Meryl Streep

Today is the 67th birthday of the Holy One, Her Royal Highness the one-and-only Mary Louise Streep. This summer also marks the 10th anniversary of my personal Summer of Streep, when in 2006 I decided for really no reason at all to watch all of Meryl Streep's movies. I subsequently amended that to include all recorded performances I could get my hands on, which ended up being quite a lot. It's impossible for me to describe exactly what it is that I find so alluring about Meryl, but I was certainly not the first (and won't be the last) to be similarly affected by her.

So many things about my life (and about me) have changed over the past ten years that I hardly recognize who when I saw The Devil Wears Prada for the first time (or the sixth time). Meryl entered my life at a time when I needed her the most, and I've been able to drop in and drop out of my fandom whenever it suits me. I saw Mamma Mia thirteen times at the theater not because it was a good movie (spoiler alert: it isn't) but because I had just graduated college and I was floundering, at least emotionally. Being able to sit in a theater (once for back-to-back showings) for two hours and forget about myself while Meryl romped around the Greek Isles in linen overalls singing ABBA songs did more for me than any therapy or anti-depressant ever could have.

I have done so many things in my life by using Meryl as a conduit. I planned an entire New England trip around the fact that her daughter was in a play in the Berkshires. Do I remember anything about that play? Not really. But I remember my first trip to Newport, RI and our tour of Mark Twain's home in Hartford, CT and the bad animatronics at the Salem Witch Museum. I remember learning about ghost orbs from a cemetery tour guide and eating pizza in Sandwich, MA. I remember being absent for the set-up of my college portfolio show because I had tickets to a tribute for Meryl at Lincoln Center, and I remember being so incredibly sick that I chugged half a bottle of cough syrup before the show because I was terrified that I'd cough and interrupt Robert Redford or Uma Thurman. I remember Meryl pulling up her bra strap during her speech and thinking "hey, I know what that feels like," and I remember sleeping on my friend Jessica's couch somewhere off the L train in a neighborhood that I'm sure is trendy now, but at the time terrified me.

My friend Trent and I probably owe our friendship more to our shared love of all things Streep than to anything else, and I will not soon forget the weekend that we spent following her to various promotional events around town for Hope Springs. Sure, she waved at both of us, but what I remember most about that trip is how much fun we had together. The only reason I remember the drunk texts that I sent during The Devil Wears Prada drinking game we played is because there was evidence, but I do remember going to multiple stores to find lemon bar mix because we wanted to make Lemony Snicket bars and Hope Spring(s) rolls. But most of all, I remember that earlier in the day, I sat under the cherry blossoms at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and decided once and for all that I needed to move to New York.

I loved New York before I loved Meryl, but the two are so linked in my mind that it's hard to make the distinction anymore. Of course I remember her once-in-a-lifetime (or in my case, twice-in-a-lifetime) performance in Mother Courage in Central Park, but I also remember my uncle and I looking up Cats That Look Like Hitler on his Blackberry while laying on a tablecloth at 5:30am outside of the Delacorte Theater and laughing hysterically because we were so tired and because cats that look like they have mustaches are funny.

Susan Orlean writes in The Orchid Thief  (a book I probably never would have read if it had not been for Meryl starring in Adaptation): "The world is so huge that people are always getting lost in it. There are too many ideas and things and people too many directions to go. I was starting to believe that the reason it matters to care passionately about something is that it whittles the world down to a more manageable size. It makes the world seem not huge and empty but full of possibility."

Without ever knowing it, Meryl Streep whittled the world down to a more manageable size for me, and in the process opened it wider than I would have ever thought possible. She was the reason I went to plays, took trips, reconnected with old friends, bonded with family members and read life-changing books. Of course I could have come at all of those things organically and without her help, but having a starting point was invaluably helpful for me. She'll never know all of this, and that's ok. It's too selfish for me to ever want her to, or to think that it would make any difference.

It's been ten years since I first checked The Bridges of Madison County out of my local library and crossed my very first Meryl movie off my list. In ten years I've lived and loved and cried and despaired and graduated college and succeeded and failed and moved halfway across the country and it's all been a little bit easier knowing that if I'm having a really bad day, I can queue up a Meryl movie and everything will be ok for a few hours.

*I took the photo above on a film camera after standing outside of Letterman in 90 degree direct sun, waiting for Meryl to arrive—I then had to wait the longest hour of my life to see my photos after taking them to a one-hour photo place around the corner, which seems unfathomable to me today*

The Brooklyn Bridge

Yesterday I had one of those emotionally exhausting days where nothing really goes wrong but everything just kind of feels wrong, you know? In other words, I'm a 27-year-old girl. Anyway, after work I wanted to do something to cheer myself up, plus I had taken a shower AND washed my hair and that's really not something to be squandered by staying in and watching bad tv on my laptop.

So, I took the subway to Brooklyn Heights and walked over the Brooklyn Bridge. And then I walked back. I've walked it once before, on a super hot day one July, and it was amazing, but super crowded. Last night, however, true to my observations of New York winter, it was pretty empty.

I started at the very beginning — like Dorothy beginning her journey on the Yellow Brick road. There are a few different entrances along the route, but I like being able to say I walked the entire thing.

It's so beautiful and every time I looked up and saw a new, amazing view, I couldn't help but smile like a giddy little kid.

Also, it should be no surprise that I can't even think about the Brooklyn Bridge without thinking about Sophie's Choice, although I've never been bold enough to hang from a lamppost — or bring a bottle of champagne.

I would still like to walk the Manhattan Bridge for its amazing views, but there's something about the Brooklyn Bridge that will always be magic to me. When I got home, a friend of mine had commented on a picture I had posted from my walk, and said "Your life rules." It was a totally nice thing to say and it made me realize that not only am I doing Facebook right (i.e. presenting my life as flawless and exciting) but that he's kind of right. My life totally rules.

Presents for Me

So I finished most of my Christmas shopping today, including a particularly good haul on Amazon whereby a savvy combination of gift card credits ( thank you Key Bank Rewards, and Amazon Credit Card!) I ended up scoring more than a hundred dollars in gifts for a mere $11.38.

