Review: Jessica Simpson's Price of Beauty Japan Episode

Oh America. You abuse your understanding of the word "reality" in so many ways, the best being when it comes to these television shows based around it. For the past decade, America has become obsessed with this bizarre documentary style of television shows, showing us "normal" people things we would not see otherwise. But once the USA discovered the quirky fashions going on within Japan, it felt the need to abuse your vision in any which way. The sad part is, these shows would teach us time and time again the same lesson. America really comes off as ignorant in these programs. But why bring this point up? Vh1's new show "Jessica Simpon's The Price of Beauty" premiered their recent Japan episode today, where Jess and her friends took a trip to the east to see what they thought was beautiful. Of course the episode featured the usual geisha affair, along with things about plastic surgery and etc. But then came the part all of us frilly ladies waited for, The (Harajuku titled but really only...) Lolita section! But yet again, it happened..

As it seems every time when the special "Japan" episode comes up, the horrific treatment of this one section continues to succeed in what seems to be it's one goal. Making "Japanese Street" fashion look odd, and somehow sexual or "easy". But how? Simple, just watch. Jessica and her crew enter into what looks to be MaruiOne, the infamous mini mall of brands like Angelic Pretty, h.Naoto, Baby The Stars Shine Bright, among many others. But the first wrong move happens right away. They call it a "Harakjuku Mini Mall". Now don't get me wrong, MaruiOne is basically that in some sense, but they kept referring to these locations in these dumb American nicknames. So rather then saying "This is a department store called MaruiOne" they would just refer it to as "Harajuku Walmart" or anything else dumb enough you can come up with. I think the funniest part was a tie between the crew hearing the name Lolita and making snarky comments, and Jessica Simpson wearing h.Naoto (yes, breath and process that mental image, don't worry you'll live).

But the most insulting? It was saved for the very end, as the lowest of blows. Jessica and her friends decide to celebrate their new love for Japan in a fashion show with all the "Harajuku Kids" as they called them. Two of these individuals was none other then Maki and Asuka of Angelic Pretty, yet they were only dubbed as "Harajuku Girls". Here's an idea, why don't we humanize these so called "creatures of the east", Ms.Simpson by ask what their names are, rather then refering to them as a product of sorts. These girls are accomplished designers. Maybe not Jacobs or Chanel, but they are very important, and you should give them respect in my book. But then came the horror of horrors, Jessica in Angelic Pretty. Now, don't get me wrong, she didn't look too bad. But the thing that struck me the most was her...uh, behavior? Jessica seemed to think that Lolita meant sex, showing her bloomers and petticoat as a sort of turn on. Granted, in America that might be the male feeling towards the fashion, but Jessica seemed to not want to learn the golden rule. Lolita is a fashion that doesn't degrade women in terms of sex, but rather celebrates the freedom of female expression.

So American Television, take note. When you want to make Lolita viewers actually pleased, do the research. We aren't animals, we are human beings. Once you get that, maybe we will begin respect your views. Until then all we can say is, Silly Americans. Trust me, as one, I wish I could be saying otherwise. But I guess that will be when pigs can fly, and Jessica Simpson realizes her actual talents, which will never happen.

If you wanna read another great article similar to this, check out my friend Lolita Charm's post here. If you'd like to see the episode, you can view it here.

Movie Review #10: Bluebeard (2009)

Finally, I have returned to what I love most, reviewing movies. I'd just like to let you know though as of movie reviews, they will happen once a week, but not on a specific day, so just keep an eye out! So let's get this kick started!

In a castle as tall as the mountains, seen from a girl's window, is where today's movie takes place. It's a palace filled with beautiful rooms, except for one. This room contains a secret this girl was not supposed to know, but what does she find out is the question.

So, what is today's film? Bluebeard (2009) directed by Catherine Breillat. It takes the story of Bluebeard from two perspectives, two sisters in the 50's and the main heroine of the actual fairy tale. But what makes this story ever so compelling is the counterpoints in which the two perspectives connect. Similar to that of "A Neverending Story", whatever happens within the real world of the two sisters, a similar event happens within the fairy tale, and vice versa. But does this at all make the film interesting? Generally speaking, yes.

