The Iron Lady

OK, so Meryl Streep seems to be nominated every time she acts in something but don't hate her because she is good. Like or not, please respect the talent. Meryl immerses herself into every role which she performs and does it with style, grace and humility. This movie is no exception. Meryl brings the political and personal life of Margaret Thatcher to the screen. The love story between Margaret and Denis Thatcher (Meryl Streep and Jim Broadbent) is so beautiful. I can only hope that my own marriage stays as beautiful. This movie resembles the tumultuous political climate of Wisconsin and puts an interesting spin on both sides of the issues. I would also be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the wonderful acting of Alexandra Roach who plays the young Margaret Thatcher. The visually pleasing camera angles and filming of director Philipa Lloyd (previously directing Streep in the enjoyable Mamma Mia) are also a wonder to behold. I give this two thumbs up for peaking an interest in history and homage to a humble woman from New Jersey excellently portraying English royalty.

The War Horse

As I sit down to watch this movie, I see the credit: based on the book by Michael Morpurgo. I think to myself, oh great another book to read (too many books not enough time). Well the movie was so well done that it made me want to read the book unlike some other movies-The Kite Runner-but I digress. The book is told from the horses point-of-view and beautifully written, intriguing story it was; just like the movie which lived up to the book's reputation. A few people are nervous to see the movie because it is sad or because the horse gets hurt SPOILER ALERT: the horse doesn't die so IMO get over it. Life is full of hurt, sorrow and regret and what matters is how we deal with it and more importantly rise above it. The tag line says it all: Separated by war, Tested by battle, Bound by friendship. This is truly what it is all about. Without friendship whether amongst family, friends or friendliness to acquaintances, where would we be--in a life I wouldn't want to live! The story is moving and I did cry but in an inspirational way. The film-making also lives up to the wonderful Spielberg reputation as well. The story was a bit predictable but not enough to ruin my enjoyment of the movie. I give this two thumbs up for the connection between horse and owner which is too often missing in this society too often concerned with bickering and overpowering others.