What is Good Hair?

I just was talking with some of my co-workers and we were discussing what is "good hair"? many people have their definitions on what it is but when it comes from the mouth of babes that's when things "hit the fan".

When Chris Rock’s daughter, Lola, came up to him crying and asked, “Daddy, how come I don’t have good hair?” the bewildered comic committed himself to search the ends of the earth and the depths of black culture to find out who had put that question into his little girl's head! Good Hair visits hair salons and styling battles, scientific laboratories, and Indian temples to explore the way black hairstyles impact the activities, pocketbooks, sexual relationships, and self-esteem of black people. Celebrities such as Ice-T, Kerry Washington, Nia Long, Paul Mooney, Raven Symoné, Maya Angelou, and Reverend Al Sharpton all candidly offer their stories and observations to Rock while he struggles with the task of figuring out how to respond to his daughter’s question. What he discovers is that black hair is a big business that doesn’t always benefit the black community and little Lola’s question might well be bigger than his ability to convince her that the stuff on top of her head is nowhere near as important as what is inside.

Many have always asked this question, but maybe we can get some answers, or at least intrigue our curiousity. Good Hair was featured at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah and came out a winner!

Check out some of these clips:




And another one for ya:

Taken (2009)

"The time for revenge has come..."


Taken is a film that may slip past you if you are not paying close attention to it. There is always that one movie that we are not sure about but somehow surprises us after watching it.

Taken is a film follows an ex-CIA agent faced with recovering his daughter after she is kidnapped by sex-traffickers in Paris, France. Even despite a strained relationship with his ex-wife Lenore played by Famke Janssen, Bryan (Liam Neeson) still manages to make it his business to be a part of his daughter's (Kim) life. He would do any and everything to make it so that his daughter comes back to him. It becomes the longest 96 hour rescue mission for his daughter and even his own life.

Throughout the film we are able to see old friendships and allies rekindled as well as past ones staying in the past. Bryan, an ex-CIA agent is brilliant in his methods and his actions with regards to what he has to do to get the job done. He definitely makes sure that we realize his whole purpose is to make sure of his daughter's safety. Its almost as though this is what drives him throughout this journey. All in all, upon Kim's return to the states she is able to satisfy a dream that she has had since she was 5 years old...to sing; as she is able to meet a song diva and begin her journey into the business.


I was very pleased with the selection of the actors they all seem to mesh very well to give a complete chemistry. It has been awhile since we have seen Neeson in a quality role (Batman Begins) so it was a pleasant surprise to see him in a little bit more of an action role. And it was definitely a twist to see Famke Janssen outside of her "Phoenix" role. The near perfect action is definitely one to keep you on the edge of your seat. The many twists and turns of this movie will have you guessing the next move. It sticks straight to the point, upfront, straightforward high speed action. There is no need to question or get clarification because the viewer already is on task. This is even a movie that even if you are not an action kind of person you would still enjoy it.




Grade: B+

Rewind Wednesday: One for the Kiddies

The Lion King Graphic Comments

As you know G-Breezy loves the kids so I figured I would do this Rewind Wednesday for the children. Actually this is a movie that whether young or old one will like it. Can you guess what it is .... well if you guessed The Lion King you are right!! This movie was filled with so much laughter, fun, saddness, inspiration, and lessons to learn. I could probably pull that movie off the shelf and get into a groove just like it was the first time watching it.



This 1994 animated film story was based on the Shakespearean play Hamlet, taking place in a kingdom of "anthropomorphic" animals in Africa. The Lion King gave us an understanding that life is truly what you make it and that one can make friends with just about anyone. This is one of those classic film that just has the whole complete package. The music, the characters, the plot/themes, everything about say "fantastic". Your insides feel so good from being able to relate and understand what the movie has to offer. And this one of the few films in which it was made into a musical and have a huge success from that as well. Even though you have some critics who felt there were some inappropriate scenes, I feel as though it did an overall great job of portraying its message. And nothing beats an all-star cast of actors and actresses which set this movie apart (Jonathan Taylor Thomas, James Earl Jones, Robert Guillaume, Jeremy Irons, Madge Sinclair, Whoopi Goldberg, Moira kelly, and many others!!)

