Showing posts with label movies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label movies. Show all posts

Friday, May 12, 2017

@goldiehawn & @amyschumer  in @Snatched_Movie - Press Screening + Q&A sponsored by @OrvillePopcorn #SnatchedMoms

In Theaters Starting May 12, 2017 - SNATCHED
 
With Mother's Day swiftly approaching, I have the perfect movie to put on your radar. The MOMS hosted Amy Schumer and Goldie Hawn for a Mamaraazzi event for their new film Snatched. Select Press were invited to a screening of the movie complete with Orville Redenbacher's popcorn, followed by a Q&A. The actresses sat down with The MOMS to dish on the film and during the interview Amy admitted “her uterus remains empty for now, but she would like to have kids someday.” (That makes one of us Amy, that makes one of us, LOL)

Above: Bloggers were treated to Orville Redenbacher's Popcorn for a Special Screening of Snatched



Above: Bloggers and their moms pose for a group shot during Special Press Screening of Snatched in New York City



Above: Mama Butterfly and ME doing our 'step and repeat' thang! LOL

Far Left (to right): Producer Paul Feig, Denise Albert, Goldie Hawn, Amy Schumer, Melissa Musen, Director Jonathan Levine

Far Left (to right): Goldie Hawn, Amy Schumer, Melissa Musen, Director Jonathan Levine
























Above: Left: Goldie Hawn and Right: Amy Schumer


Above: Everyone 'Getting Down and Dropping it like it's hot" in honor of the #DanceForBreastCancerChallenge

Movie Synopsis:

After her boyfriend dumps her on the eve of their exotic vacation, impetuous dreamer Emily Middleton (Amy Schumer) persuades her ultra-cautious mother, Linda (Goldie Hawn) to travel with her to paradise. Polar opposites, Emily and Linda realize that working through their differences as mother and daughter - in unpredictable, hilarious fashion - is the only way to escape the wildly outrageous jungle adventure they have fallen into.

Amy Schumer and Goldie Hawn star in the new comedy adventure SNATCHED, which also features Ike Barinholtz ("Neighbors"), Wanda Sykes ("Bad Moms") and Joan Cusack ("Working Girl").

Here is a Video of the Talk Back with Amy Schumer and Goldie Hawn:


Snatched | A Special Mother’s Day Message from Amy & Goldie | 20th Century FOX  



MY TAKE:

It was fun attending this BYOM (Bring Your Own Mom) event with Mama Butterfly. Wanda Sykes and Joan Cusak are a great addition and are definite scene stealers. It was great to see Goldie on the big screen again after such a long hiatus and Amy confessed that the movie is both an apology AND a thank you to her own mom.

This is NOT a compensated post in any way, Orville Redenbacher sponsored the screening. (Full Disclosure Butterflies). Let's face it, a movie is just not complete without popcorn. Orville and Snatched went together like a hand to a glove!

For all those times she took you to see cartoons when she would have rather watched something else, take her out for some Mother's Day laughs and take her to see Snatched.

No spoilers here, but props for real 'island hair', real bathing suit bodies and some good laughs.

Happy Mother's Day Butterflies!

Readers Sound Off: What is the biggest adventure you shared with your mom, or if you are a mom, what is the biggest adventure you've had with your child? Do you like to gift your mom handmade/sentimental gifts (or receive them if you are a mome) or take her out somewhere special?

·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: Access to special screening with talk balk was granted to Ascending Butterfly for Editorial Consideration and all thoughts and opinions are my own. This is NOT a compensated post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR Part 255  Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising see our  Disclosure Page for additional information.

Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her butterfly cocoon of fabulosity: Electronics/Technology (yes I am a Gadget Geek first!), Fashion, Jewelry, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants, Photography and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys (at least not those that are intended for children).

Unless it's charity related, If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly won't want to play.

Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey's Butterfly. Still here? Now go make someone happy today.

Friday, February 24, 2017

The countdown is on to the #Oscars one of the #movies NOT to miss is @LionMovie #LionHeart

@LionMovie #LionHeart The Moms Screening with Nicole Kidman Talkback Collage with Sunny Pawar
With 'Oscar Sunday' swiftly approaching, time is running out to catch up on the nominated movies. There are a few I have missed myself and need to catch up on, but there is one that I saw earlier this year before it's release that I wanted to make sure didn't slip under your radar.

I had the chance to attend a special screening of Lion Movie sponsored by Stop and Shop and Nature's Promise hosted by The Moms with a talk back with Nicole Kidman that had a special surprise at the end.

Movie Synopsis:

Five year old Saroo gets lost on a train which takes him thousands of miles across India, away from home and family. Saroo must learn to survive alone in Kolkata, before ultimately being adopted by an Australian Couple, when Saroo becomes an adult he journeys to India to find his family and explore his roots.

Here is a Video of the Talk Back with Nicole Kidman:


The special surprise at the end is Sunny Pawar who portrays young Saroo in the movie, his performance is completely absorbing, in fact the movie is very well cast. Long time readers know I was a Professional Film Critic many moons ago (yes you can get paid to watch movies and NO it's no where as glamorous as it sounds), and have been on a ton of real Press Junkets (please don't be mad blogger friends but the customized experiences film companies offer you is nothing like an actual junket - but that's a story for another day). I have had the chance to see Nicole Kidman do many interviews, but I haven't seen her nearly as animated, passionate and 'alive' as she was discussing this movie.

The movie deals with the very real and overwhelmingly heartbreaking reality of the over 80,000 children in India who go missing each year, and the Lion Movie has a giving initiative called #LionHeart that partners with organizations worldwide to help the children in India and all around the world. (The link in the second paragraph that leads to the movie official page has a donation link)

MY TAKE:

Both the film and Nicole Kidman are nominated for this Sunday's Oscars, and like each year I watch the award show I will not envy the committee. The films nominated are usually all powerful and moving and the actors have all delivered strong performances. I'm just afraid that this film will have slipped under the radar of so many and hope that as many of you as possible will take the time to watch it.

This is NOT a compensated post in any way, but Nature's Promise and Stop and Shop did sponsor the screening and gift bags. (Full Disclosure Butterflies).

Readers Sound Off: Which of the 2017 Oscar Nominated Films have YOU seen? Are there any you haven't yet seen that you will be binge watching before The Oscars this Sunday?

·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: Access to special screening with talk balk was granted to Ascending Butterfly for Editorial Consideration and all thoughts and opinions are my own. This is NOT a compensated post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR Part 255  Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising see our  Disclosure Page for additional information.

Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her butterfly cocoon of fabulosity: Electronics/Technology (yes I am a Gadget Geek first!), Fashion, Jewelry, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants, Photography and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys (at least not those that are intended for children).

Unless it's charity related, If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly won't want to play.

Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey's Butterfly. Still here? Now go make someone happy today.

Tuesday, January 5, 2016

{Now Playing} Is @JoyMangano a Cicada? I ended my year with JOY, @JoyTheMovie that is! #JoyMovie #Movies #Cinema

The last movie I got to see in 2015 was a SAG Screening for JOY The Movie, so I like to say I ended my year with JOY!

Happy New Year Butterflies! While I did post to social over New Year's Eve, this is my first official Blog Post of 2016. And being the Ascending Butterfly that I am, I wanted to start with something inspirational that focuses on an Entrepreneur whose products are probably already in your home.

Joy (the Movie) which was released on Christmas day, is based on the true story of Joy Mangano, the Miracle Mop Inventor and entrepreneur.

The weird question I open this post with - Is Joy Mangano a Cicada? - is actually based on one of the most poignant moments in the movie. In the scene, Joy is reading to her daughter about Cicada's, which live and mature underground anywhere from 13 - 17 years in total before they emerge. - She painfully realizes that is exactly how she feels and where her life is at. (This butterfly can certainly relate to sometimes feeling like I am still very much trapped in the cocoon and ready to bust out!)

At this point in her life, her ex-husband is still living in her home, her mother who was an almost recluse hiding from life in her bedroom since her husband left her, Joy's children and then her philandering Father who comes back to home to live with her (brought to her door by the mistress he left his wife/her mother for by the way) and her job opts to change her shift to nights as they are making 'cut backs' - needless to say at this point she is under a tremendous amount of pressure. That kind of intense pressure and *ish* that makes you re-think every choice you've ever made, wonder where are you going and how much longer you can go on with circumstances the way they are. You know, 'the little stuff''.

