Meet Me at the Oscars, Nightmare Alley

 

Nightmare Alley is another visual masterpiece by previous Oscar winner for The Shape of Water, a beautiful tribute of sorts to Creature of the Black Lagoon, Guillermo del Toro.  I must admit from the outset, I have been a huge fan of del Toro since his work in Pan’s Labyrinth back in 2006. He is back with a vengeance in Nightmare Alley, the recipient of 4 Oscar nominations including Best Picture, Production Design, Cinematography, and Costume Design.  In my opinion del Toro was a snub in the omission for Best Director and there is no way anyone is going to convince me that Bradley Cooper didn’t deserve a nomination for Best Actor. Both were not only deserving of nominations imho, but he should also have been a real contender for the award. 

Bradley Cooper’s character is the drifter, Stanton Carlisle who has a past. The viewer knows something is amiss but can’t quite put it together. Carlisle joins up with a circus led by Clem Hoatley played nicely by William Dafoe. Carlisle soon joins up with a carnival doing a mentalism act. During his time in the circus side show Carlisle continues to carry an air of mystery about him. He is a man who has been conflicted, but also a man who has learned to use the system to get the things he needs. He soon falls for another circus performer, Molly Cahill played by Rooney Mara. The two fall in love and decide to leave the carnival together, much to the displeasure of some in the circus including her late father’s best friend, Bruno, the carnivals strong man played by Ron Perlman.  Their journey away from the carnival seems to lead to riches and fame, but they also provide opportunity to get caught up into the life that has befallen many before them who sought stardom.

 

The visuals in this movie and the craftiness of weaving this story together is nothing short of incredible. This is a movie that for a very brief moment has a lapse, but it quickly comes back together. It is a movie that if the viewer pays attention, they will have questions and think a great deal about the characters in the movie and where they are going. We will have questions about Bradley Coopers character but rest assured, in the end, those questions are answered. 

 

One of the incredible things about this movie is its ability to have us questioning what we think is progress or goals in life. We must question how far we are willing to go. So many times, we think that our current situation is far from the place we want to be in life only to later understand and realize that where we were or where we are, may in fact be the best place we will ever be. While there may be a desire for fame and riches, the people around us, the basic needs may provide more joy than we ever realized. There is a price to pay for fame, sometimes the price we pay will cost us more than we will ever realize. There are images and thoughts of things that came to my mind like the story of  the Prodigal Son in the Bible, but in that story the son realizes the need to go back to the father. What if the son never returned or didn’t have a loving father to take him back in?  In some ways, Nightmare Alley is a proverb along that thought. In other words, what about the consequences of ones actions, or inaction? 

 

I loved this film, for me, it should be one of the strong contenders for Best Picture of the Year. While it had a moment with a lapse, it quickly came back and now weeks later, still has me thinking. So far, it’s the only Oscar nominee that I’ve seen twice, it’s that good.  If you appreciate the concept of thinking and pondering, with a possible life changing area, this is for you.

 

On a scale of 1 – 10 for the one momentary lapse I think the movie is deserving of a very good 9.  Watch it, then ponder, can you enjoy the place you are currently at in life without having to have more? 

To see the trailer for Nightmare Alley, click the following:

https://youtu.be/Q81Yf46Oj3s  

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For going on some thirty years now I have done the work of The Virtual Pew, in part planting seeds but another huge part is getting to know people and being called by many Pastor Mike by my involvement in social media. From engaging in life, I have seen the impact of my work on people on the fringes all over the world. I have run homeless programs, housed homeless people worked with drug addicts, prostitutes and much more. All while giving back my salary, and for the last 8+ years not taking a salary. You can help tremendously by supporting the work, not just from the movie reviews but the work that goes along side that in the development of relationships of helping save lives and give purpose to the lives of others. I appreciate your consideration in this calling that I have seen and know God uses. 

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Hostiles

There was a the day, not so long a go, where many of us will remember that the Western ruled the box office, whether it be a smash hit at the theater , a Saturday matinee or even a program on television. The Western was a format that looked at the old west in America, (sometimes in other countries) and the story featuring the old west incorporated the challenges of either settling the west, bank robbers, or battles between Cowboys and Indians or gunslingers trying to kill someone. There were the black hat Cowboys who were always bad and the white hat Cowboys which were always good. In the simplicity of some of those Westerns we could watch John Ford movies and enjoy the pop-corn; then there was popular director William "Wild Bill " Wellman who gave us Westerns like The Ox Bow Incident that ended up being a full course steak dinner. While some always put Ford in  pop-corn category he also did meaningful Westerns that were like a fine meal ordered at a fine restaurant with tons of social commentary along with a great story such as The Searchers. Unfortunately, over the last number of years, while there have been Westerns released on the big screen, some quite good such as Tombstone, Unforgiven, Dances with Wolves and Open Range among others, those are rare and few between.  All of that said, thankfully, a new classic, one that could also be considered epic, has just entered the genera. That movie is directed by Scott Cooper from Crazy Heart fame is Hostiles.

