The Lake House

I got sucked into the The Lake House, by the trailer, and the powerful Keane song Somewhere Only We Know (the music in this film is well placed). This film is a refreshing departure from the classic love story. It is interesting, a little mind bending, and so damn romantic. The editing and performances made it for me. Two people exchange notes through a magic mailbox at the same house 2 years apart. If you let yourself give in to the fantasy and lack of logic, this is a very satisfying romance!

A Prairie Home Companion

What a pleasure!!! A Prairie Home Companion is a sweet walk through the fictional last show of a real radio program. Robert Altman takes us on a gentle meander through the characters, their talents, their stories, and the sadness of this last night with the angel of death hovering in the background. The music was my favorite part, lively and often funny, this was a delightful film for me!

Cars

Pixar's summer offering, Cars, is a very pretty film. Colorful and creative, the visual is excellent. All of the characters are cars, there are some very cute human parallels and word play. Thing is, an animated film need be no more than 90 minutes. No matter how sophisticated the story, the audience will be young, and you just can't hold their attention much longer. This film is 1 hour 57 minutes long. There are a lot of slow spots where there were losing me, so I wonder about the younger set. The tow truck, Mater, and the tractors saved the film for me, funny stuff! If you can be patient and wait to the very end of the credits, there is one final gag worth seeing.

My Men on DVD...and a Story

Neil Youg:Heart of Gold is out in DVD today. One of the best concert documentaries I've seen.

A special edition DVD of The Princess Bride also comes out in DVD today, which brings me to a story......

I was Christopher Guest's driver at the Newport Film Festival last year. On Sunday, he asked me to show him the town, and help him do a little shopping for gifts for his family. We were in a store, looking at animal hand puppets for his son. He picked up a lady bug and said "Look how clever this is, the legs are a glove, but what do you do with this?" He was holding out the 6th leg. I said "Oh, that's for your 6th finger". He answered with "I don't really have six fingers." I thought to myself, what an odd thing to say. I then held up the octopus I was playing with and said "and this is for people with eight fingers!" thinking I was oh-so-clever. I remember thinking the whole exchange was a little strange. He bought a penguin and we moved on. Let me say here, it has been many years since I had last seen The Princess Bride. Fast forward to the next morning, and I am telling my daughter M about my day with Christopher Guest and she says, "I think my favorite role he's played is the Six-Finger Man in The Princess Bride" My face went flush, and the whole finger conversation from the day before was not so odd anymore!! To this day I wonder what he thought about that conversation, I mean, how many opportunities do you have for acusing someone of have six fingers in casual conversation!?!?! Yeesh!!!!

NIFF Day Six *whew*

The last day of Film Festival is bittersweet. If it has gone well, you don't want it to end, but all the late nights and early mornings have you bleary-eyed and thinking of your pillow. Rides to the trains and airports are full of goodbyes and thank yous. The weather finally turned sunny, so we had to hunt a few people off of sailboats and beaches. I had the most amazing conversation with Xander Berkeley and Sarah Clarke on the ride to the airport, I feel so fortunate to have spent time with these people. Can't wait till next year!!!!

NIFF Day Five

The day began with the Mayor of Newport declaring June 10, 2006 "Diane Ladd Day". I picked up Ms. Ladd, her husband Robert and the NIFF publiscist to go to a book signing at the Opera House, before her screening of Rambling Rose. This was followed by an awards luncheon, where she was given the Pell Award for contributions to the arts (the Senator and his family were there), then she had a magazine interview. When all of this was finished, she looked at me and said "now I can play, show me this lovely city"! The weather had finally cleared, and I took her on a ride around Ocean Drive, by the historical landmarks in town and she stepped into a local shop and picked up a new hat. She and Robert invited me and a young man, Billy Best, to join them for dinner at the Black Pearl and a screening of the closing night film, Champions. After the film she asked, "is there anywhere to get ice cream around here?" So off to Coldstone Creamery we went. At Coldstone, Ms. Ladd looked at me over her ice cream cone and said "I am having such a good time!" Back at the hotel, I received a very warm hug (heart to heart), a thank you, and a lovely gift as we said our goodbyes. Ms. Ladd was leaving for a flight to Chicago at 4 AM, so she was ready to turn in. It was a wonderful day, and though I'm pleased that she and Robert had a good time, I did as well!!!

NIFF Day Four

I was very nervous about picking up Diane Ladd at the airport today. I had been told not to be late, be sure to bring her here and here, I was given the impression she would be demanding. The woman that stepped off the airplane was lovely, friendly, charming and funny. Her husband, Robert, was kind to me from the minute we met, and has a wonderful sense of humor. The policy at the hotel is to greet the guests with a glass of champagne, and Ms. Ladd invited me to join her in a glass while we exchanged phone numbers and went over the schedule for Saturday. I'm looking forward to spending the day with her tomorrow!

After I left Ms. Ladd, I went over to the party to check in. Many people from past film festivals were there! It was a little NIFF reunion, so good to see everyone!

NIFF Day Three

Thursday night of the Newport Film Festival was testimony to the biggest reason I volunteer at this event .....the people I work with. I got out of the car and into the office last night, and got to work with all the great drivers, box office folks and festival staff. These people are fun, interesting and dedicated to this festival. There was one brush with celebrity when Elvis Mitchell (film critic and juror) asked me where the fax machine was! *sigh*

NIFF Day Two

Richard Burgi (Desperate Housewives, In her Shoes, Fun With Dick and Jane, Judging Amy) is friendly, smart, charming and talented. I had the pleasure of being his driver today. He was in RI for a discussion panel at the Newport Film Festival. I was to pick him up at the venue after the panel, and take him wherever he needed to go. He wanted to get something to eat with his young son, so I took them to my favorite spot, Yesterdays, 25 beers on tap and a great kid's menu. He asked me to join them, and we chatted, ate and colored. A quick trip to GAP Kids and Banana Republic, then we were off to The Improv Comedy show, where he again asked me to join them. I guess drivers don't always have to wait in the car! Thanks guys!!

