Except that now she is playing mothers and has had extensive facial surgery, rendering her borderline unrecognizable.

I watched the Gerard Depardieu Cyrano de Bergerac again last night - another rescue from the video store sell-off. It's a very fine film that holds up well with a grand performance at the centre, even if it's not quite cavalier and sublime as it aspires to be. I was never especially concered about seeing Jose Ferrer version; this one more than covers the territory.

I'll have to see it. I watch the Ferrer one every several years. Wonderful, classic fluff, like his plumed hat.

I'm beginning to think any film with Ms. G is probably worth renting.

I slam the door on my way out...to celebrate the day. Happy B-Day Ibsen!

Sherrybaby may make you realize that the wrong Gyllenhaal is getting all the attention. Maggie G. is a nordic acting goddess.

The theme, concerning a young woman released from prison and trying to resume a normal life and get to know her young daughter again, is acutely painful in many places -- I found it hard to watch at times, but was rewarded by sticking it out. You can feel many indie films straining for authenticity and realism, but this one seems to achieve it without visible effort.

Gyllenhaal has an extraordinary face, shifting in one's perceptions, sometimes homely and drawn, sometimes luminous and lovely -- at times, her eyes can appear strangely flat and emotionless, at other times containing amazing depths of feeling and reflection. I'm beginning to think any film with Ms. G is probably worth renting.