Saturday, April 4, 2009

Sing Along With "Chick Flick" Musicals

The "chick flick" musical is probably one of the sub groups that receives the worst comments from people who do not appreciate "chick flick" movies. I think they automatically assume it is some sappy story line with some corny musical numbers. But that is just not true. Don't be hating the musicals! Unless it's any of the High School Musicals which contain nothing but corny songs and awful acting. Musical offer something a little different from the average chick flick: singing and dancing. So here they are, the top five "chick flick" musicals.

Number 5: Moulin Rouge
A fun musical about a young poet (played by Ewan McGregor) who falls in love with the star courtesan, Satine, at the night club Moulin Rouge. A complication arises when The Duke also becomes interested in Satine ( Academy Award winner, Nicole Kidman).

Moulin Rouge has won two Academy Awards, has been nominated for 83 other awards and has won another 65 awards! Illustrating that this is one awesome musical. So what makes it great? It stands out from all other musicals; there is not another out there like it. The music is fun and interesting and the costumes and sets light up the film. They "created three hundred costumes and, at one point, eighty people were employed for this task."

The only reason I would put it at number 5 and not closer to number one is because there are a few parts I think needed to be reworked and I was not a huge fan of the ending. But I will not judge the entire movie on the ending. Other than that, it is a movie well worth watching.

Number 4: Hairspray
What can you say about Hairspray? It is a film that will make you want to get up and dance along. Robert Ebert says that "Hairspray is just plain fun. Or maybe not so plain. There's a lot of craft and slyness lurking beneath the circa-1960s goofiness." He means not only is the singing and dancing fun and exciting but the crafty they put into designing the sets and custumes is just amazing. It is almost worth watching the movie just to see what it was like to live in the 1960s.

Hairspray is about Tracy Turnblad who seizes an opportunity to appear on her favourite show, The Corny Collins show. The show's star, Corny Collins ,likes Tracy, but the show's manager does not. The film stars Queen Latifah, Amanda Bynes, John Travolta, and many more well known actors. Hairspray is not just about ones girl's dream of dancing on her favourite show, it also deals with issues of race and appearance. Making the issue a little more deeper.

It is an excellent "chick flick" musical to watch because it is good for the entire family. It is a movie that a wide audience will enjoy.

Number 3: Grease
I wont say a lot on Grease because I already did an entire post on it at an early time. However, I couldn't leave it out of this list because it is a great "chick flick" musical.

I include it in this list because it is a movie that all ages have loved for many years and still remains popular today. It appeals to a wide audience and the songs are legendary; songs that anyone can sing along to, as I have witnessed many times.


So if my last post didn't persuade you to go watch this movie (that is if you haven't already seen it) then hopefully this one does.

Number 2: Mamma Mia

Who doesn't love a good Abba song? If you love them, or even if you have never heard of them before, believe me you will enjoy Mamma Mia. When I first watched this film I never had given Abba a chance. Then, after watching it I loved them!

The film is about Sophie, a young women getting ready for her wedding. She wishes for her entire family to be together for this day so invites her dad. The only problem, she doesn't know which of 3 men is her father. So she invites all three. Her mother, played by Meryl Streep, is not aware of this. The film also stars Colin Firth, Pierce Brosnan, and Stellan Skarsgard as the three potential fathers.

Momma Mia can be considered one of the best musical "chick flicks" because of it's well known songs that are great to sing along to(even if you haven't seen the movie, you may still have heard the songs before), its appeal to a wide range of women and its great actors. I love to just sit down and put on Mamma Mia. I wish I had the chance to see it live.


Number 1: Phantom of the Opera


A musical that offers something different: opera. The ability the actors have to hit the notes they do is, in itself, worth watching. Andrew Loyd Webber is a beautiful composer (you may also know him for Cats) and makes you fall in love with the music and the characters. Even though the Phantom is supposed to be a ruthless character, you can't help feeling sorry for him because his singing seems beautiful and sweet. Well at least I feel sorry for him, others may disagree.

One reason I absolutely adore this movie, besides the amazing songs, is because the actors are perfect. There is no one better than Gerard Butler as the Phantom and Emmy Rossum as Christine.

For anyone that may not know, the film is about a young women, Christine, who sings/acts in an Opera house that is said to be haunted by a phantom. The Phantom coaches Christine in singing, allowing her to become an amazing opera singer. When young Raoul comes along, falling in love with Christine, the Phantom becomes jealous. How amazing is that story line? How many other musicals do you know with a beautifully singing jealous Phantom?


Just writing this post makes me want to go listen to the sound track. So as I go off to put the CD on, watch the movie's trailer and see if it's right for you.

