This weekend The Dewsweepers loaded up and headed out to Hinckley at a fun course called Valleaire, right on the Medina/Cuyahoga County Line at the end of Boston Road. We all agree that Valleaire is pretty good golf. Challenging, but still a place where good ball striking can lead to low scores.
Valleaire to it's credit and charm is a no-nonsense facility. The humble clubhouse sits right on the 1st and 10th tee boxes, and friendly people always get your experience off to a good start. Tee times area good idea.
Valleaire is not overly long, but there is a bit of everything which makes it fun. Some long holes, some on a hill, some with elevated greens, some with a bit of water, there is some sand, a bunch of trees. Just a real nice mix of a few kinds of courses that make it play interestingly, and make you use all of your skills and clubs. Going out there and whamming away with the driver is not the smartest play all day long. Although Valleaire seems harmless enough as you stand on number one tee and look out at a short 285 yard par 4 up the hill. Don't let it lull you to sleep. Number 2 is all the par 4 you'll want to play at 430 yards to a tough to hit green. A living, breathing double bogey if you play it wrong.
This was the weekend that the Dewsweepers crossed over into some better golf. We all played very well, and enjoyed the great weather and fine course conditions. Beef was sailing along carefree on the front with a bevy of good shots until a bit of unraveling on number 5 a tricky par 4, where he took a double with a 1 putt. Then he got a totally unlucky break on the par 3 number 9 off the hill as he ended up in the plant box. We called it "Beef In the Box". But over all Beef was solid all day posting a very tidy 83, with 2 birdies and ton of pars, and real consistant play. Beef also threw one into the drink on the par 5 number 16, and somehow I ended up in the ditch fishing it out. We all had a laugh on that. But, that's what you do for buddies you've known 30 years. Made a nice photo opp!
Tex hit the ball as well as he has all year. Tex was striking the ball well off the tee, and of course played a nice short game around the green. He banked a few pars, including all 4 par 3's. Always good for the card. Good scoring on par 3's help any round. Well done! Tex had a tough stretch of doubles on the front, 3-6. But survived, and moved on.
Joe Red hit the ball well most of the day, although he did almost kill us on number 2, with a bad pull left, but all was good. But his putting was suspect. Red wrestled on the front, but recovered nicely on the back, eliminating short game errors, and and put up a nice 88, after shooting an uncharacteristic 47 on the front. Red's day could have been much better, but the putter let him down. I put together a nice round of 81, with three birdies, and a bunch of greens in regulation. Although I temper my enthusiasm, as I screwed up the back 9 with a triple bogey 7 on number 18, a hole I have never played well. Beef and I both could have posted rounds in the 70's with a coup[le less unforced errors.
Valleaire course highlights. Hole 2 - brutal long par 4. Number 9, an elevated par 3 tee, over water to a green 50 feet or so below. Number 10, tough par 4 over a creek, elevated green and long. And 18 a very tough driving hole par 4, as a creek cuts the fairway in half at the landing area, leaving you a long shot in to an elevated green next to the practice tee. Where you are trying not to kill people there with an errant shot in.
We all enjoyed a hot dog at the turn too. Plus, Valleaire does something really fun. They stock and serve a huge selection of "retro beer," for a really fair price. So we all had one at the turn as well. Beef a Genessee Cream Ale for his late Father-in-Law, and all around good guy Chris. Tex, a Blatz for his late father. Red, a Black Label for his dad, Paul. And me, I had a Stroh's for my late father Bob.
Over all a real good time, and place worth playing for tons of reasons. Valleaire is easy to get to, and is always in really nice shape. It's deep in the trees so it's quiet and relaxing too. This was our first trip there this summer and it won't be our last, we look forward to the next visit, with more pars, and less bogey's and more retro beer.
Scores
Wynn 81
Beef 83
Joe Red 88
Tex 97
Monday, May 28, 2012
Saturday, May 26, 2012
MOVIE REVIEW - Chernobyl Diaries
The maker of the very successful Paranormal Activity movie series is back and this time it's The Chernobyl Diaries.
The bulk of the audience going to see this horror flick were not even born when the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant exploded and caught fire in 1986. Although this movie tries to explain the whole thing quickly with dialogue, they don't really catch the horrific event that it was. And the former Soviet Union's complete and utter botching of everything. From the plants terrible design, to the efforts to keep this quiet and of course the failure to tell it's own citizens that part of the world had just been destroyed - forever.
This factious story, is about a group of young people who are traveling the world, seemingly after college. They decide to try some "extreme vacationing" and find this seedy Russian travel agent. The agent, former Russian military, claims he can take them to the city of Pripyat, 2 miles from the destroyed Chernobyl reactor. Both of course are totally abandon. They are in. Once they go there, they learn that all is not abandon, and something starts to hunt them down, one by one. What are these things, and can they escape?
First of all, this is a great idea for a scary movie. The idea of visiting a place that was once a bustling city of 50,000, find it completely vacant, and next to this forgotten place, is pretty scary stuff. I have to admit, that they do capture the desolation of this Godforsaken place very well. Much of this was filmed in Hungary, and Serbia, but there were backgrounds taken on location, and that works well here. The scariest moments in this movie though, have noting to do with the "things" that are hunting them down. But the extreme barren country and being trapped in it - are.
It becomes clear that these things are human in some form. Zombie like. One can only assume that these are horribly radiated, affected people who either didn't make it out of Pripyat in 1986, or have been sent back there for some ridiculous reason to rot, fend for themselves and die. I would have rather seen them come up with some other reason why these kids couldn't leave the city, and go in that direction. Something more creative. The scary part was being trapped, not being hunted by "zombies." But zombies are easier I guess.
But this movie does a number of things well. It is suspenseful, and it does make you feel totally isolated, and that is its strength. It's relatively short, and the hand held camera technique is not overly herky-jerky and doesn't fatigue you like movies past. It zips along too and doesn't wear out its welcome. Plus the bulk of its story line is completely original. Although in the same form as Paranormal Activity, some may feel short changed by a lack of real payoff. They try to explain away some things, and the ending is quick an sudden, yet again.
Chernobyl Diaries. Very original story, and pretty darn good for this kind of movie.
The bulk of the audience going to see this horror flick were not even born when the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant exploded and caught fire in 1986. Although this movie tries to explain the whole thing quickly with dialogue, they don't really catch the horrific event that it was. And the former Soviet Union's complete and utter botching of everything. From the plants terrible design, to the efforts to keep this quiet and of course the failure to tell it's own citizens that part of the world had just been destroyed - forever.
This factious story, is about a group of young people who are traveling the world, seemingly after college. They decide to try some "extreme vacationing" and find this seedy Russian travel agent. The agent, former Russian military, claims he can take them to the city of Pripyat, 2 miles from the destroyed Chernobyl reactor. Both of course are totally abandon. They are in. Once they go there, they learn that all is not abandon, and something starts to hunt them down, one by one. What are these things, and can they escape?
First of all, this is a great idea for a scary movie. The idea of visiting a place that was once a bustling city of 50,000, find it completely vacant, and next to this forgotten place, is pretty scary stuff. I have to admit, that they do capture the desolation of this Godforsaken place very well. Much of this was filmed in Hungary, and Serbia, but there were backgrounds taken on location, and that works well here. The scariest moments in this movie though, have noting to do with the "things" that are hunting them down. But the extreme barren country and being trapped in it - are.
It becomes clear that these things are human in some form. Zombie like. One can only assume that these are horribly radiated, affected people who either didn't make it out of Pripyat in 1986, or have been sent back there for some ridiculous reason to rot, fend for themselves and die. I would have rather seen them come up with some other reason why these kids couldn't leave the city, and go in that direction. Something more creative. The scary part was being trapped, not being hunted by "zombies." But zombies are easier I guess.
But this movie does a number of things well. It is suspenseful, and it does make you feel totally isolated, and that is its strength. It's relatively short, and the hand held camera technique is not overly herky-jerky and doesn't fatigue you like movies past. It zips along too and doesn't wear out its welcome. Plus the bulk of its story line is completely original. Although in the same form as Paranormal Activity, some may feel short changed by a lack of real payoff. They try to explain away some things, and the ending is quick an sudden, yet again.
Chernobyl Diaries. Very original story, and pretty darn good for this kind of movie.
Monday, May 21, 2012
MOVIE REVIEW - Battleship
Here comes the Hasbro Toy Company again with another movie about one of their toys from the past. This time it's not Transformers, it's Battleship.
Up front, I played the game as a kid, like most did/do. I was not a big fan of it. I played it, and that was it. Then I learned that there was going to be a movie based on it. Like most I didn't understand the need. This movie looks nothing like the old board game, or even like the newer electronic version. And that's OK. In fact, I'm OK with this movie as a whole.
Should be noted. Battleship is not a "real" movie. Sounds harsh I know, but it's not meant to be. After you start to get what it is they are doing, you decide to give in and give it a pass. This is made for kids 14 plus or so, with a limited ceiling. It's flat out campy, and borderline silly. And that's OK. Granted, there are a few too many movies made for that age group, but I guess one more doesn't hurt.
Battleship is part of a few other movies. It's part Transformers, part Pearl Harbor, part Independence Day, and with some Titanic, and Star Wars tossed in. It's the story of aliens from another world that come to Earth with the assistance of some Federal Government silly, much ill-advised attempt to contact people from deep space. The aliens travel millions of miles to get here, and once they land they are none too happy, and feel the need to take over the world.
Thank goodness we have a group of young, very attractive group of young actors, I mean Naval personnel that will save the earth with incredible talent, devotion and humor. As this rolls on and becomes more silly by the minute, you realize that this movie is not made to be a serious flick. It's made for kids to be excitedly exclaiming in the parking lot, "Hey wasn't it awesome when......." or "You know that part where the big ship did this?...." That's what this is. It has the physical look Transformers, and you get it because it's Hasbro again. But it tries to tie in a Titanic like love story (far smipler though), along with the backdrop of Pearl Harbor (where the attack again takes place.) And the cheering, and pride swelling of ID4.
But there are some real kudos to go around here. Much of this was filmed on United States Naval Vessels, and it's pretty cool to go places few seldom get to. Also, many of the extras are Naval personnel, and they bring back some veterans from wars of old who play an interesting part in this movie. They also feature more real vets from various branches of the service, and that's good too. The special effects are standard, with plenty of things blowing up, and catching on fire. It also doesn't wear out it welcome at under two hours.
Battleship is not supposed to win awards, change the world or the way we look at movies. It's supposed to make money and be a silly, far - fetched diversion for summer movie goers much like The Avengers. But make no mistake. Battleship is no Avengers. It's not near as smart, or slick, and it's not supposed to be. But reality did set in this weekend, and The Avengers "Sunk my Battleship." (Sorry, couldn't resist.)
Battleship. It's many things, campy, silly, over the top, far-fetched, juvenile and more. But in the end all of those thing intersect, and make it one thing. Simple summer fun.
Up front, I played the game as a kid, like most did/do. I was not a big fan of it. I played it, and that was it. Then I learned that there was going to be a movie based on it. Like most I didn't understand the need. This movie looks nothing like the old board game, or even like the newer electronic version. And that's OK. In fact, I'm OK with this movie as a whole.
Should be noted. Battleship is not a "real" movie. Sounds harsh I know, but it's not meant to be. After you start to get what it is they are doing, you decide to give in and give it a pass. This is made for kids 14 plus or so, with a limited ceiling. It's flat out campy, and borderline silly. And that's OK. Granted, there are a few too many movies made for that age group, but I guess one more doesn't hurt.
Battleship is part of a few other movies. It's part Transformers, part Pearl Harbor, part Independence Day, and with some Titanic, and Star Wars tossed in. It's the story of aliens from another world that come to Earth with the assistance of some Federal Government silly, much ill-advised attempt to contact people from deep space. The aliens travel millions of miles to get here, and once they land they are none too happy, and feel the need to take over the world.
Thank goodness we have a group of young, very attractive group of young actors, I mean Naval personnel that will save the earth with incredible talent, devotion and humor. As this rolls on and becomes more silly by the minute, you realize that this movie is not made to be a serious flick. It's made for kids to be excitedly exclaiming in the parking lot, "Hey wasn't it awesome when......." or "You know that part where the big ship did this?...." That's what this is. It has the physical look Transformers, and you get it because it's Hasbro again. But it tries to tie in a Titanic like love story (far smipler though), along with the backdrop of Pearl Harbor (where the attack again takes place.) And the cheering, and pride swelling of ID4.
But there are some real kudos to go around here. Much of this was filmed on United States Naval Vessels, and it's pretty cool to go places few seldom get to. Also, many of the extras are Naval personnel, and they bring back some veterans from wars of old who play an interesting part in this movie. They also feature more real vets from various branches of the service, and that's good too. The special effects are standard, with plenty of things blowing up, and catching on fire. It also doesn't wear out it welcome at under two hours.
