Yet another musical in our movie collection. This one, (a winner of 6 Oscars including best picture) is a blast to watch. Pure entertainment. Being a history buff, I love this film set in Chicago in the roaring twenties. It is full of flashy lights, neon, lace, and burlesque. It is the story of a group of women who for whatever reason have murdered their significant others, usually due to infidelity.
The films highlights are definitely the musical numbers. From the cell block tango (filled with scantily clad women :) too the lawyer Billy Flinn's show stopper "All I Care About Is Love." I remember hearing an interview on NPR with the director of Chicago when it first came out saying that all the musical numbers were done live. It's alot of fun seeing the sets change from the musical stage numbers back to the Cook County Jail, or the courthouse.
"Chicago" is a blast to watch...if you like musicals. Even if you don't like musicals, seeing a show that with this many accolades is well worth your time. It is a great bit of entertainment, and one well worth watching.
-David
Chicago. Cabaret. Jazz. Murder. Ethics? Nah. But it sure is a lot of fun. Your in one minute, your out the next. That's the name of the game.
Top notch actors and actresses dazzle in this film. We see Roxie's journey from murderess to inmate to fame both in real time and in her imagination, where the ordinary and drab are transformed into, as Billy Flynn puts it "razzle dazzle."
Renee Z. and Catherine Zeta Jones are brilliant as Thelma and Roxie. Callous, calculating, willing to do what it takes to get what they want. And not caring who gets hurt or left behind, such as Roxie's poor husband Amos, sweet but lacking quite a bit in the brains department, who gets played more than once by Roxie and Billy Flynn. Speaking of Billy Flynn, Richard Gere shines as well, in both song and dance. And let's not forget Mama, aka Queen Latifah.
Great music, great acting, and a whole lot of fun. Just don't take any life lessons from this play.
-Bethany
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Thursday, October 6, 2011
"Charlie Wilson's War"
I have always been a fan of historically based films, but 'Charlie Wilson's War' breaks the mold of a traditional non-fiction film...if there is such a thing. For those that have not seen this film, it takes place in the 80's during the Soviet war in Afghanistan, and covers the crusade of one US congressman Charlie Wilson, and his attempt to put together funds, weapons, and put them in the hands of Afghan guerrillas fighting the Soviets.
This film came out several years after the 9-11 attacks and ensuing US invasion of Afghanistan. In a way, the story presented in Charlie Wilson's war is a prequel to the events that led up to 9-11. The US support of the Afghan Guerrillas seemed to stop after the defeat of the soviets, and in an ethereal scene, we hear the sound of a airliner flying overhead just after Wilson is warned by his CIA cohort that the 'crazies are rolling into Kandahar like its a f***ing bathtub drain.'
The famous quote that says 'those that don't know history are condemned to repeat it' is perhaps cliche, but presented here as an important reminder. As a war in Iraq winds down and we still struggle for total victory in Afghanistan, it is important that we remember that war doesn't stop hurting a country after the battles are over. Things cannot be left to fall back into disarray after the fighting is done. In Charlie's words and warning: 'These things happened, they were glorious and they changed the world....and then we f***ed up the end game.'
-David
This is a very important film. It tells an amazing story of a man who fought hard for what he believed was right, and Tom Hanks does an incredible job of portraying Charlie Wilson. The atrocities shown in this movie, inflicted on the Afghan people by the Russians is horrifying. Children with their arms blown off, drawn to shiny things looking like toys which are actually mines...For all the non-ethical behavior from Charlie Wilson, he obviously had a conscience where it counts.
The sad thing about this story is the end, yes, this movie doesn't necessarily have a happy ending. We see that the government was willing to spend a billion dollars to fight a covert war, but when Charlie Wilson asks for a million dollars to rebuild schools in Afghanistan, a member of the committee basically says no one cares about a school in Afghanistan. The final quote in this film speaks volumes, "These things happened, they were glorious and they changed the world....and then we f***ed up the end game." Charlie Wilson predicted that Afghanistan could be taken over by terrorists if we didn't stay involved, and that's exactly what happened.
It really causes you to think about what is important, how involved our government should get in these types of things, and perhaps how different things could be if we had worked more to build stability in Afghanistan by helping with projects such as school improvement. This movie definitely leaves you with a lot to think about.
