This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 67. You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

So, guess who just watched “Bookclub: The Next Chapter” directed by the amazing Bill Holderman? Yep, that’s right, yours truly! 🎬 I have to say, after absolutely adoring the first film, my expectations were sky-high for this sequel. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! 🌟

Let’s dive right into the juicy bits, shall we? The plot, oh my goodness, it’s like a perfectly aged wine, just gets better with time. We’re back with our fabulous four – Diane (Diane Keaton), Vivian (Jane Fonda), Sharon (Candice Bergen), and Carol (Mary Steenburgen). This time, they’re on a wild European adventure to Italy, which is basically every book club’s dream, right? The chemistry between these ladies is just magical. It’s like catching up with old friends who never fail to make you chuckle. 😂

Diane Keaton, as Diane, is her usual charming and slightly quirky self, bringing those “I’m too old for this, but let’s do it anyway” vibes that just crack me up. Jane Fonda, oh Jane, she’s like fine wine, only gets better! Vivian’s sass and confidence are goals, honestly. Candice Bergen as Sharon is hilariously relatable, with her dry humor and those “I’m not impressed” looks. And Mary Steenburgen, sweet Carol, she’s the heart of the group, always trying to keep everyone together.

The film takes us through picturesque locations – we’re talking about stunning vineyards, cozy little cafes, and streets that look like they’ve jumped straight out of a storybook. It’s like a sensory overload with all the beautiful sights and the sound of laughter from our favorite ladies. And the food, oh, you can almost taste the deliciousness through the screen!

What really hit home for me was how the film captured the essence of friendship and the beauty of embracing life at any age. It’s like a gentle reminder to not take ourselves too seriously, you know? And the humor, oh, it’s spot on! I cackled out lout more than once, much to the chagrin of my poor neighbors, I’m sure.

The storyline has its twists and turns, keeping it fresh and engaging. It’s not just about romance or friendship; it’s about self-discovery and adventure. The way these women support and encourage each other, it’s just beautiful. It’s like watching a live demonstration of the saying, “You’re only as old as you feel.”

So, yeah, “Bookclub: The Next Chapter” is a delightful watch. It’s like sitting down with a good book, a cup of tea, and just losing track of time. It’s a reminder that life, like a good story, always has something new to offer, no matter what chapter you’re in.

If you loved the first film, you’re in for a treat with this one. And if you haven’t seen it yet, what are you waiting for? Fingers crossed for a third film!

Ciao for now,
Roger🌟✨

Breakfast with Scot

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 66. You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey friends, gather ’round for a tale of unlikely families, flamboyant baton twirling, and the transformative power of a really good sequinned vest. I just binged “Breakfast with Scot,” the 2007 movie that’s basically glitter thrown at a heartwarming holiday Hallmark flick. Buckle up, it’s a wild ride.

So, picture this: Tom Cavanagh (think Joey from “Friends” with way more sass) plays Eric, a hockey-loving dude living his best life with his partner Sam (the ever-dreamy Ben Shenkman). Life’s a perfectly buttered croissant until BAM! they become the guardians of Scot, an 11-year-old whirlwind of pink tutus and Britney Spears dance moves. Played by the ridiculously charming Noah Bernett, Scot is like a glitter bomb crossed with a sassy Cher impersonator. He loves baton twirling, quoting Oscar Wilde, and wearing more sequins than a mermaid disco ball. 🪩✨

Cue the culture clash! Eric, bless his jock heart, tries to turn Scot into a mini-me hockey player. Sam, the ever-supportive partner, embraces Scot’s flamboyant spirit, leading to epic dance parties and living room fashion shows. It’s heartwarming chaos, like watching kittens play with a rainbow yarn ball.

Of course, it’s not all sunshine and glitter glue. Scot’s flamboyant presence throws Eric’s carefully constructed world into disarray. It’s like, imagine a hockey player who’s all about being macho, suddenly having to deal with a kid who’s as far from that world as you can get. Scot’s into musicals, makeup, and he’s got this fashion sense that’s just so out there, it’s awesome. 🌈

Eric worries about judgment, about fitting in, about being outed as gay in his hyper-masculine hockey world. It’s a poignant reminder of the struggles LGBTQ+ families face, even in a movie with enough sequins to blind a disco dragon.

But here’s the beauty of “Breakfast with Scot“: it doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff, but it also doesn’t drown you in melodrama. It throws laughter and love at you like confetti at a Pride parade. The movie does this brilliant job of blending humor with some really tender moments. Like, there’s this scene where Eric and Sam are trying to figure out how to be parents to a kid who’s challenging all their notions of normal.