The Lion King is regarded as a landmark in animation, and received positive reviews from critics, who praised the film for its music and story. During its release in 1994, the film grossed more than $783 million worldwide, becoming the most successful film released that year, and it is currently the twenty-fourth highest-grossing feature film. The Lion King still holds the record as the highest grossing traditionally animated film in history and belongs to an era known as the Disney Renaissance.

Does third "Underworld" installment rise to the occasion...

Underworld: Rise of the Lycans is the third installment of films in the Underworld series. It is a prequel set prior to Underworld and Underworld: Evolution, which covers the origins of some characters. Well I must say that I was NOT disappointed with this third installment of the Underworld series.

With this third film we are able to trace back to the origins of the ancient feud between the powerful vampires, known as the Death Dealers, and their onetime slaves, the werewolves also known as Lycans. For the abovious reason it is set during the Dark Ages, in which we see how Lucian (Michael Sheen) as a young Lycan emerges into a powerful leader. As one continues to watch the film we see how Lucian rallies the werewolves to rise up against Viktor (Bill Nighy), the king of the vampires who has kept them enslaved like cattle for centuries. The Lycans must and will unite to battle against the unstoppable Death Dealer army, and struggle for their freedom. We are also able to see the love the emerges from a vampire/lycan relationship, but only to be destroyed by a selfish and jealous father.

The great thing about this film is that if you have seen the prior two films the plot of this third one will not be difficult to follow. Watching the main character Lucian grow into his power exemplifies the greatness that he holds as leader of the Lycans. Even when you want to fear him, somehow he is able to calm you in the storm. The acting in this film definitely proves it worthy of the big screen. In the beginning, I was a bit hesitant regarding the sequel, but I think it does a great job of bridging the gap of the first two films. It gives a better understanding of how these two worlds have been created. In the hour and some change that this film shows, I came out the theater wanting more, but I will just have to wait patiently.


Underworld: Rise of the Lycans definitely rises to the occasion as we venture into the origins of a centuries-old feud. This death-defying, dark adventure is defintely one you don't want to miss!! And from what I have been told a fourth installment which continues from Underworld: Evolution is in the making. YAY!!!



Grade: B+/A-

























Grade:

Tribute to Atlanta Actress and Beloved instructor Carol Mitchell-Leon

According to WSBTV.com-- On January 19, 2009, a fallen legend passed away. Carol Mitchell-Leon (57) a talented actress and drama instructor passed Monday morning at Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta, GA. Mitchell-Leon's health deteriorated since she suffered a heart attack during kidney-related surgery in November 2007. "She just never fully recovered,” said Barber, who was the actress’ legal and medical guardian.

Mitchell-Leon film credits include Fried Green Tomatoes, Diary of a Mad Black Woman, and Idlewild; and numerous television credits as well. She appeared on numerous stages in Atlanta including the Alliance, 7 Stages, PushPush, Actor’s Express, the Georgia Ensemble Theatre, Marietta’s Theatre in the Square and Synchronicity Performance Group.

Mitchell-Leon was married to Atlanta director Kenny Leon from 1987 to 1998 and taught in the drama department of Clark Atlanta University. Mitchell-Leon came to Atlanta from her hometown of Philadelphia to attend Clark Atlanta University in the 1980s, eventually heading up the theater department there.

Many fellow students and colleagues are saddened by this loss, but are confident that her memory will live on. She had such a warm and vibrant spirit. Her life will be missed but her memory will live on. It was always a true delight to see her throughout the campus at CAU.

Plans for a memorial service are forthcoming.

**For those who will be in the Atlanta area this week, there will be a Candlelight Vigil on January 23, 2009 at Davage Auditorium on the campus of Clark Atlanta University at 5 PM.**

The OSCAR noms are in!! "Benjamin Button leads the pack!!"

