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History is replete with countless stories of exceptional individuals. Unfortunately, when people discuss famous women, African Americans, Hispanics, ,etc. they tend to lean towards those individuals who are better known. Every so often there is the exception, the telling of those not remembered or forgotten, this documentary being one of them. Going into the theater I carried with me only the knowledge of who Getrude Berg was. I came out with a deep appreciation of what she accomplished in her life as a writer of 12,000 scripts; first lady of television, etc. and her overall impact. I was impressed especially at her work on behalf of her costar Phillip Loeb during the Communist witchhunts of the 1950s. This is an exceptional documentary and worth taking the time to see.

By itself, Public Enemies is a fairly decent movie that recreates the atmosphere of the time, the so called golden era of bank robberies through the escapades of John Dillenger. I especially give high marks to the recreation of some of the bank heists and shootings that took place. However, the major failure of this film is its deviation from the facts. Most of us generally understand that movies rooted in true stories will at times stray from the facts to make the story more profitable. What deeply disappointed me was how wide a deviation was taken in a number areas, especially the Little Bohemia shootout. If they had stuck to the facts, they still would have had a good film. Sadly, they decided not to. Would I recommend the film, yes. But do not consider it true fact and take the time to actually read up on what really happened.

I generally like the movies that Sandra Bullock has been making over the years, however there have been a few bombs. This is not one of them. In many ways, this is a slightly different version of past scripts of other romantic comedies. What makes it work is Bullock and Betty White. Bullock has once again shown she can play comedy very well and she especially does so with her body language and facial expressions. However, what added to this movie's charm was Betty White, who stole the show at times. Even though she was not always on screen, when she appeared, you noticed her. I may be judged wrong by others, but I hope the Academy seriously considers her for a best supporting nomination for her role come the next Oscars. I have seen other actresses do far less and win, so heads up Academy come January 2010. Two weeks ago I went to see the Hangover and as much as I liked it, this was a far funnier film. Everybody in the audience seemed to be laughing as much as me. Good movie, worth seeing.