Which led to me looking for one last gift for my man on eBay, where I stumbled (aka I was searching for Meryl Streep posters, totally for my man, I swear) upon two posters from 70s stage productions starring Ms. Streep —Measure for Measure, with John Cazale, and The Taming of the Shrew with Raul Julia. So I made "best offer" offers on them, thinking, oh they won't be accepted.

But then they were.

So, I am now the proud (and broke) owner of these two amazing (and huge — 30" x 45") posters, and now all I have to do is find frames and a place to display them. There's something I love about them being illustrations, and I would imagine they didn't produce many of either.

One of my very favorite experiences in life was seeing Meryl at the Delacorte in Mother Courage, and I can only imagine how wonderful she was in her other performances. I actually know how amazing she was in The Taming of the Shrew, however, and so can you thanks to this video.

Now I just have to save my money for this one to complete the set.

Dream Team

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By now I'm sure you've seen these photos of Meryl Streep and Hillary Clinton taking an iPhone photo of themselves at the Kennedy Center Honors Reception, but I haven't been able to stop staring at them in days. Aside from just being adorable, how amazing are these two women? And how approachable and fun do they look, despite being, like, the two most important women on the planet?

If Michelle Obama had joined in, I think I might not have even been able to handle the greatness of it all. I can't tell you what I would give to have a copy of the photo(s) Meryl took. Oh, to be able to flip though that picture roll.

Edit: My amazing friend (and fellow Streep fanatic) Trent has alerted me that I can, in fact, own this photo for the price of $200 (which goes to a charity of your choice). Um, does anyone want to get me a last minute Christmas present?

27 Going on 30

[25, 26, 27]

Friday was my birthday and I turned 27. I don't mind getting older (would it matter if I did?), and I don't ever intend to be one of those women who turn "35" year after year. But as I prepare to close out my 20s, I suppose I should start, like, setting goals as adults are often fond of doing.

So here are 30 things I hope to accomplish/see/do before I hit the big 3-0:

• Get my passport. I have the paperwork all filled out, I just have to take the plunge. Maybe I'll even do that today.  Applied for on 9/7/2012, received.
• Europe. There are so many places I'd like to travel, but Europe deserves the top spot. More specifically, Germany, Italy, France and the Scandinavian countries.Went on an epic Italy trip, 8/14.
• Run a mile (and more) without stopping. I know this seems lame that I can't do this now, but I'm not exactly a natural athlete. See: broken bones in both soccer AND softball.
• Live in New York City. I hope to cross this one off my list next year, when I try out being a resident of my beloved city for at least two months, beginning in May. Moved for two months on 1/11/13, and for good on 7/1/13.
• Actually meet Meryl Streep. Not that I'm not satisfied with eye contact and a wave, but a girl can dream.

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• See a flower field - either in California or Holland.
• Get married.
• Create a human.
• Explore opening a real, live Blue Carrot Shop - in New York City maybe?

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• See Cat Power live - luckily my wonderful man bought us tickets for a performance of hers in October (!) Saw her on 10/22/12 and 1/22/13 and a few more times since.
• Do the Charleston in Charleston while eating a Charleston Chew. Done!
• See Meryl Streep on stage (again). After seeing Mother Courage twice I only want more.
• Move somewhere else.Not exactly sure what I meant by this, but I've moved into three different apartments in two different boroughs since moving to New York, so I think that counts.
• Be a better teacher. I only got one quasi-negative review ("She's too shy and not strict enough") but the rest were very nice! Fall/Winter 2012

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• Make a really great iced coffee.
• Watch the entire Friday Night Lights series - I have it on good authority that I would love it, despite that fact that I know nothing about football and have little interest in Texas. But with the magical Jason Katims involved (Parenthood) it has to be good.
• Cook more, cook better. I've only made a handful of recipes from this hallowed book, but I'd love to try most everything in it (no thanks on the aspics, Julia). My wonderful dude has helped immensely with this.

• Eat a fresh lobster in Cape Cod.
• Be more adventurous in my food choices - I have been a picky eater since birth, and I've been trying to be more open to new foods as I get older but I could do better.I wouldn't even really call myself a "picky eater" anymore.
• Start a savings account, and actually fill it with money. This is how I got to New York on 1/11/13
• Hike through the Redwoods.

• Revisit Newport Rhode Island and take the Mansion Tour again.I crushed this goal and went back twice (with plans for more future visits).
• Do a wine tour through Napa Valley.
• Drive across the country.
• Pay off my credit card (and student loan) bills.I paid off one student loan, and all of my credit cards. 

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• Do a New England fall foliage drive and attend the Hudson Valley Halloween festivities.Crushed this goal too and went twice, with plans to make it an annual tradition.
• Visit San Francisco.
• Cut down on my processed/junk food intake. I've eaten McDonald's breakfast for the last three days in a row. Baby steps.I rarely eat fast food in New York, although there's definitely still room for improvement I'm going to call this goal met.
• Grow a garden.
• Lay in a pile of kittens.

Six Years of Streep

Six years and 3 months ago, I began my summer of Streep. On June 22nd, 2006, Meryl was mere inches from me as she entered, and exited the Letterman studio. I was honored to see her on her birthday, angered by the mob of people screaming rudely for her autograph, and really, really hot.

On June 22nd of this year, I spent the day 3,000 miles away from New York but still found a way to celebrate the day — this time not with the actual Streep, but with her star on the Walk of Fame and her hand and footprints in the forecourt of the Chinese Theater.

I put my hands in her prints (a perfect match — we apparently both have carnie (small) hands) and attempted to squeeze my Sasquatch foot into her teeny tiny perfect print. I traced her signature with my finger and noted that as far as "penmanship" goes, it was as classy and beautiful as its creator.

Six years ago, on August 4th and 5th, 2006, my uncle Steve and I awoke at 4:30 am, walked to the 81st street entrance of Central Park and set up camp (camp = a picnic table tablecloth) outside the Delacorte Theater and waited patiently until the 1pm ticket giveaway.

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Meryl was performing in Mother Courage that summer, and we had made the trip specifically intending to secure the much-sought-after tickets. Not only did we secure tickets for both nights, but we were sixth, and fifth in line, respectively.

