Jane here. Finally sat down and watched Reservoir Dogs today. Had the pleasure of my son joining me. He surprised me by telling me he hadn't watched it since middle school. I knew we were liberal (my dear departed husband was against censorship of all kind) but I thought my son had waited until high school. My other surprise was that I am getting more hardened toward film violence. Though Kill Bill Vol. 1 beats this hands down.
I liked the movie. I'm still pondering the reasons why. Obviously, the dialogue, though sometimes it was hard to hear. Obviously, Harvey Keitel. Obviously, Michael Madsen. The movie left me wanting more at the end. Was this intentional on QT's part? I think it was. I think though, the best part was the sound track. I kept finding myself singing along.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Sunday, March 7, 2010
It's Oscar Night! Here are our Opinions, Not a moment too soon!
The Oscar Nominations! And Jane and Geri Pick their Favorites!
Best Picture
Avatar
An Education
A Serious Man
District 9
Inglourious Basterds
The Blind Side
The Hurt Locker
Up
Up in the Air
Precious
Jane’s Pick: The Hurt Locker. Best Picture of the year. Loved, absolutely loved District 9, Inglourious Basterds and An Education. A Serious Man is a worthy Coen Brothers entry. And Up is a wonderful film. I see Precious tomorrow and reserve judgment for my list. As for the others, it was nice to see Sandra as a blonde and in something “not a physical comedy”. George’s movie was a bit thought provoking but I really liked Men Who Stare at Goats better. Yeah, I have a weird sense of humor and like offbeat films. Avatar was a great experience with the 3D and marvelous colors and cool plants and the Na’avi people. But the story was not told as well as in other nominated films. If I’m watching a movie and I get antsy, it’s not a great film. Watching Avatar, I got antsy.
Geri’s Pick: The Oscar goes to The Hurt Locker. Hands down, it was the best picture of the year. I saw the movie last summer and made the prediction at that time. I appreciated the creativity of Avatar, although the acting was unremarkable. I loved Inglorious Basterds, even though I am not a big fan of Quentin Tarantino – as usual, Brad Pitt gave a solid performance, and Christoph Waltz’s performance reminded me of Ralph Fiennes in Schindler’s List. I did enjoy the rest of the nominated films, but did not see The Blind Side or Precious, so cannot comment on those films.
Best Director:
Kathyrn Bigelow: The Hurt Locker
James Cameron: Avatar
Lee Daniels Precious
Jason Reitman: Up In The Air
Quentin Tarantino Inglourious Basterds
Jane’s Pick: Kathryn Bigelow, The Hurt Locker. Best film of the year. Stayed with me. I saw it last spring. The most affecting and effective movie. Bravo Kathryn Bigelow.
Geri’s Pick: I agree with Jane – Kathryn Bigelow deserves the Oscar. Awarding the Best Director statue to a female director is long overdue…
Best Actor
Jeff Bridges: Crazy Heart
George Clooney: Up In The Air
Colin Firth: The Single Man
Morgan Freeman: Invictus
Jeremy Renner: The Hurt Locker
Best Actress:
Sandra Bullock: The Blind Side
Helen Mirren: The Last Station
Carey Mulligan: An Education
Gabourey Sidibe: Precious
Meryl Streep: Julie and Julia
Jane’s Pick: Best Actor: Torn between Colin Firth and Jeremy Renner. Colin Firth has had an opportunity to stretch and play a very different role and was very believable. Loved it. Jeremy Renner was also very believable. Didn’t doubt for a moment that the person on screen was a real person as opposed to an actor. I know Jeff Bridges is everyone’s favorite, but the movie was “The Wrestler” lite. Best Actress: I’m seeing Precious tomorrow. I didn’t have the chance to see The Last Station. Just too many movies. That said, my pick is Carey Mulligan. Wonderful, absolutely wonderful. Sorry Sandra, just because you went blonde wasn’t enough for me. Okay, it’s tomorrow. Smart money is on Sandra. But Gabourey Sidibe was absolutely marvelous in Precious. Truly wonderful.
Geri’s Pick: Best Actor: Jeff Bridges will take home the Oscar, allowing Hollywood to recognize his entire body of work. Hollywood tends to honor older actors who have been nominated several times but have never won (Paul Newman’s award for The Color of Money comes to mind, as does Henry Fonda’s performance in On Golden Pond). Jeremy Renner and Colin Firth were outstanding in their roles, but unfortunately for them, the year belongs to Mr. Bridges. Best Actress: I loved Carey Mulligan in An Education, but I do believe Sandra Bullock will take home the Oscar. I did not see her performance, but historically the actor who wins the SAG award takes home the Oscar, so……..
Best Supporting Actress
Penelope Cruz: Nine
Vera Farmiga: Up In The Air
Maggie Gyllenhaal: Crazy Hear
Anna Kendrick: Up In the Air
Mo’Nique: Precious
Best Supporting Actor:
Matt Damon: Invictus
Woody Harrelson: The Messenger
Christopher Plummer: The Last Station
Stanley Tucci: The Lovely Bones
Christoph Waltz: Inglourious Basterds
Jane’s Pick: Best Supporting Actress: Missed Nine and once again I cannot comment on Penelope Cruz. Once again, if she wins it, all bets are off. That said, I loved Anna Kendrick in Up in the Air. She was the best thing in that movie. Maggie Gyllenhaal was just about perfect as always. Smart money is on Mo’Nique. I’m hoping for Maggie. Best Supporting Actor: Didn’t see four of them. Christoph Waltz will win. Natch.
Geri’s Pick: These two categories contain several performances I did not see. I loved Maggie Gyllenhaal in Crazy Heart, but I’ve heard Mo’Nique was excellent, so I’ll pick her to take home the Best Supporting Actress Oscar. Christoph Waltz will win Best Supporting Actor, no discussion necessary. He was just that good.
THE MOVIES THEMSELVES:
How can we just talk briefly without giving you more? Jane’s family and friends know she can’t just give a short opinion. Unfortunately, for some movies, this was the wrong year. The competition is so great. So, I’ll give mine and Geri will give hers on the ten nominated films and then we’ll also comment on those we feel a need to of the others. To be fair, we’ll go alphabetically.
Avatar:
Jane: James Cameron took ten years and more money than I can imagine to make this movie. His gamble paid off as it has grossed incredibly more money than I can imagine. It is a technical marvel in three dimension that is a wonder to behold and should be seen in three dimension. That said, I see no reason to see it twice. The story and the writing just are not there. Neither is the acting. It’s all about the technology.