-Bethany
This film came out several years after the 9-11 attacks and ensuing US invasion of Afghanistan. In a way, the story presented in Charlie Wilson's war is a prequel to the events that led up to 9-11. The US support of the Afghan Guerrillas seemed to stop after the defeat of the soviets, and in an ethereal scene, we hear the sound of a airliner flying overhead just after Wilson is warned by his CIA cohort that the 'crazies are rolling into Kandahar like its a f***ing bathtub drain.'
The famous quote that says 'those that don't know history are condemned to repeat it' is perhaps cliche, but presented here as an important reminder. As a war in Iraq winds down and we still struggle for total victory in Afghanistan, it is important that we remember that war doesn't stop hurting a country after the battles are over. Things cannot be left to fall back into disarray after the fighting is done. In Charlie's words and warning: 'These things happened, they were glorious and they changed the world....and then we f***ed up the end game.'
-David
This is a very important film. It tells an amazing story of a man who fought hard for what he believed was right, and Tom Hanks does an incredible job of portraying Charlie Wilson. The atrocities shown in this movie, inflicted on the Afghan people by the Russians is horrifying. Children with their arms blown off, drawn to shiny things looking like toys which are actually mines...For all the non-ethical behavior from Charlie Wilson, he obviously had a conscience where it counts.
The sad thing about this story is the end, yes, this movie doesn't necessarily have a happy ending. We see that the government was willing to spend a billion dollars to fight a covert war, but when Charlie Wilson asks for a million dollars to rebuild schools in Afghanistan, a member of the committee basically says no one cares about a school in Afghanistan. The final quote in this film speaks volumes, "These things happened, they were glorious and they changed the world....and then we f***ed up the end game." Charlie Wilson predicted that Afghanistan could be taken over by terrorists if we didn't stay involved, and that's exactly what happened.
It really causes you to think about what is important, how involved our government should get in these types of things, and perhaps how different things could be if we had worked more to build stability in Afghanistan by helping with projects such as school improvement. This movie definitely leaves you with a lot to think about.
-Bethany
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
"Charlie and the Chocolate Factory"
I grew up watching the Gene Wilder version of this film, and I remember being pretty apprehensive seeing that they were remaking it. I had read the book as a kid too, and I remember noticing how different the first movie was. Although I loved the music and the acting, I was certainly hoping that the new film would be more true to the book. I was not disappointed. Comparing the new film to the original is really like comparing apples and oranges. I love the music of the old film, and of course Gene Wilder. The new film however, has Johnny Depp, who has mastered the eccentric Willy Wonka.
As I sit here watching this, I am taken back to late nights sitting up reading all of my favorite Roald Dahl books. From 'The BFG' to 'Witches,' and of course 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' Dahl seemed to always capture the excitement of kids behind things that were scary, secret, or delicious. This film captures that magic, and adds a Tim Burton flair.
It takes a certain suspension of disbelief to enjoy this film I think. That is, I suppose true of most Tim Burton films, but if you have ever enjoyed any of his other films, you will probably enjoy this one as well!
-David
What is it about this movie that makes it so enjoyable? Could it be the sweet and self-sacrificing spirit of Charlie? The singing Umpa Lumpas? The incredible awfulness of the other children? Or Johnny Depp as Willy Wonka? Yes! All this and more make Charlie and the Chocolate Factory a very enjoyable and amusing film.
The acting is superb, from little Charlie to the four grandparents, to the Umpa Lumpas. Charlie shows us a young boy who is rich when it comes to having a caring and loving family, but is a bit less rich when it comes to everything else. His parents and grandparents love him very much and want the best for him, but they can barely get by living on cabbage soup. However, there's an underlying layer of hope, especially with Charlie's grandpa. And that hope is rewarded when he gets the last Golden Ticket!
We're taken on an adventure of edible grass, upbeat songs, and quirky behavior from Johnny Depp's Willy Wonka. It's fun, unique, and quirky, as are the majority if not all of Tim Burton's films. I would definitely recommend this version of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
-Bethany
As I sit here watching this, I am taken back to late nights sitting up reading all of my favorite Roald Dahl books. From 'The BFG' to 'Witches,' and of course 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' Dahl seemed to always capture the excitement of kids behind things that were scary, secret, or delicious. This film captures that magic, and adds a Tim Burton flair.