Battleship is not supposed to win awards, change the world or the way we look at movies. It's supposed to make money and be a silly, far - fetched diversion for summer movie goers much like The Avengers. But make no mistake. Battleship is no Avengers. It's not near as smart, or slick, and it's not supposed to be. But reality did set in this weekend, and The Avengers "Sunk my Battleship." (Sorry, couldn't resist.)
Battleship. It's many things, campy, silly, over the top, far-fetched, juvenile and more. But in the end all of those thing intersect, and make it one thing. Simple summer fun.
Sunday, May 20, 2012
MOVIE REVIEW - What To Expect When You're Expecting
Right up front. There is bad, worse, horrible, then there's What To Expect When You're Expecting.
This is based on a very successful book of the same name that many people loved./ As it looked at couples having children from all angles, good bad joyous and heartbreaking. The movie has been adapted to be the same. Trouble is, book is good. Movie is embarrassing. This is in the same formula as New Years Eve, and Valentines Day. You know, where they jam tons of mid-level stars into a movie with tons of separate plots, and try to mold them into one. Both of those movies stunk abundantly and so does this.
This is a great example of how important that writing really is. The plot, dialogue and and over all scenarios are so bad, you are almost embarrassed for the actors who somehow have to spew this drivel out of their mouths and into our ears. But before you feel too sorry for them, all of these successful actors could say "no" to this kind of junk. But they don't. And that's on them. Now that the writers and movie makers have been trashed, we move on.
Cameron Diaz is proving more every movie that her best days are 15 years behind her. As good of work as she has done, she's over now. She is beyond bad here. Jennifer Lopez has a nothing role that wasn't even necessary in this movie, too bad for her. The red-hot Elizabeth Banks right now, was given "the lead" here, and the part they wrote for her was deplorable. And as many times as they asked her to do a lot with a little - she couldn't. Dennis Quaid jumped on this train and further destroyed his legacy. Even the line of hunky-young men stars they rolled out choked on the script. There are plenty more actors that you know here, and no one shines at all. The lone bright spot, Chris Rock. Pretty funny in a limited role and minimal screen time.
Not even the enchanting, and lovely Anna Kendrick could work magic here. She was so great in Up In the Air (Oscar Nomination), and 50/50, and it's a shame that she got tangled up in this bit of quicksand. The difference between her and the aforementioned, she went down feet first, while the others went down head first.
I saw this movie in a full theater, and it was silent. You could tell that people wanted to laugh, and did mildly a few times, but overall I think people kept getting more disappointed as time just drug on. Big expectations many times are a tough thing. You see the trailers, and you see the commercials, and then you see the movie, and it's stinks. They really need to stop this horrible formula of tons of stars and no script. It's embarrassing for all, and waste of time for others spending money to go.
What To Expect When You're Expecting. Worst movie of the year thus far.
This is based on a very successful book of the same name that many people loved./ As it looked at couples having children from all angles, good bad joyous and heartbreaking. The movie has been adapted to be the same. Trouble is, book is good. Movie is embarrassing. This is in the same formula as New Years Eve, and Valentines Day. You know, where they jam tons of mid-level stars into a movie with tons of separate plots, and try to mold them into one. Both of those movies stunk abundantly and so does this.
This is a great example of how important that writing really is. The plot, dialogue and and over all scenarios are so bad, you are almost embarrassed for the actors who somehow have to spew this drivel out of their mouths and into our ears. But before you feel too sorry for them, all of these successful actors could say "no" to this kind of junk. But they don't. And that's on them. Now that the writers and movie makers have been trashed, we move on.
Cameron Diaz is proving more every movie that her best days are 15 years behind her. As good of work as she has done, she's over now. She is beyond bad here. Jennifer Lopez has a nothing role that wasn't even necessary in this movie, too bad for her. The red-hot Elizabeth Banks right now, was given "the lead" here, and the part they wrote for her was deplorable. And as many times as they asked her to do a lot with a little - she couldn't. Dennis Quaid jumped on this train and further destroyed his legacy. Even the line of hunky-young men stars they rolled out choked on the script. There are plenty more actors that you know here, and no one shines at all. The lone bright spot, Chris Rock. Pretty funny in a limited role and minimal screen time.
Not even the enchanting, and lovely Anna Kendrick could work magic here. She was so great in Up In the Air (Oscar Nomination), and 50/50, and it's a shame that she got tangled up in this bit of quicksand. The difference between her and the aforementioned, she went down feet first, while the others went down head first.
I saw this movie in a full theater, and it was silent. You could tell that people wanted to laugh, and did mildly a few times, but overall I think people kept getting more disappointed as time just drug on. Big expectations many times are a tough thing. You see the trailers, and you see the commercials, and then you see the movie, and it's stinks. They really need to stop this horrible formula of tons of stars and no script. It's embarrassing for all, and waste of time for others spending money to go.
What To Expect When You're Expecting. Worst movie of the year thus far.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
MOVIE REVIEW - The Dictator
Sacha Baron Cohen is back with his latest completely incorrect comedy, The Dictator.
The Dictator is Cohen doing what he does best. After he gave us Borat a few years ago, we were all introduced to a new way of doing comedy. Even if you hated Borat, you did have to give him kudos for the originality of the whole process. It was mean spirited, and politically incorrect in every way, and some of it was hard not to laugh at even if you didn't want to. But The Dictator is none of that, except for mean spirited which it certainly is.
This is Cohen playing a fictional Middle Eastern dictator from an equally fictitious North African nation. He and his nation are trying to develop a nuclear bomb, and the world is taking notice. The United Nation says that if he doesn't come to the UN and address the General Assembly, they will begin military action against his nation. So he comes to America to do so. He is then captured by the CIA, and shaved of his trademark beard, only to escape in New York City. No one recognizes him and he has to make it on his own, while members of his own nation are scheming behind his back to make his nation a democracy.
Does that sound funny? Well, no. And most of this is not. Must be noted, if you are easily offended by pretty much anything, do not go to this movie. The Dictator is total over the top parody of virtually everything on earth. Almost no race, nationality, gender, or political entity is spared. This is way over the line in many areas. But to be fair, there will be an audience for this that will love it. But it is limited. Some of this stuff is so juvenile, and most of it is so Junior High, it's amazing that a grown man is behind it all.
There is an attempted message here, and there are a few moments of guilty pleasure laughs and and there is an eyebrow raiser or two. But much of this is just too far gone. I'm not so sure that most are ready to joke about September 11 in movie form yet. A parody on terrorism is going to leave many deeply offended, regardless of the eventual attempted message. There is some really good political humor in this at times, and some cutting dialogue that is well thought out and more than honest. But there is simply too much other childish, grosser than gross stuff that brings it down too far.
