Hanna

Hanna

I’ve tried to see this film for the past month. It has received rave reviews. I actually went one afternoon to the Varsity Cinema. It was listed in the newspaper. The marquee had the name in lights and a TV monitor mentioned the name and time. The movie house was very sorry but the film was only playing at 7:00p.m. The film then changed venue and is still showing in the city.

If you like spy stories and lots of intrigue you are in for a thrilling ride. If you don’t mind chases, killings and suspense you will think this is great.

I personally am not turned on with looking at a body hanging upside down with arrows throughout the body. There was so much suspense and action that I actually was turned off half way through. Hanna is played by Saoirse Ronan. She is a young girl with so much talent. Her performance was the film. Cate Blanchett is always superb and is great as the tough spy leader.

Hanna and her father live in the woods in a cold climate. They have a small wooden cabin. Her father is tough (and mean) with Hanna and teaches her how to fight for herself and how to exist under the worst conditions. She is able to kill a deer with a bow and arrow and thinks nothing of skinning an animal. She constantly fights with her father in order to improve her combat skills. He forces her to drill on information and she becomes a tough combatant in every way.

Who are they? What are they running from? Why is the father teaching her all these survival techniques?

The father realizes that he has to get away. He leaves Hanna to get to Germany on her own.

The film is a series of action packed episodes. They are chased and do incredible acts to save themselves and beat off the enemy. The father swims in cold water and emerges looking fresh and able. They jump from buildings and give a fair chase to anyone pursuing them.

As the plot unravels we learn more about Hanna and why she was being chased. She briefly attaches herself to a traveling family. For a moment you witness her enjoying a somewhat stable existence.

I doubt if this film will last much longer. You are on your own if you go. IF action is your thing you will probably think this is an exciting film.

Spuntini

Spuntini 116 Avenue Rd 416 962 1110

It was a long weekend and the streets seemed deserted. Now I know where everyone was hiding out. Spuntini was completely filled and guests were waiting at the door. Spuntini offers a delicious menu, fine service and a completely positive dining experience. The food was outstanding.

If you are lucky you will get a table in the upper level. The windows are open and it feels as if you are dining on a patio. Because of the higher level you face Avenue Rd without being on the street. We enjoyed sitting at the back of the restaurant by the library of stored wine bottles. I always enjoy my food better when I am near all that wine.

We were warmly greeted at the door. That certainly sets the tone. The congenial service continued throughout the meal. The other advantage to our seating was the view of those creative plates coming from the kitchen. They were picture perfect.

For a full course dining experience you may want to begin with a salad or appetizer. Melanzani Alla Siciliana offers grilled eggplant stuffed with goat’s cheese garnished with bell peppers, lightly dressed with a balsamic and olive oil dressing.($11.95) Sardines From Peniche is a delightful dish of grilled sardines lightly dressed with a floral salsa verde.($12.95) The Pesce Misto (for two) is a combination of grilled tiger shrimp, sautéed mussels, smoked salmon, insalate di mare with grilled seasonal vegetables.($26.95)The Insalate Di Mare will delight all the seafood fans. Calamari and baby shrimp are marinated in extra virgin olive oil and fresh spices served on a bed of radicchio.($11.95) Insalate Di Portobello is a popular choice. A Portobello mushroom is presented on a bed of mixed organic greens with bell peppers, sliced bocconcini cheese, lightly dressed with extra virgin oil and herbs.($11.95)

Six Pizzas are offered from the stone oven. Quattro Fromaggio is plated with tomato sauce, spinach, basil, gorgonzola, bocconcini, and asiago and mozzarella cheese. ($15.95)

I was in need of a pasta fix and delighted with the multitude of choices. The Capellini Funghi won out over the other tempting choices. The pasta was al dente and the spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes were all tossed in garlic and oil.($14.95) It was presented in an irregular beautiful large white bowl. I was delighted. Linguine di Mare was my second choice with mussels, calamari, shrimp, and baby clams in a white wine sauce served with al dente linguine.($19.95) Perhaps next time.

My dinner companion arrived with the notion of having pasta. She has dined here often. She asked about the fresh fish of the day. Several choices were available. She decided to have orata, Mediterranean fish served whole. Spinach was on the side. She claimed that it was absolutely superb.($30.00)

Medaglione Di Vitello are tender veal medallions with porcini mushrooms in a Vecchia Romagna brandy glaze.($27.50) Grigliata Di Carne Mista is prepared with grilled Ontario spring lamb, chorizo and veal medallions in an herb reduction.($27.95)

The food was beautifully arranged on the plates. More important it was served with loving care and tasted like a gourmet delight. No wonder this place was so crowded.

A delightful walk through the Annex area perfectly completed a fine evening.

Little White Lies

Little White Lies

What an appropriate name. For over 2 ½ hours the audience is exposed to a group of friends that harbor secrets and tell lies both to themselves and each other. The film was too long but I was interested until the end and was never sure how it would conclude.

