Drew Barrymore released her first directorial debut this weekend. I didn't see it this weekend due to the never ending flu feeling here at my house. I woke up today to not so good reviews on her behalf which was disappointing. I, for one, will always support Drew no matter what the critics say. I love her enthusiasm and love of life. It's contagious.

We are coming into the 'Oscar' season, meaning the Oscar worthy films will be out soon. This summer was slow to say the least. Are there any companies out there making good films? We can't even depend on the well knowns anymore. I look forward to the coming months. Surely something will be worth watching. Until then, I'll remember the Emmys red carpet with a smile on my face.

REEL REVIEW "NEW IN TOWN"

It could have been, should have been…but sadly wasn’t the cute romantic comedy I was expecting. I was so looking forward to seeing Harry Connick in a new film too! The story was all too familiar and to be brutally honest, the filmmakers missed the mark in every sense. Sadly, I would put this film on the ‘skip it’ list.

Luckily, you have no choice at this point except to rent it. If you have a Redbox near you, that’s the best way to go (only spend the $1). New in Town should have been made for television release—even then, I’ve seen better shows.

Having said that, I believe the lead actors did the best they could with the material they were given….

*duchess*

REEL REVIEW

Wolverine

Which ending did you see?? There are 3 you know. Our friend Skip did a stand up job working with the other writers and Hugh Jackman to put together a film that left us hanging—and wanting to see the next installment. Wolverine probably isn’t everyone’s ‘cup of tea,’ but the Duchess definitely liked it. Yes, I’m more of the romantic comedy fan, but every now and then I love a good fantasy/action movie. After all, we’re looking for an escape from reality, aren’t we?

This Wolverine takes us back to the beginning. I don’t know the comic book story character, but I’m getting to know this crew of X-Men and the bonus mutants. The story line is a little disjointed. There are a few corny lines. All is quickly overlooked by the fantastic graphics—and of course, Jackman himself. It’s crazy what they can do these days! I walked out of the theater saying, “Wow, how do they come up with that stuff?!? Huge imaginations! And the graphics—you can hardly tell it isn’t real.” Well...there were a few places where you could tell, but nothing that breaks the illusion of the story. There were just enough slow moments to let you catch your breath and then continue the ride. Believe me--I don’t think anyone can say they know what is going to happen next when they watch this one.

We’re all expecting action adventure for the summer. Make this film your first stop. ….and be waiting for more from Skip Woods.

*duchess*

p.s. It is quite graphic. This one’s not for the little guys unless they’re used to watching that sort of violence.

REEL REVIEW

THE WRESTLER

I had to see what the ‘hoopla’ was about. I rented The Wrestler last weekend. I liked the edgy Mickey Rourke in the 80s. I couldn’t stand to see what seemed to be such a great career end in tragedy. Thank goodness for this movie I thought….

This one made my eyes pop out. First thought—okay, this was obviously written by a man. You should know this film is not for the weak or kind hearted. The subject matter is intense. I can’t remember what it was rated but I would vote NC-17 if I was on the panel of decision makers. Although the story is one that should certainly be told, basically filmed in documentary type style, this film was brutal on the human senses.

Rourke does play a great part. I feel he did deserve the awards--especially knowing this tale was similar to his own life. Heartbreaking. They say each of us has our own story. This film enhances that premise. I’ll never look at the guy behind the deli counter the same way.

Be prepared to see brutal honesty, a father-daughter relationship that can’t be repaired, strip clubs, steroids, self-inflicted wounds, and the extreme underworld of the wrestling community. Somber is the best word I can think of to describe this film.

*duchess*

THE RED CARPET

This is nearly the most exciting news I’ve ever had to report. If it had come true, it WOULD be the most exciting news.

I came ‘this close’ to having tickets to the premiere of the new ‘Wolverine’ movie. When I say ‘premiere’ I mean the HOLLYWOOD premiere---the one where all the stars show up on the red carpet. YEP!! The dream didn’t come true this time but I’m assured that I will be included in the next round.

Why? Skip Woods, the screenplay writer of the ‘Wolverine’ pre-quel is a friend. We’ve known him while he has worked his way up the Hollywood mountain. So happy for Skip! This is his second movie with BIG name stars (last one was with John Travolta). We are certainly hoping for more!!

My ‘so close’ tears are gone for now. Today the tears are for happiness and Skip’s success. It was a great opening for the film. For Skip’s sake, and that of triple-threat (!) Hugh Jackman, I hope the film breaks records at the box office this weekend.

