Monthly Wallpaper - April 2011: Elizabeth Taylor

Legendary star of the silver screen, Academy Award-winning actress, tireless humanitarian and the most glamorous woman in the world. For the month of April, the Movie Dearest Calendar Wallpaper pays tribute to Elizabeth Taylor.

Eight of her most beloved performances are represented, from the timeless favorite National Velvet to her Oscar-winning roles in Butterfield 8 and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, from the infamous Cleopatra to the Tennessee Williams classics Cat on a Hot Tin Roof and Suddenly, Last Summer.

All you have to do is click on the picture above to enlarge it, then simply right click your mouse and select "Set as Background". (You can also save it to your computer and set it up from there if you prefer.) The size is 1024 x 768, but you can modify it if needed in your own photo-editing program.

Toon Talk: Let Down Your Hair

Sometimes a story needs to be heard more than once in order to be fully appreciated. Such is the case for me with Tangled, the recent box office hit making its Disney DVD and Blu-ray debuts this week.

As told in my original Toon Talk review of Tangled upon its theatrical release last November, I admitted to being disappointed with the film. And while Tangled’s faults — such as its formulaic plot, non-distinctive songs and overall sense of “safeness” — are still present, my second viewing was a more rewarding one. Perhaps it was because my expectations were lowered following my first viewing, or maybe Tangled’s charms just needed to grow on me, but I found it more clever and romantic, not to mention funnier, the second time around...

Click here to continue reading my Toon Talk review of the Tangled Blu-ray at LaughingPlace.com.

DVD Releases for March 29, 2011

Time to look at a selection of what is out this week on DVD.

• Heartless absolutely phenomenal film that I had a chance to see last year at the Toronto After Dark Film Festival and it's stuck with me ever since, and I'm thrilled to see it on DVD. Stars Jim Sturgess, it's dark, it's creepy and it's brilliant. Directed by Philip Ridley (US release date April 12, 2011).
• Made In Dagenham I think this my biggest "I can't believe I didn't see it!" from last year, a historical / biopic on the 1968 strike at the Ford Dagenham in response to sexual discrimination.
• Fair Game more historicalness with this Naomi Watts & Sean Penn starring flick based on a CIA operative whose cover is blown.
• Waste Land I've only heard amazing things about this documentary that combines art and garbage.
• L'Appat / The Bait stars Guy A. Lepage & Rachid Badouri in a crime/comedy with a Quebec and French crime fighters who have to work together.
• Colony documentary on the Colony Collapse Disorder phenomenon that has left empty beehives across America.
• Evangelion: 2.22 You Can (Not) Advance Japanese animated film following new pilots introduced to NERV.
• Kenny Chesney - Summer in 3D concert documentary in 3D
• Topsy-Turvy (Criterion) Thrilled to see this one hit Criterion, absolutely wonderful film filled with humour, inspiration and lovely lively moments.
• Mad Men Season 4 Hugely popular 60's set ad firm TV show latest season hits DVD
• Treme: The Complete First Season I actually have no idea what this one is about, and with a tag line of "Won't Bow Don't Know How." that doesn't enlighten me at all, but I do know it's another highly acclaimed TV show.
• Tangled Disney does Rapunzel with many editions to choose from.
• Black Swan thriller starring now Oscar winning Natalie Portman as a dancer on brink of obsession and perfection.

Titles on Amazon.ca(Canada):


Titles on Amazon.com (US):


Heartless will be available on Amazon.com on April 12, 2011 & L'Appat / The Bait currently not available on amazon.com.

Sucker Punch

Dir: Zack Snyder (Watchmen, Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole, 300)
Cast: Emily Browning, Abbie Cornish, Vanessa Hudgens, Jamie Chung, Jena Malone, Carla Gugino, Oscar Isaac, Jon Hamm, Scott Glenn
USA/Canada, 2011

Seen: March 26, 2011 at Scotiabank

Reason to see: I can't imagine *not* seeing Sucker Punch.

I had a lot of hesitations going into Sucker Punch. The trailer made it look like an action video game with a female character, where every time she attacks, kicks or flips, her skirt flips up for the benefit of the (likely male) player. But, I've also been pleasantly suprirzed by director Zack Snyder work before with 300 and Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole, however wasn't a fan of Watchmen - but that's a film that's clearly for the fans.

But, considering even a slight possibility to enjoy it and that it had an awesome female cast, I knew I had to give it a chance. The film follows Baby Doll (Emily Browning), who is sent to an insane asylum where she meets fellow inmates Sweet Pea (Abbie Cornish), Blondie (Vanessa Hudgens), Amber (Jamie Chung) and Rocket (Jena Malone) along with Dr. Vera Gorski (Carla Gugino) and caretaker-type Blue (Oscar Isaac).

I'll give the film a few things right off the bat, which is some amazing visual storytelling and great song integration that me impressed right from the get go. Okay, maybe that's the short list of the kudos as it's hard to get too praise-y about a film that I felt really complicated about, especially in terms of the gender dynamics.

I felt divided about the film on several counts. On one hand, I'm impressed that they went for something a bit different, but on the other I'm not sure I entirely understood the film. And I was in part impressed and surprized that it's not as clear cut as the trailers made out but I'm still not sure what it was trying to say. I almost added a 'if it's trying to say anything', but I'm fairly sure it is trying to say something and even been possibly positive and encouraging, but I"m not totallu sure. I did appreciate that it was very aware of and commented on the sleeziness of watching women in this light, but that feels very watered down when we, you know, actually see the women scantily clad, imprisoned, being broken and under a constant state of threat. It's like when someone says "I don't mean to offend you but...", whatever comes after that... is always offensive, so maybe it's better just not to say it. A disclaimer doesn't forgive the actions. But, I will give that that particular message of how it's creepy - certainly wasn't directed at me, but likely my male audience buddies. Which in one way I applaud, as it holds up the mirror to them, but on the other hand I think it's a bit mean to the nice guys out there as well as being redundant, as we still get to see knee high'ed women kicking, jumping and smishing stuff. I also found it concurrently confusing and over-explain-y, which I don't even know how that could be possible.

