Finally, A Good Film

I saw an excellent movie last night that captivated my imagination and actually made Jose hold his pee until he thought he’d burst. We finally saw Pan’s Labyrinth. Now I know what all the fuss was about. Not only was it imaginative, colorful and expressive; it also held many messages. I believe in the fantasy world of tiny Ofelia because quite frankly if I hadn’t; I’d be an emotional wreck today.

PL is the story of Ofelia (Ivana Baquero) and her mother Carmen (Ariadna Gil) surviving in fascist 1944 Spain. They just moved to live with Ofelia’s fascist stepfather Captain Vidal (Sergi Lopez) aka Crazy Malicious Psycho. The Captain has moved his expecting wife to the countryside to deliver their son as he battles rebels in the woods. Ofelia’s rich fantasy life allows her to escape the horrors of her daily life.

I won’t give away anymore but let me say it’s gritty violent real-life contrasts with the surreal fantasy life. I was enthralled through the entire film. Guillermo del Toro crafted a lovely film that keeps you wanting more and wondering what he will do next. I love the fact that he did it in Spanish proving that people love exquisite movies based on content not language. Young Baquero was a wonder as Ofelia, our hero. Lopez was despicable as the sadistic Captain. Extremely sinister. Go see this film!!

Here’s a quick look at the headlines that have me scratching my head:

Nicole Richie in the Family Way

I keep reading this, which has me believing it may be true. I’m amazed that her frail body can harbor a baby. I wish her nothing but health if she is pregnant. Another thing that had me perplexed was the father, her boyfriend of a few months. He earlier string of beaus have to be breathing a sigh of relief. If she had a kid with DJ A.M., I wouldn’t have been surprised but this one threw me for a loop.

Me Likey

The Sex and the City film is a go. I’m thrilled. I just ask one thing of the writers and directors. Don’t fuck it up. This is a beloved TV program that is part of the pop culture lexicon. Don’t fuck it up. Give us real plots with real motives. Not twisted plot devices to propel the film forward. Don’t fuck it up.

What are you thinking about today?

Oh Say Can You See!

Yes, the birth of our nation. July 4th. For me, Independence Day is a colorful mix of mosquitoes, hot dogs, fireworks and parades. As a child, I was much more impressed with the flashy side of July 4th but as I get older, I appreciate the meaning behind the festivities.

I thought it only fitting to examine the top 8 reasons why I love America. Here it goes:

Fast Food
In particular Taco Bell and Arby’s. I appreciate the fact that as Americans we are so busy that we eat in our cars out of greasy paper bags. It’s not the healthiest way to eat but it sure is exciting and dangerous.

Pop Music
Sure the foundation of American music is jazz, bluegrass and blues but combine the influences together and you get redheaded step child pop music. The Brits give us a run for our money but Americans love and support their popular music. We’re known for it.

Pursuit of Happiness
My dad is a firm believer that anything is possible in this country. I love the fantasy (that becomes reality) of the American dream. It’s evident by all the newcomers to the country. Where else can you have a cell phone, apartment and car within months of your arrival? Only in America my friends!

Hip Hop Culture
I adore the fact that the world has embraced hip-hop culture. You can call it thug life, prison mentality or ghetto but nothing categorizes the movement. It’s different things for different people. Watching white suburban moms and kids as well as Japanese teens embrace hip-hop is amazing.

Shopping Malls
Who was the brilliant mind behind putting hundreds of shops and restaurants under one roof? I’d like to shake their hand. It’s a truly magnificent feat that allowed a small town Ohio girl like myself to enjoy what would have been a tired existence in the boonies.

Diversity of America
I love that every state has its’ own flavor. The inhabitants are from different countries and managed to integrate their history and culture in that place. Love it!

Celebrity Worship
I’m glad I’m not the only pop culture student in the country. I find solace in knowing that I’m not the only one who wants to see pictures of celebrities without makeup. We sometimes take it too far but it speaks to our idolization with Hollywood and the rich.

Freedom of Speech
All hail the country that allows me to put my opinions on the Internet and allows others to respond honestly. I revel in the ability to say that Jennifer Anniston is talentless and Tom Cruise is a maniac. I cherish that gift and am forever grateful.

Happy Birthday America!

What's in your top 3?

I Went Down to the Crossroads

As evidenced by past blogs, I watch an abundance of television. It may not be all my favorites but I fancy myself diverse enough to enjoy all types of programming. I’m sure I’ve mentioned before a little gem on Country Music Television called Crossroads. That’s right CMT. I like watching the videos, though my country tastes are more classic (Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline and Tammy Wynette) along with the Dixie Chicks.

Crossroads pairs rock/pop groups and vocalists with country superstars. This weekend saw Kelly Clarkson crooning with Reba McEntire. First, let me say this was a surprising pairing. Not because Kelly likes country music or idolizes Reba but that she was so young. It was pretty good. But Reba dancing her swinging 60s moves to Since You Been Gone was frightful. May she never do that again. Kelly was a natural at harmonizing on Reba’s songs. They were no James Taylor with the Dixie Chicks or Wynona with Heart but it was certainly entertaining.

So, my brain starts racing. Who would I put together for Crossroads? Here’s what I came up with.

Amy Winehouse and Tanya Tucker

The two broads could get together drink/smoke and sing their hits. AW could talk about not going to rehab and TT could lament about her rehab days. The concert could culminate with an intervention for AW. The country set may not know AW but her attitude and range would be great for TT.

Shania Twain and Celine Dion

Yes, it would be annoying but the Divas (in their own genre) could see who could out do the other. Hands down CD would run off with the show. She always does. What else does she have to do since she left Vegas? Shania’s been incognito in Switzerland. The wonder twins need to unite in the form of a power ballad singing team with a twang. CD could come up with some designer diamond-studded cowboy gear with matching boots.

Tim McGraw and Mariah Carey

Faith Hill’s not the only attractive singer. Mariah and Tim could come together and form a stunning dynamic duo. TM has a bunch of duets that would work and MC loves the company of hot men. It could work.

Who would you smash up on Crossroads?