Trashionista

FRIDAY FLICK: O Brother Where Art Thou?

I am a big fan of the Coen brothers - their films are witty, intelligent and quirky as all get out. O Brother Where Art Thou is no exception.

Loosely based on Homer's epic poem The Odyssey, the story follows three depression-era convicts who escape a Mississipi chain gang and go on a quest for treasure.

George Clooney shows versatility and great comic-timing as the silver-tongued ringleader, Ulysses Everett McGill. There are various nods to The Odyssey - John Goodman plays a one-eyed baddie (a cyclops), the gang meet the sirens, a blind seer, and at one point Pete appears to be turned into a frog - and a multitude of visual and verbal jokes.

John Turturro and Tim Blake Nelson play the other escapees, while Holly Hunter is Everett's estranged wife.

The bluegrass soundtrack is outstanding, the performances sparkle and the director of photography, Roger Deakins, uses an old-time colour palette that gives it a unique feel.

This is actually one of my favourite Coen movies - gentler and more relaxed than some, but still whip-smart and hysterically funny.

Related posts: Friday Flick archives

FRIDAY FLICK: Something's Gotta Give

Okay, this film isn't adapted from a book, but it is about writing... The main character (played by the tremendous Diane Keaton) is a successful playwright.

Written and directed by Nancy Meyers (Private Benjamin, The Holiday), this is a romantic comedy with a difference; it's about middle-aged people (gasp!)

Harry Sanborn (Jack Nicholson) is a perennial bachelor who only dates women under the age of 30. He meets Erica because he is dating her daughter and they take an instant dislike to one another - and not just because of that.

Over enforced companionship (Harry suffers chest pains and Erica relunctantly agrees to let him stay at her beach house while he recovers enough to travel), the two discover that there is a mutual attraction.

There are complications from Harry's handsome young doctor (Keanu Reeves) who pursues Erica romantically, and from Harry's own set of expectations and prejudices.

The on-screen chemistry between Nicholson and Keaton is brilliant, the script witty and the drama refreshing. Plus, there's a great supporting cast in Frances McDormand, Amanda Peet and Jon Favreau.

It made a change to be watching a mature love story (in all senses of the word); highly recommended. 

Related posts: Friday Flick archives

FRIDAY FLICK: Catch Me If You Can

Based on the true-life story of Frank W Abagnale, master-con-man, Catch Me If You Can is adapted from Frank's autobiography of the same name.

Frank's story as a charming fraudster is an amazing one. Before his nineteenth birthday he had spent millions of dollars passing fake cheques and had impersonated a Pan Am pilot, a doctor and a prosecuting lawyer.

The film features Leonardo DiCaprio as Frank Abagnale and Tom Hanks as the FBI agent hot on his trail and is directed by Steven Speilberg.

It would be hard to make a dull movie out of material this good, but I particularly like the way Frank's character and relationships are exlored.

From his adored father (played by Christopher Walken) to Carl Hanratty, the FBI agent who pursues and eventually catches him, Frank shows himself to be strangely upstanding in his relationships and is a sympathetic anti-hero.

A thoroughly entertaining tale, if a little over-long. I now want to read the book!

Related posts: Friday Flick archives

FRIDAY FLICK: Stardust

I adored Neil Gaiman's book, Stardust, so was immoderately excited when I heard it was being filmed.

Better still was the news that it was being partially shot on the beautiful Isle of Skye, and that the talented Claire Danes, Robert De Niro and Michelle Pfeiffer were all on board. 'How can it fail?', I thought, with uncharacteristic optimism...

Joyously, it didn't.

With lots of british comedy actors - including Julian Rhind-Tutt, Mark Heap, David Walliams, Mark Williams, Ricky Gervais, and Sarah Alexander - playing 'spot the actor' was almost as much fun as the action.

Charlie Cox, a relative unknown, played Tristan Thorn. He has a softly handsome, 'everyman' kind of face, that is perfect for the boy-turns-to-man adventure story.

Robert De Niro does a fantastic comedic turn as a camp sky pirate and Michelle Pfeiffer is every bit as good as I expected as the witch intent on cutting out the heart of the fallen star (Claire Danes).

Jane Goldman's screenplay is good, but loving the book as much as I do, I was bound to find fault... It's a little more schmaltzy and 'Hollywood' than Gaiman's original work, but this is a minor criticism. It really is super fun and one I'd recommend even if you're not usually a fantasy fan.

Related posts: Friday Flick archives

FRIDAY FLICK: Shakespeare In Love

It is a windy and wet February 29th and I'm feeling a little blue... What better way to cheer myself up than with a filmic favourite? An incredibly romantic, well-acted filmic favourite, that's what!

Shakespeare In Love came out at the end of the nineties and enjoyed huge success. Gwyneth Paltrow wowed audiences and critics with her performance as the beautiful Viola De Lesseps (managing to shine despite the show-stealing turn from Judi Dench as Queen Elizabeth).

Shakespeare In Love has a fabulous screenplay by Oscar-winning writers Marc Norman and Tom Stoppard. It manages to be self-referentially funny, clever, and genuinely touching all at the same time.

The cast is star-studded with Geoffrey Rush, Joseph Fiennes, Simon Callow, Judi Dench, Imelda Staunton, and Ben Affleck, ably directed by John Madden (Mrs Brown).

Shakespeare In Love isn't just for English Literature students. It's a sunny smile of a film, filled with exuberant performances and good cheer.   

Related posts: Friday Flick archives

FRIDAY FLICK: High Fidelity

This week I'm going to revisit one of my favourite book-to-film adaptations, High Fidelity.

There was a great furore when this film was being made, because the director relocated the story from London to Chicago. I may even have joined in with the hand-wringing over the Americanisation. However, I, and the rest of the Hornby-loving world, need not have fretted...

High Fidelity is a triumph of a film. The script is witty, the characters just as quirky and brilliant as in the book, and, and this is such a big bonus, it stars John Cusack.

Jack Black and Todd Louiso are funny, but also touching, as the assistants in Rob's record store, and Iben Hjejle is perfect as Laura, the love of Rob's life (if only he could admit it).

Plus, it's got Joan Cusack (one of my all-time favourite actresses) as Laura's best friend, Liz, and Tim Robbins as the new-age new-boyfriend.

I just re-watched High Fidelity for this piece, but typing this makes me want to go and press play on the DVD again.

FRIDAY FLICK: P.S. I Love You

I went to see P.S I Love You this week. It's adapted from the Cecelia Ahern novel, which I haven't actually read (gasp!)