Geri: I agree with Jane’s comments about this movie. It obviously was a labor of love for Mr. Cameron, and the movie should win every technical award. I believe the recognition should end there. The Hurt Locker was a better film, told a better story, had better acting, and deserves the Best Picture Oscar.
An Education:
Jane: What a delightful movie. But I don’t want to gush. I don’t want to raise your expectations and then you find you expected a huge movie and saw a small, wonderful gem but didn’t realize it. It is a coming of age movie that I think will appeal to many. Carey Mulligan is also nominated for Best Actress and deserves the honor. Alfred Molina is her father in the movie and he is just great as well, as always.
Geri: I enjoyed this movie very much. I do take exception with one thing: how could the straight-laced parents allow their 16-year old daughter to cavort with an older man??? Carey Mulligan delivered an excellent performance and I hope to see more from her in the future.
A Serious Man:
Jane: The Coen Brothers entry for this year. I really like it. Many don’t. It is based on the Book of Job who is tested by God and Satan and pretty much driven to insanity by the tests to remain a good man. The ending is a little abrupt and one must remember the point of good and bad. I loved the movie. And that for the Coen Brothers, it was remarkably lacking in blood and violence.
Geri: Jane and I disagree on this movie. I don’t believe it should have been included in this category. I have seen all the Coen Brothers’ films, and I think this is the worst movie they’ve delivered. I understand the motive is a creative interpretation of the Bible, but I feel Messrs. Coen owed more to their diehard fans. If this was one’s first exposure to a Coen Brothers film, I don’t feel Messrs. Coen created new fans with this movie. If you’ve never seen a Coen Brothers film, take time and watch any of the following: Fargo, Raising Arizona, O Brother Where Art Thou, No Country for Old Men, Miller’s Crossing or Barton Fink.
District 9:
Jane: I absolutely loved this movie. I went with my friend Joanne. We knew nothing about the movie before we saw it. Early on, it looked a bit cheesy but it became quite interesting. It became my second most favorite movie of the year (The Hurt Locker being the first). It was interesting. It presented an age old dilemma (discrimination and segregation) in a new light. I loved the graphics and the Prawns. I was about to make another comment, but if you haven’t seen the movie, I don’t want to give anything away. Again, some people don’t like it. Keep an open mind. We had no expectations and really liked it.
Geri: I enjoyed this film far more than I expected to. I am a fan of science fiction, yet felt I was not watching a sci-fi movie – kudos to the director. I enjoyed the concept, the exploration of definitions of good and evil (the movie evoked memories of the Japanese concentration camps in the U.S. during World War II) and would recommend it.
Inglourious Basterds:
Jane: In an earlier post in the blog, I gushed about this movie. I still do. It is vintage QT. Every actor/actress is great. The music all fits. Christoph Waltz is sure to win the best supporting actor. He’s already won the Golden Globe and the Screen Actor’s Guild awards for that part. He plays the role perfectly. The various scenes are wonderful. There are so many moments of tension. Some are comedic. Mike Myers has a cameo. (Don’t get your hopes up over that.) Oh, and Brad Pitt is in it. He’s good too. It’s all about putting out fire with gasoline. And Nazis. And World War II.
Geri: My husband and son saw this movie and did not think I would like it, as I have never been a huge fan of Quentin Tarantino. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed watching this movie. I think the movie told a cohesive story, (kind of a departure for QT) the screenplay was well written, the roles were well acted, loved the movie’s score. QT won me over with this movie.
Precious:
Jane: As always, at Oscar time it’s a race to see them all. Finally found time to see this one today. It is very, very good. The acting is superb all around. Gabourey Sidibe, Monique, Paula Patton and Mariah Carrey all do an outstanding job (and so does Lenny Kravitz!). I have to admit I was a little skeptical before I saw it and thought it would tug the heartstrings too much but it didn’t. It was damn near perfect.
Geri: Did not see this film, so cannot comment.
The Blind Side:
Jane: Based on the true story of Michael Oher, a homeless African American boy taken in by a well-to do white family. Sandra Bullock plays the mother, the one who insists the family takes him in and oversees his schooling and care. It’s a very nice movie and for a change, Sandra Bullock is a blonde. Tim McGraw has crossed over from country music to acting and it’s nice to know he can learn lines.
Geri: Have not seen this movie. Will catch it when it comes out on DVD.
The Hurt Locker:
Jane: Wow, what a movie. I didn’t know what to think when I left the theatre. An intense, tight movie that was, for me, very emotional. It’s a very personal movie following the lives of three men on a bomb squad in Iraq. It is not meant to say this is what it is like for everybody. Here’s the thing, though, for me. This is what someone, or many men, go through on a daily basis, for us. These people have volunteered to do so. This is their job. It is beyond my understanding that anyone can do this, never mind volunteer to do this. The film goes beyond this and explores the psychology (to an extent) behind it from the viewpoint of the subjects. I think this is a must see film. This is important. This is why it beats Avatar hands down. The story is there. It has a story.
Geri: My favorite movie of 2009, and is my second favorite war movie, behind Platoon. It was an honest look at the lives of 3 bomb squad soldiers in Iraq, who risk their lives on a daily basis. I believe it illuminated the perils of this particular war without being preachy. I agree with all of Jane’s comments. What I loved most about this movie, though, was that a woman directed it. Kathryn Bigelow learned her craft well when she was married to James Cameron, and rightly deserves to be recognized for her sensitive yet gritty direction.
Up:
Jane: Up is animated. This is the first time an animated movie has been nominated that I can remember. And, no, I’m not going to look it up. It’s a lovely film that should appeal to all. It is not a saccharine movie in the least and there are some interesting moments. Personally, I really enjoyed the voice given to the Doberman. And, I really liked the movie. Well worth seeing. Just not best picture of the year. But, wouldn’t it be great if it was, Ellen?
Geri: The only other animated movie nominated for Best Picture was Beauty and the Beast. This is just another delightful movie from Pixar. It will win Best Animated Movie. I loved the story, the computer graphics. I’ve always been a Pixar fan, and am really looking forward to Toy Story III this summer!