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

"Nobody puts baby in the corner..." Dirty Dancing



One of the classic "chick flick" films that has remained popular throughout time. It doesn't matter if it is the first time you're watching it, or the 20th, Dirty Dancing still makes your heart flutter. Why is the movie so popular? Because of its appeal to a wide audience, the heart capturing story line and the dancing that makes you smile. It is a film that will truely make you have the time of your life.

Starring Jennifer Grey as Baby, a young girl on vacation who meets the handsome dance instructor, Johnny (Patrick Swayze). The two have a chemistry between them that is easily seen on screen. You really believe in their characters. The story line is well known and a favourite among a wide range of audiences. I know it is a favourite among myself, my friends and my parents.

The music and, of course, the dancing are two of the main reasons people love the movie. As is seen in the winning of an Oscar and Goldon Globe for best song, as well as nominated for a Grammy; among other awards. The music allows for people to fall in love with the amazing dancing. The dance scenes are fun and makes you want to get up in your living room, grab a partner and dance the night away. Just take a look at the last dance scene and judge for yourself.
Dirty Dancing is a classic "chick flick" because it has the love story that has gone down in movie history. Girl meets boy who she should not be with, falls in love, over comes the odds. It has stayed a classic movie because of the universally liked story line and the ability it has to please a wide range of audiences, including men. The story line was reproduced again in the second Dirty Dancing movie, Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights but was not as successful as the first. It basically copied the same idea but couldn't replicate the chemistry between the actors, the amazing music and fantastic dancing.

So if you're interested in seeing it for the first time, or if you just want to watch it again, here is the movie trailer.

Thursday, March 19, 2009

"I promise you you'll enjoy this next show..." The Illusionist

At first I wasn't sure if I should consider The Illusionist a "chick flick," but after thinking about it a little more (and seeing it on Yahoo's Top Chick Flick list) I made the final decision that it is. And what a great "chick flick" it is.

The film is based on the story "Eisenheim the Illusionist" by Steven Millhauser. The Illusionist is about two childhood friends, Eisenheim and Sophie, who are split up because they come from different classes. They meet again when they are adults, Eisenheim is building a name for himself as an illusionist and Sophie is engaged to Prince Leopold. We follow their battle to be together.

The Illusionist is starring Edward Norton as Eisenheim, Jessica Biel as Sophie, Refus Sewell as Prince Leopold, as well as Paul Giamatti, Inspector Uhl. The cast is just one of the reasons that make the movie great because I believe they work very well together.

Robert Ebert calls the film a "romantic heart" and "coolly entertaining." I have to agree with him. It is a movie that has you sitting on the edge of your seat waiting to see what happens. Even after watching it once and knowing what happens, it is a movie that you can watch again and again.So why would I consider this movie a "chick flick?" Because it has a captivating love story, a powerful heroine that stands up for what she wants and the powerful story of friendship. I am not saying The Illusionist is ONLY a "chick flick" because it certainly is not. It could be considered a drama with a bit of fantasy, maybe a little suspense AND a "chick flick."

It is because of this multiple genres it could be included in that make The Illusionist a great movie for all, including you guys out there. Yes there is a love story but there is also suspense, magic, death, etc. So as always, watch the trailer, see if it's right for you and then watch the movie!



Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Go Grease Lightning....


The original high school musical, and might I add a hell of a lot better than the three new High School Musicals that are predictable and boring. I say: choose Grease over the others any day.

The classic story line is one almost everyone knows, but can be watched over and over again. The songs are fun, and make you feel as if you want to get up and sing along. Not only that, but you love the characters and really want to follow each of their stories. Basically, you want to get to know each character. It is funny, heart-warming and fun.

Grease stars a young John Travolta that plays bad boy Danny Zuko and Olivia Newton-John as Sandy Olssan. The young lovers who are split apart after a "summer loving" only to find each other again at good old Rydell High.

Not only is the movie great but the set and costumes are great. It takes you back to the 1950's, with the poodle skirts, the scarves, the hair, the cars etc. Grease makes you feel like you are actually there. What makes Grease a classic "Chick Flick?" The friendships and the romance. New comer Sandy is welcomed into the Pink Ladies where they have a rocky friendship to start but all is right in the end. The love between Sandy and Danny is tested quite a few times in the movie but triumphs, ending in one of my favourite songs in the movie, "You're The One That I Want."


I would definitely add Grease into the cannon of the best "chick flicks" because it is not just a movie where you watch a love story between two people but you also get the great singing and dancing along with it. Not only is it great for women but I know many guys that actually enjoy it. And why shouldn't they? It's great.

