September 6

Carol Frank correctly identified "Well I wouldn't kick Mick Jagger out of my bed, but, uh, I'm not a homosexual, no.from Hair.

Try this one courtesy of Sy:

"The vision to see the treasured past comes as the timely shadow crosses in front of the house of Pass and Stow."

In Theaters:

The Help - As one of the many fans of this book, I anxiously awaited the film and can say I was not disappointed. Although some things were slightly changed, the main focus of the book remained. Viola Davis and Octavia Spenser as Abilene and Minnie do a great job and Emma Stone as Skeeter is just adorable. As Hilly Holbrook, Bryce Dallas Howard does a fine job making us dislike her character, but Sissy Spacek as Hilly's mom is a hoot and Jessica Chastain as Celia Foote steals the show. It is beautifully shot and Jackson, Mississippi never looked so good. This is not a chick flick as I went we two other couples and all the guys liked the movie as well.On Netflix:

Welcome to the Rileys - This film starring James Gandolfini, Melissa Leo and Kristen Steward tells the story of a family devastated by their daughter's death eight years ago, Doug (James Gandolfini) finds solace in other women until he connects with a teen call girl girl Mallory (Kristen Stewart) You won't recognize Melissa Leo as his wife who joins him in trying to save Mallory. Although sweet and touching, it is quite slow.

On Netflix and On Demand HBO:

Our Family Wedding - This is the first time I've used the On Demand feature of my cable company for a movie I missed on HBO. I have to say that I have liked America Fererra since she appeared in the title role of "Ugly Betty." This film is a lightweight one and has been done too often. Ferrera and Lance Gross, her black finace are faced with their two fathers who do not approve of this marriage due to the cultural difference which in this day and age doesn't make a lot of sense. The original Guess Who's Coming to Dinner was the gold standard and since that movie, all the others have been pale copies. I was surprised to see Forest Whitaker in the role of the African American father as he is too good of an actor, but I guess you take jobs as they come. With that said and since I did not have to use a netflix choice or pay additional for the movie, it was a pleasant way to spend 90 or so minutes.

With ugly weather this week on the east coast, a good time to take in some movies.

Roberta

August 27

Carol Frank and Betty correctly identified, "You know something?" "You read too many comic books." coming from Rebel Without a Cause.

Try this one:

"Well I wouldn't kick Mick Jagger out of my bed, but, uh, I'm not a homosexual, no,"

In Theaters:

Crazy, Stupid Love - I am not a fan of Steve Carell, but this film starring Julianne Moore, Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone and Carell is quite good. I would categorize it as a dramady. Although the trailers make it look like it is a gag fest, it is quite poignant. The end became a bit of an English farce, but added to its delightfulness. Marisa Tomei has a small, but wonderful role in the film. Kevin Bacon costars as well and is showing his age. Everyone in the cast is well cast. Another fine film to spend a summer afternoon.

On Netflix:

How Do You Know - This is a light romantic comedy starring Reese Witherspoon, Paul Rudd, Owen Wilson and Jack Nicholson. It involves a love triangle between the three and Nicholson playing Rudd's father. Wilson is a self centered ball player with a good heart who tries to do the right thing, Rudd is mixed up in a lawsuit and is quite neurotic and Nicholson plays Nicholson. Witherspoon is delightful as always and the story will hold your interest. Another fine film for a summer afternoon.

On Netflix and Instant Streaming:

Girl Who Played With Fire - I waited until I finished reading the second of the trilogy of these books before watching the film. As with the first one, if you have not read the book, it can be a bit confusing. Since it is in Swedish, the names are both difficult to keep track of and hard to remember. The film contains lots of nudity, sex and violence although all pertaining to the plot. Even though it runs for over two hours, lots of details from the book are left out, but the essential story is intact. I recommend this for those who read the book, but if you didn't, don't bother.

Everyone on the east coast is gearing up for Irene. Let's hope it is a nonevent. I really wanted to catch up on some of the first run films in the theater this weekend, but my plans might be derailed. If you need to stay inside and hopefully have power, try some of the instant streaming films that you might have missed in the theaters. Hope everyone stays dry and safe.

Roberta

August 2

David, Carol Frank and Florrie were correct in identifying "I own a couple of newspapers. What do you do?" coming from Citizen Kane.

Try this one:

"You know something." You read too many comic books."

At Theaters:

Friends With Benefits - I didn't expect to like this film especially after seeing the previews of the movies shown before the film thinking it was going to be as stupid as the films on preview, but I was mistaken. The story, although predictable, was very sweet. I am not giving the story away by telling you it is about two people, Dylan and Jamie, who hook up simply to hook up . As the story unfolds, you can guess the ending. I must say that the two leads Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis have chemistry. Justin Timberlake as Dylan has tuned into a good actor. Patricia Clarkson as Kunis' mother, Woody Harrelson as Dylan's practical confidante and Richard Jenkins as his father are great additions to the cast. I was surprised that I liked it so much.

