May 27

Sheila V, Lucy, Betty.Linda K. and Carol Frank correctly identified "Margo Channing is a star of the theater.  She made her first stage appearance at the age of four in 'A Midsummer Night's Dream.'  She played the fairy and entered, quite unexpectedly, stark naked.  She has been a star ever since." coming from All About Eve. 

Sheila V further wrote:  I couldn't wait to answer this.  This comes from "All About Eve."  I also think the quote comes from the theater reporter played by George Sanders.  He says this  at the party that Margo throws.  Margo is played by Bette Davis.  At this party Margo says and has one of the all time best Hollywood lines --  " Fasten your seat belts, we're in for a bumpy ride."  This is in reference to all the people who are coming to the party.  Also, did you know that this movie was  one of Marilyn Monroe's first.  She comes to the party with George Sanders.  She is a young starlet.  As you can guess I love this movie.

Try this one: ( I found this on the top 100 movie quotes, so it is not too hard.)

"Well, nobody's perfect."

In Theaters:

Best Exotic Marigold Hotel - I know the critics panned this movie, but Sy and I found it delightful.  The British actors were marvelous.  Does Judi Dench and Maggie Smith ever do a poor acting job??.  You can look at the story two ways; sadly getting old sucks or with a hopeful eye that life is what you make it.  If you see the glass half full, things are bound to be good. Although the films portrays India as a vibrant, colorful land full of lovely people, it did not make me want to visit any time soon! 
For a feel good movie, see this one. 

On Netflix:

Please Give - After watching this quirky film, Sy asked what was the point and I really couldn't answer him.  It is star studded with Oliver Platt, Catherine Keener, Ann Morgan Guilbert, Amanda Peet and Rebecca Hall.  It an indie relationship movie, but I am not sure I can recommend it as it had no point.  If someone else has seen this and can give us a better take on it, I invite you to reply to all.  Not offensive, but I felt I wasted my time and the film wasted these actors' talent. 

Last week my friend Melissa from Florida came to visit and we took time to do a bit of sightseeing.  If you haven't gone downtown lately, it is always worth the drive.  But closer to home she and I really enjoyed the Udvar Hazy Air and Space Museum off of Route 28 near Dulles Airport.  Make sure to take one of the free tours as it makes the visit more meaningful.  Highlights are the Discover, Enola Gay and the Concorde, but the stories our guide were priceless.  Remember there is no fee for the museum, but there is a $15.00 parking charge.

DWTS Finale:

Boy was I wrong!  Although I thought Driver was a good dancer, never did I think he would win.  The best dancer was Katherine Jenkins and William Levy improved week after week, but neither of them had the fan base that Driver had since both of them were really new to the American audience.  Hopefully we will be seeing them in the near future.

The crop of movies is limited, hopefully things will pick up soon.

Roberta

May 15

Carol Frank was correct in identify "I distrust a close mouthed man.  He generally picks the wrong time to talk and says the wrong things.  Talking's something you can't do judiciously, unless you keep in practice.  Now, sir, we'll talk if you like.  I'll tell you right out, I'm a man who likes talking to a man who likes to talk."coming from The Apartment.

Try this one:

"Margo Channing is a star of the theater.  She made her first stage appearance at the age of four in 'A Midsummer Night's Dream.'  She played the fairy and entered, quite unexpectedly, stark naked.  She has been a star ever since."

On Netflix:

Warrior - Nick Nolte was nominated for best supporting actor for his role in this film and after seeing it, I can see why.  It is a "Rocky" type movie.  Two brothers who are estranged and their alcoholic father meet in the world of mixed martial arts combat.  The background is not fully developed as to why everyone is so mad at each other, but the fighting scenes are exciting.  Didn't know the two stars Joel Edgeton and Tom Hardy as they are Australian and English respectively, but it is always good to see Nolte in a meaty role.  Jennifer Morrison of "House" and "Once Upon a Time" co-stars.  It is over two hours, but kept my interest throughout. 

On Netflix and Instant Streaming

Snowflower and the Secret Fan - I read this book by Lisa See and was anxious to see the film adaptation.  They added a modern day side story paralleling two friends in modern day Shanghai.  Needless to say the movie did not go into the depth of the novel and in fact if you did not read the book, you might be lost in the ancient story.  Don't really understand why they felt they could not simply tell the novel as written, but needed to add the other story.  The same actresses played the girts in present day and ancient time.  I found it good, but not the best adaptation of the book. 


On Netflix and HBO

Day One - This film starring Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess is When Harry Met Sally without the comedy and depth.  Boy and girl meet at graduation and the action is seen on the same day each year, July 15, from 1988 to 2007.  They are best friends, but each time they meet they make each other a better person.  They take a circuitous road to come to the end you expect.  The ending though was a bit of a surprise,.  This story has been done before and much better, but it kept my interest. 


Good Reads:

Ragtime by E.L. Doctorow - I took a four week class discussing this book.  It has made many best novels of the 20th century lists.  At first I did not like the writer's style.  The first part of the book is written with chopped sentences; short, not much description..  Also his characters except for two have no specific names, but as we discussed it and why he wrote as he did, I found it made sense.  The choppiness of the writing is mimicking the way ragtime is played; chopped on one hand and smooth on the other.  Although the story takes place in the 20's his themes are ones from the 60's; civil and women's rights.  He integrates real life people like Henry Ford, Harry Houdini and Emma Goldman into this novel.  It is a quick read and many of you know it was made into a successful musical a number of years ago which lost out for best musical to The Lion King.

In the Garden of Beasts By Erik Larson - This true story recounts the term of American Ambassador William Dodd and his family in Germany from 1933-1937.  It is a fascinating read and shows how blind or how much we, America, wanted to stay out of the affairs of Europe and chose not to believe what was happening in Germany.  There was so many times the United States could have stepped in and prevented at least some of the horrible atrocities that occurred, but didn't.  Dodd's daughter Martha plays a starring role in this book as she consorted with many high ranking Nazi's as well as a member of the Russian Soviet Party.  I learned a lot from the book and was very sad while and after reading it.

DWTS Update:

Last night Katherine Jenkins fell.  Unless the viewers came to her aid, I believe she will be eliminated tonight.  What a shame as she is a beautiful dancer.  Turn in tonight to see what happens.

Roberta

May 9

Carol Frank correctly identified "I distrust a close mouthed man.  He generally picks the wrong time to talk and says the wrong things.  Talking's something you can't do judiciously, unless you keep in practice.  Now, sir, we'll talk if you like.  I'll tell you right out, I'm a man who likes talking to a man who likes to talk."coming from The Maltese Falcon.

Try this one:

"You try kidding yourself that you 're going with an unmarried man.  Then one day he keeps looking at his watch, and asks you if there's any lipstick showing, then rushes out to catch the seven fourteen to White Plains.  So you fix yourself a cup of instant coffee and....you think.  And it all begins to look so ugly."

On Netflix:

50/50-  This film is not for anyone who is going through any kind of cancer or has someone close to them who is, that being said, believe it or not it is a lovely story.  It is based on the writer, Will Reiser's, own story about his cancer.  Seth Rogen one of the stars and producer is Reiser's friend.  Needless to say this film was a labor of love.  It stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt who actually starred in "Third Rock From the Sun" many years ago.  He plays a young man diagnosed with a rare cancer,  Without going into details it relates how he, his friends, family and even doctor deal with it and him.  I would call this a sweet film. 

Community Theater:

This was my weekend of Community Theater.  First we went to the McLean Community Players to see "Deathtrap"  The following day, we saw Sarah in her school production of "Aladdin: and finally we saw the Reston Players in August Osage County.  Here are my reviews:

"Deathtrap" At the McLean Community Center - This mystery by Ira Levin had its twists and turns.  It is an interesting story about a has been playwright, an up and coming writer, the playwright's wife, their neighbor with ESP and their lawyer.  I won't give any of the story away, but it is interesting, amusing and certainly keeps you guessing.  I felt the last scene was unnecessary and Levin was keeping the play balanced by having three scenes in each act.  The play was performed in 1978 and the movie in 1982.  The movie starred Michael Caine, Christopher Reeve and Dyan Canon.  In this production the players were OK.  Except for the gentlemen playing the has been the other were so so. I felt the young man playing the young writer needed to hone his talent a bit.   After reading the "Playbill" I realized this was his first performance.

"Aladdin"  At Poe Middle School - It always amazes me to see a good school production.  Having been in the school system, I know how hard it is to not only get the students involved, but how the arts have been pushed to the back burner due to the emphasis on testing.  The production of "Aladdin" at Poe Middle School was wonderful.  The joy the students displayed as they performed made everyone smile.  Seeing 12-14 year olds put themselves out there is reassuring that the youth of today will carry on the performing arts tradition.  Needless to say, as one of the narrators, Sarah was outstanding, but she was part of a very talented ensemble cast  Way to go Poe!

"August Osage County"  At Reston Community Center - I know that a number of people who read Roberta's Reviews will have a different opinion of this play than I, but as they say that's what makes a horse race!  In my opinion, this play was the Reston Community Players' best production of the season.  Although the play was over three hours, I found the story gripping, but more importantly the acting was absolutely outstanding.  The performers could rival any actors on the Broadway stage.  Special note goes to Mary Suib who played Violet Weston.  Ms. Suib may be a senior citizen, but most of us young and old would not have the stamina nor memorization power she possess.  Her performance was terrific.  The actresses playing her daughters were wonderful as well.  The play is a drama that has a bit of humor.  Some of the lines were priceless.  I can only say that my family looks like the Cleavers compared to the Westons.  It plays for another weekend, so go and decide for yourself.

DWTS Update:

We are down to the final four and the four left standing are all good dancers.  I was disappointed to see Rashon go, but being so young his fan base is limited.  I think the final three will be Katherine, Donald and William with Donald and William in the finals.  Watch next week and see if I am correct. 

May 4

Yolanda, Lucy, Carol Frank and  Allison correctly identified  "Many, many people contributed to my tardiness. I would like to thank my parents for never giving me a ride to school, the LA city bus driver who took a chance on an unknown kid, and last but not least, the wonderful crew from McDonald's who spend hours making those Egg McMuffins without which I'd never be tardy. coming from Clueless.

Try this one:

"I distrust a close mouthed man.  He generally picks the wrong time to talk and says the wrong things.  Talking's something you can't do judiciously, unless you keep in practice.  Now, sir, we'll talk if you like.  I'll tell you right out, I'm a man who likes talking to a man who likes to talk."

At Theaters:

The Five Year Engagement - I was apprehensive that this film was going to be a repeat of Bridesmaids which many of you remember I hated, but to my delight it was not.  First of all the stars - Emily Blunt and Jason Segel not only are delightful, but have a lovely chemistry together.  The story is predictable, but enjoyable. Spoiler Alert _ (not much of a spoiler!!)  Boy meets girl, boy follows girl and is unhappy, boy girl split and everything turns out fine in the end.  The supporting cast is funny and charming as well.  Lots of four letter words dropped, but didn't seem as crass as Bridesmaids.  Not a film that will win any awards, but fun. 

On Netflix:

I Don't Know How She Does It - This must be my "chick flick" week.  This film stars Sarah Jessica Parker, Greg Kinnear and Pierce Bronson with co-stars Kelsey Grammar, Seth Meyers and Jane Curtin.  Somehow no matter what vehicle Parker is in, I see her as Carrie Bradshaw from "Sex and The City."  In this film she plays an over-extended working Mom and it conveys how she juggles her world successfully and not so well. They use a technique where the characters talk directly to the audience, like "Modern Family" and lists are written on the screen.  At the beginning it is cute, but gets old quickly.   Greg Kinnear is adorable and Bronson is debonair, but the story is just flat.  I believe it is based on a book by the same title.  Nothing special but nothing offensive which is a pleasant surprise. 

