BLOG: After Uni Work Dies Down

Hey all,

Thought's I'd just let you know that I'm looking forward to sharing new things with you all! After the four months summer break, where I was constantly watching and reviewing, I feel like I've been so distanced from you all - no fear! it's only for a little while longer.

I want to give a big shout out and thank you to EVENT CINEMAS who have decided to use my blog for their social network pages (twitter and facebook) for others to read my stuff and to see if they want to see a particular film.

I'm just blogging to let you know that there is a great line up of things that I want to talk to you guys after student life becomes less assessment based:

1. The rise of teeny-bopper songs - Rebecca Black
2. Movies - Suckerpunch hopefully Limitless
3. TV - Glee

But my next blog will be about a good cause called "Eyes Alight". I give a brief summary of the appeal at this link: http://stricklyleisure.tumblr.com/post/4001436052/mcflydares-no-im-not-just-talking-about, to checkout more just click the photograph. I "interview" one of the founders of McFlyDARES and talk about what they're doing to support the cause.

Thanks so much for understanding guys I am now also on:

TWITTER: http://twitter.com/stricklyLeisure

TUMBLR: http://stricklyleisure.tumblr.com/

Pre-warning, majority of the stuff I tweet and tumble about is McFly, but don't worry they're just a little glimpse of my private life - a very narrow depiction of "the real me". LOL.

Hope you're having a great day!

sL

FILM: The Adjustment Bureau

The Adjustment Bureau

Have you ever wanted to have a glimpse of how your life would pan out? What you would be doing in two weeks? Six months? Ten Years? What if you woke up one day and Chance decided that it was going to mess around with you and give you something of the future and then take it away from you the very next minute?

Well, that’s what David Norris (Matt Damon – The Bourne Trilogy) experienced the day he lost his opportunity to sit for Senate. After a double encounter with the mysterious Elise (Emily Blunt – The Devil Wears Prada), David’s life-plan is twisted and he is no longer going the way they want it to go.

They are The Adjustment Bureau. Headed by an unknown Chairman, they help make sure that the human population is in-line with every single detail that the Chairman has mapped out for them – but apparently even they make mistakes.

***

The Story

Based on the short story, “Adjustment Team” by Philip K. Dick, The Adjustment Bureau incorporates the concept of a team that follows direct plans for a certain human being in order for that certain person’s life to run smoothly. I commend George Nolfi for his amazing screenplay adaptation and his directorial efforts, because they truly paid off. I was at the edge of my seat from middle to end, and was continually asking myself questions from the very beginning.

If you’re like me and you watch movies based on their trailers and IMDb synopsises, then you know what it’s like to have a glimpse of what you’re about to see. I wanted to see this film because from the outset because I thought the idea of having the plan for your life laid out for you in “black and white” (as John Slattery – Jack and Bobby, says) and you realising that you actually don’t actually have ‘freewill’ but an “illusion of freewill” (Terence Stamp – Valkyrie) is a deeply nullifying concept.

Imagine it, you go through life and you make decisions, but in reality, those decisions have ALREADY been made FOR you. We often think about things like ‘guardian angels’ or a ‘higher power’, and what is so great about this film is, it takes what we are familiar with an questions its validity by asking, “What if…?”. Like:

• What if…“God’s plan” for our lives is really a series of decisions that He has already made for us?
• What if…the choices we make – good and bad – are always right and never wrong, because, frankly, they’re all part of a plan.
• What if…we do void from the plan? – Can’t they just ‘adjust’ it?

Of course there are flaws in a storyline that prods such questions, but it doesn’t mean that it’s a ‘bad’ or ‘controversial’ idea. It just means someone wanted to imagine a world that could be explained with a series of books of lives rather than a single book of life.

Casting

Cathy Sandrich deserves our applause for her amazing contribution to this film. Not only did Matt Damon and Emily Blunt have incredible chemistry from beginning to end. They also complimented each other so well through their counter balance of screen presence: Damon never over shadowed her and she never overshadowed him when it came to the limelight. The dynamics between John Slattery, Terence Stamp and Anthony Mackie as main three Adjustment Bureaucrats were so well played out that you really had strong feelings as a viewer towards each of them – Slattery: you could hate him, but also understand him; Stamp: you just really wanted him to go away because he was just really mean; and Mackie: you wanted to hug this guy! From the very beginning, these characters were just so well set up that you understood who you would hate and love because these actors never fully overshadow each other. And they’re not supposed to: David and Elise are “enough” for one another, hence their incredible balance of character and presence and The Adjustment Bureau is a team, so why would one of them topple over one another for the limelight? - One man’s mistake is an entire team’s fallout.

