An Eye for Beauty

When a brilliant artist and an understanding subject share the same love of beauty, a unique masterpiece can be created. Girl with a Pearl Earring (2004) relates a simple story illustrating that point -- and does so with breathtaking cinematography befitting the life and times of Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer. Because of its slow pace, this period costume drama may not be to everyone's liking, but Colin Firth as Vermeer and Scarlett Johansson as the "girl" fascinated me with the depth of their performances here. He's the perfectionist artist; she's the quiet servant who mixes his paints and poses for him, much to his wife's dismay. 

It usually takes time to fully appreciate a great painting. One must view it from different angles, search out its particular shadings and touches of light, its balance of color and form, its emotional impact. The same holds true for this unusual film. Taking time to show viewers the sights and sounds of Delft, Holland, during the mid-1600s, Girl with a Pearl Earring seems like a Vermeer painting come to life. Scenes of inhabitants riding in gondolas on canals, shopping in the open markets, dining by candlelight, and carrying on everyday activities form the backdrop for the intense relationship between Vermeer and his peasant model -- a relationship blooming steadily under the watchful eye of the painter's greedy mother-in-law (played magnificently by the regal Judy Parfitt). 

Like Vermeer, first-time director Peter Webber and veteran cinematographer Eduardo Serra pay painstaking attention to the visual details of their creation. Based on the novel by Tracy Chevalier, Girl with a Pearl Earring may not be a true story, but it emerges as true cinematic art. 

Read my full review by clicking on the link below.
http://www.reeltalkreviews.com/browse/viewitem.asp?type=review&id=683

Oscar® Afterthoughts

Although bleary eyed after watching the entire 83rd Annual Academy Awards televised show last night, I can’t resist posting an early morning rant and rave about the proceedings. My hubby and I dressed for the occasion. I wore a robe by Chenille, but he refused to divulge his bizarre wardrobe designer. We have to admit Natalie Portman and Christian Bale put both of us to shame. Natalie with her gorgeous deep purple gown and matching string earrings; Christian with his elegant black tuxedo. We decided to bestow our “Cutest Award” to co-host James Franco, mostly because of his engaging smile, which he flashed as often as possible while bantering with his dazzling co-host Anne Hathaway, who’s best moment came with her one amusing song performance. Too bad Anne didn’t perform more musical numbers and that Hugh Jackman (be still my heart) refused to join her for a duet.

Speaking of music, my biggest complaint involves its de-emphasis at the Oscars. I agree with Randy Newman (composer of the Best Song winner, “We Belong Together” from Toy Story 3) when he asked how hard could it be to find a fifth song to nominate. Not hard at all in my book. “You Haven’t Heard the Last of Me” and “Bound to You” from Burlesque should have been nominated. The whole show would’ve benefitted by adding more singing and dancing -– and including fewer costume changes by Anne Hathaway, no matter how beautiful she looked in each one (except the funny brown duck outfit, of course).

Regarding the awards, there were no surprises. Although many fans expected
The Social Network to win Best Picture, The King’s Speech made an impressive stretch run during the past few weeks. Still, I can’t help being disappointed that my favorite 2010 film, The Fighter, didn’t end up winning that category. But I’m pleased about Christian Bale and Melissa Leo taking home the Best Supporting Actor statuettes for their brilliant work in that wonderful movie. Best Actress and Best Actor winners Natalie Portman (Black Swan) and Colin Firth (The King’s Speech) gave excellent acceptance speeches. It’s about time Firth was recognized for his acting talent, and Portman put her heart and soul into the difficult role she played.

While the 83rd Academy Awards may not have been the best Oscar show ever, it wasn’t the worst either. I found it more entertaining than last year, but I can’t help hoping Hugh Jackman will return soon as the singing/dancing/funny host his fans love so much.

Great Speech, Annette!

Amid so many crude remarks and rambling acceptance speeches at last night’s Golden Globes awards program, Annette Bening added a touch of class. During her remarks upon receiving recognition as Best Actress in a Comedy for The Kids Are All Right, Annette was poised, articulate and amusing. Congratulations, Annette, for your professionalism as well as for your well-deserved award.

Most of the awards were predictable this year, especially in the movie categories, but I was surprised about Paul Giamatti winning Best Actor in a Comedy for Barney’s Version. He won over Johnny Depp, who must have split the vote with ….. Johnny Depp. Depp was nominated in this category for both Alice in Wonderland and The Tourist. (Was the latter a comedy? Hmm.)

This year’s Golden Globes appeared like a dress rehearsal for the upcoming Oscars. Best film? The Social Network. Best actor in a drama? Colin Firth in The King’s Speech. Best actress in a drama? Natalie Portman in The Black Swan. Best supporting actor? Christian Bale in The Fighter. Best supporting actress? Melissa Leo in The Fighter. We’ll probably hear most of these same names called out during the Academy Awards presentation in February.

And speaking of dress rehearsal, my fashion awards for the evening go to Angelina Jolie and Catherine Zeta Jones, who both looked stunning in their gorgeous green gowns.