Review №4

Review №4: A Hard Day's Night (1964)

Cast: 

The Beatles
John Lennon ... John
Paul McCartney ... Paul
George Harrison ... George
Ringo Starr ... Ringo
Wilfrid Brambell ... Grandfather
Norman Rossington ... Norm
John Junkin ... Shake
Victor Spinetti ... T.V. Director
Anna Quayle ... Millie
Deryck Guyler ... Police Inspector
Richard Vernon ... Man on Train
Edward Malin ... Hotel Waiter (as Eddie Malin)
Robin Ray ... T.V. Floor Manager
Lionel Blair ... T.V. Choreographer

Director: Richard Lester
Writer: Alun Owen (original screenplay)

Genres: Comedy | Musical

Storyline:

The Beatles rush to the concert from Liverpool to London. Along the way, all sorts of funny scenes happen, songs are sung. All the songs were released a separate self-titled album.

Review:

Legendary Liverpool four rides on the regular tour. To escape from the crowds of fans, the vast majority of which young girls, Paul, Ringo, John and George have time to marvel at the train. The company they are a manager, assistant and ... Grandpa Paul. Grandpa is not a simple and easy going "old man", and adventurous and not sitting on the site of an old man. Having arrived, the boys have to give a concert for television, but the adventure is just beginning here - Granddaddy constantly strives to get to the next adventure, the manager can not raise children who constantly go somewhere and then disappears Ringo, who will be ... in a police station. In short day is not easy, and it's only the beginning.

Now shoot a music film with a well-known musical group or performer has become a matter of course, but the quality of the product does not always live up to satisfactory. In the best case, a large and long-running video. But often overlook opuses like the ones where he plays Mariah Carey, Britney Spears and of "famous" - "Spice World," which many critics has been named the worst movie musical of all time. The trouble singing these fellows is that they are trying to do what they obviously can not - play great actors. And it should not. The best example - the first musical film "The Beatles" - "A Hard Day's Night" - guys do not play, and just sing, play the fool, joke, behave naturally shorter, even without trying to play. So this film and we've got such wonderful. And of course the great hits that are time tested and that can be listened to.

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The headline of the article is Daft Punk break second Spotify record with Random Access Memories. The article was created on  Tuesday 28 May 2013 11.19 BST. The author of the article is Sean Michaels. The purpose of the article is to give the readers some information about French duo's new album scores highest number of first-week streams in US, weeks after similar success for single Get Lucky.

The writer states that Just weeks after Get Lucky became the most streamed track on Spotify, Daft Punk have broken a second Spotify streaming record, with their new album Random Access Memories achieving the most first-week streams on record.

The author tells us that A month ago, the French musicians set Spotify alight when Get Lucky had more streams on its first day than any other song since the service began, in 2008. 

Further the writer points out that over the next four weeks, users got funky more than 25m times, the song's popularity rising as May went on. "We expect the [forthcoming] album to become one of the biggest, if not the biggest, on Spotify this year," said Spotify's Will Hope, director of label relations.

Then the writer reports that following the release of Random Access Memories on 20 May, Hope's prediction seems on track. Yesterday, Spotify announced that the LP had more first-week streams in the US than any album in history. Daft Punk are expected to cross the same threshold in the UK. Until now, the record for first-week album streams had been held by Mumford & Sons' Babel: upon its release in September, the album had 8m streams in seven days.

In conclusion the writer say that in addition to their streaming success, Daft Punk are also selling copies of Random Access Memories. After moving 165,000 units in its first week, the LP is 2013's fastest-selling record. The duo are duly celebrating their first No 1 album. Unfortunately it's not a dual title: after four weeks on top of the singles charts, Get Lucky was recently butted to No 2, behind Naughty Boy's La La La.

To my mind, this article is really worth reading. Having read about  French duo's new album scores highest number of first-week streams in US, weeks after similar success for single Get Lucky, I was really impressed! 

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The headline of the article is Chris Brown could face jail over minor car accident. The article was created on Tuesday 28 May 2013 12.08 BST. The author of the article is Sean Michaels. The purpose of the article is to give the readers some information about Chris Brown's possible getting jailed for 4 years.

The writer states that a minor car crash could send Chris Brown to jail. Officials are allegedly investigating whether Brown violated the terms of his probation last week after he hit another vehicle in Los Angeles.

The author tells us that according to a report on the gossip blog TMZ, the LA is looking into the claim that Brown refused to co-operate with the victim of a minor crash on 21 May. 

Although the star did not dispute his Range Rover bumped the back of her Mercedes-Benz, he was apparently reluctant to hand over his insurance details or driving permit number. The 24-year-old also "copped an attitude when the woman pressed him for his [information]". When Brown did finally oblige her, TMZ claims he gave her false information.

Further the writer points out that If this is true, Brown could be in very hot water. The R&B singer is still under probation for his 2009 assault against Rihanna. 

According to TMZ, if he refused to disclose correct insurance information, he would be in breach of his probation terms – and could face a jail sentence of up to four years.

Then the writer reports that  in  a statement to TMZ, "sources close to" Brown denied he had lied about his insurance information and provided a photo of the victim's car, showing no signs of damage. "When his lawyer attempted to contact [the other driver] not long after the accident, she hung up on him," the sources claimed. They insisted Brown has not been contacted by police.

In conclusion the writer say that this wouldn't be Brown's only recent brush with controversy. In February an LA judge questioned whether Brown completed the six months' community labour sentence imposed as part of his five-year probation. A report by the LAdistrict attorney's office found that there was "no credible, competent or verifiable evidence that defendant Brown performed his community labour". A further hearing is scheduled for 10 June. Brown's last album, 2012's Fortune, topped the UK album charts.

To my mind, this article is really worth reading. Having read about  Chris Brown's possible getting into a jail due to a car accident I was shocked ! I like this singer and hope everything will be fine !

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The headline of the article is Rapper Tim Dog accused of faking own death. The article was created on Thursday 23 May 2013 11.38 BST.The author of the article is Daniel Martin. The purpose of the article is to give the readers some information about accusation of Rapper Tim Dog of faking own death.

The writer states that when the rapper Tim Dog died in February from complications arising from diabetes, that might have been the end of his story. 

However, not as far as the authorities in Mississippi are concerned – a warrant has been issued in the state for Tim Dog's arrest, on suspicion of faking his own death.

Further the writer quotes Steven Jubera, a prosecutor in Hernando, Mississippi, told the Memphis TV station WREG:  "I need a death certificate showing that he's dead, because as far as I'm concerned, he's alive."

Then the writer reports that the curious case unfolded last week, when a woman named Esther Pilgrim claimed that Dog, born Timothy Blair, had faked his death to avoid paying tens of thousands of dollars in court ordered debts. 

The author points out that when rapper's death was reported, he was in the course of paying off $19,000 (£12,600) to Pilgrim, as ordered after his conviction for grand larceny.

Then the writer reports that Pilgrim was one of many women Blair defrauded in an online dating scam, over which he was eventually charged with grand larceny. He was reported dead in February at the age of 46, having suffered a seizure. 

