4th Of July Double Feature: The Amazing Spider-Man and Rock Of Ages

The Amazing Spider-Man

I'll admit I was one of the many who was shocked and a little annoyed at the announcement there would be a reboot of the Spider-man series. Was Hollywood running out of ideas so quickly they needed to remake a film which had been made in this century already? First it was supposed to be the fourth installment of the Sam Raimi series starring Tobey Maguire. I suppose some studio executive had the brilliant idea of starting all over again from scratch with a new script, director, and actors. Not a surprise it got the green light and the Amazing Spider-man was on it's way. I was on board with those who felt it was completely premature and unnecessary. So I went into the theater already expecting a rehash of the same story with a new face of Peter Parker. I walked away quite pleased at how much I enjoyed it despite the story being revisited all over again. Yes we get an intro to nerdy and bullied Peter pining away for the girl of his dreams while his Uncle Ben nags him about being responsible. Yup been there done that with the 2001 installment. However, it's almost like having the same dream and feeling dejavu yet noticing slight changes. After a while I stopped comparing it to the original and just enjoyed it for what it was. It's still a bit campy, cheesy, and overly sentimental, but it doesn't lay it on too thick like it's predecessor. It has a bit more humor and quite frankly there's much better acting this time around as well. No offense to MaGuire and Dunst, but they both had little chemistry while swooning over each other. I felt a stronger attraction between Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone. Plus I enjoyed the fact that his geeky self wasn't overplayed. He was actually cool even before getting bitten by the spider. The drastic change isn't so much in his confidence, but actual physical strength. The pre-spider Peter has a better sense of himself and what he wants than the 2001 version of pre-bitten Parker did. But enough of the comparisons, this movie stands well on it's own and was well worth the price of admission. I do have a few qualms though. I thought the transition between scenes could have been tighter. Some moments dragged on far too long and I felt myself zoning out. There should have been more of an even tone with the action, serious scenes and as well with the romance (which again I must reiterate is much hotter this time around!). I could have done without some of Parker's remarks to the Lizard Man (I realize that's not really his name but it's fitting) while shooting his webs at him. It made him seem cartoonish and not threatening at all. Peter is a good guy, but he's also dangerous and menacing to those he wishes to demolish and it would seem more intense if he wasn't cracking jokes the entire time. Nonetheless the film worked yet I can already tell there's going to be lots of hate and endless comparisons with the original (which ironically was also hated ten years ago). People just don't like change and love to complain about which they can't control or do better if given the chance. I'd also like to add the special effects were much stronger as well...and made him much more believable as a real life spider. In the end it's a movie based on a comic book and I am not going to nitpick the film to death. I liked it, I liked Garfield, and I was thoroughly entertained. It accomplished what a summer film should. Sidenote: It was great to see former '80s heart throb C.Thomas Howell back on the big screen with his small role in the film. It wasn't so great however to see how drastically he's aged! You don't realize how quickly time is rolling on by until you see faces from the past resurface not looking as youthful as they once did. It threw me for a loop to see a middle aged Ponyboy Curtis and actually took me out of the film for a bit there. Still, I'm glad to see he's getting screen time on the one of the biggest blockbusters of the summer.

Rock Of Ages

I've been a fan of musicals going back to Grease and Little Shop of Horrors just to name a few. The last few entries such as Hairspray and Dreamgirls have been rather lackluster. They were well made, but just didn't have that fun factor. A musical is designed to be infectious and catchy and make the audience feel good. Rock Of Ages succeeded in every aspect! I hadn't seen the Broadway show so I didn't exactly know the plot other than that it involved almost every 1980s classic power ballad. I love '80s rock and recognized 99% of the songs in this film (even if the name of the artist slipped my mind) and it's because these songs were all mega hits at one point in time during that decade. But for those who weren't lucky enough to be raised on '80s music, they should still walk away humming some of those tunes. Despite the film bombing at the box office and getting ripped apart by critics, I held onto some hope this would be an entertaining joyride and I was right. The music is awesome, the acting (for the most part) is well done, and best of all it doesn't take itself seriously but is not a complete farce either. Sure there are some silly moments I could have done without, but overall I found myself really having a blast. It helps to know the lyrics and feel that sense of pleasure when you recognize the opening riff or lyric of a classic ballad. Each song fits perfectly with the story and the moment. It never seemed like overkill to me and I could have listened to them sing (especially on stage) for hours! No question about it, the biggest draw is Tom Cruise as Stacee Jaxx. I personally have have been a Tom Cruise supporter for some time now. I'm able to look past his real life shenanigans and appreciate him as the fine actor he's consistently been. He completely embraced this character and made him quite fascinating to watch. He could have been any real life mega front man. He is basically an incoherent mess who is too busy drinking and behaving like a sex friend to really get himself together. But when he's on stage boy does he sing his heart out. What a great job! He actually has a semi decent voice and half way through the film I forgot I was even watching Tom Cruise with leather pants and fake tattoos. Adding to his performance is an ensemble cast who are equally joyous to watch..even the usually irritating Russell Brand was on point. Again, there were some off putting moments which were treading on being stupid, but the good outweighed the bad and I found myself caring about what happened and anxiously awaiting the next nostalgic filled tune! It was the fastest two hours I'd experience watching a movie in a while and I look forward to seeing it again. It's a shame it wasn't well received, but I could see this turning into a cult classic of sorts. It has a following, but it just got lost in the middle of this superhero dominated summer season. But if you're interesting in have a little fun and break from the action flicks, I say give this a shot!

