Horror Flicks!

General life has been keeping me from posting as much as I would like lately and in the near future. Nothing too serious or life threatening, but as silly as this may sound, I like to think myself in “pre-production” for the next stage of my life I am attempting to make, or in other words “production.”

As I start to feel ill, and with Halloween in a day away, I did want to take a little bit of time and share some of my favourite horror films. I enjoy, or I should say I think horror is more effective when they mess with your mind rather than rely on body count.  I admit that I haven’t watched some of the big classics in the horror genre, but out of the ones I have seen, these are the films that still have the power to freak me out.

The Exorcist (William Friedkin, 1973) 

I remember the first time I saw this film. It was at a friend’s birthday party in grade 7 and we were all sleeping over and huddled into her basement late at night. She whipped out a VHS (yup, VHS!) and popped it into the player.

I wanted to be brave and act as if this film would not scare me, but I ended up watching the film through the spaces in-between my fingers that were suppose to block my view and protect me.

Not so much.

The premise, the music, the desperate mother wanting to save her child, the voice coming from the innocent looking little girl, the images of what she or it was doing was unlike anything I've seen before. It did more than just scare me and give me a sleepless night. It unsettled me. 

To this day, even constantly reminding myself “it’s only a film, it’s only a film...” pea soup and all, it still unsettles me.

The Shining (Stanley Kubrick, 1980)

Maybe my control issues are at the heart of choosing these films as ones that scare me the most. Although The Shining isn't some gory, slasher type horror film, the idea of an individual losing control and being possessed by some force is scary to me.

Add a father played by Jack Nicholson who is possessed by these forces and trying to kill his family in an old haunted hotel, with Stanley Kubrick directing an adaptation of a Stephen King novel, and well...do I have explain more? 

"All work and no play..."

Along with losing control, another pattern I see is evil children. Add The Omen (1976) and Rosemary’s Baby (1968) as other films that freak me out.

I should look into this. 

I also want to give honourable mention to Rope (1948) by Alfred Hitchcock. Something about just being plain cold and callous without remorse or care that affects me and freaks me out.  Anything like that unsettles me actually. 

This trailer doesn't do justice to how awesome this film actually is, it's almost comedic in tone compared to today's standards. To me, this is one of Hitchcock's most under appreciated films. 

Happy Halloween! 

Book and Film Review: The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Based on the novel of the same name. Adapted and directed by Stephen Chbosky. Stars: Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, Ezra Miller.

Published in 1999, film released October 2012

There are plenty of films that depict and explore the trials, tribulations and themes of adolescence, and both the book and film The Perks of Being a Wallflower is one of them. What makes this book and film stand out differently is its honesty when looking at how messed up teens and high-school can be, but in the end, we will survive and learn and be messed up young adults in our messed up post high school life.  I mean this in a good way actually. The book and film in the end is a positive and hopeful message without being overly cheesy or look down on the reader/viewer.

The story is essentially about Charlie (Logan Lerrman) who starts his freshman year of high school after having his best friend from middle school commit suicide. He soon befriends seniors, Patrick (Ezra Miller) his step-sister Sam (Emma Watson) and follows the school year. This is all done (in the book) through letters written by Charlie to an anonymous friend about his experiences, although there may be guesses and theories to whom he is writing to. The films shows some of his letter writing, but is essentially told through Charlie’s perspective.

Despite the mature subject and being categorized as YA (young adult) the film/book can be appreciated by non young adults as well.

So what are some of the mature subject matter? Without getting too spoilerish: drugs, sex, teen pregnancy, molestation, rape, suicide, homosexuality, homophobia and bullying.

That is a lot to explore. This is also complaint that I have read in reviews from others that the book throws all of this and more in a short time span and is unrealistic. While reading I didn't feel like this was too much. It was not THAT long ago I was a teen and plenty of these issues came up in my days in high school.  The book looks at all these issues in a respectful and honest manner.  The film adaptation doesn't explore all of these, but a fair amount in the same way.

