Movie Recommendation: "The Impossible" Starring Naomi Watts and Ewan McGregor

Imagine, if you can, enduring a natural disaster, being separated from family members, including children, and sustaining serious injuries. That is the plight of just one character in The Impossible, which is based on a true story about the experiences of one family during the 2004 tsunami that tore through Thailand. The Impossible will leave you breathless at times and, most likely, emotionally drained at the conclusion. The film opens as the Bennett family are celebrating the Christmas holiday in a beachfront hotel. As they frolic in the pool, strange noises permeate from the water until a wave blasts through the lower level of the hotel. Mother and son, Maria (Naomi Watts) and Lucas (Tom Holland), are swept away, but manage to find each other and head for higher ground. Maria, who is a doctor, sustains serious injuries to her chest and leg, but medical help may be long in coming. They are eventually found, along with a toddler, Daniel, who they happened upon during their journey. The trio are all taken to a hospital, where Maria undergoes multiple surgeries.

Meanwhile, the father, Henry (Ewan McGregor), and the two younger sons, Thomas (Samuel Joslin) and Simon (Oaklee Pendergast), survived the crushing waves and have been holed up in the hotel, waiting to be escorted to a safer location. However, Henry decides to continue his frantic search for Maria and Lucas and informs the youngsters that he is staying behind, while sending them on to a camp and trusting other adult victims of the disaster with their safety. It is a grueling, emotional decision that is portrayed perfectly by McGregor, who will make viewers cry repeatedly throughout the film. The balance of the film centers around the journey of the family members to find some way to reunite safely.

The performances from the aforementioned actors are sensational. While Naomi Watts has received a good deal of attention for her work, and deservedly so, Ewan McGregor has not and I do not understand why. He is consistently outstanding and provides, perhaps, the most emotional moment of the film, when he finally secures a cell phone to call home to his extended family. While I had been crying off and on before that scene, I audibly sobbed while listening to that telephone conversation. Indeed, The Impossible is a film that reels you in and simply will not let you go.

Director J.A. Bayona elicits superior work from his principal cast members. Yes, the child actors, who range in age from five to twelve years of age, deliver amazing and believable performances, too. Even the aforementioned toddler, Daniel, will leave you in a puddle and he does not even speak any lines. Bayona should also be given credit for recreating the formidable tsunami via special effects, which adds another chilling degree of realism to The Impossible. The screenplay, by Sergio G. Sánchez, is ripe with emotion, as the family struggles to survive and continues to hope for a reunion. They will not be deterred in their attempt at a reconciliation, even though they are not even sure if everyone survived. 

While I highly recommend The Impossible, potential viewers should understand the emotional heft the film carries. Parents may be especially susceptible to the emotional struggle that Maria and Henry face to protect their children in an unpredictable and terrifying situation, far from home and is an area that has literally been destroyed. I cried repeatedly throughout the film, sometimes for several minutes. Not just tears welling up in my eyes, but tears streaming down my face, while being choked up. No other film has ever had this profound an effect on me and even though it was difficult to sit through, the amazing story is simply too powerful to miss. In fact, I would like to see The Impossible again, just not right away. 

Emerging Artists Spotlight: Luke Potter and Roxanna

Photos and information courtesy of Miles High Productions

Luke Potter made his U.S. debut release with an exclusive three-track EP produced by Bleu (Demi Lovato, Hanson, Jonas Brothers) titled “One Day,” on January 14. “One Day” will be available on NoiseTrade.com, a music based website that allows users to download the EP for FREE. “One Day” aims to gain the attention of pop music fans who are seeking more emotional and honest heartfelt songs. These catchy and melodic tunes from Luke’s latest release are easy for the young generation to relate to.

“One Day," the title track and lead-off single, incorporates Luke’s influences for pop and rock, describing what it is like ‘starting over...’ The message in this song is about coming to terms with mistakes and learning from them so that one can get on with their life. The tone in his voice is all but pleading, “You don’t wanna know the lies that I’ve told, but I’ve paid for my mistakes now I’m on my way to brighter days...”

The track, “Chance Worth Taking,” showcases Luke’s more mature and personal side. It’s sure to grab the attention of any young listener by empathizing with its sentimental lyrics.

