Smart People

Even though I have a dry sense of humor, I get a little nervous before watching these types of movies because I normally only like 50% of the ones I watch (for instance didn't so much like the Squid and the Whale). But Smart People was highy entertaining, funny as hell, and a well crafted story. It was also easy to relate to the professor protagonist, played by Dennis Quaid, because he reminded me of a couple professors I've had at San Diego State. You know, those arrogant professors you can tell just HATE life and take it out on their students. Ellen Page, from Juno, plays his daughter and she is great. However, after Juno, I think Page will forever be the same witty and dry character that Indie fans have come to love...meaning her part in this movie was almost a replica of her part in Juno. Anyways, the premise of the story begins when Quaid has his license suspended for 6 months and his adopted, out of work, brother moves in to drive him around. The brother character is great as well, very funny, plays the part excellently.
The movie is basically about the main character (who is widowed) becoming involved with his doctor (played by Sarah Jessica Parker) and how he must learn to crawl out of his depression, stop being so pretentious and pompous...and move on to a happier being.

4 stars: recommended.

Sideways

Rex Pickett's debut novel was like my very own wine manual, however entertaining. Two buddies go spend a week in wine country to have one exciting "bachelor party." They quickly meet a pair of girlies, and some sexual encounters, as well as tensions, ensue. This was basically your coming of age story, with the protagonist going through his midlife crisis. What impressed me the most about this story was how Miles, the main character, was crafted to relate to all readers. I never thought I would be able to relate to a guy in his mid-forties. Even Jack, his best friend, is a likeable character...though he makes some morally bad decisions. The pair of these dudes are a hilarious bunch, the way the interact with each other is very real life, and comical.

WARNING: Must have a glass of wine on handy when reading, I'm serious. Pickett describes all the wine in the book with mouthwatering words...so much that you will begin to crave some good ole vino.

4 Stars: Yes I definitely recommend this book!

Snuff

Well ever since I read Pygmy I have made it my mission to seek out and read every one of Chuck Palahniuk's works. For my latest adventure I dove into Snuff.
The book takes place entirely in one day and follows the making of a porno film. Cassie Wright, porn queen, is about to make her last movie...and to go out with a "bang" she decides to partake in a massive gangbang setting a world record of 600 men. The book comes from the perspective of 4 different characters and is thoroughly amusing. However, after finishing the book I thought "ehh, hm what should I read next?"

I really didn't like the ending what-so-ever...I won't give it away but its a bit far-fetched. The characters were boring, un-likable, and so on.
It basically had no lasting effect on me, but entertaining all the same.