Happy Easter

Happy Easter!

In the season of renewal and rebirth, make the most of this time by creating a positive change in your life.

Don

The "Eye on the Wild" Book Series by Suzi Eszterhas

The Eye on the Wild series of books are geared towards helping children learn about the early years of various animal species, including Cheetahs, Gorillas, Sea Otters and Orangutans. Author and acclaimed wildlife photographer Suzi Eszterhas captures startling and sometimes heartwarming images of the baby animals as they are readied by their mothers for adulthood and life on their own in the wild. The easy to read books feature beautiful full color photographs as well as interesting information about each species. 

For instance, some animals mature faster than others. Cheetahs are fully grown and ready to be independent at two years of age, while gorillas and orangutans need six years before they are fully prepared. However, baby sea otters only need one year before they are ready for adulthood. 

The patience exhibited by the mothers of the these precious youngsters throughout the four books is admirable. The Cheetah mother allows her cubs to climb over her, even sitting on top of her head, while the Sea Otter mom cuddles with her children to keep them warm and safe. The baby Gorillas and Orangutans also like to stick close to their mothers and are frequently poised on their heads and backs, even while mom is moving around. 

The photography by Suzi Eszterhas is sensational. She captures an important time in the lives of these baby animals who have much to learn in order to be ready to head out on their own in the world, which can be an unforgiving place. Of course, readers (both younger and older) might be too busy smiling over the candid and frequently precious photographs, which include a sea otter shielding its eyes from the harsh sun, baby cheetah cubs "chirping" for food in their nest, a young orangutan scaling a high branch and a baby gorilla playing with her extended family. 

The Eye on the Wild book series (Frances Lincoln Children's Books) is thoroughly enjoyable and serves as a useful educational tool for children. In addition to the text that accompanies each photograph, there is a final page detailing interesting information about each animal species. There are two additional books not included here that feature Lions and Brown Bears.

For additional information about the Eye on the Wild series, go here.

DVD Spotlight: "40 Days and 40 Nights" (2002) - Starring Josh Hartnett

Josh Hartnett's star was on the rise during the early 2000's, as the up and coming actor appeared in numerous films over a five year period, including the comedy 40 Days and 40 Nights. The always expressive Hartnett delivers a fine performance, as Matt Sullivan, a twenty-something web designer whose good looks and powerful sex drive lead him from one relationship to the next, with little downtime. However, after being dumped by his latest girlfriend, Nicole (Vinessa Shaw), Matt struggles with letting her go, which leads him to obsess over the young woman, who has already moved on and is now engaged to be married. 

Matt seeks counsel from his brother, John (Adam Trese), a priest in training, who has little experience in the sexual realm. Regardless, Matt soon has an epiphany and announces that he is going to give up sex for lent, or for 40 days and 40 nights. While John is supportive, Matt receives virtually no help from his so-called friends, including his roommate, Ryan (Paulo Costanzo), who also happens to be his co-worker. Ryan informs the staff at their workplace of Matt's plan and they decide to have an office pool to bet against Matt keeping his temporary vow of celibacy. Making matters more complicated are Matt's female co-workers who try to seduce him, and a potential new love interest, Erica (Shannyn Sossamon), who Matt meets while doing his laundry. It seems that almost everyone around Matt, and perhaps the universe, wants to see him fail.

40 Days and 40 Nights is a well written and generally well acted film that is consistently amusing, full of charm and still feels fresh, a decade after its premiere. I recall seeing 40 Days and 40 Nights during its initial theatrical run, but have not seen the film again, in its entirety, until recently. It holds up well and reminded me of why Josh Hartnett was so popular for several years. His sympathetic portrayal of Matt allows viewers to root for him to succeed in his goal, while understanding that he may not make it. I liked Matt so much that I empathized with him during a scene near the end of the film when something unexpected and creepy occurs that threatens to derail him and the entire film. However, that is the only real complaint I have with an otherwise solid effort that, after watching it again, made me realize how quickly a decade can pass by. Oh, and where have you been Josh Hartnett? 

Hardcover Spotlight: "Les Misérables: From Stage to Screen"

The incredible evolution of Victor Hugo's 1862 novel Les Misérables from legendary musical to big screen success is the centerpiece of the newly released book Les Misérables: From Stage to Screen (Applause Books), by Benedict Nightingale and Martyn Palmer. This coffee table effort features many "Easter Eggs" that can found throughout its nearly 100 pages, including posters, call sheets, program extracts, invitations and much more. In other words, the book is an excellent gift idea for any Les Misérables fan.

It may be difficult to imagine the troubled early beginnings of the ever popular musical Les Misérables, which was brought to life by original producer and longtime champion Cameron Mackintosh and has been part of the pop culture landscape for the past three decades, but there were many early roadblocks to its success that are examined by theater critic Benedict Nightingale and film journalist Martyn Palmer. The bulk of the 20 chapters are dedicated to the beloved musical which has become a worldwide phenomena, with additional chapters focusing on the film version, the enduring popularity of the musical version and the life of author Victor Hugo. Each chapter contains full color pictures and illustrations that document the long and successful journey of Les Misérables.

The beloved characters, including Jean Valjean and Inspector Javier, receive their own chapters, while the rest of the significant characters, including Fantine, are featured in another. Like the musical, the movie, led by Tom Hooper, had its share of difficulties and those are examined in the latter part of the book. In addition, the music of Les Misérables is integral to its success and is spoken about extensively throughout this effort. Les Misérables: From Stage to Screen also features a Foreword by Cameron Mackintosh, high quality front and back covers and, of course, creative removable facsimiles that are sure to please fans of the the unique, enduring and much lauded Les Misérables.

"NCIS" and "Dancing with the Stars" Top the Nielsen Ratings for the Week of March 18

Mark Harmon stars in NCIS

Ratings for the week of March 18, 2013, courtesy of Nielsen.