To cap-off the eclectic mix of songs, “Breathe In” ends with an upbeat ode showing another facet of Luke’s talent – a promising songwriter who, as Bleu describes, “Luke writes ear-sticking songs that just won't leave your brain!”

Not only is there an EP release, but Luke is also releasing the video to the track “Chance Worth Taking,” on January 16. This performance video provides an intimate look into the song as Luke serenades and mesmerizes any viewer with his acoustic performance.

A singer-songwriter at heart with an acoustic guitar always at hand, Luke spoils us with a hard-hitting electric guitar solo by the end of “One Day." This EP is the perfect coming-of-age and inspiring album for what’s to come from a full-length release. For more information on Luke Potter, please visit his official website: www.lukepottermusic.com

Roxana's new single, “Unforgotten,” takes you on a personal journey of an empathetic story. Joining forces with producer Mark Portmann, known for working with Michael Buble and Barbara Streisand, Roxanna has produced a polished and luxurious rich sound. Her upcoming album release will provide a seamless, mastered mix of adult contemporary, classic pop, world, and a taste of flamenco. This song is universal and anyone that has experienced heartbreak will be able to identify with the message.

Roxanna has always had a love for music. Growing up in Canada, she idolized Madonna, Celine Dion, Julio Iglesias, and Olivia Newton John. Not only did the musicians open up Roxanna to a new world of music, but was also how Roxanna was introduced to the English language. Before entering into the music industry, she would use music’s influence in her nursing profession to heal her patients.

Spain and the country’s music found its way into Roxanna’s heart as well, and it has inspired how she wants to convey her creativity. Due to her love for Spanish culture, she has decided to release an alternate Spanish version of the single “Unforgotten” titled “Para Siempre.” Both versions of the song can be found on upcoming album Exotica, due out late spring. For more information on Roxanna, please visit her official website:www.roxannamusic.com

The New Season of "Dallas" Begins Tonight on TNT

Photo Credit: TNT

The second season of Dallas kicks off tonight at 9:00pm ET on TNT, with two hour long episodes. The series, which started off strong last summer, has really hit its stride. In fact, the two episodes airing tonight rival the original series in quality and suspense. I believe having the beloved veteran characters play a more prominent role has already bolstered the second season, as Sue Ellen's past comes back to haunt her, J.R. pays a visit to a member of the Barnes family, and Bobby helps Ann deal with long held secrets. The younger generation has much to do as well. John Ross is double dealing, just like dear old dad, while still hurting from losing Elena to Christopher. Meanwhile, Christopher appears to have toughened up, thanks to the break-up with Rebecca, who now goes by Pamela.

The debut episodes also feature many references to the rich history of Dallas, which will certainly be appreciated by long time viewers. Overall, the performances from the younger cast members have improved, which is a positive sign. In addition, Mitch Pileggi, who portrays Harris Ryland, Ann's ex-husband, has been elevated to series regular, which is also good news. Harris's mother, Judith, is introduced in the second episode and is portrayed by Judith Light, who soap fans will remember for her unforgettable work as Karen Wolek on One Life to Live.

I hope Dallas is able to sustain its momentum throughout season two and beyond, but it will have to fill the void left by Larry Hagman, who passed away in November. Hagman had already filmed several episodes, so J.R. will be on screen for about half the season. It will be difficult to say goodbye, but I understand a fitting tribute has been prepared and several former cast members will be on hand to pay their respects to the iconic character who was integral to the success of the series for so many years. 

Screen Actors Guild Winners Include "Argo" and "Downton Abbey"

Argo's Oscar chances keep rising with Best Film honors from the Critics' Choice and Golden Globe awards, as well as Best Director nods for Ben Affleck. Argo was also honored with a SAG award for Best Cast in a Motion Picture during tonight's ceremony. The film now seems poised to make a run for Best Picture at next month's Academy Awards. Other films honored with SAG trophies include Lincoln, Silver Linings Playbook and Les Misérables - all Best Picture contenders as well. On the television front, PBS's Downton Abbey won for Best Drama Ensemble and ABC's Modern Family won for Best Comedy Ensemble.