Cinematography and Costuming

I have to commend the entire Camera and Electrical Department for their amazing use of camera work and lighting. With a film like this it was important to get the angles and the lighting correct to create that scenic aesthetic of someone always watching. I will also applaud, Richard M. Batholomay, Chris Burns, Jeff Caron, Shane Haden, Daniel Pollack, Cesar Quinones and David Valesco for their amazing choice in the locations for this film. It has the greatest building interiors and New Your locations that complemented the story. The opening shots where Matt Damon is all alone in these mass hallways and rooms were just beautiful and really set up his character profile. But what I loved the most was when they (Damon and Blunt) were together at the Statue of LIBERTY – call it cliché if you want, but I thought it was just brilliant! Why wouldn’t you shoot a film about a man trying to live by his own choices and his own plans in life in a city with such a significantly historical landmark?

I’m only mentioning costuming here because it’s truly significant to the film. The fedoras that the Bureaucrats wore were absolutely CRUCIAL to this film – but I won’t tell you why they need them so badly. They’re crucial character-wise because they define these men. An item, which is so common, becomes also definitive for David in order for him to differentiate the Bureaucrats from every other New Yorker - i.e. ANYONE could be one of them. But if I tell you anymore, I’ll spoil the film – but keep an ear out for the line, “Oh! Hat!” and keep it with you until the movie's about to end.

***

Overall thoughts…

I really enjoyed this film. I thought it mixture of action and romance resonated with that of a James Bond film or Die Hard film (not to a great degree, for Bond and Willis fans), but it did have the psychological twist to it to (not as much as Inception though). I will say that I thought the ending could’ve have been a little better. It was a little cliché for my liking, but at the same time I understood why it ended where it did (let me know if you disagree and why you liked it). But overall, I got my money’s worth and I would go see it again.

sL Star Rating: 4 Stars (It lost the other star for the ending.)

Next on sL: TBA (Uni workload is getting really heavy :D).

NEW ALBUM: McFly - Above The Noise

The first thing I want to say is that after seven year of being on the scene, McFly have re-invented music to create the sub-genres and enhance existing genres. Since releasing their new Super City website last October (2010), the boys have also released a new album packed with 11 BRAND NEW songs.

Above The Noise, McFly (2010)

End of the World

The first track of the album must always want the listener to keep listening. What End of the World does is set up a theme for the rest of the album (super heroes with women as their kryptonite). What I didn’t mention in my review for the Super City site was that the format of the site was suppose to look like a comic book, hence ‘Super’ city. This album brilliantly supports the site with opening with this song.

Party Girl

So practically, for those of you who haven’t seen this first single for the album then you wouldn’t know that this was the promotion song/video for their McFly’s mini-movie, “Nowhere Left To Run”. The song practically talks about a vampiric beauty who captivates men and turns them into vampires too – although the video has Harry being this ‘vampiric beauty’, the song is about a Party Girl.

If You See Kate

For those of you who own this album, you know the hidden message in the name, but unlike Speak Now, I’m not going to spell it out. My apologies to my readers who are offended that I even mention this song – but regardless of the title, I have to unfortunately say that its one of my favourite song on the album. Believe it or not, I (emphasis on the ‘I’, because other have disagreed with me) think that the title of the song has really nothing to do with what the title implies. For me, it the typical ‘teaser’ leading on another guy – simple and relatable, we all know at least one person that’s like that. I suppose the only real reason that I like this song is because I have a few ideas on the video clip for this song – but that’s another blog all together. :P

Shine A Light

Single numero dos! I will have to day this is one of the BEST song that McFly have ever written. Alongside them on the writing pad is Taio Cruz, who features in this song, and they’re balance is absolutely perfect! When I first hear this song I was like, “Oh-my-goodness! They’ve still got me hooked to their music! I love this song so much that whenever I drive and this dong comes on, my dad has to remind me that the green light means I can “GO”. Actually, My sister and I love this song so much, MY DAD knows this song from start to finish and even taught me how to play it on the guitar! LOL.

