It's big time movie season and Tom Cruise is back on the big screen this time in Valkyrie. Valkyrie is the code word used in Berlin for the famous failed assassination attempt on Nazi leader Adolph Hitler in the waning days of WWII.
It's been a long time since Cruise has had a really big time dramatic hit at the box office, but Valkyrie should change all that. Cruise plays the German Colonel who leads the attempt on Hitlers life in June 1944. He is the one entrusted by the inner circle of resistant Germans not loyal to the Nazi's to kill Hitler when the end of the war was imminent, and the Allies were just months away from knocking at Berlins door. They hoped to kill Hitler, and negotiate some sort of truce with the Americans and the rest of occupied Europe. But history tell us the attempt is not successful and all is up for grabs.
Valkyrie very successfully tells the story of just how elaborate the coup attempt was in Germany in 1944. Involving or trying to involve all branches of the German military and it's leading politicians. The story of the assassination attempt is taught in schools, but not to the extent Valkyrie does masterfully.
This though I feel is a history buffs, or movie goers movie. It is set in WWII, but I wouldn't call this a war movie. Valkyrie is light on action, but big on drama. Extremely well written, with a large cast of interesting characters, all developed as well as can be expected in a two hour movie. Cruise give a command performance in a large, leading role and to be honest is the only man for the job.
Valkyrie is not for everyone. It will leave some bored at the lack of shoot-em-up action. This is also not a special effect fest. This is a dramatic straight forward, deep plot historical movie. Be careful about stepping out to the concession stand, Valkyrie moves fast, and won't wait for you if you fall behind. But well, well done.
Valkyrie. If you do drama, it's a drama- doers dream.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Anythings Possible
As 2008 winds down, I think it's normal for us all to look back and see what we've learned...or not learned. This has been a big year of learning for me personally. And as I look back , to me 2008 will go down in my memory as the year that anything became possible. And this time....it's really true.
The Presidential election of course got the ball rolling on this from just bout every angle. It was going to be historic no matter who won, and history was then made. There will be other historic elections in our future, but this was the first, and the one I think we will all remember.
Second, the economy. Yes, it is now possible to watch our investments go up in smoke in a few short days. Yes, it is possible for some banks and companies that have been around since the beginning to fail, or almost fail. It was possible for us to be paying $4.50 cents a gallon for gasoline, and $1.50 a gallon three months later. Those are the ones that really got our attention, but there are others that still happened, that are worth remembering.
These true events in 2008 only further prove that now anything is possible - Just for fun!!
1/ The Tampa Bay Rays played in the World Series.
2/ The lead singer from Hootie And The Blowfish, Darius Rucker had a #1 Country song.
3/ I got out of Blossom in 15 minutes after a concert last summer.
4/ We had a blizzard in March. I was in Florida playing golf that weekend, heard it was bad!
5/ After going 10-6 in 2007, the Browns again, have to start all over.
6/ Jessica Simpson stopped by and chatted with Sue and I in August on the show.
7/ The Cleveland Indians have had TWO consecutive Cy Young Award winners.
8/ Brittany Spears has again risen to the top of her game, after being in the gutter.
9/ People still like the song Afternoon Delight. I heard someone singing it in Acme today.
10/ You can type in "I'm having a really good day" on Facebook, and lots of people care!
11/ MySpace isn't as cool as it was.
12/ There is a technology that you can "tweet" on now. Ask your IT guy/gal.
13/ Starbucks actually had to close some stores.
14/ Airlines now charge you to take a piece of luggage with you opn your trip.
15/ And this one...I think that the widening of I-77 between Akron and Canton is now done.
Am I right?????? I think so!
This is a short list of course, and all of it is true! Do you have ones to add to the list? E-mail me and let me know scott@wqmx.com
Happy New Year
The Presidential election of course got the ball rolling on this from just bout every angle. It was going to be historic no matter who won, and history was then made. There will be other historic elections in our future, but this was the first, and the one I think we will all remember.
Second, the economy. Yes, it is now possible to watch our investments go up in smoke in a few short days. Yes, it is possible for some banks and companies that have been around since the beginning to fail, or almost fail. It was possible for us to be paying $4.50 cents a gallon for gasoline, and $1.50 a gallon three months later. Those are the ones that really got our attention, but there are others that still happened, that are worth remembering.
These true events in 2008 only further prove that now anything is possible - Just for fun!!
1/ The Tampa Bay Rays played in the World Series.
2/ The lead singer from Hootie And The Blowfish, Darius Rucker had a #1 Country song.
3/ I got out of Blossom in 15 minutes after a concert last summer.
4/ We had a blizzard in March. I was in Florida playing golf that weekend, heard it was bad!
5/ After going 10-6 in 2007, the Browns again, have to start all over.
6/ Jessica Simpson stopped by and chatted with Sue and I in August on the show.
7/ The Cleveland Indians have had TWO consecutive Cy Young Award winners.
8/ Brittany Spears has again risen to the top of her game, after being in the gutter.
9/ People still like the song Afternoon Delight. I heard someone singing it in Acme today.
10/ You can type in "I'm having a really good day" on Facebook, and lots of people care!
11/ MySpace isn't as cool as it was.
12/ There is a technology that you can "tweet" on now. Ask your IT guy/gal.
13/ Starbucks actually had to close some stores.
14/ Airlines now charge you to take a piece of luggage with you opn your trip.
15/ And this one...I think that the widening of I-77 between Akron and Canton is now done.
Am I right?????? I think so!
This is a short list of course, and all of it is true! Do you have ones to add to the list? E-mail me and let me know scott@wqmx.com
Happy New Year
Monday, December 29, 2008
MOVIE REVIEW - Benjamin Button
Every now and again a movie comes along where you will clearly remember the very first time you saw it. With whom, where, and what kind of day it was outside. The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button is that movie. Brad Pitt stars in this absolutely terrific movie in theaters this week.
All great movies start with a great story, and this one comes from a fantastic story teller. BB is taken from a short story written by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Then developed, and lengthened all these years later to give us one of the years best movies. BB is movie fantasy much in the mold of 1994's Forrest Gump. It has that kind of feel throughout, although a little darker and overall a little more dramatic.
Benjamin (Pitt) is born an infant in body in 1918, but with the characteristics of an 85 year old man. He then lives his life in reverse, going from old to young, while the rest of us go from young to old. As his body grows he get younger by the day. Daisey is his life long love (Kate Blanchette.) They meet as "youngsters" and then finally meet again in the middle. As she ages, he gets younger. They are the great loves of each others lives. But in all honesty, all of that really isn't all that important for our purposes here.
What is important is that this movie is so original, so thought provoking, so incredibly well done, no movie goer should miss this movie. I am not a big Brad Pitt fan, but I recommend you run to the theater to see BB. It's so refreshing to see big time actors, take time away from making mindless, strictly for the paycheck movies and make something really great, if not important. They really can do it. Pitt here, and his wife, Angelina Jolie last month in Changeling, which is also one of the years best. BB is a timeless tale, and a story you've never, ever seen before, and it's easily Pitt's greatest work.