It takes a certain suspension of disbelief to enjoy this film I think. That is, I suppose true of most Tim Burton films, but if you have ever enjoyed any of his other films, you will probably enjoy this one as well!
-David
What is it about this movie that makes it so enjoyable? Could it be the sweet and self-sacrificing spirit of Charlie? The singing Umpa Lumpas? The incredible awfulness of the other children? Or Johnny Depp as Willy Wonka? Yes! All this and more make Charlie and the Chocolate Factory a very enjoyable and amusing film.
The acting is superb, from little Charlie to the four grandparents, to the Umpa Lumpas. Charlie shows us a young boy who is rich when it comes to having a caring and loving family, but is a bit less rich when it comes to everything else. His parents and grandparents love him very much and want the best for him, but they can barely get by living on cabbage soup. However, there's an underlying layer of hope, especially with Charlie's grandpa. And that hope is rewarded when he gets the last Golden Ticket!
We're taken on an adventure of edible grass, upbeat songs, and quirky behavior from Johnny Depp's Willy Wonka. It's fun, unique, and quirky, as are the majority if not all of Tim Burton's films. I would definitely recommend this version of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
-Bethany
Thursday, August 4, 2011
"Cars"
If the words 'Disney and Pixar' show up in the title, chances are you are about to enjoy a great film. 'Cars' may not be my favorite of the Pixar films, but it is still a fantastic movie that tugs at your heartstrings and makes you laugh. This is an hour and a half well spent, especially when you enjoy the voice talents of people like Larry the Cable Guy, Owen Wilson, Click and Clack the car guys, and an all American soundtrack to boot!
'Cars' touches on a lot of issues and ideas that are are very relevant to America today. From the loss of 'small town America,' to the main characters huge ego. We watch as Lightning McQueen (voiced by Owen Wilson) a hot shot race car who cares only about himself, learns the value of friendship, teamwork, and putting others above yourself. McQueen's adventures lead him to the quintessential small town of 'radiator springs' along historic route 66. There, we bear witness to the demise of small town America, and hopefully, understand the things that have made small town America so exciting and important in past generations. McQueen comes to learn that some of those small town qualities are exactly what he was missing in his own life.
'Cars' is a great family movie with a little humor for everyone. As I write this, I remember that 'Cars 2' is out in theatres. With any luck, it will live up to the first one.
-David
Such a fun movie! Great characters, great dialogue, great music...it's got it all. But then again, I don't think I've ever been disappointed by a Pixar movie. I mean, who doesn't love that little lamp guy. I do love this movie. It's great for kids, clever for adults, and good ol' fashion fun.
Even though the message of the movie Cars isn't a new one, it's still important and one that we can always be reminded of, the value of family and friends, over things like wealth and fame. We see the main character, Lightening McQueen being seduced by fame and everything that goes with it, but we also see that he yearns for relationships beyond the surface level, which is pretty much all he has at the beginning of the film. Then, through an "unfortunate" mishap, he finds himself in "Hillbilly Hell" (one of my favorite lines) but finds exactly what he's been looking for all along.
All in all, Cars is a great movie for the whole family. If you haven't seen cars, check it out. The last thing I want to say is, watch the credits...and enjoy.
-Bethany
'Cars' touches on a lot of issues and ideas that are are very relevant to America today. From the loss of 'small town America,' to the main characters huge ego. We watch as Lightning McQueen (voiced by Owen Wilson) a hot shot race car who cares only about himself, learns the value of friendship, teamwork, and putting others above yourself. McQueen's adventures lead him to the quintessential small town of 'radiator springs' along historic route 66. There, we bear witness to the demise of small town America, and hopefully, understand the things that have made small town America so exciting and important in past generations. McQueen comes to learn that some of those small town qualities are exactly what he was missing in his own life.
'Cars' is a great family movie with a little humor for everyone. As I write this, I remember that 'Cars 2' is out in theatres. With any luck, it will live up to the first one.
-David
Such a fun movie! Great characters, great dialogue, great music...it's got it all. But then again, I don't think I've ever been disappointed by a Pixar movie. I mean, who doesn't love that little lamp guy. I do love this movie. It's great for kids, clever for adults, and good ol' fashion fun.
