FAIR FIGHT?

$million movie

I’m usually one of the last persons, if not *the* last, to leave the theater. I watch all the credits roll, see all the people involved in the making the film, check out the soundtrack info, and just squeeze every drop out of the movie that is humanly possible. But I couldn’t stick around for this one. In fact, I was the FIRST person to leave. As soon as I saw, “Directed by Clint Eastwood,” I bolted like a bat outta hell…

I am no match for movies anymore. I am a weak opponent. A pushover. You shouldn’t ask me, “Oh, how was the movie?” (note the correct placement of the ?) Why? Because I’m not sure I can give you an objective answer anymore. As you know, I cry a lot now. I’m OK with it and my manhood and all that shit. But these damn movies ‘get’ to me. Last week, I cried during “In Good Company” which was sort of a hokey movie. I liked it. See? That’s what I mean. I got emotional and it probably clouded my judgment, or lack thereof. Was it a good movie? It was a nice movie. But I think it’s safe to say it wasn’t Oscar material. I cried nonetheless.

I made up my mind that I want to see all the Best Picture nominees. I haven’t done this since probably ’87 or so. I saw "Sideways" back when no one ever heard of it. I loved it. It was bittersweet, but I didn’t cry. Tonight I saw “Million Dollar Baby.” My problem here is not being able to tell you about the movie because I don’t want to give anything away. I *will* say that I was paralyzed during the entire last hour. I could hardly breathe. I was having to take some major deep breaths. It was as if I, myself, was in a boxing match/bout, whatever. Clint hit me where it hurts me the most. In my heart. And yes, tears were uncontrollably streaming down my face even as I bolted out that door. {sigh}

I’m only now regaining my composure. Slowly. Movies are beating the hell outta me. Clint nearly knocked me out cold. This here writer wannabe has been beaten up emotionally for two years runnin’. I literally have no shot when I walk into the theater. Seems like they’re all knocking me down. But as I think through the cobwebs of my exhausted mind, I can conclude that Clint’s movie is, in fact, Oscar worthy. Bottom line? Go see it. So far, it's my personal Best Picture. And hey, if you don’t like it, you can think back to this post. Back here where I described the championship team of Clint Eastwood, Morgan Freeman, and Hilary Swank going up against a weakened Plantation Todd. Clearly not a fair fight.