Nora Ephron

I was terribly saddened to hear of Nora Ephron's passing this week (especially considering I had no idea at all that she was ill). She was such a talent, full of infinite spark and wit and humor, all of which were evident in her hit films like When Harry Met Sally (my vote for *the* best romantic comedy ever made, period) and Sleepless in Seattle, as well as in her numerous writings and essays (such mini essays would often creep into her films, too, as can be seen in this Starbuck scene in You've Got Mail). I remember listening to her director's commentary to You've Got Mail awhile back and feeling like I was listening to a super cool, smart, wise-cracking friend waxing lyrical on anything from good books to the eternal charm that is Tom Hanks. I could hear her talk all day long, she was that interesting a person (I can't imagine how fabulous it would have been to have actually known her). In a somewhat weird but not-at-all stalkerish way, I feel like I've lost a good friend this week. She leaves a gaping hole on the film and literary landscape.


{Image via here}

Movie Night at the Aero

On Saturday, I hit up my local cinema to watch the oh-so-poignant and beautifully shot film classic On Golden Pond (I suggest you go watch it if you haven't already; it's a touching story of a couple in the golden years of their life and the father's strained relationship with their daughter, and in this case, art imitated life, as the two Fondas in the film, Henry and Jane, weren't exactly on the fuzziest of terms. Oh, and it also stars Katharine Hepburn. Is that enough of a reason for you? Go see it!). In celebration of the film's 30th anniversary, the Aero Theatre had a showing and invited director Mark Rydell to view the film with the audience (I sat behind him! Squeal!), and afterward he participated in a Q&A. His anecdotes were informative and very entertaining. In one story, he told of how the inhabitants of Squam Lake, which was where they filmed the movie in New Hampshire, were reluctant to let the studio film in their neighborhood (which is understandable). That is, until Katharine Hepburn showed up at their town meeting one day and pretty much told them point-blank, "You will let us film here." End of story. As only a badass like Katharine Hepburn can do.

Did I mention that it's highly possible that I was the youngest person in the audience? Maybe this is why I wasn't successful in enticing anybody to go with me. What do people have against the elderly? Sheesh. So typical of our youth-obsessed culture! We're all heading that way folks, and some faster than others. But then again, I've always embraced my geriatric tendencies - e.g. I don't like loud music. I love a good fireplace, with book in hand. And I've been known to use the term "whippersnapper". When I reach the age Katharine Hepburn was while making the film, I hope to be half as awesome as she was: fiery, eternally optimistic, and still diving into ponds on the brink of turning 70.

On a tandem note, I stumbled upon this recent interview with Jane Fonda and Charlie Rose. Apparently, she has a new book coming out, and in the interview, she talks a lot about her life and the things she's learned along the way, and what she had to say is really quite riveting. She also talks about making On Golden Pond with her father around the 38:00 mark (the entire interview is just under 50 minutes). Click here.

{Photos via here and here}

The End is Near

I can hardly contain my excitement. Professors McGonagall and Snape are ready. Are you?

And can we talk about how freaking adorable Emma Watson is? Here she is at the last ever Harry Potter premiere (for the upcoming Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2), relishing her princess moment. She also gave a heartfelt goodbye speech and caused this blogger to tear up a bit (I'm human, people!). It all ends Friday. I cannot WAIT!

{Photos via EW and GFY and NY Mag}

HP 7

Are you as breathless with anticipation for Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows Part I as I am? I've been watching the press storm that has taken place over the last week and eagerly awaiting the movie's release on Friday (I. Cannot. WAIT). Watching the tv and red carpet interviews makes me realize A. how grown up everyone has become and B. how smitten I am with Emma Watson and her enchanting new Mia Farrow-esque pixie 'do. It really makes me want to chop my own hair off. I can just imagine how liberating it would feel (though knowing me, I'd probably regret doing so almost immediately afterward). I've developed somewhat of a girl crush on Emma in the last year or so, and this brave new cut makes me love her even more. I can't help it. The girl is adorableness personified.

{Images via here and here}

It's Complicated (otherwise known as lifestyle porn)

I dragged the boyfriend to see It's Complicated the other night and for two full hours sat in my seat, completely agog at the gorgeous set design. Writer/director/producer Nancy Meyers is known for the stunning and plush homes she showcases in her films (they're referred to as 'lifestyle porn' for a reason) and in her most recent film, she did not disappoint. As much as I love watching the antics of Meryl Streep, John Krasinksi, and Steve Martin play out on the big screen, I have to admit that for me, the sprawling Santa Barbara home that's featured in It's Complicated takes center stage. It's my favorite character.

{Photos via Remodelista and Traditional Home}

{Painting as featured in the living room in Photo #3 by Mitchell Johnson}