Up in the Air:
Jane: George Clooney as a consultant who fires people. Personally, I would’ve preferred an Ocean’s 14, though I haven’t seen Ocean’s 13 yet. (Was it that bad? Is that why it hasn’t been on TV yet?) This is what I don’t understand: Why was this movie nominated? I saw this movie with my girlfriends: Ellen and Joanne. Carol has been missing in action a lot. We’ve been going to movies together on a regular basis since 1994. Brunch and the movies on Sundays. You should do it too. Any way, not only was the movie nominated at Best Picture, but young Reitman was nominated as Best Director, Vera Farmiga (remember her from The Departed?) and Anna Kendrick, both nominated Best Supporting Actress. Of all the nominations, here’s what I think: Papa Razzi does the best brunch and Anna Kendrick deserves the nomination. Okay, I slept on and changed my mind a bit. Papa Razzi still does the best brunch but the film does speak to our time: job loss, impersonality of the corporate culture, lack of connection to each other as humans. But the ending left me hanging.
Geri: While I am a fan of Mr. Clooney, I don’t really think this was “the best work of his career”. I would save that distinction for his work in Syriana. I thought the movie was good, but I personally would not have included it in the Best Picture category. I did not agree with the Academy’s decision to increase the number of Best Picture nominees from 5 to 10 was warranted, but I understand the decision was driven by economics and the need to tantalize people to go out to the movies more frequently. As a result, Up in the Air was included in the Best Picture category. I guess money speaks louder than words in Hollywood these days.
Jane: I would like to thank Geri, of course. Also, Joanne, Carol and Ellen for always being there to go to brunch and the movies, Amy and Larry for stepping in at the last moment, my mother, my sister Lizzy and her husband Frank for remembering the name of my favorite movie for me, my sister Kate who is in Theatre and teaches me stuff, to the rest of my family for being themselves and always, to my son, the person I love most in the world.
Geri: I would like to thank Jane for getting me involved in this movie blog. I have always adored the movies and getting to talk about them is a real thrill!
I want to send a special shout out to my all-time favorite movie buddy - my husband Ray. One of our first dates was dinner and a movie, and it is still our favorite type of date. I'm happy to report that our son, Tim, has inherited our love of movies. Thanks to Tim for recommending The Hurt Locker, my favorite movie of 2009. I might have missed it had it not been for your glowing review.
I've had many movie friends over the years, and thank them all for dragging me to movies outside my comfort zone.
Finally, I would like to thank Gene Kelly. I saw Singing in the Rain when I was a young girl, and fell in love with movies after watching him sing and dance his way through a comical spoof of the movies. He has always been an inspiration to me and I thank him for making movies that comfort me if I happen to be singing in the rain...
And thanks to all of you for reading this! Happy movies and popcorn!
Best Picture
Avatar
An Education
A Serious Man
District 9
Inglourious Basterds
The Blind Side
The Hurt Locker
Up
Up in the Air
Precious
Jane’s Pick: The Hurt Locker. Best Picture of the year. Loved, absolutely loved District 9, Inglourious Basterds and An Education. A Serious Man is a worthy Coen Brothers entry. And Up is a wonderful film. I see Precious tomorrow and reserve judgment for my list. As for the others, it was nice to see Sandra as a blonde and in something “not a physical comedy”. George’s movie was a bit thought provoking but I really liked Men Who Stare at Goats better. Yeah, I have a weird sense of humor and like offbeat films. Avatar was a great experience with the 3D and marvelous colors and cool plants and the Na’avi people. But the story was not told as well as in other nominated films. If I’m watching a movie and I get antsy, it’s not a great film. Watching Avatar, I got antsy.
Geri’s Pick: The Oscar goes to The Hurt Locker. Hands down, it was the best picture of the year. I saw the movie last summer and made the prediction at that time. I appreciated the creativity of Avatar, although the acting was unremarkable. I loved Inglorious Basterds, even though I am not a big fan of Quentin Tarantino – as usual, Brad Pitt gave a solid performance, and Christoph Waltz’s performance reminded me of Ralph Fiennes in Schindler’s List. I did enjoy the rest of the nominated films, but did not see The Blind Side or Precious, so cannot comment on those films.
Best Director:
Kathyrn Bigelow: The Hurt Locker
James Cameron: Avatar
Lee Daniels Precious
Jason Reitman: Up In The Air
Quentin Tarantino Inglourious Basterds
Jane’s Pick: Kathryn Bigelow, The Hurt Locker. Best film of the year. Stayed with me. I saw it last spring. The most affecting and effective movie. Bravo Kathryn Bigelow.
Geri’s Pick: I agree with Jane – Kathryn Bigelow deserves the Oscar. Awarding the Best Director statue to a female director is long overdue…
Best Actor
Jeff Bridges: Crazy Heart
George Clooney: Up In The Air
Colin Firth: The Single Man
Morgan Freeman: Invictus
Jeremy Renner: The Hurt Locker
Best Actress:
Sandra Bullock: The Blind Side
Helen Mirren: The Last Station
Carey Mulligan: An Education
Gabourey Sidibe: Precious
Meryl Streep: Julie and Julia
Jane’s Pick: Best Actor: Torn between Colin Firth and Jeremy Renner. Colin Firth has had an opportunity to stretch and play a very different role and was very believable. Loved it. Jeremy Renner was also very believable. Didn’t doubt for a moment that the person on screen was a real person as opposed to an actor. I know Jeff Bridges is everyone’s favorite, but the movie was “The Wrestler” lite. Best Actress: I’m seeing Precious tomorrow. I didn’t have the chance to see The Last Station. Just too many movies. That said, my pick is Carey Mulligan. Wonderful, absolutely wonderful. Sorry Sandra, just because you went blonde wasn’t enough for me. Okay, it’s tomorrow. Smart money is on Sandra. But Gabourey Sidibe was absolutely marvelous in Precious. Truly wonderful.
Geri’s Pick: Best Actor: Jeff Bridges will take home the Oscar, allowing Hollywood to recognize his entire body of work. Hollywood tends to honor older actors who have been nominated several times but have never won (Paul Newman’s award for The Color of Money comes to mind, as does Henry Fonda’s performance in On Golden Pond). Jeremy Renner and Colin Firth were outstanding in their roles, but unfortunately for them, the year belongs to Mr. Bridges. Best Actress: I loved Carey Mulligan in An Education, but I do believe Sandra Bullock will take home the Oscar. I did not see her performance, but historically the actor who wins the SAG award takes home the Oscar, so……..