Footnote to that. Pitt, Blanchette, and the supporting cast are all great. BUT the star of this movie is...the movie! The incredibly imaginative story, told in a way that all can easily understand. BB is two hours and forty five minutes, but it didn't bother me. This movie pulls you in and makes you want to know what's coming next.
This movie will really hit you the first time through. As you see this movie again in years to come on TV or rental, it won't be the same. It's a movie that has to be experienced totally the first time. Worth the time investment, and the ticket price too.
The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button. Just fantastic, one of the years best.
All great movies start with a great story, and this one comes from a fantastic story teller. BB is taken from a short story written by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Then developed, and lengthened all these years later to give us one of the years best movies. BB is movie fantasy much in the mold of 1994's Forrest Gump. It has that kind of feel throughout, although a little darker and overall a little more dramatic.
Benjamin (Pitt) is born an infant in body in 1918, but with the characteristics of an 85 year old man. He then lives his life in reverse, going from old to young, while the rest of us go from young to old. As his body grows he get younger by the day. Daisey is his life long love (Kate Blanchette.) They meet as "youngsters" and then finally meet again in the middle. As she ages, he gets younger. They are the great loves of each others lives. But in all honesty, all of that really isn't all that important for our purposes here.
What is important is that this movie is so original, so thought provoking, so incredibly well done, no movie goer should miss this movie. I am not a big Brad Pitt fan, but I recommend you run to the theater to see BB. It's so refreshing to see big time actors, take time away from making mindless, strictly for the paycheck movies and make something really great, if not important. They really can do it. Pitt here, and his wife, Angelina Jolie last month in Changeling, which is also one of the years best. BB is a timeless tale, and a story you've never, ever seen before, and it's easily Pitt's greatest work.
Footnote to that. Pitt, Blanchette, and the supporting cast are all great. BUT the star of this movie is...the movie! The incredibly imaginative story, told in a way that all can easily understand. BB is two hours and forty five minutes, but it didn't bother me. This movie pulls you in and makes you want to know what's coming next.
This movie will really hit you the first time through. As you see this movie again in years to come on TV or rental, it won't be the same. It's a movie that has to be experienced totally the first time. Worth the time investment, and the ticket price too.
The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button. Just fantastic, one of the years best.
Friday, December 26, 2008
The Five Worst Movies of 2008
As we close out another year, you'll see lots of lists, top five this and that. So it's time for the Five Worst Movie list of 2008.
There are many not on this official list that have certainly earned a slot, and some of them will be honorably mentioned here, but there's only room for 5 so here we go. Starting with the worst.
The Worst Movies Of 2008
1/ Semi Pro - Will Farrell for some reason thought that making a movie about the American
Basketball Association (ABA) would be fun. The dialogue is offensive from start
to finish. This movie is targeted at young adults, who by and large don't even
know the ABA even existed, and all the jokes from 1975 fall on deaf ears. This
movie is so bad and off track, completely pointless, not funny, offensive, awful!
2/ Blindness - Julianne Moore stars in a movie about a world gone blind. Except her for
some reason. Why? We have no idea. Why did everyone go blind? We have no
idea. Depressing, awful, terrible subject matter, this movie goes many times too
where it doesn't belong. Harsh, offensive to real blind people. Big money wasted.
3/ The Happening - M. Night Shyamalan again with a movie that is supposed to be scary but
wasn't. People dropping dead all over the world, why? We don't know, had
something to do with the wind. Harsh ending too. Mark Wahlberg stars
in a complete mess.
4/ My Best Friends Girl - Dane Cook stars in this train wreck. About a guy who treats women
horribly for profit? Don't get me started. Question. How many awful words can
you squeeze into a single movie for no good reason other than you can? For some
reason Kate Hudson went along for this ride, Jason Biggs too. No one on earth
should pay to see this disaster.
5/ The Love Guru - Mike Meyers again. Still thinks he's 23. He's not. Same jokes, same feel
as every other Myers flick. Some of those were pretty funny too. Not here. Old,
tired, juvenile. Grow up Mike! We all have!
Honorable Mentions:
1/ Zach And Miri Make A Porno - Worst attempt at "romantic comedy" in years.
2/ The Day The Earth Stood Still - ZZZZ!
3/ Speedracer - Best part? The end. Japanese words to tihe Speedracer theme.
I'll get out the Five Best Movie List of 2008, right after first of the year! See you at the movies!
Agree? Not? E-mail me and give me your thoughts scott@wqmx.com let's talk it over.
There are many not on this official list that have certainly earned a slot, and some of them will be honorably mentioned here, but there's only room for 5 so here we go. Starting with the worst.
The Worst Movies Of 2008
1/ Semi Pro - Will Farrell for some reason thought that making a movie about the American
Basketball Association (ABA) would be fun. The dialogue is offensive from start
to finish. This movie is targeted at young adults, who by and large don't even
know the ABA even existed, and all the jokes from 1975 fall on deaf ears. This
movie is so bad and off track, completely pointless, not funny, offensive, awful!
2/ Blindness - Julianne Moore stars in a movie about a world gone blind. Except her for
some reason. Why? We have no idea. Why did everyone go blind? We have no
idea. Depressing, awful, terrible subject matter, this movie goes many times too
where it doesn't belong. Harsh, offensive to real blind people. Big money wasted.
3/ The Happening - M. Night Shyamalan again with a movie that is supposed to be scary but
wasn't. People dropping dead all over the world, why? We don't know, had
something to do with the wind. Harsh ending too. Mark Wahlberg stars
in a complete mess.
4/ My Best Friends Girl - Dane Cook stars in this train wreck. About a guy who treats women
horribly for profit? Don't get me started. Question. How many awful words can
you squeeze into a single movie for no good reason other than you can? For some
reason Kate Hudson went along for this ride, Jason Biggs too. No one on earth
should pay to see this disaster.
5/ The Love Guru - Mike Meyers again. Still thinks he's 23. He's not. Same jokes, same feel
as every other Myers flick. Some of those were pretty funny too. Not here. Old,
tired, juvenile. Grow up Mike! We all have!
Honorable Mentions:
1/ Zach And Miri Make A Porno - Worst attempt at "romantic comedy" in years.
2/ The Day The Earth Stood Still - ZZZZ!
3/ Speedracer - Best part? The end. Japanese words to tihe Speedracer theme.
I'll get out the Five Best Movie List of 2008, right after first of the year! See you at the movies!
Agree? Not? E-mail me and give me your thoughts scott@wqmx.com let's talk it over.
MOVIE REVIEW - Marley And Me
One of the most heartfelt books in many years finally comes to the big screen this week in the form of Marley And Me. Owen Wilson and Jennifer Anniston star, along with Marley in this bound to be huge family movie of the holiday season.
Marley and Me is the story of two young newspaper writers who begin their marriage in South Florida, and the first addition to their young family is a young Labrador puppy, Marley. They buy Marley from a rescue and get him at a clearance price of two hundred dollars. Marley quickly becomes in their words, the worlds worst dog. Marley is certainly a handful.
