I have been experiencing something wonderful lately: I talk on the phone with my son. That might not seem like something stellar but to me it is. My son is 3 1/2 and when I first started this blog my son was just saying a few words and stringing very few together. Now, just like everyone warned me, he won't stop talking! I don't mind at all. I talk to him every night (we are currently living in different states because of my job) on the phone and he tells me about his day:
Me: Hi, Bill!
Little Bill: Hi, Mommy!
Me: Tell me about your day.
LB: Woke up...had cereal...go car with Daddy...go car with Bee Bee...Taco Bell...naptime...go park...have tee-too (pizza)...have ice cream...bubble bath...get pajamas on...bedtime.
Me: Goodnight, Bill.
LB: Goodnight, Mommy.
Sigh...The conversations do vary at times. Sometimes he just has me on the phone while he plays and when I ask to put Daddy on the phone he says, "No! Talk Mommy you me!"
I love talking to my little man. He can even say, "I love you."
Monday, August 20, 2007
Thursday, August 2, 2007
For Babylonians Only
When it comes to Babylon 5 there are those that are fans and those that never saw and episode. It's not like Star Trek which is a show that everyone has at least seen one episode or at least know what it is. Probably because of it's longevity in the collective human pop cultural consciousness. Babylon 5 ran for five seasons and then just disappeared. There haven't been re-runs. Yet, the fans remain. Babylon 5 is like Farscape or Stargate SG-1, the fans just sit back and enjoy. It's sort of like being in on a joke that only you and your buddies are in on. And we are okay with that.
The latest Babylon 5 DVD is Babylon 5: The Lost Tales. It's terrific. The story behind the straight to DVD release is that these were stories that the series creator, J. Michael Straczynski, had been working on when the series was cancelled. Some B5 fans consider JMS to be "the one" or "great maker"...okay, you have to have watched the show to get that one. But you can probably get the idea. There are two "episodes" on this one DVD. The first episode centers around a Catholic Priest that is called to the Babylon 5 station at the behest of it's captain, Colonel Lockley. There is a man on board the station that appears to be a victim of demonic possession. Lockley carefully brings this to the Priest. She can't believe she is even asking for his help. In the end the demon puts a moral question to the Priest and we really don't know what choice he will make until the very end. The conversations between the Priest, Lockley and the demon are fascinating.
In the second episode the President of the Interstellar Alliance, John Sheridan, returns to Babylon 5 for the 10th anniversary of the founding of the Alliance. The return to station is bitter-sweet for Sheridan. He was once the captain of B5 and now returns for a celebration in his honor. A lot happened on the station when he was there and he comments that some was wonderful and some very painful. He gives an interview to a CNN type reporter (played by Teryl Rothery, nod to Stargate SG-1). It's interesting because it is a very dark room and there is no back ground music. It is almost like watching a play...more on that in a second. Along the way his transport picks up young Molari Prince that is third in line to the thrown. Sheridan gets a glimpse of the future, through a dream like state, and learns that this young Prince could cause the destruction of Earth...in 50 years. Now Sheridan has a moral dilemma, kill the Prince and save Earth or let him live and take those chances.
The interesting thing about these episodes is that there are only 2-3 characters in each scene. Each scene is like a scene from a play. There are not a lot of special effects (but the ones that are there are very cool!) just the characters devouring the scripts and working through each morality play. If there are more episodes done like this...I would love them. Of course, I would love more episodes of any kind but these are exceptionally well done.
Alas, my favorite character of the series does not appear in these episodes, G'kar, played by the late Andreas Katsulas. An actor who, through all that makeup, could leave the viewer speechless. Words are words when they are just spoken but to be spoken by G'kar...they were poetry.
"If I take a lamp and shine it toward the wall, a bright spot will appear on the wall. The lamp is our search for truth... for understanding. Too often, we assume that the light on the wall is God, but the light is not the goal of the search, it is the result of the search. The more intense the search, the brighter the light on the wall. The brighter the light on the wall, the greater the sense of revelation upon seeing it. Similarly, someone who does not search - who does not bring a lantern - sees nothing. What we perceive as God is the by-product of our search for God. It may simply be an appreciation of the light... pure and unblemished... not understanding that it comes from us. Sometimes we stand in front of the light and assume that we are the center of the universe - God looks astonishingly like we do - or we turn to look at our shadow and assume that all is darkness. If we allow ourselves to get in the way, we defeat the purpose, which is to use the light of our search to illuminate the wall in all its beauty and in all its flaws; and in so doing, better understand the world around us."