We first meet the group of Parisians friends as they are partying. The evening ends when Lido is in a very serious motorcycle accident. The group of friends gathers to weep at his bedside. Some are couples. A few are single. They have been friends for years and really care for each other.

Ludo lies in serious condition in the hospital. The friends have traditionally spent a few weeks in the summer together. Max seems to be the leader of the group. They all assemble at his country home and have a wonderful time together boating, surfing, drinking and dining. Should they go this year and leave Ludo behind? They speculate that he won’t know the difference and will probably be better when they return.

The group sets out on their annual summer vacation.

During the two weeks we get to know them as couples and individuals. Two of the men are having problems with their girlfriends. When one of the ‘guys’ tells Max something very personal he is unable to deal well with the information.

The women are all very attractive. The life style is almost enviable. They party on a very luxurious launch. They dine outdoors at a long table. They drink and party. Yet there are troubles.

Maria played so aptly by Marion Cotillard is a central character. She had been Lido’s girlfriend. They all care very much for her. (And why not). She is so attractive and charming. One of the men is attracted to her and when his former girlfriend is no longer interested he pursues Marie. Marie is not the faithful type.

They do genuinely like one another but I was horrified in one scene. The men were in the power boat pulling Marie in a raft. The boat was going very quickly and she was yelling out to go slower. She flips in the water and they all laugh hilariously. Everybody loves one another but their selfish mach nature won out on that round.

They were friendly with a neighbor in the area. He summed it up so well when he stated, “You have spent two weeks lying to each other. You also lie to yourselves…. You buy into each others lies.”

During one of their discussions someone mentioned that animals have an intuition for natural disasters. It was stated that humans don’t listen to their intuitions. That last statement sums up the theme of the film.

Interpersonal relationships are always interesting. In some ways this was like a merry go round. That was a lot of people spending 2 weeks together at a cottage. I openly admit I couldn’t and wouldn’t do it. It was not surprising that there were incidents, flare ups and confessions made. The psychology of the group dynamics was very interesting.

I do recommend a box of Kleenex for the final moments.

The Invisible Eye

The Invisible Eye

This is the quality of film that gets nominated for best foreign film. It is powerful and well executed. The film takes place during the military regime in Argentina. I was so involved with the story I forgot at times that the theme was a metaphor illustrating the political situation in Argentina at that time.

Marita is a teacher in a government run school. All the students wear uniforms and the regime is military in style. The students stoically and silently walk in the halls of the large school. They must be one arm’s length apart. The clothes must be precisely as ordered. The students sit and stand as the stern teachers bark at them.

Marita wears her hair tightly knotted and her clothes are austere .The school is the perfect example of how a totalitarian state operates.

Marita has her eye on one of the male students. I kept wondering where that would go. The head teacher, Mr Biasuto, has his eye on Marita. She is not interested and throughout the film he increases his interest in her. It also increases the tension

Marita was a different person when she is at home. She lived with her mother and grandmother in a small apartment. She lets her hair down and soaks in the bath. She looks quite attractive. One evening she put on ear rings, a colorful dress and made her hair into a seductive style. Marita is a pretty woman. She didn’t look attractive in her prim school clothes and equally she was unattractive in her ‘floozy like’ party clothes.

Professor Biasutto has giver Marita permission to hide out in the boy’s washroom to look for smokers. She hides in the stall and spies on the male students. It is so offensive and so ‘over the top.’

She becomes obsessive in spying on the boys.

Her activities lead to a horrifying ending. In the background patriotic music is playing and the sound of guns can be heard.

I was speechless when I left the theatre and needed to calmly put all the parts together. The storyline is captivating. When you add the political background the film takes on another dramatic layer.

The performances were Oscar quality. I think this is a must see film.

Last Night

Last Night

I can barely remember the film because I saw it in Israel. I had no idea what it was about. All the signs were in Hebrew. I only knew there was English spoken so I went to the film.

The film deals well with the interpersonal relations between a husband and wife. They are both being tested.

A husband and wife have had an argument. The husband heads out on a business trip. His co-worker (Eva Mendes) really comes on to him in a forceful way. Obviously he is tempted.

While hubby is away attractive wife (Keira Knightly) bumps into an old flame who obviously has not gotten over the romance. He tempts her and wants to pursue the relationship.

It would obviously spoil the film if I tell you who does and does not do anything. The film is entertaining. The situation is believable.

The First Grader

The First Grader

This was one of the better films I saw at the Toronto International Film Festival. It was the runner-up for the People’s Choice award. It was based on the true story of Maruge, a former Mau Mau rebel in Kenya who wanted to learn to read and write.

Maruge was 84 years old. He was tall and straight and always walked with a long stick. He had a regal bearing.

It was a rural area and he had to walk for miles to get to the small country school. The school was barely a shack and situated in the dry dusty countryside. They did not want him as a student and told him the school was only for small children. It was a Government free school and they said there was an age limit.