Total Viewers (in millions) by Network:

CBS: 8.45

ABC: 7.46

FOX: 5.93

NBC: 4.15

CW: 1.44

Top 30 Shows (viewers in millions)

1. NCIS (CBS) - 19.79

2. Dancing with the Stars (ABC- Monday) - 17.06

3. NCIS: Los Angeles (CBS) - 16.84

4. American Idol (FOX - Wednesday) - 12.94

5. American Idol (FOX - Thursday) - 11.93

6. Criminal Minds (CBS) - 11.58

7. Castle (ABC) - 11.26

8. CSI (CBS) - 10.53

9. 60 Minutes (CBS) - 10.50

10. Survivor: Caramoan (CBS) - 9.79

11. Dancing with the Stars: Exclusive First Look (ABC) - 9.76

12. The Good Wife (CBS) - 9.59

13. Grey's Anatomy (ABC) - 9.39

14. The Amazing Race (CBS) - 9.33

15. Golden Boy (CBS) - 9.26

16. Splash (ABC) - 9.02

17. Hawaii Five-O (CBS) - 8.99

18. 2 Broke Girls (CBS) - 8.56

19. Scandal (ABC) - 8.51

(Tie) NCAA Basketball Post Game (CBS - Sunday) - 8.51

21. Body of Proof (ABC) - 8.42

22. Mike & Molly (CBS) - 8.38

23. The Mentalist (CBS) - 8.00

24. Last Man Standing (ABC) - 7.84

25. Bones (FOX) - 7.58

26. How I Met Your Mother (CBS) - 7.44

27. The Biggest Loser (NBC) - 7.39

28. Once Upon A Time (ABC) - 7.36

29. The Following (FOX) - 7.34

30. Malibu Country (ABC) - 7.04

"The Young and the Restless" Celebrates 40 Years

Photo Credit: CBS/Sony

The Young and the Restless debuted on March 26, 1973 and has become the most successful daytime drama in history. Of course, I am somewhat biased because Y&R has been my favorite soap opera for decades, give or take a few years here and there when the show was simply not at its best. I have followed the exploits of the Chancellors, Fosters, Abbotts, Newmans, Fenmores, Brooks and Williams families faithfully for the past three plus decades and since the series remains the highest rated among its daytime peers (and has since 1988!), I expect it to be around for quite some time to come.

Created by Bill and Lee Phillip Bell, The Young and the Restless has remained on top largely because of the continuity of the characters and cast members, as well as the writing. The series currently boasts 16 contract and recurring players who have been on the series for at least a decade and some much longer, including Jeanne Cooper (debuted in 1973), Doug Davidson (1978), Melody Thomas Scott (1979) and Eric Braeden (1980). Indeed, even if you have been away from Genoa City for a while, you can still tune in and see Katherine, Paul, Nikki, Victor, Esther, Lauren, Christine, Jill, Jack, Neil, Michael, Phyllis, Nick and Sharon. From time to time, members of the Abbott family will pop in, including Traci, Ashley and even John, who died on screen several years ago. During Bill Bell's tenure as head writer and co-executive producer, the series featured outstanding story telling that hit its stride during the 1980s, when Y&R won three of its seven daytime Emmy awards for Best Drama Series and was simply the best soap on the air for well over a decade.

In the mid 1990s, the cast of Y&R had grown very large and, beginning in 1994 and lasting until 1996, several beloved characters were written out, including Rex Sterling (Quinn Redecker), Brad Carlton (Don Diamont) and Col. Douglas Austin (the late Michael Evans). In addition, Lauren Fenmore (Tracey E. Bregman) moved over to The Bold and the Beautiful and Brenda Epperson vacated the role of Ashley Abbott. It was during this time that I stopped watching regularly for a few years, but would still keep tabs on the show.

The late 1990s saw a resurgence and rebirth of the series. One key reason for this resulted from moving Katherine (Jeanne Cooper) front and center, where she has remained, for the most part, for the past 15 years. The incredible Jeanne Cooper, now 84 years of age, is still a force to be reckoned with and has always been my favorite character. In addition, 1999 brought the return of the original Ashley, Eileen Davidson, who has since left the series again, thanks to the ineptitude of the former executive producer/head writer. Although Ashley did return just recently for a guest appearance to celebrate the 40th anniversary, she needs to return full time. Also during the turn of the century, Lauren returned to Genoa City, along with the original Phyllis, Michelle Stafford, and a group of young characters (Billy, Raul, Brittany, Mac and JT) who would make up the "teen scene" that had been lacking for many years.

The Young and the Restless regained its momentum until around 2004 when many beloved recurring characters were phased out, including Mary Williams (the late Carolyn Conwell), Miguel Rodriguez (Anthony Peńa), Doris Collins (Karen Hensel), Liz Foster (Juliana McCarthy), Mamie Johnson (Veronica Redd), Brock Reynolds (Beau Keyser), John Silva (John Castellanos) and Lynne Bassett (Laura Bryan Birn). They were all long running characters who played an essential role in the success of the series and are all missed, although Doris and Brock still make occasional appearances. Then, in 2005, Bill Bell passed away and the shake up behind the scenes would play out like a soap opera, with many veterans departing, including Kay Alden and Jack Smith, who now work on another Bell family staple, The Bold and the Beautiful.

The executive producers and writers who knew Y&R best were now gone and in their place came a few producers and writers who simply did not "get it" and changed the series by writing out beloved veterans, including John Abbott (Jerry Douglas) and once again dismantling the Abbott family. In addition, too many new characters, mostly portrayed by young, inexperienced actors, made the canvass crowded and continues to do so to this day. While I understand the need to introduce new characters and hire attractive (ok, sexy) actors, they should possess some talent or they should not be onscreen.