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On August 5th of this year, my friend Trent and I are headed to New York to see Meryl once again. He managed to snag a place (plus one!) in the tiny audience of Bravo's Watch What Happens Live, when none other than the Goddess herself will be a guest (filming Aug. 6th, to air on the 9th). She will be promoting her new movie, Hope Springs, and I will be doing my best to not, well, die.

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I also discovered today that Meryl, along with Tommy Lee Jones, Steve Carrell and Director David Frankel, will be speaking about Hope Springs at the Apple store in Soho on August 5th, at 4pm. We get into the city at 7am, and we're basically going to drop off our luggage and spend the rest of the day camped outside of the store.

It's sort of strange how much 2012 is starting to mirror 2006, in terms of Streep-content, and I couldn't feel more lucky or excited. I'm also incredibly grateful that I have such wonderful friends and family to share my adventures with — look no further than my Uncle spending countless hours outside of Greta Garbo's NY apartment when she was alive, dying to catch a glimpse of the reclusive star, to see where I get my knack for obsession.

Also, if anyone has any advice for me on the following issues, it would be much appreciated:

• How not to sweat through my entire outfit.
• How not to throw up on an Oscar-winning legend.
• How to speak coherently and not creep out said legend.
• What should I wear???
• How not to look like a troll next to her if/when a photo opportunity presents itself.

When I saw her six years ago, I actually still had a film camera that I then took immediately to a one-hour (i.e. longest hour of my life) photo place to develop. I'm bringing at least two cameras this time (my phone + an actual camera), so hopefully I'll be able to properly document the events.

That is, if I don't die of anticipation first.

California Trip, Part 1: Hollywood Things

It's taken me nearly a month to digest my week-long, inaugural trip to California and I saw/ate/did so many things that I thought I'd break these posts into categories: Delicious Things, Pretty Things, Living Things, Signage Things, Things I Watched and today's post, Hollywood Things.

Since I was staying with my friend in Santa Monica, the first place we headed was Hollywood. After spending countless hours in my life reading trashy tabloids, it was sort of bizarre to actually be in Los Angeles. Unfortunately, as with most things you primarily see on TV, Hollywood was a bit disappointing in real life.

It was pretty much all downhill after our first stop at Meryl Streep's star on the Walk of Fame (the only one that matters), but highlights included her hand and footprints in the forecourt of Grauman's, a tour of the Chinese theater, an amazing cranberry breakfast bar at the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (the first of many), a tour of the Dolby (formerly Kodak) theater,

and of course some major gawking and nerdy picture taking of the Hollywood sign.

We didn't get very close to the sign, but we drove along Mulholland Drive and stopped at the Hollywood Bowl Overlook, where I managed to take a photo wherein I point in the general direction of where the sign sort of is.

I recommend skipping the tour of the Chinese theater and seeing a movie there instead — I would imagine you get to see the same thing (you know, the theater) in addition to actually seeing a movie, for about the same price.

I do, however, recommend taking the Dolby Theater tour — you get to see a real-deal Oscar statuette and our guide had some great stories to tell about the big night (apparently being a huge celebrity doesn't guarantee that you won't forget your ID and be denied entrance to the event, ahem, Mr. Clooney).

You can't take photos inside the theater because if you do, they will be owned by ABC and then you'll be owned by ABC (or something like that), but they do give you a super cheesy, consolation postcard as you leave, so that's cool.

Lastly, we took the Dearly Departed tour, which I (like everyone else on the planet, or at least on their website) highly recommend. Our tour guide, Brian, really, really loves his job (i.e. telling sordid tales of Hollywood murder/last breath locations) and made the three-plus hour tour fly by. We were also lucky to catch glimpses of off-tour locations such as the Playboy and Spelling mansions, the former homes of Paul Newman, George Burns and the studio where they film Dexter.

I can't say that I was overly impressed by Hollywood (or Beverly Hills or even California in general), but I'm glad that I got to see most of the places I read about so often in my stories (i.e. trashy tabloids). I'm also disappointed that in two days we didn't see one single celebrity, so I may have to go back — maybe next time it'll be for the Oscars?

The Week of Streep (p.8)

In this final (for now) installment of the mini-Streep reviews, I will revisit the last seven releases in Meryl Streep's career. Next in line is the Iron Lady, which is set for release in January — have you seen the teaser? It's been more than a year since my last new Streep fix, and I'm jonesin'. I've got the fever and I've got it bad.

And, in case you missed it, here are parts one, two, three, four, five, six and seven, for your reading pleasure.

2007: Evening

As usual, Streep uses her very minimal screen time to maximum effect in Evening, adapted from Susan Minot's New England-set novel of the same name. Evening is notable in that it was the feature-film debut (in a starring role) of the similarly talented Streep Spawn, Mamie Gummer (relation to the Great One: daughter).

Real-life mother and daughter actually share the on screen role, with Gummer playing a young Lila (in what is basically a flashback) and Streep stepping in as present day Lila. It's not hard to see the similarities, physically, of course, but also in talent. I'm sure it's not easy entering into the same profession in which one of your parents has more than excelled (or rather, defined it altogether), let alone going toe-to-toe with your famous mother in the same film. Gummer holds her own, although (of course) Streep knocks it out of the park.

Side note: I'm about 85% sure that I found the actual house where the majority of Evening was filmed, while on vacation in Newport, Rhode Island. It was set far off from the road and my camera zoom at the time was less than stellar, but I'd like to think my powers of recognition were spot on.

If watching Evening doesn't make you want to book a trip to Newport immediately, you probably accidentally rented the 1999 non-hit of the same name.

2007: Rendition | Lions for Lambs

Streep had supporting roles in two political thrillers in 2007, Rendition and Lions for Lambs. Rendition, like so many movies, failed to deliver despite a promising cast including Reese Witherspoon, Jake Gyllenhaal and Alan Aarkin. Streep is powerful in her brief scenes — don't miss her heated confrontation with Witherspoon's character.

