April 27th, 2010
I’ve been on a bit of a Disney binge as of late. After an evening of cleaning out my parent’s storage room, I came out with my arms full of my beloved video cassettes that I worshiped when I was younger. I loveloveloved Disney growing up, and I still have a huge soft spot for the classics. I’ve been watching each of my movies one by one in the last month or so, and all of these happy memories are flooding back to me as I relive my favourite stories. Oh, to be young and discovering the magic behind these films for the first time once again. And actually, since it’s been so long since I’ve seen many of them, I do feel a bit like I’m seeing them for the first time all over again. Some that I never really appreciated all that much growing up, I find myself very fascinated by this time around. The Hunchback of Notre Dame comes to mind. Bawled like a baby the entire time I watched it the other week. Perhaps I’m a bit of a wet blanket, but I’ve found most that I’ve seen thus far have had me blubbering at moments both sad and happy. Case in point: Classic Disney movies are the best.
And because a trip down memory lane simply is not complete without pretty pictures (and really, when is anything ever complete around here without pretty pictures?), a look at some of my favourites both old and new.
Pocahontas (1995)
Honestly, I never really appreciated this one until recently. I liked it well enough as a kid, but it was never a favourite. This time around though, while I still wasn’t quite as attracted to the story itself like I am with other Disney movies, my appreciation for this film as a piece of art drastically sky rocketed. Even from these four images alone, you can’t deny the beautiful colours and textures.
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March 5th, 2010
After much anticipation, the day is finally upon us: today is, as I have decided to call it, Wonderland day! The day Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland is released! To say I’m nothing less than bouncing off the walls would be an understatement. The Alice books were two of my childhood favourites growing up, and I always look forward to film interpretations of them. (I think my favourite thus far is the 1999 TV special starring Tina Majorino.) So I think it’s safe to say that I’m very much looking forward to Tim Burton’s film. I, unfortunately, won’t be going to see it this weekend or within the next few weeks as I’m moving into mid-semester projects, but as soon as I have the opportunity, you know I’ll be there squirming with anticipation for the opening credits to roll.
“Why, sometimes I’ve believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.”
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February 6th, 2010
I’m feeling a little under the weather today, a feeling that tends to bring out either the hopeless romantic in me, my inner child, or a huge wave of nostalgia. In this instance, I have a bit of a case of all three. The only possible cure I could come up with was: breaking out the ole VHS player and popping in a few classic Disney movies to brighten up my day. I find a good happily ever after can be the perfect medicine for when you’re feeling a bit sluggish.
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January 25th, 2010
I’m so in love with Bright Star. So in love that I feel light-headed and get a rush of happiness just thinking about it. So in love that it’s been the only thing on my mind since I watched this movie Friday afternoon. So in love that I can’t even form coherent sentences. No matter how I try, I just can’t get it out of my head. Though, in all honesty, I haven’t made much of an effort on that front. I quite enjoy having my mind flooded with images of wildflowers, calligraphy, butterflies, and mid-18th century British cottages, and delighting in thoughts of undying love and poetry.
You don’t have to like John Keats, or poetry, or even love stories to enjoy this movie. (I’m not really a huge romance movie – or book, for that matter – fan, so if that’s what’s making you weary of this movie … trust me, it’s so much more than that.) If for nothing else, watch this movie for the sheer beauty of it and for the privilege of taking in something so visually stunning. The cinematography is unlike anything I’ve seen before. It’s truly inspired and absolutely breath-taking. Don’t believe me? Allow the images to do the talking…
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November 7th, 2009
Did anyone else watch the BBC miniseries adaptation of Jane Austen’s Emma that aired over the last month? I was glued to my screen. For four consequent weeks, I found myself actually looking forward to Sunday night for my Jane Austen fix! I actually haven’t read Emma yet (I plan to very soon though since I looooved the miniseries, and it’s also one of my goals to read every Austen novel) so it’s difficult for me to pass any sort of thoughtful judgement on the adaptation. From what I’ve heard from others however, most seemed quite pleased with the translation from book to television series which is always good to hear. So if it counts for anything, I really liked it. Or “looooved” to be exact. Of the Austen stories that I’ve either read or seen a movie adaptation of, I think Emma has the most intriguing plotline for me. And I know we’re not meant to like Emma Woodhouse (the central character), but I found her quite lovely; she made the whole thing for me. I really liked her as a character a lot. She’s a little rough around the edges, but that adds to her charm. Romola Garai, the actress who portrayed her, was fantastic. (And on the topic of characters we’re supposed to dislike… I kind of love Frank Churchill. ♥ Aside from a few moments of being a bit of a jerk, he’s totally adorable.)
To go in a completely different direction – characters, story and acting aside – there was a fair amount of gushing on my part over the costumes. I love me a good costume drama. Even if the story itself is dull as a doorknob (I’m looking at you Keira Knightely flicks!), at least you can ogle the stunning clothing. This adaptation was plum full of lovely peasant dresses, bonnets, jumpers, Peter Pan collars, florals, pastels, ribbons, ruffles, cardigans, puff sleeves … a real treat for the eyes. And so, a tribute to Miss Woodhouse (and a few of her acquaintances) and their dashing attire.
Note: If you haven’t seen the miniseries/read the book… there are spoilers a-plenty to follow. If you don’t want to know what happens, avert your eyes! I can supply the blind fold if necessary.
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