McFarland USA
Story by Christopher Cleveland
Screenplay by Grant Thompson
Directed by Niki Caro
Starring Kevin Costner and Maria Bello
A true story of a struggling coach and teacher Jim White (Costner) had to move around for different incidents in his career. He finally comes to one of the poorest cities in America- McFarland, California, where he ends up creating and coaching a Cross-Country team.
Okay..I will get up on my soapbox here and give my speech:
If you vote for me to be on the school board I will reallocate money from a stupid-ass fence that bad guys can easily climb and make schools in a beautiful district look like a penitentiary. Then I would use that money for health insurance for...oh wait a minute that is the wrong speech!
Oh here it is:
My son ran Cross-Country for a really bad team. Like a really bad team. In fact while watching the film I learned how they score for Cross-Country. My son's team was so bad we never hung around to wait for the scoring. That is not a bad thing. I learned it is not about winning. It is what sports teams or school clubs bring to a teenagers life if helicopter parents stay out of the way. It brings the feelings of belonging to something. Being put in a situation where you find like minded people you may have never spoken to in the hustle and bustle of a busy school. Also meeting people who are not likeminded and learning the proper way find a place where you can get along and find common ground. It can create friendship and memories that can last a life time. Winning is great, but its the other things the teams and clubs can bring which can be great also. I think back at the teams my son was on for 4 years and I remember the smiles on the faces of this odd collection of teenagers. The laughs they had, cheering each other on. Giving their best efforts and then letting it go.
That was my speech, now down from soapbox.
Point?! That was part of my review. It is a Disney movie. You know what is going to happen at the end. However it shows exactly what my speech was about, the intangibles that being a part of something, can bring to a life. In this story not only the team but also the coach and the community. In reality..at the end, in my mind, it did not matter if they won the states or not.
This film is pretty good. Costner was perfect casting as the coach. He handles the part softly, almost knowing it is not about him, more about the team. It was over 2 hours and maybe could have used a little editing. I think it ran long because it was Disneyized, which means..if we can have one sweet emotional moment why cant we have 20 more. I would have liked to see a little more on how the members of the team did in school. Did their grades go up or down during this time? I love the end where you actually see the real members of the team running together now!! And find out how they are doing in their professional lives.
A really good family film. I will give it 3 1/2 out of 5 stars. May be the best film I have seen so far this year.
Again thanks for your time.
Get out and run...just run.
Saturday, February 28, 2015
Friday, February 27, 2015
Movie Review..Focus
Focus
Written and Directed by Glenn Ficarra and John Ricqua
Starring Will Smith and Marot Robbie
Well, I thought the chemistry between Smith and Robbie was pretty good. Well that is something good.
They play two con men/woman. Smith the veteran con man. Robbie the rookie per se con woman.
This film is all how you approach it. There are gaping holes in the story. If you can overlook them, and not overthink it...you may enjoy the film. As for me? I found both leads not likable. I do not know if the filmmakers thought having them in New Orleans stealing off Average Joes fun to watch. Not so. I found it annoying and I kept feeling bad for the people. The film felt sloppy, like the last con was just..who cares. The one bright spot, Robbie, who we last saw in Wolf Of Wall Street. Her role is much bigger then her last film and seems to outshine Smith in this film.
2 1/2 out of 5 for Focus. The stars being for the acting, not the story. I wish it was more....fun.
Well, as always, thanks for your time.
And today, of all days, it is important to remind you to live long and prosper.
Written and Directed by Glenn Ficarra and John Ricqua
Starring Will Smith and Marot Robbie
Well, I thought the chemistry between Smith and Robbie was pretty good. Well that is something good.
They play two con men/woman. Smith the veteran con man. Robbie the rookie per se con woman.
This film is all how you approach it. There are gaping holes in the story. If you can overlook them, and not overthink it...you may enjoy the film. As for me? I found both leads not likable. I do not know if the filmmakers thought having them in New Orleans stealing off Average Joes fun to watch. Not so. I found it annoying and I kept feeling bad for the people. The film felt sloppy, like the last con was just..who cares. The one bright spot, Robbie, who we last saw in Wolf Of Wall Street. Her role is much bigger then her last film and seems to outshine Smith in this film.
2 1/2 out of 5 for Focus. The stars being for the acting, not the story. I wish it was more....fun.
Well, as always, thanks for your time.
And today, of all days, it is important to remind you to live long and prosper.
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
Trailers 2-25-15...Yay or Nay
Lets face it...we all love trailers. It is a chance for all of us to be reviewers. So this is my first Yea or Nay by just watching the trailer!!!
First: Fantastic Four
Like the set up. A slow intro. Then wow!! They got Miles Teller (Whiplash); Kate Mara (House Of Cards); Jamie Bell ( Billy Elliot); and Michael B Jordan (Fruitvale Station)!!! Again Wow. I pray they do not fall into the over abundance of special effects that has been plaguing these super hero movies the last year or so. How many cities do we need to see get smashed. You know taxpayers have to fix that mess. Still that cast....YEA!!!!
A short...Disney's Frozen Fever.
This will be playing in front of Cinderella. Ugh. A trailer is suppose to give you something to latch on to...to be excited to see it. There was nothing here. In fact that is worrisome because you would figure they would show us good music or something funny...ahhh ..no. Throw in that they put it in front of the new live action Cinderella, which made me worry about that film. I mean they felt they needed this short to bring people in to see Cinderella. Uhoh. Nay!!
And the last one: Hot Pursuit.
I watch this and I laughed a little bit. Just a little bit. Interesting choice for Witherspoon for a follow up to Wild. I just kept thinking, I have seen this somewhere before with Melissa McCarthy in it, or maybe Sandra Bullock. I worry Sofia Vergara's character could become grating, just by being too overbearing. The premise looks like it could be funny though and with Anne Fletcher directing, who also directed The Proposal which I liked, puts me on the fence...so I went with .....Yea.
As always thanks for your time.
First: Fantastic Four
Like the set up. A slow intro. Then wow!! They got Miles Teller (Whiplash); Kate Mara (House Of Cards); Jamie Bell ( Billy Elliot); and Michael B Jordan (Fruitvale Station)!!! Again Wow. I pray they do not fall into the over abundance of special effects that has been plaguing these super hero movies the last year or so. How many cities do we need to see get smashed. You know taxpayers have to fix that mess. Still that cast....YEA!!!!
A short...Disney's Frozen Fever.