Lions, also boasts a noteworthy cast (I'm sure you've heard of Robert Redford? Tom Cruise?) and is the more enjoyable — if you can call debating the political ensnarement that is Afghanistan, entertainment — of the two films. I have a hard time enjoying Tom Cruise in any film that isn't Rainman, but his scenes with Streep are the best parts of Lions, which focuses on three stories told simultaneously in real-time.

2008: Mamma Mia

After a stretch of supporting roles, Streep burst back into the spotlight with the screen adaptation of the ABBA-filled musical, Mamma Mia. Now to be clear, I don't exactly think that Mamma Mia is an Oscar-worthy film of distinction. I did, however, manage to see it thirteen times at the theater — it's campy and ridiculous and gorgeous and fun and everything I needed in the summer of '08.

I went once, on a Monday, and stayed for a repeat showing. I bought the soundtrack and blasted it in my car with the windows down, impervious to embarrassment. I saw the sing-a-long version in a theater containing only two other people (to whom I am related); which is to say, I loved it.

Streep looks like she's having the time of her life frolicking around the Greek Islands, and if you don't have an equally good time watching her do so, than I truly feel sorry for you. Don't rent Mamma Mia expecting to see Casablanca, but do watch it expecting to cringe at Pierce Brosnan's attempt at a singing career, which, in my opinion, is just as enjoyable as watching the vocally-talented Streep.

2008: Doubt

Doubt is another screen adaptation of a stage show, albeit holy (you see what I did there?) different from Mamma Mia. Streep plays Sister Aloysius Beauvier, and you'll wonder why it's taken her this long in her career to play a nun — she's utterly fantastic.

Phillip Seymour Hoffman is equally as wonderful as the priest who's relationship with a 12-year old boy raises the titular "doubt" and Viola Davis was 100% robbed of the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for her brief, but powerful scene alongside Streep. From the performances, to the story, to the set design and time period, there is no Doubt (ehhh?) that this film more than earned its Best Picture nomination.

Side note: If you're like me, and fall asleep to any movie you try to watch past 5pm, do try to stay awake for the end of Doubt. Streep's closing scene with Amy Adams is some of her finest acting work to date.

2009: Julie and Julia

If I wasn't such an ardent Streep fan, I might have sworn that I was watching footage of the actual Julia Child during Streep's scenes as the famous chef in 2009's Julie and Julia. Rather than do a caricature of Child, Streep's performance is as fitting a tribute as fans could have ever hoped for. From the voice, to the mannerisms, to the face, to the height (achieved with some particularly enormous shoes — you can spot them in certain scenes) Streep is perfect.

I only wish that the entire movie was about Julia, and wasn't instead forced to split its time between Child's fascinating life in Paris and the present day (more specifically, Julie Powell's so-so memoir, about the time she decided to cook her way through Mastering the Art of French Cooking).

Streep was most certainly — and unfairly — denied the Oscar win for this career highlight and I'm sure my man would agree — upon leaving the theater I immediately cooked Child's famous beouf bourguignon, and it has since become my signature "fancy" dish.

2009: It's Complicated

Streep's last theatrical release to date, was It's Complicated, and was a welcome return to comedy for the Great One. She is hilarious in this breezy, thoroughly enjoyable romantic comedy from Nancy Myers, alongside two old favorites — Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin — and one of my new favorites — John Krasinski ("Harles"). I saw It's Complicated five times in the theater, and would have gone more if it hadn't been winter (i.e. snowy, miserable) and I had been able to find more willing companions.

It's the perfect movie to watch if you're home sick or in the mood to laugh, and if I could have just one day as the gorgeous, bakery-owning, amazing-kitchen-occupying, California-living, Steve Martin-dating Jane Adler, I would be a happy girl.

(all photos from Simply Streep)

The Week of Streep (p.7)

I remembered today (about a year and a half late, oopsy) that I never finished reviewing the entire Meryl Streep catalog AND because it's my blog and I can do what I want, I'm going rogue, finishing what I started, and still referring to it as a 'week' even though it's taken me more like 15 months.

And, in case you need a refresher, revisit parts one, two, three, four, five and six before proceeding.

2004: Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events

L.S.A.S.O.U.E. has the distinction of being the first Meryl Streep movie I saw during it's original run in a movie theater. This was in 2004 of course, 2 years before I would be consumed by all things Streep, so I went more to be entertained than wowed by the Great One.

But, wowed I was, and as in most of her supporting roles, Streep stole every scene she was in — not a small feat, considering most of her screen time is opposite a scenery chewing Jim Carrey ("What a Supreeeeese"). She plays the grammar-obsessed, ultra-jittery Aunt Josephine and she's absolutely perfect — in fact, the entire movie is actually great, and able to be enjoyed by kids and adults alike.

2005: Prime

While Prime wasn't a blockbuster by any means, it is certainly worth revisiting on DVD or Netflix. Streep plays Dr. Lisa Metzger, a New York City therapist who finds out that her patient (a very likable Uma Thurman) is dating her son, but can't let on that she knows. The scenes where she tries to keep it together while Uma reveals intimate details about her relationship are pure comic gold.

Nothing is better than watching Streep squirm as Uma declares "his penis is so beautiful I just want to knit it a hat."

2006: A Prairie Home Companion

Ah, 2006: The Summer of Streep. Two Thousand Ought Six was a great summer to be newly obsessed with Streep, as it featured not one, but two theatrical releases prominently featuring the Great One. The first, Robert Altman's last film, A Prairie Home Companion has a stellar ensemble cast — Kevin Kline, John C. Reily, Lily Tomlin, Woody Harrelson, Maya Rudolph, a pre-crack Lindsay Lohan and Mr. Garrison Keillor, as himself.

Streep plays opposite Lily Tomlin as half of the singing duo, The Johnson Sisters. She is adorably ditzy, a little slutty and entirely enjoyable. She also sings (if you like music at all, get the soundtrack, now), which is always a delight.

2006: The Devil Wears Prada

A major highlight to my Summer of Streep was the box office hit, The Devil Wears Prada. One of the highest grossing films of her career, T.D.W.P. also held my personal record for times viewed in a theater: I saw it six times (a record that stood until another Streep film, Mamma Mia, shattered it two years later).

Streep is absolutely perfect as the white-haired, terrifyingly soft-spoken, Miranda Priestly. Everything about her performance is perfection, from her line delivery ("By all means, move at a glacial pace, you knoooow how that thrillllls me") to her emotional, make-up less scene two-thirds through the movie. Just try and get through the "cerulean" monologue without agreeing that she more than deserved the Oscar she didn't end up winning.

2007: Dark Matter

The release of Dark Matter, a 2007 film chronicling the true story of a Chinese student who ends up going on a shooting spree at his college, was delayed for more than a year after real-life events at Virginia Tech mirrored the film a little too closely. I ended up seeing it in a theater in New York City, when it was playing on maybe two screens (in the entire country).

Suffice it to say, it wasn't a hit. Streep is adequate as Joanna Silver, the student's sympathetic benefactor, and the film reunites her with her Music of the Heartcostar, Aidan Quinn. I wouldn't drop everything you're doing to run out and grab a copy, but it's an interesting story that was the victim of unfortunate timing.

(all photos from the always-amazing Simply Streep)

The Week of Streep (p.6)

1999: Music of the Heart

I should have probably included Music of the Heart in yesterday's post, as it is the last in Streep's streak of 90s family-oriented dramas. Word is that Madonna was supposed to play the role of real-life inner city music teacher, Roberta Guaspari, but Streep stepped in at the last minute and — being Meryl Streep — learned how to convincingly play the violin in record time.

She is wonderful, of course, holding her own even as she takes the legendary stage at Carnegie Hall with musical greats Itzhak Perlman and Isaac Stern. She is tough, but loving and you root for the kids and the art of music right along with her.

2002: Adaptation

After a short break, Streep returned to the screen in 2002 in Adaptation, a Charlie Kaufman/Spike Jonze film based on the struggle Kaufman endured while trying to adapt The Orchid Theif, a wonderful book by Susan Orlean. Streep plays both a real (in the first half of the film) and imagined (every weird and wonderful thing that happens after reality ends) version of Orlean.

It must be mentioned that Chris Cooper more than deserved the Academy Award he won for playing the passionate, obsessive and sublimely cooky John Laroche ("That's how much fuck fish"), whose scenes with Streep are some of the best ever committed to film. Streep is especially delightful when things start to get crazy; I could watch her brush her teeth, tell Laroche that she's 'very happy now' and make a dial tone for days on end without getting bored.

Adaptation is really a brilliant movie, and one of my all-time favorites — one that only gets better with each subsequent viewing.

2002: The Hours

Oh, The Hours, how do I ever explain how much I love thee? From the divine Philip Glass soundtrack, to the expert trio of Streep, Kidman and Moore, to the amazing supporting cast (Claire Danes, Jeff Daniels, Ed Harris, Toni Collette, John C. Reilly) the entire movie is perfection. The novel, by Michael Cunningham, is one of my favorite books of all time and I am continually amazed at how expertly it was translated onto film.

It's quiet and beautiful and heartbreaking and moving — not to mention the one amazing kiss Streep shares with (the always amazing) Alison Janney. If that's not reason enough to see it, then you can't call yourself a fan.

Side note: Streep's character's name is Clarissa Vaughan, a name I absolutely adore — enough to have planned to name a hairless cat after her... If I ever get rich and crazy enough to buy a hairless cat, that is.

2003: Stuck on You

Yes, Meryl Streep is in the Farrelly brother's movie where Greg Kinnear and Matt Damn play siamese twins. Yes, I own this film voluntarily ONLY because Streep is in it. No, I don't recommend this film as a whole. Yes, Meryl Streep is hilarious as herself. Yes, I am done reviewing this film.

2003: Angels in America

I don't usually have the longest attention span, or the ability to remain awake during long movies. But Angels in America is so captivating, so devastating, so amazingly wonderful and choc-full of gaaah-sooo-goood Streep performances (4 total!) that its nearly 6 hr. running time seems more like 6 minutes.

Based on Tony Kushner's award-winning stage play, Angels would be brilliant without Meryl Streep. With her (also award-winning) performances as a rabbi (her first time playing a man, so convincingly that her co-stars had no idea it was MerylStreep under that beard), a Mormon, a principality and (a surprisingly hilarious) Ethel Rosenberg, it's beyond anything I can possibly describe.

Do yourself a favor and watch Angels, and then, watch it again (trust me, you'll want to).

2004: The Manchurian Candidate

In this 2004 remake of the Manchurian Candidate, Streep plays the role of Eleanor Prentiss Shaw, a woman in politics (not so far from that other famous woman in politics, you know) who has bigger balls than any man to ever walk Capitol Hill. She is riveting and certainly knows how to make a speech and work a room; if Streep ever decides to go into politics her opponents don't even stand a chance.

The Week of Streep (p.5)

Ok, so I realize that I kinda dropped the ball on this whole Week of Streep idea, but I invented it, so I can make up my own rules where a week is actually more like a week and a half.

(once again, all photos from the incomparable SimplyStreep)

1995: The Bridges of Madison County

Bridges is one of my top five Streep movies, and that isn't a distinction to be taken lightly. She is completely and totally devastating as the Italian-Iowan housewife, Francesca Johnson. Every move she makes — from a subtle shudder at a slamming screen door, to a stolen glance of sexy out-of-town photographer Robert Kincaid (Clint Eastwood) — is perfection. Her accent is also (surprise!) spot-on, and she is nearly unrecognizable and convincingly Italian in appearance. You can feel her longing, smell her desire and touch her confusion and her passion in every moment she's on screen.

The scenes that take place in the present day, and focus on Francesca's grown children, are unnecessary in every way and really drag down an otherwise beautiful story. The movie makes complete sense (and is much better) without them; do yourself a favor and keep one finger near the fast-forward button at all times.

1996: Before and After

Unfortunately, after the near perfection of Bridges, Streep had nowhere to go but down. In fact, very, very far down.

Before and After, by all respects, should have been a great movie. It had a solid cast (Liam Neeson, Ed Furlong, and of course, Streep) and a pretty interesting premise (possible murder! mistaken identity!). Instead, Before and After has the dubious distinction of being the worst overall Streep movie, and — as much as this pains me to type —Streep delivers a less than stellar performance.