However, all of the stories announcing the death linked back to a story at The Source, which can no longer be found at its original link, and none of them offered any solid information about where he died or how the body was discovered.

Further the author states that the situation was further muddled when Pilgrim sent a friend to Atlanta to search for Blair's death certificate, and was unsuccessful, while a private investigator working for WREG tracked down an address that was listed as "active", but confusion still surrounds what that actually means. Jubera says he will drop the warrant if the rapper's death can be proven. However, even Blair's former producer Cedric "Ced Gee" has cast doubt on the death – he refused to speak at Blair's funeral after family members could not produce a death certificate.

In conclusion the writer say that Tim Dog was best known for 1991 diss track, Fuck Compton, aimed at Dr Dre and NWA, which was instrumental in sparking the US east coast/west coast battles of the 1990s.

To my mind, this article is really worth reading. Having read about  accusation of Rapper Tim Dog of faking own death, I was really impressed because I believe that to play dead for the money is terrible!

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The headline of the article is Kanye West's New Slaves screening shut down by Houston police. The article was created on Monday 27 May 2013 11.34 BST. The author of the article is Sean Michaels. The purpose of the article is to give the readers some information about the fact that Kanye West's new music video on side of landmark building blocked by Texas police.

The writer states that police in Houston, Texas put a quick stop to a local promotional campaign for Kanye West's new album, Yeezus. 

Moreover, officers threatened to arrest fans who had gathered outside the city's Rothko Chapel on Saturday night, hoping to watch a video for West's latest song.

As it turned out, new Slaves, which was expected to be projected on to the chapel's wall. 

The author tells us that It was the second weekend in a row that West had organised screenings of New Slaves at sites around the world, projecting the new video on the walls of major landmarks.

Further the writer points out that on Friday, Saturday and Sunday there were events in more than 20 cities, including Manchester and Glasgow.

Then the writer reports that in Houston, the rapper had scheduled three Saturday screenings, and none of them happened. At the landmark Rothko Chapel, whose interior includes 14 paintings by Mark Rothko, dozens of "upbeat, respectful" fans were sent home by police, according to the Houston Chronicle.

The writer points out that officials "pulled several cars on to the grass, flashed lights and sirens and demanded everyone leave or be arrested for trespassing", it reported. "Folks slowly dispersed when it was clear this wasn't part of the show." Across town, another screening never got off the ground, and police prohibited organisers from proceeding with a third showing at the city's Central Library. "Just as [the technician] was about to press play … the cops said no," a witness told the blog Day and a Dream.

Further the author states that while Houston police said the cancellations were due to issues of permits and public safety, some observers have wondered if the content of the song caused the authorities to intervene.As West rages against institutionalised racism in New Slaves, he has some special words for the prison-industrial complex, in which police play an important role. "The DEA teamed up with the CCA," West raps. "They tryin' to lock niggas up/ They tryin' to make new slaves/ See that's that privately owned prisons/ Get your piece today."

In conclusion the writer say that Yeezus, West's sixth album, will reportedly be released on 18 June. Described as "dark" and "very raw", the LP may include collaborations with Daft Punk, Skrillex, Frank Ocean, Tyler the Creator, James Blake and Malik Yusef. 

To my mind, this article is really worth reading. Having read about the ban on  Kanye West's new music video, I was not surprised. I believe that the police did the right thing.

Mansfield Park by Jane Austen (Chapters 41-48)

Henry departed for a meal with a friend. Fanny longed for a letter from Edmund. Henry was genteel and obliging. A long letter from Edmund finally arrived. After some time, Lady Bertram wrote to inform Fanny that Tom was gravely ill with fever and Edmund departed to attend him and brought him home. Lady Bertram kept Fanny informed of the events of his serious illness with daily letters. Fanny was amazed that Tom’s sisters Maria and Julia did not return to visit their brother Tom. Fanny received a letter from Mary Crawford after a long wait. She wanted all the particulars of Tom’s illness from Mansfield. Mrs. Rushworth had run off with Mr. Crawford. Edmund wrote having returned to Mansfield. No trace of the couple could be found, adding further bad news. Julia and Mr. Yates had eloped to Scotland, though this deed was a trifle in comparison. It also informed her that Sir Thomas requested her return and to bring Susan. Fanny and Susan were anxious for different reasons. Susan for her country manners and Fanny for the unpleasant moods she would find there. Of the three still at Mansfield, Mrs. Norris was taking the bad news the hardest and blamed Fanny for Henry and Maria’s folly. If she had married him, this would not have happened. Lady Bertram was happy to have her Fanny back at Mansfield and comforted by her care. She was resolved that she had lost a daughter and had gained a disgrace never to be wiped off. Fanny learnt the history of Maria and Henry’s indiscretion and exited through Lady Bertram and her husband’s letters from London. It appeared that Mrs. Rushworth spread the news to support her position. Fanny felt for Sir Thomas as every child but Edmund was racking at his heart. Edmund finally talked to Fanny of Mary. Mary blamed Fanny for Henry’s actions. If she had married him, it would not have happened. The charm of Mary was now broken for Edmund. He was done with her, and was eager to make friends with Fanny. Fanny was now returned to Mansfield, useful, beloved, and safe from Sir Thomas reflected on his faulty parenting and hoped time would mend the beaches. Henry would not marry Maria and they mutually separated. Mr. Rushworth procured an easy divorce and would try to marry again.  Sir Tomas would not admit Maria back into his fold. Henry regretted his involvement with Maria because it meant the end of his future with Fanny. Edmund realized what a better woman he had in his midst. With Sir Thomas’ blessing, Fanny and Edmund married and resided near their family in the Mansfield Park.

Mansfield Park by Jane Austen (Chapters 33-40)

Sir Thomas and Henry went on believing that Fanny would think better of about Henry’s offer. However, Fanny made it clear to Henry that her feelings to him would not change. After some time, Edmund came back and was informed of Henry’s offer to Fanny to marry him. He was amazed that Fanny had refused him. Sir Thomas asked Edmund to convince Fanny to marry Henry. Edmund gained her confidence saying that they both didn’t marry without love. Nevertheless, he told Fanny that she would be a great model of a woman. Fanny claimed that she and Henry were quite different. Then, Mary came at Mansfield and wanted to talk with Fanny. She told her that many women would envy her because of Henry. Moreover, Mary said to Fanny that Henry could help in strengthening the promotion of William. After some time, Sit Thomas wanted Fanny to come back to her family in Portsmouth in order to teach her to value income. Fanny was happy to be again with people who cherished her. So she left for Portsmouth with William. However, Fanny found her parents different. Her father drank and her mother didn’t care about the education of her children. Their house was very comfortless. Fanny was looking forward to receiving letters from Mary Crawford because in Portsmouth Fanny met no one who were not rustic.

Review №3

Review №3: Bewitched (2005)

Cast:

Nicole Kidman ... Isabel Bigelow / Samantha
Will Ferrell ... Jack Wyatt / Darrin
Shirley MacLaine ... Iris Smythson / Endora
Michael Caine ... Nigel Bigelow
Jason Schwartzman ... Ritchie
Kristin Chenoweth ... Maria Kelly
Heather Burns ... Nina
Jim Turner ... Larry
Stephen Colbert ... Stu Robison
David Alan Grier ... Jim Fields
Michael Badalucco ... Joey Props
Carole Shelley ... Aunt Clara
Steve Carell ... Uncle Arthur
Katie Finneran ... Sheila Wyatt
James Lipton ... Himself

Director: Nora Ephron
Writers: Nora Ephron, Delia Ephron

Genres: Comedy | Fantasy | Romance

Storyline:

Popular actor Jack Wyatt's career is being on the decline. So he tries to revive the former glory. Jack begins on a profitable project. This is a remake of the classic TV series about a man who marries a witch. The actor demands that the actress who will play with him must not be a star, but a little known actress, who is not able to overshadow him. A strange bedfellow Isabel Bigelow seems to be the perfect option. But none of the crew does not know that Isabel is indeed a witch.

Review:

Who would not want to be a magician who can wish and everything would happen at the click of the fingers? I think there are few such people. However, the main character Isabel Bigelow is trying to get rid of her gift and become an ordinary woman who decides everyday problems without any magical tricks. It seems that life without magic has even started to bring her a real pleasure, until she met Jack Wyatt, an actor who proposed to her a role in the TV series about a witch. The main character did not have to get used to the image. She's actually a witch and wants to be normal. But habits are hard to get rid of.

The film has pluses and minuses, but I want to start with Nicole Kidman. She is great in any role. This film is no exception. I am sure that most of the audience after the show tried to replicate her twitching nose. Stunning facial expressions and gestures. I'd love to watch her ​​play with enthusiasm and a gleam in her eyes. Magical things were funny and visually looked good. I like the unexpected appearance of the father in all places and filming of the series.

Nevertheless, Will Ferrell just spoils everything. He probably considers himself a first-rate comedian, but it's not so. Anyway, not here. His terrible affectation just annoyed. It looked very stupid and not funny. I think the filmmakers made ​​a mistake with the choice of the main character. I like the only one episode with him, where Jack is trying to drive Isabel away with a stick. The other actors do not get out of the total number and added to the film even more theatrical. In general, a kind of unpretentious tale turned out, which is hard to take seriously, but it is worth seeing at least once for Nicole Kidman.

Mansfield Park by Jane Austen (Chapters 25-32)

Sir Thomas observed that Henry liked Fanny. Henry wanted to live near Mansfield. Fanny and her brother William had a conversation about his expectation to be a lieutenant. Sir Thomas would arrange a ball at Mansfield for Fanny and William. The Ball was coming therefore Fanny consulted with Mrs. Grant and Mary what to put on. Everybody feasted their eyes upon Fanny at the ball. Sir Thomas said to Fanny to guide the first dance to begin the ball. William and Henry Crawford left for London which upset Fanny very much. After some time, Henry returned from London and reported Mary that he wanted Fanny to be his wife and she approved of his choice. Then Henry informed Fanny that William became a lieutenant. Fanny was thankful and wanted to inform her uncle about it, however Henry stopped her confessing love. Fanny was discouraged. She informed Sir Thomas only that William was promoted to the rank of a lieutenant. At the dinner Fanny ate very little and wished Henry would leave them. However, he came at Mansfield the next morning. Fanny concealed herself in the room and hoped to not be called for. Fanny refused his proposal. Sir Thomas left the room to talk to Henry. Later after dinner, Sir Thomas called Fanny to the room, and she met Henry Crawford who was waiting for her there.

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The headline of the article is Iron Man 3: the final instalment of the superhero saga?.The article was created on Friday 26 April 2013 15.37 BST. The author of the article is Ben Child. The purpose of the article is to give the readers some information about a possible ending of a series of films of Iron Man.

The writer states that with Iron Man 3 debuting across the world this month to enthusiastic reviews, you'd be hard pressed to argue against the right of this series to a spot in the grand pantheon of big-screen superhero sagas. If we include The Avengers in that equation, it might even challenge Christopher Nolan's Batman trilogy for the shiniest plinth.

The author tells us that all good things must come to an end, however, and Iron Man 3 may turn out to be the final solo outing for Robert Downey Jr's Tony Stark and his ever-expanding collection of multi-coloured metal suits. Downey Jr recently hinted as much, while co-star Gwyneth Paltrow also casts doubt on the viability of a fourth Iron Man film in a new interview with Geek Nation. Shane Black's latest instalment has a satisfying denouement that (while not exactly providing closure) certainly ties up a few loose ends for the Stark saga. Its star will be back for The Avengers 2 in 2015, of course.

Further the writer points out that yet Iron Man 3 is on course to break box-office records for the series and could even challenge The Avengers' staggering $1.5bn haul on current projections. Even with the likely preposterous cost of retaining Downey Jr, who will be out of contract after The Avengers 2, Marvel will presumably think long and hard about replacing their most bankable star for future instalments.

Then the writer reports that nevertheless there is a strong argument that the studio ought to be planning for a time when their man has flown the high-tech coop. While the next Avengers film seems the most likely farewell vehicle, I'd argue that Downey Jr should be given one more solo outing to hand over the mantle to a successor. Casting someone else as Tony Stark without a "reboot gap" of at least a few years might just lead to an audience revolt, and Marvel will want to avoid having Iron Man unavailable for solo or Avengers duty.

The writer points out that the sensible solution therefore seems to be to use the fourth film to put a new character in the suit (and I don't mean Don Cheadle's Iron Patriot/War Machine). Downey Jr's performance has been so singular that he fully deserves the right to see Stark's Iron Man retired, albeit temporarily.

Further the author states that there are plenty of instances in the comic books where someone else but Stark has been the occupant of the suit. In fact, the useful thing about Iron Man is that almost anyone could be inside – a point the latest episode regularly flags up. If the film saga needs to depart a little from the established canon, few are likely to complain. Jon Favreau, and now Black, have made Iron Man a first-tier superhero in the way his comic book source never was. Marvel Studios have more than earned the right to make whichever changes they see fit.

The author points out that there are other ways forward, of course. With so many superheroes to choose from (even with Spider-Man, the X-Men and Fantastic Four currently tied up at other film companies) the studio ought to be able to get away with resting its main players for a couple of years to help rebuild audience anticipation. Who is to say that the forthcoming Ant Man and Guardians of the Galaxy movies, or even as-yet-unimagined adaptations based on lesser-known figures might not prove just as successful on the big screen as Iron Man? And if the studio does need a more obvious big-hitter, it was recently announced that Marvel has won back the rights to Daredevil.