Best Supporting Actress
Penelope Cruz: Nine
Vera Farmiga: Up In The Air
Maggie Gyllenhaal: Crazy Hear
Anna Kendrick: Up In the Air
Mo’Nique: Precious
Best Supporting Actor:
Matt Damon: Invictus
Woody Harrelson: The Messenger
Christopher Plummer: The Last Station
Stanley Tucci: The Lovely Bones
Christoph Waltz: Inglourious Basterds
Jane’s Pick: Best Supporting Actress: Missed Nine and once again I cannot comment on Penelope Cruz. Once again, if she wins it, all bets are off. That said, I loved Anna Kendrick in Up in the Air. She was the best thing in that movie. Maggie Gyllenhaal was just about perfect as always. Smart money is on Mo’Nique. I’m hoping for Maggie. Best Supporting Actor: Didn’t see four of them. Christoph Waltz will win. Natch.
Geri’s Pick: These two categories contain several performances I did not see. I loved Maggie Gyllenhaal in Crazy Heart, but I’ve heard Mo’Nique was excellent, so I’ll pick her to take home the Best Supporting Actress Oscar. Christoph Waltz will win Best Supporting Actor, no discussion necessary. He was just that good.
THE MOVIES THEMSELVES:
How can we just talk briefly without giving you more? Jane’s family and friends know she can’t just give a short opinion. Unfortunately, for some movies, this was the wrong year. The competition is so great. So, I’ll give mine and Geri will give hers on the ten nominated films and then we’ll also comment on those we feel a need to of the others. To be fair, we’ll go alphabetically.
Avatar:
Jane: James Cameron took ten years and more money than I can imagine to make this movie. His gamble paid off as it has grossed incredibly more money than I can imagine. It is a technical marvel in three dimension that is a wonder to behold and should be seen in three dimension. That said, I see no reason to see it twice. The story and the writing just are not there. Neither is the acting. It’s all about the technology.
Geri: I agree with Jane’s comments about this movie. It obviously was a labor of love for Mr. Cameron, and the movie should win every technical award. I believe the recognition should end there. The Hurt Locker was a better film, told a better story, had better acting, and deserves the Best Picture Oscar.
An Education:
Jane: What a delightful movie. But I don’t want to gush. I don’t want to raise your expectations and then you find you expected a huge movie and saw a small, wonderful gem but didn’t realize it. It is a coming of age movie that I think will appeal to many. Carey Mulligan is also nominated for Best Actress and deserves the honor. Alfred Molina is her father in the movie and he is just great as well, as always.
Geri: I enjoyed this movie very much. I do take exception with one thing: how could the straight-laced parents allow their 16-year old daughter to cavort with an older man??? Carey Mulligan delivered an excellent performance and I hope to see more from her in the future.
A Serious Man:
Jane: The Coen Brothers entry for this year. I really like it. Many don’t. It is based on the Book of Job who is tested by God and Satan and pretty much driven to insanity by the tests to remain a good man. The ending is a little abrupt and one must remember the point of good and bad. I loved the movie. And that for the Coen Brothers, it was remarkably lacking in blood and violence.
Geri: Jane and I disagree on this movie. I don’t believe it should have been included in this category. I have seen all the Coen Brothers’ films, and I think this is the worst movie they’ve delivered. I understand the motive is a creative interpretation of the Bible, but I feel Messrs. Coen owed more to their diehard fans. If this was one’s first exposure to a Coen Brothers film, I don’t feel Messrs. Coen created new fans with this movie. If you’ve never seen a Coen Brothers film, take time and watch any of the following: Fargo, Raising Arizona, O Brother Where Art Thou, No Country for Old Men, Miller’s Crossing or Barton Fink.
District 9:
Jane: I absolutely loved this movie. I went with my friend Joanne. We knew nothing about the movie before we saw it. Early on, it looked a bit cheesy but it became quite interesting. It became my second most favorite movie of the year (The Hurt Locker being the first). It was interesting. It presented an age old dilemma (discrimination and segregation) in a new light. I loved the graphics and the Prawns. I was about to make another comment, but if you haven’t seen the movie, I don’t want to give anything away. Again, some people don’t like it. Keep an open mind. We had no expectations and really liked it.
Geri: I enjoyed this film far more than I expected to. I am a fan of science fiction, yet felt I was not watching a sci-fi movie – kudos to the director. I enjoyed the concept, the exploration of definitions of good and evil (the movie evoked memories of the Japanese concentration camps in the U.S. during World War II) and would recommend it.
Inglourious Basterds:
Jane: In an earlier post in the blog, I gushed about this movie. I still do. It is vintage QT. Every actor/actress is great. The music all fits. Christoph Waltz is sure to win the best supporting actor. He’s already won the Golden Globe and the Screen Actor’s Guild awards for that part. He plays the role perfectly. The various scenes are wonderful. There are so many moments of tension. Some are comedic. Mike Myers has a cameo. (Don’t get your hopes up over that.) Oh, and Brad Pitt is in it. He’s good too. It’s all about putting out fire with gasoline. And Nazis. And World War II.
Geri: My husband and son saw this movie and did not think I would like it, as I have never been a huge fan of Quentin Tarantino. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed watching this movie. I think the movie told a cohesive story, (kind of a departure for QT) the screenplay was well written, the roles were well acted, loved the movie’s score. QT won me over with this movie.
Precious:
Jane: As always, at Oscar time it’s a race to see them all. Finally found time to see this one today. It is very, very good. The acting is superb all around. Gabourey Sidibe, Monique, Paula Patton and Mariah Carrey all do an outstanding job (and so does Lenny Kravitz!). I have to admit I was a little skeptical before I saw it and thought it would tug the heartstrings too much but it didn’t. It was damn near perfect.
Geri: Did not see this film, so cannot comment.
The Blind Side:
Jane: Based on the true story of Michael Oher, a homeless African American boy taken in by a well-to do white family. Sandra Bullock plays the mother, the one who insists the family takes him in and oversees his schooling and care. It’s a very nice movie and for a change, Sandra Bullock is a blonde. Tim McGraw has crossed over from country music to acting and it’s nice to know he can learn lines.
Geri: Have not seen this movie. Will catch it when it comes out on DVD.