If I were referring to any other actor I might be more lenient, but this is Meryl-A-Dingo-Got-My-Baby-Streep. Maybe it's the brown hair (a hand-me-down from her Francesca Johnson days, no doubt) or maybe she was just not feeling the script, but whatever went wrong thankfully never happens again as Streep goes right back to being The Meryl Streep in her next film...

1996: Marvin's Room

Every time I re-watch Marvin's Room, I'm reminded just how great Meryl Streep is as Lee Lacker, the straight-talking, chain-smoking, cosmetologist student, single mother from Ohio — and I can tell you first hand that Streep absolutely nails it.

Just try not to laugh as she instructs her youngest (he's about 10) son to light a cigarette for her oldest (Leonardo DiCaprio who has recently burned down their house, and therefore can't be trusted with matches). Or try not to tear up as she styles the wig her sister (Diane Keaton, who's un-make-upped face is a tad frightening at times) is forced to wear after chemo treatments.

Side note: Marvin's Room marks the third time Streep has starred with her real-life friend Robert DeNiro, and he's quite hilarious as the bumbling Dr. Wally.

1997: ...First Do No Harm

Streep returns to the small screen in ...First Do No Harm, based on a true story of a family's struggle with their son's severe epilepsy. Streep is convincing as the boy's long-suffering mother, Lori Reimueller, and dives into the role from her mom hair cut down to her mom jeans.

This isn't by any means a must-see film in the Streep catalog, but the subject matter is certainly important, and the supporting cast (why hello, Fred Ward where have you been hiding since Silkwood?) is more than adequate.

1998: Dancing at Lughnasa

Dancing at Lughnasa is one of the Streep's most obscure films, and certainly one of the hardest to spell. Streep puts on her thickest Irish brogue to play one of the Mundy sisters, in a small role that required her to step dance as well age herself quite significantly.

It's a quiet film; in an interview Streep once said something like, "I'm not quite sure how to explain it without making you never want to go see it..." and I agree. So I will only say that it is indeed worth tracking down (I bought my copy at the now-defunct Tower Records).

1998: One True Thing

In more than two decades of screen time, and having faced every imaginable enemy — from the Nazis to the Dingoes — Streep tackles the big C(ancer) for the first time in One True Thing, based on the Anna Quindlen weeper of the same name. She stars alongside Renee Zellweger (who happens to be one of my very least favorite actresses) and the stoic William Hurt as Katherine Gulden, the strong-willed mother (to the former) and long-suffering wife (of the latter).

By now, Streep certainly knows how to bring the tears and emotions — and neither are in short supply here; be sure to keep those tissues within reach.

The Week of Streep (p.4)

Ah, the Comedy Era of the Streep... After more than a decade of screen-time — during which she went on safari, fell in love with Robert DeNiro and out of love with Jack Nicholson, endured radiation poisoning and the Holocaust, and had her infant daughter taken by a dingo —Streep was ready to laugh.

Some discount this period in her career, but I've always thought that Streep is wildly funny and whether it's a Danish accent, or a prat fall, she consistently hits it out of the park.

1989: She-Devil

Now, I'm not about to claim that She-Devil, in which Streep stars alongside master-thespian Roseanne Barr, and that sex-pot* Ed Begley Jr., is an Oscar-deserving — or even a good — film. It's pretty terrible, as a whole. BUT I am prepared to defend Streep's decision to take the role of romance novelist Mary Fisher, and even suggest that she is wonderful in it. Streep seems to know that she's in a terrible movie, and she looks like she's having a blast. Don't go into She-Devil expecting Schindler's List, and you'll have a good time too.

*Ok, so I don't really think Ed Begley Jr. is a sex-pot. In fact, I think he's one of the most hideous humans I've seen, which makes the entire premise of the movie (two women fighting over him) even more hilarious. Now that's what I call comedy.

1990: Postcards from the Edge

One of Streep's finest comedic performances, is as Suzanne Vale in Postcards from the Edge, a film based on Carrie Fisher's novel/memoir of the same name. Streep is beautiful and complex as she goes from a hospital bed (after an accidental overdose) to rehab, to her mother's (the delightfully over-the-top Shirley Maclaine) house.

I could have done without Dennis Quaid's role as Suzanne's 'love' interest, although the scene where she shoots ("They're just blanks, asshole!") at him is quite rewarding.

The best scenes occur between Streep and Maclaine — especially when they both put on 'numbers' for a house full of guests. Streep finally gets a chance to showcase her extraordinary singing talent not one, but two times in Postcards, and that's always a treat.

1991: Defending Your Life

I wouldn't exactly call Defending Your Life a "quintessential" Streep film, but it's worth at least one viewing. Streep is perfectly lovely as Julia, the after-life love-interest of Albert Brooks (this is very much an Albert Brooks film) and you can easily see why Brooks would fall for the beautiful and should-be-annoying-but-isn't-for-some-reason, perfect Julia.

Defending Your Life also presents some interesting ideas about the after-life: Eating all you want and never gaining a pound? The Hall of Past Lives? Really soft robes and slippers? When I die, I want to go to there.

1992: Death Becomes Her

A much better attempt at over-the-top camp comedy than She-Devil, Death Becomes Her is a tongue-in-botoxed-cheek commentary on aging in Hollywood. Streep strikes comic gold as the insanely vain, reluctantly aging Madeleine Ashton, who doesn't think twice before stealing her homely (the ugly-fied Goldie Hawn) best friend's fiance (a hapless Bruce Willis). I couldn't possibly pick a favorite moment; from the extravagant opening number, to Hawn in a fat suit (!) and Streep throwing a javelin through the gaping hole in Hawn's torso ("Yes! I mean, No!"), Death is a must-see Streep staple.

1993: The House of the Spirits

Streep has a small role in the House of the Spirits, an unfortunately rather forgettable film with an unforgettable cast: Glenn Close, Winona Ryder, Antonio Banderas, Jeremy Irons and Vanessa Redgrave all star alongside Streep. I remember growing impatient waiting for the few glimpses of Streep, but watch closely: the adorable little girl playing Clara del Valle Trueba (Streep) as a child? That's Grace Gummer, Streep's real-life third child.