Hostiles opens with a masterful, cinematic image of a homestead in the wild frontier of New Mexico. The homestead faces the potential of an Indian attack from a brand of Comanche whom have not given into the treaties which placed them under supervision of the United States who had moved them onto a reservation in Montana. The homestead is attacked in a brutal way and we see the hostility and hatred these Indians have for Whites and other settlers in the area. We jump next to a scene of Fort Berringer in New Mexico. where Captain Joseph Blocker, played brilliantly by Christian Bale, has captured some Apache up risers and is taking them back to the fort. Shortly after his return he discovers that he, along with some of the soldiers who have served with him for years are given the orders to escort Comanche dying war chief, Yellow Hawk, played brilliantly by Wes Studi and his family to Montana where his people liveand call home. One thing is clear from the directives given and Berringer's response, he hates Indians, especially Yellow Hawk. While reluctantly following orders under the pretext of losing his pension, he ultimately agrees to provide the escort as long as he can pick the solidiers of his choosing to go along with him. 

The journey of Blocker and his crew escorting Yellow Hawk and his family ultimately has him meeting up with loan survivor of the attack on their homestead, Rosalie Quaid, also played brilliantly by Rosamund Pike. We see her struggles with her own PTSD and the response given toher by not  only the soldiers escorting her, but also Yellow Hawk and his family. One thing both groups understand is the grief and loss of someone like her and the struggles she is going through as a result of such suffering.  Here, you can see influences from directors like John Ford from movies like The Searchers, but Hostiles delivers as much as The Searchers and a whole lot more.

This movie is beautiful to watch and while seeing the opening on a early late night release, ending way after midnight, I was never bored, never tired, and not only entertained but challenged to think throughout the duration of the movie. My wife, a Western buff who had several hours in college graduate studies on Westerns was also entertained while watching the incredible, well crafted story portrayed on screen before us. There were a number of things that made this movie even more incredible for us.

Not only is the story well told in Hostiles but the imagery on screen is also incredible. I have seen most of the Oscar Contenders for the year 2017/18.  Of all of the movies I have seen this last year, if in the same awards categories, this movie would have garnished my vote in numerous categories including, Best Cinematography, Best Costume Design, Best Original Screenplay, Sound Mixing, Sound Editing, Make-Up and Hairstyling, Directing, Actress in a Supporting Role, Actor in a Supporting Role, Best Actor, and Best Picture.  This movie is that good, and that deserving. It is as excellent as anything on screen during the 2017 Movie year, and frankly, one of the best Westerns ever made in my, (in this case) not so humble opinion.

There are several aspects of Hostiles that I was blown away with, not only is there an entertaining story over the 2 hours and 14 minutes of the film, there is ample social and spiritual commentary throughout the film. We see a strong religious connection between many of the characters in the movie, likely, the strongest men of faith in the film are the soldiers on the escort. There are poignant scenes where there are discussions about such themes as where is God?  How does one grow in their faith and life despite tragedy? There is much more but we also see portrayed in a powerful way, the power of forgiveness and what it means to be a brother or sister to someone. I haven't seen a movie that shows the power of forgiveness as strongly as this one in several years. The possibility that exists from getting to know your enemy, learning to love them as opposed to always hating them and finding a way to hate is powerfully portrayed. One of the beautiful things about Hostiles though is this is portrayed in the simplest of ways, yet, it is in that simplicity that we ultimately see the power of these themes. In the end, we discover all men and women are capable of evil, and in many ways, have done evil. We also see though that God loves all and that we have the potential to love all people, whether they be red or yellow, black or white. These are not just realities regarding God though, they are possible for humanity. Not only are these things possible amongst those who have loved or hated little, they are available for those who have loved and hated much.