*duchess*

REEL REVIEWS

Cliff Notes on the remaining films:

RACHAEL GETTING MARRIED
This was a twisted film. Imagine every dysfunctional family you know and then put a camera on their worst days. This is the movie. It was a great part for Anne Hathaway. I certainly see why she agreed to be in the movie. There is NO doubt--this one is WAY depressing. The AA meeting Anne’s character attended was almost the same scene as her film sister’s wedding rehearsal dinner. This movie is only for the diehards of the film industry.

CADILLAC RECORDS
Depressing. Typical music industry drugs and alcohol. The movie is filmed in so much darkness that you can’t see the actors. Music history worth missing.

MILK
Some people have mentioned they didn’t want to see this film because of the controversial lifestyle portrayed. I have to say, Sean Penn softens the edge and is remarkable in this film. A friend of mine can tell you exactly where she was that fateful day in San Francisco when she heard Milk was killed. It made that much of an impact in her life then and now. I’m not sure I would see this film again. I will state again, Penn was amazing in this film.

In a rush I’ll say you have to see THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES. A chick flick positively worth seeing. Dakota Fanning is charming. I can’t wait to see her in more films.

More films I’ve seen:
EAGLE EYE
THE THIEF LORD
QUANTUM SOLACE

I’ve been doing a LOT of reading lately and have put films on the back burner for a while, hence the slow blog entries. There are a few in the theater I would like to see. I’m looking forward to the summer blockbusters!

REEL REVIEWS

These are the movies I’ve seen these past few weeks:
Australia
Beverly Hills Chihuahua
Cadillac Records
High School Musical 3
La Vie en Rose
Milk
Rachael Getting Married
The Secret Life of Bees

I don’t have time to write reviews for all of them. Some of them aren’t really worthy of reviews. They were just for fun. I’ll say this---The only one I would definitely see again is The Secret Life of Bees. That was by far my favorite. Here are some quick notes on a few:

Beverly Hills Chihuahua and High School Musical were both watchable (is that a word?). Chihuahua is a little long for the little ones. Even I thought it was getting too long and slow. High School Musical was actually pretty good. I had to finish the trilogy. This one was better than the second one in the series. It reminded me a lot of the movie Grease. Good luck to the Disney kids moving on. They really are all grown up now.

Australia is hard to review. I really liked the story line, but wasn’t crazy about the way it was portrayed in the film. Sometimes I felt as if I was watching the old movie set inside a warehouse. I didn’t know if they were doing that purposely because of the timeline or not?? Regrettably, I got caught up in the hair and makeup. I really couldn’t get past Nicole Kidman’s wig! See looked very botoxed in this film too—couldn’t get past that either. Hugh Jackman was delightful. He is definitely one of my favorites in any film. I doubt I would watch this one again, but I’m glad I saw it once. It is lonnngggg. Actually, it kind of reminded me of Out of Africa, but not anywhere near as good.

I’m beginning to realize, the more I review films, the less tolerant I am of mediocrity. I’m also beginning to realize I’m old enough to recognize remakes and knock-offs----that’s scary.

More later…..

REEL REVIEW

“CHIIIICCCKK FLIIIICCCKK” most definitely. Ladies, no need to let any man you know see this one. He will most likely think it’s cheesy, predictable, and will most certainly tease you about it for days. Men don’t understand why women like these films---it’s that Mars and Venus thing. He may enjoy it, but I wouldn’t chance it—just enjoy the film.

It’s a fairly common story about accidental love. There’s a sweet peek inside a great relationship shared between two long time friends. You’ll also gaze into the difficult work of healing relationships. Critics complained that Gere and Lane don’t quite heat up the screen on this one. Well, they’re right, maybe 20 and 30 somethings won’t be very excited about the simple love scenes between ‘older’ stars. Still, they create a charming, sweet, romantic relationship together. Despite what the critics had to say, Gere and Lane are two of my favorites, so I wasn’t going to miss it. And—who doesn’t like a love story by the beach??

It’s a great movie for those nights when you’re looking to watch something simple (as in no brainer, not simple subject matter). It’s the perfect film for that spontaneous ladies night with your friends---when the men aren’t around---and you get to share a few glasses of wine or tea, a little gossip and a low-maintenance movie. Definitely have the Kleenex box out for all to share!

