Sidewalk Film Festival 2016

 

This past weekend was one for the books! I actually think I need a weekend to recover from this one. Not only did I get to see Drake in ATL on Friday night (amazing!) but Atlanta was only a short visit and it was back to Bham since Saturday and Sunday were booked up for the 18th annual Sidewalk Film Festival! As you may know I love movies and this is the perfect way to see indies, local and even some I probably would never check out if they weren't at the festival!

Tickets

 

This was my second year at Sidewalk and like last year I opted for the VIP Pass, it can get pricy as the festival gets closer so I recommend purchasing yours earlier rather than later. They also have weekend passes as well as single day passes you can purchase as well. I like VIP because it guarantees you get into each film, front of the line access, free snacks, VIP lounge and is an overall good deal.  For the least expensive price on any tickets be sure to buy early!

 

Getting Around

 

Everything is pretty much within walking distance of each other, there are several venues to watch each film so check your program and see which spots you will be in. I always like to park in the lot across from the Alabama Theater, it cost $10 but it is very convenient plus safe! There are signs along the way to direct you and if you don't feel like walking to the venues there are trams and bicycles for you free of charge. We felt safe the entire weekend and there was a good amount of security but as with any bigger city or any event for that matter be aware of your surroundings, pay attention and be smart.

 

VIP Lounge

One cool thing that is included with the VIP pass is the lounge. This year's was really well done! Light snacks since it was super hot outside, drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and you got to be in the air condition for a bit if you needed a break from the walking!

Oh and they even had massages! The lovely ladies from the Aveda Institutes South were giving free neck, back and hand massages. Let me tell you the neck massage was a God-send after craning my neck for a few hours at films (I know such a hard life #firstworldproblems) but I have such a bad neck and back from my former cheerleading days that it was heavenly! You also got a card for a free massage at their spa for the future which will definitely be put to use.

 

Films, Food and More

 

When you get your event guide be sure to look it over and start selecting which films are your "must-see" now when you are in a group things can get a bit more complicated. Odds are that not everyone is going to like the same things so I think it's best to compromise and have each person pick at least one film that is their "must". Or you can always split up and meet up before another film, it's up to you! And if all of your group wants to see the same films then snaps to you because you've made you life easy (yay).

 

Film festivals like Sidewalk are the perfect way to see some great documentaries (Chicken People, it's legit a thing), beautiful cinematography (The Love Witch), brilliant style pieces (Cheerleader, maybe my favorite film of the fest), and fantastic indies (the terrific Morris Comes to America). I also love the short films! Especially the horror shorts, it's great seeing lots of film styles in a short time and you get more than one story so you feel like you are experiencing more.

 

If you get hungry there are tons of food trucks (shout out to Big Spoon Creamery and Mimi's Soda) as well as your standard movie theater snacks in each venue! I would recommend brining cash since a lot of the theaters are older so it's easier to pay cash plus with food trucks, theaters, etc. you never know if the system might go down so keep cash handy!

What to Wear

 

You will be sitting down. A lot. You will be walking in the heat a lot of the time in between films so dress comfortably! This is not the time for that form fitting bodycon dress (save that for next weekend) but breezy sundresses, sandals, tees and tennis are my go to! Guys if you are reading just stick with shorts, jeans and tees. Everyone just needs to be comfortable so they can enjoy the movies! And so you can eat your popcorn and milk duds with no remorse or shame.

 

Final Thoughts

Birmingham has come such a long way in the past couple of years and events like Sidewalk are drawing in more people than ever. The event is well priced, unique, and fun for those that live here and those that are traveling just for the festival. Trust me you won't be disappointed! Very well organized, safe, and it offers a bit of a break on an otherwise monotonous August weekend. I highly recommend Sidewalk!

For more information on next year's event click here! Start making your preparations now!

Are there any film festivals in your area? Which ones do I need to visit? Let me know!

Happy Film Watching!

xoxo,

Monday Must-Haves

Hello all! Slowly but surely we are making it back to Friday. It feels like the weekends just pass faster in warmer months, maybe because the weather wants to make you stay outside, the days feel longer or you are just enjoying drinks in the backyard with unity besties and pups. We'll just say it's all of the above :)

Here's a listing of a few things I'm loving right now! Plus, keep on the lookout for new posts coming this week!

