2012: Week 47: Lincoln

Lincoln

Genre: Drama, Biography, History

Main Players: Daniel Day Lewis, Sally Field, David Strathairn, Tommy Lee Jones

General Gist: The story of Lincoln’s struggle to emancipate the slaves, during the civil war. 

Deb's Take: 
I am one of the least political person’s out there.  I think I have mentioned this before.  That being said, the first half of the movie was a little slow for me, I didn’t enjoy all the political bantering, games and negotiations.  I know it was all a recounting of our history, and I think that is what kept me interested.  I really was impressed with Daniel Day Lewis and his portrayal of Lincoln.  I will guess that a lot of research was done about Lincoln’s personality, and I feel like the personality came through loud and clear.  The movie was most impressive in that it covers a very short period of time, yet captures an amazing pivotal historical event, and the days around that event.  What a burden that man took on, and what a strategic way of bringing the events into play.  I did feel the acting in this movie was exceptional.  I always like Sally Field, and Tommy Lee Jones was different in this role, not as convincing as some, but good. 

I think this movie would be most suited for those people who love history, love politics and love biographies.  I am not necessarily this type of person, but the greatness of this movie was not lost on me, I know it was exceptional and give it credit, even though it wasn’t my favorite..many of you will love it!

Deb's Rate: Matinee for me, but Friday night for most

Tiff's Take:
This movie was very different from what I expected.  I thought it was more of a war movie but it was so not.  It was really about passing (is that the right term?) the 13th amendment.  It just so happens it was around war time.  So needless to say, this was not an action packed movie.  Yes, it was long and a little slow.  Yes, my dad may or may not have fallen asleep during it.  BUT, it was very interesting.  At least to me.  I'm always surprised to find that political stuff really does interest me more than I think.   

I felt like this movie really captured the behind the scenes of what may have been going on way back then.  It was fascinating to see Lincoln's personality portrayed.  What an amazing individual?!  Daniel Day Lewis totally nailed it.  As Deb said, if you're a history buff you'll probably really enjoy this.  If you're looking for action this isn't your movie. 

Tiff's Rate: Hmm...Matinee or Friday Night.  Why not, Friday Night.

Preview:  More to come as we catch up!

Week 47: The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1

You can't be surprised that this is the movie we went to see this week.  The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1.  Oh how I love movies that are such a big deal that there are lines of people waiting to get in.  Seriously, I really love the whole process.  Makes everything so exciting and you really feel like you're a part of something.  I know it's just a movie.  It's not like Woodstock or anything but still a great way to break up the week of routine family schedule.  And we really didn't even have to stand in line.  Or go at midnight.  We scored 8pm tickets through AMC's stubs program.  Worth the $12 membership if you ask me. 

So obviously I've read the books and seen the previous movies.  But it's been a while since I've read this book so the details weren't fresh in my mind.  I think this is the only way to see a movie that was a book first.  Otherwise you critique every little difference and you don't get to enjoy the story being brought to life.  And let me tell ya, there's nothing I enjoy more.

I won't bore you with who's in this because whether you like the movies or not you probably already know.  And if you don't you must live in a bubble.  I kid.  But seriously, I think the acting is getting better with each movie.  I know there are people who have beef with the acting and choice of actors for this series (aka my sister in law) but this one stepped it up a notch.  The acting is definitely better.  I've never had a huge problem with it myself because I can easily overlook so so acting when I'm really excited about what I'm seeing. 

This last book had the potential to be a crazy over the top movie with everything that was going on.  With the rapid pregnancy and crazy delivery it could have been a cheese fest nightmare.  But it wasn't.  I thought it was done really well.  And in this one you got to experience the wolves talking to each other in their heads a little better.  I liked it.  I don't know how I'm going to wait for the next one.  By the way, I think Part 2 will make the best movie out of them all.  You get to meet all the cool vampires and their "gifts" and a lot more action.  Can't wait.

If you love this series I don't have to tell you to go see it because either you already have or have plans to go.  If you don't like it there's probably no convincing you to go anyway.  But I'll tell you this.  There may be a chance that I'll go again over Thanksgiving.

To Sum it up: Love it, love it, love it.