Last fall, former General Hospital executive producer Jill Farren Phelps was named executive producer of Y&R and Josh Griffith returned as head writer. Until recently, I had not tuned in regularly because I wanted to give them the chance to put their own mark on the show. After recently watching two weeks worth of episodes, I am cautiously optimistic about a return to classic Y&R. First of all, the veterans have remained front and center, which is essential to the success of the series. I am very pleased with the recent news that Tracey E. Bregman (Lauren Fenmore) is now back on contract after being on recurring status for over a decade. I am also pleased to see the writing team exploring Lauren's past dark side by pairing her with Carmine (Marco Dapper), even though Lauren is still married to Michael (Christian LeBlanc). I am also pleased to see Lauralee Bell return as Christine, on a recurring basis. The legacy characters and their families need to remain the focus of the series.

I also applaud the removal of many big name stars who were hired on from other shows with no vision whatsoever for their characters. How sad that so much talent went to waste with characters who simply did not fit in to the Genoa City canvass. No offense to any of the former cast members who I am sure will find other work soon, if they have not already. However, I am concerned with the large number of new characters who are clearly being exploited by being asked to appear in various states of undress. Yes, Carmine (Marco Dapper), Tyler (Redaric Willams) and Summer (Hunter King) are attractive, but viewers need to care about more than their chests. The large number of recasts of the newbies is also distracting. With so many former and still popular cast members to choose from, why not bring back JT (Thad Luckinbill), Danny (Michael Damian), Olivia (Tonya Lee Williams), Traci (Beth Maitland) and Nina (Tricia Cast)? Also, find a way to bring back Eileen Davidson full time as Ashley. It is easy to make room - just look at the characters who are not working out (and have been given adequate time) and write them off.

No, The Young and the Restless is not perfect, but it is still the best daytime drama currently on the air (although I do like what has been happening at General Hospital with all of the returning veterans). Over the years the series has given me great memories with the Kay/Jill feud, the Jack/Victor feud, the Traci/Lauren rivalry, the classic Masquerade Ball episodes from 1991, the Victor/Nikki/Ashley love triangle, several storylines featuring Lauren being stalked by a madman/madwoman (could Carmine be next?), Paul's detective adventures, the many clever schemes designed by Phyllis, Jack's need to live up to the man his father was (and usually not succeeding), Esther's comic relief, Cassie's heartbreaking death, and the beautiful and unforgettable theme music that has stood the test of time. I also want to point out the unforgettable  characters that were developed during the early 1990s, including Neil Winters (Kristoff St. John), Michael Baldwin (Christian LeBlanc), Phyllis Summers (Michelle Stafford), Nick Newman (Joshua Morrow) and Sharon Collins (Sharon Case). All of those characters and the actors who portray them have become integral to the success of the series over the past two plus decades.

Finally, the cast introductions that are currently airing at the beginning of each episode have been sensational and are an appropriate way to pay homage to the series and the unforgettable characters that is has produced. Here's to another 40 years of The Young and Restless! Thanks for the memories!

Indie Film Spotlight: "Stoker" - Starring Matthew Goode and Mia Wasikowska

Photo Credit: Fox Searchlight

Family secrets permeate director Park Chan-wook's latest film Stoker. The characters speak in hushed tones so that eavesdroppers cannot hear the horrors that pass through their lips. The secrets include mental illness, the propensity to kill, incestuous attraction and sexual awakening through an unusual fetish. No, Stoker is not for a mainstream audience, but it takes chances that most films would never even attempt and that makes it unique. 

The story centers around the death of Richard Stoker (Dermot Mulroney) in an alleged automobile accident. During his funeral, Richard's brother, Charlie (Matthew Goode), who has allegedly been traveling the world for many years, makes an unexpected appearance. Charlie soon takes up with Richard's wife, Evelyn (Nicole Kidman), and a bizarre romance develops between them. In addition, Charlie also has his eye on Richard and Evelyn daughter, India (Mia Wasikowska). India is afraid of Charlie and does everything in her power to avoid him, but there is an unmistakable attraction and connection between them. 

India has good reason to fear Charlie, as two characters who challenge him soon disappear. However, India may actually see a family resemblance in Charlie that frightens her and soon emerges after being verbally abused by a classmate, Chris Pitts (Lucas Till), who she ends up stabbing in the hand with a pencil. Later, another classmate, Whip Taylor (Alden Ehrenreich), begins to romance India, who promptly bites his tongue, resulting in a lot of blood and more than one surprising twist in this foreboding tale. Indeed, Charlie and India are more alike than she would like to admit and they grow closer until the truth about where Charlie has been all of these years comes forth. The aftermath will change their lives forever. 

Stoker is populated with unlikable characters, but the ensemble cast deliver solid performances that will hold the attention of viewers, even through the mostly hushed dialogue that makes it difficult to sometimes hear what they are saying. However, the images and sounds tell the story here, from the facial expressions of the characters to the suspenseful music, by Clint Mansell, that can be heard throughout. Director Chan-wook creates a sense of unease that may leave some viewers squirming in their seats and wanting to look away, but finding themselves being unable to do so. While I did not expect a happy ending for any of these characters, I was surprised that the film's ominous tone became even darker as the story played out, right up until the conclusion. Indeed, Stoker is not a film for the faint of heart and can be best appreciated by not passing judgement on the characters, who are all in need of some sort of help in this twist filled thriller that will surely leave an impression, for better or for worse. 

Screenplay: Wentworth Miller

Batman and Superman Join Forces in Kevin J. Anderson's "Enemies & Allies"

The first meeting between the world's finest team of Batman and Superman is depicted during the Cold War era in Enemies & Allies (It Books) by Kevin J. Anderson. The paperback edition of the book was recently released and features two parallel storylines centering around Bruce Wayne/Batman's struggle to regain control of Wayne Enterprises and Clark Kent/Superman's struggle to find his humanity and fend off the ongoing threats from Lex Luthor. In fact, Luthor plays a role in both stories, as he has his eye on Wayne Enterprises and is using his vast influence to obtain technological secrets that play into his scheme to control the escalating arms race, with world domination as his end game. 