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

The Life of a Teenager...The Top 5 Teenage "Chick Flicks"

We can't underestimate the teenage films when considering the cannon of the best "chick flicks." These are films directed at teens or young adults and usually star young girls as the main character(s). Although they may be directed from a younger female audience, there are teen movies that can be categorized as one of the best "chick flicks". So here are, in my opinion, the top five TCF's (Teenage "Chick Flicks"):

Number 5: John Tucker Must Die


For those who may not have seen this film, it is about four high school students (Britney Snow, Ashanti, Sophia Bush and Arielle Kebbel) that decide to get even with John Tucker (Jesse Metcalfe)after they find out that he was dating all of them at the same time.

John Tucker Must Die is one of the best teenage "chick flick" because of its great actresses and actor, its very funny plot line and its originality. I believe that it is not only a movie that teenagers and young adults will enjoy. Any older audience could very well laugh at the things these four girls come up with to get back at their cheating boyfriend.




Number 4: Sydney White

I would consider Sydney White one of the cutest TCF's. Amanda Bynes as well as all the other actors, the story line etc, make it a feel good, cute movie. A film that is not only for teenagers (although it is directed towards them), but for pre-teens, young adults and adults. It reminds me of a Disney movie that everyone can enjoy.

Sydney White is about a young girl entering college with a dream to be in her mother's sorority. However, when she is kicked out of the sorority by the evil Rachel (Sara Paxton), Sydney takes refuge with seven geeks. Of course there is a love story, qualifying it in the "chick flick" category.

If you are looking for a sweet movie to watch with the family then this one is definitely right for you.

Number 3: Bring It On

Everyone secretly wants to be a cheerleader....no? Okay, well either way this still is one of the best TCF's. I am going to guess that most people have heard the story line of Bring It or have seen it so I wont go into any detail. I will say that I never knew cheer leading could be so exciting until I watched this movie. When Torrance visits the East Compton cheer leading squad I was scared there was going to be some show down or something....how exciting. The film doesn't disappoint at the end with the face off between Rancho Carne and East Compton.

Bring It On stars Kirsten Dunst as Torrance Shipman, Eliza Dushku as Missy Pantone (from Rancho Carne) and Gabrielle Union as Isis (from East Compton) as well as many other really funny and great actors that make the movie what it is.

Number 2: Mean Girls
Welcome to girl world. The film that shows all the inside secrets of mean girls. Starring Lindsay Lohan and Rachel McAdams, Mean Girls is definitely one of the most popular TCF's today. I have not heard of one teenage girl (and maybe even young adult) that has not seen this movie.

Mean Girls has won a Kid's Choice Award, an MTV Award and Teen Choice Award, as well as being nominated for others. Robert Ebert says: "In a wasteland of dumb movies about teenagers, "Mean Girls" is a smart and funny one." I believe he is totally right. It is a very original teenage movie, exploring a subject that has stayed hidden until now. It is not your average film about high school kids. It takes common problems and exaggerates them, making this film one of the funniest in the TCF categories.

I have to add the trailer for this movie because it is absolutely great.

Number 1: She's the Man
Absolutely the number one TCF out there (and not just because of Channing Tatum....I promise). This movie had me laughing the entire way through, I absolutely love it.

It is loosely based on Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, or What You Will, using some of the plot line, as well as character's names. If you haven't seen the movie it can be a bit hard to explain because of the hidden identities, but it goes something like this: "Duke wants Olivia who likes Sebastian who is really Viola whose brother is dating Monique so she hates Olivia who's with Duke to make Sebastian jealous who is really Viola who's crushing on Duke who thinks she's a guy..." Confused yet? That's because you should just watch the movie!

Robert Ebert says: "
The movie is good-natured and silly," making it fun for the whole family. Like Sydney White, it reminds me of a Disney movie for everyone to enjoy, even though it is directed at teenagers. Amanda Bynes does an amazing job at playing Viola who plays Sebastian who.....ok well you know what I mean. I seriously suggest you add this movie to your cannon of the best "chick flicks" or if you haven't seen it, watch the trailer (I laughed the whole way through the trailer as well) than as always, watch the movie.

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Grab a Kleenex......Top 5 Tear-Jerker "Chick Flicks"

There are countless amounts of lists on the Internet about what movies make you cry and more specifically, what "chick flicks" make you cry. Seeing these gave me the idea to create my own list: The Top Five Tear-Jerker "Chick Flicks." These choices have been made by me (not any lists on the Internet) so I apologize if you do not agree or there is a movie that I did not include.