Marley never gets over his fears of thunderstorms, chewing things, eating things, and generally being a pain in the neck. The story chronicles the life of a dog, and his relationship to their growing family. Marley is there for the birth of their three children, and through the ups and downs of their marriage. He's part of the overall plan. He moves with them, and goes through it all with them. It makes you stop and take notice, that no matter how much change goes on in your life, your dog is right there with you, and he/she still, loves you through it all.
M&M, is a very nice, moving and emotional movie. Very funny moments give way to some real sad ones as well. It follows a dog through his natural life, which of course is too short, and guides us through how we feel about our own dogs. Many times we don't we don't give it much thought. M&M makes you think about it a little harder. Dogs today are really more than just pets, they are family members, and Marley certainly can teach us that.
Marley and Me does have a problem or two, but nothing that diminishes it's value. It may be 15 minutes too long, and there is a time when it's gets a bit draggy. For some reason it turns into a human relationship movie, and Marley gets about 2o minutes off. That really didn't work for me. I understand you can only show a dog chewing so many things, but I felt M&M loses is focus for a time. BUT the end payoff is worth it. Word to the easily boo-hooey. The end of this movie is very emotional. Lot's of sobbing, and sniffing in the packed theater, tissues required.
Marley And Me. Not perfect, but well worth it. To it's credit it's a really great family movie, that's not animated, and it is right on target. All good movies start with a great story, and this is a great story. Dog lovers unite. Marley And Me..... two paws up!
Marley and Me is the story of two young newspaper writers who begin their marriage in South Florida, and the first addition to their young family is a young Labrador puppy, Marley. They buy Marley from a rescue and get him at a clearance price of two hundred dollars. Marley quickly becomes in their words, the worlds worst dog. Marley is certainly a handful.
Marley never gets over his fears of thunderstorms, chewing things, eating things, and generally being a pain in the neck. The story chronicles the life of a dog, and his relationship to their growing family. Marley is there for the birth of their three children, and through the ups and downs of their marriage. He's part of the overall plan. He moves with them, and goes through it all with them. It makes you stop and take notice, that no matter how much change goes on in your life, your dog is right there with you, and he/she still, loves you through it all.
M&M, is a very nice, moving and emotional movie. Very funny moments give way to some real sad ones as well. It follows a dog through his natural life, which of course is too short, and guides us through how we feel about our own dogs. Many times we don't we don't give it much thought. M&M makes you think about it a little harder. Dogs today are really more than just pets, they are family members, and Marley certainly can teach us that.
Marley and Me does have a problem or two, but nothing that diminishes it's value. It may be 15 minutes too long, and there is a time when it's gets a bit draggy. For some reason it turns into a human relationship movie, and Marley gets about 2o minutes off. That really didn't work for me. I understand you can only show a dog chewing so many things, but I felt M&M loses is focus for a time. BUT the end payoff is worth it. Word to the easily boo-hooey. The end of this movie is very emotional. Lot's of sobbing, and sniffing in the packed theater, tissues required.
Marley And Me. Not perfect, but well worth it. To it's credit it's a really great family movie, that's not animated, and it is right on target. All good movies start with a great story, and this is a great story. Dog lovers unite. Marley And Me..... two paws up!
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
MOVIE REVIEW - Yes Man!
Rubberfaced Jim Carrey is back in another comedy, this one is called Yes Man! It's been a while since we've seen Carrey, carry on like this. But here we go again!
Carl, (Carrey) is a big time stagnant loser whose life is going nowhere fast. He's divorced, and has never recovered. He is 40ish, has had the same job for years, and has fallen into a pessimistic pattern of avoiding everyone, and everything, and is addicted to the word "no." Carl then goes to a self help guru, whose mantra is "yes" to everything. Carl excepts the challenge, and then says yes to EVERYTHING! There are benefits and the world becomes a better place for Carl, but there are ramifications to always saying yes and that's the direction of the movie.
The plot thickens as Carl meets and falls for Allyson, (Zooey Deschanel) who herself is a little off-beat and dances to her own drum. She teaches a combination jogging/photography class, and sings in the worst Rock Band in history at a club that draws about 9 people a night. They set off on a bunch of adventures, with Carl always saying yes. Can he keep it up? Well, that's the challenge.
Yes Man, is not the rip-roaring Carrey of years past. There are moments of real laughter here, but they come well into the picture. Yes Man stumbles out of the gate, but does pick up steam as it moves on. Zooey Deschanel gives YM a real pick-me-up that it needs. She is an interesting actress. A little awkward, and quirky, and no where near the Hollywood type. There is an everydayness to her that really works. Is she pretty? Or is she just different enough to be really interesting? She is a great foil to Carrey here, and the chemistry between them is really quite nice. Fatal flaw for me in this one, not enough of them together in this movie and too many fringe and side characters. And many of them just don't work at all.
Is it enough to save Yes Man? Marginally yes. I don't think anyone is going to stagger out of the theater this weekend doubled up with laughter, but it's fun. It doesn't all work, and there are a few moments that needed to go on the cutting room floor, but over all if you're a Carrey fan, you'll be glad to see him again. I will tell you, this is not the laugh fest that Bruce Almighty, or Liar, Liar is but it's not The Cable Guy either.
Say yes to Yes Man, but don't go in expecting to roll in the aisles.
Carl, (Carrey) is a big time stagnant loser whose life is going nowhere fast. He's divorced, and has never recovered. He is 40ish, has had the same job for years, and has fallen into a pessimistic pattern of avoiding everyone, and everything, and is addicted to the word "no." Carl then goes to a self help guru, whose mantra is "yes" to everything. Carl excepts the challenge, and then says yes to EVERYTHING! There are benefits and the world becomes a better place for Carl, but there are ramifications to always saying yes and that's the direction of the movie.
The plot thickens as Carl meets and falls for Allyson, (Zooey Deschanel) who herself is a little off-beat and dances to her own drum. She teaches a combination jogging/photography class, and sings in the worst Rock Band in history at a club that draws about 9 people a night. They set off on a bunch of adventures, with Carl always saying yes. Can he keep it up? Well, that's the challenge.
Yes Man, is not the rip-roaring Carrey of years past. There are moments of real laughter here, but they come well into the picture. Yes Man stumbles out of the gate, but does pick up steam as it moves on. Zooey Deschanel gives YM a real pick-me-up that it needs. She is an interesting actress. A little awkward, and quirky, and no where near the Hollywood type. There is an everydayness to her that really works. Is she pretty? Or is she just different enough to be really interesting? She is a great foil to Carrey here, and the chemistry between them is really quite nice. Fatal flaw for me in this one, not enough of them together in this movie and too many fringe and side characters. And many of them just don't work at all.
Is it enough to save Yes Man? Marginally yes. I don't think anyone is going to stagger out of the theater this weekend doubled up with laughter, but it's fun. It doesn't all work, and there are a few moments that needed to go on the cutting room floor, but over all if you're a Carrey fan, you'll be glad to see him again. I will tell you, this is not the laugh fest that Bruce Almighty, or Liar, Liar is but it's not The Cable Guy either.
Say yes to Yes Man, but don't go in expecting to roll in the aisles.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Top Five Christmas Movies Of All Time!