The teacher was kind hearted and listened to his plea. She agreed to have him sit in her class. He said,” I’m not dead and I don’t want to rest in peace.”

He arrives at school in proper clothes, knee socks and short pants. It was very touching.

A little girl who limps helps him. IT was touching and emotional.

Maruge gets the children chanting songs and is helpful to the teacher.

The authorities are not happy with the situation. They ban Maruge from the school and the teacher is relocated. Maruge fights to get her back.

Throughout the film we learn about past atrocities in the region.

Maruge tries an adult school but is totally unsatisfied. He is so eager to learn to read and write. He states,” We are nothing if we cannot read. We are useless.”

This is a very moving film. I did learn a lot about the past atrocities and the history of the region.

At the end of the film we were told that the teacher is still at the school. That same school now has electricity and water.

This was a great film on many levels. The story is fascinating. It is well told. The history is interwoven into the story. The acting is excellent.

Forks Over Knives

Forks Over Knives

Don’t walk. Run to this film. It could literally save your life. I know there will be ‘naysayers’ who question the facts in this film. With many documentaries you can find an over zealous approach to prove an issue. Even if you take half of the facts with a grain of salt( not intended as a pun) this film does an excellent job in praising the benefits of a plant based diet rather than an animal protein diet and mass produced food products. I am convinced. I came home and immediately prepared a dinner with quinoa.

We are introduced to several people with a wide range of diseases. High cholesterol, diabetes, heart problems and overweight are the main concerns. We are informed that every minute someone dies from heart failure in the U.S. We visually see the difference in those people who ate a total plant based diet. They also gave up their medicine. I do think that is where the negative thinking might be valid. However, according to those interviewed they felt better, their health records improved and in many cases the diseases were diminished or went away.

Doctors and scientists introduce the audience to studies from various parts of the world. Their statistics conclusively prove that loss of weight and lower blood pressure as well as a general better feeling can result from eating plant based food. I actually was salivating over a giant salad.

There is a connection between diet and disease. We do know that obesity has become an international problem. Protein based food is bad for the arteries.

An ancient proverb states,” He that takes medicine and neglects food wastes the time of the doctor.

Some of the studies presented are extensive and thorough. I wish I could run a marathon like two of the people studied in this film. They changed their regime of eating and as a result enjoyed a better health and a better life.

Bridesmaids

Bridesmaids

One son told me I would have a million laughs. My other son warned me about this silly nonsensical film and said it was a waste of time and money. They were both right. I confess to having a laugh or two. I certainly agree that some of the scenes were totally ridiculous. It was a silly film but the actors were all excellent in their roles .There was a lot about human nature. We all know that it is stressful planning a wedding and all that it entails. Sometimes some of the players get stressed out and it can have negative affects on everyone. Many of the characters go through a metamorphosis and this makes for humor and human interest.

Two best friends celebrate the engagement of one of the women. One is the bride and the other will of course be the maid of honor.

The engagement party was an extravaganza and some of the characters attending made for a laugh or two (not many more)

Trouble begins when the bride begins to show a lot of attention to the wife of her fiancée’s boss. Actually the reverse would be more accurate. The boss’s wife is stunning and very rich. She also is lonely and spends thousands of dollars and all her time in planning a bridal shower and helping the bride select (the most expensive) items for the wedding.

This leads to a strain in the original friendship.

The story is written by Kristin Wiig known for her hilarious performances on Saturday Night Live. She also plays the best friend. She is really funny and very witty. Not only does she bring humor to the wedding scenes she also is quite funny in the scenes showing how she met her current boyfriend and all the trials that led to a friendship.

Some of the bathroom humor seemed funny to the audience but I didn’t see that as a qualifier for a good film.

This film is entertaining within limits. If you budget out the films you see I advise you to pass on this one.

The Strange Case of Angelica

The Strange Case Of Angelica

The title is strange and the film is even stranger. It is also an artistic creative masterpiece. There is hardly any language spoken throughout the film. The cinematography is exquisite and often beautiful music is played in the background. I haven’t seen an art film like this for a long time.

It is hard to believe that the Portuguese Director Manoel de Oliveira is 102.His spiritual nature certainly comes through in the film. I’m not quite sure what the film was trying to express but I enjoyed viewing it all.

A young photographer, Isaac, lives in a boarding house in a small pastoral village in Portugal. He is called to take the picture of a beautiful young bride who has died. When he looks at her she appears alive. He becomes haunted with her and sees her around him. He even asks himself at one point if he is out of his mind. In one scene the two float together hovering in space linked together. It was almost like a Chagall painting. Isaac is actually played by the director’s grandson.

The photographer also is obsessed with some workers who toil in the vineyards. They use old tools and labor in the dry clay soil. They chant while they work.

The scenes of the vineyards are so pastoral. The neat little village is spectacular with the red roofs. I was most impressed with the shot of the burial procession walking down the little street in the village on the way to the burial. It is an aerial view and the church bells toll in the background. The camera lingers on the spot and you feel as if you are in the picture.

