Tuesday, March 29, 2022

OSCARWATCH 2022: THE AFTERMATH AND THE FASHION

It's taken a while to process The Oscars from yesterday.

So let's start with how I went, I got 19 categories correct and 4 wrong.

Dune got Cinematography and Production Design, I had The Power of the Dog and Nightmare Alley respectively.

I got the animated Short wrong and Best Picture.

The Best Picture hurts a lot, but I underestimated sentimentality and a few other things. Coda was a solid good film, the kind of film that usually you would say is lucky to be nominated. I just felt there were many of the top ten far superior to it. Also it is a remake from a much better French film, and not just a remake a pretty much scene for scene remake, so every time I saw the writer go on about how difficult a journey it was to get the screenplay out there, I kinda shook my head. Having said all of that, I am all for inclusivity and anything that will make others feel better and seen, so I guess it is ok.

I can take or leave Beyonce, but that was a pretty cool opening I have to say!

I thought Amy (who I love), Wanda (who I worship), and Regina (who I didn't know) did a fine job of handling the hosting. There were some so so moments but also some truly funny stuff. Amy, did exceptionally well when it was her solo turn to come out after the incident. 

Wanda's schtick at the Academy Museum (I so want to go there) was wonderful and had me really laughing!

I liked the presenting of Jason Momoa and Josh Brolin, they were fun!

I loved the anniversary pairings, even though they didn't make a lot of sense. White Men Can't Jump made me laugh, I have loved Rosie Perez for so long, she is amazing and hilarious. Juno was lovely but awkward, and Pulp Fiction was fun, but also odd.

The in-memorium was a bit strange. I did love the upbeat music/song, a celebration rather than being dreary. But this year they also got a few key people to talk about a few key people who had passed. This was also a great idea, but the 2 new ideas clashed sadly. Tyler Perry spoke about Sidney Poitier, Bill Murray spoke about Ivan Reitman, and Jamie Lee Curtis about Betty White, along with a cute doggie.

I loved the change of the band each hour, especially seeing the fabulous Miss Sheila E on drums.

There was also some great speeches, Ariana Du Bose, Troy Kotsur, Questlove, Jane Campion and an exceptional speech by Jessica Chastain, really classy and heart felt, she got it just right!

The evening ended with Lady Gaga and Liza Minelli to present Best Picture. What a pair, iconic. Liza was a little all over the shop, which isn't that unusual, but because she was in a wheelchair for encephalitis. It was a little sad, but ultimately lovely to see, and Gaga was so gentle and lovely with her, she said to her I got you, and Liza said I know.

So it would be nice to end things there and then head to the fashion, but it would be remiss of me not to mention The Slap.

As Rhys Muldoon tweeted early on Christos Tsiolkas is about to become a very rich man.

Here is my quick take, cause goodness knows I am well over the ugly incident.

Chris Rock told an inappropriate joke about Will Smith's wife, he probably shouldn't have.

Will Smith laughed, his wife gave him the death stare.

Will Smith obviously freaked out by that, jumps up and slaps Rock.

Then sits down.

Rock tries to make sense of the stupidity of it.

Will Smith verbally abuses him not once, but twice.

At a normal event, he would have been removed for violent behaviour.

Yes, Rock should have been more thoughtful, but he IS a comedian.

But what Smith did was inexcusable, violent, and disturbing.

My heart was still beating super fast minutes later.

Not only was it awful and upsetting to watch, but it took glory away from those who actually deserve glory in the aftermath.

And then he wins, and people actually applaud etc. WTAF!

Firstly, there were far superior actors that should have won in the category.

Secondly, in my opinion, he is hardly a great actor. I think the best film he did was Six Degrees of Separation. I don't mind Men in Black and he was ok in Ali and the Pursuit of Happyness. And that is about it, I just don't get him.

So yeah, I am sour about it all. But you know, that's me.

However, when a man frames violence because of love, I call bullshit and that really triggers me. He needs help and I hope he gets it. 

OK, let's move on to the fashion!!!!

















AND MY TOP THREE IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER ARE:





Sunday, March 27, 2022

OSCAR WATCH 2022 -THE PREDICTIONS

This year feels like the hardest to decide. I have watched most of the films within the last week so that is a lot of film washing around in my head.

You can read what I think about all the films I have watched here.

The other thing is the Academy has really opened up who it has let in to vote, it has been taking on all sort of members, and not necessarily those with credentials, depending on what sources you read. This makes predictions less predictable. In the past the SAGs were a great indication as those voting in those categories were pretty much the same people voting in the Academy categories. This is not the case anymore. 

Also The Hollywood Reporter has been doing a few 'interviews' with new members - anonymously - where they explain their reasoning for how they voted for. Oh vey, no wonder they are anonymous. From I just like that film, I can see x and y are better films, but I like Z so I have voted for it in every category OR My cousin is the blah blah on this film so that is why I am voting for it. Not good people!!

So this is just me saying, it's gonna be a bumpy ride, anything can happen, and it feels more like stabbing in the dark choosing who WILL win this year than ever before.

Each year the Oscars gets less and less interesting to me, with me exclaiming at the end of the show, that's it no more. But of course, the Oscar season rolls around and I am sucked into it's vortex yet again. Happily so. I have being doing this for so many decades, I cannot think of anything else.

So let's get into it!

Best Picture

Here are the 10 films in order of my preference:

1. Belfast - so much heart against a terrible situation, plus the music

2. Nightmare Alley - stunning visually, get acting cast, huge story

3. Licorice Pizza - hilarious, great acting, great soundtrack, so much love

4. The Power of the Dog - stunning cinematography, great acting and direction

5. Drive my car - fascinating storyline, well filmed, wonderful acting.

6. Dune - visually magnificent, great story

7. Don't Look Up - great story, funny, superb cast

8. Coda - nice little story, ensemble cast, music

9. King Richard - good story, great performance from Smith.

10. West Side Story - please note I did not see this film. Whilst I love musicals, I have never warmed to the original and feel much the same about Spielberg.