Enjoy my must haves!

xoxo,


 

1. Off the Shoulder and Cold Shoulder Dresses/Tops

This is one of my favorite styles, I remember buying an embroidered Free People dress with the "cold shoulder" a few years ago and fell in love with the stylish and flattering look! It's great for day or night, either style can easily be dressed up or down and there are so many great options out there like this floral one (on sale!), this dreamy cream dress (under $50), and I love this beautiful blush must-have I also need to add this sunny off the shoulder number to my closet and this top (under $40) that will be on repeat this summer!

ASOS Gypsy Off the Shoulder Mini

 

2. Origami Skirts

These trendy skirts are a fun piece to add to your wardrobe when you want something a bit different than your normal trusty black mini skirt or denim cutoffs. Origami skirts have a little more creativity to them and I love the look paired with an off the shoulder top like this one or mix it up with a fun vintage looking tee (under $15) with a denim jacket for a fun, carefree yet pulled together look! This white skirt is only $9 and I love this skort for only $16!

Boohoo Solid Skirt

 

3. Justin Bieber Purpose Album

This is going to be hard to admit but I think I'm officially a "Belieber". My friends and I are even going to his concert in Atlanta tomorrow (insert monkey covering eyes emoji). What brought upon this sudden Beiber fever (do people still say that?) it would have to be his most recent album, 2015's Purpose. With singles like "What Do You Mean", "Where Are You Know", "Love Yourself" and the very popular "Sorry" Biebs proves he's no longer a teen dream but a legitimate artist. Trust me when I say you will enjoy this album!

4. The Jungle Book

Who else is excited to see this live action remake of the famed novel and beloved Disney cartoon classic film? I have both hands up! The Jungle Book is one of my favorite novels and this film looks visually stunning with an all-star cast lined up (how great is Bill Murray as Baloo?) I can't wait to watch this cinematic dream this weekend! To get you ready for the jungle check out the trailer here!

5. Me Before You

I have read some really great books recently, a whole post on that coming soon, but I just started reading this novel by JoJo Moyes. All I can say is I can't put it down, it's one of my favorite books I've read in a while and I can tell it's going to be a tearjerker. The story is beautiful so far about two that have very little in common who are brought together (I know this sounds familiar but I don't want to give away too much), read it before the movie comes out this summer! Lots of book reviews to hit the blog soon as well!

Me Before You
 

See It or Skip It: March Movie Edition

Hey guys! Hope everyone is having a productive and happy hump day! It's been a busy few weeks, who is ready for summer!? I know I am and with warmer months that means it's almost summer movie season! Right now though we are still in spring mode but there have been plenty of movies that pack a summer punch.

Zootopia



One glance at the cute Disney poster and you may think Zootopia is just a fun kids movie. It is but in reality it is much more. The film which takes place in the fictional world of Zootopia, where predator and prey live in harmony together, yes, that means none of the animals eat each other, covers racism, sexism, tolerance and everything in between. In today's world it is important for kids to see a film like this and some adults could benefit a lesson or two from the movie. While young ones will enjoy there are jokes for the older crowd too (try and spot the Breaking Bad nod!). One of my favorite films of the year so far! Check out the trailer now!

SEE IT

10 Cloverfield Lane



Hyped as a follow up to the 2008 found footage film, Cloverfield, the J.J. Abrams vehicle did not disappoint. The trailer was released weeks before the film premiered and left very little clues to what the film was about. I don't want to spoil it for you but it's not what you think it is. I'll just leave it at that. The movie proves monsters come in all types of shapes and sizes and some aren't always the aliens you see destroying a city. John Goodman is excellent in the film as a paranoid, conspiracy theorist housing two civilians after what looks to be a terrorist attack. I won't give away much more but you can check out the trailer here!

SEE IT

My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2




Ok, I'm Greek and when the original premiered over a decade ago, my family loved the movie! It is still one of my favorites and if I ever see it on, I always stop to watch. It's a romantic comedy classic that was smart, charming and different. When I saw there would be a second one after all these years, I did not have high expectations. What a pleasant surprise! The entire cast is back and while not as original as the first, it is still a fun film that is perfect for girls night, family movie outing or a date. My theater was actually sold out when we saw it and the audience loved it. Yes, Greeks are very similar to the way they are portrayed although my family has never used Windex. We aren't that crazy. I don't think. See the cast Opa! 13 years later in the trailer here!

SEE IT

London Has Fallen



Gerard Butler is back to the save the day and President (again) except this time it's across the pond. When a master terrorist attack takes place in London, the president has to be saved and there's only one man who can do it. The film, a sequel to the 2013 Olympus Has Fallen, is non-stop action from start to finish. I liked the original, did it need a sequel? Probably not but we were granted one and for what it is, it's not half bad. The plot is basically a reason to see Gerard Butler take down a room full of bad guys reciting one liners and all while wearing an expensive suit. The movie is not bad, it isn't great either but if you are looking for a film to get your adrenaline pumping then this is the one for you! Check out the high energy trailer here!

SKIP IT in theaters and save for a Redbox or Netflix night at home. Unless you LOVED the first one or an action buff SEE IT in theaters.

Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice



One of the most highly anticipated movies of the year is here and has already made millions this past weekend. Opening to mixed reviews from critics, Batman vs. Superman is a thrill ride with two of the biggest comic legends finally meeting on the big screen. Why are they fighting you ask? Well, Bruce Wayne aka Batman witnesses Wayne Tower falling after Superman saves the city of Metropolis, an event that took place two years ago in the film Man of Steel. Not knowing what Superman exactly is, I mean he is an alien who has super powers, Batman worries Superman will go all villain on the world at some point thus destroying humanity. Or something like that. Watch the trailer here!

The plot is a bit muddled, Lex Luthor and Wonder Woman are also involved, but people want to see action and fight scenes with the title characters and they get both. I am not a comic book fan but I do enjoy the movies, not knowing everything about the characters and back history, I still really liked the movie. This film is not on par with the Christopher Nolan trilogy from a few years ago but I will say Ben Affleck is probably the best Bruce Wayne/ Batman of all the films made to date. As a rule, I don't listen too much to what critics say, I suggest the same for you. This is a superhero movie so I have no idea why it has gotten such a bad rap. It's not an Oscar contender but who cares? Sometimes you just like to go to the movies and have fun. Form your own opinions! Then blog about them :)

SEE IT

Hope you enjoyed my See It or Skip It for the month! Now go grab some candy and go to the nearest theater!

xoxo,


 

Monday Musts

Hello all! Hope we are all doing fabulous on this Monday even if we are still dreaming about Friday! Glad the weather is starting to warm up so I can get back to shooting outside and have some new fashion posts up! Until then here are some of my favorite things to get you through the week.

1. Wildfox Couture St. Patty's Day Collection

Don't forget to wear green 10 days from now! You guys know I love holidays and anytime to be festive so I had to find something to wear from work to play. Enter Wildfox Couture. I love this brand all the time but they always make an effort to have some fun pieces for each holiday. Find the perfect shirt to wear out with your besties!

Luck Is All You Need Shirt (Photo: Wildfox)
 

2. DAYDREAMER Tees

Speaking of tees, no one beats these vintage inspired shirts from DAYDREAMER. This are great staple pieces for your wardrobe when you want to throw something on but still look pulled together with a little edge. I love pairing one of these tees with a leather jacket and legging, add boots for a real rock look. Warmer temps? Lose the jacket and pair with denim cutoffs and gladiator sandals for rock chic style!

Ramones Road to Ruin Tee

3. Cravings by Chrissy Teigen

Confession, I can't really cook. But after seeing supermodel Chrissy Teigen's Instagram with all her delicious looking food, I knew I had to give this cookbook a shot! Chrissy and her hubby John Legend are one of my favorite celeb couples so I was excited to get this book to try out some recipes. I'm planning on throwing a summer kick-off party in May so hopefully I can perfect a recipe or three. Or one. I'll try.

Cravings (Photo: Barnes and Noble)

4. 10 Cloverfield Lane

Remember the found footage film Cloverfield back in 2008? Well it appears the J.J. Abrams vehicle got a sequel but nobody really knows what it's about. The trailers have been secretive as has the plot and if it even has anything to do with the original film. All I know is I will be there opening night this Friday, March 11th! Check out the spooky trailer here!

(Poto Cred: Paramount)
 

5. The People vs. OJ Simpson on FX

I was very young during the "Trial of the Century" and knew about the case as I got older but never really grasped the sensationalism of the case until now. The TV show, The People vs. OJ Simpson, based on the best-selling book guides you through the trial starting the night Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman were found brutally murdered. The main suspect? Heisman Winning, College and NFL legendary running back OJ Simpson. The cast is fantastic, Cuba Gooding Jr and John Travolta are on another level, you have to keep watching week after week. I'm hooked!

The People vs. OJ Simpson airs on the FX Network on Tuesdays at 10/9 CT.