My Favorite Summer Films

During this oppressive time of year, I’m able to salvage some enjoyment from watching my favorite so called “summer films”. I’m not talking about summer blockbusters, but rather films which take place outdoors in the heat or just remind me of a certain summer time from the past.  I tend to view movies which coincide with my moods or the weather outside, which happen to go hand-in-hand. So I’m taking this time to mention the ones I watch when it’s hazy, hot, and humid which both lift my spirits and make the season more pleasurable.  

On Golden Pond (1981):

I’ve always been able to enjoy this film even as a younger child, but now as I grow older I am able to inch my way closer to the characters and their fears. I’m not exactly going on eighty years old, but I do feel time is passing me by quicker each year. I also find myself beginning sentences with “when I was younger…” or talking about how much an item cost when I was a kid. I’m starting to lose touch with technology as well. I wouldn’t say I’m fearful of the fast paced changing world, as much as unable to keep up with it. Most of all I fear being a victim of ageism one day. It will happen to all of us eventually. When I watch On Golden Pond I see an elderly man (Norman Thayer) who is obsessed with his demise which is quickly climbing it's way to his front door. He is angry, he is cranky, and he’s hostile that his body and mind aren’t what they used to be. He also has a lack of connection with his daughter which the two must come to terms with before time runs out. What I love most about this film is the scenery and cinematography. I’d love to spend a summer on the lake going fishing and hunting for berries. It always seemed so ideal to me growing up in the city. If I were to finish out my days anywhere it would be in a little cottage house overlooking the sunset and ponds and hearing the loons. So magnificent!

Stand By Me (1986): 

Aside from it taking place on Labor Day weekend, there’s little about this coming of age story that would say it’s a summer film. Still, it’s evident the temperature is hot as they walk along the train tracks and fall into swampy waters. It’s one of my favorite films of all time along with being my favorite Stephen King novella. The acting, the dialogue, the intense emotional moments between these four young men, and above all the humor make it into a classic ‘80s film. It’s a rarity an adapation equals the novella and even exceeds it at times thanks in part to River Phoenix’s moving performance. What a gem he was! Another aspect which makes the film seem like a magical time is the music. My favorite times to listen to golden oldies us during these long hot days and this film is loaded with them. It’s touching, heartbreaking, funny, and a bit gross…not to mention grisly but it makes one appreciate the innocence and almost indescribably painful times youth brings. Sidenote, I need to visit Oregon one day to see that infamous rail road bridge. 

Jaws (1975):

This one goes without saying. It takes place during Fourth of July weekend, on the beach, and was probably the first summer blockbuster in film history. It doesn’t quite have the same effect watching it in the middle of November as it does during this time of year. The menacing soundtrack, the image of the shark closing in on its prey, and of course the legendary lines by the cast all equal to a memorable experience. I’m not a swimmer so I can’t say I was ever lost sleep over being attacked by a killer shark, but I can see why the movie was such a sensation back in 1975 causing people to avoid going into the water. The shark may look fake and but it’s effective in ways a computer generated fish could never be.  Overall it’s an enjoyably frightening and intense summer flick which should be on the top of everyone’s list to watch this weekend.

 

Weekend At Bernie’s (1989):

I’ve never been a fan of comedies, especially ones involving a dead corpse, but this movie is simply hilarious. Again we have a film which takes place on Labor Day weekend on the steamy hazy streets of NYC. There’s nothing sinister going on except for watching Jonathan Silverman and Andrew McCarthy run around with the lifeless Bernie. It’s morbid when you think about it, not to mention highly unrealistic (wouldn’t he start to smell by the second day?) but it’s so campy and ridiculous you just have to laugh. I also think it’s Andrew McCarthy’s finest performance as a comedic actor. Who knew! It’s such a joy to watch and I get kick out of it every time just as easily as Bernie gets kicked around. Har. Har.

 

Summer School (1987):

Another ridiculously silly comedy, but for me it represents summer in such a unique way. School! Most teen comedies start the school year off traditionally in September, but here we have a group of C average students who have to take remedial English again after flunking an assessment exam. Let the fun begin! Seriously it’s a great ride watching Mr. Shoop (played by Mark Harmon) deal with these kids and survive the summer as gym instructor turned English teacher. There’s also the lovely Kirstie Alley who looks so amazing in this film. Once again I have to acknowledge how I used to see her as a middle aged woman when I’d watch this film as a kid. Now I’m horrified to realize she was my age during the filming of this movie. Where has the time gone?! Regardless of my issues, this film is just plain fun. Roger Ebert gave it zero stars basically calling it garbage, but I think he was completely over reacting. Sure it’s moronic and juvenile but it’s a movie about summer school with moronic and juvenile teenagers. I attended summer school twice and it would actually the most enjoyable and education times of my high school existence. Go figure. 

 

National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983):

Here’s another no brainer for me. Once again the film takes place during summer time and the family is going on summer vacation to (where else) Wallyworld! This film is reminiscent of my younger days when my family would travel hours by car to Disney World. We didn’t have any catastrophes nearly as chaotic as the ones the Griswolds had to endure, but it wasn’t always smooth sailing either. There’s not much to say about this movie other than its Chevy Chase at his best (and my personal favorite) playing Clark W. Griswold. He’s obsessed with giving his family the perfect getaway and thus causes all types of mishaps along the way and eventually has his break down in front of the family when things cannot possibly get any worse…but they always do! It’s great fun to watch and filmed in my favorite state of California. It’s a romp of a good time watching this family go berserk. And don’t forget about Christie Brinkley and the red Ferrari!