Even though the message of the movie Cars isn't a new one, it's still important and one that we can always be reminded of, the value of family and friends, over things like wealth and fame. We see the main character, Lightening McQueen being seduced by fame and everything that goes with it, but we also see that he yearns for relationships beyond the surface level, which is pretty much all he has at the beginning of the film. Then, through an "unfortunate" mishap, he finds himself in "Hillbilly Hell" (one of my favorite lines) but finds exactly what he's been looking for all along.
All in all, Cars is a great movie for the whole family. If you haven't seen cars, check it out. The last thing I want to say is, watch the credits...and enjoy.
-Bethany
Thursday, July 14, 2011
"Catch and Release"
Good lord. 112 minutes down the drain. So this is not the movie of my dreams, as you may have guessed. Drama filled chick flicks that aren't funny or interesting are just not high on my list of things that make for quality entertainment. The girl turns out to be a bit of a weepy you know what, she kinda ends up with the guy who is a bit of a jerk but not really, and there is a major love triangle. INCONCEIVABLE!!!
Having said all of that, I like the dude with the beard. If you watch the movie, you will know who I'm talking about.
There are some chick flicks that I enjoy, but this movie doesn't make that list. I don't think it is so much a bad movie, as it includes a bunch of twists and annoying complications that made it unenjoyable for me.
-David
Catch and Release is a movie that you have to watch like you're reading a book. In fact, I think this movie might be based on a book? Maybe? Maybe not? What I mean by this though, is it's not a fast movie. It's slower paced, thoughtful, with some comical pieces thrown in.
I actually bought this movie for cheap at someplace like Target, before I had even seen it. If I had seen it first, I probably would not have bought it. It's not the worst movie I've seen, but definitely not the best. It's grown on me a bit since the first time I saw it, but still not one I would rave about.
That being said, I do really like the two roommates, especially the shorter, heavier dude with the beard, he is hilarious. And I actually really enjoy most of the supporting characters. Jennifer Garner was decent, but I had a hard time liking the guy who plays her love interest. Maybe it's his eyes or his mannerisms, either way, not that impressed with him.
Would I recommend it? Depends. If you're looking for a contemplative, slower chick flick like movie, then sure, try it out. But if this doesn't sound like your type of movie, then it's probably not.
-Bethany
Having said all of that, I like the dude with the beard. If you watch the movie, you will know who I'm talking about.
There are some chick flicks that I enjoy, but this movie doesn't make that list. I don't think it is so much a bad movie, as it includes a bunch of twists and annoying complications that made it unenjoyable for me.
-David
Catch and Release is a movie that you have to watch like you're reading a book. In fact, I think this movie might be based on a book? Maybe? Maybe not? What I mean by this though, is it's not a fast movie. It's slower paced, thoughtful, with some comical pieces thrown in.
I actually bought this movie for cheap at someplace like Target, before I had even seen it. If I had seen it first, I probably would not have bought it. It's not the worst movie I've seen, but definitely not the best. It's grown on me a bit since the first time I saw it, but still not one I would rave about.
That being said, I do really like the two roommates, especially the shorter, heavier dude with the beard, he is hilarious. And I actually really enjoy most of the supporting characters. Jennifer Garner was decent, but I had a hard time liking the guy who plays her love interest. Maybe it's his eyes or his mannerisms, either way, not that impressed with him.
Would I recommend it? Depends. If you're looking for a contemplative, slower chick flick like movie, then sure, try it out. But if this doesn't sound like your type of movie, then it's probably not.
-Bethany
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
"Bruce Almighty"
"Bruce Almighty" is a wonderful film that speaks to the importance of recognising the good in our lives instead of focusing on the bad. This film depicts God (played by Morgan Freeman) who gives a mere mortal (Jim Carey) all of God's powers. During the ensuing insanity, we see Bruce (Carey) doing all that he can to perfect his life through wealth, position, and power. It takes most of the film before Bruce realizes that he has lost sense of what it is that truly can bring happiness.