I'll Be Your Man

For all you Tom Fletcher fans this is the song that you will adore for the rest of your life! For all you hopeless romantics, this is a song that will make you swoon and maybe even cry. For all you guys out there who don’t know how to spontaneously surprise your girlfriends – this is the song you will win them over with!!! I am telling you, Tom’s voice and the melody to this song is perfect for those slow dances, candle-lit dinners and other romantic gestures.

Nowhere Left To Run (Also the name of their mini-movie)

Composed by Taio Cruz, this song continues that superhero theme and keeps you on the dance floor. To be honest, I use this song when I’m running laps around my backyard – yes, I exercise to McFly, sue me. :P But it’s just one of those songs you have to move to and you want to sing along to – but I think it’s best in a club with a DJ occasionally mixing it for effects.

I Need A Woman

For those “Flones” (Tom and Danny) fans out there who are part of the female population of this world then this is the song you want to say, “YOU NEED ME!” This is one of my favourite songs on the album, but whenever I sing it, my parents tell me off – Mum: “It’s a man’s song! You’re a girl!” and Dad: “Listen to the words – it’s not a good song.” You really can’t win parents can you? (Love you Ma and Pa! :D)

That's The Truth

Between, Shine a Light and this song, I’m not too sure which one is my favourite song! I love this song because it’s got a great balance of everything – lyrics, music, structure and the incredible voice of Tom and Danny – as well as an incredibly relatable storyline for those who have been accused of something they haven’t don’t in a relationship. But I will say, it does remind me N*Sync’s Bye, Bye, Bye – but the video clip is amazing! Kudos to Mr. Poynter for his acting abilities.

Take Me There

This is one of love-dovey songs that talk about “going all the way” – if you catch my drift. Regardless of the message, this song has great guitar riffs and a great dance feel. It’s not that I don’t like this song, it’s just overshadowed by the previous song and that’s the truth. (Yes, I did just do that.)

This Song

This is an ODD song. Sadly enough though, I actually like it! I picture it be one of those songs that you drive home to after a long day’s work and it just calm you down – I actually fall asleep to this song because it’s so soothing. I’m pretty sure there are other connotations in this song too, but the majority of it just talks about the everyday and spending it with someone really special to you.

Foolish

I love this song, basically because it keeps me thinking every time I listen to it; sometimes I think he wanted her to leave then other times I think no he didn’t. It’s one of those songs that talk about losing someone and so as a result you also lose a bit of yourself. Ideally the foolishness of letting someone very important go - it’s a great song.

So that’s Above the Noise in a nutshell, I hope I did the boys proud. I just wanted to mention that this is the last blog post I will be doing until my university break, I’m actually about to end my first week back, so I was glad to end it with McFly, if I get time, I might post something small for you guys – we’ll see.

sL Star Rating: 4.5 Stars (the other 0.5 was lost in their connotative lyrics – sorry boys).

Next on sL: TBA

BOOK REVIEW: I Am Number Four

I AM NUMBER FOUR by Pittacus Lore

If you've never considered aliens inhibiting the human form and walking amongst us, then you haven't been paying attention lately. Ever thought there was something strange about a friend of yours lately? Or the new person that just walked into your classroom? Or the guy who moved into the empty house just across the street?

John Smith has been running all his life, maybe you know him? Anyway, running and now he's got nowhere left to run. The others are after him; he's next in line. His senses are in overdrive and he can't take the tension any longer.

But he's not your ordinary runaway, actually his not even a thug, he's a 16 year-old alien on the verge of death because he is in the way of earth's Armageddon. They've murdered three of his kind already, but the Mogodorians won't stop until ALL nine of them are dead.

The only thing saving the rest of them is for John to stay alive. It's a count down, and HE IS NUMBER FOUR.

***

I Am Number Four as a novel has a great portrayal of what it means to be an alien on the run. I love the fact that in this story they're NOT abducting people, nor are they leaving traces of themselves on crop fields. It put Twilight to shame in the sense of abnormal people trying to be normal. John is a believable character, with real feelings and understandable fears. Number Four and the rest of the Lorien pack are today's contemporary Superman, Wonder Woman and Spiderman – seemingly ordinary people with extraordinary powers because of a twisted hand of fate or because they come from a different planet.