This is crazy, I still think The Power of the Dog, whilst not my favourite, is the BEST film and seems to be the one everyone is predicting. However there seems to be a late groundswell for Coda. People are also throwing around Drive my Car and West Side Story, with 10 films to choose from anything can happen.

What will win: The Power of the Dog

What should win: Belfast 

Actor in a Leading Role

1. Benedict Cumberbatch in The Power of the Dog

2. Andrew Garfield in Tick Tick Boom

3. Denzil Washington in The Tragedy of Macbeth

4. Will Smith in King Richard

5. Javier Bardem in Being the Ricardos

Garfield could be a spoiler here, but I think Smith is it.

Who will win: Will Smith 

Who should win: Benedict Cumberbatch

Actor in a Supporting Role

1. Kodi Smit-McPhee in The Power of the Dog

2. Ciaran Hinds in Belfast

3. Troy Kotsur in Coda

4. Jesse Plemoms in The Power of the Dog

5. JK Simmons in Being the Ricardos    

This seems a no-brainer.

Who will win: Troy Kotsur

Who should win: Kodi Smit-McPhee

Actress in a Leading Role

1. Olivia Coleman in The Lost Daughter

2. Jessica Chastain in The Eyes of Tammy Faye

3. Penelope Cruz in Parallel Mothers

4. Kristen Stewart in Spencer

5. Nicole Kidman in Being the Ricardos

This was difficult, but I stand by Chastain who shone making a difficult character redeemable. Stewart's name has been tossed around, and I guess anything can happen, but I stand by my choices.

Who will win: Jessica Chastain

Who should win: Olivia Coleman

Actress in a Supporting Role

1. Jessie Buckley in The Lost Daughter

2. Kirsten Dunst in The Power of the Dog

3. Judi Dench in Belfast

4. Aunjanue Ellis in King Richard

5. Ariana Du Bose in West Side Story

I think Ariana has this locked in.

Who will win:  Ariana Du Bose

Who should win: Jessie Buckley

Animated Feature Film

I have not watched any of these films, Encanto, Luca, and Flee seem to be the ones that are most mentioned. But Encanto seems the likely winner.

Who will win:  Encanto

Cinematography

1. The Power of the Dog

2. Nightmare Alley

3. Dune

4. The Tragedy of Macbeth

5. West Side Story

Some great cinematography within the 4 I have seen, but there is only one winner in my mind.

Who will/should win: The Power of the Dog

Costume Design

It is a no-brainer that a film about costume design should win for it's outrageous and stunning costumes.

Who will/should win: Cruella

Directing

1. Jane Campion for The Power of the Dog

2. Paul Thomas Anderson for Licorice Pizza

3. Kenneth Branagh for Belfast

4. Ryusuke Hamaguci for Drive my Car

5. Steven Speilberg for West Side Story

Whilst 2, 3 and 4 I'd be happy to see take home a golden boy for this category and all totally deserved too, it is Jane's year and so very well overdue. The Piano should have won, but it never stood a chance against Schindler's List.

Who will/should win: Jane Campion

Documentary (feature)

I don't know much about this category, sadly, this year, but I do know everyone says this film will win, and it sounds terrific!

Who will win: Summer of Soul

Documentary (short subject)

I have done a little reading and it comes down to 2 shorts, Queen of Basketball and Audible. So I tossed a coin.

Who will win: Queen of Basketball

Film Editing

Seems to be between Dune and Tick Tick Boom.

Who will win:  Dune

Who should win: Tick Tick Boom

International Feature Film

The worst person in the world is getting a lot of love, I have not seen it. I have heard great things about The Hand of God and I love Paulo's film and television. BUt Drive my Car is the one I have seen, the one I loved, and the one everyone thinks will win.

Who will/should win: Drive my Car

Makeup and Hairstyling

It all comes down to Tammy Faye, without that transformation over so many decades, Chastain would be lost.

Who will/should win: The Eyes of Tammy Faye

Music (original score)

It is between The Power of the Dog and Dune, I am unsure.

Who will win: Dune

Who should win:  The Power of the Dog

Music (original song)

It seems like it is between Billie Eilish for Bond, Beyonce for King Richard and Lin-Manuel Miranda for Tick Tick Boom. And lord knows the Academy probably wish they could hand out three. I have no bloody idea. Bond seems to be edging others out.

Who will win: No Time to Die

Who should win: Down to Joy from Belfast, because despite Van's politics in his old age, he still writes a feckin' brilliant song, so brilliant, I thought I had heard it before when indeed I had not. 

Production Design

Dune, West Side Story, The Power of the Dog, The Tragedy of Macbeth, and Nightmare Alley. All are superb in their own way, however...

Who will/should win: Nightmare Alley

Short Film (Animated)

No idea, but this one is being talked up everywhere and is an Aardman production so it makes sense.

Who will win: Robin Robin

Short Film (Live Action)

Again no idea, but Riz Ahmed is linked to Long Goodbye which has been turning up in all the articles, so...

Who will win: The Long Goodbye

Sound

I have no idea here, some are saying Dune, some are saying Bond.

Who will win: Dune

Visual Effects

Ditto, Dune V Free Guy it appears.

Who will win: Dune

Writing (adapted screenplay)

1. Drive my Car

2. The Power of the Dog

3. The Lost Daughter

4. Dune

5. Coda

Truly, any one of these could win, this is a difficult category this year. Usually - but not always - Best Picture wins Writing also, so who knows.

