Notes on good stuff

Yesterday, I *finally* saw the new quasi-independent movie “The Door in the Floor.” The film is based upon the first third of my favorite novel of all time, John Irving’s epic “A Widow for One Year”, which I have long claimed is the book that makes me want to write.

My review? Given that I haven’t read “Widow” in at least three or four years, I had forgotten enough of the details not to spend the entire time scrutinizing the film for accuracy. Probably a good thing. The mood of the movie was perfect, though; it was dark and somber and quiet. The music was grand and sweeping without being overbearing. The acting — wow! Jeff Bridges and Kim Basinger were perfect for their respective roles as Ted and Marion Cole; Eddie was also played very well. The ending of the movie — which had concerned me, since the scope of the movie is only a third of the actual story — was incredibly chilling, I thought; the last couple of minutes of film had no background music, and the first few minutes of credits also rolled without music. Talk about a haunting ending!

I didn’t cry at the movie. Sunday was a one of my “funk” days anyway, so I’ll admit that afterwards, I did get a little teary-eyed. Had Gary and Julie not rescued me by going to dinner (and, more importantly, giving me a chance to down a margarita, ole!), I shudder to think how my evening would have ended. But, it was a good day. Good night. Quiet, reflective, enjoyable.

If you’ll indulge me on a little vague tangent, I recognize not everyone reading this knows me well, or is involved in my life to the point of knowing what’s going on day to day. However, I believe in giving credit where it’s due, and to that end, I just want to say a little public thank-you to Julie. I’ve not had lots of close female friends over the years, and having that experience with someone like Julie has been one of my life’s great blessings. Her heart is pure gold, and her spirit tremendous. I don’t even have to say anything or do anything, yet she seems to intuit what’s going on in my head. I’ve always believed you know you’ve found a good friend when you can’t figure out what bizarre stroke of luck brought that person into your life, and heaven knows that’s how I feel about having met her. So everyone, please, raise a glass to one Julie Suits, someone who’s inspired me and made me laugh in a way few people do! 🙂

OK. {/tangent}

I’d also like to mention that the musical “Big River” on Saturday night, which I saw with my oldest friend, Erbey (aka “Herb”) and fellow YAPper TJ, was *OUTSTANDING*. The music was really what made the show, IMO. I ordered the cast recording, and cannot wait to listen! I highly recommend going if you ever have the chance to see it.