Today is a grand day in the movie/film industry. The Oscar nominations are in and many folks are jumping for joy. Here are just a few of some of the highlighted Oscar nominations.

1. Best Picture: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button , Frost/Nixon, Milk, The Reader , Slumdog Millionaire .

2. Actor: Richard Jenkins , The Visitor; Frank Langella , Frost/Nixon; Sean Penn, Milk; Brad Pitt, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button; Mickey Rourke , The Wrestler .

3. Actress: Anne Hathaway, Rachel Getting Married; Angelina Jolie, Changeling; Melissa Leo , Frozen River ; Meryl Streep, Doubt; Kate Winslet , The Reader.

4. Supporting Actor: Josh Brolin , Milk; Robert Downey Jr ., Tropic Thunder ; Philip Seymour Hoffman, Doubt; Heath Ledger, The Dark Knight; Michael Shannon , Revolutionary Road.

5. Supporting Actress: Amy Adams, Doubt; Penelope Cruz, Vicky Cristina Barcelona; Viola Davis , Doubt; Taraji P. Henson , The Curious Case of Benjamin Button; Marisa Tomei , The Wrestler.

6. Director: David Fincher , The Curious Case of Benjamin Button; Ron Howard, Frost/Nixon; Gus Van Sant , Milk; Stephen Daldry, The Reader; Danny Boyle , Slumdog Millionaire.

7. Animated Feature Film : Bolt; Kung Fu Panda ; WALL-E.

8. Makeup: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, The Dark Knight, Hellboy II: The Golden Army.

9. Visual Effects: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, The Dark Knight, Iron Man.

10. Cinematography : Changeling, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, The Dark Knight, The Reader, Slumdog Millionaire.

As many expected Heath Ledger recieved a nomination for his role as the "Joker" in The Dark Knight (on the one year anniversary of his death). Another pleasant nomination was that of Tariji P. Henson getting a supporting actress nomination in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. However, even with all the greatness many may be surprised as to the "so-so" results for The Dark Knight. This film in particular was one of the years best films, but only picked up eight noms. The Dark Knight was the largest blockbuster in several years only picking up noms in technical categories outside the Heath Ledger nomination.

But all in all, this years Academy Awards is not too surprising even with its snubs overall it should be a good viewing!

Rewind Wednesday: Glory

Well what a week it has been! I am still on my "cloud 44"....ooooo I can't believe it!! But the show does not stop here, the road continues!

This week's Rewind Wednesday is Glory. A 1989 drama war film based on the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry (the first formal unit made up of all African American men). Considering all the major events that have happened, it would only fit to have this film show its true colors. This beautifully shot and triumphantly acted (by a cast that includes Morgan Freeman, Cary Elwes, Denzel Washington, Matthew Broderick, and Andre Braugher), director Edward Zwick's film serves as a tribute to the courage and selfless bravery of the black soldiers of the Civil War (Rotten Tomatoes).

Based on the historical novels ONE GALLANT RUSH by Peter Burchand and LAY THIS LAUREL by Lincoln Kirstein and the letters of Robert Gould Shaw, the film follows the youthful Colonel Shaw (Matthew Broderick) as he takes responsibility for readying these soldiers for battle. The film depicts the 54th Masachusetts Volunteer Infantry training through the Christmas holidays of 1862 (after the September 1862 Battle of Antietam), but the real 54th Massachusetts did not organize until March 1863, and they were engaged in their first battle on James Island, SC on 16 July 1863, and then Battery Wagner (the final battle in the film) on 18 July 1863. The 54th went on to fight at Olustee, Florida (February 20, 1864); Honey Hill, South Carolina (November 30, 1864); and Boykin's Mill, South Carolina (April 18, 1865).