In one scene a cat is watching a bird in the cage. The camera lingers on this shot for a long time. You are distracted with the sound of a dog barking outside. I would very much have liked to hear the director explain each scene. At the same time it didn’t seem to matter. The film is a vision and that is really enough. It is currently playing at the TIFF Bell Lightbox. I don’t anticipate that it will last very long.

Burger Cellar

Burger Cellar (revisited) 3391 Yonge St 647 345 0084

Is there anyone who doesn’t appreciate fine design? The high tech elegant lighting is superb. The wall of wine bottles is right out of a magazine. So much thought and design has gone into this great atmosphere.

Obviously one goes out to dine with great food in mind. What could be simpler than a hamburger menu featuring a variety of choices? Sounds easy but Burger Cellar raises the bar bringing the hamburger to gourmet dining. The choice of burgers is amazing. The buns are high quality sesame or whole wheat. Each burger offers a choice of black angus, natural or kobe beef. The Toppings are creative and delicious. It is fun and tasty to add additional toppings. Wasabi-lime Aioli, Avocado and Tomato Relish and Wild Mushroom Ragout can each be chosen for an additional $1.00

On this second visit Paul was our server. I mentioned we were in a rush. My son was off to a business meeting. My daughter-in-law was heading to bridge. We barely had time to go out for dinner. We were not rushed but the service was so fantastic that we had time left for coffee. Thank you Paul for being so attentive.

My son decided to try one of the few items that was not a hamburger. The Atlantic Salmon was topped with a white wine lemon chive butter served with Yukon gold roasted garlic mashed potatoes.($18.00)

I love the Veggie Burger. ($9.00) It is so flavorful and prepared with roasted red peppers, grilled zucchini, and the mound of avocado salsa on top is really yummy. A dill pickle, tomato and lettuce added to the flavor. My only problem was getting my mouth around this giant presentation.

My daughter-in-law ordered the Burger Cellar Burger. Two year old Bothwell smoked cheddar, apple cider bacon, sautéed mushrooms, chipotle BBQ sauce and a beer battered onion ring were part of this gastronomical delight. AAA black angus $10.00; natural $11.00; kobe $15.00

The Posh Burger offers wild mushroom ragout, white truffle oil and Emma’s mozzarella fior di latte (black angus $12.00); natural $13.00; kobe $17.00)

Alright, not everyone loves hamburgers. Snacks, Salads and Off The Grill selections will satisfy your hunger. How about Pickle Fries? Panko-herb breaded pickles are golden fried and served with a fresh dill and garlic sauce.($6.00)

Emma’s Caprese Salad is prepared with fresh mozzarella, vine-ripened tomatoes, basil, extra virgin oil. Kalamata olives and balsamic reduction.($9.00)

I dare you to have the Chocolate Burger for a sweet treat after dinner.($7.00)

This place is an experience. You dine in high style devouring sumptuous food. Every bite is satisfying. The best part is the economical value. I returned to Burger Cellar to see if it would be as good as my memory from my first visit. It was even better.

Die Walkure

Die Walkure Met Opera HD Live

How can the season be over? I have attended most of the 11 Met operas this season. I still marvel that in over 30 countries an audience is watching the same opera as it is broadcast live by satellite from the New York Met. It is truly the best value in town. I’m thrilled to watch the best opera stars. The pre broadcast and intermission interviews are fascinating. We get to meet the stars during intermission. We see the magnificent stage changes. We are able to see the musicians. Best of all the performance allows me to watch from a great vantage point. The large screen brings every gesture and nuance right at my face. I am wowed at every performance. If you miss the performance there is always an encore program. The concept is now spreading to national theatre. It is the cultural innovation of the century.

Die Walkure is the greatest performance. Be prepared to sit for over 5 hours. You certainly get your money’s worth. The Richard Wagner music is stupendous. The opera stars were spectacular. Deborah Voight is known for being a Wagner opera star. She excels in this performance. But then, so did every one else.

Robert Lepage is the producer. He is the most creative in the business. I would see any type of performance that he works on. The set was magnificent and convoluted. There was a small glitch at the beginning and the computers were not working properly in controlling the complicated set. It was worth waiting. The set was imaginative and creative. It brought modern day technology, creativity and brilliance to an old opera.

This opera is part of the ring series. There will be 2 more Wagner productions next year. I am already excited.

The story is convoluted but then it is an opera. I just sat back and enjoyed it all visually and orally. Every second was magic.

The encore productions will be on June 18 at 2:00 p.m. and on July 11 at 6:00 p.m.

If you have never seen a Met opera you owe it to yourself to have this pleasure. Next year is offering 11 operas. You can purchase single tickets or buy the whole series. The seats are all reserved. It is so nice to know that I have the same seat for each performance.

Go to www.cineplex.com/events for more information. See you at the opera?