I saw that some major Hollywood critics have praised this movie greatly, even calling Cohen amazingly talented and Hollywood's best comedic film maker. No one can disagree he is risk taking, and original, but that isn't always synonymous with being good. I would suggest to you that critics of fame that would heap that kind of praise on Cohen are desperately attempting to connect with very young movie goers and not be labeled as "out of touch" or old. Let's get a grip on this.
No one minds cutting edge, or envelope pushing. But there has to be some bar height of some kind. Constantly cowering to the lowest common denominator with 7th grade bathroom humor is not original or cutting edge. It's easy old and tired.
The Dictator. Even though the script and story may be Cohen's best in theory, it still sells out to gross out, and offensive tactics that hold it back.
The Dictator is Cohen doing what he does best. After he gave us Borat a few years ago, we were all introduced to a new way of doing comedy. Even if you hated Borat, you did have to give him kudos for the originality of the whole process. It was mean spirited, and politically incorrect in every way, and some of it was hard not to laugh at even if you didn't want to. But The Dictator is none of that, except for mean spirited which it certainly is.
This is Cohen playing a fictional Middle Eastern dictator from an equally fictitious North African nation. He and his nation are trying to develop a nuclear bomb, and the world is taking notice. The United Nation says that if he doesn't come to the UN and address the General Assembly, they will begin military action against his nation. So he comes to America to do so. He is then captured by the CIA, and shaved of his trademark beard, only to escape in New York City. No one recognizes him and he has to make it on his own, while members of his own nation are scheming behind his back to make his nation a democracy.
Does that sound funny? Well, no. And most of this is not. Must be noted, if you are easily offended by pretty much anything, do not go to this movie. The Dictator is total over the top parody of virtually everything on earth. Almost no race, nationality, gender, or political entity is spared. This is way over the line in many areas. But to be fair, there will be an audience for this that will love it. But it is limited. Some of this stuff is so juvenile, and most of it is so Junior High, it's amazing that a grown man is behind it all.
There is an attempted message here, and there are a few moments of guilty pleasure laughs and and there is an eyebrow raiser or two. But much of this is just too far gone. I'm not so sure that most are ready to joke about September 11 in movie form yet. A parody on terrorism is going to leave many deeply offended, regardless of the eventual attempted message. There is some really good political humor in this at times, and some cutting dialogue that is well thought out and more than honest. But there is simply too much other childish, grosser than gross stuff that brings it down too far.
I saw that some major Hollywood critics have praised this movie greatly, even calling Cohen amazingly talented and Hollywood's best comedic film maker. No one can disagree he is risk taking, and original, but that isn't always synonymous with being good. I would suggest to you that critics of fame that would heap that kind of praise on Cohen are desperately attempting to connect with very young movie goers and not be labeled as "out of touch" or old. Let's get a grip on this.
No one minds cutting edge, or envelope pushing. But there has to be some bar height of some kind. Constantly cowering to the lowest common denominator with 7th grade bathroom humor is not original or cutting edge. It's easy old and tired.
The Dictator. Even though the script and story may be Cohen's best in theory, it still sells out to gross out, and offensive tactics that hold it back.
Monday, May 14, 2012
LOCAL GOLF - Sunday Morning Golf Review
This week we would like to introduce you to a course that you may not know about. It's in Westlake, and in the grand scheme of things a pretty well kept secret for many. It's Hilliard Lakes, at the end of Hilliard Road.
They call themselves "Little Augusta." Now, that may be a bit overstated, but Hilliard is a real nice place to play. It sits way back in the trees, and for the most part every single hole is tree lined, green and pretty tight. It's a coruse that was born in the 1960's and is real nice northern golf. It has a steady stream of little creeks, a lake or two, a good amount of well placed sand traps, and and just the right amount of curves in just the right places.
And Hilliard has a phenomenon that we have never been able to figure out. The well kept greens are generally moderate in speed, undulated, and for some reason outside of a hillside putt, they don't break. Putt at the hole all day long. So, if you can get the ball on the green, you can score. Hilliard is of average length, but to be honest, I prefer to play it all the way back to the blues, where it is almost 7,000 yards. And I always score better when we play the deeps. I think it's an easier driving course from the tips.
But on this Sunday, we played the white tees, and all of us left strokes out on the course we shouldn't have. There was some real good and bad golf played this week. The good? Beef opened up with 6 pars to start the round, and had 7 on the front. But his disastrous triple of the par three number 9 really hurt, and he shot 40 up front - with a triple! But is was to be Beef's day as he posted low score of the round. But we have all played really good rounds in the past on this course. Hit it well, and you can.
Joe Red and I tried to keep pace, as we both birdied the par 5 number 5. My 41 on the front was solid, and could have been sub 40 with a couple of short putts missed. But I would lose my game on the back, with a ailing back and I fell victim to double bogey-itus Joe Red played better as the round wore on, recovering from a quad on number two, with sand trap lip problems a plenty. But Red pressed on and put up a real nice 42 on the back. Tex shaved off a ton from front to back to finish strong, and post a good figure for him on this challenging course. The front doesn't set up well for him, and many of the fairways have a creek cutting them in half, inclusind the first 4 holes. The back 9, although probably harder overall, less water in play.
But is was Beef's day. He was the most solid all day long, with few peaks and valleys. Red had some sand issues, and I had 8, (count them) 8 punch out shots on the day, as I had a hard time finding the center on the day. Tex hung in there all day long and didn't let the round get away from him.
Course highlights? All 4 par 5's are great. All challenging, but all can be scored on if you drive it smartly. I played them even on the day. Also, the par 3's are not overly brutal, but many par 4's are tough. Including the very tight number 2, 3, 4, 10, and 11 which is long right and thin. Number 18 is no picnic either. Course's biggest teeth? Holes 9 - 12, gotta keep the damage light.
We love this golf course. Always in good shape, nice people, and challenging. I far more enjoy this course from the deeps, where if you can hit, you can drive the ball better in many cases. But it can play to any skill level. Although, I would not recommend that beginners tee it up here. there are better courses for them.
Scores
Beef 85
JoeRed 88
Wynn 89
Tex 99
They call themselves "Little Augusta." Now, that may be a bit overstated, but Hilliard is a real nice place to play. It sits way back in the trees, and for the most part every single hole is tree lined, green and pretty tight. It's a coruse that was born in the 1960's and is real nice northern golf. It has a steady stream of little creeks, a lake or two, a good amount of well placed sand traps, and and just the right amount of curves in just the right places.
