MariaI just realized that I haven’t blogged about movies in along time. The reason for that, of course, is the fact that we have been traveling for over a month now. However, during that period we managed to squeeze in three movies that all proved surprisingly good.

The first was Maria Full of Grace (Maria llena de gracia): We watched this movie in Leicester Square, London while we were visiting my friend Pilar. That night we all left the movie theater deeply touched by this tragic story about drug trafficking in Columbia. The movie is a bit of a downer but sheds some light on the poverty and desperation young women face in Columbia. The acting was superb, especially that of Catalina Sandino Moreno who played Maria so wonderfully — a performance that merited her an Oscar nomination. It was simply a great movie; three thumbs up.

Cinderella Man: Based on the true story of American boxer Jimmy Braddock, this movie is a must-see. It is an inspirational story about overcoming tremendous odds and pursuing one’s passion. Russell Crowe did a magnificent job as usual and played the character so wonderfully. I’m starting to believe that Russell Crowe is one of the greatest actors of our time. Would anyone object?

Mr. and Mrs. Smith: It is a fun comedic drama about the married life of two professional assassins. Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie offer up two amusing roles that keep you entertained for the duration of the movie. One thing of note: the chemistry between these two actors was very potent. I wouldn’t be surprised if they ended up together; that’s been her history with on-screen partners. In my humble opinion, Jolie is the most beautiful woman on earth. Ending up with Pitt and eventually having children, these two should produce a fine end product.

Still on the topic of movies, the other day I watched parts of a 1994 movie, Assault at West Point, that my husband took part in as both an extra and production assistant. I thought it was the coolest thing ever to see my husband sitting in a courtroom acting with the legendary Samuel Jackson, as Sam gave another memorable performance.