ABOUT:

JOY is the wild story of a family across four generations centered on the girl who becomes the woman who founds a business dynasty and becomes a matriarch in her own right. Betrayal, treachery, the loss of innocence and the scars of love, pave the road in this intense emotional and human comedy about becoming a true boss of family and enterprise facing a world of unforgiving commerce. Allies become adversaries and adversaries become allies, both inside and outside the family, as Joy's inner life and fierce imagination carry her through the storm she faces. Jennifer Lawrence stars, with Robert De Niro, Bradley Cooper, Edgar Ramirez, Isabella Rossellini, Diane Ladd, Virginia Madsen, Elisabeth Rohm and Dascha Palanco. Like David O. Russell's previous films, JOY defies genre to tell a story of family, loyalty and love.

"I want you to remember something, because a lot of times people get nice things and they start to think differently, we got here from hard work, patience and humility, so I want to tell you, Don't ever think that the world owes you anything, because it doesn't. The world doesn't owe you a thing." ~ Joy Mangano, JOY The Movie

TRAILER:



MY TAKE:

I am curious as to why this bio-pic was released while the real subject is still very much alive and well. Bio-pics are tricky enough when the subject has passed, nevertheless when they are still alive.

It is not the most flattering depiction of her family that's for sure with a few exceptions - her grandmother (played by Diane Ladd), and surprisingly her ex-husband (played by Edgar Ramirez) prove to be her truest allies as well as Neil Walker of QVC who gave Joy her first shot in the home shopping television retail experience (played by Bradley Cooper) . But her mom (played by Virginia Madsen), dad (played by Robert De Niro), half sister (played by Elizabeth Rohm) and Dad's Girlfriend (played by Isabella Rossellini) were more of a hindrance than a help and there is one scene in particular that made me want to smack her Dad AND his girlfriend;s teeth out their face! (So I guess they were playing the part quite well! LOL)

A surprise stand-out was Melissa Rivers who played her mom Joan in the QVC scenes, it was so spot on it was almost eerie! And I have no doubt her mom would be proud.

But while the story was compelling, I am sad to say that I don't feel this was Jennifer Lawrence's best work. You would think 'Katniss' could pull off playing a strong woman who overcomes the odds against her to build her own empire (I mean really right, sound familiar?), but she doesn't. Jennifer didn't do the role any justice in my opinion. It felt like she was 'walking through it' and I wasn't quite sure if it just didn't resonate with her, but she kind of has this vapid, valley of the dolls type of expression on her face most of the movie that didn't really fit what was happening to the character. Joy went through some deep lows to get to her ultimate high, a high that from what we see at the end is a bit bittersweet, and Jennifer just didn't convey what was happening in a way that hit home.

As this is a bio-pic, even in my 'pro film critic' days (have I mentioned how that was one of my favorite times ever as a professional writer?), I can't comfortably give a review on this movie - this isn't a ticket or skip it type of movie - this is a true story that is still un-folding, I can only comment on the acting and how the family on the whole is portrayed in the film. I wish Jennifer would have put the life she puts into her performances in the Hunger Games movie franchise into this movie. Katniss isn't real, Joy Mangano is - and in many ways she is just as tough as Katniss - but Jennifer just doesn't give you that.

The movie is an inspiration to all entrepreneurs, Joy overcomes tremendous odds - both from the outside world and her inner own circle and fights hard to achieve her success. And even in the face of financial ruin, picks herself up and goes to bat again, while the movie was released over Christmas it is such an empowering story that it's perfect to catch this first week of the New Year when you are pumped up, armed with your list of goals and resolutions and raring to go! (I may be singing along to Mary Mary's Go Get Your Blessing Right Now!)

What female entrepreneur do you most admire and why? Do you own a Joy Mangano Product? (I love her huggable hangers and I haven't yet tried the Miracle Mop but I would like to!)

˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure:  This is NOT a compensated/sponsored Post, All opinions are 100% my own! Advanced/Press Screening Passes Provided for Editorial Consideration. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Friday, December 18, 2015

{#FridayFlick} Reco @danishgirlmov Highlights from #TheDanishGirl NYC Advanced Screening event + Actor Talk Back! #movies #theater


With the holiday shopping season in full swing, the few times I have found myself last minute shopping or a last minute addition to my gift list to shop for, I have always made it a point to catch a movie as a way to unwind after shopping.

If you find yourself needing a break from the holiday shopping madness and find yourself by a theater playing The Danish Girl, I definitely recommend you go see it!

ABOUT:

The remarkable love story inspired by the lives of artists Lili Elbe and Gerda Wegener (portrayed by Academy Award Winner, Eddi Redmayne ["The Theory of Everything" - which I reviewed HERE] and Alicia Vikander ["Ex Machina"], directed by Academy Award Winner Tom Hooper ("The King's Speech," "Les Miserables"). Lili and Gerda's marriage and work evolve as they navigate Lili's groundbreaking journey as a transgender pioneer.

I had the opportunity to attend an Advanced Screening with Actor Talkback with co-star Alicia Vikander who portrays Gerda in the movie. The Advanced Screening was hosted by the dynamic duo  - Denise Albert and Melissa Musen Gerstein - we call "The Moms" in the Dolby 88 Screening Room in New York City!

On my way to the theater, this was my view:


Holidays in New York City takes on a magical quality and so many buildings and business go all out and put up such beautiful holiday trees!

The building where the screening took place also had a beautiful holiday tree indoors (and a coat clothing drive bin!):


We arrived to Coffee and Danishes of course! And we got to leave with a copy of the book - which I can't wait to dive into!


If you want to pick up the book too, check out our friends over at Amazon for a copy!


The movie is both powerful and moving and holds nothing back, for me seeing Eddie Redmayne dive into another equally intense role was fascinating to watch. He has a way of immersing himself in his roles and portrays the nuances of each of his characters perfectly. As convincing as he was as Stephen Hawking, he is as powerful and emotionally giving as Lili Elbe. There is actually no weak performance in the bunch, and Alicia Vikander who plays Gerda, gives the role the strength that is needed while never losing track of the vulnerability.

What stays with me after seeing it is how Gerda an independent spirit and tough girl in her own right, so easily not just accepts what is happening so much as becomes his immediate advocate and champion. I don't think most women could handle the situation the way Gerda does. With a love and friendship for her partner that is so strong she puts her own pain aside to be the friend that he needs during a journey of discovery and unknown.

Matthias Schoenaerts who plays Lili's old friend Hans Axgil also gives a very strong performance. (And of course much like anything with children and animals - the pet dog is a little scene stealer in his own right!)

After the film there was a talk back with Actress Alicia Vikander who portrays Gerda.

Left: Denise Albert, Center: Alicia Vikander, Right: Melissa Musen Gerstein
Much like Gerda, Alicia is very grounded and centered - just slightly more 'soft-spoken'. It was interesting getting her thoughts and insights into Gerda, and of course behind the scenes about the movie you don't see on film.

I am going to include the video of the Q&A, but there was a moment during the Questions and Answers where someone in the audience shared how much she related to the story and to Gerda, Alicia was very moved, and after the Talk-Back I was touched to see that Alicia made it a point to connect with the person who made the comment. I managed to capture that moment and couldn't resist sharing it here:


I hope neither of them mind, but this was such a poignant moment and one you don't always experience during press junkets and actor talk-back experiences. Just a real, raw moment and a genuine 'non-posed' connection.


One of the pro photogs in attendance managed to nab her for this shot and since I was close enough and thankfully my DSLR didn't take forever to warm up I managed to nab it too! I can see why the camera loves her, there is something just naturally 'soulful' and expressive about her.

Here is the Video of the Talk Back:



MY TAKE:

I think it's good for millenials to know that Bruce aka 'Caitlyn Jenner' is not a 'pioneer' in the world of Transgender, and seeing someone live through one of the first gender change surgeries and getting a such a raw and honest glimpse into that process was fascinating! This story is moving and powerful, but it's the way the subtle moments - like watching Lili learn to emulate the things women do naturally - a flirtatious gaze, smile or glance - and then the ramifications of doing so, her ease with managing the perfect cat eye, how lucky she was to have such a fierce partner and warrior in her Gerda.