And the acting, y’all! Tom Cavanagh goes from grumpy Grinch to glitter-loving softie with the comedic timing of a pro juggler. Ben Shenkman is the rock of the family, radiating warmth and acceptance like a sunshine-powered hug. And Noah Bernett steals every scene with his infectious energy and sassy one-liners. He’s basically the human embodiment of a rainbow sprinkle cupcake.

Oh, and here’s a fun fact that blew my mind: Did you this was the first gay-themed film to ever receive an endorsement from a professional sports league? Yep, the NHL actually supported it! How cool is that? 🏒

Now, if I had to nitpick – and I mean, really scrape the barrel here – I’d say some parts of the movie might feel a tad dated, especially with how much progress we’ve made in representing diverse characters since then. But honestly, that’s just me being super picky.

What I absolutely adore about this movie is how it doesn’t just stick to clichés. It’s not afraid to dive into the messy, complicated bits of life and relationships. And let’s be real, who can’t relate to that?

So yeah, “Breakfast with Scot” is more than just a feel-good flick. It’s a reminder that family comes in all shapes, sizes, and levels of sequin obsession. It’s about embracing who you are, even if it means wearing pink legwarmers to your brother’s hockey game. It’s about the transformative power of love, laughter, and maybe a little bit of Britney Spears choreography.

So, if you’re looking for a movie that’s equal parts heartwarming and hilarious, with enough glitter to fill a Kardashian Christmas stocking, check out “Breakfast with Scot.” Just be warned, you might find yourself spontaneously twirling a spatula and belting out Whitney Houston in your kitchen afterwards. Trust me, it’s a good thing. 🌈

Peace out, glitter queens and hockey kings! ✌️✨
Roger

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 65. You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Little Ashes’: Art, Drama, and… Meh Moments”

Hey there, fellow couch critics!

So, I finally got around to watching ‘Little Ashes ,’ that 2008 flick directed by Paul Morrison. You know, the one about Salvador Dalí, Federico García Lorca, and Luis Buñuel? Yeah, that one. And let me get this out in the open right off the bat – it was kind of a mixed bag for me. 🤷

First up, the plot. It’s set in the roaring 20s in Madrid, buzzing with artistic energy and political tension. We’ve got young, eccentric Dalí, played by Robert Pattinson (before he became the brooding Batman). He arrives at university, mustache and all, ready to shake things up. There’s also the soulful poet Lorca, portrayed by Javier Beltrán, and the cynical filmmaker Buñuel, brought to life by Matthew McNulty. Their lives intertwine in this kaleidoscope of art, politics, and personal discovery.

The actors? Pattinson as Dalí is… well, it’s a sight, guys. He dives headfirst into the role, mustache twirling and all. It’s like watching a peacock strut around in a henhouse – eye-catching, sure, but sometimes it feels a bit much. We watch as a young Dalí, all brooding and floppy-haired struts onto the scene at Madrid’s Residencia de Estudiantes, ready to blow minds with his eccentric ways. He’s like a peacock dipped in Dali’s own melting-cheese paint, all pointy mustaches and flamboyant pronouncements about “amorphous desires.”

Enter Federico García Lorca, the handsome poet with a twinkle in his eye and a voice smooth enough to melt butter (played by the dreamy Beltran). Sparks fly faster than you can say “Oedipus complex,” and soon the two are entangled in a passionate, forbidden romance that would make Shakespeare do a triple take. Don’t worry, it’s not all hearts and flowers – there’s plenty of angst, jealousy, and metaphorical bullfighting to keep things spicy.

Okay, so the acting is decent, the cinematography is moody and atmospheric, and the score is appropriately dramatic. But here’s the rub, my friends: despite all the artistic fireworks, “Little Ashes” left me feeling like I’d wandered into a particularly pretentious art gallery without a clue what any of the exhibits meant. The pacing is glacial at time and the dialogue meanders like a lost sheep in a fog.

I think the film tries to juggle so much – friendship, rivalry, political undertones, and some complex emotional stuff. Sometimes it hits the mark, like when it explores the tension between personal and artistic identity. But at other times, it feels like it’s trying too hard to be deep and ends up skimming the surface. You know what I mean?

Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate the attempt to capture the madness that was Dalí’s early life. But somewhere between the melting clocks and the existential angst, I lost the emotional connection. It’s like watching a beautiful sunset through a dirty window – all the potential for awe is there, but something just feels…off.

While ‘Little Ashes‘ has its moments of brilliance, overall, it feels a bit… meh. It’s not bad, but it didn’t blow my mind.

