I decided to stay in the Center after my amazing landlord (at a great cost to her) installed new custom-made windows.
While I miss the charm of the old windows with their wooden indoor shutters, being able to get a good nights sleep is more important.
Originally, I wanted to move because of the noise and for more space. The noise issue in the summer will still be there (as I will want to open my windows ) but I can wear ear plugs like I have in the past. My landlord's architect came by to measure for a shelving unit in the kitchen area. That will help a lot with storage issues.
Living in such a small space I really have to keep clutter to a minimum. It's time for a spring cleaning marathon.
One of my favorite websites, Apartment Therapy, has some great spring cleaning TIPS for busy people.
I'm relieved I don't have to deal with the stress and expense of moving right now. My landlord is fantastic, which is something I don't take for granted. My landlord in L.A. was a nightmare. She was a horrible, cheap, dishonest women.
Also, the infamous G lives near by and one of my closest friends is moving to the area. I'm very excited about that.
Do you spring clean?
Wednesday, April 06, 2011
Friday, April 01, 2011
Flashback Friday - Celebrating My 3 Year Anniversay in Rome With Seu Jorge
Crunchy alert: level - high
I cannot believe it's been three years since my friend Robyn dropped me off at LAX with five bags of luggage.
While I had spent time in Rome, did extensive research and prepared myself for outrageous red tape, I had never lived outside America.
I was not in my early 20s or 30s. I was moving to a new country, had to learn a new language and moving thousands of miles away from my family and friends.
I didn't know what would become of me in Italy. I did know I didn't like who I was becoming as I hit my ten year anniversary in Los Angeles. Going to Toronto to work on our film TRAITOR made it clear to me I had to make a very drastic change in my life.
Once the film wrapped in Toronto, I decided to take the leap without a safety net.
During the last three years, my life has changed in ways I never imagined. I wouldn't have written the JUMPING THE BROOM spec if I didn't move. I wouldn't have this sense of being home, of peace, of feeling like I'm no longer observing my life but actually in it, had I not moved here.
I wouldn't have met my incredible friends, who I get see regardless of our hectic work schedules. My married friends and/or friends with children still have time for me here. Single woman without children are not cast out to sea in Italy.
Nobody here schedules dinner or drinks three weeks in advance like we had to in L.A. I tried to do that when I first arrived. That habit died quickly.
When you ask people how are they are, they tell you. They don't say, "busy", then run through a list of all their work projects to prove they are busier than you because they are a more important producer, exec, whatever.
Rome took me by surprise. I never expected to fall in love with this crazy city. When I was a teenager, I thought I would live in London or Paris one day.
During that first trip to Rome, six years ago this month, I assumed the effect the city was having on me was because of what was going on (or not going on) in my life back in L.A. I went to Rome after the production company I worked for shut down. I had been to European cities before, London, Paris, Amsterdam, etc. I wasn't an Italofile.
The next year I returned for a longer stay, renting an apartment in Trastevere. I had to see what this Rome thing was all about. This time I had a job.
Didn't matter. I had an even stronger reaction to Rome and Italy in general. On that trip I also traveled outside of Rome.
"Rome was a poem pressed into service as a city." Anatole Broyard.
I think about the Broyard quote often.
Us expats may complain about the random strikes (of course, there's a big transit one today), the bizarro Bunga-Bunga politics and the bureaucracy. But like Broyard said Rome was "pressed" into being a city.
Of course things are not as organized as they are in America. If they were, Italy would be perfect and no place is. The key is to find a place that is right for your priorities.
During that second trip to Rome I listened to Seu Jorge's CRU CD constantly. He's a Brazilian actor/singer. If you saw CITY OF GOD he played Knockout Ned and in LIFE AQUATIC WITH STEVE ZIZZOU (which was shot in Rome) he was the sailor who sang all the David Bowie covers in Portuguese.
It wasn't until a few months after my trip, that I saw the video for the song "Tive Razao". This is one of favorite tracks off the CD.
Where was the video filmed? In Rome, in Piazza delle Chiesa Nuova, near where I live now. Nice cameos by Willem Dafoe and Bill Murray.
This song (VIDEO HERE) always reminds of that trip. During those weeks I said to my friend, another producer who was in Rome at the same, I was going to move to Rome. I planned to do it when I was older, maybe in my 50s. I'm glad I didn't wait.
The apartment I rented belong to an actor friend of a friend. The owner was on set in Naples so his girlfriend, Valentina, showed me the apartment.
Four years later I moved to Rome. My first week here, my friend G. invited me to come with him and his girlfriend to a party thrown by a production company celebrating the release of their movie NON PENSARCI.
A few minutes after we arrive, who do I see? Valentina. She said, "Welcome back." G. was incredulous. Not sure how she remembered me after only a short meeting four years earlier.
Buon weekend.
I cannot believe it's been three years since my friend Robyn dropped me off at LAX with five bags of luggage.
While I had spent time in Rome, did extensive research and prepared myself for outrageous red tape, I had never lived outside America.
I was not in my early 20s or 30s. I was moving to a new country, had to learn a new language and moving thousands of miles away from my family and friends.
I didn't know what would become of me in Italy. I did know I didn't like who I was becoming as I hit my ten year anniversary in Los Angeles. Going to Toronto to work on our film TRAITOR made it clear to me I had to make a very drastic change in my life.
Once the film wrapped in Toronto, I decided to take the leap without a safety net.
During the last three years, my life has changed in ways I never imagined. I wouldn't have written the JUMPING THE BROOM spec if I didn't move. I wouldn't have this sense of being home, of peace, of feeling like I'm no longer observing my life but actually in it, had I not moved here.
I wouldn't have met my incredible friends, who I get see regardless of our hectic work schedules. My married friends and/or friends with children still have time for me here. Single woman without children are not cast out to sea in Italy.
Nobody here schedules dinner or drinks three weeks in advance like we had to in L.A. I tried to do that when I first arrived. That habit died quickly.
When you ask people how are they are, they tell you. They don't say, "busy", then run through a list of all their work projects to prove they are busier than you because they are a more important producer, exec, whatever.
Rome took me by surprise. I never expected to fall in love with this crazy city. When I was a teenager, I thought I would live in London or Paris one day.
During that first trip to Rome, six years ago this month, I assumed the effect the city was having on me was because of what was going on (or not going on) in my life back in L.A. I went to Rome after the production company I worked for shut down. I had been to European cities before, London, Paris, Amsterdam, etc. I wasn't an Italofile.
The next year I returned for a longer stay, renting an apartment in Trastevere. I had to see what this Rome thing was all about. This time I had a job.
Didn't matter. I had an even stronger reaction to Rome and Italy in general. On that trip I also traveled outside of Rome.
"Rome was a poem pressed into service as a city." Anatole Broyard.
I think about the Broyard quote often.
Us expats may complain about the random strikes (of course, there's a big transit one today), the bizarro Bunga-Bunga politics and the bureaucracy. But like Broyard said Rome was "pressed" into being a city.
Of course things are not as organized as they are in America. If they were, Italy would be perfect and no place is. The key is to find a place that is right for your priorities.
During that second trip to Rome I listened to Seu Jorge's CRU CD constantly. He's a Brazilian actor/singer. If you saw CITY OF GOD he played Knockout Ned and in LIFE AQUATIC WITH STEVE ZIZZOU (which was shot in Rome) he was the sailor who sang all the David Bowie covers in Portuguese.
It wasn't until a few months after my trip, that I saw the video for the song "Tive Razao". This is one of favorite tracks off the CD.
Where was the video filmed? In Rome, in Piazza delle Chiesa Nuova, near where I live now. Nice cameos by Willem Dafoe and Bill Murray.
This song (VIDEO HERE) always reminds of that trip. During those weeks I said to my friend, another producer who was in Rome at the same, I was going to move to Rome. I planned to do it when I was older, maybe in my 50s. I'm glad I didn't wait.
The apartment I rented belong to an actor friend of a friend. The owner was on set in Naples so his girlfriend, Valentina, showed me the apartment.
Four years later I moved to Rome. My first week here, my friend G. invited me to come with him and his girlfriend to a party thrown by a production company celebrating the release of their movie NON PENSARCI.
A few minutes after we arrive, who do I see? Valentina. She said, "Welcome back." G. was incredulous. Not sure how she remembered me after only a short meeting four years earlier.
Buon weekend.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Karl Lagerfeld Photography Exhibit in Rome
If you love photography and/or fashion, I highly recommend this show. The exhibit ends April 10th.I went with two friends last week.
I knew Sir Karl was a talented photographer but it was the first time I've seen a collection of his work. Amazing.
The first section is dedicated to portraits, fashion, landscapes, architecture and nudes (including his muse Jean Baptiste Giabiconi). The second section showcases Lagerfeld more experimental work.
The Bramante gallery (Chiostro del Bramante) is one of my favorite spaces in Rome. It's worth a trip for the building alone.
Chiostro del Bramante
Arco della Pace, 5
00186 Roma
+(39)066 8809036
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Flashback Friday (on Thursday) - Elizabeth Taylor Tribute By Paul Newman
I'm in shock. Which is strange because nobody lives forever.
However, Elizabeth Taylor seemed so larger than life, to hear of her death surprises me.
Many people are called "Legends" or "Movie Stars". Few deserve these titles. Elizabeth Taylor does and was one of a kind. With her passing, another member of the Golden Age of Hollywood is gone.
Elizabeth has always been one of my favorite names. My paternal grandmother was named Elizabeth and if I ever had a daughter that is what I would've named her. Don't tell my mom. I do like the name Martha, my maternal grandmother's name but Elizabeth has been number one on my list since I was a child.
People who have met Dame Taylor have told me she really was luminous, funny and kind. She will be missed.
This short tribute by Paul Newman is lovely.
However, Elizabeth Taylor seemed so larger than life, to hear of her death surprises me.
Many people are called "Legends" or "Movie Stars". Few deserve these titles. Elizabeth Taylor does and was one of a kind. With her passing, another member of the Golden Age of Hollywood is gone.
Elizabeth has always been one of my favorite names. My paternal grandmother was named Elizabeth and if I ever had a daughter that is what I would've named her. Don't tell my mom. I do like the name Martha, my maternal grandmother's name but Elizabeth has been number one on my list since I was a child.
People who have met Dame Taylor have told me she really was luminous, funny and kind. She will be missed.
This short tribute by Paul Newman is lovely.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Help! I'm addicted to The Rachel Zoe Project.
The show has recently started airing in Italy on E! Italia. I cannot stop watching it.
Ms. Zoe grew up in the same area as me (I've already discussed how much I love Short Hills Mall) and I totally hear her slight, suburban Northern New Jersey accent.
I'm pretty sure Zoe (like myself) has been saying "bananas" before Gwen Stefani's "Holla Back" song. Once that song came out I had to make an effort to drop "bananas" from my vocabulary. It made me salty as bananas was one of my favorite words. It's so useful. Living in L.A. and now Rome, I constantly find myself in situations that can only be described as "BA-NAN-AS". As in, getting a driver's license in Italy is bananas.
Zoe gets a lot of flack, even from her husband sometimes, about how serious she takes her career. It's dismissed as "only" fashion. Sorry, but I respect people who have a passion for what they do. I hate that the creative arts/crafts are not respected in America unless you make a lot of money.
There are many very talented and smart people who work in fashion. Clothing is the one thing that touches almost every single person's life, unless they walk around naked.
Yes, some people are over the top but so freaking what? Fashion should be fun. With all the horrific things going on the world, it's great to get excited about something that speaks to you, whether it's a photograph, a painting, a film, a song or a beautiful dress.
A clip from the show. Everything is so DRAMATIC! I do remember seeing Cameron's Chanel dress and Eva's Dior dress on the red carpet and thinking they were gorgeous. It's interesting to see how the outfits came together.
An interview with Harper's Bazaar.
This spoof cracked me up. The two have met and did a video together. It's good to see Zoe has a sense of humor. Too many people in Hollywood do not.
Ms. Zoe grew up in the same area as me (I've already discussed how much I love Short Hills Mall) and I totally hear her slight, suburban Northern New Jersey accent.
I'm pretty sure Zoe (like myself) has been saying "bananas" before Gwen Stefani's "Holla Back" song. Once that song came out I had to make an effort to drop "bananas" from my vocabulary. It made me salty as bananas was one of my favorite words. It's so useful. Living in L.A. and now Rome, I constantly find myself in situations that can only be described as "BA-NAN-AS". As in, getting a driver's license in Italy is bananas.
Zoe gets a lot of flack, even from her husband sometimes, about how serious she takes her career. It's dismissed as "only" fashion. Sorry, but I respect people who have a passion for what they do. I hate that the creative arts/crafts are not respected in America unless you make a lot of money.
There are many very talented and smart people who work in fashion. Clothing is the one thing that touches almost every single person's life, unless they walk around naked.
Yes, some people are over the top but so freaking what? Fashion should be fun. With all the horrific things going on the world, it's great to get excited about something that speaks to you, whether it's a photograph, a painting, a film, a song or a beautiful dress.
A clip from the show. Everything is so DRAMATIC! I do remember seeing Cameron's Chanel dress and Eva's Dior dress on the red carpet and thinking they were gorgeous. It's interesting to see how the outfits came together.
An interview with Harper's Bazaar.
This spoof cracked me up. The two have met and did a video together. It's good to see Zoe has a sense of humor. Too many people in Hollywood do not.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Snapshot Rome: Spring Has Sprung
I'm not sure what type of tree this is. I saw several of them at the top of Gianicolo Hill. The blossoms smell amazing.
I'm so glad Spring is here. I bought some Sudifed when I was in L.A. last October. This time I'm ready for allergy season.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Buon Compleanno (Happy Birthday) Italia!
The sun broke through for a few minutes this morning. I used to opportunity to get in a work out and took my camera. I ran up to Gianicolo Hill, one of the highest hills in the city.
Nile Guide's Erica Firpo has written a great POST about the activities taking place in Rome to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of Italy's unification.
Men in uniform getting ready.
Giuseppe Garibaldi keeping watch.
The cannons are ready.
Earlier this year, restorers were cleaning and repairing these statues.
Before the unveiling.
In Europe people don't really fly their flags all the time like we do in the States. It is unusual to see so many Tri-colore flags in the city.
Nile Guide's Erica Firpo has written a great POST about the activities taking place in Rome to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of Italy's unification.
Men in uniform getting ready.
Giuseppe Garibaldi keeping watch.
The cannons are ready.
Earlier this year, restorers were cleaning and repairing these statues.
Before the unveiling.
In Europe people don't really fly their flags all the time like we do in the States. It is unusual to see so many Tri-colore flags in the city.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Salotto Locarno - Get Your Cocktail On
Isn't this champagne cocktail pretty?
Each cocktail comes with a plate of food to nibble on (after 6:30).
I have been on serious lockdown finishing a script and working on my novel. Plus, I've been in a surly mood, thanks to my dwindling bank account. Several good friends told me I have to leave my house. It's not healthy to stay indoors working all day.
Friday morning I hit the wall. I had to make some changes.
This weekend was the most social I've been in a while.
I met a friend at Salotto Locarno (pics on left). I stayed at this hotel during my first trip to Rome. I always thought the art deco bar was pretty and they have a nice courtyard.
I'm not sure when it happened but now the bar is quite the scene. Friends have told me in the afternoon they do a lovely spread for tea.
At night it's packed. The drinks are not cheap. It's less pricey than Hotel de Russie but not by much. As the weather gets warmer, I suggest making reservations if you plan to go on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday night. Not sure if it's less crowded earlier in the week. Service is sloooooooow. The little bar gets overwhelmed by all the drink orders.
Salotte Locarno totally reminds of L.A.'s hippy/chic Chateau Marmont. When I met my friend, someone was being interviewed by a camera crew. Very L.A. The man who runs the Salotto (I think he does) was very nice. I can't wait until Spring when we can sit outside in the courtyard.
Salotto Lorcano
Hotel Locarno
Via della Penna, 22
+(39) 06-361=0841
Each cocktail comes with a plate of food to nibble on (after 6:30).
I have been on serious lockdown finishing a script and working on my novel. Plus, I've been in a surly mood, thanks to my dwindling bank account. Several good friends told me I have to leave my house. It's not healthy to stay indoors working all day. Friday morning I hit the wall. I had to make some changes.
This weekend was the most social I've been in a while.
I met a friend at Salotto Locarno (pics on left). I stayed at this hotel during my first trip to Rome. I always thought the art deco bar was pretty and they have a nice courtyard.
I'm not sure when it happened but now the bar is quite the scene. Friends have told me in the afternoon they do a lovely spread for tea.
At night it's packed. The drinks are not cheap. It's less pricey than Hotel de Russie but not by much. As the weather gets warmer, I suggest making reservations if you plan to go on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday night. Not sure if it's less crowded earlier in the week. Service is sloooooooow. The little bar gets overwhelmed by all the drink orders.
Salotte Locarno totally reminds of L.A.'s hippy/chic Chateau Marmont. When I met my friend, someone was being interviewed by a camera crew. Very L.A. The man who runs the Salotto (I think he does) was very nice. I can't wait until Spring when we can sit outside in the courtyard.
Salotto Lorcano
Hotel Locarno
Via della Penna, 22
+(39) 06-361=0841
Friday, March 11, 2011
Flashback Friday - Sheila E. - "The Glamorous Life"
Sheila Escovedo is one of the baddest drummers on the planet.
I played this song to DEATH back in the day (1984). I had the 12' extended Club Mix on vinyl.
Written by Prince, "Glamorous Life" was a massive hit in the '80s.
Random fact: Nicole Richie is her niece.
Have a great weekend.
I played this song to DEATH back in the day (1984). I had the 12' extended Club Mix on vinyl.
Written by Prince, "Glamorous Life" was a massive hit in the '80s.
Random fact: Nicole Richie is her niece.
Have a great weekend.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Il futuro anteriore indicativo/future perfect - non mi piace
Okay. What the heck is this verb tense about?
My Italian class is truly kicking my butt. Our professor was telling us which verb tense is best to convey irony. What?! Irony? I can't worry about being ironic in Italian when I'm still trying to lock down the congiuntivo (subjunctive) tense. The subjunctive is rarely used in English but it's an important tense for correct Italian.
That said, I really like her method of teaching. She told us a story about her parents in Sicily getting ready to go to a baptism. Her father wasn't crazy about her mother's dress. We had to construct a likely conversation using the correct tenses and idioms.
One day in class we were listening to some audio and then had fill in the correct tense of the verbs. In one sentence we thought it was the imperfect. No. The present perfect? No.
Finally, I guessed it was passato remoto (preterit). I was offended, yes offended, to see this tense in a basic conversation. The professor laughed and told me to get over it.
All jokes aside, I'm glad she is pushing us. It's very frustrating not being able to communicate fully in Italian. I can keep up with simple conversations but I'm not close to being fluent. Also, given what I do for a living, I'm bummed that it takes me forever to write even an email in Italian.
Our class is small, only four of us, and our professor zeros in on things that would be missed in a larger class, like pronunciation.
One exercise that is brilliant (and sometimes painful), is when she has us "interview" each other with a microphone. In the next class there's a printout of the conversation and we listen to the tape. You can clearly hear your mistakes when you listen to a recording of yourself. I was putting the accent in the wrong place for the word "abito" (I live) for the longest time. I won't make that mistake again.
Another day she gave us a print out of a Carmen Consoli song with certain words missing. We had to listen to the song and fill in the blanks. She then gave us the complete lyrics.
Here's the song. Mi piace.
My Italian class is truly kicking my butt. Our professor was telling us which verb tense is best to convey irony. What?! Irony? I can't worry about being ironic in Italian when I'm still trying to lock down the congiuntivo (subjunctive) tense. The subjunctive is rarely used in English but it's an important tense for correct Italian.
That said, I really like her method of teaching. She told us a story about her parents in Sicily getting ready to go to a baptism. Her father wasn't crazy about her mother's dress. We had to construct a likely conversation using the correct tenses and idioms.
One day in class we were listening to some audio and then had fill in the correct tense of the verbs. In one sentence we thought it was the imperfect. No. The present perfect? No.
Finally, I guessed it was passato remoto (preterit). I was offended, yes offended, to see this tense in a basic conversation. The professor laughed and told me to get over it.
All jokes aside, I'm glad she is pushing us. It's very frustrating not being able to communicate fully in Italian. I can keep up with simple conversations but I'm not close to being fluent. Also, given what I do for a living, I'm bummed that it takes me forever to write even an email in Italian.
Our class is small, only four of us, and our professor zeros in on things that would be missed in a larger class, like pronunciation.
One exercise that is brilliant (and sometimes painful), is when she has us "interview" each other with a microphone. In the next class there's a printout of the conversation and we listen to the tape. You can clearly hear your mistakes when you listen to a recording of yourself. I was putting the accent in the wrong place for the word "abito" (I live) for the longest time. I won't make that mistake again.
Another day she gave us a print out of a Carmen Consoli song with certain words missing. We had to listen to the song and fill in the blanks. She then gave us the complete lyrics.
Here's the song. Mi piace.
Wednesday, March 09, 2011
Design Inspiration: Annette Joseph's Cinque Terre Apartment
I first became aware of interior designer/photo stylist Annette Joseph when I saw the film location apartment she created for Gwenyth Paltow on GOOP.
Then one of my favorite design blogs, Design Sponge, profiled her APARTMENT in the Cinque Terre area. STUNNING!!
Later, I saw her work in RUE and realized I had seen her work before in my beloved DOMINO magazine (RIP).
Annette has been coming to Italy since she was a child. Six years ago she and her husband decided to buy a place on the coast.
I love Annette's use of color in her apartment. Grey is having a moment but I don't think it will ever go out of style. It's a classic neutral.
The bathroom is amazing (that sink!!). I like that she used a lot of local materials.
Annette's apartment is light and airy. Perfect for a place near the sea.
I highly recommend Annette's BLOG. She has great posts on not only design/decorating but entertaining, cooking, etc. Very inspiring.
Then one of my favorite design blogs, Design Sponge, profiled her APARTMENT in the Cinque Terre area. STUNNING!!
Later, I saw her work in RUE and realized I had seen her work before in my beloved DOMINO magazine (RIP).
Annette has been coming to Italy since she was a child. Six years ago she and her husband decided to buy a place on the coast.
I love Annette's use of color in her apartment. Grey is having a moment but I don't think it will ever go out of style. It's a classic neutral.
The bathroom is amazing (that sink!!). I like that she used a lot of local materials.
Annette's apartment is light and airy. Perfect for a place near the sea.
I highly recommend Annette's BLOG. She has great posts on not only design/decorating but entertaining, cooking, etc. Very inspiring.
Wednesday, March 02, 2011
Snapshot Rome: Fish - Trionfale Market
I need to learn how to cook fish. Once in a while I would buy shrimp or salmon at the Gelson fish counter when I lived in L.A. Not sure why I didn't buy/cook fish more often.
I grew up eating fish every single Friday. My dad went to Catholic schools but my mom was/is Methodist. I'm not sure where the fish every Friday tradition came from. One dish I had no love for was fish head soup. Pass.
Of course having Caribbean parents, we had to eat what they ate. There was no "kids menu" at our house. When we got older, like in high school, sometimes my mom would say she was thinking about making either one dish or the other and would ask our opinion. Other than that, nope. My mom was not running a restaurant. If you didn't like what she made, guess you weren't eating that night.
Growing up in the islands, fish was a big part of my parents' diet. My dad was Mr. Breakfast on weekends and sometimes we would have fish then as well.
I happened to buy sardines the other week and eating them reminded me of Sunday breakfasts in Jersey.
Now that I'm surrounded by excellent fishmongers, I need to step up my fish game. heh
To be honest, I'm a little overwhelmed by all the choices. I'm slowly learning the Italian names for different types of fish and my goal is to try a "new" fish every month. I have never cooked a whole fish. This is one of my personal Top Chef Challenges for 2011.
Monday, February 28, 2011
The 2011 Oscars (aka our Superbowl)
Ciao Bloggisti,
What did you think of the show? Co-hosting the Oscars is difficult. I wonder who they will get for next year.
Most of the predictions were dead on.
Several of the acceptance speeches were very funny and/or moving. Some of my favorites were, David Seidler who one for Best Original Screenplay, Colin Firth's, Luke Matheny who won the Oscar for Best Short and Christian Bale's.
I wondered about the special Lena Horne tribute by Halle Berry. Hmmm, interesting it happened in a year where there was A LOT of mainstream press about the lack of diversity in Hollywood.
I really liked the Best Picture montage.
The dresses!! The detailing on Cate Blanchett's was stunning. She always makes interesting choices. I liked her dress and I don't care that some people are putting it on their "worse dressed" lists. They can go kick some rocks.
Sandra Bullock looked beautiful in red. I loved the color of Jennifer Hudson's dress. Not sure about the fit or her lace front.
Of course I will be watching the "Fashion Police" post-Oscar show. Kelly Osbourne's dress was very pretty.
What did you think of the show? Co-hosting the Oscars is difficult. I wonder who they will get for next year.
Most of the predictions were dead on.
Several of the acceptance speeches were very funny and/or moving. Some of my favorites were, David Seidler who one for Best Original Screenplay, Colin Firth's, Luke Matheny who won the Oscar for Best Short and Christian Bale's.
I wondered about the special Lena Horne tribute by Halle Berry. Hmmm, interesting it happened in a year where there was A LOT of mainstream press about the lack of diversity in Hollywood.
I really liked the Best Picture montage.
The dresses!! The detailing on Cate Blanchett's was stunning. She always makes interesting choices. I liked her dress and I don't care that some people are putting it on their "worse dressed" lists. They can go kick some rocks.
Sandra Bullock looked beautiful in red. I loved the color of Jennifer Hudson's dress. Not sure about the fit or her lace front.
Of course I will be watching the "Fashion Police" post-Oscar show. Kelly Osbourne's dress was very pretty.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Flashback Friday - Oscar Weekend - "West Side Story" Trailer
The Oscars are this Sunday. It's also the 20th anniversary of "Goodfellas" getting screwed but I will have to write about that outrage later.
"West Side Story" is the first movie I remember watching on TV. It remains one of my favorites.
The play (based on "Romeo and Juliet") was a critical and commercial success and it changed American musical theater forever.
In 1961 the film adaptation won ten Oscars, including Best Picture.
Leonard Bernstein's music is timeless and Jerome Robbins' choreography has influenced countless dancers during the last fifty years.
My favorite scene is the rooftop "America" number. I used to pretend I could dance like Rita Moreno. My parents probably thought I was nuts.
Random fact: Actress Amber Tamblyn's dad, Russ, played Riff.
We'll see who wins Best Picture on Sunday. "The King's Speech", much to the chagrin of many, is the favorite to beat "The Social Network", "True Girt" and "The Fighter". I haven't seen "The King's Speech" yet but I understand the controversy.
Have a great weekend.
"West Side Story" is the first movie I remember watching on TV. It remains one of my favorites.
The play (based on "Romeo and Juliet") was a critical and commercial success and it changed American musical theater forever.
In 1961 the film adaptation won ten Oscars, including Best Picture.
Leonard Bernstein's music is timeless and Jerome Robbins' choreography has influenced countless dancers during the last fifty years.
My favorite scene is the rooftop "America" number. I used to pretend I could dance like Rita Moreno. My parents probably thought I was nuts.
Random fact: Actress Amber Tamblyn's dad, Russ, played Riff.
We'll see who wins Best Picture on Sunday. "The King's Speech", much to the chagrin of many, is the favorite to beat "The Social Network", "True Girt" and "The Fighter". I haven't seen "The King's Speech" yet but I understand the controversy.
Have a great weekend.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Can we talk about the deliciousness that is Chef Eric Ripert?
I've been watching "Top Chef" Season 5 on LEI (the Italian version of Lifetime...television for women). It's down to the final four.
Chef Ripert was one of the guest judges on an earlier episode. He's the head chef and co-owner of Le Bernardin in NYC. This four star restaurant is known for fish and is considered one of the best restaurants in America.
I love his accent. I could listen to him read the United States Capital Gains tax bill.
I get down right giddy when he and his best friend Anthony Bourdain show up on my favorite cooking and travel shows.
It cracks me up that in the video below, Chef Ripert says his recipe for sauteed cod with pea shoots and ginger-lemon scallion broth is easy.
Chef Ripert was one of the guest judges on an earlier episode. He's the head chef and co-owner of Le Bernardin in NYC. This four star restaurant is known for fish and is considered one of the best restaurants in America.
I love his accent. I could listen to him read the United States Capital Gains tax bill.
I get down right giddy when he and his best friend Anthony Bourdain show up on my favorite cooking and travel shows.