The Bible reminds us of such themes, that all are accepted to God in many areas, we can read for example that illustrate this such as Colossians 3: 10 - 14: 

Each of you is now a new person. You are becoming more and more like your Creator, and you will understand him better. It doesn’t matter if you are a Greek or a Jew, or if you are circumcised or not. You may even be a barbarian or a Scythian, and you may be a slave or a free person. Yet Christ is all that matters, and he lives in all of us.

God loves you and has chosen you as his own special people. So be gentle, kind, humble, meek, and patient. Put up with each other, and forgive anyone who does you wrong, just as Christ has forgiven you.  Love is more important than anything else. It is what ties everything completely together.

These words, these themes are played powerfully in the movie Hostiles. I for one am glad I was reminded of them, of the need to live them and better yet, challenged to learn to love, even those I may have perceived in the past who have been my enemies.

On a scale of 1 - 10 for the letters in the "rare nature" of me to call a film epic, of which I call this movie, an Epic film and among the best Westerns ever, I give a rare and deserving 10.  

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When Movies Do Good, A Response To Hollywood

To see this article click here to be redirected to its original posting:

http://thevirtualpew.blogspot.com/2016/02/when-movies-do-good-response-to.html

Movies for Lent, Spartacus

Over the last few years I have had interest in the story of Spartacus. Despite that interest I hadn't seen the Oscar winning film with Kirk Douglas until recently. This epic film follows the story of a slave named Spartacus until his death in 71 BC. Spartacus is taken as a slave at the age of 13, he later becomes a gladiator for Lentulus Batiatus played by Peter Ustinov who won an Oscar for supporting actor. Spartacus ends up leading a revolt against Rome. The movie, almost 55 years old still holds up, especially when considering the making of this film was done with real sets and special effects. Initially budgeted at 5 million dollars it ran over to 12 million dollars, all funded by Kirk Douglas. The film made millions, maintaining the highest grossing film for the studio for many years.

What was done for 12 million dollars is astounding by today's standards. While the film is dated, the direction by Stanley Kubrick is brilliant, although the final print was something Kubrick was not so favorable of.  The all-star cast features the likes of Tony Curtis, Kirk Douglas and Peter Ustinov as mentioned above along with Jean Simmons as Spartacus love interest Varinia and Laurence Olivier. I watched the 50th Anniversary edition on Blu-ray and was shocked and pleasantly surprised at the quality of transfer of picture and the quality of the sound. The transfer and restoration of the film was pushed and headed up by Steven Spielberg with the blessings of Kubrick. While over 3 1/2 hours in length, the movie flows nicely and the cinematography, which also won an Oscar, is stunning. While the film was initially blacklisted for political reasons, President John Kennedy crossed the picket lines to bring the film to national prevalence. 

The irony of this particular review is that it is a part of the Lenten Series Reviews for Hollywood Jesus. While looking at it's placement, during Holy Week, I couldn't help but notice the similarities to not only how the movie was made but the content and story of the movie in regards to the world situations that seem to constantly exist and the need of so many who feel oppressed, abused and used by a system who doesn't appreciate or take seriously the potential and importance of the people around them. It is likely one of the reasons the movie got into so much trouble when made. There were Communist threats and the world was in the middle of the Cold War. There were clear distinctions between the wealthy and clear evidence of the power of the political elite. The savior, for that system was Spartacus, based on a historical character who had gone from freedom to slavery to gladiator to attempted liberator. Spartacus realized, that when some profit off of the experiences of the least of these, including slavery or a form of servitude including the abuse of the poor for the gain of the wealthy and politically powerful, there is a problem.

The movie Spartacus had clear intent in its making to show the power of Christianity as well as the references to the cross and crucifixion, even going so far as in the opening voice over stating that Christianity would be the eventual fall of Rome. While we don't see the primary characters as adhering to any particular religious belief system, we do see them praying, recognizing not just the power of God's but of a God. We also see the conditions which made it right for the eventual coming and birth of Jesus. We also see a great deal of imagery that focuses on the willingness of one to live out their convictions, dedicated to not only serving the least of these, but also having the least of these become disciples of a leader. 

