Disturbing Thriller Films, Filled with Suspense

In general I'm really not crazy about horror movies, admittedly I have never been into the typical blood and gore films of any kind however I will watch the occasional thriller movies even if they have some gruesome or tragic parts.

1.  Bird Box 2018- is a Netflix post apocalyptic dark thriller. The film is based on some kind of supernatural force that has the ability to make people kill themselves after seeing it. In the film a woman Malorie (Sandra Bullock) along with two small children must flee while blindfolded through a forest and river to get to a safe sanctuary.  This film was just released and I will tell you it is fantastic. Full of suspense and horrific peril the story takes you on a journey and the odds of survival are slim.  This movie sports an extremely talented cast and I can tell you it is definitely worth watching.

2.  Get Out 2017- is a disturbing horror film about a young black man (Daniel Kaluuva) who goes to meet his white girlfriend's family and uncovers a secret about her family and the community they live in.  Almost as soon as they arrive he starts to notice how strange the people act but when he announces that he needs to leave.. well lets just say that doesn't go over too good.  I thought this movie was scripted extremely well and had just the right mix of suspense, humor and drama to keep anyone's attention.

3.  A Quiet Place 2018 - is a post apocalyptic horror film. The movie is based on a family struggling to survive in a world taken over by creatures with an acute sense of hearing that will brutally attack any noise that is heard.  The Abbott family looks to have learned a way to live alongside these creatures however you also quickly learn in the movie at what horrific cost they pay as well.. This movie is full of suspense and I have heard they are working on a Part 2. This movie is really well done and will scare you but don't make a sound.

4.  Split 2016 - is a psychological thriller, horror movie and is based on a young man who has 23 different personalities that kidnaps and holds hostage 3 teenage girls in an underground facility.  The movie is full of twists and turns and the suspense definitely keeps you guessing throughout the movie. I really was surprised at the movie's tie to Unbreakable released back in 2000

Another sequel called Glass was released in January 2019 and reprised roles from both Unbreakable and Split..

5.  Glass 2019 - is a psychological superhero thriller film and the final film of a trilogy ..and the sequel to Unbreakable 2000 and Split 2016..  Starring Bruce Willis, Samuel L. Jackson, James McAvoy as well as many others.. In the movie the multi personality, Mr. Glass and David Dunn (Bruce Willis) are all locked in a mental hospital with a psychiatrist who is out to prove that the trio do not actually possess super human abilities.. Yeah .. Okay!  Interesting film.. Definitely held my attention.. Full of dramatic events that coincide to leave us spellbound.. Truly thought provoking film.. as well as an excellent thriller..

6.  Frozen 2010 - is an older thriller film that is filled with not for faint of heart suspense. The story is based around a few friends that after a day of skiing they decide to take one more run down the slopes however the resort decides to close early because of looming weather conditions. Because of an error in judgment by the resort employees not all the skiers are accounted for and the ski lift shuts down leaving the friends stranded high above the ground. I have to be honest I have skied a few times in my life and I had no idea how the resorts know where everyone is at any given time so this tragic event is very believable. I also have been on a few chair lifts and they do get extremely high off the ground. This movie is full of some really gruesome parts and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the film.

7.  I Am Legend 2007 - is a post apocalyptic sci fi horror drama and stars Will Smith as a US Army virologist Robert Neville.. The movie is set in NYC after a virus which was created to cure cancer starts wiping out mankind.. leaving Neville as the last human in NYC.. Neville works hard to find a cure for the virus while defending himself against the infected hostile mutants.. While the film has many hard to watch gripping scenes ..I absolutely love this movie.. 

Crime Drama Movies that Grab Your Attention

1.  Widows 2018 - is a heist drama crime thriller.  The basic premise of the film is a group of women who lost their husbands in a heist gone wrong are threatened by the crime boss that lost loot in the botched deal.  After one of the women find a detailed plan of the next heist in a book by her husband she enlists the other women to complete the next heist in order to repay the debt to the crime boss. The movie than follows the women as they practice and execute the crime.  I do not want to give away too much of the movie but I will tell you the film has an outstanding cast including Liam Neeson, Viola Davis and Robert Duvall just to name a few.  The film also features a dramatic turn of events that will leave you stunned.  This movie is well worth watching and keeps your attention throughout. I enjoyed it very much and have no doubt you will too.

2.  Hell or High Water 2016 - is a crime drama based on two brothers that decide to rob banks in an attempt to save their family ranch.  The movie does a great job at showing the desperation these brothers are going through to come up with the money and the Robin Hood like feel the movie takes on while the brothers are being pursued by two determined Texas Rangers can't be beat. Without giving too many details of this film I will say I found it to be full of action with many enjoyable dramatic performances by the cast.. I thoroughly loved this movie, along with the surprising justice prevails ending.  This is a must see film that I know everyone will love..

3. Gone Girl 2014 - is a thriller crime drama which highlights a man Nick Dunne ( Ben Affleck ) who becomes the prime suspect in the mysterious disappearance of his wife. This movie is full of twists and turns that soon take on a life of their own.. I was spellbound throughout the film and thought the movie did a great job of showing how someone can literally destroy another person after concocting a despicable revenge plan. This movie was a real suspense filled roller coaster ride and a movie I highly recommend. 

4. Panic Room 2002 - is a thriller crime drama is based around a young mother and her daughter (Jodie Foster and Kristen Stewart) being trapped in their newly acquired New York brownstone's panic room after a home invasion. The panic room was built by the previous recluse owner for protection of the occupants from any intruders. The three robbers that break into the home intend to break into the safe that is in the floor of the panic room however they are unaware that the home is no longer empty and the new tenants have already moved in ahead of schedule. While I do not wish to give away any further details of the movie,  I will say that even though this movie is older than the others I have listed it is still one of my favorites. Panic rooms or safe rooms have become steadily more prevalent through the years especially among the wealthy and in my opinion can be a good addition to any home. In fact when I was a young child there was a hidden area within my closet that I always felt would be a great place to hide if there was ever any intruders in my home.  Looking back now I realize that although it was a good place to hide, it would never had protected me in case of a home invasion because the entry could not be secured.  I know that this movie may not be for everyone but I know that even today hidden and safe rooms are still increasingly being built into homes for a variety of purposes.

5. Breaking In 2018 - is a crime thriller based on a young mother (Gabrielle Union) that must protect her children when burglars invade the smart home of her deceased father looking for the contents of a safe. This movie is another home invasion movie that I found to be highly suspense filled. While at times this movie is somewhat predictable I still found it entertaining. It also goes to show even homes with multiple security features can be broken into. 

 6. Kidnap 2017 - is a drama, action packed thriller film based on a young mother (Halle Berry) whose 6 year old son is kidnapped from a local carnival while she is on the phone with her lawyer.. 
I will have to admit this film is attention grabbing from start to finish.. Also like in many other movies I found myself yelling right from the beginning of the film.. at why in the world she would step away to take a phone call ..after all her son is only 6 years old.. However just as in many other movies ..and unfortunately in real life.. sometimes you have to take a step back and remember not everything a person does makes sense.. After all we are all human and sadly everyone is capable of making a mistake.. However some mistakes have horrible consequences..  

It takes only a few minutes for Karla's son to be kidnapped, and after she sees he is missing she frantically searches through the crowd were she sees a woman dragging him into a car..  A chase ensues between Karla's van and the fleeing car with her kidnapped son inside..  

This is a definite must see movie for the entire family.. The film keeps you on the edge of your seat .. and has plenty of thought-provoking moments that cause you as a viewer to think what you would do if you were tasked with the same set of circumstances...

Some of My New Favorite TV Shows

1. The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel 2017 - This Amazon TV series at first may not seem to be too interesting however you would be completely wrong.  Mrs. Maisel started last year married to an aspiring non funny man who in all her Jewish glory quickly showed herself to be an extremely hysterical woman on stage. She is relevant to women everywhere even though the show is set within the 50s, her satirical humor is extremely contagious. The series sports a talented cast and pays close attention to even the smallest details of the era. Very unique series well worth watching, and it will definitely make you smile.

