Bridges and Lebowski in NYC

It is a major week for Jeff Bridges fans and Jeff Lebowski fans alike. The former just released his self-titled debut album. The latter is a fictional character of course, brought to life in the Coen Brothers’ film “The Big Lebowski” which is celebrating its 10^th anniversary with a Blu-ray DVD release.

Lebowski Fest, which originated in Kentucky, is also taking place in NYC this week where fans come dressed as their favorite characters,  or, the characters they most aptly resemble. There was no shortage of Walters, Dudes, Maudes and Jesuses at Chelsea Piers last night where the first night of Lebowski Fest kicked off with a bowling party. Go to the Lebowski Fest website to find out when the fest is happening in your town.

Walking into a bowling alley filled with multiple versions of the film’s characters probably elicits the same brain activity that is found in a child entering the Harry Potter exhibit. It’s magical. In a more fortunate magic place, a White Russian wouldn’t cost $9 but, still, with unlimited bowling, a costume contest and trivia at a reasonable price, I was able to abide and purchase a few.

Unlike most places in NYC, the LF crowd isn’t clicquish. Arriving late with only one other friend in tow, I had to find a lane so I could roll. I ended up with the cable repair man and a couple of other guys. The crowd was diverse despite their likemindedness and from all parts of the US (Iowa, California, Oregon to name a few). The real Liam was there too.

Tonight marks night two of Lebowski Fest and it is going to be as epic as the film has become. Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, Steve Buscemi, Julianne Moore and John Turturro will participate in a Q&A before the screening of the film. This reunion is an historic one, man.

And, let’s not forget about Jeff Bridges’ album featuring original songs and covers. The stand out for this listener is “Maybe I Missed the Point” written by John Goodwin. Rosanne Cash and Ryan Bingham appear on the album. Bingham, you might remember, wrote (with T-Bone Burnett) and performed “The Weary Kind”, Crazy Heart’s burdensome theme. Burnett produced this effort and out of 4-stars, I give it a solid 3 as a critic but 4 as a fan of an artist of whom I could not be a greater admirer. “Falling Short”, written by Bridges is another track to pay attention to, especially since he penned it himself.

This is a great week to be in NYC, to be a fan of Bridges and Lebowski, man.

The Help

If I recommend "The Help", I have to recommend both the film and the book (by Kathryn Stockett). I think the film is more entertaining if the book is read first if only for the experience of knowing ahead of time about the "terrible-awful" housekeeper Minny (Octavia Spencer) committed. When I first read the book, I thought about how that particular scene would be executed in a film and  it was done even better than I imagined.
I'm not saying with the scene entails because I do not want to spoil a delicious (maybe that is a poor word choice?) scene for any one who has not read the book. Anyone who has will know exactly what I mean.
The book and film look at the stories of black domestic workers in Jackson, Mississippi before the Civil Rights Movement disallowed segregation. Jim Crow, "separate but equal" ideas and prejudiced behavior were rampant. Skeeter (Emma Stone), a recent college graduate returns home to Jackson to find that the woman who raised her (not her mother but her black nanny) was no longer working for the family, the friends she grew up with have gotten married and essentially become their own mothers and that she has aspirations for greatness. She is too humble to be searching for fame but she wants to be a writer in New York City. In a rejection letter from Harper Row, she ignores the part that says she does not have the job and instead embraces the part that says she has potential and needs experience. She looks for the experience at the local newspaper where she begins writing the housekeeping advice column. On the encouragement of the editor at Harper Row, Skeeter decides to write about Jackson from the perspective of the nannies and what they think and feel in raising white children. What comes, through struggle, are striking stories that though fiction somehow ring remarkably true.
The Help is unique in talking about the South and America during what is still a very difficult and disconcerting period of our history, from the perspective of the people who were marginalized. Granted, many African-Americans have been critical of this story because ultimately there was still a white character at the center of it but I think they are missing the point. The result is one of the only black-centric films of the year and a story that brings new faces to a new generation. I wish The Help was part of the curriculum when I was in school and I wish that for more than one reason.
Skeeter no doubt got her persistence from Constantine, her nanny, who truly gave her value when her mother only and it seems unknowingly worked to strip that value away. In fact, this is the second theme in the book, after the obvious one regarding race.
Abeline (Viola Davis), the first nanny to speak to Skeeter and the narrator of the film, provides what to me are the most important words of dialogue in the film or the book, when she speaks to Mae Mobley the chubby little girl she takes care of as her mother touches her maybe once a day and it otherwise too busy to be bothered.
Every day, Abey tells little Mae Mobley, "You is kind. You is smart. You is important." She instills value in the girl. This is value beyond the way she looks. This is the same thing Constantine did for Skeeter. The most poignant and tear-engaging parts of the film were those where a young girl was given self-worth. They are those moments where some people in the audience may be realizing their own self-worth.
I think this story, if allowed, can change people. It can change people's relationships with children, change the way children are raised and change again the way people see color. For me, this story was ultimately about valuing each other as human beings and moving past the visible surface. It is still hard to believe there was a time when the color of one's skin was more important than the content of their character. It is hard to believe even now but only a two weeks ago a racial comment was made by a Congressman against our President.
The Help is a work of fiction, yes. The Help is also thought provoking, tear-jerking and beautifully cast.
Viola Davis stops the air in the room at times. She is perfect. Remember her brief but impacting role in Doubt? Be thankful that she is on the screen so much more of the time in The Help. The entire cast deserves mention and all I can do it implore you to see it. Oh, and when you do, don't skimp on the tissues!