List to be continued…

Happy 70th Birthday, Paul!

Mr. McCartney turns 70 today! He looks pretty darn fabulous, I might add. I've been a fan of The Beatles since I watched The Beatles Anthology which aired on ABC in November of 1995. I fell completely and madly in love with everything about them. I ate up their songs, images, lyrics, and the overall feeling their music brought out in me. What a joy this band was...and still is! My favorite was always Sir Paul. To this day when I listen to All My Loving I feel transported to 1964 which obviously was a year I never existed in! That's the power of Beatles music.

Paul's amazing career has surpassed so many musicians which have come before and after. His career continued to soar during the '70s and '80s with his solo outings and as well as with the amazing Wings. He may not be the most sophisticated lyricist, but he writes some of the most catchy melodies ever created. His songs have heart to them. Simple, poignant, and memorable tunes! He has brought smiles and harmonies to millions of fans around the world. I was fortunate enough to see him live at Madison Square Garden back in 2005. I spent an arm and a leg, but I had to see the man in person and it was worth every dollar spent. It was one of those rare moments where I felt choked up at being in the same room with this legend. Truly remarkable! And he's still got it. Even at seventy years of age the man is still rockin' it out with his trademark left handed bass guitar. What an inspiration to us all. I can't possibly fathom what keeps him so energetic and young (must be the vegetarian lifestyle ;)) but whatever he's doing I hope he continues. What a sad world it would be without Macca!

Paul, we'll never tire of your silly love songs. Keep on rockin' for years to come! Oba-La-Di-Oba-La-Da!

40 Random Things About Me

1. I am left handed, but have been forced to gain strength in my right as well.

2. I am very low maintenance. I don't ask for much in life. 

3. Most of the time I don't enjoy talking. I find it to be a chore.

4. I have a very poor sense of direction.

5. I get claustrophobic around large groups of people.

6.  Autumn is my favorite season followed closely by winter. 

7. I've seen every episode of The X-Files.

8. I am consistently late for everything (except flights to LA!)

9. I enjoy listening to oldies from the '50s and '60s.

10. I don't own a vehicle.

11. I speak very softly. Deal with it. If you can't hear me then go talk to someone else.

12.  I enjoy going to the movies and shopping alone.

13. I am not, never have been, and never will be a morning person.

14. Dark chocolate is one of my greatest weaknesses.

15. Some of my closest friends I've met online.

16. I cannot sleep in total silence. I leave the fan on even if directed away from me.

17. I'm not a fan of the NY Yankees despite where I grew up.

18. I am allergic to just about everything.

19. I never learned how to swim.

20. I find manicures and pedicures to be a complete waste of time and money. 

21. I had the best time of my life during a two week road trip to California in 2007.

22. Watching my favorite '80s films is very therapeutic for me.

23. I suffer from palmar and plantar hyperhidrosis.

24. Public speaking is my biggest fear.

25. I love rain and snow storms; sunshine is boring!

26. I can eat an entire jar full of olives in one sitting.

27. Taking off in an airplane is one of the best feelings.

28. I love to watch horror films. The more frightening the better!

29. I don't have a middle name.

30. I am terrible at Math.

31. None of my co-workers know the real me and they probably never will. 

32. I am filled to the brim with regrets.

33. I hate buying shoes. I hate buying clothes period. I'm a casual tomboy.

34. If I'm giggling then it means I like you.

35. I am not good with babies or kids...and I walk in the other direction if I see a group of them.

36. My all time favorite Stephen King literary character is Arnie Cunningham (Christine, 1983).

37. I am a complete coffee addict.

  

38. Comedies rarely ever make me laugh. 

39. I love scented candles and have them in every room. 

40. I'm obsessed with knowing the time and cannot leave the house without a watch. 

 

Childless On Mother's Day.

As another Mother’s Day came upon me yesterday, I thought immediately of my own mother.  Although she’s far away, I was still able to call her and wish her a great day. I realized how lucky I was in that aspect, when I have a few friends who weren’t able to pick up the phone and give their mom a call.  But rarely do I ever spend Mother’s Day contemplating my own disinterest in becoming a mother myself. Nor do I feel sad about it. In fact I hardly ever give it more than two seconds of thought.  Still every now and then I’m rudely reminded of how in this society apparently not everyone agrees. 

I spent the majority of the day washing clothes at the Laundromat. One of the best times to go is on holidays (particularly Mother’s Day) so I had all the washers and driers to myself.  I was minding my own business as I always do when the owner stepped up to me and asked me why I was at the establishment instead of out celebrating Mother’s Day.  I explained to him my mom lives out of state. He then rephrased the question “why aren’t you out with your own kids?” I hesitated before answering knowing full well this was going to lead into a discussion I didn’t care to have, let alone with a perfect stranger. Still I answered him. I told him I didn’t have any kids. He sort of looked at me with a perplexed expression then asked me “why not?” I gave him an equally perplexing expression as if to say “why are you all in my business?” So I just ignored him and kept on washing. He continued on asking why a young woman like me doesn’t have children. I told him I wasn’t that young and I just didn’t have any. Instead of asking for further explanation he just gave me this look like “aww too bad.” I couldn’t take having pity bestowed on me when there was no need. So I told him I never wanted any and was perfectly happy with that choice. Well that set him off. He proceeded to lecture me on the finer points of being a mother. He said there's nothing like it in the world (funny coming from a man who spends most of him yelling at the kids who try to crawl into the drier) and how I shouldn’t be so negative about starting a family. I simply said “it is what it is.” He then asked how my husband felt about all this. Instead of confessing my single status and thus being lectured on how I should be married by now I simply stated “my husband doesn’t want them either.”  I then made me way outside and pretended I had a phone call in order to save myself from further scrutiny. 

