Brian Micklethwait posts his review of Jack Black’s movie, School of Rock. He has a good point… it would have been great if my music theory class was cast with students (actors) who all happened to be exceedingly proficient on musical instruments or voice. It would have even been better if my concert band was. It was a fun movie, sure, but only a foolish teacher would use it as a guide to bringing music into their classroom, and there’s nothing in the movie of educational value. I’m pretty sure there was nothing intended to be.
I happened to catch De-Lovely last night after quite a bit of delay due to people who made appoointments to look at my car never showing up. It was a very good film, almost in the style of a musical revue. It was definitely a movie made to be appreciated by viewers who enjoy the pre-MTV, pre-Jaws style of film. The plot is the key, with no dizzying special effects or action sequences other than a singular horse ride. It could have been made a shorter movie through the editing process, and as a result of the choice not to do so, some might think the movie runs a little long. I liked the pacing.
The movie tells the story of Cole Porter, a gifted and well-off composer, portrayed masterfully by Kevin Kline. Porter’s music is performed by many contemporary pop performers, and the only one I had issues with is Alanis Morrisette. Her voice just didn’t seem at home with her song, Let’s Do It (Let’s Fall in Love). Kevin Kline isn’t a vocal virtuoso, but then again, neither was Cole Porter, so it still fits. Go see it.
Unrelated Thing. I would pay for a subscription satellite radio service if I could get Radio Paradise beamed directly to my vehicle.
Ooh, I really want to see De-Lovely. Kevin Kline is fantastic.
Also, Kevin Kline worked on sounding not that great to be like Cole Porter–he actually has a nice voice.
I found Elvis Costello’s compulsive hand movements during his song rather disturbing. But I also enjoyed De-Lovely very much. Yay for music. Yay for Kevin Kline.