I really appreciated the little biblical omages that the movie makers placed in the film, such as Bruce parting the "red sea," and a shot of him leaning up against a golden calf. In addition to these references, some of the lines delivered by God truly capture some of what I believe God to be like! At one point, Bruce asks God "how can he make people love him without affecting free will." God replies simply "when you figure that one out....let me know." I think that this says something amazing about the power of faith.
In the grand scheme of things, "Bruce Almighty" is probably one of the most spiritually deep movies that I have ever seen....not bad for a Jim Carey comedy.
-David
I really do love this movie. In fact, I think this is the first movie where I was really able to appreciate Jim Carey as an actor. I am very impressed by his performance in this film. We see some serious acting here but almost always accompanied by his goofy behavior, which I really think works. And who doesn't like Morgan Freeman as the Alpha and Omega?
Along with all the moments and lines that make you laugh, such as, "Smite me oh mighty Smiter!" this movie really touches on some deep issues, and I really do like how they portray God. First, I love how personable they make God. I believe in a God I can talk to anytime, a God who knows me by name, and who cares about what happens in my life. Morgan Freeman plays a God who is all these things, and I can really get behind that. So many times, we tend to think of God as this aloof divine being, sitting up in the sky somewhere. But this characterization of God shows us a God who loves us, and who even has a sense of humor. :)
There are many times in this film when I am touched, and moved to tears by some of the lines that are delivered. The first that I can think of is when Bruce asks how you can get someone to love you without affecting free will. Morgan Freeman (God) answers, "Welcome to my world. When you find an answer to that, let me know." How profound. We have the choice to love God. Even though He wants all of us to love Him and accept his love, it's still our choice. Then we see Grace (like the name by the way) crying asking God to help her not love Bruce anymore because it hurts too much. How often do we cry out in pain, to God, to no one, to whoever might be listening... And finally, when Bruce prays for God to give Grace someone who will see her through God's eyes we see a man who was so selfish and self-absorbed realize how much he loves this woman, so much that he's willing to sacrifice his happiness for hers.
The final thing I'll say is I like the slogan at the end of "Be the Miracle." Miracles do happen. I believe that. But instead of just waiting for them to happen, we can be the miracle in someones life, in ways we may not even realize.
- Bethany
I really appreciated the little biblical omages that the movie makers placed in the film, such as Bruce parting the "red sea," and a shot of him leaning up against a golden calf. In addition to these references, some of the lines delivered by God truly capture some of what I believe God to be like! At one point, Bruce asks God "how can he make people love him without affecting free will." God replies simply "when you figure that one out....let me know." I think that this says something amazing about the power of faith.
In the grand scheme of things, "Bruce Almighty" is probably one of the most spiritually deep movies that I have ever seen....not bad for a Jim Carey comedy.
-David
I really do love this movie. In fact, I think this is the first movie where I was really able to appreciate Jim Carey as an actor. I am very impressed by his performance in this film. We see some serious acting here but almost always accompanied by his goofy behavior, which I really think works. And who doesn't like Morgan Freeman as the Alpha and Omega?
Along with all the moments and lines that make you laugh, such as, "Smite me oh mighty Smiter!" this movie really touches on some deep issues, and I really do like how they portray God. First, I love how personable they make God. I believe in a God I can talk to anytime, a God who knows me by name, and who cares about what happens in my life. Morgan Freeman plays a God who is all these things, and I can really get behind that. So many times, we tend to think of God as this aloof divine being, sitting up in the sky somewhere. But this characterization of God shows us a God who loves us, and who even has a sense of humor. :)
There are many times in this film when I am touched, and moved to tears by some of the lines that are delivered. The first that I can think of is when Bruce asks how you can get someone to love you without affecting free will. Morgan Freeman (God) answers, "Welcome to my world. When you find an answer to that, let me know." How profound. We have the choice to love God. Even though He wants all of us to love Him and accept his love, it's still our choice. Then we see Grace (like the name by the way) crying asking God to help her not love Bruce anymore because it hurts too much. How often do we cry out in pain, to God, to no one, to whoever might be listening... And finally, when Bruce prays for God to give Grace someone who will see her through God's eyes we see a man who was so selfish and self-absorbed realize how much he loves this woman, so much that he's willing to sacrifice his happiness for hers.
The final thing I'll say is I like the slogan at the end of "Be the Miracle." Miracles do happen. I believe that. But instead of just waiting for them to happen, we can be the miracle in someones life, in ways we may not even realize.
