Jazz, Booze, and Drag – Some Like it Hot!

Posted by donnamarie on June 4, 2017

The Comedy Classic Some Like It Hot (1959)

BACK IN THEATERS JUNE 11th and 14th

Experience one of Marilyn Monroe’s most iconic roles as it was always meant to be seen.

Special commentary from TCM host Tiffany Vazquez.

Some Like It Hot

With no money and nowhere to hide, two down on their luck jazz musicians (Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon) masquerade as members of an all-girl band, leading to a number of romantic complications when one falls for the band’s lead singer (Sugar Cane) played by Marilyn Monroe.

Tony Curtis, Jack Lemmon, Marilyn Monroe

Some Like It Hot is a 1959 American romantic comedy film set in 1929, directed and produced by Billy Wilder, starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon. The supporting cast includes George Raft, Pat O’Brien, Joe E. Brown, Joan Shawlee, and Nehemiah Persoff.

The plot is based on a screenplay by Billy Wilder and Michael Logan from the French film Fanfare of Love. The film is about two musicians who dress in drag in order to escape from mafia gangsters whom they witnessed commit a crime inspired by the Saint Valentine’s Day Massacre. The film was produced in black and white, even though color films were increasing in popularity. (Wikipedia)

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Some Like It Hot opened to largely positive reviews and is today considered to be one of the greatest film comedies of all time. It was voted as the top comedy film by the American Film Institute on their list on AFI’s 100 Years… 100 Laughs poll in 2000. The film is also notable for featuring cross-dressing, and for playing with the idea of homosexuality, which led to it being produced without approval from the Motion Picture Production Code.

The code had been gradually weakening in its scope during the early 1950s, due to increasing social tolerance for previously taboo topics in film, but it was still officially enforced. The overwhelming success of Some Like It Hot was a final nail in the coffin for the Hays Code. (Wikipedia)

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I love Billy Wilder because of his versatility in films and his testing the boundaries of societal norms. To that end, the first movie that always comes to mind is “Some Like it Hot”. To find out more about Billy Wilder and his films, check out my post – The Faces Behind the Camera.

Billy Wilder

I highly recommend taking advantage of this opportunity to see “Some Like it Hot” on the big screen!

Get tickets here.

Long Live Rock Movies! 😎🎸

Posted by donnamarie on May 8, 2017

“School of Rock” (2003)

Let’s start with our substitute teacher, Mr. Schneebly – what kid hasn’t wished for a sub like him? No grades, being part of a kick butt rock band, defying parents, breaking the rules. Good, right?

Jack Black’s character Dewey Finn is the forever loser and quintessential wanna be rock star, but when he steals his roommate’s identity as a substitute teacher, (Mr, Schneebly) he discovers he has a class of very musically talented 5th-grade students. So, Dewey decides to turn his class into a rock band to potentially win the Battle of the Bands and $20,000. I won’t spoil whether the kids win or don’t win the battle but as a result of the contest they gain self-confidence and continue to play rock in an after school program coached by Dewey. Long live Rock!

This film totally tapped into my inner rocker!

“The Commitments” (1991)

What happens when a group of white working class Dubliners forms a soul band? A rousing film with some great music inspired by legendary artists, Otis Redding, Aretha Franklin and Wilson Pickett.

The band nails the soul of the greats by immersing themselves 24/7 in classic soul standards:

“In the Midnight Hour” – Wilson Pickett
“Try a Little Tenderness” – Otis Redding
“I Never Loved a Man” – Aretha Franklin

Whether on buses, hanging up laundry or in music store windows, they were feeling the soul. In the words of Félim Gormley (Dean Fay- Saxophone), “I’m black and I’m proud!”

I’m so glad the movie was authentic with the cast singing on the soundtrack. (The actors were cast for their musical abilities.) Lead singer (Andrew Strong “Deco”) was nuts but the standout talent of the band.

The Commitments was voted best Irish film of all time in a 2005 poll sponsored by Jameson Irish Whiskey and launched a generation of Irish musicians and actors.

“This is Spinal Tap” (1984)

OMG, the funniest, dead on satire of a rock metal band ever!

Classic in every sense of the word, Director/Writer Rob Reiner’s masterpiece was also written and scored by the stars:

Rob Reiner – (Marty D. Bergi) – Mokumentarian

Spinal Tap

Christopher Guest – (Nigel Tufnel)

Michael McKean- (David St. Hubbins)

Harry Shearer – (Derek Smalls)

This mockumentary feels so real that some moviegoers thought they were an actual group!

The “Stonehenge” number during the Smell the Glove tour is priceless. Due to a mix up with size dimensions, the Stonehenge replica for their epic song is 18 inches instead of 18 feet tall. The little people performers in the number were taller. And Derek Smalls getting stuck in the stage prop egg is hilarious!

In 2002, This Is Spinal Tap was deemed “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant” by the Library of Congress and was selected for preservation by the United States National Film Registry.

These are 3 of my favorite Rock Movies – Let me know yours in the comments!

Which One is Bigger? Really?!!

Posted by donnamarie on April 26, 2017

Two unstable people with access to nuclear bombs is a serious recipe for disaster! One mad man got elected President. The other is the supreme ruler of N. Korea.

Kim Jung-Un, Trump

This is strikingly close to the storyline of Dr. Strangelove and in reality my daily nightmare!