The latest Babylon 5 DVD is Babylon 5: The Lost Tales. It's terrific. The story behind the straight to DVD release is that these were stories that the series creator, J. Michael Straczynski, had been working on when the series was cancelled. Some B5 fans consider JMS to be "the one" or "great maker"...okay, you have to have watched the show to get that one. But you can probably get the idea. There are two "episodes" on this one DVD. The first episode centers around a Catholic Priest that is called to the Babylon 5 station at the behest of it's captain, Colonel Lockley. There is a man on board the station that appears to be a victim of demonic possession. Lockley carefully brings this to the Priest. She can't believe she is even asking for his help. In the end the demon puts a moral question to the Priest and we really don't know what choice he will make until the very end. The conversations between the Priest, Lockley and the demon are fascinating.
In the second episode the President of the Interstellar Alliance, John Sheridan, returns to Babylon 5 for the 10th anniversary of the founding of the Alliance. The return to station is bitter-sweet for Sheridan. He was once the captain of B5 and now returns for a celebration in his honor. A lot happened on the station when he was there and he comments that some was wonderful and some very painful. He gives an interview to a CNN type reporter (played by Teryl Rothery, nod to Stargate SG-1). It's interesting because it is a very dark room and there is no back ground music. It is almost like watching a play...more on that in a second. Along the way his transport picks up young Molari Prince that is third in line to the thrown. Sheridan gets a glimpse of the future, through a dream like state, and learns that this young Prince could cause the destruction of Earth...in 50 years. Now Sheridan has a moral dilemma, kill the Prince and save Earth or let him live and take those chances.
The interesting thing about these episodes is that there are only 2-3 characters in each scene. Each scene is like a scene from a play. There are not a lot of special effects (but the ones that are there are very cool!) just the characters devouring the scripts and working through each morality play. If there are more episodes done like this...I would love them. Of course, I would love more episodes of any kind but these are exceptionally well done.
Alas, my favorite character of the series does not appear in these episodes, G'kar, played by the late Andreas Katsulas. An actor who, through all that makeup, could leave the viewer speechless. Words are words when they are just spoken but to be spoken by G'kar...they were poetry.
"If I take a lamp and shine it toward the wall, a bright spot will appear on the wall. The lamp is our search for truth... for understanding. Too often, we assume that the light on the wall is God, but the light is not the goal of the search, it is the result of the search. The more intense the search, the brighter the light on the wall. The brighter the light on the wall, the greater the sense of revelation upon seeing it. Similarly, someone who does not search - who does not bring a lantern - sees nothing. What we perceive as God is the by-product of our search for God. It may simply be an appreciation of the light... pure and unblemished... not understanding that it comes from us. Sometimes we stand in front of the light and assume that we are the center of the universe - God looks astonishingly like we do - or we turn to look at our shadow and assume that all is darkness. If we allow ourselves to get in the way, we defeat the purpose, which is to use the light of our search to illuminate the wall in all its beauty and in all its flaws; and in so doing, better understand the world around us."
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Licensed to Recruit
As I finish up my final week of Recruiter school, I look back at the times I have had and the times that are to come. Because we are in our last week of school, we have a great deal of confidence, like being seniors in high school. We can see our exit...just ahead.
There are 13 of us (considered a very small class) receiving our Recruiter badge or "cookie" as it is known in the field...or "rookie cookie" as ours will be known - at first. The badge is about the size of a half dollar coin and is emblazoned with the seal of the Navy and the words Navy Recruiter. After 5 weeks of some excellent training - we feel we have definitely earned it.
It has been an amazing experience for me at this point in my career and life.
First, I have been immersed in to the Active Duty Navy life. Having been a Reservist for 8 years, I had never been to a Navy school or been actively participating with so many of my Active Duty counter parts. Needless to say, I am older than just about everyone, not just in the class but probably the entire building (there are always students rotating in and out of the 5 week program). With that in mind, I prided myself in being able to finish our 1.5 mile run ahead of other students.
Secondly, I discovered how un-hip I am. Shocking as that may seem to those that know me - it's true. My pop culture references (and jokes) are not in the same framework as my classmates. I am dated. My classmates on average are probably 25 years old. So, with that being said...I was pretty clueless. It was painfully obvious that I was un-hip and I didn't mind poking fun at myself by making references to taking Centrum Silver and drinking Ensure (I don't do either!). Thankfully there is Star Wars which seems to be a reference across the generations. But in the end, I was told I needed to see the movie Boondock Saints and the Dave Chappelle Show (season 1 & 2). I guess if you don't know what I am talking about...sorry...you are un-hip too.
Lastly, it was fun to see the future of not just recruiting but of the Navy and ultimately our society. These are sharp and well trained young people that are confident at their jobs and their mission. I know they will all be great Recruiters and when they are done recruiting they will head back out to the Fleet. I do wish them well.
On Friday I fly back home and on Monday I report to my Recruiting Station (office). I will start the first day of the rest of my career. I am nervous but feel I have been prepared the best way the Navy can.
The rest is up to me.
Stand by.
There are 13 of us (considered a very small class) receiving our Recruiter badge or "cookie" as it is known in the field...or "rookie cookie" as ours will be known - at first. The badge is about the size of a half dollar coin and is emblazoned with the seal of the Navy and the words Navy Recruiter. After 5 weeks of some excellent training - we feel we have definitely earned it.
It has been an amazing experience for me at this point in my career and life.
First, I have been immersed in to the Active Duty Navy life. Having been a Reservist for 8 years, I had never been to a Navy school or been actively participating with so many of my Active Duty counter parts. Needless to say, I am older than just about everyone, not just in the class but probably the entire building (there are always students rotating in and out of the 5 week program). With that in mind, I prided myself in being able to finish our 1.5 mile run ahead of other students.
Secondly, I discovered how un-hip I am. Shocking as that may seem to those that know me - it's true. My pop culture references (and jokes) are not in the same framework as my classmates. I am dated. My classmates on average are probably 25 years old. So, with that being said...I was pretty clueless. It was painfully obvious that I was un-hip and I didn't mind poking fun at myself by making references to taking Centrum Silver and drinking Ensure (I don't do either!). Thankfully there is Star Wars which seems to be a reference across the generations. But in the end, I was told I needed to see the movie Boondock Saints and the Dave Chappelle Show (season 1 & 2). I guess if you don't know what I am talking about...sorry...you are un-hip too.
Lastly, it was fun to see the future of not just recruiting but of the Navy and ultimately our society. These are sharp and well trained young people that are confident at their jobs and their mission. I know they will all be great Recruiters and when they are done recruiting they will head back out to the Fleet. I do wish them well.
On Friday I fly back home and on Monday I report to my Recruiting Station (office). I will start the first day of the rest of my career. I am nervous but feel I have been prepared the best way the Navy can.
The rest is up to me.
Stand by.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Mimzy Whimzy
There are very few movies out there that strike that childlike chord with me. I don't mean nostalgic like watching the original Superman. I mean that somehow make you transform, as you are watching it, into a child. You have wonder, hope and a feeling that maybe, just maybe, there is a bit of magic in the world. Two movies that do that for me are Flight of the Navigator (1986) and Batteries Not Included (1987). These movies may seem dated and even corny but there is something about them. The Last Mimzy is now one of these movies in my book.
Mimzy is a stuffed rabbit found by boy and his little sister as they are playing on the beach. Life isn't horrible for these children. There father is a workaholic but they do have a nice vacation home on the beach. They are just ordinary. When they find Mimzy and some other strange artifacts on the beach something starts to happen to them. Mimzy attaches herself to the little girl with whom she communicates through a quiet purring sound and the boy is fascinated with a shard of colored glass. At first it's just childlike chatting and curiosity but then both children develop unusual abilities that include telepathy, increased intelligence and talking to insects. There is also the curious picture in a copy of Alice in Wonderland. The picture shows the real Alice holding what appears to be a stuffed rabbit and it looks just like Mimzy. Coincidence? It will keep you wondering. The children's abilities draw attention to them from the spacey science teacher who thinks the children are some kind of reincarnations of Tibetan Lamas, to the Department of Homeland Security who don't know what to think of them. The truth about why Mimzy is there does come out and then the race is on to return Mimzy to where she came from in time to save her own life and the lives of those that sent her.
By the end of the movie you will look in the mirror and see yourself or rather your inner child. And maybe, like me, you will find yourself on ebay bidding on a Mimzy. You will have to have one. Because you will miss your inner child...and your Mimzy.
Mimzy is a stuffed rabbit found by boy and his little sister as they are playing on the beach. Life isn't horrible for these children. There father is a workaholic but they do have a nice vacation home on the beach. They are just ordinary. When they find Mimzy and some other strange artifacts on the beach something starts to happen to them. Mimzy attaches herself to the little girl with whom she communicates through a quiet purring sound and the boy is fascinated with a shard of colored glass. At first it's just childlike chatting and curiosity but then both children develop unusual abilities that include telepathy, increased intelligence and talking to insects. There is also the curious picture in a copy of Alice in Wonderland. The picture shows the real Alice holding what appears to be a stuffed rabbit and it looks just like Mimzy. Coincidence? It will keep you wondering. The children's abilities draw attention to them from the spacey science teacher who thinks the children are some kind of reincarnations of Tibetan Lamas, to the Department of Homeland Security who don't know what to think of them. The truth about why Mimzy is there does come out and then the race is on to return Mimzy to where she came from in time to save her own life and the lives of those that sent her.
By the end of the movie you will look in the mirror and see yourself or rather your inner child. And maybe, like me, you will find yourself on ebay bidding on a Mimzy. You will have to have one. Because you will miss your inner child...and your Mimzy.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Movie Time!
I have finally gotten to the movies and caught up on some rentals. I won't write lengthy reviews...except for maybe the second one:
In Theaters:
Sneak Peak!
Hairspray: Went to a sneak preview of Hairspray. I had no intention of all of seeing it. I loved the original non-musical movie and every time I saw John Travolta as a woman in the commercials made me want to puke. I was so glad I saw it. Maybe because I am a bit blue being away from home or maybe because of the passion of youth displayed in this film...I found it to be an absolute delight! The young actors in this film embraced every aspect of singing and dancing and bringing this story to vibrant life. John Travolta didn't ad anything to the picture and in fact took the audience away from his co-stars. Every time he appeared on screen there was a giggle and when he was singing and dancing it was a distraction. This movie does not need his gimmick - it can stand on it's own. The story of the chubby girl who wants to dance on the popular local dance show is timeless. And her victory over the nay-sayers and racists that existed in 1962 make you want to stand up and cheer. You have to really like a lot of singing and dancing! Lots of fun!
MMMM (out of 5 M's)
Harry Potter and The Order of the Phoenix: I have to first say that this is my least favorite book of the Harry Potter series and it is also the first of the real thick ones. It is sort of like the middle story of a trilogy. Not really moving along the plot but setting up for further adventures. I got bored with the book. The MOVIE however, has nothing boring at all happening in it! It is a wild ride start to finish. Be warned...it is dark. Readers of the books know that they do get darker. When a student died at the end of the last movie - that was a signal that things weren't going to be all fun and games anymore at Hogwarts. I have noticed that people say that each movie is better than the next, including this one. I think because the characters are older and dealing with more adult topics...these aren't children anymore and they don't want to be treated like children. The characters have to face real life, death and dangerous situations.
The movie did an excellent job of simmering down this thick book into the movie. Like the other movies, it covers all the things that a book fan wants to see BUT won't leave a non-reader of the books in the dark. Harry is a teenager and all the things that go with it. Daniel Radcliffe does an excellent acting job in this movie as he has to display a wide range of emotions while having to deal with all the special effects around him. You get a sense of Harry as a real person. Radcliffe has most of the acting and screen time in this movie and I think he has improved greatly because of having to work closely with such actors as Ralph Fiennes, Alan Rickman and Gary Oldman as well as the other well known actors who might carry only small parts in this movie. Harry has to face such things as facing ridicule from his peers, harsh treatment by teachers and nightmares he can't escape...just another day for a high school student, right? I won't go into the plot of the movie - just go see it on the big screen!
MMMMM (out of 5 M's)
Transformers: http://www.firstcoastnews.com/life/entertainment/news-article.aspx?storyid=85600
Okay, maybe this is cheating but this reviewer hit the nail right on the head. And pretty much said exactly what I was going to say...only better. One note: It is worth seeing on the big screen if you are a big effects fan.
MM 1/2M (out of 5 M's)
Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer: I might be a bit late on this review as this movie is probably out of the theater by now! I was surprised they did another Fantastic Four movie. The last one got mediocre reviews and didn't even peak in the rental market...maybe it did better overseas. I liked the first movie - it was fun. I also like superheroes fleshed out on the big screen. This movie follows our four genetically mutated superheroes as they go through their daily life of being heroes. There is no secret identity...everyone knows who they are and they have trouble doing the simplest thing, like getting married. They have gadgets, costumes and their superhero lab - everything they would need except normal lives. The movie could have been boring but the special effects and humor keep the movie alive and enjoyable. The Silver Surfer is very cool! I would have rather seen an entire movie about his inception. He is an alien that searches the universe, for his "master," for planets that can be literally consumed. Earth is now the target and well, there is nothing that can be done about it. I think it will be very worthwhile renting and is something the whole family can enjoy.
MMM (out of 5 M's)
Ocean's 13: Okay, so I am late on this one as well! It's probably out of the movies or down at the dollar theater. Well, go see it! I admit, I am not a fan of the Ocean movies. They are clever but not impressive. This movie is the best of the three. I saw it on a whim because I arrived at a theater and it was the only thing playing at that time. I am glad I did!
Ocean and his gang decide to not just do a heist but a sting. One of the original 11 is cheated out of his dream casino by a nasty casino owner played by Al Pacino. His friends decide that the casino owner and the casino are going to get what is coming to them. With this they have to enlist the help of their old nemesis played by Andy Garcia. I can't go into to much or I will give away the clever sting and impressive style of the gang. I might actually go see this again...it's playing at the $2 theater on base.
MMM (out of 5 M's)
Shrek The Third: I am not a Shrek fan. Don't get the appeal, etc. BUT I did like this one! I have talked to several Shrek fans that feel this one is a disappointment. I didn't feel that way at all. I think this one was the best of the three. It has less gross humor and more real plot and emotion. I know...it's animated but there can still be plot and emotion. I guess because I am a parent and the plot has to do with Shrek being a parent and facing what that means. Instead of sticking to fairy tale references and characters, this movie introduces the King Arthur legend and characters. Shrek must go on a search for the heir to the thrown who turns out to be a geeky teenager named Arthur Pendragon. Meanwhile back in Far Far Away, the humiliated Charming decides that he and other fairy tale characters, that have been put in a bad light, should unite and take over the kingdom. A fun romp. Definitely put on your list of rentals!
