Food Matters

A well overdue return to the blogiverse and a serious change of pace from Glengarry Glen Ross make up key characteristics of this review. Despite invoking a healthy dose of shock and horror about just what kind of glutenous (check the pun) pigs we all are, this flick actually communicates a reason for change. The industry that feeds us is also poisoning us, because hey, nourishing us isn't all that profitable.

I've seen Food Inc. and been unmoved at the idea of animal cruelty, and I've sat through Supersize Me and salivated over McNuggets. However, this documentary somehow, some way manages to get the point across, "eat good, or die not trying."

If you're the least bit concerned about the damage you're doing to your body by eating out of the freezer section, or dining out every night (and I admit I was not), consider Food Matters a tasty morsel. Just don't cook it for too long, it saps out all the nutrients.    

   

Glengarry Glen Ross - Alec Baldwin, Al Pacino, Kevin Spacey

Perhaps one of the better films available on the service, and the single catalyst that started my free trial. Glengarry Glen Ross is a voyeuristic view into a life in sales, and a great story for anyone who works for a living.

The film revolves around a day in the lives of four real estate salesmen as they sell, talk about selling, and lament at length. If you're the kind of person who craves action over words then maybe pass this one by, as it's definitely all talk. BUT if you appreciate a well-turned phrase then give this one prime positioning on your radar, as the dialogue is truly a thing of beauty. David Mamet (The Untouchables, Wag the Dog) wrote the screenplay, which was adapted from the stage play he also authored. This movie will likely have you looking for more of his work once you hear the words he has coming out of your favorite actors' mouths (Alec Baldwin). 

Despite genius writing, the cast is what makes this movie for me. Al Pacino was nominated for both an Oscar and a Golden Globe for best supporting actor. Jack Lemon delivers the quintessential down-and-out salesman, his character would later be turned into "Gil" on The Simpsons. However, it is Alec Baldwin that defines the movie, delivering a ten minute speech early on that will have you going into shell shock if you've ever worked in sales. Baldwin's role was actually tailor-written for him by Mamet, and delivered to perfection.

Make this your first order of business for your next flick, an in no time you'll walking into work with your Starbucks (or Timbos ;) in hand saying, "coffee is for closers."