“Dr. Strangelove” is the 1964 political satire black comedy film that satirizes the Cold War fears of a nuclear conflict between the Soviet Union and the United States. The film was directed, produced, and co-written by Stanley Kubrick, stars Peter Sellers and George C. Scott, and features Sterling Hayden, Keenan Wynn, and Slim Pickens. Production took place in the United Kingdom. The film is loosely based on Peter George‘s thriller novel Red Alert (1958). (Wikipedia)

(“Red Alert” originally published in the UK as Two Hours to Doom, with George using the pseudonym “Peter Bryant”)

The story concerns an unhinged United States Air Force general who orders a first strike nuclear attack on the Soviet Union. It follows the President of the United States, his advisers, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and a Royal Air Force (RAF) officer as they try to recall the bombers to prevent a nuclear apocalypse. It separately follows the crew of one B-52 bomber as they try to deliver their payload.

Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964)

“Dr. Strangelove” is Stanley Kubrick’s masterpiece about the absurdity of war that nevertheless is a daily possibility!

Kubrick filmology

Peter Sellers is at his over the top best with his performance as nutcase Dr. Strangelove. (and a few other characters) A wheelchair-bound nuclear scientist with bizarre ideas about man’s future. The entire war room scene totally represents the lunacy of nuclear war.

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Columbia Pictures agreed to finance the film if Peter Sellers played at least four major roles. The condition stemmed from the studio’s opinion that much of the success of Kubrick’s previous film Lolita (1962) was based on Sellers’s performance in which his single character assumes a number of identities.

Peter Sellers as – President Merkin Muffley, Dr. Strangelove, and Captain Lionel Mandrake

Sellers is said to have improvised much of his dialogue, with Kubrick incorporating the ad-libs into the written screenplay so the improvised lines became part of the official screenplay.

Awards and honors

The film was nominated for four Academy Awards and also seven BAFTA Awards, of which it won four.

Stanley Kubrick

Kubrick won two awards for best director, from the New York Film Critics Circle and the Italian National Syndicate of Film Journalists, and was nominated for one by the Directors Guild of America.

In 1989 the United States Library of Congress included it in the first group of films selected for preservation in the National Film Registry. It was listed as number three on AFI’s 100 Years…100 Laughs list.

Ye Ha! Slim Pickens as Aircraft commander Major T. J. “King” Kong riding the bomb down.

Let us pray this nightmare doesn’t come true!

🎶 Sing!🎶

Posted by donnamarie on April 1, 2017

“All creatures great and small, Welcome.” Buster Moon

I just finished watching the outstanding Illumination Entertainment hit “Sing” (2016) for the 3rd time and cried again for the 3rd time. I always seek to understand my emotions and the source of my feelings, with “Sing” it was all about the exhilaration of doing what you love and the boundless joy that comes with honoring your spirit.

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I shed tears of joy during and after the movie for having the opportunity to share my passion for singing and performing, honoring my spirit. I shed tears of joy for Rosita (Reese Witherspoon) who despite the 25 or if you count her husband Norman, 26 obstacles before her that she would not let deter her, coming up with the most creative plan to make sure she could take her shot.

And then, tears of joy for both Ash (Scarlet Johannson who was incredible!) and Johnny (Taron Egerton-fabulous voice!) for refusing to give up on their dreams despite dealing with disappointment and heartbreak.

Sing is a 2016 American 3D computer-animated musical comedy film produced by Illumination Entertainment. It was directed and written by Garth Jennings and co-directed by Christophe Lourdelet, and stars the voices of Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Seth MacFarlane, Scarlett Johansson, John C. Reilly, Taron Egerton and Tori Kelly. The plot involves a group of animals that enter a singing competition, hosted by a koala hoping to save his theater. (Wikipedia)

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I absolutely love Gunter and his infectious exuberance and living out loud attitude on life. Some may see him as self-absorbed but he was compassionate enough to want to help Rosita fulfill her dreams and showcase her true talents.

Gunter

Talk about self-absorbed, Mike (Seth MacFarlane) is his own biggest fan! Even though most of the time you want to choke him, his smooth, docile toned voice wraps you up in his effortless performance which you have to give him credit for.

Mike

At one point in the film, the performers are waiting to go on stage and theater owner and entrepreneur Buster Moon (Matthew McConaughey) gives them a pep talk telling them it’s a small audience but that’s okay, go out there and perform for yourself. His words so reminded me of my days on the stage and directors imparting the same edict. Have fun, share your passion, and be present in the moment!

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My favorite performer is Meena, that’s why I saved her for last. She touches my heart the most and moves me with the powerfulness of her voice. In the final scene, she literally brings down the house.

Tori Kelly as Meena

First of all, Tori Kelly’s voice is out of this world!! Her final number showcases the power of joy; how it feels to release and give your all and see how that is received. Secondly, witnessing the sheer magic of Meena truly being in the moment and finally coming into her own.

https://youtu.be/g3EO5eWcHyU

I didn’t include that lovable Koala, Buster Moon with the performers although he too realized his dream of being successful; like his motto says, “When you reach rock bottom there’s no place to go but up.” Buster was finally able to pay respect to his dad and their mutual love of the Moon Theater.