It is a touching story that even with all the heavy issues, it is hopeful in the end and  is more about the power of friendship and the love of family.

Logan Lerman who plays Charlie does a good job. While I read the book, I knew that there was something not right with Charlie, that was  more than just being shy and socially awkward.  He was just too sheltered, too innocent for a 15 year old starting high-school. Trust me! I was sheltered and green as well. The film doesn't explore much of Charlie’s panic attacks, anxiety, crying fits when he is overwhelmed and his blackouts. As well (for a lack of a better description) adrenaline rush that makes him able to defend himself from his bullies and later on a group of football players.  It also helps that his older brother is a college football player and teaches him a thing or two.  These outbursts are rare and Charlie is not a violent person, but linked with his other characteristics, the reader is clued in more and more that there is something wrong about Charlie that we are not aware of until the end. This helps to make Charlie a more complex and realistic character.  Lerman gets Charlie’s sensitivities and sweetness, but in the end, even with his big emotional and mental breakdown, he felt just like another shy and quiet teenage boy who has a talent for writing. Not all Lerman’s fault, it is also changes the film makes as well. This was something done more effectively and impactful in the novel.

Emma Watson as Sam continues her post Harry Potter career.  In both the book and novel I tried to see Sam as more than just object of affection. Sam as more than the free spirited girl who helps Charlie to come out of his shell and the quirky step-sister to Patrick who loves indy music.  There isn't really anything wrong with Sam or in Watson’s performance.  She is nice and like most teenage girls she has self esteem issues that she tries to fix it by male attention. Self esteem issues that stem from childhood.  Maybe I just have problems relating to these types of female characters. Yes! I knew and continue to know girls (and women) like her.  Sam is already on her journey of discovering who she is as an individual. By the end, through her friendships and experiences as she is on her way to university, she is one step closer to female independence and accepting the correct type of love. That is as deep as I can go when it comes to Sam’s character.

The actor and character in the film that shined the most to me was Ezra Miller as Patrick. The openly gay teen that is witty, has a zest for life and is cleaver and mature beyond his age. I know what you thinking! A flamboyant gay male character...how original?  Book Patrick and Ezra as film Patrick is more than that. Patrick is not flamboyant, but an open and happy and a mostly self assured person. There is a difference to me. There is a depth to Patrick that isn't often seen in “supporting” characters in a book. Ezra brings this to his acting as well in the film. I believe that an entirely separate book and film can be written about Patrick as well. I've only seen Ezra Miller in one other film, We Need to Talk About Kevin, and you can’t show much more versatility and range from playing Kevin, a deeply disturbed teenage killer, to Patrick.  He will be seen next as Leon in a new adaptation of the classic Madame Bovary (YAY! Another period piece from a classic novel I’ll watch.)  At only 20, this is a career and talent I looking forward to watching develop.

My minor complaint about the film is that when Patrick has his breakdown and is at his lowest, it did not go deep enough. For a period of time he lives off truckers pills and coffee, hooking up with randoms not to feel pain/hate but love. I understand that you can only do so much in a film adaptation, but with a character like Patrick, without going into specifics, when he becomes like this, it is eye opening and a learning experience for the characters and reader/viewer as well. It is one of the most poignant and saddest moments in the book and could have been more powerful scene(s) if expanded more in the film.

I cannot think of another example where the author of the novel also adapted the screenplay and directed the film. I think that is interesting and helped contribute the film’s success in keeping with the spirit and overall themes and message. It was also a good move to slim down the friendship between Charlie and his English teacher who gives him extra books on the side to further develop his writing and off course, further develop his knowledge of the world and himself. One thing that I found funny was that smoking cigarettes was not in the film. The characters (including Charlie) smoke. Hollywood is funny when it comes to depicting youth smoking, and possibly in an attempt to generalize the time of the film the smoking was cut out. We can have teens take drugs such as LSD, drink alcohol and be sexually active, but please don’t show them smoking. 