In the film it suggests that most of the black soldiers were former slaves from Southern secessionist states who wished to fight for the abolitionist North, but in fact the majority were born free in the North, although some did escape from slavery. Of the major characters in the movie's version of the regiment, only Robert Gould Shaw was a real person. The rest are composite characters. The name of Shaw's executive officer (Cabot Forbes) is a combination of the first name from one of the real Shaw's friends and the last name of another.

Morgan Freeman, Denzel Washington, and Andre Braugher all played their roles so well that it just sticks to your soul. By far, they showed true emotion that only actors wish they could display now. many have said that this is "still one of the best war epics ever made!" I am just glad I was able to see this film at a young age and to then see it again as an adult. Your perspective is truly opened!

The film was nominated for five categories and won three Oscars:
Oscar for Best Actor in a Supporting Role - Denzel Washington. (This would be his first Oscar win)
Oscar for Best Cinematography - Freddie Francis.
Oscar for Best Sound Mixing - Donald O. Mitchell, Gregg C. Rudloff, Elliot Tyson, Russell Williams II.

Just recently I purchased the DVD for my movie collection and I was just as moved this time around as I was the first time watching it. With such a powerful message embedded in this film one can't help but feel the same victory that is exhibited in the movie. In 2009 we have truly recieved a major downpayment on our lives as free men and women.

"Their innocence. Their heritage. Their lives. Nothing would be spared in the fight for their freedom. "

One of the best acting scenes in cinema history...I still get a chill and tear up from it.

Biggie Biggie Give Me One More Chance!!

You know your movie has done well when you seen grown men come out of a movie theater teary-eyed. Notorious did just that!! After watching this film I could honestly say that this portrayal was "Amazing"! Notorious is a 2009 biopic film about the life of hip hop star Christopher Wallace aka Biggie Smalls bka The Notorious B.I.G.

Biggie who, through raw talent and sheer determination, transforms himself from a Brooklyn street hustler to become the greatest rapper of all time. His story charts his meteoric rise to fame and his refusal to succumb to expectation and redefines our notion of "The American Dream". (Fox Searchlight)

Each character in this film was able to shine and at the same time complement the main character of focus, the Notorious B.I.G. aka Christopher Wallace. Angela Bassett who plays Voletta Wallace, Biggie's mom does a outstanding job of showing the strong-willed, no-nonsense having mother. And even though she is not a Jamaican she was able to pull it off successfully with the accent. Next, Derek Luke (Sean "Diddy" Combs) will make you laugh and make you say wow, "I have a greater respect for Diddy and his craft. To be able to have something and lose it in an instance and then rise above it speaks volumes!! And I can't forget, Luke had them dance moves down to a tee, a mirror image. And last but certainly not least, Jamal "Gravy" Woolard who plays the Notorious B.I.G. That was Biggie on the screen, no doubt. His walk, his talk, his charisma, his mannerisms, NO ONE could tell me any different. It was so evident that its scary!! Every time he talked, walked, moved I got chills to my soul because it was just that REAL. To be able to encompass all that they did in the two and some change was truly a magnificent feat. Director George Tillman Jr. should be commended for the finished product of this film. All of the hype that came with this film was definitely worth, no disappointments on this end. Thank God there are still films that portray a true to life biopic story. Hip-hop lost a great soldier in the Notorious B.I.G. and the fact that his legacy lives on even almost twelve years later makes me give him mad respect as an artist and an individual.

" When you read magazines and you see everybody having fun, you think, 'okay, that's where I want to be.' But once you get in it and you achieve the sucess that you want, it seems like that's where the player hating starts. You know that's where everybody's like, 'Well it's not all that." -Notorious B.I.G.

This film reminds us that as easy as it is to get something it is even easier to lose it in an instance. All can say is "Where Brooklyn At?!!"


Grade: A

Are you a TRUE Movie Buff?

Ok there are some simple rules...guess the movie in which the quote comes! Test your movie knowledge!

ABSOLUTELY NO GOOGLING/using IMDb search or other search functions!!

Let the games begin...

