movie time.

Don't worry, I'm not gone, just bein lazy.

Friends! I'm alive! I know it's been a slow week around these parts and I don't even have a good excuse, I'm just seriously slacking in the blogging category of my life. Hey, it happens. I'm going to make it up to you though... I'm going to make it up to you by recommending a ton of movies, ALL of which I watched on the airplane to/from Australia (because there's a lot of time for movie watching when you're flying to/from Australia!) So go buy some microwave popcorn and head into the weekend armed with this something-for-everyone movie recommendations list!

* 20 Feet From Stardom

This documentary tells the stories you never knew you were dying to know about the backup singers for some of music's greatest legends. From those who are happy to stand behind the star to others who simply couldn't make into the spotlight, this movie is a fascinating look at the voices you've always known, even though you never knew the person behind them.

* 12 Years a Slave

So this isn't going to be a feel good film, but it is going to move you. I never got around to seeing 12 Years a Slave in theaters (because motivating to see something sad can be tough) but I'm so glad I mustered up the courage to watch this film because it is outstanding. Based on a true story of a free man captured and imprisoned for years as a slave, this movie tells a story you need to know, via actors who deliver exceptional performances. 

* Julie and Julia

The perfect delightfully warm, wonderful and sweet anecdote to my previous recommendation, Julie and Julia is a hit from several years back that I just enjoyed for the first time. Amy Adams and Meryl Streep are perfection in this lighthearted story of two women (a modern amateur chef/writer Julie and the famous Julia Childs early in her life/career) discovering themselves through cooking, perseverance and love from their wonderful spouses. My only warning: prepare to salivate, the food porn in this flick is divine!

* Foxcatcher

This Oscar nominated film from 2014/15 didn't get very much buzz or wide circulation in theaters and I have absolutely NO idea why! An almost unrecognizable Steve Carrell plays the wealthy (and creepy) John duPont with astounding poise, while Channing Tatum portrays an Olympic wrestler in what I feel is the most significant role of his career. Add in the always talented Mark Ruffalo and a shocking true story and you have 1 fantastic movie experience. (Note: it starts off a little slow, but stick with it!)

* and then there's Birdman...

I did not get this movie. I did not get it at all. I'm putting it on this list because I watched it (how do you not watch the film that took home the award for Best Picture!?) but I cannot say I recommend it. I don't even know what to say about it... it was WEIRD. It was artsy. It was interesting? Give it a shot, maybe you'll fare better than I did!