Sex and the City-2 - Movie Review

"Sex and the City" is, was and always will be for the fans. The first movie, like the raunchy HBO series on which it was based, could be appreciated on its own hedonistic terms, but "Sex and the City 2" -- an enervated, crass and gruesomely caricatured trip to nowhere -- seems conceived primarily to find new and more cynical ways to abuse the loyalty of its audience.

That is evident from the first strained moments, as the movie picks up the story of Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker) and her friends Miranda (Cynthia Nixon), Charlotte (Kristin Davis) and Samantha (Kim Cattrall) two years after the last film ended. Carrie, happily married to Mr. Big (Chris Noth), has been feathering their handsome Upper East Side nest, while the others navigate motherhood, careers and menopause.

As the story takes them, inexplicably, to a freebie junket in Abu Dhabi, the script visits one indignity after another upon "the girls," from Miranda's desperate whoops of fake glee to convince herself she's having fun to Samantha's compulsive penchant for dirty puns.

While the show and first movie managed to thread a tricky needle between the traditionally girly concerns of clothes, shoes and romance and a far more sober, clear-eyed view of female solidarity and autonomy, "Sex and the City 2" uses feminist arguments to preempt the criticism it so richly deserves.

Thus Carrie & Co. can run amok in Abu Dhabi, dressed like the offspring of Barnum & Bailey and Alexis Carrington, making jokes about burqas and, in Samantha's case, engaging in exhibitionistic displays that border on the psychotic, but to disapprove of their behavior is tantamount to punishing female desire -- or, in the film's preferred trope, "silencing their voice."

The more strenuously "Sex and the City 2" tries to become a parable of trans-national sisterhood, the more patronizing and self-important the movie becomes, and the more its protagonists come to resemble shrill female impersonators. When Carrie expresses disbelief that a woman in full abaya can still enjoy a french fry, the veiled woman in question would be forgiven for taking in Carrie's own insane get-up and wondering who's the more sartorially oppressed.

Casting aside the filmmakers' breathtaking cultural insensitivity, their astonishing tone-deaf ear for dialogue and pacing, and their demented, self-serving idea of female empowerment, the biggest sin of "Sex and the City 2" is its lack of beauty. It's garish when it should be sumptuous, tacky when it should be luxe, wafer-thin when it should be whip-smart and sophisticated.

This movie makes a mockery of the surface pleasures that the original series could always be counted on to provide. The fans most likely will still flock to "Sex and the City 2," but they may feel as if they're being punished for their devotion.

* R. At area theaters. Contains strong sexual content and profanity. 140 minutes

Sex and the City Character Inspiration: Carrie Bradshaw

Today's the big day, and no, we don't mean Jen's birthday (even though it is..)!!  We mean, the big day for the Sex and the City movie and of course we have saved the best character inspiration for last!  Here is a fashion look book inspired by Sex and the City's most famous character, the fabulous Carrie Bradshaw! Carrie is the center of our Sex and the City universe, and her 6 years on the small screen have transformed her into a bona fide fashion icon. A little bit quirky, a little bit crazy, and definitely a little bit sexy, Carrie is the most daring of the group, always trying (and starting) new trends. No heel is too high for this fashionista, no trend too bizarre (she rocked a fanny pack, remember?), no flower too large... Carrie is truly a fashion legend. Here are our suggestions on how to dress up like Ms. Bradshaw aka Mrs. John Preston:

Shimmering and dramatic, this Grecian style, one-shouldered dress is something only the daring fashionista can pull of. Backless and super short, this is definitely a dress that someone with a small frame like Carrie can wear without feeling too overwhelmed. 

Carrie's nameplate necklace was her signature piece on the show, and even played a small role in the series finale. Get your own name necklace, in gold or silver, from My Name Necklace, and always stay true to yourself.

Sometimes Carrie's wardrobe can be a bit outrageous, and other times it can be drop dead sexy. To go with the latter, we suggest this fabulous sequined pencil dress by Karen Millen. Just throw on a pair of sky high heels and Mr. Big will be eating out of the palm of your hands.

We can just picture Carrie romping around Manhattan in this grey, open back playsuit by Kate Moss. With a sky high ponytail, some killer sandals, and gold bangles, our girl is ready to strut her stuff.

Of course, in order to strut your stuff then you need a pair of shoes that will live up to the hype. These Badgley Mischka sandals are outrageous and romantic, just like our leading lady, and are much more affordable than Carrie's staple Manolos.

Bonjour! Carrie was all about stripes and bows when she went to Paris a few years back, and she looked effortlessly chic. To mimic Ms. Bradshaw's Parisian style, throw on this striped mini dress available at Mod Cloth, add in a bright colorful belt, heels, a ton of bangles, and don't forget to curl your hair!

and, of course, one of Carrie's most iconic looks is her cupcake skirt worn in the opening credits. While not as poofy, this ruffled skirt by American Apparel is a bit more user friendly, and still manages to create that perfect balance of cute and crazy.