The initial encounter between The Dark Knight and The Man of Steel does not go well, but the common threat from Lex Luthor, his Soviet allies, and the discovery of kryptonite eventually places them on a collision course and forces them to work together peacefully. In addition, Clark Kent and Jimmy Olsen travel to Area 51, where Clark hopes to discover if there are other aliens that may be inhabiting earth. Apparently, Superman is having difficulty fitting in with the human race and wants to find someone more like himself. Meanwhile, Lois Lane and Perry White assume supporting roles, with the intrepid Lane once again throwing caution to the wind, especially where Luthor is concerned. Back in Gotham City, Alfred Pennyworth, Bruce Wayne's majordomo, tackles various roles, as he helps Bruce in his ongoing quest to fight crime, while also using his influence on Wayne board members who may be in league with Luthor. As usual, Alfred helps to keep Bruce/Batman in check by telling him the truth at all times, no matter how unpleasant it may be. 

Enemies & Allies features many references to the Cold War era of the 1950s and drops many familiar historical names along the way. Of course, this is a work of fiction, so liberties are taken with certain events and famous figures. Kevin J. Anderson taps into the "aw-shucks" demeanor of the times, which fits well with Jimmy and Clark's personalities. As readers might expect, Batman is more uptight and serious. Both of the principal characters receive about equal time, but there are more well known characters from Superman's world represented. Much of Batman's time is spent alone, which is appropriate and expected. 

The author captures the feel of the 1950s and appears to have a solid understanding of Superman and Batman. Fans of the iconic heroes and their exploits will likely enjoy reading about their adventures in another time, when some things were simpler, but serious dangers were still in abundance. Of course, without today's 24-hour news cycle, viewers were not subjected to the constant feed, so there was a detachment of sorts. History enthusiasts may be intrigued with Anderson's spin on world affairs and some of the major players of that time period, too. While reading Enemies & Allies, I could not help but remember the old World's Finest comic book, from DC Comics, which featured monthly team-ups between The Dark Knight and The Man of Steel. I suppose that makes this effort a retro treat times two. 

Family Film Recommendation: "The Croods" - Starring Nicolas Cage

Believe it or not, Nicolas Cage may finally have a hit movie on his hands. Cage provides the voice for Grug Crood, the patriarch of a prehistoric family in the new animated film The Croods. Grug's family includes wife Ugga (Catherine Keener), their two children, Eep (Emma Stone) and Thunk (Clark Duke), and Ugga's mother, Gran (Cloris Leachman). Shortly after the film begins, viewers familiar with another stone age family, The Flintstones, will understand that there is nothing modern about The Croods. Not that there is anything wrong with that. However, Grug is similar to the well meaning, but often mistaken fellow father Fred Flintstone. They both love their family and want to keep them safe and secure, but their ideas on how to accomplish those goals and not always sound. For instance, while Grug takes his role as protector seriously, he refuses to allow anything "new" to disrupt his tried and true ways of living.

The Croods live in a cave and have a huge boulder as a front door. After sunset, no one is allowed to leave the cave because of the predators who lurk just outside. However, the headstrong teenage Eep decides to break the rules and her decision will have long lasting consequences for her family. After sneaking out, Eep soon notices light emanating from the darkness and finds a fellow caveman, Guy (Ryan Reynolds), who is disguised as an animal to keep himself safe. Guy has started a fire, which captures the attention of Eep, who is not sure what to make of him, but is drawn to him nonetheless. After spending some time together, Guy gives Eep a horn that she can use to signal him if she is ever in danger, which comes in handy on more than one occasion.

The next day, an earthquake hits and virtually destroys the Croods home, forcing the family to search for a new one. This "new" development disturbs Grug, but the family soon discovers a beautiful new world that emerged from the dust of the old one. However, the new world holds unknown dangers, which forces Eep to use the horn to alert Guy, who soon arrives and saves the family. Grug is upset with the arrival of the much younger and more intelligent Guy and decides to keep him rolled up in a log to keep him under control and away from Eep, who clearly likes the young man. 

During their journey, Guy entertains the Croods with interesting stories and new ideas and inventions, much to the dismay of Grug, who finds himself competing with Guy for dominance. Guy is clearly winning out, so Grug becomes jealous, but also motivated to come up with (gasp!) a new idea or two of his own. Considering the challenges that they will soon face, the Croods and Guy will need all the help they can get.

The Croods offers something for viewers of all ages. Younger viewers will marvel at the use of animation, color and the lovable characters, including Guy's sloth, Belt (Chris Sanders), the family dog, Douglas, and a huge lovable saber- toothed tiger. In addition, the message that everyone in a family has an important role to play in their overall happiness is conveyed very well. Older viewers will smile at the familiar family dynamics, such as the classic battle between mother-in-law, Gran, and son-in-law, Grug. In addition, Grug's paternal instincts move him to try to protect Eep from the new man in their lives, Guy, who seemingly poses a threat to all that Grug's holds dear. Indeed, new people and ideas shake up the Crood family, but in a positive way. 

Many important elements are present for The Croods to become the starting point for a new film franchise that has cross generational appeal, including fun and relatable characters, a screenplay that will make you smile frequently, and a solid score/soundtrack. If nothing else, the additional revenue from merchandising, including stuffed animals of Belt and the saber-toothed tiger, could ensure financial success. Finally, the talented cast, including the voices of the aforementioned Nicolas Cage, Emma Stone and Ryan Reynolds, help to create memorable and beloved characters that viewers will want to see again and again. 

Directors: Kirk DeMicco and Chris Sanders
Screenplay: Chris Sanders and Kirk DeMicco, from a story co-created by John Cleese.

