerie rhythmic cadence that stays with you until the credits roll.
The cinematography was beautifully shot. Kubrick had a way of making wide shots seem intimate. You see so much in one frame, almost like a vulnerability of the characters. The colors and images contrast the emotions of Alex. When he finally hits rock bottom, everything is muddy, dark and gray. When he feels empowered the scenes have an orange, red and white tone. It was beautifully filmed.
I understand why A Clockwork Orange is considered a classic. It is beautifully filmed and the script is witty and unique. Only Stanley Kubrick could pull off a violent story and make it seem like art. This also shows, just because a film is considered a classic, it doesn't mean I have to enjoy it. I didn't and I never will. I hope I never have to watch this movie again. I was bored and disgusted, not my cup of tea at all.
Saturday, February 9, 2019
The Matrix - Can It Stand Up for 20 Years
100 Movies in 100 Days
Movie 3 Day 3
The Matrix
Happy 20th Anniversary to The Matrix! I remember seeing this movie in the theater when I was 12. I had no idea what was going on! Wait, is it a computer game? Is it the future? Is it just a really bad acid trip? Why is everyone dressed up like leather grunge goths? These are questions I still have as I re-watch this movie for the first time in many years.
To be perfectly honest, I have not watched The Matrix in 15 years, at least. I think the last time I watched it I was in high school and all the boys were OBSESSED with this movie. In 1999 The Matrix came out of nowhere and became an instant cult classic. We were all shocked at the groundbreaking special effects and unique story-line. I remember all the parodies that came out after this movie. Anyone else remember Anna Faris doing The Matrix jump in Scary Movie?! It became a cultural phenomenon. I remember getting fake black leather pants and boots, it was a kinky twist on early 90's grunge culture. Oh how I miss the 90's!! Moving on!
So here is the real question, is The Matrix still as impressive 20 years later?
The short answer, HECK YEAH!
I completely forgot how great this movie was! I was hesitant to watch it because I was afraid the special effects would not stand up. There is nothing sadder than watching a movie from your childhood and realizing the special effects are crap. I'm talking about you Lawnmower Man?! 20 years is a very long time in the age of special effects. The Wachowski Siblings gave the film a timeless vintage vibe. The major sign that the movie is 20 years old is the cell phones and the computers. The cell phones are the old school black sliders that only made phone calls. I know, crazy right? How am I supposed to text someone or check Facebook? How dare you, there is no need for Facebook in The Matrix. As Morpheus explains, The Matrix is set to the year 1999 so we except the outdated technology. We will let go of the bulky computer screens and the fact Neo has a hacking program on a floppy disk.
The special effects are still impressive. You know the special effects team was good when you can't tell the difference between a computer generated effect and a practical effect. For the majority of the movie, I couldn't tell the difference and I have a very keen eye for special effects. I know Trinity was not really flying a helicopter but it sure does look real. Not to get too nerdy but I'm still impressed but the blue pill/red pill scene. The pills and Neo reflected in Morpheus' sunglasses is my favorite shot in the entire movie, film-making GOLD! 20 years later and I'm still impressed by the brilliant work by The Wachowski Siblings. The only out-dated special effect is toward the end of the movie when Neo takes over the body of Agent Smith. The effect is so 1999 but in a nostalgic kind of way.
The acting, where do I even begin? Let's talk about the always brilliant Laurence Fishburne as Morpheus. He embodies charisma and charm. He draws you in with the promise of truth and meaning to your life. He is someone you want to follow into the post-apocalyptic battle. The performance still gives me chills.
Another stand out performance is Hugo Weaving as Agent Smith. Holy crap, I'm still terrified of this man. Hugo becomes this robotic program with no human emotions or actions. He's completely horrifying in the best way possible. It takes a magnetic actor to stand up and hold his own next to Laurence Fishburne and Keanu Reeves, Hugo Weaving does that without breaking a sweat.
We have to talk about Keanu Reeves. Oh Keanu, the handsome man of my high school dreams, you are beautiful, haunting and sexy. You draw me in with those sad eyes, gorgeous marble face, and charming innocence..... Sorry, I'm distracting myself.....what was I talking about again. Oh right, Keanu's acting. Keanu does a wonderful job of making Neo vastly likable. He brings a childlike innocence to the character that you want to protect. You don't want to see him fall at the hands of society. We want to see him learn Kung-Fu and kick some serious Agent ass. We want Neo to be The One, to save us all. I think a reason this movie did so well with men and women is because of Keanu Reeves. We found him to be an interesting character. We were him and he was us, neither understanding what The Matrix is or how to comprehend it. We want to see more of his adventures!
Not only does The Matrix stand the test of time, it roundhouse kicks time in the face. When was the last time you watched The Matrix? I suggest you grab a drink, pop some popcorn and watch it as soon as possible. In March, The Matrix will turn 20 year old, let's celebrate this mind-blowing movie. Take the red pill and go down the rabbit hole with me.
Movie 3 Day 3
The Matrix
Happy 20th Anniversary to The Matrix! I remember seeing this movie in the theater when I was 12. I had no idea what was going on! Wait, is it a computer game? Is it the future? Is it just a really bad acid trip? Why is everyone dressed up like leather grunge goths? These are questions I still have as I re-watch this movie for the first time in many years.
To be perfectly honest, I have not watched The Matrix in 15 years, at least. I think the last time I watched it I was in high school and all the boys were OBSESSED with this movie. In 1999 The Matrix came out of nowhere and became an instant cult classic. We were all shocked at the groundbreaking special effects and unique story-line. I remember all the parodies that came out after this movie. Anyone else remember Anna Faris doing The Matrix jump in Scary Movie?! It became a cultural phenomenon. I remember getting fake black leather pants and boots, it was a kinky twist on early 90's grunge culture. Oh how I miss the 90's!! Moving on!
So here is the real question, is The Matrix still as impressive 20 years later?
The short answer, HECK YEAH!
I completely forgot how great this movie was! I was hesitant to watch it because I was afraid the special effects would not stand up. There is nothing sadder than watching a movie from your childhood and realizing the special effects are crap. I'm talking about you Lawnmower Man?! 20 years is a very long time in the age of special effects. The Wachowski Siblings gave the film a timeless vintage vibe. The major sign that the movie is 20 years old is the cell phones and the computers. The cell phones are the old school black sliders that only made phone calls. I know, crazy right? How am I supposed to text someone or check Facebook? How dare you, there is no need for Facebook in The Matrix. As Morpheus explains, The Matrix is set to the year 1999 so we except the outdated technology. We will let go of the bulky computer screens and the fact Neo has a hacking program on a floppy disk.
The special effects are still impressive. You know the special effects team was good when you can't tell the difference between a computer generated effect and a practical effect. For the majority of the movie, I couldn't tell the difference and I have a very keen eye for special effects. I know Trinity was not really flying a helicopter but it sure does look real. Not to get too nerdy but I'm still impressed but the blue pill/red pill scene. The pills and Neo reflected in Morpheus' sunglasses is my favorite shot in the entire movie, film-making GOLD! 20 years later and I'm still impressed by the brilliant work by The Wachowski Siblings. The only out-dated special effect is toward the end of the movie when Neo takes over the body of Agent Smith. The effect is so 1999 but in a nostalgic kind of way.
The acting, where do I even begin? Let's talk about the always brilliant Laurence Fishburne as Morpheus. He embodies charisma and charm. He draws you in with the promise of truth and meaning to your life. He is someone you want to follow into the post-apocalyptic battle. The performance still gives me chills.
Another stand out performance is Hugo Weaving as Agent Smith. Holy crap, I'm still terrified of this man. Hugo becomes this robotic program with no human emotions or actions. He's completely horrifying in the best way possible. It takes a magnetic actor to stand up and hold his own next to Laurence Fishburne and Keanu Reeves, Hugo Weaving does that without breaking a sweat.
We have to talk about Keanu Reeves. Oh Keanu, the handsome man of my high school dreams, you are beautiful, haunting and sexy. You draw me in with those sad eyes, gorgeous marble face, and charming innocence..... Sorry, I'm distracting myself.....what was I talking about again. Oh right, Keanu's acting. Keanu does a wonderful job of making Neo vastly likable. He brings a childlike innocence to the character that you want to protect. You don't want to see him fall at the hands of society. We want to see him learn Kung-Fu and kick some serious Agent ass. We want Neo to be The One, to save us all. I think a reason this movie did so well with men and women is because of Keanu Reeves. We found him to be an interesting character. We were him and he was us, neither understanding what The Matrix is or how to comprehend it. We want to see more of his adventures!
Not only does The Matrix stand the test of time, it roundhouse kicks time in the face. When was the last time you watched The Matrix? I suggest you grab a drink, pop some popcorn and watch it as soon as possible. In March, The Matrix will turn 20 year old, let's celebrate this mind-blowing movie. Take the red pill and go down the rabbit hole with me.
Friday, February 8, 2019
Frozen
100 Movies in 100 Days
Movie 2 Day 2
Frozen
In Loving Memory of Sami
Today was a difficult day, we had to say goodbye to a wonderful little girl,
our Super Sami. Sami was a 5 year old girl from my church. She had been
battling illness since she was born but that never slowed her down. She had a
smile that would light up a room. She had a giggle that would melt a frozen heart. Sami did not say much but she could tell a whole story with a simple look.
She touched so many lives in 5 short years. She brought people together and
taught us to love every day because tomorrow is a gift some may never receive.
I will miss this wonderful, bright shining light. I will think of Sami often
and I am so grateful I had an opportunity to see her magic first-hand.
In Sami's honor, I decided to diverge from the 100 movies on my poster and watch
Frozen. Frozen was Sami's favorite movie. So here I sit with a box of tissues
next to me. I plan on sobbing the entire film as I remember beautiful, brave
Sami.
Thoughts While Watching.....
As soon as the movie started, I began to cry! At Sami's memorial service, they played an instrumental version of Do You Wanna Build A Snowman but the melody of the song was a recording of Sami's heartbeat. Watching that scene in the movie made me break down. It made me think of Sami's amazing big brother, Lukas. He loved his sister so much and she loved and adored him too. Her whole face would light up as soon as she saw him. This movie does a wonderful job celebrating the love between siblings.
Let get into the movie a little further.
You
can't marry him, you just met him.....THANK YOU ANNA! I love that Kristoff also says marrying someone you just met is insane. Finally, a Disney movie
where you can't just run away with someone you barely know! I thought it was
progress to see a Disney movie where these female characters are not pressured
into marrying someone by the end. The characters actually say that you need to know a person before you can marry them. It also proves that "true love" is more than just looks and a nice smile. It's about connecting with people and having that little something special.
Let It Go Girl! An empowering ballad for anyone feeling confused about who they are. It encourages you to be who you are truly meant to be, even if the world doesn't understand you. Elsa finally has an opportunity to love and accept herself for who she is. This Oscar winning song is not only for children but for adults too. As an adult, I'm still trying to figure out who I'm supposed to be. Growing up and even today I have been told I'm too loud or too outgoing. Let It Go celebrates being an individual and not giving a crap what anyone thinks.
Elsa was willing to be completely alone to keep everyone safe. She was afraid of hurting her sister and holding her back. She would rather be alone and free rather than lock herself up again.
Thank Goodness for Olaf! Olaf is voiced by the hilarious Josh Gad and he brings so much comedic relief to the movie. Everything he says is pure gold. It was the perfect break in the middle of dealing with some pretty heavy stuff.
After Thoughts
Was Elsa an secret X-Men Mutant? I once saw a meme where Elsa is sent away to Xavier's School From Gifted Youngsters and her boyfriend is Jack Frost from Rise of the Guardians. That would be a movie I want to see! She was born with her powers, she was not cursed.
Elsa and Anna's parents did the best they could. I really think their father loved both children and tried so hard to support Elsa. He didn't know how to help Elsa with her ice powers. He thought that suppressing her powers would help keep her and the people around her safe. Their parents were not ashamed of who Elsa was, they just wanted to keep her safe. It was love even if it was slightly misguided.
It's all about love. At the end of the day, the love we have for one another is what means the most. Also don't let anyone mess with your sister or you will turn them to ice!
Times I Cried: 3
When I Cried:
*Do you wanna build a snow man
*Let It Go
*Some People Are worth Melting for
For You Super Sami
Movie 2 Day 2
Frozen
In Loving Memory of Sami
Today was a difficult day, we had to say goodbye to a wonderful little girl, our Super Sami. Sami was a 5 year old girl from my church. She had been battling illness since she was born but that never slowed her down. She had a smile that would light up a room. She had a giggle that would melt a frozen heart. Sami did not say much but she could tell a whole story with a simple look. She touched so many lives in 5 short years. She brought people together and taught us to love every day because tomorrow is a gift some may never receive. I will miss this wonderful, bright shining light. I will think of Sami often and I am so grateful I had an opportunity to see her magic first-hand.
In Sami's honor, I decided to diverge from the 100 movies on my poster and watch Frozen. Frozen was Sami's favorite movie. So here I sit with a box of tissues next to me. I plan on sobbing the entire film as I remember beautiful, brave Sami.
Thoughts While Watching.....
You can't marry him, you just met him.....THANK YOU ANNA! I love that Kristoff also says marrying someone you just met is insane. Finally, a Disney movie where you can't just run away with someone you barely know! I thought it was progress to see a Disney movie where these female characters are not pressured into marrying someone by the end. The characters actually say that you need to know a person before you can marry them. It also proves that "true love" is more than just looks and a nice smile. It's about connecting with people and having that little something special.
For You Super Sami
Thursday, February 7, 2019
The Shawshank Redemption
100 Movies in 100 Days
Movie 1 Day 1
The Shawshank Redemption
I had an odd day. It was a rainy day as I waited for my new movie poster to arrive. I was on the edge of my seat the whole day, trying to figure out what my first movie will be. I was also encouraged because I had several people come up to me and tell me how excited they were to read the blog. Made me feel incredibly supported. I've always wanted to make my living writing film reviews. At this point in my life, I'm not getting paid but that doesn't mean I can't do what I love.