You Have Grit

This was started Christmas Week and I didn't finish until now. I think it is still worthwhile coming up on the OSCARS!

It has been a week since I started my tour of the 2010 holiday cinema but I cannot get over "True Grit" and "The King's Speech" nor can I forget that "Little Fockers" was actually awful and "Tron: Legacy" was a lot of fun. Oh, and when I reminisce about "Black Swan" I close my eyes forgetting that my memory is clearer that way and then open them to escape the girl that haunts me!

The holiday 2010 season has been a great one and disappointing one in film and if you want my two cents, read on! In order of what I saw, not necessarily in order of what I loved, here are a few reviews that might save you $10 or spend your monthly allowance.

Black Swan has been on the moviegoers map for a while and it might just be the vehicle that carries Natalie Portman to the Oscars' stage this year. Portman was stripped physically and emotionally in this role that unlike any she has played. From the technical abilities she displayed in dancing ballet to the vulnerability of someone who wants more than anything to play the lead role to the psychotic visions she shares with the audience, Portman was convincing and frightening. It is a dark film and not one for the weak of heart but a worthwhile look behind the scenes of the aesthetically beautiful ballet. Mila Kunis also deserves mention as the fellow dancer to brings out the most disturbing thoughts from Portman. Barbara Hershey was the perfect stage mother/former dancer and Vincent Cassel was fantastic as well as the artistic director of the ballet. Wynona Ryder's turn as the former star of the ballet was impacting for the amount of screen time. For those familiar with Darren Aronofsky's previous films, this one lives up to the delightful feeling of discomfort and repulsion that you have experienced before.

The King's Speech is my pick for everything this year and though when I started this entry there were not yet Oscar nominees, the truth is out there now so it should be mentioned. Colin Firth, the lovely and talented actor who in recent years has moved on from pop cinema into roles that have finally been written to his justice, must be crowned "Best Actor". His portrayal of Bertie (later King George VI), a royal with a stammer that prevented him from even flawlessly telling a bedtime story to his daughters (one of which is now the Queen of England) was both heart-breaking and awe-inspiring. As someone who did not know the story of this period of history in the royal family, the film was also a fantastic history lesson as well as a great family drama. Helena Bonham Carter rounded out the love story between Bertie and the now Queen Mother, Elizabeth, a strong and determined wife and partner for the King. Lionel Logue, the Australian speech therapist who gives Bertie the dose of tough love, true friendship and unorthodox treatment that he needs is played by the remarkable Geoffrey Rush who is ever a privilege to watch on screen. Guy Pearce a strong and worthy antagonist to Bertie as Prince/King Edward VIII.

Little Fockers embarrassed me. I was embarrassed seeing a movie that on the whole exhausted the humor of erectile dysfunction. I was embarrassed as I sat next to my parents, to see DeNiro as Jack Burnes asking Greg Focker to help him after he took the perverbial "blue pill" and suffered a 6-hour side effect. And, I was lastly embarrassed that the film was even made. My opinion: skip it. There are better films (The Hangover, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Wedding Crashers) with crass, college humor and better story lines. If you miss Jack Byrnes watch "Meet the Parents". If you love the Fockers, watch "Meet the Fockers". I'm all for fun at the movies and love Robert DeNiro (one of the greatest American actors ever) in a comic role as much as a dramatic role but it just did not make me happy. Consider also "Everybody's Fine" on of my DeNiro favorites as of late.