Anyhoo, if I was a proper film critic, I would proceed to eviscerate this film. The tone is all over the place - pathos, comedy, tragedy, and slap-stick mixed up in a stomach-churning manner.

The book is set in Ireland, but the film is largely set in New York (no surprise, there) and Scottish actor Gerard Butler plays the Irish husband, Gerry, with a supremely dodgy accent. 

The facts of Gerry's illness and eventual death from a brain tumour are glossed-over to get straight to the important business of Hilary Swank looking immaculate and wistful as Holly, the young widow.

The pace is a tad slow with constant flashbacks to the seemingly-perfect Gerry, and the Hollywood version of Ireland is laughable (Holly's new Irish love interest, William, sings in a pub, works on a farm and part-time as a coastguard. Okay, then.)

I would also say that the idea of a dying man setting up a load of letters for his future widow, with advice on getting on with her life like 'go and do karaoke' is one of those things that you will either view as desperately romantic or pathologically-creepy. I must admit I lean towards the latter...

However, despite its faults (or perhaps because I'm a soppy soul) P.S I Love You still managed to tug my heartstrings. I loved Lisa Kudrow and Gina Gershon as Holly's sassy best friends and Kathy Bates was brilliant as her mother. In fact, Hilary Swank really showed her true acting worth in a heart-breaking scene between Holly and her mother.

And yes, I cried. A little bit.

Related posts: PS I Love You trailer | Hilary Swank injured in filming

FRIDAY FLICK: Music and Lyrics

Music and Lyrics isn't adapted from a novel, but it is about the creative process. And it's a delightful romantic comedy that will brighten up your Friday evening.

Alex Fletcher is a likeable, self-deprecating former pop star who ekes out a living on the eighties nostalgia circuit. He hires Sophie Fisher to water his plants while he's away.

Then Alex gets an exciting opportunity: Cora, a successful pop starlet wants him to write her a new song. The catch? He's only got four days to do it in...

Luckily, Alex discovers that Sophie has a flair for writing lyrics and he convinces her to help him. Okay, that sounds pretty contrived, but the film quickly focuses on the interplay between the characters and does so very well.

The leads (Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore) are an absolute delight to watch and the characters well-developed. The supporting characters and actors are fantastic, too, rounding out the film nicely. Haley Bennet plays the Shakira-like starlet in a hilarious dead-pan manner, while Kristen Johnston is Sophie's wise-cracking big sister.

Also, this may be the most likeable role I have ever seen Hugh Grant in. There is nothing quite so endearing as a man who is willing to laugh at himself.

In fact, the hilarious video of Alex Fletcher's eighties pop hit - 'Pop Goes My Heart' - is worth the price of the DVD alone...

FRIDAY FLICK: Little Children

I loved Tom Perrotta's book and I love Kate Winslet so I had high hopes for this film, but...

Okay, first of all there was a voiceover. An omniscient narrator describing the characters' thoughts and backstory. For example, "Sarah wondered if Brad was always this forthcoming. If anything, he seemed a little lonely..."

At first I thought we'd accidentally put the audio description on! It was extremely distracting.

Then there were the changes to the book. I'm not entirely confident about this since it's a while since I read it, but as far as I recall, the treatment of the sex offender character was much more interesting and morally challenging in the book. In the movie, he was much more of a generic "baddy", from the casting onwards.

There were a couple of other things that were taken directly from the book, but weren't fleshed out or explained enough. Like Brad's obsessive watching of the skateboarders. Having read the book, I got what it was all about, but my husband, who hasn't read it, was puzzled by it.

Kate Winslet was great, but all in all, it left me a bit cold.

Related posts: Little Children movie news | Friday Flick archives

FRIDAY FLICK: Charlie Wilson's War

Charlie Wilson's War is the kind of film that could go terribly, horribly wrong. A story about a Texas congressman's covert dealings with the rebels in Afghanistan (aiding them in combat against the Soviets), a main character with a flawed personality and a war film billed as 'funny'.

Of course, that's without banking on the screenwriter Aaron Sorkin. The man who brought us the West Wing - a series that effortlessly blends quick-witted, dialogue-heavy comedy with political drama.

Sorkin uses the same magic here and the script is every bit as good as I had hoped. It's moving, funny and thoughtful, and manages to cram a whole lot of story into 90 minutes without seeming rushed.

Of course his source material is also excellent. The film is based on George Crile's acclaimed non-fiction book - Charlie Wilson's War: The Story of the Largest Covert Operation in History.

And hats off to Mike Nichols for the direction, too. He navigates the different tones in the story smoothly and uses the A-list cast to great effect.

Amy Adams (Enchanted) is Wilson's personal aide and Julia Roberts plays against type as his socialite friend and confidente. Tom Hanks is fantastic as the playboy politician, but I adored Philip Seymour Hoffman as Gust Avrakotos, the maverick CIA agent who aids Charlie Wilson.  He has such wonderful comic timing combined with a genuine edginess.

If it's still on at your local cinema, do catch it. If not, put the DVD on pre-order now.

Related posts: Friday Flick archives

FRIDAY FLICK: Notes On a Scandal

I love Judi Dench (who doesn't?). I love Bill Nighy. And I've got a bit of a girl crush on Cate Blanchett (Have you seen her in The Life Aquatic with, apparently, no make-up on? She's just unbelievably beautiful!). And I loved the book by Zoe Heller. So I don't know why it took me so long to get around to watching this movie...

At first I was a bit disappointed by the casting of Andrew Simpson as Steven Connolly - the boy Cate Blanchett's character, Sheba, has an affair with - because I thought he was too young-looking and not sexy enough, but then I realised he's supposed to be 15 and she's supposed to be taking advantage of him, so that disappointment was clearly inappropriate!

As the film went on, my disappointment lessened anyway, since I found Simpson pretty convincing. In fact, all the performances were brilliant and there was a convincing level of tension throughout the entire movie.

Like the book, my sympathies switched between Dench's Barbara and Blanchett's Sheba and, like the book, I was left feeling unsettled. In other words, a fabulous film of a fabulous book.

FRIDAY FLICK: Wonder Boys

This is one of the most successful film adaptations I have ever seen. Which is suprising since I loved Michael Chabon's Wonder Boys so much, I expected to be hyper-critical.

The fact that it has one of my favourite actresses - Frances McDormand - helps, of course, but the sharp script and faithful adaptation go a long way, too.

Grady Tripp once wrote the Great American novel. Seven years and with a sprawling, 2000 page manuscript he can't finish, he is still trying to follow it.

In one weekend, Grady's wife leaves him, his mistress announces she's pregnant, and his editor (played by Robert Downey Jr at his very best) comes to town.