I also loved the look and feel of the film. The novel takes place late 1991 to the end of summer 1992. Without being obvious the film keeps the time period. There are no cell phones, laptops, Ipods or any of today’s devices. There are video tapes and this group of teens make mix tapes for one another. The fashions in certain scenes also give the time away. The music is awesome and helps to generalize the time and appeal to many viewers by using music from multiple decades, including David Bowie’s Heroes as a theme throughout.

You can do a quick tumblr search and will find many graphics with lines from The Perks of Being a Wallflower.  Most notably “We accept the love we think we deserve” and “We are infinite.” That may go into overkill  and cheesy territory but it does attest to the power of the story itself.

I may sound harsh, but this is a rare case of the film adaptation overall being faithful the spirit of a book. That is something I have seen a lot of writers, who are fully aware of unavoidable changes, are afraid of when having their work adapted to film. This is a example of both novel and book being equal in their own mediums. 

Book Review: Children of Liberty

For fans of Paullina Simon's work, in particular her Bronze Horseman ( AKA TBH) series, Children of Liberty, her latest book was both to be excited and nervous about.

Since this can be thought of as a prequel to TBH series, many already knew how the story of Jane and Harold Barrington ended, but not the "beginning" and "middle" parts of their story. I would say that Children of Liberty is  the start of their story. It didn't ruin the book for me, but I thought when Paullina Simons first announced she would be writing this book that would be more about  their actual life together and not as much about how they met. I believe there is still plenty of their story left to be told.  Since I have finished reading Children of Liberty, Paullina has mentioned in an interview (she’s doing a press tour now) that she is in the process writing another book about the "middle" of their story. So, I'm game!

Having said all that, the "beginning" is pretty good. It has the classic Paullina Simon’s slow build up and burn. I got more invested and engrossed  in the story and characters the further I read. The longing and the denial of feelings and what is expected of one, the culture and class clashes, old school thoughts and traditions during and start of a new century and the industrial revolution, which brought new opportunities to the world.   Both Harry and Gina rebel in this respect, hence the title Children of Liberty.  

That's another interesting aspect of the story. How Gina Anttaviano, an Italian immigrant coming to America becomes Jane Barrington.  How Harry Barrington, whose decedents arrived years before to America on the Mayflower and one of the wealthiest families in Boston becomes Harold Barrington. A couple that moves to Russia years later after the revolution in  the fervent belief of a new way of life. Sadly, their optimism also becomes their downfall.

As someone who read The Bronze Horseman series it was interesting and fun to see how characteristics from both mother and father are late seen  in their son, Alexander Barrington/Belov.  Harry/Harold’s practicality, sense of reason and business smarts, mixed with Gina/Jane’s feisty and passionate nature and “go get ‘em!” attitude.

One minor complaint I have about this book is all the dialogue and passages about politics and economics. I see Paullina's background as a financial journalist and political science major really coming through here. Even more so than in her other books. I understand with the era that the novel takes place in, and we know later on how politically involved both Harold and Jane become, the importance of showing the beginnings of this mindset and way of life they decide later on is needed. I don’t mean that she should have cut it all out, and it could just be me, but I thought a few times the conversations and passages with economic and political discussions brought the pace of the narrative down and I would have liked more scenes with Gina and Harry just being Gina and Harry- young and discovering their love for one another.  

There is beautiful writing (as expected by Mrs. Simons) that just rolls off the tongue like poetry. One particular passage that stuck out for me:

"Love is the strongest and deepest element in all life. The harbinger of hope, of ecstasy, the defier of all laws, of all conventions. Man has conquered nations, but all his armies could not conquer love. Man has subdued bodies, chained the spirit but he has been utterly helpless before love. High on a throne, yet he will remain poor and desolate if love passes him by. Love, ladies and gentleman, has the power to make out a beggar a king."

I don’t know about you, but that passage just sends shivers down my spine.

If you are fan of Paullina Simons work or want a good story of two people coming together and finding love, this is for you. 

So now I wait for the second and more heartbreaking part of Jane and Harold Barrington’s story. 