"Olympus Has Fallen" - Starring Morgan Freeman and Gerard Butler

Photo Credit: Millennium Films

The White House has been infiltrated by a terrorist group who capture the President (Aaron Eckhart) and several high ranking administration officials in the new film Olympus Has Fallen, from director Antoine Fuqua. The leader of the group, Kang Yeonsak (Rick Yune), sets up shop in the bunker far beneath the White House and plans to retrieve the security codes for the nation's nuclear weapons to unleash untold horrors around the country. Washington is seemingly paralyzed, but the acting commander in chief, Speaker of the House Allan Trumbull (Morgan Freeman), works with a former Secret Service Agent, Mike Banning (Gerard Butler), who witnessed the attack and is looking for the terrorists inside the White House.

However, Banning, who is a former Special Forces operative, has a rather troubled relationship with the current President and has been assigned to desk duty after an accident that claimed the life of the First Lady (Ashley Judd). His first order of business is to find President Asher's son, Connor (Finlay Jacobsen), who is believed to still be in the White House and will likely be used as leverage if he is caught. Banning is a Jason Bourne type of character with supreme fighting skills that allow him to dispatch a large number of Kang's men and remain relatively unscathed. Banning is seemingly the last hope for the country, as the terrorists have obtained next generation weapons that keep all rescue attempts at bay. 

Olympus Has Fallen asks viewers to suspend their disbelief in a big way. If that is possible, the result is an entertaining effort that boasts a strong cast, including Melissa Leo, Robert Forster, Angela Bassett, Dylan McDermott, as well as the aforementioned Freeman, Eckhart and Butler. Gerard Butler receives a great deal of screen time and is completely believable as the tough and capable Banning, thanks to his imposing physique and agility. He is likable and viewers will want to root for him to find and dispatch the terrorists. 

The film is action packed, but relies too heavily on gun play and explosions during the initial siege at the White House that quickly becomes overkill and lasts entirely too long. As is typically the case in those busy scenes, it is difficult to see what is happening, as the carnage takes numerous lives of characters who viewers do not know or care about. Of course, the good guys and bad guys are easily differentiated, which is both good and bad. It is good for viewers who are keeping score, but bad for those who may be sensitive about stereotyping certain groups of people. I doubt many people who see Olympus Has Fallen will look too deeply into the subtext. After all, this is simply entertainment, but from the reactions of some of the audience members in the screening I attended, one might think the attack was real. The support for the country was not unexpected, but the vocal reactions during the final act were a bit surprising for a work of fiction. Perhaps that is a reflection of the growing instability is some parts of the world. 

DVD Round-Up: "A Separation" (2011) and "Damsels In Distress" (2012)

A Separation (2011)

The Basics: Oscar winning foreign language film centering around the complications that result when a married couple, Simin (Leila Hatami) and Nader (Peyman Moaadi), decide to temporarily live apart in order to have time to reflect on their problems and consider their future. Their daughter, Termeh (Sarina Farhadi), decides to stay with Nader, who is also caring for his father (Ali-Asghar Shahbazi), who is suffering from Alzheimer's disease. During the separation, Nader hires a poor young woman, Razieh (Sareh Bayat), to help care for his father while he is at work. However, after coming home early one day, Nader finds his father alone and passed out in his room, causing a confrontation between him and Razieh that will complicate both of their lives for some time to come.

Reasons to watch: It is no wonder that A Separation won the Foreign Language Film Oscar in 2012. The movie features an outstanding screenplay and terrific performances from the ensemble cast, particularly Peyman Moaadi, as the complex Nader. He is a husband, father, caretaker and a hard working man who finds his life turned upside down by a random series of events that could have been avoided had he not separated from Simin.

The Bottom Line: A magnificent film.

Damsels in Distress (2012)

The Basics: A group of young women, led by the confident, yet often mistaken, Violet (Greta Gerwig), attempt to change the male dominated atmosphere/culture of their college, Seven Oaks, while also dealing with their various male love interests who threaten to distract them from their mission.

Reasons to Watch: Greta Gerwig is sublime in her role as Violet, the leader of the group. How she is able to keep a straight face while reciting her often absurd dialogue is amazing. The screenplay, by Whit Stillman, who also serves as director, is often quietly hysterical.

The Bottom Line: While Damsels in Distress is not for everyone, viewers who appreciate and understand the absurd humor may find themselves laughing out loud throughout the film. The intelligent screenplay insists that viewers pay attention because the material is always played straight by the talented young cast, who have mastered the art of the poker face.

Heart to Channel Led Zeppelin in Upcoming "Heartbreaker Tour" with Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Experience

Ann and Nancy Wilson have successfully covered Led Zeppelin songs as both Heart and The Lovemongers for many years. In fact, their cover of "Battle of Evermore" is, in my opinion, superior to the original. The sisters have covered "Rock and Roll," "Misty Mountain Hop," "The Immigrant Song," "Going to California," "What Is and What Should Never Be," "Black Dog" and "Stairway to Heaven," which they most recently covered again at last year's Kennedy Center Honors, to much fanfare. This year, they are teaming with Jason Bonham, son of the late Led Zeppelin drummer, John Bonham, for the Heartbreaker Tour. See complete press release information below.



“HEARTBREAKER TOUR” with special guest Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Experience

LOS ANGELES, CA – March 11, 2013 -- 2013 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees, HEART, will take their critically acclaimed live show on the road this summer with very special guest JASON BONHAM’S LED ZEPPELIN EXPERIENCE. Ann and Nancy Wilson first met Jason Bonham, son of famed Led Zeppelin drummer, John Bonham, when they performed “Stairway to Heaven” together at the Kennedy Center Honors tribute to Led Zeppelin in December 2012.  Over 6 million fans have watched the performance online and purchased the track on ITunes.  Now, in addition to a full set of Heart classic hits including “Crazy on You,” “Barracuda,” “Alone,” “These Dreams,” “What About Love,” and many more, fans can experience this historical pairing live when Heart and Bonham close each show with a special thirty-minute finale tribute to Led Zeppelin.

