Change Your Image
enway
Reviews
Sordid Lives: The Series (2008)
Fabulous characterizations!!!
Shucks, I hadn't watched this since it appeared on LOGO a couple years ago (shame on that network for not renewing for another season!!!), but this weekend I had a good ole former Friend from Houston (now Iowa) up to visit, and he'd never even heard of it before. We;;, cue the DVD player!!! I have an autographed copy of the series, and we spent a day and a half just reveling in the superlative acting and the interplay of all the characters. My face hurts from all the laughing we engaged in, but it rekindled great memories of life in Texas.
Of particular merit, Beth Grant (Aunt Sissy), Ann Walker (Aunt LaVonda) and Rue McLanahan (Mama) really steal the show. Which isn't to say that everyone did a lousy job - far from it - but their performances really were Over The Top imho.
Think Southern Baptist Texans in a hard-drinking, pill-popping', cussin', adulterous spectacle and you have the basic premise of the series (AND the movie); saying anymore would amount to be giving away spoilers.
You won't be ready for this series, but once viewed, you will probably wind up being just as hooked as all us other fans :o)
The War Boys (2009)
Trouble at the borders
It's hard to believe there aren't tons of reviews for this film! It handles numerous "taboo" subjects with aplomb, and gives the viewer a whole lot to think about.
The three youthful leads give outstanding performances all around, Peter Gallagher does a fine job in support, and Teresa Yengue ices the cake to perfection. Many other fine performances here, don't get me wrong.
Try on a "thinking" movie for a change. I think you'll find this most rewarding. Not sure whether this is out on video yet, but please don't give it a pass when it comes your way.
Precious (2009)
To call it remarkable would be a disservice
Although normally up for most any "arthouse" film, I was reluctant to go to this one for some reason, and almost had to have my arm twisted to agree to going with my companion. I'm so glad I did! "Precious" offers a view into a subculture that the majority of Americans never get to witness or understand. It is powerful on so many levels, it would be tough to try and single each one out so as to write a meaningful review here. Visualize these - set in Harlem (New York City), rape, teen pregnancy, welfare mothers, illiteracy, an alternative school ... Get the idea?
Get past any reservations you might have and go to see this film ~ you will be richly rewarded if you do!