Who will win: Coda is gaining momentum here. I rank it last because I have seen the original and there is not much change, but the Americans will have no idea about this, hence the unnecessary remake in the first instance.

Who should win: Drive my car - they get Murakami's nuances, and turns a couple of short stories into a great big story, genius!

Writing (original screenplay)

1. Licorice Pizza

2. Belfast

3. Don't Look Up

4. King Richard

5. The Worst Person in the World

Another tough one and Don't Look up could be the spoiler.

Who will win: Belfast 

Who should win: Licorice Pizza


OSCAR WATCH 2022

Dune

I was lucky enough to see Dune on the big screen and what a wonderful experience it was. Beautifully shot with intense detail. I had seen the Lynch version all those years ago and found it a little difficult to follow. This was presented in an easier to understand way. I thought the casting was brilliant, Chalamet and Zendaya were young and yet otherworldly at once, and Brolin and Momoa lent a lot of heavy cred to their roles. I was also thrilled to briefly see the goddess that is Charlotte Rampling towards the end of the film. I hope we see more of her in future films. Villeneuve is such a great filmmaker, especially in this genre; Arrival is a masterpiece. Dune comes close, the 'colour' in those desert scenes were masterful, the set design also just brilliant. This is a film to be seen.

In terms of Oscars, it is nominated for 10 - no mean feat. I think it will probably do well in the tech categories, effects, editing, sound etc and possibly the score for Hans Zimmer.

Cruella

I really enjoyed this, it was pure camp entertainment and the Emmas, Stone and Thompson, looked like they were having a ball. This is the back story of Cruella de Ville, did we need it, probably not, but it was a lot of fun. Really it was all about the costumes!

And that is what it is nominated for, 2, hair and makeup and costume, thinking it should get the later.

Belfast

This is a beautiful film, possible my favourite of the bunch. Shot stunningly in black and white and written with such truth and heart. Based on Kenneth Branagh's life as a child in Ireland amonst the IRA rising. The film is harsh in so many ways, but so full of love in a much more meaningful way. The acting is wonderful, with Judi Dench stealing every scene, as Ken's grandma. But the star, surely, is young Jude Hill as Buddy (Ken). The film revolves around Buddy  and his perception of his surroundings at that time. And then there is the soundtrack...mostly Van Morrison tunes and they help really lift the film. Say what you will about VN these days, but when you hear one of his songs, you smile.

Written and directed by Sir Kenneth Branagh, Belfast is nominated for 7 Oscars, including Best Picture, Director, Supporting Actress and Supporting Actor, Original Screenplay, Sound, and Original Song for Van. I think it will fair well in Original Screenplay.

Being the Ricardos

I loved this film so much, I had heard mixed reviews of this film, maybe they just don't get Lucy. I have been a fan of I Love Lucy for a long time and know a little bit about behind the scenes. I think the premise was clever, they took a week in the show's history and showed the drama behind it all. Both Kidman and Bardem really embodied their characters, and the supporting cast were equally as good. I just soaked this up. 

It is up for 3 acting noms, Nicole Kidman, Javier Bardem, and JK Simmons. I don't think they will win.                                                                               

Don't Look Up

This was an absolute blast. I love Adam McKay movies, they have a lot of heart, and are wickedly funny, but are usually telling a terrible tale about our crazy world. Don't look Up is all that and more, superb cast, great story but possibly a little too long. The Premise is scientists (Leo and Jennifer) find an large asterix hurtling towards earth, if it hits it will wipe the planet.

4 noms for this film, Best Picture, Film editing, Original Score, and Original Screenplay. Possibility for screenplay I think.

Licorice Pizza

This was as great as I was expecting. When I originally saw the trailer, I was thrilled. I loved the vibe, the humour, the music. I thought the young boy reminded me of a young Phillip Seymour Hoffman, when I found out it was his son, I was in tears. His performance is worthy of his father. Everyone is great in this ensemble coming of age film. There are some true moments of hilarity, especially around the Jon Peters character, there is great heart, and an amazing soundtrack. It is very 70s of course, and feels like a lovely companion piece to Boogie Nights. Again, this was a little long, but it was pure joy and one of the best movies I have seen in a while. But then I always love anything by PT Anderson.

Licorice Pizza is up for 3 noms, Best Picture, Directing, Screenplay. Look I do not think it will win anything, possibly screenplay. But it doesn't matter, this is a great film.

The Eyes of Tammy Faye

I wasn't keen to see what I thought would be a train crash of a film. But place what you think of the Baker's aside, this was a pretty good. It has gotten mixed reactions but I thought it was a wonderful form of storytelling. Is the story awful, of course it is, but it is told and acted extraordinarily well. ANdrew Garfield - on a serious roll this year - is utterly brilliant portraying Jimmy Baker as the ugliest, most horrid human that he is. But Jessica Chastain is absolutely stunning as Tammy Faye. It shows her in a more human light and there are points you feel seriously sad for her. She got herself into a toxic, cult-like relationship and didn't realise until it was way too late. To humanise and make you feel empathetic towards her character is a testament to Chastain's acting ability. It is no characterisation, she embodies her. This movie is difficult to watch at times, but her performance is mesmerising. I feel the Oscar is hers.

This film is nominated for 2 Oscars, Best Actress, and Hair and make-up. I suspect it will win both!

