Monday, August 20, 2007

Film Review: El Cantante

El Cantante

Sometimes I go to a film for the wrong reasons. I confess the timing and location were the factors on this choice. I have never been a fan of Jennifer Lopez. I think her husband Marc Anthony is insipid looking. However I do like to see a movie about someone’s life. Hector Lavoe was the salsa super singer who died of aids at an early age. I must say that Marc Anthony did a fair job of playing the role. His singing was great. You certainly felt a part of his tragic life of mixing drugs and alcohol while trying to continue in his great career. Jennifer Lopez plays the wife. I felt she was more concerned with shaking her bottom in front of the camera than playing the part of the wife. Her voice was jarring and loud. It sounded as if she was talking into a microphone. I didn’t get the feeling of her being the wife. It was as if Jennifer Lopez was constantly saying,” Look at me.”
The movie was jarring to the extent that I would fear for anyone suffering from migraines. Perhaps it was intended to try and give you the feeling of what was going on in the mind of the artist. As a viewer it was fast paced, loud and jarring. From time to time the film becomes black and white. Jennifer Lopez’s character is telling you the story of her husband. It is rather pathetic because her hair style and dress are so ridiculous. I wanted to laugh at her. It made it unbelievable.
I can’t say I enjoyed the story because the life of Hector Lavoe was so sad. I did learn a lot and was interested. I did enjoy some of the salsa music. Could I have spent my time and money in a better way? You bet.

Film Review: The Short Life of Jose Antonio Guitierrez

This documentary is powerful and fascinating. Once again we have a story that incorporates Bush’s lies. Jose Guitierrez was the first casualty of the Iraq War. The Americans lied and said he died a hero defending his country. Later it was learned that he died from friendly fire.
Jose Guitierrez was born in Guatemala. His life as an orphan was so sad. He lived for years on the street. Finally he was taken into a home for street children. The director tells how Jose was so street smart but also had such an inherent need to be close. He would cling to the director and hold his hand while walking.
He tried for years to find his sister. Finally he was reunited with her and kept up a correspondence until his death. Jose illegally arrives in the United States by smuggling himself through the Mexican borders both on the Guatemalan side and the United States. Jose always had a dream of being an architect so he could build himself a proper house. He joined the marines and seemed to thrive their because of the comradeship of the fellow marines. Bush offered citizenship to those joining the American forces on a green card His life was cut short all too soon.
We see scenes of the squalor in Guatemala. We hear interviews with his sister and workers at the refuge where he lived. Fellow marines are also interviewed.
It is a gripping story. To add insult to injury we learn that the United States played a part in the Civil War that destroyed so much of the country and so many lives.
The film is currently playing at the Bloor Cinema. I have such respect for this little cinema house. They dare to show unusual and outstanding films. It is a comfortable little theatre and I have never found it to be too crowded. It is also very cheap

Restaurant Review: Rosebud

669 Queen St East ( at Bathurst) 416.703.8810

I promised my friend Elaine to be fair but critical of this new find. I get such pleasure in trying new restaurants. I confess I tend to overuse superlatives but I get very excited when I have a great meal in a new place. It is important for you to know that if I don’t like a restaurant I just don’t bother writing about it. I had heard a lot of this restaurant and was anxious to try it. My first impression was very positive. I love the dark wood paneling even in summer. My friend Elaine commented that she thought it had a Soho, New York feeling. The banquettes are new and nicely designed. There is warmth to the décor and a friendly feeling in the restaurant. The servers were adorable and friendly. One did forget to mention the daily specials but as it happened it was for soup only. She was very helpful with the menu and generally we were pleased in this department. Elaine and I shared a first rate gourmet salad of Organic Beets with Hazelnuts, goat cheese, baby arugula and balsamic vinaigrette. ($12.00) The beets were full of flavor and the goat cheese harmonized so well with the greens and the beets. Apparently the balsamic was a reduction which brought out the sweet taste of the excellent vinaigrette. I would have liked two more of the salad and called it an evening. For the main course I mixed and matched a few numbers on the menu. My dish was Tagliatelle with Wild Gulf Shrimp, chilies, tomato and basil. ($14.00 sm- $24.00 lge) Once again I was a happy camper. Elaine helped me to finish my large portion and declared it a winner as well. So what went wrong? Elaine ordered Roast Tofino Halibut with peas, leek, cream and sweet heirloom relish.($26.00) I felt the price was a little steep considering she was served a small portion of a piece of halibut. It was overcooked and the very few peas were dried out. No bread was served with the meal so her dinner was extremely lacking. Fortunately I was able to share my happy dinner I would have liked a positive response from the server when Elaine kindly commented on her dinner.
It is not a large menu but I always feel that a small restaurant should stick to a few items and do it well. For a first course Newfoundland Salt Cod Cakes with tartar sauce and dressed salad are offered at $11.00 Pan Seared Quail with dried cherry and verjus reduction is served with a treviso salad.($12.00) Organic Ontario Tomatoes and Buffalo Mozzarella Salad comes with basil and balsamic glaze.($14.00) Three Italian dishes are on the menu. Ricotta Gnocchi is served with sausage, rapini, garlic and tomato.(14/24) The Risotto is served with the wild gulf shrimp, chilies, tomato and basil.(14/24) is normally served with fresh ricotta, wild arugula, grape tomatoes and roast garlic.(14/24)
Organic Veal Chop with caponata and pink peppercorns and blue cheese is a suggestion for meat lovers.($32.00) Sweet Spiced Rock Hen with butter beans comes with cracked olives and feta.($24.00) Fish lovers have the choice of the halibut or Seared Digby Scallops with braised oxtail and frisee salad.($24.00)
I have never been a fan of ordering vegetables on the side. Charge what you like but make the platter complete. Organic Ontario Yellow Beans have bacon vinaigrette. Rapini is cooked with olive oil and roast garlic. Crushed New Potatoes are served with fresh herbs and butter. Sides range between $6.00 and $7.00
Would I go back again? The answer is definitely yes. They deserve a second try. There was enough that was positive.

