- The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou: I wanted to like this so much more than I did. Bill Murray and Owen Wilson, for cripes sakes. But I fell asleep both times I tried to watch it. Granted the first time was after 10:30pm and the second time was on a Sunday afternoon, which is hardly giving it a fair chance. There were a few magical moments, but most of those had to do with cinematography, rather than a real interest in the characters. It just didn't come together for me. (Rating: B)
- My Architect: Completely mesmerizing and fascinating biography of noted architect, Louis Kahn. Highly recommended. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Louis_Kahn. (Rating: A-)
- Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: More enjoyable than I anticipated in spite of seeing it at a mega movie complex. Veruca's squirrel scenes were wicked fun. I liked the choreography of the oompah loompah scenes, but didn't like that the oompahs were all the same computer-animated figure. In fact, I think the film would have benefited from less computer-animation. The boat scene(s) were really weak, the boat uninspired. Depp's Wonka was too reminiscent of Edward Scissorhands. (Rating: B)
- American Beauty: I forgot how great this movie is. Refreshing dialogue and Kevin Spacey is fabulous, although his infatuation with the enormously foreheaded Angela truly creeps me out. Favorite scene: when Annette Benning falls into the Lester's shirts in the closet at the end. Every time I see a crappy plastic grocery bag flying in the wind or caught in a tree, I think of this film. (Rating: A-)
- Beyond the Sea: Awful. Just awful. Bobby Darin didn't deserve this kind of treatment. Hell, no one deserves this kind of treatment. Kevin Spacey got so in the way here. That whole "young Bobby" gimmick, puh-lease. Too corny. The dialogue is unbearable. (Rating: D-)
Movie Maven
Tuesday, July 26, 2005
The one major outdoor activity I took advantage of over the weekend was the Festival of Nations at Tower Grove on Saturday. Great dancing and food. Seeing so many eager kids and parents excited, even in the 100+ heat was something. That night, did potluck at Tracy's (fresh pesto!) followed by a smokin' game of dice. My 4-day weekend happened to fall on the hottest weekend of the year so I stayed indoors most of the time, watching movies while doing mindless chores. (Ah, the joys of my new Netflix membership!) A few movie pointers: