Chef

As a foodie, I've tried not only interesting places to eat but also enjoy just about anything food-related. TV and films are on that list. My interest ranges from cooking shows like Barefoot Contessa up to animated movies (even fake food is appetizing!) like Ratatouille.

Chef is a 2014 film written, produced, directed by and starring Jon Favreau. The story revolves around Carl Casper, a celebrated chef in a popular gourmet restaurant. But when a notorious food critic gives him one bad review and Casper subsequently learns the power of twitter, all hell breaks loose. He loses his job, gets a viral meltdown video (which is fantastic, by the way), and finds that he has to start over from scratch. 

It's an adorable comedy-drama about taking a journey, rediscovering the passion for work, and valuing the people around you. I like the sincerity of the characters and that modern day techie applications are put to good use here. Plus, I love the smidget up-close scenes when mouth-watering dishes are featured!

Chef is the kind of movie that makes you hungry and satisfied at the same time. :)

-Martha

What If

What if you meet your soul mate only to find out that he/she is already taken? Will you agree to just be friends as long as you are together?

Friend-zoned?

In this 2014 rom-com, Wallace and Chantry (portrayed by Daniel Radcliffe and Zoe Kazan) meet at a house party and hit it off in a heartbeat. Despite her having a long-time boyfriend, they end up becoming the best of friends anyway. But how long will he keep his true feelings hidden? And if he does come clean, will the result be worth risking their friendship?

"It's very easy to be cynical about love until you've had that instant connection. If you're lucky, it happens once in a lifetime."

I like that here, I don't think of Radcliffe as Harry Potter anymore. He is able to hold his own and make a convincing 'hopeless romantic cheese ball'. Kazan, with her unconventional beauty, builds a love-hate relationship with the audience (Read: me and my sister) while her character struggles with the situation. Also, I love Adam Driver. Period. Haha. He plays Allan, who is Wallace's crazy yet reasonable friend and Chantry's cousin.

What If is a funny, enjoyable, and relatable film. Ultimately, the witty dialogue and chemistry between the main stars make it promising. Yes, we're all familiar with the elements in the story line. But somehow the artsy, nerdy charm of it all makes it still refreshing.

-Martha

Life at 50/50

On most days off, I like to cuddle with our dogs and stream movies online. I often go for the light, feel-good genre. That's how I came across the 2011 film, 50/50. It's actually a comedy-drama loosely based on a true story.

27-year-old Adam Lerner (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) lives life on the safe side. He doesn't smoke, drink, do drugs and, because car accidents are one of the leading causes of death, drive. Yet lo and behold, after going to the doctor because of persistent back pain, he learned that he has cancer and a 50/50 chance of survival.

His struggle begins by breaking the news to his goofy best friend Kyle (Seth Rogens), artist girlfriend, and overprotective parents. He also doubtfully sees Katherine played by Anna Kendrick (Love her!), an inexperienced PhD candidate, for therapy to help voice out his issues and feelings about his condition. 

"You can't change your situation. The only thing that you can change is how you choose to deal with it."

The movie is very realistic, showing the inimitable glum of battling the big C but also finding humor in it. It has brought me equal parts of tears and laughter - a weird but amazing combination. I'm yearning for more films like this. Funny, heart-pinching, and inspiring.

-Martha

My Night with The Rover

The night Martha and I saw 'The Rover', there were only six people inside the movie theater. A couple left one-third through the film. Not a very comforting thought, is it? I was beginning to worry that we wasted our time and money for this indie-drama film, not to mention the semi-paranoia that gripped us (there were only four of us left in this freaking 400 seating-capacity room!). We forcibly calmed ourselves and decided to make the most of our night by refocusing our attention to the big screen. And I assure you, focus is the operative word here.

Yay or Nay?

A 2014 Australian film written and directed by David Michod, starring Guy Pearce and Robert Pattinson. The setting was in the Australian outback, 10 years after a global economic collapse. Rey (Pattinson) was wounded and left for dead by his group after a robbery gone wrong. Rey's brother (Scoot McNairy) wanted to come back for him but was dissuaded by the rest of their group. An altercation followed causing their vehicle to crash. The robbers then switched vehicle by carnapping a parked car. Meanwhile, Eric (Pearce), a brooding and mysterious stranger witnessed his car being taken. He chased after the thieves but was thwarted and left unconscious. When he came to, he started after the group and found the injured Rey. After learning he was with the people who took his car, Eric had Rey treated by a doctor. The unlikely duo, started looking for the rest of Rey's mates.

