My Movie Date

Five Things I Discovered About Myself
During The Movie Date

• It's nice to spend more than two minutes getting ready to go somewhere. I actually took the time to look in the mirror and assess whether I was "presentable" enough to go out in public. When I'm with the kids, I run out "as is" which may not be my best look on some days.

• I can enjoy a snack just for me without little hands grabbing at my portion. That movie popcorn was good!

• My husband and I can hold hands like the old days. Usually, we are corralling kids or lugging bags when we're out. It's funny that it felt kind of strange considering that we've been together since 1987.
  

• I need an afternoon free of laundry, cooking, cleaning and refereeing. That little time away from those chores was a welcome change. Wish that laundry wasn't there when I got back:)

• It felt a little good to pass by those poor moms and dads who were on line for the Chipmunk movie. Having been in their shoes many times, I could see the harried look on some of their faces. We walked by that anxious line of kids who seemed to say in unison, "When is it going to start? How long do we have to wait in this line? I spilled my drink. He knocked over my popcorn." I didn't have those worries on that afternoon :)

As promised, here is my review of Sherlock Holmes. Now before I proceed, remember that I have not been to a non-kid movie in a theater in a very, very long time. It probably won't take much for a movie to impress me. I was just glad to be all cozy in my movie seat :)

I like quirky actors. Robert Downey, Jr. falls into that category, so I knew that I would probably enjoy his performance. He did not portray the typical Sherlock Holmes that my father and I used to watch in the old Basil Rathbone movies. Downey's Sherlock is sarcastic, eccentric, physical and unpredictable. I thought his portrayal brought some new dynamism to the character. Remember how I was wondering about whether there would be enough action scenes for my husband? Well, director Guy Ritchie definitely delivered plenty of action throughout the movie. The action scenes were entertaining, and the cinematography kept the movie fast paced and engaging.

I have read that many reviewers did not necessarily like how Guy Ritchie made more of a buddy picture with this version of Sherlock Holmes. Having watched the old movies, I have to say that I thought that it was a refreshing spin to make the Holmes/Watson duo to be formidable action heroes as well as logical bantering partners. I also love Jude Law, so I knew that I would fall for his Dr. Watson. Rachel McAdams plays the love interest for Sherlock, but I think that her character could have been developed more. I would have liked to have seen the romantic relationship brought out more fully.

It takes a lot for me to not like a British period piece. Sherlock Holmes was particularly interesting to me because of its sarcastic dialogue and fast pace. I'm also a fan of detective stories and figuring out mysteries. Thinking of my Dad, it was also nice to watch a movie that I know he would have enjoyed. Though I think he would have said that Basil Rathbone was more of the "true" Sherlock Holmes. Downey's Sherlock Holmes was charming and more accessible to me. Downey knows how to dominate a scene and lighten even the most serious cinematic moments.

If it was more of a dialogue driven story, I think my hubby would have not enjoyed it so much. It turned out to be a nice movie choice for both of us. After it was over, I could have sat and watched some more. Maybe that was just me enjoying my date and free time from mom duties :)

I think we'll do another movie date next month. Maybe I'll ask you all for recommendations at that time :) By the way, the kids were good for my mom and sister. I had a divide and conquer approach. My oldest was downstairs in his room playing PS3. My two middle boys played a ton of board games with their aunt. Jillian showed off her extensive baby collection to grandma. I think a two line babysitter plan works for my rambunctious bunch.

Happy New Year!!! Peace, happiness, health and joy to all :)