The Hurt Locker:
Jane: Wow, what a movie. I didn’t know what to think when I left the theatre. An intense, tight movie that was, for me, very emotional. It’s a very personal movie following the lives of three men on a bomb squad in Iraq. It is not meant to say this is what it is like for everybody. Here’s the thing, though, for me. This is what someone, or many men, go through on a daily basis, for us. These people have volunteered to do so. This is their job. It is beyond my understanding that anyone can do this, never mind volunteer to do this. The film goes beyond this and explores the psychology (to an extent) behind it from the viewpoint of the subjects. I think this is a must see film. This is important. This is why it beats Avatar hands down. The story is there. It has a story.
Geri: My favorite movie of 2009, and is my second favorite war movie, behind Platoon. It was an honest look at the lives of 3 bomb squad soldiers in Iraq, who risk their lives on a daily basis. I believe it illuminated the perils of this particular war without being preachy. I agree with all of Jane’s comments. What I loved most about this movie, though, was that a woman directed it. Kathryn Bigelow learned her craft well when she was married to James Cameron, and rightly deserves to be recognized for her sensitive yet gritty direction.
Up:
Jane: Up is animated. This is the first time an animated movie has been nominated that I can remember. And, no, I’m not going to look it up. It’s a lovely film that should appeal to all. It is not a saccharine movie in the least and there are some interesting moments. Personally, I really enjoyed the voice given to the Doberman. And, I really liked the movie. Well worth seeing. Just not best picture of the year. But, wouldn’t it be great if it was, Ellen?
Geri: The only other animated movie nominated for Best Picture was Beauty and the Beast. This is just another delightful movie from Pixar. It will win Best Animated Movie. I loved the story, the computer graphics. I’ve always been a Pixar fan, and am really looking forward to Toy Story III this summer!
Up in the Air:
Jane: George Clooney as a consultant who fires people. Personally, I would’ve preferred an Ocean’s 14, though I haven’t seen Ocean’s 13 yet. (Was it that bad? Is that why it hasn’t been on TV yet?) This is what I don’t understand: Why was this movie nominated? I saw this movie with my girlfriends: Ellen and Joanne. Carol has been missing in action a lot. We’ve been going to movies together on a regular basis since 1994. Brunch and the movies on Sundays. You should do it too. Any way, not only was the movie nominated at Best Picture, but young Reitman was nominated as Best Director, Vera Farmiga (remember her from The Departed?) and Anna Kendrick, both nominated Best Supporting Actress. Of all the nominations, here’s what I think: Papa Razzi does the best brunch and Anna Kendrick deserves the nomination. Okay, I slept on and changed my mind a bit. Papa Razzi still does the best brunch but the film does speak to our time: job loss, impersonality of the corporate culture, lack of connection to each other as humans. But the ending left me hanging.
Geri: While I am a fan of Mr. Clooney, I don’t really think this was “the best work of his career”. I would save that distinction for his work in Syriana. I thought the movie was good, but I personally would not have included it in the Best Picture category. I did not agree with the Academy’s decision to increase the number of Best Picture nominees from 5 to 10 was warranted, but I understand the decision was driven by economics and the need to tantalize people to go out to the movies more frequently. As a result, Up in the Air was included in the Best Picture category. I guess money speaks louder than words in Hollywood these days.
Jane: I would like to thank Geri, of course. Also, Joanne, Carol and Ellen for always being there to go to brunch and the movies, Amy and Larry for stepping in at the last moment, my mother, my sister Lizzy and her husband Frank for remembering the name of my favorite movie for me, my sister Kate who is in Theatre and teaches me stuff, to the rest of my family for being themselves and always, to my son, the person I love most in the world.
Geri: I would like to thank Jane for getting me involved in this movie blog. I have always adored the movies and getting to talk about them is a real thrill!
I want to send a special shout out to my all-time favorite movie buddy - my husband Ray. One of our first dates was dinner and a movie, and it is still our favorite type of date. I'm happy to report that our son, Tim, has inherited our love of movies. Thanks to Tim for recommending The Hurt Locker, my favorite movie of 2009. I might have missed it had it not been for your glowing review.
I've had many movie friends over the years, and thank them all for dragging me to movies outside my comfort zone.
Finally, I would like to thank Gene Kelly. I saw Singing in the Rain when I was a young girl, and fell in love with movies after watching him sing and dance his way through a comical spoof of the movies. He has always been an inspiration to me and I thank him for making movies that comfort me if I happen to be singing in the rain...
And thanks to all of you for reading this! Happy movies and popcorn!
Saturday, February 13, 2010
A Serious Man
Jane here- I just watched A Serious Man this evening, the Coen Brothers offering this year that has been nominated for Best Picture. Just to recap, ten pictures have been nominated for Best Pictures and it's quite a field. I am pleasantly surprised by this movie and disagree with Geri's opinion of the film. But then, I am a fan of the Coen boys. The only movie to date that I've seen that I thought they've wasted our time on is Burn After Reading. The script was horrible. But, I digress. A Serious Man is based on the Old Testament Book of Job. Job was a serious man who was religious and believed in God, very seriously. He was righteous man. Read the Bible, you'll see. Or, you will try to see. My Bible is a bit dry and I didn't get as far as I meant to. The Coens' version is set in the '60's complete with Jefferson Airplane, '60's decor, the cars and the beginning of the new mores. A bit less dry than mine. And, they have Adam Arkin and a few other names. Noticeably, there are a lot of new faces in the film. Not the usual regulars one finds in their movies. But the acting was fine, the script was great and kept my interest. The story was told. I think the problem some might have with this movie is the ending. If you don't know that this is a parable, and it's based on the Book of Job, it leaves you hanging. One must have faith that all will turn out in one's favor if you are a righteous man, or in this case a serious man. I believe the movie didn't get this point across as clear as it should have. But I did like it.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Jane again, folks. Just back from seeing "An Education". Excellent film. Well worth the $4. Turns out if you go to a movie on a Sunday morning on the New Hampshire border before noon, you can get a bargain. Actually, it's well worth full price. Carey Mulligan does a wonderful job as the young student yearning to be exposed to more in life than studies. Alfred Molina is great as always and Peter Saarsgard turns in a wonderful performance as well. A couple of cameos from Emma Thompson and voici! The movie is set in 1961-1962 suburban London. Nothing in the movie felt forced, out of place or just plain wrong. Except maybe wondering what the heck the parents were thinking but when you see it you'll understand what I mean. Overall, I'd put it in my favorites for the year with The Hurt Locker and District 9. The story and overall arc were much better than Avatar and the movie kept me rapt. Carey Mulligan is nominated for Best Actress but I'm not ready to discuss that category yet. Meanwhile, enjoy the popcorn, I'll be back.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Race to see Oscar-nominated movies continues...
