Houdini (1953)

Before he became a legendary illusionist, Harry Houdini (Tony Curtis) was a mere sideshow when he first met Bess (Janet Leigh). But with extraordinary charisma, a natural skill, and unrelenting self-promotion, Houdini would slowly rise to fame with his beautiful ever faithful now wife and assistant. No matter Houdini's obsession in capturing audiences worldwide, Bess is nearby. As each illusion trumps the previous, Houdini's dance with death becomes even more daring.

This classic biopic from director George Marshall is a monument to Technicolor. Combined with the onscreen pairing of Curtis and Leigh and taut reenactments of Houdini's stunts, the film is exciting.

Tony Curtis is mesmerizing as the master escape artist. Aloof, brash, slightly obnoxious, Curtis is fun to watch. Janet Leigh, as Bess, dotes on Houdini/Curtis. It's cute, really--almost disgustingly so.

Houdini is dazzling. Director Marsall weaves dramatic sequences that are filled with suspense among lulls of romance and naysayers. But let's get back to the real reason Houdini is so dazzling--the color!! Each frame dances onscreen thanks to extravagant production values. Costuming and wonderful detail accent the couple beautifully.

As I see it, Houdini is an entertaining treat. Don't expect accuracy. Think romanticism and you'll enjoy the film for what it is: good fun.

the things you see in Cullowhee...as you are leaving..

Day three: Sunday. We wake, greeted by rain. No worries. The final day of the festival moves quickly. Goodbyes and well-wishes are shared. The rain seems to have driven most everyone inside; that's always good for business. This day ended quickly. Many smiles are replaced with frowns when it's time to go; those arthitic knees and bad backs flare up. Fortunately, we didn't have a load up in the rain. A few quick pics of Catamount Gap and we're headed back. The drive through and around the myriad of National Forests (Pisgah, Cherokee, Smoky Mountains, et al) was in the rain. Heavy clouds obscure the mountain tops and make for a beautiful scene no picture can do justice.

the things you see in Cullowhee...again

Day two: July fourth brings sun and clear skies. The first official day of the mountain festival. Let the people watching begin! Spirits are high, friendships are renewing, dollars exchanging. Festivals like these, don't require much work, but demand a laid-back attitude and genuine smile. Easy to be had in the right company. The day moves quickly. Laughter comes quickly and evening plans are quick to be made. Disappointed at the news the small town had axed the fireworks, pizza and beer were in order. It was a fun night of 20 questions, avoidance, Dr. Phil sessions, crispy crustt, and one lone firework on the campus of WCU.

the things you see in Cullowhee

Day one: Lady and I arrived in this small mountain town mid-morning. I knew I loved this town the first time I saw it because...get this... they have signs ENCOURAGING U-turns! The weather couldn't have been better. Mild, sunny, and beautiful! Setting up our wares was a new take on an old favorite. Looks and smells amazing. Although we are surrounded by older, mainly retired folks and a few cavorting soccer moms, the mountain festival set is always filled with interesting people. Erik's back. By 9p.m. EST, we are tucked safely away in the affectionately named Hatchet Inn. {If you've seen horror movies, you know what I'm talking about.} The University Inn is a series of rooms in and on the mountains out here. Gloriously secluded, you could {in theory} be hacked to death and never found.

Phoebe in Wonderland (2008)

Phoebe Lichten (Elle Fanning) is always in trouble. The girl-- a bundle of nervous tics, odd thoughts and behaviours--is a source of constant frustration for her mother (Felicity Huffman) and father (Bill Pullman) and her teachers. Enter drama teacher Miss Dodger (Patricia Clarkson) who casts Phoebe in the lead of the class production of Alice in Wonderland. Seeking counsel from the play's characters, Phoebe is able to navigate her real world much to the chagrin of those who care most.

Phoebe in Wonderland is a peculiar drama that doesn't so much entertain as it does perplex. First time writer/director Daniel Barnz concocts a quirky story about mental illness. His casting is sheer perfection. Elle Fanning is commanding as troubled Phoebe-a girl who wants to be normal, but who's mind won't allow it. She has control beyond years; if she keeps this up she will no longer be Dakota Fanning's sister. As mom Hillary, Felicity Huffman is equal parts frustration and joy. Bill Pullman is understated brilliance. Patricia Clarkson is pitch-perfect as an eccentric drama teacher determined to leave the world a better place.

The film highlights some remarkable creativity. The first thing that struck me was the cinematography. Vivid, but tailored. Each frame is highly detailed, but often oddly captured. I like it. Trading between Phoebe's fantasy realm of the Mad Hatter and her harsh reality of rejection, Barnz is seamless. The film is a series of beautiful contradictions.

As the story unfolds, Barnz stays his camera on Phoebe and without that constant, I think the wheel would fall off towards the end. The tone of the film is altered greatly by what seems to be a quick finish. While I'm glad alls well that ends well, I felt cheated by such a nicely presented solution. The musical number is discomforting.

As I see it, Phoebe in Wonderland is an unexpected delight--in an odd sorta way.

Just for Tom: 3 stars {Don't think you'd really like it as much as I did, Tom.}