The Tipsy Verse

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Adrift Stays a Steady Course

I don’t know that I’ve ever watched a movie and left wanting to read the book it was based on. I’m not going to say I never have, because honestly there is probably a review on here that would prove me wrong. However, I’d wager that Adrift is in limited company.

As the two sailors set out on a journey across the ocean, Tami Oldham and Richard Sharp couldn’t anticipate they would be sailing directly into one of the most catastrophic hurricanes in recorded history. In the aftermath of the storm, Tami awakens to find Richard badly injured and their boat in ruins. With no hope for rescue, Tami must find the strength and determination to save herself and the only man she has ever loved. via STX Entertainment

Adrift delivers a surprisingly steady film. Even pacing and beautiful cinematography surround two solid performances. The true story behind the film is remarkable and it felt as if everyone making the film wanted to make sure viewers understood that. I was engaged with the film the entire time.

The filmmakers did a particularly good job at weaving the story together. Flashbacks blended with the present in a way that mimics how memory tends to unfold. I really enjoyed Adrift. Every piece of the film felt complete to me, I can’t think of any weak points. I can say that the cinematography truly stood out for me. The film is stunning to look at with each frame rich with color.

However, as much as I enjoyed the film, it was not extraordinary. Although, of late, I’ve really enjoyed films that didn’t try to hard to be something they weren’t. This film does a good job of being exactly what it needs to be. It’s a movie born of grief, love, and memory, and that’s exactly what it feels like.

  Is Adrift Worth the Price of a Ticket?

Yes

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  Adrift Stays a Steady Course was originally published on The Tipsy Verse

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Solo: A Star Wars Movie Surprises

I had little to no expectations going in to see Solo, the latest one-off addition to the Star Wars universe. A lot of noise rattled around the production and typically that doesn’t bode well. However, in this case, the noise wasn’t anything to worry about.

The film follows a young Han Solo on his first adventure as a smuggler. On his journey to secure coaxium for the gangster, Dryden Vos, Han meets several familiar faces including Chewbacca and Lando Calrissian.

As I mentioned, I really didn’t expect much from this film. I was excited to see an origin story for Han, but I didn’t really know if the film would be worth my time. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked the movie. About a day after the press screening, I texted one of my friends to tell them that the more I thought about the movie, the more I liked it.

Solo isn’t really like any of the Star Wars films that have come before. There is no mistaking that it is a Star Wars film, but it is unique. In a lot of ways, it reminds fans that Star Wars movies can be light and funny. While there is some drama, the majority of the film is just fun. A fun space adventure, nothing more, nothing less.

This isn’t going to be the Star Wars film that shatters records or blows minds, but it is a good addition to the franchise. This is the kind of movie that you can escape into for a fun two hours on a warm summer night. For a saga-based franchise, Solo is refreshing in its normalcy. Someone who has no knowledge of Star Wars could watch this film and feel satisfied. Granted they won’t get the enjoyment of all the references that fans will delight in, but the story stands on its own. I honestly, couldn’t think of a better film to kick off the summer movie season.

Is Solo Worth Spending The Price of a Ticket?

Yes

  Solo Trailer

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  Solo: A Star Wars Movie Surprises was originally published on The Tipsy Verse

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Disney's ZOMBIES Arrives on DVD

I recently came to the realization that I will always love Disney Channel Original Movies. This self-reflection happened during a recent viewing of Disney’s ZOMBIES.

Typically these movies are described as over the top or campy, but that’s part of their charm. With ZOMBIES, any campiness is overshadowed by a great message and a catchy soundtrack. Yes, I have added all of the songs to my Disney playlist on Spotify. And, yes, I do listen to them frequently.

Zombies is an origianl musical set in Seabrook, a cookie-cutter community brimming with perky conformity 50 years after a zombie apocalypse. Today, the zombies pose no threat, but are required to live in an isolated community known as Zombietown. When zombies are finally allowed to enroll in Seabrook High School, charismatic zombie Zed meets freshman Addison who dreams of being a cheerleader – the ultimate form of status in Seabrook. Addison takes a lot of flak for befriending Zed and his zombie friends, but comes to learn that they aren’t so different after all. Zed and Addison show Seabrook what happens when they embrace and celebrate their differences. via Disney

This movie explores a lot of themes, but the central theme is acceptance. We see both central characters deal with societal acceptance and self-acceptance. With production choices and themes reminiscent of the 1950s, this movie reminds us what the lack of acceptance has done. It also lightly warns of what the lack of acceptance could do again. It quite literally calls for everyone to stand up for what is right. A call to action that will resonate with both children and adults.