Number 5: Pearl Harbor
I must be honest, the only reason this movie is even on the list is because I couldn't think of another "chick flick" (that I have seen and could write an accurate review on) that made me cry. Although there are tons of movies I have cried on, none of them would be considered "chick clicks." I had to have a number 5 because you cannot have a top 4 list, it just sounds weird (who has a top 4 list?)

The film stars Ben Affleck as Rafe, Josh Harnett as Danny and Kate Beckinsale as Evelyn, the three that make up the complicated love triangle. You would think that with relatively good actors the film would be good, but sadly no. Robert Ebert says "The film has been directed without grace, vision, or originality, and although you may walk out quoting lines of dialog, it will not be because you admire them." Although the movie may not be that great, it is a film that will have your emotions on a roller coaster of happy, sad, happy, sad and will make you cry.

Number 4: The Notebook

Some of you may be shouting at your computer, trying to figure out why the hell The Notebook is only spot number 4, and before you give yourself a complex know that there are reasons. One, I haven't seen the movie in forever and honestly cant remember that much of it except that I cried and two, I like the other three movies better. Not saying that The Notebook is not one of the greatest "chick flicks."

That being said, this film is a great love story that will have you weeping and feeling all mushy. Ryan Gosling (as Noah Calhoun) and Rachel McAdams (as Allie Hamilton) have great chemistry, making you believe in the characters that much more. You will truly feel joy when the characters feel joy and feel sad when they are feeling sad. The ending is a heart wrenching scene where you know that the two can finally be together forever. Sigh.

Number 3: Titanic

Although I already did a review on Titanic, I absolutely had to add it to my list of the top tear-jerkers. I won't go over the movie because I already did a full review in an earlier post, but I will say that the ending of this movie will have you weeping like a baby. The fact that Jack sacrifices himself in the cold water for the women he loves just tares your heart out, and Rose's desperate plea for him to "come back" is like the foot that stomps on it.

It is so sad to watch how these two young lovers have to fight to stay alive on a sinking ship when they finally have a chance to be happy, only then to have one of them die.




Number 2: A Walk to Remember

Is there anything that will make you cry more than watching two people fall in love only to find out that one is dying? I don't think so. A Walk to Remember follows this story line and will have you crying like a baby.

The film is about bad boy Landon Carter (Shane West) who is changed when he meets the sweet Jamie Sullivan (Mandy Moore). Jamie forces Landon to realize what is important in life and the two fall in love. We find out a little bit later, that Jamie has
leukemia and is dying.

Believe me, you will need some major Kleenex when watching this film. The scene where Landon visits his father, a doctor, and begs for his help gets me every time. It is an absolutely amazing movie and not only one of the greatest tear-jerkers but also one of the best "chick flicks" ever made.

Number 1: P.S I Love You
The absolute, hands down, number one tear-jerker ever! Believe me when I say: this movie will have you crying from beginning to end. You will not just need a few kleenex but the entire box. When I went to see it in theaters all you could hear was a room full of sniffling women.

The film is about a married couple, Holly (Hilary Swank) and Gerry (Gerard Butler), who are deeply in love and seem to have everything going for them. When Gerry dies, Holly is devastated and goes into depression. Gerry seems to predict this and in order to help her through the recovery period he has sends her 10 letters (obviously written before he died, there are no poltergeist in this movie).

Although incredibly sad the movie is also quite funny, has a good plot line and amazing actors. If the movie is not one of your particular favourites, you have to agree when I say the movie is definitely the number 1 tear-jerker.

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Your Heart Will Go on......Titanic.

The sinking of the Titanic is a story that has been told over and over and a scene that has been researched for many years. The movie puts a spin on the famous ship by telling the captivating love story between Jack Dawson and Rose Bukater.

The film stars the handsome Leonardo DiCaprio as Jack and the beautiful Kate Winslet as Rose. Rose is a wealthy young women and Jack, a man with barely enough money; winning the ticket onto the Titanic in a poker hand. The two unlikely pair meet when Rose appears to be committing suicide. They fall in love even though they are not supposed to be together (as Rose is engaged and Jack is of a "lower class"). Their love develops stronger as they fight to stay alive on a sinking ship.

This film is absolutely amazing, winning 11 Oscars and nominated for 3 more! Not to mention the Golden Globe and Grammy award (as well as winning 76 other awards and nominated for 46 more). Robert Ebert says the "film of the tragic voyage is in the tradition of the great Hollywood epics. It is flawlessly crafted, intelligently constructed, strongly acted and spellbinding." One definitely has to agree with Ebert. Titanic will be known as one of the greatest Hollywood epics, and I believe will go down in history as one of the best "chick flicks" ever made. Probably one of the most expensive ever made as well....just throwing that out there. (Costing $200 million to make the movie) Luckily it is the highest grossing movie of all time, making $600 million in the U.S and over $1.2 billion worldwide.