Even Miss Crawly and Buster’s best friend Eddie got to be a part of the rebirth of the Moon Theater. And, of course, I can’t leave out Nana who is a serious diva and former star of the Moon Theater. In their totality, Rosita, Ash, Johnny, Mike, Gunter, and Meena all moved her heart and brought back warm memories of her glory days.

Johnny

Meena and Ash

Buster Moon

Miss Crawly

Mike

Nana Noodleman

Eddie

Buster

Rosita

Crooner Mike

Gunter and Rosita

One of the more impressive features of this film is that the cast did all their own singing. I’m of the mind that if an actor can’t both sing and act, don’t hire them for a musical role. I own the soundtrack which is both upbeat and heart-pumping.

The movie includes more than 60 songs from various artists and also has an original song by Stevie Wonder and Ariana Grande called “Faith“, which was nominated for a Golden Globe. I can’t get it out of my head and danced my way out the theater!

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I’m a big fan of Illumination Entertainment best known for the Despicable Me franchise and the films The Secret Life of Pets and Sing. The Minions, characters from the Despicable Me films, are the studio’s official mascots and my favorite buddies.

The studio’s highest-grossing films are Minions (2015), which has grossed $1.159 billion worldwide; Despicable Me 2 (2013), which has grossed $970.8 million worldwide; and The Secret Life of Pets (2016), which grossed $875.5 million worldwide. (Wikipedia)

Illumination knocked it out of the park with this production. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, animated films these days have come a long way since Bambi and aren’t just for kids. The plots, characterizations, and execution are outstanding!

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Hopefuls seeking their place in the limelight.

Voice Cast

Matthew McConaughey as Buster Moon, an optimistic koala who plans to save his theater from closure by holding a singing competition.
Reese Witherspoon as Rosita, a pig who gave up her teenage music dreams to become a devoted wife to Norman, and mother to their 25 piglets.
Seth MacFarlane as Mike, a white mouse “with a big Frank Sinatra-esque voice and an arrogant attitude.”
Scarlett Johansson as Ash, a teenage porcupine and punk rocker who takes part in an alternative-rock music duo with her boyfriend Lance.
John C. Reilly as Eddie, a sheep and Buster’s friend who doubts the future of the theater.
Tori Kelly as Meena, a teenage elephant with an exquisite voice and severe stage fright.
Taron Egerton as Johnny, a teenage gorilla who wants to sing, though his father wants him to follow his criminal footsteps.
Jennifer Saunders as Nana Noodleman, a sheep and Eddie’s grandmother who was a singer in her glory days.
Jennifer Hudson as Young Nana
Garth Jennings as Miss Crawly, an elderly iguana with a glass eye who is Buster’s administrative assistant.
Nick Kroll as Gunter, a dancing pig partner to Rosita.

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All in all, my two very enthusiastic thumbs up!

65th Anniversary 💃🏽 Singin’ in the Rain (1952)

Posted by donnamarie on January 10, 2017

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Fathom Events, Turner Classic Movies, and Warner Bros. Entertainment presents a special two-day event, Singin’ in the Rain 65th Anniversary, in select cinemas nationwide on Sunday, January 15 and Wednesday, January 18.

This special event also includes exclusive commentary from Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz, who will give insight into this classic film.

“Singin’ in the Rain” is on my list as one of the greatest musicals of all time! Funny with incredible dance numbers and a memorable score that will stand for generations.

A previous post on some of my favorite musical moments includes “nails on a chalkboard voice” Lina Lamont (Jean Hagen), who made Number One.

Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds and Donald O’Connor star in one of the greatest musicals ever filmed. Musician Don Lockwood (Kelly) rises to stardom during Hollywood’s silent-movie era–paired with the beautiful, jealous and dumb Lina Lamont (Jean Hagen).

Donald O’Connor, Debbie Reynolds, Gene Kelly

When Lockwood becomes attracted to young studio singer Kathy Selden (Reynolds), Lamont has her fired. But with the introduction of talking pictures, audiences laugh when they hear Lockwood speak for the first time–and the studio uses Selden to dub her voice.

Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds

This special 65th Anniversary Screening is a heartfelt dedication to Debbie Reynolds and in sympathy to the tragic loss of her daughter, actress, and writer Carrie Fisher.

Debbie was only 19 when she was cast in this classic but deftly held her own with the likes of legendary hoofers, Gene Kelly and Donald O’Connor!

Mary Frances “Debbie” Reynolds (April 1, 1932 – December 28, 2016)

In 2002, on the film’s 50th Anniversary, Debbie Reynolds shares her memories on the history and movie magic of “Singin’ in the Rain”.

https://youtu.be/1r6eVIzU-tk

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to see “Singin’ in the Rain” on the big screen as it was originally shown.

“I’ll walk down the lane with a happy refrain…and singin’ just singin’ in the rain.” Gene Kelly

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R.I.P. Debbie and Carrie

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Will 2017 Be Our Groundhog Day⁉

Posted by donnamarie on January 2, 2017

I’ve always believed that we can’t move on to the next level in our life’s journey until we learn the lessons we need to understand. In “Groundhog Day”, Bill Murray has the fortune or misfortune of repeating and repeating again a day which becomes his own private hell.

Groundhog Day (1993) is a hilarious look inside a day in the life of arrogant Pittsburgh TV weatherman Phil Connor (played by Bill Murray) who, during an assignment covering the annual Groundhog Day event in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, finds himself in a time loop, repeating the same day again and again.