MMM (out of 5 M's)
Rentals:
(Okay, you have read enough...some very quick ones!)
Astronaut Farmer: Heartwarming and fun! Something you can watch with your parents, grandparents and children. A must rent that will leave you hugging and happy!
MMMM (out of 5 M's)
Miss Potter: The story of beloved children's author Beatrix Potter (Peter Rabbit) and how she got published and fell in love. Charming and sometimes magical - it does have a very sad part that if you can get past it...you will enjoy the rest of the movie. *Box of tissues alert.
MMMM (out of 5 M's)
A Good Year: Russell Crowe...Russell Crowe...Russell Crowe in French wine country...what more can I say! Okay, there is a more universal appeal than that. Russell Crowe plays a bastard of a stock broker from London who inherits his Uncle's estate in France. At first he is just interested in selling it until he gets there and gets flooded with the memories of a happy childhood and who he used to be. Did I mention Russell Crowe?
MMMM (out of 5 M's)
Bridge to Tarabithia: This movie is good but sad. A pre-teen boy who is bullied at school makes friends with an odd new girl who opens his eyes to his imagination. His home and school life are unhappy but in the end does find happiness in the most important place...his heart. *Box of tissues alert.
MMM (out of 5 M's)
In Theaters:
Sneak Peak!
Hairspray: Went to a sneak preview of Hairspray. I had no intention of all of seeing it. I loved the original non-musical movie and every time I saw John Travolta as a woman in the commercials made me want to puke. I was so glad I saw it. Maybe because I am a bit blue being away from home or maybe because of the passion of youth displayed in this film...I found it to be an absolute delight! The young actors in this film embraced every aspect of singing and dancing and bringing this story to vibrant life. John Travolta didn't ad anything to the picture and in fact took the audience away from his co-stars. Every time he appeared on screen there was a giggle and when he was singing and dancing it was a distraction. This movie does not need his gimmick - it can stand on it's own. The story of the chubby girl who wants to dance on the popular local dance show is timeless. And her victory over the nay-sayers and racists that existed in 1962 make you want to stand up and cheer. You have to really like a lot of singing and dancing! Lots of fun!
MMMM (out of 5 M's)
Harry Potter and The Order of the Phoenix: I have to first say that this is my least favorite book of the Harry Potter series and it is also the first of the real thick ones. It is sort of like the middle story of a trilogy. Not really moving along the plot but setting up for further adventures. I got bored with the book. The MOVIE however, has nothing boring at all happening in it! It is a wild ride start to finish. Be warned...it is dark. Readers of the books know that they do get darker. When a student died at the end of the last movie - that was a signal that things weren't going to be all fun and games anymore at Hogwarts. I have noticed that people say that each movie is better than the next, including this one. I think because the characters are older and dealing with more adult topics...these aren't children anymore and they don't want to be treated like children. The characters have to face real life, death and dangerous situations.
The movie did an excellent job of simmering down this thick book into the movie. Like the other movies, it covers all the things that a book fan wants to see BUT won't leave a non-reader of the books in the dark. Harry is a teenager and all the things that go with it. Daniel Radcliffe does an excellent acting job in this movie as he has to display a wide range of emotions while having to deal with all the special effects around him. You get a sense of Harry as a real person. Radcliffe has most of the acting and screen time in this movie and I think he has improved greatly because of having to work closely with such actors as Ralph Fiennes, Alan Rickman and Gary Oldman as well as the other well known actors who might carry only small parts in this movie. Harry has to face such things as facing ridicule from his peers, harsh treatment by teachers and nightmares he can't escape...just another day for a high school student, right? I won't go into the plot of the movie - just go see it on the big screen!
MMMMM (out of 5 M's)
Transformers: http://www.firstcoastnews.com/life/entertainment/news-article.aspx?storyid=85600
Okay, maybe this is cheating but this reviewer hit the nail right on the head. And pretty much said exactly what I was going to say...only better. One note: It is worth seeing on the big screen if you are a big effects fan.
MM 1/2M (out of 5 M's)
Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer: I might be a bit late on this review as this movie is probably out of the theater by now! I was surprised they did another Fantastic Four movie. The last one got mediocre reviews and didn't even peak in the rental market...maybe it did better overseas. I liked the first movie - it was fun. I also like superheroes fleshed out on the big screen. This movie follows our four genetically mutated superheroes as they go through their daily life of being heroes. There is no secret identity...everyone knows who they are and they have trouble doing the simplest thing, like getting married. They have gadgets, costumes and their superhero lab - everything they would need except normal lives. The movie could have been boring but the special effects and humor keep the movie alive and enjoyable. The Silver Surfer is very cool! I would have rather seen an entire movie about his inception. He is an alien that searches the universe, for his "master," for planets that can be literally consumed. Earth is now the target and well, there is nothing that can be done about it. I think it will be very worthwhile renting and is something the whole family can enjoy.
