Dress Up Time #10: Red Riding Hood (2011)

Red Riding Hood, a new retelling of the classic fairy tale was released to theaters this past weekend. In honor of the new film, LVF gives you an new entry in our Dress Up Time Series! With the new version, the entire story and characters get a fresh look! Amanda Seyfried in my mind is the perfect actress for the role. With own set of "big eyes" and beautiful innocent complexion, she is the character with a yet more grown up look. But how to achieve the Grandmothers Cottage Visit appeal? Let's go deeper into the story of this blondie!

First, it's best to know as much about the original and central character, as well as this new version. The original story was that of a young girl who is asked to go on a trip to her grandmother's house. What was just a run of the mill walk in the woods turns into a deadly run for Red Riding-Hood's life as she's continuously chased and hunted by a "Big Bad" Wolf. In this new version, the story is made with a more hardcore thriller motif of using the element of real Werewolves. Did I mention it also has a dangerously cool priest played by Gary Oldman?! (yeah, I have an odd crush on him.)

But whats truly interesting about this story is how it has been taken into the world of fashion and especially lolita. From Baby's embroidered print from 2007 to Putumayo's gothic iconic image, Red Riding Hood has been used countless times and she never looks the same. Personally my favorite is the Baby print, mostly for the cute chibi-like designs of the characters all over the print and all of the items that came along with the series, my personal favorite being the cardigan.

But what exactly makes her so interesting? Well, I think we can all connect with having being sent out by our parents to go on a small journey or trip to do something that's much more grown up then we have ever done in our past. Sometimes the adventure goes well, while in this case for our heroine it doesn't exactly go as planned. We can account the "Big Bad Wolf" to many moments and people in our lives, from the bully at school that seems to ruin everything, to even a test that seems to get in the way of you passing a class. There is always something in the way of you getting to your goal, whether it be Grandmother's Cottage or otherwise.

But how exactly do you capture a modern Rori take on Red Riding Hood and incorporate it into your coordinate? Here's an idea!

First off, bit a very simple colored JSK. I chose a cream color, but even a very soft blue (which she wears in the movie) works very well. You want the Red Hood to stand out the most, so don't wear anything too complicated in terms of the dress. The hoodie to wear with the outfit of course is the most important. I chose Alice and the Pirates Red Knitted Style Hoodie, which is ridiculously comfortable and beautiful. Then, pick a basket in which you'll take to Grandmothers house. You can decorate it with tons of Wolf and Red Riding Hood themed brooches and pins. I found this Etsy shop to have a lot of cute ones. Then, chose a tame but beautiful rose or cream colored pair of tights. I chose a real rose patterned pair, but even soft bold colors would work. Chose a pair of comfortable almost slipper like boots, which are worn in the film. Top it off with a pretty Wolf themed necklace, which I found here. Then you're off to find that nasty ol' wolf!

So there you go, the lowdown on how to achieve the Red Riding Hood look! I also bet you're curious if the movie is any good? Sadly, it isn't great - but I found it ridiculously silly and had some attempts at some interesting plot twists. It's more a rental, but it does have some absolutely beautiful cinematography. Don't waste your popcorn movie money on it though, just save it for later. Though, it is worth mentioning Gary Oldman rides a pretty epic white horse!

Getting To Know You: LVF's Favorite Movies

Once in a while on LVF, we like to take a moment to appreciate some of the finer yet not frilly things that could otherwise be appreciated. Sometimes I get asked "Hey, what are your favorite movies then, ha Miss Frills?" Well guess what, that question shall now be answered! Remember, none of these movies are really frilly related (yet all pictures have a bow on them, for fun!), but they are excellent regardless. Now, on with the movies!

The Fifth Element (1997)
First we shall start off with a recent favorite of mine. I learned about this little charm of a sci-fi film from one of my best friends, who would always try to get me into it. I never really got how cool this movie was for the longest time, as only have been shown some action sequences and Chris Tucker (who to me is a turn off in most movies), I just never got it. But one day, I just happened to catch the entire film on TV - and I was hooked for life. Featuring my favorite action man Bruce Willis, one of the hottest women to ever grace the screen Mila Jovovich and costumes by fashion design Jean Paul Gaultier, it's the closest one will get to an art house Sci-Fi film. My favorite scene in the film is when Willis is watching the infamous Opera Diva perform, while Mila's character faces off the enemy in a fantastic edited action sequence. Highly recommend this one.

(I didn't even put a bow on this one. Look at how epic that hat is!?)
Hook (1991)
Said to be one the few films that Spielberg hates being associated with, it's actually my favorite film of his that he ever made. As a huge Peter Pan fan, I think this is one of the few to have gotten the look of Neverland perfectly. This is also the film in which I became highly interested in both Robin Williams and Peter Pan for the first time. Granted, many happen to think this movie is cheesy or a bit dated, but I still think it holds up perfectly. It has one of the best scores to ever be recorded, and transforms actors who I never expected to do action films at all (Props to both Williams and Hoffman as Hook for this!) I think the best part of this movie is the neat little details and odd cameos that you have to pay attention to to understand, like Glen Close as the pirate who is dropped off the ship when Peter arrives in Neverland or all the objects inside Wendy's house and how they relate to the story. When a filmmaker can add details such as this, it's a true sight to see.

Sunset Boulevard (1950)
I'm always truly impressed by the work of Billy Wilder. His films never have a specific story style really, and you can never really spot a Wilder film - they're all unique. But the most different and special of all his films is always one of my favorites. This film tells the story of Norma, a fading silent movie actress and Joe, a down and out screenwriter. The two meet in a string of odd events, eventually leading to Joe becoming the obsession of Norma's affections. From what starts as the usual 40's/50's style film becomes a bizarre portrait of Hollywood's bad side that was obviously way ahead of its time and can be in competition with films of Darren Aronofsky. Similar to Hook, this film pays a fitting yet creepy tribute to the silent film era, with many of the actors in the film having been from that actual time and being involved in similar events to the characters themselves. Sometimes campy, but extremely moving, Sunset Boulevard is a masterpiece.

The Hunchback of Norte Dame (1996)
I'm a huge fan of Disney, it's probably my favorite thing in the whole world - next to a few other fandoms. It's hard for me to pin-point all my absolute favorite things when it comes to Disney as a whole, but the one thing I'm sure is my favorite is this movie. It's even hard to call it a "Disney movie" because it almost has no connection to the usual cores of such a style. Sure, it's a softer approach to Hugo's story, yet for a film from the House of Mouse, it's very complex. Showcasing my favorite villain and villain song of all time, Frollo is one of those odd instances where a man as simple as a minister can easily become the creepiest thing I've seen on film. Maybe it's because he doesn't have magical powers or anything fantasy about him, that his realistic nature makes him actually possible in real life, which is what makes me terrifying. This also showcases my favorite piece of instrumental music ever (click here to see/listen). Go and be amazed.

And finally.....
Back to the Future Trilogy (1985)
Yes indeed, this is my favorite movie in the entire world. I'll be honest that I wasn't into this film much as a kid, but I really got into it during Middle school. Maybe it's because of my outcast or individual feeling that I had because of where I live, or because I wish I could indeed be as cool as Marty, but Back to the Future clicked for me in a way no other film could try. Now to address the sequels, these films are so good that I don't think you should ever address them as separate movies as all these films need to be watched together in their complete trilogy order and enjoyed as one film. Hence why I didn't just pick the first movie or any of the others on the list - the whole trilogy needs to be watched without pause. But, if you don't have about 6 hours to kill, go see the first film at least! You'll be wishing you had more time for the others (puns).

So there you have it - a list of my favorite movies of all time. So, do you like an of these films? What are some of your favorites? Comment down belong and lets discuss!

