Thrill of the Frills: A Weekend of Epic

Though today is usually the day for the monday movie review (and don't worry, it's coming!), I thought I'd share with you all what might be the most epic Lolita weekend to happen in the history of New York. Though when Baby came for New York Anime Fest was a milestone, this drama free time was absolutely amazing. Getting to experience events with brands and idols that one might in Japan or in Europe was a taste I am currently craving more of. I know how hard it is to bring brands over to the East Coast, but I really wish it could happen more.

Even if lolita fashion is underground in New York and the USA, this weekend made it feel like an up and coming star. It seemed like the world of New York finally seemed to except my strange little hobby, even if it was only for a weekend or less.

The highlight though was getting to meet Misako Aoki. She is, in a word, perfection when it comes to lolita for me. Though I am in love with all things Angelic Pretty (and slightly tacky...), Misako embraces the lolita spirit with grace, class, and a douce of kawaii, that I've yet to have seen otherwise. She seems to truly take in this culture and make it shine more then prior. I truly understand why she was chosen as the ambassador of kawaii, she is it in it's purest form.

But I can't explain how magical it was to be with all of the New York Lolitas, outside of a convention, and taking over the city (and causing some epic traffic problems as well --- apologies to the taxi drivers) It basically gave me goose bumps and a shiver of excitement. Hopefully more events will happen like this in the future, and the spreading of Lolita culture in New York can continue.

So in celebration, here is a collection of links to pictures (taken by the lovely Petrina) and videos (one by Victoria of Lolita Charm, and one by yours truly).

Not related to this post, but I wanted to mention that La Vida Frills has a tumblr (and new icon to match) which you can check out here. Keep looking at it for cute updates to brighten up your day !!

Also look out for another epic lolita movie review by the end of the day.

Picture by Petrina/littlest asian

Movie Review #6 + #7: "Dorian Gray" (1945) and "Mary Reilly" (1997)

When thinking of the combinations of romance and horror, sometimes it just all together seems a bit of an oxymoron to even imagine them side by side. But actually, if you look at the struggles within each of these genres, you can see why there are so many of these kinds of stories. I think within relationships, there is definitely a realm of fear to think about. Will he like me, find me beautiful, care about me in the future? These are all questions that can not be answered all at once, which in turn creates a fear and or horror within ones self. I think this is also a fear that we deal with in our own relationships with the fashion of Lolita itself. Will people accept me? Will I be called an ita? Will I can crowned the village weirdo? Again, these are require an emotional jump before the answer is given.

But what does this at all have to do with our movies this week? I believe that both films, in addition to sharing the romantic horror title, are also about people that can not seem to accept their current state. Wether it be their own emotional being or the fear of changing their appearance, this is a common thought and fright that I think all lolitas can connect on.... and with that I bring you the reviews.

First up, "The Portrait of Dorian Gray" (1945) starring George Sanders, Hurd Hatfield, and a very young Angela Lansbury. Now, I know many of you were probably looking forward to a review of the recent Ben Barnes version. Yes, I think he is ridiculously good looking, but based on substance, this is the version to watch of the famous story. It stars who I think is the most interesting Gray (not hot, just interesting) to be put on the film (Hatfield). His eyes are very striking and work for the character very well. If you don't know the story at all, all you need to know is the following: A picture is painted of Dorian, and it is cursed. Until the day he looks upon the portrait, Dorian will remain young and beautiful forever. Not to give the story away, but who shines in this movie is definitely Lansbury. Though only about 19 or 20, you would never question her abilities to carry her role well. She sings beautifully in this movie, along with having a very convincing character. Just for that alone, I highly recommend it. I give it 4 headbows out of 5.

Next up is "Mary Reilly" (1997) starring Julia Roberts and a favorite of mine, John Malkovich. COOL FACT ALERT: The guy that directed this movie (Stephan Frears) also directed one of my favorite movies, Dangerous Liasons. This movie is a twist on the classic tale of Dr.Jeykll and Mr.Hyde (probably in my top 5 favorite books of all time, I know I'm a bit old when it comes to my taste)but in this version, the story is told from the perspective of Mary, Dr. Jeykll's maid. As the tale continues, you find out about Mary's abusive past and see her love for Jeykll blossom. But at the same time, its obvious that she begins to feel for Hyde as well. The relationship is definitely romantic but dangerous, which is what makes these romantic horror films so interesting. They aren't just like the usual romantic film, they have an element of risk. This film is also a risk. It could have lost all gore and fear right away, going only romance, but it's very brutal. I don't recommend it for the tame of frill (or thrill?), the blood is pretty intense at times. The old English settings really is what gets me. This is the perfect film for fans of Atelier Pierrot and other slightly gothic brands, just take a look at this clip here for proof. The vote? Miss Reilly gets a nice bloody rating of 3 headbows out of 5. The romance is great, but the blood doesn't let me give it a better grade, since not everyone can handle it.