Film Review: Gypsie Caravan

I’m sure that if I say the word ‘gypsy’ many people will have a negative stereotype. This film will help dispel many of the negative thoughts. I learned that gypsy’s originated in India. Many left and went to other countries where they were called Roma’s. Musicians from 4 countries came together to perform concerts in many North American cities. This gypsy caravan was filmed and edited into this current film. I wish I had of known that Toronto was a chosen city. The participants come from India, Rumania, Spain and Macedonia. The musicians had never played together before. There were 5 bands, 9 languages and 35 people on the road. We are well aware that gypsy’s have been persecuted and marginalized in all countries. Yet every concert was sold out. The music was unbelievable and so passionate. I loved every minute. What a concert! Esma is a large woman. When she belts out her songs you want to dance in the aisle and weep at the same time. She wears colorful costumes. Her voice wails and shudders as she sings the passionate songs. She tells us that she has been singing since 11. It was most unusual when she married someone who was not a Roma. She and her husband have no children of their own but have cared for 47 poor children. The flamenco dancers are fantastic. I was not aware that flamenco originates with the gypsy’s. Every horn, every dance step, every note in singing is so powerful and emotional.
We also get to see the homes of many of the musicians. The musicians in Macedonia live in small shacks. Some do not have indoor facilities. These musicians are so happy that their band is able to furnish some extras for the people in the village. The Rumanians were able to supply electricity to their village. You can’t help but wonder how these musicians felt as they traveled in Toronto, Austin Texas and many other North American cities. They traveled by bus. The camaraderie on the bus was wonderful. The participants from the four countries bonded.
The music and dancing was fantastic. The movie is a gem.

Restaurant Review: Dessert Trends Bistro

154 Harbord St. 416.916.8155

I have been listening in the locker room to rave reviews of this bistro/bakery. I decided it was time to go. My good friend Estelle loves diners and small restaurants. We attempted to come here a month ago but they were closed for holidays. We were not going to give up. I am so delighted I listened to everyone praising this adorable establishment. It is white, bright, inviting and charming. All the windows opened to make you feel you are in a patio. Jennifer, our server was so perfect for this place. Her big wide smile and beautiful face enhanced the already lovely atmosphere. Now let’s get to the food,
As you enter you are faced with the most tantalizing array of gourmet pastries. Donald Duong, chef and proprietor, makes everything on the premises. You have to see and taste to believe. This is a master. The good news is that they also do catering. Recently the gelato counter was added. I wanted to crawl inside the cooler. Everything is so beautifully displayed. The other day in the locker room I overheard a discussion as to the best flavor of gelato. They all looked so yummy. I promised myself that my next visit includes a gelato treat.
The good news is that a lovely menu is available for lunch and dinner as well. Many salads are listed and I noticed several delectable looking salads being served to clients. The Roasted Red Pepper $ Goat Cheese Salad is made with sun dried tomatoes, sweet red onions and goat cheese in a herbed balsamic vinaigrette.($9.50) Mushroom Salad serves sautéed assorted mushrooms in lemon herb butter on a bed of mixed greens.($8.50) Thai Mango Shrimp Salad sautés mango, shrimp, green onion, cilantro, and mint in a lemon vinaigrette. ($11.50) Three soups were available on this menu. Mushroom Soup is light and creamy with wild mushrooms.($6.50) Several quiches are available daily. Mushroom and Parmesan Cheese Quiche is offered at $9.50.The sandwiches are a work of art. The bread is made on the premises and is of European high quality. I could have eaten a loaf of the bread and been very satisfied. We chose to share an Oven Dried Tomato and Eggplant Sandwich.($8.50) The eggplant is grilled and served with the oven dried tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, sweet onions and basil pesto. It was beyond perfect. The sandwich was more than sufficient for 2 people. A light green salad was on the plate and two pieces of the best baked potato slices with herbs. I could eat another one right away. The Pesto Shrimp is an open faced sandwich served with white bean spread and balsamic roasted pepper topped with pesto shrimp on that magnificent whole wheat bread. ($12.50) Frittata Sandwich is a combination of roasted garlic, zucchini, sweet pepper and Asiago cheese on tasted bread.
This cafe is a great success. It has a charming atmosphere. It feels so relaxing and pleasant to sit here and enjoy absolutely wonderful food.
All the gossip in the locker room was so ‘right on’. I wish I had tried it earlier. Specials are listed on a blackboard. Lasagne, Grilled Salmon and many other specials will provide something for everyone. The food is fresh and tasty. I really can’t wait to go back. I even have my eye on a pecan tart that was in the cooler with a myriad of other pastries that would be fitting for a royal gathering.