Playing Catch Up

I just wanted to play a bit of catch up on here and share some of the books and films that I have recently seen and read and enjoyed.  Some are not new releases, but a good book or film stands the test of time.

The Films

Nowhere Boy (2009)–Directed by Sam Taylor-Wood

This is a great little film about John Lennon’s teenage years. Being raised by his aunt and reconnecting with his biological mother Julia. All while surviving high school, discovering his love, passion and talent for music; and meeting a couple of guys named Paul and George along the way.

Ever since seeing Anna Karenina at TIFF, I’ve been on a bit of an Aaron Taylor-Johnson kick, so I’ve been watching and discovering some of his films.  A 19  (now 22) Aaron takes on the task of playing John Lennon. This would be intimidating to even the most seasoned actor, but Aaron does well with capturing John’s voice while talking and singing, playing the guitar and harmonica. He did this all for real.

With Kristin Scott Thomas playing his influential aunt Mimi, and Thomas Brodie–Sangster as a teenage Paul, there is a strong supporting cast and of course an awesome soundtrack needed for a film like this.

This is a must for any Beatle lover or a lover of music/biopics in general.

Kick Ass (2010) – Directed by Mathew Vaughn

I know, I know! I’ve only watched this now! If someone told me Aaron was in this as well, I would have seen it sooner. I’m going with the better late than never theory on this one.

I haven’t read any of the Kick Ass graphic novels, but the movie stands well enough on its own to explain and set up the world of not so likely superheroes led by Dave Lizewski AKA Kick Ass (Aaron).  I was really impressed with Aaron’s versatility in this one. After seeing him play a teenage John Lennon and Russian Calvary officer, he plays your typical American teenage boy who dreams of being a superhero and tests his theory of "What if an ordinary person became a superhero?"

This isn't your typical comic book/graphic novel based film. It knows what it is and plays on the genre. Add Chloe Grace Moretz as Hit Girl and Nicolas Cage as Big Daddy and you got yourself a fun film.

Kick Ass 2 is currently being filmed in Toronto, Ont, with a June 2013 release date. 

  

Albert Nobbs (2011) – Directed by Rodrigo Garcia

I wanted to see this one during last year’s awards season, but forgot and didn't get around until recently. Yes Aaron in this one as well (last one with him, I promise).  This film is about Albert Nobbs, who is played wonderfully by Glenn Close, a woman who after being orphaned at 14 decides to live as a man in order to work.  The film takes place in a posh Dublin Hotel where Albert Nobbs is the head butler.  Albert’s life changes after meeting Mr. Page, a painter  hired  for a renovation who has more in common with Albert than meets the eye.  Albert’s story also intertwines with the story of Joe (Aaron) and Helen (Mia Wasikowska), two young lovers who also work in the hotel.

This is interesting look at late 19^th century Ireland where single woman were discouraged to work in order  to support themselves and keep their gay lives a secret as well.

I  also found it interesting that Glenn Close co-wrote the script and spent years working to get this film financed and made.

The Books

Here are some books I recently lead and overall enjoyed.  Since it’s Thanksgiving Day here in Canada and I’m being lazy, I copied and pasted the summaries from the Goodreads website.  www.goodreads.com

Savages- Written by Don Winslow

 Part-time environmentalist and philanthropist Ben and his ex-mercenary buddy Chon run a Laguna Beach–based marijuana operation, reaping significant profits from their loyal clientele. In the past when their turf was challenged, Chon took care of eliminating the threat. But now they may have come up against something that they can’t handle—the Mexican Baja Cartel wants in, and sends them the message that a "no" is unacceptable. When they refuse to back down, the cartel escalates its threat, kidnapping Ophelia, the boys’ playmate and confidante. O’s abduction sets off a dizzying array of ingenious negotiations and gripping plot twists that will captivate readers eager to learn the costs of freedom and the price of one amazing high.