I didn’t feel bad or guilty as much as annoyed. It’s nobody’s business what I choose to do with my life, let alone the Laundromat owner. But as I looked around the place I noticed I was the only woman there and I felt some of the other workers’ eyes on me. Normally I would have thought they were feeling bad because I wasn’t with my mom, but now I was thinking they felt bad I wasn’t with the two or three kids I should have. What nerve. I went into that place to do a load of clothes and end up feeling dissected for my life choices. Seriously?  There’s not enough babies and kids having kids out there? Is my life not fulfilled in anyway because I haven’t given birth yet?  If I felt even remotely sad about it then maybe I would have stayed home and gotten drunk. (I got drunk anyway but that’s beside the point). I don’t feel sad. I’m thrilled. I’m content. I know in my heart it was never in my cards to bear children. I’m too selfish and I love my freedom too much. I love to travel. I love to come and go as I please. I don’t have that desire to pick up and coo over a baby. Like EVER. There is multitude of reasons why I have chosen to remain childless, but that’s not the point of this rant. It’s MY choice and I do not have to answer to anyone about it. I was having a perfectly routine Sunday and someone had the balls to attempt to make me feel immoral unnecessarily. Is it really that big of a deal? I am no less of a woman or a good person because of this choice. Perhaps I am missing out on something amazing, but I have to find that out for myself.  Until then I remain many other relevant roles such as daughter, sister, aunt, and friend.  I am those roles all year round and they remain no less crucial to my existence than being a mother would be.   

End rant…and I hope all the Moms out there had a wonderful day.

P.S.-I thank my close friend Maria for inspiring me to write this entry!

Remembering MCA

Adam Yauch

August 5, 1964 - May 4, 2012 

Born and bred Brooklyn U.S.A.
They call me Adam Yauch but I'm M.C.A.
Like a lemon to a lime a lime to a lemon
I sip the def ale with all the fly women

It's been nearly a week since the passing of MCA and I'm still finding it hard to believe. With the recent deaths of so many musicians like Whitney Houston and the legendary Dick Clark, I worry Adam Yauch's demise will be lost in the mix. For me his departure proved to be the most poignant of them all since he's been apart of my music library steadily for over the past twenty-five years.

Whenever I think about The Beastie Boys I immediately conjure up the picture of them in their early 20s standing in front of the Globe in Flushing Meadows Park in Queens.

It was the inside cover image of their 1986 debut album "Licensed To Ill".  Back in the day there used to be vinyl records that opened up like a giant colorful book. The outside of the record had the ill fated crash of an airplane while the inside had this glossy over sized picture. I recall staring at that image for hours, weeks, and months. I thought they were the coolest looking bunch of guys I'd ever seen. Granted I was ten years old at the time and didn't have much to compare to, but nonetheless I was captivated by their look and sound. It was an odd mixture of rap, rock, comedy, drums, spinning records, and all around noise. I absolutely loved it. I think it was the lyrics and prose that drew me in more than anything else. They had a way of rapping about such juvenile topics while simultaneously showing their talent for writing catchy melodies and memorable rhymes. I must have listened to this album (along with my sister) at least a dozen times a week. I remember being amazed by how distinct all their voice were. Adam Horovitz (Ad-Rock) had the loudest and sometimes most screechy voice. It could shatter glass when he got going. Michael Diamond (Mike D) had a more nasally tone that happened to be my favorite voice of the trio. I'm not sure why that was. I guess I felt Mike D. was over looked hiding behind the shades and leather top hat. I always concentrated on his voice/lyrics more than the others though they each worked their harmony together like a fine symphony. Adam Yauch's (MCA) voice was very gravely and had a sandpaper quality to it. I found his lyrics to always be the most catchy. "I got a girl in the Castle and one in the pagoda / You know I got rhymes like Abe Vigoda" and "If you try to knock me you'll get mocked, I'll stir fry you in my wok." Those lines make me chuckle, but also make me sing along every time. They were brilliant in their writing style and of course pioneers in the world of hip hop. They crossed the barriers and brought an entirely new type of mixture involving rock/rap/electronic and it skyrocketed straight to #1 on the Billboard charts. If I had to explain what it was about The Beastie Boys that worked so well in one simple word? It would be the word FUN. They were a riot to watch and a joy to listen to. Simple as that. Apparently many agreed since they went on to sell 40 million copies of their albums to date.

They became a little more serious as the years went on naturally. They left their home of New York City behind and stopped singing about White Castle and "girlies" and attempted to bring a more down to earth tone to their music. Once again it worked. With "Paul's Boutique" and even up to "To The 5 Boroughs" they continued to bring a new style of rap, this time infusing jazz and funk instead of rock. The days of fighting for their to party were long behind, but the talent never dimmed as evident with "Sabotage" and "Intergalactic" just to name a few! Meanwhile, Adam Yauch was becoming a human rights activist and studying Buddhism. In addition he also co-founded a distribution and production company called Oscilloscope Laboratories which helped launch a few films mainly one of my favorites from 2011 "We Need To Talk About Kevin". I never knew Yauch had contributed so much more beyond his days of being a Beastie Boy. He was a humanitarian and often organized a few benefit concerts supporting Buddhism.