The plot is wonderfully crazy, with far too many twists to easily summarise, and all of the characters - both major and minor - are an outright joy to watch.

Even if you're not usually a fan of his, don't be put off by Michael Douglas, either. He plays Grady Tripp - with all of his strengths, weaknesses, insecurity and ego, wonderfully well. It's one of those times that the actor looks and talks exactly how I imagined when I read the book.

This is a class act and well worth putting on your DVD rental list.

Related posts: Friday Flick archive

FRIDAY FLICK: Enchanted

Yes, yes, I know it's not a book-made-into-a-film or even aimed at adults, but it is lovely. And it's (loosely) based on several fairy tales, so that counts right?

Plus, it's the perfect antidote to the January blues - whatever your age.

The story begins in animation and follows Giselle - the quintessential Disney heroine - as she is swept off her feet by the handsome prince. There is, of course, an evil queen (the wonderful Susan Sarandon) and she banishes the sweet and innocent princess-to-be to modern-day New York City. Genius.

When she arrives in New York, the film swaps to live action. Giselle is played by Amy Adams who, somehow, manages to make her adorable, rather than annoying. Giselle meets and befriends divorce lawyer Robert and his daughter, and discovers that there is more to getting a happy ever after than riding off into the sunset.

Robert is played by Patrick Dempsey (Dr McDreamy in Grey's Anatomy), and the cast is completed by Timothy Spall, James Marsden and Julie Andrews (as the narrator).

Whatever you may think about Disney, it does what it does very well. It turns out that rule holds true even when Disney is poking fun at itself.

Enchanted manages to be funny for grown-ups and children alike without resorting to cynicism. It's pretty to watch and very charming.

It's also stuffed full of references to Disney classics. If you want to see if you managed to spot them all, Empire magazine has compiled a handy list.

Related links: Friday Flick archive | Reading Grey's Anatomy

FRIDAY FLICK: Shadowlands

At this time of year, when the turkey is but a memory and the Christmas decorations are starting to grate, I like to sit down with an excellent film and bawl my eyes out.

If you can relate to that and fancy joining me in a pre-new-year emotional purge, then grab your tissues of choice and pop Shadowlands into your DVD player.

Directed by Richard Attenborough and adapted by William Nicholson (from his own stage play), Shadowlands is based on the life of C.S Lewis.

The writer and Oxford University professor is a confirmed bachelor. Then he meets the American poet Joy Davidman and slowly falls in love with her. A simple story, perhaps, but wonderfully told.

Anthony Hopkins plays Lewis with his characteristic depth, dignity and restraint, while Debra Winger is superb as Joy.

This film is a happy, sad, romantic treat. Now, where did I put my hankie?

FRIDAY FLICK: It's A Wonderful Life

In 1943, Philip Van Doren Stern wrote a short story about a man who wishes he had never been born and is temporarily given his desire by a guardian angel.

Frank Capra transformed the story (called The Greatest Gift) into the 1946 film It's A Wonderful Life.

Now, I must admit, I only recently saw this classic film (thanks Kathryn!) but boy, was it worth the wait.

I guess, like most people in the western world, you've probably already seen it. In which case, you don't need me to tell you that the script is sublime, that James Stewart excels as George Bailey - the ultimate good guy struggling against the odds, or that Donna Reed is perfect as Mary Hatch, George's love.

You already know that it is a beautiful slice of retro feel-good cinema, and so much more than the sum of its parts.

If you haven't seen it, I'll just say this: It's a Wonderful Life may be the quintessential yuletide film, but it's so good, it's not just for Christmas...

Related posts: Friday Flick archive

 

FRIDAY FLICK: Finding Neverland

I must admit, when I sat down to watch Finding Neverland I had a lemon wedge handy to counteract the cloying sweetness I fully expected to encounter. Well, not really, but you catch my drift...  Still, I needn't have concerned myself; this is a delightful film and one that celebrates - and captivates - the imagination.

Finding Neverland is a fictionalised account of the family and events that inspired Scottish playwright J.M. Barrie to create Peter Pan.

At the start of the film, Barrie (played with understated perfection by Johnny Depp), is in a bad way. His latest play in London has flopped and his marriage to social-climber Mary, is not doing much better. While walking his dog in the park, Barrie meets four boys and their recently widowed mother, Sylvia Llewelyn Davies (Kate Winslet).

Barrie becomes a playmate to the boys - taking inspiration from their imaginative games and fresh view of the world - and a friend to Sylvia. 

Despite disapproval from both his wife and Sylvia's mother (Julie Christie), Barrie stays true to friendship and his art in a truly heart-warming (and, yes, weepy) ending.

Related posts: Friday Flick archive

FRIDAY FLICK: Sense and Sensibility

Unsurprisingly, this film is based on Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility. A book I haven't actually read since my university days, but remember enjoying...

It features not just a stellar cast - including Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet and Alan Rickman - but a stellar director, too, in Ang Lee.

Emma Thompson plays Elinor - the sensible one - while Winslet is her more romantically-inclined sister, Marianne. The interplay between two sisters with very different temperaments is beautifully done, and the script fairly sparkles.

Speaking of the script,  Emma Thompson proves yet again that some people are born with talent, and some are born with more talent than seems strictly fair. Not only does Thompson turn in a fabulous performance as Elinor Dashwood, she also wrote the excellent screenplay - deservedly winning an Oscar for it.

Greg Wise is perfect as Marianne's dashing - but ultimately feckless - suitor, Willoughby, while Alan Rickman plays against type as quiet, kind, Colonel Brandon. Hugh Grant acquits himself very well as Elinor's love interest - shy Edward Ferrars.

As always with Austen, the film says a great deal more about society and human nature than simply the search for a suitable husband. Thanks to splendid cinematography, stunning scenery and costumes, it looks very pretty while doing so.

It's my favourite of the Austen adaptations and the perfect Sunday afternoon film.

Related posts: Austen Week | Flirting with Pride & Prejudice | Lost in Austen

FRIDAY FLICK: Get Shorty

We love Elmore Leonard here at Trashionista and the films are often as good (gasp) as the books.

In Get Shorty, John Travolta plays Chili Palmer, a Miami loan shark who's been sent to L.A. to collect on a bad debt from movie producer Harry Zimm (Gene Hackman).

Chili is also a film buff with a script idea, and he decides to become a producer. However, he's not the only mobster who wants a piece of the film action, and double-crossing fun begins.

Stuffed to the gills with Hollywood jokes, celebrity cameos, snappy dialogue and laughs, this is a great film and a very funny satire. I love Rene Russo's turn as a B-movie actress and Chili's love interest, too.