Here is a list of winners from the 19th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards:

FILM

Male Actor, Lead - Daniel Day-Lewis, Lincoln
Male Actor, Supporting - Tommy Lee Jones, Lincoln
Female Actor, Lead - Jennifer Lawrence, Silver Linings Playbook
Female Actor, Supporting - Anne Hathaway, Les Misérables
Cast in a Motion Picture - Argo

TV

Male Actor, Drama Series - Bryan Cranston, Breaking Bad
Female Actor, Drama Series - Claire Danes, Homeland
Ensemble, Drama - Downton Abbey
Male Actor, Comedy Series - Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock
Female Actor, Comedy Series - Tina Fey, 30 Rock
Ensemble, Comedy - Modern Family
Male Actor, TV Movie or Miniseries - Kevin Costner, Hatfields & McCoys
Female Actor, TV Movie or Miniseries - Julianne Moore, Game Change


Life Achievement Award - Dick Van Dyke

CD Spotlight: Sunday Lane "From Where You Are"

Photo and information courtesy of LaFamos

Sunday Lane is not your typical singer/songwriter who left Middle America for the City of Angels. A classically trained pianist, she writes articulate lyrics about social injustices in our society, young love, and growing up. Her soulful approach to songwriting expresses the depth of her musicianship.

“I am most in my element when my hands are on the keys,” says the 22-year-old Tulsa native. After receiving tons of critical acclaim in her home state, Sunday Lane decided to pursue the only career path that made sense… music. She recently attended the Musicians Institute in Hollywood. Sunday has been playing some of the most sought after venues in Los Angeles and winning over new fans nationwide. More recently, two of her songs were featured on the CW TV show One Tree Hill.

Her debut EP, Bring Me Sunshine, displays her ability to write relatable songs with idiosyncratic phrases. Her first full-length album, From Where You Are, proves the multi-talented singer needs no musical decorations or distractions to create a nationwide buzz. With music videos for her songs “Won’t Go Back Down” and "Reckless One" and both her album and EP available on iTunes, sunshine is definitely in Sunday Lane’s future.

Visit her online at:  www.SundayLane.com

Movie Recommendation: "Warm Bodies" Starring Nicholas Hoult

Photo Credit: Summit Entertainment

Rrrrrrrrrrrrr
.....................Rrrrrrrrrr
Rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
.................Rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

That is how some zombies communicate in the upcoming film Warm Bodies. I suppose the only other people who might know what they are talking about are pirates. The film is, surprisingly, a zombie romantic comedy and showcases the power of love like never before. After a so-called zombie apocalypse of unknown origin, the undead are sealed off from their human counterparts. However, intermingling of the species still sometimes occurs and usually ends badly for the humans, as the shuffling zombies are tough to kill and enjoy feasting on human flesh and organs. During one such encounter, a zombie known as "R" (who also serves as narrator and cannot remember his name, but he knows it starts with an R), kills and then devours the brain of a young man, Perry (Dave Franco), and then proceeds to fall in love with Perry's girlfriend, Julie. Perry's brain allows R (Nicholas Hoult) to possess his memories and feelings, which initially sparks the attraction to Julie (Teresa Palmer).

Even more important is the fact that R's heart begins beating again, thanks to Julie's presence. As a result, he saves her from being killed by the other zombies and takes her to a safe location, inside an airplane, where they become acquainted. Julie is, of course, scared to death, but she is able to overcome her fear by helping R speak more clearly and getting to know him better. She is literally helping him change from zombie to human again. R also relies on music, including the songs "Patience" by Guns N' Roses and "Hungry Heart" by Bruce Springsteen, to deal with his feelings for Julie. He is falling in love, while Julie is not sure what to make of the recent bizarre series of events. R and Julie face a difficult journey that is filled with threats from other zombies, as well as her own father, General Grigio (John Malkovich), who leads the crusade to eliminate the undead. However, R's transformation leads other zombies to begin to heal as well, prompting hope for a cure and the possibility for R and Julie to have a future together.

Writer/director Jonathan Levine has crafted a romantic, well acted and surprising film in Warm Bodies. My interest in the film was sparked by Nicholas Hoult, who has been delivering consistently good work since his role as Tony Stonem in the British television series Skins, and the commanding John Malkovich, who never disappoints. Hoult humanizes R as the film moves along and captures the hearts of viewers along the way. The sacrifices that he makes for Julie are truly romantic and viewers will root for the couple to overcome their problems and differences and find a way to be together. Of course, Teresa Palmer is the other half of that coin and she infuses Julie with warmth, patience and understanding, as she finds herself falling for someone quite different from her previous boyfriends. That is called the power of love and it is expressed honestly through Levine's pitch perfect screenplay.

Warm Bodies opens on February 1.

Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway and Eddie Redmayne Shine in "Les Misérables"

Musicals are my least favorite movie genre and since I had never seen the Broadway production of Les Misérables, my interest in seeing the movie adaptation was minimal. However, after the film was nominated for countless awards, I had to see what all the fuss was about. While Les Misérables has not changed my mind about musicals, the film is well worth seeing, if only for the performances by talented cast, including Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway and Eddie Redmayne.

The principal story is set in early nineteenth century France and centers around Jean Valjean (Jackman) a good natured man who spent many years in prison for a petty theft. After receiving parole, he starts a new life with a new identity, but the demons from his past, one in the form of prison guard Jarvert (Russell Crowe), continue to haunt him. Since his parole, Valjean has become a successful businessman and is a model citizen. He cannot bear to see injustice prevail and, as a result, he becomes involved in the life of a former employee, Fantine (Hathway), who is trying to earn enough money to support her illegitimate daughter, Cosette, who is being cared for by a dubious couple. Valjean promises to help Fantine and Cosette, but a serious illness soon takes Fantine's life. Undeterred, the wealthy Valjean finds Cosette and becomes a father figure throughout her life and provides for her every need.

The forever vigilant Valjean runs into Javert on several occasions, thus forcing him and Cosette to move from place to place to maintain their freedom. As the young woman becomes an adult, love beckons in the form of an idealistic student, Marius Pontmercy (Eddie Redmayne), but the road to love and happiness is a long and difficult one. Making matters more troubling is the beginning of a revolt against the French government, which finds Marius heavily involved with the violent uprising. However, Valjean intervenes once again to do what is best for Cosette because he understands that the two youngsters are very much in love and have been needlessly kept apart. His continued sacrifice is admirable and he is determined to keep his promise to Fantine. 

Director Tom Hooper has assembled a terrific cast and elicits strong performances from many of them. While Anne Hathaway has received a great deal of attention for her work as the doomed Fantine, Hugh Jackman and Eddie Redmayne are also spectacular. I was aware of Jackman's acting range, but he managed to surprise me anyway with his aching, believable and physically impressive portrayal of Jean Valjean, which may be his best work to date. In addition, Eddie Redmayne, who has toiled in Independent films for some time, may finally break out with his emotionally layered performance as Marius. Redmayne possesses strong vocal skills and displays solid chemistry with Cosette (Amanda Seyfried). Of course, it is Hathaway who belts out "I Dreamed a Dream" and she also makes the most of the small amount of screen time that she is given. Her performance is deeply moving, tragic and unforgettable.The very serious and often depressing subject matter is, thankfully, offset when Helena Bonham Carter and Sacha Baron Cohen appear as Thénardier and Madame Thénardier, respectively. Their thin veneers cannot hide the fact that they are scoundrels who only look out for themselves, but the comic relief they provide is necessary and appreciated.

Of course, it is the music that is the center of film's success and, for the most part, it works wonderfully. I suppose I was not prepared for how much singing was involved throughout the film, but it did not take long to adjust. To his credit, Tom Hooper keeps the film moving along, but I did feel that it ran a bit long. For instance, the scenes featuring Javert and Valjean felt all too familiar after a while, with the same general outcome, until late in the film, when two events change the course of Javert's life forever. On the other hand, Hooper's attention to detail with the technical aspects of the film, including costume design, set design and make-up, is sensational. 

I largely credit Hugh Jackman with my overall positive opinion of Les Misérables. He is simply outstanding from start to finish by delivering a multi-layered performance and showcasing his considerable and varied talents. I doubt that there is anything Jackman cannot do well and if he is regularly cast in movie musicals I may be more inclined to see them in the future. The thing that surprised me the most about Les Misérables is the hopeful, even positive vibe that I felt as it concluded. With subject matter this dark, I am not sure how it is possible not to feel depressed or sad, but I did not. I guess that is the magic of film making.