It is not hard to understand why Titanic is one of the greatest "chick flicks." It is a tragic love story where two people of different social classes fall in love. They have to fight the idea of social standards, Rose's fiance and the sinking of a "unsinkable" ship. The ending illustrates the strength of their love when Jack sacrifices himself for Rose (I know what you're thinking...."Why couldn't you share the raft!!!"). Rose is a powerful female heroin that decides what she wants and she takes it. She doesn't listen to her snob of a mother or fiance.So would a guy enjoy this movie? OF COURSE! Should I even have to ask? What is not to like about the Titanic? If you are not a fan of the incredible, tear-jerker of a love story then you have to like the idea behind the movie (i.e the sinking ship). The movie is action packed and fun, with great special effects and even a great history lesson. If you can sit through the three hour movie then I can almost guarantee that you will enjoy it.

So again, watch the trailer (if you haven't seen the movie, or if you would like to be reminded of how great it is) and then go watch the movie! Enjoy.

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

"She walked off the street, into his life and stole his heart...." Pretty Woman


The classic tale of a damsel in distress and a brave knight that rescues her....with a twist. The damsel is a prostitute and the knight is a rich business man. Pretty woman may not be your average lovey-dovey film but it is sure in the cannon of the Top "chick flick" movies (number 6 on Yahoo).

The movie is about Vivian Ward (Julia Roberts), a prostitute in Los Angeles who is hired by Edward Lewis (Richard Gere). The unlikely pair find that they fall in love and Edward becomes Vivian's saviour and prince charming.

Julia Roberts and Richard Gere have an amazing chemistry in this film making you fully believe in these two characters. Others obviously appreciated the acting because Julia was nominated for an Oscar and won a Golden Globe (in which Richard was also nominated). The two were nominated and won other awards as well.

Why would this film be considered a "chick flick?" The rags to riches is a common theme in many movies directed at women. If not exactly rags and riches, it usually is along the lines of the female character changing from an unfortunate situation to a more favourable one. There is also the common theme of the knight in shinning armor that rescues the poor female, as well as the idea of love, relationships and friendships.

According to Film Junk and Film School Rejects (as well as other sites) Pretty Woman is a "chick flick" that guys enjoy! So it isn't just me saying this, others actually believe it too. Why wouldn't guys like it? There is nothing that should scream "chick flick- stay away." Yeah it's about love but what movie doesn't have some aspect of love in it? And besides this ones about a prostitute. A movie with a little something different, not just your average guy and girl.

So as always, if you haven't already seen the movie (which I will make the assumption that most have), watch the trailer and see if its right for you!

Sunday, February 22, 2009

"Declined....Really Declined" Confessions of a Shopaholic

Prada, Gucci, Barneys etc etc. Every woman's dream to go on a shopping spree at one of these stores. Rebecca Bloomwood from Confessions of a Shopaholic does just that. The only problem? She spends more money than she can afford.

The movie is about Rebecca Bloomwood (Isla Fisher) who grew up with penny pincher parents so breaks free of the saving ways when she is an adult and shops her way into debt. In order to pay off the looming debt she has to take a job at a finance magazine (Ironic, no?). There she meets the ever so handsome Luke Brandon (Hugh Dancy)who also happens to be her boss. Surprisingly she becomes very successful there, writing a column known as The Girl in the Green Scarf. All this comes crashing down when a debt collector knocks on her door.

The movie is based on the best selling book by Sophie Kinsella. I have not read the books so I cannot say if the movie stayed true to them, but I can say that the movie is quite funny. I have heard mixed reviews about whether the film is as good as the book (you can read many reviews on Cinemaclock.com) but I thought it was worth watching. If you are worried about whether you would like it, wait until it is released on DVD and then watch it.

It is pretty obvious why Confessions of a Shopaholic is a "chick flick." The entire movie is about shopping, a past time that women love. Women have an appreciation for shopping that most guys don't seem to understand. Just take a look at the study that says shopping is bad for men's health......who knew. Besides the shopping there is also a love story that blooms (no pun intended) between Rebecca and Luke as well as friendship troubles, making this a definite "chick flick."

The question that must be asked: does this movie make it into the cannon of the best "chick flicks." Robert Ebert could not have said it any better: ""Confessions of a Shopaholic" is no masterpiece. But it's funny." Although this is a movie that I would suggest seeing if you are into the "chick flick" comedies, I would not put it into the top "chick flick" lists.

