Classics: A Review of A League of Their Own By Lauren Ennis

 "There's no crying in baseball!" curmudgeonly coach Jimmy Duggan declares in the 1992 crowd-pleaser A League of Their Own. The irony is that by the end of this historical sports drama even the most hardened of viewers will have a lump in their throat. Blending comedy, drama, and heart the film pays apt homage to the great American pass time and the people who love it most. For a sports film that continues to score big hit the field with the ladies of the Rockford Peaches with A League of Their Own.

The story begins in 1988 with elderly Dottie Hinson attending the opening of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League exhibit at the Baseball Hall of Fame. The film then flashes back to 1943 when the nation was embroiled in World War II and professional sports were all but over. In an effort to revive the dying professional sports industry and boost national morale several MLB team owners band together to form a women's league. Ace catcher Dottie is spotted at a local softball game by scout Ernie Capadino. While Dottie is content in her marriage to a local soldier and work at a dairy her sister Kit is desperate to escape their small town. Ernie then reveals that he will only allow Kit to try out as pitcher if Dottie agrees to try out as well. Both sisters are then recruited for the Rockford Peaches along with a colorful cast of misfits worthy of the Bad News Bears. The team soon enlists the services of alcoholic former Cubs star Jimmy Duggan as manager. So begins a season that makes for the ultimate Cinderella story and an enduring tribute to the great American pass time.

Over thirty years after its release this feel good sports dramedy remains in a league of its own. The film sheds light upon a fascinating but largely forgotten moment in history, while relating an all-American tale of opportunity and teamwork. Despite its often light-hearted tone, the film wisely does not shy away from the sexism and limitations that the players faced. Instead, the film uses those obstacles to relate a tale of the American Dream as the women use a combination of individual skill and grit along with teamwork to overcome that adversity. The film also highlights the ways in which baseball provides the women the opportunity to overcome their personal struggles as each of the players uses their success on the field to build a better future off of it. For a sports movie that is sure to get you cheering run the bases with the Rockford Peaches in A League of Their Own.

The story comes to bey turns heartfelt and hilarious life thanks to the work of its star-studded cast. Jon Lovitz is bitingly funny as talent scout Ernie. Megan Cavanagh lends heart and humor to "homely" tomboy Marla. Rosie O'Donnell blends wisdom with wisecracks as street-wise Doris. Madonna infuses what could have easily have been a one-note-role as sexy taxi dancer Mae with world-weariness and humor. Lori Petty infuses Kit with a scrappiness and charm that ensures viewers will sympathize with her desperate desire to escape her sister's shadow. Tom Hanks turns in one of the most entertaining performances of his career as hard drinking tough talking manager. Jimmy. Geena Davis makes for a compelling leading lady as she blends intelligence, grit, and warmth, as team team captain, Dottie.

Through its expert blend of fact, fiction, comedy, and drama, A League of Their Own makes for a delightful slice of American pie. The script brings history to life while still maintaining a human heart. The cast ensure that viewers will be rooting for the Peaches just as hard as the teams' fans. Celebrate the great American pass time and step up to the plate with the Peaches in A League of Their Own.

Classics: A Review of Fried Green Tomatoes By Lauren Ennis

 "I found out what the secret to life is: friends. Best friends" Ninny Threadgoode declares. 1991's crowd pleaser Friend Green Tomatoes follows two friendships between four very different women in two drastically different eras. In spite of their differences each of the women have one thing in common; their lives have been forever changed by the love of a friend. In its one hundred-thirty minute run time the film explores the tragedies and triumphs that bond women together and the power of that bond even in the most adverse of circumstances. For a taste of the sweet when life is at its most sour cook up some Fried Green Tomatoes.

The story begins with recent empty-nester Evelyn Couch accompanying her husband while he visits his ailing aunt at a nursing home. While in the waiting room of the nursing home's residents, Ninny Threadgoode. Over the course of several visits Ninny shares the story of the friendship between her cousin, rebellious tomboy Idgie, and strait-laced beauty, Ruth. The pair first meet in the 1920's when Ruth is dating Idgies older brother, Buddy. Both girls are devastated when Buddy is struck and killed by a train in front of them. Years later, Ruth has resigned herself to a loveless engagement to Frank Bennett and Idgie is channels her grief into teenage rebellion. In an effort to curb Idgie's angst, her family recruits Ruth to act as her mentor for the summer. The two form a fast and deep friendship. Their bond is soon tested, however, when Ruth's marriage to Frank becomes abusive, sparking a series of events that put their friendship, freedom, and even their very lives at risk. Meanwhile in the present Evelyn's friendship with Ninny inspires her to follow Ruth and Idgie's example and reclaim her own life. By the film's heartfelt conclusion, all four women's lives will have been changed for the better.

