Broken Memories Movie, a Touching Look at Alzheimer’s

I had the privilege of attending a screening of Broken Memories, an indie film centered around a family dealing with Alzheimer's, and in the process gained a little perspective.

The screening was held at Writer's Guild Theater in Beverly Hills and was combined with a benefit for Alzheimer's Greater Los Angeles. In attendance were Ron and Bryce Dallas Howard, son and granddaughter of Rance Howard, who starred in the film, there to show support. This topic is especially dear to the Howards, as Rance's wife passed away from Alzheimer's earlier this year. The audience got to hear just how proud the father-daughter pair are of their grand/father, as well as speak about how Alzheimer's has played a role in their family.

Going into the movie I was nervous about the subject matter. I immediately thought of The Notebook and how sad the film was. As the movie progressed, I learned that this story, while painful, was also a celebration of life. A reminder to cherish time with our loved ones. And it didn't hurt that Rance Howard played the role perfectly. He was charming and hilarious. Throughout the screening I wanted to give his character a big hug.

Being indie, the movie wasn't a big production. I felt the characters could have been developed more and the supporting cast, Ivan Sergei and Kelly Greyson, while they did just fine, weren't on the same level as Howard who was phenomenally relatable. In fact, Ron Howard said this is his father's best work. Despite it not being a big blockbuster, the feelings that the film evokes of the audience is undeniable.

Many of us have been affected in some measure by Alzheimer's. According to alz.org, more than five million Americans are living with Alzheimer's. It's a savage disease that wipes away memories, is frustrating for those affected, and possibly ever harder for those left to care for loved ones who lose their memories.

A few days before the screening I spent time with my grandpa who is starting to forget things. Right now he'll call us by another name and ask us the same questions repeatedly, but overall he still remembers. Sometimes when he repeats himself, I catch myself thinking, "Grandpa, I just told you" and then feel guilty. This movie was a great reminder that he has no control of what he forgets and I am truly lucky that he still has his memories.

You can watch Broken Memories now on Apple's VOD. The film is shining light on this heart-wrenching topic and is definitely worth seeing, regardless if you have an experience with Alzheimer's.

Movie Review: IT

I feel like everyone around my age is afraid of clowns, and they all gained that fear from the most disturbing clown of all – Pennywise from "IT". Literal terror. But since I’m a fan of horror films, and apparently scaring the crap out of myself, I’ve been so excited for the theater release of IT (27 years later) and had to see the movie in theaters. I wasn't able to find anyone brave enough to go with me opening weekend, and as I waited for week two, my anticipation rose as IT broke a box office records and received great reviews.

I didn’t realize the first original version was a two-part TV series. I was only seven and should’ve never watched, but I was one of those kids that never listed to their parents. Plus I had a huge crush on Jonathan Brandis (tear…RIP!) who was in the original. I'm not sure if I watched the whole thing years ago because the only things I remembered was how freighting the clown was, the drains, and the reveal of what he really was ruined the movie – even for a kid. In case anyone has never seen the original, no spoilers from me.

OK, on to my review about the re-release of IT! ...I didn't like the movie! After all that excitement it was just alight. I wasn't scared once. I almost felt like it was anticlimactic. The end was different - again no spoilers - but I wasn't satisfied with the the movie closed. I made my mom go with me and she was afraid to see it, but then throughout the movie she kept saying it wasn't as scary as the first. At one point  I even looked over and she was asleep! And she's not the type to fall asleep in the theater. IT made me so afraid of clowns and after this re-release, I almost feel like that fear is gone now. Granted, they did a great job with Pennywise and his makeup. If I were to see someone dressed like him in person I may change my tune about clowns again.

With that being said, the actors did a great job and the movie wasn't bad. It just wasn't what I expected. If I had went into it knowing it wasn't going to be scary I would have enjoyed it more.

Fun facts: 
-Pennywise is played by Bill Skarsgard, Alexander Skarsgard’s little brother.
-The movie comes out 27 years after the original. In the story, Pennywise comes around every 27 years. Bill Skarsgard is currently 27. Jonathan Brandis died at 27. Anyone else already creeped by 27 because of the 27 Club?

They already have a sequel in the works for 2019 and I'll definitely watch, but next time I'll wait for DVD.

Did you see the movie? If so, did you like IT?



Photo courtesy of Warner Bros.

French Kiss Film Premiere

On Tuesday I had some rooftop fun with Kate of Nautical By Nature to celebrate the premiere of French Kiss starring Jason Ritter. The short-film was created by Marriott, so the event was fittingly located at the Marina del Rey Marriott which happens to have beautiful ocean views!

We had a fun night taking in the movie, sipping on drinks, eating crepes, and watching a beautiful sunset over the Pacific.

Top 6 Halloween Movies

I love scary movies! I'm not down with guts and gore, but definitely enjoy a thriller. Those teen Halloween flicks from late 90s/early 2000s are my favorite. Gimme the Freddie Prinze, Jr., Jared Leto, and Josh Hartnett hunky hero types and I'm happy. Throw a few realistic and based-on-a-true-story films into the mix and my life is complete.

In honor of Halloween this Friday, here are my top six scary movies (in no particular order) that you should Netflix and watch this year:

I Know What You Did Last Summer - Freddie Prinze, Jr. PLUS Ryan Phillipe? Pretty sure this was the big break for both actors. In between trying to figure out the mystery and avoiding screaming like a little girl, the first time I watched I found myself trying to decide who was hotter. This film is winning on every level and if you haven't seen it we can't be friends. 