The guys at Akronnewsnow.com asked me to come up with the list of my top five Christmas Flicks of all time. I remember three months ago when Akronscreams.com, our Halloween website asked me for my top five Scariest Flicks of all time, and I heard about it the whole month. Both pro and con. So here we go,
My Top Five Christmas Movies Of All Time:
1/ A Christmas Story - (1983) You know, even the toughest Scrooge out there finds it hard
not to love this flick. It is among the most relatable movies of all time. So many
memorable scenes, and the dogs at the end? The goose? The fa rarara's?
2/ The Polar Express - (2004) Well unbelievable movie making to start with. And a
fantastic adaptation of a great, great book. Visually stunning, and there's
something about Tom Hanks at Christmas that's just good!
3/ It's a Wonderful Life - (1946) I'm not as big of a fan of this movie as many others, but it's
tough not to like this. Jimmy Stewart at his young best, and I always thought
Donna Reed was underrated as an actress. This is a bit long for me, but still
a classic!
4/ While You Were Sleeping - (1993) Here is the surprise on the list. Some will say, that it's
Not a Christmas movie, but I beg to differ. It takes place from Christmas Eve
through the holiday season, and follows a single woman and her "new" family.
Sandra Bullock when she was new, and this movie is perfectly cast from top to
bottom.
5/ White Christmas - (1954) Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. Of course the big song, written
by Irving Berlin. This movie will be played for generations to come. Bing at
his best!
Honorable Mentions -
1/ Home Alone (1990) - Fun, a little thin...but fun.
2/ Elf (2005) Will Farrel to be honest I feel was never better than he was here!
3/ Holiday Inn - (1942) Fred Astaire and Bing Crosby, music again by Irving Berlin.
plot? well..Okay but fun!
ScottWynn
My Top Five Christmas Movies Of All Time:
1/ A Christmas Story - (1983) You know, even the toughest Scrooge out there finds it hard
not to love this flick. It is among the most relatable movies of all time. So many
memorable scenes, and the dogs at the end? The goose? The fa rarara's?
2/ The Polar Express - (2004) Well unbelievable movie making to start with. And a
fantastic adaptation of a great, great book. Visually stunning, and there's
something about Tom Hanks at Christmas that's just good!
3/ It's a Wonderful Life - (1946) I'm not as big of a fan of this movie as many others, but it's
tough not to like this. Jimmy Stewart at his young best, and I always thought
Donna Reed was underrated as an actress. This is a bit long for me, but still
a classic!
4/ While You Were Sleeping - (1993) Here is the surprise on the list. Some will say, that it's
Not a Christmas movie, but I beg to differ. It takes place from Christmas Eve
through the holiday season, and follows a single woman and her "new" family.
Sandra Bullock when she was new, and this movie is perfectly cast from top to
bottom.
5/ White Christmas - (1954) Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. Of course the big song, written
by Irving Berlin. This movie will be played for generations to come. Bing at
his best!
Honorable Mentions -
1/ Home Alone (1990) - Fun, a little thin...but fun.
2/ Elf (2005) Will Farrel to be honest I feel was never better than he was here!
3/ Holiday Inn - (1942) Fred Astaire and Bing Crosby, music again by Irving Berlin.
plot? well..Okay but fun!
ScottWynn
Friday, December 19, 2008
MOVIE REVIEW - Seven Pounds
Will Smith has a new movie out just in time for the holidays, but it's anything but festive, and it's called Seven Pounds. Up front, SP is a very adult, heavy drama that deals with many big-time issues facing our main character, "Ben" played by Smith.
Ben is seemingly a nice, 30 something single IRS debt collector who goes about his job in many unorthodox ways. He is a strange man, and in SP's beginning you have no idea what lies beneath his surface. SP DOES have one of the most unusual beginnings you'll ever see. As SP moves on you begin to understand that Ben is a very troubled soul, dealing, or not dealing with a past that is much too unbearable for him to face.
Ben seems obsessed with Emily, (Rosario Dawson.) Emily is a beautiful, young single woman with a bad prognosis of heart disease. She is in big debt to the IRS because of mounting medical bills, and Ben goes to collect. A romance ensues, and the mystery deepens. Who is Ben, and what does he want with Emily? And with many other fringe characters he seems obsessed with? All incidentally with serious health issues as well. He seems to be fixated on all these characters ills, and you do spend a good deal of Seven Pounds wondering why. Again - good.
SP though is not for everyone. It is deeply emotional, and very tough to face sometimes. SP is a story too that hasn't been told before which is to it's credit. But SP does make one huge mistake that takes only about 3 seconds. I won't tell you what it is, but it would have been far more compelling without a glance over Ben's shoulder in one of the movies middle scenes. Those three seconds give far too much away and takes out some of the mystery. One mans opinion. You may disagree. In short, I wouldn't call Seven Pounds a fun night at the flicks. But it's certainly not a bad one either.
Smith of course is very well cast in SP but to be honest, the real command performance belongs to the stunning Rosario Dawson. She gives Emily real depth, bringing a real confidence and vulnerability to a young woman facing the end much too soon. She is perfectly cast as a relative unknown compared to others in Hollywood. She is brilliant here, and really makes SP go. A truly great performance in a really heavy flick.
Seven Pounds is deep, powerful, emotional, and at times difficult to face as a movie goer. This is not light Will Smith. Seven Pounds though does break through and doesn't disappoint. Although the timing of the release is curious. The company you keep in going to SP could be key. Many tough issues are addressed here, and could be troubling to some.
As an avid movie goer I sign off on Seven Pounds. But it's a hard, hard movie. Not for all.
Ben is seemingly a nice, 30 something single IRS debt collector who goes about his job in many unorthodox ways. He is a strange man, and in SP's beginning you have no idea what lies beneath his surface. SP DOES have one of the most unusual beginnings you'll ever see. As SP moves on you begin to understand that Ben is a very troubled soul, dealing, or not dealing with a past that is much too unbearable for him to face.
Ben seems obsessed with Emily, (Rosario Dawson.) Emily is a beautiful, young single woman with a bad prognosis of heart disease. She is in big debt to the IRS because of mounting medical bills, and Ben goes to collect. A romance ensues, and the mystery deepens. Who is Ben, and what does he want with Emily? And with many other fringe characters he seems obsessed with? All incidentally with serious health issues as well. He seems to be fixated on all these characters ills, and you do spend a good deal of Seven Pounds wondering why. Again - good.
SP though is not for everyone. It is deeply emotional, and very tough to face sometimes. SP is a story too that hasn't been told before which is to it's credit. But SP does make one huge mistake that takes only about 3 seconds. I won't tell you what it is, but it would have been far more compelling without a glance over Ben's shoulder in one of the movies middle scenes. Those three seconds give far too much away and takes out some of the mystery. One mans opinion. You may disagree. In short, I wouldn't call Seven Pounds a fun night at the flicks. But it's certainly not a bad one either.
Smith of course is very well cast in SP but to be honest, the real command performance belongs to the stunning Rosario Dawson. She gives Emily real depth, bringing a real confidence and vulnerability to a young woman facing the end much too soon. She is perfectly cast as a relative unknown compared to others in Hollywood. She is brilliant here, and really makes SP go. A truly great performance in a really heavy flick.
Seven Pounds is deep, powerful, emotional, and at times difficult to face as a movie goer. This is not light Will Smith. Seven Pounds though does break through and doesn't disappoint. Although the timing of the release is curious. The company you keep in going to SP could be key. Many tough issues are addressed here, and could be troubling to some.
As an avid movie goer I sign off on Seven Pounds. But it's a hard, hard movie. Not for all.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
MOVIE REVIEW - The Day The Earth Stood Still
Keanu Reeves stars in the remake of the 1951 classic, The Day The Earth Stood Still. Jennifer Connolly and Jaden Smith decided to jump on this sinking ship as well, trying to give some heart and soul to a hollow movie. Better decisions have been made.
The original struck a nerve with fans by making it a "cold war" themed movie that at the time was timely and honestly struck fear into our hearts. This version switches that a bit, and goes the Eco route. Aliens come to the earth with the intention of wiping out humanity in order to save the planet. We are the problem, not the earth. We are destroying it, and they are here take back earth after observing it from a far for generations. There's truth to the whole thing in premise, but as far as compelling movie making is concerned. Well...no.
But let's forget the whole plot and premise thing for a minute. It's just boring. Reeves is boring, the whole mess is boring, with nothing to really hang it's hat on. Reeves is the "head alien" of sorts, and his simple speech, and mannerisms, probably right on with how an alien would act...it's just boring.
Special effects are decent, what there are of them. Smith, and Connolly are livable, but the supporting cast, and subplots are laughable, and that includes the very talented Kathy Bates who plays the Secretary of Defense. Shame to, she is usually so good but there's not much to work with here. Subplots dumb, and dialogue even worse..sheesh! The flick also has an ending that will leave many cold, and scratching their heads. There are just so many other big movies out or on the way, this is a misser.
The Day The Earth Stood Still. The original is what it is. Maybe it was just better off left alone. The only thing that stood still today at the movies for me was time. It's the only two hour movie that took me four hours to see - seemingly.
The original struck a nerve with fans by making it a "cold war" themed movie that at the time was timely and honestly struck fear into our hearts. This version switches that a bit, and goes the Eco route. Aliens come to the earth with the intention of wiping out humanity in order to save the planet. We are the problem, not the earth. We are destroying it, and they are here take back earth after observing it from a far for generations. There's truth to the whole thing in premise, but as far as compelling movie making is concerned. Well...no.
But let's forget the whole plot and premise thing for a minute. It's just boring. Reeves is boring, the whole mess is boring, with nothing to really hang it's hat on. Reeves is the "head alien" of sorts, and his simple speech, and mannerisms, probably right on with how an alien would act...it's just boring.
Special effects are decent, what there are of them. Smith, and Connolly are livable, but the supporting cast, and subplots are laughable, and that includes the very talented Kathy Bates who plays the Secretary of Defense. Shame to, she is usually so good but there's not much to work with here. Subplots dumb, and dialogue even worse..sheesh! The flick also has an ending that will leave many cold, and scratching their heads. There are just so many other big movies out or on the way, this is a misser.
The Day The Earth Stood Still. The original is what it is. Maybe it was just better off left alone. The only thing that stood still today at the movies for me was time. It's the only two hour movie that took me four hours to see - seemingly.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Do You Know A Hazel Marie?
Before I start this holiday article, I want to state this is not written with any angst, or with an ungrateful heart. It is simply a look back at a real person and events in my life that all these many years later, I have to look back and laugh upon.
Meet Hazel Marie. She married my mom's father "Doc" before I was born. My mother's mother, Stella, died in the 1950's. Hazel Marie was born in 1908, and this would be her 100th birth year if she was still with us. She was the only "grandmother" I ever knew. She ascended to legendary status in our family for one reason. She was cheap, and gave without question the tackiest Christmas gifts of all time and not by a little.
This went on for years. It wasn't the money either. Doc had been a successful doctor for many years with his own practice.
Hazel Marie was a seemingly nice woman that had to be experienced. But I'll try. For a living she played the harp at funerals. I remember her and Doc loading the 9,000 pound harp in its case in the back of the Mercury station wagon and trucking it off to a funeral where some poor soul was being honored. She also employed a house keeper who lived upstairs at their Lakewood home. Her name was Hattie. Hattie, at that time, was four feet, three inches tall and about 176 years old. Hazel Marie, who was about 110 years her junior, used to watch Hattie do most of the housework, especially on holidays. (Always thought that was a little strange.) So as you can see, Hazel Marie was cut from a different cloth.
Hazel Marie got the gift-giving going one fine year by giving all the women in the family the elegant gift of jewelry. But not just ANY jewelry, oh no. For my mom, my sister, my aunt and younger cousins, she made paper clip necklaces and bracelets - paper clips strung together and covered with contact paper of all colors! All wrapped up in a beautiful box about the size that a sweater would come in. This was the main gift to all. Funny, not being a joke.... we still laugh about it three decades later.
How about crocheted coat hangers? She'd take two or three regular wire hangers, and crochet them together in various college team colors - Ohio State and Baldwin Wallace were prevalent. We were all Buckeye fans, and my mom was teaching at B-W at the time. Funny, every now and again, one of those gems surfaces at my mom's house, and we smile. And giving credit where it's due, they held up and still work today.
Hazel Marie's crowning achievement though came the year all the men, including my dad, uncles, my brother, ME, and Doc got monogrammed jock straps! She made them at her house. Can you imagine sitting around watching TV, and someone's monogramming a jock strap in your presence? Where was Doc? And from what I've been told from extensive family research, the initials were made out of colorful sequins! These have gone down in Wynn Family lore as the gift that keeps on giving. We still howl about it every year!
Hazel Marie also used to dabble in an old craft called copper enameling that never seemed to come out right. We don't remember it as much as the others. I mean, where do you go after the jock straps? That's pretty much the zenith of any gift-giving career!
After hosting morning shows for almost 30 years on radio, I finally told the jock straps story on Friday's show in prime time 6:35 am! My partner Sue Wilson made it possible. I mean you've got to be in studio with someone you're really comfortable with to tell that bit of family history. She didn't know the story ahead of time, and I know she didn't see it coming. And she laughed like few times before. Then she stated with proper perspective, that that is one of those priceless family stories that we all have, that will be told for years to come. And she's right.
Hazel Marie is long passed on. She's now in that tacky craft barn in the sky. She did live a long life and had plenty of money to do it.... so good for her. So maybe she had the last laugh in the end. All because of tacky jock straps! Whodathunkit? Incidentally, none of them were ever worn. Much too fancy.
Truth be told....Sue and I had the last laugh Friday at 6:35am.....or maybe it's just a continuation of a family laugh that has been echoing for 30 years. With honesty, Hazel Marie didn't know that year she was giving us more than just the Cadillac of athletic lingerie; she was giving us a family story that has been enjoyed far longer than even the most durable of jock straps.
So in the end I must say, thanks Hazel Marie, thank you!