Coda

This is a remake of a far superior French film, The Belier Family. So there is that, but of course the US being the US, have no idea...sigh. So maybe, if I had not seen the original I would rate this much higher. It is a good story but pretty much the same bar the changed the family from farmers to fishermen. CODA is Child of deaf adults, and Ruby is the only person in her family that can hear. The pressue of this is enormous. Ruby loves nothing more than singing, and she can really sing. but her family will never hear her voice, literally and figuratively. She spends her time interpreting for her family and keeping them on the straight and narrow with their work. With the pressure on Ruby to sing more and attend college away from her family, the pressure to help her family is equally as big. This is filmed well, adn the acting is great. The music also wonderful and uplifting. This is becoming a favourite with everyone, so is definitely a wild card. 

Nominated for 3 Oscars, Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor for Troy Kotsur (the father) and adapted screenplay. It will probably will for Troy but maybe even the other 2!

The Lost Daughter

This is a dark little film. It is about motherhood and the trauma of being a mother. Olivia Coleman delivers, as always, a powerhouse performance as Leda a divorcee holidaying on a Greek island. She is a English professor and is working on the break. When she comes across a Greek family also on holiday and becomes entangled in their world, things start to fall apart. SHe slowly unravels and shows a woman with real regrets in her life. Flash back shows her as a young mum with two young daughters, a brilliant but fragile mum who struggles to juggle her work and motherhood. as a viewer you do not know what went wrong, and you start to form many thoughts. This adds to the intensity of the film. It is well directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal, and the cast are great but this is Olivia's (and Jessie Buckley who plays the young Leda) film. There are scenes where Leda is alone and does not speak, she is observing and thinking and you know everything from the stunning acting of Coleman. What she can express physically and from her face without saying a word is a masterclass in acting. This goes equally for Buckley who embodies a young Leda so much, you think it IS Coleman magically de-aged.

Both Jessie and Olivia are nominated as is Maggie for Best Adapted screenplay. I don't think this little film will win anything, but both are powerhouse performances so anything is possible!

The Power of the Dog

There has been very mixed reviews about this film but I really enjoyed it. Firstly and I think most importantly, it is a stunning film to watch, the cinematography is outstanding. Then the acting is next level. The four main characters are outstanding. Benedict Cumberbatch (to quote my Andrew, the actor of our generation!) is absolutely lost in his character, Phil, a rugged and nasty cowboy. Phil is the older of two rancher brothers, his younger brother, George (the brilliant Jesse Plemons), is a nicer, softer fellow. On their travels they meet Rose and her son Peter. Phil taunts and teases them. George marries Rose and brings them home much to the annoyance of Phil. Phil slowly and subtly drives Rose to drink, but in time takes Peter under his wing. It Phil being genuine, or is this a mean long play. Phil has a lot to hide and that informs his character. Rose is beautifully played by Kirsten Dunst and Peter by Kodi Smit-McPhee. Peter is an odd, unnerving character. Is he a little slow or is he smarter than he shows, hard to say. All of this characterisation build to a gob smacking twist towards the end. This film is not my favourite but I really loved it, it is a masterpiece.  Don't let the weirder reviews put you off.

This is nominated for TWELVE (12) Oscars. Woah, that is a lot. Best Picture and director - I think they will win. All four actors, Benedict should win, but that doesn't mean he will, ditto for Kodi. Also Screenplay, score, production, sound, cinematography, film editing. I think it will win for cinematography.

King Richard

I didn't hate this film, I didn't love it, it was ok. I can see it is an important story, but again, too bloody long. Will Smith is a powerhouse at the Richard Williams, the king of the title and Svengali/father behind Serena and Venus. Again, it was too long. I think if you love tennis this film is for you.

King Richard is up for Best Picture, Actor for Smith, Supporting Actress for Aunjanue Ellis, Film Editing, Original Screenplay, and Original Song. It appears Will Smith will win Best Actor, I have other preferences but I am ok with that.

Spencer

This is a quirky and odd little film. Based around one Christmas weekend with the Royal family when Diana was at her lowest and seemingly losing her mind. Kristen Stewart loses herself in this role, she is truly amazing. 

Only one Oscar nom for Kristen Stewart, and she has a good shot.

Nightmare Alley

I love the films of Guillermo del Toro. His vision is extraordinary, fantastical with a little bit horror/reality within, and Nightmare Alley continues this vision. The film is set amongst the backdrop of a travelling carnival and the carny folk of the 40s. Stan - played brilliantly by Bradley Cooper - joins a travelling carnival, assisting Madame Zeena (Toni Collette) and her husband Pete (David Strathairn). Pete takes Stan under his wing and teaches him all the tricks of the clairvoyancy trade. He falls in love with Molly (Rooney Mara) and they leave the carnival to use his new founded skills on the road. There they bump into Dr Lillith Ritter (Cate Blanchett) who has her doubts about Stan but they join forces. Ritter gives information to Stan to use to swindle others, but things go horribly wrong.

This is beautifully filmed, the carnival and the art deco building that Ritter works from. The set design so intricate and compelling, it adds to the storytelling. The huge cast is wonderful, great characters and acting. I really loved this film.

4 noms for this, Best Picture (yet no best director...shame), cinematography, costume design, production design...and it may just get production.

Tick Tick...Boom

I thoroughly enjoyed this, based on the story of Jonathon Larson, who eventually wrote Rent! This follows his rise through Broadway, the wins and knock-backs until he gets the idea - after losing many friends to Aids - to write Rent. This of course, changes how a Broadway musical can be, but Larson tragically dies the night before it's opening night. Andrew Garfield is extraordinary as Larson, supported by a firm cast of singers and dancers. The music is glorious and uplifting, especially the wonderful diner scene. There is so much to love in this film, with the great Bradley Whitfield and Judith Light in small supporting roles.

2 noms, for Garfield and for film editing, it probably won't get anything, which is a shame.

Parallel Mothers

Extraordinary film from the great Pedro Almodovar. I am a huge fan of his work, having seen most of his films. He writes so beautifully for women but he also has his axe to grind with Spanish history, understandably so. This is a story about mothers, but it is also about the buried history of the Spanish war. Janis (Penelope Cruz, always outstanding, but especially when she collaborates with Almodovar) and Ana (Milena Smit) meet in the maternity ward as they are both about to give birth. Both are single mothers, with Smit being significantly younger, and bond over their situations. After leaving hospital with their little girls, they both decide to keep in touch, but in time Janis changes her phone number. When they accidentally reunite and Janis finds out Ana's daughter has died of SIDs, she is heartbroken and as the truth starts to unravel, things become very murky. The smaller storyline is Janis is trying to locate her great-grandfather who died in the way, and like many others was buried in a large unmarked grave. Arturo is an archaeologist who is working on locating these graves. Arturo, married, is the father of Janis' baby. There is a lot of twists and turns in this drama, although I saw most of it coming. The women shine, and the story is very dramatic. Also starring the fabulous Rossy De Palma, as Janis' best friend!

2 noms, for Penelope and for Original score, it probably won't get anything, unsure why it didn't get nominated for Foreign Film.

The Tragedy of Macbeth

I loved this rendition of my favourite Shakespeare play. Shot in crisp black and white and up close, you really feel pulled into the story. The set design which is sparse is sharpened by the black and white. The close ups of faces draws you in. Washington is brilliant, but you always know it is Washington. McDormand is so good as the crazy Lady Macbeth. But you do not but the relationship between Washington and McDormand sadly, however that is my only criticism. Great supporting cast also. I have no idea why it was not nominated for more Oscars.

Denzil gets a nom, also Production and Cinematography, I doubt it will win anything.

Drive my Car

This clocks in at 3 hours long and it is long but it is really wonderful. I loved this film base on one a short story by one of my most favourite authors, Haruki Murakami. Yusuke is a theatre director, his wife, Oto, is a screenwriter. She tells him stories while they have sex. She has an affair with her collaborator, the younger, Koji. Yusuke catches them having sex but says nothing. Oto has a cerebral haemorrhage and dies, Yusuke is heart broken. Since the affair and Oto's death, Koji has been acting out in public and gotten a bad reputation. A few years later Yusuke is asked to direct a multiple language version of Uncle Vanya and casts Koji as Vanya. Yusuke has glaucoma and is given a driver to take him to the theatre and back. He insists on the driver driving his own car to make him feel more comfortable. A female driver, Watari is assigned to him.

SO huge plot over numerous years and a little bit of jumping around, but it is easy to follow.  Hence the much needed 3 hours. Could it have been edited to less, of course, but you know I didn't mind. It was a very meditative story, the acting sessions are great, the driving scenes where a lot of the dialogue and stories unravel - there is so much more to the story than I have written, lots of little twists and turns - are really good. It is hypnotic, the acting sensational, the mood and feel of the film very calming, the cinematography lovely. I highly recommend this film.

Nominated for 4 Oscars, Best Picture, Best Director, Adapted Screenplay, and Foreign Film - it should win the later.


Tuesday, March 22, 2022

JANUARY/FEBRUARY REVIEWS

What I've Been Reading

Yellow notebook: Diaries Volume 1, 1978-1987 by Helen Garner

This is the first in three diaries by the great Helen Garner. I am going to write more about all three at a later stage, but I loved them. I loved seeing the evolution of her writing, and the little insights into her life at the time. I loved trying to guess who all the players were, she calls them by a letter. J is Tim Winton, I got very excited at his first and quite early mention. She is also very hard on herself and her ability, to write, and in fact, anything...which I found endearing and upsetting, in equal parts.

T: the t-shirts I love by Haruki Murakami

This is the latest by Murakami, and in light memoir style. He collects t-shirts, and he has picked a handful by theme and told stories about him that reflect on his life and writing. It is as quirky as he is and as fascinating. I guess one for fans, but boy it is worthwhile.

Throat by Ellen Van Neerven

Stunning poetry from Ellen, an indigenous woman. She writes about sex, and love, and diversity, and equality. Her poems pack a punch but are also light and fun. I made a decision to read more poetry this year and this was a lovely start. If you don't read poetry, I think you will find Throat very accessible, readable and understandable.

Paris: an inspired wander through the city of lights by Alexandra Carroll

This was a lovely small coffee-table style book that I have had for ages. It was mostly photography of various areas of my beloved Paris, with little stories and information to match. Places to go and visit and eat, places to meander, historical and geographical information. It was a nice walk down memory lane.

You're History: the twelve strangest women in rock by Lesley Chow

I am not entirely sure that everyone Lesley Chow writes about in this cite book is really strange, but they are enigmatic for sure. Short chapters about each woman and why they stand out as a little different, Chaka Khan, Kate Bush, Sade, Shakespear's Sister (hence the name of the book), Neneh Cherry, Janet Jackson, Taylor Swift etc. I really enjoyed this.

The Queer Bible edited by Jack Guinness

This was mostly queer celebs writing about queer icons (to them). This is based on the website but the same author. Elton John writes about Divine, Graham Norton writes about Armistead Maupin. They write about the icon and why they are inspired by them. The entries are a mix of humour, and drama and are fascinating. Includes Bowie, George Michael, Quentin Crisp, Ru Paul, Priscilla the movie, Tim Curry, Queer Eye, Pedro Almodovar, and Susan Sontag.