The usual question of whether men would enjoy this movie......probably not. The only thing I can think that they may enjoy is the comedy, although I would go on a limb and say that it is more humour that women would like. I am not saying that all guys would not like this movie because I know when I went to see it there were some guys in the theater (okay maybe two, but that is still "some"). So there might be a few that would appreciate the comedy and shopping in the film, but probably not many.

So if your interested in seeing it watch the trailer and see if it is right for you.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

"How do I loathe thee? Let me count the ways..." 10 Things I Hate About You

Although the title may not sound like your average "chick flick," 10 Things I hate About You is definitely on my list for one of the best. It is also in position 9 on the Yahoo Top Chick Flick List. Unlike the title may suggest, the film does contain aspects of friendship, romance and love, not just hate.

This movie is about a young guy, Cameron (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) who wishes to be with Bianca after having what could be described as a love-at-first-site moment. The only problem is that Bianca (Larisa Oleynik) is not allowed to date unless her older sister Kat (played by Julia Stiles) does. So what does one do in this situation? Get a stuck up jerk to pay the rebellious Patrick Verona (the ever so gorgeous Heath Ledger) to take out the older sister. Of course Kat and Patrick hit it off, that is until she finds out he is being payed....uh oh.

Are you secretly wishing to know what the 10 hated things are? Well there really isn't a concrete list of the 10 things in the movie but there is a poem that Kat writes:

"I hate the way you talk to me, and the way you cut your hair. I hate the way you drive my car. I hate it when you stare. I hate your big dumb combat boots, and the way you read my mind. I hate you so much it makes me sick; it even makes me rhyme. I hate it, I hate the way you're always right. I hate it when you lie. I hate it when you make me laugh, even worse when you make me cry. I hate it when you're not around, and the fact that you didn't call. But mostly I hate the way I don't hate you. Not even close, not even a little bit, not even at all. "

So why would I consider this movie one of the best "chick flicks?" Precisely because the movie is based on teenage love and relationships. Young, good guy wants to get the girl and has to "battle" the stuck up jerk. It also has the lovely element of the bad boy who falls in love and turns out not to be so bad. Not to mention that Heath Ledger stars in it. It is also contains the key element of a powerful female heroine, Kat. She does not do what is expected of her. She refuses to act just because everyone is doing it or because they say it is the "cool" thing to do. Julia Stiles does an amazing job with her portrayal of the social outcast and won MTV movie award for her role in this film.

Yes, of course you guessed it, this is a movie that guys will enjoy. Like stated earlier, it is not your average "chick flick" with a sappy love story. It has, excuse the language, two bad ass main characters who are not considered the social norms. The first time cameron and Patrick meet, Patrick drills a hole through Cameron's text book causing him to run out of the class. It is a cute movie but it is also funny. Guys, you probably wouldn't have known it was considered a "chick flick" if I hadn't told you.

So as always, watch the trailor, see if its for you and then watch the film! I promise you will not come up with 10 reasons why you hate the movie....probably not even 1.

Sunday, February 8, 2009

"Our love fern! You let it die!".......How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days


Matthew McConaughey.....need I say more? Probably not but for those who came to my blog expecting a little more on the movie I will. Kate Hudson also stars in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days and the chemistry between Matthew and Kate allows for the audience to be drawn into to the movie.

An advertising executive Ben (played by Matthew McConaughey) makes a bet that he can get any women to fall in love with him. The woman chosen for this bet is Andie (played by Kate Hudson), a "How to" writer who decides to write a column on How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days. Her subject? Ben. Both characters do not realize they are a subject of each others test or challenge, making for a seriously funny movie.

At first I was not sure if I should include this movie in the list of "chick flicks" but after thinking about why it would be and seeing it on the Yahoo List, I decided it definitely should be included. It fits the requirements of a "chick flick" because it has a powerful female protagonist who does what she wants, a relationship in trouble/challenged and then over come, and of course, a cute male hero.

Interested to know some of the ways to lose a guy in 10 days, according to Andie? Without giving too much of the movie away, some of her ideas are to mark your territory (put feminine products in his bathroom), plan your future, and drop in on his boys night.

This is a movie women can enjoy and one that may be easy to get your man to watch. It is not your average sappy, all romantic, "chick flick." The film is very funny that does not make the love story its main or only focus. It has jokes that both men and women will laugh at, not just inside jokes for one sex or the other.

So, as always. I suggest you watch the trailer and then go and watch the movie!