Like I previous wrote about the film adaptation of this book, the parallels between page-to-screen are accurate and you can't separate the two. But I maintain my recommendation of reading the book before the film, that way you understand the film a little better. It’s a little harder to differentiate the film from the book if you read it afterwards. What I did wish the movie had was a little more of the action described in the book. I wish the ending of the book was used for the film, as well as the training process that Number Four goes through in the book. That way he didn't look like he was just this super-being, but rather he was a teenager in preparation for the real fight. I did prefer Number Six in the film to that of the book. She was a little more independent, which made the fact that she's been without her Cepan (guardian) for over a year. Sam, Mark and Sarah are all identical to their characters on screen, so they've really hit the mark on those characters. Henri on the other hand is much more of a father figure in the book rather than the film, but otherwise, the re-write was not too far off. Overall the book was a great and an easy read.

I do apologise for the late review, but I have been busy with my video blogging on the MCFLY SUPER CITY website. It was a lot of fun to do and I hope you guys have a look. For those of you who would like to visit the site and have a look its: supercity.mcfly.com. Feel free to browse get a feel of what I talk about. 

OH! Almost forgot...

sL Star Rating:

1. I AM NUMBER FOUR: 4 Stars
2. McFly SUPER CITY: 4.5 Stars

Next on sL: McFly - Above the Noise

FILM: I Am Number Four

I AM NUMBER FOUR staring: Alex Pettyfer, Diana Argon, Timothy Olyphant, Callan McAuliffe and Teresa Palmer.

Ever though aliens existed, only, they lived light-years away or you believe you've been abducted by them, because there's a moment in your life that you just can't recall or, they're so close, that they could be the boy or girl sitting next to you right now.

Well, if you're sitting next to a "John Smith" and he's new to your school as of - well today, then your alien experience may just be heightened to new level. He may look human, sound human and even smell human, but he's not.

Actually, he's from the planet Lorien - one of the planets in the nearest galaxy to that of the Milky Way. If he looks like he's hiding or avoiding you, he is. He doesn't want to be found. A precaution - don't take photos of him (these photos won't last), don't take videos of him (their memories worth forgetting) and don't talk to him (it may come at your own cost).

Number One was killed in Malaysia.

Number Two was murdered in England.

Number Three was hunted down in Kenya.

I am number FOUR.

***

The Story

Based on the novel written by "Pittacus Lore" (aka. Jobie Hughes and James Frey), I Am Number Four takes the theories behind other life-forms in other galaxies to a whole new level. Seeing as its producer is Michael Bay (director of the Transformers Saga), it's not inevitable to have such a well adapted film from the pages of one of New York Time's best sellers.

Alien life forms settling on Earth to preserve their race, trying to runaway from another alien race who destroyed their planet is not an uncommon story-line. What drew me to this movie though, is that fact that all the nine aliens (not counting their 'Keepers') from the planet Lorien are all connected by charms that are covered by enchantment that cannot allow them to be killed out of their numerical order. In both the book and the film, we never see Numbers One and Two, but we do see (and read about) the murder of Number Three. It is this close countdown that makes this film different to other 'extraterrestrial films'. What makes this film as thrilling as it is, is the fact that you never know what to expect. Characters are not what they seem and situations are not what you hope for.

I'm currently half-way through the novel and the parallels are fantastic - granted their are more explanations in the novel than the movie, but the changes are necessary. What Alfred Gough, Miles Miller and Marti Noxon have done is simply taken the book and traced out the story and outlines what could be translated into the screen. Things like: running away, legacy formations, high school life vs. alien life and even love. Too be honest I though the film focused a lot on the relationship between Sarah (Argon)and John (aka. Number Four) but only when I started reading the book did I realise how important their relationship really is - but I won't tell you, because that would just spoil both the film and the novel for you.

Before you do see the film, I recommend reading the book, that way you get a gist of what to expect in terms of missing information about Lorien, Legacies and the difference between Henri (Olyphant) and Four (Pettyfer). Reading the book after the film is not too bad either, like I said, the parallels are fantastic that no matter which order you go (book then film or film than book), you get the full picture and satisfaction of I Am Number Four. Otherwise, if you're not a reader, all i can say is: this film is jam-packed with action, romance and almost believable alien powers that you would wish you inherited after puberty.

