Snow White & The Huntsman

     A weak movie overall, but this take-away quote during Snow's frightening experience in the Dark Forest was strong.

Cinderella

     Cult-like Cinder-forces are emerging and multiplying. I joined a beautiful grandma-friend as well as Cinderella-attired ones of ALL ages at the movies. 

     It was so fun to hear little voices during poignant times. In the attic scene, wicked, and bullying stepmother attempts to grab Cinderella to keep her from trying on the glass slipper...the ticket to her freedom and purpose. One "courageous and kind" little voice in the audience, caught up in the heat of the moment, says, "Don't grab her!" Despite cartoon-claiming reviews, I should have brought Kleenex for two parts of the movie. 

     A kindred take-away from the movie can be found in the cruel Stepsisters' bullying. Being bullied is sometimes very real, and it very penetrates the soul. Other times (as in complicated grown-up family situations, for example) it might be somewhat re-created with sensitive buttons being pushed, re-surfacing from childhood insecurities. Nonetheless, the feelings are real. Rather than unproductive acting out, hold on to the steady and positive ANCHOR within. Strive for the unnatural (it is not easy)...a/k/a the difficult-to-muster courageous.and.kind-factor.

     A hearty thumbs-up to the new Cinderella, especially regarding the bullying aspect.

Still Alice

     So, the title, "Still Alice." Does it mean that Alice is still Alice, or does Alice become still... or inactive? Maybe it is both. No way did I want to delve into this solemn movie alone, but glad I experienced it with a friend.

     "Still Alice" is an insightful look into the quicksand-like grip of Alzheimer's, or (as Glenn Campbell calls it) "Part-timers". I felt improper a time or two, laughing during serious, close-to-home, re-enactments. Sometimes laughter is the healthful way to get through sober times, as we learned with a close family member. For instance, how could proper Professor Alice ever have imagined her down-the-road, Still Alice? The Still Alice who would fumble when following a few simple yet chilling video-taped instructions?

     Julianne Moore's portrayal, combined with interesting filming techniques, present the unforgettable essence of "Part-timers." With its agitations; its quietude; and the take-away questions and paranoia that even I dodge when random forgetfulness hits. Alice, stilled, is still lovable and lovely Alice.

The Bully & Denial

    This is Part II of a reality show's clip that demonstrates conflict gone wrong, uncalled for personal verbal attack, and clueless denial and justification. Brings me to sad tears for the victim.