In conclusion the writer say that Matt Murdock may have been put through the ignominy of a 2003 outing featuring Ben Affleck in that purple gimp suit, but in the right hands he ought to be more than capable of taking the weight off Iron Man. There is even a comic book in which Daredevil joins the "New Avengers", a rival superhero combo featuring figures such as Spider-Man, Wolverine and The Thing. Might Marvel employ a similar rotation policy, like a football manager who knows that even his best players will only perform at their best if allowed time for rest and recuperation?There is another, rarely-mentioned option. Marvel could simply opt to rake up the cash to keep an increasingly elderly Downey Jr on as Iron Man for decades to come. But even though he looks pretty good for 48, I wonder if the world is quite ready for a late 80s Roger Moore James Bond take on the character. His suit might increase in power as Stark slips into doddery pensioner territory, of course, but surely better to give Stark a well-deserved retirement tinkering with techy gadgets in his LA basement while Pepper Potts browses daytime TV and Jarvis wonders what to cook for dinner.

To my mind, this article is really worth reading. Having read about  a possible ending of a series of films of Iron Man I was really impressed ! I disagree with the statement that  Spider-Man, the X-Men and Fantastic are better than Iron Man. So I believe that this series of that films should be continued.

Mansfield Park by Jane Austen (Chapters 17-24)

Edmund acceded to play Anhalt in the play. Mrs. Grant gave her consent to play the part of the cottager’s wife. The repetitions of the play went on. Tom invited everyone to the performance of the play. Mrs. Norris made Fanny to sew the costumes. The rehearsals were dispersed around the house. Sir Thomas was introduced to Mr. Rushworth as Maria’s groom. After some time, Edmund clarified to his father his participation in the theatrical. Mr. Yates left there and Sir Thomas was sincerely content to see him away from his son Tom and daughter Julia. Fanny was embarrassed that Edmund said that she had grown into a beautiful woman. Fanny came to see Mary and they strolled in the garden. Edmund was really glad to see two so dear to him people to become friends. Lady Bertram was perplexed that Fanny should eat with the Grants. Sir Thomas believed that it was right that Mrs. Grant should respect Lady Bertram’s niece. Edmund paid a compliment to Fanny on her dress. Henry Crawford was a surprise visitor at dinner. He delayed to come back to London because he would make Fanny fall in love with him. Reproaching that he desired Fanny because she didn’t desire him, Mary alerted him not to dip her into love. Fanny’s brother William came back and looked in Mansfield. Henry was delighted with William’s adventures.

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The headline of the article is Christian Bale may return as Batman in Justice League movie. The article was created on Tuesday 5 March 2013 11.59 GMT. The author of the article is Ben Child. The purpose of the article is to give the readers some information about a possible return of Christian Bale as Batman in Justice League movie. 

The writer states that Christian Bale will return as Batman opposite Henry Cavill's Superman in a Justice League movie overseen by Christopher Nolan, according to an influential US blog.

The author tells us that Latino Review, which has broken a number of stories surrounding the Superman and Batman franchises in the past, says Warner Bros is desperate to bring the team behind the hugely successful Dark Knight trilogy back for its planned superhero ensemble movie. 

Further the writer points out that by teaming Bale with Cavill, the star of this summer's heavily hyped Zack Snyder-directed Man of Steel, the studio believes it could compete with Joss Whedon's The Avengers II and JJ Abrams' Star Wars: Episode VII.

Then the writer reports that Latino Review says Nolan would oversee the film and sequels in much the same way as he was brought in to "godfather" Man of Steel. Snyder would also produce and possibly direct.

Further the author states that Bale and Nolan had previously said that last year's The Dark Knight Rises would be their final Batman film.

However, Bale told Empire magazine last year he would consider returning for a fourth instalment if Nolan came to him with a great story.

The author points out that Justice League, which Warner is preparing for release in 2015, is based on the comic book that sees Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman and other superheroes combining to fight Earth's enemies. Six years ago Babe director George Miller oversaw an abandoned attempt to bring the story to the big screen, unconnected to previous films in either series and with different actors playing Batman and Superman.

However, Disney-owned Marvel's launch of several superhero films based on characters such as Iron Man, Thor and Captain America before combining them into the $1.5bn The Avengers has changed the way studios approach the genre.

In conclusion the writer say that early reports from test screenings for Man of Steel have suggested Warner could have a hit on its hands. The studio has refused to comment on Latino Review's Justice League scoop. 

To my mind, this article is really worth reading. Having read about  a possible return of Christian Bale as Batman I was really glad! No one else plays this role better than him!  

Mansfield Park by Jane Austen (Chapters 9-16)

Mr. Rushworth and his mother had a party. There Mary Crawford sneered at Edmund’s choice of profession. Edmund reproached her critique and Fanny agreed with him. Then Edmund and Mary walked on together and left Fanny to rest. Maria with Henry and Mr. Rushworth turned up to discover Fanny alone. After some time, Fanny went to find Edmund and Mary who were enjoying each other. The visit ended with an evening coming back to Mansfield.  Soon in August the open season attracted Tom home from Antigua. After some time, Mr. Yates came with the design of bringing into play a particular performance at Mansfield Park. Edmund would not act and tried to discourage his sisters from doing that. In the end, it was decided to play a Lovers’ Vows. The play required three male characters and two female ones and three ladies. Mary Crawford would be Amelia. Tom enlisted Fanny to be Cottager’s wife, however she would not act. As for Edmund, he would ruefully play Anholt to keep the privacy and with hope to influence the manner of the play. 

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The headline of the article is My hero: Mae West. The article was created on Friday 12 April 2013 16.00 BST. The author of the article is Kathy Lette. The purpose of the article is to give the readers some information about was an American actress, singer, playwright, screenwriter and sex symbol Mae West.

The writer clarifies that as if Mae West's mix of talents – comedian, playwright, director, producer, novelist and sex siren, weren't enough to make any writer impale herself on her pen, West was also a feminist who makes Madonna look like Julie Andrews, an intellectual who rubbed shoulders with the Roosevelts, and a civil libertarian who went to jail in defence of freedom of expression.

Further the author reports that Today, when the only creative muscle exercised by cinema stars is in their control-top tights, and screen-writers are the most put-upon of literary prostitutes, we can only marvel at the business acumen of a woman who invented the droit morale in her Paramount contracts, meaning each film had to be made "to her satisfaction".

The writer points out that through the seismic days of the Wall Street crash and the struggling New Deal, West first mounted her unique pedestal: an icon who raised eyebrows for a living.

Further the author tells us that the actress' first play, which she wrote, directed and starred in, was coolly titled Sex. When raided by police, rather than close the play, West chose to stand trial.

Then, the judge convicted her of "corrupting the morals of youth" and sentenced her to Devil's Island where she saw enough of homosexuality to write her next play, The Drag. Opening night saw an unscheduled third act; a team of New York's finest rushed on stage and arrested the entire cast.

The writer states that the box office declared West "not guilty" on the grounds that the US supreme court was later to recognise as a defence to obscenity – she had a "redeeming social purpose". She combined sexuality with satire, at a time when Bible-bashing, prohibition America desperately needed a cure for its irony deficiency. 

Further the author tells that what makes West so fascinating is that she accomplished all this in an era when women were meant to be decorative and domesticated. Her domesticity was limited to the sewing of wild oats and the barbecuing of sacred cows – entire herds.