At First Glance.....
It may surprise the few readers I have that I have never sat down and watched The Shawshank Redemption in it's entirety. I've seen the ending at least 10 times on TNT but I've never taken the time to watch the movie from beginning to end. I know it was adapted from a Stephen King book. Unfortunately, I have never read the book but I'm sure it's brilliant. I was surprised to find out that the movie was directed by Frank Darabont. That is the same guy who created The Walking Dead! I thought that was a fun little fact.
The format for these reviews is a bit rough. I'm trying to see which works best. I figured I will write down my initial thoughts on the film and then go from there. Feel free to comment and help me improve this blog. This is not just about my need to watch film but engaging the readers I have.
Thoughts while watching
What a brilliant soundtrack. The music in this movie is truly fantastic with undertones of heartache and sorrow. The music echos the loneliness of the characters and the darkness of the prison. At times the music is sinister as it reflects the pure evil of Warden Norton and the guards.
One of the things that bothered me from the beginning is did Andy really kill his wife and her lover? Andy always swore he never murdered them and Tommy claimed some guy confessed but was it true? We never see what happens the night of the murder. We know Andy had a gun and was drunk. Would you feel differently if Andy was guilty? I'm still on the fence if he was telling the truth or not. I love how Red stood by his friend's side and believed in his innocence until the very end.
Morgan Freeman's speech at his final parole hearing is Hollywood gold, beautifully acted, scripted and filmed. The entire ending of the film is so well done. The parallels between Brooks and Red once they are released is terrifying. The entire ending, I was holding my breath and I know the ending of the movie! That is how you know a film is truly great, you find yourself forgetting you've seen it before.
Reflection
The theme of hope is reflected throughout the entire film. Is hope uplifting and helpful or is hope dangerous? I found the question of hope being dangerous lingering in the back of my mind the entire film. When I was in college, I heard the story of Pandora's box. The myth claims when Pandora's box was opened all sickness and sin spilled out and infected mankind. The only thing that remained inside of the box was hope. Is hope a blessing or a burden? I think it can be both. Hope can keep you hanging on when you are at the end of your rope. Andy clung to hope for 20 years and was able to escape. Red believed hope was dangerous and one should accept one's fate. I think once Red saw that Andy's hope paid off, he started to believe as well. In the end, all Red had was hope. Hope that he would get parole, hope that he could find the tree and rock, hope that he could find Andy again. Hope drove Red to fight a little bit longer and harder, even when he was ready to give up.
I understand why this movie is a classic. I'm shocked that it never won a single Oscar. It didn't even do very well at the box office (thanks IMDB). It did great on VHS rentals and it helped that it was always playing on TNT. The Shawshank Redemption is a beautifully written movie, it has heart and soul. It is worthy of the title Hollywood Classic.
Times I cried: 5
When I Cried:
*Drinking Beer on the roof
*Brooks Was Here
*When Red talks about Birds are not meant to be caged and missing his friend.
*When Red signs next to Brooks Was Here followed by "Get busy living or get busy dying"
*A reunion next to the ocean
Movie 1 Day 1
The Shawshank Redemption
I had an odd day. It was a rainy day as I waited for my new movie poster to arrive. I was on the edge of my seat the whole day, trying to figure out what my first movie will be. I was also encouraged because I had several people come up to me and tell me how excited they were to read the blog. Made me feel incredibly supported. I've always wanted to make my living writing film reviews. At this point in my life, I'm not getting paid but that doesn't mean I can't do what I love.
At First Glance.....
It may surprise the few readers I have that I have never sat down and watched The Shawshank Redemption in it's entirety. I've seen the ending at least 10 times on TNT but I've never taken the time to watch the movie from beginning to end. I know it was adapted from a Stephen King book. Unfortunately, I have never read the book but I'm sure it's brilliant. I was surprised to find out that the movie was directed by Frank Darabont. That is the same guy who created The Walking Dead! I thought that was a fun little fact.
The format for these reviews is a bit rough. I'm trying to see which works best. I figured I will write down my initial thoughts on the film and then go from there. Feel free to comment and help me improve this blog. This is not just about my need to watch film but engaging the readers I have.
Thoughts while watching
What a brilliant soundtrack. The music in this movie is truly fantastic with undertones of heartache and sorrow. The music echos the loneliness of the characters and the darkness of the prison. At times the music is sinister as it reflects the pure evil of Warden Norton and the guards.
One of the things that bothered me from the beginning is did Andy really kill his wife and her lover? Andy always swore he never murdered them and Tommy claimed some guy confessed but was it true? We never see what happens the night of the murder. We know Andy had a gun and was drunk. Would you feel differently if Andy was guilty? I'm still on the fence if he was telling the truth or not. I love how Red stood by his friend's side and believed in his innocence until the very end.
