Drumming and an evil woman

 

I know all the reviews become boring and banal.  But I have to share a couple.  Yesterday was a movie day and we watched a couple of good ones.  First, "Drumline" with Nick Cannon and Orlando Jones. Story of competitive drumming in a HBC setting in Atlanta.  Decent story and a wonderful display of halftime performances. Although a depiction of higher learning, no classes and no football.  it was focused on the rudiments of rhythm and coordinating movement with playing.  The players in their respective units were outstanding.  Could not help toe taping with the music.

Next, another drumming film, "Whiplash" featuring an Oscar winning performance by J.K. Simmons the veteran character actor.  He is a brutish autocratic music instructor at an elite Manhattan school for gifted musicians.  His foil or victim is played by a self taught acting drummer, Miles Teller  The ferociousness of Simmon's portrayal is astounding and truly scary.  This intense film is not for the faint of heart.  I love the musical selections as a fan of older pop music.  But this is not so much about performance as it is a trial of wills between teacher and student.  Music and film critics hated the film.  I am still thinking about all the screaming from Simmon's character. I absolutely loved it.  I am really attracted to dark characters. It made me want to hunt up some Buddy Rich albums.

And speaking of dark evil characters, consider the new one on Netfilx "I Care Alot" starring Rosalind Pike in a diabolical story that could really happen to any senior citizen. If you are alone with no next of kin, have yourself declared incompetent and have all your belongings taken by a state appointed legal guardian.  Get put in a care home and well.....that's it.  But not so fast. The evil genius female is messing with the wrong family.  Really outstanding performances by Peter Dinkledge and Diane Wiest.  Definitely check this one out. 

We also started watching "Nomadland" with Frances McDormand.  This was way too dreary for me although all of it could easily happen. Lots of acclaim has been heaped on this one.  Most of the comments in Facebook have been positive.  But looking at her, I could write a story about her face.  It's full of nuance and makes me happy watching her expressive smile.

all for now

stay safe