Side note: This film might be a little difficult to track down; the DVD is out-of-print, although I managed to find mine for around $5 at a used DVD store. I also have a VHS copy because, that's how I roll.

1994: The River Wild

How bad-ass is Meryl Streep that, in her 40s, she decides to try her hand at navigating class V rapids? Very bad ass. She also goes head-to-head with the 'there's-obviously-something-off-about-this-guy' Kevin Bacon (this movie is my ace when playing the Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon) and I won't spoil the ending for you, other than to say this: Bad. Ass.

Side note: How great is David Strathairn, like, always?

The Week of Streep (p.3)

The 80s held many good times for the discerning Streep fan. While everyone was enjoying classics like A Cry in the Dark and Out of Africa during their theatrical runs, I was a little busy you know, being born.

Oh to have seen Out of Africa on the big screen, a girl can dream.

1984: Falling in Love

Falling in Love is not a great movie, despite the power-coupling (first seen on-screen together in The Deer Hunter) of Streep and DeNiro. It is, however, a good movie about two commuters who meet on a train and, of course, fall in love. The movie feels very dated, from the synth-heavy soundtrack to Streep's hair and over-sized outfits, but definite bonus points are awarded for scenes in the gorgeous Rizzoli Bookstore and for being a film about New York that was actually shot in New York.

1985: Out of Africa

One of Streep's greatest films, and certainly the most epic, Out of Africa is based on the wonderful memoirs of Isak Dinesen detailing her time spent on a coffee farm in the African highlands. I have to stop myself from impulsively booking a safari trip every time I finish watching this movie.

Everything about Out of Africa is epic, from the soundtrack, to the views of the African plains, and what Robert Redford lacks in technical skill (he's an Englishman that sounds an awful lot like... well, Robert Redford) he certainly makes up for in charm. Who wouldn't join a line a mile long to get their hair washed by that super sexy, suave man-creature?

1985: Plenty

Plenty is one of Streep's lesser known films, which in my opinion is a shame. Streep is fiercely sexy and intense as Susan Traherne, a woman who desperately seeks fulfillment and excitement in post-war Europe. Aside from being ridiculously gorgeous in every scene, Streep embodies Susan's restlessness and disappointment so perfectly that I actually ache along with her. She has plenty, but always wants for — and really needs — more (who hasn't felt this way?).

Plenty also includes what is perhaps my most favorite line ever uttered by Streep: "I would stop, I would stop, I would stop fucking talking if I ever heard anybody else say anything worth fucking stopping talking for!"

1986: Heartburn

Heartburn marks the first pairing of Streep and Jack Nicholson, and was based on a Nora Ephron 'novel' of the same name (I lost the copy I rented from the library before I ever got to read it so, I'm sure its great...). Much like Falling in Love, Heartburn is not a great movie and feels rather dated. It's definitely entertaining though, and worth watching if only for Kevin Spacey's very brief appearance as a 'New York City punk' and Streep's real-life daughter Mamie's screen debut as Streep's on-screen daughter, Annie.

As a cautionary note, don't watch this — or any other Nora Ephron movie — hungry; just thinking about the scenes where Streep and Nicholson eat delicious foods in bed makes me want to hit the kitchen (and then the bedroom) immediately.

1987: Ironweed

Ironweed is the second, and much more successful, pairing of Streep and Nicholson. This is definitely not a movie to watch when you're in need of a pick-me-up, believe me. Streep plays Helen Archer, a vagrant and a drunk with lofty dreams and even lower realities. She is absolutely and completely devastating in this film, and should have received every award imaginable. Unfortunately, this movie seems to have slipped under the radar, and wasn't even available on DVD until last year.

Nicholson is always Jack Nicholson, but it works here; Tom Waits (a fellow, almost-too-convincing drunk) and Fred Gwynne (yes, that's Fred "Herman Munster" Gwynne) round out a wonderfully sad and vivid film. I think my heart actually breaks each time I watch Streep take the stage to sing "He's Me Pal" — keep the tissues handy.

1988: A Cry in the Dark

Based on the real-life drama of the Chamberlains, an Australian couple who claimed that 'a dingo got their baby,' A Cry in the Dark is the second time Streep stars opposite Sam Neil (the first was in Plenty). Streep plays Lindy, an admittedly difficult woman and mother who did nothing for her public image by dying her hair black and tweezing her eyebrows into such a sinister shape. Streep somehow makes you sympathize for Lindy —not the easiest task — and I never doubted her story for a minute.

I've heard Streep confess that Australian proved to be the most difficult accent for her to master, but I think she's only being modest; anyone would find it quite difficult to distinguish her from a native.

The Week of Streep (p.2)

The madness continues (Happy Birthday Meryl Streep!)...

1979: Kramer vs. Kramer

I don't know if there's ever been a character with a screen time to impact ratio quite like that of Streep's Joanna Kramer. She is there right as the movie opens, and then, quite suddenly, she is not. She doesn't reappear until the movie is nearly over, and even though she is physically absent, she is most definitely not forgotten.

This is, arguably, a Dustin Hoffman movie, although I think Streep more than earns the Best Supporting Actress Oscar she eventually wins for Kramer. When she tells Hoffman that if she were to stay, she would end up 'out the window, or worse' you definitely believe and even feel her pain. You can also feel her fear when Hoffman smashes a wine glass against the wall, a move that, reportedly, completely surprised (and then quickly angered) real-life Meryl Streep.

As a side note, this movie also features some fine 70s fashions, some very good (Streep's oh-so-chic trench coat and slouchy boots) and some so-bad-they're-good (JoBeth Williams's aaaahhhmazingly large glasses).

1979: Manhattan

Another movie that co-stars Streep's luscious hair, Manhattan is basically a Woody Allen love letter to the titular city. Streep has a small role as Allen's estranged ex-wife (who is now a lesbian and well, who wouldn't be after dating Woody Allen?) and she is wonderful, as usual. Although I've never been able to make it through all of Annie Hall (I know, it's a classic, blah blah), Manhattan made me change my perception slightly on Woody Allen as a filmmaker.*

*With the combo of my favorite actress and my favorite city, this wasn't a difficult task.

