RUNAWAY TO THE MOVIES NOW!

The Runaways is a Rock & Roll romp on film that taps the universal theme of teen rebellion and angst that is part of every kid's coming of age.   This real life story of 5 teen girls set in Southern California during the mid 70's seems like a kinder, gentler time by today's standards.     Simply put - in 1975 girls did not "Rock".   There was no Courtney Love or even a Madonna for a girl to look up to.    This was before it was business as usual to package rock bands like pop rocks, making them the  big hair caricatures of the 80's.   Certainly there were no girl bands.  DAKOTA FANNING & KRISTEN STEWART AS CURRIE & JETT

The Runaways all started with Joan Jett.  A girl who wore Men's leather jackets and dreamt of being a rock star.   Surrounded by milk and honey California blonds, Joan had relocated with her family from back East and did not fit in.  Remember, this was Marsha Brady land.   That was how girls were supposed to look.   The sunset strip was the only place for a lost youth who preferred the smoke filled clubs of rock and roll heaven to the sand and suntan lotion at the beach.

The story of the group is like an American fable.   Producer gets five unknown girls together who are all fresh faced, pretty, and most importantly American.  Producer then takes pinup style photos of the girls with guitars and lingerie. Producer unleashes pictures to the Japanese press.   Millions of pop culture loving Japanese teens almost had an aneurism over the images alone of the Runaways.   

The story is a real rollercoaster ride - with highs as dramatic and fantastic as the lows.   Joan Jett became the biggest and most successful performer from the group, but then again - it always was about her.   Some of you might remember a metal rock chick from the 90's by the name- Lita Ford.   Her big single "Kiss Me Deadly" was all over the radio - not to mention her duet with Ozzy Osborne - "Close My Eyes Forever".   I never knew Ford was one of the Runaways!  That makes so much sense!  THE REAL RUNAWAYS - CIRCA 1975

Kristen Stewart of The New Moon Twilight Saga fame does an excellent job in portraying the pent up male energy that young Joan Jett channeled.   Her performance showcases how Jett's intelligence and rebellion complimented each other in her  pursuit for fame.   

Making the most dramatic appearance in the film is all grown up Dakota Fanning as the coming of age too soon lead singer - Cherie Currie.    Cherie is smoldering with sexual energy that makes you squeamish at times as the viewer - when you remember Fanning just turned 16 in February!  Especially as there is sexual tension between the leading ladies..  Wow...   kids today.. or wait.. it was kids in the 70's.. I guess we always grew up too fast!  Fanning also costars in The New Moon /Twilight Saga with Stewart as well.    Let's just say that the girls in The Runaways experienced things that a pop tart like Britney Spears could not imagine or survive.    Madonna or Gaga could handle it...

If you don't see the film - BUY THE SOUNDTRACK.   It is a keeper!  Would be great for any house party or event.   Also, the movie is the perfect DVD to buy or rent this summer at your beach or country house!! 

Watch the trailer, and try not to get excited!

BROKEN EMBRACES aka CHANEL ON FILM

PENELOPE CRUZ IN BROKEN EMBRACESThe latest film by legendary Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodovar is not to be missed.   Broken Embraces is classic Almodovar, the film has that surreal, yet so real sense of whimsy, sensuality, and suspense that is as recognizably Almodovar as a fingerprint.  Almodovar muse Penelope Cruz has never been better as she portrays Lena.  We watch as this woman goes from rags to riches in her quest to care for her family and her own pursuit of happiness.  As if it were ever that easy!  There is love, turmoil, betrayal, joy and of course sex!  A true slice of life as only Almodovar can cut on film.

While there are so many layers to discuss, I wouldn't be a true fashion fanatic if I didn't mention the fact that this film could have served as a commercial for Chanel.   From the moment Penelope's character becomes a woman of leisure - the CC's start flowing!   Couture, RTW, Accessories, scarves, you name it!  Of course the items are not current as the film was shot two years ago.  In fact, much of the wardrobe was from the Cruise 08 collection.  

side note : The little color blocked knit from one scene almost made it into another major fashion film.   Stylists for Sex & The City The Movie borrowed the same sample for Sarah Jessica for the opening scene.  While it didn't make the cut, there was a serious amount of Chanel in the first SATC movie as well.   How could there not be?ROSSY DE PALMA AS "KIKA" BY ALMODOVAR

Look for a cameo by another famed Almodovar muse - Rossy de Palma.   Her trademark profile is as strong as ever - and her presence on film is refreshing to see, albeit brief.   You might also recognize Rossy from George Michael's Too Funky video.   Fashion designer Thierry Mugler directed that infamous video - as de Palma was also a muse of his - having walked his runway show in Paris.

Look for Broken Embraces at the independent theater in your town - or rent it when you can!  Watch the trailer below: