Sunday, February 3, 2008

books 'n' movies


First, the movie!
Hubby & I went to the Kelso Theater Pub (what's better than a movie with pizza and the beverage of your choice?!) Saturday night to see Atonement. I hadn't read the book on which it was based, but probably will now. I thought the film was excellent (stunning visuals, strong acting) -- and the ending was both unexpected and poignant. (And that's all I'm gonna say about the ending!) After the movie, I think you can't help but do some philosophical/ethical pondering on the topic of righting wrongs in life...

Next, the book!
Today I finished reading the novel Bee Season, which was part of my Christmas present from Offsprings #1&2. (There is also a film based on this book, but I haven't seen it.) Myla Goldberg tells the story of a rather eccentric Jewish family. (Actually, eccentric isn't the half of it. This family would be a strong contender for Dysfunctional Family of the Decade.) I'm not sure how Goldberg pulls it off, but she manages to tie together Jewish mysticism, spelling bees, Eastern religious cults, and obsessive-compulsive behavior. Whew! This book also had an unexpected and poignant ending.

Hmmm... Guess this was the weekend for unexpected and poignant endings -- witness the Superbowl outcome!

7 comments:

dust bunny said...

Great movie/book reviews! And since you won't brag, I will do it for you------guess who called the score on yesterday's game?? Yep...book lovin', picture takin', theo-thinkin' Barb. Your next Empty Nest hike should be in Vegas.

Yolanda said...

I haven't read the book but have it to read. I imagine the cinematography in the movie was stunning . Did you really like the Bee Season? I've thought about reading it.

Rev SS said...

all "stuff" right up your alley, methinks!

Diane M. Roth said...

what a great post! we have been ruminating on movies to see. Atonement is going to be right up there (our book club has it slated for April).

Barbara B. said...

dust bunny: yes, calling the score was weird!

yolanda: I'd say Bee Season was worth reading -- a bit quirky though!

rev ss: yep, up my alley indeed :)

diane: let me know how you like the movie when you go!

Elaine (aka...Purple) said...

I am reading "Kite Runner" right now...it so gut-wrenching. Think I will have to wait a bit for "The Atonement"

Terri said...

I don't have any time to read anything other than church stuff...sigh...so, these will go on my summer to read list...