Lisa Scottoline released a new short story, Pigeon Tony’s Last Stand. Published by Amazon Original Stories, I devoured the audiobook version of this title in one day. If you’re an Amazon Prime or Kindle Unlimited member, you can read and listen to this book for free. If you are not, the price for the Kindle and Audible version is money well spent. Below is my review of Pigeon Tony’s Last Stand by Lisa Scottoline. Enjoy!
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Walnut Street Theatre, America’s Oldest Theatre and a National Historic Landmark, is excited to announce its 214th season of live entertainment, and its 40th season as a not-for-profit producing theatre company. The ‘Knockout’ line-up includes three stunning musicals, a hilarious comedy by Neil Simon, and an American masterpiece. As a self-producing regional theatre, the Walnut is the most popular theatre company in Philadelphia.
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What It’s About
This movie is about the life and career of Steve Jobs.
What I Like
What impressed me most about this film is Ashton Kutcher; he was excellent in his role and I have newfound respect for his dramatic acting capabilities.
I also enjoyed this movie’s soundtrack – it was awesome. Any time a film features music by REO Speedwagon, Cat Stevens and Toad The Wet Sprocket, it’s going to bring a smile to my face.
What I Don’t Like
I wish the film included the last few years of Jobs’ career. The closest we get to that is a scene where Jobs unveils the iPod to Apple employees for the first time. It’s a cool moment, but what about the launch of the iPhone and the iPad? And what about his health struggles at the end of his life? To me, this was a missed opportunity.
Bottom Line
Despite its minor shortcomings, Jobs is a highly entertaining film that almost anyone will enjoy. If you come into it with an open mind about the subject matter and the lead actor, you’ll feel satisfied by the time the final credits role. I highly recommend it.
I just watched Bernie, a dark comedy starring Jack Black, Shirley MacLaine and Matthew McConaughey. Based on true events, the film focuses on the relationship between the lovable Bernie Tiede, played by Black, and the grumpy 80-year-old millionaire, Majorie Nugent, played by Shirley MacLaine.
Since first taking notice of Jack Black in High Fidelity, I’ve been a big fan of his work, on and off the screen. In Bernie, he takes his acting ability to another level and melds his music and thespian talents like never before. In addition to being both funny and believably dramatic, Black sings several times in the film, providing his formidable voice with the opportunity to shine.
While Jack Black stole the show, the other actors in the film did a wonderful job of drawing me into the film’s premise. Shirley MacLaine was delightfully obstinate and grouchy, and Matthew McConaughey, while unremarkable, served well in his role too.
I went into Bernie not knowing what to expect, and I left it feeling completely satisfied. It was time well spent and it deserves your attention. To whet your appetite, below is the official synopsis and trailer.
Synopsis
In the tiny, rural town of Carthage, TX, assistant funeral director Bernie Tiede was one of the town’s most beloved residents. He taught Sunday school, sang in the church choir and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Everyone loved and appreciated Bernie, so it came as no surprise when he befriended Marjorie Nugent, an affluent widow who was as well known for her sour attitude as her fortune. Bernie frequently traveled with Marjorie and even managed her banking affairs. Marjorie quickly became fully dependent on Bernie and his generosity and Bernie struggled to meet her increasing demands. Bernie continued to handle her affairs, and the townspeople went months without seeing Marjorie. The people of Carthage were shocked when it was reported that Marjorie Nugent had been dead for some time, and Bernie Tiede was being charged with the murder.