Ann Wilson promises fans an incredibly special event.  “Nancy and I and the rest of Heart are thrilled to be playing with Jason and his band this summer. Awesome rock n roll music every night...miracles apt to happen any old time."  Nancy adds, “It's not a tribute as we have the blessings of the gods themselves.”

Jason adds, "What a great night it was for us at the Kennedy Center awards, and now to be able to do it again on the road with Ann and Nancy is such an honor for me. I am really looking forward to taking my Led Zep Experience show out this summer with Heart and to join them in a Zep-a-thon closing the show as well.  Just fantastic!”

                Tickets for the tour will go on sale beginning on March 22: 

6/17                       West Palm Beach, FL                        Cruzan Amphitheater

6/18                       Tampa, FL                                          Live Nation Amphitheater

6/20                       Atlanta, GA                                         Chastain Park Amphitheater

6/21                       Charlotte, NC                                      Verizon Wireless Amphitheater

6/22                       Raleigh, NC                                        Time Warner Cable Music 

                                                                                            Pavilion

6/24                       Virginia Beach, VA                             Farm Bureau Live

6/25                       Washington, DC                                 Jiffy Lube Live

6/27                       Wantagh, NY                                      Nikon at Jones Beach Theater

6/28                       Boston, MA                                        Comcast Center – Mansfield 

                                                                                             MA

6/29                       Bethel, NY                                           Bethel Woods   Center for the 

                                                                                             Arts        

7/2                         Holmdel, NJ                                        PNC Bank Arts Center

7/3                         Philadelphia, PA                                Susquehanna Bank Center - 

                                                                                           Camden

7/4                         Uncasville, CT                                     Mohegan Sun Arena

7/19                       Detroit, MI                                           DTE Energy Music Theater

7/21                       Pittsburgh, PA                         First Niagara Pavilion - Burgettstown

7/22                       Cleveland, OH                                    Blossom Music Center

7/27                       Cincinnati, OH                                 Riverbend Music Center

7/29                       Chicago, IL                                            Ravinia Festival

7/30                       Indianapolis, IN                                  Klipsch Music Center

8/1                         West Allis, WI                                     Wisconsin State Fair

8/14                       Houston, TX                                        Cynthia Woods Mitchell                                         

                                                                                            Pavilion

8/15                       Dallas, TX                                            Gexa Energy Pavilion

8/17                       St. Louis, MO                                      Verizon Wireless Amphitheater

8/18                       Kansas City, MO                                Starlight Theater

8/20                       Denver, CO                                        Fiddler’s Green Amphitheater

8/22                       Los Angeles, CA                                Greek Theater

8/23                       Los Angeles, CA                                Greek Theater

8/24                       Indio, CA                                             Fantasy Springs Resort 

                                                                                             Casino

8/26                       San Diego, CA                                    Open Air Theater

8/28                       San Francisco, CA                             America’s Cup Pavilion

8/30                       Portland, OR                                       Sleep Country Amphitheater

 A limited number of VIP experience packages with premium seating, exclusive music and merchandise, and a meet and greet with Ann and Nancy will be available for all shows.  Heart and Jason Bonham have each teamed up with VIP Nation to offer a variety of VIP Packages. For all of these details visit: www.vipnation.com. 

Ann Wilson and her younger sister, Nancy Wilson, first showed the world that women can rock when their band Heart stormed the charts in the '70s with hits like "Crazy on You," "Magic Man," "Barracuda," "Straight On," "Even It Up," "Kick It Out" and many more.  Not only did the Wilson sisters lead the band, they wrote the songs and played the instruments, making them the first women in rock to do so.  Heart continued topping the charts through the '80s and into the '90s with huge hits like "These Dreams," "Alone," "Never," and a string of other hits that showcased the sisters' enormous talents as both musicians and singers. Across four decades and 14 studio albums, Heart has sold more than 35 million records, had 21 top 40 hits, sold out arenas worldwide, and profoundly influenced the sound and direction of American rock music while inspiring women (and guys too!) around the world to rock out in bands of their own.

In 2010, Heart released its first album in a dozen years. Red Velvet Car received both critical and commercial acclaim, debuting in the Top 10 in Billboard’s Top 200 Album Chart.  In 2012, Ann and Nancy released a memoir, “Kicking & Dreaming: A Story of Heart, Soul and Rock & Roll,” which became an immediate New York Times best seller. They also released a definitive box set, “Strange Euphoria,” a carefully considered anthology of biggest hits and best-loved songs set alongside deep catalog treasures, rarities, demos and live performances, on three compact discs and one DVD in a deluxe box.  In addition, they released a new album, “Fanatic,” which features three hit singles, the title track “Fanatic,” “Walking Good” featuring Sarah McLachlan, and “Dear Old America.”  The Wilson Sisters were also awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

On December 11, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame announced the induction of Heart.  The induction ceremony will be held in Los Angeles on April 18, 2013 and broadcast on HBO on May 18, 2013.

Fall Out Boy's Pete Wentz Turns Novelist with "Gray"

I cannot say that I am a fan of Pete Wentz's band Fall Out Boy. Since I am not all that familiar with their music, I cannot critique it, but the band was extremely popular throughout the 2000s, so they must have been doing something right. Wentz himself has sort of fallen off the radar after many years in the spotlight, but now seems to be ready to be front and center once again with his new book, Gray (MTV Books), along with the recently announced reunion of Fall Out Boy.

Gray is (possibly) a semi-autobiographical story about a young musician whose band slowly finds success and eventually signs with a major label, which is life changing in many ways. Wentz, with James Montgomery, produces a very introspective, descriptive and contemporary narrative. He expresses himself through the use of poetry while musing about the most minute things in life in this stream of consciousness pseudo-diary, which the author compiled while touring. How much is really about Wentz himself is not known, but his vivid descriptions may make readers wonder if he is talking about himself from start to finish.

