plus 4, Movie review of "Precious" - OpEdNews.com |
- Movie review of "Precious" - OpEdNews.com
- Pam Platt | 'GWTW' at 70: More than just a movie - Courier-Journal
- New animated Disney movie exceeds expectations - Daily Illini
- Movie extra gives back behind the scenes - Worcester Telegram & Gazette
- Houma residents can audition for movie parts - Alexandria Daily Town Talk
| Movie review of "Precious" - OpEdNews.com Posted: 13 Dec 2009 12:41 AM PST Add to My Group If you're not moved and inspired by this film, you have a heart of stone. But it's not sentimental and not without humor. Much of the acting is phenomenal. :::::::: On the way to the movie theater, I was planning to watch a romantic comedy. I'm glad I went instead to see Precious: Based on the Novel "Push" by Sapphire.If you're not moved and inspired by this film, you have a heart of stone. At the end of the movie, the audience applauded. It's a story about an obese African American girl from Harlem, who struggles to overcome the terrible hand she's been dealt in life. Her father sexually abused her, causing her to give birth to two sons, the first of whom has Downs syndrome. Her mother blames Precious for the loss of her husband and physically and emotionally abuses her. Precious is unable to read and write and is relentlessly teased by her classmates. Precious is hopelessly withdrawn. At school she barely interacts with other students mostly ignores her teachers. But she fantasizes about having an affair with her math teacher, and is in fact talented at math. At one point, when a classmate teases her by calling her fat, Precious responds by smacking the classmate. The audience at the theater cheered. You see, already by this time the audience is rooting for Precious, who is played by Gabourey Sidibe, for whom this movie is her debut performance. I doubt that Sidibe will be nominated for an Oscar -- her range of expression isn't broad enough -- but she did a wonderful job at developing the character of Precious and evoking the viewer's sympathy. The actress (Mo'nique) who plays Precious' mother deserves an Oscar nonimation for best supporting actress. At the end of the movie, we realize that as terrible as the mother is -- she's uneducated, selfish, violently and emotionally abusive, a smoker, and she failed to stop her husband from abusing her daughter -- she is largely a victim of circumstances. The story revolves around Precious' efforts to lift herself out of the horrible situation she finds herself in. Precious leaves her regular school, where she doesn't fit in, and starts attending a remedial school, where a a teacher and social worker show concern for her plight. (Teachers and social workers will be inspired by their example.) Some of the best scenes in the movie involve the interactions among the colorful, multicultural students who attend class with Precious. Their stories, hopes, and humor draw Precious out of her shell. The movie made me appreciate the value of education, birth control, empathy, and social work. The movie is not sentimental. The end isn't all cheery. But it is uplifting, and should cause some people to care more for the fellow human beings.
DFA organizer, Democratic Precinct Committee Officer, writer, programmer, and lyricist. My op-ed pieces have appeared in the Seattle Times, the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, and elsewhere. See http://TruthSite.org for my writing, my musical (more...) Films/Videos/DVDs: The Current Children's Crop. (movie review): An article from: Childhood Education by Nancy S. Maldonado $5.95 The History Teacher's Movie Guide: Choosing and Using the Right Films for Your Classroom by Richard Di Giacomo $17.50 Team colors: film explores racial divide in 1930s America.(The Great Debaters )(Movie review): An article from: Education Next by David Steiner $9.95 The Video Source Book: A Guide to Programs Currently Available on Video in the Areas of : Movies/Entertainment, General Interest/Education, Sports/Recreation, Fine Arts, hea (23rd ed) by Gale Group $325.00
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fivefilters.org featured article: Normalising the crime of the century by John Pilger |
| Pam Platt | 'GWTW' at 70: More than just a movie - Courier-Journal Posted: 13 Dec 2009 12:05 AM PST [fivefilters.org: unable to retrieve full-text content] I am such a movie floozy that my family swears I never saw a film I didn't like. I'm not quite that easy, but it is true that the only movie I remember walking out of was a long-ago Clint Eastwood flick called "Joe Kidd," and that's because ... |
| New animated Disney movie exceeds expectations - Daily Illini Posted: 13 Dec 2009 02:14 AM PST So, I will admit that my primary reason for going to see the newest Disney princess film was not to be captivated by the sophisticated storytelling and intellectual commentary. It was to support the first Disney princess film to feature a black princess. Why this is important to many black Americans, specifically young black girls, is another blog post in itself. Though, having finally seen the movie (after a four year wait), I must say that the movie and its overall quality exceeded my mediocre expectation. First of all, I purchased my ticket expecting to see a cutesy Disney story about a young princess falling in love. Having seen numerous commercials, I predicted there'd be the usual one-sided characters, sappy music and formulaic Disney storyline (you know: girl meets boy, girl and boy fall in love, girl and boy's love is disrupted by an evil mastermind, girl and boy attempt to escape the sinister doings of the mastermind while meeting many