This fantasy-comedy directed by Harold Ramis, stars Bill Murray, Andie MacDowell, and Chris Elliott. It was written by Ramis and Danny Rubin, based on a story by Rubin.

Andie MacDowell and Bill Murray

After indulging in hedonism and committing suicide numerous times, Phil begins to re-examine his life and priorities in his quest to end the tortuous nightmare of Groundhog’s Day.

The film is often considered an allegory of self-improvement, emphasizing that happiness comes from placing the needs of others above one’s own selfish desires; definitely, food for thought.

Doing my research I discovered that”Groundhog Day”, as an expression, has become shorthand for the concept of spiritual transcendence. As such, the film has become a favorite of some Buddhists who see its themes of selflessness and rebirth as reflections of their own spiritual messages. (Wikipedia)

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Once Phil decides to use his knowledge of the day’s events to try to better himself and the lives of the townsfolks, over many loops, he learns how to play the piano, sculpt ice, and speak French. He even befriends the relentless, Ned Ryerson, and sets out to avert accidents and disastrous situations that otherwise would have occurred.

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If you believe, you might see versions of reincarnation in the storyline and find great significance in the fact that Connors is saved only after he performs “good deeds” and is returned to earth, not heaven, to perform more.

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Imagining German philosopher Nietzsche’s directive to imagine life—metaphorically or literally—as an endless repetition of events is intriguing. I wonder how would this viewpoint shape our actions?

What would we choose to live out for all eternity?

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Awards

British Comedy Awards 1993 (Comedy Film)
Saturn Award for Best Actress (Film) (Andie MacDowell)

In June 2008, AFI revealed its “Ten Top Ten”—the best ten films in ten “classic” American film genres—after polling over 1,500 people from the creative community. Groundhog Day was acknowledged as the eighth best film in the fantasy genre.

The film is recognized by American Film Institute in these lists:

AFI’s 100 Years…100 Laughs – #34
AFI’s 100 Years…100 Passions – Nominated
AFI’s 100 Years…100 Movies (10th Anniversary Edition) – Nominated

As we journey into 2017, maybe we should take the events of “Groundhog Day” to heart and strive to be more loving and giving in the coming New Year.

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The Coolest Guys to Ever Hit the Vegas Strip!

Posted by donnamarie on December 31, 2016

Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Jr.

This New Year’s Eve some of us movie junkies are staying in for the festivities. If you’re doing the same, I recommend adding to your viewing list, “Ocean’s 11.” It’s a great New Year’s Eve, buddy movie and heist caper all in one. What better way to ring in the new year than with the coolest guys to ever hit the strip.

Ocean’s 11 (1960)

I can just hear Sinatra’s proposal. How about this, we’ll shoot a film during the day in Las Vegas then party and work the Sands Hotel at night. Unanimous vote. (EE-O-Eleven.)

Look out Vegas, here we come!

The Rat Pack: Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Jr.

Humphrey Bogart (regarded as the greatest male star by the American Film Institute in 1999) originated the concept of the “Rat Pack” with his “Clan.” He was “the man”, holding court nightly in the 50’s at Holmby Hills. (home of Bogey and his wife Lauren Bacall) He passed the torch to Frank Sinatra, (an original member of Bogart’s “Pack” who served as “pack master.”) After Bogey’s death in 1957, Frank’s boys became his “Rat Pack.”

Humphrey Bogart

Performers commonly associated with The Rat Pack: Joey Bishop and Peter Lawford.

Angie Dickinson and Shirley MacLaine were often referred to as the “Rat Pack Mascots.”

Peter Lawford, Sammy Davis, Jr, Frank Sinatra, Joey Bishop, Dean Martin

Danny Ocean isn’t really a fictional character, he IS Frank Sinatra. Believe it, his boys would do anything for him. Except for Dean, he was the only one who ever said no to old blue eyes. Frank really dug Dean’s truthfulness.

The plot revolves around a group of former World War II army buddies (under the command of Danny Ocean) conspiring to rob, on New Year’s Eve, five casinos on the Vegas strip. When Peter Lawford presented the story idea Frank Sinatra joked: “Forget the movie, let’s pull the job!”

Whenever one of the “Pack” was performing at a club in Vegas, the others would show up to support and usually put on an impromptu performance. While they were in town, Las Vegas was jam packed with admirers hoping to catch a show.

This performance was on June 20, 1965, featuring, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Jr. Johnny Carson (known for The Tonight Show) served as the emcee, filling in for Joey Bishop who had hurt his back.

It would be their only televised concert together.

Robin and the 7 Hoods 1964

Set in Prohibition-era Chicago, the film is a take on the classic Robin Hood tale. This engaging musical features the Academy Award nominated song “My Kind of Town” sung by Frank Sinatra.

My favorite number is “Mr. Booze” sung by Bing Crosby. I love this scene because Robbo’s (Sinatra) club miraculously converts into a mission (due to some clever architectural tricks) to fool the police during a raid. Robbo’s gang breaks into the gospel version of “Mr. Booze” with Alan A Dale (Crosby) preaching and Little John (Dean) testifying on the lessons of temperance.

Peter Lawford was originally cast as Alan A. Dale, but due to a falling out with Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby took over the role. At the time, Lawford’s brother-in-law was President John F. Kennedy and Lawford had arranged for The President to stay at Sinatra’s home. However, because of concerns over Frank’s ties to the “Mob”, the plans were scrapped.

