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commandamanda
I like to follow actors in their careers. I enjoy conversations about Method. I prefer live theatre and like to get spat on by sitting in the front rows. I was first spat upon by David Bowie. I know, that's sick, but theatre buffs will tell you, it's tradition. GO GET SPAT ON!
Reviews
Song of Hiawatha (1997)
Wonderful Retelling of The Legend
Lite Foot does a wonderful job as Hiawatha and Adam Beach is amusing as Chibiabos. Both show that they are capable of far more than this legend, however, it should not be taken lightly. This film was both beautiful and carefully filmed. None of it appears childish, as one might think upon stumbling over it during regular daytime TV. Rather, it is a humbling tale of suffering and searching for the salvation of the Indian Nation. It is well acted and well outfitted. I was troubled at first by the use of so many differing Indians from so many tribes; this would only occur to someone who can trace tribal characteristics. It's a heck of a lot better than allowing Whites to play Indians. In fact, it's so chock-a-block full of talented people that you can't tear your eyes from it. I too, was at first a little troubled by the lack of woodland costuming, but this would have been expensive and time-consuming to create. Woodland Flower beading and designs are intricate and lovely, but they were not missed after a few minutes of viewing. The splendid acting grabs a hold of you. I enjoyed it immensely. Recommended- however, there is some violence which my not be appropriate for viewers under 10 or 12 years of age. Adults may want to explain some of the ritual and religious implications with their children after viewing.
Bonanza: Gift of Water (1962)
"The Gift of Water" a great gift for StarTrek Original Series Fans
You'd be remiss if you're a Star Trek OS fan and haven't seen this episode! I just saw it due to a TVLand Special, and it was delightful. The first surprise is guest star Majel Roddenberry! She's tough to pick out at first, but the moment she speaks her first line, you'll know it's her. Sporting a tan and light brown hair, she looks quite different from "Number One" and "Nurse Chapel". As the steadfast wife of a lowland rancher she's prettier than ever, in a plains woman-like way. The plot centers around the need for water- ranchers in the lowlands were suffering from a drought, and sought to settle the highlands (of which Ponderosa is a part). Hoss heard the plight of one of the ranchers and got the idea to help the rancher and his family to drill for the well instead of digging it. While drilling, more of the lowland ranchers passed through - and this is the second surprise - one of them is Jimmy Doohan! His accent was undefinable - at times it was semi-Scottish, and other times, just plainly clear-speak. He's robust, though, and seeing him on horseback is a wonder to behold. Despite the grim plot line, plenty of comedy is added to this tale - enough to make me laugh out loud, including some of that Hoss/Little Joe horsing around stuff. Jovial as it was- the plot did carry a moral. "Help thy neighbor" was the gist, and it was well demonstrated. A choice episode all around.
Mind Meld: Secrets Behind the Voyage of a Lifetime (2001)
Interesting, and much too short.
I found "Mind Meld" to be interesting from a Trekker's perspective, as well as possibly from an actor's. The differences between Nimoy's and Shatner's version of craft is explained in detail, offering insights into why the two are friends. Like salt and pepper, they go together - but play off each other. I found some of Shatner's stories to be redundant with those he's told before. He's hesitant, excited, even nervous. Nimoy, on the other hand, told his old stories with such fluidity and vigor that it was a pleasure to watch him. Many secrets are revealed here, especially about Nimoy's life and struggles. Somehow though - I wanted to hear more about the little things. What ticked them off about life on the set? The food? The tricks? These were all left behind in a cloud of private battles. Graphics interrupt what could have been a continual conversation, dividing it up into subjects. I didn't enjoy that. But watching Nimoy deep in thought, sitting on the edge of his seat, finishing Shatner's sentences for him was incredible. One suddenly had the understanding of how they functioned on the set together on a day to day basis. Best up is that of the conversation inside Nimoy's ground-floor office. Look for it. Not really a must-have for Trekkers, but enjoyable and too short. Try it.