In 2009, he was diagnosed with a cancerous gland and lymph node. I had heard about it on the news and I just assumed he was going to get through it. He was in his mid 40s and I just believed he'd come out winning in the end. There's no way this tough guy from Brooklyn with his leather jacket and five o'clock shadow could be defeated by cancer. I had no idea what kind of battle had truly laid before him.  Nobody does when they find out they have cancer. Ironically The Beastie Boys were inducted into The Rock N Roll Hall Of Fame last month. Yauch was too sick to attend. I should have known then he wouldn't be able to return from such a defeat. For him to miss such a prestigious occasion proved how ill he must have been. To see pictures now of Mike D. and Ad-Rock up on stage without MCA is distressing, knowing full well it was a hint of what was to come. It would be just the two of them now. No longer the dynamic fun loving trio, but a duo of survivors. MCA was lost to the world on May 4, 2012 at the age of forty-seven. It was heartbreaking to hear. It also dawned on me at that precise time that in all the years I had been such a follower of the group I'd never once attempted to see them perform together. I lived (and still live) in their hometown of NYC and it pained me to know I'd lost my chance. The group is done as far as we're all concerned. They worked together as a unit and without any one member it's a house of cards with no structure. Perhaps I'm being melodramatic but I'm still angry that this disease is taking so many wonderful people and now it's starting to creep up on my generation and it's frightening. Still, the music lives on. Their songs remain on my iPod and the visions of listening to them on the turntable as a kid are still as strong as ever. Those memories cannot be taken away. I've been so pleased to see such an outpouring of support from fans and celebrities all around the world. The Beastie Boys music touched more lives than I'd been aware of. I anticipate and hope the early demise of MCA brings a new batch of followers and listeners to Beastie Boys music. That would be the most joyous outcome to such a tragic end.

I've seen this written many times over the last few days but I can't help but reiterate: MCA, I hope you're sleeping well in Brooklyn.

Titanic 3D

When I think about some of the all time great onscreen movie couples throughout the years a few come to mind. For my parents’ generation it may have been Scarlett and Rhett. For today’s generation it may be Edward and Bella. For me it was Jack and Rose.  Watching Titanic for the very first time back on New Year’s Day 1998 was one of the most memorable movie moments I had experienced up until then.  To say the film stirred passions within me is putting it mildly. I felt I had endured something massive after the credits began to roll. I recall going to sleep that night and reliving all the scenes repeatedly in my mind. I couldn’t stop thinking it and equally could not wait to watch it again. I had caught Titanic fever along with half the country that night. While my enthusiasm may have subdued through the last fifteen years, my fondness for the film remains true. 

Titanic has mockingly suffered over the last decade due to its overwhelming popularity.  Many view it as over rated, cheesy, melodramatic, and dated (which is ironic seeing it’s primarily a period piece). I agree it is all those things at times (even I cringe during Winslet’s “I’ll never let go” speech and Jack's "King of the World" proclaimation), but in my estimation it’s also a fine example of superior film making. What other three hour film can remain engaging from start to finish after repeated viewings? I personally can’t think of any. Yes it’s long. Yes I know how it will end, but I watch it every time. 

James Cameron was able to achieve something remarkable with this film.  He managed to tell a fictional love story set to a well-known tragedy. Even the idea of creating a movie about Titanic was not original seeing as how there were several movies and one miniseries (also with a love story) already released. He pushed forward and created (at the time) the most financially successful movie of all time. No small feat! As I watched the 3D re-release a few nights ago I remain a firm believer in Cameron’s ability to create works of art. I’ll refrain from commenting on his latest venture Avatar.  With Titanic, he used the latest technology at the time and displayed it in a uniquely magical approach. He made us all feel like we were on that ship. He also made us care about these characters as if they were real. The film begins as a story about Titanic sinking, but ends as a story about the value of human life and as Jack says “making it count.” My all time favorite scene is the "you jump, I jump" moment when Rose finds herself on a lifeboat separated from Jack only to throw herself back on. She looks above at him knowing full well she'll never see him again and risks surviving alone to have a few more hours with him until the ships goes under. I've watched that scene roughly a hundred times in the last fifteen years and my heart swells each time along with the music when she makes her decision to stay with him.

What I love most about this film is how we see every intricate part of the ship from the boiler rooms to engine rooms to the captain’s quarters to third class and above. Probably one of my favorite sequences is the interaction between the crew upon viewing the alarming iceberg. They work quickly without panic knowing full well the lives of over two thousand people are on the line.  As it makes contact I’ve always been amazed by the sound of the ice smashing into the ship. It sounds like a T-Rex roaring angrily. The unsinkable ship is destroyed. As Mr. Andrews says it will founder; it’s only a mathematical certainty. All those scenes play such a pivotal role in raising the intensity and mounting fear. We are then thrusted back into the world of Jack and Rose wanting them to remain together as long possible. I hope I’m not spoiling the end for anyone out there who hasn’t seen it yet in discussing Jack’s early demise. The ending wouldn’t remain as solemn without his passing. During those last minutes in the freezing water he did not focus on the abrupt ending to his life, but at what he experienced during those few short days with Rose. In return her life was spared and salvaged by this man who enabled her to see just how much she had to live for. As I’m writing this the plot sounds convoluted and sappy, but on film it works for me. The acting (especially from Leonardo DiCaprio) is believable though slightly over the top at times. But when dealing with a movie about an enormous sinking ship I suppose it has to be. 