In conclusion the writer say that in a man's world, she had what it took to take what they had.

To my mind, this article is really worth reading. Having read about Mae West's life I was really impressed ! I believe that this actress deserves respect because she was one of the more controversial movie stars of her day!

Mansfield Park by Jane Austen (Chapters 1-8)

Maria married to prosperous Sir Thomas Bertram from Mansfield Park, Miss Ward to a priest Rev. Mr. Norris from Mansfield, and Frances to an officer Price. Thirty years passed Mrs. Norris suggested an act of charity due to lack of money. She proposed that one of the Price daughters come to live at Mansfield Park. Fanny Price who was ten years old arrived and met her cousins Julia and Maria. However, only Edmund was good to her and helped her write a letter to her brother William. A few years later, Edmund went to Oxford. Fanny aged fifteen. Her Aunt Norris’ husband died. Edmund returned and became the man of the house. The old grey pony died, so Edmund traded one of his three horses for a suitable ladies mount for Fanny. After a time, Fanny passed the age of 18 years. Mr. and Miss Crawford arrived in Mansfield and joint their sister Mrs. Grant at the parsonage. They were interesting young people with a fortune. Edmund and Fanny talked over Mary Crawford and found her good-looking but very indecent. Edmund taught Mary Crawford to ride, so Fanny’s horse was appropriated and she had to share the mount. Mary kept Fanny waiting for her turn longer than arranged. It irritated Fanny. Mr. Rushworth, a man of large fortune, and his mother arrived for a visit. Mrs. Rushworth entreated Lady Bertram to join the party. The number of the party and the carriage arrangements were discussed. The party departed for Sotherton and the scenery was amazing. Julia was pleased to sit next to Henry and Maria was envious.

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The headline of the article is Daniel Craig reveals he wanted Skyfall to be his last James Bond film.The article was created on Thursday 8 November 2012 11.45 GMT. The author of the article is Ben Child.  The purpose of the article is to give the readers some information about a famous actor Daniel Craig's decision not to act as James Bond any more.

The writer reports that Daniel Craig has suggested that the finish line for himself as James Bond is not far away, during an interview with Rolling Stone to promote new 007 adventure Skyfall in the US. Despite having recently signed on to star in at least two more Bond films, Craig revealed he had been planning to end his stint as the suave British secret agent.

Further the author gives the actor's quote: "I've been trying to get out of this from the very moment I got into it," he told the magazine. "But they won't let me go, and I've agreed to do a couple more, but let's see how this one does, because business is business and if the shit goes down, I've got a contract that somebody will happily wipe their ass with."

Then the writer clarifies that it is not known when Craig conducted the Rolling Stone interview, but it is quite likely that it was some time before Skyfall wowed critics and drove all before it at the box office, in the process becoming one of the most successful Bond films of all time. 

Moreover, Sam Mendes's movie has just passed the $320m mark at the global box office, according to some reports, and is set to hit $400m (£251m) by the end of the weekend even without factoring in its debut tomorrow at the US box office.

Further the author tells us that industry reports suggest Skyfall will take at least $70m (£44m) in North America on opening, beating the previous best for a Bond film, $67m for 2008's Quantum of Solace. The 23rd 007 outing is well on course to become the highest-grossing film in the series so far, ahead of the $594m total posted by Craig debut Casino Royale in 2006.  

The author points out that Spanish actor Javier Bardem (who plays villain Silva in Skyfall) has "revealed" he was once offered the role of 007 but turned it down. Bardem told CinemaBlend: "Years ago, I was [offered Bond]. I don't remember what movie it was for. But yeah, it just was not that time. I didn't feel that it was the time for me to do something like that. And also, I was doing something else, so I passed. This time, when I read it, I felt that it was very powerful material, and I wanted to join [a Bond movie]."

Further the author gives us  the Oscar-winner's quote: No. I have passed on many things that I could easily regret, but I don't regret any of them, because that also gives room for something else to come that I'm proud of," he said. "Even if those things were not beautifully executed, those were the things that I believed in at the time."  

In conclusion the writer say that CinemaBlend is claiming Bardem's comments as an exclusive, but it is not clear whether the actor misunderstood the question and thought he was being asked if he had been offered a role in a Bond film, rather than the part of 007 himself. Production company Eon usually casts actors who can at least appear to be British, and Bardem is about as Spanish as they come.

To my mind, this article is really worth reading. Having read about Daniel Craig's decision I was really upset!No one else plays this role better than him! As for that spanish actor Javier Bardem who was offered the role of 007, I don't like him! 

Summary of The Moon and Sixpence by Maugham Somerset (51-58 Chapters)

Tahitian, hostess hotel, where the author lived, told him how she found Strickland's wife - Ata, who was her distant relative. Once Strickland and Ata got married, they went into the forest, where Ata had a small plot of land. The next three years Strickland was the happiest person. Ata did what he told her, and she also brought up their child. Strickland developed leprosy. When he learned of his illness, he wanted to go into the woods, but his wife did not let him go. They lived together, not talking to people.When the artist became blind, he still continued to work, drawing on the walls of the house. Only a doctor who came to see the patient, saw that painting, but he did not find Strickland alive. He was shocked. That wall painting seemed to be something great, sensual and passionate. Having created this masterpiece, Strickland got what he wanted: he banished the demon who owned his soul for many years. On his deathbed, the painter ordered Ata burn the house after his death, and she did not dare to disturb his last wish. When the author returned to London, he again met with Mrs. Strickland. After the death of her sister she came into fortune and lived very happily. In her living room Strickland’s reproductions hang, and she acted as if she and her husband had a great relationship. While the author was talking to Mrs. Strickland he somehow remembered Strickland and Ata’s his son.

Review №2

Review №2:  How to Steal a Million (1966)

Cast:

 Audrey Hepburn             ...                            Nicole 

 Peter O'Toole                 ...                            Simon Dermott 

 Eli Wallach                     ...                            Davis Leland 

 Hugh Griffith                   ...                            Bonnet 

 Charles Boyer                ...                            DeSolnay 

 Fernand Gravey             ...                            Grammont 

 Marcel Dalio                  ...                            Senor Paravideo 

 Jacques Marin                ...                            Chief Guard 

 Moustache                     ...                            Guard 

 Roger Tréville                 ...                           Auctioneer (as Roger Treville) 

 Edward Malin                 ...                           Insurance Clerk (as Eddie Malin) 

 Bert Bertram                  ...                            Marcel

Directed by William Wyler
Written by George Bradshaw (story), Harry Kurnitz (screenplay)
Genre: Comedy | Crime | Romance

Storyline:

The action takes place in Paris, where a young woman, the daughter of a millionaire who secretly hunted fake works of art, and a criminal must steal  one of the "masterpieces" of the girl's father from the exhibition at the Museum of Fine Arts in order to save him from being exposed.

Review:

I believe that in 1966, this film, and even in color, certainly caused a lot of excitement. The plot is criminal, the film is a comedy,on the screen there is a love story and an ingenious trick. Besides, there is very beautiful Audrey Hepburn from who I expected much more, and there is Peter O'Toole who is also very handsome. Here is a lovely duet.