“Mr. Booze, Mr. Booze, Mr. B double O, Z, E, don’t ever choose.”

Other numbers include:

“Don’t be a Do-Badder” sung by Bing Crosby

“Bang, Bang!” sung by Sammy Davis, Jr.

“Style” sung by Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Bing Crosby

My favorite Rat Pack movie reference line is from Clueless (1995).

Cher’s dad talking to her date who is dressed circa 60’s “Pack” style:

“What’s with you kid? You think the death of Sammy Davis, Jr. left an opening in The Rat Pack?” Too hilarious!!

Over 50 years later, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis, Jr. are still the coolest guys to ever hit the Vegas Strip!

Las Vegas

Ocean’s 11 1960

Sammy “Ocean’s 11” EE-O-Eleven

The Sands Hotel w/Pack

Peter Lawford

Striking the Deal

Walk Away “Ocean’s 11”

Frank Sinatra

Shirley MacLaine – “Rat Pack Mascot”

Dean Martin

“Ocean’s 11 Portrait

Sinatra, Dean, Sammy, Barbara Rush, Crosby

“My Kind of Town” Frank -Robin and The 7 Hoods

“Robin and the 7 Hoods”

Edward G. Robinson “Robin Hoods”

Peter Falk “Robin and the 7 Hoods”

Happy New Year!

Reeling Through The Year in Review Part 2 🎊

Posted by donnamarie on December 28, 2016

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In Memoriam

2016 has been a challenging year in so many ways including the loss of some of our childhood idols and icons. As I reflect back on the year, these are some of my most heartbreaking moments.

https://youtu.be/XQxXa4p6UOE

David Bowie

The loss of David Bowie truly touched my heart. I’ve followed and loved his music since 1972 with the release of the album – “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars”.

“Starman” from the 1972 album The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars.

https://youtu.be/sI66hcu9fIs

“If you’re sad today, just remember the world is over 4 billion years old and you somehow managed to exist at the same time as David Bowie”. – Dean Podesta

I’m appreciative of this tweet because I found it calming and it put Bowie’s passing in perspective. A true innovator. He will be missed.

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Gene Wilder

Jerome (Gene Wilder) Silberman (June 11, 1933 – August 29, 2016)

Time reversed itself for a moment when I heard the news of Gene Wilder’s passing due to complications from Alzheimer’s Disease. He’s been a part of my life since “Willy Wonka” and his spirit helped me through the challenging and uncertain days of my fight against Colon and Breast Cancer.

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Our Prince is Gone – 1958-2016

Ever since Prince came on the scene his music has been such a vital part of my life. His passing is a tremendous loss personally and his enormous talent leaves a hole in our collective souls.

As the memories flood my mind I flashback to Prince and Morris Day with The Time performing at Hill Auditorium on the campus of my alma mater – The University of Michigan. This was 1978 before Prince was PRINCE. I can still see the audience swaying, fully in tune with Prince’s dynamic energy and saw a sea change, realizing this was the last time I would intimately see this badass, revolutionary genius.

Now, PRINCE would belong to the world.

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To my dismay, more artists would follow

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And, the Greatest of All Time

So, as we wind down 2016, let us remember the joys, and the sorrows, but look ahead in Faith of a bright and shining tomorrow.

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Have a Blessed and Happy New Year!

The Year in Review Part 1 🎊

Posted by donnamarie on December 23, 2016

It’s that time of year for looking back and remembering some of my more popular posts from 2016. It’s also a time to say Thank You! for all your support and encouragement. You’re the best!

Legally Blonde was the perfect film to kick off a year full of twists and turns; highs and lows. A wonderful movie full of hope and inspiration that I thought was the perfect fit to set the new year off with a bang!

The follow-up, Part 2 of my Year in Review, will be a dedication to those we lost in what felt like a never-ending succession of profound emotions and memories.

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Legally Blonde (2001)

Thinking about what film to feature for this post I posed the question, what movie could entertain and at the same time set a positive attitude for the new year?

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Looking through my film collection, I came across “Legally Blonde” (2001) and thought, yeah, this totally fits the bill. A fabulously positive tale about sorority queen Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon) and her awesome dog “Bruiser”, who discovers her inner feminist and realizes she’s smarter, has her own power and possesses more heart than her stupid ex-boyfriend – Warner Huntington III (Matthew Davis).

I admit when I first heard of the film I figured it was light weight and would be so-so, but boy was I wrong. The message of “Legally Blonde” (Be True to Yourself) will always be relevant and the film can be an excellent opportunity to demonstrate to young girls and women the strength and determination of a focused woman!

Graduated Harvard Law with Honors

When Elle is dumped by Warner, (her stupid ex-boyfriend) she decides to apply to Harvard Law (where he’s attending) and win him back. This isn’t just some pipe dream. Although she graduated with a Fashion Merchandising degree from UCLA, she studies around the clock for her new goal, taking the Law School Admission Test which she scores 179 on, one point below the highest possible score.

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A perfect example of what I love about Elle’s style is that her law school application is chock full of personality. She creates a video essay demonstrating her unique qualifications (including, she was in a Ricky Martin video) and her resume is pink and sweetly scented. Proving you don’t have to change the essence of who you are to accomplish your goals.