One of the things I did love in the film though, was the women. Jena Malone as Rocket in particular, she was fierce and compelling. I also enjoyed the fact that Baby Doll was a strong character, in contrast to outward appearances and stereotypes. I also continue to love Carla Gugino in everything, and Oscar Isaac is creepier than anyone ever needs to be as Blue. I also loved the clothes. Creepiness aside, a lot of the clothes were awesome.

So, I'm left very divided. Was this film actually made with me being the audience member? It might have been. Sucker Punch ended up being both better than I anticipated, and more annoying. What was it trying to say? I don't know. I went in cautiously curious and left both charmed and confused. I'm stumped. I might have been happier to hate it, but I didn't. There's a lot interesting going on here, I'm not certain to all of what it is.

Shannon's Overall View:
It was both better than and worse than I expected
I would watch it again
It's a bit of a challenge to recommend given the gender stuff, but I think that it would appeal to people that are interested in gender dynamics as well as action films

Also see: All 2011 Films Reviewed and All Film Reviews

© Shannon Ridler, 2011

Reel Thoughts Interview: Tailor-Made Role

Imagine falling in love with someone you know your parents won’t accept. Imagine wanting to marry that person even though tradition and religion dictates something else for your life. That is something many GLBT people can appreciate, although the plot I’m describing is from the popular musical Fiddler on the Roof, not a gay drama. Jewish people have traditionally been more accepting of GLBT struggles than other religions, perhaps because they understand what it feels like to be persecuted and attacked for who they are. Although we won’t be lucky enough to see Harvey Fierstein as Tevye in the Broadway tour of Fiddler that is coming to ASU Gammage this week, actor Andrew Boza assures you that you will love the production.

Set in the small Russian village of Anatevka at the turn of the 20th century, Fiddler on the Roof is a moving musical about Tevye, a poor milkman, who must balance his belief in tradition with the realities of the modern world. Each of his three eldest daughters fall in love with men he finds objectionable, one for a poor tailor (played by Boza), one for a fiery radical and, most upsettingly, one for a Russian gentile. At the same time, the Tsar begins ordering attacks against the Jewish settlements that will culminate in the Jews being forced from their homes. Songs like “If I Were a Rich Man”, “Sunrise, Sunset” and “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” have become well-loved standards that everyone knows. Despite the pain and drama of the story, Fiddler on the Roof contains much humor and levity. Laughing in the face of oppression is something Jewish and GLBT people have in common.

If Boza seems particularly comfortable in his role as the poor, mild-mannered tailor Motel Kamzoil, it is not surprising. He previously played the role in a much darker production of Fiddler done at the Olney Theatre outside of his home in Washington DC. “It’s a first for me,” he explained. “I’ve never played a role twice and both productions are so different. Our current production is much closer to the original, because our director was actually in the original production, he was a dancer. He worked closely with Jerome Robbins. I love my character so much that after I finished playing him the first time, I knew that I was dying to play him again.”

“Motel is very humble; he’s hard-working, quiet. I relate to him a lot. He has a nervous quality. He is used to being alone a lot, and he has to overcome that by facing his fears and standing up for what he really wants, which is (Tevye’s daughter) Tzeitel. I find him so genuine and I try to live my life as close to him as possible.”

Boza spoke to me from Easton, Pennsylvania, where the previous night’s performance had to be cancelled due to snow. “The entire cast is looking forward to heading out West,” he laughed. He enjoys the hectic tour schedule, even though with so many one-night stops, he admits it can be hard to remember where you are and where you have been the week before.

“It’s all about family to me,” Boza said, explaining what resonates most with him about Fiddler. “Everyone in Anatevka overcomes so much, and even though we’re leaving the village we will all still be connected. We’re very blessed as a cast to feel that way offstage as well.”

Boza is a first generation Cuban-American who grew up outside of Washington DC. He graduated with a degree in Elementary Education and taught for six years before making the big move to New York. He got the Fiddler tour shortly after that. “I couldn’t be happier than I am right now.” The production feels very important, he says, after the recent deaths of its creators, Jerry Bock and Joseph Stein.

“Other than that there are a lot of cute guys in the cast?” Boza laughed, when asked what will appeal to the GLBT audiences. “The underlying tone of acceptance, even though there is a lot of change. Tevye really comes a long way from the beginning of the show. I see a parallel to being gay and having come out to my family, and how they had to deal with that struggle. I’m pretty sure that my past boyfriends haven’t been a perfect match,” he laughed. “Tevye really comes along and becomes accepting, as my parents did.”

“My (coming out) was pretty difficult,” Boza explained. “My parents were both raised in Cuba, so they weren’t exposed (to gay people). It took a couple of years, but they have really come around and are the most accepting people. It’s made our family even stronger than it was before. I came out ten years ago, and I think the media was different back then. Not everyone is a stereotype, but I think my parents expected me to come out and suddenly be in a dress or change who I was. I didn’t, and I think that they came to realize that my being gay wasn’t who I was, just a part of who I was.”

“No matter what your background is, you will relate to this show,” he concluded. “I really believe that you will fall in love with all of the characters in our production.”

The Fiddler on the Roof tour opens at ASU Gammage in Tempe, Arizona Tuesday March 29 and continues through April 3. Click here for tickets and more information.

Interview by Neil Cohen, resident film critic of Movie Dearest and Phoenix's Echo Magazine.

Water for Elephants (Book Review)

Book: Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

Reason to Read: March Book Selection for the Book to Film Club, and I've only heard good things about it.

Wow. Where to start. I guess firstly I found Water For Elephants more than a little surprizing in terms of my reaction to the book. After all the love I've heard for it and reading several rave reviews, I was off to a very rocky start as I initially did not connect to the characters, story or setting. In fact, if it wasn't for the book club I would have actually put the book down after only reading a few chapters and gone onto the next book on my list. But, that wouldn't be setting the best example, so I kept on trudging though and eventually did start to make a connection, albeit never super strong.