2. God Friended Me 2018 -  This CBS comedy just finished the first season and has definitely won me over.  The series is based on a young man named Miles Finer who is or was as the case maybe a self-proclaimed atheist whose life is complicated when he receives a friend request from God on social media.  He soon learns that the friend requests sent by God are people who need his help in some way.  There is a lot more to the story but I don't want to give too much away from this adorable and extremely well written storyline.  I will just say that any uplifting show in this day and age is an improvement we all should embrace.

3.  The Neighborhood 2018 - This CBS comedy series is a winner.  The story is a young white family from Michigan moves into a black neighborhood in LA.  The cast is outstanding and is led by Cedric the Entertainer who sees the new neighbors friendly and naïve demeanor as somewhat annoyingly hilarious.  This is definitely a show full of chuckles galore and in this day and age it does show that while everyone is different we are essentially the same.  After all it takes a village and change can start by simply being neighbors.

4.  Escape At Dannemora 2018 - This Showtime mini-series is based on a real 2015 prison escape of two inmates..( David Sweat and Richard Matt ) from the Clinton Correctional Facility in upstate New York.  Their escape was aided by a female employee of the prison who was engaged in some sorted sexual and romantic triangle with the two prisoners.  Their escaped incited a huge manhunt in which  Richard Matt was killed and David Sweat was captured.  The woman, Joyce "Tilly" Mitchell who aided the prisoners was charged and convicted of facilitating criminal activity and promoting contraband.  When I started watching the series I had no memory of the escape yet after fact checking I now am obsessed with this series.  The story is literally insane how this delusional female was able to engage in inappropriate relationships with both inmates and bring into the facility tools to help them escape from the prison.  Trust me you will find yourself completely immersed in this series.  The cast is outstanding and literally unrecognizable in their performances. Ben Stiller directed the series and in my opinion has done an outstanding job.  Watch this mini-series you will not be disappointed.

Note: This mini-series has just finished up, however I do hope that Ben Stiller finds other similar works to direct as this mini-series was outstanding and I one that I highly recommend.

5.  Dirty John 2018 - This drama thriller series is on Bravo and while I didn't think it would be all that interesting at first I actually found myself screaming at the TV.. Not because I found the main character Connie Britton totally clueless but because in some ways I saw a little of myself in her.. Sad to say but I was doing fine in my life (many times over) and because I wanted someone so desperately I was naïve and believed what (men) told me without checking their stories out first.. Another confession is I was almost killed by a man who I hardly knew and even though I can look back on it and see my mistakes now at the time I was as gullible as she is .. In the show which has really just started she is the epitome of gullible and sad to say but I can see her almost getting away with her life and for that matter putting her own family at risk at the same time.. So yes I find myself screaming at the TV for her lack of ability to see what is directly in front of her.. John Meehan is a con man, a user, a dangerous man who will do whatever he has to do and much like the man I met.. This is a must see for any woman who is looking to meet someone in this social network age, or for that matter you can meet a killer just as easy these days at a bar.. So take it from someone who lived through it .. Be careful, protect your self, your finances, and your loved ones.. Check anyone you meet out before you allow them into your life.. and even when you think you know them .. take your time don't give them access to your family or finances.. Life lessons learned the hard way..  

Note: Just watched the final episode of Dirty John.. and I can only say it was a fitting ending for such a predator as John Meehan.. I now also know more of about the true story behind the show.. I researched case and found that NBC Dateline covered the John Meehan story on January 12, 2018 titled The Women and Dirty John.  I would also like to state for the record the predator that came into my life just as in this show met with his own death in April of 2018... another fitting end to my own "Dirty John" story.. The End




Oxygen Oxygen special on Dirty John - The Dirty Truth

Best Action, drama, non stop thrill rides

These films have all you would ever want.. good storylines, vengeance, and well choreographed action packed performances.