In just over two hours Fried Green Tomatoes captures the ways in which through the simple act of friendship we can bring out the best in each other and ourselves. At the start of the film Ruth is bright but conventional and Idgie is original but destructive. Through their friendship, Ruth gains confidence and dares to pursue her own passions. Similarly, Ruth's calming influence inspires Idgie to use her rebelliousness in service of others rather than merely as a means of acting out. By the film's conclusion, their relationship has allowed both to grow from damaged girls to capabale, resilient, women. While less dramatic the friendship between Ninny and Evelyn is no less inspiring. Through their visits Ninny finds a renewed sense of purpose and finds the courage to finally move on from her past and live in the present. Similarly, Ninny's independence and tales of Idgie and Ruth inspire Evelyn to take control of her life. Under Ninny's influence she finally begins to stand up for herself and demands that her husband be an active participant in their marriage. Both relationships show the power, beauty, and sweetness that friendships brings to our lives even when life throws us sour green tomatoes.

The film brings Fannie Flagg's 1987 novel, Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe to exuberant life thanks to the work of its cast. Jessica Tandy is the grandmother everyone wishes they could have as equal parts warm and witty Ninny. Chris O'Donnell conveys boy next door charm in his brief turn as Buddy. Nick Searcy makes for an apt villain in his menacing portrayal of Frank. Gailard Sartain is hilariously unaware as Evelyn's well-meaning but oblivious husband, Ed. Kathy Bates nearly runs away with the movie in her by turns hilarious and heartfelt performance as Evelyn. Mary Louise Parker captures Ruth's journey from repressed girl to resilient woman with nuance and depth. Mary Stuart Masterson is a force of nature as outspoken, unconventional, Idgie.

Fried Green Tomatoes captures the enduring power of friendship with a zest that more than lives up to its name. The script brings Fannie Flagg's novel to colorful life. The performances of the cast transport viewers to the comforts and dangers of 1920's Alabama. Taste the bittersweet power of friendship with a helping of Fried Green Tomatoes.

Classics: A Review of Taken By Lauren Ennis

 "I have a very particular set of skills. Skills that make me a nightmare for people like you. I will look for you, I will find you, and I will kill you" former CIA operative Brian Mills warns the human traffickers who have kidnapped his daughter. Armed with just those skills and a father's love, Brian sets off to rescue his daughter and kicks off an entire action film franchise along the way in Taken. Nearly twenty years after its release this thriller still packs a punch. For a testament to the badassery of fatherly love brush up on your skills with Liam Neeson in Taken.

The story begins with Brian on assignment providing security for a young pop star. After successfully preventing an attack he visits his daughter, Kim in an effort to mend their strained relationship. He is dismayed to learn that his ex-wife has agreed to allow Kim to book a trip to Paris without consulting with him. Despite his misgivings he allows her to make the trip. He regrets his decision almost immediately, however, when Kim and her friend are kidnapped by human traffickers soon after arriving. He then vows to rescue them at any cost. So begins an epic chase across Paris that still has the internet memeing. 

Taken is a simple story with a familiar premise. The film sets itself apart from its contemporaries, however, through its all too human heart. While many action films feature butt-kicking operatives dragged back into the field few do so in such a way as to make audiences actually care about more than the action. By focusing on a father's search for his daughter the film makes its story personal. In its depiction of Brian's search for Kim the film raises the stakes by appealing to viewers' devotion to their own families and asking how far would you go to protect the ones you love. Fortunately for action fans, Brian's answer is to deadly and explosive lengths. Witness the full power of skill of fatherhood in Taken.

The film's cast elevate the story beyond its simple premise. Maggie Grace and Katie Cassidy convey innocence and girlish charm as Kim and her friend, Amanda. Famke Janssen aptly captures the anguish of Brian's ex-wife, Leni. Olivier Rabord, Gerard Watkins, and Arben Bajrak-Taraj are appropriately menacing as the film's criminal masterminds. Liam Neeson dominates the film in a performance that blends steely resolve, inner torment, and plenty of heart.

Taken may not be the most complex film, but it remains a thrilling ode to the power of a father's love. The script blends action and emotion to expert effect, ensuring that viewers will root for Brian on every step of his pursuit. The cast bring the shadowy world of forgotten organized crime to dangerous life. This Father's Day, treat Dad to an action-packed thrill ride in Taken.

Going for Gold with the Literary Titan Gold Book Award!

 Hello Readers,

I'm so stoked to share with all of you that A Boy's Best Comrade is a recipient of the Literary Titan Gold Book Award! Thank you so much to all of you for your continued support!

Lauren

Classics: A Review of Straight to Hell By Lauren Ennis

How far would you go to get what you want? For impoverished child of war turned media sensation Kazuko Hosiki the answer is "straight to Hell". Over the course of nine riveting episodes that span six decades Netflix's Straight to Hell follows Japan's infamous fortune-teller as she rises and falls only to claw her way up once again. At once a testament to the power of resiliency and a warning against the consuming lure of ambition, the series is every bit as complicated and fascinating as its leading lady. For a devilishly good time follow Kazuko Straight to Hell.