Potiche

Potiche

It has been two weeks of daily films with the Hot Docs and the Jewish Film Festival. After seeing so many emotional and serious topics I wanted to see a light hearted film and picked this because it was showing at a good time in my neighborhood.

I was in for a delightful surprise. Of course Catherine Deneuve is reason enough to see this film. She is an excellent actress and still very charming and beautiful although noticeably more middle age. Gerard Depardieu is one of the top actors in France. He has become somewhat of a large ‘teddy bear’ and most unattractive. He and Deneuve are comfortable together and have been in many other films over the years. I can’t help but think that another actor might have been more believable in the part. I found myself laughing whenever he was on screen and not because his part was funny.

Deneuve plays the role of, Susanne, a ‘potiche. (a trophy wife). She does all the right things. She stays home and looks after the household and is always there to comfort her husband and to look after matters. They live in a large house and have all the material things.

Her husband runs a large factory. He is bossy, angry and attracted to his secretary. When the husband becomes ill the wife takes over the factory. There is a strike going on and the workers are angry. She turns the place around with her feminine charms. She negotiates and meets with the workers. Productivity increases and everybody is happy. Well almost everyone. The husband can’t believe that the place is so successful with his wife at the helm. Even her husband’s mistress who is also his secretary becomes supportive of Susanne.

Her children also work for the firm. Her very feminine son provides much humor. He designs new umbrellas that take off. They are colorful and charming I wanted to go out and buy one.

Gerard Depardieu plays the part of Susanne’s former lover. He is currently mayor. He wants the relationship to resume. I have been criticized for telling too much of the ending. I can assure you this ending is delightful.

The story talks about feminism. It deals with shifting roles in a family. It certainly shows the benefits of a communicative leadership rather than an autocratic boss-staff relationship.

Catherine Deneuve has perfect timing and brings a lot of humor and satisfaction to the film. Actually she is the film.

Mildred's Temple Kitchen

Mildred’s Temple Kitchen 85 Hanna Ave. (Suite 104)

416 588 5695

Half the fun is finding the restaurant. Atlantic Avenue south of King St (Liberty Village) will take you to Hanna Ave. Cross the road at the beginning of Hanna Ave. There is a small sign that leads you behind a large apt. building. The entrance is literally at the back of the building. I do confess that it was no fun when I first found this place in a snow storm. However long it takes to find the place you are in for a magical surprise. Ask anyone in the neighborhood for directions.

This is a very large restaurant. The decor should be featured in a magazine. The hanging lights are spectacular. The lounge area is sexy and inviting. The tables are well spaced and there is a lot of floor room so that you have the party atmosphere but personal space. Donna Dewar was the owner of the former Mildred Pierce Restaurant. That also was mysteriously entered from a parking lot and the place seemed like a movie set. Donna has created this theatrical experience of a restaurant. You are greeted at the door as if you are a well known star. The service at the table is superb. We were delighted to meet Rhys, our charming server. He was a teacher in Perth Australia. I bet he was good at that as well. He charmed us and looked after us. We felt special and dined superbly.

The potable water is somewhat pretentious but does fit in with the total atmosphere. The water served at Temple is local ‘eau’ that has been filtered by reverse osmosis. We are told that ordering this water helps support the sustainable future of lakes. It is available in still and sparkling. There is a $2.50 charge per person if it is ordered.

You can see much of the food being prepared. We gasped with delight when we saw the creations being delivered to the tables.

The MTK Burger is a creation.($18.00) The bread is of the highest quality. The burger is a mile high. I suggested that it might be necessary to sit on it in order to eat this gastronomical wonder. The crispy tobacco onions were piled on top of the choice meat in the burger. Salad or f rites came with this dish.

I opted for the Curried Cauliflower with quinoa, caramelized onions and spinach.($18.00) It was served in a metal pot. Every bite was exquisite. What a healthy delicious creation!

The guest of honor enjoyed the Grilled Calamari marinated in Thai yellow curry with scallions, garlic chips and lime.($12.00) A small salad was not listed on the menu but our server was happy to oblige the request.

We were all tempted by the Eat Shoots & Leaves Salad. House smoked salmon is served with sprouted legumes, spelt, leaf lettuce and maple Dijon vinaigrette.($18.00)

The Warm Beet Salad with Ontario baby beets with Monforte pecorino fresco is served with candied pecans and concord grape vinaigrette($15.00)

Shrimp and Crab Cakes are served with chili lime emulsion and frisee salad ($13.00)

The Chocolate Bread Pudding was ambrosia from heaven. Apparently croissant type bread is used so we didn’t inquire further about calories. We just kept quiet and devoured a large portion.

This is a very special restaurant. You will never forget the experience. The high tech design is exquisite. It is a fun experience just trying to find the place. The food is creative and a gourmet delight. It was a perfect lunch experience in every way possible.

5th Element

5^th Element 506 Queen St West 416 504 3213

My family used to frequent the 5^th Element when it was on Bay St near Bloor. The food was magnificent and the place was upscale. They closed down and I lost touch with the restaurant.

