"Change of Plans" ("Le code a change")

Eight very diverse characters gather for a an annual dinner. (Some reluctantly, one invited at the last minute.) You are introduced to them en route, or, a couple of them in doctors' offices, two of them at a Flamenco dance class. and from their conversation, and from flashbacks trying to sort out the relationships is a bit challenging, but fascinating. What a "cast" of diners! Absolutely best ensemble cast of French actors -- I recognized Dany Boon (from "MicMacs") and Patrick Bruel who plays a doctor who specializes in Cancer patients. The writers are Christopher Thaompson and Daniele Thompson (She's also the Director). I'm not that familiar with the names of all the actors, but recognized most of their faces. And they are each and all really marvelous. I wish could give this movie 4 stars, but I can't because it was too complicated, so I have to lower it to TWO and a HALF STARS. (While I was watching it, I loved it. It kept me totally engaged and interested -- but to honor "truth in advertising," I have to say I think it tried to do too much in the time allotted, making it confusing. Or maybe it was just me? I may go see it again, just to find out if I can figure out all the relationships more accurately. Oh, the music was great! SP

"R.E.D."

Absurd, ridiculous, great fun!! Fantastic cast to die for (literally as well as figuratively). I don't want to tell too much, no 'spoiler' am I, suffice to say that RED stands for Retired-Extremely-Dangerous, and among those so designated by the CIA, are Bruce Willis (bald as always, especially satisfyingt to see him perfect in his role!), John Malkovich (you can always depend on him to be way out there, and he does not disappoint), and unbelievably, Helen Mirren. There are love interests (Mary Louise Parker splendid in her non-CIA role), and of course lots of shooting and enough car chases to satisfy any enthusiast. Despite the tongue-in-cheek possibilities, everyone plays it perfectly as if it were a serious spy thriller. I loved it! My apologies for not remembering the name of the marvelous actor who played the part of the Russian. Oh, and delighted to see Richard Dryfus again.(Of course, you must, as they say -- and I've always wanted to say: "Suspend disbelief" and just enjoy." FOUR STARS on the enjoyment meter. SP

"Tamara Drewe"

Despite the fact that I could not understand some of the dialogue ( it was in British English, and I simply cannot follow those accents), I have to say this was a marvelous film! First rate, even flawless, acting by an outstanding ensemble cast, portraying fascinating characters. Story takes place in a rural farm setting where writers take a few weeks each season to hone their skills. While they are there, they get involved with one another, as well as the local residents, in varying degrees. Tamara Drewe is the focal point of action, as she, having had rhinoplasty (commonly known as a nose job) returns to her home transformed into a really sexy babe, and through some flashbacks you see how much of a transformation it is. Lots of what the Brits call "shagging" goes on-- but not too graphic for my puritannical eye -- mostly pretty humorous! Included is a wonderful "rock star" drummer (Punk?)--and great music. Add to the mix a couple of bored young local girls creating havoc. I have to give this unusual film FOUR STARS, because it's really good! (Am I the only one who could use subtitles for British films?) SP

Agatha Christie and Sir Walter Scott

Moving pictures created in the mind's eye though the ancient medium (hopefully not an endangered species) of real books, in hard copy. Agatha Christie is probably the most prolific mystery writer of all time (as well as very beloved ). I recently finished NEMESIS and THE SLEEPING MURDERS, both of which I thoroughly enjoyed. The "detective" in each of these is Miss Marple, a mild mannered, proper British lady in her seventies. I like the way Christie describes in great detail the thought processes of this elderly crime solver. (Most of Christie's novels feature Hercule Poirot as the solver of crimes, using his "little grey cells.") There have been multiple Television adaptations of Agatha's books.) Then we have the classic, IVANHOE, the creation of Sir Walter Scott, which is not so easy reading, but well worth the effort, because, despite the constant use of olde English words that I do not understand, still I found myself transported into the realm of knights and scoundrels during the time of Richard the Lion Hearted's imprisonment and absence from his Kingdom. It's a story of romance and revenge, intrique, yet there's a code of honor - even among thieves. (It also describes the horrible anti-semitism and persecution that was prevalent in those days of Norman dominance. (Not to mention the lot of the Saxons.) Ah, "Man's inhumanity to man." Buy a book, folks, or go to the Library! (Yes, I know, some of you will read books electronically, but for me, I want to hold a book in my hands and turn pages of paper.) Of course, I will still to to the movies. Stay tuned...SP

"It's Kind of a Funny Story"

Big surprise for me! This film, directed and written by Anna Bodon and Ryan Fleck with a third writer, Ned Vizzini, far exceeded my expectations. A story focusing on teenage angst (our hero is a depressed, 16 year old boy, contemplating suicide, who checks himself into a mental hospital to get help) would not usually bring forth accolades from me -- but this was so well done, so expertly acted by Keir Gilchrist as Craig (who also narrates the story -- which is actually quite funny in places, but mostly it's an insightful drama), makes you care about him, as well as Bobby, who is marvelously, and I do mean marvelously played by Zack Galifinakis, delivering dialogue with brilliant timing and subtle nuances of expression . If that isn't effusive enough for you, let me also mention charming and talented Emma Roberts playing another 16 year old patient at the hospital. Every word of the diaglogue is a gem, and there are other fascinating characters to meet as well. Would you want to spend your vacation in a mental hospital? Well, I spent one hour and 20 minutes there today (vicariously, of course) and enjoyed every minute of it! (errata: fun to see Lauren Graham (of "Gilmore Girls" fame) as Craig's mother-- although just briefly.) Can you guess how many STARS? Try the number after three and before five. Yes! FOUR!