1. John Wick 2014 - Keanu Reeves plays John Wick ex hitman who is forced to come out of retirement when after losing his wife he is forced to endure the theft of his 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 and his beloved puppy given to him to aid in his grief.  The film is one of Keanu Reeves best and will keep your attention throughout.

2. John Wick Chapter 2 2017 - Keanu Reeves returns as a hitman who goes on the run after a bounty is placed on his head. This movie is packed with even more action than the first and a much bigger dog.  Both films are outstanding and John Wick Chapter 3 Parabellum is scheduled to be released in May 2019.

3.Taken -2008, Taken 2 -2012, Taken 3 -2015  The trilogy of Taken stars actor Liam Neeson as Bryan Mills a former CIA operative.  In the first installment his daughter is kidnapped on a holiday in France with her friend by sex traffickers and Bryan Mills uses his skills to track down his daughter's kidnappers. 

Taken 2 installment begins when the Albanians take revenge on the CIA operative while in Istanbul and kidnap both him and his ex-wife for one of the deaths while saving his daughter when she was kidnapped two years earlier.

Taken 3 installment begins when his ex-wife is murdered and he finds her lifeless body in his apartment. While Bryan seeks to find his ex wife's murderer, he also has to evade the police (Forest Whitaker) who seeks to arrest him.

All three installments are packed with plenty of drama, action, well scripted performances and some of Liam Neeson's best work.

4.  The Accountant 2016 - is a crime thriller action movie and stars Ben Affleck as a CPA with highly functioning autism that makes his living uncooking the books of criminal organizations around the world.  This movie is full of twists and turns and while the movie is very hard to describe it is full of drama and well worth watching.

5.  Honorable Mention -  Mission Impossible 1 -1996, Mission Impossible 2 -2000, Mission Impossible 3 -2006, Mission Impossible 4 -2011 Ghost Protocol,  Mission Impossible 5 -2015 Rogue Nation, Mission Impossible  -2018 Fallout  - Tom Cruise stars as Ethan Hunt a special agent in the IMF (Impossible Mission Force)  in all these action packed films and while I won't go into the dynamics of each film I will say they have a huge following.  I have watched the films but I have never been a true fan of either MI series or the James Bond 007 films..  Although I find both MI and OO7 films to be packed full of drama, espionage, and on the edge of your seat action. However with that being said not every movie is everyone's cup of tea and all of my movie picks are just based on my opinions and I urge everyone to judge these movies for yourself.. 

  
The Matrix Franchise - is a sci-fi action thrill ride franchise about a group of heroes who fight a war against machine overlords that have enslaved humanity in a high tech virtual reality system.. Keanu Reeves stars in this amazing special effect franchise noted for its stop action slow motion effects.. The Matrix 1999, The Matrix Reloaded 2003 and The Matrix Revolutions 2003 all of which were creations of The Wachowskis.. 

I have to be honest much like other high impact action films.. I can say I have watched all of The Matrix films.. however they are not really my type .. I much prefer Keanu Reeves in the John Wick franchise.. I just love the whole concept of the John Wick franchise.. but that being said ..The Matrix has its place in films.. because it incorporates high action, sci fi, fantasy and special effects like no other movies have.. and of course Keanu Reeves is ever so hot in them.. Definitely worth seeing all of them.. Exceptional special effects..

Best Action, Superhero films

I have to say I have always been partial to action movies, especially the ones that highlight some kind of drama, thriller dynamics.. typically films with real stories I can identify with.. However here lately I have been watching an increasing number of superhero action movies, even though I have never been a big fan of them.. Possibly because these type of films have really improved over the years by adding stronger female roles.

1. Black Panther 2018  - Marvel superhero action film with an outstanding cast highlights a superhero who unites some African tribes to form Wakanda who have developed advance technology and come to isolate themselves by posing as a third world country. Without giving away too much of the storyline someone comes to Wakanda to challenge its ruler for the throne. The movie has many strong female roles and highlights family dynamics. I found it an extreme action thrill ride and very watchable for everyone of any age.