The writing style in this book is very different than from what I have read in past. It is short and fast pace to match the lifestyle these characters live .  At times you feel you are reading a text message with the author’s use of slang in the dialogue. The book also has a very modern and current feel and look at the world. In particular politics, the war on (some may argue for) drugs and the tense relationship between American and Mexico.

Without giving too much away, my main issues with the book is the ending and the character of Ophelia, known as O. I didn't see what was so special about her and her supposed intelligence.  It was still a solid book and entertaining read that looks into a world I have next to little knowledge of.

Despite the so-so reviews, I didn't get to see the film adaptation by Oliver Stone when it came out during the summer, but will watch it when it is available to rent in a couple weeks.

The Red Tent- Written by Anita Diamant

Her name is Dinah. In the Bible, her life is only hinted at in a brief and violent detour within the more familiar chapters of the Book of Genesis that are about her father, Jacob, and his dozen sons. Told in Dinah's voice, this novel reveals the traditions and turmoils of ancient womanhood--the world of the red tent. It begins with the story of her mothers--Leah, Rachel, Zilpah, and Bilhah--the four wives of Jacob. They love Dinah and give her gifts that sustain her through a hard-working youth, a calling to midwifery, and a new home in a foreign land. Dinah's story reaches out from a remarkable period of early history and creates an intimate connection with the past. Deeply affecting, The Red Tent combines rich storytelling with a valuable achievement in modern fiction: a new view of biblical women's society.

Now before you say “A Bible story?” this is a work of fiction inspired by a biblical story. As said so by the author herself.  You do not need to know the book of Genesis or be Christian or Jewish to understand the story. There is no preaching of any religion.

In the end this is a story about Dinah looking back on her life, from even before her conception. It is a look into an ancient culture and way of life and the lives of women in that culture.  The themes of family, love found and lost, betrayal and survival are common themes written time and time again.

A friend of mine who read this book years ago asked me a question about the last line, in particular the last word in the book and what it could mean.  Off the top of my head I told her it was not only about Dinah looking back and taking stock of her life, but the message was for all of us to do that as well.  That no matter where and when you live, to be grateful for the blessings in our lives and make the most of the hardships as well.  I believe that anyone can benefit from that.

Sidenote- As I mentioned I’m in a lazy mood today, but I have also read (and become slightly obsessed) with George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire Series, also known as A Game of Thrones. I'm not going to get into every book. 

I have read the first three books and watched the first two seasons of HBO’s equally impressive miniseries adapted from the books.  (I'm waiting for a friend to catch up and I don't want to get too ahead of the series). The themes of family, politics, power, loyalty, betrayal, and love all come together. It is a great series that blends fantasy in a fictional medieval setting with some memorable characters. It is a brutal world where the good don’t always win and prosper and even die. As the saying goes, “Absolute power corrupts, absolutely.”  

Or as Cersei Lannister would say “When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die.”

The order of books are:

Book 1-Game of Thrones

Book 2- A Clash of Kings

Book 3- A Storm of Swords

Book 4- A Feast for Crows

Book 5- A Dance with Dragons

Book 6- The Winds of Winter (release date to be announced)

Currently Reading...

Children of Liberty- Written by Paullina Simons

At the turn of the century and the dawning of the modern world, Gina from Belpasso comes to Boston’s Freedom Docks to find a new and better life, and meets Harry Barrington, who is searching for his.

The fates of the Barringtons and Attavianos become entwined, on a collision course between the old and new, between what is expected and what is desired, what is chosen and what is bestowed, what is given and what is taken away.

As America races headlong into the future, much will be lost and much will be gained for Gina and Harry, whose ill-fated love story will break your heart.

I have six chapters left in this book, so I will probably finish it today.  Paullina Simons is one of my favourite contemporary writers. Those that know me personally will know that her Bronze Horseman series are my favourite books and series that I have ever read. I have read and will read some of her other novels, but this particular series has affected me unlike any other books.  A recommendation for anyone.

Children of Liberty can be thought of as a prequel to The Bronze Horseman series, but can also be read as a standalone book. 

Happy reading and viewing everyone!