Netflix and perhaps repeated on HBO:

Temple Grandin - This HBO movie won loads of Emmy awards last year and rightly so. It is the wonderful, true story of Temple Grandin. Temple has autism and with the help of her parents and simple fortitude, she overcomes her disability to not only earn an undergraduate degree and masters in animal husbandry, but teaches and lectures on both these subjects. She is not cured, but has learned to deal with society on their and her terms. It is a great look into the mind of someone who has this disability and how they think. Do yourself a favor and put this DVD on your Netflix list.

Netfix and Instant Streaming:

Jack Goes Boating - This indie film starring and directed by Philip Seymour Hoffman is a lovely story about loneliness and how two souls come together. There is a secondary story about the unraveling of a relationship as well. Hoffman is the only recognizable character; but the entire cast is well suited for their roles. Hoffman is such a versatile actor. It is a short film; just over 90 minutes and one that leaves you with hope.

Wild Target - This black English comedy is delightful. It stars Bill Nighy, Emily Blunt and Rupert Grint. (Ron of the Harry Potter movies.) The plot revolves around a hit man, Nighy, who cannot kill his latest target, Blunt. Through a series of circumstances, Rupert becomes his apprentice. It is quite comical although implausible. Eileen Atkins who plays Nighy's mother is a hoot. A fun movie!

Although the pickings are slim this week at the movies, hang in there as some blockbusters are just around the corner.

Roberta

July 24

Carol Frank, Allison and Yolanda correctly identified "Secret's in the sauce." coming from Fried Green Tomatoes.


Try this one:

"I run a couple of newspapers. What do you do?"

A note about the Reduced Shakespeare Company and the History of Sports show - Yolanda told me that they will be at the Reston Community Center this spring. The price for Reston residents and those who work in Reston is $15. You can call the center for a catalog or stop by and get one and see all the offerings they have.

On Netflix:

The Switch - This is another in the never ending romantic comedies that have come out this past year. It stars Jennifer Aniston as the 30 something with a biological clock that is ticking away and Jason Bateman as her neurotic best friend. The real star of the film is the little boy who plays Sebastian, Thomas Robinson. Needless to say there is a mix up and things progress from there. I did find it a pleasant way to spend one of these horrible days of July. For a movie that will not offend, unless you don't believe in sperm donors, this is a fine movie to watch.

Invincible - Thursday was the last day of my Oscar losers class. The instructor decided to show this film simply because he liked it. It is the true story of Vince Papele who became a player for Philadelphia Eagles. Although the film depicts his coming on the team through an open audition, this was not the real case. He was playing for a minor type league and was asked to try out, but an open audition makes for a better movie. It follows the familiar formula about athletes overcoming odds to become successful. Mark Wahlberg stars as Papele, Greg Kinnear as coach Dick Vermeil and Elizabeth Banks is the love interest. I like these feel good movies and it certainly was a good way to spend a very hot afternoon. An interesting tidbit: someone in the class said the Greg Kinnear went to Lake Anne ES in Reston.

Streaming and Netflex discs:

All Good Things - This film based on the mystery surrounding real estate heir Robert Durst and his missing wife is best left unwatched. Although Ryan Gosling, Kristen Dunst and Frank Langella do fine jobs with their roles, the story which started off interesting and engaging went from bad to worse. I looked it up to see if it was a true story as I found some parts hard to believe and it is. Do yourself a favor and read a good book instead.

Some movies that are scheduled to be released in the next few weeks look promising. In particular Sarah's Key, which will be in limited distribution, and The Help are on my must see list!

I have had a change of heart regarding Netflix and the price hike. After realizing that my bill will go up only $6.00, I decided to keep it as it is. After all, a movie ticket for a first run film is more than that during the afternoon hours!

Roberta

July 21

Carol Frank was the sole identifier of the quote "You see, in this world there are two kinds of people, my friend: those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig." comping from The Good, The Bad and The Ugly.

Try this one:

"The secret's in the sauce."

At Theaters:

Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows Part 2 - Both Sy and I have been waiting for the conclusion of the Harry Potter series and this final episode was not a disappointment. It leaves off right where part one ended. It is the final chapter of the meeting of Harry and Voldemort. There are lots of special effects, but the real stars are the three friends who have grown up before our eyes: Harry, Hermine and Ron (Daniel Radcliff, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson). They have all turned into fine actors. A note of caution; if you have not read the books or seen all the movies, you will be lost. It is also a bit scary for the younger set. Thoroughly enjoyed it!

On Netflix:

Mao's Last Dancer - This film with both Chinese and English is based on the autobiography of Li Cunxin. It is a beautiful story with wonderful ballet scenes. Even though ballet is not my favorite form of entertainment, the dance scenes were magnificent. You get the feel of how difficult it is to become a dancer and the hardships they go through to make the grade. All the actors/dancers are well suited for their roles. I don't want to tell more of the story, but highly recommend it.

Kennedy Center:

Reduced Shakespeare Company in "The Complete World of Sports" - This company takes on different subjects with their varied shows. It is a three man production and it is a hoot. The rapid fire delivery and the wonderful talent of each of the performers makes this show fly by. Goldstar has half price tickets and the Terrace Theater at the Kennedy Center is a great venue. There is no bad seat in the house. They are here only until Sunday so get your tickets. If not, they return to the area many times during the year so look for them. You won't be sorry!

