Since I've been on a media review kick lately, let's continue the trend.
I saw X-Men 3 at the movie theatre and Rent on DVD last week. I'd probably give them both an unenthusiastic "eh." As for X-Men 3, well, I didn't feel like I was ripped off for paying $7 to see it, but I sincerely hope they stop here and don't continue the series. Of course I'm just one little voice and I know a few people who enjoyed it quite a bit, so don't let me stop you from seeing it. I'll also confess that a little biased. I've never followed the comic books, but I'm a bit tired of wars, mutants or otherwise. There's enough of that in the news, you know? One non-spoiler tip for those of you who plan to see it: hang around after the credits.
I'm told that the film version of Rent is only really good if you've seen the stage show, which I'm sad to say I've never had the privilege. I enjoyed the music, even if it lacked a bit of the continuity that I appreciate musicals for, but this two-hour compacted version seemed a little rushed. I'm told by folks that I trust that it's worth seeing it on stage. The restaurant scene kicked ass though.
Beyond the enticing flicker of my television set, I saw a play I really enjoyed on Friday. A friend of mine was playing in the orchestra for Run Away Stage's production of "Guys and Dolls," which I'd never seen performed before and enjoyed throughly. Props to the actor who sang the lead in the "Don't Rock the Boat" sequence. Well done. And props to Jeremy for playing a mean trombone. I'd never seen anything by Run Away Stage before, but I'm planning on going back to see Seven Brides for Seven Brothers in a month's time. Anyone want to join me?
My friend Keith recently recommended Ursula Leguin's new book Changing Planes. Granted, it doesn't take much arm-twisting to get me to crack open a book by Ms. Leguin, who I would classify as one of the best sci-fi writers of our time. I'm about half way through this one and having a lot of fun with it. If you enjoy the single-serving, short-story variety of novel (Alliee) or if you spend way too much time in airports (Dad), you'll enjoy it; give it a shot. In fact, if you wait another few days, you can borrow my copy.
That sounds like an awful lot of entertainment for one week, but I got to top if off with a lovely bbq at Jenny's house on Monday night of the tacky hawaiian variety. I'd like to state for the record that I didn't do too bad in the limbo contest considering I'm 5 months along with child. Of course Cheryl kicked all our butts. Must be all the yoga. Thanks to Jeremy for making plenty of virgin pina coladas, thanks to Cheryl for swing dancing with me to "I'm Going to the Hukilau," and thanks to Jenny for throwing a great party and being the coolest Puerto Rican mermaid I know.
Don't be surprised if you don't hear too much from me this week, as I'm spending all my nights at the local theatre, entertaining other people (hopefully). My dance studio's yearly student recital is this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday so I'll be donning my tutu and hoping to keep my pregnant self from falling off the end of the stage. Wish me luck!