(Photo Cred: FX)

Hope you all enjoy my Monday Musts and shake off those Monday blues!

xoxo,

See it or Skip It: Movie Edition

Hello all! Hope everyone has started out 2016 with a bang! We all wanted cooler weather back in December to get into the Christmas season. Well Christmas has come and gone but now in January we have the cold weather! When it gets cold out I love going to the movies with my friends, seeing a movie then getting dinner or drinks after is my all-time favorite. If you go to the movies a lot like we do then check out Deal Flicks on ways to save at your local theater.

Let me give a see and skip it of some of the movies I've seen the last couple of days!

Star Wars: The Force Awakens



Ok, unless you have been living under a rock this has been the biggest movie of the year. We are talking Avatar-Titanic beating records big movie. I will admit I know next to nothing about Star Wars. I've seen all the films including the truly terrible Episode 1 (hey Jar Jar) but could I tell you the exact plot of all them? Not exactly. All you need to know is a simple...good vs. evil. Good (Jedi) vs. Siths (Darth Vader,etc..) bad.  I went with my whole family to see this on Christmas Day and we were all pleasantly surprised, even if you are not a huge fan or don't know tons about the franchise, you will enjoy this movie! Oh and all my Girls fans, Adam Driver is in this so reason enough to check it out.

SEE IT

Watch the trailer here!

Sisters



Y'all...I flat out loved this movie. Tina Fey and my spirit animal Amy Poehler are perfect in this film about two sister, one is perfect and the other not so much. When they return to their childhood home and discover it has been sold they decide to throw one final party to commemorate their time in the house. It is the party to end all parties with some sweet, racy and dramatic scenes in between. Wonderfully written and fantastic casting make this film a must-see, I've actually seen it twice!

SEE IT

Watch the trailer here!

Daddy's Home



I really wasn't expecting too much from this one, it looked cute but just ok. Will Ferrell plays the straight laced stepdad and Mark Wahlberg is the cool, edgy dad who comes back into the kids lives seemingly to get his ex-wife and family back. The movie was actually pretty funny and would make a great date night and a film pretty much everyone would enjoy. There is also a pretty good cameo at the end!

SEE IT

Watch the trailer here!

Joy 
 

Jennifer Lawrence is back in Oscar form in this empowering film based on the woman who created the the "Miracle Mop". Even with her house filled with crazy family members she rises to the top and transforms into the matriarch she was always destined to become. I thoroughly enjoyed this movie and would not be shocked if J.Law picks up her second Best Actress Oscar this year. The film also reunites her and Bradley Cooper on screen as well as director David O' Russell from Silver Linings Playbook.

SEE IT

 

Watch the trailer here!
 

And one I can't wait to see...

 

The Revenant

 

The Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hardy venture looks to be one of the biggest of the upcoming awards season. I love Tom Hardy and think he is one of the most talented actors out there and will this finally be the year Leo snags his much anticipated Oscar win? This one hits theaters everywhere Friday, January 8th!

Look at the trailer here!

Hope you enjoyed those recaps! Tell me your thoughts on these movies and any that you have loved recently! We are getting ready for awards season and I want to check out all the nominees this year!

Let's all go to the movies!

xoxo,

Tuesday Tidbits and Five Favorite Things

Hey guys! Hope everyone had a beautiful weekend! First off, I just want to send out my thoughts and prayers for all of those affected by the Paris Attack. I was shocked watching it unfold on TV and so deeply saddened. Everyone be careful out there and keep the city, victims and their families in your thoughts. 

To keep things a little more lighthearted, here are a few of my favorite things this week. I will have some new fashion posts coming soon, hopefully the weather will corporate and I can shoot some new looks this weekend, yay! In the meantime let's get to my five favorite things right now.

1. Cozy Sweaters

With cooler weather on the horizon, you can't go wrong with an oversized, cozy sweater. I just ordered this one in a blush color, and it's only $28! I also love this Aztec print cardigan (only $31!) to pair with tanks and graphic tees and this comfy sweater for only $26!

Dreamers by Debut

2. Stephen King's The Bazaar of Bad Dreams

It's no secret that Stephen King is my favorite author. I am so ready to crack open this book of short stories that was just released. Short stories are excellent if you don't have time to get invested in a long novel, this is perfect for me and can't wait to see what Mr. King has in store!

The Bazaar of Bad Dreams

3. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2

Like all franchises, The Hunger Games is coming to a close. I am going to miss J. Law as the "girl on fire" and obviously Liam Hemsworth (I mean really, have you seen him?) but this last film is sure to be a blockbuster and pull out all the stops. Just a little bit of advice, get your tickets before the hit the theater! You don't want to be left outside with your popcorn at a packed movie theater, do you?. To get you ready check out the trailer here!