1981: The French Lieutenant's Woman

The French Lieutenant's Woman, based on a novel by John Fowles, features not one, but two Meryl Streep roles. I was warned that this movie was 'difficult' and 'dreadfully boring', but Streep is captivating as usual. This is her first 'period' film, one she made after reportedly declaring that she needed to 'get out of New York, out of the present day', a sentiment that I can certainly understand. If you do nothing else, look at the poster for this movie, an amazing photograph of a cloaked and red-haired Streep that is anything but dreadfully boring.

1982: Still of the Night

Still of the Night has the distinction of being the only real 'thriller' that Streep has made, and even though it's nearly 20 years old, its Hitchcockian suspenseful plot still manages some thrills. Streep stars with Roy Scheider (of Jaws fame) and together they do a great job of keeping you on the edge of your seat. That is, if you can find a copy of Still of the Night; as of right now, it's only available on VHS. And as I have said before yes, I have a copy and no, you can't have it.

1982: Sophie's Choice

Sophie's Choice is often sited as the 'quintessential' Streep performance, and the Academy certainly agreed; Streep won her first (and to date, only) Best Actress award for her role as Sophie Zawistowska, the concentration camp survivor with a devastating 'secret.' I happen to, for once, agree with the Academy. Streep is absolutely heart-breaking and radiantly beautiful, not to mention spot-on with her Polish, German and any other language or accent she tries on.

I also fell in love with the location; if someone locates that time machine I've mentioned before, I would most definitely like to go back to 1940s summertime Brooklyn, rent a room at the Pink Palace and weekend at Coney Island. Yes, please.

1983: Silkwood

Ok, how f'ing adorable is Meryl Streep as Karen Silkwood? If anyone could make a brown mullet, denim mini-skirt and cowboy boots look amazing, Streep is it. As a bonus, Silkwood is the only movie where you actually catch a glimpse (you might need to pause, and rewind and slo-mo it like... well, I did) of a real-life Streep boob (it's adorable as well). Whatever your politics or whatever you believe about the real-life Karen, if you don't cry hysterically at the end like I did, you're an inhuman machine. And I sincerely mean that.

(again, all photos from SimplyStreep)

The Week of Streep (p.1)

61 years ago, on June 22nd, Meryl Streep was born.

Four years ago, on June 22nd,  I waited outside the David Letterman studio in the scorching, mid-day sun for more than four hours to see Ms. Streep in person, for the first time. I was wearing all black — jeans, t-shirt and Converse — and I wasn't sure if my dehydrated, ravenously hungry, heat-stroking self could handle the excitement of being thisclose to MERYLF'INGSTREEP.

Turns out, I could and did handle it — very well, I believe — and even though I've seen her a few more times since, I will always cherish the memory of my first.

So then, I shall be so bold (and obsessive. and crazy) to declare this week the Week of the Streep. What follows is my daily attempt to present to you each one of her movies (and a few made-for-television specials) because, well, everyone should see these (yes, all of them — told you, obsessive).

(In mostly chronological order, and all photos from SimplyStreep)

1977: Julia

This was not the first Streep film I saw, but it is credited as being her feature film debut. Although she is only on screen for maybe a minute at the most (I used to know the exact time, in fact, I clocked it myself... I have since forgotten that figure — forgive me) she definitely makes an impression, as only a Streep can do. As a bonus, she wears a dress made entirely of red gingham— I am mildly obsessed with red gingham, so a Streep wrapped in red gingham is like the best present, ever.

1978: The Deadliest Season

I hesitate to destroy my Streep cred so early in this review, but I have a confession to make: I've never seen The Deadliest Season. In my defense, it is a 70s TV movie and I wasn't even born until 1985 — no excuse, really. But also, I cannot for the life of me find a copy of this movie, and believe me, I have tried. There is no library or eBay user or video seller in the country that will give it to me. I've looked. And looked again. But seriously, I do need to see this movie. It's my white whale, and if anyone has it/knows where I can get a copy TELL ME RIGHT NOW. Thanks.

1978: Holocaust

In much the same vein as The Deadliest Season, Holocaust was probably the hardest Streep performance for me to get my hands on. I actually found JUST part 3 at a video store (I was like, seriously? ONLY part 3!?) but I eventually tracked down the other 2 parts, and I was super proud of my skills (I found it in the university library system, and proceeded to record it from the vhs in an elaborate vcr-tethering system that I couldn't possibly replicate today). The entire series has since become available on DVD, which simultaneously excited, and annoyed me (that would have been helpful two years ago, I thought).

ANYway, Meryl Streep won an Emmy for her part in this loooooong mini-series (anyone who can convincingly stare lovingly into the face of James Woods deserves an award), but the rest of it feels rather dated. She is also majorly beautiful, which is reason enough to suffer through Blanche Baker, who annoyed me so much that I was actually hoping for the gas chamber. Yes, I mean that.

1978: Uncommon Women and Others

This filmed stage production is overflowing with 70s girl power and co-stars Meryl Streep's hair. Seriously, look at that hair.

1978: The Deer Hunter

Meryl Streep's second feature film role, in The Deer Hunter, scored her her first (of nearly a bazillion) Oscar nomination. Again, she is radiantly beautiful as Linda, the small town grocery store employee who  knits sweaters while she waits for her fiance and his friends (a surprisingly-hot young Christopher Walken and the always-sexy Robert DeNiro) to return from Vietnam. In Streep's hands, though, Linda is anything but boring and her scenes are just as riveting as the famous Russian Roulette sequences.

(Oh to have been born when Streep and co. were filming The Deer Hunter in Ohio... Anyone have a time machine?)

1979: The Seduction of Joe Tynan

I know I keep repeating myself, but Streep just ooooozes sex and gorgeousness in this film. If I was Alan Alda (or anyone else, for that matter) I wouldn't think twice about cheating on my wife (the lovely, but come on, Barbara Harris) with Meryl Streep's saucy southerner. If you wouldn't jump at the chance to have a post-coital, in-bed feast of strawberries and cheese with her in this movie, than you're not human.