MMM (out of 5 M's)
Ocean's 13: Okay, so I am late on this one as well! It's probably out of the movies or down at the dollar theater. Well, go see it! I admit, I am not a fan of the Ocean movies. They are clever but not impressive. This movie is the best of the three. I saw it on a whim because I arrived at a theater and it was the only thing playing at that time. I am glad I did!
Ocean and his gang decide to not just do a heist but a sting. One of the original 11 is cheated out of his dream casino by a nasty casino owner played by Al Pacino. His friends decide that the casino owner and the casino are going to get what is coming to them. With this they have to enlist the help of their old nemesis played by Andy Garcia. I can't go into to much or I will give away the clever sting and impressive style of the gang. I might actually go see this again...it's playing at the $2 theater on base.
MMM (out of 5 M's)
Shrek The Third: I am not a Shrek fan. Don't get the appeal, etc. BUT I did like this one! I have talked to several Shrek fans that feel this one is a disappointment. I didn't feel that way at all. I think this one was the best of the three. It has less gross humor and more real plot and emotion. I know...it's animated but there can still be plot and emotion. I guess because I am a parent and the plot has to do with Shrek being a parent and facing what that means. Instead of sticking to fairy tale references and characters, this movie introduces the King Arthur legend and characters. Shrek must go on a search for the heir to the thrown who turns out to be a geeky teenager named Arthur Pendragon. Meanwhile back in Far Far Away, the humiliated Charming decides that he and other fairy tale characters, that have been put in a bad light, should unite and take over the kingdom. A fun romp. Definitely put on your list of rentals!
MMM (out of 5 M's)
Rentals:
(Okay, you have read enough...some very quick ones!)
Astronaut Farmer: Heartwarming and fun! Something you can watch with your parents, grandparents and children. A must rent that will leave you hugging and happy!
MMMM (out of 5 M's)
Miss Potter: The story of beloved children's author Beatrix Potter (Peter Rabbit) and how she got published and fell in love. Charming and sometimes magical - it does have a very sad part that if you can get past it...you will enjoy the rest of the movie. *Box of tissues alert.
MMMM (out of 5 M's)
A Good Year: Russell Crowe...Russell Crowe...Russell Crowe in French wine country...what more can I say! Okay, there is a more universal appeal than that. Russell Crowe plays a bastard of a stock broker from London who inherits his Uncle's estate in France. At first he is just interested in selling it until he gets there and gets flooded with the memories of a happy childhood and who he used to be. Did I mention Russell Crowe?
MMMM (out of 5 M's)
Bridge to Tarabithia: This movie is good but sad. A pre-teen boy who is bullied at school makes friends with an odd new girl who opens his eyes to his imagination. His home and school life are unhappy but in the end does find happiness in the most important place...his heart. *Box of tissues alert.
MMM (out of 5 M's)
Saturday, June 30, 2007
The Mov-ing Mommy
The movie mommy is tired. No recent reviews...the website is hurtin', I know. But I have been very busy. Just briefly...
I am now wearing the "cloth of the Nation" and I am going to school in Florida for the next 5 weeks.
I have had a busy couple of months. We moved from Florida to Virginia, got an apartment, got in my new job and now, as I said, I am back in Florida. It's hard to get used to but this is the life of someone serving their country.
It is something the family has to get used to as well. Long seperations and odd schedules are often common.
I don't complain though. This is not a complaint. I love the Navy. I love being active duty. The sailors in my class are young but worldy. They talk about stupid stuff they did as "young" sailors but now with 5 (or so) years in - they have learned better. Most are under 30 and most of those are under 25. They don't know about some things in life yet but are not stupid. I have learned the Navy is particular about who they take. And those that slip by don't make it out of bootcamp or through their first enlistment. When they do get out of the Navy they will have a leg up on their peers for sure.
One thing this does is give me hope for the future. I am a bit older than most of them and I have to have faith that these are the folks that can help make a better future. I suppose every generation thinks that of the next.
I suppose I got off the subject a bit. But that is what I am doing these days and why you haven't seen much from me on my blog.
I hope to catch a couple movies today and subsequent weekends that I am here at school.
More later!
I am now wearing the "cloth of the Nation" and I am going to school in Florida for the next 5 weeks.
I have had a busy couple of months. We moved from Florida to Virginia, got an apartment, got in my new job and now, as I said, I am back in Florida. It's hard to get used to but this is the life of someone serving their country.
