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?