However, the film left me cold. Most of the scenes in the museum are naive. By logic, after disarming the alarm the chief had to send at least one person on duty to sculpture. But it did not happen, they just turned off and calm down. Of course, I realize that it is a comedy but not to such an extent !!!

This is the first movie with Audrey Hepburn, which I watched and I do not like her in this movie. Neither looks nor acting. Peter O'Toole's character strongly resembled James Bond: elegant, smart, intelligent, even aristocratic and comprehensive ironic. But the character still came out interesting.

In general, the film too prolonged. It took too much time for audience to get into the swing and too long to show the events at the museum. I think I don't want to revisit this film. 

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The headline of the article is Who was Bertolt Brecht? The article was created on January 09, 2013 and last updated on January 10, 2013. The author of the article is Amrita Nandagopal. The purpose of the article is to give the readers some information about a famous German poet, playwright and theatre director Bertolt Brecht’s life.

The writer reports that Bertolt Brecht born in Ausburg, Bavaria in 1898. He is most famously remembered for mentoring the epic theatre concept, which was markedly different from the conventional Aristotelian drama. ‘The Threepenny Opera’, ‘Mother Courage’ and ‘The Caucasian Chalk Circle’ are some of his renowned productions.

Further writer clarifies that the house where he was born is still preserved as a museum to this day. While his father was a Catholic, his mother was a devout Protestant whose beliefs exerted considerable influence on his writings.

The author explains that Bertolt Brecht met his life-long friend Casper Neher who went on to design many of the sets for Brecht’s plays and was instrumental in creating the distinctive visual appeal of their epic theatre.

Further the writer tells us that Early in his life, Brecht used to publish newspaper articles as a budding theatre critic. He wrote his first full play ‘Baal’ in 1918, about a drunken, womanizing poet. His next major work ‘Drums in the night’ was written the next year and was about a soldier returning from war. In his work ‘Messingkauf Dialogues’, he credited Karl Valentin with having a considerable influence on him.

The author points out that Brecht wanted to bring the theatre to the common people and many of his ideas were often considered radical at that time. He employed many tactics such as harsh lighting or allowing the audience to see the set being arranged by the actors or other stage hands to prevent the audience from being totally immersed into the play.

Moreover, the famous German poet also collaborated with Kurt Weill on many plays which were very successful. Many of Bercht’s works were as a response to other works, either by him or by others. The famous ‘Threepenny Opera’ was actually the German version of John Gay’s ‘The Beggar’s Opera’, with new songs and adaptations.

The writer clarifies that Throughout his life, Brecht was linked with many women romantically, from Paula Banholzer with whom he had a son in 1919 to Marianne Zoff whom he married in 1922. They had a daughter Hanne Hiob, who went on to become a successful German actress.

However, Brecht later married the actress Helene Weigel in 1930, with whom he operated the theatre company ‘Berliner Ensemble’. Their daughter, Barbara Brecht is also an actress. He also had a son with her, Stefan Brecht who became a poet and a theatre critic.

In conclusion the writer say that Brecht’s leanings towards Marxism forced him to flee Germany in 1933 when Hitler came to power.  He lived in Denmark, Sweden and the Soviet Union after that before he finally settled in United States in 1941. He worked in Hollywood on a few screenplays during this time, though he was not very successful. Brecht passed away in Berlin in 1956 of a heart attack.

  

To my mind, this article is really worth reading. Having read about Bertolt Brecht’s biography I was really amazed. I have learned about his stages of life, especially I was struck by the fact that he worked in Hollywood on a few screenplays during the Second World War and it’s a pity that he died in 1956 of a heart attack.

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The headline of the article is A short history of the Globe Theatre. The article was created on March 26, 2013 and last updated on March 27, 2013. The author of the article is Chase Smith. The purpose of the article is to give the readers some information about the history of the Globe Theatre.

The writer reports that in 1642, when the Globe theatre in Southwark London closed its theatre doors for the last time, England’s Puritan’s; a protestant group passed an act through parliament by Law demanded that all playhouses to be closed to the general public. Then two years later in 1644 the theatre was torn down so Tenement rooms could be built instead.

Further the author tells us that forty six years previously, in 1598, James Burbage - a joiner by profession and amateur actor who was part of the Lord Chamberlain men - along with the rest of the acting company had been evicted out of Blackfriars theatre. The outlook for the actors was looking bleak, especially if they wanted to compete with there rivals the Admirals men who owned the Rose theatre. 

The writer clarifies that in answer to the obstacles facing James his only option was to build another theatre in Shoreditch, London. James invested his own money but it didn’t cover the building costs needed to construct it. He came up with a plan, the theatre should be funded through shareholders. James would own twenty five percent, Lords Chamberlain men owned fifty percent, three other members (one of them Will Kemp, an actor who pulled out of the share deal) would co own twelve and half percent along with up and coming playwright who started writing plays for them William Shakespeare. 

Further the author reports that James died after the theatre was built in February 1597, leaving it to his son Richard Burbage, a professional actor who had left the Admirals men to join the Lord Chamberlains men. Richard soon discovered, after he inherited the theatre from his father, the land leased to the theatre was built on expired in 1597.

Then the writer explains that Giles Allen, the landlord of the theatre, should have by law been the rightful owner. Not wanting to lose the theatre to the Landlord, the Chamberlain’s men managed to perform plays at a nearby Curtain playhouse while a lengthy two year dispute with the landlord continued. Richard, along with his brother Cuthbert, decided to remove twelve large oak beams and moved them by boat to Southwark; on a plot of land that he had bought the lease which was just opposite the Rose theatre. It formed the polygon foundations of the new theatre and the Globe theatre was born.

Further the author gives us information about The Lord Chamberlain’s men decision to fly a flag of Hercules with a Globe over his shoulder, which they named the Globe theatre. The main entrance to the new playhouse had the motto above "Totus mundus agit histrionem" (the whole world is a playhouse). Two doors on either side of the stage allowed actors to enter and leave, the central balcony was flanked by two other balconies for wealthy audiences. The courtyard, which was on the ground floor of the playhouse, was five feet below the stage. The Lord’s Chamberlain men changed there name to the King’s men in honour of King James 1.

Further the author reports that while William Shakespeare became famous from having his plays performed at the Globe theatre, Richard Burbage became one of the most famous actors of his era. On 29 June, 1613 during a performance of Henry V111 a misfired cannon from the stage ignited the thatch roof of the Globe. No one was hurt when fire broke out at the Globe, but the playhouse burned to the ground. A year later it was rebuilt and for further twenty eight years the playhouse continued to perform plays to the general public. That was up until the Puritan Law which was passed in 1642.

In conclusion the writer say that in 1996 plans to rebuild a Shakespeare Globe theatre was commissioned, close to the original location of the Globe. Archived designs which formed the original plans used in 1599 to 1613 were used in the building of Shakespeare’s Globe.