Apparently a few months ago the 5^th Element opened at this new spot on Queen St near Bathurst. This is the trendiest spot in town. The boutique clothing shops are such fun. There are several top of the line furniture shops. This is ‘a happening’ area.

It was Mother’s Day and my family decided to investigate the new 5^th Element and see what was happening. It is a delightful spot on trendy Queen St. It is not a tiny restaurant but certainly more manageable than the former large premises. Chef Johnee is a genius. He has created appealing menu. I noticed that he also was the designer for the menu. He prepared all the food and was also our server. How did he do it? He moved slowly and quietly and this wondrous food appeared. He always had a smile on his face. Chef Johnee is remarkable. We loved the sumptuous taste and the presentation was fit for a king. (or queen) The plates were all white and of varied shapes. The food was creatively presented and we were all delighted. The place was comfortably crowded but it was quiet and charming.

The regular menu featuring Indian style food was available. We were shocked and delighted by the special 3 course Prix Fixe Lunch for $9.95. It is hard to believe this was possible. The food was gourmet quality and we all dined in style.

The Vegetable Samosa Melt with mozzarella cheese and basil tomato sauce was chosen by 4 of the 5 diners. The samosas were served in an elongated white dish. There were 2 generous portions and the mixed herbs and spices were so flavorful.

My son opted for the Julianne OF Apple and Pear Salad. There was feta cheese and a Masala dressing. There were raves around the table as we tasted this unusual salad. A Pea Soup Puree was another considered option.

I was filled from the appetizer alone. The basket of warm Naan bread was quickly demolished. It was so fresh and satisfying.

My son was thrilled with his choice of Coriander Crusted Tilapia with Bengaly Curry Sauce. The Basmati rice pilaf was shaped like a pyramid and the whole presentation on the rectangular shaped dish was worthy of Gourmet Magazine.

Tandoori Chicken Supreme is a classic Indian dish. Two of the diners in our party enjoyed every delicious bite.

I opted for my favorite Indian dish, Saag Paneer. Creamy spinach is infused with cubes of Indian cheese. The melody of spices is so tantalizing. Paneer Makhani was served in a creamy tomato sauce & cottage cheese.

We all raved about our choices and sampled from the various dishes. Everybody was satiated and happy.

The Blueberry Cheese Tart was chosen by 4 of the guests. That way we didn’t have to share. It was creamy, rich and delicious. My son ordered the Carrot Halwa. It was a type of carrot cake with a caramel sauce.

There were too many calories. We ate too much. We didn’t care. This was a spectacular feast. I think Chef Johnee is an amazing person and a master chef.

Pom Wonderful Presents: The Greatest Movie Ever Sold

Pom Wonderful Presents: The Greatest Movie Ever Sold

I have been at the Hot Docs festival all week and have seen such a variety of topics. I don’t write a review on those films because most will not be shown.

It is ironic that I should have come to this film. It had been the opening for the Hot Docs festival.

It is outrageous. It is amusing and also thought provoking.

At times I felt as if I was being taken. I was watching a film about product placement and how we are influenced by the display of products. There are so many product placements in films and we are often unaware of it. Does the subliminal and often overt showing of a product influence us?

Morgan Spurlock makes this film about product placement by overtly and dramatically displaying products The film is about product placement and the products introduced to the audience are also the sponsors of the film. We see him interviewing companies and trying to convince them to use their product in his film. Many companies want no part of it. Many soft drink companies and car companies avoided him.

Morgan Spurlock convinces the directors of Pom (a pomegranate drink) to use the product. You might say he overuses it. Pom is featured in many scenes. Spurlock always has a bottle in his hand. He takes it to meetings and it always seems to be on display.

The film shows how he convinces many companies to allow him to use their name. Blue Jet and the Mini car sign on.

We do learn more about product placement. It creates cash for the products and raises the visibility to the consumer.

I was most impressed with his research. He interviewed government officials and academics who explain the psychology behind the use of product placement. I found these dialogs very interesting.

There is a lot of humor. Spurlock seems to be laughing at himself throughout the film. He went on a late night talk show and wore a jacket that boldly advertised the products that were sponsoring the film.

When he attempts to sign on a product he meets with the directors. His presentations always show he has done a lot of background research and he is very creative in his presentation.

He checked with a lawyer to make sure he couldn’t be sued. I enjoyed the dialog between the lawyer and Spurlock. At the end of the session he asks the lawyer about his fee.($770.00 per hour) Spurlock jokes that it should be less because he is now part of the film.

They discuss if there is such a thing as truth in advertising. What a topic. People are interviewed on the street for their take on that controversial topic.

I was made aware that I should read labels more closely. They can be so misleading.

In some ways I was sorry I saw the film because I was now aiding and abetting product placement. On the other hand I did learn about advertising and I also was amused with the topic.

