Change Your Image
c_mcnaul
Reviews
The Pillars of the Earth (2010)
I'm not as eloquent with words
I read many of the first reviews on Pillars of the Earth. I'm far from being as well versed in writing such eloquently about the series as many others.
However, I am very pleased with this series. I was saddened that The Tudors ended, especially ending so weakly as it did. The British have a history of covering up their rulers indiscretions, to portray them as upstanding examples of humanity. I still enjoyed watching the history unfold every week.
Pillars of the Earth was more realistic and believable without all the exaggerations. Perhaps it's because I could relate to the lives of the common folks who are the real backbone of any country. Since I began genealogical research, I find history more fascinating as my ancestors lived during those eras, and some even participated in making that history, or helped shape those Pillars of the Earth.
I look forward to more episodes to savor each week to come. I have not read the books, mostly due to schedules that kept me from taking advantage of some down time. Perhaps now that I have more time on my hands, I will explore the avenues of literature again. It's been too many years away from that pleasure.
I'm sure I will find the books quite satisfying, along with the future series.
Becoming Jane (2007)
Jane Austen
I didn't see this film until much later when it came out on a movie channel. I can't explain why I missed it in the theater. However, I thoroughly enjoyed this movie. I really don't like to compare actors/actresses to their previous films. I don't think it's fair, since movie themes come in a variety of genres.
I love Jane Austen, and I own every one of her books and even wrote a paper in my English class at college as one of my favorite authors. (her biography online is quite interesting) I dearly love films that take place between the early 300's a.d. to the late 1800's. I specifically enjoy movies whose subject matter takes place in the 1400's to the late 1700's because of the history, and the fashion of dress.
I feel Becoming Jane is an example of how life in that era was simple, laid back, and full of chivalry, honor, and relationship. Jane's novels reflect her views on the unbalanced practices in social classes.
I think her choice to live a single life was her ultimate statement and even political stance against a male dominated culture.