Best Movie of the Year: Sin Nombre
Sunday, April 26, 2009


I have been cutting back on my movie watching. I've put Netflix on suspend, and I've vowed not to see any major film releases this year, except probably for Disney's Black Princess cartoon coming out either later this year, or next.

I saw this movie down in Washington, DC, when I stayed the weekend. I attempted to see another film, which was part of Filmfest DC. However, Machan was sold out. Since I was on the hook for parking, I decided to see something, anything, to use up the time. I ended up watching Sin Nombre. Why? It had the shortest play time.

Nevertheless, it was a serendipitous and excellent pick. It was directed by Cary Fukunaga. If I had a movie to make, I'd pick this person.

I didn't know what was going on, until half-way through the film. The subtitles weren't an issue, my Spanish is poor, but some of the words were understandable and a few were English colloquialisms. Hollywood rarely builds up the story to the movie's half-way point. The first scene is usually climatic, forcing one to pay attention.

Sin Nombre does not insult one's intelligence. It gave every major character a back story, in real time, without any fancy flashbacks, irritating voice overs, rapid jump cuts, or other tried and true gimmicks. A long and deliberate story helps one to understand the motivations and behavior of everyone. No exceptions.

Slowly, one is drawn into the central story: immigrants who are heading north through Mexico's treacherous streets to make it to the USA, or New Jersey to be exact. Inevitably, they will clash with malicious gangs who are there to take advantage of them. There are many, many death defying hurdles they go through just to make it to America.

I was reminded that I live in a country so many people are willing to die to get to. I also enjoyed watching men do everything they can to protect and serve their families. The definition of family isn't just the traditional either. Fascinating.

Sin Nombre movie was beguiling to me, because Sayra's (Paulina Gaitan) father, looked like someone I've seen before out here in New Jersey. Unfortunately, I didn't catch his character's name. He's a handsome little guy too. I watched the film knowing his character was going to die; I only wondered how.

The main character, Willy aka El Casper (Edgar Flores) eventually goes on the run from his gang. He ends up with Sayra's immigrant group heading to the border. It's hard to believe this is the young man's second acting gig. Wow.

It was weird for me watching the film, everyone felt familiar and strange at the same time. I'll credit that to a great script, wonderful and very realistic "acting." I have, and have always had, Spanish people in my family and as friends.

On another note, the sexiest guy in the film was the menacing and lethal, El Sol (Luis Fernando Peña).

Part of me was sorta miffed, sad, and a tad bit envious. I realized that quality black American themed films do not exist. Why? And will they ever return?

Another part of me was glad I saw this film. It was a treat to have this one to last me for a long while.

Labels: American Gangster, Cary Fukunaga, illegal immigrants, Luis Fernando Pena, Mexicans, Netflix, Sin Nombre

posted by GoldenAh
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Netflix: Instant Gratification Viewing
Monday, February 18, 2008

This is the worst feature in the world. (smile) I am always on the Internet. This option is horrible. (giggle)

Netflix's instant viewing only feeds my Internet addiction.

With this service there are no delays, no hiccups. Pictures are clear, crisp, and brilliant. The only complaint I have is lack of a closed caption option that's provided on DVDs. A number of movies have irritatingly loud music and mumbled dialogue. It only runs on Internet Explorer. Depending on your version of Windows, it could be a real pain in the ass to try watching.

I watch these movies on a digital projector. Get one! It hooks easily into the back of the computer. Make sure it's compatible with VGA to HDMI cable. If you don't understand, get a child to hook you up!

Alas, the only thing that keeps me from being a complete junkie is that Netflix doesn't offer all the latest (and greatest) films available like iTunes. However, it still has lots of anime, foreign, and obscure flicks.

Phew, thank goodness for small mercies.

Labels: internet, iTunes, Netflix, television

posted by GoldenAh
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There Is a Writer's Strike? Go Figure!
Monday, December 24, 2007

Where have I been?

According to the New York Times, December 24, 2007:

...striking screenwriters keep late-night talk shows in reruns...

And this lovely gem:

... the Writers Guild of America strike, now entering its seventh week, shuttered every late-night show...

Damn, I never noticed that there was a strike! (Yes, I'm exaggerating.)

You telling me there are re-runs on now? Wow.

You telling me that all those TV talk shows were scripted? Blow me away with a feather.

The thing is - I don't own a television. I gave up watching television years ago.

I get my entertainment from the following online sources:
• Netflix - DVDs & on-demand,
• Joost,
• CBS,
• Fox,
• ABC,
• NBC,
• ABCFamily,
• AOL,
• and iTunes.
• Plus many more websites to be discovered.
• Last, but not least, YouTube.

The beauty of on-demand is that I can watch an entire season after it has ended. I can watch these programs whenever I want.

I mean, who sits around and watches television these days?

I support the writer's strike! Guys and gals, stay out as long as you like.

I don't think anyone is paying attention.

Labels: iTunes, Netflix, television, Writer's Guild, YouTube

posted by GoldenAh
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