happy new friends along the way, girl and boy live happily ever after). While these devices were certainly there, Disney's Princess and the Frog actually offered a variety of new twists and elements to the usual formula. They took the same old Disney recipe we know and love and revamped it, making it seem new and fresh. This was done by not only mixing up the featured princess' race, culture and class, but by including an exciting supporting cast, lively music, coordinated colors and clever humor. The film's jokes and innuendos seemed a bit racier than what I've seen in previous Disney films. In this one, the prince, Prince Naveen, comes off as somewhat of a self-proclaimed man-whore who has been cut off by his royal family because of his careless playboy ways. Naveen comes to New Orleans expecting to marry someone like the rich Charlotte La Bouff, whose interest in the opposite sex is just as strong as Naveen's. Charlotte's mannerisms reminded me of the man-hungry Blanche Devereaux from the TV show the Golden Girls. The film also ups the scary factor for it's villain (Dr. Facilier, aka "Shadow Man"). The voodoo master conjures up some pretty darn scary shadow demons who bargain and gamble with him for souls (yeah, pretty deep and very creepy on screen). Thus, this tale is not a watered down goofy cartoon full of childish slapstick and fart jokes. Rather, the story manages to be charming and hilarious without crossing the borders of maturity. It's just funny- not childish funny or mature funny, just funny. It's kind of like Arthur humor. You remember Arthur, the PBS cartoon that you still watch today because, unlike other kid's shows, its humor is neither too childish nor too adult; it's just flat out funny and entertaining. Likewise, Frog's humor is composed of uncomfortable situations, witty one-liners and awkward silences that anyone would find truly hilarious. What also makes Frog stand out is its use of color, movement, music and scenery. The elements combine to form a mesmerizing experience that, despite the formulaic storyline, keeps your eyes on the screen. As if real 1930s Louisiana was not vibrant enough (what with the music, celebration, cultural mixes and history), this animated version stays true to the film's arching theme of revamping/re-introducing classic memories to a new generation. Accordingly, the musical includes traditional New Orleans jazz, gospel and soul music. All the elements, while great on their own, blend together well, like a spicy Jambalaya that leaves you wanting more. Nevertheless, there are a few disappointments regarding the film. In other classic Disney films the characters, especially the princesses, are usually motivated by deep, well-rounded aspirations that comment on the culture, values and core beings of the story's characters. Mulan, for instance, did not join an all male army simply for laughs and giggles. She did it out of honor and pride for her family and ancestors — a core value in many Asian cultures. Disney's Hercules not only saved the day over and over again, but learned what it means to grow from being a boy to a man. Even Pocahontas' journey was less about talking willow trees and agitated hummingbirds and more about breaking racial barriers and honoring one's culture. Princess Tiana and her moments as a frog, however, do not explicitly deal with such issues. Tiana's main motivation is based on a "pipe dream" that she hopes will come true if she wishes hard enough on a shining star. Implicitly, however, Tiana's chosen race, culture and class seem to send big messages of their own. The film has also been heavily targeted toward girls. I fear that some male children will be discouraged from seeing the film because of the way it's advertised. Hopefully, this is not the case as, despite the media's focus on the film's influence on young girls, the film itself didn't seem to tailor to a particular gender. Prince Naveen, the silly crocodile and the hilarious firefly are just as lovable as the princess herself. If boys can make it into the theater despite ads for the film featuring a beautiful princess rather than adventurous bugs, a family of superheroes or talking racecars, I think they will have no trouble being entertained. All in all, I am impressed by the film. There are still many many traditional Disney clichés such as the princess' strong connection to her father (a la Aladdin's Jasmine or Beauty's Belle), the smart alec sidekick (a la Mermaid's Sebastian or Mulan's Mushu), the aging "I was so cool back in my day" villain (a la Cruella Deville or Jafar) and the cheesy "this is my dream and motive for the movie" song ( a la "I just can't wait to be King" or "Part of your World" a.k.a. 'Where the People are'). Nonetheless, the Princess and the Frog comes across as very fresh and new. Maybe it's the fact the Princess is black this time, maybe it's that the film is an actual 2-D cartoon or maybe it's simply because the film is well written and produced. Whatever the reason, there is definitely something about this movie that makes me really happy that I've gone to see it. I am also glad to say that after having seen it, I've gotten a lot more out of it than just being able to say that I supported the newest, pioneering Disney film. fivefilters.org featured article: Normalising the crime of the century by John Pilger |
| Movie extra gives back behind the scenes - Worcester Telegram & Gazette Posted: 13 Dec 2009 01:31 AM PST
Despite a distracting year filled with challenges and adventures, Steven Russell Bott of Millbury remained one of the largest individual donors to the Telegram & Gazette Santa Fund again this year.