I'll give it that it was a swift read and I enjoyed the circus setting, and did eventually start to warm over to the characters but had trouble connecting with the protagonist Jacob as he's well... so male. I guess I've really been reading books with female protagonists because I found this quite the change of pace and I was pretty impatient with Jacob, which feels pretty mean considering he starts off the journey with pretty devastating circumstances. And that was hard too, the setting and time period are during challenging times where everyone is really struggling and have very limited choices, which can lead to desperate acts, actions and reactions. I'm not a fan of that.

So, it certainly wasn't what I was expected. It reminded me of when people call something 'inspiring' but when I see it, it feels like the majority of it is bleak and then the inspiring part is because of the high contrast. I did absolutely adore a lot of the animal focus though, without that I'd have had a lot of trouble making in through.

I think the casting in the film is absolutely perfect though. Robert Pattinson (Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse) as Jacob is a great fit, as are Reese Witherspoon as Marlena and Christoph Waltz as August. From the trailer I can say I'm totally loving the whimsical and slightly magical tone to the film, and the period feels like it's been captured with both quaintness and weariness that feel authentic and glamorous. The film is directed by Francis Lawrence, and I absolute loved the art direction an styling of Constantine, so with that in mind and the beauty of the trailer I have a feeling that I'll be captivated by the film, likely more so than the book.

Water for Elephants is our April Film selection for the Book to Film Club. The film will be released Friday April 22, 2011. See film review of Water for Elephants here.

Book to Film Club March 2011: Water for Elephants (Book)

The Book to Film Club book selection for March was the novel Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen, which follows a veterinary student who runs away with the travelling circus as their vet. I had heard a lot of love for this book before diving been, so it surprized me that I didn't latch on to it right away. How about you? Did you connect to it right away or did it take a bit? Or, have you even finished it yet? If so, have you reviewed it? Here are some questions to ponder when thinking about the book and the upcoming film adaptation. Feel free to review it and if you comment or send me the link I'll add it to the list, or you can always journal your thought as well.

Things to ponder on the book:
Did you enjoy reading it?
Was it what you were expecting?
What did you know about the book before reading it?
What did you take away from reading the book?
Who would you recommend the book to?

If this was a re-read:
How did reading it this time compare with your previous time reading it?
Did you notice anything different this time round?
Did your interest and focus stay on the same characters and moments, or shift?

About the upcoming film adaptations:
How do you feel about the casting of the film?
What do you hope to be the focus of the film?
What do you think is essential to keep from the book in the film?
What do you think they can trim away from the book to the film?
What do you think the challenges of the adaptation may be?
Do you have any hesitations on the adaptation?
What are you most looking forward to about the film adaptation?

Water for Elephants Book Reviews by Book to Film Clubbers:

• Shannon
• Norlinda
  

Water for Elephants will be out April Film Selection for the Book to Film Club. Follows a veterinary student who runs away with the traveling circus as their vet. The Film adaptation stars Robert Pattinson, Reese Witherspoon, Christoph Waltz, James Frain, Hal Holbrook and Paul Schneider, directed by Francis Lawrence (Constantine, I Am Legend). The film comes out April 22, 2011 and you can see the trailer below. I love the tone captured in the trailer, even thought it's completely a different vibe I got from the book. Really looking forward to seeing the film.

Poll Results: What March Release Are You Most Looking Forward To?

A clear winner in the poll this time round with Battle: Los Angeles coming in at 30% for your the March Release you are most looking forward to, with Sucker Punch not that far behind with 21%. Seems like high flying action and alien invasions are all the rage! Get more classical are the ties with Jane Eyre and Red Riding Hood which tied at 12%, and a little more adventure with romance with both The Adjustment Bureau and Beastly at 9%. Rounding out the votes are the unlikely duo of Hobo with a Shotgun and The Year Dolly Parton Was My Mom at 3%.

30% - Battle: Los Angeles
21% - Sucker Punch
12% - Tie: Jane Eyre and Red Riding Hood
9% - Tie: The Adjustment Bureau and Beastly
3% - Tie: Hobo with a Shotgun and The Year Dolly Parton Was My Mom

thanks for voting!

Film Fan Fridays for Friday March 25, 2011

Hello Film Fans and Fanatics!

Welcome to Film Fan Fridays for Friday March 25, 2011! Another huge week of releases with 11 films hitting theatres and 2 festivals making waves, and lots of CanCon kicking around and taking names. Wow. Busy times.

In limited release this week we start with the Thursday March 24, 2011 release of the amazing and inspiring documentary The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls on the lesbian, yodeling, twin sister singing act Lynda and Jools Topp and believe you-me, if you get a chance see this documentary because it's fantastic and I've kept it close to my heart ever since seeing it almost a year ago. Completely inspiring. Keeping it musical, and documentary to boot we have Music from the Big House from director Bruce McDonald (Trigger, Pontypool). We also have limited releases of the romance/drama Certified Copy / Copie conforme starring Juliet Binoche, an Israel sport comedy about sumo wrestlers A Matter of Size, Algerian historical drama Outside the Law / Hors-la-loi, 70's set crime film White Irish Drinkers and sport/inspiration Win Win from director Tom McCarthy (The Visitor, The Station Agent). Holy moly. What a week!

In wide release this week we have lots of extremeness, starting with the release of Hobo with a Shotgun from Treevenge director Jason Eisener and starring Rutger Hauer (Ladyhawke) as a hobo... with a shotgun. And continuing the extremeness with Zack Snyder's Sucker Punch which I'm continuing to be cautiously curious and it looks stylistically great but strongly has a vibe of that reminds me of female character in gaming worlds that women don't play (action-style butt kicking .... stocking & pigtails!), but I'll be happy to champion it if it's awesome and Zack Snyder has surprized me in the past with Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole & 300. We also have two sequels in release with West is West (sequel to the 1999 film East is East) and Diary of a Wimpy Kid 2: Rodrick Rules (sequel to 2010 Diary of a Wimpy Kid).