The story itself is ordinary. Or I should say, typical in an indie film. A simple plot with a couple of characters to follow, realistic setting, and an ending that is debatable. I'm not saying I didn't like it. I did, sort of. I already knew that Guy Pearce will be brilliant but Pattinson was a pleasant surprise. Whoever advised him to do this movie should be congratulated. There was no trace of his emetic performance in 'Twilight'. Here, his take on the weak and needy Rey was spot on. Just enough to keep the audience interested and worried for him at the same time. I also like that I could feel the actors' desperation through the wild, dry, and gritty outback setting. What I was frustrated about were the accents. They were damn heavy!  Pearce's was Australian while Pattinson's was Southern American. I had to strain my ears to hear/understand what they were saying. I wish they'd put in subtitles.

All in all, I don't think we wasted our time with this one. Not for everyone, though. I'd give it a 3/5 rating.

-Faye

What's Eating Gilbert Grape

One lazy afternoon, I finally got to watch a film I've been meaning to see. Mind you, it's not the new Transformers movie (I haven't seen the old ones either!) which just about dominated all cinemas. In fact, it's the 1993 indie What's Eating Gilbert Grape.

It takes place in Endora, a small town where the Grapes live. The story follows Gilbert (played by the one and only Johnny Depp), the oldest brother of four siblings, who also stands as the man in the family ever since their father died.

His main concerns: their morbidly obese mother who hasn't gone out of the house for years, the house itself which is slowly falling apart, and most of all, Arnie, their mentally-challenged brother who is about to turn 18. With his hands full, can Gilbert ever dream outside of such a remote place?

The subtle acting and touching realism of the screenplay makes it remarkable. Note-worthy performances go to a very young and talented Leonardo DiCaprio (Arnie) and Darlene Cates (Mama). I was taken with just about everything in this movie. I felt as if I was a part of their neighborhood. I felt like I knew them. I guess that's when you know you've seen something really special.

I love that it depicts certain social issues such as stigma against mental illness and 'socially unacceptable' physical appearance but I love it even more because it made me reflect on life, the value of family, and the value of ourselves.

-Martha

It's About Time

Released only last year, About Time is the story of Tim who, upon turning 21, learned a very exciting family secret. All the men in his father's family can travel through time! Well, travel only to the times and places they've been to themselves.

Time travel genre queen, McAdams &
my latest crush, Gleeson

Tim (Domhnall Gleeson) decided to change his past mistakes to better his love life. He met Mary (Rachel McAdams) and they liked each other instantly. However, he did something to help a friend which negated his meeting Mary. So, he planned to meet her for the 'first time' by using his knowledge about her. He had to keep re-meeting her until he succeeded. As his love life stabilized, his family life unraveled and he was forced to make difficult choices. He found out that there were consequences to his actions like everybody else.

'We're all travelling through time, together, everyday of our lives... All we can do is do our best to relish this remarkable life.' -Tim Lake

Although the movie is a little long for my taste (2 hours), there are many charming little scenes where one could pick up lessons or simply be touched by the events in Tim's life. I especially like the moments with his father. To be honest, I didn't like Gleeson as Bill Weasley in the Harry Potter movies and except for his Irish accent, he is forgettable in Never Let Me Go but I love him here. He played the part as a sweet, awkward, kinda nerdy guy, and was very cute doing it! Last I heard he's going to be in the latest Star Wars film. Can't wait for that! :)

-Faye

The Vow

Question: If you wake up one day from a coma, lost part of your memory, and Channing Tatum tells you he's your husband, will you believe him?

Answer: Duh! In a heartbeat. Haha!

This is one way to look at Paige's (Rachel McAdams) dilemma. Inspired by true events, The Vow is about a newly married couple whose world is transformed after a car accident left the wife unable to remember her husband, Leo.

This 2012 film shows how their love story began and, eventually, hit rock bottom. Is true love enough to survive the ultimate test to their marriage? Leo's philosophy on moments of impact and how they change us forever puts life in a new perspective.

I love the story so much that I'm appalled to find some friends who didn't like this movie. I don't think it has to be compared to other memory loss-related films (i.e., The Notebook. Hey, McAdams is like the amnesia it-girl!) since it's a different and inspiring story on its own. 

I also have no complaints regarding their acting. I swear my on-screen love for Channing (We're on first name basis, see.) doesn't render my opinion biased. I think the cast delivered nicely. I'm not saying it's academy award performance but they're able to embody their characters and relate to the audience well.

The Vow goes to my feel-good movie pile. I'm keeping the CD nearby for an impromptu re-run. As for those who didn't enjoy as much watching it the first time, perhaps after reading this you'll give it a second chance?

-Martha

Olive Juice

I've been wracking my brain for a movie entry for Valentine's. I wanted to feature a love story with a twist. Then I remembered seeing a film many years back called The Other Sister. Released in 1999 and directed by Garry Marshall, it starred Juliette Lewis, Diane Keaton, Tom Skerritt, and Giovanni Ribisi.

Carla Tate (Lewis) is a slightly mentally challenged young adult. She comes home from a special school after completing her curriculum. At her welcome dinner, she announces she would like to start going to a regular school to become a veterinary assistant. Her over-protective mother (Keaton) disapproves and insists on molding her into a tennis-playing, country-clubbing, well-off young lady. After running away, the rest of her family intervenes and her mother finally relents. At her new school, she meets another mentally challenged student named Daniel McMann (Ribisi). They form a friendship which later turns into romance. What happens next is a mixture of funny, touching, and endearing love story.

I know this isn't your traditional romantic-comedy movie. But believe me the same elements are present: hilarious scenes, incredulous plots, and most importantly, shameless sentimentality. Not everything we watch should be intellectual and highfalutin. Sometimes it just has to be silly, tender, and cute. :)

-Faye

The Cold Never Bothered Me Anyway

Winter is probably over in some countries but that didn't stop Frozen from taking the world by storm.

This Disney animated film is about two princesses of Arendelle. Elsa is born with the power to create ice and snow. One instance while playing, she accidentally injures her younger sister Anna. This led her parents to take measures to conceal her strength. Until years later when Elsa could not hold it in anymore and puts the kingdom in eternal winter...

There are several factors that make Frozen one of the highest-grossing films. First off, the animation is truly amazing. They showcase snow in lots of stunning ways possible. Second, the story breaks away from conventional fairy tale films. It's not about the damsel-in-distress in need of a prince charming. It sets a new and valuable lesson: You can be your own hero. Last and probably the biggest factor of all is the music. It heightens the charming and magical appeal of the film.

I commend Disney for their ability to produce a heart-warming story transition in just a matter of seconds. "Do You Want to Build a Snowman?" did just that. "For the First Time in Forever" is sang so well by the talented Kristen Bell it captures Anna's sentiments perfectly. "Love is an Open Door" is a cute and unique duet (You'll see why in the latter part of the movie. Don't want to spoil ya.). Even the short lullaby "Reindeers Are Better Than People" is sang nicely and warmly by Jonathan Groff. Of course, who could forget Idina Menzel's "Let It Go"? Who else out there is guilty of memorizing the lyrics with matching actions? Haha. It's my favorite musical scene in the film followed by the trolls' adorable performance in "Fixer Upper".

I can't think of anyone not enjoying this movie! I was transformed into a little girl as I watched the entire thing, awestruck and giddy. I just love it. Thank you, Disney!

Okay, bye. :)

-Martha

The Opposite of Holding On

I seldom like books that are adapted into film. This time however I love the movie more than the novel it was adapted from. Never Let Me Go is a 2010 film based on Kazuo Ishiguro's novel starring Carey Mulligan, Keira Knightley, and Andrew Garfield.

The story revolved around friends Kathy, Ruth, and Tommy who grew up in Hailsham. At first it seemed the children at this school were normal. They were encouraged to study art, play sports, and be well-rounded students. Before long, it's revealed that each and every one of them were being prepared to be organ donors, multiple times, until they 'complete'.

The shock of finding out the future of these children was somehow 'softened' by the pacing of the story. Like the characters accepting their fate without question, the viewers eventually watch with consent as the narrator Kathy (Mulligan) described how they went about their short-lived lives and fulfilled their destiny.

I love that even though it's a love story, it doesn't feel like it. I was more drawn to and outraged by the dystopian world they live in. I love the contrast between the breathtaking sceneries and the harshness of their reality. The acting of the three main characters were also terrific. Mulligan's was subtle but very affecting. I cried buckets while watching it for the first time (and a few more on repeat viewings). Heck, I was dehydrated at curtain calls. But every time, like Kathy at the end of the movie, I learn to let go as she says:

"What I'm not sure about, is if our lives have been so different from the lives of the people we save. We all complete. Maybe none of us really understand what we've lived through, or feel we've had enough time."

-Faye

Love, Zombie

I told you, I love zombies (unlike my sister who begs me to flick to a different channel every time she sees one). From cinemas (Dawn of the Dead, Zombieland) to TV (The Walking Dead), I won't say no to a good zombie story.

In Warm Bodies (2013), I like that instead of screaming at them, I get to view things from their angle. This movie, based on Isaac Marion's novel of the same title, follows the mind of an undead named "R". One day, as he shuffles around to find "food", he meets Julie, a human girl who got separated from her group while scavenging for medical supplies. He becomes drawn to her, hides her in an abandoned airplane, and takes duty on keeping her safe.

Their against-all-odds love story is perfect for Halloween, Valentine's Day, or any day, really. For those who are squeamish like my Ate, I assure you it's not very gory. It's funny, youthful, and exciting. Nicholas Hoult plays a swoon-worthy R, becoming my first ever zombie crush. Haha! I must admit Hoult's gone a long way from his About a Boy days. 

It's that good a film, even cold-blooded creatures will warm up to it. :)

-Martha

Freshly Squeezed Pulp Fiction

Let's take a break from the rom-coms. :)

Pulp Fiction is one of the urban classics and probably the coolest movie Quentin Tarantino's ever made. It's dark, gory, and scary. The suspense could have killed me. It's the kind that makes you grip tightly on your seat and peek in between your fingers. And it's not even a horror film!

It's actually a funny, twisted story about a couple robbing a diner, a boxing fighter, and a bunch of talkative mobsters. The characters are unique and memorable played by an equally cool cast comprising John Travolta, Bruce Willis, Uma Thurman, and Samuel L. Jackson.

At first the movie seem scattered but in the end everything makes sense. It touches certain social topics - some controversial especially when it was first shown in the '90s. The lesson in the movie isn't very obvious but I like to think there's something there. You have to see for yourself what it is.

Whether you find it or not, I guarantee you'll enjoy every epic minute because Pulp Fiction is as pulpy as it gets.

-Martha

The Thing About Bridesmaids...

Weddings are supposed to be about the brides... But it can be about the bridesmaids, too.

Just like in this spectacularly hilarious 2011 film, the spotlight is on Annie (played by SNL's Kristen Wiig). When her best friend Lillian (also SNL alumni Maya Rudolph) got engaged, Annie suddenly has to keep up with her duties as maid of honor while her life practically spirals downhill.

She meets the other bridesmaids and winds up in a circus of events. She gains an archenemy, new friends, and a new shot on love and career. Oh it's a chick flick alright but don't let the pink and tulle fool you. This movie shows no limit on obscene, as-wild-as-the-boys comedy. I can't stop laughing at these ladies! 

Melissa McCarthy is definitely worth mentioning since she gives a great performance in her breakthrough role here. Wiig co-wrote the film, the superwoman that she is. It's also nice to see Rose Byrne's funny side. Apart from all these high notes, the story also has a speck of drama that teaches us a thing or two about life.

I think it's a good unconventional wedding movie. Kinda like the female-counterpart of The Hangover series but much better, if you ask me.

So why not include these Bridesmaids in your list (viewing list, that is) this June? :)

-Martha

Safe Haven

Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks. Yes, another one of his melodramatic novels that would entail a lead character dying of some terrible illness, an overly romanticized plot, and oh, most definitely a tear jerker. These thoughts went through my mind as I was hurriedly browsing for ebooks to download and saw this title. Except for 'A Walk to Remember' (novel) and a couple of movies adapted from his books, I don't think I paid any attention to his works. But I was running out of things to read so I decided 'What the hey?' and touched the proverbial download button.

Katie, a mysterious twenty-something woman is desperate to start her life over. She thought she found solace after arriving in Southport, a little town in North Carolina. Although she struggled to open up to the people she met, she soon found herself befriending a local named Jo and falling in love with a shop owner called Alex. But just as she's starting to gain her sense of self, her alarmingly violent past catches up with her.

'I truly believe that while love can hurt, love can also heal...'

I was right, all of my expectations about this book were true. Surprisingly, I liked it! Sparks kept me turning the pages on my tablet. This wasn't just a sappy romantic novel. It also has suspense, action, and dare I say, fantasy. I liked that it was a little dark and a bit brutal in some parts. Not your typical Nicholas Sparks love story. The fear and self doubt in Katie's character is what glued this whole thing together. The emotions emanating from her drove the story.

