Diary of A Fangirl--Home of the Squee

[Finally] Meeting Joss Whedon

2015-07-14T22:01:00.000-07:00

This year was my fourth or fifth year at SDCC, and every year, I've managed to see Joss Whedon in passing. Usually after the EW party, but always somewhere.

The first time I saw him at the con was going by in a pedicab with Nathan Fillion and Alan Tudyk. Bit of a whir, but I did see him.

This year, he had his own panel in Hall H (the place I basically lived in all days of the con), and it was the first time I got to see him for an extended period of time in person. Great panel, and ended with Joss receiving an icon award. He got kind of teary and more or less fled the stage after thanking everyone. I didn't know about the award, but I was going to hand him something after the panel, but the opportunity never presented itself.

Later that evening, I saw him preparing to exit a party. By the time he came out the door, he kind of went in a whirlwind--took two fan photos, and was gone before I could get to him. But, I knew I had one last chance, as he was staying in my hotel. I sat in the lobby, waiting, and waiting, then I finally had to use the loo. I figured I wouldn't miss anything; it'd be quick.

I return, and I ask one of the girls standing in the lobby if anyone had shown up.

Girl 1: Oh, just Joss Whedon.
Me: OMG! WHEN!!?!???
Girl 2: Like two seconds ago.
Girl 1: He was headed for the elevators.

In spite of my feet feeling kind of numb from standing and walking around in heels for four hours, I made a mad dash towards the elevators. I hope I looked like an elegant gazelle, but...anyway, he was taking photos with two fans, which, thank the heavens, slowed him down.

Me: Joss, please can I take a pic?
Joss: Sure.
Me: Oh, thank god! I've been trying to track you down for some time now.
[Joss smiles at that]
Also, I wanted to say you totally deserved that award and you've inspired me since like age eleven, and it's an honor to meet you.

He smiled and looked touched by it. "Thank you," he said. He reached out his hand after his wife took the pic, and I felt embarrassed cause my hand was wet. Still, it was a glorious moment. I just wish I had one of my The Good Soldier handouts to give him, or a "Hire Me Joss!" sign.

Damn it.

MAGIC MIKE XXL: Review

2015-07-07T01:26:00.003-07:00

One of the first posts I made on this blog was about my going to the "Magic Mike" premier. I didn't love it. There were a lot of things that were very problematic, and the only bits I cared about were of Channing Tatum dancing.

But "Magic Mike XXL," well...Channing's body and its movement are still very much magical, but there were some other nice bits along the way. Here they are in no particular order:

THE SOUNDTRACK

It's rare for me to say I'd want to go and get the soundtrack to a film, but man, did this one harken back my old school, as well as push all kinds of buttons. Like muscle memory or something. Er...I mean nostalgia. No really--awesomely awesome nostalgia. Nine Inch Nails. 112. D'Angelo. And of course, the classic that is "Pony" by Ginuine.

JADA PINKETT-SMITH as ROME

Jada slayed it, plain and simple. I wish they had had a flashback of her character with Channing, or a sex scene of those two. Instead, we got a sensuous "hello" kiss and a whole lot of stares. Anyway, her character was intriguing, sexy, and had personality. Another thing which the first film lacked. The leading lady in that one was dull, and had way too many [undeserving] closeups. Barf. But Jada! Omg -

<3s

MATT BOMER SINGING

I'm not a fan of Matt's dancing. He's stiff, and in the first film, I referred to him as the "[Lady] Boner Killer." Part of the premise of this film, however, are the guys being entertainers and doing what they love as opposed to what they know. Well Ken? Ken sings. And he sings quite well. It's a wonder Bomer wasn't in a boy band in an early point of his career (er, he wasn't right?). Not gonna lie--it was surprising, and a bit of a turn on. He didn't kill this lady's boner, by gum!

*kidding/not kidding

PEOPLE OF COLOR

Along with Jada, there's Danny Glover, Michael Strahan, and an entire scene dedicated to black women enjoying some strippers. Particularly a nice sequence with Channing. What I would have given to be one of the featured extras who he danced on. Or breathed on. Or looked at. I think Channing makes me easy, ya'll.

Still, even though they needed a script doctor (I couldn't help but think of Tarantino whenever they would have a long, talk sequence), I didn't feel compelled to fast forward through chunks of film like I did with its predecessor. This film was solid. I really need to see it again, and get it on DVD asap.

Ocean's 11 moment

Jurassic World

2015-06-13T00:37:00.001-07:00

Going into this film, I had the idea in my head that the magic from the first film would be impossible to capture [ever again].

And I was right.

But, even though I was totally right, it doesn't mean that this film was bad. In fact, it was great. It ended up being like, a movie orgy of "Romancing the Stone" and "Predators" with "Jurassic Park." Well, I guess that sounds more like a threesome than an orgy. Anyway, there are throwbacks and direct mentions and odes to the first film, and that is what definitely elevates the film.

Bryce Dallas Howard and Chris Pratt make for solid and interesting leads. There's something pixie-ish and womanly about Bryce, and the camera loves her. The best part is that she can act. Chris is rugged and funny, and I can totally see why he was nominated to be [the next] Indiana Jones. I still no way in hell want there to be a next Indiana [at least not directly--Jr. or a nephew or a neighbor or something, fine], but I can see it. There chemistry wasn't electric--more on the "meh" side of things, but it was enough to kind of/sort of buy it.

And then, there are the dinosaurs. And nature. And there are moments as we the audience view the tours of the park--like kayaking with Brachiosauruses drinking along the riverbanks, or driving as the...other herbivore dinosaurs [whose name escapes me] run along side the vehicle. For a moment, I thought, "I want to go to there. Er, if those were the only animals part of the tour. Cause duh, trapped on an island with a slew of carnivores who are my size or much, much bigger? HELLLLLLLL no..." But yes, it made me briefly lament that Jurassic World (well, parts of it) wasn't real.

And then the musical score--they basically stole the sheets from "Jurassic Park," and played with my nostalgia through my ears. Manipulative, but effective.

The characters who you know will die--well, no spoilers but, how they die is a bit more shocking than anticipated... They really go for the kill in this one.

In short, I would totally recommend seeing "Jurassic World." Three stars and two thumbs up from Fangirl.

Wizard World Shenanigans and Meeting David Boreanaz

2014-09-22T19:02:00.000-07:00

Note: Sorry for the delay. I wrote one version and it got accidentally deleted, so I had to start all over. Maybe this one turned out for the best.

Mild anxiety attack.

Didn't know he had been doing autos first, so I got in line for the photos early. First dozen people or so were in front of me, which I figured was good in case the line got rushed near the end. The only trouble was I was so effin' nervous. With a bit of effort, I was able to get my dumbass Wizard World wristband off (it was hot pink--eww) so it wouldn't ruin my photo. There was a strict no touching policy, and I let nerves get the best of me. I usually don't listen to that crap--I ask the talent directly what they're comfortable with. But I couldn't think, as this was my first time really meeting him. Oh sure, I'd seen him ten years before, but it was in a q&a session across several rows of people. This was going to be for reals this time.

I got there, smiled at the gorgeous hunk of man who looked well [marginally taller than me, but not as tall as I thought he'd be], thinner than I anticipated, with an aged face, but aged with grace. We leaned into each other for the photo, and right before the click of the camera, I said, "I waited ten years for this." He said, "Aww, really?" and then the camera flashed.

He turned and looked at me. "Man, can you imagine if we'd done that during the picture?" all the while smiling that brilliant Boreanaz smile. I was totally dazzled and charmed, smiling as he kept talking while the lady running the line was yelling, "Next. NEXT!" doing her best impression of the Soup Nazi. And though I wish I had remained unfettered as it was David totally talking to me, and not the other way around, I said a quick, "Thank you," and scurried off like a huge lame.

This was not the Jill I'd become, but the Jill from days of yore, perhaps.

Had David reduced me to my adolescent self? Perhaps. Whatever the case, afterward I felt incredibly giddy, with a slight inclination to cry. Verge of hysterics? Maybe. But I definitely wasn't on m flowers/overly hormonal, so I have no idea. It was a foreign feeling to be sure.

I spent the better part of that weekend proposing a crusade for an Angel panel, as they had not only David, but J. August Richards and James Marsters there as well.

It started with James.

(start at 25:18. Also, sorry for the quality--well, I'm not responsible for recording it, but I wish I had recorded my own version D:) :

I just adore that James.

Then, it was the J. August panel. I didn't actually get to ask him anything at the panel, but someone else did. Sadly, the footage cannot be found. I thought that there would be one person who would post his q&a in its entirety. Instead, all I have is this crappy highlights portion of the panel found here.

At any rate, J. August was totally down with doing an Angel panel, and immediately sent a tweet out about it and tried to get it trending. He is an amazing guy (and taller than I thought he'd be). Really cool, down to earth, and frankly? Inspiring. He's said some prolific things at these panels and I love hearing him talk. I hope great things are on the horizon for him.

Also? Was my second time meeting him. I had actually met him the month before at the EW party in San Diego. I was in costume at Wizard World, so he didn't quite recall me (I don't think), but was curious about how I got into the party, as he had a very difficult time entering himself.

Me: "But you're famous. You're walking around with your face and stuff."
J.: "I know! But they asked for my ID and everything. Had to pull up stuff on my on my phone to get in."
Me: "That's crazy!"
J.: "Tell me about it!"

My partial Maleficent costume. Or "Magnificent" as I was calling myself.

Finally, my question to David (start at 5:37):

So yeah, that sucks. But I saw a pic of him and J. later on, and a pic of J. and James at the airport on their way to Chicago. But all I really wanted was this:

Maybe one day. Maybe one day...

#Spangel

Later, I saw him in the auto line, in which I was second. I gave him an Angel pic to sign, and I apologized for like, I don't know, harping on it.

Me: "I know it's been ten years and that you've done other stuff since then, but that show had such an impact on me."
David: "That's wonderful."
Me: "I feel like such a nerd."
David: "You're not a nerd."
Me: "I just feel awkward and lame talking to you about Angel."
David: "Don't say that. You're not awkward and lame. I'm glad you loved the show so much."
Me: "Thank you. So great to finally meet you."

And then I shook his hand. I wish I had said more or something profound...but yeah. Mental regression. Maybe if I see him again, I can act like a normal adult-aged person.

Michael Rooker

The first celeb I saw on the first day there was Michael Rooker. I was walking the dealer room early (for VIPs), and there were scarce few people about, and I saw three men walk past--one with a hat on who brushed past me. I didn't see his face, but I heard his voice--it was Michael.

I didn't say anything, as he seemed to be in a hurry. The next night, however, I saw him at my (or our) hotel. He was taking pics with a few fans, but by the time I got up to him, he told me that he had to run as he was on his way to dinner.

Michael: "But you can have a hug, darlin'."

I gave him a hug, and he said, "Ooh!" and hugged me back. It was a nice hug.

About fifteen minutes later, I saw him on the lower level, and it looked like he was dodging people.

Michael [sotto voce]: "Shh! Come here, quick! And get your camera out!"

I came over quickly with my two friends to take pics with him.

Michael: "I didn't mean to be rude earlier. It was just too many people around."

He took pics with all three of us, then asked us which direction was the quickest exit, and headed off.

Evan Peters

Good lord, he seemed like such a kid. Terribly quiet and shy...cute, but just so damn young. He seems older through the screen.

Sebastian Stan

Good lord, is he fine. He had his nose down 95% of the time, concentrating on signatures. His line was hella long, though.

Anthony Mackie

[Picture not found]

His line, while not as long as Sebastian's...yeah, he didn't have the time for a photo. He seemed nice, but a stickler for rules, which was fairly lame.

Shawn Ashmore

Nice guy, but I wish I had talked to him when I saw him at the hotel (for free). He liked my costume though, and that was cool.

Let's Be Cops

2014-08-05T23:03:00.000-07:00

...Or as it's better known as--

"Let's Be Psych--The F/X Edition"

"Let's Be Cops" is a buddy film that involves an odd couple of bros who are also BFFs for the last ten years or so. You have ~~Shawn~~ Ryan, who's unemployed and likes to relive the glory days of his youth, goofing around, living off of a small fortune he got a couple of years ago from a herpes commercial. Then you have ~~Gus~~ Justin, who is the responsible half of the couple who does in fact have a study job, but has trouble talking to women or gaining respect at work.

And then the night of their college reunion happens where they're supposed to show up in costume, and shenanigans ensue. Shenanigans that entail playing pretend while in uniform, until things get a tad too real...

I enjoyed this film. I laughed and was grossed out (the way this type of film is supposed to gross you out at times, and not disgusted, just so it's clear). The film hit all of the notes it intended to do. However, I was a bit flummoxed at seeing Rob Riggle in a non-comedic role in a comedic film, and seeing Jake Johnson and Damon Wayans ~~Upgraded~~ Jr. [even though their chemistry was spot on], I couldn't help but think of their TV counterparts, James Roday and Dulé Hill. Psych has only been off the air for one season, but I do miss their bromance and shenanigans.

Anyway. This film was both fun and funny, and I look forward to Johnson and Wayans teaming up in a follow up film.

Basically?

Look out, Jonah & Channing, and Sandra & Melissa. These buddy cops are coming for you.

The Purge: Anarchy

2014-07-15T22:16:00.000-07:00

Going into the pre-screening for this film, my expectations weren't terribly high due to my slight ambivalence over its predecessor. I didn't really care about any of the characters; actually wanted one or two of the main characters to just die already.

This film, however, turns it all the round.

It feels as if the first film almost didn't exist, or was so terribly irrelevant, it's not worth mentioning anymore. This film is like... "The Hunger Games" meets "The Following" meets...the dynamic of the survivors in The Walking Dead, while starring a lead that's akin to a Liam Neeson character in basically any action movie he's ever done. I care about these characters, damn it. I want to know how (and if) they survive The Purge.

Given how much senseless violence that occurs in this country, a film like "The Purge: Anarchy" doesn't seem entirely far fetched. Most people lock themselves away, and want no part of it, while a small few take glee in the violence and destruction, quick to crow it's their right, bestowed upon them by their forefathers. This adds an extra, creepy layer to both the scenario and its violence.

That being said, this movie is not goretastic (that's a made up word, I know)--one of the most chilling deaths, involving lots of machetes, we don't even get to see. I am thankful for that. This film shows violence without bashing you over the head with it (no pun intended).

All in all, I'd give it three stars. Yep. It's solid, suspenseful, and contains likable (although sometimes really, really, really annoying characters who you so want to be just...backhand slapped one good time in the face) characters.

I anxiously await its sequel. Or, seeing this one more time.

Maleficent and the Power of Pure Love

2014-05-31T08:16:00.000-07:00

Yes, pure love, and not true love.

Note: Very mild spoilers.

Admittedly, I am a HUGE Angelina fan, but I did in fact go into this film as an impartial viewer. If it had sucked, I would be honest and say that it did, but it did not.

Let's start with the audience--lots of children and their mom's (specifically), with smatterings of adults, mostly women, and a few men. I saw this in 3D. This is yet another film where 3D is wholly unnecessary, yet the CGI and fight scenes were great. The beauty in this film was made of CGI whimsy, and lacked the "I''m in a video game!" feel of "Avatar." Though the whimsy is short lived, and only present for a fraction of the time. This film is not only dark in tone, but in design (and with great, valid reason).

This is an origins story, told by a much older Aurora, which gives validity to the tale. Think of it as an "Ever After" type of fairy tale (with actual fairies). Maleficent, an orphan, is deemed protector of the Moors where the fairies live due to her abnormally large size. She meets a young, human boy, and eventually falls in love. Tale as old as time, right? Until said boy grows up into a power hungry man, roofies her, and disfigures her in her drug induced slumber, leaving her to walk slowly on a cane for most of the film.

Maleficent becomes bitter and enraged, appointing herself as Queen of the Moors, building her strength, then strikes when her assailant [and former love] is made a King and father. She gives him the mind-fuck of all time via a curse on his baby girl (not a spoiler). The results are instantaneous, as he sends the baby away for sixteen years, never visiting her, and never having any other children. He also abandons his wife for his obsession to destroy Maleficent, and eventually becomes Gary Busey-like in manner.

Jolie is stunning in her fairy prosthetics and devil headgear, and shows us the power of pure love as opposed to (and shown to be fabled) true love, and showing how it can change us and help us grow for the better. Also, props for having a black guy with a speaking role in this film (which is rare for fantasy/period films).

Worth the ten bucks.

"X-Men: Days of Future Past" Leaves the Past Behind

2014-05-24T01:59:00.001-07:00

But in a good way.

Fourteen years ago, I was disappointed in the first "X-Men" film, in spite of adoring the performances and portrayals of Hugh Jackman's Wolverine, Sir Ian McKellen's Magneto, and Sir Patrick Stewart's Professor X. As the years passed on and the movies rolled out, this sense of tremendous disappointment would continue onward until 2013's "The Wolverine," which was Bryan Singer free, with James Mangold at the helm (which has a sequel in the works. Yay!).

In spite of being at the "X-Men: Days of Future Past" panel last year, I was skeptical (and have been skeptical for sometime) because Bryan Singer, who brought me film on top of film of disappointment of some kind over the years, was once again the director.

I'm happy to report that I am more than happily surprised.

This film redeemed all of the other films that sort of crapped on my childhood. I loved watching the X-Men cartoon on Saturday mornings.

And I don't mean redeemed in just style, story, music, and editing, but also the acting.

Halle Berry finally portrays Storm properly. I loved how they changed her aesthetics--very fitting. And while it's true, she doesn't say much, she looks more serious and subdued. Something about her previous performances always came off as not-serious/a bit of a joke to me.

Jennifer Lawrence--her role previously in "X-Men: First Class" was a total dud. But I'm starting to think it's because she doesn't do carefree very well. Raven in that film verses Raven in this film is ten times better. She is clearly burdened and colder. She rarely smiles in this film. She's somber and on a path of vengeance, and this is the type of role that suits Lawrence quite well, and she was able to serve the character properly this time around.

This is the second time travel film I've seen this week, and it did it right (as well).

My only criticism of this film is that there wasn't nearly enough Quick Silver. What a great character. Evan Peters, just steal my heart. ~~Oh, that's right, Michael Fassbender, who had a plethora of screen time, has already taken it.~~

In closing, if action/sci-fi/fantasy films are your thing, and if you liked the previous films (even if you didn't), I recommend this film as part of your summer movie experience.

Happy Watching!

"Edge of Tomorrow" Movie Review

2014-05-21T21:47:00.004-07:00

Note: For those of you who don't like to read, scroll down to check out my sixty-second movie review on YouTube.

Tonight, I was able to attend a pre-screening of Tom Cruise's latest sci-fi action film, "Edge of Tomorrow."

I was actually at San Diego Comic Con, and terribly shocked when Tom Cruise walked on stage to talk on the panel of this film. Can I just say how much I squeed when he did that, and he looked at me and winked. Winked!

*feels special*

Anyway, I went into this film a bit skeptically, given my gigantic disappointment with the first two films to kick off the summer sucked balls for me. No, really.

*Glares at "The Amazing Spider-Man 2"; Squints at "Godzilla"*

"Edge of Tomorrow" brings a butt-load of action, comedy, intrigue, and a smidge of romance to this time traveling flick, which is basically "Groundhog's Day" meets "Independence Day." I'd classify this film as a sci-fi action thriller, layered with comedy. It isn't straitlaced, but takes itself seriously at the same time. I like the reasoning for time-travel here (and we do get a concrete reason). Everything just works in it. Everything. I saw it in 3-D, a medium I'm terribly "meh" on, and even that worked! I didn't feel like I was looking at a video game or anything.

Now, off with you to the movies!

Well in June. This film shall be released June 6th.

The Trouble with Godzilla

2014-05-18T10:48:00.000-07:00

I saw "Godzilla" yesterday, a film I'd been looking forward to since last summer.

Sadly to say, I was grossly disappointed.

Here is a bullet pointed list explaining why:

There wasn't nearly enough Bryan Cranston. For a film that wanted to have monologues and focus on character, they didn't utilize the best actor asset they had.

The film also didn't have nearly enough Godzilla. The bug creature things got way more screen time, and were generally unpleasant to look at. [I really, really hate bugs.]
Not!Mary Kate or Ashely Olsen bothered me. Maybe it's because I keep thinking of her sisters, but something about her face seems off. Could be her nose. As for her character--she was so terribly disinterested in the welfare of her husband, who potentially could have been dead, to the point where she makes one phone call to locate him, then leaves her phone on vibrate. Um...
Anytime there was a decent action scene a-brewin', it would jump cut to several moments (sometimes hours) later. Why? Did they not have enough money in their budget to fund the CGI? Speaking of--
Why the crap does Godzilla have cankles? He didn't look very lizard like...
After all of the in depth backstory and explaining how these massive beings came to be, I am still unsure of where Godzilla was all that time (admittedly, I lost about 20-30 minutes of the film, for I fell asleep), or why they thought, sorry, knew he would battle the other two giant creatures to the death.
And finally, the biggest flaw with this film? They didn't have Stephen Spielberg at the helm. I think under his supervision, it would have been done how it was supposed to be. I'm not sure anyone lesser could pull off this particular film properly. Peter Jackson may have also been a good choice (but my money's on Spielberg).

DIVERGENT Movie Review

2014-03-19T14:26:00.000-07:00

While I have not read the books, I was all too curious to see the latest in teen film phenomena (presumably), "Divergent." In addition to it taking place and being filmed in my awesome city of Chicago, was based on the novel by Veronica Roth, who wrote the first one as her thesis for a creative writing class at Northwestern University.

I was able to see a pre-screening at IMAX for this film. The trailers left me intrigued, but sometimes, you can never be too sure. I must say that it wasn't misleading.