ZOMBIES is now available on DVD.

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Disney’s ZOMBIES Arrives on DVD was originally published on The Tipsy Verse

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Thor: Ragnarok is Finally Coming to You

If you’re anything like me, you made more than one journey to see Thor: Ragnarok in theaters. Well, the days of trekking to the theater to get that Ragnarok fix are over. Already available on Digital, Thor: Ragnarok arrives on Blu-ray tomorrow (March 6, 2018). That’s right Marvel’s favorite Norse god is coming to you. I mean, you have to buy a copy, but still, you can now enjoy Thor’s best movie without leaving your sofa. Isn’t everything more enjoyable when you don’t have to put on real pants or leave your house?

Of course, as with every home release, the best part is the special features. And, let me tell you, Thor: Ragnarok delivers the special feature goods. You get featurettes, deleted scenes, cast interviews, Taika Waititi. It serves up a little bit of everything. Truthfully, I would have gladly accepted another four hours of special features. However, the lineup is solid and deliciously entertaining.

I really think that all of the special features are stellar (pun intended?), but, the featurette about Korg is probably my favorite special feature. This is most likely because it delivers the most Taika Waititi. If I had to point out a weak link in the features, it would be the deleted scenes. There aren’t a lot of them and a few are kind of short. Although, one scene does feature a particularly fun Dumbo analogy.

Look, here’s the thing. If you loved the movie, you’re only going to benefit from getting a copy on digital or blu-ray. I’ve already watched my digital copy and special features twice. Which, yes, that’s probably excessive, but what can I say I really like neon, Taika Waititi, and Jeff Goldblum. I’m more certain than ever that Jeff Goldblum immediately makes every movie at least 20% better.

  Digital & Blu-Ray Preview

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Thor: Ragnarok is Finally Coming to You was originally published on The Tipsy Verse

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Black Panther is Crowned King of the MCU

Going in to watch Black Panther, I was anxious with a voice in my head telling me I was too excited for the film. Turns out, I wasn’t excited enough. Films that receive early critical acclaim, often receive some sort of ‘it’s overrated’ backlash. That will most likely happen with Black Panther as well, but I’m here to tell you that backlash is just anti-mainstream BS. This movie is amazing. Sure, it’s still just a movie, you don’t get transported to a tenth dimension, but it is an amazing movie.

The film catches up with T’Challa shortly after the events of Civil War on the eve of his coronation as king of Wakanda. What follows is a story of duty, honor, justice, and love. Unlike many in its genre, Black Panther explores the motivation of hero and villain. It also opens the Marvel Cinematic Universe up to a whole new world. Sure, Wakanda might be in Africa in a world we are all too familiar with, but it is unlike anything we’ve ever seen. I’m actually very annoyed it isn’t a real place.

Black Panther’s true genius lies with Michael B. Jordan’s Erik Killmonger. I’ve often thought that the strength of a superhero movie was dependant on the villain and this film proves that. The film gives T’Challa all the complexity he needs for Chadwick Boseman to deliver the performance we knew he would. However, it also gives his adversary the same treatment. Arguably the most believably motivated villain in the MCU, Eric Killmonger is the perfect villain for T’Challa because, in so many ways, they are the same. I cried for and loathed Killmonger. He’s not your average villain.

There is still so much I want to say, but I don’t want to say too much. So, I will round this out by mentioning the ultra stellar female cast. Let’s just first marvel at the majesty that is the Dora Milaje, and elite all-female special forces honor-bound to protect the king of Wakanda. They are bald, beautiful and fierce as hell, and they are lead by Okoye who is a force of nature and also often comedic relieve. I loved her.

Also deserving of a mention is queen Angela Basset as T’Challa’s mother, Ramonda, and Lupita Nyong’o as Nakia. Immediately, we know that T’Challa is in love with Nakia and why wouldn’t he be, she is a spy driven by a need to see a better world and also she can take care of herself under any circumstance.

Now, last, but never ever least is Letitia Wright as Shuri, princess of Wakanda. I could write a whole post about how much I loved Shuri. She basically stole the show, this movie was her coming out and I hope we see more of her than literally anyone else. Seriously, Marvel needs to give this character her own movie and then find a way that she can team up with Spiderman because I already ship that. Shuri is everything every little girl should aspire to be: smart, funny, brave, strong. I’m so jealous of the young girls who get to watch this film because they get to grow up with Shuri as a role model. I’m so here for Wakanda Forever, but I’m even more her for Long Live Shuri!

  Is Black Panther Worth Spending The Price of a Ticket?

YES!