Casting

Deborah Aquila and Mary Tricia Wood receive TWO THUMB UP from me. Besides the occasional accent falter from rising British star, Alex Pettyfer (Stormbreaker andWild Child), he did an incredible job in bringing this character to life. Pettyfer's incredible looks are overshowed by his incredible talent in bringing this character to life. He was able to portray a confident, yet vulnerable teenage alien trying to fit in. One of my favourite scenes would have to be when he's having dinner with the Harts. In this scene Pettyfer really brings out the longing that John/Number four has to be 'normal' and to really 'blend in' here on Earth. Pettyfer has the ability to speak with expression rather than with wordsm which is important in a film like where there's far more meed for action than words.

Supporting Alex, is Timothy Olyphant (Meet Bill) who plays Henri, another 'Loric' from Lorien. Henri is essentially John's 'Keeper' or guardian here on Earth. Olyphant's character delivers much of the comic relief in this film. He seems to have all the one liners that got the entire cinema laughing. But in the serious moments, Olyphant was able to bring out that father-like figure that John needed during the times he chose to be careless. Glee's Diana Argon never fails to deliver when it comes to beautiful ex-head cheerleader roles. Argon shows that she's more than a show-tune queen by taking on a role of a small town girl with dreams of going beyond the borders of Paradise, Ohio. She really inhabits the character by being down to earth and natural in her acting styles - a big difference to her fierce, full-of-attitude character, Quinn. She's actually likable in this film. (:P)

The big hits for me are Aussie actors Callan McAuliffe (Packed to the Rafters) and Teresa Palmer (December Boys). McAuliffe plays Sam, John's only friend, who is a Type-A nerd and typically "at-the-bottom-of-the-food-chain" in high school character. Sam and John's friendship is vital to the story due to Sam's father's theories about the Loric race here on earth, along with the Mogodorian (aliens from Mogodore - the 'evil' race) who have come for them. McAuliffe, much like Olyphant, carries one-liners that had the cinema laughing out loud. Not only that, but he also made his character believable whenever he was picked on - you were moved to really feel sympathetic towards him. He played well against Pettyfer, but in saying that, he was able to hold the American accent much better. Palmer sticks to her Aussie accent as she puts Megan Fox to shame with her role as "Number Six". Angelina Jolie should be scared, because Palmer did an incredible job with the stunts and gun-action that she did in this film. You were forced to join Pettyfer when he asks, "Any other Legacies I should know about?" She did an incredible job - I can't wait for, "The Power of Six" to see her to shine.

Cinematography, Special Effects and Music

Without a doubt, this film had one of the best camera work (although I wish I could say the same with the guys operating the projector when I went to see this film - one scene I was forced to simply assume that the head were cut off!). The mise en scene towards the end of the film really gave that 'breath taking' effect when you realise the war has just begun (and then you smile at the thought of a sequel!). The music in this film was great, particularly during the Haunted Hay Ride scene. The music complemented the sene so well that I was literally screaming! The special effects in terms of the Legacies (their powers) were well done and were very believable - especially whenever Six became invisible! But my disappointment is in the rope work. Whenever either Pettyfer or Palmer were suppose to use their ability to defy gravity, the rope work was just too obvious - they may want to perfect what for the next film. Other wise this film was great!

Alyssa's Thoughts...

Alyssa and Moi

I took my friend Alyssa with me to the preview screen at Event Cinemas, and she had a few things to say about the film:

"It was such a great watch! This movie is one I would go back and watch over and over again. Of course Alex Pettyfer is a very good looking boy to look at, but other than that it was a mix of fast paced action, romance and...action and more action! Oh! I forgot to mention suspenseful. You'll be laughing in parts of the movie. It is definitely a must see movie so...

GO WATCH! BE AMAZED! AND ENJOY!" Alyssa's rating: 5 Stars

An I completely agree:

sL Star rating: 5 stars.

Like we keep saying, "Go see it!"

Next on sL: Where the story began, "I AM NUMBER FOUR" the book.

FILM: Black Swan

Black Swan starring: Natalie Portman.

WARNING: This film is rated MA15+
It has has: Explicit Sex Scenes, Images of Self-Harm and Psychological Themes. Viewer discretion is advised.

