lutesong

"Orgoglio e pregiudizio," an Italian version of Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice," was broadcast in 1957 in black-and-white. It's so much fun watching Jane Austen's story unfold in Italian! There are some delightful ways in which the script diverges from the original. Jane has become "Jenny," I think the Bennets have four daughters rather than five, "Netherfield," the estate leased by Mr. Bingley and his sisters has become a castle, etc. Otherwise, the script is faithful to the book. The subtitles are easy to read, but it's still fun hearing lines spoken in Italian, sometimes in record speed! Although I didn't recognize any of the names of the actors, it doesn't matter. Their performances are all superb. This is a must see for Jane Austen fans, particularly those who want to see all of the versions of her stories.

Haiku Tunnel is easily as good as that other movie about working in an office: Office Space. Haiku Tunnel is quirky, funny, offbeat, clever, and well written, cast, and acted (did I say I liked this film?). I'm not a professional movie critic, so I see no need to think up something negative to add. If you've ever worked in an office or worked as a temp, you simply must watch this movie.

There's a little something for everyone, the scary office manager, the Attorney/boss who's the prince of darkness, the office worker buddies, including the gay dude who's always reading "Soldier of Fortune" magazine. Also, look for the phone conversation with the ex-secretary and decide which of Alfred Hitchcock's movies this scene might be an homage to.

Kudos to Mr. Kornbluth, wherever you are. I hope you are writing more scripts; would love to see more of your work.