"Divergent" offers a spin on some new ideals, but includes all the basics to make for an engaging film--action, angst, that feeling of being different/other/outsider, romance and change.

There is some strong supporting cast, including Ashley Judd, Kate Winslet, and Tony Goldwyn. Newcomer Theo James is a great male lead--nice to look at, and not too shabby on the acting.

All these things and more were enough for me to overlook the weak acting efforts delivered by Shailene Woodley as the lead, Tris. Good lord, there was just no...real zest to her. Oh sure, she was nowhere near as dull and unbearable as Kristen Stewart's Bella, but there's still something integral missing. I watched her on screen and thought of Sarah Michelle Gellar's Buffy or Jennifer Gardner's Sydney Bristow. Geena Davis' Charli Baltimore. To have both that edginess and tenderness is a tricky thing, and for the moment, Woodley does not have that.

I think this would have been a role better suited for Saoirse Ronan or Michelle Trachtenberg.

That being said, it's a great film. I plan to see the other two in the series, and check out the books, and you should too.

Meeting Josh Holloway and Ian Somerhalder

2014-03-19T13:25:00.001-07:00

Today's Fangirl moment is brought to you by Karen:

Last night at the LOST panel at Paleyfest, I finally fulfilled my ten year quest to meet, talk to and get an autograph from Josh Holloway. Needless to say, I am more than thrilled.

As expected, he was a real Southern gentleman. He was only going to sign my photo, but after seeing the TV Guide with me yelling at him at the season 6 premiere, he signed that too! This Lostie's mission is accomplished ;p

Also, called me "darlin'" and touched my shoulder after the signing.

After, I saw Ian Somerhalder. He had to rush to catch a plane and said he could not sign, but guess who he recognized and stopped for?

That's right.

He said "Oh hi, sweetie. How are ya?" I said please Ian and he said, "Okay, I will for you." He only signed for me and the girl next to me.

*sigh*

Want to share your best fangirl/fanboy moment? Submit to Jillian.Robi@gmail.com today!
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And the Oscar Goes to...

2014-01-16T06:26:00.000-08:00

Best Picture Nominees:

"American Hustle"
"Captain Phillips"
"Dallas Buyers Club"
"Gravity"
"Her"
"Nebraska"
"Philomena"
"12 Years A Slave"
"The Wolf of Wall Street"

Who I think should win: "12 Years a Slave"
Who will probably win: "12 Years a Slave"

Best Actor Nominees:

Christian Bale, "American Hustle"
Bruce Dern, "Nebraska"
Leonardo DiCaprio, "The Wolf of Wall Street"
Chiwetel Ejiofor, "12 Years A Slave"
Matthew McConaughey, "Dallas Buyers Club"

Who I think should win: Leonardo DiCaprio
Who will probably win: Matthew McConaughey

Best Actress Nominees:

Amy Adams, "American Hustle"
Cate Blanchett, "Blue Jasmine"
Sandra Bullock, "Gravity"
Judi Dench, "Philomena"
Meryl Streep, "August: Osage County"

Who I think should win: Meryl Streep
Who will probably win: Amy Adams

Best Supporting Actor Nominees:

Barkhad Abdi, "Captain Phillips"
Bradley Cooper, "American Hustle"
Michael Fassbender, "12 Years A Slave"
Jonah Hill, "The Wolf of Wall Street"
Jared Leto, "Dallas Buyers Club"

Who I think should win: Michael Fassbender (with Jonah Hill as an honorable mention)
Who will probably win: Jared Leto

Best Supporting Actress Nominees:

Sally Hawkins, "Blue Jasmine"
Jennifer Lawrence, "American Hustle"
Lupita Nyong'o, "12 Years A Slave"
Julia Roberts, "August: Osage County"
June Squibb, "Nebraska"

Who I think should win: Lupita Nyong'o, omg
Who will probably win: Jennifer Lawrence (vomit)

Best Director Nominees:

David O. Russell, "American Hustle"
Alfonso Cuaron, "Gravity"
Alexander Payne, "Nebraska"
Steve McQueen, "12 Years A Slave"
Martin Scorsese, "The Wolf Of Wall Street"

Who I think should win: Steve McQueen (honorable mention to Scorsese)
Who will probably win: Steve McQueen

What are your picks?

Living Single Movie

2014-01-07T23:56:00.000-08:00

When I went to San Diego Comic Con 2013, I unexpectedly ran into a woman who portrayed one of my favorite TV characters--Living Single's Erika Alexander. I couldn't think of her name on the spot, so I asked her, "Maxine Shaw?" to which she quickly replied "Attorney at law!" And then we hugged. So awesome.

She was there on comic related business (to which I can't recall the name of, sadly), and the chat got around to Living Single. I asked her would there ever be a big screen reunion in the works. The gist of her response was that Queen Latifah more or less wouldn't discuss it. I must now wonder why?

The cast, from what I gathered, were on fairly good terms. And given the commercial success of the Sex and the City films (based on a show, which, came after Living Single) and "The Best Man Holiday," you'd think they all would be chomping at the bit. I mean Latifah is still an actress. Producer. Started her career on a message called UNITY. What's the real opposition here? Showing a big screen version of this successful series which features successful black women who are BFFs? It would be positive and funny and highly successful, and it's not even like one would have to be familiar with the series to enjoy the film. This mysterious opposition baffles me to no end.

So, if there's anyone out there in touch with Queen Latifah, tell her to have a bit of fun and bring joy to the hearts of movie goers with a green light for a film adaptation of one of the funniest sitcoms of the 90's.