By the Way Cafe

By The Way 400 Bloor St. W. 416 967 4295

It is like coming home when I enter this familiar restaurant. I know the menu and am guaranteed to have tasty home cooking that pleases. By The Way has been a neighborhood restaurant for many years. The place is always crowded from breakfast until late evening.

Each day there is a special menu listing culinary delights. The emphasis is on healthy Mediterranean style food. I have never been disappointed and always enjoy the spirit of the restaurant as well as the tasty food.

My grandson Alex is leaving in a few days for his cross country tour to initiate his new CD Bridges. I can’t wait for him to come back to Toronto in late June to have his Toronto inauguration.

I wanted to see him to hear all about his extensive plans. He has worked so hard for this tour and I want it to work out well for him. I can’t believe all the details necessary to plan a cross country trip for 5 musicians.

It was still brunch time but our lovely server was willing to have us order from the lunch menu. I should mention that the brunch specials were also very tempting. A variety of egg dishes, waffles, French toast and yogurt are offered daily for the brunch crowd. The Mexican Eggs are my favorite.

I knew without checking I was going to have my very favorite Warm Tuna Nicoise.($12.00) Loin of tuna is grilled to perfection and topped on crispy greens. Potatoes, boiled eggs, crispy French beans and olives are all topped with an herbal dressing. I love this dish and I tend to have it on each visit. Alex also agreed that this was a spectacular lunch dish. Starters offer many choices for those trying to watch calories or dine lightly. The Soup is always tasty and offered at $6.00The Original Quesadilla offers a grilled tortilla with cheese, salsa piquant and sour cream.($7.00) The Bagel, Cream Cheese and Lox is prepared with a Montreal bagel, smoked salmon, capers, onion and cream cheese.($10.00)

I love the Omelettes. The Brie and Mushroom Omelette is a winner.($10.00) Feta Cheese and Tomato Omelette is also a delicious choice.($9:00)

The Middle Eastern Plates are always a winning choice and I have enjoyed it on many occasions. Jerusalem Hummus is prepared with pureed chickpeas in a zesty lemon garlic thane sauce.($6.00) In Israel hummus is a standard dish and always tastes so rich and creamy and flavorful. This hummus is every bit as delicious as anything I have tasted in Israel (and I have eaten hummus around the total country) Two people can happily dine on the Combination Plate.($10.00) A delicious combination of hummus, tabuleh, babaganough and Israeli salad are so delicious and filling.

There is an extensive menu. The specials add additional choices. I find the service speedy and warm. The prices are more than fair. What could be better than a centrally located restaurant offering delicious affordable food? That is why I keep coming back.

United Bakers Dairy Restaurant

United Bakers Dairy Restaurant Lawrence Plaza

416 789 0519

This restaurant is an institution. It offers only dairy products. Sorry meat lovers. You are out of luck here. It is almost like seeing a movie .I like to watch the patrons and the servers. There is a hustle and bustle. The bakery and take out are at the front. That section is always busy. The bread and bagels are very fresh and delicious. The fantastic soup is available for takeout. The bakery section offers a large variety of cakes, cookies and squares. It is a common meeting place for seniors in the area. I think it is so great that the seniors in the area meet here for nourishment and companionship. There is always an abundance of canes and walkers

It also is a great family restaurant. On the weekend be prepared for a long line with large families of several generations waiting for tables. I admire the silver haired servers who always have time to please and are often run off their feet. They are amazing.

My son had been taking a photography course in Huntsville Ont. He and my daughter-in-law were heading back to Chicago. We decided to meet at 8:00 a.m. for an early breakfast. I never eat breakfast but this was an unusual circumstance.

Our family was practically raised at this restaurant. The Split Pea Soup is like no other. It is thick, delicious and flavorful. My son actually asked for soup at this early hour but it was not ready until 9:00 a.m. If he wasn’t heading for an 8 hour drive he would have waited. That is how good the soup is.

Bob and I ordered Scrambled Eggs with Onions and Peppers. It didn’t appear on the menu but this order was no problem. The eggs were creamy and delicious. The onions were perfectly cooked. We had such a good time devouring this wonderful food. The multigrain bagel was very fresh.

My daughter-in-law had a fresh Cream Cheese, Lox and a Bagel. The portion was large and they even had enough to take some for that long ride back to Chicago.

It was obvious that many of the patrons were regulars. One lady arrived and before she even sat down an orange juice and coffee arrived at her plate. I heard her order The Scrambled Eggs Breakfast Special. Two eggs can be ordered cooked in any style with bagel, bread, home fries and sliced tomato

Many people on their way to business stop here daily for breakfast. All breakfast specials include juice and fresh brewed coffee. Waffles and French Toast are popular items. During the day many patrons stop for a pastry and coffee. The Blueberry Buns, Muffins, cupcakes and Rogalech are just a few of those tasty sweets.

At lunch and dinner time Salads and the Soups are the most popular item. The Gefilte Fish Platter is the best in town. My children always loved the Blintzes.