It cracks me up that in the video below, Chef Ripert says his recipe for sauteed cod with pea shoots and ginger-lemon scallion broth is easy.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Snapshot Rome: Pastificio San Lorenzo
A few weeks ago I finally made it over to Pastificio San Lorenzo.
Last year an Italian friend had pointed out the building, telling me it used to be a pasta factory. Above the restaurant are artists lofts and there's also a gallery space.
My friend, Jessica, suggested we meet there for her birthday drinks. It was a fantastic idea.
San Lorenzo is a serious schlep from my side of town. While in the area I had to stop by SAID for some chocolate.
We had a great time sitting at the bar. The cocktails are excellent (Jessica and I had Moscow Mules). My wine expert friend appreciated the variety of Sicilian wines and the food was delicious. Our waiter was super friendly.
I really like the decor and the vibe. I will definitely return.
Pastificio San Lorenzo
via Tiburtina 196 (near Piazzale Verano)
+39 0697273519
Closed Monday
Open lunch and dinner Tues-Fri & Sun
Open dinner only Saturday
Some dessert for the lady celebrating her birthday.
Last year an Italian friend had pointed out the building, telling me it used to be a pasta factory. Above the restaurant are artists lofts and there's also a gallery space.
My friend, Jessica, suggested we meet there for her birthday drinks. It was a fantastic idea.
San Lorenzo is a serious schlep from my side of town. While in the area I had to stop by SAID for some chocolate.
We had a great time sitting at the bar. The cocktails are excellent (Jessica and I had Moscow Mules). My wine expert friend appreciated the variety of Sicilian wines and the food was delicious. Our waiter was super friendly.
I really like the decor and the vibe. I will definitely return.
Pastificio San Lorenzo
via Tiburtina 196 (near Piazzale Verano)
+39 0697273519
Closed Monday
Open lunch and dinner Tues-Fri & Sun
Open dinner only Saturday
Some dessert for the lady celebrating her birthday.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Women in Italy demand some RESPECT
Yesterday there were nationwide demonstrations in Italy. There were also several protests in cities around the world, like Tokyo, London, etc.
Piazza del Popolo was PACKED. I have never seen it that full of people. It was great to see all the families and men who came out to support women. As I walked over to meet some fellow expats, Aretha Franklin's RESPECT was blaring from the loud speakers.
Berlusconi has dismissed those protesting against him as moralists and prudes. This is BS. Other than some hard core conservative Catholics, no one is up and arms about his sexy times.
What is a problem is while he's calling police stations to help poor Ruby, garbage continues to pile up in Naples. Didn't he campaign to clear it up? Why isn't he focusing on that? Or the brain drain, or high energy costs, or on all the other issues the country is facing.
He's paying young former show girls a salary higher than what President of the United States makes to "work" in the government. Meanwhile, the average 25 year-old college grad in Italy is lucky to make 1/10 of that salary.
Also, I thought he and his racist peeps, The Lega Nord were very anti-illegal immigration. Ruby, who was arrested for stealing, is not sent back to Morocco. Why because she's hot? Instead the Prime Minister of a G8 country finds the time in his busy schedule to call the Milan Police and say they have to let her go because she was Mubarak's niece. WTF? If this were any other G8 country, the PM would have to resign immediately. That is abuse of power.
Since he controls and indirectly controls 97% of the broadcast media, along with newspapers, magazines, a soccer team and a huge publishing company, I don't think Berlusconi is going to leave anytime soon. He doesn't give a damn. He has said so. He's "having fun"! The publications he owns print positive stories about him and say the far-left is out to get him.
The opposition is weak and divided (and charisma free). I wish Berlusconi would put the same amount of effort into making things better in Italy as he does toward avoid jail, lining his own pockets and sleeping around.
The New York Times has a good overview of the demonstrations HERE.
La Reppublica has excellent photos HERE.
The sign below says "I am a girl who does not want to be a Veline." Veline are the half naked women giggling and dancing all over Italian TV game and talk shows. Berlusconi brought the Veline culture to Italy. During a political rally he told young Italian women the way to make it is to marry rich, older men. It's this sexist culture women are fighting against. Basta!
The sign on the right says "The alumni of my school are not the nieces of Mubarak." The one on the left says, "I've read article 54 of the Constitution."
Piazza del Popolo was PACKED. I have never seen it that full of people. It was great to see all the families and men who came out to support women. As I walked over to meet some fellow expats, Aretha Franklin's RESPECT was blaring from the loud speakers.
Berlusconi has dismissed those protesting against him as moralists and prudes. This is BS. Other than some hard core conservative Catholics, no one is up and arms about his sexy times.
What is a problem is while he's calling police stations to help poor Ruby, garbage continues to pile up in Naples. Didn't he campaign to clear it up? Why isn't he focusing on that? Or the brain drain, or high energy costs, or on all the other issues the country is facing.
He's paying young former show girls a salary higher than what President of the United States makes to "work" in the government. Meanwhile, the average 25 year-old college grad in Italy is lucky to make 1/10 of that salary.
Also, I thought he and his racist peeps, The Lega Nord were very anti-illegal immigration. Ruby, who was arrested for stealing, is not sent back to Morocco. Why because she's hot? Instead the Prime Minister of a G8 country finds the time in his busy schedule to call the Milan Police and say they have to let her go because she was Mubarak's niece. WTF? If this were any other G8 country, the PM would have to resign immediately. That is abuse of power.
Since he controls and indirectly controls 97% of the broadcast media, along with newspapers, magazines, a soccer team and a huge publishing company, I don't think Berlusconi is going to leave anytime soon. He doesn't give a damn. He has said so. He's "having fun"! The publications he owns print positive stories about him and say the far-left is out to get him.
The opposition is weak and divided (and charisma free). I wish Berlusconi would put the same amount of effort into making things better in Italy as he does toward avoid jail, lining his own pockets and sleeping around.
The New York Times has a good overview of the demonstrations HERE.
La Reppublica has excellent photos HERE.
The sign below says "I am a girl who does not want to be a Veline." Veline are the half naked women giggling and dancing all over Italian TV game and talk shows. Berlusconi brought the Veline culture to Italy. During a political rally he told young Italian women the way to make it is to marry rich, older men. It's this sexist culture women are fighting against. Basta!
The sign on the right says "The alumni of my school are not the nieces of Mubarak." The one on the left says, "I've read article 54 of the Constitution."
Friday, February 11, 2011
Flashback Friday - Chet Baker - "My Funny Valentine"
It's Valentine's Day Weekend. As usual, I don't have a Valentine.
In Italy it's kind of celebrated but not to the steriods level it is in the States. As a single person this is fine with me!
I picked up some amazing porcini mushrooms at the market and will make myself a very romantic dish of risotto. Along with a nice bottle of Sicilian wine, I'm good to go.
Back in L.A. the build up to Valentine's Day sent me into a funk. You couldn't even go out to dinner as every restaurant had a special V-Day menu. I felt bad for men who were under a lot of pressure to spend x-amount of money on flowers (the prices are always hiked up) and other gifts.
I ADORE flowers but I think there's something weird about the mass marketing/commercializing of romance and love.
When it comes to matter of the heart, I say keep it simple. Actions and words speak louder than a dollar sign.
This short instrumental version of "My Funny Valentine" floors me. The emotion, the longing, expressed without a word. Beautiful.
Have a great weekend.
In Italy it's kind of celebrated but not to the steriods level it is in the States. As a single person this is fine with me!
I picked up some amazing porcini mushrooms at the market and will make myself a very romantic dish of risotto. Along with a nice bottle of Sicilian wine, I'm good to go.
Back in L.A. the build up to Valentine's Day sent me into a funk. You couldn't even go out to dinner as every restaurant had a special V-Day menu. I felt bad for men who were under a lot of pressure to spend x-amount of money on flowers (the prices are always hiked up) and other gifts.
I ADORE flowers but I think there's something weird about the mass marketing/commercializing of romance and love.
When it comes to matter of the heart, I say keep it simple. Actions and words speak louder than a dollar sign.
This short instrumental version of "My Funny Valentine" floors me. The emotion, the longing, expressed without a word. Beautiful.
Have a great weekend.
Wednesday, February 09, 2011
Prada and a serious case of Spring Fever
It's only February.
During the last few days we've had highs in the mid-60s here in Rome.
The store windows are full of pretty clothes for Spring. Why must I be tempted so?!
For the first time in a while, the clothes coming down the runaway were fun and optimistic.
I'm kind of obsessed with these Prada shoes. I don't have Prada money.
Every year Prada does some variation of a Mary Jane. I have a pair of black patent leather Mary Janes I bought over ten years ago. I bought them as a treat to myself after getting completely screwed over at work (long story). I couldn't afford them back then either. I convinced myself, cost-per-wear, the Pradas would make more sense in the long run.
And they did. All the cheaper shoes I had are long gone. My Mary Janes are still in excellent condition despite getting quite the work out in L.A.
If I could figure out how to walk on cobble streets, I would wear them more often here.
I can't wait until Spring fruits and vegetable arrive at the Farmers Markets.
Warmer weather means a return to sitting outside for aperitivi or lunch/dinner with friends.
I have a few big things on the horizon this Spring. Our movie Jumping The Broom opens (ahem, May 6th, Mother's Day) and I hope to move to a new neighborhood. I will miss my current apartment but with yet another bar opening in Campo, I cannot renew my contract.
I know we still have the rest of February and the month of March before we can start packing away the winter clothes. However, I've noticed the days are already getting longer.
What are you looking forward to this Spring?
During the last few days we've had highs in the mid-60s here in Rome.
The store windows are full of pretty clothes for Spring. Why must I be tempted so?!
For the first time in a while, the clothes coming down the runaway were fun and optimistic.
I'm kind of obsessed with these Prada shoes. I don't have Prada money. Every year Prada does some variation of a Mary Jane. I have a pair of black patent leather Mary Janes I bought over ten years ago. I bought them as a treat to myself after getting completely screwed over at work (long story). I couldn't afford them back then either. I convinced myself, cost-per-wear, the Pradas would make more sense in the long run.
And they did. All the cheaper shoes I had are long gone. My Mary Janes are still in excellent condition despite getting quite the work out in L.A.
If I could figure out how to walk on cobble streets, I would wear them more often here.
I can't wait until Spring fruits and vegetable arrive at the Farmers Markets.
Warmer weather means a return to sitting outside for aperitivi or lunch/dinner with friends.
I have a few big things on the horizon this Spring. Our movie Jumping The Broom opens (ahem, May 6th, Mother's Day) and I hope to move to a new neighborhood. I will miss my current apartment but with yet another bar opening in Campo, I cannot renew my contract.
I know we still have the rest of February and the month of March before we can start packing away the winter clothes. However, I've noticed the days are already getting longer.
What are you looking forward to this Spring?
Saturday, February 05, 2011
Homemade Nutella Banana Pancakes
I cannot believe it's already the fifth anniversary of this glorious event!!Thanks to the wonderful Michelle at Bleeding Espresso and Sara at MsAdventures in Italy, all across the world people will be enjoying World Nutella Day. Sara and Michelle will post a round of up all the yummy goodness on Monday, February 7th.
This year I decided to make Nutella Banana Pancakes. Before I moved to Rome I always used pancake mix. Then when I realized I could make them from scratch and not have to pay four euros for a tiny box of mix at Castroni, I never looked back.
It's so easy, no more preservatives and they taste better. Not sure why the heck I didn't make pancakes from scratch earlier.
Here's the recipe adapted from THE BIG BOOK OF BREAKFAST COOKBOOK.
Basic Pancake Recipe
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 2 tablespoons sugar
* 2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 2 large eggs
* 1 1/2 cups milk
* 3 tablespoons melted butter
* 1 or 2 bananas smashed
* 1 or 2 tablespoons Nutella
DIRECTIONS
1. Crack eggs into small bowl and whisk until foamy.
2. Whisk in milk and melted butter.
3. Place flour, sugar, baking powder and salt in medium bowl and stir together.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients, whisking briefly after each addition, just until smooth. Do not overmix.
5. Stir in bananas, Nutella
6. Heat griddle. If using electric, aim for 375; if using stove, heat until water flicked on surface bounces but does not evaporate immediately.
7. Brush griddle with oil that has a high burning point; vegetable or canola will work well. (I use butter)
8. Using 1/4 cup measure for small pancakes, 1/3 cup measure for larger, scoop batter out of bowl.
9. From about 3” above griddle, pour batter in solid stream onto griddle.
10. If batter is a little thick, spread it out so that cake is roughly 1/4" tall
11. Watch cake closely; once edges are dry, and a few dry-edged bubbles have formed on top, check the cake’s underside. It should be roughly the color of honey.
12. Flip cake, cook until golden brown.
13. Serve immediately.
TIPS:
Don't overmix the batter
Use a nonstick skillet or griddle
Use a spatual with a nonstick coating.
Turn pancakes only once
Friday, February 04, 2011
Flashback Friday - Nutella celebration "Chocolate Rain"
In honor of tomorrow's WORLD NUTELLA DAY, I decided to post this video.
"Chocolate Rain", with over 62 millions hits, was an Internet sensation a few years ago. The first time I saw it, I thought WTF is this?
I love it. The lyrics are so freaking random.
Tay Zonday was interviewed on Late Night shows, newspapers etc. I wonder what he's up to now.
I will post a recipe tomorrow for World Nutella Day.
Have a great weekend.
"Chocolate Rain", with over 62 millions hits, was an Internet sensation a few years ago. The first time I saw it, I thought WTF is this?
I love it. The lyrics are so freaking random.
Tay Zonday was interviewed on Late Night shows, newspapers etc. I wonder what he's up to now.
I will post a recipe tomorrow for World Nutella Day.
Have a great weekend.
Wednesday, February 02, 2011
Style Inspiration - Italian Rustic by Elizabeth Helman Minchili
I bumped into Elizabeth last week in Monti which reminded me to buy her book.This book is gorgeous. Packed with photographs of farm houses (interiors and exteriors) in Tuscany and Umbria, the book also gives clear details on how to bring this type of decor into your own home.
Elizabeth's husband, an Italian architect, contributed to the book and I found the how-to sections very accessible. They also highlighted several artisans in the region. This is so important. I get why fast fashion, fast food, cheap furniture, etc. is successful but there's a value and quality to craftsmanship that cheap and fast could never replace. Never.
Italian Rustic 's chapters cover flooring, kitchens, outdoor spaces, bedrooms, roofs, etc.
Even if you're not going to buy a place in Tuscany or Umbria soon or redecorate your home, this book is a great read. I have an issue with home decor books that skimp on the photography. That makes no sense to me.
I'm obsessed with outdoor showers and on page 174 there is one on a terrace. I DIE! Really, to have an outdoor shower off your bedroom or bathroom? Sigh. Someday.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Snapshot Rome: Drink your eggs! - Trionfale Market
A year later, I'm still exploring my market.
I used to buy my eggs at the supermarket until I "discovered" the egg vendors. The prices are cheaper and the eggs are fresher. What the heck took me so long?
I met up with Erica at the market last Friday. She wanted to check out the fish. Afterward, we stopped by my egg vendor.
Erica wrote a lovely ODE to the egg and the memories of her Roman nonna feeding her a raw egg "shake" for her merenda (Italian for a mid-afternoon snack).
The eggs marked "Da Bere" (to drink) are the freshest of the fresh. You have to eat them within a short period of time.
The vendor was speaking Italian very quickly, so I missed the explanation regarding how these eggs are different from the others.
She said the eggs come from the Le Marche region.
Their eggs are delicious. I can totally taste the difference between their eggs and the ones I used to buy at the supermarket.
Trionfale is not the closest market to my house but it's worth the schlep.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Flashback Friday - St. Peter's cell - Mamertine Prison
We're talking very old school today...over 2000 years.
I wrote a guest post for Nile Guide about Rome's Mamertine Prison.
It is believed to be the first maximum security prison in Rome and the place where St. Peter was held before his crucifixion.
It's an incredible place to visit. Post is HERE.
Have a great weekend.
I wrote a guest post for Nile Guide about Rome's Mamertine Prison.
It is believed to be the first maximum security prison in Rome and the place where St. Peter was held before his crucifixion.
It's an incredible place to visit. Post is HERE.
Have a great weekend.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Made In Italy, Food & Stories...a fantastic cookbook
I know I've said several times I'm not going to buy anymore cookbooks. I couldn't help myself.I heard great things about this book. While waiting for a friend, I started to skim though it, then bought it.
It's excellent. Some of the recipes are beyond my culinary level but I found it accessible.
Giorgio Locatelli grew up in a small town near Milan and has been cooking since he was five. He owns a very successful restaurant in London. Most of the recipes have a Northern Italy influence.
This is more than just a book of recipes. Locatelli is an excellent writer. He gives great insight into the history of various foods/recipes. The book is well illustrated and I loved reading about his family.
It took me a while to read this book. I wanted to savor every single page. If you love Italian cooking, especially Northern Italian cuisine, I recommend this book.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Flashback Friday - "A Star Is Born" Beyonce to star in remake
Hollywood is abuzz with the news that Clint Eastwood will direct Beyonce in another remake of "A Star Is Born."
Very curious to see how the story is updated and who the male lead will be.
Beyonce better bring it. She has VERY big shoes to fill. While Bey is one of the most famous pop stars in the world, musically Barbra Streisand and Judy Garland are in a completely different world.
Nikki Finke mentioned Puffy as a possible co-star. No. Just no. Who do you think would be a great male lead for Bey?
Have fantastic weekend.
Here's the trailer from the 1954 version starring Judy Garland.
And the trailer from the 1976 version starring Barbra Streisand.
Very curious to see how the story is updated and who the male lead will be.
Beyonce better bring it. She has VERY big shoes to fill. While Bey is one of the most famous pop stars in the world, musically Barbra Streisand and Judy Garland are in a completely different world.
Nikki Finke mentioned Puffy as a possible co-star. No. Just no. Who do you think would be a great male lead for Bey?
Have fantastic weekend.
Here's the trailer from the 1954 version starring Judy Garland.
And the trailer from the 1976 version starring Barbra Streisand.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Medium Raw, Glamorama and The Three Weissmans Of Westport
Anthony Bourdian's follow up to Kitchen Confidential was very entertaining. It was interesting to read about how much his life has changed since he wrote that book ten years ago. He never thought it would become a hit (earlier he had written a novel that did not set the publishing world on fire). He's a beautiful writer. Despite his unexpected success, Bourdain still writes from the gut. He's as hard on himself as he is on the people he rips to shreds. His writing is personal and some of it is not pretty. Bourdain does go into detail about his beef with Alan Richman. I wonder if Richman responded to it?
I finally got around to reading Bret Easton Ellis's 1998 novel. It took me a while to get into the novel and his very specific dialogue. I remember hearing about the crazy plot but I still cracked when it became crystal clear what was going on. Not sure if I need to do a spoiler alert for a famous novel that is over a decade old but SPOILER ALERT...
Okay, supermodels who are assassins and terrorists? HILARIOUS! No, really. In this post 9/11 world I skimmed the very detailed descriptions of the bombs aftermaths.
The world Ellis captures at the end of the '90s is superficial and pathetic. Who would have thought the 00's would be worse? I laughed out loud when he named dropped Stanford Blatch. Priceless.