NIFF Day One

The Newport International Film Festival held it's opening night last night, and I have the privilege of working as a volunteer with the transportation department. We help get the filmmakers and talent to their hotels, films, panels, performances and parties. It is an excellent way to be in the midst of all these creative folks. Last night, film critic Elvis Mitchell was in our office. I also gave rides to and from the opening night party and met Jesse Garcia, actor in the opening film Quinceanera, Henry Diltz, photographer of rock stars' album covers, and subject of the documentary Under the Covers and NIFF programmer, David Nugent!! This is only the first night of a very exciting week here in RI. Fun to have the film world around us for a little while. Stay tuned .........

The Breakup

The photo montage of Brooke and Gary, during the opening credits of The Breakup, is how we like to see couples, and how we like to imagine Jennifer Aniston and Vince Vaughn in their personal life. When we meet Brooke and Gary, they are no longer that happy couple in the photos. Though The Breakup is promoted as a romantic comedy, I found it to be more of a drama with funny scenes. The demise of the relationship is evident in the first argument we witness, and it never gets better. The breakup is inevitable, and the film follows Brooke's attempts to fix it, but the relationship is beyond repair. I thought the issues in this breakup felt very real, which makes the story sad, but the supporting characters lend the levity you need to get through. I thought this was a good relationship drama, with well-placed comic relief.

X-Men:The Last Stand

The latest installment in the X-Men franchise, X-Men:The Last Stand, is billed as the final film ...yeah right, is that why they left me hanging? I was feeling closure right up to the last scene, and if you stay through the credits, there's another teaser of a scene ..... yeesh!!! The story centers on the new-found cure for mutants and the political division of the population. The evil Mystique was my favorite, she is bad-ass!! The tongue-in-cheek comments are well sprinkled and not overly cheesy. Special effects abound, this is a fun summer action film!

Winter Passing

Dysfunctional families supply great characters for film. In Winter Passing a young woman returns home to a father she doesn't know, looking for letters from her famous Mother, to sell. In the process she finds friendship and herself, and goes from cynical to grounded. Zooey Deschanel is the heart of this film, and Will Ferrell gives us his first dramatic performance. Well worth a look.

Transamerica in DVD

Transamerica is released to DVD this week. Felicity Huffman gives a amazing performance as a transsexual man awaiting surgery. When he finds out he has a son, an interesting road trip ensues.

Over the Hedge

Over the Hedge is a nice start to the summer movie lineup. Cool animation and a clever premis makes this fun for the kids, and will hold the interest of the grown-ups that take them. Funny stuff for the younger set!

The Da Vinci Code

The Da Vinci Code has been heavily promoted over the past year. I was hoping for a good film....oh well. The beginning is slow and painful to watch, Ian McKellan's performance salvages the middle and the end lacks the drama that the final reveal deserves. I have always felt that it is very difficult to interpret a book to film, but the fantastical theories of Dan Brown, that made the book a popular page turner, sound ridiculous in this film. I will say that the cinematography and visual techniques used, as the characters explain theories, are excellent. Ron Howard knows how to craft a film, but the tempo, acting and writing are way off. Where there could have been suspense and wonder, we have predictability and tedium.

Kinky Boots

I love shoes, any movie that starts with the line "You can tell everything about a person by looking at their shoes" has my vote! To avoid financial ruin, a men's shoe factory, transforms to a boot factory for men that want to wear women's style boots. Belive it or not, this is based on a true story. This is a story of friendship, perseverance, acceptance and loyalty ..... kinky boots just happen to be the product. Chiwetel Ejiofor goes from playing the tough cop in The Inside Man, to drag queen in this film, I was enthralled with his performance.

Seeing Stars

It has been raining here in the northeast for over a week. Great weather for movie-going, but it starts to get claustrophobic. I looked outside last night and saw stars - it's been a while! I was in NYC for a week, where I saw stars in the streets, now I can see them in the sky again ... whew!

The Producers on DVD

The latest version of The Producers is out in DVD!! Mel Brooks remade his own movie, with most of the original Broadway cast in tact. Fun stuff!!

RV

RV is a good old fashioned, family oriented comedy. Sight gags, slapstick and cute dialogue had a packed theater laughing out loud today. This was a fun film to watch!!

Poseidon

The ill fate of a New Year's Eve cruise on the Poseidon is a decent remake. Though the 1972 version, The Poseidon Adventure, is more dramatic and has better acting, the special effects and suspense in the new Poseidon are very good. Cheesy dialogue and a few annoying characters, made me thankful that this film is only 1 hour and 40 minutes, just about right for this story. Visual effects are pretty good and Josh Lucas and Kurt Russell supply the eye candy for me *sigh*!

Art School Confidential

Art school becomes the setting of a murder mystery in Art School Confidential. What starts out as a coming of age story, turns dark midway as a serial murder ends up the vehicle for the hero's life goals. This dark comedy is an interesting comment on creativity and the frustrations of those trying to make a living with their art.

M:I:III

Forget about Tom Cruise. See M:I:III for the rest of the cast, J.J. Abrams and the special effects. A cool story, awesome action sequences and great visuals kept this action film fan happy. I think this is the best installment in the MI franchise.

Tribeca Film Festival 2006

After an amazing week of film and film folks, I will say that the 5th Tribeca Film Festival was a great time for me. The best aspect of this event is the exposure to the amazing people who make the films. Not only do the Q&A sessions allow this film fan insight, but sitting in the audience is an experience also. From the music folks sitting behind us at The Night of the White Pants, to the guy who gave an animated blow by blow of the M:I:III premiere, to the kind gentleman who gave me a fancy cookie from a sponsor event, I love the exposure and the accessibility! A great vacation for me!!!!

The Groomsmen

The Groomsmen is a funny, touching story, told from the male perspective, of the days before a wedding. A young man and his friends explore their relationships and the meaning of life. Great performances from John Leguzamo and Jay Mohr really make this film. This is a strong cast and an interesting story. Ed Burns' Q&A explored his filmmaking experience and philosophy. Cool guy.

