The Great Gatsby

So this is the one and only movie I have seen in a theater in the last year, and I fell in love with it. Well, to begin with it's staring Leonardo Dicaprio and Toby Maguire, so who couldn't resist, but it's based on the classic work of Literature by the same name. Now if movies done on books are done well, they can be wonderful, and this movie definitely was one of them. Although I've never read the novel, it was evident through watching the movie that it was a very well written thought out plot with plenty of motifs, themes and metaphors. Set in the roaring 20's New York, a mysterious and unimaginably rich man known only as Gatsby hosts extravagant parties weekly. But nobody actually knows who Gatsby is; most people don't care. Next door lives a young stockbroker with a very rich cousin who lives across the bay. After one day getting a mysterious invitation to a party, he meets Gatsby himself. The two become fast friends. Sweeping his new friend away and have a grand time, Gatsby makes a real friend. The truth comes out when Gatsby reveals that he is in love with his neighbor's married cousin across the bay and that is why he built his house in that location. The story goes on to include more plot twists, love tangles and comes to a shocking conclusion. Exploring the societal rift between the rich and the poor and trus friendship, it is very well done. I think the main theme of Gatsby's never ending hope and faith that he will end up with the girl he loves was very well done in this movie and it definitely stuck with you. The one thing that stuck with me the most was the concept of popularity and fads; that the rich high society people only want to be with you if you're rich and giving them something. Overall this was an unexpected, deep, powerful film and I really enjoyed it.

The Luxe

Set in New york, this saga follows the Holland family, a part of New York's aristocracy. Having fallen on hard times after the death of her husband Mrs. Holland arranges for her eldest daughter Elizabeth to marry one of the richest and most eligible bachelors in Manhattan. But of course, Elizabeth is in love with another man, a stable boy named Will who is obviously not  an acceptable choice. Meanwhile, her younger sister complicates everything by falling for her sister's fiance. Amid the high society parties and fake friendships, Elizabeth must try to concoct a plan to save herself and her family. Unwilling to leave Will or let her family lose face, she becomes a passionate, conniving young woman. This story continues through the books, with scandals, love, grief and parties. It's a period story is definitely well done and intriguing, not to mention keeps you guessing and reveals just how much some people value their status and what they are willing to do in order to keep it. I liked it a lot and would highly recommend it.

Doctor Who

So, long time since my last post, but I have been a bit busy. Well anyway, it's summer now which means plenty of time for watching and reviewing. Now this new favorite is a bit of a surprise to me, seeing as I'm not typically into syfy type shows; however, Doctor Who has quickly landed a top spot. Following an ancient Time Lord known only as The Doctor, the series originally began in the 1960s and was restarted in 2005. The Doctor with his TARDIS can go anywhere in the universe at anytime, past or future.  The Doctor can regenerate when fatally wounded and become a new person. He picks up human companions and travels the cosmos saving planets and doing good while battling the Doctor's age old enemies. It does sound a bit fantastic and strange,at times very hard to follow, but I've come to really enjoy the show.Currently, the Doctor is on his 11th incrnation, a young looking, quirky, compassionate man played brilliantly be Matt Smith.  His main companions are Amy and Rory Pond followed by Clara Oswald. The main reason I really enjoy this show is because of the characters, their interactions, their backstories and the Doctor's never ending sorrow a regret over what he has done to the universe. Honestly, this is an incredibly well written, funny yet serious show and the cool and heartbreaking thing is that it can continue on with new people forever.
Okay, well I'll have some more book, movies and tv reviews for you!