Taste: my life through food by Stanley Tucci

Stanley Tucci is an Italian American actor, very suave and charismatic. He is also a big foodie, especially Italian food. This is a memoir of sorts of his life through a range of spectacular food spreads. From childhood to his wedding to his second wife, the food he describes is amazing. It is not just the cooking, but the searching for the right ingredient, the preparation of said ingredients and their consumption with loved ones all around. There are some tales of his personal life, and his life in film, but mostly those that link to food. Warning, this book will make you hungry, and crave a big bowl of pasta! Recipes included!

Night Blue by Angela O’Keeffe

This is the debut novel from O’Keeffe and it is stunning. More a novella than a novel 141 pages, Night Blue is the story of Jackson Pollock’s Blue Poles, as told by the painting itself. Whilst this may seem an odd choice, it is executed beautifully. The story tells the tale of the painting from its inception through to its controversial hanging at the National Gallery of Australia. The story also divulges other things and people it sees, from its time hanging on walls. It also covers Pollock at the time, and Whitlam’s purchase of the masterpiece. This was a delight, with a few unexpected twists and turns. 

With the Kama Sutra under my arm: an Indian Journey by Trisha Bernard

I listened to this on talking book, and to be honest it was a bit disappointing, sure they carried around the Kama Sutra with them but that was about it. Their journey through India was a but sporadic, 2 middle aged women behaving badly, but not in a good bad way. Some of their stories were funny, some not do much. It was good enough to keep me going to the end, but ultimately not what the title would suggest.

Sweet Dreams: the story of the New Romantics by Dylan Jones

This was a huge tome with remarkable insight into the New Romantic period of music in the 80s. It commences in the late 70s when all the players are starting out and follows them on their journey to this period and a little beyond. It talks and interviews directly these people, musicians, singers, journalists, DJs, television personalities, nightclub owners, everyone who was part of the scene. They included The Blitz Nightclub in London, Steve Strange, Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, Boy George, Roxy Music, Kraftwerk, Malcolm McLaren, Vivienne Westwood, Wham, Ultravox, Bowie, Depeche Mode and on it goes. Loads of in-depth information, connections you never realised and a wild ride. Highly recommend.

Embracing the Unknown: life lessons from the Tibetan Book of the Dead by Pema Chodron

This was a stunning but short talking book with Pema addressing a conference/retreat with her wisdom. Absolutely charismatic and beautiful.

Albert Namatjira by Vincent Namatjira

A children's picture book about Albert by his great-grandson, Vincent. Vincent is an artist in his own right, having won the Archibald in 2020, and also illustrating the picture book. It is the most stunning picture book you will ever read.

10 Short Lessons in Space Travel by Paul Parsons

A cute short book with lots of fun facts about traveling in space, from the first astronauts to the space shuttle and International Space Station. Lots of insight, and fascinating information.

Underground Railway by Colson Whitehead

Finally! I have been wanting to read Colson for a while, but so many books, so little time. Underground Railway was absolutely amazing, and no wonder it has won so many accolades. Cora is a young slave in Georgia, and when Caesar arrives and tells her about an Underground Railway that will help her escape slavery, she decides to join him. Their journey is not smooth, authorities are chasing them, they make mistakes, but they are determined. Colson presents a fictional story very much embedded in reality. Whilst it is heart breaking in parts, it isn't too heavy, he constructs a beautiful story that hangs on for many days after you have finished reading. Absolute masterpiece.

Tea and Honesty by Jules Sebastian

This was a talking book the came through at work and raised my curiosity. Jules is the wife of Guy Sebastian, and has a bit of a career as an influencer of sorts. She seems nice enough, but her stories felt a bit forced and twee. 

What I've Been Watching

Insecure S5 plus The End doco

I love Insecure, it is a great show following the escapades of Issa, a single woman in LA. She is awkward, and funny, is dating and has a great collection of girlfriends. S5 has Issa seemingly on track, a regular boyfriend and her event business is really taking of. She is still as goofy as ever, so you know things will go wrong...or will they. If you like Girls or Sex and the City, you will like Insecure. it is edgier and I really love the LA setting. After the final episode, a doco about it's filming called The End was dropped and it was a lovely insight into the making of the show. Issa writes, acts, directs and produces.

After Life S3

The third and final series by Rick Gervais, this is easily the best thing he has done, and that is saying something. Ricky plays a man grieving his wife deeply. He doesn't understand why she is gone and he is here, and whilst that sounds terribly sad, and at times it is, it actually gives him a wonderful platform to showcase his comedic sensibilities. This show is funny, absolutely, and he has collected a range of odd characters that really add to it. But it will tug at your heat strings. I do think series 2 and 3 could have been condensed into just one series, making it a solid 2 series show, but it is still infinitely better than other stuff out there. Also stars a gorgeous Alsatian.

Curb Your Enthusiasm S11

Curb continues to shine and there are 2 ridiculous over-arcing storylines this season. The minor one is Leon breaks up with his girlfriend after purchasing them tickets for an Asian holiday, so he is on the hunt for a compatible woman with exactly the same name, so he can go on the holiday without losing money. Larry is the producer of a new series, Young Larry, and after an incident with his swimming pool ends up in an extortion racket that leads him to all sorts of trouble. Tracey Ullman stars this season as a truly awful council woman who Larry dates, absolutely hilarious. And as usual the long line of celebs playing bastardised characters of themselves or actual characters. 11 seasons and it still shines and is still one of the few shows that makes me laugh out loud!