This is my first ever blog post. Special thanks to my friend, Jane, for suggesting we dish on the movies. Jane and I went to high school together and re-kindled our friendship through Facebook, discovering we both love watching movies. I have been a moviephile forever, and thankfully I have a husband who shares my passion for the cinema.
Ray and I double-dipped at the movies today. We saw "The Last Station" and "A Single Man". A Single Man was by far the better movie. Colin Firth's performance was highly deserving of an Oscar nomination. Surprisingly, Helen Mirren over-acted in her role as Countess Tolstoy in The Last Station, which makes me question the direction she was given. The only performance worth watching was that of James McAvoy, who sported a haircut and facial hair reminiscent of Russell Crowe in Gladiator (one of my favorite movies).
We watched "A Serious Man" tonight. I am not a huge Coen Brothers fan, and this movie did nothing to change my opinion. While I don't want to give away anything, let's just say the movie's ending was extremely frustrating...
As of tonight, we have seen 7 of the 10 Best Picture nominees - we haven't seen The Blind Side, Precious, or An Education, which we hope to rectify next weekend. We have seen all 5 Best Actor nominees, 3 of the 5 Best Actress nominees and 4 of the 5 Best Director nominees.
As of right now, here are my Oscar should/will win predictions:
Best Movie: The Hurt Locker should win best picture, but $2 billion in worldwide revenue is hard to ignore in these trying economic times, so I think Hollywood will reward the highly inventive Avatar with the gold statue.
Best Actor: Jeff Bridges should and will win the Oscar for his performance in Crazy Heart. As a washed up, alcoholic country singer, no one gave a more multi-layered performance than he did. I also think Hollywood will recognize his long career with the prize that has thus far eluded him.
Best Actress: I think Meryl Streep was outstanding as Julia Child, but Sandra Bullock will win for her performance in The Blind Side. Again, money talks and Ms. Bullock raked in over $500 million this year with her performances in The Proposal and The Blind Side.
Best Director: I would award Kathryn Bigelow the statue for her thought-provoking and sensitive direction of The Hurt Locker, but James Cameron will probably win the best director award for Avatar. I think anyone who takes 10 years to make a 3-hour movie deserves the award, for sheer tenacity if nothing else. Besides which, Avatar is an excellent movie.
I will defer on Best Supporting Actor and Actress categories to a later post.
All in all, I think the 2009 movies were quite good and reached a very broad audience, offering something for the kiddies (Up) all the way to the senior citizens (Julie and Julia). Bravo to Hollywood for getting us to continue to go to the movies!
Geri
Ray and I double-dipped at the movies today. We saw "The Last Station" and "A Single Man". A Single Man was by far the better movie. Colin Firth's performance was highly deserving of an Oscar nomination. Surprisingly, Helen Mirren over-acted in her role as Countess Tolstoy in The Last Station, which makes me question the direction she was given. The only performance worth watching was that of James McAvoy, who sported a haircut and facial hair reminiscent of Russell Crowe in Gladiator (one of my favorite movies).
We watched "A Serious Man" tonight. I am not a huge Coen Brothers fan, and this movie did nothing to change my opinion. While I don't want to give away anything, let's just say the movie's ending was extremely frustrating...
As of tonight, we have seen 7 of the 10 Best Picture nominees - we haven't seen The Blind Side, Precious, or An Education, which we hope to rectify next weekend. We have seen all 5 Best Actor nominees, 3 of the 5 Best Actress nominees and 4 of the 5 Best Director nominees.
As of right now, here are my Oscar should/will win predictions:
Best Movie: The Hurt Locker should win best picture, but $2 billion in worldwide revenue is hard to ignore in these trying economic times, so I think Hollywood will reward the highly inventive Avatar with the gold statue.
Best Actor: Jeff Bridges should and will win the Oscar for his performance in Crazy Heart. As a washed up, alcoholic country singer, no one gave a more multi-layered performance than he did. I also think Hollywood will recognize his long career with the prize that has thus far eluded him.
Best Actress: I think Meryl Streep was outstanding as Julia Child, but Sandra Bullock will win for her performance in The Blind Side. Again, money talks and Ms. Bullock raked in over $500 million this year with her performances in The Proposal and The Blind Side.
Best Director: I would award Kathryn Bigelow the statue for her thought-provoking and sensitive direction of The Hurt Locker, but James Cameron will probably win the best director award for Avatar. I think anyone who takes 10 years to make a 3-hour movie deserves the award, for sheer tenacity if nothing else. Besides which, Avatar is an excellent movie.
I will defer on Best Supporting Actor and Actress categories to a later post.
All in all, I think the 2009 movies were quite good and reached a very broad audience, offering something for the kiddies (Up) all the way to the senior citizens (Julie and Julia). Bravo to Hollywood for getting us to continue to go to the movies!
Geri
Oscar Nominations are Announced!
Hi, this is Jane. The Oscar Nominations were announced on Tuesday morning. (Geri and I haven't worked out how this whole thing will work quite yet, so I figure I'll identify myself.) This was, of course, the highlight of my week. I spent the rest of the week trying to figure out which movies I needed to see between now and March 7, 2010. With the ten nominees for Best Picture, I was glad to find I had already seen six, along with two best actors, a couple of best actresses and four, count 'em, four best directors.
And the nominations for Best Motion Picture of the Year:
The Hurt Locker
District(
Inglorious Basterds
Avatar
The Blind Side
Up in the Air
An Education
Up
A Serious Man
Precious
I have ranked the first six movies in the order I like them. I saw the Hurt Locker when it came out. My original post was very succinct. On purpose. It is one of those films that one doesn't want to say too much as it is a personal film. I think Kathryn Bigelow did a fantastic job on a difficult subject. She made me think and more importantly, after all these months, after all the films I have seen, both in theatres, dvds and streaming, this is the one. The one that has stayed with me. Truly rocked my boat. I want to recommend it without saying more.
