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Would you believe me if I told you that by the time last night arrived, I wasn’t really all that excited to see Sex and the City on the silver screen? Maybe I’d hyped it up too much over the last several months, or maybe it was a subconscious way of not allowing me to feel disappointed if the film fell short of what I had hoped it’d be. Either way, once the curtains lifted and the screen glittered in shades of blue and pink, my apathy had been dispelled.

Photo: miss604 on Flickr

Watching Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte together again brought on a huge surge of relief. Each of the four actresses (Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Cynthia Nixon and Kristin Davis, respectively) slipped back into the roles they made famous as comfortably as a favourite pair of Manolos. And don’t be fooled into thinking that you’re going to see a really, really, ridiculously long episode of the HBO hit; the film plays like the movie that it is (especially considering that it clocks in at just over 2 hours and 20 minutes). Much to this girl’s delight, the fab foursome are joined in their big screen venture by the men in their lives: Mr. Big (Chris Noth), Harry Goldenblatt (Evan Handler), Steve Brady (David Eigenberg) and Smith Jerrod (Jason Lewis).

Despite expectations, predictions, leaked storylines, possibilities and probabilities (not to mention the countless images we’ve seen of the girls’ costume changes over the last few months), Sex still delivers surprises, tears and more laughter than you ever experienced in your living room. The truth is, I’m dying to discuss the details, but I have to be fair. That being said, I am giving you, my readers, until the end of the weekend to see the film for yourselves. After that, all bets are off and anything from the film is fair game for discussion on my blog.

Click here to visit the film’s official website.

…but that’s an entirely different blog post altogether.

My most recent chat with Amy went somewhat like this:

Amy: i’m waiting for your Iron Man review on your blog
haha

Amy: you should find some super sexy photos of RDJ for it

Me: omg, horny much?

Photo: Paramount Pictures

Needless to say, the girl’s been enamoured with 2008’s reinvention of Iron Man since she saw it opening night. Being that I’d never hear the end of it until I saw it with my own eyes, I agreed to go with Amy this past Wednesday. I have to be honest, I’m not exactly what you’d call a fan of comic books (or the movies into which they’re made). True, they provide for exciting entertainment, but I’m not one to go out of my way to watch. I’ve never even seen an X-Men flick.

I had seen a preview for Iron Man several months ago on one DVD or another, and barely batted an eyelash. Truth be told, I’d never even heard of the Iron Man comics, and so knew nothing about the story or the characters (or even what the hell Iron Man’s deal was).

Photo: Paramount Pictures

Robert Downey Jr. stars at Tony Stark, a genius technology magnate with a penchant for women, alcohol and life in the fast lane (in one of his many fast Audis). He’s also the head of a massive weapons manufacturing corporation. After being wounded and captured in Afghanistan, Stark finds himself in a life or death situation while being faced with the reality his destructive weapons create.

Building a life-saving suit and a means of escape, Tony makes a decision to use his smarts for the good of humankind, all the while preventing his brilliant invention from falling into the wrong hands.

Photo: Paramount Pictures

Backed by a phenomenal cast including Terrence Howard, Gwyneth Paltrow and Jeff Bridges, this was a film that I actually enjoyed - quelle surprise! Iron Man is a superhero without any genuine superhero powers. It’s all in the suit (and maybe a little in his heart).

If this film is any indication of the summer film season to come, I think we’re all in for a couple months of great flicks. With Indiana Jones strapping his lasso back on next week and the fab four from Manhattan making their big screen debut the next, my Festival Cinemas membership card will be getting quite the workout.

On an unrelated note, there is next to no one in the office today, so my boss graciously and unexpectedly gave me the green light to bail after lunch. Being that my “island jitney” doesn’t depart until 4pm, I’ll take the extra time as an opportunity to enjoy my first light Mint Mocha Chip frappuccino of the summer with Becky in the sunshine.

Have a super long weekend, everyone!

Two weekends, two disappointments. The head cold from hell dropped it’s bomb on me Wednesday evening and fully exploded by last night. I woke up this morning feeling worse than I can remember, even after a 12-hour, Nyquil-induced sleep. That being said, I was unable to attend this year’s Northern Voice conference at UBC. I was really looking forward to meeting a lot of bloggers whom I’d only read or heard about, as well as picking up a few tricks of the trade for myself.

Photo: Buena Vista Motion Pictures Group, a division of Walt Disney Pictures Group

Instead, I occupied my day under covers with the likes of cowboys, cowgirls, suspected terrorists, AWOL U.S. Army officers and the like. I watched no less than Tombstone, The Quick and the Dead, Rendition and In the Valley of Elah. All fantastic movies featuring fantastic casts.