During the summer, Mr. Bott got engaged, took a trip to Finland, bought a house and spent nine days playing an extra in a movie that put him in scenes with such stars as Salma Hayek, Adam Sandler, Chris Rock, David Spade and Kevin James. The movie, "Grown Ups," set for release in June, is about a group of friends who reunite 30 years after their high school graduation. "It was amazing. In one scene, I got to sit on the bleachers right behind Salma Hayek. She is gorgeous," Mr. Bott said. He said his adventure into movies began in June, when he got engaged to fellow Millbury High School graduate Dawn Zeek, an aspiring actress who had spent some time in California, where she earned her Screen Actors Guild union card. "I went with her when she went to try out for a part in the movie. I signed up to be an extra, and got the call," Mr. Bott said. He reported to Essex for filming for nine days in a row in July, he said. "Every day, fewer of us were called. They kept calling me back. We worked 12- or 14-hour days. I was in a lake scene sitting by a boat dock and a lot of other scenes. It was fun, but it was long. And I had to wear the same clothes every day." After filming, he'd drive home and wash his clothes for the next day's shoot. He said to look for him in previews and when the movie comes out June 25. "They told us not to wear anything with team logos, but I wore a Red Sox straw hat with a big B on it and a Red Sox Hawaiian shirt," he said. Other adventures this year included his sixth trip to Finland to visit Ben Bloomqvist, an exchange student at Millbury High in the 1980s who became friends with Mr. Bott. With all these adventures, Mr. Bott did not forget those in need. As he has for years, he donated $3,300 this year to the T&G Santa Fund in honor of all prisoners of war and those missing in action. He said he hoped the donation would bring some comfort to his father, George Bott of Millbury. George Bott's brother, Russell P. Bott, has been missing in action since the Vietnam War. Brother Fred Bott was killed in the Korean War. "My father was serving, too. He had to fly home with his brother's body from Korea. Then, he never found out what happened to my uncle, who was a POW in Vietnam. It's been 43 years. My father needs closure. He was close with his brothers," Mr. Bott said, adding that he is very close to his four brothers. Mr. Bott's donation to the T&G Santa is signed from "SRB33," representing Mr. Bott's initials plus former Celtic Larry Bird's jersey number. The donation is dated Dec. 7, Larry Bird's 50th birthday. Mr. Bott, a Celtics fan, was a former basketball star at Millbury High School, which he helped lead to a state final in 1986. After graduation, he considered entering the military, but instead went to work at Norton Co. in Worcester, intending to work for a while before enlisting. An industrial accident on Oct. 26, 1990, left him with severe brain and spinal cord injuries. He remains partially paralyzed on his right side, but is extremely active, driving a modified car, coaching youth basketball and volunteering at the Elmwood Street School. "I have a low immune system, so I've had to stay away from the school this year. I really miss the kids. They're great," he said. He donated three cases of Kleenex to the school last week to help keep expenses down during the cold and flu season. Mr. Bott said, "I do what I can for children. I wish I could give more. I hope others will donate, too. The kids need it. Their happiness is what Christmas is all about." The T&G Santa is holding its annual fund drive. In its 71st year, the T&G Santa Fund collects thousands of donations from generous readers and area residents to help buy toys for children in need in Central Massachusetts. Children 12 and younger who would otherwise not receive any holiday gifts are eligible to receive two toys each. When signing up at an area agency, parents or guardians should bring personal identification for each family member and proof of address and income. No applications will be accepted directly by the T&G. Area agencies accepting applications for assistance include: the Salvation Army, Catholic Charities Family and Children's Services of Southbridge, Gardner Community Action