THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE

By Shirley M. Carolan, ATM-G

I am so blessed to live on the verge of what is known as the “Golden Triangle,” that encompasses the communities of Carlsbad, Oceanside and Vista. These three cities really cater to the needs of their senior citizens. They offer wonderful programs/workshops and new, on-going learning experiences, and opportunities to make new friends if so inclined.

Last month, I discovered the exciting “Carlsbad Film Series.” Not only is the series free, but before each performance we receive an excellent introduction of the cast, crew, and author. Set layouts and scenery are described along with the hazards of filming on location, etc. At the conclusion of the movie there is a question and answer period that allows you a glimpse of how others view the material, story line, and acting, etc. I enjoy this as much as the actual movie.

In February the 4 films selected were: “The Kids are All Right,” “Amelia,” “The Reader,” and “Elizabeth The Golden Age.” They were chosen to highlight the talent of today’s leading young actresses; each having won one academy award, and each being nominated several times for additional academy awards.

The first film featured Annette Bening and Julianne Moore in a funny and very modern American family. ”Amelia” based on the famous American aviatrix’s life, Amelia Earhart, who was played by Hilary Swank. Hilary gave a marvelous performance of the complicated aviatrix. I came away with a totally different impression of Amelia Earhart and find myself in the camp of those who thought she should not have continued on the last leg of her journey.

Kate Winslet played the lead in “The Reader,” and I am still mesmerized by it and still talking about it. Entertaining does not even begin to describe this movie perhaps because it is set in Europe, in post World War II where I lived. Kate’s performance is nothing short of riveting as Hanna Schmitz, a lonely, uneducated, working-class woman who has an affair with a teenage boy. Later they reconnect as Hanna goes on trial for her part as an SS guard at one of the notorious concentration camps. Sadly, it is her lack of being able to read or write that seals her doom … Ralph Fiennes rounds out this wonderful cast.

The final film has Cate Blanchett portraying “Queen Elizabeth” in this gripping, historical thriller, loaded with intrigue and betrayal. Suspense permeates the film to the very end. Cate’s portrayal of Queen Elizabeth is also riveting!.

Each week I asked neighbors to join me but sadly most were not interested. It’s another lesson in life to go solo to interesting events rather than miss them! I am so happy and pleased that I took advantage of what the community offers. Now, I am now looking forward to the next film series. We voted on whom we thought the best young male actors of today are with star quality. It will be interesting to see whom got selected and why! Stay tuned!

Meanwhile, I encourage you to check out cultural activities for folks in your communities!


Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer ● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com

Copyright© 2011 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you.