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

"Just breathe..." It's not just another Cinderella story


I know what you're thinking, how many Cinderella stories are there? Between the Disney Cinderella, A Cinderella Story, Ella Enchanted, Another Cinderella Story, Ever After and others I'm sure, there are quite a few. However, I believe that Ever After is the best Cinderella story made, hands down.

The movie is starring Drew Barrymore as Danielle (who would be the "Cinderella" of the story) and Dougray Scott as Prince Henry (the "Prince Charming"). Ever After has some of the traditional aspects of the Cinderella stories, such as the presence of an "evil" step mother, two step sisters.As well as Danielle is a servant to her step mother and sisters and then she is rescued by the love of the Prince.

However, Ever After adds a uniqueness to the Cinderella stories because Danielle plays the part of a powerful young women. She rescues servants, impersonates a countess, throws an apple at the prince(and what an arm she has, knocks him right off his horse), climbs trees (in her undergarments....shocking, I know) and even punches her step sister in the face (which we can all agree was seriously over due). She does not fall into the role of the helpless female who listens and obeys everything a man tells her. She threatens a creep with a sword when he threatens her freedom and contradicts the Prince, forcing him to realize his own mistakes and how arrogant he sounds

The costumes in the film are amazing, really capturing what the dress was like in that European time, and the scenery/ setting is stunning, beautifully put together. Not to mention the wonderful acting. It is therefore not hard to understand why Ever After has received many good reviews including a 92% on Rotten Tomato's "Tomatoemeter" and is currently in position 10 on Yahoo's Top Chick Flick List.
As always it is not hard to see that Ever After is a true "chick flick," especially with its Cinderella roots. BUT yes you guessed it guys, you can watch it too! As stated earlier....she punches her step sister in the face. If that is not reason in itself to watch it, I do not know what is. Seriously though, in all honesty Ever After is a well done story that is great for all ages and both sexes. Yes there is a love story but there is more than that. There is action, comedy, romance, and a bit of suspense thrown in. The film even has Leonardo Da Vinci playing the "fairy Godmother" character. It is a fabulous movie. So watch the trailer, and then watch the movie!

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

"Hello, my name is Inego Montoya, you killed my father, prepare to die..." and laugh with The Princess Bride

I was flipping through satellite, trying to find something to watch when I saw The Princess Bride. Even though I own the movie and could watch it at any time, I instantly was dying to watch it. The Princess Bride has to be on my top five favourite movies of all time, and it just so happens to be a "chick flick."

The movie is about the love between Buttercup and Westley. Unfortunate events, Buttercup being kidnapped and Westley thought to be dead, separate the two. However, they are brought back together after defeating the evil Prince Humperdinck......I am totally serious, his name is actually Humperdinck.

As if the unforgettable love story is not enough to draw your attention, the ability to make you laugh or smile is well worth it. Robert Ebert calls The Princess Bride "a sly parody" and says he "will be laughing a lot" (full review). Some of the scenes may be a bit ridiculous or unreal, but it only adds to the movie. The film has won the Toronto International Film Festival award and was nominated for many other awards, such as an Oscar.So yes women will love watching the story of poor Buttercup and her love Westley, but guys will enjoy this movie too. No, I'm not joking. Do not judge the movie by its title, or its poster. If you do not believe me, believe Slice and Men's Health. Both sites have given The Princes Bride the, what I would like to call, guy's stamp of approval. Ladies, just tell your guy that "according to Men's Health it's good for you....." would that work? I don't really know, maybe I will test it out.

Anyways, why wouldn't men like this film? There are hilarious moments, sword fighting, magic, a giant (not literally, but pretty darn close), flesh eating eels and of course kidnapping and near death experiences. Believe me guys, you will hardly notice the love story. So, as always, watch the trailer and see if it is right for you!

Thursday, January 22, 2009

"What are men compared to rocks and mountains"...or Pride and Prejudice


Sigh. Smile. Sigh. Laugh. Sigh. Sigh. Smile. This is about all you will do while you watch Pride and Prejudice. This movie is absolutely amazing and I believe one of the best, if not THE best "chick flicks" ever made. However, I have not seen every single "chick flick," so I will restate that it is the best out of the ones I have seen. Although there are a couple versions of Pride and Prejudice, the one that I will be discussing is the version starring Keira Knightly as Elizabeth Bennet and Matthew Macfayden as Mr. Darcy.

The movie is about the lives of the Bennets, an English family consisting of five sisters. The film follows the growing love between Mr Bingley and Jane, and of course Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth. It illustrates hardships the family endure and the challenges imposed on the love between the characters. It's a powerful film, where love is brought together, overcoming obstacles thrown in the way. The language in the movie is beautifully written and the acting is magnificent. The film was nominated for many awards, including four Oscars, and won a number of critic awards (see IMDB).