*duchess*

REEL REVIEW

The Wall Street Journal called it “A soaring, crowd pleasing fantasy that’s a tale of unswerving love.” Rolling Stone magazine said, “What I feel for this movie isn’t just admiration, it’s mad love.” What?!? I don't get paid by anyone I don't want to offend, so I'm going to be a little more honest in my review.

I’m not sure what I was expecting when I walked into the theatre. What I know for sure is I walked out thinking, “WHAT?!?” (I saw the movie on Saturday and just now had the words to talk about it.) The reviews lead me to believe I was going to see a “crowd pleaser.” The interviews with the stars always showed them teaching the interviewer a dance, so I thought maybe I’d see a little Bollywood. I don’t know...that part sounded fun and colorful. What I completely forgot was that it has been nominated for Academy Awards which meant we were headed to the ‘dark side.’ Slumdog is no exception to their ever-present unwritten rule. Ack! Deep down, I kept reminding myself of this, but I wanted to believe just one picture of the year didn’t have to go dark…I’ll have to keep wishing.

I’ll give it this….the music was quite moving. The love story between the protagonist and his leading lady was unquestionably unswerving. It was absolutely an original story! When they finally warmed up a bit and got into the heart of the story (which took about 30 minutes), it was captivating. I was taken away to another world (albeit one I didn’t want to be in).

Be sure you will see children who live off the garbage of others. You will see suicide, murder, and violence on orphan children. You will see abused servants and drug lord robots doing evil. (This film is not for everyone—positively not those under 18.) In the end, the film does redeem itself and you will also see the completion of ‘destiny’ and, of course, a millionaire. Until then, hold on tight. This is HEAVY (!) subject matter.

The film proves you can accomplish much on a low budget with unknown stars. That is a quality worth awarding!

If you want to see a nominated film, Benjamin Buttons is a better pick for those of us looking for a great story without all the gloom.

REEL REVIEW

VALKYRIE
I have to admit I’ve been putting off this review because I didn’t want to bash a Tom Cruise film. I think he already takes a little more bashing than he should. Plus, he did the press junket on this film trying to overcome the last images the public had of him. He REALLY is trying. But, I am the Duchess, and must fulfill my duty. So here goes:

Frankly, the History Channel’s special about Valkyrie is more interesting to watch. Watching that special actually made me realize what a great story Valkyrie is to tell. They even show clips and background information on the film that is greatly interesting. I didn’t hate the film. I just don’t think it’s worth the $10 you’ll have to pay to see it. Again, I hate to bash Tom... The screenplay simply didn’t cover the story as it should have—and apparently this film spent years in the making.

You have to know about me, I watch films for more than just story content. In the beginning of the film, I couldn’t get passed the ill-fitted uniform Tom Cruise was wearing. I kept thinking, “This film is getting all kinds of attention because it stars TC and they can’t even fit him in his wardrobe?” What? !@ They actually lost my interest at that point. I didn’t fall asleep, but wanted to.

I could go on to tell you about the film, but don’t even want to. Briefly: 1) This is not a ‘war’ movie. No bloodshed. 2) You never get the feeling this was an anti-Hitler movement made up of hundreds (I can’t remember the exact number) of Germans. The film leads you to believe it’s this small group of officers that are out to get Hitler. 3) You don’t get the background information you need to completely understand the movement. The filmmakers assumed we knew exactly what the story was, when in reality, I was at the film to learn just that. I needed them to be more creative when telling the story. 4) I would have preferred a British accent to play the lead. (I know this shouldn’t count as a critique). 5) Cruise plays the same character he plays in all his films (the exception may be ‘The Last Samurai’). Tom should stick with his Mission Impossible films that are fantastic. Sorry Tom.

That’s all I’ll say.

JESTER OF REEL

There are times when my ‘writers block’ for blog writing is overwhelming. Then all of a sudden, I have many topics I want to write about. I can’t explain it. Today I have to ‘plug’ my brother-in-law’s blog “Jester of Reel” (for obvious reasons). He has graciously decided to join my unofficial ‘Court.’ In his words:

The birth of my blog came from a lunchtime conversation about how in my opinion, my sister-in-law only covers a small amount of films, aka "the classy ones", while many other films are never given a mention on her blog. I love reading her blog and get great ideas for films to rent and/or checkout. In the course of our conversation I counted numerous times when I said "have you seen ____" and she replied "No" or a resounding "No Way!!!" I realized that there were a boat-load of "non-classics" that I've watched and sometimes enjoyed that she hasn't seen. In the course of that I made an off-the-cuff joke about "well, if you're the Duchess of Reel, then clearly I'd be the jester of that court". In a flurry of thought I announced "I'm gonna start a blog called "Jester of Reel" and cover the movies you don't.