This will be playing in front of Cinderella. Ugh. A trailer is suppose to give you something to latch on to...to be excited to see it. There was nothing here. In fact that is worrisome because you would figure they would show us good music or something funny...ahhh ..no. Throw in that they put it in front of the new live action Cinderella, which made me worry about that film. I mean they felt they needed this short to bring people in to see Cinderella. Uhoh. Nay!!
And the last one: Hot Pursuit.
I watch this and I laughed a little bit. Just a little bit. Interesting choice for Witherspoon for a follow up to Wild. I just kept thinking, I have seen this somewhere before with Melissa McCarthy in it, or maybe Sandra Bullock. I worry Sofia Vergara's character could become grating, just by being too overbearing. The premise looks like it could be funny though and with Anne Fletcher directing, who also directed The Proposal which I liked, puts me on the fence...so I went with .....Yea.
As always thanks for your time.
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
New BluRay/DVD releases this week
There are three releases to note this week:
DISNEY'S BIG HERO 6
Directed by Don Hall and Chris Williams
Written by Jordan Roberts; Daniel Gerson; and Robert Baird.
Based on the story Man Of Action by Duncan Rouleau and Steven T Seagle
From Disney Animation Studios, the team behind Frozen and Wreck-It Ralph. This is an action-adventure about the bond that develops between Baymax (Scott Adsit), a lovable inflatable robot, and Hiro Hamada (Ryan Potter) a young scientist/computer wiz. When a personal tragedy befalls Hiro, and the city in which he lives San Fransokyo, he is determined to uncover the mystery of why the events happened.
This film comes across more Japanese Anime. It may not be for kids under 8 years old, maybe 10. It is rated PG. A little violent and the last half hour may come across as a bit confusing.
I would give it 4 out of 5 stars for the 2014 Oscar winner. The look is wonderful and the story moves at a quick pace and it throws in some laughs.
HORRIBLE BOSSES 2
Directed by Sean Anders
Written by Sean Anders and John Morris
Starring Jason Bateman; Jason Sudeikis; and Charlie Day
I was not a big fan of the first Horrible Bosses. I remember just being impressed with Charlie Day and that is about it. The critics beat HB2 up. I disagree with them, I think I liked this one better. It was not made to win an Oscar or change the world, it was made to make you laugh and I laughed often.
This time Nick, Dale and Kurt launch their own business, inventing a shower apparatus. But an investor (Christoph Waltz) steals the idea out from under them. Desperate, the three hatch a plan to kidnap the investor's adult son (Chris Pine) and ransom him to regain control of their idea.
The writing gets messy at the end. Maybe needed a little bit of editing.
But still I give it 3 1/2 of of 5 stars. For a DVD/Bluray night, sitting on the couch it will give you some laughs. Silly fun.
And finally:
WHIPLASH
Written and Directed by Damien Chazelle
Starring- Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons
I put this in my top ten movies of the year. Disturbing, but you cannot take your eyes off of it.
Chemistry between Teller and Simmons is fantastic. An Oscar winning performance by Simmons.
4 1/2 out of 5 stars. You can also still catch this in the theatre if you wish. There are no two words in the English language more harmful than "Good Job"! Ugh!! He is so unpleasant.
Again, thanks for taking the time.
DISNEY'S BIG HERO 6
Directed by Don Hall and Chris Williams
Written by Jordan Roberts; Daniel Gerson; and Robert Baird.
Based on the story Man Of Action by Duncan Rouleau and Steven T Seagle
From Disney Animation Studios, the team behind Frozen and Wreck-It Ralph. This is an action-adventure about the bond that develops between Baymax (Scott Adsit), a lovable inflatable robot, and Hiro Hamada (Ryan Potter) a young scientist/computer wiz. When a personal tragedy befalls Hiro, and the city in which he lives San Fransokyo, he is determined to uncover the mystery of why the events happened.
This film comes across more Japanese Anime. It may not be for kids under 8 years old, maybe 10. It is rated PG. A little violent and the last half hour may come across as a bit confusing.
I would give it 4 out of 5 stars for the 2014 Oscar winner. The look is wonderful and the story moves at a quick pace and it throws in some laughs.
HORRIBLE BOSSES 2
Directed by Sean Anders
Written by Sean Anders and John Morris
Starring Jason Bateman; Jason Sudeikis; and Charlie Day
I was not a big fan of the first Horrible Bosses. I remember just being impressed with Charlie Day and that is about it. The critics beat HB2 up. I disagree with them, I think I liked this one better. It was not made to win an Oscar or change the world, it was made to make you laugh and I laughed often.
This time Nick, Dale and Kurt launch their own business, inventing a shower apparatus. But an investor (Christoph Waltz) steals the idea out from under them. Desperate, the three hatch a plan to kidnap the investor's adult son (Chris Pine) and ransom him to regain control of their idea.
The writing gets messy at the end. Maybe needed a little bit of editing.
But still I give it 3 1/2 of of 5 stars. For a DVD/Bluray night, sitting on the couch it will give you some laughs. Silly fun.
And finally:
WHIPLASH
Written and Directed by Damien Chazelle
Starring- Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons
I put this in my top ten movies of the year. Disturbing, but you cannot take your eyes off of it.
Chemistry between Teller and Simmons is fantastic. An Oscar winning performance by Simmons.
4 1/2 out of 5 stars. You can also still catch this in the theatre if you wish. There are no two words in the English language more harmful than "Good Job"! Ugh!! He is so unpleasant.
Again, thanks for taking the time.
Monday, February 23, 2015
My Oscar night review
What you did not see!!!
Last night after losing out to Matt Damon for Lampshade, I finally took home an Oscar.
Sadly it was not seen on ABC, but I took home the Oscar for Best Assistant To The Assistant Directors Assistant. It was an emotional speech, but I want my readers to know I did thank all the little people in the cheap seats. I also brought up the struggles of Yaks in the mountain regions. We should be paying more attention to Yaks. How they work over 8 hours a day. Climbing and climbing and climbing. I gave a shout out to The International Yak Association.
I know all my friends were upset my award was not televised, however the video is being played in a loop at Phil's Bar And Grill.
Now to last night:
My picks-I had 4 out of 6.
I was flat out shocked that Keaton did not get the Oscar for Birdman. I just thought the voters would think in Redmayne they saw that act before.
Also for Best Picture. I knew it would be close but I thought the voters would split the vote for Best Director and Best Picture. I was wrong. In fact I am surprised that Boyhood did not get much love by the Academy last night. Maybe Boyhood was too quiet. It is a soft film. With a quiet ending. I do think, for the people who have not seen Birdman yet, they will watch that ending and go...what the ???!!!