1."You would've sworn they were professors at Harvard. They had breath mints down to a science. "

2. "What do you know about love? What could you possibly know about love You know, I'm sick and tired of men using love as if it's some disease you just catch. Love should have brought your ass home last night. "

3. "You have many slaves, Xerxes, but few warriors. It won't be long before they fear my spears more than your whips. "

4. "I got red, I got green, I got yellow... I'm out of purple, but I do have one Gold Circle coin left... the condom of champions... the one and only... nothin' is gettin' through this sucker. Whaddya say, hmm? "

5. "She black as tar, nappy-headed, got legs like baseball bats, and I hear she got that nasty women's disease. "

6. "That's too much power for one man to have." and "We didn't land on Plymouth Rock. Plymouth Rock landed on us! "

7. "Playing with my money is like playing with my emotions"

8. "This is the LAPD. We're the most hated cops in all the free world. My own mama's ashamed of me. She tells everybody I'm a drug dealer. "

9. "I can't believe you guys. Do you get up in the morning, call each other up, 'Good morning, Marcus. Good morning, Mike. How you doin'? Ai'ight. So how we going to f@*# up the captain's life today? Gee, I don't know. I don't know. Ooh, look. Over there. Let's kill three fat people and leave them on the street?"

10. "I was wondering if... if I could ride you home, I - I mean if I could give you a ride home. "

Let's see if you got the skills!!

Bride Wars (2009)

Such a cute movie! This is one of those movies that you go with your girls, and just make it a "Girl's Nite" out. This romantic comedy shows the importance of true friendship and that the bond can truly last a lifetime.

Emma (Anne Hathaway) and Liv (Kate Hudson)are best friends since childhood who have pretty much planned every detail of their respective weddings for the month of June. Each bride to be has their set plans to marry their respective husbands to-be, all seems to be going perfectly -- the dates are set, their dresses are beautiful, and the maids of honor, each other, are as joyful as can be. But of course there is that glitch, both weddings have been booked on the SAME day in JUNE, so who is going to budge?!!

Throughout the film, viewers are able to get a sneek peek into the lives of Emma (a school teacher) and Liv (a high power attorney) and see what these friends are really like. Amazing how for pretty much all of their life they have shared everything from drinking, to friends, even to their favorite DJ. If nothing else is gained from this movie its the fact that people come and go, but that best friend is a treasured jewel.

Hathaway and Hudson are cute together and it makes me think of me and my best friend. We may fuss and fight, not talk for awhile, but nothing can take away that "Girl Bond" that we have.

Grade: B

Not Easily Broken

Not Easily Broken, is one of those movies that gets your brain to really churning. It is perfect for those who are in new relationships, engaged, and definitely newlyweds. The many lessons that are expressed in this movie are very applicable and true to today's society. An outstanding job from veteran actor/director Bill Duke in conjunction with preacher Bishop T.D. Jakes with bringing this novel "Not Easily Broken" to the movie screens.

Tariji Henson (Clarice Johnson) and Morris Chestnut (Dave Johnson) do an excellent job of showcasing the true life of a young married couple. many time throughout the film I would sit back and say "wow I have seen that", or even "Geesh that can really happen!". Both character bring that chemsitry that lights up the screen. To be honest it was much better than I had anticipated and was truly pleased to see the male perspective of the ups and downs of any relationship especially marriage. Anyone that watches it can testify that they see and take a little bit from Dave and Clarice Johnson. One key theme that I can see thru and thru this film is the idea of "being quiet...and listening", which is essentional to every relationship in life.


If you read the book you will realize that this is not to far from those pages that you would have read. And that is definitely a plus, accuracy is key! This movie truly touches the soul and really makes you think! So much can be gained regarding marriage and family. The leading characters in this movie really played their parts to a tee!! I can always count on T.D. Jakes bring that truth in such a way that makes you look deep, deep, deep within.




