War and Peace - Russian Resurrection Film Festival

I have just come home from seeing the 1960s Mosfilm War and Peace, all seven or so hours of it, at Cinema Paradiso as part of the Russian Resurrection film festival. I went to see Two Days on Thursday and am planning on Siberia Mon Amour tomorrow, and was going to do a joint blog post of my foray into Russian cinema, but it would be impossible not to dedicate a post to the centrepiece of the festival. The film was made in several parts between 1961 and 1967 partly as a response to King Vidor's 1956 War and Peace. It is an exquisite spectacle, the most expensive Soviet film ever produced (hardly surprising, seeing as it is, in effect, four films).

Vivat academia! Vivant professores!

So, I graduated yesterday.

Made On The Left

I love markets. I love craft. It should only follow (rabbits and hats, people!) that I love craft markets.

S-M-R-T! Smart! or "End of an era"

I have made a crucial decision today and ordered a smartphone. I'm not entirely happy about the development.

Top of the World

So, I went on holiday. I had an unforgettable weekend in Kathmandu: it was noisy and messy and at times very confronting, but my local friend was an excellent guide and was really able to show how to appreciate Nepal. Here's a taste, but you should go, go, go.

Me 'n' Joan

It's been a while, hasn't it?

In fairness I have very little to say, but a brief update would probably be a good idea.

Precious, Sherlock and the Darcys

It occurred to me that recently I have been reading almost exclusively detective fiction. It's not a genre I've dabbled in before, so I'm pleased I managed not to crack open any duds. It's been fun: my new acquaintances have been quick reads with interesting main characters and more humour than I was expecting.

[there will be spoilers]