- Bethany
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
"The Bridge On The River Kwai"
This seven time academy award winner from 1957 is a timeless film that every fan of war films should see. Even if you are not inclined to enjoying war films, "The Bridge on the River Kwai" is not a "Saving Private Ryan" type of film. It is a story of defiance, endurance sacrifice, and courage, that rivals many of the great war films.
The film stars Alec Guinness (whom many of us know as Obi Wan Kenobi of Star Wars fame) as a British Colonel and POW of the Japanese. This Colonel and his men are tasked with building a bridge over the river Kwai for the Japanese. Without giving too much away, let us just say that they do indeed build a bridge, but in doing so, show defiance, and strength even in their captivity, (with a twist.)
"The Bridge on the River Kwai" is a film employing wonderful acting, a riveting story, and a top notch cast...all of which contribute to what is a great film that should be on everyone's watch list.
-David
Very interesting film. I'm having trouble gathering my thoughts, as I am a little perturbed by the ending. I won't say what happens, but I think I would have preferredd a different ending. Even so, this is a very well done movie with incredible acting by some folks you may know. First off, when I saw that William Holden stars in this film I was like, "I know the name Bill Holden, but from where?" Less than halfway through this movie it hit me! I love Lucy! He's in one of my favorite episodes, where Bill Holden gets a pie in his face, thanks to Lucy, and then when she meets him again, events happen, and then she utters, "I kissed Bill Holden!" Anyway, a little bit of a tangent there, but that being said, it was fun to see William Holden in this movie. Another name you may know, Alec Guiness. Obi One anyone? Yes, we know him more famously so from Star Wars, but you can really see the scope of his acting ability in this film, he does an amazing job.
Things I liked about this film: Amazing solidarity within the British Troops that are captured, along with whistling and singing familiar tunes to keep up morale. There's also this really good looking soldier who shows up near the latter part of the movie, that's fun too. :)
Things I found interesting: Alec Guiness plays a character who is extremely stubborn, even more so than his Japanese captor. However, both men are so stubborn that at times I was like, "Just negotiate!" This does almost seem like a cautionary tale about being so caught up in yourself and what you are doing that you lose sight of what is right and humane.
This is a movie that makes you think. I would definitely recommend it.
-Bethany
The film stars Alec Guinness (whom many of us know as Obi Wan Kenobi of Star Wars fame) as a British Colonel and POW of the Japanese. This Colonel and his men are tasked with building a bridge over the river Kwai for the Japanese. Without giving too much away, let us just say that they do indeed build a bridge, but in doing so, show defiance, and strength even in their captivity, (with a twist.)
"The Bridge on the River Kwai" is a film employing wonderful acting, a riveting story, and a top notch cast...all of which contribute to what is a great film that should be on everyone's watch list.
-David
Very interesting film. I'm having trouble gathering my thoughts, as I am a little perturbed by the ending. I won't say what happens, but I think I would have preferredd a different ending. Even so, this is a very well done movie with incredible acting by some folks you may know. First off, when I saw that William Holden stars in this film I was like, "I know the name Bill Holden, but from where?" Less than halfway through this movie it hit me! I love Lucy! He's in one of my favorite episodes, where Bill Holden gets a pie in his face, thanks to Lucy, and then when she meets him again, events happen, and then she utters, "I kissed Bill Holden!" Anyway, a little bit of a tangent there, but that being said, it was fun to see William Holden in this movie. Another name you may know, Alec Guiness. Obi One anyone? Yes, we know him more famously so from Star Wars, but you can really see the scope of his acting ability in this film, he does an amazing job.
Things I liked about this film: Amazing solidarity within the British Troops that are captured, along with whistling and singing familiar tunes to keep up morale. There's also this really good looking soldier who shows up near the latter part of the movie, that's fun too. :)
Things I found interesting: Alec Guiness plays a character who is extremely stubborn, even more so than his Japanese captor. However, both men are so stubborn that at times I was like, "Just negotiate!" This does almost seem like a cautionary tale about being so caught up in yourself and what you are doing that you lose sight of what is right and humane.
This is a movie that makes you think. I would definitely recommend it.
-Bethany
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