Grade: B-

Rewind Wednesday: Pretty Woman

We are back!! This Rewind Wednesday is a doozy! I had to consult with some of my other fellow movie buffs to see what we would reveal this week. And I think I got one for ya!! Pretty Woman which made its debut in 1990 is one of thse films that probably everyone can relate too in some sort of fashion.

Pretty Woman was initially intended to be a dark drama about prostitution in Los Angeles but was reconceptualized into a romantic comedy. The film was a critical success and became one of 1990's highest grossing films, and today is one of the most financially successful entries in the romantic comedy genre, with an estimated gross of $464 million USD.

Casting of Pretty Woman was a rather lengthy process. Garry Marshall had initially considered Christopher Reeve for the role of Lewis, and Al Pacino turned it down. Pacino went as far as doing a casting reading with Roberts before turning the leading role down. Gere agreed to the project. Now after reading about this next part my jaw dropped, Julia Roberts was far from the first choice for the role of Vivian. Many successful A-list actresses including Molly Ringwald (turned it down because she felt uncomfortable with the content in the script, and did not like the idea of playing a prostitute). In several interviews that she would later state that she "regrets turning the role down." Even Meg Ryan was a top choice of Marshall's (Director), turned it down. Some others included Michelle Pfeiffer who would turn the role down as well, because she did not like the "tone" of the script. And lastly Daryl Hannah was considered, but turned the role down because she believed it was "degrading to women". Interestingly enough, When all the other actresses turned down the role, Julia Roberts, who was relatively unknown at the time, with the exception of the film Steel Magnolias, was able to win the role.

Many movies have paralleled from this original to make it more interesting for various audiences. The Princess Diaries (1 and 2) as well as the television series Ugly Betty have stemmed off from this timeless movie.

I can definitely say that Pretty Woman is one of the better romantic comedies made and definitely one to watch again... And again.... And maybe again lol.

"Who knew it was so much fun to be a hooker?... She walked off the street, into his life and stole his heart."

A Delta Red Carpet Event

The National Commission on Arts and Letters of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated is embarking on a new major initiative, Project ART: Actively Redefining Together. Project ART is a collective effort to support, nurture and uplift positive programming while rejecting demeaning and harmful images in all forms of entertainment and media - music, film, radio, television and print.

Come on out and join the local DST Alumnae Chapters and support this National Initiative by attending a viewing of the new movie Not Easily Broken based on the novel written by Bishop T. D. Jakes. The film, directed by the critically acclaimed Bill Duke and starring the very talented Morris Chestnut and Taraji P. Henson, is scheduled for release on January 9, 2009.

Not Easily Broken is a story of a young couple facing life’s struggles ; a man trying to be a good husband and role model and a woman struggling to balance her needs for a career and family. I encourage you to go out and see the movie on opening night, or at minimum during the first weekend. In order to view the movie trailer and to obtain your local showtimes, visit http://www.sonypictures.com/movies/noteasilybroken/site/ or http://www.moviefone.com/movie/not-easily-broken/33542/main

Come out and show your support for this great initiative!!!

Love ya Sorors!!

Iron Man 2 Villians Revealed!!

According to The Hollywood Reporter (THR) and Variety, Mickey Rourke (The Wrestler) and Sam Rockwell (Frost/Nixon) are in talks to star as the villains in Marvel Studios' Iron Man 2. THR says that Rourke would play a tattooed Russian heavy named Ivan who becomes a man with deadly, technologically enhanced coils. Variety adds that Rourke would play the Crimson Dynamo. "He's considered to be an evil version of Iron Man because he battles the superhero in a nuclear-powered suit of armor," says the trade.

Rockwell would play Justin Hammer, a multibillionaire businessman and a rival of industrialist Tony Stark, AKA Iron Man, being played by a returning Robert Downey Jr. Rourke and Rockwell would be joining a cast that also includes the returning Gwyneth Paltrow and Don Cheadle, who is replacing Terrence Howard.


Paramount will release the movie May 7, 2010.

Keep One Eye Open...

The new movie Obsessed with idris Elba and Beyonce Knowles looks like a thriller treat!