Movie Review #11: The Barretts of Wimpole Street (1934)

I'm taking it that many of you reading this are in some sort of education right now. Your probably learning about things that bore you to death, such as history of wars and etc. Though I'm one that fancy's those sorts of lessons (more then the mathematical or science lesson), I know a great deal of young ladies now a days don't enjoy these sorts of discussions. But what if you were to learn of the back story of such subjects? The love affairs that took place, the personal battles that were held. It might not be as boring right?

So Today, we are going to have an English History lesson. The subject? The romance of Mr. Robert Browning and Ms. Elizabeth Barrett. Both poets and dreamers, these two are the main characters in our film today. The film? The Barretts of Wimpole Street (1934). Starring Norma Shearer, Charles Laughton, and my favorite leading man to ever be on film, Fredric March. This film tells the story of their romance and of Elizabeth's Father's hatred of his daughter leaving him.

The film starts off with Elizabeth, recovering from an undiscovered illness, speaking to her doctor and siblings. We soon learn that though she loves her family, one ugly shadow looms over the household, Edward Barrett, her father. Psychologically abusing Elizabeth into believing her sickness to be perminant, Edward is noted at this point as the "villan" or antagonist of the film.

Along with many other enjoyable characters, we then are introduced to Robert. Though I can be extremely biased when it comes to any perfomance by March, I find this to be on the top of my list. Bringing a sense of charm and excitement to a role that could have been played very drippy and calm, March breathes life into the character.

This is a key film that best represents the amazing chemistry between March and Shearer. Giving what I believe to be her best performance, Shearer showcases her understanding of the character and her great volume in emotion. I truly believe that she is who she is playing. This also goes for Laughton. Known for playing these sort of dark roles, he perfectly expresses the hidden anger and frustration that Edward is in a whole.

My only complaint about the film would be it's length. Some scenes are dragged out, while others that should be longer are shortened. But this was based on a play, which was a length of almost 3 hours, so take what you can from it.

Overall, this movie is a classic. It's sad to see that it's appreciation has withered with time itself. It's very hard to find and I could only get in on VHS (I plan to transfer it to DVD though) The good thing is, If you have the channel TCM, they do show it usually every 1 - 3 months, depending on the programming theme. Otherwise, you might be able to find it online.

LVF gives Elizabeth and Robert Browning's love story 5 out of 5 headbows. Go fourth and enjoy the drama!

But what will be next weeks movie? Here's a trailer.

Movie Review #4: "Somewhere in Time" 1980

A pocket watch. A simple yet complex piece, but in today's movie is the symbol of one of the most beautiful relationships captured on film. It represents time, lost memories, and a love that could not be broken by anything. I'm discussing of course the romantic cult classic "Somewhere in Time" (1980) starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour.

The plot is that of a playwright named Richard, who after the premiere of his latest work, is stopped by an elderly woman. She gives him a pocket watch, and tells him to "come back" to her. He later discovers some years later, that in fact she was Elise Mckenna, an actress of the early 20th century. Through some deep research, Richard finds himself able to go through a unique style of time travel, in which the person is hypnotized into the mind set of the time of the location they are in. Suddenly he is now in 20th Century Michigan, at the Grand Hotel. But what transpires is a fantastic romance for the ages...

But what makes this movie so interesting, besides it being an absolutely beautiful love story, is the impact it's had and its history. Though in its original release it bombed and was panned by critics, it's become one of the most successful cult movies of all time and actually has it's own annual event at the Grand Hotel, in which people dress up in costumes and guests from the film dine with fans. It also has it's own fan club and magazine, that's been publishing since the early 90's.