Time to get Carried away, dolls!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Sex and the City Character Inspiration: Miranda Hobbes

It's almost here!  The second Sex and the City movie comes out this Thursday, so here is our second to last character inspiration -- Miranda Hobbes!  Miranda's style has definitely progressed from her boxy suits and button downs worn in the early seasons. Now, she is a fashionista in her own right, brightening up her work attire with bright colors, varied prints, sexy separates, and of course, her gorgeous red hair. While always the professional at work, her play clothes tend to be more fun, comfortable, and vibrant. Here are some looks that we're sure Miranda would have no objection to:

Miranda always knows how to dress her shape, and this flirty V-neck dress available at Mod Cloth would flatter her curves and help show off her romantic side. We love when Miranda wears jewel tones, because it really sets off her peaches and cream complexion and her bright blue eyes. Plus the soft linen dress is both sexy and casual, just like the fiery red head.

Miranda often sports long, casual dresses to stay cool in the summer heat, which is why we love this maxi dress from Victoria's Secret. It's both comfortable and fashionable, plus green is definitely Miranda's color!

Like her gal pals, Miranda loves accessories, although they tend to be more understated than some of the other ladies' choices. We think this beaded stretch bracelet from Target reflects Miranda's bright color palette, but is simple enough to wear at the office.

Always the working girl, this simple cotton sheath dress is perfect for Miranda, as it  can easily be worn both in and out of the office. She would likely accessorize it with a blazer and the jeweled bracelet, shown above.

The verdict is in -- Miranda looks stunning in jewel tones!  We love this beaded scoop neck top for it's brilliant color that will perfectly contrast her bright red hair, but also for the shape and detailing that make this top professional enough to wear with a suit or high waisted pencil skirt for work and fun enough to transition right on into the evening.

Or, what about a casual top that would be a great addition to Miranda's weekend wardrobe?  Every Manhattan mommy needs a great day at the park outfit, and for Miranda we like this breezy, embellished top available at New York and Company. This great blue and green top has some fun embellishments on the neckline and would look great with some chunky earrings and gold sandals!

And, of course, children have a lot of needs, so you can bet she's stashing a little more than lipgloss and a credit card in her purses. Here we have a large structured bag perfect the professional mom on the go.  It's  chic enough for work, yet large enough to tote around some snacks, baby wipes, and a toy or two.  Plus, the material makes it extra fashionable and appropriate for the season.

Stay tuned for our final Sex and the City post!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Sex and the City-2 Performs better

So even if "Sex and the City 2" consisted of nothing but a two-hour fashion show, it would draw crowds. But it also has the returning cast members in fine comic form, and it has more cutting-edge humor than the first movie.

Critics will carp about the platitudes in the script and about the longueurs in the nearly two-hour opus, but for the core audience, there will be no complaints about too much of a good thing. This picture is going to be a smash when it opens on Thursday via New Line/Warner Bros.

Some of us who enjoyed the outrageous antics showcased in the HBO series created by Darren Star and executed in later years by Michael Patrick King (the writer-director of both films) found the first movie disappointingly bland. Instead of the bracing emphasis on sex, the focus shifted to less scintillating folderol about marriage. Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker) was jilted at the altar by her true love, Mr. Big (Chris Noth), but snared him in the end. Miranda (Cynthia Nixon) also faced a crisis in her marriage but ended up in a clinch with hubby Steve (David Eigenberg).

The new movie begins two years later at a wedding -- a gay wedding (in Connecticut). But though the two grooms are pledging their devotion, the gals are learning that marital bliss is more elusive than the first movie implied.

Carrie and Big find themselves at odds over an issue that bedevils many couples: She loves to go out on the town, and he turns out to be a closet TV addict who wants to do nothing more than curl up on the couch watching old movies.

Charlotte (Kristin Davis) has achieved her dream life with two children, but the tots turn out to be maddening rather than adorable. Only Samantha (the consistently irresistible Kim Cattrall) remains defiantly single, waging her own personal war against menopause.

These wan domestic squabbles are merely prelude to the movie's major plot development. Samantha is approached by an Arab sheik to devise a PR campaign for his business enterprises, and he offers to fly her and her three gal pals on an all-expenses-paid luxury vacation to Abu Dhabi. (These scenes were filmed in Morocco.) Even in an escapist fantasy, the spectacle of women sinking into this billionaire's paradise at a time of widespread economic hardship initially seems creepy and off-putting.

Soon, however, their Arab sojourn takes unexpected turns. First of all, Carrie encounters her old flame, Aidan (John Corbett), at the spice market, but even more importantly, she and her friends run up against the puritanical and misogynistic culture of the Middle East. The rather scathing portrayal of Muslim society no doubt will stir controversy, especially in a frothy summer entertainment, but there's something bracing about the film's saucy political incorrectness. Or is it politically correct?

"SATC 2" is at once proudly feminist and blatantly anti-Muslim, which means that it might confound liberal viewers. Indicative of the film's contradictory stance is a scene in which the ladies perform a karaoke version of Helen Reddy's "I Am Woman" in an Abu Dhabi nightclub. An equally outrageous moment comes when the interlopers are rescued by a bunch of Muslim women who strip off their black robes to reveal the stylish Western outfits they are concealing beneath their discreet garb. These endearingly loopy scenes exhibit the tasteless humor that enlivened the TV series on its best nights.

King's script isn't always well-balanced. Carrie's minor marital problems are given way too much attention, whereas the intriguing dilemmas of Miranda and Charlotte are downplayed. Nixon and Davis do, however, share one marvelous scene in which they vent their dissatisfactions with motherhood. It also is a pleasure to see Cattrall flaunt her sexual imperatives in front of her Arab hosts. Noth and Corbett are so appealing that we can sympathize with Carrie's romantic confusion. Liza Minnelli, Miley Cyrus and Penelope Cruz show up for amusing cameos.

Technical credits are first-rate. Cinematographer John Thomas and production designer Jeremy Conway make the most of the exotic locations. Costume designer Patricia Field's outlandish creations will send many viewers to hog heaven. But it's hard to know what King and editor Michael Berenbaum were smoking when they let the 146-minute film drag on at least 40 minutes too long. Even with its excesses, Carrie and company's excellent Arabian adventure will leave viewers thinking and arguing as well as swooning over the digs and the rags.

Sex and the City Character Inspiration: Samantha Jones

Samantha Jones is sexy, powerful, strong, and fierce. She is never afraid of wearing bold prints, color, and lots of accessories, and always looks ultra glam. She always knows how to show off her best assets, and her confidence is her most important accessory. While we may not have Samantha's PR budget to work with, here are ways to emulate her style for a lot less:

Samantha loves being the center of attention, and this one-shouldered bold printed dress by Bebe is sure to do the trick. Perfect for cocktails with the girls, we love the splash of hot pink and the belted waist, and the matching accessories picture on the model is just Samantha's style.

While Samantha does like bold prints and colors, our favorite look for her is old Hollywood glam. We can just picture her strutting around in this chiffon halter dress by Maggy London, topped off with perfectly coiffed blonde curls and some bright red lipstick. 

Samantha's confidence means big heels in bright colors, like these Steve Madden platform sandals. Samantha is big into color coordination, so don't be afraid to rock these with a banana yellow dress or jewelry. It may seem over the top, but really, you can never have too much going on.

 

It takes a lot of guts to go full on head to toe monochromatic, as it's a look like that is sure to turn more than a few heads.  Samantha's love for "notice me" shades would have her right at home in this kiwi green suit.  She would rock this with matching bag and shoes, and we wouldn't be the least bit surprised if she swapped out that tie waist belt for another that is a little more substantial... and probably metallic.

Every bit the sex bomb, Samantha would sizzle in this form fitting, red satin pencil dress by Karen Millen.  We love the color and beautiful neckline. Just add some gold bangles and earrings and throw on a pair of strappy sandals, and Smith Jerrod is all yours!

Samantha's version of casual still includes a lot of bling. This flowy top from XOXO is perfect for the desert (Dubai, anyone?) and would look great with a pair of wide leg trousers.  

Representing celebrities for a living means your office attire is a bit different than the regular suit and blouse combo that we're all used to. This high waisted skirt and gold glitter top, available at Express, is the type of outfit Samantha would wear when striking deals and breaking hearts, coast to coast.

So not everyone can engage in a bidding war to win a thousand dollar, over sized, diamond flower ring like Samantha -- but you can buy a replica online for only $39.99! Show off your confidence and independence by sporting this ring on your left hand, which will certainly overshadow any other jewelry that may or may not be there. Just try doing some finger weights beforehand, this looks like it could be pretty hefty!

Go out there and be fabulous, dolls!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Sex and the City Character Inspiration: Charlotte York

As we anxiously await the release of the newest Sex and the City movie next week, we've found ourselves wondering what types of outfits are out there this season that we'd be sure to find in the closets of Manhattan's favorite fashionistas.  Today we'll be inspiring you to channel your inner Charlotte.  Charlotte York's style is classic, feminine, and sexy (although she is typically considered to be the most conservative of the bunch).  This look is easy to pull off on a budget! Take a look below at some of our picks to help you on your way to creating a Charlotte-esque wardrobe.  You can't go wrong with neutral colors, feminine detailing like bows, lace, and ruffles, and fitted, classic silhouettes!