Now for the show:
Let me check...hold on..let me check if it is over yet. Yes. Okay.
Maybe the worst Oscar telecast in years, from the red carpet all the way to the end.
Red carpet you ask? How about this interview with Dakota Johnson and mom Melanie Griffith:
Uhhh Yikes! Many people say Dakota was rude. I just think the interviewer would not let it go. Or the follow up question to Dakota should have been, "Did you watch your mom in Body Double and Something Wild?" Plus...where are the handlers for these two??!! They were not prepped for this question??!! This hurt to watch.
Now we move on to the show itself.
Neil Patrick Harris!!! What happened??!!
I think it was a combination of bad writing. NPH was stiff with awful comic timing. The crowd looked scared and uptight. All that together it was an awful show.
Lets give some awful highlights:
After watching this show I now understand that America is just an awful country. Racist..low waging..spying country. Our country is far from perfect, but what I do know is people are rushing our borders every hour of the day. They are not coming here because it is awful. If you are so miserable here the border is open the other direction. Okay...okay..I know free speech...I just wish someone would direct their speech toward the "Love side".
Patricia Arquette. She was wonderful in Boyhood. But, equal pay for women in her speech? I am not doubting her cause, I just think there was an opportunity there. Her character was a single mother. How about a toast to the single moms. Or a mention to deadbeat dads who don't support their kids. No..she went with wages for women. And a bunch of millionaires clapped.
Please note on another subject last years Oscar winners: 12 Years A Slave. Lupita Nyongo.
75% of the people sitting in the auditorium were Academy voters this year!!! I did not vote..why make the people at home feel guilty while the people who actually voted are clapping and crying. And if you feel there is a problem in society..voters start with taking some of your millions and pour it into inner city schools. Then I will listen. Everything starts with education and giving teachers the proper tools to work with. The people sitting there have the funds to make a change.
John Travolta...just creepy. Stay away.
In memoriam...No Joan Rivers or Elaine Stritch. Two strong women who fought the all male system.
If you get a chance watch this documentary:
Obviously I love movies...I just wish the majority of the actors and actresses in them were not so damn condescending. And they do not look at themselves in the mirror. Last night was bad.
My few highlights from last night:
A wonderful speech by Graham Moore for Imitation Game, Best Adapted Screen Play.
J.K Simmons speech Best Supporting Actor:
Lady Gaga's performance. She got rid of the dishwashing gloves to perform.
Well that is all have for highlights for this years Oscars.
Thanks for your taking the time to read this and all my Oscar week posts. New reviews will be coming this week!!
Remember-- Every Thing Is Awesome! I want to get my hands on one of those Lego Oscars!!!
Last night after losing out to Matt Damon for Lampshade, I finally took home an Oscar.
Sadly it was not seen on ABC, but I took home the Oscar for Best Assistant To The Assistant Directors Assistant. It was an emotional speech, but I want my readers to know I did thank all the little people in the cheap seats. I also brought up the struggles of Yaks in the mountain regions. We should be paying more attention to Yaks. How they work over 8 hours a day. Climbing and climbing and climbing. I gave a shout out to The International Yak Association.
I know all my friends were upset my award was not televised, however the video is being played in a loop at Phil's Bar And Grill.
Now to last night:
My picks-I had 4 out of 6.
I was flat out shocked that Keaton did not get the Oscar for Birdman. I just thought the voters would think in Redmayne they saw that act before.
Also for Best Picture. I knew it would be close but I thought the voters would split the vote for Best Director and Best Picture. I was wrong. In fact I am surprised that Boyhood did not get much love by the Academy last night. Maybe Boyhood was too quiet. It is a soft film. With a quiet ending. I do think, for the people who have not seen Birdman yet, they will watch that ending and go...what the ???!!!
Now for the show:
Let me check...hold on..let me check if it is over yet. Yes. Okay.
Maybe the worst Oscar telecast in years, from the red carpet all the way to the end.
Red carpet you ask? How about this interview with Dakota Johnson and mom Melanie Griffith:
Uhhh Yikes! Many people say Dakota was rude. I just think the interviewer would not let it go. Or the follow up question to Dakota should have been, "Did you watch your mom in Body Double and Something Wild?" Plus...where are the handlers for these two??!! They were not prepped for this question??!! This hurt to watch.
Now we move on to the show itself.
Neil Patrick Harris!!! What happened??!!
I think it was a combination of bad writing. NPH was stiff with awful comic timing. The crowd looked scared and uptight. All that together it was an awful show.
Lets give some awful highlights:
After watching this show I now understand that America is just an awful country. Racist..low waging..spying country. Our country is far from perfect, but what I do know is people are rushing our borders every hour of the day. They are not coming here because it is awful. If you are so miserable here the border is open the other direction. Okay...okay..I know free speech...I just wish someone would direct their speech toward the "Love side".
Patricia Arquette. She was wonderful in Boyhood. But, equal pay for women in her speech? I am not doubting her cause, I just think there was an opportunity there. Her character was a single mother. How about a toast to the single moms. Or a mention to deadbeat dads who don't support their kids. No..she went with wages for women. And a bunch of millionaires clapped.
Please note on another subject last years Oscar winners: 12 Years A Slave. Lupita Nyongo.
75% of the people sitting in the auditorium were Academy voters this year!!! I did not vote..why make the people at home feel guilty while the people who actually voted are clapping and crying. And if you feel there is a problem in society..voters start with taking some of your millions and pour it into inner city schools. Then I will listen. Everything starts with education and giving teachers the proper tools to work with. The people sitting there have the funds to make a change.
John Travolta...just creepy. Stay away.
In memoriam...No Joan Rivers or Elaine Stritch. Two strong women who fought the all male system.
If you get a chance watch this documentary:
Obviously I love movies...I just wish the majority of the actors and actresses in them were not so damn condescending. And they do not look at themselves in the mirror. Last night was bad.
My few highlights from last night:
A wonderful speech by Graham Moore for Imitation Game, Best Adapted Screen Play.
J.K Simmons speech Best Supporting Actor:
Lady Gaga's performance. She got rid of the dishwashing gloves to perform.
Well that is all have for highlights for this years Oscars.
Thanks for your taking the time to read this and all my Oscar week posts. New reviews will be coming this week!!
Remember-- Every Thing Is Awesome! I want to get my hands on one of those Lego Oscars!!!
Saturday, February 21, 2015
Oscar weekend! My picks of who will win, should win, and who was overlooked.
First lets get this out of the way:
Who am I wearing Oscar night?!
