Friday, November 20, 2009
Ashburn, VA
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Last update: 11/20/09 7:20 PM EST

Dinner & A Show: Desserts & "Law Abiding Citizen"

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Independent Revenge

Friday, 30 October 2009
 
 

Dinner…

Desserts

21950 Cascades Parkway, Suite 155

Sterling, VA

www.dessertsandcoffee.com

 Okay, perhaps it’s not dinner, but desserts deserve some appreciation too—especially when they invite you to bring your dinner in and dessert there.

 Desserts (with a sign like that I still want to call it, “Just Desserts”), offers a variety of treats for just about any taste. They serve shakes, malt, smoothies, gourmet ice cream and chocolates. If I’d had more time, it’s likely that they’d have had to remove me in a wheelbarrow.

 Desserts also serves a wide variety of cakes and pies. I normally try to refrain, but I felt the need to provide you with at least a sampling of what the little shop has to offer. I decided on the Orange Cream layer cake—which was extraordinary with delightfully light cake and a smooth, tasty topping and layer filling. Never one to stop trying, I also ordered a slice of the Snicker Bar Pie (a southern favorite.) To say that it was rich is an understatement.  Some might say it was too chocolately, but I’m not sure there is such a thing.

 Sitting down at Desserts, I was reminded of the old fashioned malt shops. It’s definitely friendly and would appear to be a nice hang-out for all, especially considering all the little games available for patrons. The next time you have a sweet tooth, try out Desserts. You can grab some coffee, indulge your sweet tooth, and sit down for a game of checkers with a friend.

 Now that we’re in the middle of fall’s blustery weather, it sounds like a very good idea.

 

 

 …And a Show

 

Law Abiding Citizen (R)

 

Synopsis:

After losing his family, master planner Gerard Butler targets both the criminals and the district attorney who mishandled the case (Jamie Foxx).

 

Review:

 While fewer criminals are released on technicalities than generally portrayed on film, the exclusionary rule remains a popular target in fiction. Strangely though, this film seems strongly divided as to which of the main characters is in the right.

The premise of the victim of violent crime taking justice in their own hands, then going over the edge, is nothing new. It’s been done before—and done in a less psychotic manner than in “Law Abiding Citizen.”

2 butler-and-foxx-law-abiding.jpg

I suppose I should have some lowered expectations for action/thriller movies. There are some novel aspects to the plot, but I was mostly aghast as the tremendous misuse of talent as what started as a promising premise melted into a pool of mediocrity. Gerard Butler (“300”) is less of a surprise. Since his breakout role, he appears to be in every movie being produced. Even so, he does bring a sense of drama and realism to a role that doesn’t go very far.

The talented Jamie Foxx (“Ray”) is less convincing as he attempts to channel the still-living presence of Denzel Washington. The authentic, fun-loving Foxx seems misplaced in the dour role of the district attorney. He underplays the role so much that it works to reduce the stakes and the tension of the entire film. And then there’s Viola Davis (“Proof”)…How can you do this to me? So talented and underutilized are the entire cast, I certainly hope that the decision to sign on was related to the fact that rent was due.

 If you’re an action or suspense aficionado, you may actually enjoy the effects and novelties of “Law Abiding Citizen,” but for most viewers, it will simply be a movie that almost works.  

 Rating (1-5): 2

 John Geddie’s revenge plots don’t involve him going to jail.

 

Next: The Vampire’s Assistant

 

Comments

Anonymous (not verified)

I think you mean "Doubt" when you mention the movie with which Viola Davis is associated. And I thought the movie was very suspenseful. Both Gerard and Jamie were terrific in this film. And I can never get enough of Gerard Butler! The more movies, the better!

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