Of course, originally as a child I was drawn to Christopher Reeve. This sadly was one of the last films he would make before his life changing accident, to which Superman himself was paralyzed from the neck down. He is absolutely charming and completely believable in this movie. I also have to give props to Jane Seymour. Though usually I find a lot of her work to be very cheesy and somewhat annoying, I find this to one of the fewer rules that she was meant to play. She's very good with period films, for which this is by far her best (Move over Dr.Quin!!) By far though the best part of the movie is the location. What's great is that you can actually still visit the Grand Hotel in Michigan to this day, and maybe have your own little time traveling romance as well? The costumes also are amazing, and were nominated for an Academy Award.

My only possible problem with the film is the length and the ending. The pacing is a bit slow at time, and the ending could have been touched up a bit more, though still emotionally gripping, but you'll have to see for yourself.

Finally as mentioned, due to it's fandom popularity, you can easily get the film and tons of merchandise surrounding it. They all can be found here along with more info here.

So, the grading for the movie.... 4 headbows !! Though with it's length and questionable elements of time travel, this love story is definitely a nice treat for the senses. All you frillies are sure to enjoy this, maybe cuddle up with your Prince while viewing.

Just a reminder, you only have 3 more days to vote for next months theme! So far Romantic Horror is winning, but if you think overwise, ROCK THE VOTE. Until then, apologizes for the late and short review. Be ready for some other new posts and more.

Frill Reviews #1: The Frog Prince

Oh the 80's... A time where no shoulder pad was big enough, Hair Metal was the "totally awesome" tunes of the time, and our only real concern was Ronald Reagan and his "magical jelly beans".

But do you know another popular thing that came out of the 80's? Fantasy Movies. Now, it maybe because of how crazy this decade was or all the elements, and amounts of hair mousse, feel into place. But we were all treated to a crop full of epic fairy tales, all with an 80's twist.

There are probably ones you have heard of more then others (Jim Henson's films & Legend), but today we are going to be discussing probably one of these few "jems" you most likely have no idea it existed. But it's best to explain why it even exists in the first place..

During the later part of the decade, a company called Cannon Films (responsible for a collection of B-Movie Action flicks), decided that they wanted to make a handful of children's fairy tale movies that would mostly be shown in some of the UK theaters that they owned at the time. The owner of Cannon quoted that he "wanted to make movies for his grandchildren" and with that 6 films were made.

As I was deciding on which of these to review, I looked for one that was the most unique, and the one with the more "interesting" songs and acting. Sadly, many of these movies aren't exactly oscar worthy, but I think the one I will be discussing today is definitely one to check out. The movie... The Frog Prince starring Aileen Quinn and John Paragon.

The story is that of Princess Zora (Quinn), who is currently residing in the home of her Uncle, The King of the land. The time has come for one of the higher ups to pick the new heir to the throne, and Zora wants to be accepted as the Princess she is.

But someone gets in Zora's way, and who might that be? Well you'll be surprised to know that is none other then Helen Hunt (one of her first roles), as her Wicked Step Sister Henrietta, who wants the crown. Of course, Henrietta is considered to be the top choice, due to her beauty (and not really anything else...), but Zora still wants to prove her Uncle wrong. Sadly, every time Zora tries to show her royal skills, Henrietta always ruins it.

Due to these events, Zora loses all hope in her friendless world. That's right, the poor girl has no friends, except for her lucky Golden Ball. But when she accidently drops her treasured item into the wheel , a Frog Man, appropriately named Ribbit (Paragon),appears. Ribbit goes on to tell Zora of how he is an outcast of his home too, being a "Too Tall Frog".

Deciding that these two have a lot in common, they quickly become friends. When Zora's Uncle arrives with a letter about the Sunset Ball (where the next Princess will be chosen), Zora doubts herself in thinking she can win. But Ribbit decides to help her by teaching her all the right moves. During their lesson though,Henrietta sees how much Zora looks like a princess, and plans to stop the progress!

After their lesson, Ribbit goes to return to his pond home (because if he has no water, he will unfortunately die), in which he promises to return the next day for the dance, and the two proclaim their "Friendship". As Zora sleeps, Ribbit is kidnapped by Henrietta and hidden in the Black Forest, to die with no water.