Spartacus is not presented as a god, although many saw him as a god. We see him as a "simple man willing to serve thousands and the day he would die, thousands would not only be willing to die for him," many would die for him. In the oppression of Rome, Spartacus realizes, "death is the only freedom a slave knows and to die is gain."  We see Spartacus towards the conclusion of the film willing to give himself up on the cross to prevent a man many say in the book by Howard Fast and in subsequent other versions of the story was a gay man from enduring the pain of the cross. While the character, Antoninus,  played by Tony Curtis here only hints at his homosexuality, there is still a clear willingness for Spartacus, the Messiah Figure to offer his life to prevent the ongoing pain and agony of the cross for Antoninus. We also see that character, like so many others, willing to give their life for Spartacus because while he may not have liberated their bodies from Rome, he has liberated their souls. We see a concept presenting the power of hope when Spartacus says; "When one man says no, wrong begins to fear." There is power among the people especially those who have been hurt, abused and enslaved. We see that power towards the end of the film as Rome is seeking to single out and make an example of Spartacus. Rome has won the final battle against the rebel forces. The movies infamous line comes about as each of  Spartacus soldiers, stands up, one by one, yelling out as they have been asked by Rome for Spartacus to volunteer himself for certain crucifixion to save the lives of the rebels who will become slaves, "I am Spartacus!"  In their willingness to stand up, they are showing they are willing to give their lives up for this man, Spartacus. 

As I watched the dramatic presentation of Spartacus, during this Lenten season, I couldn't help but think of the obvious comparisons between the character of Spartacus, and the willingness of his followers to follow him, and my own willingness to follow Jesus. Am I willing to surrender all, even if need be, to the point of death? While the cross is not as pointed and brutal as we see in the movie of The Passion of the Christ, we still see the horror of the cross as it existed in the Roman Empire. People were executed by the thousands in what is thought by many to be the most brutal form of execution ever. Yet we still see the love Spartacus has for others in his willingness to take up the cross so those he loves doesn't have to suffer it. I was reminded of the Biblical concept, that no greater love has any of us than our own willingness to lay down our life for a friend. 

I really like the story of Spartacus, that said, this 3 1/2 hour epic really does little justice to the story and complexity of the character of Spartacus, the time he lived and the people around him. It, isn't to say this isn't a great movie, it deserves all of the acclaim it has garnished over its 50+ years, but the character and the story is much more complex than even a 3 1/2 hour film can present. While the 1960 film touches on much of the sexual oppression and abuse during the time, due to the time the film was made, the late 1950's, many things were glossed over. These things are a critical component in the times of the story and the environment it took place. Knowing these things adds to the power of the story and in its lead character we see a simple man, holding true to his values where others can glean from and follow in a sacrificial way. Spartacus is willing to sacrifice for the multitudes.

As we celebrate the Easter season, let's remember that a more complete and perfect sacrifice was offered that allows us to follow not just a simple man but a God who provides eternal life.  While on this earth Christ calls us to love our fellow human, to stand up for them, despite their sexuality, income, country of origin, color of their skin, whatever. We are called to love just like Christ loved, whosoever.  We can sacrificially display that true freedom comes from within, it is available to all people and comes through Christ. Spartacus is a wonderful reminder during Lent, the sacrifices are worth it. In those sacrifices we discover, real freedom despite our circumstances, a freedom that comes from a servant leader, whose life we celebrate that ended on the cross, Jesus.  Thankfully Jesus story doesn't end at the cross though, but through his resurrection. It is that resurrection that gives the eternal hope of a bright and glorious future.

To see the original trailer for the movie, click on the video below, if the video doesn't appear, click on the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HcIMY1Ah3aw


The Virtual Pew and our other work is supported solely by the kind contributions of others. You can click on the donate button below to give any amount to this work that does so much more than just post articles on the net; I draw no ongoing salary from the church I pastor, Mosaic Wichita which is predominantly a homeless church; I am grateful for any small amount you can contribute to help with this ministry.  Believe me there is much more going on than most realize. I will also provide information to verify the ministry and income that comes into this ministry and work.  Thanks and feel free to share any material from The Virtual Pew, I only ask that appropriate credit is given and a link to the original site with the materials provided.


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Amelie on Blu-ray

In 2001 Director Jean-Pierre Jeunet brought to theaters, the wonderful film Amelie. French actress Audrey Tautou, who later also starred in Jeunet’s follow up film A Very Long Engagement, brings to life the wonderful, innocent character of Amelie, a young woman who was overly protected by her parents as a child and has learned to live in a fantasy world where she ultimately comes to life to better the lives of those around her. This 2001 film, nominated for 5 Academy Awards is considered by many as one of the top 100 films of all time and consistently stays among IMDB’s top 50 films of all time. Amelie has finally come to Blu-ray DVD and is sure to delight the fans of the film, as well as bring about new fans.