Now, it's important to know this movie is entirely in french, with subtitles. I sadly think the translation is a bit off in sections, and feels like it might have been dumbed down for international audiences. But granted this also could have been advertised to children, since Europe is so different in their ways of showing things to anyone under the age of 10. What am I talking about exactly? There are two clear scenes with heads getting disembodied (including a duck's, which is a reference to future events but just be warned) and of course, the revel of what is in that room (no spoilers, I promise!)

But if you take away some of the profound imagery that is of a more violent nature, you truly have a film that in it's most simple form is what a real fairy tale is. A story that though involves the illusions of fantasy, can actually tell you more about real life then say what is considered "a realistic story".

I've always been one to be afraid of Bluebeard, he's definitely a very intimidating character, as he should be. But this version definitely made me feel otherwise, but why? Brelliat took someone that was considered a monster, and gave him a soul rather then just making him completely menacing. The interaction between him and our heroine was some of the most real acting I've seen in a while. I could actually believe this relationship, which is hard since in these days it would be considered taboo. When Bluebeard gives his new wife "The Key", you could feel the tension cut you right down the middle (sort of the way I feel about Offbrand and Brand, a clear divide.)

But was there ever moments of it becoming bad? Well, not exactly, but this movie does have it's flaws. Unfortunately, again, maybe it's cause I'm from America, but the editing was definitely strange. The beginning was one of the slowest introductions I've seen (Think the speed of the Godfather, but about 10 times more slow) So when it came time for all the events with Bluebeard (which I enjoyed), the editing grew too fast. I think this movie would have been much more enjoyable if they have taken out many of the tiny plot elements that never return in the final conclusion (such as the heroine's sister/mother, which dragged the film extremely) and rather focus on her relationship with Bluebeard. I will give the editor credit though on creating tension in some scenes, which seemed to be the big factor of this film, but didn't save it completely to me.

The ending was the part that got me the most in this dilemma. We were given so much information from the two little girls, and the editing was sort of getting at a good pace, but then it seems the editor gave up. I won't spoil the ending, but just be prepared to sit there and possibly be wanting a remote to rewind.

But the final verdict? Go see this movie. No offense to Alice in Wonderland, but this is the superior fantasy movie to see (so far) this year. French filmmakers, say what you will, do seem to have a great grip on fairy tale adaptations, and this film is no different. Though it's editing and pace may be a bit much at times, in its core it's definitely a must see.

So with that, La Vida Frills gives Bluebeard 4 headbows and a wristcuff (4.5) out of 5. The film is playing in select cities, and judging by it's interest, you should be able to find it eventually somewhere.

Curious what will be reviewed next? You'll just have to wait.

All photos from flickr.

A Quick Celebration

Just a Quick Update ~ La Vida Frills has officially 30 Subscribers. Not the biggest number, but definitely neat to know that even though it's not that active, LVF is getting some TLC out there. But what's going on with me? I just got my new OP in the mail, Mary in the Sky with Candies by Baby The Stars Shine Bright. I adore the print, absolutely beautiful. I'm also working on a new panel, but on what? That's the surprise. Also, soon a review of Bluebeard will be coming out, so keep an eye out!

(Picture from weheartit.com)

Lolita + Tourist ~a small word on the matter~

Oh goodness, tourist. In New York during the holidays, they flock like a group of new itas that'd you'd rather ignore. But what happened to me walking around New York was a journey that was slightly painful and terrifying. Sure, I had been in Lolita around Midtown before, but nothing could have prepared me for Easter weekends terrifying array of characters. It's a sweet lolita's dream holiday, but instead it was a nightmare. I think the worst, more then the sweating and pushing the I went through, was the worst you could imagine, the lace of my jumperskirt was ripped. Yes, not smashed, not stained, ripped... AND on my favorite jumperskirt no less, Angelic Pretty's Cinderella Print. The good thing is, it's nothing too horrible to fix, or cut to look a bit more normal. Overall, Don't go near tourist in lolita or at least near sharp objects by them.

Quick fun movie related thing you might wanna know:

Last night was also the occasion for a neat MoMa sponsored event. Which may that be? Tim Burton related of course (The director of the most recent Alice adaptation) and who was in attendance? Danny Elfman and Collen Atwood of course! The first being Mr.Music for Burton and the second being ---- Your favorite most likely --- the costumes for Tim's films. It was cool to see them (along with two of Tim's other friends) give insight into the creative processes of filmmaking with none other then Mr. Scissorhands himself. I really had a great time, and if you are ever given the opportunity to hear these two (Or Burton himself) speak, go for it!! Your inner Gothic Lolita will be pleased.

Stress and the Frills

So if you haven't noticed, this lovely blog hasn't gotten update in a couple of weeks. Why? Stress beyond compare. When you are a film student, stress is almost like a drug that you love to take, but you know it's gonna be bad for you later on. Sometimes stress helps me get my work done, and I feel like a god afterwards when everything is exported and burned to show, but sometimes it leaves a bittersweet taste of a lack of relaxation. But what happens when stress seeps into your frilly lifestyle? Where you feel like cutting your favorite brand piece, because your pillows just aren't feel satisfactory at the moment? Here is some ideas from yours truly.

Oh God!! This homework has got me in the worst zone possible!

I know a lot of you are some form of a "student". Wether it be college or high school, or maybe even middle school, you all have some work that's on a paper that you would rather say your dog ate, right? Well, regardless you have to get the work done, but sometimes your body just doesn't want to let you actually do it. One thing I enjoy is putting on a candle, my favorites being those created by Henry Slatkin. I'd recommend trying for those looking for a "lolita friendly" scent go with any of these: Pineapple Orchid, Sandalwood Vanilla, Strawberry Patch, and Island Nectar. These and more can all be found here. I also really like putting on a score from a film that's smoothing, but not boring either. Recently anything from Nancy Meyer's films are great.

Oh gosh, my 23 inch waist has turned to 28... the horror.

Sometimes the encouragement of sweets and candy during the easter season can make what once was a tiny waist, a little bit of a larger problem. If your increasing lack of waistband comfort continues, it might be best to cut half of what you eat, and instead replace it with a smoothy relaxing element. What am I talking about? Hot drinks. Though it might be getting warmer outside, Hot drinks always cool me down. I'm personally a chai addict, but rather then making a latte full of calories, go with a normal tea-bag blend. I'd also recommend things with honey and a berry taste for some flavor. In terms of snacks, I'm definitely a fan of these new rice cakes that are miniature and flavored in yummy tastes, the best being Cheddar Cheese and Chocolate. The best part, they're only 70 calories for every 10 pieces. Enjoyment? I think so.

Of course you could always travel to a magical world of Rococo outfits and unicorns.... but isn't that what we do usually? (Happy April Fools by the way)

Though this wasn't much of a post, Least you know I'm a live right? Well look for a new review (sorry no theme this month) next week, which will be the new film Bluebeard (click for trailer).

Movie Review #9 SPECIAL OSCAR TRIBUTE: The Women On Film including Betty Davis and Joan Crawford

Now another Oscar ceremony has gone and past. But, what did this Oscar's give in terms of a message? That women are here to dominate, rather then just sparkle and shine in front of the camera. With Kathryn Bigelow winning the biggest awards of the night (Director and Picture), it's clear that women in film aren't just an image to make your production "pretty", they are an important element both in the making and in the final product, a package that is always needed.

Though not all of you can understand how much of a milestone this is to me exactly, I think we all can appreciate seeing strong women taking a stand, and beating the boys that have reigned at something finally. Even in general fashion, men sometimes seem to be the big players of the game in terms of business, but it's really the women that run the show. Lolita is a great example of a culture that's almost completely devoted and expressed through the things that make women so grand. The colors, the curves, the female touch and sparkle that have defined the gender.

But before Kathryn and other heavy hitters, women were still looking for their screen starlet heroines. Though there had been stars of the feminine sort before, there wasn't any girls on screen that matched and out witted the boys. Then, as the 30's bloomed, Hollywood opened it's doors to a crop full of leading ladies, that would soon become legends, and defy the female image in film. Which is what I will be discussing today.

The proper way to begin such a tribute is with the Red and White queen's the Hollywood, who will run it's kingdom even in their deaths, Betty Davis and Joan Crawford. These two are the female definition of Hollywood. Their looks, attitude, and sparks on screen made them the icons they have become.

Betty Davis as more of the royalty of the two. She had the bite, yet the grace that made her roles unforgettable. My favorites would have to be Jezebel and All About Eve. Though the two are completely different, I enjoyed her variety in emotion, and her willingness to go beyond her Hollywood sterotype.