When Zora awakes, she question that Ribbit might have "Forgotten Her",But when she realizes what exactly Henrietta had done, she is given her Uncle's blessing to find him. Unfortunately, if Zora doesn't make it to the ball by sundown, she will lose the right to the throne forever.

On her journey, Zora eventually finds Ribbit, and kisses him on the cheek in their embrace. Suddenly Ribbit is turned into a handsome prince, proclaiming that he had been under a curse for the past year and Zora had broken it. Of course, everything turns out fine in the end, as Zora gets to the castle in time with her prince, and Henrietta has lost! Happily Ever After as they say...

So first off, Why should you frilly people even think about seeing this movie? I personally think that is a very Sweet lolita appropriate film. It's cute, simple and visually it's very pleasing. I find much of it to remind me of Baby's color ways, and I now personally wish for a Ribbit/Frog Prince inspired print (Jumperskirt please?)

I do though have some tiny problems with the movie. To begin, many of the "plot lines" aren't 100% developed as they should be. Though I wanna nit pick every single one of them, I have to come to the conclusion that, it's for kids and they don't really care. But there are some of them I know kids would question, especially my next problem in general, this "friendship" between Zora and Ribbit.

Now in most adaptations of this story, Zora's character would be closer to 18, but actually she's 12. I think this may have originally been written for the prior age mentioned, but because Quinn was such a popular name at the time (due to her fame from ANNIE), they threw her in there and changed the plot. So what originally was supposed to be a "romantic relationship" now was changed to a "friendship". The only thing is, if it's supposed to be a friendship, then why are they acting otherwise? I'm guessing the screenwriters were fed up at this point, and just kept everything except for it being changed to "friendship". This also could be some sort of growing up thing, because usually 12 is the age when girls (at least for me...) noticed that boys weren't gross anymore. Take it either way you will, it can seem a bit creepy, but yet I let it slide, cause it's cute when looked at otherwise regardless.

The good points? Well because I've watched a lot of the Cannon films, this one I think is one of the best. It's actually a unique twist on the story, and the songs are adorable. In some of the Cannon films, the songs are very out of place, or the voices are horrible (Trust me, they really are.) But this has the great distinction of having the songs mostly great all together. None of them are great lyrically, but they are simple and very pretty. Some can even get stuck in your head easily. Here are my favorites in audio streaming form ----

• "Friendship" This one is adorable, but again you have to think of it in the most innocent ways possible and that it probably was intended to mean something else originally. Both of the vocals are cute, and Paragon has such a nice voice.
• "Have You Forgotten Me?" This song is definitely my favorite. Quinn's vocals are adorable and just so painfully sweet. Again a lot of these are written in a lyrics 101 style, but still very cute.

Another good thing? John Paragon in my opinion steals the movie. He's very charming and very good with the part. Again, after watching a bunch of these movies, He's one of the better actors to be included. Good job casting!

So overall? I give this movie 3 Baby headbows and a wrist cuff (3.5)

It's not perfect, but its adorable and a fun movie to watch when your feeling blue. It certainly put a smile on my face !

But the question is, if you want to see if, where should you look? Unfortunately it isn't available anywhere in the US (except occasionally the VHS will pop up on Ebay), and the other international copies are in their respective languages. So here's a present from me to you. Here is the trailer and here is part 1 of the movie. The quality isn't great, but it's watchable at least.

Incase you are interested in checking out other Cannon films, here is the other ones I recommend...

• Beauty and The Beast - It's generally good, the "Beauty" character is dumb and can't really sing, but the Beast stands out in this version and has a neat costume. It has some interesting differences between the usual tale, and Beauty has a lot of siblings in this version.
• Puss n Boots - I recommend this purely for the fact that Christopher Walkin is in it, singing and dancing (and actually pretty good!) It surprised even me.

So, I hope you enjoyed the first of many reviews! But, what will be next weeks review you ask? Here is a clue.