However, I’ve been known to have somewhat of a stellar immune system, so I have no doubt that I’ll be up and running again soon. Here’s hoping for NV09…

Yesterday afternoon I received a near-cruel e-mail both informing me that close to a foot of fresh powder had fallen on the slopes of Mt. Washington during the course of the day, and also wishing me to “have fun in the city.” I am quite sure the sentiments were shared with tongue planted firmly in cheek. I enjoyed the humour no less.

The truth is, my love for carving grows each time I am on the hill. Being that I live in downtown Vancouver, some may say that I’m nuts for crossing the Georgia Straight each time the desire to ride strikes and that I should simply cross the Burrard Inlet instead. However, I say they’re nuts because for me, it’s well worth the trip.

Photo: quaelin on Flickr

Need I say more?

Anyways, I’ve planned a solid handful of trips home over the remainder of the season to get in as much ride time as possible. That being said, my curiosity got the better of me so I checked in to see which events I could partake in.

Imagine stuffing 5, 6 or even 10 of these in your mouth? And keeping them down?

Since posting that photo on my Flickr site, a few of you have inquired about getting your hot little mitts on a BeaverTail of your own. Check out their website over here.

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On a final and unrelated note, if the mood for comedy strikes, I recommend renting ‘2 Days In Paris,’ a writing and directorial debut by Julie Delpy. It’s funny, smart, well-written and takes bits and pieces from her own life. The actors playing her parents in the film really are her parents. Adam Goldberg is comic gold.

I likey.

If you’ve been incessantly scratching your head, attempting to figure out ways in which you can incorporate a little bit more green living into your life, you may be interested in checking out The Green Living Show. From February 29 until March 2, more than 200 globe-friendly companies will be displaying their wares and ideas at BC Place Stadium. Dedicated to “information, innovation and inspiration,” the Green Living Show has a wealth of ideas and information for those who already live a wholly green lifestyle and those who are wondering where to begin.

Adult ticket prices are $10.50 online and $12.00 at the door. Please visit The Green Living Show’s website for more information on vendors, tickets, location, green tips and more.

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It seems that I’ve been watching a lot of classic British cinema lately, and I believe I’ve found a new love in doing so. Last week I finished the entirety of the BBC’s ‘Pride and Prejudice‘ from 1995 starring Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle. My first thought as the credits rolled was “forget ‘Dirty Dancing’ because this is my favourite new love story.” How I never saw it before this year is beyond me because it’s a fantastically acted movie that tells a smile-inducing story. The tension and chemistry between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett is perfection. That being said, I have no desire to see the recently released version starring quite possibly one of my least favourite actresses, mostly due to the fact that you can’t build on perfection, so the 2005 film would be nothing but a let-down.

Photo: BBC/Television Heaven

A few nights ago I began watching a BBC mini-series that was released in 1971, “Elizabeth R,” which chronicles the rise, rule and reign that Queen Elizabeth I held over England in the mid-1500s. In what is said to be the most accurate portrayal of England’s beloved Queen, the incomparable Glenda Jackson commands the audience to watch and be enamored.

What I love most about this film, besides the fascinating story, is the acting. By way of their exuberant motions and movements, it is rather obvious that the majority of those playing in the film are quality British stage actors who rely heavily on their bodies to convey their character. What is most brilliant about this is that they could all be performing this film on a sound stage in nothing more than jeans and t-shirts, free of props, and the film would still be just as engaging.

The winter brings about the most perfect weather for diving into cinematic classics, so I’d suggest tackling this one if you’re up to the task. Because let me tell you, those Brits are most certainly dedicated to their craft.

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The second Kokanee Day For Dudes of 2008 is happening this Friday at Mount Washington, which is reason enough for Becky and I to make the trek to Vancouver Island. For 59 bucks, men can ride, take a lesson and enjoy some apres good times in the lodge, sponsored by Kokanee. Did I mention you also get to oggle Becky and myself when you catch glimpses of us shredding up there?

Very recently, a (not to be named here) mens’ publication formulated a list of the most unattractive female celebrities, strictly in their opinion. I had heard about this through word of mouth and not by finding the list online. Instantly I stated that I didn’t want to know who had nabbed the number one spot though accidentally found out by reading entertainment headlines.

What I want to know is this: unattractive in comparison to what? In comparison to whom? What were these women being measured against? My guess would be impossibly high standards. The first thought I had was for those actually named in the list. As a celebrity, it seems most likely that shedding off negative press becomes second nature, but to me, this is over the line. How hurtful it must be to read such bullshit, knowing it’s bullshit, but also well aware that it takes a very direct and “purposeful” stab at you.

Was the point of this list pure entertainment? Probably. But in an age of media where 75% of what we read, hear and see is harmful, why create such moral destruction on purpose?

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Make room for one more on the greenwagon. November’s copy of Cosmo contains an entire section on “green” beauty products that make you simply smashing while doing their part at taking care of the environment.