Aside from the narrator, there are just a few major characters introduced in Gray. "Her" is the narrator's love interest and is featured prominently throughout. They have many issues to work through and break up more than once, but they keep finding their way back to one another. The toxicity of their relationship is apparent to readers, but clearly not to the characters. In the narrator's case, he hurts Her very badly, but they just cannot quit each other. I am not sure that they are even in love, but their co-dependence appears unconquerable.

The characters are not necessarily likable, but I found myself rooting for them to have the strength to move on and get their lives together. Of course, inexperience and bad decisions frequently accompany youth, so I suppose this is a case of hurry up and wait, but the damage done in the interim may not be able to be fixed. I was also struck by the lack of attachment to the past, such as the house that the narrator grew up in and promises never to return to, even though some of the memories revealed are positive ones. The younger generation is seemingly moving beyond being tied down by the distant past, in favor of having the freedom to do their own thing. Tradition and sentimentality seem to be going the way of the dinosaur. That is not a judgement, but simply an observation.

What surprised me most about Gray was the author's ability to hold my attention throughout, even though there really is no central plot. The main character meanders from place to place and manages to find drama almost everywhere he goes. Indeed, there is a lot going on throughout the 200 plus pages and the main character appears to be heading somewhere, but he does not seem to know his destination yet. Perhaps that was the inspiration for the title.

New Series Spotlight: "Bates Motel" Opens For Business Tonight on A&E

Photo Credit: A&E

Young Norman Bates and his mother, Norma, move from Arizona to Oregon and purchase a home and a motel in the new series Bates Motel, which premieres tonight at 10:00pm ET on A&E. The series is a prequel to Alfred Hitchcock's masterpiece Psycho, but is not necessarily bound to the history of the characters. For instance, Norman has an older brother, Dylan (Max Thierot), who is estranged from the family and was not mentioned in the film. The series opens with the unexpected and curious death of Norman's father, which does not seem to upset Norma, who is shown coming out of the shower when she hears Norman's cry for help after he discovers the body. That is not the only death that occurs during the debut episode, so it appears that may be a harbinger for the Bates family. 

Norma seems conflicted, while Norman struggles to fit in and is appropriately awkward. Their mother/son relationship seems a bit too close for comfort, as the controlling Norma wants to keep Norman around as much as possible and does not refrain from using guilt to have her way. She confides in him that "people suck," but he is different and special, while Norman quotes Jane Eyre concerning their heart to heart connection.

Shortly after Norma and Norman move in, tragedy strikes and the duo have a close encounter with the authorities who wonder why a high school student is helping replace carpet in the motel at 2:00am on a school night. Despite the suspicion and the initial challenges, Norma is a strong willed woman who is fiercely protective of her son and will do whatever is necessary to preserve their new life together. In other words, cross her at your own risk.

The debut episode, "First You Dream, Then You Die," is a solid effort that benefits greatly from the strong performances by Vera Farmiga (Up in the Air, Higher Ground) as Norma, and Freddie Highmore (Finding Neverland, August Rush), as Norman. Highmore looks very much like a young Anthony Perkins and he exhibits some uncanny mannerisms that were present in Norman in Psycho. In addition, Bates Motel is filmed in British Columbia and is beautifully photographed. The first episode flows smoothly and provides a quick introduction to a few of Norman's high school friends, a concerned teacher and the aforementioned police, who may or may not be around for long. I expect a high body count before this one is over and I look forward to watching how Norma and Norman deal with the problems that are heading their way. Overall, a bloody good start. 

"The Power of the Penny" - Abraham Lincoln Continues to Inspire

The Power of the Penny (Spencer Publishing) was originally published in 2009, commemorating the 200th birthday of Abraham Lincoln. With the recent release of the award winning film Lincoln, now is an opportune time for the uninitiated to become familiar with the book, which has the power to teach children about history, civic duty and even financial matters. Author Elaina Redmond utilizes Lincoln's most positive traits and the unique aspects of the penny to establish confidence in children, while teaching them about history at the same time.

The nearly 40 page coffee table book features outstanding illustrations by Scott Stewart that complement Redmond's text, which includes poems, history lessons, and many fun activities for younger readers, while parents and guardians may be surprised to learn how valuable a penny can be and the power that it still possesses. In recent years, there has been some doubt about the future of the penny, since it costs more than one cent to produce each one and with the increasing use of electronic banking that places the future of all coin and paper money in doubt. Redmond certainly makes an interesting and inspirational case for the unique value of the penny, while paying homage to Abraham Lincoln, whose image adorns each one. Indeed, the penny is part of our national heritage, so it is difficult to consider a time when it may be gone forever. 

The Power of the Penny proves that learning can be fun and conveys the message that doing something for others can be just as rewarding, if not more so, than doing something for yourself. Elaina Redmond is clearly in tune with her target audience and has a clever way of translating her message. I laughed when I saw the price of book, $18.09, which just happens to be Abraham Lincoln's birthday. Yes, learning can be fun. 

For additional information about The Power of the Penny, go here.

New in Theaters: "The Call" - Starring Halle Berry

Halle Berry portrays Jordan Turner, a 911 operator who feels responsible for the death of a young girl, in director Brad Anderson's The Call. The film opens with Jordan receiving a phone call from a teenage girl, Leah Templeton, who is being stalked inside her own home. Jordan is successfully able to help Leah avoid capture, but after being disconnected, Jordan calls back, which inadvertently alerts the intruder, who is still in the house, to Leah's whereabouts. She is then murdered while Jordan is on the line.