Morgan Freeman's speech at his final parole hearing is Hollywood gold, beautifully acted, scripted and filmed. The entire ending of the film is so well done. The parallels between Brooks and Red once they are released is terrifying. The entire ending, I was holding my breath and I know the ending of the movie! That is how you know a film is truly great, you find yourself forgetting you've seen it before.
Reflection
The theme of hope is reflected throughout the entire film. Is hope uplifting and helpful or is hope dangerous? I found the question of hope being dangerous lingering in the back of my mind the entire film. When I was in college, I heard the story of Pandora's box. The myth claims when Pandora's box was opened all sickness and sin spilled out and infected mankind. The only thing that remained inside of the box was hope. Is hope a blessing or a burden? I think it can be both. Hope can keep you hanging on when you are at the end of your rope. Andy clung to hope for 20 years and was able to escape. Red believed hope was dangerous and one should accept one's fate. I think once Red saw that Andy's hope paid off, he started to believe as well. In the end, all Red had was hope. Hope that he would get parole, hope that he could find the tree and rock, hope that he could find Andy again. Hope drove Red to fight a little bit longer and harder, even when he was ready to give up.
I understand why this movie is a classic. I'm shocked that it never won a single Oscar. It didn't even do very well at the box office (thanks IMDB). It did great on VHS rentals and it helped that it was always playing on TNT. The Shawshank Redemption is a beautifully written movie, it has heart and soul. It is worthy of the title Hollywood Classic.
Times I cried: 5
When I Cried:
*Drinking Beer on the roof
*Brooks Was Here
*When Red talks about Birds are not meant to be caged and missing his friend.
*When Red signs next to Brooks Was Here followed by "Get busy living or get busy dying"
*A reunion next to the ocean
Wednesday, February 6, 2019
100 Movies in 100 Days
I am currently in a state of disarray. My life has been somewhat chaotic and I honestly need something to focus my time and energy on. Something positive that will bring me a little bit of joy. The one thing that consistently fills my heart with happiness is movies! When I'm feeling lonely, a movie is always there for me. I no longer feel completely alone. My home becomes a place for adventure, suspense and falling in love. I know....I know....such a chick! What can I say, I love a good romantic comedy. My heart races every time I watch Amelie. I cry at the ending of When Harry Met Sally. Actually, I cried at the ending of Amelie. I cry at a lot of movies. When you read the blog you will see how often I cry. I sincerely hope this is all coming across as charming and not exceedingly depressing.
The idea for 100 Movies in 100 Days came from watching Julie & Julia. A film so pure and wonderful, Nora Ephron's magic is in every shot. As I sat here watching the movie, I realized I was jealous of both Julie AND Julia. What a horrible feelings! I have a great life, why should I be jealous of these characters on screen? Then it hit me, they have a passion for something bigger than themselves. They have purpose. Amy Adams' husband also looks like Chris Messina, what a lucky girl! Sadly, I have no Chris Messina by my side but I won't let that stop me.
I need some purpose during this new chapter in my life but how do I decide which movies to watch? I've seen all the movies I own, all 800+ of them. I can't just put my Netflix on shuffle and see what happens. I looked up a few books but that are so many! I found 10 different books titled *Insert Number* Movies to see Before You Die. None of them really struck me but one thing I did find was a poster. I know a poster seems lame but the inner kid in me is excited. This is one of those scratch off posters. It's colorful and crafty. Go me! I also maintained my willpower and did not look at any of the titles ahead of time. I'm going to go in order, starting with the first to last. I'm thrilled to see what movies will be thrown at me. I have no idea if I've seen them or not but I'm going to watch them either way. I'm going into these movies with fresh eyes, even if I've seen it 20 times.
Here is the plan, starting tomorrow I am going to watch 100 movies in 100 days and write about each and everyone of them. Not just about the movie but about how it made me feel. I'm still trying to decide on a format. Should it be a live tweet/Buzzfeed style. Type what I'm thinking, as I'm thinking it? I think that would be authentic. I'm so excited for this little adventure! I hope you will come along with me.
The idea for 100 Movies in 100 Days came from watching Julie & Julia. A film so pure and wonderful, Nora Ephron's magic is in every shot. As I sat here watching the movie, I realized I was jealous of both Julie AND Julia. What a horrible feelings! I have a great life, why should I be jealous of these characters on screen? Then it hit me, they have a passion for something bigger than themselves. They have purpose. Amy Adams' husband also looks like Chris Messina, what a lucky girl! Sadly, I have no Chris Messina by my side but I won't let that stop me.