Like this? Try: Jackie Brown

FRIDAY FLICK: The Night Listener

While Armistead Maupin is one of my favourite authors, The Night Listener is my least favourite of his books. But when I went to an author reading earlier in the year, he talked about the true story behind the book and then the movie version starring Robin Williams and Toni Colette that it made me want to watch it. I wish I'd stuck with my first instinct.

When Gabriel Noone is given a book purportedly written by a 14-year-old boy detailing the abuses he suffered at the hands of his parents, he's impressed by the story and the writing. And then the publisher gives the boy, Pete, Gabriel's number and they start talking on the phone.

Having recently broken up with his long-term boyfriend, Gabriel is lonely and finds himself talking to Pete and his foster mum, Donna, on a regular basis. And then Gabriel's ex suggests that Donna and Pete have the same voice and Gabriel sets off to their home town in Wisconsin to find out the truth. Which is where, for me, the film totally lost the plot...

Part of the reason I didn't enjoy the book was its dark and claustrophobic atmosphere, which is just personal taste, but in the film I found it really didn't work. Once Gabriel reaches Wisconsin, The Night Listener seems to want to be a traditional thriller, so there are loads of scenes of Gabriel sneaking around in the dark and a really terrible scene in a hospital. Gabriel's behaviour becomes increasingly ridiculous and unbelievable. Frankly, he got right on my wick.

Although the acting is excellent - both Williams and, of course, Toni Collette - I found it way too heavy-handed and it lost all the subtlety of the book. A real shame.

Friday Flick: Dracula

Sumptuous, compelling, visually-stunning and strangely-romantic, Francis Ford Coppola's take on Bram Stoker's Dracula is a triumph.

The casting is brilliant. Gary Oldman as Dracula is a stroke of genius. Anthony Hopkins plays the eccentric Professor Van Helsing with his usual aplomb, and Winona Ryder is perfect as Mina, the object of Dracula's desire. Even Keanu-stiff-as-a-post Reeves, works well as Jonathan-stiff-as-a-post Harker.

Francis Ford Coppola filters the myth of Dracula through his own unique vision, creating a classic gothic-fantasy with a heady, sensual feel. 

I was shocked when I realised this film came out fifteen years ago. Apart from the obvious, unpleasant reminder that I'm definitely getting old, this version of Dracula has really stood the test of time.

Plus, the two-disc collector's edition has just been released, so it's the perfect time to add it to your collection.

Related posts: The Historian | Happy Hour At Casa Dracula | Friday Flick archive

Friday Flick: Out of Sight

Mmm... Delectable. I'm afraid that is the only way to describe Clooney in this film. And, frankly, the scene in the boot of the car is one of the hottest things I have ever seen. Keris agrees with me, too. Look.

Anyway. Hotness-aside, this adaptation of the fabulous Elmore Leonard book just plain works. Jennifer Lopez and George Clooney have fantastic on-screen chemistry (oops, I'm back to the hotness again, aren't I?) and the direction is classic Steven Soderberbergh - clever and slick.

Do yourself a favour this Friday night and snuggle up with George.

Like this? Try: Jackie Brown

Your thoughts on You’ve Got Mail

Warning: Movie spoiler

There were some strong feelings about The Devil Wears Prada when we discussed it last week so today I’m asking what you thought of You’ve Got Mail?

I knew it was rom com, so I knew that Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan had to get together (them’s the rules) but I just didn’t see how it could happen. He destroyed her business! And she fell in love with him! Get a grip woman.

I watched the whole film wondering how the writers were going to wriggle out of the situation but, alas, they didn’t. They let her fall in love with the rat that ruined her livelihood.

I was going to finish this piece with the sentence *I bet it was written by a man*, but then I remembered it’s a Nora Ephron film…

Related Posts: Movie Magic archives

The Devil Wears Prada - alternative film review

Warning: Movie Spoiler

I finally got round to watching The Devil Wears Prada last weekend (I know I’m a year behind everyone else!) and I was very disappointed. Girl goes to the big city to get her dream job and then jacks it all in because her boyfriend doesn’t like her new lifestyle (and, if you ask me, her best mate seemed jealous as well).

The moral of the story seemed to be that if you want the powerful, glamorous job that Miranda Priestly has you will end up a lonely divorcee, but if you toe the line and get the good little girl job all will be right in your love life. I’m told the book has a different ending so I’ll have to move that up my to be read pile to find out.

Related Posts:  The Devil Wears Prada archives

MONDAY MOVIE: Paperback Hero

I discovered the film Paperback Hero a couple of months ago when I heard about a new novel with a similar premise. Since we're a full service blog (and since it's got Hugh Jackman in it) I ordered it up immediately!

The jist is that Jack is an Australian lorry driver. So he's hard-drinking, hard-livin' tough guy. He's got a soft spot for his dog, but that's it. He's a man's man. Except ... that he secretly writes romance novels and one of them has been published to great acclaim. When a woman from the publishers turns up at the diner owned by Jack's friend Ruby Vale, Jack is forced to admit to Ruby that he put her name on the manuscript and no-one knows it was written by a man, let alone him.

Since Jack's book is such a success the publisher wants Ruby to come to Sydney and do some promotion. Knowing nothing about the book, Ruby wants no part of it, until the publishers offer to pay for her forthcoming wedding to local vet Hamish. Since Ruby wants nothing more than to settle down, she agrees and she and Jack (posing as Ruby's manager) head to Sydney.

I don't need to tell you what happens do I? It's exactly what you think happens, but the film's no worse for that. As I started watching I thought it was going to be absolutely awful and, make no mistake, it's not great, but it is watchable - mostly thanks to Hugh Jackman. I found him charming in Someone Like You/Animal Attraction, but in Paperback Hero, well, he's just sex on a stick.

N.B. Since I'm now alone at the helm of Trashionista - *sniff* - I'm going to be alternating More on Monday with the Monday Movie (formerly the Friday Flick). There's no way I can read a non-chick lit book every week, plus watch a book-related film *and* keep on top of all the women's fiction out there - I'm not superwoman!

Incidentally, if you know of a book to film adaptation that we haven't yet covered - and you'd like us to cover - let me know at the usual address. Thanks!

FRIDAY FLICK: Get Over It

I can't make up my mind about Kirsten Dunst. She's got that indie-cool thing going, and I know I've seen her in some good films, but man can she pick a stinker. Marie Antoniette was distinctly meh. (I know you don't all agree, but I found it  BLAH x 100).

Get Over It really wants to be good, and really, really isn't. It wants to be Romeo + Juliet but fails by being embarrassing and... well, bad.