Final words? For some great gothic visuals and interesting inspiration, check these two out. Though they may not be for the faint of heart, neither is lolita, and with that I give them a high recommendation.

TO MY FELLOW READERS.

I apologize to the extreme for not updating on time this week, but expect next Monday to have a double whammy of two movie reviews, and also a special collab post with Lolita Charm. For the moment though, to make up for my bad blogger behavior, I made a video for you to enjoy. The link is here. Can't wait to start writing the reviews -- here is the trailer for the other movie that'll pop up next week, enjoy !!

(photo from flickr)

See ya next week my fellow frillies !!

Movie Review #5: The Phantom of the Opera Mega Review

When I was 7, I was fortunate enough, by the good graces of my mother, to be taken to see Phantom of the Opera. It was my 3rd musical I had ever seen (at the time), and definitely would remain one of my favorites to this day. Though I didn't understand all that was going on, I knew one thing was true: The Phantom was a special person, that was misunderstood by everybody, even by the woman he loved. This, along with my favorite story ever written (Beauty and the Beast) would be a statement that would stick with me for years to come. A couple of years later, when I started getting interested in reading anything heavier then my Game-Boy, I began to read the many variations of this odd french thriller. Though the story itself is interesting, it is by far the romance and the character of Erik himself that always pulls me back in. Now around this time, I also dabbled into the many film versions of Phantom.... Which will be the subject of today's review.

Before I go deep into my review, let me give you a bit of background. The first noted film version of Phantom is an international 1916 silent screen movie starring a variety of Swedish actors from the time. This is considered at this point to be a lost film, and only is known by it's random mentions in other media. The most well known version in film terms is the infamous 1925 Lon Chaney Sr. silent film. It's both considered to be a masterpiece of filmmaking and one of the outstanding moments of Chaney's career. Though proceeding that, you might not believe this, but there are over 20 film adaptations and TV versions of this story. Some might just reference the general plot, while others dig deeper into the edges of the tale.

But rather then suggesting or going through each adaptation, I'm giving you all a mega "Phan" review of my top 5 favorite Phantom movies. Now, shall we proceed to the dungeon underneath the opera house? I think we shall....

First off I wanna give some special mentions that didn't make the cut, but I couldn't help but tell you about them.

Now I know many of you are going to be disappointed by this, but the Llyodd Webber version isn't in my top 5. Why? Well for starts, I wouldn't be a good reviewer if I was telling you about the versions you already know about. Second, though Gerard Butler is beautiful, no way in Phantom-y goodness hell does he capture Erik's character, visually. Because he's too much of a pretty boy to truly be the Phantom, and the make up they gave him for his "problem" on his face, it's just a disgrace to all of what Phantom of the Opera is. Aside from that, the cinematography is amazing as well as certain performances (Carlotta especially), and visually it is exactly like the musical. So for that alone, check it out.

Then I gotta mention The Wishbone episode. This seriously, funny enough, might be the most faithful version of the original novel I have ever seen. It has tiny elements (Such as Christine's missing scarf) that no other version has even begun to include. Also, Wishbone is just fun in general, so look for that one as well.

Now, lets go beneath the opera house... Starting with...

#5 The Claude Rains Version

Now, overall I put this on the list because it has one of the best selections of music I've heard in any of these film, which it even won an Oscar for. Story wise, it's a bit hit and miss. This is one of the first versions (but not the first) to begin the whole trend of being "scarred by acid" that makes The Phantom "The Phantom". Also, The Phantom and Christine's relationship was originally supposed to be a father and daughter form, but was changed to... 50 year old man loving 17 year old girl? Ok Universal. Claude Rains is one of my favorite actors from the classic film era, yet he doesn't exactly "shine" in this movie. But, Susanna Foster is a whole other story. To note, she's one of the only actresses to play Christine in these films who is actually singing, not dubbed. Her voice is fantastic and far superior then any other Christine's I have heard since. Also, the original music for the film is enchanting (check it out here).

#4 Song at Midnight/Phantom Lover Version

This one you probably have no idea about, unless you are a true "Phan". Both films are deemed the Chinese version of the story, but I really think both of these are more then that. Song at Midnight was the first to come out, with great direction and very powerful scenes. Though I must say, the original's make up aside, I prefer The Phantom Lover remake then the original Song at Midnight. Here's the plot... A famous male opera singer is in a deep romance with the daughter of a factory owner. When she is told to marry another in an arranged marriage, she plans to runaway with the singer. But instead, he is killed .... or so she thinks. Years later, another young male opera singer goes to rehearse in the famous abandoned Opera house. He is then haunted by The Phantom (who, we find out, was the famous male opera singer that was "killed") The Phantom asks the young singer if he can pretend to be the person The Phantom used to be for his love... who still believes he is alive. The way the story goes on is very gripping, but with a somewhat confused ending. Still I totally recommend it if you want to see a different take on the original story, but watch it dubbed (the subtitles are god awful).

#3 The Phantom of the Paradise

Just a warning before you go into wondering "Why the hell is this on your list?", this a cult classic, but is definitely one of the more awkward adaptations to film. But why is it number 3? Just because it's the most individual version. It has great rock music, some really funny and unique performances, and of course, Paul Williams (need I say more..)The plot is a mixture of both Faust and Phantom, which if you know in the original Phantom story, Faust is the opera they perform in the first section. I thought that was a cleaver tribute in a way to the original. Winslow is a struggling musician who writes a rock musical version of Faust, but Swan (Paul Williams) steals his music, and ultimately makes Winslow a monster. But the question is, who really is the monster in this tale? It's the audiences choice on the matter in the end. You'll also be interested to know that this is Brian De Palma's first film (the man who would later directed Carrie among others), and this is also my favorite film of his. Also, check out the music...this by far is my favorite song, along with this one. The music is the real star of this movie, so go and be impressed.

#2 Robert Englund Version

It was hard to chose between the last two of which order to put them in, but I decided to chose based on the entire story, rather then just which Phantom I favor. This almost "hammer horror" styled version, stars my favorite Phantom of all time, Robert Englund. Many of you probably have no idea who this man is, unless you are a horror film nerd of any kind, but this actually is the same guy that played Freddy Kruger in the Nightmare on Elm-street series. But why is he my favorite Phantom? Well personally, I think Robert took the role in a whole other direction that no other actor since Chaney had even tried. He brought the sarcastic humor, romantic charm, and powerful frightening behavior that makes Erik so compelling. I also happen to enjoy the twist on his back story in this version, that he made a deal with the devil (similar to Faust) to make his music famous, but in turn, his face was ruined. Unfortunately, he has to go through some pretty nasty stuff to keep up a decent appearance (think the victorian era version of a face lift) That possibly might be the only flaw with this movie, the violence. Though I'm a person that can handle the blood and guts it throws at you, many of you might not be able too. But if you want to see an excellent Erik performance, go get it!

#1 Charles Dance TV Mini Series Version

This, my fellow frillies, is my favorite version. Though it's very long and has a lot of story going into it, this version by far is the most enjoyable, romantic, heartfelt and beautiful. It features a very toned down but enjoyable Phantom (played by Charles Dance), and goes deeper into his backstory, including elements about his father and mother's relationship. Unfortunately it throws away a lot of the original story elements, but takes some tiny details and makes them bigger. The best example would be Philip, who originally was Raoul's brother, but then makes him to be Christine's other main interest and gets rid of Raoul entirely. Philip is a bit of a jerk, yet I can see why in some sense Christine would be interested in him. I can't not mention the most epic ending ever for a Phantom movie, it has you on the edge of your seat the entire time, and is so beautifully shot, I cried the first time I watched it. Here's a snippet of what I'm talking about....

So overall, what Phantom movie should you see? It depends on your taste. These movies just as movies aren't exactly the best, except for the last mentioned really is a brilliant mini series, and the other 2 from the top 3 are great for their own genres. I give them all, 4 headbows. They all have a special something to them that makes them shine, and therefore you really should check them out if you want to be engrossed in a great story that has lived for over 100 years. If you haven't fell under the Phantom's spell, I think it's about time you took a chance on it.

I really hope you enjoyed today's lengthy review !! as for next weeks , check out the trailer here.

Next Months Review Theme: Romantic Horror

It seems by a majority vote that Romantic Horror is the winner of February's movie review theme! I personally was hoping this one would win, due to it being valentines day (but I definitely didn't want to celebrate it in the traditional sense). Here's a list of the upcoming reviews ~~ enjoy:

~ Phantom of the Opera MEGA REVIEW (my top 5 favorite versions)

~ The Portrait of Dorian Gray (1945)

~ Mary Reilly (1996)

~ Wait, these are horror movies? review including Rebecca + Wuthering Heights

I hope you are all excited, my favorite ruffly readers !!

I'd also like give a shout out to all the new followers! We have reached from what was 2 to now 17. Yes, it's small, but I truly appreciate it. But the goal? By the beginning of my next review on Monday to have 25 followers! so tell your friends about La Vida Frills and let's get this party started (as they say) ~~

Look out for some new non-review posts and I hope to hear more from you all in terms of feedback. Do you like the reviews? Want more non-reviews? Tell me.

Thanks and look out for a new post on Sunday and of course a review on Monday ~~~

(also, the majority of the photos i use are credited to weheartit.com and flickr)

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.

Movie Review #3: Return to Oz (1985)

*I'm so sorry that this post is a bit late, I've been a bit ill and adjusting back to school. Enjoy the post!!

Do you remember your first visit to the magical world of Oz? My mom bought the first ever VHS copy of the 1939 classic for me when I was only 3. From that moment on, I remember sitting on my carpet and being completely in love with the Emerald City. I would forever continue to return to that world time and time again. But, when I was 7, having a sleepover with my best friend at the time, she pulled out an odd looking tape titled "Return to Oz". Not knowing what exactly lay ahead of me, I exclaimed my interest in seeing this new chapter of Dorothy's adventures on screen. What I came to find was something completely different, something that original frightened me so much, that I never wanted to see the film again. So, when it came time to come up with ideas of movies to review (that also went with the theme) this film, though originally hesitant, seemed like the perfect choice.

But why review this movie? Why go back to something that wasn't exactly positive when I have my own liberal free choice to review something different? Well, I felt it wrong not to go ahead with this review. Why? Purely because Dorothy is the American lolita icon. The UK has Alice, Japan obviously has lolita itself and it's many famous celebrities, as well as other countries having their own Lolita related characters of fame. In America though, Dorothy is our frilly lady. From the mind of L.Frank Baulm, this young country girl from Kansas has entered into the pop culture mind set all over the world. She embodies innocence in it's purest gingham dressed form, and continues to inspire anyone that comes near her stories. With that in mind, I now bring you today's review of..... Disney's Return to Oz starring Fairuza Balik.

Now, due to the lengthy and sometimes confusing plot of this movie, I'm not gonna go into the details, but just the important things to know. So we begin our story with seeing Dorothy in her bed. 6 months have past since her trip to Oz, and all she can do is think about the marvelous world. Her Aunt and Uncle (looking a bit too young for my taste) begin to panic, and consider doing electro shock therapy on Dorothy to make her go back to normal. As her mind reaches to go back to the Emerald City, Dorothy returns to her once yellow brick road to find it turned into a mess. Oz is completely disembodied, and her friends (Lion and Tin Man) are turned to stone while The Scarecrow, the king of Oz, has been kidnapped. It's now up to Ms.Gale to rescue her friends and Oz from it's current state.

On her way, Dorothy meets new friends. Instead of her usual Toto, Dorothy's new sidekick is a talking chicken named Bellina. She also meets Jack Pumpkinhead (who I can't help but think of a Mr.Skellington when I hear his name), Tik Tok, and Gump (a talking head of a moose). Aside from them, the most interesting character would be one of the villains, The Nome King. Though he visually is very frightening, he is still very compelling, and more interesting then the original Wizard himself.

Though there are a lot of reasons to prove that this movie is beyond creepy, the most obvious sequence is when Dorothy goes to retrieve the magical powder (that will make Gump come to life) and is in a way "attacked" (but more mentally then physically, which also goes for the audience) by a hall of disembodied heads and a headless body. The scene can be watched here.

But why with all it's scary images and story, would be people continue to return to this version of Oz? Because, though the 1939 version is the most well known and loved, this is by far the most realistic and faithful film adaptation of the Oz stories. I don't think Frank L.Baulm was thinking of a happy go lucky musical when he wrote the story. The Oz stories weren't meant to be something that was completely devoid of the realities of life. It was meant to help children grow up in a more creative way, even if that way involved life's most intimate fears. Though others may believe otherwise, if you can to see the true vision of Oz, I recommend this.

So what kind of frilly lady would enjoy this? I recommend it more for either Sweet lolitas (with a bit of a more twisted taste) or gothic lolitas. It has the sort of sarcastic and meek undertone that works well in some prints and ideals, sort of like a Atelier Pierrot design or a more toned down Alice and the Pirates creation.

Overall I give the movie 3 headbows (3). Visually it's great to watch, but I wouldn't recommend it for the weak of heart. Thanks for reading this weeks post, and sorry for the delay. Next week will be the last 80's fantasy review, and here's a preview to keep you interested.