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  Black Panther is Crowned King of the MCU was originally published on The Tipsy Verse

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Fall in Love with A Girl Called Monster

Valentine’s Day is creeping around the corner like Kim Kardashian spying on her sister from behind a bush, and love is apparently in the air. Now, if you’re a bitter single person like myself, you may celebrate Valentine’s Day differently than others. I usually either curl up with a bunch of disaster movies or a good book or sometimes I do both. Look, love hurts, but on Valentine’s Day, the absence of love hurts worse. So, if you’re like me and looking to celebrate Single’s Awareness Day with a good book, I’ve got the perfect book for you: A Girl Called Monster.

A modern retelling of Frankenstein, A Girl Called Monster is a coming of age story with a twist. Beautifully combining aspects of the classic horror novel with the whimsy of young adult fiction, author Paige Lavoie strikes another home run with her sophomore novel. I read the copy Paige sent me in one day. It’s a fast read that takes you on a journey that culminates with an ending that serves healthy satisfaction.

When Paige asked me to write about A Girl Called Monster, I enthusiastically said YES! (Granted she did ask me this in December. I’m nothing if not consistent in my inconsistency and procrastination). I read and reviewed Paige’s debut novel, CONfidence: The Diary of an Invisible Girl and loved it. So, naturally, I was very excited to read her second novel. Another reason I wanted to share about Paige and her novels because she self-publishes.  I always want to help elevate the voice of authors who not only took the time to finish a book but then take on the responsibility of publishing their work. I for one am very glad that Paige took it upon herself to publish her books, they have brought me true joy!

Have you read A Girl Called Monster? What are your thoughts?

Fall in Love with A Girl Called Monster was originally published on The Tipsy Verse

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Phantom Thread is That Tiny Fork at a Fancy Dinner Party

Phantom Thread is that tiny fork at a fancy dinner party, you don’t know what you’re supposed to use it for but it makes you feel like royalty. Even more than being the tiny fork, it’s also the whole four-course meal. And, at the end of the evening, you are drifting on an elegant cloud feeling confused, full and oddly content.

Against the backdrop of the glamorous 1950’s, Phantom Thread is the story of Reynolds Woodcock (Daniel Day-Lewis) and the two women in his life. Woodcock is a renowned London dressmaker who runs his fashion house with his sister Cyril (Lesley Manville). Their lives are elegant and routine, but when Woodcock meets Alma (Vicky Krieps) that all changes. 

This film will most likely always be remembered as Daniel Day-Lewis’ final film before he retired from acting. It deserves so much more than that. I want to tread carefully because the last thing I want to happen is for this film to become something that the world views as overrated. It is a brilliant film, there is no doubt about it, but it could very quickly become a film that garners high praise and then viewers go in expecting something other than what they receive.

So, let me be clear. Phantom Thread is a weird, delicate treat. It serves you a full hearty meal while also serving,  every so gracefully, a seductive guilty pleasure. The film is visually stunning. I dare you not to salivate at the dark glamour of this world. And, even more stunning is the acting. Of course, no one will be surprised that Day-Lewis disappears into Reynolds Woodcock, but they might be surprised at the sheer forces of nature that rise to meet him. Lesley Manville and Vicky Krieps are to die for. They deliver performances that are subtle yet delightfully complicated.

All in all, Phantom Thread lives up to its name. It gives you seduction, suspense and a touch of mystery all held together by a thread of divine drama.

  Recommendation:

Do exactly what I did. Call your friend that loves period fashion as much as you and plan your next theme party while you watch this treat unfold.

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  Phantom Thread is That Tiny Fork at a Fancy Dinner Party was originally published on The Tipsy Verse

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The Post Champions the Free Press

It is very tempting for me to turn this review into a lecture about the important role the free press plays in American democracy. However, I really don’t need to since that is precisely what The Post does.

Centered around Washington Post publisher, Katharine Graham, and editor, Ben Bradlee, The Post dives into the race to expose decades of government cover-ups. While the film focuses on a specific moment in history is explores themes that are still relevant to today’s audiences. We see the struggles Graham faced as the first female publisher of a major American newspaper and the complicated dance between the free press and the American government.

  The Post is not the first film to tackle the press and its role in America, however, at this precise moment in time, it is the perfect film to shine a light on this topic. Steven Spielberg highlights all of the issues of this historical event that are most relevant to today’s audience in a way that is both striking and unsettling. It seems impossible that these topics and themes would be relevant and feel familiar to a 2018 audience, but they do.

Of course, Spielberg’s genius is further elevated by outstanding performances by Meryl Streep (Katherine Graham) and Tom Hanks (Ben Bradlee). And, they are elevated by an extremely adept supporting cast. In short, there is more talent in this film than any one film should be allowed to have.

All together this team created a film that makes the world of newspaper printing exciting and suspenseful. From the 1970’s production hues to tense moments that heightening the drama, The Post is a testament to quality filmmaking. There is no shortage of ‘Oscar bait’ grumblings surrounding this film but it is more than that. You get the sense that every person working on the film knew what film they were making and why they were making it.

  Is The Post Worth Spending The Price of a Ticket?

Yes!

  Tipsy Recommendation:

Don’t just watch The Post, pay attention to what it is saying.

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  The Post Champions the Free Press was originally published on The Tipsy Verse

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Darkest Hour Could Have Just Been Called 'All of the Oscars'

Here’s the thing. The world did not need a movie about Winston Churchill staring Gary Oldman. I know this. However, I love Joe Wright’s films (seriously, I’ve seen Atonement and Pride and Prejudice more times than any sane human would claim) and Darkest Hour is a Joe Wright film.

In the days leading up to the evacuation of Dunkirk, the British government was something of a mess. Winston Churchill was brought in to fill the position of Prime Minister after his fellow party member, Neville Chamberlain resigned following a vote of no confidence. Unpopular in his own party, Churchill was an outlier and somewhat of a loose canon in Parliament.

Darkest Hour focuses on Churchill’s first days as Prime Minister and the decisions he faced as the threat of German victory loomed over all of Europe. WWII had barely just begun, and it seemed that it would be a short war.

This film does a few things that it does not need to do. Chiefly, it mounts Churchill on the pedestal that he’s already occupied since the 1940’s. Churchill is already a huge historical figure and Wright is not shy about reiterating that fact.

Like I said in the beginning, the world did not need a movie about Winston Churchill. However, I am so glad this one exists. Every inch of the film is a visual delight and the acting is immaculate. Thanks is large part to some hefty prosthetics, Gary Oldman disappears into Churchill, and he is bookended by two stand out performances by Kristin Scott Thomas (Churchill’s wife, Clementine Churchill) and Lily James (Churchill’s secretary, Elizabeth Layton).

Wright has a gift when it comes to pulling you into history. He makes you nostalgic for a time you never knew. And, remarkably, he makes this very important and large moment in history feel intimate. Now, don’t get me wrong there is some definite fictionalizing happening in this film, but it’s easy to forgive when the outcome captures the essence of this snapshot in history.

  Is Darkest Hour Worth Spending The Price of a Ticket?

Yes

  Tipsy Recommendation:

Definitely go see this film. While it mostly keeps Churchill on a higher-than-necessary pedestal, it is a great film.

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  Darkest Hour Could Have Just Been Called ‘All of the Oscars’ was originally published on The Tipsy Verse

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The Shape of Water is the Sexy Fish Movie You've Been Waiting For

I’m just going to get right down to it. The Shape of Water has everything you could want in a fairy tale-esque, horror-adjacent film about a sexy fish man falling in love with a mute human woman.

Set in the early 1960’s, The Shape of Water is the weird yet oddly charming tale of Elisa, a cleaner at a high-security government facility. Elisa lives a relatively lonely life until she meets the merman that is being held in the facility. What unfolds over the 123 minute film is a love story between these two outsiders who find comfort in each other.

Guillermo del Toro is a master at what he does. The Shape of Water stands as continued proof of his unique genius. He challenges the audience to think outside the box and question the world around them. In the opening scene of the film a voiceover sets up the story and mentions “the monster” that almost tore two people apart. It’s the idea of what it means to be a monster that really propels the film forward.

However, it’s safe to say that del Toro’s vision would have fallen flat without this stellar cast. Sally Hawkins brings an Amelie like whimsy to the sad Elisa, while Octavia Spencer breaths life into the film as Zelda, Elisa’s co-worker and friend. Doug Jones manages, once again, to act beyond his makeup as the Amphibian Man. And, Michael Shannon delivers a haunting performance as the head of the government facility.

I don’t think that The Shape of Water will resonate with every audience, but like Pan’s Labyrinth it will have a loyal following. The film is beautiful and the story is a story worth experiencing.

  Is The Shape of Water Worth Spending The Price of a Ticket?

Yes

  Tipsy Recommendation:

Go see it and enter the dark, whimsical mind of Guillermo Del Toro. Probably best to leave the kids at home. I only mention this because there was a mother and her two school aged children at the screening I attended and the kids seemed a bit uncomfortable with the nudity (which is the start of a different conversation about society and nudity, but let’s save that for another day).

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    The Shape of Water is the Sexy Fish Movie You’ve Been Waiting For was originally published on The Tipsy Verse

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Pixar Artist Ana Ramirez on Bringing COCO to the Big Screen

Did you know that one average it takes about four years to make a Pixar film from start to finish? During a recent roundtable with sketch artist, Ana Ramirez, I learned that it took six years to bring Coco to the big screen. This is only one of many things that makes Coco a unique film. Even this roundtable was a unique experience.

It is not often that I attend press events where all of the press in attendance is female. However, last Wednesday, a diverse group of female writers sat discussing a Pixar film celebrating Mexican culture and traditions with a female sketch artist from Mexico. It may not seem like a big deal to some people, but sitting in that room, I was very aware that the conversation taking place wouldn’t have happened a decade ago.

I’ve attended several roundtables for Disney/Pixar films, and I’m always shocked at how many new things I learn about the animated film-making process. During this discussion I learned how typically animators will alter and reuse character builds from previous film. For Coco this wasn’t really possible due to a lack of characters with Mexican features. Pretty much everything in Coco had to be built from the ground up.

It was clear during our discussion with Ana, that authenticity was very important to everyone working on Coco. Hailing from Guanajuato, México, Ana was able to bring an added layer of authenticity to her work on the film. As a sketch artist, Ana mainly works on the visual look of the film. The beginning of the film prominently features her work as the prologue unfolds visually through papel picado banners (meaning ‘cut papers’, papel picados are paper banners featuring cut designs and are traditionally made out of tissue paper). I almost low-key fangirled when Ana talked about working on the papel picado. The papel picado banners were one of my favorite things in the film. This is saying a lot, because there is a lot to love about Coco.

In addition to learning about the film, we also got to learn about Ana and how she became an artist. One of the main themes of Coco is what it means to have a passion and a dream. And, as a dreamer myself I’m always interested in hearing about how other pursued their dreams.

Ana was originally an ice skater, who wanted to be a musician. It was her mother who suggested she try her hand at drawing. I love this so much, because it is rather rare to find parents who encourage their children to pursue the arts. While attending the California Institute of Arts, Ana also studied different arts including dance and theater, which she said have helped her in her career as an animator. She mentioned how her costume design classes have particularly helped when it comes to working on character costumes.

A theater kid to the core, and one who for a good minute or two considered focusing on costume design in college (acting won out in the end), my ears perked up when Ana discussed the costuming in Coco. I was especially fascinated by the challenges they faced in costuming the characters from the Land of the Dead. We don’t often think about how different clothes would fit if we were no flesh and only bone, but turns out they’d fit quite differently. Dressing the skeleton characters presented a unique challenge for the artists working on the film. Fortunately for us, they are pros at what they do and the costumes worn in the Land of the Dead are a true stand out in the film.

I always enjoy roundtables with artists and filmmakers, but I have to say this was one of my favorites. Coco is such a beautiful film and knowing that such wonderful people like Ana Ramirez helped bring it to life makes me appreciate it even more. Coco is out in theaters on November 22nd. I’ll have a review up soon with even more thoughts on the film.

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  Pixar Artist Ana Ramirez on Bringing COCO to the Big Screen was originally published on The Tipsy Verse

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Murder on the Orient Express Mustache You to Consider It

I was in middle school the first time I picked up an Agatha Christie novel. That being said, I don’t actually remember if I’ve read Murder on the Orient Express, the plot seemed familiar, but there is no way I’d ever be able to do a book to film comparison without picking up the novel today. However, I can tell you about the film as a stand alone piece of entertainment.

Murder on the Orient Express pretty much summarizes the plot in the title. A group of passengers boards the opulent train, the Orient Express. While en route to their destination, one of the passengers is murdered. The meat of the film is the murder investigation lead by famous detective Hercule Poirot and his equally famous mustache.

There are a lot of things that this film does right, but there is also one big mark the film misses: pacing. I feel as if I talk a lot about pacing in my film reviews, but truthfully it can make or break a film. I don’t quite think the occasionally sluggish pacing breaks Murder on the Orient Express, but it does make the viewer feel a bit restless at times. It feels exactly how one would imagine a 1930s British murder mystery should feel, but for a 2017 audience this also feels a bit dated.

However, I did mention that the film gets a lot right and that is in large part thanks to Kenneth Branagh. The man knows how to stage a show and is also a stellar actor. It is apparent from minute one that you are watching a Kenneth Branagh film and the production is absolutely beautiful. He manages to make a film set within an easily claustrophobic set of train cars feel open and grandiose. Even more impressive is that despite the very high-budget, polished production value, the main goal is still letting the talent-heavy cast shine.

Branagh as Poirot is unsurprisingly outstanding, and the rest of the cast is equally unsurprisingly outstanding. It’s a true ensemble film but this ensemble is stacked with stars. Pfeiffer, Dench, Depp, Odom, Dafoe, Ridley, Cruz. The majority of the cast has proven they can carry a whole film, but here they work together to bring life to these rather complex characters. It’s truly amazing to watch. So, sure the film has pacing problems, but overall I think it has more to offer than it doesn’t.

Recommendation:

If you are a fan of Agatha Christie, procedural dramas, or mustaches, I recommend you go see Murder on the Orient Express. If you’re on the fence perhaps wait. Either way, keep in mind that the technical production is worth seeing on a big screen.

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  Murder on the Orient Express Mustache You to Consider It was originally published on The Tipsy Verse

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The Mountain Between Us is Sexual Tension

Get out the butter knife because from about minute one of The Mountain Between Us, you’ll be wanting to slice right into that sexual tension. I probably would have known to expect the sexual tension had I known this movie was based on a book labeled Romance on Goodreads, but alas I did not. However, the fact that this film is essentially a romance was a welcomed surprise. More on this in a moment.

The plot of The Mountain Between Us is nothing particularly challenging or special. Two stranger, Ben (Idris Elba) and Alex (Kate Winslet) have the same problem: they both need to be somewhere else by the following day, but all flights are grounded. This is the start of at least three Hallmark movies. Anyway, they charter a flight which ends in a crash and the struggle to survive is on. Also, there is a dog, and so that you aren’t put through the agony of knowing the dog’s fate, I’ll go ahead and tell you it survives.

Like the simplicity of the plot, the film is rather simple and for the most part unremarkable. There are a lot of beautiful shots with snowy mountains and long stretches of very little dialogue. Pretty standard stuff for a film about two people trying to survive nature. However, what is remarkable about this film is the acting. Had any other actors been cast, this film would be terrible. Elba and Winslet pull off the subtle, understated acting needed to keep the film grounded.

So, about the welcomed surprise of this being a romance. There are two things I love in films: survival stories and romance. The fact that this is essentially a survival romance panders to both of those interests. Now, I’m aware that this is probably not the case for every movie-goer. If you are one of the movie-goers that balks at the idea of a survival romance, then this film is probably not for you. It is worth mentioning that the survival to romance ratio leans heavily in favor of survival (as well it should), but as this review’s title suggests, there is a lot of sexual tension.

I would say that with any smaller of a budget and different actors The Mountain Between Us would have found a home on either the Hallmark or Lifetime channel. However, with the powerhouse duo of Elba/Winslet and a high-budget production, it is at home on the big screen. It is not a movie for everyone. But, it definitely has an audience and for that audience it’s worth a watch.

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  The Mountain Between Us is Sexual Tension was originally published on The Tipsy Verse

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The Battle of the Sexes Rages On

The hardest thing about writing anything is the first sentence. For this review that challenge has been even tougher than usual. Why? Because, the Battle of the Sexes was more than just a biopic for me. Like everything I write about, I can only speak for myself, but to me this film felt important.

Set in the early 1970’s the film revolves around the highly publicized tennis match between self-proclaimed male chauvinist Bobby Riggs and tennis legend Billy Jean King. Most of the narrative focuses on Billy Jean King’s personal journey during this time, including her love affair with stylist, Marilyn Barnet. However, time is also devoted to Bobby Riggs and his motivation for instigating the famed 1973 Battle of the Sexes.

I mentioned at the start that this film felt important and the reason for that is because it still feels very familiar. This tennis match took place 14 years before I was born and yet I see women even today still struggling against the same sexism and misogyny that Billy Jean King and her fellow female tennis players faced over forty years ago.

From what I’ve read about the Battle of the Sexes, it seems that the film does a pretty solid job of portraying the events accurately. And, it is the accuracy that I find most troubling. We see Bobby Riggs prance around like the jokester he was oozing sexism and rallying a legion of misogynists. We see this, and then we see everyone laugh. He’s entertaining. It doesn’t matter that what he is saying is taking down half the population. On the opposite end of the court we see Billy Jean King, serious and dedicated with the weight of an entire gender on her shoulders. We also see her struggle to accept her own sexuality in a time where being opening gay was career-ending.

The night and day approach to the match between the opponents speaks miles about the everyday Battle of the Sexes that was brewing in 1973. Women had to fight at every turn just to be taken seriously. I left the movie feeling rather angry. I wasn’t angry because of the movie. No, I was angry because the movie seemed to accurately portray the spectacle that was the Battle of the Sexes. I was angry because women fighting to be taken seriously and gain equity is still, even in 2017, treated as a spectacle and often times a joke. I was also angry because in 2017 I still see people I love, members of the lgbtq+ community, fight everyday for the right to openly love.