True Grit is a remake of the 1969 John Wayne film of the same name. It is a very, very good remake and having seen both, I can say that both are worth watching. I think the greatest joy in the 2010 version is the introduction of a the young and ridiculously talented Hailee Steinfeld who plays the role of Mattie Ross. There is little time that Steinfeld is not on screen and she delivers the Coen Brothers' dialogue flawlessly. The dialogue is unique and has a fantastic cadence that is echoed by all of the actors in the film. I am reminded of David Mamet who is a master at creating a rhythm in the way he writes the script. It is truly wonderful. Mattie Ross seeks the hired help of a U.S. Marshal to locate and capture her father's murderer, Tom Cheney, and hires one "with grit". Rooster Cogburn, played by Jeff Bridges does indeed have grit. Bridges transformed into a curmudgeonly, crusty old marshall who ultimately wants to protect Matt Damon was surprising as Texas Ranger LaBoeuf the cocky but eventually redeemed bounty hunter who was commissioned by another to find and kill the same Cheney.  The tense trio set off on an adventure to catch the killer and it is a fun ride to be on.

Tron: Legacy

That's a wrap of of the films I saw almost two months ago, finally. It's about time!

It's Complicated (a Review and Adoration)

I was relieved that this holiday weekend afforded me the opportunity to see the most anticipated film of the season for me personally, "It's Complicated". Starring Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin, this newest in Nancy Meyers' catalog of middle-aged rom-com films is possibly her best and most funny story. I loved "Something's Gotta Give" but "It's Complicated" is so much more compelling and dare I say real that it is already one I plan to own and also probably see again in the theater.

The entire crowd was laughing so hard at one point that the 2nd half of a punchline wasn't audible.

In addition to a storyline that was entertaining, relateable (yeah, maybe I'm a little young to really relate but I won't be forever), the cast was perfect from the leads to the more minor characters.

Meryl Streep is like a fine wine...as amazing as she was 30 years ago, she has only gotten more interesting to watch and I can see her only getting better. She was sexy and vulnerable and bold as the woman who begins an affair with her ex-husband ten years after their divorce and even few years since she could say she had really moved on. Moments featured in the trailer that show her with her girlfriends are entertaining and compelling where they could have been otherwise.

Alec Baldwin is like a fine...whiskey. I saw him on Letterman the other night and he talked about having a "butt double" in the film. Despite not really showing his own broadside, he showed many other sides as the 57-year old ex-husband who married a much younger woman only to find himself back in bed with his first. He was pitch-perfect when comic-timing was key and authentic in his portrayal. Given Baldwin's handsomeness and my real-live crush on him, I thought about his on-screen marriage and wondered how true the relationship rang to those that are so prevalent everywhere; the younger woman and older man. It was done so well in this film and I'm sure not everyone who sees it would be laughing!

Steve Martin is rarely 2nd chair when it comes to playing the funny guy but in "It's Complicated", he was more complicated than hilarious and it was refreshing. His ability to do slapstick is as compelling as his ability to conjure the character of a vulnerable divorcee which he does here.

It's Complicated but it's also fun and touching and worth the trip to the theater!

When Did You Last See Your Father?

This is not a question you have to answer but if you can't remember, it may be something to think about. It got me thinking, as I watched the film of this title.

Starring Colin Firth and Jim Broadbent as son and father, And When Did You Last See Your Father? is a film based on an autobiographical novel and takes place between the 60s and the late 80's as a son looks to flashbacks to reconcile his relationship with his father as his father lays dying.

The film is sentimental at times and uncomfortable at others as the difficult nature of the father-son relationship is revealed from Firth's early childhood through his adulthood. There is nothing outrageous that occurs which makes the film all the better because it is slightly easy to relate to unless you claim the perfect relationship with your father or have had an colorfully volatile one.

All in all the film is quiet with Broadbrent adding the most color. He was in stark contrast to the brooding son Blake played by Firth as an adult and Matthew Beard as a teenager. The son's angst and anger at his father was understandable though Broadbent's gentle, jovial and vulnerable portrayal made him likable too.

This is one that a viewer can rent. I did enjoy the film and recommend it to any Firth fans or anyone who has ever had doubts or questions about a father's love. It was somewhat anti-climactic but sometimes that's how life is.

Coming Later this summer: Colin Firth in Mamma Mia! Only 2 weeks to go.

Get Smart(er)

Maxwell Smart is no idiot in the big screen version of Get Smart starring Steve Carell, Anne Hathaway, Alan Arkin and Dwyane Johnson (aka The Rock).

