Doron's Discourse: November 2005

Movie Review: "Maria Full of Grace"

This 2004 Colombian movie is one of the best foreign films I have ever seen. While the subject matter of a young woman who takes the job of a drug mule may sound cliched, the production is captivating and extremely well executed. ------------- Initially, the film is shot in a documentary style, which gives it a feeling of veracity. Adding to this sense of realism is the acting, particularly that of the actress portraying Maria. You really don��t feel as though you��re watching a work of fiction or actors playing their roles; it seems incredibly immediate and real. ------- Most interesting is the way that the circumstances which impel Maria to take the job are brought out. Working in a sweatshop-like setting packaging flowers for export and pregnant by her seemingly immature boyfriend, Maria does not come off as a victim so much as one who willingly makes the choice to act as a mule as a form of assertiveness and to alleviate her family��s otherwise dire financial circumstances. Also worthy of mention are the scenes of the flight to America and arrival at the airport, which are fraught with suspense, tension and danger. ----------- I will refrain from discussing the events of the movie any further. Relatedly, don��t read any other reviews of this movie beforehand lest they give too much away (they are riddled with spoilers). -------- If you are in the mood for a realistic, intense and well done foreign film, this one is highly recommended.

Personal Note: You Can Always Be Thinner and Look Better

Following a several month hiatus, I have started to work out again. Earlier this year I hurt my lower back at the gym while lifting up a 30 lb. dumbbell and, with a few other reasons, my appetite for exercising kind of petered out. ----------------- In the meantime I turned 33, realized that the inactivity was not good psychologically and became fearful of getting fat. Accordingly, I had to remotivate. First, however, moderate consumption was necessary: new workout shoes, a discman (my walkman was old and on the fritz) and quality headphones. I also made some hard rock mix CDs. Since that time I re-joined my old gym and have sketched out a new routine that focuses on power walking, abs, stretching and light upper body work. Thus far it is going well.

Sports: Huskers' Season Hinges on Crucial Contests

After having been 5-1 after 6 games, in rapid succession Nebraska has gone 0-3 in its last 3 games, having culminated in a disgraceful 40-15 loss at Kansas. --------------- I do not put any of this blame on the players, who show up for practice, work hard every down and make plays. Rather, I would apportion blame for the Huskers' current problems about 70% to doofus A.D. Scott Peterson and 30% to the program's mismatch with Coach Callahan (this is not re-hashing old issues, as the debate is still relevant) ------------------------- Nevertheless, the Huskers have had some success and demonstrated their resolve during this season. For instance, they beat then-#23 Iowa State and defending Big East champion Pitt in Lincoln (don't ask the score--a sparse 7-6). Despite being a heartbreaking loss, the Texas Tech game was important because it showed that the Huskers could come from behind with their new offensive scheme. ----------------- All that remains now is Kansas State and Colorado; with just 1 more win the Huskers become bowl eligible. HuskerNation eagerly awaits...