DWTS:

Very disappointed with the results this week.  Although the two couples who did the dance off weren't going to be in the finals - Melissa Gilbert is the poorer dancer.  I still stand by my final three:  Donald Driver, William Levy and Katherine the opera singer.

April 24

I was surprised to see so many of you knew the answer to last week's quote and three were people who do not submit guesses frequently.  Florrie, Jeff, Allison, Eric  and Carol Frank correctly identified "I for one, do not think that the problem was that the band was down, I think that the problem may have been that there was a Stonehenge monument on the stage that was in danger of being crushed by a dwarf.  That tended to undermine the hugeness of the object." coming from This is Spinal Tap

Another hard one:

"Many, many people contributed to my tardiness.  I would like to thank my parents for never giving me a ride to school, the LA city bus driver who took a chance on an unknown kid, and last but not least, the wonderful crew from McDonald's who spend hours making those Egg McMuffins without which I'd never be tardy."

On Netflix and Instant Streaming:

The Names of Love - This French comedy was a delightful surprise.  It is the story of Baya a left wing femme fatale who sleeps with men to change their political views.  She finally meet her match in a gentleman who has similar views, but is hiding some dark secrets of his own.  Be prepared for quite a bit of nudity as this is a French film, but the story is engrossing and funny. 

Guest Review by Bill Podolski:

Bully:  After hearing an interview with the director, this past weekend I was compelled to go see "Bully" the documentary.  I encourage anyone who interacts with young people to go and see this film.  It is a documentary, therefore one should not expect to be 'entertained', but the depth of the content certainly keeps your attention.  The film profiles six young people who are victims of bullying at their schools, most of which are in rural 'forgotten' towns.  It is indeed a tough thing to watch.  I was struck most of all by the sense of powerless-ness held by all: the students being bullied, their parents, the teachers and even the administrators.  There are two assistant principals featured that will make you cringe every time they speak...  In the end, it is a powerful statement, and one that we all ought to be exposed to. 

Center for The Arts at George Mason University:

American Festival Pops Orchestra - Those of you who know me well, know how much I enjoy the music of Broadway.  While leafing through the Washington Post on Friday, I saw this group was schedule to do a Broadway program.  I was delighted to find out they had tickets available so went and had a wonderful time listening to this orchestra play tunes from Les Miz, Phantom, Man of La Mancha to name a few.  I am not sure if this orchestra is one that plays together on a regular basis or gets musicians as needed, but conducted by Anthony J. Maiello they produced a fantastic program.  Along with some talented instrumental soloist, a wonderful singer, Lisa Vroman, sang a few numbers.  Throughout the performance, there was a permanent smile on my face.  Wherever you live, don't pass up venues that may be right in your backyard.  You might be in for a pleasant surprise.


DWTS:

I found last night's show featuring performers from the Motown era sad.  Although some still had good voices, it is sad that they still have to perform.  I guess I want to remember them as they were in the 60's and 70's young, attractive and vital.  Smoky Robinson looked like he was drugged.  Just my opinion!  Also I think Gladys Knight should go tonight.

Roberta

April 21

I know it has been a while since I last posted a Roberta's Reviews, but it is sad to say, the movies presently out there are not of any interest to me.  Also with the wonderful weather, I hate to spend time indoors.  That being said, I did watch a Netflix and saw a live performance.  See below for my reviews of them.

Florrie and Carol Frank were correct in identifying  "You risk your skin catchin' killers and the juries turn 'em loose so they can come back and shoot at you again.  If you're honest, you're poor your whole life, and in the end you wind up dyin' all alone on some dirty street.  For what?  For nothin'. For a tin star."from High Noon.

Try this one:

"I for one, do not think that the problem was that the band was down, I think that the problem may have been that there was a Stonehenge monument on the stage that was in danger of being crushed by a dwarf.  That tended to undermine the hugeness of the object."


