Movie Monday: Zoolander

This week for Movie Monday I’m back with a movie that has a bit of a cult following. It’s Zoolander!

Plot Synopsis: In New York City, the self-absorbed and dim-witted but good-natured Derek Zoolander is ousted as the top male fashion model by the rising star Hansel, and his reputation is further tarnished by a critical article from journalist Matilda Jeffries. After his three roommates and colleagues are killed in a “freak gasoline-fight accident”, Derek announces his retirement from modeling. He goes to his native New Jersey to attempt to reconnect with his working class father Larry and brothers Luke and Scrappy by helping them in the coal mines. Derek’s delicate methods make him an impractical miner, and his family rejects him….

Plot: The plot is terrible, or rather atrocious. But that was intentional in that it’s a satire of the fashion industry in general. The movie isn’t meant to have a good plot.

Casting: The cast is pretty great, with Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson being perfect for Derk and Hansel respectively. The entire cast is pretty great.

Cinematography: The special effects are pretty okay, but some of it is just silly. Particularly the scene at the plot’s climax.

Music: The music is just as silly as the movie.

Overall: Maybe not a must watch, as it’s plot is freaking terrible, but it can still make you laugh like a madman.

For those who like: Comedy, Satire, Drama, Excellent Cast.

Not for those who don’t like: Any of the above.

Bookish Wednesday: The Confessor by Daniel Silva

This week for Bookish Wednesday I’m continuing in my coverage of the Gabriel Allon series! It’s The Confessor by Daniel Silva!

Plot Synopsis: Gabriel Allon is tasked to investigate the murder of scholar Benjamin Stern in Munich. Meanwhile, the death of Pope John Paul II has led to a conclave at the Vatican.

Plot: This book introduces some of my favorite characters in the series and I really enjoy the look at the life in the Vatican. This is one of my favorite books in the series and it’s easily one of the better ones in it. The intrigue and action that goes on in this book is quite good.

Characters: Gabriel is always a favorite character, but we get introduced to some newcomers to the series like Chiara, Pietro Lucchesi, Eli Lavon and Monsignor Donati. Shamron is as always a riot, but I’d say that Eli, Lucchesi and Donati are the favorite newcomers of mine.

Overall: An excellent sequel and one of the better entries. A must read.