Have a great weekend!

Shannon

Festival Watch

Cinéfranco
14th Annual Celebration of International Francophone Cinema
March 25 - April 3, 2011 at TIFF Lightbox Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto Silent Film Festival
March 30 - April 7, 2011 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Thursday March 24, 2011 Release

The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls
Dir: Leanne Pooley
Documentary
New Zealand
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page

Friday March 25, 2011 Releases

Certified Copy / Copie conforme
Writer/Dir: Abbas Kiarostami (The Wind Will Carry Us, Through the Olive Trees)
Cast: Juliette Binoche, William Shimell
France/Italy/Belgium
Limited Release
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

Diary of a Wimpy Kid 2: Rodrick Rules
Dir: David Bowers (Astro Boy)
Cast: Zachary Gordon, Devon Bostick, Rachael Harris, Robert Capron, Steve Zahn
USA
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

Hobo with a Shotgun
Dir: Jason Eisener (Treevenge)
Cast: Rutger Hauer, Gregory Smith, Robb Wells, Molly Dunsworth
Canada/USA
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page

A Matter of Size
Dir: Sharon Maymon & Erez Tadmor (Strangers)
Cast: Itzik Cohen, Dvir Benedek, Alon Dahan, Shmhulik Cohen
Israel/France/Germany
Limited Release
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

Music from the Big House
Dir: Bruce McDonald (Highway 61, Hard Core Logo, Trigger, Pontypool)
Documentary
Canada/USA
Limited Release
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

Outside the Law / Hors-la-loi
Writer/Dir: Rachid Bouchareb (London River, Indigènes)
Cast: Jamel Debbouze, Roschdy Zem, Sami Bouajila
France/Algeria/Belgium
Limited Release
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page

Sucker Punch
Dir: Zack Snyder (Watchmen, Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole, 300)
Cast: Emily Browning, Abbie Cornish, Vanessa Hudgens, Jamie Chung, Jena Malone, Carla Gugino, Jon Hamm, Scott Glenn, Oscar Isaac
USA/Canada
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

West is West
Dir: Andy DeEmmony
Cast: Aqib Khan, Om Puri, Linda Bassett
UK
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page

White Irish Drinkers
Writer/Dir: John Gray (The Glimmer Man)
Cast: Nick Thurston, Geoffrey Wigdor, Stephen Lang, Karen Allen, Peter Riegert, Leslie Murphy
USA
Limited Release
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page, Trailer

Win Win
Dir: Tom McCarthy (The Visitor, The Station Agent)
Cast: Paul Giamatti, Amy Ryan, Melanie Lynskey, Jeffrey Tambor, Bobby Cannavale
USA
Limited Release
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

**please note this list of releases reflects first run film released in Toronto, Ontario, Canada as of March 25, 2011**

Reel Thoughts Interview: Broadway's Most Requested

Ask someone what their favorite Betty Buckley performance is and you are likely to get a varied list of highlights from Broadway, movies and television. Buckley, the Fort Worth, Texas native, has amassed a résumé that has made her one of the most revered performers in Broadway today.

Many people didn’t know she could sing when they fell in love with Miss Collins, the sympathetic gym teacher she played in Brian DePalma’s iconic 1976 film Carrie. Buckley hit a nerve with bullied or outcast students everywhere as she tried to help Sissy Spacek’s abused teen navigate the horrors of high school. Then, Buckley further endeared herself to TV audiences when she had the unenviable task of coming in as Abby Bradford on the popular show Eight is Enough when Diana Hyland, who played the mother, passed away suddenly in the first season. However, it is on the Broadway stage where Buckley really shines, originating the role of Grizabella in Cats, where she immortalized the song “Memories”, and entrancing audiences as the faded star Norma Desmond in Sunset Boulevard.

Buckley lives on a beautiful ranch near Fort Worth where she raises cutting horses and teaches Master Classes when not touring the country. It was after 9/11 that she decided to get back to her roots and buy the ranch, which she considers a solace to her soul. A strong animal rights advocate, she shares her ranch with four horses and “lots of cats and dogs that I’ve rescued". GLBT fans have always appreciated Buckley’s strong support of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS as well.

When I spoke to her by phone, she was finishing a critically acclaimed run of the classic comedy Arsenic and Old Lace at the Dallas Theater Center. “We’ve got a really fresh, outrageous production so I am really having a lot of fun with it" Buckley explained.

It is quite a change to go from poisoning old men to finessing Broadway ballads in Scottsdale, but Buckley loves the show she is bringing to the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts tomorrow evening. “We’re doing a show called Broadway By Request. My cohort Seth Rudetsky is a brilliant comedian, pianist and he’s a radio talk show host on Sirius Radio. He’s very funny, so we’ve been doing this show for the last year and a half. It’s all the songs that I’ve originated on Broadway and sung in various Broadway shows that the majority of people across the country have requested over the years. Seth also does some of his famous (song) deconstructions. We enjoy doing it, and the audience seems to enjoy it, too.”

Why does the GLBT community love Buckley so much? “Well, I think there’s a history of the gay and lesbian community really loving Broadway “singing ladies,” and I just think in general the gay and lesbian community has good taste,” she said laughing. “I think the community likes things that are authentic and fully emotionally expressive, and I think that that’s part of the reason that divas of the musical stage are embraced by the gay community. I think that the LGBT community is more open and authentic as to who they really are, because in our society they’ve had to really claim themselves, so I think that authenticity is at essence what they’re about.”