On Netflix:

Another Year - This English indie film looked promising, but it was as interesting as watching paint dry.  Although the actors are very good:  Jim Broadbent, Lesley Manville and Ruth Sheen all actors I do not know except Broadbent, the story is VERY slow.  It takes place over a course of a year where the married couple, Sheen and Broadbent, see their friends and family go through a series of happy and not so happy events.  It was called a dramedy, but to me it was simply boring. 

Recently At Signature Theater in Arlington:

Brother Russia -  This is a brand new musical.  It is a play within a play.  A Russian touring company is performing the story of Rasputin.  I must admit at the beginning of the show, I was a bit lost, but as it progressed, I became more and more engrossed in it.  The cast, including Betsy's daughter Erin Driscoll, was amazing.  There is not one weak voice in the bunch.  The young man who played Rasputin is wonderful.  Both Sy and I thought he could easily play the lead in Les Miz and he did.  The critic from the Post panned the story; not the actors, but I beg to differ.  Unfortunately the play has since left Signature and I hope they appear somewhere else.

DWTS update:

Well we a half way through and there are been a few surprises.  I am very glad that they have added the element of the judges picking who goes from the viewers/judges score bottom two.  Last week it was time for Gavin to go.  As I see it, these are my top choices for the finals:  Katherine the singer, The football player and the Disney star.  Close behind are Maria M. William Levy and Urkel.  I think Levy will probably stay in as he has a huge fan base and Maria's partner Dereck has a huge fan base as well, but Rashon the Disney star, makes me smile.  We will see what this week brings.

Another beautiful day here in Northern VA so enjoy it while it lasts.

Roberta

April 3

Carol Frank, Yolanda, Bill, Betty correctly identified "This bag was, like, dancing with me. Like a little kid begging me to play with it. For fifteen minutes. And that's the day I knew there was this entire life behind things, and this incredibly benevolent force, that wanted me to know there was no reason to be afraid, ever." coming from American Beauty.

Try this one: (It's an oldie, but goodie.)

"You risk your skin catchin' killers and the juries turn 'em loose so they can come back and shoot at you again. If you're honest, you're poor your whole life, and in the end you wind up dyin' all alone on some dirty street. For what? For nothin'. For a tin star."

This must be my Ewan McGregor week as I saw one Netflix film with him and one at the movies.

In Theaters:

Salmon Fishing in Yemen - What a delightful movie. It made me smile and shed a few tears. Kristen Scott Thomas steals the movie playing the Prime Minister's PR person . Ewan McGregor and Emily Blunt make a lovely pair as scientist and representative of the sheik who wants to bring salmon fishing to Yemen. For a feel good movie, see this one.

On Netflix:

Beginners - Christopher Plummer won best supporting actor for this film and he does a fine job with the role. Ewan McGregor plays his son who learns how to live life after observing how his father lives after coming out. The film is based on the director's real life story. I found it slow, but touching.

Reston Community Center:

Once again we went to a performance at the Reston Community Center. This time it was not a play, but a performer. My friend Pat gave us the tickets for a show featuring Grace Kelly. No, she has not be resurrected from the dead, this is Grace Kelly the saxophonist, singer, composer and arranger. She is only 19 and can play a mean sax. She also writes much of her own music and has a lovely voice as well. Her main focus is jazz; not elevator jazz, but fusion jazz. It is an interesting sound and one that I must say I did enjoy being exposed to. If you are a jazz fan and see her around, you won't be disappointed in her show.

A wonderful read:

Dreams of Joy by Lisa See - Last year I read Shanghai Girls by See and this is a follow up to that story. Although you can read it without reading the first, I would recommend you read them in order. This one takes place in China during Mao's Great Leap Forward program. It is heart wrenching. I had visions of what I read for days after I completed the novel. It is a historical fiction and one that was a page turner. Not only is it about China, but it is about family dynamics. I don't believe you will be disappointed in this book.

DWTS

The new season has started and here are my predictions: Although I don't know their names, these are my top picks:

The opera singer
The football star
Disney star Roshon
Urkel - He has had bad press this week which might sway the voters against him!

After watching last night, not sure who will be eliminated tonight. I do think the judges are being exceedingly generous with their scores.

Just my opinion.

Roberta