The character was much more inept in the tv version of the show and the writers wisely made him more capable yet still left some slapstick and silliness in to keep it real, almost. The update to the character made him easier to handle and made for a storyline that was more compelling than lame. Carell does a fantastic job in his portrayal of Smart in the fun spy-thrilledy that averages a laugh every few minutes. Hathaway is sassy and smart as Agent 99. I don't want to give anything away here so I won't say much about the storyline other than it is great to see Arkin and to listen to Arkin and I'm also glad that Dwayne Johnson is now Dwayne Johnson. He might end up a Hollywood acting force to be reckoned with. He has a knack for physical comedy and had a good chemistry with Carell.

If you're up for some jokes, check this one out.

Dan in Real Life came out on DVD over the last two months. If you you're missing Carell during the off-season, don't forget that rental. Still one of my favorite films of the past year.

SATC is Big

Sex and the City the movie was released over a week ago and it took me until last night to see it. I'm not watching Episode 1, Season 1 and seeing Mr. Big for the first time because off and on for 2 hours last night just wasn't enough. I took the "Match Your Man" quiz on the movie website and got paired with Mr. Big though I may have chosen an answer or two that I knew would make the answer add up to him. Anyway, the movie is not about the fake relationship I've had with Big since I saw him a few years ago but about the girls, 3 years later and the guys they've kept around.

People say the movie is long but I thought it was fine. I mean when you're used to seeing 22 minute episodes of the show, 2.25 hours can seem long but a lot had to happen and based on the way it all ended up, there isn't much room for a sequel unless a great, great script came along.

If you were a fan of the show at all, it is a MUST SEE because all of the elements that made the show so special are there. The four women who were so loved for so long, the guys we wanted them with and the drama and humor that made them all so easy to relate to them. Everyone grew up but in an interesting way. The women were in their 30s (except for Samantha) and as someone a couple of years younger and nowhere near their success or general social levels I didn't realize they would be able to mature but they did. The screenwriters did a great job of developing all of the characters and the storylines were interesting though a little predictable. The entire film wasn't predicable but there were some parts. IT was good and consistent writing though because of how true they were to everyone.

If you aren't a fan of SATC, it might be time to start renting the DVDs and taking silly online quizzes about who you belong with or who you are most like. I wanted to be most like Carrie but it seems that I'm more like Miranda.

My favorite thing was the interaction between Big and Carrie, and the love letters. You'll have to see it to know what I mean but how lovely the notion of a love letter. "How do I love thee? Let me count the ways."

Get Carried Away.

PS: I finished Season 1 today abandoning the things I was supposed to do with the exception of going to dinner which I actually did. It is such a great show.

Iron Man

Robert Downey, Jr. has been "back" for a while but I think Iron Man has made it official. He's not only healthy and still brilliant but he's also a superhero.

Iron Man is a must-see on the big screen if you're considering waiting for DVD and a must-see if you're on the fence about it. Why?

1. Political: the original comic version of Iron Man, the main character Tony Stark was in Vietnam and becomes a hero in the backdrop of the Cold War. The new story for the film brings the hero into modern times and since we have a war going on as we read and write he is relevant and the kind of hero we need.

2. Acting: Robert Downey, Jr., Terrence Howard, Jeff Bridges and Gwyneth Paltrow...the film combines the best of the best with an excellent story. These actors are in atypical roles which is even better.

3. No 1: the film was number one and a record-breaker for a reason. If it was awful, word would have gotten out. You need to see it so you can talk about it. This is the compelling and content-vacant peer pressure reason. I am into lists at the moment and felt two good reasons wouldn't complete the list so I added this third reason.

Iron Man had a great dialogue, great characters and entertained and excited me. There are also two noticeable sequel set-ups including a worthwhile bonus scene after the credits that make really a fourth reason to see it. You'll need to in order to enjoy the sequel or a follow-up project of any sort if it happens.

Robert Downey Jr. Bonus news: He will play "playboy" Hugh Hefner in a big-screen biopic that is slated to be aptly titled "Playboy". This news was just released hours ago.

Let's Catch Up

It's 2am and the phone rings...who do you want answering that call? haha, it could be me seeing as it is 2am in Chicago and I'm awake burning the midnight oil for my employer. Crazy, yo! I'm gonna be a little silly in this entry but I finally have time to try to catch up a little bit while I wait for people to do what they do so I can do what I do. It's all very hush-hush, yeah?

I have been in Chicago for about 3 weeks now with the exception of 48 hours spent/wasted in San Diego. I had a great afternoon of Bloody Mary's with a friend and got the laundry done so that was good.

