Saturday, March 31, 2007

America's Closet

With the buzz of Mrs. McGreevey's tell all you have to wonder why she's playing the same highly criticized publicity game the former governor did.

"When a gay man finally decides to come out to his wife, it's a moment he's prepared for, in some cases over the course of his entire life, but in all cases, he's worked up to it, he's had time to prepare for this new reality. In most cases, he's chosen the time and the place, he's rehearsed the scene many times in his head. Furthermore, he sees it as the beginning of a new life, a mentally healthier life (or so he hopes,) the pursuit of wholeness as a human being. He goes into it prepared and on his own terms."

Anyone who has come out of the closet, or wanting to come out, knows this statement is not true. Why do you think individuals stay in the closet? A largely homophobic culture here in America keeps them in the closet. Coming out of the closet is not a selfish act; it is very selfless. It may be planned and prepared, but only for those listening. The caveat, though, is how your actions are handled afterwards. At this point we see the tail spin in the McGreevey history. Hopefully her tell all takes a higher road...not just for people in the same situation, but for everyone. She has an amazing opportunity to show the strength of her character and the integrity of the American people.

Saturday, March 17, 2007

IMAX: 300










Movie theaters are incredibly disconcerting. The first issue is the popcorn: munching, crunching, lip smacking. A close second are the crinkling candy wrappers--opening the package slowly does not make it quieter. Just do it. Also don't forget the straw adjustment and ice shuffle...slurp. Make it past this and the trolls and I think I might be able to actually listen to the movie dialogue. Braving all of these I went to see 300 on IMAX in Lincoln Square.

Let's be honest, 300's attraction is not the A-list cast or clever scripting; it's the cinematography. That's why it had to be seen on such a large screen. The refreshing and well-designed costumes, the SFX, and computer generations all combine into the editing of imagery that is breath-taking. I would go back for a second viewing, but not in the theater. And if you can't watch it on the big screen, what's the point?