Last weekend, my friend Michelle and I had plans to go see the movie “Barney’s Version” on Saturday eve. However, our plans were scuppered when I didn’t feel comfortable driving on the snow-covered roads that night, and Michelle’s tummy was feeling off. No worries, we rebooked our movie date to this weekend.
With clear roads, and settled tummies, Michelle and I met up at the theatre last night. We had decided to change our movie selection to “The King’s Speech;” given the rave reviews about Colin Firth’s performance, we both were eager to catch this Oscar-nominated movie. Apparently, half of Waterloo felt the same way – the 6:30 p.m. showing was completely sold out. Since “Barney’s Version” was set for 6:40 p.m., we rolled with our original choice. Some things are meant to be!
Saturday Night at the Movies is obviously a popular winter’s activity! Michelle and I ended up sitting in the fourth row from the front – luckily, not as bad as the very front row, but it was still a little close for both of us!
I really enjoyed “Barney’s Version.” Before the movie started, I told Michelle I had read Mordecai Richler’s novel (upon which the movie is based) way back when. Shortly in to the movie, I realized I’ve never read this book! Silly me. I then realized:
~ that I was mixing up my iconic Canadian authors; I was thinking of the Robertson Davies’ novels I have read, not Mordecai Richler (although I have read a couple of his, too).
~ that I was thinking back to when I read “Larry’s Party” by Carol Shields (another favourite author) NOT “Barney’s Version” – an honest mistake since both are Great Canadian Novels by Renowned Canadian Authors, and both have men’s names in the title!!
[Sidenote: as I type, I realize I could go on ad nauseum about Robertson Davies, Mordecai Richlers, Carol Shields, AND their novels...I'll leave that for another day!]
Anyway! Now that I don’t *have* to review movies, I’ll simply say that Barney’s Version was thoroughly enjoyable. The story translates exceedingly well to film format. Minnie Driver and Dustin Hoffman steal their scenes. Paul Giamatti, as Barney, is perfectly suited to the role. In terms of casting, Rosamund Pike is the perfect choice as Miriam. I don’t recall seeing her in other films, although her filmography is extensive. I loved the Canadian (Montreal) setting, and the eras (present-day and 1970′s).
Rating: *** (three stars)
So, it was a wonderful evening at the movies. Michelle and I still do want to catch “The King’s Speech” before the Oscar Awards on February 27th.
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Mom’s Turn!
Remember when I scored this deal for Dad??…
Well, we completed some more markdowns at the store yesterday, and this time, I couldn’t pass up snagging this Adidas tshirt for mom!
Original retail price for this Adistar Salvation tshirt? $54.99
What did I pay?…
Glad I could even up the surprise apparel treats!
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Today is a full day in Toronto! I’m off on an adventure with BFF Debbie which qualifies as New Experience #2! Back tomorrow with the full recap!





Comments
Great find on the shirt! I love when that happens. My mom is way better at it than I am…she found some awesome sweaters this weekend. But I did once find a pair of jeans for $7.99 that retail for $200…and they fit perfectly!
yes, some people just seem to be in the right place at the right time to consistently score amazing bargains. unless it’s right under my nose (like at my store) i am NOT one of those people! ok, your jeans take the prize for huge savings!!! that is sw-eeet!