A hooded grey sweatshirt with RunDisney on the front designed by Champion.
Sweatpants, Navy blue. Designed by Converse.
I would like to thank the designers.
I hope you get a chance see me walking the beige carpet in my hallway.
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR:
Robert Duvall (The Judge)
Robert Duvall (The Judge)
Ethan Hawke (Boyhood)
Ed Norton (Birdman)
Mark Ruffalo (Foxcatcher)
J.k. Simmons (Whiplash)
Overlooked:
Robert Pattinson in The Rover.
He plays Rey, a dirty looking, a little bit off and slow Aussie in a post apocalypse Australian Outback. He is fantastic in an above average, modern western.
Will win and should win:
J.K. Simmons for Whiplash
This is a lock. Just perfect in the part.
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS:
Patricia Arquette (Boyhood)
Laura Dern (Wild)
Keira Knightley (The Imitation Game)
Emma Stone (Birdman)
Meryl Streep (Into The Woods)
Overlooked:
Kristen Stewart in Still Alice.
Yes I know back to back Ugh-Twilight stars, but they are proving they can act. Stewart is so good as Lydia, Alice's daughter. She beats to her own drum, but becomes closer/and patient with her mother as Alice's dementia slowly takes her memory and abilities.
Will win and should win:
Paricia Arquette in Boyhood
I want to say Laura Dern but the part in Wild was to small. I wish they could combine her two mom roles this year in Fault In Our Stars and Wild, but that is not happening. So Arquette is close to a lock for the Oscar. As the divorced mother to Mason, we not only see how Mason changes in the 12 years of filming but also how she changes with him.
BEST ACTRESS:
Marion Cotillard (Two days One Night)
Felicity Jones (The Theory Of Everything)
Julianne Moore (Still Alice)
Rosamund Pike (Dr Evil)
Reese Witherspoon ( Wild)
Overlooked:
Shailene Woodley for Fault In Our Stars
Should win:
Reese Witherspoon in Wild
She is in every scene. Often by herself not talking. just acting with her face and body motions. So good.
Will win:
Julianne Moore in Still Alice
She is very good as the detiriating Alice. She edges Witherspoon here because her part is realatable. Many people/voters know of/or are related to someone with dementia. Also, Moore has yet to win an Oscar so there is a career honor here. That all being said Moore and Witherspoon are both wonderful in their parts. No complaint by me if Julianne wins.
BEST ACTOR:
Steve Carell (Foxcatcher)
Bradley Cooper (American Sniper)
Benedict Cumberbatch (The Imitation Game)
Michael Keaton (Birdman)
Eddie Redmayne (The Theory Of Everything)
Overlooked:
Miles Teller for Whiplash
Note that all my "overlooked" are young actors. The Academy is reluctant to open the door for the youth.
Should win:
Bradley Cooper in American Sniper
His third nomination in three years. In this part he does a lot of acting with his body motions and his eyes. An incredible performance, Chris Kyle would be proud.
Will win:
Michael Keaton for Birdman
Cooper will be knocked out by the PC voters( Note Jon Voight won for Coming Home, times have changed). That brings it down to a two man race Keaton or Redmayne. With Redmayne I think the voters will think they have seen this part before. So I think that will give Keaton the edge. Plus voters love a comeback.
BEST DIRECTOR:
Wes Anderson (The Grand Budapest Hotel)
Alejandro G. Inarritu (Birdman)
Richard Linklater (Boyhood)
Bennett Miller (Foxcatcher)
Morten Tyldum (The Imitation Game)
Overlooked:
Christopher Nolan for Interstellar
Should win: Richard Linklater for Boyhood
It was a huge chance and he made it over 12-13 years period.
Will win:
Alejandro G Inarritu for Birdman
Inarritu made an incredible looking film with no cuts. The film had just a fluid motion. Like Linklater it is so different. He will get the edge because the film is a bit flashier than Boyhood.
BEST PICTURE:
American Sniper
Birdman
Boyhood
The Grand Budapest Hotel
The Imitation game
Selma
The Theory of Everything
Whiplash
Overlooked
Wild
Just loved the layers of it.
Should win: Out of the nominees I am leaning toward American Sniper. It does what movies can do: Entertain/educate/debate.
Will win
Boyhood
I think it is the closest best picture race in years. Again PC voters will knock out American Sniper
so again it will be Birdman and Boyhood. Boyhood is like a 3 hour version of the British documentary Seven. Never been done. So I give it the edge. Yes Birdman is flashier but as best picture I think the voters may like the ending of Boyhood better then the ending of Birdman. It is real close call
Well there are my picks in the major categories.
I will be back Monday with my thoughts on the Oscars!!
Friday, February 20, 2015
Oscar week!!! Part 4!
Continuing my top ten movies for 2014!
So far:
10-The Grand Budapest Hotel
9-The Immigrant
8-Maleficent
7-Whiplash
6-Trip To Italy
5-Belle
4-The Fault In Our Stars
3-American Sniper
2-Top Five
My number 1 film of 2014:
Wild
Based on the book by Cheryl Strayed
Written by Nick Hornby
Directed by Jean Marc-Vallee
Starring: Reese Witherspoon
Laura Dern
How does one deal with loss? How does one push on? Here is the true story of Cheryl Strayed, after the loss of her mother/her best friend (Laura Dern), she spiraled down hill. Heroin, marital affairs, unwanted pregnancy. Her life was heading one place and sadly most likely it was 6 feet under. Then she saw a book about hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, and in a rash decision she decided to hike it for 3 months. She had to wherewithal to understand her life was out of control and decided to step away from her life and reset it.
Sounds depressing! Far from it. Yes, sad in parts , but also uplifting, funny, full of discovery.
I read the book after watching the film. I think the film is better than the book. The film consolidates events and by consolidating the events it gives us a better feel of the relationship Cheryl had with her mom and her ex and sibling. In the book she meets people on the trail and befriends them and hikes with them for short periods. Many of these fellow hikers are left out in the movie. At two hours long I can see why, however I wished we could have seen more of that. I guess when comparing to the book that is my only fault of the film.
Enough comparison with the book. The movie on its own is fantastic. Laura Dern , for the second time this year playing a mother is just spot on..Still, Reese Witherspoon is wonderful as Cheryl. It is all her. Her movie. An acting class. A tough personality at the beginning of the hike you see her becoming softer (and thinner) as her hike pushes on. Not only carrying a "monster" backpack but carrying her burdens that at one point even knock Cheryl to her knees.
I had problems at first with the films abrupt ending. I wanted more, like how she made out after the hike. I watched it a second time, and realized after the hike is not what the film is about, it is about what the 3 months and the thousand plus mile hike did to heal her mind and body.
I read one complaint that she looks miserable. Huh? She is hiking for three months losing toe nails! Hello!! Cheryl Strayed just kept hiking forward. A toast with some Snapple and chips to Cheryl.
Two quick notes: stay with the credits you get to see the real Cheryl Strayed in pictures.
Also: a recommendation, a fantastic film of the same ilk- Emilio Estevez's The Way. Where Martin Sheen makes a rash decision to hike the El Camino De Santiago to honor his son who died on the trail. As Sheen walks he meets up with other hikers a Dutchman, a Canadian, and an Irish writer. As he walks with them, we discover they all have their own personal reasons to make the track. A favorite film of mine also. The Way is available for streaming on Netflix.
Well, again, my number 1 film, Wild.
Wild will be available on Blu-Ray March 31st.
"How wild it was, to let it be"
"But I got promises to keep...and miles to go before I sleep".
"There is a sunrise and a sunset every day and you can choose to be there for it. You can put yourself in the way of beauty".
So far:
10-The Grand Budapest Hotel
9-The Immigrant
8-Maleficent
7-Whiplash
6-Trip To Italy
5-Belle
4-The Fault In Our Stars
3-American Sniper
2-Top Five
My number 1 film of 2014:
Wild
Based on the book by Cheryl Strayed
Written by Nick Hornby
Directed by Jean Marc-Vallee
Starring: Reese Witherspoon
Laura Dern
How does one deal with loss? How does one push on? Here is the true story of Cheryl Strayed, after the loss of her mother/her best friend (Laura Dern), she spiraled down hill. Heroin, marital affairs, unwanted pregnancy. Her life was heading one place and sadly most likely it was 6 feet under. Then she saw a book about hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, and in a rash decision she decided to hike it for 3 months. She had to wherewithal to understand her life was out of control and decided to step away from her life and reset it.
Sounds depressing! Far from it. Yes, sad in parts , but also uplifting, funny, full of discovery.
I read the book after watching the film. I think the film is better than the book. The film consolidates events and by consolidating the events it gives us a better feel of the relationship Cheryl had with her mom and her ex and sibling. In the book she meets people on the trail and befriends them and hikes with them for short periods. Many of these fellow hikers are left out in the movie. At two hours long I can see why, however I wished we could have seen more of that. I guess when comparing to the book that is my only fault of the film.
Enough comparison with the book. The movie on its own is fantastic. Laura Dern , for the second time this year playing a mother is just spot on..Still, Reese Witherspoon is wonderful as Cheryl. It is all her. Her movie. An acting class. A tough personality at the beginning of the hike you see her becoming softer (and thinner) as her hike pushes on. Not only carrying a "monster" backpack but carrying her burdens that at one point even knock Cheryl to her knees.
I had problems at first with the films abrupt ending. I wanted more, like how she made out after the hike. I watched it a second time, and realized after the hike is not what the film is about, it is about what the 3 months and the thousand plus mile hike did to heal her mind and body.
I read one complaint that she looks miserable. Huh? She is hiking for three months losing toe nails! Hello!! Cheryl Strayed just kept hiking forward. A toast with some Snapple and chips to Cheryl.
Two quick notes: stay with the credits you get to see the real Cheryl Strayed in pictures.
Also: a recommendation, a fantastic film of the same ilk- Emilio Estevez's The Way. Where Martin Sheen makes a rash decision to hike the El Camino De Santiago to honor his son who died on the trail. As Sheen walks he meets up with other hikers a Dutchman, a Canadian, and an Irish writer. As he walks with them, we discover they all have their own personal reasons to make the track. A favorite film of mine also. The Way is available for streaming on Netflix.
Well, again, my number 1 film, Wild.
Wild will be available on Blu-Ray March 31st.
"How wild it was, to let it be"
"But I got promises to keep...and miles to go before I sleep".
"There is a sunrise and a sunset every day and you can choose to be there for it. You can put yourself in the way of beauty".
Thursday, February 19, 2015
Oscar week!!! Part 3!!
Continuing my top 10 movies of 2014!
So far:
10-Grand Budapest Hotel
9-The Immigrant
8-Maleficent
7-Whiplash
6-Trip To Italy
5-Belle
So now we come to number 4.
4-The Fault In Our Stars
Based on the book with the same name by John Greene
Written by Scott Neustadter and Michael Weber
Directed by Josh Boone
Starring Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort
Two teens, Hazel and Gus, both who have different cancer conditions fall in love after meeting at a cancer support group.
I had no interest. I really did not. Why would I want to see a film about two teens with cancer?! Then the film came out with wonderful reviews. Then I thought okay suck it up and go. Wow! The first thing you notice is the wonderful chemistry between Woodley and Elgort. Then you watch and realize this film is not about dying it is about living in the face of dying. In reality...aren't we all. However Hazel and Gus have an idea when the end may be coming as opposed to most of us. It is a story of living and loving. Woodley is fantastic. Elgort is kind of stiff, but I think his character is suppose to be. With Hazel being just a ball of emotions he is like the rock. They work well together. A quick note....Laura Dern!! As Frannie Hazel's mom. Fantastic!! Is the end sad. Yes. However strangely uplifting. Life.
Number 4: The Fault In Our Stars
3-American Sniper
Based on the book by Chris Kyle
Written by Jason Hall
Directed by Clint Eastwood
Starring: Bradley Cooper and Sienna Miller
No synopsis needed here. You know (unless you are living in a cave) the story.
Another movie I really was not looking forward to seeing. Not because of the subject, but because Eastwood directed it. He makes good films but think about it, there is death at the end of all his movies. UGH!
Just a couple thoughts on this film:
1-Bradley Cooper is great in this movie. He says so little, but his face says sooo much.
2- The controversy. My thoughts: Somebody has to do the dirty work. It was that way in WW1. In WW2. In Korea. In Vietnam. And will be in the future. I think some people are up in arms because they see it here. It is a tough job physically and mentally but has to be done. Get the one, before that one gets maybe thousands of us. Chris Kyle is a hero. It is a hard movie to recommend because I like to recommend movies I like to watch more than once. As of this date I still cant bring myself to watch this again. Maybe that is why, and maybe the only reason this film is not at the top of my list.
Number 3-American Sniper
Number 2-Top Five
Written and Directed by Chris Rock
Starring Chris Rock and Rosario Dawson
First lets get this out of the way: Really Top Five Better than American Sniper? Top Five: Was I entertained? More than I thought I would be. Did the movie deliver? Way more than the trailer. I just felt this film I would watch more then once...and still enjoy it. And I love to laugh and it is my preference to laugh then cry.