This book received many positive reviews when it was published last year. After fifty years of marriage, Betty Weissman's husband announces he's divorcing her. She's kicked out of her very nice Central Park West apartment and moves to a small run-down cottage at the beach in Westport, Connecticut owned by a generous and wealthy cousin. Her two middle aged daughters join her at the beach for different reasons. All are going through difficult times emotionally, financially and socially. It's a funny take on Austen's Sense and Sensibility.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Happy Birthday...Steve Wonder's MLK Jr. Tribute
This song appeared on Stevie Wonder's 1980 CD "Hotter Than July" (which is a GREAT CD by the way). The CD has a heavy reggae influence thanks to Stevie spending a lot of time with Bob Marley before he went into the studio.
At the time Stevie was very active in the campaign to make Martin Luther King Jr's birthday a Federal holiday. The holiday was very controversial.
In 1983 President Reagan signed the bill making it a holiday. The celebration started in 1986. However, not every state celebrated the holiday at first. For the longest time Arizona refused to. In Mississippi and Virgina the holiday was combined with the celebration of Confederate heroes Stonewall Jackson and Robert E. Lee.
Virgina finally split the holidays after many complained it wasn't very appropriate.
Happy Birthday Dr. Martin Luther King.
At the time Stevie was very active in the campaign to make Martin Luther King Jr's birthday a Federal holiday. The holiday was very controversial.
In 1983 President Reagan signed the bill making it a holiday. The celebration started in 1986. However, not every state celebrated the holiday at first. For the longest time Arizona refused to. In Mississippi and Virgina the holiday was combined with the celebration of Confederate heroes Stonewall Jackson and Robert E. Lee.
Virgina finally split the holidays after many complained it wasn't very appropriate.
Happy Birthday Dr. Martin Luther King.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Flashback Friday - Whitney Houston - "Love Will Save The Day"
Hands down this single from Whitney's second album, released in 1988, is one of my favorite Whitney songs.
Produced by John "Jellybean" Benitez, there was never a video cut for this single.
Overall, a really crappy week. Rejections (I hate emails from my manager that say "They're going in a different direction"), bills, the cold that wouldn't go away, etc.
I wanted to hear something upbeat and positive to kick off the weekend.
Have a great one.
Produced by John "Jellybean" Benitez, there was never a video cut for this single.
Overall, a really crappy week. Rejections (I hate emails from my manager that say "They're going in a different direction"), bills, the cold that wouldn't go away, etc.
I wanted to hear something upbeat and positive to kick off the weekend.
Have a great one.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
EBONY magazine....Somewhat shameless self-promotion.
I say it's somewhat because I would link to Courtney's post even if I weren't interviewed for her article on black expats in Rome.
Some of you might recognize fellow Blogger Courtney by the name Coco Cooks or Glamah16. She's a very talented cook, baker, photographer and writer.
This is her first print article for EBONY. Courtney was in Rome for a tribute to her great-uncle, dancer and artist Bob Curtis. The way she writes about her uncle and his legacy is very moving.
I really enjoyed meeting Courtney. I'm excited for her. I hope this article will lead to more writing assignments for her.
EBONY has been going through some major changes lately. It's difficult to update a magazine and yet not alienate a loyal readership.
It will be interesting see what direction the magazine goes in after bringing on Desiree Rogers.
The February issue of EBONY is on newsstands (in America) now. Here is Courtney's POST.
Congrats Courtney!!
Some of you might recognize fellow Blogger Courtney by the name Coco Cooks or Glamah16. She's a very talented cook, baker, photographer and writer.
This is her first print article for EBONY. Courtney was in Rome for a tribute to her great-uncle, dancer and artist Bob Curtis. The way she writes about her uncle and his legacy is very moving.
I really enjoyed meeting Courtney. I'm excited for her. I hope this article will lead to more writing assignments for her.
EBONY has been going through some major changes lately. It's difficult to update a magazine and yet not alienate a loyal readership.
It will be interesting see what direction the magazine goes in after bringing on Desiree Rogers.
The February issue of EBONY is on newsstands (in America) now. Here is Courtney's POST.
Congrats Courtney!!
Renato e Luisa restaurant
My first trip to this restaurant in my area was with my infamous Italian friend, G, and a friend of ours who was visiting from L.A.
I wish I had written down what we ate it was so freaking good. We ordered three of the daily specials. I remember there was one fish dish, a ravioli dish and a spaghetti dish with a tomato based sauce.
We barely spoke as we were too busy eating. The restaurant was packed and the service a little scattered. We didn't mind. The food was worth the wait. The crowd was a mix of locals and tourists. The restaurant is located on a side street near Largo Argentina. It's tiny. There are only a few tables.
Renato e Luisa
Quelli della Taverna
Via dei Barbieri, 25
+(39)06-68-69-660
http://www.renatoeluisa.it/
Monday, January 10, 2011
Words do mean something Mrs. Palin
I found it fascinating that Palin took down her offensive map after the shooting. She also tried to erase the Tweet and Facebook postings that told her supporters to not "retreat but reload."
Congresswoman Giffords complained about this crosshairs maps back in March.
We need to reign in the hateful political rhetoric in America. All this screaming and violence over a health care bill and an immigration bill? The leaders of the GOP started lowering the political discourse way back with Lee Atwater. It's only getting worse. A Republican candidate saying if you don't get what you want at the ballot box, resort to the using the Second Amendment? Where was Michael Steele?
Fox News (aka Radio Rwanda) needs to stop enabling hypocritical idiots like Beck and Palin. At least O'Reilly tries to be open minded. I get it. It's all about ratings but Beck and Palin go too far.
I remember doing meet and greets with Senator Bill Bradley in Jersey. There was never any security. Members of Congress need to meet with their constituents. How can we have a representative government if we can't interact with the public officials we elect?
That innocent people would be gunned down in the middle of the day in front of supermarket breaks my heart. One of the victims, Christina Green, was a nine year-old who was born on 9/11. She was just elected to her student council and wanted to meet her Congresswoman. Now she's dead. Murdered in front of a Safeway supermarket.
How did a man who was turned down by the army for being unstable able to buy a gun?
I'm not sure if there will be any positive changes after this incident. I fear in a few months it will be back to business as usual as people gear up for the 2012 Presidential election.
Congresswoman Giffords complained about this crosshairs maps back in March.
We need to reign in the hateful political rhetoric in America. All this screaming and violence over a health care bill and an immigration bill? The leaders of the GOP started lowering the political discourse way back with Lee Atwater. It's only getting worse. A Republican candidate saying if you don't get what you want at the ballot box, resort to the using the Second Amendment? Where was Michael Steele?
Fox News (aka Radio Rwanda) needs to stop enabling hypocritical idiots like Beck and Palin. At least O'Reilly tries to be open minded. I get it. It's all about ratings but Beck and Palin go too far.
I remember doing meet and greets with Senator Bill Bradley in Jersey. There was never any security. Members of Congress need to meet with their constituents. How can we have a representative government if we can't interact with the public officials we elect?
That innocent people would be gunned down in the middle of the day in front of supermarket breaks my heart. One of the victims, Christina Green, was a nine year-old who was born on 9/11. She was just elected to her student council and wanted to meet her Congresswoman. Now she's dead. Murdered in front of a Safeway supermarket.
How did a man who was turned down by the army for being unstable able to buy a gun?
I'm not sure if there will be any positive changes after this incident. I fear in a few months it will be back to business as usual as people gear up for the 2012 Presidential election.
Friday, January 07, 2011
Flashback Friday - Leif Garret - "I Was Made For Dancing"
Before Biefer Fever there was Leif Garret.
His VH1 Behind The Music episode was so sad.
This video from 1979 cracks me up. It's not the most upbeat crowd for a disco song.
Have a great weekend.
His VH1 Behind The Music episode was so sad.
This video from 1979 cracks me up. It's not the most upbeat crowd for a disco song.
Have a great weekend.
Wednesday, January 05, 2011
Places to eat near the Spanish Steps?
I'm asked this question a lot. I run errands in that area but other than GiNa's, I never eat around there.
GiNa's a great place for lunch, especially if you're craving a salad. They have a fantastic selection.
The decor is hip and bright and it's excellent people watching. The crowd is a mix of chic Roman mommies and fab singles with Birkins, Chanel's 2.55, etc., business lunches, high school students from the private school nearby, and the occasional tourist. Prices are moderate, especially for the area. Reservations are recommended. It can get packed, especially during nice weather and sales season.
My friend Shelley wrote about GiNa a few years ago HERE. At that time she raved about their picnic lunches. I don't know they still do that. I've only been to GiNa during the fall/winter.
The New York Times also wrote about their picnic lunches.
GiNa
Via San Sebastianello, 7/A
Piazza di Spagna
www.ginaroma.com
If you have a favorite place for lunch (and/or dinner) near the Spanish Steps, please feel free to share in the comments.
GiNa's a great place for lunch, especially if you're craving a salad. They have a fantastic selection.
The decor is hip and bright and it's excellent people watching. The crowd is a mix of chic Roman mommies and fab singles with Birkins, Chanel's 2.55, etc., business lunches, high school students from the private school nearby, and the occasional tourist. Prices are moderate, especially for the area. Reservations are recommended. It can get packed, especially during nice weather and sales season.
My friend Shelley wrote about GiNa a few years ago HERE. At that time she raved about their picnic lunches. I don't know they still do that. I've only been to GiNa during the fall/winter.
The New York Times also wrote about their picnic lunches.
GiNa
Via San Sebastianello, 7/A
Piazza di Spagna
www.ginaroma.com
If you have a favorite place for lunch (and/or dinner) near the Spanish Steps, please feel free to share in the comments.
Monday, January 03, 2011
So you want to write a novel
This video has been making the rounds. Priceless.