I have seen a few movies and even got to catch a concert. Holla! Check this out:

Muvico: awesome movie theater. You can reserve balcony seats, grab a bev at the full bar and even bring your drink into the theater (Guiness makes each movie a little more interesting) and enjoy pretty delicious restaurant food. Plus, the "premium" ticket gets you free popcorn. Good deal overall and a nice VIP experience for only a few bucks more than the regular ticket.

El: train that got me and a buddy from O'Hare into the city. A ride that was supposed to last 45-minutes really took 2 hours. The line was under construction and some genius said, "Hey, let's take all of the people from the big train and put them on a bus." Seriously, we were supposed to get off the train and take a bus to another stop up the line where the train would resume service. So, we had to wait...It was a fun night that ended at 630am but I got to have a little adventure, see some Chicago night life and enjoy a great meal.

Leatherheads: Most recent film I saw at Muvico. It was ok. I can't write a long review here but I think Krazinski was decent and as likeable as he always is on The Office. Plus it was a treat to see him. Clooney was fine and goofy like he was in O'Brother and Zellweger is one of those love 'er or hate 'er types so you might hate 'er and if you do, this film won't change that. The story was fun in parts but overall the trailers are more compelling. It hurts me to say this about a Clooney film but 'tis true...at least for me.

Run Fat Boy, Run: This is a British fiml with an American director. David Schwimmer of Friends fame makes his directorial debut (at least with features) bringing a film that would have been much less charming sans the British accents to the big screen. It is Hornsby-esque and boasted a solid cast including another Yank, Hank Azaria in yet another role that makes you just not like him enough to think he can act.

21: This is another film that pains me because I have to say that it wasn't great. It was good and there was excitement. Anyone who likes Vegas, math, cards or a little suspense will be interested. The story is interesting though the dialogue leaves much to be desired. The only thing I can say in its defense is that math/science-types aren't known to be particularly fine communicators so maybe the dialoge wasn't bad but more authentic. No offense to a well-spoken, well-adjusted math/science person out there. This is just something I've read and perhaps you've read too. Anyway, it was a delight to see Kevin Spacey at all as he's been away for a while doing theater. Still, though I recommend it, I think it wasn't the best film.

Jason Mraz played here in Chicago and I finally got to see him for the first time. He is from San Diego but I just have never been there when he's there. Anyway, it was a fun, energetic and enjoyable show. Mraz is a super-talented singer-songwriter and his next album should prove that. Check out the video and audio for I'm Yours, his latest single. There is an EP out now featuring that song and a few others, namely "If It Kills Me" which has a great lyric and chill sound. Mraz has proven himself on his past two albums and as a live act is even better. Go see that guy if he ends up in your town! May 13 is when the album drops by the way.

Duty calls and I'm tired but I wanted to make sure I got some good entertainment news out to my little world.

Cheers!

The Bucket List

This was better than the critics say and I'd give it 5 stars but I know it is not the best film. I had to go more than 4 though because I did really, really love it. Nicholson has had more complex roles and so has Freeman. But, they gave a lot to this film and it was lovely. Nicholson and Freeman pulled off heartfelt, deep performances, not always seen in what would be considered a comedy as much as a drama and in such a mainstream film.

The men forged a friendship and found a way to live life, even when there was little left to live. So what if there was some cliche here and so what if there was some predictability. Going on the journey with these two men was cleansing and inspiring and made me remember some bad things but I was glad they were able to go where they did. The writer didn't rely on lengthy monologues to make important point but instead let the actions of the characters create poignancy.

I had to cry and really wanted to weep at the end of this film but didn't want to become a total wreck. It is a wonderful thing to feel that much every so often, even if it is the result of fiction.

I wholly recommend this film not because it will win awards but because everyone faces their own mortality and sooner the mortality of loved ones and the guys in The Bucket List is a wonderful way to face it.

Sean Hayes deserves mention too as his character and the way he played it added to every scene he was in and wasn't at all intimidated by those he was in the scenes with. It was fun to see him again.

Atonement and Charlie Wilson

I had a chance to see 2 of the many films worth seeing right now and now I must get to the theater as much as possible before awards' season is in full swing!

Atonement

The trailer for this film actually lives up to the film. The best parts are in the film and not necessarily spoiled by the trailer which is a feat greater than many films accomplish this day.

I thought this was brilliant and a must see. The youngest actress gave a performance worthy of the praise she has received and the nominations that will continue to come. The story was complex but did not cause the audience any suffering other than love's pain. I didn't read the book but imagine it is beautiful. McAvoy and Knightly had great chemistry and again McAvoy is one to keep watching.

