Sunday, February 15, 2009

Review: Jane Eyre

I did not plan on seeing Seattle Musical Theatre's production of Jane Eyre this weekend. The other shows I was interested in were either sold out or a bit too expensive. I have enjoyed previous shows put on by SMT (each had at least one or two compelling aspects to it), and given my ongoing exploration of Victorian novels, I thought it would be fun.

I was at a disadvntange for not having read Jane Eyre. I had trouble following the plot at times. Also, some of the supporting cast wasn't miked, and I had trouble hearing them. But, the lead, Danielle Barnum, was excellent. She is the main reason to see this show. At times the action was a bit light-hearted when more forthright social commentary may have been called for. But, that isn't really the type of play Jane Eyre is trying to be.

Thursday, February 5, 2009

Review: Let The Right One In

If you like to drink blood? I think it's cute.

Let The Right One In (Låt den rätte komma in) is a well executed vampire movie. It is funny and sometimes little disturbing in a I-think-I'm-rooting-for-the-bad-guy way. The broad structure of the story stays true to the standard vampire rules. The unique thing here: the (pro?)tagonists is 12 years old.

There are some cool surprises, and some untied ends that left me thinking about it the next day. I agree with Paul Constant's review, and suspect that most viewers may be presently surprised by this film.