Atlas

 So I recently watched Atlas, a Jennifer Lopez science fiction flick on Netflix.

In a not so distant future mankind has survived a brutal war initiated by AI. The leader of the AI terrorists flees to space, promising to return and gain his revenge.  Fast forward 28 years, where a data analyst played by Lopez discovers his location on another planet, and accompanies a mechanized unit to bring him to justice. 

First things first this is obviously not a very original concept, and I do think that you can predict each plot point well in advance if you care to do so. Plus I find it difficult to forgive naming the main character Atlas, when it's obviously meant to reference her belief that the fate of the world lies on her shoulders. 

On the other hand, you more often than not choose not to  anticipate what's coming because it is, overall, a pretty entertaining movie.

I would say that 75% of what makes this movie watchable is Lopez herself. She is alone on screen for most of the film, interacting only with the green screen. The range of emotions she displays is genuinely impressive.

I do not think that this movie will be remembered in 5 years much less 50. But if you happen to have the evening free and desire a decent popcorn movie, cue this one up. 

Grade: C+

Happy Father's Day

Happy Father's Day to all the dedicated dads out there. I miss my dad and step father a lot some days, they were so important in my life.

So happy I still have Dan and am able to see through him everyday what joy and pride a man has watching his kids grow to young adults (and older teens) experiencing the world. He finds as much joy answering their questions now as he did when they were littles. I know they are substantially more prepared because of his daily involvement and encouragement. I hope you have a great fathers day Danny! - Lisa

They Aren't Worth It

legitimately so sick of these cat toys. i’m so anxious there are mice running around when it’s lyla killing a toy - Lulu

Incrediroll Closes

This week word came that Incrediroll, a skating rink used by Team Slap and documented here time and time again, has closed after 30+ years. 

This was YaYa's inital reaction: 

worst workplace i’ve ever been for an extended time. it’s a shame that the milwaukee area is now -2 skate rinks tho.

I was quick to respond: 

Sad, IMO. I know you didn't like it in retrospect, but I wish you could remember what it felt like at the time. I remember a young YaYa that was so f-ing proud to have a job, to be respected at the job, and do it well. I remember how you used to prioritze that job like it was the damn Presidency. Now I'm tearing up here remembering, for real. I wish you were little again.  Full out weeping. #Embarrassing

It might have made an impact, because she posted this today:

end of an era. s 🕊️

siri play ymca

From Lisa:  [The closing] makes me more sad than it probably should. I saw my childhood, my neice and nephew's childhood, my children's childhood when I went there. It's sad my grandchildren won't be able to go. And who's opening a skate rink? No one. Sigh. Yeah, it's upsetting.

Goodbye Incrediroll. You were loved!