But which for your lolita eyes do I recommend? Jezebel of course! Another period costume drama full of well --- drama, along with Henry Fonda in all his hotness (respectively). But what stands out is Davis's drive within the role. This movie was supposedly created for her when she was turned down to play the equally famous Scarlet O'Hara in Gone with the Wind, though I think she created a character/performance just as memorable (but hasn't been introduced to enough of an audience until recently)

But what about Crawford? Which performance of hers should you check out? Personally, I gotta recommend Mildred Pierce or Possessed. Not that really either of these are "lolita", but if you are a film buff like me, and want a strong female lead, Crawford in her early to return career days is the way to go. Crawford, love I adore her odd/terrifying backstory, as an actress is very much a required taste, though in these films she shines. Crawford won the Oscar for Mildred Pierce, a role that apparently was almost gonna go to Betty Davis.

As Hollywood would continue to grow in the further decades, more women would take over the screen and dominate in the men's place. I think a great example of this is Hitchcock's films. They all seemed to feature prominent and smart women, none of them were outed as dumb or unreliable, and could carry the picture. Then as the decades went even further, more women would produce box office gold.

Slowly female directors have begun to be noticed, the most important in my mind being Penny Marshall. Though not all her films are amazing, I think she is important for making good strong films for women with women involved. Others like Nancy Meyers are becoming heavy hitters as well.

So overall, what is happening in Hollywood? Women are taking over. Such as the began with Crawford and Davis, now this strength is seeping into the chair behind the camera. Kathryn's win really is a moment for us all to admire, even if we aren't fighting our way to the film industry. Bows or just 35 mmm film, we all want to be strong.

Movie Review #8 OSCAR SPECIAL: An Education

First off, I want to thank everyone who has signed up to follow La Vida Frills. I'm sorry updates haven't been as much lately, school has been pretty hectic these days, but things will be getting better as time goes forward! Now on to the review ---

I know I had promised a different review a while back, but I wanted to give you my insight on a more recent movie I just saw, called An Education (2009). Why out of any movie would I bring this up? Well this coming Sunday is Oscar night, and out of all the nominated movies I think this might be the most different and stands alone in the greatest way possible. Does it have to do with lolita? On the outside, no. But in it's core, everyone, including lolitas, can appreciate it's message.

The story is that of 60's era darling Jenny (played by Oscar nominated Carey Mulligan), a bright student at her local school in England, dreaming of two opposite goals --- Paris and attending Oxford. While Oxford is the one desired more by her parents, Jenny still fantasizes of wearing black gowns, dancing to jazz and kissing underneath the Eiffel Tower (with a cigarette in hand). But, her once childish day dreams change with she encounters David (played by Peter Sarsgaard), who though older is exactly everything Jenny has dreamed of in a man.

Soon their relationship blossoms from an innocent romance, to one filled with things only grown ups would do, yet Jenny is engrossed in David's complex life. But the question is, will Jenny chose her education or a life of her Parisian dreams coming true?

Though "Coming Of Age" stories usually bore me to death, I really found this one important, why? Well it's great to finally see an encouraging story geared towards women where the major thing that moves the plot isn't the girl getting pregnant or having someone die in her family .. etc. This is all about a choice that everyone must make. Either they can sit back and enjoy the already great life they lead, or take a leap and make something of themselves and their talents.

I think we have all struggled with this choice in life, and I really think this has a strong connection to the choice of becoming apart of Lolita fashion. You can either sit back and continue the normal day to day wear that has become a standard in our 20th century culture, or you can chose to be different and make yourself feel good inside and out because of your new style. Lolita definitely isn't something that's tame, though at times different styles can be more tame then others. It's a bold move, just like the ones Jenny makes in the film.

The standing feature in this movie is both Jenny and the 1960's setting. Mulligan's performance is nothing short of brilliant. She has the attitude, charm and wit to match any other famous female character of the time, but also with a sense of misunderstanding that makes her, in a term, human. The 60's era was unlike anything else that has come into our culture, closely matched to the individual style of the 80's. Yet, the 60's really embodies class, and this movie shows it.

So, will this win an Oscar? Unfortunately, it'll probably go to that obsessive blue movie about smurfs and trees. But in my world, this would definitely be a top contender, and if you get a chance go see it!

La Vida Frills gives Jenny and her Education 5 headbows out of 5, go and get inspired to follow your dreams.

So what's next weeks movie? Here's a clue.