Saturday, January 3, 2009

Dearie Awards 2008: Stage Show of the Year - BILLY ELLIOT

Some of our favorite films of all time have been adapted for the stage, and the results can be great (Hairspray) or ... not so great (The Little Mermaid). Happily, joyfully, Billy Elliot joins the short list of the former.

Soaring as high as the hopes and dreams of its title character, Billy landed on Broadway after its award-winning debut in London (where it is still playing) without losing an ounce of its charm or heart. And, with our country experiencing the same kind of economic downturn as seen in the show itself, what better time to escape into the world of a boy who trades in his boxing gloves for a pair of ballet shoes?

With the direction of Stephen Daldry, book and lyrics by Lee Hall (recreating their Academy Award nominated work on the original film) and a score by none other than Sir Elton John, the musical features the stunning debuts of a trio of triple threats who alternate in the demanding lead role: David Alvarez, Trent Kowalik and Kiril Kulish. To them, we can only say, "Dance, Billy, dance!"

Movie Dearest Proudly Presents: The 2nd Annual Dearie Awards!

2009 is already upon us, but before we commence with all the latest and greatest of the new year, we here at Movie Dearest have one more bit of business to take care of from 2008: The 2nd Annual Movie Dearest Awards!

The "Dearies" honor the best and brightest of film, television and the stage as covered here on Movie Dearest, and there certainly was plenty to choose from in the year just past. Therefore, to help in separating the sublime from the ridiculous, our very own Men on Film, Chris Carpenter and Neil Cohen, have graciously joined me in naming this year's deserving winners.

So, without further ado, 2008's Dearie Awards for Stage Show, Television Show, New Star, Woman, Man and Movie of the Year will be presented throughout the day today. Will your favorites be named? Stay tuned to find out!

Friday, January 2, 2009

Out in Film: Sara Gilbert

Idol worship: Sara Gilbert, actress.

- Following in the footsteps of her sister Melissa (of Little House on the Prairie fame), she became famous playing the precocious middle child of a legendary TV family, Darlene Connor on Roseanne, earning two Emmy Award nominations.

- She also received an Independent Spirit Award nod for her performance in the white trash classic Poison Ivy, her big screen debut.

- Other film roles include Desert Blue, High Fidelity, Riding in Cars with Boys and the gay-themed short $30.

- After Roseanne folded, she has made many memorable guest appearances on such popular series as The Simpsons, 24, Will & Grace, ER, Private Practice and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.

- Additionally, she has starred in a few short-lived sitcoms (Welcome to New York, Twins) but has finally found a hit with The Big Bang Theory, in which she has recently become a regular cast member, once again opposite her Roseanne love interest Johnny Galecki.

Thursday, January 1, 2009

Toon Talk: Top 10 of 2008

Yes, it is that time again, where a critic looks back at the year just past and anoints the best and the brightest of the past twelve months. So without further ado … the Toon Talk Top 10 - 2008: The Year's Best Disney Films and DVDs!

Click here to read my complete article at LaughingPlace.com.