Ironically I came away feeling slightly more sympathetic towards the character of Cal Hockley played by Billy Zane. Perhaps because I'm now thirty-six years old instead of twenty-two, but I feel maybe Cal just needed some good therapy and he wouldn't have been such a bad catch! In one of the deleted scenes we come to learn Cal's entire family became vultures seeking money from him. He got what he deserved, but it was still sad to know he never found happiness beyond his fortune. I wish James Cameron hadn't written him so one dimensionally especially towards the end as he splashes around the sinking ship shooting a gun at the lovers. It all becomes too much; as if they aren't in enough peril. Although he does remain a one note villain, I always loved Billy Zane's performance as Cal. He's a snake, but a damn charming one. As he searches for her on the Carpathia after the rescue, you get a sense of how he may have really cared for her. Or he could have been desperately searching for the diamond.

Now onto the 3D. I personally could have done without it. Most of the time it remained two dimensional. It wasn’t filmed in 3D therefore there could only be so much done to make it look like images had depth to them. I found the underwater sequences towards the beginning with Bill Paxton to be most beneficial using the 3D conversion. We see the bow appear like a ghost out of the water with the fish swimming by. However, when dealing with the fictional characters and love story it was as if I was watching 2D only with the irritating glasses. I would have enjoyed it just as much watching it digitally remastered and without the 3D. I hadn’t heard the film in a theater surrounding since 1998 and I had forgotten how incredible the sounds were of the ship creaking and rattling as it was sinking. The sounds of it breaking in two and completing going under added such realism and intensity. I feel sorry for those who never wish to watch this film on the big screen the way it was intended. So much is lost on dvd and video. 

I continue to be fascinated by both the film and actual real life events surrounding the sinking of the R.M.S. Titanic. As I write this today April 14, 2012 it has been one hundred years since the incident. It’s a heartbreaking story which showed the arrogance of men and the overconfidence in technology to survive any type of disaster.  It was a remarkable ship which in the end proved as fragile and temporary as human life. For a film so strong in it's message, 3D conversion was never necessary.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (David Fincher)

Usually when I wake up the next morning with scenes from a film still swirling around in my mind it’s a sign of it’s effectiveness. First thing I recalled when I woke up was the horrific rape scene. It had been traumatizing to watch and stayed with me well into the next day, but was then able to continue the slideshow in my mind and remember her strength, resilience, and power to overcome. I had a fondness for Lisbeth Salander after reading the book two years ago, but it has doubled in intensity after watching Rooney Mara’s courageous and phenomenal performance.

After reading the book, watching the Swedish version, and now the American one I feel like I know this story inside and out. I won’t go into details because it will take far too long to explain the story. I just want to give credit where it’s due and that’s to Fincher’s raw energy and his brilliant decision to cast Rooney Mara as the waif like troubled Salandar. The minute she appears onscreen I had this uncontrollable urge to want to put my arms around her and comfort her. She would probably have ripped my head off in the process. Her anger was apparent and leaked through the cracks in her facade. I have to commend author Stieg Larsson for creating such a work of art with her character.  While she may have done some unthinkable acts in her past (which will be further explained in the sequel) she’s not a malicious person. She did what she felt was necessary and makes no excuses for it. It’s unfortunate it puts in her positions of being a ward of the state and not having access to her own money. This of course leads to the inevitable rape/revenge scenes. I had read a few reviews from other movie goers (particularly women) who could not stomach to watch this. For me it was horrifying in the book and even more so played out on the screen. For some reason it wasn’t as shocking in the Swedish version. Maybe I just don’t recall it as well. In Fincher’s version it was. Nobody should ever enjoy watching these types of moments as “fake” as they are, but when you have actors who are so engrossed in their characters it makes it all that much difficult to believe it’s not authentic. I could feel myself tense up and want to look away during that scene but I forced myself to watch it through. As unpleasant as it is, the following revenge scene would not be as sweet or justified. I can see why some people go off the deep end with rage and vengeance. I would want him mutilated and dead. She takes it a step further by making him live with his unspeakable act for the rest of his sorry life.

I have to also mention Daniel Craig who was far more likeable as Blomkvist than actor  Michael Nyquist. I could understand why Lisbeth was drawn to him. Father figure issues aside, she develops a comradely relationship with him. She excels so much at what she does which is basically hacking into computer and solving cases, but we aren’t sure if she takes any pleasure in it.  Or in anything else for the matter. With Blomkvist it becomes more visible. She cares for his well being and later on develops an attraction towards him. Meanwhile she never once tries to win his sympathy by telling the story of her life or the dreadful experiences she’s been through. She simply just is. She makes no apologies for who she is and doesn’t offer any insight. Yet we’re still drawn to her and completely root for her all the way through.

The movie itself is a far stronger adaptation than the Swedish; though many will disagree. It was argued for months why a remake was felt to be necessary. I felt the language barrier could be a turn off for some. You would be surprised how many people can’t read subtitles and concentrate on a film at the same time. For me this version went way beyond simply being in English. It stayed closer to the book and the performances were much more outstanding from everyone involved. Granted I have not seen the extended Swedish version and I do not want to take anything away from Noomi Rapace’s performance, but I personally connected more with this translation. It's also a very entertaining who-done-it mystery. The edge for me has worn off because of the repeated versions of this tale, but it's a very intricate set up. I have to add the beginning of this film was much stronger than in the novel. It took me a good two weeks to start this book and maybe three days to finish it. The first twenty pages did not grab me at all.  Or maybe I was just wasn't in the right frame of mind to read it. Nonetheless the movie draws you in much faster.