Love Me

This was a stunning Australian mini series starring Hugo Weaving. It is about love. It follows his love life after his wife dies from a long illness. It also follows his daughter's love life, when she meets a male model on her street not long after her mother dies. And his son, who is in a relationship with someone not exactly is type. These interwoven stories are melancholy and funny. And, as always, Hugo Weaving is outstanding.                                         

Super Bob Einstein Film

This was spectacular, much like Bob. Bob was Super Dave, an American kinda of Evil Kenieval, but things didn't always got to plan. He was often on Letterman, and many other shows. He is probably best known for playing Marty Funkhouser on Curb Your Enthusiasm. He is also the brother of Albert Brooks. The doco delves into his past and he has done so much, but somehow not as well known as other comedians. There were loads of very respected comedians talking about how much they loved him. This is a must see show!

Framed

This is a ripper of a story, when Picasso's Weeping Woman was stolen from the NGV. Now this painting is probably my favourite Picasso, I never visit Melbourne without popping in to see her. To think someone was so bold to just pluck her off the walls and take here. She was obviously returned, but anonymously, so this series follows where the investigation went wrong and what they think happened. Absolutely fascinating stuff.

The sit in: Harry Belafonte

Another great documentary (easily my favourite genre of film) about the time - one week - Harry Belafonte sat in for Johnny Carson on The Tonight Show. A really important moment in history which is almost lost due to tapes of the week being taped over (as they did back in the day). The year is 1968, race riots are everywhere. Harry was an entertainer and quite beloved but he was also an activist, and quite powerful in the movement. He has a line up of guest Johnny could only dream about, Martin Luther King Jnr, Bobby Kennedy, Aretha Franklin, Sidney Poitier, Lena Horne, and Paul Newman amongst others. The documentary shows soe of the footage and it was powerful, it also interviews people who watched it, celebrities and relatives of those connected to the show. This was so watchable and so wonderful, every one should check it out, a real moment in history.

Harry Potter Reunion

This was absolutely glorious, a reunion of most of the cast of the 8 Harry Potter movies, a 20th anniversary. Think about that! There was so much to love in these couple of hours (definitely not long enough either!) that I go quite overwhelmed and teary. Firstly and most importantly there were 'the kids', well beautiful adults. Those gorgeous little kids we first saw on screen have turned out to be delightful, intelligent and wonderful human beings. 

The stand outs, of course, are Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson. Daniel never fails to astonish me in the best possible way. Things could have been grim for him, but this never seemed to be the case. he knew/knows the enormity of being Harry Potter, he has consistently embraced it after the fact, and seems a genuinely well rounded human. But not only that, a really individual, interesting, and decent human. Watch him being interviews, he never shys away from Harry, he is funny, a good sport, and just a delight. Emma is simple Hermione personified, and that is such a delight too. And they are bloody great actors.

The supporting cast - mostly a who's who of British cinema royalty - were divine. They all seemed to relish the fun of being in the movies, and depending on the part, how important their role was. They also loved all the kids, treating them as equal and helping them along the way. Truly magnificent. The bond between Gary Oldman and Daniel brought a tear to my eye, and Helena Bonham Carter (always bloody amazing) was hilarious with her love of the universe and Daniel himself.

The directors were interviewed, the sets revisited, behind the scenes stories told, the funniest involved Richard Harris and a faux Phoenix. Notably and understandably absent was JK Rowling (huge sigh), there were a couple of clips of her talking with very specific captioning to explain this was taped prior to the filming of the documentary.

I guess this is for fans and I am definitely a fan, I loved this so very much, one of the most perfect documentaries I have seen in a long time.

British Bake Off

I am not a fan of reality shows, but I do love Bake Off. I mean, what's not to love? Loads of lovely people (they are always lovely) baking cakes and cookies and tarts and bread. The divine 1-2 of Matt Lucas and my beloved Noel Fielding. And the delightful Prue Leith and the sparkly eyed Paul Hollywood. Pure escapism, and makes you think you can bake anything!

Cruella

I really enjoyed this, it was pure camp entertainment and the Emmas, Stone and Thompson, looked like they were having a ball. This is the back story of Cruella de Ville, did we need it, probably not, but it was a lot of fun. Really it was all about the costumes!

The Dry

I really enjoyed the book of this despite crime and the outback being two of my lesser interests. It was a great debut novel and packed a punch. Whilst the casting of the movie was great, the film felt perfunctory, maybe it was because I knew the story. I didn't dislike the film but it felt colour by numbers. 

And Just Like That

Oh vey, what can I say. I did not hate this, but I did not love this. Although I think this is the consensus. I loved, loved, loved Sex and the City, but who didn't. Those gals, I wanted to be their friends, I related to some of their antics, and I wanted to live in their NYC. And, intellectually I knew Big was no good, but emotionally, did I love him? Absofuckinglutely!

When I heard they were rebooting, I braced myself. These things do not always end well. I heard stories, saw pics, but just decided to wait and see. No Samantha, oh dear, to me, she was the string that held everything together. Her sharp take on the world stopped the show from being hokey. 

The first episode shook me to my core, I did not expect Big to die, that was pretty brutal. I get it, in terms of storytelling, but it put me offside immediately. I also thought they tried to pack too much 'wokeness' in that first episode. Now I do not have issues with being woke, but it has to be genuine, handled well, and not a tick the box kind of thing. They introduced new characters, this is also fine, but again they felt forced. We haven't seen these gals for a while, so of course they may have made new friends, they should have just had these people there in the background like maybe they had been there for a while and not force it awkwardly.

I hoped the show would settle, it did not. Maybe the last episode was the best, it felt like it had started to get into a nice groove.

