Movie SnapShots

Chef is a nice story about a divorced man and his son. It could be clichéd, and it probably is, but this is a coming of age movie that I enjoyed watching.

The Fault in Our Stars is a nice story about a young couple, both of whom are facing cancer. It’s the Love Story retold for a new generation, but it’s sweet, predictable, and a good kleenex and popcorn movie.

Jersey Boys is the stage production on film, with added scenes to fill in the back story of Frankie Valli and his three friends who comprise The Four Seasons. I loved the stage production for the almost non-stop music held together with some back story; I loved the touring group, Under the Streetlamp, for the non-stop music that didn’t pretend to be anything more than a quartet doing Four Seasons hits; and I enjoyed the movie for filling in the back story and making the production into a complete whole. Of course, if you don’t like the music, the artists, or the story – you won’t appreciate any of the venues I’ve enjoyed!

Maleficent is magnificent! The bond between actors and animation is seamless and totally believable. The story is a good one told well. The rocks coming alive and morphing into giants has been done in about three other films recently, so that part was worth an out-loud giggle, but it was the only time during the film that I “broke character.” (I wonder if it's the same animated rock creatures loaned out to various studios who want to use them?) Angelina Jolie is unbelievably good in her role as Maleficent, and her little daughter, Vivienne, who has a bit part, is the spitting image of her handsome father.

So far, it’s a good summer for movies, so dig into the change jar, grab a handful of play money, and pony up for a ticket and some fresh popcorn. What a nice way to spend a slow summer day.