Senna

Deb 10 Me 10

This is a movie about auto racing’s Formula One champion Ayrton Senna. The movie is largely compiled from ESPN television footage, some professional film and some home movies. The movie follows the career of charismatic Senna from his early days in kart racing to his rise to world champion. It is a great look at the men and the politics of the world’s richest and most technically advanced motor sport.

I am an avid F1 fan and have been for a long time. I remember this period of racing in the late 80s through 90s with clarity. Deb knows little to nothing about it and Senna is a new name to her. We both loved the movie. That says enough for me, but I’ll add a little more anyway. The only place I felt it lacked was in some F1 101. Some introduction to the basics of the sport, what F1 is, a bit of history, that there are team owners who hire drivers, this is stuff I thought it could use. But apparently I’m not right on target here because without any of that background Deb really liked the movie. For her it wasn’t a story driven movie but a character driven movie. The film’s success was carried more on the personalities involved than what they were up to. Senna is a good looking guy and we see him evolve from a kid with broken English to a fully conversant champion. It's as good a human interest story as you're likely to find.
And the theater was packed! A buddy went to see it on a Thursday afternoon and he said there 50 people in there! I definitely think you ought to see this one.

Crazy Stupid Love

Deb 7 Me 7

So this was a movie on convenience, the time worked into our schedule. This was my first Steve Carrell movie, I’ve avoided them thinking they would all be silly (and perhaps they are). I usually avoid movies with TV stars in them, the crossover is seldom rewarding. Travolta, Hanks and Depp have all gained credibility on the big screen, and maybe Steve will too, and this might help. I do watch The Office due in large part to his character, which is pretty much the same guy as in this movie. What surprised me was this was an actual movie, I expected a list of running gags and simple minded one liners. My own prejudice shows again.

But I gotta tell you, this was a pretty nice movie and explored a part of puppy love and teen angst and it’s aftermath in a way I don’t remember seeing before. I actually like the movie and hesitated to rate it all, having to admit I saw it being the central issue. I saw it, liked it and don’t think you’d go too far wrong seeing it either. As long as it fits in your schedule.

Magic Trip Movie Review

Deb 10 Me 10

So now I’ve seen this thing three times. I really like it. I’m sure there were some incredible obstacles for the filmmakers; if it comes out on DVD I hope they explore some of that. There are a few very well done recreations, which aren’t true to a documentarian’s spirit, but for entertainment value, they were welcome.

Everyone I’ve talked to who has seen the movie has really liked it too; even those who weren’t around in the 50s and 60s and know nothing about the scene or its role in modern history. For a lot of viewers it’s an interesting period travelogue. It offers human interest, some drama, some comedy and a bit of education all in a colorful entertaining package.

I just love seeing the footage. It’s something I’ve felt vicariously “part of” for decades and cherished every frame in this thing like it was my own history being relived. I’ve been told that people learn a lot more about me than movies by reading these “reviews” and this is a good example. There’s not a lot I can say about the movie without talking about myself or my experiences or lessons from my own explorations. I will say the film pretty much limits itself to the buttered side of the toast, there are a few gaffs presented here, but everybody smelled to high heaven and Neal had to drive you crazy after a while. This sort of romanticizes the expedition and that's fine with me. Magellan’s crew stank and had a few misfits too, but it doesn't diminish their accomplishments. Look for it. Watch it. Get on the bus.

The Future

Deb 7, Me 7

Lately I’ve been taken with the thought that we’re all just a house of cards and the slightest ill wind or shock can send us tumbling. Sometimes we try to improve our odds by adding tape or glue to the equation in an attempt to shore things up. Usually trying to strengthen it disturbs the balance and it all comes down anyway. That’s the feeling I got from this odd little movie. Fragile people trying to enhance a fragile relationship. There’s also a talking cat, and it’s just as obnoxious as it sounds, but is a valid part of the story. Seemingly filled with symbols and metaphors its quirks are redeeming but not totally rewarding. We both liked it and it initiated a lot of conversation.