Titanic and Dexter

So last night I decided to watch Titanic after someone recently told me that they watched it. It had been a while since I had it I had to admit that it was about I watch it again. This was the last film James Cameron had done before Avatar. And it's crazy he had back to back billion dollar grossing films. In my personal opinion, Titanic was the better of two. Avatar's special effects and animation were surreal, but the plot was too recycled. So I am not looking forward to the two upcoming sequels of Avatar in the works. Anyways, back to the point of business, Titanic. This was the film that changed the use of CGI animation and enhanced the special effect spectrum. Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet did a fantastic job, as well as Kathy Bates as "The Unsinkable Molly Brown." This tragic event in history was portrayed in a very real manner with the infusion of love affair that bloomed between Jack and Rose. This film is just phenomenal and upon last nights viewing I had to place it in my top 10, with Inception being the only other film I know for a fact is in my Top 10. The camera work and the overall re-creation of the Titanic is just amazing. The re-enactment of the ship going down was incredible. I cannot forget the musical score, which helped lead the emotional feelings risen in the film. I just love this film, and if it has been awhile for you since the last time you watched it, set aside 3 hours and watch it soon. Now on to last nights episode of Dexter. It was phenomenal. The acting by Michael C. Hall was amazing as Dexter continued to deal with realities of his loss, as well as a confidant who helps Lumen through her issues. Deb on the other hand had to deal with other issues with her job and love affair. I think this was probably Jennifer Carpenter's best acting episode of the series. I just urge anyone who has not seen the show to watch it. It is so addicting, and you find it odd that you're rooting for a serial killer. I don't want to spoil the show, so I will just conclude by saying the writing, along with the acting of Michael C. Hall above others, is what creates the show. Well I think that's enough rambling on ,so so long to all, may your dreams come true.

Home Alone and Grown Ups

Again I finally return to write on this again. It feels right to be doing this. Due to the mini blizzard that happened tonight, I got to enjoy a mini marathon of films. First up on the list was Home Alone, a John Hughes classic. Yesterday the roommates and I put up Christmas decorations so it only felt right to watch Home Alone now. I love the whole trilogy, but obviously the ones with Macauly Culkin (1 and 2) are a lot better than the third one. There'es not a lot to say since it is a classic and most people have seen it. I just love that film. The second film I watched was Grown Ups and let me say that film was hilarious. I really enjoyed it, a lot more than I thought I would. Sometimes when there is such a large amount of big stars in one film it typically is a huge flop. The film seemed to capitalize on all of the stars talents as comedians on film. Adam Sandler and Kevin James were hilarious.The scenes seen in the trailer are only the beginning of this film and I urge everyone to see this film if they enjoy Happy Madison productions. Go out and see this film is what I am trying to say. I have not begun the other films of my marathon so I can't finish reviews of those films. I recommend to everyone to keep watching films and get ready for Tron Legacy!!! (trailer just came on as I'm writing this so I had to plug it) Ok well so long to all, may your dreams come true.

The Return of CONAN!

Tonight marked the return of Conan O'Brien to television, and let me tell you, it was awesome. There was a great variety of jabs at NBC and references to length of employment at the helm of the Tonight Show. He makes a jokes about why he tittles the show "Conan", stating ".... its going to be a lot harder to replace me now." The show had excellent guests with Seth Rogen, Lea Michele, with musical guest Jack White. Seth Rogen made funny remarks regarding his recent engagement and how Proposition 19 failed to pass in California which would have legalized marijuana. Lea Michele spent time discussing her recent Glee GQ cover shoot that was considered racy to some due to the fact of the age of the characters they portray on the show. Jack White and Conan performed a song they co-wrote together during Conan's hiatus tour this past summer. Ricky Gervais even a small appearance within the show. It was very enjoyable. I would say the return of Conan was a huge success. And recommend continued viewing to everyone. Well so long to all, may your dreams come true.