District 9: I loved this film. If you review the other posts (originally posted on my facebook notes), I think you'll find I loved this film. It came out of nowhere (actually South Africa, I found out later) and Peter Jackson produced it. It was different, it was sci-fi with a political message and I think it worked quite well. The story hung together well from start to finish. I know there are some who don't agree. But I left the theatre very happy.
Inglorious Basterds: What can I say? Thanks QT! What a film! I look forward to Christoph Waltz picking up a third award for best supporting actor. He was fabulous. I have read that for Quentin Tarantino, the music comes first. By the time the particular David Bowie song starts playing in the movie, one finally understands how one little tune can inspire a man to write a whole movie around it. It deserves all the nominations it gets! Let me watch all the other nominees and maybe I'll rearrange my list. But I think Hurt Locker has you beat this year. But I love you, QT.
Avatar: Here's the deal with Avatar. Phenomenal special effects. Absolutely mind-boggling in 3-D. The whole story line was done better in District 9 as far as politics was concerned and it was much shorter if you compare sci-fi politics. As far as I'm concerned, the only reason it is nominated is the blockbuster office receipts and phenomenal technology. All the other nominees have better story lines and I'm sure I won't get distracted and my rear end won't be sore half-way through the movie.
The Blind Side: Feel good movie of the year. Who knew Sandra looked so good as a blonde? And Tim McGraw can learn lines. The Academy needed 10. 'nough said.
Up in the Air: I love George Clooney. I really do. He's almost as good looking as one of my brothers. (I'll let them fight it out.) It's a nice movie. It's relevant to the current economy and the lack of connection we have to each other in society. But as I said, they needed 10. This movie is not top 5.
I have not seen the last four. Here's my problem. The closest A Serious Man is playing to my house is approximately 175 miles away as of yesterday. I truly want to see this. I wanted to see it when it came out and I don't know why I didn't. I'm seeing An Education tomorrow. I'll add comments and tell you about Best Directors (since I've already covered their movies here!).
Happy movies and popcorn!
And the nominations for Best Motion Picture of the Year:
The Hurt Locker
District(
Inglorious Basterds
Avatar
The Blind Side
Up in the Air
An Education
Up
A Serious Man
Precious
I have ranked the first six movies in the order I like them. I saw the Hurt Locker when it came out. My original post was very succinct. On purpose. It is one of those films that one doesn't want to say too much as it is a personal film. I think Kathryn Bigelow did a fantastic job on a difficult subject. She made me think and more importantly, after all these months, after all the films I have seen, both in theatres, dvds and streaming, this is the one. The one that has stayed with me. Truly rocked my boat. I want to recommend it without saying more.
District 9: I loved this film. If you review the other posts (originally posted on my facebook notes), I think you'll find I loved this film. It came out of nowhere (actually South Africa, I found out later) and Peter Jackson produced it. It was different, it was sci-fi with a political message and I think it worked quite well. The story hung together well from start to finish. I know there are some who don't agree. But I left the theatre very happy.
Inglorious Basterds: What can I say? Thanks QT! What a film! I look forward to Christoph Waltz picking up a third award for best supporting actor. He was fabulous. I have read that for Quentin Tarantino, the music comes first. By the time the particular David Bowie song starts playing in the movie, one finally understands how one little tune can inspire a man to write a whole movie around it. It deserves all the nominations it gets! Let me watch all the other nominees and maybe I'll rearrange my list. But I think Hurt Locker has you beat this year. But I love you, QT.
Avatar: Here's the deal with Avatar. Phenomenal special effects. Absolutely mind-boggling in 3-D. The whole story line was done better in District 9 as far as politics was concerned and it was much shorter if you compare sci-fi politics. As far as I'm concerned, the only reason it is nominated is the blockbuster office receipts and phenomenal technology. All the other nominees have better story lines and I'm sure I won't get distracted and my rear end won't be sore half-way through the movie.
The Blind Side: Feel good movie of the year. Who knew Sandra looked so good as a blonde? And Tim McGraw can learn lines. The Academy needed 10. 'nough said.
Up in the Air: I love George Clooney. I really do. He's almost as good looking as one of my brothers. (I'll let them fight it out.) It's a nice movie. It's relevant to the current economy and the lack of connection we have to each other in society. But as I said, they needed 10. This movie is not top 5.
I have not seen the last four. Here's my problem. The closest A Serious Man is playing to my house is approximately 175 miles away as of yesterday. I truly want to see this. I wanted to see it when it came out and I don't know why I didn't. I'm seeing An Education tomorrow. I'll add comments and tell you about Best Directors (since I've already covered their movies here!).
Happy movies and popcorn!
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Monday, February 1, 2010
Movies 2010
I think it's time to start a new note despite that fact that I'm still seeing 2009 movies. Also, I've been checking out the awards shows: Golden Globes and SAG awards so far. They are the big run-up to the Oscars, at least in my mind. I know they serve their own purpose and the awards do mean something to those that win the awards, after all, it is something to point to, something to put in the movie ad, something to have on the resume. So, I've been digressing.
I'd like to start with a little film called Sunshine Cleaning. Not to be confused with Little Miss Sunshine, though Alan Arkin is in both and he's great in both. I've decided that if there is a movie with Sunshine in the title and Alan Arkin is in it, then I will definitely see it. Heck, from now on, I'll see anything Alan Arkin is in. That said, this is a gem of a little movie with a central character trying to make a life for herself (Amy Adams) and her son (born out of wedlock). Alan Arkin is her father. She also has a slacker sister (Emily Blunt, who can do no wrong as far as I know). Amy is cleaning houses and finds out there is more, much more, money in cleaning up crime scenes. Hence, a new business. However, there are a few hiccups. Watch the film. It's fun, not gory, though not as hilarious as Little Miss Sunshine.
And now onto Inglourious Basterds. I have decided that Quentin Tarantino is a genius. Which means that I now have to see Reservoir Dogs, the only QT film unwatched by me. My son Paul tells me that since I sat through the woodchipper scene in Fargo (oops, I almost gave something away if you haven't seen Fargo, though if you are squeamish, don't even think about Fargo, there's this woodchipper scene that doesn't involve wood...) anyway, Reservoir Dogs I should be able to handle since I handled not only Fargo but Kill Bill I and II. By the way, I loved them both. Again, I have wandered off the path.