Even though her initial motivation to attend Harward was wack, that path eventually led her to chart a new destiny for herself. Affecting how people perceived her (dumb blonde) into smart, original, diehard friend who doesn’t give up and encourages others to do the same. Like with her manicurist friend Paulette. Elle helps Paulette gain custody of her dog back from her ex-husband, and she also helps her seduce the delivery man on whom she has a crush.

Got into Harvard!

Elle and Bruiser

“If you’re going to let one stupid prick ruin your life, you’re not the girl I thought you were.”

First law class

Elle and friend Paulette

Words to live by

Hadn’t watched “Legally Blonde” in quite some time so I’m so glad I posed the question to myself – what’s a good positive new year movie? This film definitely qualifies and I love Elle, Bruiser and the enduring message of empowerment and friendship!

Gotta Love Her!

“Dancing and Singing at the Movies” 💃🏽🎶

Posted by donnamarie on December 18, 2016

It seems every time someone asks the question “What’s your favorite? (fill in the blank film) that’s what happens to me…BLANK; there are just too many. So, I decided to prep for the next occasion.

With the new film “La La Land” starring Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone being touted as this generation’s “Singing in the Rain”, I decided to start with the Musicals genre. These are some of my favorites that also made AFI’s list of the Top 5 Musicals of all time!

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Can you name yours? Let’s share.

#	FILM	YEAR	STUDIO
1	SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN	1952	MGM
2	WEST SIDE STORY	1961	United Artists
3	WIZARD OF OZ, THE	1939	MGM
4	SOUND OF MUSIC, THE	1965	Twentieth Century-Fox
5	CABARET	1972	Allied Artists

Some of my favorite quotes!

Singin’ in the Rain (1952)

Lina: [with a voice to peel paint] And I cayn’t stand’im. Holy crap! This line makes the movie for me!!

This celebrated musical-comedy was directed and choreographed by Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen. Starring Kelly, Donald O’Connor, and Debbie Reynolds, it offers a lighthearted depiction of Hollywood in the late 1920s, with the three stars portraying performers caught up in the transition from silent films to “talkies.” (Wikipedia)

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West Side Story (1961)

[singing]

Bernardo: “I’d like to go back to San Juan.”

Anita: “I know a boat you can get on!”

Ha! Bernardo, you do you, cause I’m gonna do me!

Ah, the Sharks and the Jets who turn a knife fight into the coolest, choreographed ballet I’ve ever seen. I also have a particular fondness for this film having performed in a community theater stage production.

Jets

A musical romantic drama directed by Robert Wise and Jerome Robbins, the film is an adaptation of the 1957 Broadway musical of the same name, which in turn was inspired by William Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet. It stars Natalie Wood, Richard Beymer, Russ Tamblyn, Rita Moreno, and George Chakiris.

Nominated for 11 Academy Awards and winning 10, including Best Picture (as well as a special award for Robbins), “West Side Story” is the record-holder for the most wins for a movie musical. (Wikipedia)

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The Wizard of Oz (1939)

Cowardly Lion: ” Alright I’ll go in there for Dorothy. Wicked Witch or no Wicked Witch, guards or no guards, I’ll tear them apart. I may not come out alive, but I’m going in there. There’s only one thing I want you fellows to do.”

Tin Woodsman, Scarecrow: “What’s that?”

Cowardly Lion: “Talk me out of it!”

Oh, Lion – you just gotta love him!

Produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, “The Wizard of Oz” is the most well-known and commercially successful adaptation based on the 1900 novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum. The classic stars Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale. The co-stars include Ray Bolger (The Scarecrow), Jack Haley (The Tin Man), Bert Lahr (The Cowardly Lion), Frank Morgan, Billie Burke, and Margaret Hamilton (The Wicked Witch of the West), with Charley Grapewin, Terry the dog (billed as Toto), and the Singer Midgets as the Munchkins.

Notable for its use of Technicolor, fantasy storytelling, musical score, and unusual characters, over the years, it has become an icon of American popular culture. It was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, but lost to “Gone with the Wind”. It did win in two other categories, including Best Original Song for “Over the Rainbow” and Best Original Score by Herbert Stothart. (Wikipedia)

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The Sound of Music (1965)

Maria: “When the Lord closes a door, somewhere He opens a window.”

Without a doubt, Maria! Amen!

https://youtu.be/stMX9Q89Ur8

This song by Christina Perri “A Thousand Years” isn’t from the film but I felt it perfectly reflected the relationship between Maria and the Captain.

“The Sound of Music” was produced and directed by Robert Wise, and starred Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer. An adaptation of the 1959 Broadway musical The Sound of Music, composed by Richard Rodgers with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II it was based on the memoir The Story of the Trapp Family Singers by Maria von Trapp.

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Cabaret (1972)

Sally: ” I’m going to be a great film star! That is if booze and sex don’t get me first.”

This is a very prophetic quote considering the fate of many a would-be star.

This stylish, socially conscious musical drama was directed by the legendary choreographer Bob Fosse and stars Liza Minnelli, Michael York. and Joel Grey. The setting is Berlin in 1931 with the Nazis’ violent rise serving as a powerful, ever-present undercurrent in the film.

Liza Minnelli won the Best Actress Award for her portrayal of the flamboyant, cabaret performer, Sally Bowles, with the film also garnering Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor (Joel Grey), Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, Best Sound, Best Original Song Score and Adaptation, and Best Film Editing. It holds the record for most Oscars earned by a film not honored for Best Picture. “The Godfather” took the prize. (Wikipedia)

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Chicago (2002)

Although the stylized, Jazz Age hit “Chicago”(2002) didn’t make the AFI Top 5, (#12), I couldn’t omit this sizzling number, Cell Block Tango. “He had it comin'”☺☺

A film version of Chicago was to have been the next project for Bob Fosse, who had directed and choreographed the original 1975 Broadway production but he died before realizing his vision.

Fosse’s distinctive jazz choreography style is evident throughout and he is thanked in the credits. The movie explores the themes of celebrity, scandal, and corruption in Chicago during the Jazz Age. (Wikipedia)

Catherine Zeta-Jones, Richard Gere, Renée Zellweger

Starring Catherine Zeta-Jones, Renée Zellweger, and Richard Gere, “Chicago” centers on Velma Kelly (Zeta-Jones) and Roxie Hart (Zellweger), two murderesses who find themselves in jail together awaiting trial in 1920s Chicago.

Queen Latifah “Mama”

For her part, the multi-talented rapper, actress, producer, Queen Latifah’s role as Matron “Mama” Morton earned her a nomination for Best Supporting Actress. The movie was the winner of six Academy Awards in 2003, including Best Picture. The film was the first musical to win Best Picture since Oliver! in 1968.

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The Comedy Classic Some Like It Hot (1959)

BACK IN THEATERS JUNE 11th and 14th

Experience one of Marilyn Monroe’s most iconic roles as it was always meant to be seen.

Special commentary from TCM host Tiffany Vazquez.

TCM Big Screen Classics Presents

With no money and nowhere to hide, two down on their luck jazz musicians (Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon) masquerade as members of an all-girl band, leading to a number of romantic complications when one falls for the band’s lead singer (Sugar Cane) played by Marilyn Monroe.

Some Like It Hot is a 1959 American romantic comedy film set in 1929, directed and produced by Billy Wilder, starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon. The supporting cast includes George Raft, Pat O’Brien, Joe E. Brown, Joan Shawlee, and Nehemiah Persoff.

The code had been gradually weakening in its scope during the early 1950s, due to increasing social tolerance for previously taboo topics in film, but it was still officially enforced. The overwhelming success of Some Like It Hot was a final nail in the coffin for the Hays Code. (Wikipedia)

I love Billy Wilder because of his versatility in films and his testing the boundaries of societal norms. To that end, the first movie that always comes to mind is “Some Like it Hot”. To find out more about Billy Wilder and his films, check out my post – The Faces Behind the Camera.

I highly recommend taking advantage of this opportunity to see “Some Like it Hot” on the big screen!

Get tickets here.

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“School of Rock” (2003)

“The Commitments” (1991)

“This is Spinal Tap” (1984)

These are 3 of my favorite Rock Movies – Let me know yours in the comments!

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Two unstable people with access to nuclear bombs is a serious recipe for disaster! One mad man got elected President. The other is the supreme ruler of N. Korea.

This is strikingly close to the storyline of Dr. Strangelove and in reality my daily nightmare!

(“Red Alert” originally published in the UK as Two Hours to Doom, with George using the pseudonym “Peter Bryant”)

“Dr. Strangelove” is Stanley Kubrick’s masterpiece about the absurdity of war that nevertheless is a daily possibility!

Kubrick filmology

Peter Sellers is at his over the top best with his performance as nutcase Dr. Strangelove. (and a few other characters) A wheelchair-bound nuclear scientist with bizarre ideas about man’s future. The entire war room scene totally represents the lunacy of nuclear war.

Sellers is said to have improvised much of his dialogue, with Kubrick incorporating the ad-libs into the written screenplay so the improvised lines became part of the official screenplay.

Awards and honors

The film was nominated for four Academy Awards and also seven BAFTA Awards, of which it won four.

Kubrick won two awards for best director, from the New York Film Critics Circle and the Italian National Syndicate of Film Journalists, and was nominated for one by the Directors Guild of America.

In 1989 the United States Library of Congress included it in the first group of films selected for preservation in the National Film Registry. It was listed as number three on AFI’s 100 Years…100 Laughs list.

Let us pray this nightmare doesn’t come true!

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“All creatures great and small, Welcome.” Buster Moon

And then, tears of joy for both Ash (Scarlet Johannson who was incredible!) and Johnny (Taron Egerton-fabulous voice!) for refusing to give up on their dreams despite dealing with disappointment and heartbreak.

I absolutely love Gunter and his infectious exuberance and living out loud attitude on life. Some may see him as self-absorbed but he was compassionate enough to want to help Rosita fulfill her dreams and showcase her true talents.

Talk about self-absorbed, Mike (Seth MacFarlane) is his own biggest fan! Even though most of the time you want to choke him, his smooth, docile toned voice wraps you up in his effortless performance which you have to give him credit for.

My favorite performer is Meena, that’s why I saved her for last. She touches my heart the most and moves me with the powerfulness of her voice. In the final scene, she literally brings down the house.

First of all, Tori Kelly’s voice is out of this world!! Her final number showcases the power of joy; how it feels to release and give your all and see how that is received. Secondly, witnessing the sheer magic of Meena truly being in the moment and finally coming into her own.