Just to clarify, my BIL is talking about films like Zoolander, Austin Powers, anything Jim Carrey, Mike Meyers, Ben Stiller, you get the idea. I have to admit I have seen some of the films he mentions, but I mostly avoid them because the tongue-in-cheek is sometimes way too much for me. Not that it’s not funny. It’s just not what I look for in films. Before I dig a hole even deeper than I have already, let me just lead you to his blogsite: Jester of Reel. See for yourself.

Surely between the 2 of us, our readers will be film savvy in every way. And who knows, every now and then we might just “Roger and Ebert” a few films.

Mark your calendars: Academy Award night is Sunday, February 22.

REEL REVIEWS

THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTONS

This powerful, refreshing story is worth seeing for its uniqueness alone, especially considering the current superhero frenzy. This one is not for the action adventurist, but surely even they will appreciate its uniqueness. This is a film for those who want to be taken to another world by watching this distinctive story by F. Scott Fitzgerald unfold. A story written in the turn of the century style that is so charming and delightful, especially being set in New Orleans with its beautiful southern accent. Be assured this is a story that embraces our existence while simultaneously peeking at our last hours. It has a slow, thoughtful pace where words aren’t needed. You discover yourself being pulled in by Brad Pitt’s innocent and engaging Benjamin. You find yourself loving him while your heart breaks for the struggles he faces by being ‘odd.’ Some parts you don’t want to watch, but reality is always knocking at the door. I wouldn’t share the film with those under 18 who may not value all the storyline has to offer. You need a little ‘wisdom’ under your belt to take pleasure in this viewing.

Duchess Notes: This is most definitely an award winner. I’m not sure the Academy will honor it with an Oscar being that it doesn’t fall within the “dark” guidelines they consistently recognize. The film garnered applause in the theater during the rolling credits. Great film for Pitt. Chemistry between Pitt and Blanchett is not the best, but sufficient. Screenplay a little disjointed, but can be ignored by tugged heartstrings.

REEL REVIEWS

I have a few free hours. I have a magazine in front of me, a computer on my lap and a DVD playing on the TV. I can’t seem to focus on which to do first. I want to do them all at once. You already know I went to the RedBox…so you know I’ll be reviewing not so new movies. This is unfortunate because the last month of the year is really the best time to see theater films being that production houses want Oscar worthy performances fresh on the minds of Academy voters. I have been missing out on so many great films due to this house move. I hope to catch some of them before the award shows in January and February. Having said that, here goes on the rentals:

DEFINITELY, MAYBE
It was really cute—in the way your blind date is ‘really nice.’ I loved the leading man, the cute banter, the sweet dating story, and the happy ending. It was the other stuff that waaasssssnnn’t quite right. I needed more dialog—it was slow. I wanted them to pick up the pace. If I had to compare it to something I would say the story was a bit Sleepless in Seattle-ish, but didn’t quite get there. The slow beginning eventually picks up in the end. DEFINITELY not a film for the guys (I’m sure they’ll fall asleep). It’s worth a rental for the ladies who want to see a little romance MAYBE.

THE X-FILES
This was predictably an upscale TV episode. It was good—probably better on the big screen—but basically the story line could have been a 2-hour TV special and be done. Worth a rental if you’re stuck in the house this winter. I think the men out there will enjoy it more than the ladies.

INDIANA JONES/CRYSTAL SKULL
After all the tradition and hype, the expectations for this movie were out of proportion. Although it included all the elements that made the other films so successful, this time ‘Indie’ didn’t quite live up to his name. It was obviously a transition film (Ford can’t do this forever). We had the traditional history puzzle to solve, insects running over, dust-filled scenes and gold filled treasure hunting, but I couldn’t help feeling a lot of the story was missing. It felt disjointed--just not as detailed as the previous films. THEN, they hit us with *SPOILER* the alien ship and predictable Darth Vader type ending. Honestly, I feel asleep during the middle of the movie. My advice--Let someone else fill you in on this film and wait for the next one. Let’s hope the Spielberg/Lucas team brings back the Jones magic we all love for their next adventure. (I suppose Mutt will need to get his PhD.) Two things I loved about this film: 1) the wardrobe and 2) hearing the Jones theme music again! Da na na na, da na na…. love it!

