Time for an Update

Thursday 21 June 2012 - On Sunday I saw Rock of Ages with my friend Kim. I had seen the crappy reviews, but had also seen the stage show, so I was still looking forward to seeing the movie.

I can see why people didn't or wouldn't like it, if they don't like (a) musicals or (b) the music in this particular musical. It is specifically '80's hair band rock, and not for everyone. I wasn't a big fan of this kind of music when it was new, so I think one of the main reasons I like this movie and show, is the nostalgia aspect, taking me back to my best decade ever (so far, of course). The dialogue is mainly to fill in time before they burst into song yet again, so the storyline is not the strong feature. The young lovers - gorgeous, big Britney Spears voice (her), nice guy great voice (him) - were fine, but their story was the usual, angsty, young love, break up, get back together etc. The music is the real star, and the big stars in the cast really bring it to life.

I loved Alec Baldwin and Russell Brand, who brought most of the 'comic relief''; Mary J Blige just blew them all out of the water whenever she sang - I especially liked her "Anyway You Want It"; Catherine Zeta-Jones was fantastic as always, I liked her "Hit Me With Your Best Shot" and "We're Not Gonna Take It" vs Russell Brand's "We Built This City". Tom Cruise was freaking brilliant as Stacee Jaxx, which was to be expected - he was never going to make a fool of himself, so I'm sure he researched, buffed up and learned his moves till they were spot on. Just a really great performance, as was the music and singing. 8 out of 10.

On Wednesday, we had a planning day away from work, at Bronny's house. It was such pleasant weather, and we had a nice time out 'in the country", just outside Ipswich (I believe?). Anyway, we had morning & afternoon tea, a yummy BBQ for lunch, a game of pool in the afternoon, and squeezed a bit of work in between. Bron's dog Coco was a bit shy, but lovely, pottering around and not getting in our way, but accepting pats and lying in the sun - nice life.

Action - Lorraine taking a shot, Shikha more interested in her chocolate cake, Brett seemingly the only one aware of the  photo being taken, Andy giving tips to Lorraine maybe? and Gemma helping Bronny to clean up