United 93

Everyone has their own 9/11 experience, United 93 will revive the emotions of them all. This film is an excellent treatment of the events, not only surrounding flight 93 and it's demise, but all of the elements surrounding that morning. The scenes are powerful and emotional. Too soon? I'm not sure that is the issue, so much as the fact that it was a disturbing event no matter how much time has gone by. Revisiting it is not easy.

The Architect

What do you do when your work becomes the home of gangs, hookers and drug dealers? This is the dilemma in The Architect. Adapted from a play, this story follows the parallel lives of a woman activist for the destruction and rebuild of the complex, and the architect, who acknowledges the problem but advocates that the buildings perform their function. An interesting look at the human element of urban living. Relationships are explored, and the young people trying to find their way provide high drama.

Tribeca Talks

In the midst of my film consumption at the Tribeca Film Festival I had the privilege of attending two discussion panels. One was about film distribution. The very talented Steven Soderbergh, along with producer Todd Wagner, and reps from Yahoo and MPAA conducted an interesting discussion on the future of how we will consume films. The discussion was smart, sometimes funny, and shed an optimistic light on the future of film.

On the eve of the M:I:III premiere, I had the pleasure of attending a quiet discussion with its director, J.J. Abrams. He discussed writing, creative process, life style, Tom Cruise, Alias, Lost and Felicity. He is a great story teller, and answered all questions at length. The only thing he would not discuss were plot details of Lost and the new Star Trek movie. He was polite and funny about it, and left us wanting more.

Brother's Shadow

In Brother's Shadow a man returns home to Brooklyn, as a condition of his parole, to find that his estranged family has changed dramatically. His twin brother is dead, his father hates him, his sister-in-law wants a new life and his nephew doesn't know he exists .... whew!!!! Talk about family drama!!! This is a good story of identity and redemption. The writers conducted the Q&A, giving insight to the plot and process.

Just Like the Son

Just Like the Son was a happy accident for me. I chose to see this film because the director was Morgan Freeman, and it sounded like a good story. When they introduced the director before the film, a young man took the microphone, and I realized I had suffered a case of mistaken identity, this filmmaker was Morgan J. Freeman!!! I then had the pleasure of watching his work unfold on the screen. A poignant road trip story, this film was well acted and written. I am glad that pseudo celebrity brought me to this film, and now I have met another talented Mr. Freeman!!

Lonely Hearts

The true story of two murdering con artists from the 40s, is the basis of Lonely Hearts. A dramatic story on its own, now add the star power of John Travolta, James Gandolfini, Salma Hayek, Jared Leto, Scott Caan and Laura Dern, and you've got one heck of a movie. The writer director, Todd Robinson, is the grandson of one of the detectives, played by Travolta, that chased and apprehended the pair. That personal note runs through the film. Violent and very graphic, this is a good piece of historical crime fiction. On my way home after the film, I stopped at a convenience store and happened on a man telling the story of the time Travolta gave him a ride in his plane....only in New York!!!

Night of the White Pants

How do you pick film for someone you've never met? For my first film of the Tribeca Film Festival, I was picking a film to see with my daughter L, her boyfriend and his mother, whom I had never met. With a list of 174 films I was a bit intimidated, but due to schedule and taste, I chose the Night of the White Pants. This story of a dysfunctional family gone amok, and events gone awry in one night, was funny and smart ... everyone enjoyed it! The Q&A involved the director, her producer and several members of the cast. The guy who did the music was sitting behind us, and was very entertaining to listen to. It was a great way to kick off my film festival week!

Matchpoint and Shopgirl in DVD

A film worth checking out is Matchpoint. A young man uses people to get what he wants, good twist at the end.

Steve Martin takes a dramatic turn with Claire Danes in Shopgirl. Two very different love stories take an emotional ride.

The Sentinel

Michael Douglas is the ultimate movie star in my eyes. The Sentinel is an OK cop (Secret Service) drama about a mole in the Secret Service who is out to kill the president. Douglas commands this film and the screen. The voice, the profile, the presence. If you can't tell, I've been a huge fan for years. Kim Basinger, Kiefer Sutherland and Eva Longoria have their moments, but this film is all Douglas .... *sigh*

Akeelah and the Bee

This film is the best example of what competition should be like, a spelling bee is the arena. Akeelah and the Bee, takes the classic underdog story to a new level, with the message of compassion, teamwork and love at the core, without being cheesy. It's hip, it's real, and the audience I saw this with, applauded as the credits rolled!

American Dreamz

The combination of politics, terrorists and American pop culture makes interesting bedfellows in American Dreamz. A sarcastic, no nonsense script, clever plot and surprise ending equals a very entertaining movie for me.

Friends With Money

Every once in a while, a great script captures the subtle basis of relationships. Friend With Money is one of those scripts. Both friendships and marriages are explored. A stellar cast navigates these relationships with interesting dialogue and masterful delivery.

My Neighbor Totoro

Japanese animator, Hayao Miyazaki, tells a charming story of a family dealing with a sick mother, and a country house filled with friendly spirits. Cute and clever, this is a wonderful film for children and adults.

TFF Buzz

As April 25th approaches I am reading more and more buzz about the Tribeca Film Festival. I am VERY excited, because I have purchased a ton of tickets, made plans with friends and family for lunches and diners and I'm going to Oasis Day Spa!!!!!! (thanks M&J) I have attended since 2003. On the 5th anniversary of this film festival, it is expanding from lower Manhattan, to theaters all over the city, and I'M GOING TO BE THERE!!!! I've got a sharpie for autographs, good walking shoes and a silly smile I can't wipe off my face in anticipation of the event! Stay tuned!!