Reflecting on it, I guess ‘Little Ashes’ left me feeling a bit underwhelmed. It had the potential to be a vivid canvas of emotion and art, but it ended up being more like a well-intended sketch. It’s worth a watch if you’re into historical dramas or want to see Pattinson sporting a wild mustache. But don’t expect to be wowed.

Peace out, ✌️

Roger

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 64. You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey friends!

So, I just finished watching “A Hard Problem,” directed by the duo Hazart, and oh my stars, what a ride! Starring the charming Johnny Berchtold, Catherine Haena Kim, and the young but mighty Gavin Warren, this film is a sci-fi journey through grief, loss, and the wild world of artificial intelligence. It’s like a hidden gem in the sci-fi genre. You know, the kind that makes you go, “Huh, that was… different.” 🤔

Let’s break it down, shall we? The film dives into this unique concept of ‘the Institute,’ where they archive loved ones’ consciousness. Yeah, you heard that right. It’s like a digital afterlife thingamajig. Crazy, right? As for the plot, it revolves around Ian (played by the ever-charismatic Johnny Berchtold) grappling with the death of his mother and he is tasked with packing up her house. But wait, it’s not your typical mourning story. There’s a twist – something’s off about him. You know, like when you’re trying to put a USB in, and it never goes in on the first try? That kind of off. 🙃

Now, let’s talk about Catherine Haena Kim, who plays Olivia. She’s the stranger roped into this mess by Ian’s sister, Lisa (Jennifer Hasty). Kim’s performance? Simply stellar. She brings this warmth and depth to Olivia that just hooks you right in. She’s got layers, like an onion, and watching her peel them back scene by scene is something else. And let’s not forget the kiddo, Gavin Warren. This little guy brings a sense of innocence that’s just so pure and heartwarming.

The sci-fi elements in this movie are like a perfectly seasoned dish – just enough to add flavor without overpowering the main course. The focus is more on the human aspect, the raw and real emotions of loss and grief. It’s like the movie gently holds your hand and walks you through these heavy themes.

Johnny Berchtold, our man Ian, is an absolutely fascinating character. He’s got this prim and proper vibe that screams, “I’m hiding something.” And guess what? He is. Something huge. ‘Nuff said.

One of the coolest parts of the film is how it explores the idea of objects and memories. Like, have you ever smelled a perfume and suddenly you’re back in your grandma’s living room? That kind of nostalgia hits hard in this movie. 🌸

The directing by Hazart is on point. They weave in these memory flashbacks that are so beautifully shot, you can’t help but feel a little artsy watching it. And the questions the film raises – about being human, dealing with loss, and the ethical dilemmas of AI – are thought-provoking without being preachy.

But no movie’s perfect, right? Sometimes, the timeline can get a bit confusing, and you might find yourself doing a mental rewind to keep up. Also, the pacing can feel like a snail at times, and there are moments when you’re like, “C’mon, give me something more!” But honestly, those are minor hiccups in an otherwise captivating film.

“A Hard Problem” is a thought-provoking ride with emotional depth. It’s not your typical sci-fi extravaganza about flashy tech and futuristic scenarios but rather, it’s more of a quiet, introspective journey. It’s got its flaws, sure, but it’s worth a watch for its unique take on life, death, and everything in between. It’s a deeply human story about coping with loss and understanding what it truly means to be human. It’s like a warm hug telling you it’s okay to feel all the feels. 🤗

Catch you tomorrow! 🎬💫

Peace out,
Roger

Fire Island

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 63. You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey there, friends! 🌟

So, I just had to spill the tea on “Fire Island,” the 2022 film directed by Andrew Ahn. I mean, it’s not every day you come across a movie that’s a mishmash of humor, emotions, and, you know, that feel-good vibe. This had me simultaneously clutching my pearls and cackling like a hyena on tequila shots.

First off, the plot – oh my, it’s a hoot! Imagine Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” (yes, the classic about rich gals and brooding dudes) but set in modern times on Fire Island, a legendary gay vacation spot where pecs are tan, abs are sculpted, and drama unfolds faster than a tide rolling in. It’s like someone took a fancy old painting and splashed it with every color in the rainbow. 🌈 The story revolves around two best friends, Noah and Howie, played by Joel Kim Booster (who also wrote this gem) and Bowen Yang. These guys are on a quest for love (aren’t we all?), but with a twist – there are no straight rules in this game! 🤹‍♂️

Joel Kim Booster as Noah is a total scene-stealer. He’s witty, he’s got sass, and his one-liners? They’re like a chef’s kiss 🤌 – perfectly timed and hilariously relatable. And Bowen Yang as Howie? Oh boy, he’s the sweet cinnamon roll of the group, and watching his journey of self-discovery and romance is like a warm hug.