REEL REVIEWS

Gone Baby Gone I was a bit skeptical about this one. I knew it had received great reviews and awards, hence my hesitance to watch it. Typically, all the award winning movies are dark and depressing. Not true of this film. The subject matter is definitely on the dark side, but this film gives you more to think about—mostly wondering if doing ‘good’ (the ‘right’ thing) will always give you the happy ending. Kuddos to Ben Affleck! He (and his buddy Damon) should consider buying every Bostonian book out there, writing the adaptation screenplay, directing and releasing the movie. Affleck captures his native Boston like no other. Duchess is arriving at this conclusion on 2 films, this one and his Oscar winner, Good Will Hunting. There are so many elements I love in watching these films. Brother Casey does a fantastic job acting as the do-good protagonist. I’m feeling the Affleck brothers are all grown up. I can’t wait to see more from them. Caution: The typical Bostonian F-Bombs are included in this film. A 'must see' if you like films that give you something to think about and debate. Hancock Yet again, Will Smith makes his July 4th blockbuster. I liked it—I didn’t love it. All of the leading actors--Smith, Theron and Bateman--are on my list of favorites, so I had to see it. I like the premise of the film. The reality is I couldn’t help feeling this film was simply the introduction of more Hancock films to come. The hour of film time setting up the story was a clue. Hence, the bad reviews from published critics. Overall, you can’t go wrong with Will Smith. Duchess conclusion: this one will be just as good on DVD. WALL-E Imagine a Pixar short film becoming a feature film and you have the inspiration of this film. Creative (!!) and no words needed for you to understand. Kooza and I enjoyed watching this one, but some of our younger neighbors were bored and could only sit through half the film. The subject matter was a little too much for them to understand. Having said that, this story really makes you think about saving the earth, as well as where technology is taking society as a whole. I left the theater wanting to recycle more and eat less. Duchess couldn’t help but fall in love with WALL-E. He is a Pixar treasure! (His character is more developed than hero Hancock.) I would like to see more of WALL-E, and his friendly roach, with more story to tell.

REEL REVIEWS

The Girl in the Café (A Netflix film recommendation) My first thought about this movie: Charming dry British mannerisms. This is definitely ‘chick flick’ material, although not so much a comedy. Basic premise--you randomly meet someone over a cup of coffee, find out more about them in awkward exchanges and then you try to make a go of it. There are moments in watching when giggling over the events is refreshing. This extremely shy government employee struggles with the personal aspects of a possible relationship. His political connection is important to the story line and to why the girl in the cafe is so important. This film made me smile---only because there is something so sweet and simple in the exchanges. Warning: this story has been told many times before so don’t expect any surprises. Satisfying element for Duchess: much of the story is told with pictures and not words. I would recommend watching only to those who like foreign films. (I struggled for days trying to write a review of this movie. I can’t find the right words for a review. I finally gave in and just wrote something.) The Bucket List The trailers for this film tricked us (me) into thinking there would be comedy and adventure. Regrettably, this film is more about the process of death planning more than making the most of what time you have left. Jack and Morgan were great picks for the leads. It does make you wonder…if you knew you only had a short time to live and money was no object, what would you do?? The beginning is slow while the director fills us in on all the medical/doctor coldness. Though short, the “list” itself is full of fantastic items. Each list item is fulfilled in a unique way which adds to the charm. There are majestic sights to be seen from their travels. The film does redeem itself in the end not through comedy, but through heart-felt and touching interactions. The final scene leaves you with that warm-fuzzy feeling-- reassuring us that friendship and human relationships will always be the most important thing on earth. Overall, I'm glad I saw the film. I most likely wouldn't watch it again. I think that makes 41 more to go.... I'll never catch up.

