Finally, A Post!

I have successfully neglected this blog not only because I am a superb procrastinator, but also because I have been at odds with what I should focus on with this thing. I can't crochet; I can't change a tire (I can barely manage to even DRIVE my car); I can't instruct a reader how to choose a dog based on the reader's personality. However, I can give some completely biased recommendations. When I sat down and thought of how to narrow my topic, I was completely certain that I would focus this blog on film. See, I love film. Probably to an unhealthy degree. I can spout off directors' names just as easily as I can spout off film titles, so I was certain that I had definitely found my niche in the blogging world. But then, I started thinking about how much I love to read. And listen to music. And find hilarious videos on YouTube. So, I'll chalk this compilation up to my scatter-brained tendencies and include it all. This blog will focus on the best of everything (in my opinion, that is).

So, let's get started.

Now, if you were conscious last year, you must have been aware of a little film known as Slumdog Millionaire, directed by Danny Boyle. Complete with an amazing soundtrack and feel good ending, it easily won over audiences and the Academy. It won me over, too. However, it did not win over my opinion for Best Picture. The other four nominees (The Reader, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Frost/Nixon, and Milk) did not win over my vote for Best Picture 2009, although Milk was a close run.

However...

In my opinion, the Best Picture of 2009 was Revolutionary Road. If you're unfamiliar with the title, allow me to enlighten you. RR is the film reunion of Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, last seen together in 1997's Titanic. But if you're expecting a tale of star-crossed lovers who cannot be separated by social class, an iceberg, or even death, you need to reformulate those expectations. RR is the story of Frank and April Wheeler (DiCaprio and Winslet), a 1950's suburbanite couple. The Wheelers are the perfect answer to the "Leave it to Beaver" crew, whose sugary-sweet home life perfection has delighted and repulsed viewers for decades. The Wheelers are filled to the brim with dreams of Paris, acting, and the bohemian life, scoffing at the mundane monotony of 9-5 work days, superficial social gatherings, and the defined roles of husband and wife. But when April finds herself pregnant with their first child, the Wheelers are forced into the suburban life that they despise; however, they believe that they are "special," that they will eventually make their way out of that way of life. Two and a half children later, they find that the suburban nightmare of the 1950s has claimed them, with no hope of escape. The cast is also enhanced with the joining of Kathy Bates as realtor Helen Givings, who sells the Wheelers their home on Revolutionary Road. Not only is Bates the couple's realtor, she serves as a friend and an example of the life in which the Wheelers are trying to escape. Along with her son, John (Michael Shannon, in an Oscar nominated role), who resides at a mental health facility, the Givings provide a wonderful commentary and cultural context for the time period.

In order to prevent spoilers, I will not reveal any more plot summary, but expect the best acting yet out of both DiCaprio and Winslet, in fight scenes to get anticipation beating throughout your entire body. Just get out to Blockbuster, Netflix, or whatever movie rental service you use, and rent this movie. NOW.

Here's the trailer: