We Could All Use a Little Kindness

I don't think I've ever watched an entire episode of Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood. I watched almost no daytime television from 1968-2013, so there are entire cultural trends I am (mostly) unfamiliar with. Mr. Rogers is one of them. I've watched short clips and read articles, but not much more. This has been a cold and rainy few days and in an effort to get some "feel good" I saw "A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood," a film with Tom Hanks playing Fred Rogers.

I'm a fan of movies, but for some reason I can't quite figure, I've seen very few movies this year. I can barely remember anything I have seen. But A Beautiful Day...will stick in my memory. It's not a great movie, but it's a very engrossing movie and it's a wonderful feel-good movie, and heaven knows we can all use a feel-good movie these days. I'm not a film critic by profession, but by virtue of this blog, I get to be one. I'm reasonably sure my friends in Buttercupland would enjoy this movie very much. I'm rating it G for go and see it, and remember to bring tissues.

For readers of Guideposts -- count me in -- the December/January 2020 issue includes an article with Joanne Rogers, Mrs. Rogers. It was very interesting and gave me some  background about the real Mr. Rogers. The one slight quibble I have with the film is that I would have liked to see more about Fred Rogers personal life and the article answered some of my questions.

Despite the chill and the rain, it's been a good weekend. I've made good headway on my cards and even wrapped a gift. I've continued decluttering -- lots and lots of shredding -- and started my holiday decoration photography. I braved Midtown Manhattan and have photos for at least two blog posts. I will officially begin the 2019 holiday posts on Thanksgiving Day, so please stop by and visit.

As ever, thanks for visting and have a great week!   

The Light Between Oceans

I've got a close to infinite list of places to visit and an even longer list of books I'd like to read. One book that has been on the list for years is M.L. Stedman's The Light Between Oceans.  Even though it was published in 2012, to my regret, I still haven't gotten to it. I was delighted when my friends at Disney offered me the opportunity to see it in a preview on Monday. The one caveat was that I had to wait to write about it until it opened today.

Though I took a course on film criticism in college I am no film critic. But Buttercupland is not the New York Times. I highly respect the minds of my friends, but I realized soon after I began blogging and writing about books and, from time to time, about movies that this blog wouldn't take the place of the New York Times or the New Yorker. What I can do and what I do is answer the question, "Is this book/movie something I would enjoy seeing or reading? Is this movie worth ten dollars -- senior citizen cost in New York City -- and two hours (or so) of my time?

 My answer about The Light Between Oceans is a definite yes. There was one moment when I tried to see my watch in the dark, but that was fleeting. It is a thoughtful romance with some of the best movie scenery ever. It stars Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander and I will be surprised if at least one of them, if not both of them, are not nominated for Academy Awards. I read several reviews before writing about the movie. One of them noted that it reminded that writer of the Bette Davis movies of the 1930's. As someone who has watched "Dark Victory" more times than I can count, that is high praise. There are moments in The Light Between Oceans that are heart wrenching, sad, poignant and sweet. Bring tissues, settle in and enjoy.
 

Since we're discussing literature and movies I'm mentioning the latest post on Coffee Light and Mysteries (Mostly) Noir.   I'm writing about one of my favorite mystery series by C. J. Sansom. The hero is Matthew Shardlake, an attorney during the reign of Henry VIII, and the first book in the series is Dissolution. Mystery fans and Anglophiles, I think you will enjoy this series very much.

I've got relatively modest plans for this weekend, blogging and walking being at the top of the list. I hadn't been paying much attention to the weather, but it looks like New York City is in for some rough weather on Sunday and Monday due to Hurricane Hermine. I've got my flashlights up to date and have a supply of bottled water, too. The miles I hoped to walk may have to be put off for later in the week. I'm praying that Hermine decides it's pleasanter to go out to sea and the East Coast will be spared damage. Florida, Georgia and South Carolina friends, you're in my prayers.

 As ever, thanks for visiting. Take good care and stay safe!

Please note: I was offered the opportunity to see The Light Between Oceans for review purposes. The opinions are all mine.

What's It All About, Sir Michael Caine?

I'm a movie fan and have been ever since I can remember. I still enjoy seeing movies on the big screen and love the moment when the lights go out and the excitement is about to begin. I know that puts me in a distinct minority, but it's one I'm happy to be a part of. I'm easily distracted at home, and like to focus on the story unfolding in front of me at the theater.

One of my favorite actors for almost fifty years has been Michael Caine. How do I know that it's been that long? "Alfie" was released in 1966 and that was the first of many Michael Caine movies I saw. My favorite -- though it's hard to choose -- is "Dirty, Rotten Scoundrels," which I found laugh-out-loud funny. When I saw that he was speaking in New York I put the event on my calendar.

It's not the closest photo, but it's Michael Caine, and yes, I was delighted. He was funny, had great stories and was complimentary to everyone he mentioned. There wasn't one unkind story. 

 

 

I especially enjoyed the film clips that were shown. This scene is from "Hannah and Her Sisters." There was also a clip from "Alfie" with Shelley Winters and one from his next movie, "Youth," which is scheduled for release this December.

 

Any other Michael Caine fans in Buttercupland? I've got any number of movie favorites. Some are long gone -- Cary Grant, Audrey Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart -- and happily some are still making movies. My present favorites have to include Tom Hanks, Daniel Craig, Colin Firth and Jennifer Lawrence. 

 

It's definitely turned to fall today. I am wearing closed-toe shoes and jeans. I think my sandal days are coming to an end. One of my chores for later in the day is to buy extra bottled water. I'm keeping an air of optimism that Joaquin won't have any effect on New York, but just in case we lose power, I'm being prepared. Prayers for all in Joaquin's path.

 

As ever thanks for visiting and keep safe.

 

 

No, I Didn't Get to Meet Morgan Freeman or Diane Keaton...

...as much as I would like to. But it was still fun to see the production trailers all set up on and off Broadway. This was the scene after a quick trip to the drugstore. Honestly, my heart beats just a little faster when I realize a movie is being made just a few blocks from my house. I'm a little nosy and not at all shy about asking the name of the production, who's in it and are they around. But the one staff person standing by the trailer was glued to her cell phone and working very hard not to make eye contact, and she succeeded. I didn't get to ask my usual set of questions and decided I couldn't loiter on the corner much longer.

I had good luck getting information later in the day, but alas the filming was over and there were no stars to see. But the staff person was really nice and told me that they were filming "Life Itself," with Diane Keaton and Morgan Freeman. The movie tells the story of a New York couple reflecting on their life and marriage. The description sounds great and I think it's a movie I will want to see.

That's my Thursday...the drugstore, getting used to my new shoe, blogging and oh yes, movie filming just down the street. All in a days's life in Manhattan.

Please stop by tomorrow for one of my favorite parts of the week, Random 5 Friday. As always, thanks for visiting and take good care of yourself.

A Vehicle Doesn't Always Have Four Wheels

I had my post all prepared for "V." I was going to write about the vehicles of Broadway, buses, taxis and I even had a photo of an ambulance. But I found a movie shoot and I realized all vehicles don't have four wheels. In this case "V" is for vehicle, which, to quote Merriam-Webster, is something displays a performer's talent. On my way to work on Thursday I came upon filming for "Draft Day," which is directed by Ivan Reitman, who also directed one of my favorite movies, "Ghost Busters."

The chair on the right is Mr. Reitman's

This was the scene as I crossed the street to buy my coffee -- my regular coffee cart -- is on the far right of the picture.

Often the sidewalk is roped off during filming, but not for "Draft Day."

The film stars Kevin Costner Jennifer Garner and Chadwick Boseman, who is also in "42." I'm hoping to see "42," which is the story of Jackie Robinson tomorrow. 

Actual filming! One of the crew told me I was directly in front of the camera, but I hadn't noticed. I was too absorbed in taking pictures. Couldn't miss this opportunity. 

Busy, busy work week. I know I can slow down, but there's still a lot going on and I'm still there. I'm off to do errands on this beautiful spring day. I'm going to finish this blogging challenge -- so close! --and I'll be back to post "W" tonight. 

Wishes for a Wonderful Saturday!

Secret of the Wings

When I saw the first little girl wearing wings I thought she was dressed for Halloween. When I saw the second little girl I thought they were both coming from a dance recital. But when I saw the barricades and lots of children in wings I knew I had found something special. I had stumbled upon a premier showing of the new Disney film, "The Secret of the Wings."

The information on the website looks good, but the excitement in the viewers faces may be the best review.

While the rest of the city raced on their way the reviewers enjoyed their wings.

 To the right the truck is loading large signs for the movie. This wing wearer was wearing a badge that said staff. Though I think the magic of the wings could enchant lots of us. 

I'm off on a little adventure today. Pictures to follow tonight or tomorrow. Hope you day is one of adventure and enchantment!