I've just started working on my second novel. My first novel is sitting a drawer.
However, I finished it. I had very generous writer friends who took time from their own work to read multiple drafts and give me feedback.
Screenplays and novels couldn't be more different. Working on the novel is helping with the rewrite I'm doing on a spec script. It's as if I'm using two separate but related muscles at the same time.
Finally, I'm back on a writing schedule. The worst of the procrastination has ended.
I really like the world my novel is set in. I'm 10,000 words in. Only 70,000 plus (bwahaha) to go.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
R.I.P. Teena Maria
I can't believe she died this week in her sleep at age 54. The New York Times obituary is HERE.
Referred to as the Queen of Blue-Eyed Soul, Teena was one of the few whites artists that received airplay on R&B/Soul stations back in the day.
Her first album didn't have her picture on the cover (this was the pre-music video era) and when her second album dropped with her picture, her R&B fans were shocked to find out she was a white woman from Santa Monica, California.
Her biggest hits were in the early-mid 80s but every time I went to a party in college, the DJs would spin some Lady T.
My favorite songs are Portugese Love, Behind The Groove and of course this one:
Referred to as the Queen of Blue-Eyed Soul, Teena was one of the few whites artists that received airplay on R&B/Soul stations back in the day.
Her first album didn't have her picture on the cover (this was the pre-music video era) and when her second album dropped with her picture, her R&B fans were shocked to find out she was a white woman from Santa Monica, California.
Her biggest hits were in the early-mid 80s but every time I went to a party in college, the DJs would spin some Lady T.
My favorite songs are Portugese Love, Behind The Groove and of course this one:
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Christmas Eve, St. Peter's Square, Rome Italy
Last night Erica, The Professor, Baby X and I went to St. Peter's Square after enjoying a tradition Christmas Eve dinner. It was the first time I've been to St. Peter's on Christmas Eve.
The Vatican unveils their life-size manger on Christmas Eve.
It was raining and I'm not Catholic but I was moved by the entire experience.
Merry Christmas/Buon Natale a tutti!
The Vatican unveils their life-size manger on Christmas Eve.
It was raining and I'm not Catholic but I was moved by the entire experience.
Merry Christmas/Buon Natale a tutti!
Monday, December 20, 2010
Friday, December 17, 2010
Flashback Friday - Sandra Lee's Kwanzaa Cake
Oh LAWD!
This abomination is probably one of the funniest and scariest things I have ever seen.
There is no such think as a Kwanzaa cake. Earlier, she made a Hanukkah cake because she had converted to Judism for her ex-husband. Never mind that nothing in the cake was Kosher.
She's dating New York Governor-elect Andrew Cuomo. Is Mrs. Lee going start screwing up Italian food? I could see her taking a can of Spaghettios throwing some grated cheese on top and saying "Here's a lovely semi-homemade Eye-talian dinner!" Her "tablescape" would look like a trattoria on crack and God only knows what type of hideous cocktail she would make.
Some people watch her show as part of a drinking game. That number is not enough to explain why her shows/books are so popular. She not a cook or a chef. I don't get it, I really don't.
I have no idea which part of this "cake" is more offensive. What do Corn Nuts (WTF?!) have to do with Kwanzaa? How can using all store bought goods represent a celebration of the harvest? My mind is blown. This woman is making millions a year.
Yep, making millions and doesn't even write these "recipes" herself.
Jezebel.com wrote a POST about the woman behind this and other lovely treats.
Have a great weekend.
This abomination is probably one of the funniest and scariest things I have ever seen.
There is no such think as a Kwanzaa cake. Earlier, she made a Hanukkah cake because she had converted to Judism for her ex-husband. Never mind that nothing in the cake was Kosher.
She's dating New York Governor-elect Andrew Cuomo. Is Mrs. Lee going start screwing up Italian food? I could see her taking a can of Spaghettios throwing some grated cheese on top and saying "Here's a lovely semi-homemade Eye-talian dinner!" Her "tablescape" would look like a trattoria on crack and God only knows what type of hideous cocktail she would make.
Some people watch her show as part of a drinking game. That number is not enough to explain why her shows/books are so popular. She not a cook or a chef. I don't get it, I really don't.
I have no idea which part of this "cake" is more offensive. What do Corn Nuts (WTF?!) have to do with Kwanzaa? How can using all store bought goods represent a celebration of the harvest? My mind is blown. This woman is making millions a year.
Yep, making millions and doesn't even write these "recipes" herself.
Jezebel.com wrote a POST about the woman behind this and other lovely treats.
Have a great weekend.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Favorite Things: Clementini
Never had these until I moved to Italy. They are grown mostly in Southern Italy, Morocco and South America. They are delicious. At the market I go to, (Trionfale) you can buy a kilo for 1 euro. This morning I noticed they were over 3 euros per kilo at the Campo dei Fiori market. This is why I walk all the way to Trionfale...over triple the price? Uhm no.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Will Silvio Berlusconi survive....again?
***update. He won by three votes. This is a very narrow margin. I have no idea what will happen now. I assume more gridlock.
There are demonstrations in the big cities all over Italy today.
Tomorrow the Prime Minister is up for a vote of confidence. It's too close to call. If one or both of the houses vote no, he might have to resign. This article from the Guardian sums things up.
This drama is bananas. I don't get it. Last week, it looked like he was going down and now, who knows?
It cracks me up how Bossi, who is known for flipping the bird during the Italian National Anthem, is all of a sudden trying to front like he's some elder statesman.
There may be some major demonstrations and protests tomorrow. If you're going to be in the Center, you might want to check the news before heading out.
Speaking of politics, why was Kate Gosselin on Sarah Palin's reality show? Are they friends? Random.
There are demonstrations in the big cities all over Italy today.
Tomorrow the Prime Minister is up for a vote of confidence. It's too close to call. If one or both of the houses vote no, he might have to resign. This article from the Guardian sums things up.
This drama is bananas. I don't get it. Last week, it looked like he was going down and now, who knows?
It cracks me up how Bossi, who is known for flipping the bird during the Italian National Anthem, is all of a sudden trying to front like he's some elder statesman.
There may be some major demonstrations and protests tomorrow. If you're going to be in the Center, you might want to check the news before heading out.
Speaking of politics, why was Kate Gosselin on Sarah Palin's reality show? Are they friends? Random.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Rome...should I stay or should I go?
When I went to L.A. I was told by a producer I need to move back if I want to be taken seriously as a screenwriter in Hollywood.
My head was spinning. Of course my career is important to me. I had sacrificed a personal life since college for it.
Well, the joke's on me. If I were paid in full, perhaps the years of working for unstable people 24/7, the migraines and the panic attacks from stress would have been worth it.
I am fine with being single and child free. I'm not happy about being so broke when I first started in Hollywood, I missed weddings and other big occasions in my friends' lives back East. I'm not happy I let my former boss with his passive aggressive bullshit get to me. I'm not happy that at my age I don't own a home and still have no idea how my bills will get paid next year.
I'm older now and once again I made another big change in my life.
It's different this time. The move was to Rome was for my life. I was drowning in L.A. I kept a lot of things to myself but during my return trip every single friend commented on the physical and emotional differences.
Two of my closest friends from L.A. visited Rome during Thanksgiving. We all grew up in the "biz" together. They said it was interesting to see me in this environment and the kind of life I had here.
I thought long and hard about my trip to L.A. Could I move back? Would things be better as a writer vs. an exec? Am I doing great harm to my career by not living in Hollywood?
I did a pros and cons list (hello, I'm a Virgo). At the end, it was no contest. Not even close, I'm not going back.
The simple fact is, there is no guarantee returning to L.A. will make this what I do for a living any easier. One of the top screenwriters said to make it in Hollywood it's in your best interest to be a rich white Jewish male under 30 from the Westside of L.A....extra points if your father was in the business.
I'm none of those things. It's going to be a struggle regardless. I'd rather be in a place I love and where I have a better quality of life.
My lawyer and my manager reminded me that things really started to click for me once I moved. They stressed how difficult the business is and things are only going to get worse. Why fix what's not broken?
One of my friends who visited Rome over Thanksgiving is a producer. She said that the goal is to get movies made, all the rest is BS. We know so many writers who have sold scripts but none of their projects have been made in over twelve years. You can't build a career that way and eventually those writers leave the business.
If I wanted to work in TV I would have to move. Film is different. When I mentioned all the successful screenwriters in the UK, I was told, "you're not a white male and I'm a little worried that you're comparing yourself to Peter Morgan."
I wasn't but I realized at that moment I really can't deal with American ethnocentrism anymore. Film is a global medium. I resent that as a black woman I'm constantly being put in a very narrow box in my home country.
I find it fascinating that an Italian company had no problem buying an idea of mine set in an Italian high school.
I wonder sometimes if my parents were not from another country, would I have the same rah, rah, rah, America is the ONLY country that matters attitude? Of course as a super power we're important but we are part of the global community. Without international box office profits, the studios would go bankrupt.
I don't know what will happen with my career. I do know living in Italy at this point in my life is better for my mental health.
My head was spinning. Of course my career is important to me. I had sacrificed a personal life since college for it.
Well, the joke's on me. If I were paid in full, perhaps the years of working for unstable people 24/7, the migraines and the panic attacks from stress would have been worth it.
I am fine with being single and child free. I'm not happy about being so broke when I first started in Hollywood, I missed weddings and other big occasions in my friends' lives back East. I'm not happy I let my former boss with his passive aggressive bullshit get to me. I'm not happy that at my age I don't own a home and still have no idea how my bills will get paid next year.
I'm older now and once again I made another big change in my life.
It's different this time. The move was to Rome was for my life. I was drowning in L.A. I kept a lot of things to myself but during my return trip every single friend commented on the physical and emotional differences.
