Life Itself

2014

120 minutes

5 Stars

Once I got over the shock of seeing Ebert after his cancer surgery (2 minutes) I settled into the rhythm and thoroughly enjoyed it. It turned out to be an open and honest window into his death process, filled with humor and love. I can't compare it to any of the other documentaries out there on the same subject, because I haven't watched them, but I found this one to be inspiring. Because Ebert was not afraid of death, he was able to live life to the fullest, right up until the end. And by sharing his life with us, he has shown us the way. This documentary is beautiful, funny, sad, poignant, and full of life. He let us see the nitty gritty of dying. He let us see the joy and beauty of living. An honest life; an honest documentary.

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Like Water for Chocolate

1992 

105 minutes

5 Stars

I read the book years ago, and remembered I liked it. I decided I'd forgotten enough of the book to enjoy the movie, and I was correct. Passionate, sexual Tita is the youngest daughter, and by family tradition, forbidden to marry as she must remain at home and care for her mother until Mama dies. The man she loves marries her sister in order to be close to her, but it is not enough. Tita takes her passion to the kitchen, and infuses it in all the wonderful dishes she creates (recipes in the book). The movie, like Tita's kitchen, is a feast for the senses. Beautifully photographed, lusciously sensual, delightfully acted, magical beauty from start to finish. Not recommended for children.

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Outlander - Series, Season 1

2014 Season 1

8 episodes (2 discs)

5 Stars

I read the first Outlander books by Diana Gabaldon, as they came out years ago, and have been reading them since. I figured it had been long enough, I could see and enjoy someone else's interpretation. I was right. This series is delightful, and it will be difficult to wait until next year for Season Two. Claire Randall Frazier accidentally tumbles through a stone in the Highlands of Scotland from 1945 where she is on a second honeymoon with her husband after WWII into the war-torn countryside of Scotland of 1743. The costumes are magnificent, though probably not all that historically accurate, and the kilts are a tad long. Sigh. Some nudity, some sex, some violence. Probably not for Family Night at the movies, unless you're prepared to have discussions with the wee bairns. Wonderful scenery.

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