Tom and I went and saw Woody Allen's MIDNIGHT IN PARIS and were enthralled with--Paris.Allen gives us a gift in the opening minutes by shooting gorgeous vignettes of the city, its cafes, parks, museums, the river, bridges, et.al. By the time the story actually begins, we feel like we've been shot with ecstasy. (Actually, I don't think you shoot up ecstasy; I think it's a pill. In any case, it's a poor simile). You get my drift: Paris is sublime.
The theme is about the illusion that life is better and more satisfying at an earlier time. For Gil, (Owen Wilson), it's Paris in the twenties. For Adriana, (Marion Cotillard), it's the late 19th century.
I prefer (like Woody Allen) to live in a time when antibiotics, antidepressants and antioxidents have been discovered. When all is said and done, I love the comforts of hot water on demand, central heating and air conditioning, vending machines and Netflix streaming. I'll take the knocks of the 21st century.
My illusion has always been that life is better in other places than where I happen to be living. I like to try on different places like clothes.
But wherever you go, there you are.
So better get comfortable with yourself.
I know I do have to live in cities. Right in the city. With lots of light. With a view. And lots of activity. Cities are my bliss.
What's your bliss?
If you ever go to Paris, B and I recommend a lovely little studio just across the bridge from the Cathedral where you would enjoy staying.
ReplyDeleteI grew up in rural Saskatchewan so my bliss has always been the city - the bigger, noisier, more diverse the better.
I looove the new blog look!
ReplyDeleteAnd I agree with you--I like the city. Maybe not smack-dab in the middle, but I'll be interning in NYC so I'll find out :)
In other news, your matchmaking skills are stellar, and your minions are writing about each other: http://www.tarynalbright.com/2011/08/ode-to-my-critique-group.html and http://robin-hall-writes.blogspot.com/2011/08/i-should-be-sleeping.html
:)
Cities! And an occasional beach.
ReplyDeleteThe Beach. Always.
ReplyDeleteI've been meaning to watch that movie. Now it's a must-see. I think we're going to Planet of the Apes tonight. Bryce is addicted to anything simian related.
ReplyDeleteI love the new look of your blog!
Loved this post. A smart review of a smart movie. My favorite part really was the opening montage.
ReplyDeleteKen's the one who needs the city. I think I could be happy surrounded by miles of nowhere, although I guess I'll never know . . .
Lake Tahoe. Hands down.
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