And Hilliard has a phenomenon that we have never been able to figure out. The well kept greens are generally moderate in speed, undulated, and for some reason outside of a hillside putt, they don't break. Putt at the hole all day long. So, if you can get the ball on the green, you can score. Hilliard is of average length, but to be honest, I prefer to play it all the way back to the blues, where it is almost 7,000 yards. And I always score better when we play the deeps. I think it's an easier driving course from the tips.
But on this Sunday, we played the white tees, and all of us left strokes out on the course we shouldn't have. There was some real good and bad golf played this week. The good? Beef opened up with 6 pars to start the round, and had 7 on the front. But his disastrous triple of the par three number 9 really hurt, and he shot 40 up front - with a triple! But is was to be Beef's day as he posted low score of the round. But we have all played really good rounds in the past on this course. Hit it well, and you can.
Joe Red and I tried to keep pace, as we both birdied the par 5 number 5. My 41 on the front was solid, and could have been sub 40 with a couple of short putts missed. But I would lose my game on the back, with a ailing back and I fell victim to double bogey-itus Joe Red played better as the round wore on, recovering from a quad on number two, with sand trap lip problems a plenty. But Red pressed on and put up a real nice 42 on the back. Tex shaved off a ton from front to back to finish strong, and post a good figure for him on this challenging course. The front doesn't set up well for him, and many of the fairways have a creek cutting them in half, inclusind the first 4 holes. The back 9, although probably harder overall, less water in play.
But is was Beef's day. He was the most solid all day long, with few peaks and valleys. Red had some sand issues, and I had 8, (count them) 8 punch out shots on the day, as I had a hard time finding the center on the day. Tex hung in there all day long and didn't let the round get away from him.
Course highlights? All 4 par 5's are great. All challenging, but all can be scored on if you drive it smartly. I played them even on the day. Also, the par 3's are not overly brutal, but many par 4's are tough. Including the very tight number 2, 3, 4, 10, and 11 which is long right and thin. Number 18 is no picnic either. Course's biggest teeth? Holes 9 - 12, gotta keep the damage light.
We love this golf course. Always in good shape, nice people, and challenging. I far more enjoy this course from the deeps, where if you can hit, you can drive the ball better in many cases. But it can play to any skill level. Although, I would not recommend that beginners tee it up here. there are better courses for them.
Scores
Beef 85
JoeRed 88
Wynn 89
Tex 99
MOVIE REVIEW - The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
Well The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel will certainly be one of the most interesting names for a movie all year. And will be in the end, one of the best movies too.
Hotel, to be honest is not going to be on my list of best flicks of the year because it doesn't speak to me. But it will to many. But many times it's easy to recognize good, and this is good. Hotel is in limited release, and many times these are gems. It's well written, well performed and it's a movie that you haven't seen in any way before.
Hotel is the story of 7 retired, completely unrelated British senior citizens who for varying circumstances find themselves alone. Some broke, and all looking for something that they may not even though they are. And with the Internet at their disposal, they find online this advertisement for The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel in India. The pictures and rates to live there are so great, they all decide to strike out and venture to India to start a new and hopefully better life.
As they arrive, all find that the place is simply a dump. And that India is a strange and chaotic place. They all have mixed feelings on whether to stay or not. And all finally do. As they all become more comfortable with their surroundings, they also find that there is much to learn from India, it's people and culture. They also come to learn that life isn't over just because youth is seemingly behind you. And most importantly, that they have more in common with their old, but hopeful hotel home they now call home. What can they learn about themselves and their adventure.
Sound a bit high brow for May at the movies? It is. But that's OK. This is a great example of how we need movies for all kinds of people to go to. And this is highly targeted at an older audience who may feel that The Avengers, or Dark Shadows may not be in the cards for them right now. Hotel is just the answer. It makes you happy, all the while dishing out a heavy dosage of reality and fantasy at the same time. Plus, it's filmed in India's big cities, and you really do get a sense of what life there might be like. Both physically and socially.
The star of this movie besides the really great cast is the writing. Tremendous character development, and dialogue written splendidly for characters that would have much life experience. Much of this is absolutely believable, and sounds amazingly natural on screen. They also wrote in pivotal characters of youth, that provide steady balance and inject a sense of relief this script was going to need. Hotel has a snappy sense of humor, and some really nice moments too. Much can be learned from this movie, as it deals with seniors today finding themselves in a world they don't always understand.
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. Very, very well done, and a great diversion right now at the movies.
Hotel, to be honest is not going to be on my list of best flicks of the year because it doesn't speak to me. But it will to many. But many times it's easy to recognize good, and this is good. Hotel is in limited release, and many times these are gems. It's well written, well performed and it's a movie that you haven't seen in any way before.
Hotel is the story of 7 retired, completely unrelated British senior citizens who for varying circumstances find themselves alone. Some broke, and all looking for something that they may not even though they are. And with the Internet at their disposal, they find online this advertisement for The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel in India. The pictures and rates to live there are so great, they all decide to strike out and venture to India to start a new and hopefully better life.
As they arrive, all find that the place is simply a dump. And that India is a strange and chaotic place. They all have mixed feelings on whether to stay or not. And all finally do. As they all become more comfortable with their surroundings, they also find that there is much to learn from India, it's people and culture. They also come to learn that life isn't over just because youth is seemingly behind you. And most importantly, that they have more in common with their old, but hopeful hotel home they now call home. What can they learn about themselves and their adventure.
Sound a bit high brow for May at the movies? It is. But that's OK. This is a great example of how we need movies for all kinds of people to go to. And this is highly targeted at an older audience who may feel that The Avengers, or Dark Shadows may not be in the cards for them right now. Hotel is just the answer. It makes you happy, all the while dishing out a heavy dosage of reality and fantasy at the same time. Plus, it's filmed in India's big cities, and you really do get a sense of what life there might be like. Both physically and socially.
The star of this movie besides the really great cast is the writing. Tremendous character development, and dialogue written splendidly for characters that would have much life experience. Much of this is absolutely believable, and sounds amazingly natural on screen. They also wrote in pivotal characters of youth, that provide steady balance and inject a sense of relief this script was going to need. Hotel has a snappy sense of humor, and some really nice moments too. Much can be learned from this movie, as it deals with seniors today finding themselves in a world they don't always understand.
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. Very, very well done, and a great diversion right now at the movies.
Saturday, May 12, 2012
MOVIE REVIEW - Dark Shadows
Once again, movie maker Tim Burton has teamed up with Johnny Depp and made yet another vampire movie, Dark Shadows.