"Secretariat"

What a great movie! Never mind the Wall Street Journal's cynical reviewer, Joe Morgenstern, who complained tht it included too many "life lessons." Come on Joe, lighten up! It's Disney for heaven's sake! And it's about time something really worthwhile for family viewing showed up on the screeen. Often the term "family film" is like the kiss of death, but in this case it speaks of entertainment that people of all ages can revel in. Roger Ebert got it right giving highest marks (100!) to "Secretariat.' the story of the greatest race horse that ever lived. Wonderfully photographed (see those galloping hooves kicking up the dirt!), professionally acted (everyone in the marvelous cast was great: Diane Lane, outstanding in her best work ever; John Malkovich, always unique and marvelous, and you've got to love Margo Martindale, everyone needs a friend like "Miss Hamm") Even the kids in it portrayed interesting individuals. Whether you ride horses or not, bet on horses or not, love them or not- you're sure to be swept up in the excitement and suspense, yes, suspense! -- (even though we know the final outcome of Secretariat's noble career. It is reassuring that a quality film such as "Secretariat" is doing so well at the box office. FOUR STARS ---and 37 lengths ahead.. SP

"The Social Network"

What can I say(that hasn't already been said)? about this "based on a true story" film of the creation of the world wide sensation that is FACE BOOK! Outstanding dialogue and acting, Critics are raving about it, audiences are going in droves. I liked it a lot. (Even though I'm not usually a fan of the guy who played the lead -- he was excellent in this.) FACE BOOK is a cultural phenomenon -- so it's pretty much a must-see movie. Obviously, a
FOUR STAR treat.

"Kings of Pastry"

Suspense, heightened emotion, grown men cry -- as Pastry Chefs from around the world gather in France to compete, not so much against each other, but fighting the clock and the ingredients (and the humidity -- which affects the sugar) to create gorgeous edible works of art so that they can win the honored title "MOF" (can't translate the French words, sorry) designation, presented by the President of France, and wear the coveted special red/blue/white collar which identifies them as the very best! (How's that for a long sentence!) Fascinating, mouth watering documentary. FOUR STARS! (Remember, I don't go to movies that I am fairly certain in advance that I won't like, thus, most of the films I do see will be rated either high:Three, or highest: Four Stars!) SP

Genius Within: The Inner Life of Glenn Gould"

Piano virtuoso, icon in the music world. This excellent documentary of Glenn Gould's life is filled with the magic of his playing. Watching his fingers fly over the keys with exquisite precision and joy is a delight both to the eyes and the result, of course to the ears. He was one of a kind. Died at 50 - in the Eighties. Wonderful clips with comments by other musicians and a few close friends (including women/girlfriends). If you've ever played piano, or been to a concert or recital, you're bound to appreciate this wonderful film. (The scenes between Gould and Leonard Berstein, the famous Conductor are great! "Who's the Boss?" read the headlines back in the day of one of Gould's few live concerts!) Glenn Gould went out of his way to present a quirky, withdrawn public persona, which belied -- mostly -- his actual charming (when he wanted to be) and affectionate (especially with children) self. FOUR STARS and APPLAUSE!

"Altiplano"

In Spanish, French, Farsi, Quechua (sp?) and English, this marvelous film is unforgettable. It starts with the most ear shattering wail/song of a beautiful Indian woman in the midst of gorgeous mountain scenery high in the Andes of Peru. Village residents are going blind and dying from Mercury Poisoning caused by the mining that is being done; but they don't understand the cause. (They try faith healers. The doctors in the Cataract Clinic can't help, and the locals turn on them in anger.) There's a romance, also. Fantastic photography -- different from anything I've ever seen. the film is heartrending in its reality, and gets into your subconscious with its surrealism. A blind sculptor is repairing a fallen statue of the Madonna, which was being carried in a traditional celebration when it fell. The symbolism, the artistry, the craftmanship of this movie is exquisite -- and disturbing. The music is magnificent. The acting is so real, that it amazed me. FOUR STARS, for sure. (I doubt if this film will show in general release, I caught it during the week it played at a local art house.) SP

MY TOUCHSTONE FOR RATING THE MOVIES

You may have noticed that I seldom give less than THREE STARS to any of the films I review -- and often give FOUR. (That's as high as I want to count.) Perhaps I'm too easily pleased. Basically I don't want to be offended or bored. And I avoid seeing things I am pretty sure I would not like, so why bother? I don't want to waste my time and money on Horror films, Vampire films, and those that are obviously made (usually shown during summer vacation) for boys in Jr. High School. I also am careful about seeing any that get really bad reviews from the professional critics (though sometimes they are wrong! ) As someone pointed out to me, the Critics get paid for being critical; I just review because I want to. Some films I have liked a lot got only mixed reviews by the "professionals" I get information and impressions from newspaper ads and columnists in the L.A. Times, and from http://www.metacric.com/ and occasionally from a friend's recommendation. So, there you have it, more than you ever wanted to know about the back story behind my deathless prose. Stay tuned for "The Social Network" -- everyone is raving about it. I'll let you know. SP