Charlie Wilson's War

This film is highly political and very specific in the timespan it covers. I state those seemingly obvious facts because many films about politics don't actually take a political stance and don't cover only the event they are meant to discuss but this film most certainly does in the end.

I do love Aaron Sorkin and will keep this brief. Unlike the film above, some of the best moments (at least the most entertaining) are in the trailer but it is still a good film and worth seeing now, or on DVD.

The cast was great though Julia Roberts isn't in it as much as her billing suggests. This may disappoint anyone wanting to see a Roberts film. The movie went by quickly and by the end, I knew exactly why the story was being told now. Sorkin wants to say something about today's state of affairs.

It should be mentioned that Phillip Seymour Hoffman made the scenes he was in and I can't wait to catch "The Savages" next. Is there anything this guy can't do?

PS--I have a bit of a crush on Tom Hanks now.

These Few Things...

It has been a while. I feel like I have abandoned most things in the last month, not to mention this blog. I have a ton I think about writing and if I had an iPhone, I might just send everything to my blog as it came to me, like the people in the commercials seem to do. There would be danger in that I suppose since some of my thoughts are not meant for general broadcast and time to think before I speak (write) is uaually valuable and lends to less regret.

I've seen few films as of late but the two I did see were great:

Enchanted is Disney's latest vehicle and craftily blends and animated storyline with live action. Disney characters have come to life before at Disneyland but they haven't been injected into our reality as they are in this film. It is a spoof of the fairy tale happily-ever-after story that I have certainly never experienced but still allows for the happy ending that I somehow still love to see! This isnt just a chick-flick but could be a good date movie. I can't see a group of dudes piling into the theater to check it out but if your gal wants to go, you'll have fun to. Amy Adams was a delight in her role and Patrick Dempsey was a dreamy as he could get without Dr. Grey lurking in an elevator at Seattle Grace waiting to see him.

No Country for Old Men is by far my favorite film of the year, friend-o. Javier Bardem is completely unrelenting and eerily natural in his portrayal of a man willing to kill anyone to get back the money that belongs to him. I don't want to say much because it is one to just see and then talk about with other people who have seen it and feel as creeped out as you do once they have. Tommy Lee Jones is consistent and plays the Texas Sherriff the way we've come to expect. Josh Brolin gave me the biggest shock on film in recent years because he was actually good. I have been pleasantly surprised by some performances but for all I don't like about Brolin, he was undeniably good in this one.

Atonement is one I haven't seen yet but NEED to see because of the Golden Globe noms. I already recommend it.

The Bucket List is due out on Christmas and teams up Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman. I cannot wait. It is the thing I'm most looking forward to on Christmas Day.

Speaking of Nicholson, this month's Men's Journal (cover not on the site yet but it is on newsstands) features Jack on its cover. The interview with Jack, getting his opnion of various aspects of being a man, was entertaining and compelling at once. It gave a great insight (as much as Jack will give) into the man who is a legend. If I were a man, he's one man I'd want to be. I recommend the article to men mostly and also women who are interested.

Last, I am nearly in the holiday spirit though I'm away from home and not going to be there anytime soon, missing the time with family, missing the tree decorating and behind on sending Christmas cards. Yesterday a colleague invited me to go work a toy drive with her and it was a rewarding experience. We didn't get to see the kids receiving the toys but we wrapped probably 60 gifts at least and I felt good about it. It is one of those times for giving and though I would like to think I donate my time and give what I can, I don't unless the opportunity is easy and obvious sometimes as it was in this case. Still, I'm glad I didn't sleep in (beleive me, with jet lag I'd have liked to) and went out yesterday morning. It was a lovely time.

Happy Holidays all...I'll hopefully have time to say hello from the road.

Death at a Funeral

Death at a Funeral is a very funny film by Frank Oz (Bowfinger, In & Out, What About Bob?). British comedy suits this Brit who though British himself has ventured mostly in American film and television.

At times hilarious, Death at a Funeral marries dry humor with a little of the immature drug and bathroom humor audiences seem to love and it's really perfect. The overall story is the patriarch of a slightly dysfunctional family dies leaving behind a little secret that appears the day of his funeral.

I say definitely check this one out!

Reign Over Me

Adam Sandler reached a new level in his acting career with this one and I think I reached a new level of sobbing in a movie theater. Reign Over Me is the story of a Volvo Wagon-driving, mildly discontented dentist/family man who happens to run into his dental school roommate who lost his family in 9-11 and with that essentially lost his will to live. Cheadle delivers a solid performance, as usual. Jada Pinkett Smith stars as his wife and does a lovely job as a wife who's husband is clearly struggling against her when he comes in contact with his old friend.