This is definitely a bring your Kleenex type of movie but it's a good one!

Will you be catching any movies this Holiday Season in the Theater? Which ones?

˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure:  This is NOT a compensated/sponsored Post, All opinions are 100% my own! Tickets were provided for Editorial Consideration. This post also contains affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Friday, July 10, 2015

{In Theaters TODAY} So little, So cute, So NAUGHTY?!?! #Minions #FamilyMovieFriday

Illumination presents Minions Theatrical Poster

If you didn't get enough Minions in Despicable Me, or in Despicable Me 2, they are BACK! In 2015's Minion Movie, our little yellow friends are back and are yellowier, cuter and naughtier than ever!

You guys all know I don't have kids, but certain things do bring out the little kid in me and I have been a big minions fan since Despicable Me, they are super mischievous and are on an endless pursuit for an evil leader to follow.

SYNOPSIS:

One Minion named Kevin has a plan, and he-alongside teenage rebel Stuart and lovable little Bob-embarks upon a thrilling journey that ultimately leads them to their next potential master, Scarlet Overkill, the world's first-ever female super-villain.

The pursuit of an evil leader takes them FAR and WIDE:

Minions Movie Still
Above: With Minions the adventure is always half the fun!

Minions Movie Still, Orlando or bust hitch hiking scene
Above: Remember butterflies, hitch hiking is NEVER a good idea!

Minions Movie Still, Boo Ya!
Above: What is about NYC that makes everyone wanna let out a little BOO YA!

Minions Movie Scarlet Overkill Still
Above: After quite a few twists and turns they get to "Villain Con" and find themselves charmed by Scarlet Overkill (voiced by Sandra Bullock)

Minions Movie Scarlet Overkill and minions Still
Above: And of course who wouldn't become equally enchanted by those cute little yellow faces?

Minions Movie Scarlet Overkill and minions Still
Above: Sometimes the 'high life' isn't everything you think it's going to be!

Minions Movie Still
Above: The Minions are bout that life! They are feeling Iggy Azalea 'fancy' right now!

And check out the official trailer to find out why I've been yelling BANANA!!! for the past two weeks:



MY TAKE:

The Minions Movie is in theaters today and it's my recommendation for #FamilyMovieFriday!

Who is your favorite Minion? Have you already The Minion Movie, if so what did your family think of it?

˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, no monetary compensation has been received, and all opinions are 100% my own! Ascending Butterfly was given press passes to an advance special screening for Editorial Consideration. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Saturday, May 9, 2015

{#Movies} Highlights from the NYC @hotpursuitmovie Media Screening + Meet and Greet with @SofiaVergara #HotPursuit

Hot Pursuit Banner

At the movies and in theaters now is Hot Pursuit, a comedy/action/adventure starring Reese Witherspoon and Sofia Vergara and I had the chance to attend the Media Preview that included a Meet and Greet with Sofia!

ABOUT THE FILM - IN THEATERS NATIONWIDE MAY 8

An uptight and by-the-book cop (Reese Witherspoon) tries to protect the sexy and outgoing widow (Sofía Vergara) of a drug boss as they race through Texas pursued by crooked cops and murderous gunmen.

Walking into the Screening and seeing this, PRICELESS:

Movie Snacks


I spent my morning at BeautyPress Spotlight Day (more to come on that later) so this display of treats definitely perked me up! Hungry New York City Media like to be FED!

Sofia Vergara's Jewelry Line with Kay Jeweler's was on display:

Sofia Vergara for Kay Jewelers, Jewelry


But she was definitely focused on promoting her new movie Hot Pursuit which was filmed during her hiatus from the television series Modern Family.

Sofia Vergara in front of Hot Pursuit Theatrical Movie Poster


BELOW: Killing some time before the Media Screening I was in the Time Warner Center in New York City where I came upon this movie poster and took a moment to snap a shot in front of it:

Lifestyle Editor Tracy Iglesias of Ascending Butterfly in front of Hot Pursuit Movie Poster





































BELOW: I also got the chance to get a Photo with Sofia:

Lifestyle Editor Tracy Iglesias and Sofia Vergara at Hot Pursuit New York City Media Screening
Above: We are lipstick twinsies! She is the face of Covergirl and I'm wearing Covergirl Lipstick in this photo!

