Wednesday, October 26, 2005

Hunger Site

www.hungersite.com

I've been going to this site for years and clicking on the buttons as well as the associated non-profit organizations on the other tabs. For a few seconds of my time, each day, I've done a little thing that might turn out to mean big things to other people.

In this current time of strife and trouble, it's good to know there are still ways to make a difference. While it is not a big thing, and a lot more can be done, it is something. A way to enable you and me to go out there and do something for others on a consistent basis.

Of course if you have more time or even money to give, by all means do so! But here is a simple way to contribute just a little toward your fellow man, fellow creatures, and planet. Why not go there and give as click? :-)

Movie of the Week - DOOM

Based on the popular first person shooter game, I wasn't too sure what to expect. But, having seen the previews and the fact they stuck in there scenes that put you in the same first person mode you get in the game, I had to check it out.

I was very glad I did! The movie was actually pretty good! Had likeable characters, good fx, wasn't a scare fest, and best of all, had a plausible plot! Whoohoo!

The camera also did some incredible work on facial closeups. Plus the 5 minutes or so the movie goes into first person shooter mode was done at the perfect spot for it. Even better, it was funny! Hilarious scenes at a couple of spots as the shooter guns down the baddies.

A very nice homeage film! ***1/2!!

Friday, October 21, 2005

Musical - Wicked

At least once a year, I go with a friend to a musical. This years big musical was Wicked. Wicked is based on a book which takes an alternative view to the actual facts that worked events up to where you see them in the Wizard of OZ. (So I would not suggest you take young children to this only because it will change the way the look at the movie forever.)

The actresses and actors were totally awesome! The music score is pretty catchy as well. Totally adored the mechanized dragon they put at the top of the stage opening. Also the way they created magic effects, while simple, were very effective. Top of form were the two ladies playing Glenda and the Wicked Witch. They were marvellous! And Glenda has never been more blonde! lol.

The only thing I was not happy with was the piece of the plot that sets the Wicked Witch on her path (She's not Wicked it's just the PR portraying her that way). Supposedly the animals, which here talk and are as intelligent as the humans, are regressing. Their ability for speech stripped away. Yet aside from the weather witch, no one else seems to have powers, therefore how were the animals being stripped of theirs? While they point to OZ and his groupies being the culprits, it is never explained how they managed it since they don't have magic (another reason Elthaba was going to be used, because she did have some.) But aside from this, they did try hard to make other things plausible and fit it to the time line of the original Wizard of OZ.

So overall, it was definitely worth seeing. If you get a chance. Check it out!

Movie of the Week - Just Like Heaven

This is an incredibly cute movie. The chemistry between the principals worked pretty well. A lot of cute funny bits. Some real nice situations, and the strings that attach them are like a revelation. ***1/2

Monday, October 10, 2005

Book Review -- Howl's Moving Castle

Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones (Which is now an animated film by Miyazaki -- for those not in the know he is Japan's version of Walt Disney).

As with all her works, Howl's is a quick read which draws you into the world almost immediately, and was a lot of fun. We follow the adventures of Sophie, the oldest of three, who is sure she will never amount to anything because everyone knows it is the youngest siblings who become rich or have adventures. Yet a chance meeting and a case of mistaken identity will find Sophie cursed and out in the world cavorting with dangerous witches and wizards.

The animated film closely follows most of the major components and the feel of the book and characters, but expect some deviations. I loved both!

Movie of the Week - Wallace and Gromit: Curse of the Were -Rabbit

This film has a short based on the characters of Madagascar -- mainly those crazy adorable penguins! It is not to be missed. I thought my hubby was going to die he was laughing so hard. It is a Christmas piece and it is adorable and quite funny. Those penguins are a total hoot! lol!

Wallace and Gromit were also a lot of fun. There are more rabbit and vegetable jokes than you can possibly want and then some! Subtle subtext for the adults as well as a lot of cute things for the kids. Awesome claywork. A very fun movie! ***3/4!!
Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...