Speaking of...

What is your favorite performance from Miss Madeline?

Blazing Saddles? Paper Moon? High Anxiety?

So hard to choose...;)

Kangaroo Hop

Is Madeline Kahn not amazing?



I lurv her.

Thoughts on Jennifer Garner in Juno?

I know no one is reading my blog yet, but (in case you are) how do you feel about this slightly divisive performance?

My love for Sydney Bristow will never die, and I found her performance extremely underrated.

Quick Pic Review

Elegy (2008)

A film filled with beautiful performances, and yet I never felt truly involved. The early scenes in the film speak truths that few films even pretend to address, but the second half descends into the stereotypical hospital melodrama. Penelope Cruz and especially Ben Kingsley are revelatory in their roles. And Patricia Clarkson adds so much life and bitterness to a smaller, yet still pivotal, character. I don’t think the direction is to blame for the overall cold feeling and Isabel Coixet offers much insight into difficult psychological problems, but overall I was somewhat disappointed. The film seemed to lose momentum half way through and never really returned to its early potential.

But seriously, how wonderful is Penelope Cruz? First Vanilla Sky, now Vicky Cristina Barcelona and Volver...let's just say she has a new (huge) fan.

Ahh Nashville...

So last night I watched this little movie called Nashville. And it is as wonderful as it sounds. Yes, I know the word "Nashville" does not automatically connote wonderfulness, but I live 3 hours from there, so it struck a personal note. I'm sure you've heard of its sprawling storyline, quirky cast of characters, and overall "classic"ness. Let's just say it lived up to my expectations.

The plot revolves a (I'm assuming) standard day at the Grand Ole Opry in the titular city. At least 20 people come, party, befriend each other, sleep with each other, and leave a surprisingly long impression for such a busy movie. Each character arc was masterfully carried out (except for that of a Jeff Goldblum; completely pointless character). My favorite performances belonged to Lily Tomlin, as a caring mother who searches for that-other-kinda-love elsewhere, and Ronee Blakely, whose disturbed country singer was a tragedy to behold. I have always been a fan of Lily, due to her comedic roles in I Heart Huckabees and Flirting With Disaster, but she hit all the right notes in such a poignant part. I'd only seen Ms. Blakely in one other role (as the drunkard mother in the original Nightmare on Elm Street), and her Barbara Jean was definitely the most well-rounded and impactful of the group.



Though the film did feel long, and the overall 'message' seemed a little vague the first time around, I was undeniably entertained. I look forward to other Altman films because I love his intimacy with characters as well as his obvious sympathy for his subjects. My grade: A-

By the way, the joyous music is worth checking out. This song, by Keith Carradine, may have been the best part of the movie.



And Mary of the group Tom, Peter, and Mary (don't know the her actual name) is way to gorgeous to be so behind the scenes.

Movie Perfection

Cloverfield (2008)

Cloverfield

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As my first act of "Blogger God", I shall review what is possibly the most fun film of the year. I have seen the film three times total (two in theatre, one at home), and I love almost everything about it. Almost...

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But first the pros. I'm fine that the characters had little development (who would have time to reminisce in this situation). If you have a problem with that kinda stuff, then you're ridiculous (no offense). The set design is perfection. The monster is horrifying. The ending...somewhat disappointing. Not the depressing final scene (how appropriately un-Hollywood); I actually enjoyed that a lot. But, seriously, these people are machines!!! I mean, a stake to the heart could kill a vampire, but not the flirty, venerable, conflicted Beth...

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In the end, that is all that bothered me. This exercise in creative thinking mixes the uncertainty of the Blair Witch Project with the pure fun of Godzilla, adding a little of The Mist's cynicism. Watch it now!

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My grade: A-

Hey everybody!

I know that no one is reading, but let me introduce myself. My name is Parker, and I am on the cusp (sp?) of my life. I'm not especially witty, but I hope that I come across as an interesting if relatively boring person (I know that is somewhat oxymoronic but work with me here...).

My passion in life, as of right now, is movies. That is the main reason I created this blog to share my preferences and discuss the great pastime of filmmaking. Please give as many comments as possible; I love the feedback.

Hopefully, I can get a few followers as I continue this blog (for God knows how long) and thanks for paying attention!