The direction by Jean-Pierre Jeunet and his understanding of the talents of those around him has him constantly ranked as one of the world’s top directors. He is fantastic here, as in all of his films at using various camera angles, unique story, coloring, and set design. Technically this film is brilliant and while it is sub-titled it is easy to look at without the subtitles. There are times the actors do such a good job in their acting that it is easy to get lost in the subtitles on screen. The pictures tell the story and with the wonderful soundtrack and imagery portrayed this film is virtually perfect.

We see Amelie as a young child growing up in an overly protected home. As a fantasy world exists around her we come to understand the innocence of Amelie. It is the tragic day that Princes Di is killed in a car accident that her world changes as Amelie has grown older and moved out on her own. It is a discovery in her apartment that leads her to helping those around her who are experiencing difficulty. As she helps others she comes to a place where she has the opportunity to experience love like she has never felt before. She doesn’t realize the lives she touches not only has an impact on them, it impacts her.

One of the things I appreciated about the direction of this film is not just the exceptional technical merits including the wonderful story but also the ability of Jeunet to develop each character. This 2 hour movie takes time to let us know about each character, not just Amelie. We learn to appreciate each one so much that we leave wanting more. It would be easy and satisfying to go back and retell the story with each of the characters being featured in their own right, in their own film. Just as one of the characters, a painter is trying to understand a character he is painting; the viewer could make the same attempt at learning more about each character on screen. Jeunet understand the human psyche and in his telling of the story we learn about all of the characters that Amelie comes into contact with.

There is a spiritual concept that says, ‘what you have done for the least of these you have done unto me.’ Amelie is a character who in many ways sees value in the lives of those around her. She dedicates her life as a seemingly unimportant waitress to one that has the potential to impact those around her. She doesn’t realize the one universal spiritual truth among all religions that we should; ‘do unto others as we would have them do unto you.’ As Amelie helps others, she realizes she is treating people the way she wants to be treated. As one show and displays love and caring to others they soon realize the impact it can have on their own life. There is a willingness of Amelie to do this and she does it with humility, she doesn’t want credit for what she does. She does it anonymously, wanting merely to touch the lives around her in a positive way. While there are minor setbacks, ultimately, she is as a loving God, providing hope and change for those facing difficulty. She does what she does because she desires relationship that is meaningful. It isn’t just for those from afar she does this though; she includes those closest to her.

I had been told for some time by my daughter that Amelie is one of her favorite movies of all time. While I wanted to see it for some time, I hadn’t until now. The Blu-ray viewing is wonderful with a very nice transfer, better than most movie screens unless digital, a wonderful soundtrack that sounds beautiful. The Blu-ray experience has the quality image, clarity and wonderful sounds, but also the special features that deliver. After viewing the film I can see why it is among many critics’ top 50 films of all time. I can’t wait to have my daughter down to my house to see the film on Blu-ray, it is such a wonderful experience, I think it may move her to consider the purchase of a Blu-ray player. I will watch this film again, and again, enjoying it each time as I know it is a brilliant film, by a brilliant director, that can likely be viewed in no better way than this Blu- ray experience.

To see the video posted below, click on the video, if the video doesn’t appear or appears in distorted form, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zj0CK_jgNns

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Barney's Version

Barney’s Version is a film garnishing critical acclaim in 2010, from its wins for Best Actor for Paul Giamatti at the Golden Globes for his portrayal as a love struck, alcoholic hockey loving, aging television producer, Barney Panofsky, to the Academy Award Nominated film for make-up as we see a 30+ year span in the life of Barney. There is also the supporting cast representing his 3 wives, his father played by Dustin Hoffman, his children, and ultimately his one true love, Miriam played by Rosamund Pike.

Barney is a tragic story of love lost, love found, and love lost again, well sort of lost. Barney while at his own wedding meets the love of his life, a woman other than his new bride. He leaves the wedding to ask her to marry him even though the two just met. What transpires is her initial rejection and then Barney’s attempt at getting out of a failed marriage doomed at the very beginning and his quest to be with his one true love, Miriam. The journey takes place over a 30+ year time span.

Barney’s Version is a tragic, yet touching and meaningful tale of love, and life. This acting tour de force is an incredible example of quality direction provided by Richard J. Lewis and the lasting story based on the book of the same name by Mordecai Richler. While the screenplay by Michael Konyves does the story justice, the movie does suffer at times from likely movie versus book comparisons. While the movie does a good job, it is impossible to follow the complete concepts of the book, yet, Richler does a good job at doing so and Lewis does a nice job of directing this story driven drama.