It cannot be a coincidence that Chris Rock wrote this movie after being in Julie Delpy's 2 days in New York. This film is pretty much like Richard Linklater's Before Sunrise/Before Sunset/Before Midnight films which starred Julie Delpy. Chris Rock's film takes place in New York City and instead of Julie Delpy and Ethan Hawke walking around it is Rock and Dawson.
Chris plays an actor trying to keep his career going in the face of his reality-TV star fiancée (Gabrielle Union) convincing him to broadcasting their wedding on her TV show. Dawson plays a reporter following Rock around for the day as he tells her stories of his past and his future dreams while trying to deal with the now. This movie is so well written and soooo funny ( there is one raunchy scene in the middle that is hilarious and at the same time hard to watch). It is hard to find smart comedies being released today and Chris Rock comes through here. He also helped by many supporting players. Who? How about: Seinfeld/Cedric The Entertainer/Tracey Morgan/Leslie Jones/Kevin Hart and so many more. I want him to do a follow up like Linklater!
Number 2-Top Five
So far:
10-Grand Budapest Hotel
9-The Immigrant
8-Maleficent
7-Whiplash
6-Trip To Italy
5-Belle
So now we come to number 4.
4-The Fault In Our Stars
Based on the book with the same name by John Greene
Written by Scott Neustadter and Michael Weber
Directed by Josh Boone
Starring Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort
Two teens, Hazel and Gus, both who have different cancer conditions fall in love after meeting at a cancer support group.
I had no interest. I really did not. Why would I want to see a film about two teens with cancer?! Then the film came out with wonderful reviews. Then I thought okay suck it up and go. Wow! The first thing you notice is the wonderful chemistry between Woodley and Elgort. Then you watch and realize this film is not about dying it is about living in the face of dying. In reality...aren't we all. However Hazel and Gus have an idea when the end may be coming as opposed to most of us. It is a story of living and loving. Woodley is fantastic. Elgort is kind of stiff, but I think his character is suppose to be. With Hazel being just a ball of emotions he is like the rock. They work well together. A quick note....Laura Dern!! As Frannie Hazel's mom. Fantastic!! Is the end sad. Yes. However strangely uplifting. Life.
Number 4: The Fault In Our Stars
3-American Sniper
Based on the book by Chris Kyle
Written by Jason Hall
Directed by Clint Eastwood
Starring: Bradley Cooper and Sienna Miller
No synopsis needed here. You know (unless you are living in a cave) the story.
Another movie I really was not looking forward to seeing. Not because of the subject, but because Eastwood directed it. He makes good films but think about it, there is death at the end of all his movies. UGH!
Just a couple thoughts on this film:
1-Bradley Cooper is great in this movie. He says so little, but his face says sooo much.
2- The controversy. My thoughts: Somebody has to do the dirty work. It was that way in WW1. In WW2. In Korea. In Vietnam. And will be in the future. I think some people are up in arms because they see it here. It is a tough job physically and mentally but has to be done. Get the one, before that one gets maybe thousands of us. Chris Kyle is a hero. It is a hard movie to recommend because I like to recommend movies I like to watch more than once. As of this date I still cant bring myself to watch this again. Maybe that is why, and maybe the only reason this film is not at the top of my list.
Number 3-American Sniper
Number 2-Top Five
Written and Directed by Chris Rock
Starring Chris Rock and Rosario Dawson
First lets get this out of the way: Really Top Five Better than American Sniper? Top Five: Was I entertained? More than I thought I would be. Did the movie deliver? Way more than the trailer. I just felt this film I would watch more then once...and still enjoy it. And I love to laugh and it is my preference to laugh then cry.
It cannot be a coincidence that Chris Rock wrote this movie after being in Julie Delpy's 2 days in New York. This film is pretty much like Richard Linklater's Before Sunrise/Before Sunset/Before Midnight films which starred Julie Delpy. Chris Rock's film takes place in New York City and instead of Julie Delpy and Ethan Hawke walking around it is Rock and Dawson.
Chris plays an actor trying to keep his career going in the face of his reality-TV star fiancée (Gabrielle Union) convincing him to broadcasting their wedding on her TV show. Dawson plays a reporter following Rock around for the day as he tells her stories of his past and his future dreams while trying to deal with the now. This movie is so well written and soooo funny ( there is one raunchy scene in the middle that is hilarious and at the same time hard to watch). It is hard to find smart comedies being released today and Chris Rock comes through here. He also helped by many supporting players. Who? How about: Seinfeld/Cedric The Entertainer/Tracey Morgan/Leslie Jones/Kevin Hart and so many more. I want him to do a follow up like Linklater!
Number 2-Top Five
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
Oscar Week!!! Part 2!!
Continuing my 2014 top ten movies of 2014....
so far:
10-Grand Budapest Hotel
9-The Immigrant
8-Maleificent
7-Whiplash
Written and Directed by Damien Chazelle
Starring- Miles Teller
J.K. Simmons
It is a powerful movie questioning how much can or should you endure to pursue your dreams.
A promising young drummer enrolls at a music conservatory where his dreams of greatness are mentored by an instructor who pushes the envelope with his teaching methods. The film almost feels like a stage play. The story line is tough to watch, still the fantastic acting by Simmons and Teller pulls it along. Is it a happy ending? I have no idea, but what I do know is do not miss this master class of acting.
Number 7 Whiplash
Number 6- Trip To Italy
Written And Directed by Michael Winterbottom
Starring-Steve Coogin
-Rob Bryden
There is a feel of the film Sideways here. What is it? Is it a documentary? More like a mockumentary I guess. It is hard to explain. I know it is two men, six meals in six different places on a road trip around Italy. Liguria, Tuscany, Rome, Amalfi and ending in Capri. Not much happens. Just two guys talking and eating and traveling. Steve Coogin is Steve. Rob Bryden as Rob. It is a follow up to the movie The Trip that they also did together. You really do not need to see The Trip to watch this film, it is literally another trip, and I think a better film than the predecessor. May have needed a small amount of editing but still I enjoyed it. I think it is a film you either get and love, or don't get and want to give up on it half way through. As you can tell I get it. I laughed out loud often.