Celebrity Interviews a la Merv

Way before Entertainment Tonight, Extra and Access Hollywood, the king of the celebrity interview, for me, was Merv Griffin. When I was young, my mother always had a TV on while she prepared dinner, and The Merv Griffin Show was in that time slot. I would be helping my mother set the table with star after star being interviewed in the background. For a while, I aspired to appear on Merv's show (not sure what my claim to fame would have been). This was how I learned about Jack Benny, the Gabor sisters, Phyllis Diller, Charo, George Burns, and the hottest up and coming actors in Hollywood. Back then, I didn't go to the movies much, but I certainly knew the players. When Merv stopped doing the show, 20 years ago, I felt a loss.

Today I received a compilation of 40 of his interviews on DVD, and I feel like it's Christmas in April!! Looking at the list of interviews, I remember seeing many of them first hand. So nice to have Merv back with me, I've missed him!

Mrs. Henderson Presents

Out in DVD this week, Mrs. Henderson Presents, is a great rental. The story of a widow looking for purpose, buys a theater and navigates the business of entertainment in London. A nude tableau saves the show, and the theater prospers. This film is well written and the acting is topnotch.

Breakfast on Pluto

Breakfast on Pluto is a sweet story of self discovery. A baby is left on a church doorstep and is placed in foster care. As the boy grows, he longs for his parents, and spends a good amount of his energy trying to find his mother. Over the years he builds his own family in his friends, as a transvestite with a mission. Cillian Murphy, who has played bad guys in Batman and Red Eye, transforms to a character that pulls at your heartstrings. Set in London, this story also addresses the Irish conflict. This film is out in DVD this week.

Lucky Number Slevin

In the first 15 minutes of Lucky Number Slevin, 11 people are killed. The story moves forward for a while, but when we are finally taken back to the beginning, nothing is as it appears. Gambling, loan sharks, debt, revenge and murder all figure in. When all the details are revealed, it's one heck of a story!!

An Unfinished Life

An Unfinished Life is an interesting story. A young woman (played by Jennifer Lopez), and her daughter, seek refuge with the woman's late husband's father, after her boyfriend beats her up .... again. Grandpa (played by Robert Redford)does not know he has an 11 year old grandchild. He daily grieves his son, and his best friend was almost killed in a bear attack the year before. The drama ensues, and the story unfolds. Morgan Friedman, Camryn Manheim and Becca Gardner give wonderful performances.

Take the Lead

Antonio Banderas acts more than he dances in this film. As the idealistic Pierre Dulaine, he tries to make a difference, with ballroom dancing, in an urban high school. The film is about 15 minutes longer than need be, but drives home the old "take an interest in kids, and they will flourish" theme. Stylish editing, and Banderas carry this film.

Thank You for Smoking

More than a story about tobacco, this film is about the art of debate. How well can you argue? Clever and sarcastic, a comment on public image and spin.

Little Manhattan

One of those "damn kids" that fly down the sidewalks on razor scooters is the central character of Little Manhattan. He's 10 years old, has fallen in love and a 9 block radius of the Upper West Side is his world. This is a nice coming of age story that I found funny and relevant. Well done.

Ticket Buzz

I received confirmation on my tickets for the Tribeca Film Festival yesterday. Yes, I am a card carrying, hat and t-shirt wearing fan of this film festival! The accessibility, the films, the film folk .... and ,hey, it's New York !! I've taken my last few vacations at this film festival, and have never been disappointed .... did I mention it's New York!?!??! I have tickets to a couple of sold out films and discussion panels .... can't wait for May!!!!

Ice Age: The Meltdown

I think it's fun to see a kid's movie in a theater full of kids. When I took my nephews I&K to see Ice Age:The Meltdown, the theater was jammed. This is a cute animated story, the kids laughed out loud many times. Fun stuff for the younger set.

Brokeback and Narnia in DVD

Brokeback Mountain is out in DVD this week. This film was a sensation on the award circuit. I did not have the same enthusiasm for this film, but it was well acted and shot .... beautiful cinematography. Rent it and decide for yourself.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe comes out in 2 forms of DVD also (one or two discs). This is a wonderful interpretation of the tale, great for all ages!

Find Me Guilty

Sidney Lumet has made another wonderful film, with another real-life subject. Find Me Guilty is the story of the longest mob trial in history, where Jack DiNorscio chooses to defend himself. I can't believe I'm writing this, but Vin Diesel is excellent in this role. His chemistry with Ron Silver, as the judge, and Peter Dinklage as one of the lawyers, is compelling. Anabella Sciorra (Gloria from the Sopranos) is intense in a short scene, playing Jack's wife. The lighting and sets are rich, and help set the tone. If you like courtroom drama with a mob theme, check this one out.

Inside Man

Inside Man is an itellectual heist film, that had so many twists, I'd like to see the beginning again, to resolve some points in my mind. Snappy dialogue and great film style, gave this film an edgy tone. The racist and sexist undertones set a tough stage. There are tons of plot holes, but the good outweighs the bad, and this comes off as a pretty clever robbery.

PS Even though Clive Owen is hidden by a mask and jumpsuit, he's still looks hot!

Huff

Here I go again, quality series television is alive and well in Huff. I like to watch series television on DVD, because it feels like a movie when you can watch several episode without interruption. Sopranos, Six Feet Under, Sex in the City, Lost, 24, Angels in America, Empire Falls and now Huff, are all series I have enjoyed on DVD. This drama, with a splash of humor, deals with the family and friends of Huff. He is a psychiatrist, whose patient shoots himself, right in his office, in the pilot episode. Another series that is very well written, cast, acted and developed. I'm only 3 episodes deep and I'm hooked!!

Sopranos

I don't comment on television often here, but after seeing the first couple of episodes of the Sopranos I need to say, WOW!! This series is rich in characters, emotion and events. The acting and writing are outstanding, I can't wait to see what happens next!!

Derailed

Derailed is a decent thriller - con film. A man meets a young woman on a train and their trist turns ugly. Blackmail, murder and a good double cross make an interesting story. The acting is OK, I was disappointed considering the star power and talent. The film is sorely miscast, but still worth a look.