Six months later, Jordan is now working as a trainer for new 911 call center recruits, but no longer takes calls herself. However, after a rookie operator has troubling dealing with a call from a young girl who has been kidnapped, Jordan must take over and soon realizes that the girl, Casey Welson (Abigail Breslin), has been abducted by the same man who killed Leah. The majority of the film centers around Casey's harrowing ordeal. Her abductor, Michael Foster (Michael Eklund), has left Casey inside the trunk of his car, but is unaware that she is awake and calling for help. However, the cell phone that Casey is using is disposable, so it is not easily traced (I am not sure if that is accurate, but this is a movie, so just go it).

Jordan stays on the phone with Casey during the ordeal and suggests several things that she might do to alert other drivers to her situation. Casey kicks out one of the exterior lamps, pours paint out of the broken lamp and even tries to fight off her attacker. Meanwhile, the authorities are still trying to trace the cell phone and even with the clues that Casey has left on the roadway, the police are still unable to find her. Eventually, Jordan loses contact with Casey and once again hears Michael's voice when he confiscates the cell phone. After the call ends, Jordan decides that she must do everything in her power to save Casey and makes a somewhat surprising decision.

Director Brad Anderson is no stranger to the suspense genre, having helmed the little seen, but outstanding, 2008 film Transsiberian. For the most part, he crafts another solid and suspenseful effort with The Call and, until the final act, I was completely invested in the film. But the crucial final moments lack the taut suspense that was present during the first two thirds of the film and asks viewers to accept a few outlandish plot twists that I, for one, simply refuse to go along with. The Call also benefits from strong performances by Halle Berry and Abigail Breslin, but their efforts are not enough to make up for the debacle that occurs during the final act when it is too late to call for help. 

Enter the Dragon 40th Anniversary Ultimate Collector’s Edition on Blu-ray™ June 11

Press Release: Enter the Dragon, one of martial arts icon Bruce Lee’s last films, will debut June 11 on Blu-ray™ in the Enter the Dragon 40th Anniversary Ultimate Collector’s Edition giftset from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment. The film, which helped bring interest in the Asian martial arts genre to mainstream Western cinema, has been re-mastered for its 40^th anniversary, and will now feature new bonus materials, such as the featurette, No Way as Way, on the legacy of Bruce Lee, plus other featurettes and commentary. Memorabilia -- which includes collectible art cards, lenticular card and an embroidered patch --are also part of the giftset.

Bruce Lee was an incredible athlete and mixed martial artist who, despite making a limited number of movies during his short life, became a charismatic megastar and left a permanent mark on cinema and popular culture. Even Time Magazine agreed. They included Lee in the “100 Most Important People of the 20^th century” issue (Heroes and Icons 1999*).  Enter the Dragon continues to resonate with today’s audiences. It was a major theatrical hit 40 years ago, grossing approximately $25 million domestically – the equivalent of almost $180 million in today’s box-office. Enter the Dragon has sold more than 450,000 units on DVD and Blu-ray since 2004. In 2004, Enter the Dragon was selected by the Library of Congress for preservation in the United States National Film Registry as being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant." It also received a 95% positive rating on the critics’ review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes (www.rottentomatoes.com).

Lee was born in San Francisco on November 27, 1940. As a young boy in Hong Kong, he acted in some 20 films there and first became known in the U.S. in 1966 for his role as sidekick Kato in TV’s “The Green Hornet.” He also appeared in TV shows like “Ironside” and “Longstreet,” with his most notable American role coming in the 1969 movie, Marlowe, starring James Garner. Returning to Hong Kong, Lee starred in a number of successful films for Raymond Chow’s Golden Harvest Productions and soon became a superstar in China. His enormous overseas success ultimately reached Hollywood and the attention of filmmaker Fred Weintraub and Warner Bros., who produced Enter the Dragon and tapped the actor to star. Lee died suddenly in Hong Kong, at the age of 32, of a cerebral edema. That was on July 20, 1973, less than a month before the film’s August 17 U.S. premiere. Posthumously, Enter the Dragon rocketed him to international superstardom.

Enter the Dragon producer Fred Weintraub, who also wrote the book Bruce Lee, Woodstock, and Me said: “If fans want to hail Bruce as the greatest and most influential martial artist who ever lived, you’ll get no argument from me. He was a shining star who streaked across the night sky of our collective awareness in a flash of white hot unsustainable intensity only to burn up in the atmosphere of fame, wealth, and worldwide adulation. Watching him again (this time even better on Blu-ray), you can see why he became the first international superstar from a third world country.”

The plot of the Enter the Dragon revolves around outstanding martial arts student Lee (Bruce Lee), who is recruited by an intelligence agency and then uncovers the evil Han's (Kien Shih) white slavery and drug trafficking ring located on a secret island fortress. Along with martial arts champions Roper (John Saxon) and Williams (Jim Kelly), Lee infiltrates the stronghold and enters Han’s brutal tournament. Lee and his partners fuse skills in Karate, Judo, Tae Kwon Do, T'ai chi ch'uan and Hapkido, in a now classic fight-to-the-death epic battle, all staged by Lee himself.

Bruce Lee, John Saxon, and Ahna Capri star in Enter the Dragon, which co-stars Bob Wall, and Shih Kien and introduces Jim Kelly. Music is by Lalo Schifrin. Written by Michael Allen, the film was produced by Fred Weintraub and Paul Heller in association with Raymond Chow. Robert Clouse directed.

Special Features:

·   Commentary by producer Paul Heller

·   New Featurette No Way As Way

·   New Featurette The Return to Han’s Island

·   New Featurette Wing Chun: The Art that Introduced Kung Fu to Bruce Lee

·   Interview Gallery featuring Lee’s wife, Linda Lee Caldwell      

·   Vintage pieces

o   Backyard Workout with Bruce Lee

o   Curse of the Dragon

o   Location: Hong Kong with Enter the Dragon

o   Blood and Steel: The Making of Enter the Dragon    

o   Personal Profile Bruce Lee: In His Own Words

·    Five trailers      

·   Seven TV spots

Note: All enhanced content and memorabilia listed above is subject to change.