The ending which was by far crucial to the entire story was kept in tact and just as moving as when I read in the book. I was so torn when I realized Lisbeth had developed such a fondness for Blomkvist she went out of her way to not only buy him a touching gift (not to mention help clear his name with her money scam), but she opened herself up to the possibility of maybe loving someone. For her that is not your average ordinary emotion. She is hardened by life and people who have proven beyond untrustworthy. She was violently attacked and watched her father burn at her own hands. These are not events which would be easily if ever triumphed over. When she gets ready to give Blomkvist the leather jacket and basically what’s left of her heart and sees him with his editor it’s just as devastating. I can’t get the image of her face as she looks up at him out of my own mind. Yet I know she’s going to be okay. She tosses the jacket away and rides on. She won’t run to him or plead her affection. It simply is just like everything else has come to past during her existence. Nonetheless it’s heartbreaking.

One more quick note about the film is the very unusual opening title sequence. I haven’t listened to his commentary yet, but I am curious what was behind Fincher’s motivation. I’m not sure if I felt it was necessary or if fit with the rest of the film. It was too “James Bond” looking for a film of this nature. It was rather cool to watch and the music certainly built up the anticipation level, but again it felt out of place for me.  It’s just a minor gripe however in a fulfilling installment.  

The Hunger Games

"May the odds be ever be in your favor" - Effie Trinket

As a constant reader, it's always an incredible feeling to watch moving images unveil before my eyes of a world I had only envisioned previously in my mind. To see all these places, characters, and events go from words in a book to the big screen never fails to be a thrilling experience. The Hunger Games written by Suzanne Collins was no exception!

I had read The Hunger Games back in October of 2010. So it wasn't exactly fresh in my mind upon sitting down in the theater this afternoon to watch the movie. I had remembered the basic plot and key moments of course, but the details were glazed over after having read about eighty novels since then! The incredible thing was while watching the movie bits and pieces all came back to me. It felt like I had read it just yesterday. Amazing how the mind stores information and releases it went necessary. But I digress! 

 **warning spoilers ahead**

What was most exciting about the prospect of watching THG unfold before me was viewing this wild dsytopian world Collins created. Since reading the book there have been countless young adult novels of this sort. They're all futuristic dealing with some indescribably harsh conditions and forcing the hero to make life altering choices dealing with family, love, and hope. With THG, we get our heroine Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) who volunteers to fight to the death in the annual hunger games in place of younger sister who was chosen at random. Along with her is from her fellow District 12 is Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson) who unknowingly to her has had an unrequited crush on her from a far. But this is not a love story. The foundation for it is laid and we as the audience are aware of it; however the heart of the story is about fighting for survival. Katniss ends up serving as the potential champion we root for. Good against reigning evil. She's strong, stubborn, and ready to do what it takes to return back to her family. Meanwhile Peeta (who's back story was much stronger in the novel) is overshadowed by the sheer will power and strength Katniss exudes. He believes she will win. We soon meet Cinna (played by Lenny Kravitz), Effie Trinket (Elizabeth Banks), and Haymitch (Woody Harrelson) who all performed their parts very convincingly! I especially thought Woody nailed the drunken bitter Haymitch with humor and genuine concern for Katniss. I only wish (again) there was more of his own history as a previous winner of the games. Sadly there is only so much a movie can squeeze from the book. Usually details and character development are lost, but I think this movie handled it the best they could.

It was such a joy to watch the Districts at the parade introducing themselves to their eager audience. Katniss and Peeta enter surrounded by flames. We get to see them interviewed and practice for the ultimate battle. In the meantime we learn Peeta's true feelings for Katniss. I was concerned how this was all going to play out in the film. I am a sucker for romance of course so when the moment came for Peeta to admit he has loved Katniss from a far I was concerned for it's authenticity, but I have to give credit to Josh for pulling this off. It worked. I have forgotten to mention Gale (Liam Hemsworth) who plays Katniss's long time friend also from District 12. I dismissed him probably because his screen presence was quite lacking. Then again so was the character of Gale in the book.

The tension leading up to the games was insurmountable. I felt chills as Katniss goes up in the tube releasing her into the clutches of the wilderness and her competitors who want her dead as soon as possible. The games themselves was the most anticipated sequence since it was so thrilling to read about. I recall literally being afraid to turn the page of the book at one point. I couldn't take the anxiety of not knowing! It wasn't as nerve wracking watching it, but I did feel nervous energy of the audience. I could tell there were many who had never read the book just from their reactions.

I have to talk about the cinematography and effects for a minute here. I was quite impressed. As I said in the beginning this futuristic world came to life.  I could feel how scared and desperate each member of the District was early on. They live to survive each day. The forests, the sounds of the bow and arrow, the eerie drum beat every time a member of the District died were all spot on. Some of the wasps, creatures, and other CG effects could have been perfected but it was nothing too distracting I couldn't over look it. Meanwhile the Capital has an over blown sense of arrogance. The food is plentiful, the outfits and hair are extravagant, and they behave as these games are the superbowl instead of what they really are which is snuff television. They get off watching others battle it out to the death. 