Two of my closest friends from L.A. visited Rome during Thanksgiving. We all grew up in the "biz" together. They said it was interesting to see me in this environment and the kind of life I had here.
I thought long and hard about my trip to L.A. Could I move back? Would things be better as a writer vs. an exec? Am I doing great harm to my career by not living in Hollywood?
I did a pros and cons list (hello, I'm a Virgo). At the end, it was no contest. Not even close, I'm not going back.
The simple fact is, there is no guarantee returning to L.A. will make this what I do for a living any easier. One of the top screenwriters said to make it in Hollywood it's in your best interest to be a rich white Jewish male under 30 from the Westside of L.A....extra points if your father was in the business.
I'm none of those things. It's going to be a struggle regardless. I'd rather be in a place I love and where I have a better quality of life.
My lawyer and my manager reminded me that things really started to click for me once I moved. They stressed how difficult the business is and things are only going to get worse. Why fix what's not broken?
One of my friends who visited Rome over Thanksgiving is a producer. She said that the goal is to get movies made, all the rest is BS. We know so many writers who have sold scripts but none of their projects have been made in over twelve years. You can't build a career that way and eventually those writers leave the business.
If I wanted to work in TV I would have to move. Film is different. When I mentioned all the successful screenwriters in the UK, I was told, "you're not a white male and I'm a little worried that you're comparing yourself to Peter Morgan."
I wasn't but I realized at that moment I really can't deal with American ethnocentrism anymore. Film is a global medium. I resent that as a black woman I'm constantly being put in a very narrow box in my home country.
I find it fascinating that an Italian company had no problem buying an idea of mine set in an Italian high school.
I wonder sometimes if my parents were not from another country, would I have the same rah, rah, rah, America is the ONLY country that matters attitude? Of course as a super power we're important but we are part of the global community. Without international box office profits, the studios would go bankrupt.
I don't know what will happen with my career. I do know living in Italy at this point in my life is better for my mental health.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Flashback Friday - Nat King Cole "The Christmas Song"
I wasn't feeling very Christmasy until two seconds ago. I won't be seeing my family this year.
While for some Americans, Thanksgiving is the big family holiday, for us it's Christmas.
Yes, my mom cooked a big turkey with all the sides, we watched football, etc. etc. but it's an American holiday not a Caribbean one.
My parents grew up celebrating Christmas. The Christmas season didn't start until my dad busted out his Nat King Cole and Mario Lanza (!) albums. There was a classical music one that I don't remember the name of. We added the Jackson 5 Christmas, Charlie Brown and a few others over the years.
When we lived in New York, we didn't have a chimney. I remember being very confused as to how Santa was able to get into our apartment. My dad said he came through the fire escape. Oh, okay.
The earliest Christmas morning memory I have, is running out into the living room, seeing the tree lit up, presents underneath, the smell of hot chocolate and Nat King Cole playing.
The holiday lights have gone up in Rome. There are Christmas apertivi, brunches and dinners to go to. No, I won't be in St. Martin this year but I'm pretty darn lucky to be in a beautiful city surrounded by amazing friends.
I finally felt ready for some Nat King Cole.
Have a great weekend.
While for some Americans, Thanksgiving is the big family holiday, for us it's Christmas.
Yes, my mom cooked a big turkey with all the sides, we watched football, etc. etc. but it's an American holiday not a Caribbean one.
My parents grew up celebrating Christmas. The Christmas season didn't start until my dad busted out his Nat King Cole and Mario Lanza (!) albums. There was a classical music one that I don't remember the name of. We added the Jackson 5 Christmas, Charlie Brown and a few others over the years.
When we lived in New York, we didn't have a chimney. I remember being very confused as to how Santa was able to get into our apartment. My dad said he came through the fire escape. Oh, okay.
The earliest Christmas morning memory I have, is running out into the living room, seeing the tree lit up, presents underneath, the smell of hot chocolate and Nat King Cole playing.
The holiday lights have gone up in Rome. There are Christmas apertivi, brunches and dinners to go to. No, I won't be in St. Martin this year but I'm pretty darn lucky to be in a beautiful city surrounded by amazing friends.
I finally felt ready for some Nat King Cole.
Have a great weekend.
Thursday, December 09, 2010
Sometimes I forget Mehcad Brooks was our intern
Especially when I see this photo.When he was on "Desperate Housewives" a former co-worker emailed asking could it really be the same person?
He was a great intern. Very nice and hard working but I don't recall if he was pursuing acting. I think he was at USC. I do remember thinking he was quite tall.
Mr. Brooks' career is going quite well. He was/is on "True Blood" too. I don't watch that show so have no idea if his character is still on it.
***I was just informed that his character on "True Blood" was killed.
Wednesday, December 08, 2010
"The Sky Isn't Visible From Here", by Felicia C. Sullivan. "Freedom", by Jonathan Franzen
I received this book as a gift (thanks Susan!) for my birthday. It's excellent. I was completely invested in Patty and Walter's story, despite the fact that Patty was annoying as hell. Seriously, I thought she was one of most unlikable protagonists I've come across in a while. Walter had his issues too. The way Franzen writes about marriage, love and family is incredible. I felt like I knew these people. He has a way of getting under the surface of what is going on in American society. If you enjoyed THE CORRECTIONS, I recommend FREEDOM.
I have linked to Felicia's fab BLOG in the past.We met in Rome through a mutual friend in NYC when Felicia was on vacation. Reading her memoir was kind of strange because I had a hard understanding the amazing, together person I met had experienced such horrible things. How was she able to overcome them?
The book is beautifully written. Felicia's memoir talks about her difficult childhood with her drug addicted mother. After she graduated from college, her mother disappeared and she didn't hear from her for over twelve years.
I'm always drawn to stories that deal with identity. How we seen ourselves, how others see us. Growing up in a tough section of Brooklyn back in the 80s, Felicia didn't know where she fit in. Then at college with the rich kids, she had to try on yet another different skin. It's a fascinating book.
Tuesday, December 07, 2010
Favorite Things: Restoration Hardware's Cashmere Hot Water Bottle
Friday, December 03, 2010
Flashback Friday - Big Deal On Madonna Street/I Soliti Ignoti
A giant of Italian cinema died this week. Mario Monicelli was 95. The New York Times has a nice write up about his career.
His film 1958 film I SOLITI IGNOTI (English title, BIG DEAL ON MADONNA STREET) is one of the funniest movies I have ever seen. Starring Vittorio Gassman, Toto and Marcello Mastroianni, the movie is hilarious and moving.
It was later remade twice in America. The latest version was the film WELCOME TO COLLINGWOOD staring George Clooney.
Mr. Monicelli had a cameo in the film UNDER THE TUSCAN SUN. He played the older gentleman who left flowers by the shrine every day.
RIP Mr. Monicelli.
His film 1958 film I SOLITI IGNOTI (English title, BIG DEAL ON MADONNA STREET) is one of the funniest movies I have ever seen. Starring Vittorio Gassman, Toto and Marcello Mastroianni, the movie is hilarious and moving.
It was later remade twice in America. The latest version was the film WELCOME TO COLLINGWOOD staring George Clooney.
Mr. Monicelli had a cameo in the film UNDER THE TUSCAN SUN. He played the older gentleman who left flowers by the shrine every day.
RIP Mr. Monicelli.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Annette Bening is "brave" to show her wrinkles in The Kids Are All Right?
I kept hearing this over and over again. Imagine my surprise when I finally saw the movie. She looks like a women in her early 50s! What is all this talk about "bravery"?
Annette is a successful doctor in the movie. If she were Botoxed like crazy, it would have taken me out of the movie. It's a 4 million dollar indie flim. Why the heck would she need to look like a middle-aged lady trying to look 25?
Anyway, I enjoyed the movie. Annette and Julianne were outstanding as was Mark Ruffalo. There are some very funny moments.
Can I talk about Mark for a minute? He is sooooo sexy. Ever since I saw him in the film "You Can Count On Me", I've thought he's an excellent actor and the hotness as well. Good looking stars who can't act don't work for me on the big screen. I get bored and annoyed.
There is Oscar buzz for both actresses. Will they cancel each other out in the Best Actress category? I feel Focus Films had no choice but to push for both in that category. I don't think Julianne's role belongs in Best Supporting Actress.
The movie is controversial.
SPOILER ALERT
Some lesbians have a real issue with the Paul/Jules relationship. I'm not gay so maybe I missed something. From the beginning of the movie it was clear there were cracks in Jules and Nic's relationship. Paul just happened to be there and was attentive. I didn't think it was a contrived plot point.
I would love to hear your opinion if you saw the movie.
Annette is a successful doctor in the movie. If she were Botoxed like crazy, it would have taken me out of the movie. It's a 4 million dollar indie flim. Why the heck would she need to look like a middle-aged lady trying to look 25?
Anyway, I enjoyed the movie. Annette and Julianne were outstanding as was Mark Ruffalo. There are some very funny moments.
Can I talk about Mark for a minute? He is sooooo sexy. Ever since I saw him in the film "You Can Count On Me", I've thought he's an excellent actor and the hotness as well. Good looking stars who can't act don't work for me on the big screen. I get bored and annoyed.
There is Oscar buzz for both actresses. Will they cancel each other out in the Best Actress category? I feel Focus Films had no choice but to push for both in that category. I don't think Julianne's role belongs in Best Supporting Actress.
The movie is controversial.
SPOILER ALERT
Some lesbians have a real issue with the Paul/Jules relationship. I'm not gay so maybe I missed something. From the beginning of the movie it was clear there were cracks in Jules and Nic's relationship. Paul just happened to be there and was attentive. I didn't think it was a contrived plot point.
I would love to hear your opinion if you saw the movie.
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