Chance's Corner: Movie Time at the Library (March)

Did you miss the chance to enjoy a movie at the library? Sad! Here's what you missed:
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Moana

Moana is a very cute film that follows the classic Disney formula we all know and love. The visuals are gorgeous and the story has heart. Choosing the scatter-brained rooster, Hei Hei, as Moana's sidekick over the absolutely adorable and competent pig, Pua, is the only real surprise here.

Despite my overall good impression, one question lingers: What has happened to the Disney musical? Out of the ten or so songs in Moana there were only two standouts - "How Far I'll Go" and "Shiny". I'm not just picking on Moana here. Frozen tossed songs out like candy, and only two were standouts, as well - "Do You Want to Build a Snowman" and the dead horse "Let It Go". I think Disney needs to focus on cultivating great, catchy songs to sprinkle throughout their future endeavors instead of pushing just one really bankable song, and I know they can do it!

Jackie

Jackie is a study of grief, or more precisely, the feeling of grief. I mean, director Pablo Larraín really wants you to feel it. The cinematography is steeped in cold, somber tones. The reds and pinks of Jacqueline Kennedy's dresses almost come out looking pale. It looks like the film was shot entirely through an ice cube. Natalie Portman's performance is also rather cold, but that's perfectly in-line with Jackie's shell-shock. I don't think Jackie would have been half as interesting if Natalie wasn't involved. She practically nails Jackie's signature, elegant voice, but there were a few points where I felt she was slipping more into Marilyn Monroe territory.

My key problem with Jackie was the lack of a real story - the lack of depth. Yes, the story is that Jackie's in mourning, but we only scratch the surface of those feelings. What's her story? Who is the real Jackie other than the queen of Camelot? No answer is provided, and she seems to be more elusive than ever.

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If either one of these films sounds like something you'd be interested in seeing, then you're in luck! Both films are now available at the Franklin County Library. Also, don't forget to join us every last Thursday and Friday of the month at 1:30 PM to get in on the movie fun!