Please Get the Popcorn...It's Movie Time!

Source: google.com via Carol on Pinterest

Though today is practically summer -- we're expecting temperatures in the low 70's -- we've had some cooler days and definitely cooler nights. Daylight savings time is about to end and I know I'll be staying inside a lot more, especially in the evenings. One of my favorite activities is watching movies and I'm always on the lookout for fun movies. Thanks to my friends at Gaiam Vivendi Entertainment I came across a Hallmark Channel original film I had missed when it was first shown in 2007. It's "You've Got a Friend." It's a sweet and endearing film about Bobby Graham (Dylan McLaughlin) who after the death of his parents goes to live with his aunt and uncle. He's helped in his Soapbox Derby efforts by Jim Keclan (John Schneider), the town recluse. The focus is family, friendship and holding on to a dream. It's the movie to watch curled up in an afghan with a cup of cocoa. Thanks, friends at Vivendi!

I'm having a quiet day today. A few errands this afternoon and lots of blog visits. I'll be out for a walk later and enjoy the beautiful weather. Now that I'm up and about more I find it easy to overdo and this is my day to catch up on magazines, make soup and enjoy the autumn leaves. Hope your day has lots of the same!

*I am not compensated for this review other than the copy given to me upon my request. 

Breakfast with the Crew

If you've ever wondered what movie crews eat for breakfast, here's the answer. During my commute to work yesterday I passed by the set of ""The Secret Life of Walter Mitty"," with Ben Stiller. I didn't get to meet Mr. Stiller, but it pepped up my day. The filming continues in my neighborhood this evening, so I am hoping for more fun pictures. This is a remake of the 1947 film that starred Danny Kaye.

I hope you have a surprise that peps up your day!

When I Think About My Favorite Movie Star...

Source: google.com via Carol on Pinterest

Audrey Hepburn immediately comes to mind. 

In the comments for yesterday's post about Colin Firth my dear friend, Sheilagh, asked about female movie stars. About six seconds after I began thinking Audrey Hepburn's face came to mind. Some of my favorites of her films are "The Nun's Story," "Breakfast at Tiffany's," and my very favorite, "Roman Holiday." Her talent was tremendous and her beauty was both obvious and within. She was devoted to UNICEF, as she and her family had received aid after World War II living in the Netherlands. I think this photo of her is as lovely as any picture of her in her youth. 

Source: ahepburn.com via Carol on Pinterest

Sheilagh, thanks for the question. I've so enjoyed looking at photos and remembering movies and actors I admire. This has been so much fun that I'll be sure to do it again. Deborah Kerr is right in line. Who are your favorite woman movie stars? Any other Audrey Hepburn fans in Buttercupland?

I leave you with this beautiful quote, my beautiful friends! 

Source: google.com via Carol on Pinterest

Lights, Camera, Action...

...Imogene

Do you remember this quiet corner?

When I saw this posted over the weekend I knew excitement was coming. But there was no filming yesterday. I didn't think much about it until I came out this morning and saw movie folks clustered across the street from my building.

The traffic cones in the street are a tip-off something interesting is about to go on. Still no filming.

I went out to run an errand later in the afternoon and came home to this. 

Quiet corner no longer!

I walked through the movie set on the corner and spent some time looking for movie stars. I spent so long I was concerned they would ask me to move on and tell me I was loitering. Alas, no Matt Dillon, no Darren Criss, no Kristin Wiig and no Annette Bening. Honestly not seeing Annette Bening was the most disappointing for me. I am an enormous fan of "The American President."  We'll just have to wait until 2013 to see "Imogene."

I expect that the corner will be quiet again tomorrow. But I never know in New York when the red traffic cones will emerge and something exciting will be happening!

Remembering Elizabeth Taylor

Elizabeth Taylor has been one of my favorite actresses throughout my life. From a little girl I was taken with movies and I started to read movie magazines -- remember them? -- when I was in the early years of grade school. My mother's attitude was that it was great I was reading and let me spend my allowance on "Modern Screen"' and "Photoplay." Somewhat unusual, but I did become a great reader and a great movie fan, two interests that have stayed with me throughout my life.

I've probably seen 90% of the movies Elizabeth Taylor made -- "Raintree County" to "The Sandpiper," but my all-time favorite remains "Father of the Bride." It is delightful fun and Elizabeth Taylor is a beautiful young woman, perfectly cast to her father in the film, Spencer Tracy. I am sure that I can't count the number of times I've seen this movie and I am always engrossed.