For those who may not know the premise and characters from Dark Shadows, they come from a TV show of the same name in the late 1960's into the early 70's. The TV show was a sexy soap opera of sorts with the vampire character Barnabas Collins, sort of a cult hero. It had a following and at times was controversial. It's the stuff of pop-culture in trivia game lore. Should be noted, the movie Dark Shadows 2012 bares little to no real resemblance to the TV show.
Depp stars as Collins. He was made a vampire 200 years ago by a witch whose love he rejected. After spelling him a vampire, she banished him to be locked into a coffin and buried. Since vampires never die, the goal was to make him suffer for all eternity. Then in 1972, his coffin is discovered by constriction workers, and Collins is unleashed. He reconnects with the Collins family descendants, and is determined to return the family to greatness. But then, the witch from 200 years ago also returns, and she still is trying to lure his affections. What happens now?
That is Dark Shadows in a nutshell. Depp is great as Collins bringing a real nice mix of humor, tongue-in cheek, and heavy satire. Depp is really an interesting actor. He chooses wisely, and it seems every role he takes on, he is born to play. And that's a gift. The supporting cast here is really strong and includes, Michelle Pfieffer, Jackie Earle Haley, Helena Bonham Carter, Chloe Grace Moretz, and Eva Green who is fantastic as Angelique, the Evil Witch.
Dark Shadows is a comedy of sorts, a drama too, and a bit horror flick. But it's clear that this was written far more for laughs and smiles than bolts and jolts. Some of this is quite funny. There also is a terrific early 1970's pop music soundtrack mixed in which also makes it fun. That was a great decision. Have not seen movie in while where a music track has been such an asset to a movie. Dark Shadows though does wear out it's welcome and could have been edited down by about 15 minutes and been more effective. The climactic scene too is a bit silly, and way too long, and that is really the weak point of this flick. But a lot of what gets you there is fun.
Dark Shadows. It's not your mothers TV Dark Shadows. But it's basically a fun escape and it's always fun to see what strange, unstable character Depp is going to play next.
For those who may not know the premise and characters from Dark Shadows, they come from a TV show of the same name in the late 1960's into the early 70's. The TV show was a sexy soap opera of sorts with the vampire character Barnabas Collins, sort of a cult hero. It had a following and at times was controversial. It's the stuff of pop-culture in trivia game lore. Should be noted, the movie Dark Shadows 2012 bares little to no real resemblance to the TV show.
Depp stars as Collins. He was made a vampire 200 years ago by a witch whose love he rejected. After spelling him a vampire, she banished him to be locked into a coffin and buried. Since vampires never die, the goal was to make him suffer for all eternity. Then in 1972, his coffin is discovered by constriction workers, and Collins is unleashed. He reconnects with the Collins family descendants, and is determined to return the family to greatness. But then, the witch from 200 years ago also returns, and she still is trying to lure his affections. What happens now?
That is Dark Shadows in a nutshell. Depp is great as Collins bringing a real nice mix of humor, tongue-in cheek, and heavy satire. Depp is really an interesting actor. He chooses wisely, and it seems every role he takes on, he is born to play. And that's a gift. The supporting cast here is really strong and includes, Michelle Pfieffer, Jackie Earle Haley, Helena Bonham Carter, Chloe Grace Moretz, and Eva Green who is fantastic as Angelique, the Evil Witch.
Dark Shadows is a comedy of sorts, a drama too, and a bit horror flick. But it's clear that this was written far more for laughs and smiles than bolts and jolts. Some of this is quite funny. There also is a terrific early 1970's pop music soundtrack mixed in which also makes it fun. That was a great decision. Have not seen movie in while where a music track has been such an asset to a movie. Dark Shadows though does wear out it's welcome and could have been edited down by about 15 minutes and been more effective. The climactic scene too is a bit silly, and way too long, and that is really the weak point of this flick. But a lot of what gets you there is fun.
Dark Shadows. It's not your mothers TV Dark Shadows. But it's basically a fun escape and it's always fun to see what strange, unstable character Depp is going to play next.
Monday, May 7, 2012
LOCAL GOLF - Sunday Morning Golf Review
This weekend The Dewsweepers drove up and played a course that we all grew up playing in the Cleveland Metro Parks, Big Met in the Rocky River Reservation. We will, over the course of the season cover all of the Metro Parks courses as they are all really nice. Seneca, Sleepy Hollow, Manakiki, Shawnee Hills and more.
Big Met is a very old golf course, tracing it's roots back t the 1920's. It is in Fairview Park but, deep in the trees in the park. All of us grew up near the course went to Berea High, and Big Met really was a part of our childhood. It's a very nice golf course that has stood the test of time. Including numerous remodelings on and off the course. It is challenging, and relatively tight. The course right now is playing very difficult as the fairways are being cut very narrow for some reason, and the rough is not overly high, but incredibly thick and there is a lot of it. There is a moderate amount of sand, and water. Plus the trees get bigger and the course shrinks every year tighter and tighter.
Sadly, none of us played anywhere near our best golf at our tee time of 622. And to be honest, it was a battle for all of us seemingly on every hole, but we made it through. And of course had a good time as we always. Being a park course Big Met is always in good shape, although the greens are still healing from a spring aeration, so better days are ahead after the healing is finished.
Tex broke through and played his best round in quite a while hitting the ball straight and getting his short game in order, and posted his best number recently on an unforgiving course. Joe Red battled with the rest of us, and overall played the most consistent and scored the best. But he like me, was no stranger to taking a really bad number or two. Red's son Bryan filled in for Beef who took the day off for the graduation of his son Derek from college. Bryan played very well, and its been fun to watch his game improve over the past couple of seasons filling in when there is a rare and coveted opening on the Dewsweepers Tour.
Bryan has developed a nice swing and generally keeps the ball in play. But as most young players putting can be an issue at times. So, let's not talk about his 4-put on number 13, a short par 5. Welcome to the tour. But he did jam a birdie down the throat of the next hole thattook some of the sting out of it. But for the most part he played and scored well. I too plated a nice birdie on the short par 4, number 6. Draining a 25 footer after reading Bryan's putt a minute before. But my joy was short lived, as I took an 8 (snowman) on the very tough number 7 Par 5. Then doubled number 8, and 9. I think that is the toughest stretch on the course. 7,8,9. Yikes. Those three hole destroyed my scoring this round. Golf is that kind of game. 7 and 9 are the toughest holes on this course - period!