And the new Underworld: Rise of the Lycans flick could take a bite out of ya...

Rewind Wednesday: The First One for the New Year

Well its the first Wednesday of 2009 and we are back with the Rewind Wednesdays!! I know you are wondering what I have in store for ya, well its a good one.... None other than E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. Now this is truly a classic film, ranked #25 on AFI Top 100 Films of All Time!!

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is a 1982 science fiction film co-produced and directed by Steven Spielberg, written by Melissa Mathison and starring Henry Thomas, Robert MacNaughton, Drew Barrymore, Dee Wallace and Peter Coyote. It tells the story of Elliott (Henry Thomas), a lonely boy who befriends a friendly alien, dubbed "E.T.", who is stranded on Earth. Elliott and his siblings help the alien return home while attempting to keep it hidden from their mother and the government. Interestingly enough, the concept for E.T. was based on an imaginary friend Spielberg created after his parents' divorce. Critics acclaimed it as a timeless story of friendship, and it ranks as the best science fiction film ever made in a Rotten Tomatoes survey.

Now check this little known fact...E.T. began shooting in September 1981. And the project was filmed under the cover name A Boy's Life, as Spielberg did not want anyone to discover and plagiarize the plot. The actors had to read the script behind closed doors, and everyone on set had to wear an ID card. Wow!!

As with any film there are your critics and their opinions, many of which were very understanding of the film. Spielberg described the film as "a minority story". Spielberg would state that the characteristic theme of communication is partnered with the ideal of mutual understanding: he has suggested that the story's central alien-human friendship is an analogy for how real-world adversaries can learn to overcome their differences. In addition to the many impressed critics, President Ronald Reagan and first lady Nancy Reagan were moved by the film after a screening at the White House on June 27, 1982. Princess Diana was even in tears after watching the film. And on September 17, 1982, the film was screened at the United Nations, and Spielberg received the U.N. Peace Medal.

Released in the United States on June 11, 1982, it opened at number one with a gross of $11 million, and stayed at the top of the box office for six weeks. It would fluctuated between the first and second positions until January 1983. By the end of its theatrical run, it had grossed $359.2 million domestically.

This is one of those films that just gives you an overwhelming good feeling. With its many themes that are expressed throughout this film from loss of family, friendships, loneliness, and even religion. There is no doubt in my mind that it gives a "spiritual high"! Tears always stream down my face everytime I watch this film. This is one of those movies that should be passed down from generation to generation.

So in the famous words of our beloved friend: "E.T. phone home..."

Most Anticipated Films of 2009

As it pertained to films in 2008 it was definitely a record breaking year, an estimated $9.8 billion was brought to the North American box office. its definitely going to be a tough one to follow-up against, but I think it can bring the noise!! Here are some of the most anticipated films for 2009 (order of release date):

* Watchmen (March 6)
* Monsters vs. Aliens (March 27)
* Fast & Furious (April 3)
* X-Men Origins: Wolverine (May 1) YES!!!
* Terminator Salvation (May 2)
* Star Trek (May 8) YAY!!
* Angels & Demons (May 15)
* Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian (May 22)
* Up (May 29)
* Land of the Lost (June 5)
* Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (June 26) OH YES!!!!
* Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs (July 1)
* Public Enemies (July 1)
* 2012 (July 10)
* Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (July 17)
* Funny People (July 24)
* G.I. Joe: Rise of Cobra (August 7)
* Inglorious Basterds (August 21)
* Shutter Island (October 2)
* Where the Wild Things Are (october 16)
* The Wolfman (November 6)
* Sherlock Holmes (November 20) Another One!!
* New Moon (November 20)
* Avatar (December 18)
* The Princess and the Frog (December 25) Hmmmm!!!


Tell me what ya think!!!