However, this year there is a potential love story blossoming between two of the young players. Is it real or just there as a ploy to gain the help of sponsors and emote sympathy from the audience? For Peeta it's real. We don't get a sure sense of the way Katniss feels. In the book we get her inner monologue and we realize she's torn but desperate to win and return to her family. She will do what it takes which includes creating the illusion of loving this boy. She may be in denial of how of feelings towards him but we can't help but see genuine affection in the cave scenes. She certainly developed a strong bond with young Rue which succeeded in being one of the more touching moments of the film.  In that moment we see how corrupt this world is by it's dominating rulers. They do no care for these children. They want hope just enough to let the games be fruitful, but not enough to let society think they have any power. The Capital must remain in control at all times. Katniss out shows them all in the end with her bravery and devotion to Peeta by willing to join in a double suicide with him. Thus they prove there is more to these games than having a Victor but doing what is honorable inside.

One gripe I do have is the watered down violence. This movie would have worked so much better if it were rated R so we could see the real terror these kids are enduring. As with the book the premise was much more fearsome than the outcome. Still with a PG-13 rating I felt it succeeded in creating the savagery of the tributes while not completely executing real terror.  Also the ending was anti-climactic. I felt it was a bit rushed at times and there's no real cliffhanger like in the book. When Peeta realizes maybe Katniss's affection for him may have been all part of an act I was crushed! I couldn't wait to read the next book and find out what happened. In the movie we get no real sense of that at all. Katniss claims she wants to forget while Peeta says he doesn't want to forget, but that doesn't really display how confused and hurt he is at that moment. It came across in such a subtle way I think it was missed entirely.

Lastly, the performances were very well done especially from that of Jennifer Lawrence. I adored her in Winter's Bone and I see so much more potential from her in the future. She embraced Katniss and became her. This movie would be nothing without her tough yet emotional performance.

As I write this I'm just learning the movie shattered box office records with an astounding $155 million opening weekend. It's more than anyone could have predicted and asked for! What works in favor of the franchise is how it appeals to be both male and female audiences. I'm such a supporter of films which derived from books and encourage more reading from young and old alike. Bravo! I'd also like to thank Stephen King since his recommendation of the book inspired me to read it in the first place. I was hesitant to get on board another young adult franchise but I when I heard King raved about it I could not resist. I wish nothing more but continued success for the series!

Next installment is Catching Fire due out in November of 2013.

Dog Days of Spring?

I feel like I’ve woken up and hell has frozen over. Or in this case hell has melted over. I look at the calendar and see we’re halfway through March, but it sure feels like June has made an uninvited entrance into my life instead. Those who know me are aware of my intense dislike of warm weather. I realize I am in the minority so there’s no need to tell me otherwise. When I complain about how sweltering it is outside I receive the usual quizzical stares from people as if I’m saying something bizarre. I don’t see where it’s written (certainly not in the Bible) that I have to love when the temperatures rises. What’s so damn fantastic about feeling sticky, sweaty, and all around nasty? Before anyone attempts to try to explain it to me, save your breath. This is not some new revelation I’m revealing. I have felt this way for many years, except only recently I have developed such a hostile hatred for summer that it’s almost driving me insane. The day I win the lottery I’m moving to either Alaska or Seattle. North Pole, here I come!

I’ll break it down simply:

Allergy Season: From mid April to about August I cannot breath. The second the leaves start budding and the flowers start blooming I start a-sneezing. The itchy nose, the watery eyes, the nasal congestion, and all around feeling like I need to rip my face off are common occurrences during this time. My allergy is at it's all time debilitating in May, but doesn’t exactly taper off until October when the leaves start to fall. I can recall one horrific Mother’s Day a few years ago where I spent the entire Sunday sneezing non-stop. So much so I gave myself a nose bleed. I take all the medicine the doctors have to offer; both over the counter and prescribed. All of them work somewhat but not enough to truly make me feel normal. I don’t appreciate having to take the pills in the first place. I’m very anti medication of any sort. But alas it’s like fighting a losing battle. What I fear most of all is how this coming spring will be one of the worst ever with the early onslaught of heat. No relief in sight for me.

The Bugs: Those irritating little critters come out in full swing and over stay their welcome well into the autumn months. Living on the ground level these pesky buzzards walk right in without knocking. I despise insects. I don't fear them as much as just plain hate 'em! I don't feel they contribute much at all except to drive me batty. Having pale skin doesn't help since apparently that is their meal of choice. They want to take a bite out of me at every waking moment. Sure the answer is to cover myself with insect repellant. Add more goo to the already applied sun screen. Again pale skin+hot sun=red faced blistering Diane!

The Noise: I feel like the Grinch in How The Grinch Stole Christmas when I say this, but the noise noise NOISE! Why is it is so incredibly noisy all summer long? It's like some massive overblown party going on for three months I was interested attending yet have am forced to endure. People play their music with the windows rolled down, the ice cream truck from hell goes up and down my block at all hours of the day, and worst of all is the barbecues until 2 am on weekend. Let's not forget the crime! People are much more anxious to whip out the guns at night and start shooting aimlessly when the temps hit 95F. Oh what a joy to be out and about in New York among these conditions!

And lastly the humidity: There is nothing like stepping outside of my front door and immediately being attacked by damp, moist fog-like air! First I can't breathe and then within seconds I can't see because my hair is stuck to my face. So are my clothes. I feel like I'm swimming in a swamp. You can forget about even trying to appear to look attractive. When the mascara runs down my eyes mixed with sweat I can't say I look at all appealing. 

Yet these are months everyone supposedly looks forward to. Hot fun in the summer time right? Give me cold, crisp, wintry blistery days all year long!! I feel completely robbed of a decent winter season and it's baffling why everyone is running around celebrating like they've just been through the biggest deep freeze of their life. I can only imagine what's in store this coming summer and I guarantee it will not be pretty. Expect further rants with increasing rage as the weeks continue!