Geisha and Gorilla in DVD

First I need to say how much I enjoyed both King Kong and Memoirs of a Geisha. Then I need to say that the only negative I have about both, is that they were too long. When this happens to me in a film I start to edit in my head, and think of where to take things out without compromising the story. In this case, when you start to shave minutes, it does not hurt the film at all. I think if you fast-forward through all the scenes with chases, fights and snow you can cut at least 15-20 minutes (if not more), and still enjoy these films. Long live the fast forward button ... enjoy!!

Solid DVD Releases

In the serious film department, there are two excellent DVD releases today. Capote, which chronicles the year Truman Capote spends writing In Cold Blood, is one. The other, is a story of family angst, The Squid and the Whale. Well written, well acted, well worth seeing.

On the lighter side, we have Chicken Little. A cute animated version of our buddy Chicken Little, with a modern twist! Then there's Dreamer, a family film of trial and perseverance that I really enjoyed.

Neil Young : Heart of Gold

Gee, who was that person grinning like a fool in the dark this afternoon? Oh, that was me, totally enjoying the concert documentary Neil Young : Heart of Gold! Thanks to an interview I read by Benjamin Wagner , I saw this film with my friend D this afternoon. What a pleasure! Jonathan Demme created a beautiful film that captured the work, music and friendships of Neil Young. I got goosebumps as the curtain went up at the Ryman Theater in Nashville for this special event. You can see and feel the camaraderie and love on the stage. The talent assembled there was impressive! The music Young wrote for Prairie Wind, touches on real life themes. Aging of parents, the empty nest and beautiful love songs, that I think must have been written to his wife. I got a little choked up during Here for You, the "empty nester" song. The cinematography, lighting and staging were great, and the way the songs flowed into each other, gave a very special sense of intimacy. This was a concert film I thoroughly enjoyed!!

V for Vendetta

V for Vendetta is a story of revenge and social awareness that really got my attention. The film takes place in 2020 London, and the world has changed. V has been abused by the system, and has a plan for his revenge. To tell too much of the story would be unfair, this film needs to be experienced. The blood and words fly, as the plot unfolds. The writing is tight, and the performances make this film a strong statement about standing up for rights and beliefs, and that government is not always right. But is revenge the answer ...... ?

Good Night, and Good Film ... in DVD

Two wonderful films from 2005 arrive in DVD this week.

Good Night, and Good Luck is George Clooney's tribiute to Edward R. Murrow. Shot in black and white, this was one of my favorite films from 2005.

A History of Violence is a great thriller with a twist. Graphic and violent, another film on my favorites list.

The Libertine

In The Libertine, Johnny Depp plays the Earl of Rochester in England in the late 1600's. An interesting period piece, Depp's character is a poet who is passionate and selfish, and meets an early end from venereal disease. The dirty, gritty, debauched side of England is portrayed well in this film. The story is OK, but the biggest reason to see this film is for the performances. Depp, Samantha Morton, John Malkovich, Richard Coyle and Rosamond Pike are outstanding.

Eight Below

Eight sled dogs touched my heart in the film Eight Below. A team of dogs must be left behind in Antarctica due to an accident and weather, they spend 175 days alone in the wilderness. This film is based on a true story, and bounces back and forth from the dogs' plight, to the humans trying to get back to them. I was fascinated with the dogs, a few of the scenes are very intense (little ones may need to be prepared). This film is a good adventure story and strong on themes of loyalty, friendship and survival.

Wizards, Wonder and War in DVD

Harry Potter and the kids are growing up in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Dark and scary, this will be a popular rental.

Howl's Moving Castle delivers another wizard's story, this one's animated.

One of the films released this week about humans is Prime. A romantic comedy that deals with a couple's romance, a patient /therapist relationship and a family relationship. I enjoyed this film.

Another VERY human story is Jarhead. Men are deployed to war, and boredom is the enemy.

Oscar Recap 2006

The Academy Awards this year began and ended on a high for me!! I love a dark horse winner. Though most of the winners were predictable, the first and last made the night for me. First, George Clooney won his gold statue for Best Actor in a Supporting Role in Syriana, last Crash won for best picture. I seriously thought Nicholson was screwing with us!!! I picked 12 out of 24 winners, half seems to be my norm. I love the award, I love the process. This year the films made us think, and the performances all were worthy.

Moments from the awards:

Eight gowns ended up on my "best list". I think my favorite was Dolly Parton, pretty in pink, and Salma Hyak in royal blue. Looked like Clooney may have bought a new tux.

Best entrance, Jennifer Lopez, the gown was lovely as she walked, and Samuel L. Jackson took the stage in style, that walk should be packaged!!

Best jewelry goes to Amy Adams, loved those earrings!

Hottest couple: Will and Jada Pinkett Smith.

My girl Meryl looked lovely, she and Lily Tomlin were very funny introducing Robert Altman.

A camera caught Dianna Ossana sneaking a drink after her best screenplay win.

Favorite commercial: those silly careerbuilder.com monkeys, they crack me up!!!!

The bow ties for the Oscar statues from the Wallace & Gromit folks were pretty cute.

On to the 2006 film season!!!!!

Cash, Crooks and Classics in DVD

Walk the Line is out in DVD today. This biopic of Johnny Cash is well done and has collected it's share of Oscar noms. Well worth seeing.

Pride and Predjudice is a nice adaptation of the Jane Austin classic. Kiera Knightly really hold this one together.

Ice Harvest is a good crooks gone awry flick. A solid rental for Billy Bob Thornton fans.

Classic films re-relesed to DVD today are, Dog Day Afternoon and Network. Two films, from director Sidney Lumet, that I really enjoyed.

Oscar Picks 2006

One thing I have learned from my Oscar project, is that seeing all the nominated films actually makes it more difficult to pick the winners!

This is what my ballot would look like, were I allowed to vote in the Oscar race for films released in 2005. My hands down favorite nominated film of the year was Crash. Multi layered, race issues and gritty emotions define this film. Don't know how well it will do in the award department, but it's a winner with me. Brokeback Mountain did not have the same impact on me, but this is a film that was well made and acted. It will probably add more statues to it's award shelf on Sunday night. Any of the nominees could win and it would be well deserved.

