Movies

We've recently seen a couple of good movies that I want to recommend. The first was Valkyrie. In many ways it's the typical Cruise action movie only in this one he wears an eye patch much of the time. I liked it because of the story. I did not know that there were about 15 assassination attempts on Hitler made by Germans. This gave me a new perspective on the German people and especially some SS men.

The thing I really liked was the junior officer to von Stauffenberg, the German office who plans and attempts the assassinate Hitler. I know Lieutenant Werner von Haeften is a fictional character, but I like the way the role is written. I like the idea that a man believes so strongly in righting a wrong that he knowingly risks his life. And I think Jamie Parker does a great job playing him. Monte said the movie was ok. I liked it. If you don't go to a lot of movies, wait and rent it.

But do go and see is Gran Torino with Clint Eastwood. We went opening weekend and had to wait in line for tickets. Something that doesn't happen often. Eastwood does a good job playing Walt Kpwalski the crusty, old bigot who does the right thing.

I liked it because it shows how right can supersede age and race. Again that bravery thing. It also brings out the idea that family is not always who you are related to. Traces of Dirty Harry and other Eastwood characters were present and who doesn't like them? A good movie worth the price.