Julie & Julia

MUST-SEE: (Nora Ephron) It's interesting that we never grow tired of seeing Meryl Streep run the cards in her films. Give her script, and she transforms lines to magic - always letting timeless personalities into our hearts. It's no different with her portrayal of Julia Child. Streep conquers Julia with a gusto that leaves herself nowhere to be found. And fortunately, it leaves the viewer with nothing by seriously giddy delight in watching. Julie and Julia is based on the novel by the same name. It's the story of blogger Julie Powell who decides to cook her way through Julia's first cookbook (Mastering the Art of French Cooking) in an effort to prove her own sense of self accomplishment. Her sideline to Julia's portrait is endearing and inspiring. Amy Adams plays a downtrodden spirit, desperate to feel important and yearning for something more out of her life. Unfortunately, this personality is extremely overshadowed by Julia's story - so much so that I almost hated having to transition back when the story lines exchanged turns. Any actress could have played Julie Powell. Not to belittle Adams - she did a fabulous job... But I am surprised she took this role, as it didn't give her a lot of room to show anything off, or grow a character into more than it was. In contrast, Meryl's role as Julia was astounding. She married herself to that character more than I have ever seen, allowing the audience to forget it was Meryl at all. She made me laugh. She made me cry. And overall, I have never been more delighted watching a film. It's one of the happiest, feel-good movies I have seen in awhile. I laughed throughout its entirety and was entertained well beyond my expectations. You really shouldn't miss this opportunity to enjoy yourself! Bravo Meryl - one of your best, ever.