I asked Buckley what her personal career highlights were, and she responded, “I think that the jewel of my collection is the song "Memory" from Cats that is my signature song; I feel very fortunate to even have a signature song. But also the songs from Sunset Boulevard. Those two years of my life, a year in London and a year on Broadway doing Sunset, were wonderful and a great, great experience. Playing Norma Desmond was one of the high points of my career, along with playing Grizibella (in Cats)."

Social media has brought Buckley close to her fans, which she enjoys. “I’ve been on Facebook this past year. My brother Norman made me go on Facebook and Twitter and it’s been really nice to have a direct correspondence, if you will, with my friends on Facebook. The lovely things they say about how my work has been meaningful to them through the years really means a lot in every form of how they express it. It’s been very gratifying to experience that.”

Seth Rudetsky has a huge following as well, and Buckley is a big fan. “Seth knows all things Broadway, he’s like an encyclopedia. He especially loves high belting. He’ll play a video or a recording of something and explain why it is what it is and why it’s had the impact that it has right down to the technical aspect of the singing. For one thing, it’s very astute and for another, it’s very, very funny." His “Seth’s Sassy Blog” is full of funny anecdotes about growing up loving Broadway and all of the camps, schools and experiences playing piano on Broadway shows that have filled his life.

Buckley credits Rudetsky with helping her “construct some of the best work I’ve done.” She is excited for people to hear her new recording, Bootleg: Board Mixes From the Road, which contains live performances collected from her concerts, and which contains a preview of her upcoming CD Ghostlight. She reunited with her old friend T-Bone Burnett to record the new album that will come out this Fall. “I am very, very excited about it. I just heard the final mixes at his studio in Los Angeles and it’s just gorgeous. I can’t wait for everyone to hear it.”

Interview by Neil Cohen, resident film critic of Movie Dearest and Phoenix's Echo Magazine.

Reverend’s Reviews: 1970’s Live Again in Potiche

A comedic exploration of sexual politics in France, circa 1977, Potiche is the latest work by acclaimed writer-director François Ozon. International superstar and previous Academy Award nominee Catherine Deneuve (lovely as ever at the age of 67) plays Suzanne Pujol, the initially submissive, housebound potiche (“trophy wife”) of a wealthy umbrella factory owner. The mother of two grown children, Suzanne spends her days exercising, admiring nature and writing poetry, generally happy with her domestic existence.

That all changes, however, when her tyrannical, philandering husband’s employees go on strike and he suffers a stress-related heart attack. Suzanne is elected (with the support of the local Communist Party politician, played by Gérard Depardieu) to fill in for her husband while he recuperates and mediate changes at the factory. Initially reluctant to do so, she becomes wildly popular with the employees and finds herself enjoying her new responsibilities, so much so that Suzanne refuses to step down when her husband returns.

Ozon “freely adapted” his screenplay from a popular stage satire of the women’s liberation movement, also titled Potiche. As director, he fills the movie with amusing visual references to the late-70’s setting including a faux copyright date under the opening title card, a Farrah Fawcett imitation hairstyle Suzanne’s daughter sports and, of course, bellbottom pants and other fashions of the time in psychedelic colors.

While not a musical, Potiche includes a disco-set dance number led by Deneuve and Depardieu, and Deneuve brings the film to a close with the rousing “C’est beau la vie” (“How Beautiful Life Is”), which she sings during a political rally. Viewers should pay attention, too, to the film’s campy opening theme music and transitional music cues that echo those used on Charlie’s Angels.

As an out gay man, Ozon clearly sympathizes with the journey toward sexual and political emancipation that Suzanne and her supporters make in the movie. Chief among the latter characters are Suzanne’s secretary and son. Liberated under Suzanne’s leadership, the secretary (a great turn by Karin Viard) bluntly tells her former boss — Suzanne’s husband, with whom she was also having an affair — upon his attempted return to work, “I’ve learned you don’t have to spread your legs to get ahead!” Suzanne’s son is an initially closeted gay man (played by Jérémie Renier with a nod to Dirk Benedict of the late 70’s series Battlestar Galactica) who gradually reveals his relationship with a local man.

The attractive, 43-year old Ozon is a former child model. He previously wrote or co-wrote and directed the award-winning films Swimming Pool, Hideway (Le Refuge), 8 Women and Criminal Lovers, among others. While gay characters figure into many of his movies, most of Ozon’s productions feature strong female lead roles that have been played by such formidable actresses as Charlotte Rampling, Isabelle Huppert, Fanny Ardant and, now, Deneuve. As Ozon told one interviewer, “I’m sure I say very intimate things about myself in all my films, but it’s better to say it not too directly, to be hidden behind a woman.” An exception to this among his movies is Time to Leave, about a gay fashion photographer dying of cancer.

Deneuve isn’t chiefly known for comedy, but she gives a wonderful comedic performance in Potiche and clearly had fun making it. In collaboration with Ozon, Deneuve makes Suzanne’s growth from timid housewife to powerful politician believable and inspirational. By the film’s end, Suzanne is no one’s trophy wife.

Reverend’s Rating: B+

Review by Rev. Chris Carpenter, resident film critic of Movie Dearest and the Blade California.

Adventures of a Teenage Dragonslayer (DVD Review)

Image: Courtesy Alliance Films, Legal Line: ©2010 I Was a 7th Grade Dragonslayer, L.L.C. All Rights Reserved. ©2011 Screen Media Films. All Rights Reserved. Distributed exclusively in Canada by Alliance Films. All Rights Reserved.

Dir: Andrew Lauer (Intermedio)
Cast: Hunter Allan, Lea Thompson, Abigail Victor, Ryan Bradley Norris, Eric Lutes, Wendie Malick, Amy Pietz
USA, 2011 (DVD Relases)

Reason to see: Dragon slayer ...yep, that would be an instant yes.