I liked this novel enough to watch the movie version online. Sadly, I was disappointed by Julianne Hough's acting. It lacked depth and she was unconvincing as an abused woman running for her life. As I said, the story depended on Katie's emotional turmoil. She didn't give that. :(

Though the movie didn't fare as well as the novel, I still learned something from this experience... Don't judge a book by its cover. ;)

-Faye

The Pitch Perfect Syndrome

The Barden Bellas

I've seen the movie weeks ago yet the soundtrack somehow got stuck in my head up to now. I think I have the last pitch perfect syndrome (which is something I just made up, by the way).

Pitch Perfect is a 2012 musical comedy film about college kids competing in an a-cappella singing contest. Mind you, the plot is predictable and filled with cliches yet somehow it works! The characters are funny and refreshing. Anna Kendrick plays the lead, Beca, and is shown in a new light. She is likeable (unlike in the Twilight Saga) and gets to showcase her talents. I also love Fat Amy's (Rebel Wilson) antics. She definitely steals the spotlight.

The songs, like I've mentioned, stick with you and are well-presented in many, memorable scenes. I'll just hover on my favorite ones in sequence: First off, they made a good move reviving the '90s hit "The Sign" by Ace of Base. Kendrick and Brittany Snow's "Titanium" duet in the shower is harmonious although awkward. Also, the part where they sang Kelly Clarkson's "Since U've Been Gone" in random bits for the auditions is hilarious. The riff-off scene is particularly good, too. I love their mash-up of Bruno Mars' "Just the Way You Are"/Nelly's "Just a Dream" in the middle of the night. It gave me shivers. The other songs are fine as well but those are the highlights for me.

I think having a Glee-like movie balanced by a funny cast and catchy lines make it all irresistible. It's brief and  pleasantly tolerable. It's a feel-good chick flick. Perfectly enjoyable to watch and listen to. :)

-Martha

Silver Linings Playbook

I'm not often updated with movies but I happen to know a pretty good one now. It's Matthew Quick's novel-turned-film, Silver Linings Playbook. 

"The only way to beat my crazy was
doing something even crazier."

The story features Pat, a recently diagnosed bipolar patient who comes to live with his parents after his discharge from a mental facility. Upon returning in the outside world, he is determined to get back on his feet and mend his relationship with his wife, Nikki. Along the way he meets Tiffany, a girl with her own share of inner demons, and they help each other out. 

"If you stay positive, you have a shot at a silver lining." -Pat

I like the simplicity of the movie even though it tackles some complex issues. The dark and raw humor subdues the intensity of their situations. The powerhouse cast comprises Robert De Niro as Pat Sr., Bradley Cooper as Pat Jr., and Jennifer Lawrence who won an Oscar with her role as Tiffany. All gave great performances but I was particularly impressed with Cooper's (More so than Lawrence's). His manic, hypomanic, and depressive states are very believable. He doesn't overdo it. He remains true to his character, making Pat a likeable hero.

It's no wonder their ensemble garnered many nominations and awards. This is a crazy, entertaining rom-com minus the usual whim and fantasy. Nevertheless, it is bright enough to give hope to many. A ray of light passing through a patch of clouds. A real silver lining.

-Martha

Little Manhattan

I can't believe it's now February, and the 14th at that! As my friend Jen says, 'Love is in the air'. So for us singles, let's love the air. ;)

Trying to hold hands for the first time :)

Ehem... Moving on, why don't I share this cute story of two sixth graders who found love for the first time? Gabe, played by Josh Hutcherson, has always been afraid of girl's 'cooties'. After being fight-partners in a Karate class, he suddenly saw his long time classmate, Rosemary (Charlie Ray), in a new light. As they spend more time together, he realized he was falling in love. This 2005 rom-com movie is funny and wittily written and directed by husband and wife tandem, Jennifer Flackett and Mark Levin. Set in the Upper West Side, Manhattan, the young lovebirds experience what love is all about.

"Never had I been so keenly aware of the ability of palm to manufacture sweat, but I was determined to hold that girl's hand for every single second." -Gabe Burton

So, if you want to watch a movie with a different kind of take on what it's like to be in love, go and see Little Manhattan.

-Faye 

Meet Penelope

Penelope is kind, smart, fun, well-bred, and young.

Despite all these beautiful traits, no one seems to want to marry her. Why?

Because she has a pig-face disorder.

I assume a lot of 'Whaaaat?' on your side of the screen. Let me explain.