Number 6 Trip To Italy
Number 5- Belle
Written by Amma Asante
Directed by Misan Sagay
Starring Gugu Mbatha-Raw
No dark skin individuals on Downton Abbey? Well welcome Belle. Yes, A different time period then Downton, still the reactions would be probably be the same. The mixed race daughter of a Royal Navy Admiral is taken in by her aristocratic great-uncle ( Tom Wilkinson) in 18th century England. I really liked this film, and Mbatha-Raw, a star is born. Very soapy. Yes, but I do not mind soapy if it works, and I think this worked. Plus Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy) is back playing evil!!!!
Number 5 Belle
so far:
10-Grand Budapest Hotel
9-The Immigrant
8-Maleificent
7-Whiplash
Written and Directed by Damien Chazelle
Starring- Miles Teller
J.K. Simmons
It is a powerful movie questioning how much can or should you endure to pursue your dreams.
A promising young drummer enrolls at a music conservatory where his dreams of greatness are mentored by an instructor who pushes the envelope with his teaching methods. The film almost feels like a stage play. The story line is tough to watch, still the fantastic acting by Simmons and Teller pulls it along. Is it a happy ending? I have no idea, but what I do know is do not miss this master class of acting.
Number 7 Whiplash
Number 6- Trip To Italy
Written And Directed by Michael Winterbottom
Starring-Steve Coogin
-Rob Bryden
There is a feel of the film Sideways here. What is it? Is it a documentary? More like a mockumentary I guess. It is hard to explain. I know it is two men, six meals in six different places on a road trip around Italy. Liguria, Tuscany, Rome, Amalfi and ending in Capri. Not much happens. Just two guys talking and eating and traveling. Steve Coogin is Steve. Rob Bryden as Rob. It is a follow up to the movie The Trip that they also did together. You really do not need to see The Trip to watch this film, it is literally another trip, and I think a better film than the predecessor. May have needed a small amount of editing but still I enjoyed it. I think it is a film you either get and love, or don't get and want to give up on it half way through. As you can tell I get it. I laughed out loud often.
Number 6 Trip To Italy
Number 5- Belle
Written by Amma Asante
Directed by Misan Sagay
Starring Gugu Mbatha-Raw
No dark skin individuals on Downton Abbey? Well welcome Belle. Yes, A different time period then Downton, still the reactions would be probably be the same. The mixed race daughter of a Royal Navy Admiral is taken in by her aristocratic great-uncle ( Tom Wilkinson) in 18th century England. I really liked this film, and Mbatha-Raw, a star is born. Very soapy. Yes, but I do not mind soapy if it works, and I think this worked. Plus Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy) is back playing evil!!!!
Number 5 Belle
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Oscar Week!!!! Part 1!!
Oscar week has arrived! I will take this opportunity to give you my top 10 movies of 2014.
Settle down. Settle down. I know you are excited.
Was I entertained? Did I learn something? Did the film deliver what the trailer promised? These questions I ask myself when I watch a film. Much different than "more common" reviewers. Sometimes I feel film critics are sad people and depressed and lonely and they lean toward depressing lonely and sad films. They roll their eyes at happy endings. You will not find that here. I am open to all types of films. My top ten are a bit different. A little humor, maybe not exactly grammatically correct, but my point will come across I hope.
So 10-9-8 for this blog!!!!!!!
10-The Grand Budapest Hotel
Starring-Ralph Fiennes
Written and Directed- Wes Anderson
You either get Wes Anderson or you do not. I am a fan. I get him. I am open minded enough to see he can sometimes miss, aka The Darjeeling Limited. Is this film as good as Moonrise Kingdom? No I don't think so. Still this film is far from a miss. It surprises you a bit at the end when you realize, even though there is the usual Wes Anderson wackiness, there is a love story here. Wes always has a part in his films where it becomes over the top wacky, like the end of Moonrise. Here it comes on a mountain top in the middle, but then he pulls it back a bit as we get to the end with a feeling of love and longing. He once again runs his regular troop in and out: Bill Murray/Harvey Keitel/Ed Norton/Jason Schwartzman/Owen Wilson and such. Here it is Fiennes who takes the lead and is surprisingly funny. Also note a wonderful debut by Tony Revolori as Zero the lobby boy playing a straight man to Fiennes.
So Number 10: The Grand Budapest Hotel....Take Your Hands Off My Lobby Boy!
9-The Immigrant
Starring- Marion Cotillard
Joaquin Phoenix
Jeremy Renner
Written and Directed by James Gray
An immigrant woman played by Marion Cotillard loses track of her sister at Ellis Island and is tricked into a life of burlesque and vaudeville. Until a magician tries to save her and help her get to her sister in the confines of Ellis Island.
I cant tell you more because it will spoil the film. It is entertaining and suspenseful with a great feel for time and place. In 2014 two stars have jumped up, in my opinion, as the top 1-2 actors working today. One is Thomas Hardy (see The Drop and Locke); the other is Cotillard. She is nominated for Two Days One Night, which I have seen, I think this performance is better and sadly overlooked.
Number 9 The Immigrant.
8-Maleficent
Starring- Angelina Jolie
-Elle Fanning
Writers- Linda Woolverton
Charles Perrault
Directed-Robert Stromberg
Well I said my ten would be different!!!
Maleficent is an excellent film based on the classic Sleeping Beauty. It reminds me of the musical Wicked (will this movie ever get made) where it takes a story we know and twists it around. Maleificent works! Jolie is all in. Fanning, who I am a big fan of ( see Super 8 and the heartbreaking Phoebe In Wonderland), is cast perfectly in the part of the naïve Aurora. Is the film entertaining? Yes, a little dark, dark enough that it may not be for little ones. Did it deliver what the trailer promised? Yes, a little wild at the end, but it sure did. Like Wicked, did we really know The Wicked Witch Of The West? Here, did we really know Maleificent.
Number 8 Maleficent.
Settle down. Settle down. I know you are excited.
Was I entertained? Did I learn something? Did the film deliver what the trailer promised? These questions I ask myself when I watch a film. Much different than "more common" reviewers. Sometimes I feel film critics are sad people and depressed and lonely and they lean toward depressing lonely and sad films. They roll their eyes at happy endings. You will not find that here. I am open to all types of films. My top ten are a bit different. A little humor, maybe not exactly grammatically correct, but my point will come across I hope.
So 10-9-8 for this blog!!!!!!!
