Remember National Lampoon's Vacation in which we travelled to Walley World with the Griswald's? Well ... This follows the exploits of son, Ricky, who gets his own family vacation. Good to see some of the film's original cast in cameo roles but, overall hugely disappointing, it isn't a patch on the original. TT
Once seen, best forgotten. NJT
THE DAY WE SANG ...
A bit more of a musical, if not the kind of musical (IE with 'big show tunes' that you can sing along with) I particularly enjoy, than I had expected and obviously made for television but an OK way to while away a couple of hours. TT
Made for TV movie that felt like it should have been in three episodes. Nice premise and the story flows well but some of the songs just felt to be a bit forced and in the wrong place?... I don't know, not really being a huge fan of the musical, but the set piece in the 'Berni Inn' was superb. Michael Ball in the male lead as insurance salesman, bored and frustrated middle ager (and boy is he beefed up for this role) and the ever flexible and impressive Imelda Staunton opposite him. The two meet up in the making of a TV programme about a venue where they had both sang as part of a choir, when children. Mix of flashback and reflection as the two rediscover their better selves and each other all over again. A sweet romance, set in Manchester that we see age and change through these two lives. NJT
INSIDE OUT ...
The main characters being the emotions inside young Riley's head left this film a bit short on story for me and although there is clear premise and plot, I didn't have to attach to or understand the main character because her emotion was there to see and hear. Those of you (in the UK) who remember The Beezer/Dandy cartoon strip the Numbskulls will recognise the film instantly as a do-over of that idea and it is not without the same sense of humour. Laugh out loud moment was the brief glimpse inside Dad's head over the breakfast table and which no man could possible deny if he were to be truly honest... but really, a woman should never underestimate a man's capacity for thinking absolutely nothing. Yes give it a look, enjoyable, but not a film I'll watch again. NJT
Hmm! A bit puzzled as to just what age range would really enjoy this film. I know it didn't hold my attention and (if you'll excuse my stereotyping) isn't nearly cute enough for little girls nor action packed enough for little boys. Funnily enough, like Mr T it was the glimpse into the fathers thoughts that also had me laughing out loud ... though I can't for the life of me think why. TT
TRUMBO ...
Biopic of the screenwriter Donald Trumbo, played by Bryan Cranston (of Breaking Bad fame). One of the Hollywood Ten Trumbo was imprisoned by the Un-American Activities committee of congress as a subversive, being a member of the communist party. On one hand an idealist and man of conscience Trumbo portrayed by Cranston is revealed as very human, fallible and driven individual. After the better part of a year in prison for contempt of the committee he continues to work writing film scripts under pseudonyms or by having other writers submit his work to the studios, including Roman Holiday, winning an Oscar that was eventually awarded to him posthumously in 1993. With the support of of Kirk Douglas and director Otto Preminger, the work of the committee; its derogation and banning of hundreds of people in the industry for their politics, with credits for Exodus and Spartacus respectively. The film pushes along at a gentle pace with a good cast of well known names playing some of the great stars of 40's - 60's Hollywood. Not one for John Wayne fans mind... he doesn't come out of it smelling of roses. NJT
Obviously not as well up on Trumbo as a screenwriter as Mr T (odd given how many times I've watched Spartacus) and definitely not as clued up on the politics of the time. Whilst I appreciated the acting (especially that of Breaking Bad's Bryan Cranston) and, oh my goodness the costumes (read the hats, a different one in every scene, as worn by Hedda as played by Helen Mirren) I didn't find the political aspect as riveting as I might have.
Inspired by Kelly's One Sentence Movie Reviews, you can catch up with her latest film choices #22 here and # 23 here.
7 comments:
I guess I'd managed to push from my mind that there was to be another Vacation movie, figuring it couldn't possibly live up. I love ALL the originals (Christmas being my favorite, followed by Las Vegas) and, based upon your comments here, gather I was correct in my assumptions.
I'm not at all familiar with Trumbo and may have to look at that one more closely. Not surprised about the John Wayne observation. My husband always enjoys his movies until he stops to remember that Wayne chose not to enlist in WWII, unlike so many of the Hollywood film stars.
Thanks for sharing! I liked Inside Out, but it's honestly not my most favorite Pixar film.
Interesting selection! Can't say I've seen any of them, though I came close to seeing INSIDE OUT, but the shocker for me was seeing Professor Umbridge in a musical! 😂 Sorry, I'm sure she's smashing but she made quite an impression in the HP movies.
I saw Inside Out. It wasn't a favorite, but it certainly got a lot of hype over here.
I meant to see Vacation but then lost interest lol
Inside Out was cute.
Karen @For What It's Worth
I actually liked Inside Out. The original Vacation has a bit filmed in my neck of the woods (so to speak). I even knew one of the extras so that one will always hold a special place in my weird heart. LOL I still need to see the new one.
Such different movies! I love the original Vacation and can see how this version isn't quite the same. I have been wanting to see Inside Out, but haven't had a chance. I enjoyed hearing your thoughts. It does make me wonder who the target audience it. :)
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