Meet Hazel Marie. She married my mom's father "Doc" before I was born. My mother's mother, Stella, died in the 1950's. Hazel Marie was born in 1908, and this would be her 100th birth year if she was still with us. She was the only "grandmother" I ever knew. She ascended to legendary status in our family for one reason. She was cheap, and gave without question the tackiest Christmas gifts of all time and not by a little.
This went on for years. It wasn't the money either. Doc had been a successful doctor for many years with his own practice.
Hazel Marie was a seemingly nice woman that had to be experienced. But I'll try. For a living she played the harp at funerals. I remember her and Doc loading the 9,000 pound harp in its case in the back of the Mercury station wagon and trucking it off to a funeral where some poor soul was being honored. She also employed a house keeper who lived upstairs at their Lakewood home. Her name was Hattie. Hattie, at that time, was four feet, three inches tall and about 176 years old. Hazel Marie, who was about 110 years her junior, used to watch Hattie do most of the housework, especially on holidays. (Always thought that was a little strange.) So as you can see, Hazel Marie was cut from a different cloth.
Hazel Marie got the gift-giving going one fine year by giving all the women in the family the elegant gift of jewelry. But not just ANY jewelry, oh no. For my mom, my sister, my aunt and younger cousins, she made paper clip necklaces and bracelets - paper clips strung together and covered with contact paper of all colors! All wrapped up in a beautiful box about the size that a sweater would come in. This was the main gift to all. Funny, not being a joke.... we still laugh about it three decades later.
How about crocheted coat hangers? She'd take two or three regular wire hangers, and crochet them together in various college team colors - Ohio State and Baldwin Wallace were prevalent. We were all Buckeye fans, and my mom was teaching at B-W at the time. Funny, every now and again, one of those gems surfaces at my mom's house, and we smile. And giving credit where it's due, they held up and still work today.
Hazel Marie's crowning achievement though came the year all the men, including my dad, uncles, my brother, ME, and Doc got monogrammed jock straps! She made them at her house. Can you imagine sitting around watching TV, and someone's monogramming a jock strap in your presence? Where was Doc? And from what I've been told from extensive family research, the initials were made out of colorful sequins! These have gone down in Wynn Family lore as the gift that keeps on giving. We still howl about it every year!
Hazel Marie also used to dabble in an old craft called copper enameling that never seemed to come out right. We don't remember it as much as the others. I mean, where do you go after the jock straps? That's pretty much the zenith of any gift-giving career!
After hosting morning shows for almost 30 years on radio, I finally told the jock straps story on Friday's show in prime time 6:35 am! My partner Sue Wilson made it possible. I mean you've got to be in studio with someone you're really comfortable with to tell that bit of family history. She didn't know the story ahead of time, and I know she didn't see it coming. And she laughed like few times before. Then she stated with proper perspective, that that is one of those priceless family stories that we all have, that will be told for years to come. And she's right.
Hazel Marie is long passed on. She's now in that tacky craft barn in the sky. She did live a long life and had plenty of money to do it.... so good for her. So maybe she had the last laugh in the end. All because of tacky jock straps! Whodathunkit? Incidentally, none of them were ever worn. Much too fancy.
Truth be told....Sue and I had the last laugh Friday at 6:35am.....or maybe it's just a continuation of a family laugh that has been echoing for 30 years. With honesty, Hazel Marie didn't know that year she was giving us more than just the Cadillac of athletic lingerie; she was giving us a family story that has been enjoyed far longer than even the most durable of jock straps.
So in the end I must say, thanks Hazel Marie, thank you!
Friday, December 12, 2008
MOVIE REVIEW - Nothing Like The Holidays
Hey, what if they made a movie and absolutely nothing happened in it? Would you see it? What if there was no plot, no action, no real story, just a movie with people and a dysfunctional Christmas. Well, then go see Nothing Like The Holidays. A feeble attempt at I think a Christmas comedy, with some drama, but I'm still not sure.
It's the story of the Rodriguez family who live in Chicago in a very middle class neighborhood. Jessie is the youngest of three children, and he is just home from Iraq for the holidays. His older brother and his wife from New York are in too, and the single sister from California makes the trip as well. Then let the dysfunction begin!!
They've all got problems! Mom and dad are getting a divorce. No one gets along, no one is who they seem to be, and arguing is the centerpiece of their lives. Let's try to toss in some gang related issues, some sort of jilted love story thing, and what you've got is one big mess!
NLTH misses every boat there is to miss. Literally NOTHING happens in this debacle. In addition to the above, it even tries to turn into a terminal illness movie to give it some heart, but that fails too. It's just awful. I'm not sure if I've seen a movie in years that is so short on plot of any kind. I literally have NO idea why they made this movie, and I have NO idea how movie makers could not see they had nothing...NOTHING to work with here.
Nothing Like The Holidays. Well at least they got the NOTHING part of it right. Do anything in your power to miss this. Not worth you time or dime. But don't feel bad, the makers of this gem ...missed it too, in every way possible.
It's the story of the Rodriguez family who live in Chicago in a very middle class neighborhood. Jessie is the youngest of three children, and he is just home from Iraq for the holidays. His older brother and his wife from New York are in too, and the single sister from California makes the trip as well. Then let the dysfunction begin!!
They've all got problems! Mom and dad are getting a divorce. No one gets along, no one is who they seem to be, and arguing is the centerpiece of their lives. Let's try to toss in some gang related issues, some sort of jilted love story thing, and what you've got is one big mess!
NLTH misses every boat there is to miss. Literally NOTHING happens in this debacle. In addition to the above, it even tries to turn into a terminal illness movie to give it some heart, but that fails too. It's just awful. I'm not sure if I've seen a movie in years that is so short on plot of any kind. I literally have NO idea why they made this movie, and I have NO idea how movie makers could not see they had nothing...NOTHING to work with here.
Nothing Like The Holidays. Well at least they got the NOTHING part of it right. Do anything in your power to miss this. Not worth you time or dime. But don't feel bad, the makers of this gem ...missed it too, in every way possible.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
The Market Street Miracle
Many things became apparent to me during the WQMX Tree Of Lights campaign this year. Among them was that there was no doubt that this year you somehow would donate more than any year previous. During the toughest collective economic time that any of us can literally remember, you came through.
Was it the actual cause, The Haven Of Rest? They've been providing and invaluable service to Akron 65 years. Was it the tradition of the actual Tree idea going back to the WSLR days at O'Neils downtown? One of the above is an amazing organization that puts people's lives back together and the other simply tries to bring people together for a good cause. Both are noble and good.
It's been hard not to think about what happened these past few days since it ended a number of hours ago. In the distance, there was a perfect storm brewing for disappointment. The tough economy, local layoffs, and the tightening of belts in households all over Northeast Ohio. Before you set out, you saw the storm on the horizon. You decided you would read your compass with your heart, and bear the wind in your face, and journey to the Tree Of Lights.
