The Tops

Lately I've been thinking about a few movies/books that I've really enjoyed.

Before dental school, reading was something I would only allow myself to do during holidays. I like reading but I have a nasty habit of getting completely engrossed in books. I dont eat, sleep, shower or,  most importantly, study. Whereas movies have always been my guilty habit while I'm in school. I know I shouldnt watch as many movies as I do, but living vicariously through characters calms me. And movies dont really require a lot of effort - which is pretty perfect for the busy, overstressed student. But this year I have become voracious in my need to read (tho my need to watch movies has not decreased). I'm tired of making lists upon list. I'm tired of waiting. I guess I've come to the realization that if I moderate my reading just a little bit, I dont have to wait.

Besides the point. Sharing is caring, right?

1. ZOMBIELAND

I cant tell you how much I usually loathe zombie movies. They're full of gore (in a non-thriller movie sort of way - which I dont really enjoy), and the post-apocalytic world is completely depressing. Now, Zombieland tho - Zombieland. I can barely express how amazing this movie is. Its hilarious. And I watched it on a lark. Which I think made its hilarity so unexpected and that much more wonderful. Low expectations really are the greatest. It had me bursting out loud at every turn. There was hardly a moment where I wasnt in love with the witty dialogue and brilliant narration. But it wasnt just funny. It was such a multi-dimensional film, where there was well-acted dramatic scenes, along with comical zombie moments and a little bit of action thrown in there. If you havent seen this movie, I strongly give my stamp of approval and encouragement to see it. There is a Zombieland 2 rumored to be in development and I legitimately can not be more excited for a sequel.

2. The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo Series

I know this is one of those book series that has become the "It" books to read lately. I see people on the T reading one of the three all the time. But it is so well recognized because it is just that good. There were moments where I became ridiculously ancy, continuously shifting my reading position because of all the intrigue and suspense contained in these books. I couldnt just sit and read quietly - I was an active participant in these stories. The only devastating part of this series is the fact that the author, Stieg Larsson has already died. The novels were published after his death. Which is tragic in a very common literary way - cause I would read more novels from him if they existed. I really enjoyed his style of writing. Its set in Sweden, so the names of people and places can be tricky, but since I wasnt reading out loud to anyone, the pronunciations in my head will always be the correct pronunciations. Do yourself a favor if you like to read at all (or even if you dont) - Read these books.

3. Pride and Prejudice and Zombies

"A zombie in possession of brains must be in want of more brains"

I know I know. Apparently I'm all pro-Zombies movement or something. But I heard from a reliable book source that this was a good book. And by reliable I mean, I heard from someone else, that someone I usually approve of their taste in books enjoyed this. All hearsay and just the way I like it. I had my doubts. I mean I have all sorts of hesitancies about Jane Austen books. And part of me wanted to have read the original first. But since a bigger part of me thinks that stories where everything works out perfectly (with regards to love) are a little unrealistic (my own mother called my taste in literature a little twisted since I would rather read about the worst parts of human nature than the unrealistic love stories) - I figured the addition of zombies would even things out. The thing with this book, is that I really liked how quick and razor sharp some of the prose was. Jane Austen wins again. It actually made me want to read the original and try to see what changes were made. But it was good. Turns out classic literature and the supernatural go quite well together. I suppose when it comes down to it, I like the message that this book sent. Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy didnt immediately fall in love. In fact they pretty much hated each other. But it was through small means, and looking at the other person in a different light, that their love grew. Not some ridiculous three day love. I love that Elizabeth rejected Mr. Darcy. And yet he continued to love her and in fact, developed a more noble sort of affection. Its a nice message to send home to the kids: Sometimes at the end of the day, all you want is someone to fight zombies with. That is love.

Welp thats all for now. Enjoy!