One of the more impressive features of this film is that the cast did all their own singing. I’m of the mind that if an actor can’t both sing and act, don’t hire them for a musical role. I own the soundtrack which is both upbeat and heart-pumping.

The movie includes more than 60 songs from various artists and also has an original song by Stevie Wonder and Ariana Grande called “Faith“, which was nominated for a Golden Globe. I can’t get it out of my head and danced my way out the theater!

I’m a big fan of Illumination Entertainment best known for the Despicable Me franchise and the films The Secret Life of Pets and Sing. The Minions, characters from the Despicable Me films, are the studio’s official mascots and my favorite buddies.

The studio’s highest-grossing films are Minions (2015), which has grossed $1.159 billion worldwide; Despicable Me 2 (2013), which has grossed $970.8 million worldwide; and The Secret Life of Pets (2016), which grossed $875.5 million worldwide. (Wikipedia)

Illumination knocked it out of the park with this production. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, animated films these days have come a long way since Bambi and aren’t just for kids. The plots, characterizations, and execution are outstanding!

Hopefuls seeking their place in the limelight.

Voice Cast

Matthew McConaughey as Buster Moon, an optimistic koala who plans to save his theater from closure by holding a singing competition.

Reese Witherspoon as Rosita, a pig who gave up her teenage music dreams to become a devoted wife to Norman, and mother to their 25 piglets.

Seth MacFarlane as Mike, a white mouse “with a big Frank Sinatra-esque voice and an arrogant attitude.”

Scarlett Johansson as Ash, a teenage porcupine and punk rocker who takes part in an alternative-rock music duo with her boyfriend Lance.

John C. Reilly as Eddie, a sheep and Buster’s friend who doubts the future of the theater.

Tori Kelly as Meena, a teenage elephant with an exquisite voice and severe stage fright.

Taron Egerton as Johnny, a teenage gorilla who wants to sing, though his father wants him to follow his criminal footsteps.

Jennifer Saunders as Nana Noodleman, a sheep and Eddie’s grandmother who was a singer in her glory days.

Jennifer Hudson as Young Nana

Garth Jennings as Miss Crawly, an elderly iguana with a glass eye who is Buster’s administrative assistant.

Nick Kroll as Gunter, a dancing pig partner to Rosita.

All in all, my two very enthusiastic thumbs up!

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Fathom Events, Turner Classic Movies, and Warner Bros. Entertainment presents a special two-day event, Singin’ in the Rain 65th Anniversary, in select cinemas nationwide on Sunday, January 15 and Wednesday, January 18.

This special event also includes exclusive commentary from Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz, who will give insight into this classic film.

“Singin’ in the Rain” is on my list as one of the greatest musicals of all time! Funny with incredible dance numbers and a memorable score that will stand for generations.

A previous post on some of my favorite musical moments includes “nails on a chalkboard voice” Lina Lamont (Jean Hagen), who made Number One.

Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds and Donald O’Connor star in one of the greatest musicals ever filmed. Musician Don Lockwood (Kelly) rises to stardom during Hollywood’s silent-movie era–paired with the beautiful, jealous and dumb Lina Lamont (Jean Hagen).

When Lockwood becomes attracted to young studio singer Kathy Selden (Reynolds), Lamont has her fired. But with the introduction of talking pictures, audiences laugh when they hear Lockwood speak for the first time–and the studio uses Selden to dub her voice.

This special 65th Anniversary Screening is a heartfelt dedication to Debbie Reynolds and in sympathy to the tragic loss of her daughter, actress, and writer Carrie Fisher.

Debbie was only 19 when she was cast in this classic but deftly held her own with the likes of legendary hoofers, Gene Kelly and Donald O’Connor!

Mary Frances “Debbie” Reynolds (April 1, 1932 – December 28, 2016)

In 2002, on the film’s 50th Anniversary, Debbie Reynolds shares her memories on the history and movie magic of “Singin’ in the Rain”.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to see “Singin’ in the Rain” on the big screen as it was originally shown.

“I’ll walk down the lane with a happy refrain…and singin’ just singin’ in the rain.” Gene Kelly

R.I.P. Debbie and Carrie

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I’ve always believed that we can’t move on to the next level in our life’s journey until we learn the lessons we need to understand. In “Groundhog Day”, Bill Murray has the fortune or misfortune of repeating and repeating again a day which becomes his own private hell.

This fantasy-comedy directed by Harold Ramis, stars Bill Murray, Andie MacDowell, and Chris Elliott. It was written by Ramis and Danny Rubin, based on a story by Rubin.

After indulging in hedonism and committing suicide numerous times, Phil begins to re-examine his life and priorities in his quest to end the tortuous nightmare of Groundhog’s Day.

The film is often considered an allegory of self-improvement, emphasizing that happiness comes from placing the needs of others above one’s own selfish desires; definitely, food for thought.

If you believe, you might see versions of reincarnation in the storyline and find great significance in the fact that Connors is saved only after he performs “good deeds” and is returned to earth, not heaven, to perform more.

Imagining German philosopher Nietzsche’s directive to imagine life—metaphorically or literally—as an endless repetition of events is intriguing. I wonder how would this viewpoint shape our actions?

What would we choose to live out for all eternity?

Awards

British Comedy Awards 1993 (Comedy Film)

Saturn Award for Best Actress (Film) (Andie MacDowell)