Under all of those circumstances, it's hard not to be in awe of the inherent good in good people. When the tough times are shared by more than a few, it puts it in perspective for all. Examples? You came from Akron, Kent, Aurora, Massillon, Medina, Ashland, and all points surrounding, and in between. You came from big cities, and towns unheard of in some cases. And one guy drove in from Sandusky at the final minute in the snow to drop off his one hundred dollars. None of you had to......and now it's obvious to all...... you wanted to. You wanted to be a part of something that was special.
Over $40,000 for the Tree Of Lights from you this year. For an Akron tradition that brings some holiday joy to all that wish to share in it, from 1795 West Market Street. We Thank you!
But with all things in proper perspective, The Real Market Street Miracle happens every minute of every day on the other side of Main, on East Market Street at the Haven Of Rest. Whose passionate people today can breathe a little easier, if only for a minute and tend to the needs of those in need because of your generosity and belief in them and the miracles they provide.
The Market Street Miracle. Today you should be proud of the fact that you provided a miracle to the wonderful people that usually supply the miracles to those who need one. The Haven Of Rest. Thanks from all......to all!
Scott
Was it the actual cause, The Haven Of Rest? They've been providing and invaluable service to Akron 65 years. Was it the tradition of the actual Tree idea going back to the WSLR days at O'Neils downtown? One of the above is an amazing organization that puts people's lives back together and the other simply tries to bring people together for a good cause. Both are noble and good.
It's been hard not to think about what happened these past few days since it ended a number of hours ago. In the distance, there was a perfect storm brewing for disappointment. The tough economy, local layoffs, and the tightening of belts in households all over Northeast Ohio. Before you set out, you saw the storm on the horizon. You decided you would read your compass with your heart, and bear the wind in your face, and journey to the Tree Of Lights.
Under all of those circumstances, it's hard not to be in awe of the inherent good in good people. When the tough times are shared by more than a few, it puts it in perspective for all. Examples? You came from Akron, Kent, Aurora, Massillon, Medina, Ashland, and all points surrounding, and in between. You came from big cities, and towns unheard of in some cases. And one guy drove in from Sandusky at the final minute in the snow to drop off his one hundred dollars. None of you had to......and now it's obvious to all...... you wanted to. You wanted to be a part of something that was special.
Over $40,000 for the Tree Of Lights from you this year. For an Akron tradition that brings some holiday joy to all that wish to share in it, from 1795 West Market Street. We Thank you!
But with all things in proper perspective, The Real Market Street Miracle happens every minute of every day on the other side of Main, on East Market Street at the Haven Of Rest. Whose passionate people today can breathe a little easier, if only for a minute and tend to the needs of those in need because of your generosity and belief in them and the miracles they provide.
The Market Street Miracle. Today you should be proud of the fact that you provided a miracle to the wonderful people that usually supply the miracles to those who need one. The Haven Of Rest. Thanks from all......to all!
Scott
Thursday, December 4, 2008
MOVIE REVIEW - Australia
Australia is the big epic, love story movie out for this holiday season. Much anticipation, and hype which many times is the kiss of death for a big budget movie. But not here.
I am generally not a fan of these kind of movies. Usually too long, too complicated, and too over the top. That was my huge problem with Titanic, and Pearl Harbor and others like it. Too over the top, give me something that moves me but doesn't insult me with some kind opposites attract, sappy love story where people can't live without each other ofter one day. Australia is intelligent, and savvy. I feel they have learned from those mistakes.
Meet Lady Ashley (Nicole Kidman) , and The Drover (Hugh Jackman.) She is the British wife of a supposed cattle baron in the northern part of Australia in 1939. After her husband is murdered by a rival cattle company, she goes to Australia looking for answers. She travels to the The Faraway Downs Ranch, which she now owns with the help of The Drover, who is an expert on the Aussie Outback. She then attempts to revive her business against all odds. The love story insues and the adventure begins, culminating with the Japanese bombing Australia in 1942.
It's a very complicated story, and is sort of three movies in one, but Australia is fantastic! I am not a Kidman fan, but she is great here. Hugh Jackman is the next mega-star thanks to this movie. This is a break out role for him, and she has never been better. This movie is beautifully filmed, shot, and acted. Toss in a big soundtrack, terrific supporting performances, and a story I guarantee you don't know, and have never seen before. You then have one of the years best movies. I will tell you it's a big two-hour forty five minute investment, but it's worth it.
What carries this movie over the finish line is the story. Maybe where Pearl Harbor, or Titanic fell short with me is that the overriding story was well known. Australia is a based on true events, but the story I promise you you don't know. That is Australia's bread and butter.
Biggest surprise for me this year, Australia. One of the years best movies to be sure. Great for a date night. Violence minimal, language more than tame, it does tackle some tough issues though, including racism, so be aware if that's a sensitive issue for you. Best for adults, it's long, and not really understandable for the younger set. It also may be a movie-goers movie. Australia will more than likely not be attractive to the once a year movie goer.
Australia. Just flat out great!
I am generally not a fan of these kind of movies. Usually too long, too complicated, and too over the top. That was my huge problem with Titanic, and Pearl Harbor and others like it. Too over the top, give me something that moves me but doesn't insult me with some kind opposites attract, sappy love story where people can't live without each other ofter one day. Australia is intelligent, and savvy. I feel they have learned from those mistakes.
Meet Lady Ashley (Nicole Kidman) , and The Drover (Hugh Jackman.) She is the British wife of a supposed cattle baron in the northern part of Australia in 1939. After her husband is murdered by a rival cattle company, she goes to Australia looking for answers. She travels to the The Faraway Downs Ranch, which she now owns with the help of The Drover, who is an expert on the Aussie Outback. She then attempts to revive her business against all odds. The love story insues and the adventure begins, culminating with the Japanese bombing Australia in 1942.
It's a very complicated story, and is sort of three movies in one, but Australia is fantastic! I am not a Kidman fan, but she is great here. Hugh Jackman is the next mega-star thanks to this movie. This is a break out role for him, and she has never been better. This movie is beautifully filmed, shot, and acted. Toss in a big soundtrack, terrific supporting performances, and a story I guarantee you don't know, and have never seen before. You then have one of the years best movies. I will tell you it's a big two-hour forty five minute investment, but it's worth it.
What carries this movie over the finish line is the story. Maybe where Pearl Harbor, or Titanic fell short with me is that the overriding story was well known. Australia is a based on true events, but the story I promise you you don't know. That is Australia's bread and butter.
Biggest surprise for me this year, Australia. One of the years best movies to be sure. Great for a date night. Violence minimal, language more than tame, it does tackle some tough issues though, including racism, so be aware if that's a sensitive issue for you. Best for adults, it's long, and not really understandable for the younger set. It also may be a movie-goers movie. Australia will more than likely not be attractive to the once a year movie goer.
Australia. Just flat out great!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Generosity
I glanced back and saw that I've written about this before, but on the eve of one of our really big charity fundraisers, The WQMX Tree Of Lights, thought it was worth revisiting. For three emotional days we will be raising money to light our 3 story "Tree" at the station, all while raising money for the Haven Of Rest in Akron. A worthy recipient to be sure.