I need some purpose during this new chapter in my life but how do I decide which movies to watch? I've seen all the movies I own, all 800+ of them. I can't just put my Netflix on shuffle and see what happens. I looked up a few books but that are so many! I found 10 different books titled *Insert Number* Movies to see Before You Die. None of them really struck me but one thing I did find was a poster. I know a poster seems lame but the inner kid in me is excited. This is one of those scratch off posters. It's colorful and crafty. Go me! I also maintained my willpower and did not look at any of the titles ahead of time. I'm going to go in order, starting with the first to last. I'm thrilled to see what movies will be thrown at me. I have no idea if I've seen them or not but I'm going to watch them either way. I'm going into these movies with fresh eyes, even if I've seen it 20 times.
Here is the plan, starting tomorrow I am going to watch 100 movies in 100 days and write about each and everyone of them. Not just about the movie but about how it made me feel. I'm still trying to decide on a format. Should it be a live tweet/Buzzfeed style. Type what I'm thinking, as I'm thinking it? I think that would be authentic. I'm so excited for this little adventure! I hope you will come along with me.
Sunday, January 27, 2019
Glass
Is 18 years too long to wrap up a trilogy? In the case of M. Night Shyamalan's Glass, I would say NO WAY! This was a wonderful conclusion to a trilogy we didn't know we needed. The film centers around Mr. Glass and Mr. Dunn from Unbreakable, played by Samuel L Jackson and Bruce Willis. As well as the 24 personalities inside Kevin from Split, played by James McAvoy. I believe that James deserves all of the acting awards possible for this role. He effortlessly jumps from one character to another. He does so with ease but each character is so uniquely different. He doesn't have to say a word but we know which personality he is by posture and mannerisms alone. He is absolutely brilliant. You forgot he's an actor and truly believe he is these 24 personalities. He completely transformed his body for the character of The Beast. I'm not sure how much muscle weight he put on but it looked like a bunch!
Glass also did a brilliant job of letting the female actresses shine. Sarah Paulson, Charlayne Woodard and Anya Taylor-Joy give exceptional performances. Sarah Paulson is the tough doctor treating Dunn, Glass and Kevin. She is trying to disprove their theory that they have super human skills. Charlayne Woodard plays Mr. Glass' mother. She believes in her son's brilliance and knows that there is more to a person than the bad things they have done. Anya returns as Casey from Split. She is the only surviving victim of the Beast. She believes there is more to Kevin. That each of his 24 personalities is important. Her interactions with Kevin are truly pure. There is an innocents and yet a complete reality of the world.
My only criticism of the film is the pacing. The film starts of with a ton of action and then slows down until almost the very end. It makes the film seem a bit slow. It's still very interesting but becomes completely reliant on dialog. The film makes up for it by a smashing, edge of your seat ending. There is a ton of room for a sequel.
Over all a very interesting film with brilliant acting. If you were a fan of Split you will want to follow up with Glass.
Glass also did a brilliant job of letting the female actresses shine. Sarah Paulson, Charlayne Woodard and Anya Taylor-Joy give exceptional performances. Sarah Paulson is the tough doctor treating Dunn, Glass and Kevin. She is trying to disprove their theory that they have super human skills. Charlayne Woodard plays Mr. Glass' mother. She believes in her son's brilliance and knows that there is more to a person than the bad things they have done. Anya returns as Casey from Split. She is the only surviving victim of the Beast. She believes there is more to Kevin. That each of his 24 personalities is important. Her interactions with Kevin are truly pure. There is an innocents and yet a complete reality of the world.
My only criticism of the film is the pacing. The film starts of with a ton of action and then slows down until almost the very end. It makes the film seem a bit slow. It's still very interesting but becomes completely reliant on dialog. The film makes up for it by a smashing, edge of your seat ending. There is a ton of room for a sequel.
Over all a very interesting film with brilliant acting. If you were a fan of Split you will want to follow up with Glass.
Wednesday, August 15, 2018
Crazy Rich Asians
Crazy Rich Asians
Aka It's About Dang Time!
As a Hispanic female, I understand the need to see minorities in film. Growing up, I wanted to see someone, anyone who looked like me on screen. Representation is important in film and media. Crazy Rich Asians may have been made by Asians but that doesn't mean it can't reach everyone. I am so proud of this film for what it means in the Asian community.
Crazy Rich Asians is based in the book of the same name by Kevin Kwan. Which is absolutely amazing and you should read it today! Nick is a Chinese man bringing his ABC (American Born Chinese) girlfriend, Rachel, home for his best friend's wedding. His family is old fashioned, disgustingly wealthy and has exceedingly high expectations for his future wife. Sounds like a typical rom-com but it is so much more than that.