Monday, August 13, 2007

Restaurant Review: George

111A Queen St E. ( at Church)
416.863.6006

I have just been to heaven and loved every moment. Is this the best kept secret in town? Probably not because the patio was filled on this gorgeous summer evening. From the minute you enter this establishment you know you are in for an elegant, top of the line experience. This former chocolate factory has been transformed into a designer’s dream. The soft green walls balance with the mauve chairs. Dramatic highlights jump out at you to make you feel you are in a gallery. The outdoor patio is one of the most attractive in this city. The open kitchen area has more people working here than you can imagine. It was like a bee hive bustling with activity. No wonder. Wait until you see the food presentation. Chef Lorenzo Loseto is an artist. Not only does he buy the freshest available, he lets you know about the produce selected in an interesting newsletter. The combination of herbs and flavors are magic and the presentation is a work of art. This is a place to celebrate. Private rooms are also available. I would be tempted to try the tasting menu on my next visit. I was fascinated to discover that this restaurant is part of Verity, a women’s club, Verity is situated upstairs. This is a first class situation. My friend Wanda and I were out for a gourmet dining experience. We had a lot to discuss. She is about to take off for Nairobi for a 4 month contract. We wanted this to be special.
A fine selection of flat bread and good quality bread were presented. An Amuse Bouchee was appreciated completely. A small portion of tuna tartare with an immersion of raspberry was placed on a lovely white rectangular dish. Three raspberries infused with some ambrosia were divine. A little splash of a duck sauce completed the work of art.
The main menu is in three sections. It is recommended that you sample from each area. Portions are small because tasting is encouraged. We chose a salad that wasn’t even listed on the menu. Radicchio Salad was composed of the finest fresh greens. The dressing was a miso base with a dash of rice vinegar. A small mound of mashed avocado and a little quinoa salad graced the plate. It was outstanding.($12.00) Olive Oil Poached Salmon Porclait is served with roasted bell peppers, spiced walnuts and Guanciate.($18.00) Butter Poached Lobster is served with apricot coconut broth and quinoa relish.($24.00) For a second course the menu is varied and interesting. Tuna Tataki is served with eggplant potato blini in a jasmine lobster reduction.($21.00) Togarashi Scallop, Curry Sweetbreads and a Ratatouille Tart are served with mint yogurt.($21.00) The third part of the menu lists the entrée selections. We both opted for the Pecan Dusted Halibut with poached cherry tomatoes, lobster corn foam.($21.00) The sauce was a gourmet experience. The fish was perfectly cooked and infused with flavors that resonated, a touch of saffron and curry. Beef Striploin is served with Gremolate plum jus and an artichoke potato puree. ($21.00)
Nicole was our server. She looked as if she had just stepped from a Vogue Magazine. She was elegant warm and completely knowledgeable about the total menu.
Come prepared to try several dishes. We were mesmerized by the couple beside us. They had obviously chosen the tasting menu. I was salivating watching the many different creative experiences arriving at the table. Each plate left empty.
A total gourmet delight.

Film Review: A Storne's Throw

I always try to support Canadian films but usually am very disappointed. This film made an impact with me. It is an environmental story and gives you much to think about. It was interesting to see this theme well delivered in a fictional mode rather than a documentary. I have always wanted to go to Nova Scotia and enjoyed the country scenes and the feeling of being in a small town. Jack comes back to a small village to visit his family. He is a photo journalist and an activist for the environment. We don’t know anything else about him. His sister is divorced with two children. Rachael is an adorable young girl. Her older brother, Thomas looks up to his uncle Jack. He is investigating a mine in the area. He feels that his sister’s asthma and other family ailments are a result of bad ecological choices of the mine. Thomas’s father blames Jack for ‘rabble rousing’. He states that the mine is essential for the town. It provides employment and some things need to be overlooked. To add a little spice to the story Jack falls for a good friend of his sister. You can’t blame him. The beautiful Lisa Ray plays Lea, the friend. I wanted so much for the two to make a match. I liked the gentleness of Jack. I felt that he was carrying a lot of pain but had a deep love for his family and certainly for his new friend. Lea. Lea is so beautiful that it is a delight to watch her. She plays a kindergarten teacher. I loved the scenes of the practices for the school play. We learn about Jack’s past and how he was criminally involved with an environmental protest. We see how his nephew Thomas was influenced by his uncle. Do you do nothing while you see injustice around you, especially when it is killing people? On the other hand you understand the issues of unemployment and the need for work. These issues fractured this family. I thought that all the actors did a fine job with their roles. You will want to discuss the issues represented. Congratulations on a Canadian film that makes the mark.