It is not hard to understand why Pride and Prejudice is considered a "chick flick." The main character, Elizabeth is a strong independent women and it is about friendship, sisterly affection, relationships and yes you guessed it, love. However, I will make the argument that it is definitely a movie men can love too. Most, if not all, the men reading this blog are English majors. Therefore, I would assume that you enjoy reading well written novels and have probably read some of Jane Austin, maybe even Pride and Prejudice. If this is the case, then there is no reason you should not like the movie. If you are not an English major or found the book too confusing or too difficult, then the movie is right for you. It helps paint a picture of what is going on, allowing you to enjoy the story line.Pride and Prejudice is one of my favourite movies, so I can easily say I am biased when it comes to just how good this movie is, but I am not the only one who thinks so. It is currently number five on Yahoo's Top Ten Best Chick Flick list out of 105 movies. So it is obviously on quite a few favorite lists. For all the men out there, we know you don't want to be be held to the standard of Mr. Darcy so we will try not to, but watch the trailer, see if it is right for you, and then go rent it! I can almost guarantee that most of you will love this movie just as much as I do.

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Revenge of the Brides


I just wanted to update anyone who wishes to go see a movie sometime in the near future; there is a new "chick flick" currently being played at the theaters called Bride Wars. This movie is starring Kate Hudson and Anne Hathaway and is about two best friends who turn against each other when their weddings are mistakenly scheduled for the same day. The film seems like it will be a comical movie about friendships and certainly worth watching.

If I get a chance to watch it, and I hope that I do, I will make sure to post what I think of it. If you have not seen the trailer, I suggest that you do and if anyone else has a chance to go see it I would love to hear what you thought of it.

Friday, January 16, 2009

Introducing......


I guess it would make sense to write an introductory post first, much like a movie would introduce the main characters in the opening. As can be seen, I already posted a review of Twilight. I was too excited to explore the many "chick flick" movies out there and forgot to introduce my blog to the world, or more likely just those people from Advanced Composition. So here it is: Drama Queen, a blog about some of the best movies made for women, or "chick flicks"

I decided to write my blog on "chick flicks" because I think its a genre that is overlooked, especially by the men in the world. As soon as a film is labeled a "chick flick" it seems a lot of guys, maybe not all, automatically steer clear of it. Yes I will admit there are some that I can almost guarantee guys will not like because really, its just inevitable. However, I believe that most of the movies I will be discussing are films guys can enjoy too.

So what is a "chick flick?" I am not going to spend time defining what the term means because I am going to assume that most people already know. I did, however, find a rather amusing definition written by a man, "dietdoc," that is worth reviewing. One of the main points he makes is that these movies are about relationships.

Drama Queen is a blog that is going to look at any new "chick flick" movies that are released, but mostly I will review some of the best from the past. At first I wasn't sure how I was going to decide which movies were actually considered the best, but I found that Yahoo conducted a "chick flick" survey. The films on the list will be the basis for my reviews, although no particular order will be followed.

Anyways, I hope that everyone enjoys Drama Queen. You never know, maybe it will inspire you to go out and rent some of the movies I will talk about.

Saturday, January 10, 2009

In love with a Vampire.....

Everyone has heard something about Twilight and if you haven't, you probably need to emerge out from under your rock. Whether you have actually read the books, seen the movie or heard discussions, it's basically impossible not to know about Bella and her immortal love Edward. The Twilight Saga has grown to four books, incredible amounts of merchandise, and most importantly, a movie.

what's better than a vampire searching for the love of his life (for lack of a better word) for 117 years, and it turning out to be a 17 year old human? Nothing! They say opposites attract, and apparently this is the same for an undead vampire and a human. The story of Edward and Bella's forbidden love is an amazing tale for any romantic, especially for us women. That is not to say that you gentlemen can't love.... love is a strong word, enjoy watching Twilight. There is a battle between good and evil with lots of blood and a few deaths. Okay, it's one death and not that much blood, but still it's about vampires....enough said. So yes Twilight is a chick flick that will have you laughing, smiling, and sighing along with the movie, but there are also some good special affects (for their budget range), fun music, and action packed scenes.

For those who have already seen and loved Twilight, myself included, you have to be excited for the estimated seven million dollars it made just on the Thursday midnight release, and an estimated seventy million on its opening weekend (more information). Twilight has moved into position 14 for highest opening day revenues, allowing the second installment of the Twilight Saga, New Moon to start filming. For those who have not seen it, I suggest that you go, and those who did not like it.....well maybe the romantic movies are not for you.