4. Kate Spade Holiday Collection 2015

Kate Spade's collection is always filled with whimsy and flirty fun so her 2015 holiday collection is no exception. I especially love this phone case, ornament clutch, and make-up case. Get your holiday wish list ready!

Champagne Bottle Clutch

5. Draped Coats

There is just something about this drapey look for winter that looks so sophisticated and timeless. A little Audrey Hepburn if you will. I really like this Vince blush colored option which is currently on sale but if that is a little out of your price budget then I suggest this beautiful (under $60!) pick!

Vince Draped Wool Coat

Hope you enjoyed the list! More new posts are coming this week so keep following along!

Happy Tuesday!

xoxo,

Top 5 Scary Movies and Last-Minute Halloween Costumes

Happy Halloween all! I hope everyone is having a spooktacular day and gearing up for a night full of tricks and treats. The weather sadly looks rainy here for tonight so no matter the weather everyone be careful out there! As you may or may not know I love scary movies and what an appropriate day to share some of my favorites. You can watch these now, while getting ready in your costume, after partying it up or just having a scary movie marathon tonight with your buds (and pizza)! Here are my top 5!

1. Psycho (1960)

One of the all-time greats. Alfred Hitchcock delivers the scares and makes you not want to take a shower again. This is the classic horror movie and even though it was made in the 60's, don't let that fool you, the film is creepy, scary and directed by the Master of Suspense.

2. Nosferatu (1929)

Regarded as one of the first (if not the first) vampire movie. This classic and yes, I get that this is a silent movie from the 20's, is chilling. Nosferatu if you have never seen him, is enough to give adults nightmares.

3. Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)

The original no not the five or six sequels that followed but the original film starring the guy with knives as hands is one of the best and well-written stories by another creative director and writer, Wes Craven.

4. Scream (1996)

Speaking of Wes Craven, Freddy Krueger will always be his most famous villain but not too far behind is the iconic Ghost Face seen in the Scream franchise. The 1996 film was and still seen as revolutionary oh and don't forget the rules...I'll be right back! This film also does a great job of mixing horror, suspense and comedy for a thriller you have to see.

5. Halloween (1978)

The quintessential movie you just have to watch tonight! Michael Myers doesn't get much scarier and you get to see ultimate Scream Queen Jamie Lee Curtis in action. The setting, the story, the characters, that music! A Halloween classic you must watch!

Last Minute Halloween Costumes:

Ok by now if you don't have a costume you are coming down to the final witching hour (ha-ha) but there is still time for you to throw together a costume! Here are a few suggestions:

1. Cat

Simple, easy, classic

What you need: Cat ears, tail, black leotard or shirt with leggings or a black skirt
** you can wear a striped shirt with a bandit mask and be a "cat burglar" to be a little more unique!

2. Baseball/Football/Basketball Player

Almost everyone has some type of jersey/t-shirt/etc. from their favorite team . Easy and you can use things you already own!

What you need: Team Shirt or Jersey, Team Hat, shorts and tennis shoes

3. Masquerade Guest

This is the easiest option if you have no time. Just pair one of your favorite dressier, dresses with a masquerade mask and you are set! Masks are easy to find they sell them everywhere from Halloween stores to Target. There are some really beautiful ones so I would pair a more neutral dress rather than print and let the mask be the centerpiece.

What you need: dress, heels and mask

4. Pumpkin

Another classic and so simple to create. Just take an orange tee and cut out felt pieces (they sell them at Target, Wal-Mart, fabric stores,etc.) for the eyes, nose and mouth then paste them onto shirt. Wear with black or green leggings and voila you are costume ready!

What you need: orange shirt, felt pieces, glue, and leggings

5. Angel or Devil

Grab a white shirt/leotard or red shirt/leotard pick up your accessories at a store like Target or Wal-Mart (just grab one of the packs that contain all the materials (ex: wings and halo) for your designated choice!) attach and/or hold whatever accessories you have and you are out the door!

What you need: Angel: white dress/shirt/or leotard, wings, halo, white shoes, white leggings/ shorts/tights if you aren't wearing a dress.
Devil: red dress/leotard/shirt, horns, tail, pitchfork, red or black shoes, red or black leggings/shorts/tights if you aren't wearing a dress.

Good luck and hope everyone has a ghoulishly delightful time tonight wherever you are or whatever you decide to do! Have fun and be safe!!

Happy Halloween!!

xoxo,