The chemistry among the cast is off the charts. It’s like watching a group of real-life friends, and you can’t help but wish you were part of their squad. You’ve got Margaret Cho as the mother hen of the group, Erin, who owns the house where they all stay. She’s like that cool aunt who lets you drink but also slips in life lessons when you least expect it.

I loved the humor in this film! It’s like they took all the awkwardness of dating, the craziness of friendships, and the quirks of queer culture, mixed them in a blender, and served it with a side of sarcasm and wit. There were moments I laughed so hard, I almost spilled my popcorn. 🍿

Of course, it wouldn’t be a rom-com without a meet-cute — well, maybe two meet cutes in this case…but no spoilers here (because spoilers are the devil). Let’s just say they warmed my heart.

Now, “Fire Island” isn’t just about finding your summer fling, though. It’s about the magic of chosen families, the messy beauty of self-discovery, and the fierce loyalty that binds us together. The film also touches on some heavier themes, like class differences and the struggle for acceptance, but it’s done in a way that’s not preachy – more like, “Hey, here’s what’s up, let’s chat about it over a beer.” 🍻

Yes, the plot might be as predictable as a sunrise, and the humor leans heavily on slapstick and one-liners. But the infectious energy, the diverse and lovable characters, and the unapologetic celebration of queer joy make “Fire Island” a total beach read come to life. Plus, did I mention the soundtrack? It’s a disco inferno of Whitney Houston bangers and Donna Summer anthems, guaranteed to get your booty shaking and your inner diva strutting.

So, if you’re looking for an escape filled with laughter, friendship, and enough abs to fill a lifeguard station, set sail for “Fire Island.” Just remember to pack your sunscreen, your sense of humor, and maybe a metaphorical tiara—because you never know when your own beachside rom-com might unfold.

Until tomorrow, stay fabulous and remember, sometimes the best summer flings are the ones that turn into lifelong friendships.

Yours in beachy bliss,
Roger

Anatomy of a Fall

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 62. You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey Friends!

Gather ’round the virtual campfire, ’cause tonight we’re cracking open a bottle of French mystery and dissecting the perplexing puzzle that is “Anatomy of a Fall.” Buckle up, because this ain’t your average whodunnit; it’s a slow-burn psychological thriller that’ll have you questioning everything you thought you knew about marriage, murder, and the treacherous terrain of the Alps.

Picture this: we’ve got Sandra Hüller (think a German Cate Blanchett with the intensity of a thousand espresso shots) playing Sandra Voyter, a novelist accused of pushing her husband Samuel (Samuel Theis, all brooding charm and floppy sweaters) off of the balcony to his death. Did she do it? Did he slip? Did a rogue marmot with a vendetta push him in a fit of existential angst? The film keeps us guessing like a particularly cruel game of Clue, with flashbacks, testimonies, and Sandra’s own unreliable narration painting a kaleidoscope of conflicting truths.

One minute, Sandra’s the victim, a brilliant writer trapped in a suffocating marriage. The next, she’s a manipulative ice queen, cold-bloodedly plotting her escape. And let’s not forget their son Daniel (Milo Machado Graner), a blind teenager forced to navigate this emotional minefield with only his heightened senses and a whole lot of confusion.

Director Justine Triet weaves a masterclass in suspense, building tension like a perfectly poached egg (runny in the middle, firm on the edges, if you know what I mean). The camera lingers on faces, capturing unspoken anxieties and buried resentments. Every creak of the floorboard, every gust of wind whistling through the chalet, feels like a potential clue, a whispered accusation.

But “Anatomy of a Fall” is more than just a murder mystery. It’s a brutal dissection of a marriage gone wrong, a study in miscommunication and the corrosive power of resentment. We see how Sandra’s insecurities and Samuel’s career failures chip away at their once-solid bond, leaving behind a hollow shell of affection. The Alps, with their majestic beauty and treacherous slopes, become a metaphor for their relationship – breathtakingly beautiful yet unforgiving, capable of offering both solace and sudden disaster.

And the performances? Let’s just say, these actors deserve their own personal Oscars. Sandra Hüller pours every ounce of her being into Sandra, making her both vulnerable and terrifying. She brings layers to this role like a master baker making a mille-feuille. One moment, you’re sympathizing with her, and the next, you’re side-eyeing her like she stole the last cookie.