Here are my picks for the major categories, with a few comments .... enjoy!!

Best Picture
Crash
Though Brokeback Mountain will probably win this, I think Crash was the better film.

Best Actress
Felicity Huffman - Transamerica
Reese and Dame Judi are strong in this category, but Huffman was a powerhouse his year.

Best Actor
Heath Ledger - Brokeback Mountain
All strong performances in this category, Hoffman will probably win this, but I liked Ledger's performance better.

Best Supporting Actress
Frances McDormand - North Country
Rachel Weisz is the top contender in this category, but McDormand was outstanding in my eyes.

Best Supporting Actor
Paul Giamatti - Cinderella Man
Matt Dillon was outstanding in this category also, but Giamatti dazzled me!

Best Animated Feature
Howl's Moving Castle
All nominees are deserving, wish there were 3 statues for this category.

Best Documentary Feature
Murderball
This is my heartfelt favorite, though the Enron film is a strong contender for this award. On popular favorite, it could go to the penguins!!

Best Art Direction
Memoirs of a Geisha
Love to see Good Night, and Good Luck win here, but Geisha was just such a pretty film.

Best Cinematography
Good Night, and Good Luck

Best Director
Ang Lee - Brokeback Mountain
This is such a strong group of nominees, but Lee's work on this film was absolutely striking.

Best Editing
Crash

Best Visual Effects
King Kong

Adapted Screenplay
Brokeback Mountain
A History of Violence was a more creative story, but any of the nominees are worthy here.

Original Screenplay
Crash
Though I'd love to see Clooney win this, Haggis and Moresco wrote the better script.

Best Original Song
"Travelin' Thru" - Dolly Parton from Transamerica
A wonderful song that embodies the film. Parton's still got it!

Tune in March 5th!!!

Flightplan

Flightplan is driven by the power of Jodie Foster. The story of a mother who find her child missing on a trans-Atlantic flight, this thriller has enough of a twist to be satisfying. Peter Sarsgaard and Sean Bean are strong, yet predictable. A good Saturday night rental.

Brothers Grimm

The Brothers Grimm is a fun romp of magic and quest. Heath Ledger departs his brooding performance in Brokeback Mountain to act goofy and frantic in this fun film. References to familiar fairytales run throughout, the premise is clever, and "they all live happily ever after".

Cache (Hidden)

Sometimes I just need to digest a film. The French film, Cache, is a thriller that gives you all the clues to the mystery, but leaves you guessing at the end. There is no pat resolution, I have been thinking about this film for 4 days now. I think I have the ending, but there may be several. A real mind bender.

North Country, Rent and Classics in DVD

In DVD this week, North Country explores the issues of sexual harassment in the workplace. With 2 Oscar noms for acting, this is a strong film that will be a popular rental.

After geeking out over a radio interview with Chris Columbus, director of the film Rent, on my favorite morning radio show, I realized that I probably qualify as a Rent-head. I have pre-ordered the DVD, and plan to re-visit the work of Jonathan Larson this weekend!!

All the President's Men and Midnight Cowboy are two classics being re-relesed to DVD that are well worth seeing.

The Thing About My Folks

As I was leaving the theater during the Tribeca Film Festival last year, I saw a familiar face coming toward me on the escalator. The man was talking a mile a minute, and as he passed me, I realized it was Paul Riser! He was on his way to a Q&A for the screening of his film The Thing About My Folks. This was another film that I was unable to get a ticket to at the film festival, but I saw it in DVD last night. With Peter Falk playing his father, Riser tells the story of a man and his memories. This story is well told and drives home the point that not everyone has the same memory of the same event. It emphasizes compassion, caring and listening to others. This is a great road trip movie!

The New World

With a viewing of The New World today, I declare my Oscar Project for 2005 complete!! I don't have access to the foreign, documentary or short films so I'm happy having seen all 30 feature film nominees!!!

This last one was a little tough. The New World is nominated for an Oscar in cinematography, and it is well deserved. The rest of the film is a mess. The acting is fair, the editing awful (almost no continuity) and very little plot. This film was re-edited after it was first released, and I am grateful I did not have to sit through a longer version. I will say that Q'Orinanka Kilcher, Collin Farrell, Christian Bale and Christopher Plummer were fine, but it was not enough to salvage this film.

Transamerica

Transamerica came up on my film radar at the Tribeca Film Festival last April. Unable to get a ticket, I figured I'd see it in DVD before long. Wow, was I wrong! This film was rolled out super slow, and still has not hit theaters in RI. I went to Boston today to see it, and it was worth the ride. Felicity Huffman is believable as a man suffering from gender dysphoria, anticipating a gender change operation. The story has depth and heart, and is complicated by the revelation of an unknown son. Well worth seeing.

Angels in America

The Tony Kushner play, Angels in America, was adapted to an HBO miniseries in 2003. I first saw this film in 2004, and immediately fell in love with the story, the characters, the acting and, of course, the words. A beautiful testimony to life, death, theology, faith, friendship and loyalty. I was fortunate enough to receive a copy of this piece in DVD for Christmas (thanks M&J) and watched it again this week. I have watched the final scene at least a dozen times, and smile every time. Visiting Bethesda Fountain in Central Park holds new meaning for me now. This is not only a film, but an experience ....

Thumbsucker

Thumbsucker is a good independant film, with themes of teen angst and family struggle. In trying to stop thumbsucking, a teenager searches for his self worth. He goes the route of hypnosis and ritilin (interesting combination) and finds himself sooner than he expects. Vince Vaughn as the debate coach, and Justin Cobb as the teenager, give outstanding performances. Vaughn's is a serious role, and he plays it well. Tilda Swinton and Vincent D'Onofrio are very real, playing the young man's parents.

Proof is in the DVD

The film Proof is released to DVD today. This was a good story of family, loyalty and love. A strong rental.

Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room

How about the craziest guys in the room? This documentary outlines the rise and fall of Enron. It also examines the principals' personalities and motivations. An interesting analysis of the powerful effect of money and greed. When one of the Senators asks Ken Lay if he's on crack, because it would best explain his actions, you realize these men were delusional, arrogant and blinded by the big bucks. An interesting human study, and portrayal of this modern-day business drama.

Mrs. Henderson Presents

I went to see Mrs. Henderson Presents because of the Oscar nominations for Judi Dench and the costumes. What a pleasure! Mrs. Henderson buys a theater in London when her husband dies, and as the musical revue does not draw audiences on it's own, they add a nude tableau to the mix. The war begins, and they are wildly successful, the audiences often full of grateful young soldiers. Dench is wonderful as Mrs. Henderson, and after meeting Christopher Guest this summer, it was fun to see him on the big screen (He plays Tom Cromer, the licensing authority for London theaters). This is a good story, and both Dench and the costumes are Oscar worthy!!

Olympic Film

With the opening of the 2006 Winter Olympics tonight, my thoughts turn to two films.
The 1993 film Cool Runnings is about the first Jamaican bobsled team to make it to the Olympics. Miracle reenacts the story of the 1980 USA Hockey team. Both films are great, and will put you in the mood for the winter games.

Love on DVD

Films out in DVD this week, address the theme of love nicely.

Elizabethtown is a love story on may levels. Love between a man and a woman, love of a parent, love of a family. A wonderful examination of the heart.

The re-release of Breakfast at Tiffany's, gives the Capote novel life! Audrey Hepburn and George Peppard (what a hottie) are enchanting. One of the best on-screen kisses graces this film.

Just Like Heaven is a sweet love story of a comatose woman's spirit and a broken hearted man. The cheesy ending was perfect for me.

Wallace and Gromitt: Curse of the Were Rabbit has love, adventure and ... well... rabbits!!! Fun film!

Oscar Noms

There's really not much to say about the Oscar nominations. Very predictable, the only surprises might be, Munich nominated for best picture instead of Walk the Line (I agree with the nomination), Amy Adams nominated for Junebug and William Hurt nominated for A History of Violence. All are well deserving, especially the technical nominees. Half of my Favorites for 2005 are nominees!

Zorro, Shoes and Corpses ... Oh My !!!

In DVD release this week are three films I've seen.
Corpse Bride is a Tim Burton interpretation of an old folk tale, joining the land of the living and the land of the dead. It is now an Oscar contender.

In Her Shoes is a great story, of family relationships, very well done!! A good solid rental, especially for the ladies.
The Legend of Zorro met a need for me the day I saw it. I needed escape, I needed action, this film delivered!

SAG Awards

The SAG Awards are, by my count, the most authentic of awards. Actors, voting for actors and ensemble awards, make it the most credible for me. This year I wholeheartedly support the winners. I was especially happy to see Paul Giamatti recognized for his role in Cinderella Man, and the ensemble of Crash was well deserving. On to the Oscar Noms Tuesday morning!

Ballets Russes

The documentary Ballets Russes is the history of that ballet company. I am a wanna-be ballerina. I have always loved everything about the art. The tutus, the grace and the music. Coppelia was the first live ballet I attended, I was captivated. When I was 10 we moved to the beach and sailing and swimming replaced dance lessons, but my fondest childhood memories involve a pink tutu I wore until it fell apart. To this day, ballet is my favorite dance form. In Ballets Russes, as the dancers are interviewed, we realize that the love of the art was more important than the paycheck. Most of the members interviewed are in their 80's and 90's and still run their own dance programs and studios ... impressive longevity. This was the earliest form of glamorous showbusiness. The stories are heartwarming and the endurance, both physical and emotional, are impressive.

The Matador

Pierce Brosnan is Bond no more. In the Matador he exercises his acting chops and slips into a character that takes us on an unconventional ride. As a professional assassin, he runs into a serious man who lives a safe life. A friendship is forged, and the two men give each other support in surprising fashion. Greg Kinnear and Brosnan have great chemistry! A very funny scene in a cantina in Mexico City, had the whole theater laughing out loud! The story is interesting and the comedy is strong. The locations were fun for me, having just returned from Mexico, and speaking with a horse-racing friend in Tucson yesterday.
More cervezas, por favor!!

Match Point

Match Point is not your average Woody Allen film. First of all, he's not in it, (only the second time I've seen that), and no one acts like him, (first time I've seen that). A young tennis pro befriends a student, meets his sister and fiance, and falls in love with both. Complicated situations ensue, and we are taken on a tense ride. This film is a combination of love story, thriller and morality tale. I liked the plot twists at the end, well done!

Junebug

Junebug is a wonderful analysis of relationships old and new. There are all kinds of connections, complex characters and human reactions. A young man brings his new wife to meet the family, and connections are created and renewed. The acting makes this film, and the direction pulled me from to tears one moment, to laughing out loud the next. I enjoyed this story of family, faith and what's important in relationships.

Aristocratic DVD

The Aristocrats is out in DVD. The oldest, dirtiest joke is told and talked about by 100 comedians. A great documentary, but not for the squeamish or prudish.

Golden Winners

In my mind, the Oscars and Grammys are the ultimate award shows. The Golden Globes has become the goofy cousin. The nominees are guests. They sit at round tables, eat drink and are merry. It usually starts out polite and coifed, but (hopefully) has potential for some forms of drunk and/or disorderly (this year, Harrison Ford was classic).

The winners are fine, but I don't really see this as a preview of Oscar. The voting pool is so small and subjective, but it is good televison. Dick Clark Productions knows how to wrap it up by 11!!

My faves this year were George Clooney, speaking off color, Rachel Weisz acknowledging awkward location shoots, Felicity Huffman ... just being Felicity, Philip Seymore Hoffman, in awe of his past year (though he's had many great years), Joaquin Phoenix, chuckling over Walk the Line's category (comedy or musical ... please), Reese Witherspoon showing she is Elle Woods no more, and finally, Ang Lee, class and humility, an interesting road ahead.

