Monthly Archives: October 2012
Flash Movie Review: The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Looking back at my high school years, the popular kids and jocks made up relatively small groups to the rest of the student body. I had an aunt who mistook my largeness for muscles, telling me I should join the football team. It quickly became apparent I did not belong. My goal was to get through high school unscathed. For all of you who understand me, this is our movie. One of the best movies I have seen this year, I commend author Stephen Chbosky who used his own book to write the screenplay and direct this wonderful film. Incoming freshman Charlie, played by Logan Lerman (Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief, 3:10 to Yuma), already was dealing with family trauma and the loss of his best friend as he floundered to find where he belonged in school. Days of loneliness would pass until seniors Patrick and Sam, played by Ezra Miller (We Need to Talk About Kevin, City Island) and Emma Watson (Harry Potter franchise, My Week With Marilyn) took Charlie into their misfit group. Though lucky to have upperclassmen showing him the way, there would be issues Charlie had to face and conquer alone. The casting of this movie was the icing on the cake to the well thought out story; the actors were a perfect fit together. Emma was so good, not once did I think that was Hermione Granger up on the screen. The trailers for this movie do not really show the depth of the story; this was not a typical goofy high school movie. There were shades of darkness mixed with honest portrayals of real high school events. This was one time where I was able to go back to those school years and have tears of joy, as I applauded with the audience at the end of this impressive film.
3 2/3 stars
Flash Movie Review: Coco Chanel & Igor Stravinsky
Being left-handed, I always said I was in my right mind; though I am sure there are people who would beg to differ. My education took me from science based studies to liberal art courses, so I am familiar with the mindset of both groups. I find it fascinating how creative people see things in a different way. Their imagination takes them beyond the practicality of purpose, creating entirely new items. This stylish movie was nourishment for the creative soul. Set in Paris mostly during the 1920’s; the set designs, the art nouveau trappings and the beautiful camera shots made this film a visual treat to watch. The movie opened with the debut performance of Igor Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring. Seated in the audience was Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, played by Anna Mouglalis (Romanzo Criminale, I Always Wanted to be a Gangster). As the outraged crowd stirred to a riotous pitch, Coco was moved in a different way. It would be several years later at a party where Coco was finally introduced to that same composer Igor Stravinsky, played by Mads Mikkelsen (Casino Royale, Clash of the Titans). From the start there was a dynamic connection between the two creative geniuses. Coco offered her country estate to Igor and his family, who were living off the generosity of others since they left Russia. Within the confides of her immaculate house, the two individuals were pressed into a world of ultimate imagination and passion. I have not delved into the story, to see how accurate these events were in real life. Truthfully, I am curious but do not think it would change my opinion of the the movie itself. The acting smoldered throughout each sumptuous set. It was fascinating to watch Coco seeking out the perfect scent for what would become her signature perfume: Chanel No. 5. From a movie standpoint, this film told a captivating story about two visionaries who were changing the world. French and Russian with English subtitles.
3 stars — DVD
moviejoltz 