It's based on A Midsummer Night's Dream, as a cast of high school kids put on Shakespeare's famous comedy. The film descends into weird, Shakespeare-inspired dream sequences and tries to draw parallels between the love lives of teenagers and the love-swapping, drug-inducing players of MND. But it's all rather clumsily done, and I remember watching this film at the cinema, and literally cringing. I suppose the forgiving film fan might find something to enjoy here, but I'd love to know what! 

My advice: Get Over It? Don't bother with it.

Friday Flick archives.

FRIDAY FLICK: The Talented Mr Ripley

As Matt Damon is the man of the hour, starring in the just-released Bourne something-or-other (I've lost track, I'll be honest) I thought it might be apt to highlight one of his earlier films, The Talented Mr Ripley. Also starring Gwyneth Paltrow, Jude Law and (briefly) Cate Blanchett, it's based on Patricia Highsmith's psychological thriller of the same name.

Matt Damon is Tom Ripley, a conman who weasels his way into the lives of the rich English folk who holiday on the Riviera. Instead of just tracking down Dickie Greenleaf (Jude Law) as he was paid to do, Tom takes things a step further: he assumes Dickie's entire identity.

Will he be caught?

And if not, how not?

It's hard for me to gauge how good this film is as I was a big fan of the novel and nothing could really live up to that - but I think this is a respectable adaptation, certainly worth watching (but perhaps more enjoyable if you haven't read the book first!)

The one big issue I had is that Matt Damon doesn't look like Jude Law, and whereas in the book Tom's escapades posing as Dickie could be explained by their looking alike, in the film they can't.

Have you seen it - what did you think?

Friday Flick archives.

FRIDAY FLICK: Write & Wrong/And She Was

Agh. I hate it when films have different names in the UK and US/elsewhere. So this is either called Write & Wrong or And She Was or gawd knows what else, depending on where you live!

Anyway, it's another TV movie - I just can't keep away! The flick - let's call it Write & Wrong, shall we? - is the story of Byrdie Langdon, a Hollywood screenwriter who had big success in the past but now finds her scripts are constantly being passed over for young writers churning out formulaic rubbish. So she decides to take revenge - and maybe net a movie deal into the process.

She asks her 25-year old nephew Jason to pose as a newbie screenwriter, pulling off a Cyrano de Bergerac as she does all the work and he takes all the credit. But then Jason falls for his new producer, who just happens to be an old friend of Byrdie, and when their deception looks about to be uncovered, all hell could break loose...

I love the concept of this movie and for the most part it's executed well. Like all great TV movies, there's some cheesiness, but I liked the fact that this film had a serious point to make, but was entertaining about it. Kristie Alley I found at times funny and at times totally over-the-top but overall this was a good TV movie chick flick to kick back with ... and be thankful my writing career has never been so complicated!

Like this - in that it has a concept and features a writer - Stranger Than Fiction.

Friday Flick archives.

FRIDAY FLICK: Lipstick

Also known as Why I Wore Lipstick to My Mastectomy, this TV movie is based on Geralyn Lucas's memoir of that same name. At 27, Geralyn was a successful TV producer, married to her perfect man and seemingly living a charmed life. Then she found a lump in her breast and was diagnosed with cancer. As you might expect, it hit her like a thunderbolt. The usually organised Geralyn was sent reeling, as she realised she couldn't make a list to get herself out of this situation...

Sarah Chalke of Scrubs plays Geralyn and Jay Harrington, who was Susan's doctor in Desperate Housewives, plays a doctor again here - Geralyn's husband Tyler, who feels completely left out of her treatment as all her friends and family pile round. I thought the way Geralyn and Tyler's relationship changed was handled really well but some of the dialogue (especially Chalke's stuff to camera) was a bit cheesy and occasionally bought into all those "if you're strong you'll fight it" cancer cliches, which can be a bit offensive... But it's an oddly cheering look at breast cancer in young women and was educational, too. (Who knew they injected silicone into fake boobs - and that it could be so painful?!)

Like this (a little bit) but in book form: Cancer Vixen.

Friday Flick archives.

FRIDAY FLICK: Rumour Has It

A chick flick based on a film that was based on a novel (are you still with me?) Rumour Has It takes the idea that the events of The Graduate really happened and are based on Sarah (Jennifer Aniston)'s family, something she only discovers shortly before she's due to get married to fiance Jeff (the lovely Mark Ruffalo) and which sends her into a tailspin. Because if the events of that book/film are true, then her dad isn't her real father, and she has to find the man who is...

The savaging this got from some critics lead me to believe this was going to be a total piece of trash, but it was actually a nice surprise. It might not hold up twenty years from now but I found it fun, engaging, a little silly perhaps, but I loved the conceit of the film and especially enjoyed Shirley McClaine's performance. I think Aniston is a great comic actress and this isn't great film, but it's far from a bad one. Enjoy!

Friday Flick archives.

Hugh Jackman loves chick lit

We've previously featured a number of Hollywood stars who are big fans of book-to-movie adaptations (see "Related posts" below) and Hugh Jackman is no exception. The difference with Hugh is that he seems to be chick lit mad.

He appeared in Someone Like You/Animal Attraction, based on the novel by Laura Zigman. He's currently got If You Could See Me Now (based on Cecelia Ahern's book) in development.

Plus, he appeared, as we've already mentioned, in Paperback Hero (while not based on a chick lit book, is about a romance author).

I wonder if it's Mrs Jackman giving him book recommendations or if he's just in touch with his feminine side.

(This post was in no way an excuse to feature this photo of a shirtless Hugh Jackman and I resent any such suggestion!)

Related posts: George Clooney | Brad Pitt | Kirsten Dunst | Scarlett Johanssen

FRIDAY FLICK: State and Main

Like About Last Night (which Keris has lent me and I must watch soon!), State and Main is based on a play by David Mamet. There's both a Sex and the City and a Desperate Housewives connection, as it stars Sarah Jessica Parker and husband of Felicity Huffman William H. Macy. It's an ensemble piece and the massive cast also includes Julia Stiles, Alec Baldwin and Phillip Seymour Hoffman.

The film's about a Hollywood film crew who descend on a small American town and turn the whole place upside down. It's a satire on the silliness involved in filming on location, and therein lies a bit of a problem, as the film's basically an in-joke for anyone who's ever been in that experience (i.e. not most of us!) It's really not as funny as I wanted it to be but has moments of great wit and charm. One to smirk along with rather than laugh out loud at, perhaps.

Friday Flick archives.

FRIDAY FLICK: I Capture the Castle

Based on Dodie Smith's iconic YA/crossover novel about  a romantic teenager with a poor and eccentric aristocratic family who all live in a run-down castle in the 1930s, I Capture the Castle captures the essence of the book brilliantly. The family are struggling to make the rent when two new landlords (Americans!) roll up at the castle.  At first the family are scared they'll be evicted, but before long they've befriended the twenty-something brothers who own their property and our heroine Cassandra and her sister Rose might even want to be more than friends with these interlopers...

17-year old Cassandra is played really well by Romola Garai and I loved Bill Nighy as her reclusive author father. While the film isn't half as charming as the book it's still a good adaptation. Fun, romance, period drama and a touch of betrayal: this film has it all, and if it's not quite a girly classic it's not that far off.

Like this, in that it's also about another poor family: Little Women.

Friday Flick archives.

FRIDAY FLICK: Starter for Ten

I started reading David Nicholls' debut novel, Starter for Ten in Waterstone's one day and absolutely loved it. I thought it was going to be one of those novels that's just so funny and familiar and fabulous. I was actually a bit disappointed - it didn't live up to the promise of the first chapter, but even so I was pleased to see it had been made into a film.

Set in 1985, Brian (McAvoy) heads off to Bristol University and is excited to find they're putting together a team to go on the TV show University Challenge. Brian used to watch it with his late father and it's always been his ambition to compete.

As he and his teammates prepare for the show, he falls for the gorgeous and posh Alice, befriends cynical and political Rebecca, struggles to continue a relationship with his best friend from back home and tries to deal with his mother's new relationship.

Funnily enough, the University Challenge part is the best bit. It's genuinely exciting and Mark Gatiss is brilliant as Bamber Gascoigne. (I still can't accept that they teams aren't really on top of each other though.)

James McAvoy is cute and charming and he carries the film really. Yes, it's perfectly predictable, but it's also perfectly enjoyable.

Friday Flick archives

FRIDAY FLICK: Gentlemen Prefer Blondes

Who doesn't love a bit of Marilyn Monroe on a Friday afternoon? (Or anytime, in fact!?) I know our ed-in-chief Gemma is a big fan (if you ask nicely she might show you the pics of her dressed as Lorelei, Marilyn's character in this film... or she might not! Sorry, Gemma...)

Anyway! In Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Marilyn and Jane Russell (Dorothy, the sensible brunette - of course) go on a cruise to have fun and meet men, and succeed in doing both, though not without the odd scrape along the way, and of course, they have to sing as they go...

It's not the best movie starring either of these iconic actresses, but it is a bit of fun, and based on Anita Loos's cult classic novel. It also features "Diamonds are a Girls Best Friend", a number that's dazzling in more ways than one... (and was the inspiration for Madonna's Material Girl video, of course).

Carry on over the cut for a clip!

Friday Flick archives.

FRIDAY FLICK: Jackie Brown

How I loooove Jackie Brown. Based on Elmore Leonard's book Rum Punch (which is now often re-labeled Jackie Brown), it's the story of... would you believe, Jackie Brown?

She's a stewardess who gets mixed up with a dangerous crowd when she becomes a drug runner for extra cash. Samuel L Jackson plays Ordell, the bad guy out to shut her up while Robert Forster's career got a revival when he was cast as Max Cherry, bail bondsmen and all-round good guy who's fallen hard for our eponymous heroine. But what are Jackie's plans? Is she taking the infatuated Max for a ride and can she outwit Ordell?

Director Quentin Tarantino made this an iconic film of the late '90s, popularising Kangol hats in the process! I may have seen it two or five times, and it's still a great watch - Pam Grier is perfect as Jackie. *DID YOU KNOW?* Jackie Brown is Tarantino's homage to the '70s cinema movement known as Blaxploitation (Shaft etc.) and he changed Jackie's surname from Burke to Brown in honour of Pam Grier's portrayal of Blaxploitation heroine Foxy Brown.

Like this, but with George Clooney: Out of Sight.

Friday Flick archives.

FRIDAY FLICK: The First Wives' Club

An oldie (ish) but a classic (ish). Three great older (ish - OK, I'll stop!) actresses, Bette Midler, Diane Keaton and Goldie Hawn starred in this divorced women's call-to-arms way back in 1996. The three play wives who've all been dumped for younger women (one of whom is played by Sarah Jessica Parker) and vow to take revenge. So they form The First Wives Club.

"Don't get mad, get everything!" is their motto and they set out to do just that. This film is frivoulous and fun as long as you don't take it too seriously or expect too much. The women would probably be better off getting on with their lives and not seeing themselves as victims, but I guess their anger is justified and writing this was probably very cathartic for the sadly now-departed Olivia Goldsmith, who based the book from which this came on her own experiences.

Ouch.

Like this, in more ways than one: Heartburn.

Friday Flick archives.

FRIDAY FLICK: Riding in Cars with Boys

Based on Beverly Donofrio's first memoir of the same name, Riding in Cars with Boys stars Drew Barrymore as Beverly, following her journey from rebellious 1960s teen to... well, I'm not going to spoil the plot but suffice it to say she has a few ups and downs along the way to becoming a successful author, not least of which is falling pregnant while still in high school and agreeing to marry the father, an unreliable stoner (played well by Steve Zahn). The excellent Brittany Murphy plays Beverly's best friend Fay who is in the same situation, and the two girls struggle to get used to marriage and motherhood while Beverly, independent and unconventional, wonders if there'll ever be more to life.

Drew Barrymore is always heartfelt and emotionally honest, and this is at times a heartbreaking film. She portrays Beverly very honestly as flawed but well-meaning and helps this rise above the standard teenage-mum movie. This is a good film with a happy ending that might make you (me) shed a tear or two along the way.

Like this: (well, a teeny bit): Girl, Interrupted.

Friday Flick archives.

FRIDAY FLICK: Romeo + Juliet

Before Baz Luhrmann decided to make Moulin Rouge (not to mention one of the worst ads of all time), he burst into movie-making with this colourful adaptation which brought Shakespeare bang up-to-date whilst keeping the original language.

To say that it's dazzling would be an understatement: a modern soundtrack, technicolour sets, NYPD Blue-style camera work and the chemistry between a pre-Titanic Leo Dicaprio and a post-My So-Called Life Claire Danes made this a modern classic (based on a classic classic...)

It's fun, fabulous, and educational - what more could you want?!

Like this (but not even an eighth as good): Marie Antoinette.

Friday Flick archives.