It has been legend that once upon a time, a vengeful witch has cursed the Wilhern family that the next daughter to be born will have the face of a pig and only when one of her own learns to love her will she be freed from the spell. Hence, five generations after, when a baby girl is born, they are revolted to find the curse true. Penelope Wilhern is born with a snout and pig ears.

Her overprotective parents are then forced to keep her from prying eyes and cruel tongues by confining her inside their mansion. And when she reached womanhood, they began searching for men of noble birth everywhere in hopes of one of them falling in love with her and finally breaking the curse.

"Once the Queen is dead, the King is useless."

I'm surprised that this 2006 film is not known to many. I feel it's under-rated especially since the story is very appealing, both to young and adult audience. It is witty, enchanting, romantic, and inspiring. I love everything about it! Also, one cannot ignore their stellar cast. Christina Ricci plays the title role well with her expressive eyes, delivering a magical performance. Catherine O'Hara is perfect as Penelope's overbearing mother who is funny and empathy-winning. James McAvoy is charming and believable as Max. Reese Witherspoon pleasantly plays a small role in the film (She's also one of the producers!). I also commend Peter Dinklage for being hilarious.

Unlike most fairy tales, the movies' color palette is slightly dark–no usual whimsical pinks and powder blue–and it is set in real, modern times. Despite these, its positive message is more empowering than any of its kind. I like how the story unfolds with Penelope narrating her story and the moral lessons that ensue. I want to watch it again...and again. It's become a favorite of mine. Meet Penelope. You'll like her, too. :)

-Martha

Les Miserables is Tres Magnifique

One of my favorite musicals of all time is Les Miserables. I first heard of its soundtrack when I was in college. I borrowed a CD from my cousin, Balu. So, it's just fitting that I see the 2012 movie version of it with him. Actually, it was Martha's treat. ;-p

This film blew me away! The first time Hugh Jackman's gaunt face jumped from the screen, I knew I will love every second of this two-hour-and-forty-five-minute long movie. What I didn't expect was ten minutes into it and I was bawling like a madman. I love Jackman's portrayal of Jean Valjean's inner struggles in 'What Have I Done' and 'Who Am I'. I can see clearly how conflicted he is. I feel his frustration and pain. I wasn't a fan of Jackman before but I am now.

These first few scenes set the tone for the duration of the movie. The cinematography is superb. It emanates the characters' aloneness and the darkness of their reality. Anne Hathaway's 'I Dreamed a Dream' and 'Come to Me' made me scrounge for my hanky again. She sang it un-Broadway-like. I think she nailed Fantine's destitute and hopeless situation. 

I would have given this movie full marks except for Russell Crowe's (Inspector Javert) seemingly lacking performance. Don't get me wrong, I like his rendition of 'Stars' and 'Javert's Suicide', but in my mind I still see him as the 'Gladiator'. He wasn't pompous enough as Javert for me to hate him. I was also disappointed with Samantha Barks' (Eponine) 'On My Own' and I was really looking forward to that bit. She was better, though, in 'Little Fall of Rain'. I also like their 'One Day More' and the finale song, they gave me goosebumps.

I am always moved whenever I listen to Les Miserables' powerful yet haunting melodies and it's grief-filled lyrics. But to see it translated this way is short of perfection.  If I were to rate it via hankies, I'd say 4.5/5. I mean, that's how many you'll need! Seriously!

-Faye

What a Wonderful Life

Okay. Christmas is quite finished and everyone's recovering from the New Year festivities. But I  believe the holiday spirit should not end with the season. I want to share a classic film which speaks of my point exactly.

It's a Wonderful Life is a 1946 (Surprise! It's in black and white.) Christmas movie by Frank Capra. The 'life' in reference and at stake here is George Bailey's, a man best of his kind who faces his worst on Christmas eve. Hence, God sends George's guardian angel, Clarence, to prevent him from committing a terrible mistake.

The sincerity of the characters and the story telling (with series of flashbacks) add whim and color to the otherwise monochromatic screen. I'm struck to find that it was a box office flop during its time of release. Now, it is rightfully listed by the American Film Institute as one of 100 best American films ever made. I guess sometimes it takes awhile to look closer and dig deeper to recognize one's beauty.

This simple story is so beautiful that it captures hearts from its era up to the present. It shows viewers the gift of life and family that we must appreciate each day, whether good or bad. In a more personal note, I learned that sometimes, like George, we may feel little and unsatisfied with our lives, not realizing the countless blessings that surround us, not knowing how much we truly matter.

So let's keep celebrating... For it's a wonderful life indeed. 

Happy 2013, y'all. :)

-Martha