Finding Comfort in the Rain

No matter how many times I've seen "Singin' in the Rain," I still get goosebumps when I see Gene Kelly tapping down the street. But that feeling is trumped when I get the chance to see someone watch the film for the first time. There's something about watching a friend fall in love with a movie I've always adored that makes the viewing experience that much better. I am one of those people who glances back at you for every reaction shot. And I do shoot looks of disdain at friends who have never watched "Gone With the Wind" or "Philadelphia Story."
Sure, I come off as a film snob every time I spout off a list of the classic movies everyone should have to watch to appreciate film. But maybe it isn't just about preaching my views or educating my friends on film appreciation. Maybe it's all about getting people to understand and feel those emotions I experience every time I watch the movies.

Giving summer blockbuster a better meaning

With summer typically known as the blockbuster season for movies, it's safe to say you won't find too many Oscar contenders in the upcoming months. And Dark Knight aside, I didn't really have high, or even slightly high expectations for any of the films released during the vacation season, especially after the barrage of sequels last year. And then came Iron Man. Sure, it's another superhero movie with a relatively predictable plot. And yes, the villains aren't the most developed. But the big kicker about the quality of the film is the exact reason I hate the Spiderman series: the star. Regardless of his notorious past, Robert Downey Jr. was the perfect choice for the rough around the edges Tony Stark. They didn't try to suppress the womanizing or alcohol abusing to make the film safe for the kids. And Downey has a way of playing up the chauvinism and cockiness while still becoming a character who the audience wants to root for. For once, the guy seems normal. He isn't the humdrum, corny Peter Parker, dancing around the streets or hamming it up for the kids. Downey didn't seem afraid to show his character's appalling qualities. And Toby Maguire? Well, he grew out his hair to have an emo swoop. If you get a chance, check out Iron Man. If nothing else, it'll feed your superhero appetite until Christian Bale dons the batsuit once again.