January 21

It has been a snowy day in Northern Virginia and in addition to that I have a cold so it was a good time to catch up on some of the films I had on streaming.  As you can tell from my reviews, some were good and some were just horrible.

On Netflix streaming only:

The Short Game - If you or anyone plays golf or knows anyone who plays golf, this is for you. It follows eight grade-school golfers as they compete in a junior-level championship at the prestigious Pinehurst golf course in North Carolina. Children come from all over the world to compete. It is the same formula as the crossword and spelling bee documentaries, but you will be so impressed with these kids' talent. I particularly enjoyed watching the young boy from Africa. He and his parents had just the right attitude. Allan Kournikova, Anna of tennis fame's brother is featured. They must have the sports gene in spades. Watch this, you won't be disappointed. 

On Netflix and streaming:

I Give It A Year - I put this on my list because I enjoy Rose Byrnes so much.  It is a British romantic comedy that also stars Simon Baker and Anna Farris of "Mom."  The storyline was tried and true - boy meets girl, fall in love, marry in haste, find they are not compatible and attracted to others.  At times the film was a bit crass and was not good enough for these actors. Maybe I just don't get British humor.   I probably would skip this one and not even watch it if it ever gets to TV. 

 

Drinking Buddies - Another film I had on streaming and a good day to watch as the snow fell.  Good movie though, no.  This one starred Olivia Wilde, Jake Johnson, Anna Kendrick and Ron Livingston (who will forever be remembered for breaking up with Carrie Bradshaw on Sex in the City on a post it, but I digress)   I found absolutely no redeeming value in this film.  Wilde and Johnson are coworkers who enjoy each other's company drinking after work and I was not sure if they really wanted to hook up or not. Kendrick and Livingston were their respective boy and girlfriends.  It was 90 minutes of wasted film.  Don't see this one either. 

On Netflix:

The Big Wedding - Not quite sure how or why this one was on my list, but happy it was.  It is a predictable romantic comedy, but has a wonderful cast.  Diane Keaton, Robert De Niro, Katherine Heigi, Susan Sarandon and Robin Williams headline this all star cast about a couple who has to pretend they are still married to placate the groom's birth mother who would not approve of divorce.  Needless to say, mayhem ensues, but it is fun, touching and a good way to pass a few hours.  I always love to see Robin Williams and he is great as the family Priest.  (BTW if you have not tuned into his new comedy "The Crazy Ones' do so; it is well written with a great cast and anything David E. Kelley does is worth watching!)

At the JCC:

Mr. Benny - This one man show, starring Tim Newell as Jack Benny, was a walk down memory lane.  The first act takes place just before Benny is about to start his television program.  He reminisced about the old days of radio and how he got his start.  The second act was right before he was to go on his last TV program.  He was being beaten out in the ratings by Gomer Pyle.  It was a kind and gentle show, but one that warmed the heart.

A note about local entertainment:

Don't dismiss activities right in your backyard.  As mentioned above, we saw a delightful one man show and when I look at the JCC's website, there are other programs of interest.  These programs are usually much cheaper than the "professional" productions and many times just as good.  The Reston Community Center has a good production of Les Miz according to many of my friends who have seen.  Will try and get tickets for it before it closes.

In the meantime, my friends in the Northeast, stay safe and warm.  And my west coast friends and family, please send some of your warm weather this way.

Roberta