With the horrible heat we are experiencing in the east, it is a good time to catch a movie!

Roberta

July 14

Betty and Carol Frank correctly identified "I see men-sixty, seventy years old breaking their balls to stay fit." "What for?" "When I die I want to be sick, not healthy." coming from The Witches of Eastwick

Try this one:

"You see in this world there are two kinds of people, my friend: those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."

At Theaters:

Larry Crowne - This film starring Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts won't win any awards and is very predictable, but a nice way to spend about 90 minutes. Although the story is one we have seen time and again, it does have a good message about education. Being a teacher for so many years, I like to see that theme in movies..

On Netflix and Cable:

Rebecca - Sy is taking a class through OLLI that is showing Alfred Hitchcock movies and this week I decided to tag along with him. This film is based on the Daphne du Mauree novel by the same name. I say based as Hitchcock took liberties with the story to make it his own. It was released in 1940 and received the Academy Award for best picture. In fact, they delayed release so that it would not come up against Gone With The Wind. It is a Gothic romance, but with the Hitchcock twist starring Joan Fontaine, Lawrence Olivier and Dame Judith Anderson as the villainous Mrs. Danvers. In fact, Anderson was voted number 37 as the most convincing villain by AFI. Although at times the dialogue was hard to understand, it does endure the test of time. It will hold your interest and you will be surprised by the ending. Look for it on TCM.

At Wolftrap:

Huey Lewis and The News - Our long term health seller invited us to this concert last night at Wolftrap Park in Vienna, VA. Since it was free and free food too, we went. We were a little anxious about the weather since we had horrible downpours in the afternoon, but the evening proved to be nice; a bit sticky, but nice. I have to say that I am not a fan of outdoor theater, but crowd watching is a show unto itself. I guess this group has a big following as the lawn and theater was packed and it was a Wednesday night. The opening band was Paul Thorn Band and I must say he was quite good. Didn't get full audience attention, especially on the lawn, but was quite an accomplished singer and his lyrics were interesting. We did not stay for the entire show, but what we did see of Huey Lewis was good and entertaining. I can't believe they have been around for over thirty years. Sitting so far back, I couldn't see how well he has held up, but his voice has. A note to the seniors out there: if you want to see a show and don't mind waiting for the last minute, Wolftrap sells half price tickets 30 minutes before the show starts to those 65 and over. As long as that person is buying the tickets is of that age or close to it, they don't ask about the others in the party.

Netflix's new pricing policy: By now all of you who are subscribers have received their new pricing policy. I heard on the news today there has been an overwhelming negative response to it so I assume it will change. If it doesn't, Sy and I will probably go back to just getting DVDs. We don't watch streaming that often and although the $7.99 is less than a full price movie ticket, we will probably opt for that program. Stay tuned for the latest news.

Roberta

July 2

Florrie,Carol Frank, Yolanda and Betty correctly identified, "How did you find America?" "Turned left at Greenland." coming from A Hard Day's Night. Most of them even knew it was John Lennon who said it - and I thought this was a hard one!!

Try this one:

"I see men-sixty, seventy years old breaking their balls to stay fit." "What for?" "When I die I want to be sick, not healthy."

Another guest reviewer (Wendy) writes:

Judy Moody Not So Bummer Summer - If you are looking for something to do with your 7 - 11 year old daughter/granddaughter, this is just the thing. The movie follows the characters of the Judy Moody book series as Judy and her brother Stink get into some funny situations with their Aunt (played by Heather Graham). There is a little plot but the main reason to see it are the hijinks that the characters get into while their parents are away for the summer.

On Netflix:

Life As We Know It- Although this is a very predictable romantic comedy, it was a nice way to wile away almost two hours. Katherine Heigl and Josh Duhamal star as the two romantic leads who become guardians for an orphaned child. Watching them deal with instant parenthood is amusing and Duhamal is easy on the eyes. An award winner - no, but in this day and age of films with gratuitous violence and sex and crass content, it is fun to see this cute movie.

On Netflix and Cable:

A Night At the Opera - My class this week showed this Marx Brother's 1935 classic. Let me start by saying that I am not much of a slapstick comedy fan which I believe this is, but the students in my class were laughing out loud. The Marx Brothers were truly talented; not only as comedians, but as accomplished musicians as well. Harpo played the harp and piano, Chico played the piano, Groucho played the violin and Zeppo was the vocalist. This was the first film without Zeppo. We were told that the "silly violence" was tampered to attract more female viewers, but there was plenty of that. Co-starring in this film is a very young Alan Jones and Killy Carlisle who played the romantic leads and Margaret Dumont playing the wealthy supporter of opera. Who knew that Carlisle was a trained opera star and sang for this film. Not my cup of tea, but you certainly will get a chuckle out of it.

We are off on a short vacation and unless the plane has films, I won't be seeing any films for a week or so. I do have some films still on instant Netflix and might review them when we return. Right now the pickings at the theaters are slim. I am anxiously awaiting the release of the final Harry Potter movie the weekend of July 16 other than that I don't see any blockbusters on the horizon. Let me know if you find some hidden treasure out there.

Roberta