REEL REVIEWS

Scout asked me why I like to watch all these ‘off’ films that no one knows about. I told him I don’t know. I guess I’ve already seen most of the current films I want to see. The Air I Breathe 20 minutes of this film was enough. Regardless of the well-known ensemble cast (which was why I wanted to see it) this film lacks everything worth watching. The intertwining stories of the sinister side of life included WAY too much insight of the pretentious underworld for me. Similar to the movie Crash, this film leaves you weary thinking about all the bad happening in the world. F-bombs, violence and darkness (as in lack of sunlight) distract this already train-wrecked story line. Definitely NOT a ladies film! I don’t think men would enjoy it either. The White Countess A love story of sorts set in WWII Shanghai. Wonderful costumes, lovely sets. Sadly, you don’t get to see much of Shanghai because there isn’t much of 1930s Shanghai left to see. Great story, but the film was a little too long for me. (I find my patience whittling away for bits that aren’t important to the story line.) I understand the pace of the film was in direct relation to the time it was recording. I would have liked to see more character development. Similar to Cinderella, the story follows a short time frame of a Russian royal, what she needs to do to keep her step family afloat and a friendship with a man she meets while doing just that. Not quite rental quality—wait for the Lifetime TV special. Two down, 43 more to go… After some reflection on my recent reviews, I’m coming to the conclusion that the fast paced TV we watch these days (even slow reality shows) is hurting the film industry. My question---How/Why can writers jam-pack a one hour TV show and drag out a film for 2 hours? It doesn’t make sense. Until filmmakers and production companies are aware of the shift, America will be skipping the $10 movie to stay home and watch TV.

REEL REVIEWS

I haven't been lured to the movie theater lately, so I've been catching up on new release DVDs, Indies, and Foreign Films. Here's a few I've seen this month: Juno I’m having trouble finding words for this film review. It was a crowd favorite during the annual award shows. I’m way behind in watching it. I saw an interview with the author on Oprah during the pre-Oscar buzz, so although I thought the film topic was one I could skip, I was intrigued by what the writer had to say and decided to take a peek. I loved Ellen Page, the leading actress, who was absolutely spot on playing the lead character (who reminds me very much of the writer herself), but couldn’t help feeling despite the clever dialog and great hits of teen jargon, the story lacked content. The show was a lot slow—about the pace of Napoleon Dynamite. Having said all this, I would have to agree with the 2008 Oscar voters and say this was probably the best pick for original screenplay of the year and worthy of that award. Unfortunately, I can’t say this is one to watch. The Kite Runner A touching must see. This is the most full-bodied film I’ve seen in a while. The film embraces a wonderful story of childhood friendship, family, honor, betrayal, and redemption. Although set in Taliban ravaged Afghanistan, location and war-torn conditions take a back seat to the enlightening message. Based on the novel, the author clearly worked along side director Marc Forster (who also directed Finding Neverland--one of my all time favorites) helping him capture this worthy story of human values to share with today’s world. This film unquestionably crosses cultural barriers and opens our hearts placing each of us among others in the common trials of mankind. This is the type of film I’m searching for in my continual hunt for the laudable films of today. As this is not a fast paced film, be sure to watch it on a movie night when you are ready to receive the message. I would place this film a bit on the ‘dark side’ which means it’s not meant for everyone, but all the same, still one to watch. The Flying Scotsman This short story is based on the true life of Graeme Obree, an amateur cyclist, who sets out to break the cycling world’s speed record, and in so doing becomes a local hero. This feature gives a great depiction of an athlete’s sheer determination and love for his sport. It’s an amiable account but I couldn’t help feeling significant parts of the story were missing, leaving it unfinished. A bit of the Scottish accent was tough for this American to catch. If you enjoy Indies, cycling or overcoming the odds films you would most likely enjoy watching. Overall, it’s a short film I would call a ‘one-timer’ (which means I would watch it once but probably wouldn’t rent it again—and would hesitate to recommend it to those I don’t know). Mad Money Although Duchess loves the leading actresses, at the risk of sounding like a harsh critic, this movie is definitely one to completely skip. Luckily, I rented this DVD from the RedBox. The Namesake The trailers peaked my interest in watching this movie. You know, the typical first generation immigrant boy struggling to make adjustments to the American way of life, caught between his parents and American youth. Meanwhile, the father is earning a good life for his wife and ungrateful children. It was a cute, sweet, slow film--touching at points, charming at others, giving us a brief look inside the Southeast Asian community filled with colorful beauty (by this I mean more than outside beauty). Overall, I couldn’t help feeling they were leaving out a lot of the story. It left me feeling a little empty. Rating: One to watch on a day when you’re looking for a short story and not entertainment. This movie actually makes me want to read the book. *Personal note: Just after I watched this film, we heard my In-laws (Doc and Soulmate) had finally received their referral to adopt their Chinese daughter, Katie. The name of the mother in the film is much like that of little Katie’s Chinese name—when translated means to me (not others) her life will be one “without boundaries, limitless.” I believe there will be no constraints to what little Katie will do!