It is an experience to come to this restaurant. The weekends tend to be packed. If possible choose a weekday. Just go. It is am experience well worth the effort.

Oliver & Bonacini

Oliver & Bonacini Bayview Village Shopping Centre

416 590 1399

My mission was to look for a dress for my grandson’s wedding to Hillary. It has to be special. A dear friend agreed to come with me to help me look. I value her taste in clothes and expertise in fashion.

We decided to have lunch before beginning the process. What better place to dine and set the standard of high living.

I couldn’t believe that the total restaurant was occupied. This is a very large restaurant. The menu offers so many choices I really had trouble deciding. Our young server was patient and a delight.

An extensive brunch menu is offered throughout the day. I opted for the Eggs n’ Lox creation.($14.95) I asked to change the brioche to whole wheat bread. Not a problem. The scrambled eggs were moist and so tasty. It is hard to prepare scrambled eggs in a commercial operation. They usually are overdone and dry. These were the best. They were nestled on the toast and covered with a very generous portion of local smoked salmon, chives, grilled asparagus and mascarpone. It was a dish fit for a princess. My friend chose the Savory Smoked Ham Crepe. ($14.95) Two poached eggs, wilted spinach and Thunder Oak Gouda are served in the crepe with mushrooms and hollandaise.

I am told that the Broccoli, Leek, & Goat Cheese Quiche is a total winner.($13.95) It is served with a choice of salad soup or Yukon fries. The Roasted Vegetable Omelette with goat cheese and mixed greens also was appealing.($13.95)

The above mentioned are just a few from the brunch selections.

A mini Pizza with a choice of salad or Yukon fries is a great suggestion for lunch. Margherita is a pizza toped with vine ripened tomatoes, bocconcini cheese and basil ($12.95) Giardinera offers fire roasted red peppers, feta, spinach, balsamic roasted cipolline onions and black olives.($13.25)

Grilled Atlantic Salmon with artichokes, arugula, pickled mushrooms and prosciutto is available for those wanting more substantial food.($18.75) the Classic Burger is 8 oz. of flame broiled lean meat with a dill pickle and Kewpie mayo.($`3.95) Old Macaroni & cheese is always a satisfying tasty dish. It is prepared with white cheddar ad goat cheese.($1250)

I was so impressed with the efficiency of this artful restaurant. It is first class. The menu offers a great variety of tasty dishes. The food was so delicious and of course the plating is inviting and creative.

Oliver & Bonacini have many restaurants throughout the city. The efficiency and creative culinary skill is evident in every restaurant. The service is always impeccable. It is obvious that a great deal of training goes into the staff and it shows.

This exquisite food set us in the mood for our high class shopping in Baview Village. If only I could afford the dresses. I should have gone back to the restaurant for a high calorie dessert and called it a day. It was still a winning afternoon. My friend and I enjoyed our superb lunch and time together. The dress shopping was not as successful. I’ll leave that for another day.

Certified Copy

Certified Copy

I had been up since 3:15 a.m. watching every second of that memorable wedding The movie pickings were limited and with sheer exhaustion I chose the closest film I could find. I knew Juliette Binoche was in the film. She won an award at the Cannes Film Festival for her performance in this film. I had also heard that Tuscany was the setting for the film. What could be better than that?

I really enjoyed the English, French and Italian spoken in the film. Of course there were sub titles for the French and Italian.

It is a delightful film but I do warn you. If you do not like long dialog and philosophical discussion you may be bored. I delighted in the banter between the characters played by Juliette Binoche and the very handsome William Shimell. We never do learn the name of the female character. I found that very strange. She runs an antique shop. She has a precocious son. I would not call their relationship very positive. He is a ‘know it all’ and has comments on everything.

Shimell plays the role of James Miller an author and art historian. They get together after his lecture and he asks her to drive him around the countryside. Tuscany is my favorite spot in the world. They stop in small villages for a coffee or a glass of wine. All the time they are discussing life. They discuss the value of original work over copies. They banter about the topic of simplicity.

In one café he steps outside to take a phone call. She has a fascinating discussion with the café worker. They talk about marriage. In another restaurant we see a bride and groom outside enjoying their festivities and having photos taken. James comments on the illusion of the newlyweds. I loved this scene in the local piazza. The accordion player was adding background music. The old buildings around the square were so beautifully filmed. The bride and groom represented hope and the future. The couple added a sense of reality.

We soon learn the relationship between the antique dealer and the art historian. All the background discussion begins to make sense. Talking about marriage and looking at happy newly weds has a real purpose in developing the plot.

At one point the statement is made. “People must live their lives for themselves.” That does become the central theme of the film. The two main characters are trying to struggle with this concept.

James Miller was rigid and argumentative. He tended to only see his side of the argument. I felt for her because she made such an effort to communicate with him.

There is a lot of dialog but it is worth listening. I loved the background of the small towns in Tuscany. I enjoyed the total experience.