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?

I Am woman Hear Me Roar

The weekend was a delightful combination of relaxation and pampering. My good girlfriends took me out for some Sex and the City pedicures for my birthday complete with racy talk, sisterly pep talks and ice cream. Gloriously rich ice cream. I popped my cherry at Cold Stone. I had wanted to try it but never got the chance. Delicious. As far as my SATC fantasies, I fancy myself a quirky Carrie knowing that I’m way more Miranda with hints of Charlotte. Oh well. My other two companions are strictly Samantha and Miranda with a healthy dose of Samantha. They’ll have to sort out who’s who.

Pop culture likes to spark rivalry between women because, face it, it more salacious and interesting than women who genuinely care and root for each other. It’s more fun to think Paris hated Nicole or Denise is a raging bitch compared to innocent Heather. These images play out on a daily basis but the truth is that there is a sisterhood between women that goes far beyond lifestyle or breast envy. There is a shared experience that connects us all.

All of this female bonding and sisterly mentoring made me think of the great female bonding movies. Here are a few of my favorites:

Thelma and Louise (1991)

Yes, they kill themselves in the end but what a ride. Sisterhood, Brad Pitt, car chases, Brad’s butt, attitude and Brad’s abs. What a thrilling look at female relationships from two women that couldn’t be more different.

The Joy Luck Club (1993)

This is one of my favorite movies. The part with the morphine –filled stick buns gets me every time. This is an excellent movie for mothers, daughters and friends. Extremely underrated but worth adding to Netflix.

The Color Purple (1985)

I remember watching this at the theater and liking it but not really getting it. It’s only as I get older that the themes of empowerment and self-esteem bring new meaning. Oprah, at her big girl best, is a marvel as Sofia. The scene with Shug walking to the church dissolves me to tears.

Charlie’s Angels (2000)

This movie is sheer cotton candy confection. It’s light fun and fantastical. It taps into ever woman’s desire to look alluring and sexy while kicking some serious ass in high heel boots. Great fun! Even the sequel, which suck compared to the original, is fun.

What are your favorite movies about ladies that rock?