Ghosts

"I remember back, back in the day. When the sunshine smiled as the children played, I say. I remember when it was so pure, Hearing melodies through the bedroom door. Making beats in the basement. Tasting all the magic harmonies and flows that we were chasing. Turning fantasies into realities. Oh we were lost in dreams, We had all the keys." - Trevor Hall. This song just touches a particular nerve that I can not describe. Trevor himself, says the song deals with the tough parts of life and how it is not simple, but a high power will prevail and help. This is true. This song is a reminder to me of life is rough, but good things come out of nowhere and that someone is always looking out for us. I would have to say this is probably my favorite song currently. Its a great catchy tune, with a mild reggae undertone. It may not be for everyone, but everyone should at least listen to it once. So that is my song to listen too. So in the last few days, I have not watched many films unfortunately, but I did see one unique film, Birth. The film is directed by Jonathon Glazer and stars Nicole Kidman. The film tells the story of a woman who loses her husband and flash forward 10 years when a boy claims to be her reincarnated husband. At his point in Kidman's life, she is engaged to another man and has moved on with her life, or so it seemed. As the memories of her husband rush back, she ultimately must choose between her fiancée or the boy version of her husband. The film includes many little twists and requires close attention at moments to piece it all together. The camera work offers very meaningful and artistic shots, with many long shots included within the film to show the trueness of each character. The ending of the film seemed a little abrupt in my opinion, but the nonetheless I would recommend this film. So go out and see it. Good acting, interesting plot, and great camera work. Well so long to all, may your dreams come true.  

Alice in Wonderland

So today I finally saw Tim Burton's version of Alice in Wonderland. I had heard mixed reviews about the film previous to my screening and I must admit, I really liked this one. Johnny Depp was mad good in his portrayal of the Mad Hatter. And overall the acting was superb. The witty and imaginative background and scenic views on screen were classic Tim Burton imagery. I think the essence of the Chesire Cat was captured in this portrayal of the classic film. Alice is in a battle of real life and dream as she travels the wonderful world that she has fallen into. The journey she takes follows the motif of the hero's journey as she transforms into a character with strength. She could not have made it that far without the input of all the magical characters who are depictions of people in Alice's real life. Overall, I would recommend that everybody see it and make their own opinion. This film particularly caused a ruckus upon its release because it shortened its run in theaters and the transition into DVD release. Nonetheless, there has not been evidence that this earlier DVD release has made a difference. Go out and watch this film and the magical performance of Johnny Depp. Well so long to all, may your dreams come true.

Hannibal Lecter

So in honor of Halloween last night I watched 2 films. Silence of the Lambs followed by the sequel Hannibal. The first, Silence of the Lambs made the horror genre a legitimate genre. It won an Oscar in 1992 for best film, best actor in a leading role for Anthony Hopkins, best actress in a leading role for Jodie Foster, best director for Jonathon Demme, and best screenplay. The film follows the relationship between Clarice Starling as she works on Dr. Hannibal Lecter, as he helps her solve a crime. The story is chilling which therefore declares the success of the acting by the main characters. The use of cannibalism is also quite chilling. Anthony Hopkins shines in this role as Hannibal, and epitomizes the serial killer, but also the intelligent serial killer. Jodie Foster also does superb as Clarice Starling, but her southern accent can be distracting at times. The most famous line from the film is "Hello Clarice," which Hannibal says. The camera work in the film is phenomenal, and I really appreciate it. The sequel to the film, Hannibal, was another great film. Anthony Hopkins returns as Dr. Hannibal Lecter and Julianne Moore replaces Jodie Foster as Clarice Starling. The plot of the film is setup as Hannibal is tired of being out of hiding and would like to be public again. This film can compare with the Silence of the Films, but there are many aesthetic changes with Ridley Scott (Gladiator and Robin Hood) at the helm. The camera work in this film provides a darker take on the character of Dr. Hannibal Lecter. It is interesting also that within the film, there is direct tribute to Silence of the Lambs with the shot of Clarice running throughout the woods. These films I would recommend to anybody, but just know that they deal with cannibalism and there are some disturbing images within both films. Anthony Hopkins is reason enough to watch these films with his phenomenal acting. So go out and watch these films and you will be in for a treat. Well so long to all, may your dreams come true.