So here is what I did not like:

  • What they did to Miranda! She was never that stupid.
  • What they did to Steve. He deserved better.
  • Carrie's boss, I am sure they are a great actor, but boy, that character was not likeable
  • Was Charlotte always that annoying?
  • Poor Stan, I know he died, but he deserved better.
  • Period stains, and uncontrollable wee, really?
  • the dialogue
  • the overkill
  • the wokeness
  • Carrie buying that bloody awful apartment
  • How they incorporated Samantha, it felt like passive aggressive bullying
Here is what I did like:
  • Watching Charlotte struggle to parent, it was genuinely funny
  • The clothes
  • Carrie, despite Big's death, she was still Carrie
  • When Carrie helped her downstairs neighbour
  • Carrie on the bridge in Paris
  • The blinking lamp
  • NYC
  • The Bat Mitzvah
I suspect there will be more, will I watch it? But of course!
They are my gals!

I will end with what I genuinely and actually think went wrong. The writing team. This was meant to be reboot for these ladies in their 50s/60s and the new writing team were in their 20s/30s. Nothing wrong with that, except they have no realistic idea of being in their 50s/60s. I love love love Samantha Irby, but she is soooo not this show's demographic. This is where they got it seriously wrong, these writers just didn't have the life experience to do justice to the ageing of our girls.
 

What I've Been Listening To

Alan Alda and Max Brooks/Mel Brooks -  Alan Alda's Clear and Vivid podcast is a fave, he focuses on Science and communication with a range of well known celebs and regular sciencey people as guests. He pulled a fabulous 1-2, with Max Brooks one week, his father, Mel the following. Max Brooks, youngest son of Mel and only son of Anne Bancroft, is an author of science fiction and fantasy and most well known for his series, World War Z (made into a movie with Brad Pitt). He had learning difficulties as a kid, and talked to Alan about overcoming them to become a famous author and being the kid of Mel and Anne. It was a sheer delight. And then Mel was something else, 2 International Treasures, Mel, 95 and Alan, 86, sharp as tacks, funnier than ever. Both just riffing off each other and Alda, obviously a fan, just loving it all.

Carnage - Nick Cave and Warren Ellis - This is a great and measured album with the usual darkness that Ellis and Cave conjure. Their partnership and friendship is one of legends, and it shows.

Release Me 2 - Barbra Streisand - this is a great album of her older stuff and she still sounds great. Babs soothes the soul for sure!

Beauty and the Beat by The GoGos - what a great and classic album. Sharp songwriting, great sound, and loads of fun. I really didn't realise how remarkable this band was until I saw a recent doco on them. Groundbreaking and of the punk era, these girls are not pop dummies but kick arse heroes. And the way this album makes you feel when you listen to it, not many albums bring pure joy like this one does.

Cry Forever by Amy Shark - I really love Amy and this is another great album. A terrific mis of pop, folk songs, Amy's sound is maturing beautifully.

Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga- this is a stunning album, both sound great, especially together. This is probably Tony's last hurrah, given his age and health issues. So very bittersweet. I can take or leave Gaga's pop, but when she sings properly, my god she is remarkable, that voice is a gift.

Today We're the Greatest by Middle Kids - really enjoyed their chill pop/folk sound

The First Two EPs by The Chats - total punk, very raw and very good. Love these guys, also great sense of humour, which really good punk needs.

 

Wednesday, March 16, 2022

2021/2022

So 2021!

It has taken me ages to write up this!

So here is the year that was, and what a year it was!

COVID

Well this was quite the challenge...again...as I suspected it would be.

I still do not think we are over this, and that it will still linger for a while, but I do think it is easing somewhat.

I also still think we have much to learn from COVID.

For me, there are 2 big things that I think we all should learn from it.

1/ We need to look after our earth and it's inhabitants much better. Because if we were doing that, COVID may not have happened or spread as it has.

2/ We need to learn that slowing down and not being so frantic in our lives is a good thing. To really sit back and enjoy, smell the flowers, watch the clouds, and just be. While I missed my friends and family, and some cultural pursuits, I really didn't miss things anywhere near as much as you would think. So I am being far more choosier with my adventures than in the past. Try not to jump onto bandwagons (which has never really been my thing thankfully) or do that FOMO thing. I think that fucks with people's mental health.

This is fairly similar to what I said at the beginning of this year, but I feel the need to reiterate.

2021: the hopes...

I said I wouldn't think about what I cannot do but what I could do. I did this and it worked! And to appreciate what I had, again yes! I wanted a productive and fun year at work and I definitely had that. And for my health to continue to improve, and slowly it is, still much work to do there.

2021: the reality

It was up and down, being separated from Andrew for many months was not great, but we got through it and are solid, so that is important.

Study nearly broke me, many times. It was difficult to juggle such a labour intensive and time consuming course on top of FT work and COVID, but I got there, so that was great and a huge relief.

I did get out to quite a bit of social activity, Julia Gillard, art exhibitions, the markets, dance, catching up with friends, concerts including You Am I, Dave Graney, John Waters, Yes Commissioner, even dancing. I also caught a lot of events on streaming. And I went to my first Supa Nova, what fun!

So 2022, what do I want...

Firstly I finished my course which allows me to teach Library at TAFE and I commenced my first stint at the end of January and whilst it is a bit of work, I am absolutely loving it.

My regular FT gig at Belmont is going from strength to strength.

So I want to be able to juggle both without too much stress and continue to enjoy and feel inspired by both of them.

I want to read more, I need to read more, I missed that last year when study took up so much time,

I need to utilise my creativity more, for the same reasons, writing mostly, but I have also been inspired to think about painting and drawing, so we will see.

I want to balance my social activities, I do not have to go to everything, just choice gigs that are unmissable or to be with friends.

I need to continue working on my health.

My study needs a revamp.

Mostly I want to explore new places, locally or close to home (maybe further if covid allows), enjoy being out and about, preferably with Andrew, take pictures, walk and soak up the world I live in.

So 2022, bring it on!!!!