My Best Dressed list contains, Clooney, Jamie Foxx, Teri Hatcher, Diana Ossana, Reene Zellweger, Steve Carell, Nancy Walls (Carell's wife) and Hilary Swank.

Glory Road

Glory Road is the basketball equivalent of Friday Night Lights, Miracle and The Rookie. This is a good thing. Inspiring sport stories make good film, and this is no exception. This story throws in the ugly issue of racism. A tragic characteristic of human nature, racism in action is uncomfortable to watch, but important to acknowledge and overcome. This film addresses it well. Stay through the credits to see the actual people depicted, comment on the game and times.

Hoodwinked

Red Riding Hood was a childhood hero of mine. I mean, bringing goodies to Granny and facing the wolf!?!??!! In the latest telling of this tale, the story is told from several perspectives, takes on a few modern twists and is entertaining animation. Red and Granny are hip, the wolf and his sidekick Twitchy (my fave) are funny and the investigators are the butt of many a gag. Cute viewing.

Pimps & Politics in DVD

Out in DVD today, are some great films from 2005, and a classic!

Hustle & Flow surprised me as a solid drama. Performances are excellent, the message gets through, but the content is pretty raw.

Red Eye is a basic thriller. Cillian Murphy and Rachel McAdams make the ride worthwhile.

The Constant Gardener is a powerful political thriller. An impressive drama.

Ferris Bueller is back in DVD. This hilarious teen comedy is a gem, just plain fun!!

Film Favorites of 2005

I know that the traditional number for "Top" lists is 10, but when it comes to film, it doesn't seem to be enough for me! Last year there were almost 30 on my list! I can't call these the "best" of 2005, because that is subjective. One of my film magazines publishes 30 top 10 film lists from their editors, and they are very different. These are my Favorites of 2005 (got it down to 16), click the links to see my thoughts when I saw these films. Many of these are out in DVD now, check it out!!

1. Wedding Crashers
2. Crash
3. Cinderella Man
4. Murderball
5. Rent
6. Good Night, and Good Luck
7. Mad Hot Ballroom
8. Batman Begins
9. Elizabethtown
10. Howl's Moving Castle
11. Munich
12. Capote
13. Me and You and Everyone we Know
14. A History of Violence
15. The Upside of Anger
16. Hustle & Flow

Grizzly Man

Grizzly Man is a documentary by Werner Herzog, about Tim Treadwell, who lived among grizzly bears in Alaska for 13 seasons. Most of the footage is from Treadwell's cameras, film taken right up to the day before he was killed. There is audio from the actual attack that killed Treadwell and his companion Amy Hugenard, but Herzog thought it was too gruesome to put in the film. Treadwell was attacked by an old bear that had not gone into hibernation, and was desperate and hungry. More bodies were found in the bear. Wild animals act on instinct and survival. Though Treadwell could live among them in their season, when food was plentiful and the bears were happy, he ran across a hungry bear and therein lies the danger. This is an excellent documentary, Herzog tells the story through Treadwells films and interviews with friends and associates.

Brokeback Mountain

Throughout Brokeback Mountain, I was struck by the visual images. I think the reason this film resonates with audiences, is that every scene is an experience. Everything in the frame is deliberate, and prepares you for the next. In the first half hour there is little dialogue. Setting a tone, we are drawn into the feel of the story. This is a deep story, well told. A twenty year relationship of two men deals with love, infidelity, survival and family. The strong cast, Heath Ledger most notable for me, give this story life, and tackles some difficult topics.

Crashers and Flowers on DVD

One of my favorite movies of 2005 is out in DVD!!!!! Wedding Crashers is here!!!! I thought this movies was funny, clever, funny, goofy, funny, sexy (Vaughn) and oh yeah, did I mention funny!?!?!? Everything we have ever thought at a wedding, is thrown on screen for this film. Fun stuff!!!!

Broken Flowers is another melancholy performance from Bill Murray. I liked this film, but keep in mind, it is a drama, not a comedy. Happy renting!!

The Producers

I have always loved the original film version of The Producers, Mel Brooks is one of the great comic minds of our time. Two men set out to get rich quick by producing a Broadway flop. Irreverent, offensive, risque and off-color, PC goes out the window on this one!! The film bounced to the Broadway theater, and back to the screen. The new film version is two hours of laughter!! For the second time this year, a film treated me to the original Broadway cast of a Broadway musical (Rent was the first). No mystery why Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick were commanding up to $1000 for tickets to this show on the Great White Way, the performances are outstanding. The movie cast IS the Broadway cast, except for 2 members ... and the replacements are fabulous! Will Farrell and Umma Thurman hold their own. And I had no idea Matthew Broderick could tap dance!!!!! Everyone in the theater had fun!

The Family Stone

The ultimate Christmas nightmare is related in The Family Stone. A man brings his girlfriend home to meet the family for the holidays. This is a family of strong, some eccentric, characters that are interesting, and often entertaining to watch in action. This colorful family has it's vulnerabilities, and as they are exposed I was touched and amused. A great addition to the "classic Christmas Film" vault.

Memoirs of a Geisha

Memoirs of a Geisha reminds you of just that at the end of the film. It is not the memoirs of a princess or a queen, but a Geisha. Though a little slow in the beginning, this is the story of a girl in pre-war Japan, whose parents die, and she is sold to a Geisha house. She grows up there, and is ultimately trained to be a Geisha. The dynamic of the business has drama and politics. We learn of the culture and traditions, but in the end, the true themes are honor, loyalty, patience and love. Rob Marshall uses light, wind and water to it's full visual advantage. A strong holiday film.

The Squid and the Whale

No, The Squid and the Whale is not a Cousteau special, it is a wonderful drama that made me think. A family experiences a divorce and the kids act out. The strongest reality expressed is "joint custody blows". All kids want one home, one set of parents, under the same roof. The arrangements of joint custody take a toll on kids one way or another, and it is important to acknowledge those feelings. The young men in this film act out, cope and try to love their parents despite the distance. This film is real and addresses an issue too many households deal with. Well done!