Feature Presentation--Snowbound and Sick

Thanks to a sick day and a snow day, I was able to catch up on some shows and movies. Hooray for illness and a foot of snow!!

Social Network

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1285016/

So I finally saw what all the hubbub was about. Is this the Best Picture of the year? I don’t think so (not having seen most of them). It was a fine movie, Sorkin creating a fascinating story about something that happened in the recent past, but it wasn’t mind blowing. As for the story itself, read The Facebook Effect for a counter point to this movie.

See it.

For Your Consideration

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0470765/

I found this walking around the library. While it’s not as good as Best in Show, it does have some funny moments. The movie does a great job at poking fun at the Hollywood celebrity shows, the hype surrounding the Oscars, and the meddling of the studios. Gervais’ cameo is priceless.

Take it or leave it.

Thank You For Smoking

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0427944/

This movie has been in my list forever, and I finally got around to seeing it. Loved it. Great dialogue/narration, despicable characters, and cutting satire. Eckhart nailed the role and Katie Holmes was surprisingly good as the ethically impaired reporter. Remember, if you argue well enough, you’re always right.

Must See.

Justified Season 1

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1489428/

Great show so far. Felt that the set up was a little contrived, but it led to so many interesting stories, that feeling quickly faded. I didn’t know anything about Olyphant (because I am one of the five people who has not seen Deadwood) and was interested to see what Goggins would do after The Shield. They created a synergy that evolved and built towards the finale. The second season starts soon and I would give it a try. Not sure if the show can continue as is, but the opening salvo was quite good.

See it.

Arrested Development Season 2

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0367279/

An oldie but a goodie. What can you say about this show? Perfection. Sarcastic, well acted, tight, gloriously self-effacing. I don’t care if they make a movie or not. Don’t see how it can be as good as the three seasons that came before it. This is a must have on a deserted island for me.

Buy, borrow, or steal tonight.