Triple R&B Threats grabbing NAACP Image Award Noms

According to the Associated Press, in Beverly Hills, CA...Beyonce Knowles , Alicia Keys and Jennifer Hudson are all double threats for the NAACP Image Awards , earning nominations in both music and film categories. Knowles, Keys and Hudson are competing for outstanding female music artist and for best music video. They are also nominated for supporting film actress, Keys and Hudson for " The Secret Life of Bees " and Knowles for "Cadillac Records."

" Cadillac Records " and "The Secret Life of Bees" are best-picture contenders, along with " Miracle at St. Anna ", " Seven Pounds " and " Tyler Perry 's the Family That Preys."

The Image Awards honoring diversity in the arts will be presented Feb. 12.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a 2008 American film whose main character is adapted from a 1921 short story of the same name written by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Now where was this novel back during my days of high school. I would have just died to read it!! This was a movie that I had to see and I am glad that I did. So many lessons, so much passion was in this film I will probably see it again (all 3 hours of it...lol)

"I was born under unusual circumstances." And so begins the story of Benjamin Button. A man who is born in his eighties and ages backwards unable to stop the hands of time. At first I thought what a wonderful thing, but I would soon take that statement back. As we follow Benjamin's story set in New Orleans from the end of World War I in 1918 to the 21st century, we follow his journey that is as unusual as any man's life can be. benjamin's story is powerful, grand, thought-provoking, and not-so-ordinary when we really think about it. The places and people that he meets and discovers along the way, the joys of life and the love that he encounters, even the saddness of death makes ya just want to shout!!

Pitt and Blanchett's chemistry is just pure awesome! We journey with them through the thick and thin holding on to every bump and curve that this ride had to offer. When one goes to this movie they should escape in its mysticism and just float away! The actors in this film performed so well that it was just natural. There were moments when nothing needed to be said and the viewer could feel the response. Even in the closing moment of this movie, one can't help but just breathe and say WOW!!!! I can honestly say that I went into this film with no preconcieved notions, just a 'carte blanche'. Even a few tears fell from eyes as a result. Its powerful performance has already blown away the film awards ranging from Best Picture to Best Supporting Actress.

This film also showcases another up and coming actress Tariji B. Henson (The Family that Preys, Baby Boy, Talk to Me), enough that there will probably be some Oscar buzz floating around. All in all, its a MUST GO SEE for everyone!!



Grade: A

Gran Torino

Well Happy New Year to everyone!! I hope this New Year is a prosperous one for you!! Thanks for tuning in again to the Director's Cut!! 2009 has plenty in store for us and I am excited to see what is on the docket. So I will start out with a good one for you... Gran Torino.

Gran Torino is a 2008 American drama film directed by and starring Clint Eastwood. Eastwood stars as a Korean War veteran who catches a Hmong boy trying to steal his 1972 Gran Torino. The film features a predominantly Hmong cast which shows a great amount of originality.

Walt Kowalski (Eastwood), a Korean War veteran, becomes increasingly unhappy at the influx of Hmong people to his neighborhood. After he catches Thao (Vang), a teenage Hmong neighbor, attempting to steal his 1972 Gran Torino as part of a gang initiation, the boy is forced by his tradition-oriented family to work for Kowalski in penance. Estranged from his children and grandchildren, and having just lost his wife, Kowalski gradually becomes friendly with Thao and his family, learning about Hmong culture.

Gran Torino is about two things, I believe. It's about the belated flowering of a man's better nature. And it's about Americans of different races growing more open to one another in the new century. This doesn't involve some kind of grand transformation. It involves starting to see the "gooks" next door as people you love. And it helps if you live in the kind of neighborhood where they are next door.

Eastwood does an excellent job of showcasing himself. Its almost as though you can see a bit through to his soul. When watching this movie I shed a few tears for laughter and some for saddness. I like the fact that it touches upon the good, bad, and ugly. This movie comes at you from many angles, the serious matters of racism, community/family partnership, and even analyzing the depths that love can take you too.

This is definitely a movie that you will not want to forget. It touches your heart and at the same time makes you think, "what could I do better about my life?"

Grade: B+