We all played a bit better on the back 9, which at Big Met, generally plays easier than the front. Or it could be we were just more awake? Big Met is a course that keeping it away from trees is a good idea, and they are everywhere. We have all played this course way better, and when we go back later this year we all will. In fact, because of it's average length, great conditions, and greens that usually are soft and not overly fast, this is a course that breaking 80 can be had. I have a couple times. As so have the rest of The Dewsweepers here. And that's the fun of Big Met. You can stand on the first tee, and know if you swing well that day you can score. Sunday for us though, was not that day - at least on this day.
Big Met is good golf. It's wonderfully peaceful out there, and really beautiful especially on the back 9. I have always thought too, that it is a pretty good value considering the quality of the course. There was a time that Big Met was the most played course in the state, so a tee time is certainly the right call.
Footnote: If you Google it, or look at the Metro Parks webstes, do not confuse this with Little Met. It is a mile up the road also in the Park system. Little Met is shorter, and great for newer golfers or for a co-ed round, only 9 holes and in great shape. On the other side of Big Met is Mastick Woods, GREAT for beginners. Also 9 holes and a Park course. They are all within 2 miles of each other.
Big Met. It's worth a drive from wherever.
Scores
Joe Red 86
Bryan 88
Wynn 91
Tex 98
Big Met is a very old golf course, tracing it's roots back t the 1920's. It is in Fairview Park but, deep in the trees in the park. All of us grew up near the course went to Berea High, and Big Met really was a part of our childhood. It's a very nice golf course that has stood the test of time. Including numerous remodelings on and off the course. It is challenging, and relatively tight. The course right now is playing very difficult as the fairways are being cut very narrow for some reason, and the rough is not overly high, but incredibly thick and there is a lot of it. There is a moderate amount of sand, and water. Plus the trees get bigger and the course shrinks every year tighter and tighter.
Sadly, none of us played anywhere near our best golf at our tee time of 622. And to be honest, it was a battle for all of us seemingly on every hole, but we made it through. And of course had a good time as we always. Being a park course Big Met is always in good shape, although the greens are still healing from a spring aeration, so better days are ahead after the healing is finished.
Tex broke through and played his best round in quite a while hitting the ball straight and getting his short game in order, and posted his best number recently on an unforgiving course. Joe Red battled with the rest of us, and overall played the most consistent and scored the best. But he like me, was no stranger to taking a really bad number or two. Red's son Bryan filled in for Beef who took the day off for the graduation of his son Derek from college. Bryan played very well, and its been fun to watch his game improve over the past couple of seasons filling in when there is a rare and coveted opening on the Dewsweepers Tour.
Bryan has developed a nice swing and generally keeps the ball in play. But as most young players putting can be an issue at times. So, let's not talk about his 4-put on number 13, a short par 5. Welcome to the tour. But he did jam a birdie down the throat of the next hole thattook some of the sting out of it. But for the most part he played and scored well. I too plated a nice birdie on the short par 4, number 6. Draining a 25 footer after reading Bryan's putt a minute before. But my joy was short lived, as I took an 8 (snowman) on the very tough number 7 Par 5. Then doubled number 8, and 9. I think that is the toughest stretch on the course. 7,8,9. Yikes. Those three hole destroyed my scoring this round. Golf is that kind of game. 7 and 9 are the toughest holes on this course - period!
We all played a bit better on the back 9, which at Big Met, generally plays easier than the front. Or it could be we were just more awake? Big Met is a course that keeping it away from trees is a good idea, and they are everywhere. We have all played this course way better, and when we go back later this year we all will. In fact, because of it's average length, great conditions, and greens that usually are soft and not overly fast, this is a course that breaking 80 can be had. I have a couple times. As so have the rest of The Dewsweepers here. And that's the fun of Big Met. You can stand on the first tee, and know if you swing well that day you can score. Sunday for us though, was not that day - at least on this day.
Big Met is good golf. It's wonderfully peaceful out there, and really beautiful especially on the back 9. I have always thought too, that it is a pretty good value considering the quality of the course. There was a time that Big Met was the most played course in the state, so a tee time is certainly the right call.
Footnote: If you Google it, or look at the Metro Parks webstes, do not confuse this with Little Met. It is a mile up the road also in the Park system. Little Met is shorter, and great for newer golfers or for a co-ed round, only 9 holes and in great shape. On the other side of Big Met is Mastick Woods, GREAT for beginners. Also 9 holes and a Park course. They are all within 2 miles of each other.
Big Met. It's worth a drive from wherever.
Scores
Joe Red 86
Bryan 88
Wynn 91
Tex 98
Saturday, May 5, 2012
MOVIE REVIEW - The Avengers
The Avengers is finally out, and poised to take on the world, and the box office records more than likely.
The Avengers is the union of Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, The Incredible Hulk, and other Marvel comic book characters. The join together in "The Avenger Initiative" to save the world from forces well beyond humans comprehension. In this story, Loki, who is the half brother of the demi-God, Thor is attempting to take over our world, after being shunned in his all those galactic miles away. Loki believes in absolute power, and will do whatever it takes to accomplish his fiendish goals. Only the Avengers can save the world now.
In a nutshell that's what this is. But, it is actually so much more. This is a very carefully written and smart script that probably is going to be overlooked by many. This shows a ton of mind games, and other shrewd tactics Loki and others will use to win the battle for earth. Great conflict between our hero's too. Well written dialogue that isn't cliche' ridden or silly. This is actually written for an adult audience, with politics a plenty. They just don't push a button and all unite for a common cause. Under all of these superhero's are humans, and it is written so. Well done.
Of course the special effects are really slick, but they are not any more slick than a ton of other movies. This movie was filmed with a Cleveland backdrop for many of it's scenes and that's fun for us local people. A very nice orchestral musical score though out, with a real nice ending theme that makes you want to stay and listen to it, and want more when it's done.
The Avengers has learned much from many of the movies that have led up to this point. That even though you have all of this technology at your disposal, what in the end makes a movie great, not just good, is the writing and the performances from your stars. Here, they are all who they are. The actors are reprising their roles again. But the writing is good, the plot is as deep as this kind of movie can be, and in the end it's just flat out good summer movie fun.
You do kind of need to know the background of all of our superhero's. It would do you well to rent Thor, Iron Man 1 and 2, The Hulk, and Captain America to get up to speed if you are somewhat new to the game. For most that are going to see this, that is not a problem.
The Avengers. The pressure was really on. Make a silly movie with all of this and you would be laughed out of Hollywood. But this is good, fun and ready to take on the world.
The Avengers is the union of Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, The Incredible Hulk, and other Marvel comic book characters. The join together in "The Avenger Initiative" to save the world from forces well beyond humans comprehension. In this story, Loki, who is the half brother of the demi-God, Thor is attempting to take over our world, after being shunned in his all those galactic miles away. Loki believes in absolute power, and will do whatever it takes to accomplish his fiendish goals. Only the Avengers can save the world now.
In a nutshell that's what this is. But, it is actually so much more. This is a very carefully written and smart script that probably is going to be overlooked by many. This shows a ton of mind games, and other shrewd tactics Loki and others will use to win the battle for earth. Great conflict between our hero's too. Well written dialogue that isn't cliche' ridden or silly. This is actually written for an adult audience, with politics a plenty. They just don't push a button and all unite for a common cause. Under all of these superhero's are humans, and it is written so. Well done.
Of course the special effects are really slick, but they are not any more slick than a ton of other movies. This movie was filmed with a Cleveland backdrop for many of it's scenes and that's fun for us local people. A very nice orchestral musical score though out, with a real nice ending theme that makes you want to stay and listen to it, and want more when it's done.
The Avengers has learned much from many of the movies that have led up to this point. That even though you have all of this technology at your disposal, what in the end makes a movie great, not just good, is the writing and the performances from your stars. Here, they are all who they are. The actors are reprising their roles again. But the writing is good, the plot is as deep as this kind of movie can be, and in the end it's just flat out good summer movie fun.
You do kind of need to know the background of all of our superhero's. It would do you well to rent Thor, Iron Man 1 and 2, The Hulk, and Captain America to get up to speed if you are somewhat new to the game. For most that are going to see this, that is not a problem.
The Avengers. The pressure was really on. Make a silly movie with all of this and you would be laughed out of Hollywood. But this is good, fun and ready to take on the world.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
MOVIE REVIEW - Safe
Jason Statham is back again in the action flick, Safe.
Statham has become a real favorite of young movie goers over the past few years as the modern day Steven Segal, or Jean Claude Van Damm. You know, the action guy that can beat up tons of guys at the same time. And basically do about anything he wants, to whomever he wants with no real consequences. His flicks are basically all the same. And sadly so is this. I say sadly, because at it's inception it looked like it was going to be different.
Safe is the story of a former New York City cop named Luke, (Statham). He is no longer on the force and is a second rate MMA star in New Jersey now. He is down and out. He crosses members of the Russian mob, and they kill his family and set him free to torture him, and to use him as a pawn. Thing is, the Russian mob is at war with the Chinese mob in New York. And to top it all off, the mayor, and members of the NYC PD are corrupt and are basically treating New York City as their own personal ATM Machine.
Meet Mei, (Catherine Chan). She is a 10 year old genius of a little girl from China. She has the remarkable ability to memorize every single thing she ever comes in contact with. The Chinese mob has kidnapped her and asked her to memorize a super-lengthy number that has a sequence. This is a key to incredible riches, and each mob is determined to get to it first. So Mei is a very valuable commodity. Problem is, after they are done with her, they are going to kill the little girl. Until Luke get involved. He is going to protect Mei.
When Luke doing just that, this is a far better movie. The chase, the suspense, the chemistry that is building between Luke and Mei. Can she trust him? The first hour of this looks quite a bit different than many movies like this. Then is sells out, and sells out hard. Mei disappears off screen for long periods of meaningful time, and Safe becomes a violent fest with elongated gun battle scenes, and scores of people getting shot. They completely abandon the original plot line, and it turns typical. Lots of testosterone, lots of corrupt cops, and lots of martial arts and killing. And that's too bad. They had a new thing going.
Oh yeah, at the end, Mei comes back and Luke is back to protecting her after everyone is dead who was trying to get to her. And believe it or not, the door is open for this story to continue. And you understand why, Mei is such an interesting character idea. But having more of these more than likely will be a tough sell. The box office take in its opening weekend, was terrible. Statham as likable as he is, all of his movies are the same, and he is hard to take serious anymore. He is good in this flick for what he's asked to do. He will be no exception. All former action hero's meet an end, and then reinvent themselves as something else. Maybe it's time for him to get started on that. Should be noted, Chan is very good in this little role, it should have been written as a bigger role. She is very good as little Mei.
Safe. It looked promising, but the temptation was just too much. In the end, it's just the same old stuff.
Statham has become a real favorite of young movie goers over the past few years as the modern day Steven Segal, or Jean Claude Van Damm. You know, the action guy that can beat up tons of guys at the same time. And basically do about anything he wants, to whomever he wants with no real consequences. His flicks are basically all the same. And sadly so is this. I say sadly, because at it's inception it looked like it was going to be different.
Safe is the story of a former New York City cop named Luke, (Statham). He is no longer on the force and is a second rate MMA star in New Jersey now. He is down and out. He crosses members of the Russian mob, and they kill his family and set him free to torture him, and to use him as a pawn. Thing is, the Russian mob is at war with the Chinese mob in New York. And to top it all off, the mayor, and members of the NYC PD are corrupt and are basically treating New York City as their own personal ATM Machine.
Meet Mei, (Catherine Chan). She is a 10 year old genius of a little girl from China. She has the remarkable ability to memorize every single thing she ever comes in contact with. The Chinese mob has kidnapped her and asked her to memorize a super-lengthy number that has a sequence. This is a key to incredible riches, and each mob is determined to get to it first. So Mei is a very valuable commodity. Problem is, after they are done with her, they are going to kill the little girl. Until Luke get involved. He is going to protect Mei.
When Luke doing just that, this is a far better movie. The chase, the suspense, the chemistry that is building between Luke and Mei. Can she trust him? The first hour of this looks quite a bit different than many movies like this. Then is sells out, and sells out hard. Mei disappears off screen for long periods of meaningful time, and Safe becomes a violent fest with elongated gun battle scenes, and scores of people getting shot. They completely abandon the original plot line, and it turns typical. Lots of testosterone, lots of corrupt cops, and lots of martial arts and killing. And that's too bad. They had a new thing going.
Oh yeah, at the end, Mei comes back and Luke is back to protecting her after everyone is dead who was trying to get to her. And believe it or not, the door is open for this story to continue. And you understand why, Mei is such an interesting character idea. But having more of these more than likely will be a tough sell. The box office take in its opening weekend, was terrible. Statham as likable as he is, all of his movies are the same, and he is hard to take serious anymore. He is good in this flick for what he's asked to do. He will be no exception. All former action hero's meet an end, and then reinvent themselves as something else. Maybe it's time for him to get started on that. Should be noted, Chan is very good in this little role, it should have been written as a bigger role. She is very good as little Mei.
Safe. It looked promising, but the temptation was just too much. In the end, it's just the same old stuff.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
