My, What to Review?
There are weeks when there is nothing new in the theater and I hate to review a known crappy movie just so I can write a scathing review. Besides, I really enjoy movies, and when I sit in that dark theater, I expect to be entertained, at least at some minimal level. Even a stinker such as The Brothers Grimm has at least some redeeming value (okay, in that case, not really...)
There are weeks I simply must grind my teeth, close my eyes, and pick something.
Not so this coming weekend. There are at least half a dozen of movies coming out that I really want to see. It must be Oscar-bait time. Don't get me wrong, I like a good popcorn flick, but I really do prefer solid, well-made dramas and comedies, and maybe a fantasy or two. But "well-made" is the key here: something original, uplifting, entertaining and yet meaningful. Movies are such a great, powerful medium I don't want to settle for less.
Now let's look at the roster for this week and next:
* Babel
Sounds very powerful, gritty, and stars Brad Pitt and Kate Blanchett, and have Oscar written all over it. Worth a look.
* Stranger Than Fiction
As a writer, this has a lot of appeal, plus Will Ferrell is good in a role like this, and Emma Thompson is always a joy to watch
* Copying Beethoven
How can you resist the story of Beethoven starring Ed Harris (with wild hair)?
* Fur: An Imaginary Portrait of Diane Arbus
Two years ago I didn't know who Diane Arbus was. Now I do, after seeing her art in New York, and I loved it. Nicole Kidman sounds perfect playing Arbus.
* A Good Year
Russell Crowe in a coming-of-age Scrooge-type story. Gorgeous cinematography and Ron Howard-esque schmaltz. Is it worth $10?
* Night of the Living Dead 3D
Ooh!
* Casino Royale
A new Bond in a new Bond film. This one sounds interesting
* Bobby
Everyone is talking about this movie. I wasn't even born yet but the Robert Kennedy assassination sure is fascinating
* Happy Feet
Have seen the previews ad nauseum. This'd better be good
* Déjà Vu
A Sci-fi thriller in a season teemed with dramas. Could be interesting, especially with Danzel Washington in the lead. Inside Man was good -- of course, it had Clive Owen in it, too.
* For Your Consideration
Now, this looks like REALLY fun. Christopher Guest is a genius, and he has a great cast
So now you see my problem. Not only do I have to finish the first draft of my novel, I also have all these great movies to see and review. I guess something's gotta give.
Sorry, Jessica.
There are weeks I simply must grind my teeth, close my eyes, and pick something.
Not so this coming weekend. There are at least half a dozen of movies coming out that I really want to see. It must be Oscar-bait time. Don't get me wrong, I like a good popcorn flick, but I really do prefer solid, well-made dramas and comedies, and maybe a fantasy or two. But "well-made" is the key here: something original, uplifting, entertaining and yet meaningful. Movies are such a great, powerful medium I don't want to settle for less.
Now let's look at the roster for this week and next:
* Babel
Sounds very powerful, gritty, and stars Brad Pitt and Kate Blanchett, and have Oscar written all over it. Worth a look.
* Stranger Than Fiction
As a writer, this has a lot of appeal, plus Will Ferrell is good in a role like this, and Emma Thompson is always a joy to watch
* Copying Beethoven
How can you resist the story of Beethoven starring Ed Harris (with wild hair)?
* Fur: An Imaginary Portrait of Diane Arbus
Two years ago I didn't know who Diane Arbus was. Now I do, after seeing her art in New York, and I loved it. Nicole Kidman sounds perfect playing Arbus.
* A Good Year
Russell Crowe in a coming-of-age Scrooge-type story. Gorgeous cinematography and Ron Howard-esque schmaltz. Is it worth $10?
* Night of the Living Dead 3D
Ooh!
* Casino Royale
A new Bond in a new Bond film. This one sounds interesting
* Bobby
Everyone is talking about this movie. I wasn't even born yet but the Robert Kennedy assassination sure is fascinating
* Happy Feet
Have seen the previews ad nauseum. This'd better be good
* Déjà Vu
A Sci-fi thriller in a season teemed with dramas. Could be interesting, especially with Danzel Washington in the lead. Inside Man was good -- of course, it had Clive Owen in it, too.
* For Your Consideration
Now, this looks like REALLY fun. Christopher Guest is a genius, and he has a great cast
So now you see my problem. Not only do I have to finish the first draft of my novel, I also have all these great movies to see and review. I guess something's gotta give.
Sorry, Jessica.
Comments
Haven't you ever heard of a matinee? Sheesh.
And matinees are for lo... lovely ladies I mean
It's Sunday - I won't hassle you for not updating. Today.
A prompt, yes. Okay, here's one:
'How did this cactus get in my shoe?'