"My life story is interesting"

The story begins in 2005 Tokyo with fortune teller Kazuko Hosiki living a life of luxury as the reigning queen of daytime television. Famous for her blunt advice and dire predictions, Kazuko enthralls audiences seeking answers in an increasingly fraught society. She commissions a biography and relates her story to struggling author Minori. The story then flashes back to Kazuko's childhood in post-war Tokyo as her mother struggles to support Kazuko and her siblings in the wake of their father's death. The devastation and desperation of post-war society leaves its mark on young Kazuko and she becomes determined to pull herself out of poverty at any cost. Eventually, she works her way up from hostess club darling to successful entrepreneur with several clubs of her own before reinventing herself as the media sensation we meet at the start of the series. Along the way she faces loss and betrayal and nearly returns to the poverty of her youth only to rise again stronger and more formidable than ever. As she continues to delve into Kazuko's story, Minori soon realizes that there may be something darker lurking behind the fortune-teller's inspiring rags to riches tale. What follows is a reckoning that will bring both women to Hell and back.

In it's portrayal of Kazuko's tumultuous life Straight to Hell acts as both a compelling character study and an apt depiction of the cost of ambition. Kazuko's childhood in which she was reduced to surviving on stolen goods and insects sets the course for the rest of her life. Like a Japanese Scarlett O'Hara she vows never to be hungry again and spends the rest of her life living up to that promise. Her many rises and falls eerily parallel those of Japan itself, as the nation struggles to find its place on a rapidly changing world stage. What begins as a modern Cinderella story takes a darker turn, however, as she follows her promise of success at any cost to it's logical, devastating, conclusion. The series then evolves from aspirational to cautionary as Kazuko's star continues to rise, but only at the expense of others. By the series' conclusion she has achieved all that she hoped for and more, but in doing so has left herself isolated, embittered, and relegated to her own personal hell. For storytelling with an old-fashioned sweep and biting, modern, edge see Kazuko rise and fall Straight to Hell.

"I'd follow you anywhere, even if it's straight to Hell"

The story transports viewers to a rapidly changing Tokyo thanks to the stellar work of its cast. Sairi Ito imbues Minori with a blend of warmth and earnestness that makes her an ideal everywoman. Toko Miura turns in a heartbreaking performance, as she infuses exploited singer Chiyoko with innocence and girlish charm. Gaku Hosokawa lends humor as Kazuoko's younger brother and business partner, Hisao. Toma Ikuta could give Al Pacino tough competition in his expert turn as Michael Corleone-esque Yakuza boss Masaya Hotta. Even in the midst of superb supporting performances the series belongs to Erika Toda as Kazuko. Over the course of nine episodes she follows Kazuko's journey from exploited innocent to ruthless exploiter with an intelligence, complexity, and charisma worthy of the real Kazuko Hosiki.

At once an inspiring story of one woman's rise in the face of adversity and a cautionary tale of the dangerous power of ambition, Straight to Hell is is every bit as hypnotizing as the woman who inspired it. The script brilliantly relates Kazuko's biography in all of its complexity without either championing or condemning her. The cast transport viewers to the grit and glamour of 20th century Tokyo as they bring each of the colorful characters in Kazuko's past to life. Give in to temptation and join Kazuko for a thrilling trip Straight to Hell.

"We trick others before being tricked"

Interview with Literary Titan

 Hello Readers,

If you're interested here's my latest author interview with Literary Titan!

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

May 17

Posted by Literary Titan

Lauren Ennis Author Interview

A Boy’s Best Comrade follows a loyal dog in Stalin-era Moscow, as she protects the boy she loves through arrest, hunger, homelessness, and betrayal in a world where devotion itself becomes an act of courage. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

I’ve always adored animals and possess a fascination with history, particularly Russian history. When I read about the packs of stray dogs that have taught themselves to navigate Moscow’s subway system, I saw a way to combine my love of animals and passion for history. Once I started writing I looked to my favorite childhood books and movies, especially Don Bluth’s animated movies, for even more inspiration.

How did you balance Sasha’s animal instincts with the emotional depth needed to carry the novel?​

Sasha is based off and named for my dog. When writing Sasha’s character, I imbued her with my Sasha’s personality and mannerisms to lend her authenticity and make her feel like a ‘real’ dog. To ensure that she was humanized in the story I turned to Mrs. Brisby from The Secret of NIMH and other characters who possessed the nurturing, maternal, characteristics that I wanted Sasha to possess for inspiration. Throughout the novel I tried to maintain a balance between conveying human emotions through Sasha while ensuring that she still behaved like a dog.

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?

The most crucial themes in the book are resilience in the face of adversity, the horrors of authoritarianism, and the importance of loyalty in a world of distrust. While these themes were particularly relevant in Stalinist Russia, I believe that they are universal and would resonate with readers across generations and cultures.

What kind of research shaped your portrayal of Moscow’s streets, metro stations, and stray-dog packs?​

The research was absolutely the most difficult aspect of writing A Boy’s Best Comrade. I was fortunate enough to be able to view documentaries about the real-life Moscow subway dogs and strays in general. The research about the streets and metro was more difficult due to all the changes to the city over the course of several decades and the language barrier. I used a combination of written sources from the 1930’s along with maps and photos of the city and metro to try and create an accurate depiction of 1930’s Moscow.

A Boy's Best Comrade Trailer!

 Lights, camera, and action!