Through the story we see Barney from a young man fresh out of college, to the later stages of his life. The make-up transitions are simply put, amazing. Just as amazing is the character development. We never have quite all the answers which keep us glued to the screen as the viewer questions and searches for the pieces of the puzzle. While there are holes in the story, there is enough continuity to keep us mesmerized. The primary credit for this is the outstanding performances on screen. Giamatti is one of the top actors on screen today. He is a treasure to the cinema. He doesn’t let down one iota in this film. We hurt for him, grieve for him, get mad at him, and at times, want to curse him for the decisions he makes. Despite all of the emotion, we never get to the point where we don’t care for him. The end of the film had me tearing up for his character. He never loses love for his one true love, despite the tragedy that falls on him, and there are lessons we can all learn.

Barney’s Version is a reminder of the reality that real love is possible. It powerfully portrays the power of love and the lasting nature of love, even when it seems as if love at times fails. It also reflects on the power and damage that can come about due to jealousy. While jealousy appears to be the downfall of Barney, he quickly realizes his mistakes. Unfortunately the recognition of the mistakes and seeking out of forgiveness doesn’t take away from the consequences of his sin. Just as in many real relationships, while Barney loves his wife and family with a deep passion, he begins to take for granted the things he has. There are consequences for Barney as a result of this attitude, but in the end, despite the tragedies, he comes to the place where he never really loses the thing he desires most.

Many live in a world where heartache and tragedy are an all too real part of life. Some take love for granted. Barney’s Version shows that true love is possible and one should not give up hope. There is power in the love of family, yet many take it for granted. I suspect the director Lewis touches on this theme for a reason. While many of us feel sorry for Barney, we can relate to him. Some will be inspired to love more. Right after watching the movie, I did something out of the ordinary; I went gave my wife a kiss and tell her that I love her. I was inspired to not make the mistakes Barney had, I didn’t want to suffer the same consequences. I wanted my wife to know that I love her.

1st Corinthians 13 in the Bible is in my opinion the most perfect of all definitions in regards to what love is. It is patient, kind, never envious, isn’t jealous, and the list goes on. It would have done Barney well to have known the definition of love as described in 1st Corinthians. Maybe the tragedies wouldn’t have fallen on him. Who knows?

The power of Barney’s Version and Paul Giamatti’s portrayal is that I found myself caring for this character, even after the movie was over. While the characters and their development could have been a little tighter, there was only one criticism I had of the Blu-Ray DVD I had for review. The Blu-ray version of the DVD, (it comes with a standard DVD and a Blu-ray) didn’t work. I worked for over an hour on the crazy thing and just couldn’t get it to work. Unfortunately, all of the special features are on the Blu-ray version. I love special features, and it appears as if there are a number of good ones, unfortunately, I can’t comment on them because due to the defective Blu-ray disc I couldn’t watch them. I wish I could as I wanted to know more about the story. The DVD advertises an interview with the original author of the novel, a behind the scenes making of feature, and more.

While this is a powerful story, well acted, well presented, I honestly don’t know if I would watch it enough to justify the purchase price of it. I would certainly strongly recommend the rental of it and believe film enthusiast and those who enjoy quality movie making with good story will greatly appreciate this movie. I know I did, and while it may be awhile before I watch it again, it will be awhile before I forget the excellent characters and story as presented in Barney’s Version.

To see the video posted below, click on the video, if the video doesn’t appear or appears in distorted form, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nsfjXNMQt8I


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Email: mike@furches.org

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Blue Valentine, A Love Story on Blu-ray

Blue Valentine is one of those movies I have wanted to see for sometime. I have heard a great deal of good things about the movie, from the acting to the direction, and from the editing to the story. I had heard there were reasons this story had received the Oscar Buzz it did in 2010. With the release of the DVD on Blu-ray, I had a good reason to finally catch up and see if the performances by Ryan Gosling and the Oscar nomination for Best Actress for Michelle Williams.

One of the unique and wonderful attributes of Blue Valentine is the uniqueness of the story being told. This brilliantly directed story by Derek Cianfrance does something unique these days. It tells a real story of romance and relationship in a way most people can unfortunately relate to. I say unfortunately because it holds back no punches in the reality of relationship for many people. Unique in its style is its wonderful cinematography and top-notch script that goes back and forth from love found to love lost. The editing is also a wonderful attribute as it is extremely difficult to edit a film coming from two points in time to a place of cohesiveness. While the editing, along with the direction is brilliant, so are the performances by Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams.