***

All Nina Sayers wanted was a chance to show the world that she was the next prima ballerina, but she's all techniques and no heart when she dances. But, she is given the chance to prove everyone wrong - the lead in the dual role in the famous ballet, Swan Lake.

Thrilled with the opportunity, Nina has always been the perfect choice for Odette (the White Swan), but in her endeavour to be the perfect dancer, she is ironically ill-equipped to dance the part of Odile (the Black Swan).

In order to prove her director, Thomas Leroy (Vincent Cassel), that she is capable of playing both roles, Nina must experience what it means to inhabit the role. But in her path the of character-discovery, competition (Mila Kunis) becomes fierce and suddenly everything she's worked for and everything she was, crumbles. If there was a ever a moment in her life where she felt like Odette, it's in the moment where she fights her inner Odile.

***

The Story

I was bewildered by this psychological thriller. Putting my Christian beliefs to the foreground, I will talk about the story by momentarily ignoring the sexual scenes and themes. The story as plain to see is very simple: a talented girl with a dream is given the opportunity to live out that dream, but in doing so, makes personal sacrifices and mistakes that are impossible to take back. Simply stated, it's your typical tragedy. The added element of psychological unrest only adds the thrilling aspect of Nina's pursuit towards perfection. In a psychotic mindset EVERYONE is the competition, everyone is out to get you and in a world where opportunities come and go, the pressure is twice as much, hence even the competition being the person in the mirror.

Overall writers, Mark Heyman, John McLaughlin and especially Andres Heinz should be pleased with the overall story.

Cast

Mary Vernieu did a brilliant job in terms of casting. Natalie Portman was a brilliant choice, she delivered a believable portrayal of a tortured soul. Kudos to her excellent ballet work (yes, guys she trained for a year to get those feet moving!) and her amazing duality when it came for her characters to play both swans. Mila Kunis should not be left unmentioned due to her excellent work in supporting and playing the devious character, Lily. She did well in playing the complete opposite, and therefore the better choice for Odile - not to mention the fact the she was able to portray a character that really got into Nina's head. Vincent Cassel was a brilliant supporting actor too. His ability to place onto the screen what it means to have a relationship that is completely professional and yet at the same time completely sensual was a brilliant and stomach turning (which I think is the point). But you can't go past the small supporting roles of Barbara Hershey and Winona Ryder. Hershey playing the role of Erica, Nina's mother, was both believable and irritatingly accurate of a concern mother for her daughter. Ryder portrays a washed up prima ballerina that plays a big role in teasing Nina's mental breakdown.

Cinematography and Music

The camera angles and transitions within this film is absolutely brilliant. They aided Nina's mental creations when her mind slowly destroys her identity of being her mother's, "Sweet girl." Obviously in this film the music is everything, not just which songs are chosen to define the swans, but also the moments which Nina is both just Nina or Odile-Nina. The camera work, editing and music all complemented each other well and made this film a wonderful thrill.

***

Nevertheless...

I was horrified by the idea that in order for her to inhabit the role of Odile she had to morally and physically defile herself. Keeping in mind that this is a MA15+ film, I still stand by the fact that Nina didn't need to seduce herself in her imaginations in order to fulfill a role that is not as dark as one would have you believe. Although, I do understand that this movie is called Black Swan - obviously meaning that Nina is consumed by her inner Odile (which is beautifully displayed in the scene where she is seemingly fighting with Lily, only to find out that she is only fighting with herself), I believe that in the world of art, it must be remembered that even though there is a fine line between artistic and graphic if there is a need for the two world to ever combine, people are not paying for porn! They're paying for quality and excellence. Which this movie had, if it did not allow it's own Odile consume it's storyline.

sL Star Rating: 5 stars for the basic story-line and 2.5 stars for the overall film.

Next on sL: Preview Screening Experience: I AM NUMBER FOUR

TELEVISION SHOWS: Jack and Bobby

(Previously on air in: 2004-2005)

Starring: Christine Lahti, Matt Long, Logan Lerman, Jessica Pare and John Slattery

It's 2005, Jack (Long) and Bobby (Lerman) McCallister are gearing for their new year in high school. Jack's a track star and Bobby's an eager eighth grader trying to gain members for space club. In the McCallister household it about pushing yourself - or in Grace McCallister's (Lahti) case, it's about being better than the rest. Although she can keep her own house old in order (most of the time), work is a whole different story.