2. Avengers Infinity War 2018 -  Infinity War is the newest film released of the Avengers Marvel superhero films and highlights how because of the Infinity Stones all of the Superheros have to unite to protect their world and universe from those looking to use the stones for evil.  At least that is how I will try to describe this film.  It has an outstanding cast, and all of the superheros unite to stand and fight to keep evil from winning.  I was completely thrilled with this movie and would say it has everything any superhero movie watcher could ever want.  Thumbs up up up.. you want be disappointed.  Avengers End Game is scheduled to be released in April 26 2019 Trailer 

3. Aquaman 2018 - DC comics superhero based movie for me was an extremely interesting action flick. While I admittedly have no prior knowledge of comic storylines and have never been much of a fan of superhero films. I was totally engrossed in the story of a normal lighthouse man rescuing a princess of Atlantis during a storm and then them having a son with the ability to speak to animals and breathe under the sea.  The movie quickly progresses into a struggle between two sons rights to the throne.  I would describe this movie pure enjoyable action and a definite must see.. 

4. Suicide Squad 2016 - is a superhero film based on a DC Comics supervillian team .. it has an outstanding cast (including Will Smith, Jared Leto, and Margot Robbie) that I actually think makes the movie the hit that it is.. the story is based on a team of supervillians offered release to execute a government mission and save the world.. The soundtrack also adds a great backdrop for the movie and even though the movie is a superhero action film is actually has a lot of comedy with a touch of dark romance between Harley and her man the Joker.. I really enjoyed this film and it has a huge fan base.. Gotta love supervillians that save the world.. 

Birds of Prey  Harley Quinn is Back scheduled for release February 7 2020 Trailer

5.  Captain Marvel 2019 - is a superhero film based on the Marvel Comics character Carol Danvers (Brie Larson) ..The film has an outstanding cast that includes Samuel L. Jackson, Jude Law and Annette Bening...  The film follows Danvers (Larson) as she becomes Captain Marvel when Earth was caught between two alien worlds during a galactic conflict..

I enjoyed the film from start to finish.. The film has everything .. its funny, packed with action.. a young blonde badass girl (Larson), Samuel L. Jackson, aliens and a cat.. What more could you want? All kidding aside.. I enjoyed it.. and definitely think anyone that enjoys superhero films will as well.. Let me know what you think?

6.  Venom 2018 - is a superhero film Marvel Comics .. The film focuses on Eddie Brock (Tom Hardy / Venom) an investigative journalist in search of a big story.. that after getting access into a top secret facility gains superpowers after being taken over by an alien symbiote (life form) whose species plans to invade Earth..

The film is full of action and humor.. I have to be honest I avoided watching it for quite sometime since as previously stated I have never been big on superhero films.. but after seeing the film.. I can honestly say I loved it.. I found it to be a perfect mixture of humor and action (Loved the motorcycle chase) .. as well as some great visual effects..  A definite must see .. and Tom Hardy was outstanding..

Movies based on true stories or events..

These types of films have to be my favorite for a variety of reasons. Anyone like myself who loves knowing about people or events in the past would probably agree with me, for one you may be able to learn something you may not have previously known and for another sometimes you learn about events or people you may never have known and they struggles that surrounded them.

1. Patriots Day 2016 - is a crime drama based on the Boston 2013 marathon bombing and the hunt for the bombers that ensued.  I have to admit I remember the bombing vividly and watched the manhunt and the media coverage along with the fast resolve of the cities law enforcement and other agencies that came together to find the bombers.. While not being a previous marathon watcher, I remember watching the terrifying event and being in awe of how Bostonians showed how they could and would stand together to find these terrorists and not let this event define them.. I have repeatedly found myself since more interested than ever in marathons, Boston and what we as Americans can do when we have to come together.  I have also seen that strength many times in some of the horrors our present day society faces.. This is a tragic event movie with an overwhelming feel good and rewarding takeaway.. Please watch it .. The movie is also one of Mark Wahlberg movies.  Trust me you will not be able to take your eyes off this film.