I really believe in the TOL, and have since coming to WQMX in 2001 from WPCV in Lakeland, Florida. While in Florida, I started a reading program where I went to elementary schools to read to K-3rd graders about once a week. A program I want to start back up in Akron after the first of the year. The reason was simple, it made me feel good about what I do for a living. I gave a little back to a community that had given to me. And the TOL does the same thing.
Every year generous people show up at the TOL and give what they can, and we always get the tree lit. This year may be a bit more challenging with the economy and all, but I have faith that all will be fine. And every year you can't help but be amazed by the generosity of your friends and neighbors.
Generous people are amazing. They always give to whatever is being undertaken, and almost without exception say, "Gosh, I wish I could do more." And I believe them completely. You seldom see a giver say, "All right, go ahead take the money, sheesh....if I have too." That's not the DNA of a giver. Generous people give because they have a core belief that it's the right thing to do. And it is. They have more than a smile on their face, they have a smile in their heart.
As a result of that, generous people are also the happiest people you'll know. Seldom is a generous person not thrilled to be alive, and fun to be around. They bring you up, change the dynamics of a room just by walking into it, and set a pace for others to follow. They propagate more generosity around themselves, and plant the seed in you ...if you're paying attention. They understand that giving is good for the heart, and doesn't do the soul any harm either. They give money, time and of themselves. And many times....give all three.
We all enjoy seeing many familiar faces at the TOL, and new ones too. We hope to see yours there this week. We have some that have made it out every year, and give larger gifts every time. Kids too amaze me. They give their piggy banks, or large bottles of change that they've saved all year for just those few moments of handing it over to the TOL. Guess it doesn't hurt to start them early. And no matter who you are, we appreciate all of you that show up and give every single year.
It's Tree Of Lights time! And when you help us light the tree, you can drive by and shine as bright as the beautiful tree, knowing your generosity help to make it so.
I really believe in the TOL, and have since coming to WQMX in 2001 from WPCV in Lakeland, Florida. While in Florida, I started a reading program where I went to elementary schools to read to K-3rd graders about once a week. A program I want to start back up in Akron after the first of the year. The reason was simple, it made me feel good about what I do for a living. I gave a little back to a community that had given to me. And the TOL does the same thing.
Every year generous people show up at the TOL and give what they can, and we always get the tree lit. This year may be a bit more challenging with the economy and all, but I have faith that all will be fine. And every year you can't help but be amazed by the generosity of your friends and neighbors.
Generous people are amazing. They always give to whatever is being undertaken, and almost without exception say, "Gosh, I wish I could do more." And I believe them completely. You seldom see a giver say, "All right, go ahead take the money, sheesh....if I have too." That's not the DNA of a giver. Generous people give because they have a core belief that it's the right thing to do. And it is. They have more than a smile on their face, they have a smile in their heart.
As a result of that, generous people are also the happiest people you'll know. Seldom is a generous person not thrilled to be alive, and fun to be around. They bring you up, change the dynamics of a room just by walking into it, and set a pace for others to follow. They propagate more generosity around themselves, and plant the seed in you ...if you're paying attention. They understand that giving is good for the heart, and doesn't do the soul any harm either. They give money, time and of themselves. And many times....give all three.
We all enjoy seeing many familiar faces at the TOL, and new ones too. We hope to see yours there this week. We have some that have made it out every year, and give larger gifts every time. Kids too amaze me. They give their piggy banks, or large bottles of change that they've saved all year for just those few moments of handing it over to the TOL. Guess it doesn't hurt to start them early. And no matter who you are, we appreciate all of you that show up and give every single year.
It's Tree Of Lights time! And when you help us light the tree, you can drive by and shine as bright as the beautiful tree, knowing your generosity help to make it so.
Monday, December 1, 2008
MOVIE REVIEW - Four Christmases
Every year there is a new batch of Christmas comedies at the box office, an this year Four Christmases was the most anticipated. Vince Vaughn, and Reece Witherspoon star in this off-beat holiday comedy as well as many other big Hollywood stars, including, Robert Duvall, Jon Voight, Tim McGraw and Dwight Yoakum.
Meet Kate (Witherspoon) and Brad (Vaughn.) They are this seemingly nauseatingly happy 30 ish year old couple that live together. They have nothing but time and money, and spend most of their time running around the world vacationing and avoiding their families, especially at the holidays. But as luck would have it, they have to spend Christmas this year with all four of their natural parents, and all of their new spouses. All of them wacky and nutty, and in the end surprisingly...normal.
FC does have some real funny moments, and also some sophomoric tricks as well. To it's credit, it doesn't fly off in the gutter, like you're thinking it will at any minute. And even though not all of this really works, the underlying story that runs throughout all of the good, and not good hy-jinx, does survive and land on it's feet. Do Brad and Kate really know each other, and will they grow up, or just play house and travel the world together? Sort of coming of age!
Vince Vaughn is what he is. He generally makes people laugh, and puts butts in seats at the box office. But make NO mistake. This movie belongs to Reece Witherspoon. Ever since her Oscar winning Walk The Line, she is operating on a different level. In this limited role, she is funny, compelling, and totally believable. 'Spoon is easy to watch, and relate to. In fact she is way too smart for this movie, but she hangs in there, and gives this picture a texture, and a feel it would not have had with lesser and more cookie cutter talents, that could have been cast here, say Cameron Diaz, Drew Barrymore and the others in that category. This movie had to have 'Spoon, and she makes it work.
Four Christmases. Funny? Yes! Problems? A few. But overall fun, and most anyone can enjoy it. Full of relateable humor, and some pushing of the envelope too. 90 minutes too it doesn't wear out it's welcome. 'Spoon saves ...Four Christmases!
Meet Kate (Witherspoon) and Brad (Vaughn.) They are this seemingly nauseatingly happy 30 ish year old couple that live together. They have nothing but time and money, and spend most of their time running around the world vacationing and avoiding their families, especially at the holidays. But as luck would have it, they have to spend Christmas this year with all four of their natural parents, and all of their new spouses. All of them wacky and nutty, and in the end surprisingly...normal.
FC does have some real funny moments, and also some sophomoric tricks as well. To it's credit, it doesn't fly off in the gutter, like you're thinking it will at any minute. And even though not all of this really works, the underlying story that runs throughout all of the good, and not good hy-jinx, does survive and land on it's feet. Do Brad and Kate really know each other, and will they grow up, or just play house and travel the world together? Sort of coming of age!
Vince Vaughn is what he is. He generally makes people laugh, and puts butts in seats at the box office. But make NO mistake. This movie belongs to Reece Witherspoon. Ever since her Oscar winning Walk The Line, she is operating on a different level. In this limited role, she is funny, compelling, and totally believable. 'Spoon is easy to watch, and relate to. In fact she is way too smart for this movie, but she hangs in there, and gives this picture a texture, and a feel it would not have had with lesser and more cookie cutter talents, that could have been cast here, say Cameron Diaz, Drew Barrymore and the others in that category. This movie had to have 'Spoon, and she makes it work.
Four Christmases. Funny? Yes! Problems? A few. But overall fun, and most anyone can enjoy it. Full of relateable humor, and some pushing of the envelope too. 90 minutes too it doesn't wear out it's welcome. 'Spoon saves ...Four Christmases!
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