To my mind, this article is really worth reading. Having read about the history of the Globe Theatre I was really amazed. I learned a lot about this theater. For instance, James Burbage who was part of the Lord Chamberlain men was to build another theatre in Shoreditch, London. James invested his own money but it didn’t cover the building costs needed to construct it.

Summary of The Moon and Sixpence by Maugham Somerset (41-50 Chapters)

The author still led Strickland to his home, despite the fact that the latter nauseated him. However, Strickland did not worry about other people's opinions about him. He didn't care about the death of Blanche, who loved him. Moreover,  Strickland wasn't anxious about the fact that he  messed up Dirk Stroeve’s life. The painter did not want  Blanche  to go away from Dirk  to him. Everything what he was interested in was just his sexual desire to her, and Strickland  wanted to draw Blanche naked. He believed that women were created only in order to satisfy his needs. Then the painter decided to show the author his paintings. Seeing them, the narrator was very impressed. The pictures seemed to him outrageous, but at the same time there was something exciting in them. The author found that they had a mysterious meaning.  After a time, Strickland went to Marseilles and the author never saw him again. When fate threw the author to Tahiti, where Strickland  spent the last years of his life and became finally known, he asked everyone about the artist. There the author met Captain Nichols, who helped Charles Strickland  to get to Tahiti. Captain Nichols told the author that he and the painter lived in the port of Marseilles without a penny to their name, about how Strickland ran for Tough Bill, who had vowed to kill him and the artist escaped from that place, fleeing by boat to Australia. The inhabitants of Tahiti considered Strickland to be a common tramp. Now, however, they regretted that they had not understand the value of his paintings, which were now worth a fortune.

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The headline of the article is The impact of Edward Craig on stage design. The article was created on February 11, 2013. The author of the article is Annette. The purpose of the article is to give the readers some information about an English modernist theatre practitioner Edward Gordon Craig’s life and his significant influence on stage design.

The writer reports that Edward Gordon Craig was born in England in 1872 to the actress Ellen Terry and her architect partner Edward Godwin. Edward acted for the first time on a US tour with his mother, at the young age of 12. Five years later he became an actor in Henry Irving's company at the Lyceum Theatre.

The author explains that when in 1893 Craig met with the Beggarstaff Brothers, he learned wood engraving. This had a significant influence on his design ideas which started to take shape when he designed and directed "Dido and Aeneas" in 1900. His production of "Hamlet" at the Moscow Art Theatre is seen as a landmark production with regards to the development of design.

Further the writer clarifies what influenced on Edward Craig. His mother was the leading actress at Henry Irving's theatre so Craig was exposed to theatre from a very young age. Hubert van Herkomer, who staged many experimental productions at his independent art school in London, inspired Craig. He admired van Herkomer's use of lighting and creative design. Herkomer believed design should reflect the mood of the text rather than being a realistic reproduction. The art of woodblock that he learned from the Bergstaff Brothers, James Pryde and William Nicholson, influenced his perception of stage lighting. He envisioned the dark wood block as the stage and the carved white space as the light.

Moreover, the dancer, Isadora Duncan, whom he lived with for two years, introduced him to the power of movement. His father, Edward Godwin worked on providing him with archaeological evidence for Shakespeare plays and Martin Shaw, the actor, provided him the opportunity for his first productions. Craig further admired the simplicity of the medieval theatre style and specifically the pageant wagon which was the antithesis of naturalism.

Then the author tells us about Craig’s concept for design in theatre. Craig’s non-realist theatre design must be seen in the context of the late 19th-century tradition. Henry Irving’s sumptuous productions provided vehicles for the stars of the day and very little thought was given to the way the design might reflect the mood of the play. Craig, on the other hand, wanted to see a play as a sequence of moments where each moment makes a symbolic visual statement.

Further the author gives us information about key developments in Craig’s journey. Firstly, in 1900 he produced "Dido and Aeneas" which set out the principles of his career. He used symbolist images with striking colour contrasts, a false proscenium and a concealed lighting gantry behind this false arch with no footlights. He used gauze and cloth to create depth when lit.

Secondly, in 1901 it was "The Masque of Love" which he played against a light grey background with carefully designed lighting.

Thirdly, in the 1902 production of "Acis and Galatea" he used lengths of cloth and projected shadows and in the production of "The Vikings at Helgeland" he used a vertical perspective which dwarfed the actors and cast shadows on their faces. Some critics had a problem with the shadows while others noted the symbolism of the half-seen shapes.

Lastly, the "Übermarionette" in 1908 was Craig’s reply to the control of the director over an actor.  He replaced the actor with a marionette.  The production showed strong elements of the masked ritual.

In conclusion the writer say that after Edward’s success with Hamlet in Moscow he designed very few productions, but "Hamlet" remains a landmark production which established Craig’s influence on stage design and lighting.

To my mind, this article is really worth reading. Having read about Edward Gordon Craig I was really amazed by his biography. I believe that this man deserves a lot of respect because he made ​​an enormous contribution to the design in theatre. Moreover, I was pleasantly surprised by the fact that production of "Hamlet" at the Moscow Art Theatre is seen as a landmark production with regards to the development of design.

Summary of The Moon and Sixpence by Maugham Somerset (34-40 Chapters)

One morning the bell rang and the concierge opened the door. Stroeve’s voice was asking whether Crabbe at home. Dirk's eyes were filled with horror. He told the author that Blanche tried to commit suicide. As it turned out, she drunk oxalic acid, but survived. When Stroeve came to Blanche she did not want to talk to him. When the coach arrived, she was put on a stretcher and taken to hospital. So Dirk came to ask the author to go with him to the hospital. If Blanche would not wish to let Dirk again, then maybe she would let Crabbe. At the hospital, they were talking to a doctor who told them that the danger had passed. Stroeve was upset all day and the author’s attempts to somehow distract him from thinking about Blanche failed. The next day, they went to the hospital. The nurse said that the patient does not want anybody to see. Then Crabbe sent Dirk downstairs and the latter dutifully went out. The author was ready to kill Strickland. The next week was awful. Stroeve went to the hospital to his wife who still did not want to see him. After a while Dirk came to Crabbe late at night, and the latter realized that Blanche had died. Dirk was too tired to cry. Then he truly went to sleep the first time for a week. After Blanche’s funeral the author and Dirk went back in the carriage. Crabbe offered Dirk to go to Italy but the latter refused. Then Dirk said to take him to the studio. The author was glad to it. A week later, Dirk came to Crabbe and said him that he was going to Holland to his mother. Dirk told the author that he was good at drawing in his childhood but his father wanted him to become a carpenter. Then Dirk said Crabbe that he met with Strickland. Dirk seemed that Blanche had not died. Back to the studio, Stroeve saw that everything was in its place, as when Blanche was alive. Walking around the house, Dirk felt deeply like his wife had tried to kill herself. Then he found Strickland’s picture which was portrayed Blanche. Despair, jealousy and rage choked Stroeve and he wanted to tear the painting up. However, looking more closely, Dirk acknowledged that it was a true work of art. Then Stroeve said Crabbe that he called Strickland in Holland but he refused. The next day the author saw Dirk off to Amsterdam. Crabbe gradually began to forget about this sad story. But one day, Strickland had come with the author. However Crabbe showed him that he did not want to communicate with him. Nevertheless, Strickland knew that the author liked people who were though bad but gobby. The author did not object Strickland and tried to save his dignity with stony silence and a shrug.

