Stonewall (1995)

Despite a lot of criticism this movie has received, I absolutely adore it.

They didn't set out to make an historical documentary; they made a motion
picture with human stories and impact, and they did a brilliant job.

There's a swell of relatable characters and imperfect, striving folks seeking
their footing in the early days of the gay rights movement, and we get to see
heartbreak  and betrayal along the way in a series of interwoven storylines.

The culmination of course is 'that night' at the Stonewall Inn in 1969 where
gays and lesbians had finally had enough.

Sensationalist? Yes. And robust and real and gripping, with some phenomenal,
moving performances. The final word in this picture is surviving and having
the strength to go on.

Finding your voice and your resolve isn't a walk in the park, but here it's
entertaining and inspirational.

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Ruby in Paradise

I already knew her from "Sisters," but this was Ashley Judd's debut film,
and it was an incredibly well-written and warm drama with a superb cast!
Ashley was charming and captivating, but Dorothy Lyman (original 'Opal') 
stole a lot of scenes!

A great story; coming of age, learning love, first romance, the attraction
of bad boys, small town life, friendship, heartache...a really fresh take.

I remember the excitement, too, of this being the first time I saw Tampa
used as a locale in a film; an extended  'Harbor Island' sequence.
But I digress...


IMDB info for "Ruby in Paradise"

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The Accidental Tourist

One of my favorite movies, "The Accidental Tourist" is the difficult
mid-life second chance for William Hurt's character, who is a hurting
man,  isolated and closed off from the world due to the enormous pain
and loss he has suffered.


An incredible cast (Kathleen Turner, Geena Davis, Bill Pullman,
Ed Begley Jr., David Ogden Stiers, Amy Wright) makes magic out of
this quirky yet believable story of redemption, fear, and love later in life.
It beautifully tells the story of all us damaged people struggling to make
sense and survive.


Based on the excellent book by Anne Tyler, and aptly directed by
Lawrence Kasdan, this is a tour-de-force of drama, humor, and
discovery of hope and courage.

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Prelude To A Kiss (1992)

From early in Alec Baldwin and Meg Ryan's film careers is the cinematic
gem (from playwright and screenwriter Craig Lucas) "Prelude to a Kiss".

An exploration of the limits of human sexuality and male homophobia,
the film is a fresh take on an old conundrum. The supernatural element
involved is actually not that outlandish thanks to superb performances
from all involved.

It's a sweet and moving story highlighted by glimpses of frailty and
awkwardness. A great blast from the past, highly recommended for
fans of either actor, romantic interest, or taboo love!

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