Crazy Rich Asians celebrates the rich Asian culture that has been hidden behind stereotypes. Director Jon M. Chu will mesmerize you with breathtaking locations, delicious jewelry, unfathomable fashion, and decadent food. I will warn you, do not see this movie on an empty stomach! All the amazing food on screen will have you drooling for authentic dumplings and pastries. Your jaw will hit the floor once you see Ah Ma's kitchen!
The film also celebrates relationships between friends and family, no matter your background. It doesn't matter if you are rich, poor, divorced or happily married. What matters is WHO you are and what you mean to each other.
I have to give a few shout outs, the first one goes to Kina Grannis who sings a hauntingly beautiful rendition of I Can't Help Falling In Love. It literally brought me to tears. It was the perfect song for the perfect moment. Everyone should go on to YouTube and look up Kina Grannis. She is amazing and you need to know who she is.
Gemma Chan plays Astrid, Nick's captivating cousin. She steals every moment she is on screen. She is tragic, loving, sincere and a total queen at the end of the movie. SPOILER UP AHEAD FOR BOOK AND MOVIE!
Astrid stands up for herself as every strong independent woman should. She plants her feet firmly into the ground and will not change who she is. Her husband is horribly insecure and can't handle the pressure of her family.
STAY FOR THE CREDITS. There is a bonus scene and a MASSIVE hint of a sequel. Jon M. Chu, do not tease me like this! At the very end we see CHARLIE WU! If you read the books you know how important he is. Charlie is played by Harry Shum Jr (Hell to the Yes!!!!) We only see him briefly in the movie. He gives Astrid the sexy side eye. Literal Gasps occurred in the theater I was in. Dang that Harry Shum Jr. We all know as soon as he is on screen that a sequel is a brewin'! In the book, Charlie is Astrid's old flame from back in the day. Trust me, this girl deserves Charlie Wu. He is amazing.
Over all I say get your butts to the movie theater! Take your friends, family, and anyone else you can to see this movie. Not only because it's important. Not only because of the brilliant acting. This film deserves to be seen and to break that stupid glass ceiling. We need to minorities on film. Plus, Amber REALLY needs a sequel!
Aka It's About Dang Time!
As a Hispanic female, I understand the need to see minorities in film. Growing up, I wanted to see someone, anyone who looked like me on screen. Representation is important in film and media. Crazy Rich Asians may have been made by Asians but that doesn't mean it can't reach everyone. I am so proud of this film for what it means in the Asian community.
Crazy Rich Asians is based in the book of the same name by Kevin Kwan. Which is absolutely amazing and you should read it today! Nick is a Chinese man bringing his ABC (American Born Chinese) girlfriend, Rachel, home for his best friend's wedding. His family is old fashioned, disgustingly wealthy and has exceedingly high expectations for his future wife. Sounds like a typical rom-com but it is so much more than that.
Crazy Rich Asians celebrates the rich Asian culture that has been hidden behind stereotypes. Director Jon M. Chu will mesmerize you with breathtaking locations, delicious jewelry, unfathomable fashion, and decadent food. I will warn you, do not see this movie on an empty stomach! All the amazing food on screen will have you drooling for authentic dumplings and pastries. Your jaw will hit the floor once you see Ah Ma's kitchen!
The film also celebrates relationships between friends and family, no matter your background. It doesn't matter if you are rich, poor, divorced or happily married. What matters is WHO you are and what you mean to each other.
I have to give a few shout outs, the first one goes to Kina Grannis who sings a hauntingly beautiful rendition of I Can't Help Falling In Love. It literally brought me to tears. It was the perfect song for the perfect moment. Everyone should go on to YouTube and look up Kina Grannis. She is amazing and you need to know who she is.
Gemma Chan plays Astrid, Nick's captivating cousin. She steals every moment she is on screen. She is tragic, loving, sincere and a total queen at the end of the movie. SPOILER UP AHEAD FOR BOOK AND MOVIE!
Astrid stands up for herself as every strong independent woman should. She plants her feet firmly into the ground and will not change who she is. Her husband is horribly insecure and can't handle the pressure of her family.
STAY FOR THE CREDITS. There is a bonus scene and a MASSIVE hint of a sequel. Jon M. Chu, do not tease me like this! At the very end we see CHARLIE WU! If you read the books you know how important he is. Charlie is played by Harry Shum Jr (Hell to the Yes!!!!) We only see him briefly in the movie. He gives Astrid the sexy side eye. Literal Gasps occurred in the theater I was in. Dang that Harry Shum Jr. We all know as soon as he is on screen that a sequel is a brewin'! In the book, Charlie is Astrid's old flame from back in the day. Trust me, this girl deserves Charlie Wu. He is amazing.