Inglourious Basterds is a rollicking good film that I think QT wrote after listening to a particular David Bowie song. I could be wrong. But it would make so much sense, especially as he is so inspired by music and has said on interviews that the music comes first. But the film itself is so well done and well casted. Christoph Waltz has been cleaning up at the awards shows for Best Supporting Actor and he should! He looks like he's having a blast playing such an evil psychopathic Nazi having so much fun fulfilling his job description. And Brad Pitt and his Basterds..... they are quite serious about their endeavours as well. And also trophy taking. And then there is Shosannah. Mix it all up and you are starting........ I don't want to ruin this for everyone but you have to see it! Just think of a Bowie song. You can now get the movie on Netflix.
It's been a busy weekend, this last weekend in January! First, Kathryn Bigelow won the Director's Guild Award- Congratulations to Kathryn for a job extremely well done! The Hurt Locker is the movie that has stayed with me the most of of all the ones I've seen. It's a gripping, personal tale on the war in Iraq. I highly recommend it. Now on to more movies:
Identity: This is a thriller that came out in 2003. Stars include John Cusack, Amanda Peet and Ray Liotta. Also Jake Busey. It's a short film, 1 and 1/2 hours long. At first it seemed like a bad horror film to tell the truth but if you hang in there, it gets a bit better. It has a few twists and turns and you may figure out what is happening. But I didn't see the end coming. Nor did Alfred Molina.
Pan's Labyrinth: The way this movie was advertised one got the impression that it was gory and violent. I didn't find it this way at all, or perhaps the battle scenes were but because it was appropriate in the scenes it didn't bother me. But then I've been catching up on the Coen Brothers and QT lately so maybe I'm finally becoming a bit less squeamish. I found the film charming in a growing up fairy tale kind of way. Not sure if anyone will understand that. I love fairy tales, which I "inherited" from my mother and this movie incorporates real life and fairy tales.
Up in the Air: What can I say? George Clooney is almost as good looking as my brother. (I leave it you to decide which brother.) So, I'm partial to George. I saw it this afternoon and I have been especially interested in seeing it as the movie has been nominated for several awards (Golden Globes and SAG awards). Vera Farmiga is wonderful with George, Jason Bateman as the boss and Anna Kendrick as the newby are great. But I'm struggling with how to categorize the movie. It was good, enjoyable, slightly better than most, but I'm having trouble coming up with great. I would be interested to hear/read what others think.
Of the three movies I watched this weekend, Pan's Labyrinth was by far and away the best. Identity came in second and Up in the Air third. I'm still mulling that movie over. I'm wondering if the headache I had made me miss a vital point. If I did, enlighten me.
I'd like to start with a little film called Sunshine Cleaning. Not to be confused with Little Miss Sunshine, though Alan Arkin is in both and he's great in both. I've decided that if there is a movie with Sunshine in the title and Alan Arkin is in it, then I will definitely see it. Heck, from now on, I'll see anything Alan Arkin is in. That said, this is a gem of a little movie with a central character trying to make a life for herself (Amy Adams) and her son (born out of wedlock). Alan Arkin is her father. She also has a slacker sister (Emily Blunt, who can do no wrong as far as I know). Amy is cleaning houses and finds out there is more, much more, money in cleaning up crime scenes. Hence, a new business. However, there are a few hiccups. Watch the film. It's fun, not gory, though not as hilarious as Little Miss Sunshine.
And now onto Inglourious Basterds. I have decided that Quentin Tarantino is a genius. Which means that I now have to see Reservoir Dogs, the only QT film unwatched by me. My son Paul tells me that since I sat through the woodchipper scene in Fargo (oops, I almost gave something away if you haven't seen Fargo, though if you are squeamish, don't even think about Fargo, there's this woodchipper scene that doesn't involve wood...) anyway, Reservoir Dogs I should be able to handle since I handled not only Fargo but Kill Bill I and II. By the way, I loved them both. Again, I have wandered off the path.
Inglourious Basterds is a rollicking good film that I think QT wrote after listening to a particular David Bowie song. I could be wrong. But it would make so much sense, especially as he is so inspired by music and has said on interviews that the music comes first. But the film itself is so well done and well casted. Christoph Waltz has been cleaning up at the awards shows for Best Supporting Actor and he should! He looks like he's having a blast playing such an evil psychopathic Nazi having so much fun fulfilling his job description. And Brad Pitt and his Basterds..... they are quite serious about their endeavours as well. And also trophy taking. And then there is Shosannah. Mix it all up and you are starting........ I don't want to ruin this for everyone but you have to see it! Just think of a Bowie song. You can now get the movie on Netflix.
It's been a busy weekend, this last weekend in January! First, Kathryn Bigelow won the Director's Guild Award- Congratulations to Kathryn for a job extremely well done! The Hurt Locker is the movie that has stayed with me the most of of all the ones I've seen. It's a gripping, personal tale on the war in Iraq. I highly recommend it. Now on to more movies:
Identity: This is a thriller that came out in 2003. Stars include John Cusack, Amanda Peet and Ray Liotta. Also Jake Busey. It's a short film, 1 and 1/2 hours long. At first it seemed like a bad horror film to tell the truth but if you hang in there, it gets a bit better. It has a few twists and turns and you may figure out what is happening. But I didn't see the end coming. Nor did Alfred Molina.
Pan's Labyrinth: The way this movie was advertised one got the impression that it was gory and violent. I didn't find it this way at all, or perhaps the battle scenes were but because it was appropriate in the scenes it didn't bother me. But then I've been catching up on the Coen Brothers and QT lately so maybe I'm finally becoming a bit less squeamish. I found the film charming in a growing up fairy tale kind of way. Not sure if anyone will understand that. I love fairy tales, which I "inherited" from my mother and this movie incorporates real life and fairy tales.
Up in the Air: What can I say? George Clooney is almost as good looking as my brother. (I leave it you to decide which brother.) So, I'm partial to George. I saw it this afternoon and I have been especially interested in seeing it as the movie has been nominated for several awards (Golden Globes and SAG awards). Vera Farmiga is wonderful with George, Jason Bateman as the boss and Anna Kendrick as the newby are great. But I'm struggling with how to categorize the movie. It was good, enjoyable, slightly better than most, but I'm having trouble coming up with great. I would be interested to hear/read what others think.
Of the three movies I watched this weekend, Pan's Labyrinth was by far and away the best. Identity came in second and Up in the Air third. I'm still mulling that movie over. I'm wondering if the headache I had made me miss a vital point. If I did, enlighten me.
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