Adventures of a Teenage Dragonslayer is a really cute kid-centric, family friendly film centred on Arthur (Hunter Allan), and adventurous 7th grader who likes to prowl with sewers with friends Natalie (Abigail Victor) and Tim (Ryan Bradley Norris) who together are a geeky trio who come up against the cool kids lead by none of than the evil Vice-Principal Metz (Wendie Malick) son. Dealing with conflict in school kids is just a small piece of the larger puzzle, which has much more exciting pieces that involve dragons, trolls, alchemy, mystery and a lot of mayhem and trouble for the kids to get into throughout.

I really liked how the film used a different, take on things we often see in young-teen films like growing up with a single parent or dealing with bullies. It often goes for humour in these scenarios, and I really liked that choice as it felt honest but light hearted. I particularly enjoyed Lea Thompson as Arthur's Mom, as she sticks up for Arthur even when he's not been on his best behaviour.

It is a kid's film at heart so the acting is broad strokes and the effects are fantasy-centric over stary, bbut I found there were lots of geek culture references from gaming to conventions that popped up and made it really entertaining from an adult perspective. Overall, it was a lot of fun and a great choice for kids or as a family pick.

DVD Extras:

• Deleted Scenes (4 Scenes, 7 Minutes) combination of deleted and extended scenes including more adventuring with the young cast and additional rapport with the adult characters.

Adventures of a Teenage Dragonslayer is available on DVD as of March 22, 2011. Check it out over at Amazon.ca & amazon.com

Shannon's Overall View:
I enjoyed it
I'd watch it again
I'd recommend it to fans of family films, and especially so for those for who enjoy geek culture references

Return to Film Reviews or see more DVD Reviews

© Shannon Ridler, 2011

DVD Releases for March 22, 2011

Tuesday time which means time to look at a selection of the DVD Releases for the week March 22, 2011. Lots of creature-y goodness this week!

• Skyline (DVD Review) Alien invasion and effects heavy sci-fi starring Eric Balfour (Six Feet Under, Haven), DVD features not one but two feature commentaries, deleted, extended, alternate scenes and more.
• Adventures of a Teenage Dragonslayer (DVD Review) cute family spirited film featuring a group of Grade 7ers who adventure in sewers in search of a dragon.
• Wyvern With a title like Wyvern, do you need to know more? I totally want to see this creature flick.
• Dear Mr. Gacy Based on a true story of a college student who takes on a notorious serial killer John Wayne Gacy.
• Battle of Los Angeles *Not* the film that just hit theatres, but is the on that just played on SyFy and I'm actually thrilled to see it's on DVD so quickly because I really want to check this one out.
• The Times of Harvey Milk Criterion edition of this well respected documentary on San Francisco politician Harvey Milk.
• Heartland Season 3 Wow, this Canadian series is already in it's 3rd Season? Guess so!
• The Big I Am Crime/action flick set in London and starring Leo Gregory, Vincent Regan and Michael Madsen.
• The Tourist Adventurous crime/comedy starring Angelina Jolie and Johnny Depp.
• Yogi Bear Updated take on the animation classic featuring Yogi and Boo Boo and their adventures in Jellystone Park.

Titles on Amazon.ca(Canada):


Titles on Amazon.com (US):


Heartland Season 3 not currently available on Amazon.com

Skyline (DVD Review)

Image: Courtesy Alliance Films, Legal Line: © 2010 Black Monday Film Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

Dir: Colin Strause & Greg Strause (AVPR: Aliens vs Predator - Requiem)
Cast: Eric Balfour, Donald Faison, David Zayas, Scottie Thompson, Brittany Daniel
USA, 2010

Reason to see: Science fiction is always a yes, as are films with Eric Balfour

I was looking forward to Skyline for quite a while, because once you stack up that it's science fiction, it's looked like it had epic proportions and scale and I'm a big fan of Eric Balfour (Six Feet Under, Haven), but overall, this film was a bit of a mess. It really, really was. I wanted to like it, I truly did, but it just kept getting messier and messier.

To be fair, the action and effects are good - well, better than good, they are great in it of themselves. There are a couple interesting and innovative ideas in their as well. But, the overall idea is pretty thin and the characters are really thin. Normally for big action it can be okay to have thin characters, but here the audience really is suppose to empathize with the characters and experience the fear of an alien invasion through them, and I just didn't feel like that was happening. Plus, the female characters left a lot to be desired, and it’s weird because it’s as not bad as films with rampant gender crap or offensive remarks, but here the the female characters for so much of the time they never did anything. And I was like “why are they even there?” It just seemed so ridiculous as they were not flushed out at all. The male characters weren't totally flushed out but you knew why they were doing what they were doing, what their motivations and relationships were, but not so much with the women.

It certainly danced the line of showing us stuff that looks cool without always knowing what we were looking at or why, which in a weird way made it continue to be entertaining but never more entertaining than it was disappointing. We get just a handful of science fiction films every year, so when one doesn’t met expectations it hurts just that much more. Even so, I know I’d easily watch it again because I’m a sucker for science fiction and I’ll take what I can get! But I don't think it's going to win anyone new over to the genre, and if you want to see it for just the effects that is likely the best viewpoint to go with to see Skyline.

DVD Extras:

