The Darjeeling Limited - Hated It

I'm guessing when this was pitched to studio heads, it sounded like a heart-warming comedy. Three American brothers embark on a journey of discovery in a far land after the death of their Father. They hope to meet up with their estranged Mother as well who now lives in that same land.

What fun this could have been. Language differences. Strange customs. Foreign foods. Ugly Americans trying to make their way in India. It could have been very very funny. But it was not.

Instead, we have an overly long, deadly slow (pun intended), story of three creepy, self-absorbed Americans who are easily manipulated by anyone.

The only interesting part was when they finally meet up with Mom, played by Angelica Houston. If I had been her character, I would have tried to get as far from her loser sons as possible too.

My recommendation is to NOT watch this with anyone you care about.

Ever After: A Cinderella Story

If you have a daughter, watch this movie with her. Not only is this a great spin on the Cinderella tale, it is a fun story. Never mind Drew Barrymore's (E.T., Wedding Singe, and 50 First Dates) funky accent, she does a great job with this role. Angelica Houston (Prizzi's Honor, The Adam's Family series, and Lonesome Dove series) is perfect as usual. Dougray Scott (Mission Impossible II and Desperate Housewives series) is the ideal Prince Charming, once he learns how to behave.

The sets, costumes, and locations for this Andy Tennant (Fool's Rush In, Anna and the King, and Sweet Home Alabama) classic are worthy of several watches and should be a part of your personal collection if you have children of any age. There are plenty of familiar storybook names in here to keep their attention. Tennant does a fantastic job reeling his audience in with authentic everything. Like his other movies, this romantic comedy is truly fun to watch, multiple times.

Like most children's stories, this has a moral and it is a good one to make with young and old alike. The ending is very satisfying and well-played out. I especially recommend this movie if you have daughters. Mine loved this movie when they were young, and still do as far as I know. It is a very positive "girl power" story without being overly anti-male. Barrymore's Cinderella is smart and industrious and sticks to her principals. It are these characteristics that get her the Prince in the end, rather than magic.

This movie is certainly worth a watch again if you have not seen it in awhile. And if you have not seen it yet, please do so soon. Watch it with someone you hold dear.