One for getting top marks? Burt’s Bees consider themselves Earth Friendly Natural Personal Care for The Greater Good. Their line of total body care products for the entire family, largely comprised of organic ingredients, and environmentally-friendly business practices are “the DNA of Burt’s Bees.” And further to that, the company is committed to 100% natural product formulas in addition to 100% PCR/biodegradable packaging by the year 2020.

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Lastly, tomorrow sees the annual recurrence of Halloween. Not being much of one to celebrate, dress-up or get loser drunk this year, it’ll be like any other day for me. I do, however, tend to delight in movies designed to make me squirum. I considered posting my top ten frightening flicks but that’d just be superfluous. Quite obviously, if you haven’t seen The Shining, there’s no point in waiting any longer. Even to this day that is one movie I still cannot watch by myself.

Alternatively, if you’re simply looking to be grossed out, then grab my other all-time favourite, The Devil’s Rejects. Any of you who are regular readers of my blog know that this Rob Zombie-directed gore-o-rama gets a lot of praise from this girl. Why? Because if you can look past the content of this movie, there’s a lot of great acting, memorable lines and fantastic direction.

Because we all know I’m such a tease, I’ve included a clip of each.

Happy Hauntings…

The Shining (1980)

The Devil’s Rejects (2005)

Videoclips courtesy of YouTube

“I read somewhere how important it is in life not necessarily to be strong but to feel strong.” - Christopher Johnson McCandless

Over the last day or two, whenever I’ve made mention of the fact that I wanted to see Into the Wild, a handful of people have asked “have you read the book?” My answer? Nope. In fact, I never even knew that the movie was based on a book. When I first saw the trailer a few days ago, I was drawn by the fact that it seemed to be a story about one person who got away from everything to find themself. It seemed to be a story about one person in search of what truly matters in life. See for yourself…

What struck me most about the film is the very thing that drew me to it. It was an examination of the human condition in its many forms but centrally around one person. Being that I’ve been through a personal journey thus far on my own this year, it was a story I could easily relate to on several levels. I want people to see this film because I want people - every person - to carefully examine in their lives what is of value. It’s what I’ve been doing and it’s such a freeing feeling. I’m sitting here at 11:24 p.m. and still trying to absorb what the meaning behind this film evoked in me. It’s too late for me to form any thoughts more coherent than this so check Tribute’s website for showtimes and see this film for yourself.

Videoclip courtesy of Paramount Vantage on YouTube

I’m sitting here at my desk, drumming my unmanicured fingertips (yikes!) on my desktop and coming up completely dry with something to blog about. I’d like to think that the rain would somehow inspire me since I love the rain so much, but brace yourselves…you may very well get to the end of this post and be filled with such anger at me for completely wasting five minutes of your life.

Last night I got my hair cut. I decided to buck out all the layers and go blunt in an effort to grow my hair to mermaid proportions. The bangs need to catch up though.

Why the webcam photos lately, you ask? I’ve lost my camera. Maybe it was stolen - I have no idea. I had it last time I was home on the Island and now it’s magically disappeared. I’m not really so terribly upset because it was a total piece. Also, I’m keeping my fingers crossed that Santa will put a new Canon under the tree for me this year. If not, I’ll dry my tears and buy one anyways.

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Lately I’ve really been discovering my roots…er, rather Roots, that is. For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had a strong dislike for the blandness that’s been produced by that store. It was far too Canadiana after they sponsored the Canadian Olympic team, but over the last few weeks, I’ve been exposed to how fantastic it’s become. True outdoorsy clothes, super cute and uber soft sweaters, leg warmers (!!), girlie toques, cuddly scarves, sweet waffle weaves, furry collars and everything else that is actually just so very me in terms of style.

Another reason to love the beaver? Live Green. Not only are they offering fabrics made out of eco-friendly bamboo, but Roots is spreading the anti-global warming message through a series of t-shirts to support Environmental Defence Canada. If that’s not enough, a new initiative in greener shipping options is putting forth an effort to tackle climate change. To learn more about how Roots is working with ZeroFootprint, click here.

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The plan for tonight was to visit Fright Nights at the PNE. With the rain and cold, kicking frightening bad dudes in the shin was the last thing I felt like doing. I contemplated joining Becky, John and Duane at Fogg ‘N’ Sudds to watch the game, but not only am I not drinking for a long time after last weekend, tomorrow I’m doing the Gulu Walk with Chelsea. So what instead?

A trip to the Ridge Theatre at 16th and Arbutus with my friend Amy to see the Sean Penn-helmed Into the Wild. I really know nothing about it except that it looks like a fantastic, outdoorsy story with a moving message underneath. I’d rather re-cap it tomorrow instead of trying to tell you about it right now, so visit the website if you’re thirsty for more.

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And last, but certainly not least, let’s have an updated look at Mt. Washington’s 24/7 live webcam in an attempt to tease you all. Having a mom and aunt living 10 minutes from the chain-up area is oh-so-sweet…