• Feature Commentary with directors Greg and Colin Strause Wow, this commentary really interesting as they detail not only the effects and ideas in the film but also tons of creative ways they kept it low budget (which you totally can't tell because it looks so slick!), it wasn't always easy to tell who was who though when they are chatting, and there is a fair amount of tech-speak in terms of the effects but also lots on the ideas, choices and battle of the film and the film making process including the shots that really didn't want to see get into the trailer but made it in. I appreciated the film so much more after listening this commentary.
• Feature Commentary with co-writer/producer Liam O'Donnell and co-writer Joshua Cordes this commentary is more idea and effects-centric commentary, which also notates and discusses influences and also offers interesting insights into the characters. This commentary actually shed some light on one of my qualms with the film, which was that the female characters didn't feel like they had much to do in the film and also chat about scenes that made it into the trailer that felt spoilery.
• Deleted and Extended Scenes (7 Scenes, 6 Minutes) with optional commentary by directors Greg and Colin Strause, co-writer/producer Liam O'Donnell and co-writer Joshua Cordes from cut cameo scenes, the importance of the scenes, reason for cuts and discussion about different versions of the film in relation to the scenes. Actually quite a few nice scenes in here, especially with Eric Balfour.
• Alternate Scenes (2 Scenes, 2 Minutes) with optional commentary by directors Greg and Colin Strause, co-writer/producer Liam O'Donnell and co-writer Joshua Cordes on scenes that were aligned to different versions or show different decisions/character motivations, interesting scenes here that show interesting insights and great moments with the characters
• Pre-Visualization (2 Scenes, 10 Minutes) with optional commentary by co-director Colin Strause, co-writer/producer Liam O'Donnell and co-writer Joshua Cordes, these were really cool to watch these segments and see how they structured out the sections are in terms of the blocking and battles, and it's interesting to hear the reactions to the roughness of the animation, the moments that were changed or didn't make it into the film, influences, and discussion on how helps streamline the process to have these done ahead of time
• Trailers - teaser trailer and full theatrical trailer with optional commentary by co-director Colin Strause, co-writer/producer Liam O'Donnell and co-writer Joshua Cordes. It's actually really cool to hear the insight here on the creation of the trailers, choices, agreement or non-agreement on choices, the tagline, with even hilarious 'spoiler' call outs for the big spoiler moments in the full trailer.

Skyline is available on DVD as of March 22, 2011. Check it out over at Amazon.ca & Amazon.com

Shannon's Overall View:
I was disappointed with it, but still enjoy watching it
I'd watch it again
I'd recommend to science fiction fan

Return to Film Reviews or see more DVD Reviews

© Shannon Ridler, 2010-2011
See also review theatrical release review - December 26, 2010

Jane Eyre (2011)

Dir: Cary Fukunaga (Sin nombre)
Cast: Mia Wasikowska, Michael Fassbender, Jamie Bell, Judi Dench, Sally Hawkins, Valentina Cervi
UK, 2011

Seen: March 18, 2011 at the Varsity

Reason to see: It's the March Film Selection for the Movie Moxie Book to Film Club

It feels odd to say this, but Jane Eyre one probably the book to film adaptation that I was most hesitant about for the Book to Film Club, because I hadn't read the novel Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë before this year and the number of historically set films based on books that I've enjoyed is, well, limited at best. But things were looking up as I absolutely adored the book, and hopefully but cautious about the film. I didn't watch any of the trailers and had seen just a few posters and images which seemed to aptly capture the tone and period as well as showing the cast looking striking.

I also had several hesitations going into the film, because it's such a great story and the character of Jane Eyre is truly wonderful in so many ways that you really want the film to capture her and her story just right. And it really is her story, I would have been miffed if they shifted that focus at all but thankfully it's true to the book in that sense and keeps it very much her story. Mia Wasikowska (Alice in Wonderland (2010), The Kids Are All Right) does a great job of bringing Jane to life, from her frankness to her realism and also her strong sense of right & wrong at all times. I found that her strength of character was aptly depicted, especially how she is an active decision maker regardless of the trying circumstances she may be in, but I do wish they had also showcased her intelligence as much as her emotional strength, because it's such an essential part of the character. It's still there, but not as present as I had wished and that could be from particular scenes and moment from the book that resonated particularly strongly with me.

It's a huge undertaking to adapt a book like this, and there are several moments especially in her earlier life I wish we had seen, but I'm not overly surprized that they choose to focus on her days at Thornfield and the relationships with Rochester as well as St. John. I have to say that the casting in the film is fantastic, when I heard that Michael Fassbender (Fish Tank) would be playing Rochester I knew we were in for a treat and he's absolutely perfect. Jamie Bell (Billy Elliott, The Eagle) is also great as St. John, although they downplayed the religious nature of his character which was quite a surprize. There were several changes and choices that I was surprized at, and actually didn't love, although they often felt like choices that would make the story feel more accessible for current day audiences but I would have preferred them to be true to the book. There were lots of things that I resonated more with the story while watching it as a film over reading though, namely the character of Mrs. Fairfax, played by Judi Dench and the vastness of Thornfield and surrounding countryside which made it feel like nothing at all could be nearby and thereby making the world feel spectacularly enormous. They also highlighted a repeated sense of the slightly supernatural, hints of which I must have totally missed while reading!

I feel like I'm harping on the little things here and there, but that's because each and every other moment was amazing. The tone and pace was just right. The characters & relationships were complicated and true. And Jane Eyre was Jane Eyre, a hold strong, fantastic woman who is aspiring, inspiring and true. I'm so glad I read the book first, and would highly recommend people do the same but even so Jane Eyre (2011) is a very powerful, magnificent film.

Shannon's Overall View:
I really enjoyed it
I'll watch it again
I strongly recommend it, especially for those who enjoy period pieces and/or films with female protagonists

Also see: 2011 Book to Film Club, 2011 Book to Film Adaptations and All Film Reviews

© Shannon Ridler, 2011

Devil's Playground (2010) DVD Review

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Image: Courtesy of eOne Films.

Dir: Mark McQueen - feature film directorial debut
Cast: Craig Fairbrass, Danny Dyer, MyAnna Buring, Jaime Murray, Sean Pertwee, Shane Taylor
UK, 2010

Reason to see: Zombies are always a yes and British zombies are even more of a yes!

Wow, Devil's Playground (2010) really threw me for a loop. I went in thinking just for a zombie-good-times, and had no idea i was in for a freaking slick-looking, well-acted, human condition examining, compelling film with complex characters. Oh, and lots of zombies too. Freaking awesome! Action, acting and zombies. It's a win-win-win scenario. Well, for the viewer at least. Not sure how many zombie movies are win-win-win!

Set during a medically-centric zombie apocalypse in London, we are treated to several different spins than zombie enthusiasts may be used to, and most of them serve the film very well. I loved the setting and that it looked freaking slick at all times from the stunning exteriors to snazzy labs to unlikely hideout havens. The film takes a strong step in the human reaction direction over out & out zombie action, but there is plenty on both sides to go around.

The big surprize for me while watching the film was how compelling I found the characters. We have Danny Dyer (Doghouse) as Joe, the cop just released from prison and Craig Fairbrass as Cole who has the all-in attitude of a mercenary but with a heart of regret that pulls you easily into his story. The complexity of their characters keeps you curious, on edge and always wanting to know more. But characters are just ideas on the page and what makes them so special here is the performances by Danny Dyer & Craig Fairbrass who were both charismatic, enigmatic, but completely different energies on the screen. They both blew me away and I'm certainly going the keeping and aggressive eye out for their work in the future. I would have loved for one of the female characters to be as interesting an complex as Joe & Cole were, and although we do see a great performance from MyAnna Buring as Angela, her character storyline just wasn't as inventive as the guys.

I loved the human nature elements in the film, although paired with the brutal & bloody zombieness I'm not sure could easily recommend it to the non-zom fan. Which is a way is alright, because zombie fans are the most fun! Overall, I absolutely adored Devil's Playground (2010) and it is a welcome addition to the zombie genre.

DVD Extras:

• Audio Commentary with director Mark McQueen and actors Danny Dyer & Craig Fairbrass extremely entertaining and engaging commentary to the film and I had a blast listening to it, although fair warning on the frequent and expressive colourful language throughout. Lots of shout outs and love for fellow cast members, great discussions about acting, choices, zombies and the film making process.
• Behind the Scenes (14 minutes) includes behind the scenes footage, film clips and interviews with director Mark McQueen, writer/actor Bart Ruspoli and actors Danny Dyer, Craig Fairbrass, MyAnna Burning and Craig Conway on what the film is about, the making the film, the actors discuss their characters and also the choice on different take on the zombies and how it was used in the film.
• Deleted Scenes (4 scenes, 4 minutes) Really interesting set of deleted scenes that I enjoyed watching as they provided interesting insights into the characters of the film, a great addition to the DVD.

The Devil's Playground is available on DVD as of March 15, 2011. Check it out over at Amazon.ca & Amazon.com

Shannon's Overall View:
I really enjoyed it
I'll easily watch it again
I'd recommend it fans of horror, especially horror films that examine the human condition

Return to Film Reviews or see more DVD Reviews

© Shannon Ridler, 2011


Image: Craig Fairbrass as Cole in Devil's Playground. Courtesy of eOne Films.


Danny Dyer, MyAnna Buring and Lisa McAllister in Devil's Playground. Courtesy of eOne Films.

The Bleeding (DVD Review)

Photo - Courtesy of Anchor Bay Entertainment

Dir: Charlie Picerni (Three Days to Vegas)
Cast: Michael Matthias, Michael Madsen, Rachelle Leah, Vinnie Jones, Madison Weidberg, Katherine von Drachenberg, DMX, Armand Assante
USA, 2009

Reason to see: Vampire films are always a yes for me.

Vampire films are always start as a yes for me as I love the genre and the many permutations it can take to comment on life, the world, humanity, love, etc. The Bleeding uses vampires as a outlet for action and the opportunity to avenge, in this case for Shawn Black (Michael Matthias) who returns from Afghanistan to find all his family obliterated and it's up to him to set things right.

One of the big things that pulled me into see The Bleeding was the trailer, as it piqued my curiosity because it had what looked like a variety of different visual styles on top of the vampires, action and club culture to boot. My one reservation was that the film was a primo target for gender crap, and although there is some gratuitous nudity it wasn't as terribly rampant and we do get some kick-butt female characters of the vampire (Katherine von Drachenberg) and human (Rachelle Leah) variety. I particularly enjoyed Rachelle Leah as Lena who was believable as a the tough-but-not-heartless chick who wasn't going to take crap from anyone. That being said it's really a film centred on the guys and Michael Matthias does a good job as our hero Shawn who is out on a blood trail to seek revenge, and along the way meets Tagg (DMX) and Father Roy (Michael Madsen) which give the film a strong quest-vibe going on especially with mention on a slayer, although after years of watching Buffy make it hard to think of a vampire slayer as a guy.

One of the highlights of the films is really the action and the stunts, which are very impressive. I'm not one to normally get all excited about car chases and explosions, but in The Bleeding you will get worked up over them because they really are that good. I also oddly enjoyed the visual style, which I noted you can see in the trailer that it bounces from style to style and usually I'd pull the inconsistency card and call foul but here it completely adds to the atmosphere and gives it a dynamic tone and exciting pace.

As a vampire flick, it's a little light on themes and heavy on blood but as an action flick if fires on all cylinders and delivers you tons of fun.

DVD Extras:

• Cast Interviews (4 minutes) Behind the scenes footage and interviews on set with actors Michael Matthias, Rachelle Leah, Madison Weidberg, Vinnie Jones on the effects, , Kat Von D, Armand Assante on working on a vampire film, the effects, on the cars, on their characters, working together and working with director Charles Picerni
• Makeup & Effects (5 minutes) behind the scenes with make up and effects preparation, application, prosthetics for vampire effects, gun fire, atmospheric elements and interviews with actors Michael Matthias, Kat Von D and Michael Madsen.
• Stunts (5 minutes) Behind the scenes footage of physical stunts, car stunts, explosions, sword play and interviews with actors Michael Matthias, Vinnie Jones, Rachelle Leah, stunt man Fabiano Iha on the stunt work and working with stunt players vs actors doing their own stunts.
• Trailer

The Bleeding is available on DVD as of March 1, 2011. Check it out over at Amazon.ca & Amazon.com

Shannon's Overall View:
I enjoyed it
I'll watch it again
I'd recommend it to fans of action flicks, especially vampire action flicks.

Return to Film Reviews or see more DVD Reviews

© Shannon Ridler, 2011