Dean, played by Ryan Gosling is a high school drop-out that is a hard working underachiever. He has a great heart though and on a particular job where he has just moved in an elderly man into a nursing home, he meets a young lady, Cindy, played by Michelle Williams who is visiting her grandmother. For Ryan, it is love at first site and he pursues Cindy with the hope of love. Cindy on the other hand has come from difficult relationships. Under the direction of Cianfrance we go back and forth in time to see the characters at different stages in their life. Through the experience Cianfrance does a terrific job at drawing the viewer into this touching, honest and real relationship, not with just the good, but the bad and difficult.

I suspect people who watch Blue Valentine will have different reactions; the perspectives of the viewer will likely depend on the sex of the viewer. One of the brilliant aspects of the film, driven largely by the story, and acting, is the ability of the film to hit home with the viewer. It isn’t as if we are watching a movie but are watching the real lives of people we know. This isn’t to say we always enjoy those people, there are moments of reality that makes viewing the film difficult, not because it is poorly done, but because it is done so well. I found myself hurting for Ryan, while getting angry at Cindy, and at other times, feeling sorry for Ryan, wondering why he is so cruel and then thinking that Cindy is the glue that holds the family together. Of course I eventually discover there are no right or wrong answers to the observations, in fact, at times, I found myself discovering that I was wrong about the characters.

While not obvious on first appearance, the more I think about Blue Valentine, and it is one of those movies that will stick with you, I was deeply moved at how spiritual the film is. While there are no blatant prayer scenes, church scenes, or even overt spiritual discussions, in fact there are none of those in the final film, (although there is in the deleted scenes,) there are issues of love, relationship, and servitude that come into play. In Ryan we see a man who is so deeply in love that he has given up his dreams and aspirations to find out that to love his wife, and be there for his daughter are really the dreams that matter. His wife doesn’t understand though, she wants him to live for himself and much like her past, she has trouble with relationship, trouble that she has seen lived out in her own home while growing up. We see the importance of not just love in marriage, but the importance of maintaining that love through the development of relationship. The relationships we are a part of should be nurtured and developed not just at the start of that relationship, but throughout the relationship. I was reminded of my own relationship with God and the importance of not just experiencing the love relationship in the early days of faith, but the importance of maintaining that relationship, to grow together, to maintain the love that was there in the beginning. That comes with understanding and spending time with each other. In Blue Valentine, while we see the beauty of that love, we also see the heartache of what can and often does happen when relationship is not maintained.

There are times I didn’t much care for Blue Valentine because it was too real, not because it was a bad movie, but a very good movie with great performances. This movie is a Catch-22 of sorts, so good that it is disturbing. For a fan of the art of film, this is a must see, for those who want happy endings or a movie where everything is tied up and entertainment abounds, this could be a let down. As for me, I found the movie one of the best from 2010, and a must view, not just a must view, but a movie deserving of ownership. The DVD has some wonderful special features including a making of documentary and a number of deleted scenes and commentary from the Director and Editor of the film. For film buffs there is some tremendous information available in the commentary. I for one found the film sexy, intelligent, and worthy of another watch. I saw the film without my wife and am contemplating watching it with her, not just for her opinion, but to share a wonderful moment with a very enlightening movie.

To see the video posted below click on the video. If the video isn’t at full scale or doesn’t show up, click on the following link:

The following is an interview at Sundance with the Cast and Director of Blue Valentine:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IdbVdFocSX0


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Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.comYou can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
6441 N. Hydraulic
Park City Kansas, 67219

email Mike at: mike@furches.org

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew

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Crazy Heart

On a rare occasion one gets the opportunity to see a movie that takes us beyond the point of imagination to the point of reality. Crazy Heart was just the gem that recently accomplished this for me. It was on a Valentines Day date that I decided to be a little crazy and take my wife to a movie that I had wanted to see. It was a movie that stars an acting tour de force that we both appreciated, and a musical force I have appreciated for some time. Crazy Heart stars in his Academy Award nominated role for Best Actor Jeff Bridges for his portrayal of Bad Blake. It also features the wonderful talent of Maggie Gyllenhall as his love interest Jean Craddock, and in supporting roles two favorites, Robert Duvall as Wayne and Colin Farrell as Tommy Sweet.

