by Sam Juliano
Is is that time of the year again. Everything is hectic, too much on the schedule and not enough time to negotiate all the plans. On this end it has been school transportation, a retirement dinner and early Christmas party, home movie viewings, decorating, bookstore presentations and writing the new entries to the marathon Caldecott Medal Contender series. (I want to thank all those who have left comments for the series, and have shown so much support) The temperatures have been conforming to the calendar in the Northeast, with several days presently or upcoming in the mid to high 30’s. But the white stuff hasn’t made its debut yet. Jim Clark and J.D. Lafrance have written some fabulous film reviews to keep the cinematic focus going, and over the weekend Adam Ferenz has posted a fascinating Top 100 television list.
A fantastic Christmas-themed panel discussion and book signing was staged on Sunday afternoon at Manhattan’s BOOKS OF WONDER. Lucille, Sammy and I finally met the lovely and talented Lori Nichols, (Maple & Willow’s Christmas Tree), Stephanie Graegin (The Lost Gift), Rosemary Wells, Kat Yeh,, Chuck Groenink and Brian Russo. So wonderful to again meet children’s literature luminary Joanna Marple.
There are still a few vital films for me to see (Toni Erdmann, The Silence, Paterson, Elle, Fences) but after seeing the electrifying, phantasmagorical, visceral and silhouette laden “La La Land” Saturday night at the Union Square Cinemas, I am convinced the New York Film Critics Circle got it right when they named it the Best Picture of the Year earlier this month. The usual naysayers and musical haters will no doubt be looking to take down the singing voices of Gosling and Stone, but they are most serviceable and authentic towards the film’s aims. One of the most stylishly exuberant films in years, the audition number is an exhilarating showstopper, and the film’s spirit and soaring emotions are projected with sophistication and aching melancholia. Ms. Stone gives the most unforgettable lead performance for a female, and Gosling is mighty fine. The original score is enchanting and includes several musical forms. A holiday love letter for all who negotiate their days with hope and positive energy. (more…)