Sandler's portrayal of a widower is truly moving and subtle for the most part. There are times when he is over the top, when his character has outbursts, but in the sadness he was beautiful.

The story was well-written and the characters were well-developed, even those that did not appear for very long. Mike Binder skillfully drew a parallel between the friends and similar to another of his films "The Upside of Anger", developed relationships between the characters that were powerful and believable.

One thing I noticed was an "01.20.09" sticker on Cheadle's receptionist's desk. This is a reference to the next Presidential Inauguration date when President Bush will become former President Bush. Very cool.

B.J. Novak who place Ryan on the "The Office" appears as a lawyer. He goes head to head with the judge played by Donald Sutherland in a scene I'd like to refer to as the "Shut Up" scene. It reminded me of the "Go to Lunch" scene between Kevin Spacey and Alan Arkin in "Glengarry Glen Ross".

Overall, I recommend this film, as a rental if you don't make it out to the theater.

What's Your Sign?

David Fincher's (director of Fight Club, Se7en) newest release, Zodiac, is a triumph. The story of the self-proclaimed "Zodiac Killer" and the search by several law enforcement agencies and newspapermen to find him perfectly unfolds over 2 hours and 40 minutes and despite the length of the film, as a viewer I wanted the search to continue a while longer.

One of the most appealing aspects of Zodiac is the chronological nature of the story. Unlike many popular films of late, there was no jumping from past to present or skewing of the time line. The chronology was straightforward and the only mystery in the film was the identity of the Zodiac Killer. The audience doesn't have to work on another mystery of their own such as "Wait, when is this taking place?" or "Who is that guy again?" It is clear in the way the actors age and in the timestamps placed at the beginning of each new time period who's who and when. The aging of the actors was quite realistic and deserves second mention.

Casting of this film was excellent. Robert Downey Jr. was quirky of course but not over the top as Paul Avery, a cocky crime reporter. Jake Gyllenhaal has the innocent, good guy down and brought that to cartoonist Robert Graysmith. The special thing about Gyllenhaal is that he adds an intensity to the character without corrupting him otherwise. Mark Ruffalo and Anthony Edwards play San Francisco investigators and have a fun but not silly chemistry as partners. Ruffalo provided another solid performance to add to his robust resume and Edwards was a welcome surprise having made few appearances on screen since leaving ER 5 yesrs ago. The rest of the supporting cast was very well cast and includes well-knowns Chloë Sevigny, Donal Logue, Dermott Mulroney and Brian Cox. Deserving special mention are Elias Koteas who was unquestionable as an investigator and a delight to watch.

Conclusion: The story and film are compelling and exciting. See it.

Britney Bald?!?!?!

Just kidding. Yeah, Britney Spears shaved her head and yeah, she entered rehab (again--she thought it was a nightclub the first time) but this is really about PAN's LABYRINTH (El Laberinto del Fauno), a film from Mexico that is up for six Oscars including Best Foreign Film and Best Original Screenplay.

The director, Guillermo del Toro, will be familiar to American film-goers who may have seen Mimic, Hellboy or Blade 2.

The film was beautifully shot and is visually appealing beyond the unique story. As time since viewing the film has passed, I continue to recall parts of the film that were interesting or held greater meaning than I initially realized which makes the film even better.

There isn't much time until the Oscars and this is one that might make an impact on the Academy. I recommend seeing it this week if you can and if not, see it another time. There are subtitles but they are easy to read and follow. My recommendation to viewers is to let go and allow your imagination to come alive. I spent too much of the film thinking like a logical, unimaginative adult and did not enjoy it as I could have. I don't want to reveal the plot so that is all I will say.

Others to see before Sunday if you can: The Last King of Scotland, Letters from Iwo Jima, The Departed (now on DVD).

Please Write Back...

Letters From Iwo Jima is Clint Eastwood's Japanese-language answer to another World War II film he did earlier this year, "Flags of Our Fathers". It is also far and above a better film and more interesting story. Don't let the sub-titles or possibly the previous viewing of Flags deter you from seeing Iwo Jima.

Ken Watanabe stars as real-life General Kuribayashi and leads a wonderful cast of Japanese actors portraying his soldiers and officers as they prepare for and then experience the US invasion of the island they were protecting. We get a look at the strategy the Japanese employed against the US and through unique story-telling, a perspective on what fighters from each level of Japan's military heirarchy dealt with the situation through their letters home.

This is another must-see whether it be in the theater or at home. It was shot in very, very washed out color, not quite black and white as from time-to-time shades of red could be seen. I could be wrong and there is probably a professional term for it but that is my best description. :)

Dreamgirl(s)

Jennifer Hudson, previously most famous for her shocking and premature elimination from American Idol a few seasons ago, truly does shine in Dreamgirls. There was much criticism when Oscar nominations were announced when the film was not nominated for Best Picture but I have to agree that though Hudson and cast were strong, and possibly will receive Oscar's as individuals, the film as a whole was not worthy of the Best Picture nod.

It was no surprise that Hudson could belt out the songs as member of "Dreamgirls" and on her own, but the emotional range she projected in the song "You're Gonna Love Me" and throughout the movie was that of a woman born to do just this role. There is talk that another movie role has already been taken by Hudson which will surely be a treat for fans.

Eddie Murphy deserves special mention as his performance earned him a well-deserved Golden Globe and may finally earn him an Oscar as well. He is no stranger to awards recognition but Oscar is king, right? It was great to watch Murphy act in a darker role as most of his recent work has been light and comedic or even animated.

Beyonce, though the biggest real-life star among the "Dreamgirls", gracefully and modestly has let Hudson have the spotlight in the press surrounding the film. Her performance was strong and she shows great potential as an actress. In the right role, she too may end up with some formal recognition for her acting in the future.

As a musical with big numbers, this is a worthwhile film for viewing in the theater but if you don't have a chance, definitely rent it.

PSFF (Palm Springs Film Festival)

The Palm Springs Film Festival is currently the largest festival in the U.S. I did not realize this when I traveled to Palm Springs this week with my friend, but after attending, it was obvious why. We went to the festival not expecting much other than to see a couple of films but it turned out to be a great experience and we had the opportunity to see some films we really enjoyed.

The theater, The Camelot, is a great venue. All 3 of the films we saw were shown there so we didn't check out the other festival locations. It was a nice theater and there was a great bar upstairs that offered a nice view and a cozy place to hang out in between films. It was very low-key possibly because people didn't realize it was there.

We didn't get to see our first choices in some cases because films were selling out well in advance. That is a great sign for a festival and though we didn't get to see our first choices, we weren't shortchanged. Here are mini-reviews of the 3 films we did see:

East Side Story: Gay white men are moving into East L.A. and taking over. In the meantime, a Mexican family, native to the area, are struggling to keep their restaurant and family together as the youngest member of the family comes out as gay as well. It was a very funny film and gave an interesting look inside the young man's struggle to come out. This director has promise for sure.


The Line of Beauty: This was a remarkable BBC produced drama was adapted from a novel and looked at Nick Guest, a young gay man from a modest background who moves in with the family of a college friend whose father is a politician. The actress who played the daughter in the family was brilliant and lent to some of the most heartbreaking and joyous moments in the film. Elements that were dealt with included the beginning of the AIDS epidemic and its impact, drugs, infidelity, closeted romance and mental illness. The film was done as a 3-part mini-series and is recommended to those interested whenever available on DVD.

The Boss of It All: Director Lars von Trier's latests film lacks some of the obscurity and darkness of his previous works but still brings some of those qualities on which he has built his career. This is the story of an IT company which is run by the boss of it all, the President of the company whom no one has ever seen. In reality, the President of the company is Ravn, a spineless man who blames the boss of it all for unpopular decisions he makes. When he decides to sell the company, he hires an actor to play the boss because he needs someone to sign the deal and to blame. Other than being a fun, "The Office"-esque comedy, the special thing about this film was von Trier's shooting style which he has dubbed Automavision, employing the use of an automatic randomised camera. Definitely worth seeing.

Notes on a Scandal

Dame Judi Dench is fabulous. If I said nothing else, it would be unimportant because Notes on a Scandal , though it had an excellent script and is an intriguing story, would not have been the same without Dench in the lead role. She plays perfectly the psychotic spinster alongside adultress Cate Blanchette in this film that I highly recommend. It is worth the cost of going to the theater and if you don't see it there, is a definite must to rent. In the interest of preserving the story (the preview does not give away the movie entirely as occurs with some films), I will reserve from much talk of how it goes.

Dench's character Barbara provided wonderfully sinister and entertaining lines throughout as penned her thoughts in her journal. She said cruel things that rendered at least a snicker if not a full laugh from the audience. Blanchett was perfectly cast in her role as well. The young man she enjoys an affair with was much better than I anticipate from the preview. Lastly, it was a joy seeing Bill Nighy as Blanchett's older husband. He was great and in a particular scene exploded in anger and hurt beautifully recognizing his age and her trespass.

This is a smart thriller to be sure. Enjoy.