Here is the Movie Trailer so you can take a peek:



Get Social:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow on TwitterInstagram and Google+
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Visit ‘Hot Pursuit’ on Facebook
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Tag your Social Posts about the movie #HotPursuit

MY TAKE:


While the pursuit movie format - protagonists on the run - is certainly not new, Vergara and Witherspoon play off each other well, and the out-takes at the end definitely make you laugh out loud. But it's probably Sofia's purchase of a t-shirt while she is on the run that reads "Butter my Biscuits" that will make you laugh hardest and the interjection of a love interest/bad boy (yes a bit a la Thelma and Louise) that picks the movie up a bit. I will let you guys decide whether or not to 'ticket or skip it' on this one as this is either a plot device you will like or not like. (and you guys all know my preferred Genre is Horror, although on occasion even I will relent and watch a comedy!)

Did you already see or will you go see this movie? Why or why not? Sound off with your opinion as a comment below!

˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post, no monetary compensation has been received, and all opinions are 100% my own!  I was attended a Media Screening of Hot Pursuit for Editorial Consideration. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Monday, December 22, 2014

{#Movies} Looking for a family flick to see for the holidays? Check out @AnnieMovie #NorwegianMOMS

Annie Theatrical Movie Poster
Annie Theatrical Movie Poster


As my butterflies know I am NOT a Mom, and I do NOT have children, but that doesn't mean I don't occasionally enjoy a family friendly movie or two. (My movie genre of preference is actually Horror, but there aren't exactly a ton of horror flicks being released during Christmas! LOL Although 'Dexter Claus' has a kind of nice ring to it right?).

I recently had the opportunity to see the new Annie movie at a very special screening hosted by The Moms which was sponsored by Norwegian (ssh don't tell anyone but I have never actually taken a cruise before, I'm a 'Cruise Virgin') and held in the Sony Screening Room in New York City!

And while I am a huge lover of music, I am not normally a big fan of musicals, so I always approach them with a bit of caution, I tend to find them contrived as life doesn't come with people spontaneously bursting into song for hours. So when I actually enjoy a musical - be it a play or a movie, it surprises even me. I read so many bad reviews on this one, and honestly it surprises me. I found it a perfect family movie, and I thought it was very well cast, had a great pace, and the songs were done well.

I get that we all know the story by now, but so many movies have been re-made with the actors of that generation that I hate to see this one getting so much backlash when it was very well done.  I'm not a big instagram lover and the movie even made me see it in a whole new way! (No spoilers here, but it's the most creative use of a social media channel integrated into a movie - second only to the Facebook movie of course!)

After the screening there was a Questions and Answers Session with the young ladies who play the 'Foster Kids' in the movie, they are not 'orphans' in this movie, they are 'Foster Kids'. Here is the video:




Photos from the Questions and Answers:

@AnnieMovie #AnnieMOMS #NorwegianMOMS Annie 2014

@AnnieMovie #AnnieMOMS #NorwegianMOMS Annie 2014, Annie Mamarazzi
Far Left: Denise Albert of THE MOMS, to her left Nicolette Pierini who portrays 'Mia', then Zoe Margaret Colletti who portrays 'Tessie', then Eden Duncan-Smith who portrays 'Isabella' and Amanda Troya who portrays 'Pepper' and Far Right: Melissa Musen Gerstein of THE MOMS.

My Take:

Oddly enough I was invited to a Sony screening before this one where Jamie Foxx and Quvenzhané Wallis were slated to appear but I wasn't available that night so I was super happy that the chance to catch this movie came around again at a time that I was available to see it!

I personally liked the twists that made this more modern and up-to-date.

Will you catch a movie this Christmas this Butterfly? If you do go so see Annie, then come back here and let us know what you thought!

˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙

FTC DisclosureThis is NOT a sponsored post, no monetary compensation has been received. Nor are there any affiliate links in this post. This post does serve as a contest entry (so if you want to give it a re-tweet I would certainly LOVE that!). As always, all opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Friday, August 29, 2014

Check out @CantinflasMovie - in theaters NOW! #Cantinflas

CANTINFLAS Movie Poster


If the name Mario Fortino Alfonso Moreno Reyes doesn't ring a bell perhaps Cantinflas does? The Mexican comic film actor, producer and screenwriter was best known for his portrayal of Cantinflas part campesino (peasant), with a quick tongue that poked fun at the pretentious and powerful and a wicked sense of comedic timing. Dubbed as the "Charlie Chaplin of Mexico", his claim to fame in the US Market came when he co-starred with David Niven in the 1956 film Around the World in 80 Days which garnered him a Golden Globe.

While the role of Cantinflas became intrinsically enmeshed with his own identity, Mario Moreno was also a business leader who became involved in Mexico's labor politics, and was known for his work in the early struggle against the one-party government's practice of controlling unions. He was also a philantropist who was said to have donated half of his earnings to charity.

First and foremost I have to share that Óscar Jaenada does an amazing and incredibly respectful job in his portrayal of both Cantinflas the character and Mario the man. Despite how inseparable they may have been to others, there are so many nuances to playing someone so dynamic and Óscar really does do an amazing job.

Real Cantiflas vs Oscar Jaenada Collage


As you can see from the collage above, he truly nails the look! And when you see the movie it's a pleasant surprise just how well he nails the man and the character that is Cantinflas.

ABOUT:

Cantinflas is the untold story of Mexico's greatest and most beloved comedy film star of all time. From his humble origins on the small stage to the bright light of Hollywood. Mexican icon, Mario Moreno, "Cantinflas" as seen through producer Michael Todd's (played by Michael Imperioli) eyes, getting a glimpse of their collaboration on the 1957 film, "Around the World in 80 Days", winning 5 Oscars and 2 Golden Globes, and turning into the top grossing film of their time. Cantinflas tells the story of a man who got his start in Mexico's equivalent of the Vaudeville theater, his talent and humor traveling the world over.

En Español: La vida de Mario Moreno "Cantinflas" se presenta bajo la mirada del productor Michael Todd con quién colabora en el filme "La vuelta al mundo en 80 días" en 1957 ganando el Globo de Oro y el Oscar respectivamente, además de covertirla en la pelicula mas taquillera de su época. CANTINFLAS cuenta la historia de un mexicano que comenzando su carrrera en una pequeña carpa arrabal, logra llevar su talento cultura y sentido del humor al mundo entero.

MY TAKE:

The movie represents the timeless struggle for authenticity and success which makes it relatable to today's audience who may not necessarily understand the character of Cantinflas or his body of work. As a Latina I personally want to see this film succeed. I want our Latino Youth to see more than Hollywood's typical Drug Dealer offering, I want our Youth to know that you can be authentic and pursue your dreams. I want young Latinos to be able to see a face they relate to on the big screen. One that is taking those ganas, and doing something positive to better both himself and society at large.

I just wish that the real Mario had fallen in love with a Latina, I am tired of our men's idea of success being a white woman on their arm. You can't tell me that that one sassy, confident and beautiful Latina didn't cross his path? But I digress. In life Mario Moreno fell in love with a Russian Woman, and their love story is also played out in the film. And I just have to say it but I hated the casting albeit for the brief moment he appeared of Yul Brynner for the Golden Globes scene, again, that is just my personal choice and opinion (and a total aside)! On another aside I wish they had left out the scene that alluded to an affair/transgression, it didn't add anything in my opinion and as someone who is familiar with the character of Cantinflas I thought it totally un-necessary. (Perhaps I will have to tap into my inner screenwriter and bring a Latino Character to the screen who isn't selling drugs, having affairs and actually falls in love with a Latina!)

Get social with Cantinflas on both Facebook and Twitter, and be sure to use the hashtag #Cantinflas so we can all follow in the conversation. If you are looking for a way to beat the heat this last weekend of summer and take in a movie, you know which one I am recommending!

Butterflies once you have seen the movie, come back here and let us know what you think of it. Happy Labor Day Weekend to all!

˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙

FTC DisclosureThis is NOT a sponsored post, no monetary compensation has been received. Screening Passes were provided to Ascending Butterfly for Editorial Consideration. As always, all opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.