American Hustle

2013-12-30T17:55:00.003-08:00

For the last several weeks, the trailers for "American Hustle" have left me ambivalent about seeing it in theatres. The other night, I saw a Richard Roeper review, in which he raved about how awesome it was, and that the DeNiro cameo was possibly some of the best ten minutes of his acting career.

After seeing it this afternoon, man did I feel deceived.

I really should have stuck with my gut on this.

I think that the story itself was interesting, but the directing and editing was all wrong, and they actors were cast in the wrong parts. As much as I love Christian Bale, there's no way in hell he should be nominated, let alone win an Oscar for this performance. I kept hearing about how he should be in the running, and I'm hear to tell you right now, no, he shouldn't be. In fact, I think he was miscast. I think they all were.

Bradley and Christian needed to switch. I'm sorry, I just couldn't buy Bale as this balding, gut having, uncouth con artist. If he were a suave, Thomas Crowne kind of con artist, okay, but this was just wrong. He's a great actor, but it just didn't fly. Bradley could have done it. On that same token, I didn't buy Bradley as an FBI Agent. I think that role would have been better suited for Bale.

I think Amy Adams is fabulous, but she and Jennifer Lawrence needed to switch roles in order for the whole thing to work on screen. I think Adams was capable of playing either role, but Lawrence was not up to snuff. That being said, Lawrence was given the harder role, in certain respects, even though she had less screen time. The role just didn't hold a lot of weight with her at the helm. Adams' role required an English accent, so perhaps Lawrence couldn't have done the part? I don't know that for certain, but her range just was not there as Bale's wife.

The film also started out slow. So slow that I caught a few z's after the first thirty minutes. It's rare indeed for me to fall asleep during a film, regardless of how tired I am. I felt like Scorese or Soderbergh should have directed this. I felt like the director, David O. Russell, was way out of his depth on this one.

In short, this is a film better served as a rental, or waiting for it to hit HBO or something.

Diary of a Fangirl: The Wolf of Wall Street

2013-12-20T21:03:00.001-08:00

"The Wolf of Wall Street" brought back a boatload of nostalgia.

I love Scorsese, and I love DiCaprio, so I was 99% sure I was going to love their latest project. After viewing it, I can tell you that was a complete understatement.

"Goodfellas" is not only my favorite Scorsese film, but my favorite film, period. "The Wolf of Wall Street" felt like a total throwback to that film, except all of the violence is replaced with nudity and drug use. Even the appearance of Jon Bernthal (who, omg, is so awesome you guys), made me think of DeNiro, and tied the whole thing together for me.

Anyway, this film is based on the true story of Jordan Belfort, who makes his start on Wall Street, loses his job, goes into the penny trades and creates a mega millions stock company with his rag tag friends.

Back to the "Goodfellas" connection--

A lot of the styling of shots and narration also harken to Scorese's early 90s masterpiece. DiCaprio as Belfort tells a good chunk of story to the audience with voice overs, and at times, breaks the fourth wall and talks directly to the audience (as Ray Liotta did at the close of "Goodfellas"). Even Leo's on-screen wife, actress Cristin Milioti, reminded me a bit of Lorraine Bracco. And it's a period piece. I'd have to watch it again to see if there was a gradation in color throughout the piece.

DiCaprio also doesn't work alone--he has a great supporting cast accompanying him.

All in all, I give it damn near four stars (I want to say between 3.5 and 3.75 out of 4), and it's definitely worth the watch. And a rewatch. If Leo doesn't get an Oscar for this, I just don't even know.

Diary of a Fangirl: Fast & Furious 7

2013-12-20T15:28:00.001-08:00

The writers and producers of "Fast & Furious 7" are working frantically (I assume) in tweaking the script to accommodate the tremendous loss they've been dealt, while honoring both the character of Brian and Paul Walker's final appearance in the franchise. Being a writer, I couldn't help but ponder the course of action they'd take.

Paul was only able to finish about half of the scenes he was supposed to do. Therefore, I'm thinking the start of this film may very well begin with a funeral--Brian's (though it's not explicitly said). Then the film will move into the initial storyline, with Paul featured prominently, and then the bad news happens midway--the plan was botched, and they lose him.

The film then takes us back to the opening (or shortly thereafter), and the team makes the decision to avenge him, and the story picks up from there.

Just a thought. No clue which route they'll take...but clearly, it's been on my mind.

"The Best Man Holiday," Films, Black Films, and Wtfery

2013-11-17T17:10:00.001-08:00

This started as a Facebook post but kept getting longer and longer. That's when I realized that it's been damn near three months since I've posted anything here.

Sorry...

Anyway, a friend linked to this on her FB page, and I have to say it pissed me off so much that it brought me out of blogging hibernation.

The article's writer, Scott Bowles of USA Today called it "race themed," and compared it to popular films this year that were in fact race themed (whereas this one was not). "The Best Man Holiday" is a holiday film/friend reunion, and not a "racially charged" film or a "black" film, and by no means should be compared to "Fruitvale Station" or "12 Years A Slave" or "The Butler."

Tangent: As a side note "12 Years a Slave" shouldn't be compared to those two films either, for it is this decades "Schindler's List," and it may be another 20 years before we get to see a film of this magnitude.

I...am at a loss for words, is what I am. Richard Roeper compared it to an updated "Big Chill." I like his reviews. And after seeing the film for myself, I think he was spot on. The film is clever, funny, fresh, and worth the ten bucks at the theatre. All without special effects, 3D glasses or an IMAX theatre. Malcolm Lee does a wonderful job at telling the stories of several friends getting together over Christmas Break. Additionally, Terrence Howard steals the show as the resident Lothario. A lovely actor, but I'd forgotten how funny he can be.

Anyway, if you haven't seen it (and I don't care what color you are), go see it. You'll enjoy it, cause it's a well done story about people (who happen to be black). If you have seen it, go see it again, and metaphorically bitch slap people like this dude in the face.

Diary of a Fangirl: Miley Cyrus' Grotesque VMA Performance

2013-08-27T11:03:00.002-07:00

There are many articles popping up (such as this one), stating that Miley Cyrus is privileged and shouldn't be using aspects of "black" culture.

Here's what I think: I have to say that I don't like the idea that those particular things are associated with black culture. Sure they're part of some kind of culture--ghetto culture or ratchet culture--but not black.

Oh Robin--how in the blue hell did you let yourself get roped into this grotesque and pathetic performance?

As a black woman, I reject that as an image of black people. If Miley wants to let her tongue hang out and look ratchet and stank as hell, it only makes her look like a fool, and I for one feel sorry for her, not offended that she's privileged and wandering into "black" culture. She just looks pathetic, IMO, and to many others. I don't think anyone sees it as her treading on black culture, which is why I hate articles like this. Like that whole thing when "video hoes" were considered degrading to all women. Uh, no they weren't. They were a certain sect who felt comfortable being objectified, and do not represent the rest of us.

And to say that she's acting/dressing ghetto "...without having to deal with the racism and racialization that black women live with every day. In short, she can imagine that she is being "ghetto" without having any concept of what living in a ghetto would really mean." Well damn, I'm not from the ghetto either with no substantial experiences of what it is like to live in one. And you know what? There's a whole lot of black people who don't have those experiences either. Know what else I don't have an experience in? Being ratchet. Let Miley have it--I'm not going to petition for that. I'm also not oppressed by that.

Diary of a Fangirl: Ben Affleck is the new Batman

2013-08-23T13:33:00.003-07:00

Ben Affleck has signed on to be the new Bruce Wayne. Or at the very least, he'll be donning the cape as The Dark Knight.

I...

When I saw the ending of "The Dark Knight Rises," and the clever way Nolan went about incorporating Robin without calling him that or putting him in tights, and then giving him the keys to the Batcave, I had such great high hopes for Joseph Gordon-Levitt rising Batman out of the ashes and watching over the city. It was such a perfectly perfect set up.

And now this.

I couldn't bear to watch "Daredevil" all the way through...and unlike many, I do think that Ben Affleck can act, if given the right project. He's grown so much as a writer, director and actor over the years, and I look forward to great things from him. I just don't feel that this will be one of them.

However, I didn't have hopes or believe in Nolan's casting of Hathaway as Catwoman either, so maybe this will work. Not the way I want it to by any stretch of the imagination, but maybe it won't be terrible. Hell, there's not a damned thing I can do about it anyway, so might as well wait and see what happens.

Diary of a Fangirl: Breaking Bad Final Days

2013-08-12T12:47:00.003-07:00

I saw the season premier yesterday, and also watched Breaking Bad: Talking Bad. One of the things mentioned is will Walt be killed in the end, and will he have to kill Jesse?

Here's my take:

* Walt can't/won't kill Jesse. Jesse knows that Walt had Mike bumped off, and Walt desperately wants him to believe otherwise. We've seen Walt be on the rag many a time with Jesse when he was angry/frustrated/ego tripping, but we've also seen Walt kill for Jesse. He was jealous of Mike and Jesse's relationship, of the controlling relationship between Jesse and...damn, what's her name? All I got his "Apology Girl" at the moment. Jane--right. He poisoned a little boy to get Jesse back on his side. He fell into a deep depression and took pain killers on the eve of Walt Jr.'s birthday because of a fight he and Jesse had. Walt will do anything to keep Jesse by his side. He finally even called him "son" in this season premier. There's not a snowball's chance in hell that Walt will do anything to hurt Jesse, and I love him for that. Damn near everyone else is expendable except for Jesse (and his kids and even Skyler).

* If Walt is to die, I feel like it'll be by Jesse's hands. Jesse is the only one who can touch him. I don't think he really will though...but if he did, I could see it. Only cancer or Jesse will be able to stop Walt.

* I think the ricin is for Hank, sadly. No effin' clue about the M16, though.

* Instead of "Remember My Name," I feel as if that promo poster should be "Say My Name," cause that was a bad ass moment and monologue last season.

* I don't think the title Breaking Bad is a reference to Walt becoming the villain...I think it's a reference in a break in the system, as well as Walt. It has to be about the deconstruction of evil-doings. It was always the intention for Walt to do a 180 and become a Scarface/Kingpin kind of guy. So what needs to be broken then? The evolution, that's what. In the flash-forwards, Walt looks unraveled and unkempt. He seems to be going to last resorts. His family is gone, his home is gone, and his anonymity is gone...That's what the true "break" is about. Like how the mobster lifestyle is presented in "Goodfellas" from start to finish. You think it's about one thing, then it evolves, fades and deteriorates (literally) into something else by the end of it. Even the color grade changes to signify the reality of the situation. "Growth, decay. Transformation." We've seen Walt in a decay state for some time now. This season is about transformation. Hell, he's even wearing mostly white now in all of his scenes. What will he ultimately change into?

So excited about this season.

Diary of a Fangirl: Daria, the High School Reunion

2013-07-30T19:14:00.000-07:00

So, I saw this fake trailer for a Daria movie:

I love the idea, but disagree hardcore on the casting.

Here's my line up for a film:

Daria Morgendorffer: Anna Chlumsky. I don't know why--I've seen her around in stuff and it just feels right. She'd need a hair rinse, of course. Or Leelee Sobieski.

Quinn Morgendorffer: Scarlett Johansson? Isla Fisher might be better suited. Gosh, this is a tough one. And, for the record, I do an awesome Quinn impersonation (for certain phrases, anyway).

Jake Morgendorffer: Bryan Cranston, hands down.

Helen Morgendorffer: Diane Lane. She'd be flawless in that role

Jane Lane: Rooney Mara. Had to think long and hard on that one.

Trent Lane: Joseph Gordon-Levitt. Good lord, he'd be soooooooo perfect...

Tom: Channing Tatum. And of course, Tom becomes a stripper in this film.

Diary of a Fangirl: The Wolverine

2013-07-27T11:57:00.001-07:00

Let me start this by saying that there has thus far absolutely not one solidly good X-Men film (in my opinion) in well...ever. Each and every single solitary one has disappointed me in some shape or form. I can't narrow it down to one specific thing, or even one specific character portrayal. But when I learned that there was going to be "X-Men Origins: Wolverine," I was excited. Besides Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen, Hugh Jackman was the only actor that I felt portrayed one of my beloved X-Men accurately. I never read the comics, but I watched the shit out of the Saturday cartoon growing up. Wolverine and Storm were my favorites.

But then that film as well sucked balls. I can't even remember fully what happened in it. I was so excited--just the Wolverine and Liev Schreiber (who I adore) and...just no. I've blocked it from my mind--that's how traumatizing I found it. And then "X-Men: First Class" renewed my hope....until I saw it. I loved Fassbender, McAvoy and Bacon, but the rest of the class stunk to me, as well as the directing, and even the musical score. It was awful.

And now...I'd been cautiously excited about "The Wolverine"--the trailer looked great, and James Mangold was in the director's chair ("Girl, Interrupted," "Identity," "3:10 to Yuma"), and Scott Frank as one of the writers ("Minority Report")...and then I got even more pumped up about it by seeing an extended trailer at San Diego Comic Con (report on that business soon).

I have to say, it didn't disappoint at all. It was BRILLIANT. It totally redeemed the franchise, and made my fangirl heart sing. The story was intriguing and engaging, the directing was flawless, and the film felt more grounded than any X-Men film ever (i.e. in a Dark Knight sense). Even Logan's hair seemed realistic/made sense. And the scene after the credits--part of it made no sense, but I was overwhelmed by such a sense of joy that I didn't even care.

In short, I can't wait for "X-Men: Days of Future Past" in spite of my dislike of some of the casting.

Diary of a Fangirl: Much Ado About Nothing

2013-06-18T09:25:00.004-07:00

Through a series of serendipitous events, I happened across a couple of tickets to a pre-screening of Joss Whedon's "Much Ado About Nothing." I've never read the play or seen any adaptation of it, so I went in totally cold. For those who are just as clueless as I was, it's a modern spin on Shakespeare's play by the same name, where friends conspire to pair up two folks who loathe each other, and a side story of two other folks who are in love, but are broken up by lies and deception by those around them. Yeah.

Being a Whedonite for some number of years, I've heard the various tales about how Joss would have cast members read Shakespeare at his house, and I'm glad he finally got to bring it to life. However, I do wish I'd been able to see more Buffy/Angel alum (and reading this just...broke my heart). ~~Although, I am glad Felicia Day was nowhere in sight.~~

Everyone was great in this film, but I have to say (and I'm happy to say) that Alexis Denisof. Stole. The. Show. The man was just...brilliant, and good god, have I missed him on screen, and was ridiculously happy to see his gorgeous face on the silver screen. The man has such a range, people! And it's about time people beyond fandom got to witness it. Additionally, what a brilliant stratagem of Joss or the Powers That Be or whoever held onto this film until post "The Avengers" success. I think this might actually get seen by the masses, and I am happy for it.

The directing was great and the acting was well done. The film is quite funny, and will leave those familiar with the source material more than happy, and those who aren't well entertained.

It's been awhile since I've read or seen anything Shakespeare, and this film was true to Shakespeare's script (except for one of Benedict's lines which was not PC). I must admit that my ears had to adjust to the language. But once you do, it goes on fine. Also, insults in those days were so much more colorful, inventive, and insulting than they are today. We should go back to that.

[Literature!! I love you.]

In short, when this film comes to your down, go and take a gander. You won't be disappointed.

Diary of a Fangirl: The Heat

2013-06-14T18:20:00.001-07:00

If "Bridesmaids" and "Pineapple Express" had a baby, and that baby had a baby with "21 Jump Street," the end result would be "The Heat."

Don't dig the airbrushing.

I'm sure it's not the first strictly female buddy comedy, but I swear I can't think of another, which means it's either been too long, or hasn't been one that was relevant enough for mention. But people, this is IT.

I have to be honest and say that I had low expectations going in, but was more than pleasantly surprised. I laughed out loud; I laughed heartily; I laughed so much that my eyes leaked a little bit.

Bullock's Ashburn and McCarthy's Mullins are superb comedy gold. Ladies, yes we can make a hilarious and fun buddy/sisterly bromance comedy thing.

Bullock portrays an FBI agent, and McCarthy is an officer--both ostracized in their fields for having boobs, pretty much. Bullock is the nerd, and McCarthy is the aggressive one. Stereotypical, sure, but there is nothing stereotypical about this film, I assure you.

This film drops June 28th, and I have to say, it's good for the Rogen/Franco camp that it wasn't released when their film was because man...I have a feeling that this film is funnier.