directed by Michael Winterbottom (2011)

It’s a compliment to Michael Winterbottom’s The Trip that it reminds me of one of my most favorite movies of all time, Withnail and I – and not just because it features two long time friends from the city headed into England’s more rural areas.

There’s a very bittersweet poignancy that both films reveal about friendship, being stuck as the person you are and the simple pains that come with being alive. (Even if it gets a touch heavy handed at the end).

Steve Coogan is particularly and hilariously self effacing as himself (?) traveling on a wine and food tour that was originally meant to be taken with his young girlfriend.

Instead, after being told they are “taking a break” he reluctantly brings along Rob Brydon who, unlike Coogan seems perfectly content with his place in the world even if his goofy impersonations and happiness make him an annoyance to those around him.

The two bicker, joke, insult and chat through gourmet meals. At first, I couldn’t imagine how anyone that was not already a fan of these actors could take any interest in the film, but the beautifully photographed and well put together film transcends its seemingly dull plot to evoke a quiet swelling of emotions while also making you laugh out loud.

You’ve seen one of the funniest clips if you’ve watched “This is How Michael Caine Speaks” but there’s more to this gem of a movie.

It’s on Netflix instant, so do enjoy!

See more: Movies 2010s Comedy

Be the first to leave a comment →
Posted on November 14, 2011

Canceled

Wow, How to Be a Gentleman was canceled before I even got around to writing my review. It’s a shame not because it was good (it wasn’t) but I was glad it gave Murray a job. Love that guy.

See more: TV Shows 2010s Comedy

Be the first to leave a comment →
Posted on October 9, 2011

Thumbs Say This Was One Of Jim’s Least Favorite

One thing I’ve learned from watching all the new Fall shows is that people that write television hate people who are different from them. Or at least they think we all hate eachother.

The latest cross culture bashing comes from Suburgatory which relies on stereotypes that frankly confused me. So big city teens hate shopping while suburban girls all have nose jobs? I did not know this.

Stereotypes aside, what was more insulting was the flimsy attempt at heart warming understanding. If this girl was really as wry as her Emma Stone face and snarky narration suggests, no way she’s getting soppy over a bra. Especially not that bra.

See more: TV Shows 2010s Comedy

Be the first to leave a comment →
Posted on October 6, 2011

Thumbs Feel Sense of Deja Vu

Terra Nova could be one of those shows I get caught up on a couple seasons from now once enough people I trust say it’s great. But there just wasn’t enough in the pilot for me to stay tuned until then.

Compared to almost everything we’ve seen, it’s good even though it’s terribly derivative of Avatar, Jurassic Park and others. But you know, I’m fine with that lots of sci-fi is.

My problem is that nothing new was added and the dialogue was flat out lazy:

“grab the wheel!”, “what??!”

or “can’t blame a girl for trying”…

almost every line could have been plucked from another boring action movie.

Cast should have been scruffier too.

See more: TV Shows 2010s Sci-Fi

Be the first to leave a comment →
Posted on October 4, 2011

Thumbs Forgot All About It

What’s the opposite of unforgettable?

The new Charlie’s Angels!

I had actually completely forgotten we had even this until Jim reminded me.

All I remember was wondering if drug dealers really host catered parties where everyone wears white mini dresses and white suits?

This is no She Spies.

See more: TV Shows 2010s Action

Be the first to leave a comment →
Posted on September 28, 2011