As an democratic activist and a feminist, Grace likes to express her mind in a very vocal manner - especially when it comes to changes in her previously perfect work space. When Peter Benedict (Slattery) and his family move into town to take the President role in the university, Grace is hysteric. His changes are absolutely "unethical", in other words, "He's a money grabbing whore."

Though the Benedicts' presence at the university is not welcomed by the great Grace McCallister, her son Jack has other plans. The aim was simple: talk to her. Courtney Benedict (Pare) was a block of ice before Jack made his move (with unwanted help from Bobby). But things stay on "friendship mode" until Courtney finds her feet in her new town and her new companionship, much like Bobby's experience with high school.

Bobby finds that ending middle school and entering high school is not an easy transition. You have to go through so many initiations where the ultimate goal is to become "cool". Meaning: smoking, holding awesome parties and getting a girlfriend - that's a lot of pressure for a fourteen year old.

But this show is not only about high school and mum's bad day/s at work. Jack and Bobby is the story behind modern day (i.e. 2041) President Robert McCallister - 36 years after these experiences.

***

This is a really good show. And no I don't mean that because it has Bradley Cooper in it (although I will admit that it is an added bonus). No, it's a great show because it combines politics with reality. What I mean is, it's a great balance of "mock-documentary" and classic television dramas - but it is of course a drama series. I tip my hat off to the screen writers, Steven A. Cohen, Erik Oleson, Barbie Kligman, Brad Meltzer, Greg Berlanti and Vanessa Taylor. I also clap my hands in order the give to the directors, David Petrarca, Perry Lang, Michael Schultz, Peter Markle and David Nutter, a standing ovation. Without these people Jack and Bobby would not have brilliantly displyed the delicate balance between past, present and future.

In terms of casting, Liz Dean did an incredible job. Christine Lahti does is a a brilliant job playing a marijuana addicted University professor, with a lie that hovers over her home. Lahti brings that intellectual bite into her character, but beautifully "tones-down" her character with a mother's touch. Her performance showed the hardship of what it means to be a single mother and a successful woman as well. John Slattery supports Lahti in his counter role of a successful single father of two girls. Dealing with the death of his wife, Peter buries his feelings along with his wife. Slattery understands his character well as he portrays Peter as a confident President on the outside, but a tortured widow on the inside. Jessica Pare is the beautiful ice-queen, Courtney. Pare plays against her male counter part, Matt Long, brilliantly in her display of both iciness and later, a thawed loving heart. She encapsulated the difficulty of being a teenager and a mother-sister persona well through her beautiful balance of maturity and "child-likeness".

But the show hangs on the success of those who play Jack and Bobby.

Matt Long's scree presence displays a clear understanding of his character. Jack is a popular jock who is beloved by his friends, but at home his a brother as well as a father-figure. Long gives Jack an enigmatic quality that allows viewers to identify with and empathise with Jack. One particular feature that Long has is the ability to speak with his facial expressions rather with the dialogue written. In saying that though, he's not afraid to push the boundaries when it comes to heated moments between Grace and Jack, almost to the point where you forget that he's the child and she's the adult. Kudos to Mr. Long, he really knows how to deliver a believable performance.

Logan Lerman on the other hand beautifully plays out the awkwardness of 14-year-old Bobby. Bobby is Grace's crowning glory, groomed to be different and to be the best intellectually, he is that easily manipulated child that needs to get out of mum's arms and into reality. Lerman perfectly adds mannerisms, such as occasional stuttering and an over-the-top grin to Bobby. I love it when Jack says, "You get too excited about things," because it completely describes Lerman's portrayal of Bobby. Lerman is not afraid to add that flavour of annoyance into the scene or innocence either. Since he was only 13 when he shot these series, Lerman understood Bobby's struggles at school, but even he, like Long, wasn't afraid to push it when it came to heated moments with whomsoever. My applause to Mr. Lerman for creating a lovable and resonating character.

Overall, it was an excellent television series that gripped the heart and added a great outlook on the initial journey of a man who goes from the ordinary to the Presidency.

Token Line: "'Cause you're my littler brother. No matter how big you get, you'll always be smaller than me."

sL Star Rating: 5 Stars

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