Charlotte always looks incredible put together, which is why we could imagine her in this sweet and simple black and white dress available at Macy's. This is something that could be worn while out running errands, brunching with the girls, and volunteering at the museum.

For a more casual look (and we use that term loosely) check out this preppy and sophisticated fit and flare shirtdress with gold buttons. Charlotte always has a wonderful tan, which would look great with this bright white dress, and the belt would flatter her pear shaped body.

This strapless, pleated floral print dress would be perfect for a hot summer day out shopping with the girls. The dress is very feminine, just like Charlotte, complete with a sweetheart neckline and piping at the waist. 

 While Charlotte loves her pearl necklaces,  pearl earrings are just her style as well. These romantic rose and classic pearl stud earrings for all occasions, and at just $3.80, they're quite a steal!

Now that Charlotte has two girls of her own, playing dress up isn't always practical. However "play clothes" don't need to be boring, which is why we think this ruffled and frilly cardigan from Anthropologie would be perfect for the afternoons chasing the kids around the park.

Although being a mom sometimes means the end of tiny little clutches, Charlotte knows how to keep her style in tact (her pregnancy outfits are a clear testament to this). We think this dainty wicker and lace clutch purse from Mod Cloth is a perfect accessory for those days when Charlotte is able to take off with the girls, as it can comfortably carry her phone, lip gloss, and credit cards -- no snack packs or baby wipes included!

While channeling her inner Martha Stewart, Charlotte would look timeless in this retro, printed halter dress. Whether she's making pot roast, Sabbath dinner, or ordering take-out, Charlotte is the picture perfect housewife.

While Carrie is definitely the shoe fanatic of the bunch, Charlotte loves her sandals. We thinks this feminine and delicate "Daarling" platform pump by Steve Madden is exactly the type of sandal Charlotte would go for -- it's sexy but not too loud, just like our favorite Park Avenue Pollyana.



Stay tuned for our next post about our favorite Manhattanites!



XOXO

Jen & Saira

New Teaser for SATC2

OMG! OMG! OMG! Oh my SATC! Check out a new teaser poster and photo from Sex and the City 2 … opening in theaters on May 28, 2010! I literally don’t think I can wait that long!

And The Axe Goes To -

Sadness this week as NBC's Lipstick Jungle has been canceled! I hate to say goodbye to Victory, Nico, and Wendy. Only in its sophomore year, the show has taken us through death, adultery, heartbreak, date nights in NYC's hotspots, many a laugh and a steamy scene, and a slight familiar resemblance to Sex and the City. Goodbye girls, you will be missed!

In Stores Today!

Sex and the City: The Movie DVD hits stores today! So, so exciting! And in an extended cut version, even better!

Check out Glam's coverage of the pink carpet at the DVD launch.

Photo Credit: Amazon.com

- Erin Dustin

These Are A Few Of My Favorite Scenes

The weekend dedicated to SATC continues as I bring you my favorite Carrie Bradshaw moments:

This last dress that SJP wore during Carrie's cleaning-out-closet extravaganza is the same one she wore in the opening credits of the show! How clever!

I agree with the girls, it def. belongs in the take pile.

- Erin Dustin

May 30th Is Here!

Today is finally the day to "get carried away." I just did and what a ride it was! A very emotional rollercoaster I must say! No spoilers for those out there who haven't seen it yet, but oh so exciting and oh so fabulous! Right now I'm thinking my weekend might include seeing it over and over again. And no, I'm really not kidding!

Photo Credit: Google

- Erin Dustin

The Obligatory Sex And The City NY Premier Commentary

I have to be honest here: while I was really excited about the release of Sex And The City: The Movie (just think of the shoes), nothing turns me off as quickly as over-hype. But since I'm here for the pretty, the shiny and the snarky, let's ignore the PR machine and look at the dresses:


Sarah Jessica Parker skipped the crazy hat, and instead chose a gorgeous Nina Ricci gown. I watched the red carpet arrivals on E! (though I kept it on mute. I have done nothing so bad as to deserve another Juliana Rancic show), and there was also a questionable pair of shoes, thankfully hidden under the dress and a vintage looking clutch. I love everything about her look. The hair is her trademark and the makeup focused on her eyes, her best feature.



Kristin Davis made an unfortunate choice with her Donna Karan dress. I hoped it just didn't photograph well, but it was just as horrid on screen. Stiff, promish and the length is in what Tim Gunn calls "the frumpy zone".



It seems that I'm the only one who liked Cynthia Nixon's Narciso Rodriguez dress. While her co-stars have gone metallic, Cynthia is pale and ethereal. I think she looks lovely.

Kim Cattrall has apparently trying to orchestrate a wardrobe malfunction since the Toronto premier (see this photo). Still no nip-slip, but she looks dangerously close.


What do you think? Who is your favorite? And why does Matthew Broderick look mostly-dead?