Urban Legend - Jared Leto pre-30 Seconds to Mars. The twists and turns will have you guessing 'til the end. And again there's two hotties - Leto and Joshua Jackson. Because of this flick I still check the backseat of my car every time I get into it and when I hear the song Total Eclipse of the Heart, you know, the one with the creepy lyrics: turn around bright eyessssss!

Scream - "Do you like scary movies? " I mean, this is the OG of teen horror flicks for anyone in their mid-20s to mid-30s. Young Skeet Ulrich and Neve Campbell, that now-famous distorted face mask, the loveable Deputy Dewey, and the start of the four-film franchise. I love this movie so much that I own it but still watch when it's on TV (and may or may not still get anxious while watching).

Vacancy - This film is short but seems long because it's extremely nerve-wracking. Most people didn't see this one, it wasn't a huge hit but it's so, so great. Part psychological, part scary as hell, the plot is realistic and you'll find yourself thinking about the movie the next time you stay at a hotel. Rent it immediately! Unless you scare easily, then don't rent it at all.

H20 - Starting point for Y2K heartthrob, Josh Hartnett, who stars alongside Halloween queen, Jamie Lee Curtis. H20: Halloween 20 Years Later, provides the creepiness of Michael Myers two decades after the original. It takes place on October 31, so it's fun to watch the day of Halloween. Bonus: did you realize Joseph Gordon-Levitt is in it? Forget the PSL, I want a drink of JGL!

The Strangers - Based on a true story, this movie is messed up! You won't sleep after seeing it. I was only brave enough to watch once because it's that terrifying. Years later I still get chills thinking about it. It's more of a slasher than I'd like, but if you can cover your eyes/mute the bloody parts you should watch it right.this.second. BUT NOT ALONE! I warned you.

Are any of these movies on your faves list? What did I miss? I'm always up for recommendations! 

Nicholas Sparks's Deliverance Creek

How many of you love Lifetime movies, like me? And Nicholas Sparks? Perfect, because the two have come together to bring you Deliverance Creek premiering this Saturday on Lifetime! Making his TV debut as an executive producer, Sparks is assuming a role very different from what we're used to with his writing skills. Nonetheless, anything he touches turns to gold and this made-for-television film is set to be another one of his many professional hits.

I had the opportunity to learn more about the film directly from Sparks, as well as Lauren Ambrose, who plays Belle. I don't want to reveal too much about Deliverance Creek (I already watched it, two thumbs up!) but I will say this is not the typical Nicholas Sparks project. There's a strong love that fuels the plot, but it's not the same as The Notebook or The Vow, it's a mother's love for her children.

Set in the midst of the Civil War, we see Belle fighting to protect her family and doing whatever it takes to do so. She's pretty badass! Ambrose brought a lot to the role and it was evident in her performance that she really understood Belle. She explained, "I just absolutely love playing this character - bringing this fierce, gritty, you know, tough lady, who is flawed and passionate and has a lot on her plate - to life."

The way the movie plays out, you'll be wanting more at the end. And luckily, for us, Sparks wants to give us more. If all goes well we can expect additional Deliverance Creek movies, or even a weekly show. "I would prefer a series, a really well done series and you know, 10 to 12 really high quality episodes per year," said Sparks.

Deliverance Creek is full of love, heartbreak, revenge, greed, and so much more that'll have you glued to the TV screen for two hours. Be sure to tune in this Saturday, September 13 at 8/7c on Lifetime! Fingers crossed the movie does well and we'll get to continue on with the story.

Image courtesy of Lifetime

Eat|See|Hear Kicks Off Outdoor Movie Season

Last Saturday I had the pleasure of getting together with a group of wonderful ladies for a blogger meetup. Joined by Kate of Nautical By Nature, Brianna of Heart of Life, and Elisabeth of Headbands and Bagels, the four of us met at Santa Monica High School for a showing of (500)Days of Summer presented by Eat|See|Hear. It was so much fun!

Eat|See|Hear is a company that puts on amazing events each spring/summer that consist of food trucks, live music, and a movie. Located at rotating outdoor venues throughout the LA area, it's like going to a drive-in, except you get to sprawl out on the ground under the stars to watch a film. If you live in SoCal, you should definitely check out this specific company. And don't forget your pooch. Dogs are welcomed and are even given treats at the entrance!

Check out the 2014 Eat|See|Hear schedule and take advantage of the FREE showing of Notting Hill on June 14. Grab your tickets now!

         

Endless Love, Available This Tuesday, May 13

This Tuesday, May 13, Endless Love is available in Digital HD! Starring Alex Pettyfer and Gabriella Wilde, the remake of the 1981 film is a classic romance story about two teens who come from different worlds and find love in each other. Although the premise isn't new, the storyline played out by a cast of likable - and despicable - characters immediately draws you in and captures your attention.

I really like this movie! The chemistry between the two young lovers, Jade (Wilde) who's innocent and bright-eyed and David (Pettyfer) who's made bad choices but is a great guy, make the story that much more believable and touching. Watching the film, the viewer can relate to a great love that is powerful and/or forbidden, and that's where the audience connects. The entire time I found myself rooting for the couple and despising those that stood in the way. It's a feel-good film that makes you believe in love, and a movie that you can watch again and again.

Have you seen the film? If so, what did you think?

Be sure to pick up a copy of Endless Love this Tuesday, May 13!

         

Photos courtesy of: Universal Studios Home Entertainment