Lately, I’ve sat down to write movie reviews and I find myself writing about other topics. This is a prime example of that. But, there are seemingly infinite number of movies reviews out their for every film I see. My dissecting the lighting and directing feels like shouting into a raucous crowd. I can barely bring myself to approach talking about any movie this way and I definitely couldn’t do it with Battle of the Sexes. It’s not the case, but if the acting was subpar and the production low-quality it wouldn’t change the fact that this film is important because of the story and message it offers.

So, no, I couldn’t sit down and just write a standard movie review about this film. With everything that is going on in the world today, reducing a film like Battle of the Sexes to a mere technical analysis seems frivolous. But, I can give you one thing that is standard for a film review: a recommendation. My recommendation is that you see this film and while you’re watching it, think about the women and lgbtq+ people you know. Watch this film and ask yourself how or if things have changed, and once you have that answer, ask why.

  Battle of the Sexes Trailer

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  The Battle of the Sexes Rages On was originally published on The Tipsy Verse

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The Lion King, Born in China & Why I Need a Panda

Disney really wants me to break some exotic pet laws. This is the only logical conclusion as to why they are releasing The Lion King and Born in China on the same day. I know there are reasons why I can’t have a pet panda, but I NEED one. I also highly doubt I’m the only 90’s kid who grew up hoping Santa would bring them a singing Warthog / Meerkat duo.

Honestly, I can without hesitation trace my love of animals, especially the ones that are completely impractical pet options, to Disney movies. But, alas, my landlord, general moral compass and logic won’t allow me to have a pet panda. I have come to terms with this. I am moving on excited that I can, at least, watch The Lion King and Born in China from the comfort of my own home. At this point, with HD it’s practically like I have a pet panda…right?

Okay, I’ll stop and actually give you information about these movies.

  Disney Nature’s Born In China

I have not been shy about my love for Disney Nature films and Born in China was no exception. I absolutely loved this film. Narrated by John Krasinski, Born in China follows a panda mother, young golden snub-nosed monkey and a mother snow leopard over the course of a year. Each storyline focuses on these main ‘characters’ but is ultimately about family life in the wild.

The Blu-ray and Digital versions of Born in China add to the film with bonus features that go behind the scenes. You get a chance to see how the filmmakers managed to capture such incredible shots and how unreliable the filming conditions were each day. Nature documentaries can go one of two ways; they can be extraordinary or down-right boring. Born in China is definitely the former. From the lively commentary to the beautiful filming, it’s a fun film for everyone who’s ever wanted a pet panda. Okay, it’s good for rational people too.

  The Lion King

Let’s get real for a minute. How much do I even need to do to get you excited about The Lion King coming out of the vault? I feel like as your reading this there is a collective “YAAAASSS” enveloping the world as anyone born in 80’s and 90’s reads the news. The Disney vault is the actual Disney villain for 20 and 30-somethings the world over. Today, though, we get to rejoice as the lock clicks open and our favorite animated lions come rushing out!

When it comes to this release of the Signature Collection edition of The Lion King, Disney does not disappoint. In addition to the film itself they’ve included a delicious line-up of bonuses including a sing-a-long edition. Yup, the reason the bar crowd is looking thinner on Friday night is because everyone is at home butchering the lyrics to “Circle of Life” like it’s 1994.

Both Born in China and The Lion King are available of Disney Blu-ray and Disney digital today. I just got back from a trip across the pond so you better believe I’m plopping my jet-lagged self down to watch both tonight!

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The Lion King, Born in China & Why I Need a Panda was originally published on The Tipsy Verse

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Classic Movie Musicals with Dena Hill

The last few years have been pretty big for musicals. Hamilton took Broadway by storm in 2015, sparking a fresh interest in staged musicals. Then in 2016, La La Land sang it’s way into many a movie-goers heart. I’ve been musical fan since before I can remember so this renewed excitement is very welcome. So, you can imagine my excitement when the McKinney Classic Film Festival announced their 2017 lineup would feature Classic MGM movie musicals.

Unfortunately, I will be in London during the festival. I know, it’s a hard life. I was very sad to find out that the festival was taking place while I’m on vacation, but I still wanted to share info about the festival with all of you! What better way to tell you about the festival than by catching up with Founder and Director, Dena Hill!

You may remember that we featured a Q&A with Dena ahead of last year’s festival. I’m so excited that she’s agreed to come back for second Q&A! Enjoy!