10-The Grand Budapest Hotel
Starring-Ralph Fiennes
Written and Directed- Wes Anderson
You either get Wes Anderson or you do not. I am a fan. I get him. I am open minded enough to see he can sometimes miss, aka The Darjeeling Limited. Is this film as good as Moonrise Kingdom? No I don't think so. Still this film is far from a miss. It surprises you a bit at the end when you realize, even though there is the usual Wes Anderson wackiness, there is a love story here. Wes always has a part in his films where it becomes over the top wacky, like the end of Moonrise. Here it comes on a mountain top in the middle, but then he pulls it back a bit as we get to the end with a feeling of love and longing. He once again runs his regular troop in and out: Bill Murray/Harvey Keitel/Ed Norton/Jason Schwartzman/Owen Wilson and such. Here it is Fiennes who takes the lead and is surprisingly funny. Also note a wonderful debut by Tony Revolori as Zero the lobby boy playing a straight man to Fiennes.
So Number 10: The Grand Budapest Hotel....Take Your Hands Off My Lobby Boy!
9-The Immigrant
Starring- Marion Cotillard
Joaquin Phoenix
Jeremy Renner
Written and Directed by James Gray
An immigrant woman played by Marion Cotillard loses track of her sister at Ellis Island and is tricked into a life of burlesque and vaudeville. Until a magician tries to save her and help her get to her sister in the confines of Ellis Island.
I cant tell you more because it will spoil the film. It is entertaining and suspenseful with a great feel for time and place. In 2014 two stars have jumped up, in my opinion, as the top 1-2 actors working today. One is Thomas Hardy (see The Drop and Locke); the other is Cotillard. She is nominated for Two Days One Night, which I have seen, I think this performance is better and sadly overlooked.
Number 9 The Immigrant.
8-Maleficent
Starring- Angelina Jolie
-Elle Fanning
Writers- Linda Woolverton
Charles Perrault
Directed-Robert Stromberg
Well I said my ten would be different!!!
Maleficent is an excellent film based on the classic Sleeping Beauty. It reminds me of the musical Wicked (will this movie ever get made) where it takes a story we know and twists it around. Maleificent works! Jolie is all in. Fanning, who I am a big fan of ( see Super 8 and the heartbreaking Phoebe In Wonderland), is cast perfectly in the part of the naïve Aurora. Is the film entertaining? Yes, a little dark, dark enough that it may not be for little ones. Did it deliver what the trailer promised? Yes, a little wild at the end, but it sure did. Like Wicked, did we really know The Wicked Witch Of The West? Here, did we really know Maleificent.
Number 8 Maleficent.
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Blu-Ray/ Streaming release Feb 10
Here are two notable releases this week:
First: Nightcrawler
Written and Directed by Dan Gilroy
Starring Jake Gyllenhaal/Renee Russo/Bill Paxton
Nightcrawler is not easy to explain. Is it a thriller?! I am not sure. I know it is creepy and while you watch you feel guilty just watching. The film takes place in Los Angles Jake Gyllenhaal is Lou Bloom who is desperate for work, and kind of stumbles on a group of freelance camera crews who film car crashes, murders, fires, pretty much any thing he can film that can bring shock to viewers. Lou buys a scanner and spends his time racing to any incident he hears which he feels the film can be sold for cash to the local TV news stations. Rene Russo plays Nina, a veteran of local TV news. Nina makes the hard decision of what to film to pay Lou for.
The film is creepy. Maybe creepy because as you watch you think....this may be actually happening right now. A very good performance by Gyllenhaal, he lost weight for the role, which makes him seem even creepier.
I would give it 4 out of 5 stars. A well done film that you feel guilty enjoying.
Second: Alexander And The Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
Written by Rob Lieber based on the book by Judith Viorst
Directed by Miguel Arteta
Starring Steve Carell/Jennifer Garner/Ed Oxenbould
The title of the movie says it all. No explanation needed. Alexander has a bad day and it spreads throughout the family.
I have to note I love the book. I say to my self often "in Australia". Lets face it, they just stole the title to draw in lovers of the book. The film does not have much in common with the book. Still, it is a nice story of love and understanding within a family. This film was not made to win awards. This film is good family entertainment that is not an animated movie which is hard to find. The kids will laugh and so will you a couple times. The film is harmless.
I would give it 3 out of 5 stars.
First: Nightcrawler
Written and Directed by Dan Gilroy
Starring Jake Gyllenhaal/Renee Russo/Bill Paxton
Nightcrawler is not easy to explain. Is it a thriller?! I am not sure. I know it is creepy and while you watch you feel guilty just watching. The film takes place in Los Angles Jake Gyllenhaal is Lou Bloom who is desperate for work, and kind of stumbles on a group of freelance camera crews who film car crashes, murders, fires, pretty much any thing he can film that can bring shock to viewers. Lou buys a scanner and spends his time racing to any incident he hears which he feels the film can be sold for cash to the local TV news stations. Rene Russo plays Nina, a veteran of local TV news. Nina makes the hard decision of what to film to pay Lou for.
The film is creepy. Maybe creepy because as you watch you think....this may be actually happening right now. A very good performance by Gyllenhaal, he lost weight for the role, which makes him seem even creepier.
I would give it 4 out of 5 stars. A well done film that you feel guilty enjoying.
Second: Alexander And The Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
Written by Rob Lieber based on the book by Judith Viorst
Directed by Miguel Arteta
Starring Steve Carell/Jennifer Garner/Ed Oxenbould
The title of the movie says it all. No explanation needed. Alexander has a bad day and it spreads throughout the family.
I have to note I love the book. I say to my self often "in Australia". Lets face it, they just stole the title to draw in lovers of the book. The film does not have much in common with the book. Still, it is a nice story of love and understanding within a family. This film was not made to win awards. This film is good family entertainment that is not an animated movie which is hard to find. The kids will laugh and so will you a couple times. The film is harmless.
I would give it 3 out of 5 stars.
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Welcome
For years I listened to Steve Friedman on our local radio station every Saturday night. He was called Mr Movie. He was an amazing individual. He had a mind/memory of movies like no one that came before or we shall ever see again. He sadly passed away in 2009. He always said it was ok to disagree with each other about a movie, we are all different and that is okay. He also added if you liked Barfly then I have to question your sanity. He was awesome.
Well in memory of Mr Movie I sit in the shadows and watch many films, so here I will give you my opinions of movies or performances and it is okay to disagree. I hope Steve who influenced my love of film would be proud watching from above.
More info on Steve:
http://www.broadcastpioneers.com/bp3/stevefriedman.html
Thanks for taking the time.
Well in memory of Mr Movie I sit in the shadows and watch many films, so here I will give you my opinions of movies or performances and it is okay to disagree. I hope Steve who influenced my love of film would be proud watching from above.
More info on Steve:
http://www.broadcastpioneers.com/bp3/stevefriedman.html
Thanks for taking the time.
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