Crazy Heart is the story of long time Country, Americana singer Bad Blake who has inspired many with his music. He has lived a life dedicated to music and in the process of that life has let his family, his life, and ultimately his music suffer and stagnate. He depends on the hits of his past to make it by, from bar to bar, experience to experience, and from bottle to bottle. His addiction to the bottle and alcohol has become his best and only friend until he meets up on a tour of dumps and dives the relative of a piano player who happens to be a reporter. She is looking for a story on the relationship of Bad Blake and the star he helped get started, Tommy Sweet. In the process, Bad develops a relationship with Maggie and her son, and begins a comeback journey where he not only discovers himself, but the reality of his experiences and the effects on his life.

Crazy Heart is a beautifully filmed, brilliantly acted, and mesmerizing story filled with some of the best music to come along in a very long time. The musical direction provided by T Bone Burnett is brilliant. I personally have some friends that have worked with T Bone in the past so I have been a long time fan, but to take away from the value of the music in this story would be to miss the entire story itself, for it is in the music that Bad begins to discover himself and the music drives the story from both a visual and thought perspective for the viewer, as we hear the songs, we can feel, and know what Blake has and is going through.

T Bone Burnett is a Christian who does not wear his faith on his sleeve, that spiritual component of the film is not lost in the morality lessons presented in this movie. Jeff Bridges, in what could be the role of his life plays brilliantly the conflict in the character of Bad Blake. We see the importance of relationships, and the danger that can occur from driving those individuals away. We see the real struggle of alcoholism presented on the screen as well as anything in the last few years. We see individuals trying to escape from their past and hide their sorrows in the bottom of a bottle. Bridges presents the most memorable character I have seen this last year. He lives and breathes the character. He also does a great job at actually performing and singing the songs of Bad Blake.

In Crazy Heart we also see the value of love and second chances. Maggie played absolutely beautifully by Maggie Gyllenhall is a character that has had her own heartbreak. She is reluctant to place herself in a relationship where she will be hurt. While she doesn’t fully understand her own actions and their impact on the life of her son, she does understand the importance of having a good role model for him. As a result of the relationship that develops between her and Bad Blake they begin to pull each other out of the bad experiences of their past.

In one sequence we see Wayne, (Robert Duvall) and Bad Blake (Jeff Bridges) out fishing. Wayne tells Bad, that we can’t always focus on the mistakes of our past, when we make the effort to do right; at that moment we have made the effort to improve our lives for the now and future. As we see in the development of the story, this doesn’t mean that everything one has done wrong is suddenly better, there is and always will be consequences for our actions. Those consequences don’t change, there is still the payment for our sins in some ways, because people, situations, circumstances are still impacted and we can’t always change those things. There is forgiveness, life and potential in taking that change and effort we make and moving forward. What we can have is a hope for the future which will help us either deal with, or forget the mistakes of the past. In this regard, there are not only lessons for Blake and Maggie; we as the viewer realize there is potential for change and hope for us. We have to realize though, it all starts with love, and ultimately dealing with the mistakes we have made. There is a powerful lesson here for people of faith. No matter what our faith, we have to be willing to admit, and change our mistakes and faults, we have to also be willing to seek forgiveness, yet in that process understand, while our lives will be better, there are no guarantees our situations will be better.

I have been asked, does Crazy Heart end good or bad, happy or sad? My response is two fold, first I never tell those kinds of things, I hate it for me, and I refuse to do it to others, no matter what they think. Then I say something else, it ends as it begins, as a thing of beauty that is real. That is the most impressive concept of the movie to me; it is simply real, from the music, to the effects of alcoholism, to the complexity of relationship. Crazy Heart is Crazy Beautiful.

While Crazy Heart could have been nominated for more awards in my opinion, it is a likely contender in the three areas it is nominated for, in fact, I have seen no movie that has as compelling nominees as the three for Crazy Heart, Best Actor, Jeff Bridges, Best Supporting Actress Maggie Gyllenhall, and Best Achievement in Music, Ryan Bingham and T Bone Burnett.

On a scale of 1 – 10, take those three award nominations, multiply them by 3; you have a very worthwhile and real 9.

To view the video, simply click on the video. If the video don't appear, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0349E7kFEM


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQ1IxgjSLrM


Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

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Click to visit and join our sister group at MySpace Hollywood Jesus.

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Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.comYou can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
P.O. Box 17731
Wichita, KS 67217

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew

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The Virtual Pew

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