Over all I say get your butts to the movie theater! Take your friends, family, and anyone else you can to see this movie. Not only because it's important. Not only because of the brilliant acting. This film deserves to be seen and to break that stupid glass ceiling. We need to minorities on film. Plus, Amber REALLY needs a sequel!
Wednesday, March 22, 2017
Logan
I have been an X-Men fan ever since I was a child. My father owned a comic book store when we were growing up. The X-Men were my heroes since I was old enough to walk. I wanted the courage of Rogue, the power of Storm, and the strength of Wolverine. I own every X-Men movie that has been released in the past 17 years. When I heard that this was going to be Hugh Jackman and Patrick Stewarts last X-Men film, my heart sunk. It was the end of an era. Now the film has received mixed reviews from people, here is my take.
I loved Logan. I thought it was a righteous end to a brilliant character. Logan was designed to be darker and more daring than any other X-Men film. An R rating might have made families with kids disappointed, it did not make me as a fan disappointed. It gave the film a deeper sense of reality in a fictional world. It was rated R for a reason there are gallons of blood, tons of fowl language and brief nudity. Logan showed the true violence behind the adamantium claws. What actually happens when indestructible adamantium is forced into someone's skull. Sound graphic? It was!
The film was beautifully directed by James Mangold. He was following up from the previous Wolverine film. Mangold had such an eye for filming the loss and pain in the characters via the landscaping and images on film. The dry dirt and despair of the desert. Wide open fields engrossed in green as a symbol of new life. The hopeful forest filled with new beginnings. Every element of the film was parallel to the emotions of the characters. Every shot had meaning and purpose.
Hugh Jackman and Patrick Stewart gave award winning performances. Let's face it, it's a comic book movie, they will not get the recognition they should. Jackman wore every vulnerable emotion on his sleeve. His character endured an emotional internal battle with himself the entire film. We could see the pain in his eyes and the turmoil in every release of his adamantium claws. Logan's passion and fierce loyalty is to be commended and admired. I completely forgot I was watching Hugh Jackman as Logan. He WAS Logan. It brought truth and darkness to a beloved character. Stewart is also to be commended. He was frail in form but fierce in screen presence. Jackman and Stewart were so brilliant at feeding the other's acting. My emotions were pulled in so many directions and I cried multiple times. Brilliant and haunting performances.
Stealing the entire movie is new comer, Dafne Keen. Keen plays a new mutant with similar abilities to Logan. This little girl has a massive amount of talent. She is fierce and beautifully in pain. A constant struggle between what is right to society and what is right to her survival. Keen is going to be the actress to watch for. Years of talent wrapped in a 12 year old girl!
Overall if you like X-Men and can ignore continuity with the other films, you will love it. I recommend you forget everything you remember from the previous X-Men films. Go in with new eyes, open to a new side of the story.
I loved Logan. I thought it was a righteous end to a brilliant character. Logan was designed to be darker and more daring than any other X-Men film. An R rating might have made families with kids disappointed, it did not make me as a fan disappointed. It gave the film a deeper sense of reality in a fictional world. It was rated R for a reason there are gallons of blood, tons of fowl language and brief nudity. Logan showed the true violence behind the adamantium claws. What actually happens when indestructible adamantium is forced into someone's skull. Sound graphic? It was!
The film was beautifully directed by James Mangold. He was following up from the previous Wolverine film. Mangold had such an eye for filming the loss and pain in the characters via the landscaping and images on film. The dry dirt and despair of the desert. Wide open fields engrossed in green as a symbol of new life. The hopeful forest filled with new beginnings. Every element of the film was parallel to the emotions of the characters. Every shot had meaning and purpose.
Hugh Jackman and Patrick Stewart gave award winning performances. Let's face it, it's a comic book movie, they will not get the recognition they should. Jackman wore every vulnerable emotion on his sleeve. His character endured an emotional internal battle with himself the entire film. We could see the pain in his eyes and the turmoil in every release of his adamantium claws. Logan's passion and fierce loyalty is to be commended and admired. I completely forgot I was watching Hugh Jackman as Logan. He WAS Logan. It brought truth and darkness to a beloved character. Stewart is also to be commended. He was frail in form but fierce in screen presence. Jackman and Stewart were so brilliant at feeding the other's acting. My emotions were pulled in so many directions and I cried multiple times. Brilliant and haunting performances.
Stealing the entire movie is new comer, Dafne Keen. Keen plays a new mutant with similar abilities to Logan. This little girl has a massive amount of talent. She is fierce and beautifully in pain. A constant struggle between what is right to society and what is right to her survival. Keen is going to be the actress to watch for. Years of talent wrapped in a 12 year old girl!
Overall if you like X-Men and can ignore continuity with the other films, you will love it. I recommend you forget everything you remember from the previous X-Men films. Go in with new eyes, open to a new side of the story.
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