Superman Flies

From the trailer, it looks like Henry Cavill might be a pretty good Superman. Certainly Amy Adams looks to be a better choice than any other Lois Lane before. But there's more to a good Superman flick than just two leads.

Will the story be compelling? Will the action be fun to watch and perpetuate everything a hero movie should be? Will we be challenged to live differently? To stretch beyond what we think we are capable of? These things make a blockbuster that captures our hearts. 

There's lots of heroes right now in our own world- like in Boston- and its the tales of their personal involvement in the midst of tragedy that inspire us to be more than we currently are.

Yes, the world's in need of a hero and a bit of an escape. I hope you're like me and that your faith doesn't rest in the tall tales of men...

Lufthansa Film Festival

One of my favorite pleasures about flying is the journey itself. I just love takeoff, the food (really!), the solitude, and the chance to catch on on films I have missed over the year. This lengthy trip via Lufthansa offered quite a bit of time to catch up! So, here in no particular order, are mini-reviews of my on board screenings:

Avatar: Visually stunning even on the small screen. Creative idea but not Oscar worthy in any acting category.

It's Complicated: Meryl Streep plays another heroine in Nancy Meyer's fantasy film for every older woman ever left behind for a younger hottie. Not nearly as clever as What Women Want or even The Holiday, but an enjoyable way to pass the time. Alec Baldwin is well cast in a slimey way, with Steve Martin being the man you root for.

Up in the Air: I'll admit a bit of prejudice- I don't like George Clooney and his smug "I'm better looking and smarter than you" demeanor. But, dang it, he is excellent in this film. His corporate ax man learns to grow up- but it's his co-star Vera Farmiga who steals the film as someone who plays his game much better than he. This is a thinking man's film every businessman should see.

Leap Year: Once I got past the reality that male lead Matthew Goode closely resembles one of my Caribou Coffee barista's, I really enjoyed this flick for what it is- a fresh, sharp witted take on the old classic romantic comedy. Amy Adams does a fine job and is quickly becoming one of my favorite actresses. Coq au vin, anyone?

The Young Victoria: Honestly, British period films are not my cup of tea- pardon the pun. That said, the beautiful Emily Blunt made this movie watchable and likeable. Quite an accomplishment.

Can't wait for another Lufthansa flight to enjoy the service!

Bon Appetit!

Now added to my list of good films that love food and family: Julie and Julia.

Nora Ephron's films tend to be too sweet for my taste. I can barely watch You've Got Mail now as my wife still gets into it- but Nora's latest movie is surprisingly filled with sharp dialogue, a simple story done up with a twist, and cinematography of both locale and creation to make a grown man book the next flight to Paris.

Amy Adams is perfectly terrific, but it is Meryl Streep's spot on recreation of Julia Child that keeps the movie grounded. Whatever you think of the famous chef, this portrayal will convince you there was much more to the woman than what she could do in the kitchen. It certainly is a chick flick but not a kid's film. After viewing this creation, I can guarantee you'll never view a particular type of pasta or the chef in the same old way. Two hours well spent.

Ok, So We're Enchanted, Now What?

Yes, Enchanted is a very good film- and everyone associated with it should be proud.

As I watched it last night with my wife and youngest daughter, it was an enjoyable couple of hours. (And the "Making of" features alone are worth the price of the disc. Make sure you see this fun flick.) I love animation as much as anyone, then it hit me: What about us guys, Disney?

There are alot of good looking upcoming features, but mostly all geared toward women and children. Even Pirates 4 is up in the air. So, what about us men? Calling Indiana Jones! May 22 can't come fast enough.