Samuel Theis is equally compelling as the enigmatic Samuel, embodying the role of the late husband in flashbacks. He’s like this enigmatic puzzle, and just when you think you’ve figured him out, the film throws another curveball, leaving us unsure whether he’s victim, villain, or somewhere in between. And the chemistry between Sandra and Theis? It’s like watching a dance where you can’t tell who’s leading – so much tension and emotion!

But wait, there’s more! Enter Milo Machado Graner, playing the couple’s blind son who’s smack dab in the middle of this moral maze. His performance? A powerhouse. It’s like he’s the only one who’s got his head on straight while everyone else is losing theirs. Milo Machado Graner delivers a heart-wrenching performance as Daniel, a young man forced to grapple with the unimaginable.

This movie has layers, folks. It’s about truth, perception, and how we see what we want to see. It’s like Triet is giving us a puzzle where we have to decide which pieces fit.

So, is “Anatomy of a Fall” a nail-biting thriller, a profound character study, or both? Honestly, it’s a bit of both, like a perfectly blended smoothie of Hitchcock and Dostoevsky. It’s a film that lingers long after the credits roll, leaving you pondering the complexities of human relationships, the thin line between truth and fiction, and the ever-present possibility of a rogue marmot with a grudge.

So, should you watch it? My verdict? Absolutely! Just make sure you have a sturdy spork for all the emotional spaghetti this film throws at you.

Until next time, stay curious, stay kind, and keep an eye out for any suspicious marmots.

Yours in cinematic adventures,
Roger

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 61. You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Happy New Year!!!

So to start of 2024, let’s buckle up for a mini film review that’s gonna be equal parts sunshine and feels, because I just dove headfirst into “Three Months,” the 2022 coming-of-age flick that had me laughing, crying, and texting my therapist like, “Is this normal?”

Okay, so picture this: Caleb, our main dude is about to graduate high school and is living his best Florida life with his quirky grandma and grandpa (Ellen Burstyn and Lou Gossett Jr. But then, life throws him a curveball bigger than a flamingo pool float – a potential exposure to HIV. Talk about an unwelcome graduation gift, right?

Now, the film ain’t just about Caleb waiting for his test results (which, by the way, takes three agonizing months – hence the title, duh). It’s about him navigating this emotional rollercoaster with surprising grace and a whole lot of humor. You know Troye Silvan, the Aussie pop star? Yeah, he plays Caleb, and let me tell you, this dude can act! He’s like the perfect blend of awkward teen and sassy queen, making you want to hug him one minute and high-five him the next. Plus, he rocks a vintage band tee collection that would make any thrift store fanatic swoon.

Caleb is like this perfect blend of vulnerability and wit. You can’t help but root for him. And then there’s Troye Sivan, nailing his role with a performance that’s like, totally on point. He brings this authenticity to Caleb that’s both refreshing and relatable.

But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The film tackles the realities of HIV and the LGBTQ+ experience with honesty and sensitivity, without shying away from the raw emotions and uncertainties. Caleb joins a support group, meets another cutie named Estha (Viveik Kalra), and they forge a connection that’s both supportive and, dare I say, kinda steamy. The chemistry between these two? Absolutely adorable! 🥰 It’s like watching two puzzle pieces fit perfectly.

Speaking of emotions, the film does an incredible job balancing humor with serious themes. One minute I’m laughing at Caleb’s sarcastic quips, and the next, I’m getting all misty-eyed during the more intense scenes. It’s like being on an emotional seesaw, but in a good way.

The supporting cast deserves a high five too. They add so much flavor to the story. Ellen Burstyn as Caleb’s grandma is just hilarious and heartwarming. The way she delivers her lines? Pure gold!

The film takes us on a journey through graduation blues, family drama, first love jitters, and the constant hum of “what if?” It’s funny, heartfelt, and sometimes brutally honest, but it never feels preachy or heavy-handed. It’s like that friend who tells you the truth, even when it’s hard to hear, but then wraps you in a big hug and makes you laugh until your sides hurt.

As for humor, there are these little nuggets of hilarity tucked into the script that caught me off guard in the best way. It’s like the writers knew just when to lighten the mood.

So, if you’re looking for a film that’s equal parts summer sunshine and emotional depth, with a soundtrack that’ll have you humming for days, check out “Three Months.” It’s a reminder that life, even when it throws you lemons (or, in this case, a potential HIV scare), is still full of possibility and love. Just have the tissues ready, because this one’s a tearjerker, in the best possible way.

Until next time, stay groovy, stay kind, and remember, even when life throws you a curveball, you can still dance your way through it.

Ciao for now! ✌️😉
Roger