  The festival is now in it’s third year, how has it changed since the first festival in 2015? The main thing is that the festival became a non-profit organization last year. (We do this event for love.)

How has your role as a founder changed and grown since the festival started? It became more of an organizational role than one of just planning or concepts.

What are some of the things you’ve learned starting a festival from the ground up? I had underestimated the commitment it takes to create an annual event. It is ever evolving.

What led y’all to choose musicals this year? It seemed the next logical progression after dramas and comedies. Plus, we all love musicals!

I know last time I caught up with y’all, you were interested in increasing the educational component of the festival. Is that something you were able to do for this festival and if so how? It’s a process. Our speakers are adding multi-media elements about different aspects of the films.

What are the plans for upcoming festivals? Are you planning on expanding or adding to any future festivals and if so what kind of programs are you looking to add? We are discussing a WWI era commemoration for next year, so we’re trying to decide what that will mean for film choices and events.

We would love to expand the festival, but that is down the road.

Okay, so now for some additional fun questions. What is your favorite movie musical? SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN

Who would win in this dance battle? and why? Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, Ginger Rogers or Cyd Charisse Gene, Gene, Gene! No contest! But they are all exquisite and hard to compare. Still, Gene Kelly was brilliant, multi-talented (dancer, singer, choreographer, actor, and director), and sexy.

What show tune are you most likely to sing in the car? Whatever pops into my head! This week it’s “Be a Clown” (by Cole Porter) from THE PIRATE!

  As you can see, Dena and the festival team have been busy at work prepping for this year’s festival. I know I’m also excited for what they have planned for future festivals. One thing I love about the McKinney Classic Film Festival is that it’s run by true film fans. They know film and they appreciate the classics.

If you’ve recently found yourself discovering musicals, I strongly urge you to head up to McKinney to watch these classic movie musicals. The festival runs August 23rd through August 25th.

The Movie Musicals Featured Are:

GiGi (1958)

  The Band Wagon (1953)

This film stars Fred Astaire and Cyd Charisse. The latter is my answer to the dance-off question I asked Dena. She is a dancing goddess and I love watching her!

  Meet Me In St. Louis (1944)

If for some reason you still need convincing, you can read about how Meet Me In St. Louis is not only one of my favorite movie musicals, but how I watch it every Christmas Eve.

  The Pirate (1948)

  On The Town (1949)

  A big thank you to Dena for joining me, once again, to talk classic films. If you head out to the festival be sure to let me know what you see! Also, please note that while all the picture I have here are in black and white, the films are in color.

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  Single Film Tickets:

$15 Adult; $10 Child/Student/Senior Admission

Film Buff Passes (includes admission to all five films)

$60 Adult; $40 Child/Student/Senior *limited availability

  Classic Movie Musicals with Dena Hill was originally published on The Tipsy Verse

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Of Course Leap! Made Me Cry

Let me paint a picture for you. It’s 10am on a Saturday and an almost 30-year old woman is rushing into a trendy Dallas movie theater. She’s late for a screening and looks like she just rolled out of bed (because she did). The screening is for the animated movie, Leap! She soon finds herself sitting solo in a theater full of families with children.  Cut to roll credits and that same woman is starring at the screen, eyes puffy, sipping the last remnants of her diet coke.

If you guessed that I was the woman, you are obviously correct. I’ve written before about how weird I feel when I go to watch children’s films alone and I’ve also written about how I cry at everything. So, what made this movie different? Well, Leap tugged on my little dancer heartstrings.

Set primarily in Paris, Leap is the story of two orphans with big dream. Félicie dreams of being a prima ballerina and her best friend, Victor dreams of becoming a famous inventor. Together they escape the orphanage they’ve always called home and set out to turn their dreams into reality. While chasing their dreams they learn about determination, passion and love.

Heartwarming is the only way to describe this movie. I don’t care who you are, if you’ve ever had a dream then this movie will speak to you. For me, I saw a lot of myself in the main character, Félicie. No, I’m not an orphan but I did run away to a big city once to chase a dream and dance has always been a large part of who I am.

So, yes, I cried several times during this animated movie and I’m not ashamed to admit it. There is nothing as beautiful as a dream and the dreamers that chase them. I sat in that movie theater surrounded by abnormally silent children (they were all enthralled) and cried as I watched a girl, not unlike me, discover who she is through the magic of her dream. And, to top it off the film has the best soundtrack.

TLDR: Go watch Leap! It is wonderful and has a bomb soundtrack.

  Leap! Trailer

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  Of Course Leap! Made Me Cry was originally published on The Tipsy Verse