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The headline of the article is Who is Augusto Boal? The article was created on February 18, 2013 and last updated on February 19, 2013. The author of the article is Maycon Dimas Oliveira Dos Santos. The purpose of the article is to give the readers some information about a Brazilian theatre director Augusto Boal’s life and work.

The writer states that in the middle of the 1960s Augusto Boal was touring with his theatre company when a peasant woman from the audience stood up and stopped a presentation. She was not pleased with the resolution of a certain conflict in the play. Instead of pleading with her to calm down, Boal asked the woman what her approach to the matter would be. This was revealing: not only was the idea she gave a plausible one, but also the awareness that her action raised amongst the public proved to be much more active than the play itself would have achieved.

The writer clarifies that this episode, as Boal would describe later on, had a crucial importance on the development of his very own kind of theatre, the Theatre of the Oppressed. “In this usage,” Boal described his theory in the 1992 book 'Games for Actors and Non-Actors', "all human beings are Actors and Spectators. They are Spect-Actors." The goal in his new method of working was to give voice to the audience, once only the recipients of the one-way form of communication that the theatre used to be, enabling them to take a part in the action and, as a consequence, learn from this involvement.

Further the author gives Augusto Boal’s quotes: "Everything that actors do, we do throughout our lives, always and everywhere." “Actors talk, move, dress to suit the setting, express ideas, reveal passions - just as we do in our everyday lives. The only difference is that actors are conscious that they are using the language of theatre, and are thus better able to turn it to their advantage, whereas the woman and man in the street do not know that they are speaking theatre." Then the author claims that Boal believed that the only way to achieve social development was by giving a chance to each person to express his or her feelings, especially those who were historically subdued - hence the use of the term oppressed.

The writer states that considering the importance of Augusto Boal to the making of theatre worldwide, his career began a bit late. It wasn’t until he moved to New York to pursue a master’s degree in his original field of study, Chemical Engineering, in 1952, that he started attending drama classes. Among Boal’s professors there was John Gassner, the same one who had previously taught the likes of Arthur Miller and Tennessee Williams. With this kind of tutoring Boal staged his first plays in 1955, and from then on he dedicated himself exclusively to the field of arts. In the following year, soon after his graduation, Boal was invited to join a declining theatre company in the southeast of Brazil, called Arena, which he helped to save and prosper with avant-garde ideas like the "newspaper theatre" and, ultimately, the revolutionary Theatre of the Oppressed.

Further the author points out that Boal stayed with the Arena company until 1971. In this year, one of the most hard of the military dictatorship in Brazil, he was kidnapped, tortured and left in prison for over three months accused of subversion. The social awareness that his participative plays were provoking captured the attention of the government, who considered it to be a menace to the regime. After jail, Boal was sent to Argentina in exile, and there he wrote a book called "The Theatre of the Oppressed", which settled all the theories he had gathered in the years prior and propelled his name to international acclaim.

In the author’s opinion, to the present the name of Augusto Boal remains as one of the most influential of all times in the theatre matter. His book "The Theatre of the Oppressed", along with "Games for Actors and Non-Actors" and "Legislative Theatre", are still widely used in many schools of acting and directing around the world. His legacy can be perceived in countries as different as France and Angola, such was the scope of his work.

In conclusion the writer say that in  2008 Boal was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, and in March 2009 he was entitled “World Theatre Ambassador” by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Less than a month later Augusto Boal died during his sleep due to a respiratory failure. He had been fighting leukemia for the past five years.

To my mind, this article is really worth reading. Having read about Augusto Boal I was really amazed by his biography. This man deserves a lot of respect because he was not only a theatre director but also a writer who wrote many books. Most importantly I was just struck by the fact that he was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize! I was actually upset when I learned that he died of leukemia.

Summary of The Moon and Sixpence by Maugham Somerset (24-33 Chapters)

Mr. Crabbe saw the terrible drama of Dirk Stroeve. When Strickland got seriously ill, Dirk saved him from death, brought Strickland to his house and Dirk’s wife Blanche Stroeve took care for him. However, Strickland had intercourse with Blanche, whom Stroeve loved more than anything. Nevertheless, Blanche left Dirk for Strickland. Dirk Stroeve was really upset by this situation. However, such things are quite natural for Strickland, since he knew no normal human feelings.

Review № 1 The Company (2003)

  Cast:

            Neve Campbell           ...        Loretta 'Ry' Ryan

            Malcolm McDowell     ...        Alberto Antonelli

            James Franco               ...        Josh

            Barbara E. Robertson   ...         Harriet (as Barbara Robertson)

            William Dick                 ...       Edouard

            Susie Cusack                ...       Susie

            Marilyn Dodds Frank    ...         Mrs. Ryan

            John Lordan                  ...        Mr. Ryan

            Mariann Mayberry        ...         Stepmother

            Roderick Peeples          ...         Stepfather

            Yasen Peyankov           ...         Justin's Mentor

            Davis C. Robertson       ...         Alec - Joffrey Dancer (as Davis Robertson)

            Deborah Dawn             ...       Deborah - Joffrey Dancer

            John Gluckman             ...         John - Joffrey Dancer

            David Gombert             ...         Justin - Joffrey Dancer

Directed by Robert Altman

Written by Barbara Turner (screenplay)

  Genre:  Drama | Music | Romance

Storyline:

An inside look at the world of ballet. With the complete cooperation of the Joffrey Ballet of Chicago, Altman follows the stories of the dancers, whose professional and personal lives grow impossibly close, as they cope with the demands of a life in the ballet. Campbell plays a gifted but conflicted company member on the verge of becoming a principal dancer at a fictional Chicago troupe, with McDowell the company's co-founder and artistic director, considered one of America's most exciting choreographers. Franco plays Campbell's boyfriend and one of the few characters not involved in the world of dance.

Review:

This is a very beautiful film for those who love ballet. Very nice set representation. A participant of ballet troupe (Neve Campbell) met in a bar with the bartender Josh (James Franco), and they made relationships. Once he comes to her for a holiday, a time to sleep, without waiting for Christmas and one of the ideas bowing way through the dancers and gives her a bouquet of flowers. That's it! More than anything in the movie dancing happens.

In fact, with such a beautiful ballet particular action in the film is not required, but it could be more interesting story to come up with a script.

Due to the rather meager roles of actors in the film it’s not necessary to talk about their talent. They simply had no place to use it. But the dancers did their best. There are very beautiful costumes, decoration ideas, music. Their rehearsals are shown. Main character showed herself more as a dancer than as an actress. She beautifully performed a dance in the rain.

To my mind, the movie is for fans of ballet and dance in general than for the general viewers.