Committee, WHEAT Community Services and Winchendon Community Action Committee. Anyone who wishes to contribute to the fund can do so by clipping and filling out the form in the newspaper and mailing it to Telegram & Gazette Santa Fund, c/o Commerce Bank, P.O. Box 15204, Worcester, MA 01615-0204 or by going to www.telegram.com/santa to donate by credit card. PREVIOUS BALANCE $44,953.79 CONTRIBUTIONS Paxton Post 306 American Legion $200 Santa's Helper $150 Can and Bottle Money $101.11 David Winn; Melvin Cutler Charitable Foundation $100 Santa's Helper $100 The Restuccia Family $100 Vern Prentice $100 3 - 11 Care Club at St. Camillus Healthcare $75 Casey, Sean, Connor and Molly $50 Employees at Butler Dearden Paper Service, Inc. $50 In lieu of Christmas Cards; LAM $50 Liucija $50 Santa's Helper $50 Emma and Kate; Nana $40 Santa's Helper $30 Our Loved "Fur Child" Millie Jo $25 Our Loved "Fur Child" Mitzy Moo $25 Santa's Helper $25 Santa's Helper $25 Sofia Maria Renzoni; Granna and Grandpa $25 Pete and Linda Spencer $20 Santa's Helper $20 Lauren and Derek; Great Gram $10 IN MEMORY OF David M. Huntington; our Honey, Dad & Grampy $600 Gramma & Grampa Van, Gramma & Grampa K.; Rebecca. Rachel & Andrew $500 Nathalie & Leo, Estelle & Joseph $250 Ernest and Mae Ryan $200 Jeepy and Gub $200 Kenny J $200 Grandpa Gary; Love Autumn and Hannah $100.10 Beverly Gouldrup Mazan; Melissa Mazan $100 E.T.S. Sr.; Love, Jennie $100 Mom & Dad Hines, Grampy & Grammy Hines $100 Myrtle Douglas; Caroline and family $100 Sonia Werblin Masterman $100 Alicia Jane Ela; Patti and Ron Rose $50 Claude and Reba Ide; Family $50 Great Grampa, Great Nana, Nannie; Casey & Cody $50 Kathy Trott; The Trott Family $50 Larry Sironen; Rita and Earl $50 Lorraine Blanchard; The Anderson family $50 Prosper Culliton; Claire and Norm $50 Ronnie "Reg" Dupont; Love, Mom $50 Shirley A. Norcross; Don & Marilyn Norcross $50 Shirley Musci, my mother; Paul and Maria Laverty $50 Sonya $50 Uncle Pics $50 Yvonne, Edgar, Edgar Jr., Arthur Bourgea; Al & Shirley Gould $50 Walter "Roger" Zisk, Pepper & Mo Mo $45 Dirk Brown, Barbara & Philip Morine & Butch Morine $40 "Boo Tony" Mikolajczak; niece Christina $30 Evelyn; daughter Susan $30 Mary Ann Marshalkowski, Roberta Brisbois, Patricia Mahan; Jean & Bob Marchalkowski $30 Michael Drake, Mom & Dad Coombs; Sheila and Dennis Drake $30 Mr. & Mrs. Fred Gregory, Mr. & Mrs. Richard Anderson; The Gregorys $30 Bud Dumais and other loved ones; Their family $25 Dennis Bellville; Butch and Judy $25 Dr. Thomas O'Brien, DPM; Pete Dubois $25 Edward, Mary & David Salmon; Phil, Mary & Patrick Salmon $25 Elaine Russell Dunn; Caroline Sherman $25 Grendl $25 My Dad Jack Maroney, Miss you so much!; Your daughter Katie $25 My wife Pauline $25 Our Beloved "Fur Child" Cupid Bridgett $25 Our Beloved "Fur Child" Molly Marie $25 Our parents Dennis & Mary O'Leary, Joe & Mary Brennan; Al & Mary $25 Walter and Patricia Rafferty; Phil, Mary & Patrick Salmon $25 Andrew Black; Vyto, Mary & Julia $20 Harold and Peg Brandes; Sparky and GiGi $20 Linda Hamilton; her godmother Mary Joan Boire $20 Michael and Derek; Gramma and Grandpa $20 Chet Grudzinski; Chris Grudzinski $10 Departed family & friends; Mr. & Mrs. Charles French & family $10 Great Grandparents; Steve, Brian, Scott, Joe & Lauren $10 Don Olson my favorite "turtle" with all my love; your "lady bug" Judy $5 The star on the "dressing room door" and the lady with the "life savers"; Love, Judy $5 TODAY'S TOTAL $5,276.21 GRAND TOTAL $50,230
fivefilters.org featured article: Normalising the crime of the century by John Pilger |
| Houma residents can audition for movie parts - Alexandria Daily Town Talk Posted: 13 Dec 2009 12:41 AM PST HOUMA, La. — It's another chance for Louisianians to be in the movies. Auditions for the film, produced by New Orleans-based Court 13, are set for 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday on the second floor of the Terrebonne Parish Main Library. According to The Courier newspaper of Houma, the movie will center on a girl and her relationship with her father as a storm approaches. fivefilters.org featured article: Normalising the crime of the century by John Pilger |
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