Blue Valentine (2010)

This movie was probably the worst that I have seen in years. Trashy. A horrible depiction of the poor or struggling. This film much like "Love and Other Drugs" was overly hyped due to the 'celebrities' in the film offering a MUCH better reputation of it than it deserved. I was very excited to see this film going in and even invited a new friend to help celebrate its release. It was filmed like a documentary and offered many scenes out of focus that would have been much better otherwise. Way too many tasteless sex scenes that did not help grow the characters. I never knew them going in - and I never knew them after scenes like the ones mentioned above - nor would I want to know them. It was the most slow moving (for no reason), plotless, loveless, tasteless film - that I have seen. If American audiences are trying to see a documentary type film - please just go watch one. That style for a drama does not work. The only nice thing I can say about this film is that Ryan Gosling has a great agent and knows what characters to choose - talk about typecasting. Regardless, he is talented. Michelle Williams should stick to Dawson's Creek. I walked out of the film. Save your money.

0 out of 5.

Clearview Upper east side - NYC

Blue Valentine (2010)

COMING SOON!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYgr_iGATB4

True Grit (2010)

Beautiful still shots, images that take your breath away and a lovely story about fearlessness. Although, a sad tale "True Grit' was a gorgeously directed film. The design and wardrobe were perfection. On to the faults, casting. I am not a fan of Hailee Steinfeld. I really felt as I watched that she was reading a script or was acting in a dramatic play. Matt Damon was fantastic as always and really led audiences to believe that he was a heartless fool and ultimately, a loving friend. This film had action, true passion and a great way of depicting friendship. I say, see it in theaters, true beauty much like true grit must be seen in the dark.

4 out of 5 stars.

Theater: Regal Union Square Stadium 14 (worst date ever) - NYC

Mammoth (2009)

All I can say is Gael García Bernal.

4 out of 5 stars.

Theater: Netflix

Love and Other Drugs (2010)

First of all, I have been a friend to illness at times in my life...and am no stranger to medicine. Especially, since I have dated an array of various types of doctors - not relevant. Nonetheless, medicine effects peoples lives - some more than others. This film ties medicine, sickness and work ethic together and somehow trys to answer the age-old question of, 'how does one have it all (make money, make time, be smart, fall in love, learn, feel...etc.)'? And, of course, fails. I don't believe that anyone, especially a hollywood film holds the answer to any of lives questions - especially not this one. Although, Anne Hathaway (not a fan) does an excellent job portraying her character, something (maybe Jake's acting) falls short. In summary, a poorly done love story (that is VERY well hyped up by the media - and gives the effect that this film is not as badly done as it actually is). I say, wait for video unless you are bored for a film and have already seen, "Conviction". I give it a 2 out of 5 stars.

PS
For Jake fans, you see his butt (still not worth $13)!

Theater: Clearview at First and 62nd Cinemas, UES (on one of the most beautiful nights in NYC).

The Age of Innocence (1993)

This film appears to audiences as an unrealistic portrayal of the choices men "used to" make...in a very beautifully done era. I think, if this story is true (it was dedicated to Scorsese's father) that it's ones personal opinion whether the plot - was the right or wrong choice. Some liberal minded men and women, might agree that the decision to be with a person purly has to do with lust...others, 'the ideal package'. In my humble opinion, its very sad and wrong when a man enters a marriage and is not absolutely, completely faithful in every way that marriage/commitment intends it to be. I'm not saying that there was or wasn't cheating in this movie, its up to you. My personal opinion, is that all of the main characters were in the wrong place at the wrong time...and I certainly would not want to be the wife (in any era, corsets and money, or not). If love is ideal, it is with the one person who you have chosen - and that is it. I give it a 3 out of 5 stars for the simple fact that if this is a real story, then I pity Martin Scorsese's mother.

Love Story (1970)

I haven't seen a true romance film in such a long time due to a horrible relationship I was in. Recently, I felt ready to - and my first choice was this film directed by Arthur Hiller. Having spent much time in Boston and living in NYC, I can relate to the hard work, education and money issues that this couple faces - all the while thinking how lucky they were to have one another. This is a love story based around the 'need' for another, but is displayed in a graceful way of 'want and desire'. This couple genuinely loves one another and they help each other to grow - as individuals. I'm not a fan of Jennifer, Ali MacGraw's character but I do like the way (as a couple) they just seem to work - and of course, how easily the man falls in love with the woman. Seemingly unrealistic, yet realistic at the same time, this portrayal of love...just fits. Just as they do. I adore this film, along with it's sister flick "The Way We Were". 5 out of 5 stars.

Theater: Netflix