What is your favorite Elizabeth Taylor movie?

We All Need Some Laughter...

....especially in the middle of a long, long winter. 

When Jess and K were here last week we had a discussion about our favorite funny movies. Many movies were discussed and I've been thinking about what movie is my favorite comedy. The first one that came to mind is "Trading Places." But as the week passed other movies competed for the title of favorite. 

I'm still a big fan of "Trading Places," but "Ghostbusters" took over first place. The one similarity is that they both star Dan Aykroyd, who really makes me laugh. But "Ghostbusters" also has Bill Murray, who also stars in a film that is one my top ten funny movie list, "Groundhog Day." It also stars the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man, who makes me laugh every time I see him waddling down Central Park West in his sailor suit. Of course, there's "Men in Black," the memory of which makes me smile as I type. 

Frank-the-Pug, of "Men in Black" is a cutie!

Inquiring minds would like to know...What is your favorite comedy, and who's cuter? Frank-the-Pug or the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man?

Sweet dreams and a happy Thursday wishes!

From Morning to Night

The morning began with this sign...I'm not sure what's being filmed -- and I googled heartily -- but I found a great website that has information about filming all over New York and the Los Angeles. I'll be stopping there often.

The work morning was spent in a bus depot and then back to the office. It's been a long week, but got to go through a lot of the paper on my desk. Not all, but lots of it and I am grateful for that. Hurray!

During my commute home I passed through the subway station at Columbus Circle and had the opportunity to see the fabulous mural by the artist Sol LeWitt. A friend has been a major part of the project and I've been hearing about the progress and it was great to see it. Generally there are hundreds of people in the station, but when it's later in the evening, sometimes there is a window of opportunity to get a complete picture.

 

This is the renovation in the rest of the station and the platform I use most often.

The blessed weekend! I've got an appointment with the eye doctor, a trip to the post office and study group for lunch, study and Chanukah. I also hope to get back to TJ MAXX for a few things I've been thinking about since my visit there a few weeks ago. There are lots of cards to write and blogs to read and presents to wrap. I want to drink hot cocoa and savor the New York Times and the holiday magazines.

Wishing you time to savor the things you enjoy most!

"Julie and Julia"

When I visited Washington in March I saw Julia Child's kitchen at the Museum of American History. I was so taken with it that I even blogged about it and posted one of the photos above. Tonight I went with my friend, Mary to see "Julie and Julia" which is both about how Julia Child came to write "Mastering the Art of French Cooking" and how Julie Powell of Queens, NY (the neighborhood near my office) wrote a blog about cooking all the recipes in "Mastering the Art..." in a year.

I loved it! It's about food (and extraordinary food), Paris, blogging, New York and stars one of my favorite actresses, Meryl Streep, who is extraordinary as Julia Child. It's also about finding the thing in life you love to do and doing it with joy and passion. And dear readers, it was filmed at Silvercup Studio, which I wrote about earlier this week.

In the one degree of separation...Meryl Streep and I overlapped for one semester in college. I spent my junior year at one of the men's colleges that was thinking of going coeducational -- and did the next year -- and Meryl was there the year before I got there and my first semester. We didn't know each other, but there were only 70 there, so I pretty much knew who the women were and even then she was an outstanding actress and very beautiful. It came as no surprise when she was starring in movies a decade later.

And my only experience cooking from "Mastering the Art..." came one Thanksgiving. In a total break from tradition a friend suggested we cook goose stuffed with prunes and foie gras. It took hours and involved such actions as stuffing the prunes with foie gras, intricate and labor intensive. The result was delicious, but very rich. I have happily returned to turkey in the years since.

Wishing you all, dear gentle readers, joy in all that you do.

In Three Small Blocks...

I found some treasures!

I had another meeting in Lower Manhattan this morning and I was amazed at what blogworthy riches I discovered in just three blocks.

I routinely pass the NY Stock Exchange on my walk from the subway to my agency’s building. Frequently there are events outside the stock exchange when companies are making announcements. The event today was very different. At first I thought a “Ghost Busters” type movie was being filmed. There were two men in red jump suits holding two very odd instruments. Unusual sounds were emerging, which were odd even by NYC standards. After chatting with a third man from the group who was filming the experience I learned that this was part of the Floating Lab Collective, a group of performance artists. They had previously asked people to make a telephone call and “Scream at the Economy." The screams were then taped and turned into (atonal) music, which is what was being played, “as a performance in public space in front of financial institutions.” They may be coming soon to a financial institution in your town.

Down the block and around the corner I found more filming. No stars and no active filming, but all the signs and equipment for “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice.” With a little bit of googling I found that Nicholas Cage is the star and it is based on the Disney "Sorcerer's Apprentice." It's scheduled for release next summer.

My third discovery came across the street from one of the areas marked for filming, “Ciao Bow Wow” Dog Day Care/Grooming Spa and Pet Boutique. I was especially taken with aromatherapy as part of the grooming. As I was eating lunch (in my favorite Cosi around the corner) I saw a Bernese Mountain dog walking down Broad Street, the same street as the stock exchange. I wonder if he was going for an aromatherapy session at Ciao Bow Wow.

Dear Gentle Readers, I have to thank you for your comments and interest in the sights and sounds of New York City. I’ve very much enjoyed keeping an eye out for blogworthy and interesting places and events. I’ve always enjoyed seeing the sights of New York City, but having all of you to share it with has made it even better.

On the Street Where I Walk

This is our movie! "The Bounty," a comedy starring Jennifer Aniston and Gerard Butler.

After more googling I found it!

On the ride home we once again passed the film site and tonight, too, the Fourth of July parade was being filmed. I chatted with one of the security staff and got the proper name of the movie and that Gerard Butler, of "300" was starring. As I craned my neck hoping for a glimpse of the extremely attractive Mr. Butler, the security person let me know he had left the filming for the day.

These few minutes tonight really redeemed an otherwise less than stellar day. I began the day with an 8:00 a.m. appointment for physical therapy for a very achy ankle. That hour included me just about screaming during some "massage" to break up scar tissue where I'd been injured in a hot air balloon incident. The afternoon included two hours with no phone service to our building, which includes three call centers. Not fun! But just the thought that Gerard Butler could be on the street where I walk was enough to send me just about dancing!

Wishing you all moments of happy surprise and delight!

Movie Mania Strikes Again

I've taken to carrying my camera with me just in case I find something "blog worthy," and on most days I am taking pictures. I was riding with a colleague tonight on my way to being dropped off at the subway and as we were driving down a quiet side street in Greenpoint, Brooklyn I spotted the big trailers that are the sign that a movie is being made. He graciously went around the block to pull over so that I could take pictures to share with all of my dear gentle readers.

The movie is "Bounty" and despite intense googling I couldn't find any information about it. The street was decorated to look like the Fourth of July in a small town. I've thought for years that Greenpoint looks out of another era, as there's been little renovation and the signage and small stores have the look I remember from the '50s and '60s. Obviously other people thought the same way. I especially like seeing the movie equipment together with the street decoration for the film.

So enjoyed sharing my evening's excitement!

Happy Birthday, Dear Humphrey Bogart!

I was all set to post the clue that it was the 100th birthday of one of my favorite actors when I checked my email and found a very nice note from http://hisdoorkeeper.blogspot.com/and the correct answer for our little quiz. West 103rd St, about half a mile from my house, is Humphrey Bogart Place. I am delighted and my blog friend, you are the winner of a New York souvenir. "Casablanca" is just about my favorite movie of all time and I am also a big fan of "The African Queen" the movie for which Mr. Bogart did win the Academy Award as well as "The Maltese Falcon." If you like movies -- I love movies! -- I highly recommend the great blog of one of all time favorite people, my dear Jess and her wonderful http://insightintoentertainment.blogspot.com.

"The Baster" is still being filmed a block away and they're going to be there all week. It is an immense temptation to take tomorrow or Thursday off and hang out on Broadway and watch the filming. I'm pretty sure I'll not succumb to this temptation, but I think it would be fun.

Good night dear friends and very sweet dreams!

Movie Mania

I was coming home tonight from an arduous afternoon at a public hearing -- I know that's redundant -- just about all afternoons at public hearings are arduous. In front of my local grocery and a block from my house there was a movie trailer. This isn't unusual. At least once a month some movie or television show is being filmed, if nothing more than an episode of "Law and Order." There's always a sign posted and I always read the sign. It said the movie being filmed was "The Baster." I zipped home and googled it and found it's with Jennifer Anniston and Jason Bateman. I didn't get to see either of them, so it's a very peripheral claim to movie fame, but still it perked up my evening. I didn't take any pictures, so the picture above taken last week, one block away will have to do. Do like a picture to pep up the blog.

(Sort of) Clue to the movie quiz...He was nominated 3 times for an Academy Award. New clue tomorrow.

Thanks all for stopping by!