The One Where I Celebrate the Inauguration by Reviewing Movies [ January 20, 2009, 8:18 pm ]

Today is a good day. The obvious reason why is that Obama was sworn in today. And did I cry when I heard his speech? Of course I did. This is such a historical moment for the country. I think we've progressed so much and he truly is the beacon of hope that so many people need in these dismal times. So it was amazing to see him sworn in today.

The other, not-so-well-known reason that today is good is because on this day, twenty-something years ago, my very good friend Brett was born. And if you don't know him I feel bad because you're missing out because there's nearly nobody in this world who can make me laugh like he can. So birthday wishes go out to him via this little ol' blog.

Because of Brett I am turning into a bona fide' movie snob. (Sidenote: I totally almost just said "movie star". Oh yes I did.) He always has good movie recommendations and most of the time I trust him. This year, though, this boy has me going to the theater almost weekly to keep up with the plethora of award-caliber movies that are out. As such, I present Krissy the Movie Critic (!!!), where I talk about the potential Oscar contenders and more importantly--my thoughts on them.

The Reader: I keep going back and forth in my mind about this. Is it a good movie that I just don't get?!? Or is it just not a good movie? I just think it's not a good movie in all honesty. Kate Winslet is good in this, but I didn't like her character. And while the plot was decent I think it could have been stronger. On the bright side if you want to watch quasi-soft core porn this movie is for you because there is a decent amount of nudity. Like dude--seriously this movie brought out my prude-ish side. And I ain't no prude.

Doubt: There are phenomenal performances in this movie from the three main actors and also from the woman who plays the mom. (You'll know what I'm talking about if you watch it, but I'm too lazy to go to IMDB. Sorry.) The acting made the movie. It's a great script (it was based on a play, which I have a feeling is phenomenal on-stage) but the movie felt like it was lacking a certain...zing or gripping factor that was promised in the trailer. It gives good food for thought, though, and worth $9 for Meryl Streep's performance.

Gran Torino: Speaking of trailers I thought this movie was going to be Dirty Harry: Suck it Retirement. It was only after I read a couple of bloggy reviews and found out that it takes place in Detroit that I got interested in seeing it. And I'm very glad I did. The trailer is misleading in the fact that it looks like Clint is kicking some young people ass throughout the flick. In all reality, it's a much quieter movie about a retired Ford worker dealing with racial issues and tension in his immigrant-heavy neighborhood. It was very touching, well written and well acted. This is one of those movies that stays with you after the credits roll. I can't believe I'm saying this becuase it doesn't sound very Krissy-like, but I'm a Clint fan now.*

Slumdog Millionaire: Three words to describe this movie: Oh. My. God. Just see it. Seriously. I loved everything about this movie. I thought the story-telling format was brilliant, the acting was great, the plot provided an emotional (and emotionally satisfying) rollercoaster and the overall theme is uplifting and satisfying. I saw this over a month ago and it's still with me. I love the overarching message that everything happens for a reason and because of that you need to keep the faith. It's an emotionally intense movie--I was on the verge of tears, if not bawling, for a good part of the movie. I walked out of the theater, looked at Brett and blurted out "that was better than sex!" Not that, uh...anyway seriously it's THAT GOOD. It swept the Golden Globes for a good reason. This is one of those rare movies that could actually transform how you think about certain things. I think this is the reason that movies get made, but that very few achieve. Just...see it. If you don't you'll be missing out.

So! To recap it's Obama's inauguration day and Brett's bday and I couldn't think of a better way to celebrate than to spew out my opinions on some movies in the theater. Because I'm that cool.

* To clarify I adored Million Dollar Baby (another one that stays with you after you leave the theater) but liking one movie does not a fan make.

last - next

navigate
current
archives
profile
twitter
notes
host
design