It is something the family has to get used to as well. Long seperations and odd schedules are often common.
I don't complain though. This is not a complaint. I love the Navy. I love being active duty. The sailors in my class are young but worldy. They talk about stupid stuff they did as "young" sailors but now with 5 (or so) years in - they have learned better. Most are under 30 and most of those are under 25. They don't know about some things in life yet but are not stupid. I have learned the Navy is particular about who they take. And those that slip by don't make it out of bootcamp or through their first enlistment. When they do get out of the Navy they will have a leg up on their peers for sure.
One thing this does is give me hope for the future. I am a bit older than most of them and I have to have faith that these are the folks that can help make a better future. I suppose every generation thinks that of the next.
I suppose I got off the subject a bit. But that is what I am doing these days and why you haven't seen much from me on my blog.
I hope to catch a couple movies today and subsequent weekends that I am here at school.
More later!
Saturday, June 16, 2007
More Movies
In Theaters:
Spiderman 3: Okay, so I was the last person on the planet to see this at the movies! I know! But I finally did! It was worth the wait. I enjoyed this movie for the same reasons that some people thought the movie was lagging: Peter Parker being human and not Spiderman. I enjoy Tobey McGuire's performance because he really brings something to the part of Peter Parker. I feel that way about all actors that need to play the hero without the mask. Parker, Clark Kent, Bruce Wayne, David Banner...are not just the alter-ego's of the hero...they ARE the hero. They aren't some split personality (okay, the Hulk is) but are the same exact guy in a hero suit (or CGI'd). The important character IS the human being. When these characters are in a comic book that may not be so, but if you are going to flesh one out...they really need to be fleshed out. That is why Michael Keaton did so well at the part of Bruce Wayne and better than any since. Not because he was the first to revive the character but because of the way he portrayed him. A human with all that entails. Peter Parker is also a person that wears a suit and when the suit becomes corrupted and therefore Peter himself...we see the dark side of, not just of Spidey, but of a person. McGuire plays the dark side of Peter with such glee (as does Topher Grace as a competing photographer later on) that you have to giggle. And I believe that was his intent. That is until you miss the old Peter and want him back. As far as the MJ/romance story line goes...yawn. That has always been a yawn for me. But it's there to motivate our hero. If you haven't seen this yet...go ahead and enjoy.
MMMM (out of 5 Ms)
On Video:
The Good German: Set in Berlin immediately after WWII, this is a strange film that was supposed to be made in the style of movies from the 1940s. It's filmed in black and white with stock footage edited in and has a Max Steiner rip off of a score...but falls flat or more like a bomb...a dud. It isn't totally period. Tobey McGuire (him again!) is completely wasted in this movie as an Army con-artist that is supposed to be George Clooney's character's driver. There are several narrations going on by many of the characters that it gets confusing (like Sin City). There was also a certain amount of sex, violence and profanity that makes it very un-period. I don't know what the filmmakers where trying to make here. Don't bother trying to figure it out.
Zero Ms
Letters from Iwo Jima: If you only want to rent one of Clint Eastwood's movies on this subject...rent this one. This movie follows one Japanese soldier as he prepares for the invasion of the Americans on this tiny island. The Japanese are outnumbered by probably 100 to 1 but they prepare and have the attitude that the number doesn't matter...much. This is sacred Japanese land and will be defended to the last man. Some soldiers feel stronger about this than others but they are all there to do their duty. The story is told by not only the characters but also, as the title implies, the letters they write home. Ken Watanabe (Last Samurai) plays the Japanese Army General (American educated) that is to lead this hopeless defense. He tries to apply his vast amount of strategic knowledge to this but deep down knows that he cannot hold the island. The soldiers fight on while trying to maintain the sense of honor that they came with. The terrain is difficult, hot and there is a lack of proper food, water and sanitation. By the time the Americans arrive...the Japanese have almost defeated themselves. This movie is 95% in Japanese but it won't bother you at all. You will find yourself just listening to the language and watching the acting...even if you don't read the subtitles, you will know what is going on. Must rent.
MMMM
Pan's Labyrinth: This movie is all you have heard it to be and more. Well worthy of the awards and accolades. This sad fantastical tale, set in Spain, follows young Ofelia through a tragic world that is so horrible that it seems that part of her life is the fantasy. Ofelia is taken by her pregnant mother to live with her step-father an Army Captain during the Spanish Revolution. He brings them to his headquarters on the front line so he can be there when his child, presumed to be a boy, is born - with no regard for the health of the mother. He is cruel and sadistic man and we see this through his treatment of his staff, prisoners and even Ofelia. He is basically insane. We sort of know what is going to happen...that at some point Ofelia is going to be left alone with this bastard. In the mean time she wanders into a garden and down through an opening in the ground, lead by a fairy she met along the way, where she meets a faun. The faun tells her that she is really a princess that must return with him to her home. She must first complete 3 tasks exactly as he asks her. She encounters some real terrors along the way and the make-up effects are stunning. At no point in the movie are we told or lead to believe that she is really imagining any of this or that this isn't real. The movie is not for children but the message is simple. One must follow orders, do what they are told and obey or bad things will and always do happen. The movie is sad and dark but in the end the Captain gets his comeuppance and Ofelia is believed to be happy. In Spanish with English subtitles.
MMMM
Spiderman 3: Okay, so I was the last person on the planet to see this at the movies! I know! But I finally did! It was worth the wait. I enjoyed this movie for the same reasons that some people thought the movie was lagging: Peter Parker being human and not Spiderman. I enjoy Tobey McGuire's performance because he really brings something to the part of Peter Parker. I feel that way about all actors that need to play the hero without the mask. Parker, Clark Kent, Bruce Wayne, David Banner...are not just the alter-ego's of the hero...they ARE the hero. They aren't some split personality (okay, the Hulk is) but are the same exact guy in a hero suit (or CGI'd). The important character IS the human being. When these characters are in a comic book that may not be so, but if you are going to flesh one out...they really need to be fleshed out. That is why Michael Keaton did so well at the part of Bruce Wayne and better than any since. Not because he was the first to revive the character but because of the way he portrayed him. A human with all that entails. Peter Parker is also a person that wears a suit and when the suit becomes corrupted and therefore Peter himself...we see the dark side of, not just of Spidey, but of a person. McGuire plays the dark side of Peter with such glee (as does Topher Grace as a competing photographer later on) that you have to giggle. And I believe that was his intent. That is until you miss the old Peter and want him back. As far as the MJ/romance story line goes...yawn. That has always been a yawn for me. But it's there to motivate our hero. If you haven't seen this yet...go ahead and enjoy.
MMMM (out of 5 Ms)
On Video:
The Good German: Set in Berlin immediately after WWII, this is a strange film that was supposed to be made in the style of movies from the 1940s. It's filmed in black and white with stock footage edited in and has a Max Steiner rip off of a score...but falls flat or more like a bomb...a dud. It isn't totally period. Tobey McGuire (him again!) is completely wasted in this movie as an Army con-artist that is supposed to be George Clooney's character's driver. There are several narrations going on by many of the characters that it gets confusing (like Sin City). There was also a certain amount of sex, violence and profanity that makes it very un-period. I don't know what the filmmakers where trying to make here. Don't bother trying to figure it out.
Zero Ms
Letters from Iwo Jima: If you only want to rent one of Clint Eastwood's movies on this subject...rent this one. This movie follows one Japanese soldier as he prepares for the invasion of the Americans on this tiny island. The Japanese are outnumbered by probably 100 to 1 but they prepare and have the attitude that the number doesn't matter...much. This is sacred Japanese land and will be defended to the last man. Some soldiers feel stronger about this than others but they are all there to do their duty. The story is told by not only the characters but also, as the title implies, the letters they write home. Ken Watanabe (Last Samurai) plays the Japanese Army General (American educated) that is to lead this hopeless defense. He tries to apply his vast amount of strategic knowledge to this but deep down knows that he cannot hold the island. The soldiers fight on while trying to maintain the sense of honor that they came with. The terrain is difficult, hot and there is a lack of proper food, water and sanitation. By the time the Americans arrive...the Japanese have almost defeated themselves. This movie is 95% in Japanese but it won't bother you at all. You will find yourself just listening to the language and watching the acting...even if you don't read the subtitles, you will know what is going on. Must rent.
MMMM
Pan's Labyrinth: This movie is all you have heard it to be and more. Well worthy of the awards and accolades. This sad fantastical tale, set in Spain, follows young Ofelia through a tragic world that is so horrible that it seems that part of her life is the fantasy. Ofelia is taken by her pregnant mother to live with her step-father an Army Captain during the Spanish Revolution. He brings them to his headquarters on the front line so he can be there when his child, presumed to be a boy, is born - with no regard for the health of the mother. He is cruel and sadistic man and we see this through his treatment of his staff, prisoners and even Ofelia. He is basically insane. We sort of know what is going to happen...that at some point Ofelia is going to be left alone with this bastard. In the mean time she wanders into a garden and down through an opening in the ground, lead by a fairy she met along the way, where she meets a faun. The faun tells her that she is really a princess that must return with him to her home. She must first complete 3 tasks exactly as he asks her. She encounters some real terrors along the way and the make-up effects are stunning. At no point in the movie are we told or lead to believe that she is really imagining any of this or that this isn't real. The movie is not for children but the message is simple. One must follow orders, do what they are told and obey or bad things will and always do happen. The movie is sad and dark but in the end the Captain gets his comeuppance and Ofelia is believed to be happy. In Spanish with English subtitles.
MMMM
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