Spanglish (2004)

I've heard a lot of praise for Paz Vega in this film -- but she's like a female Jim Carrey to me. She seemed altogether too aware of what her face was doing -- and that made all of her expressions feel like put-ons rather than actual emotion. She's also NOT drop-dead gorgeous despite the fact that the screenwriter believes if it's repeated enough by characters it becomes true. Tea Leoni, however, knocked her role OUT. She was amazing, as was Sarah Steele (playing the pudgy daughter).

Now - regarding the marriage and its problems...all hubby's fault. Wife is trying her best -- wrongheadedly, sure -- but trying. She's got a husband who dismisses her real concerns, histrionic as they may be, with a BREAST CUPPING for crying out loud. He then has the audacity to turn his back on his wife when she confesses an ended affair while he's been carrying out an obvious crush on the housekeeper. He uses the confession as an excuse to finally act on his desires. He disgusted me -- weak, weak man.

Only thing I really want to remember from this movie: the BLT. And, just so I don't forget...Toasted nice bread. 2 slices of Monterey Jack on one piece, Mayonnaise on the other...4 slices of bacon, 4 slices of tomato, some lettuce, and one over easy/medium fried egg. Slice in half and let the yolk run, baby.

C-