FRIDAY FLICK: Adaptation

Adaptation has to be the weirdest Friday Flick yet. It's both an adaptation of Susan Orlean's non-fiction book The Orchid Thief (a fascinating study of a not-always-legal orchid collector's world) and a fictional film about... adapting Susan Orlean's The Orchid Thief for the big screen.

Confused yet? You will be... Nicholas Cage plays writer twins Donald (who doesn't exist in real life) and Charlie Kaufman (who actually did write the Adaptation script). In the film, Charlie is trying to do justice to Orlean's book and struggling, whilst  his brother, who has far less writing talent but boundless enthusiasm, is racking up huge success with a pulpy thriller. So Charlie decides that the only thing to do is ratchet up the tension in his script, even if it means deviating from the truth of the book...

As this is happening, we see the events he writes about with Orlean and her subject John Laroche portrayed brilliantly by Meryl Streep and Chris Cooper, who throughly deserved his Oscar win for supporting actor.

I really enjoyed this film, although I think it might an acquired taste as it's definitely very odd. And it's important to remember that the ridiculous escalation of events at the end of the movie is satirical, and not meant to be taken seriously - but it's lucky Susan Orlean has a sense of humour!

Like this (kind of): Stranger Than Fiction.

Friday Flick archives.

FRIDAY FLICK: Breakfast at Tiffany's

Based on Truman Capote's legendary novel (which I liked far more than I thought I would having fallen in love with the film years ago), Breakfast at Tiffany's is the story of Holly Golightly, the most iconic of all Audrey Hepburn's film roles. Holly is flighty and mysterious, a naive party girl prone to getting caught up with a bad crowd. When she moves into the apartment building of George Peppard's Paul, he feels himself magnetically drawn to her - so much so that he might even be willing to give up his own questionable lifestyle and fall in love with her... if she'll have him.

If you haven't seen this film yet, why the HECK not? It's a classic, the ultimate chick flick! Audrey is breathtaking.

Just ignore Mickey Rooney's racist portrayal of Mr. Yunioshi (please).

*DID YOU KNOW?* BaT was directed by Blake Edwards, who is married to Julie Andrews.

Like this - 'cos it's another girly classic: Fried Green Tomatoes.

Friday Flick archives.

FRIDAY FLICK: Iris

This week's Friday Flick is inspired by yesterday's Trailblazer, Iris Murdoch. Yes, it's Iris: the film.

Based on the first in John Bayley's trilogy of books about his late wife, Iris covers Murdoch's life from university (where she met John) to her descent into Alzheimer's. Although moving, it stops short of being depressing, and is instead a great tribute to the author - illustrating what a talented, vibrant woman she once was. Kate Winslet plays her wonderfully. As she becomes older, and more ill, she's played by Judi Dench, who looks astonishingly like Iris and portrays her with brilliant subtlety. There are moments of great humour, even in her illness, and very touching times with John, too.

In short, it's a very good, absorbing, moving film.

But carry on over the cut for my one slight beef about it...

For some reason, Hugh Bonneville, who plays the young John, didn't get as much recognition as the older John, Jim Broadbent, who won an Oscar (Dench and Winslet were also nominated), but he's very good. Perhaps that's because the male actors, despite not looking that alike, blend so well into each other. Perhaps his name could be added to the next version of the DVD cover...?

Like this (in that it also won Oscars): The English Patient.

Friday Flick archives. - We'll have something a bit more frivolous next week, I promise!

FRIDAY FLICK: Miss Potter

Released this week on DVD, Miss Potter (follow that link to see the trailer) is a biopic of Beatrix Potter: showing how she became one of the most successful children's authors of all time, despite the reluctance and disdain of her publishers.

Unconvinced by her rabbit illustrations and anthropomorphic stories, her publishers foisted her off on their young, naive brother, played by Ewan McGregor - who turns out not only to be a marketing maestro, but to be Miss Potter's first suitor...

This is a light period drama that was more involving than I expected: quite a girly film, but an interesting one, that made me want to know more about Beatrix Potter - a woman of hidden depths.

Renee Zellweger seems to have transported the spirit of Bridget Jones back almost a century; not for nothing did some reviewers call this film 'Bridget Potter'! But I enjoyed her interpretation (even if the drawings-occasionally-coming-to-life thing was a bit cheesy...) This would be the perfect  Sunday afternoon film.

Like this, only more modern: Bridget Jones's Diary.

Friday Flick archives.

FRIDAY FLICK: Mansfield Park

Long before ITV1 got their hands on Austen, when Billie Piper was but a babe in arms (well, almost), was this 1996 version of Mansfield Park, starring Frances O'Connor and Johnny Lee Miller.

It's the story of Fanny Price, the poor relation sent to live with her uncle and benefactor Sir Thomas Bertram (plus her auntie and distant cousins). But from whence comes all of Sir Bertram's money? (And more importantly, isn't Johnny Lee Miller rather dishy?! )

I have to say, I really enjoyed this film, but (confession time!) I haven't read the book it's based on. (Oops). I understand that some MAJOR liberties have been taken with the text, and that true Janeites (as Austen devotees are known) are still up in arms about it, eleven years later.

If you've never read Mansfield Park, you'll probably find it as enjoyable as I did. If you have read it, watch this at your own risk, people - and perhaps take it with a pinch of salt...

Like this, but more faithful to the original text: The BBC's Pride and Prejudice.

Friday Flick archives | Austen Week archives

FRIDAY FLICK: Thank You For Smoking

In Thank You For Smoking (yes, you read that right!) Aaron Eckhart plays Nick Naylor, possibly the most hated man in the United States. He's reached that exalted position by being a lobbyist for the American tobacco industry. That's right - not against them, FOR them.

With the public's concerns about the safety of smoking impossible to ignore, and under increasing pressure from his bosses, Nick has to try to turn around the perception of cigarette smoking as something bad. Is he fighting a losing battle?! (Duh). More importantly, how can Nick lie every day and still be a good role model for his son? The pair spend some more time together to try to find out...

This is a delicious black comedy, with Eckhart perfectly treading the line between smarm and charm and actually making us like this weird and morally ambiguous character. There's a lot to laugh at but despite the theme of the film, it does (of course, this is Hollywood after all) have a strong moral tone.  It's a great ensemble piece with Maria Bello, William H Macy, Rob Lowe and Robert Duvall all turning in great performances. (And Keris - Adam Brody's in it briefly, too!) There was a big hoo-hah in the US at the time of this film's cinematic release because this was Katie Holmes's last pre-TomKat role, and she's not playing a nice girl (although some 'revealing' scenes were apparently cut). She doesn't do dark and nasty that well though - she always seems too proper, and nice little Joey Potter swearing...?!! Not right at all.

But if you're ever looking for tips on how to win a debate or write a great argument, this is the film to watch. If you just want to watch a darn good (if a tad long) film, it's that too.

Like this (in that it's similarly high-concept): Stranger Than Fiction

Friday Flick archives.

FRIDAY FLICK: Marie Antoinette

Oh, how I wanted to see this film. I expected a punky, fun version of the legendary French Queen's story, sort of like Baz Luhrman's Romeo and Juliet, but with bigger hair. But despite a couple of visually stunning montages of Kirsten Dunst shopping - in house, sorry palace, of course - and a big cupcake fest later on, Marie Antoniette definitely doesn't rock.

There is a modern soundtrack, but the music is so bland and un-iconic it's barely noticeable. I liked the sympathetic portrayal of Antoinette - her age and lack of experience is highlighted, and it's made clear that she never actually said "let them eat cake"! As PR, it's pretty well done. But the story rambles, the dialogue is sparse and uninspiring and I couldn't have cared less about any of the supporting characters. The only bit I found even vaguely amusing was possibly the best scene, at the start of the movie. Kirsten Dunst/Marie Antoinette was woken up by her lady's maid to find a room full of royal women, the most prestigious of whom gets the honour of dressing her. As more high-ranking women keep entering the room, her undershirt is passed from one to the next while she stands shivering and nude. "This is ridiculous!" she cries.

The response? "Madame, this is Versailles."

Which made me want to learn more about palace and its inhabitants through the years, I must admit.

But I  couldn't help thinking that reading the book this film was based on would have been a better use of my time.

Still, at least it gave me the chance to come up with a new nickname for the director: Sophia (not much) Coppola. Ha. [DS]

Like this, but more fun: Clueless.

Friday Flick archives.

FRIDAY FLICK: White Oleander

Based on the wonderful novel by Janet Fitch (which I LOVED - and I'll be reviewing her latest, Paint it Black, soon) White Oleander is the story of Ingrid (Michelle Pfeiffer) a beautiful but manipulative single mother who is sent to jail for murdering her ex-lover, leaving her teenage daughter Astrid (Alison Lohman) to shuttle from foster home to foster home with often disastrous consequences.

Astrid finally finds a happy home with Renee Zellweger, who she really clicks with - but soon her jealous mother has found a way to destroy that, too...

The story of a mother too selfish to let her daughter (or anyone else) be happy is moving and convincingly acted (nice to see Pfeiffer being coolly evil for a change, she does it well!) But there's no way this could match up to the brilliance and subtlety of the book, and it's not a particularly great film, although it's not a bad one, either. The choice of Billy Connolly to play Ingrid's ex struck me as odd - not what I was expecting from that character, and hard for British viewers not to see him as a comedy figure! Alison Lohman is very talented though, and hopefully destined for bigger things.

Like this, but with Angelina Jolie (and no murder): Girl, Interrupted

Friday Flick archives

FRIDAY FLICK: A Cinderella Story

Based on Cinderella (yes, really!) A Cinderella Story is the big ball of cheese you might expect from a Hilary Duff (star of Lizzie McGuire) and Chad Michael Murray (star of One Tree Hill and Dawson's Creek) collaboration. Aka: tween heaven!

Sam has an evil stepmother, played by the fabulous Jennifer Coolidge (from Legally Blonde and Friends spin-off Joey) who has worked her to the bone ever since the death of Sam's father. Sam has to work all hours (on roller skates) at the family cafe as all the local jerks from school come in and laugh at her over their hamburgers.  And all this while her stepmother and bitchy step-sisters pamper themselves and put their feet up. Thank goodness, then, that Sam has a secret friend she can talk to over IM every night - someone who really understands her, and isn't like all those other guys from school... (you can see where this is going, can't you?)

This film is fun (if a tad annoying) and silly and of course completely predictable. "A harmless girlie rom-com" is one of the comments on the front of the DVD, and that about sums it up - it's harmless and fluffy and tweens will probably love it, but it's the kind of film it's best to suspend all disbelief over - or the ideal watch at 2 am when you're having trouble sleeping, or at 5 pm when you're trying to cook a meal, paint your toenails and talk on the phone and just want something on in the background. (Which to be honest, is probably the best place for Chad Michael Murray and his smarmy expressions - the background...)

Like this, only better: 10 Things I Hate About You

Friday Flick archives

Adaptation: tricky, but worth it?

Did you see Mansfield Park at the weekend? (I recorded it but have heard mixed reviews!)

What did you think?

An interesting article in The Guardian looks at ethics of adaptation for the small and silver screens and the difficulty of doing justice to the original text - but points out that when it works, it works. 

Which is why we devote a regular feature to it every Friday, of course!

FRIDAY FLICK: Postcards From The Edge

What could be better for Mother's Day weekend than a Friday Flick which celebrates a dysfunctional/realistic mother-daughter relationship?! Based on the cult novel by Carrie Fisher, which we LOVED, Postcards From The Edge (the film) takes this relationship front and centre.

It tells the story of Hollywood actress Suzanne Vale, who has to move in with her mother after an accidental drug overdose, as she tries to get her life and career back on track...

Meryl Streep plays Suzanne, and does a great job at capturing her bewildered post-rehab state, although at times she's a little more subdued than I would have expected. But the show is really stolen by Shirley McClaine, playing Doris - surely a very thinly-veiled version of Carrie Fisher's own mum, Debbie Reynolds - the similarity is very striking (apparently Reynolds was incensed to audition for the role and be turned down!)

It's not quite as good as the book, but it's a quality film and one of my favourite adaptations ever. And the tag line is fabulous:

"Having a wonderful time. Wish I were here."

*DID YOU KNOW?* If you get the DVD, one of the highlights is Carrie Fisher's rambling (in a good way) and deliciously indiscreet ("I was having an affair with him") commentary. She also points out which parts of the story really happened to her... unmissable.

Friday Flick archives.

FRIDAY FLICK: Cold Mountain

Based on the critically acclaimed novel, by Charles Frazier, Cold Mountain stars Jude Law, Nicole Kidman and Renee Zellweger (who won an Oscar for this role).

Law plays a confederate soldier who, disillusioned with the Civil War, sets off on foot to return to Cold Mountain and Ada, the woman he loves. Of course, things haven't exactly been a picnic for Ada while he's been away ...

I must admit, I haven't seen the film because, despite being beautifully written, the book was far too slow-going for me. Anyone seen it?

Friday Flick archives

FRIDAY FLICK: Brokeback Mountain

I think I put off watching Brokeback Mountain because I'd heard so much about it that I thought I was bound to be disappointed. Based on a short