2.  Deepwater Horizon 2016 - this film is based on the real disastrous oil drilling rig explosion and oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.  I remember the disaster and the coverage of the impact that the massive spill caused however it wasn't until I saw the film that I was made aware of the corners that the company took that ultimately played a hand in the traumatic event.. The movie sports an all-star cast including Mark Wahlberg and Kurt Russell.  I love the movie because it showed what lead to the disaster and highlighted the men that were lost and survived the tragedy.  While I knew the impact of the tragedy of the oil spill, the film focuses on how easily such an event can happen.  This is a must see movie.. watch it..

3. Concussion 2015 - is a biographical sports drama based on the discovery of a brain disease brought on by repeated blows to the brain during game play.  Will Smith plays Dr. Bennet Omalu the forensic pathologist who actually discovered the brain degeneration disease known as CTE. This is a traumatic chronic condition that has been brought to light because of this doctor's research and plagues anyone with repeated trauma to the brain. While a concussion can be sustained in many ways including a blow to the head during a car crash.  Many sports most notably American football have now been made aware of the dangers of repeated concussions sustained by their players.  This movie highlights the medical evidence and physical harm brought about this disease.  This is a must see film, please watch it if you haven't already.

4. Hidden Figures 2016 is a biographical drama film based on the female black mathematicians that worked at NASA, including Katherine Goble Johnson who calculated flight trajectories for many of the NASA space programs most notably Apollo 11. This film has everything comedy, great dramatic performances by an outstanding cast and many factual aspects of the time including gender and racial segregation. I am very interested in the history this film does an exceptional job at highlighting and I think it is a must see for anyone wanting to know more about the women behind NASA's early beginnings.  I was awe-struck and still think this movie is a must see for all young women no matter what color of their skin.

5. The Butler 2013 is an American historical drama based on Eugene Allen who worked as a butler in the White House for decades.  In the movie Forest Whitaker plays a man by the name of Cecil Gaines who worked as a White House butler for 34 years. The film has an outstanding all-star cast and the film highlights many historical events during the time he spent in the White House.  This movie was outstanding and kept my attention from start to finish.  This film is a definite must see and the performances are unforgettable. 

6. The Blind Side 2009 - is a biographical drama sports movie based on the book The Blind Side Evolution of a Game based on Michael Oher a Baltimore Ravens football player .. The film follows how Oher came from a poverty stricken childhood in Memphis TN.. to his adoption by Sean and Leigh Tuohy, ultimately becoming a first round pick of the Ravens..  In the film Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron) befriends a younger student Sean Jr Tuohy.. and one night Leigh Anne Tuohy (Sandra Bullock) notices Michael walking alone in the cold and invites him to come home with her and sleep on the couch.. One night turns into so much more.. I truly can't say enough about this film.. it is completely heart warming.. and a film everyone should see... Ultimately Love, Kindness, and Humanity knows no boundaries and no color.. Love, Love, Love this film..

Lets talk family movies, family movies to me are ones that have everything animals perhaps, comedy, upbeat and well pure entertainment for all ages..

1.  A Dogs Purpose 2017  would be one of them, and if you believe that animals can be reincarnated and comeback to help their owners.. You should watch this movie.. it is uplifting and shows that a man's best friend does have a divine purpose to be there for us in our time of need.. I have to say this ended up being a real tear-jerker for me because I have just such a dog.. He means the world to me and has been my constant companion through many twists and turns in my life.. I call him my best friend.. I challenge anyone that is an animal lover to watch this movie with their kids.. and see how much joy a dog or any animal for that matter.. can bring to their owners lives..Oh yeah try not to cry..

2.  Christopher Robin 2018 and Goodbye Christopher Robin 2017 both of which I enjoyed but in two different ways..

Goodbye Christopher Robin tells truly the best version of how the creation of Winnie the Pooh came to be .. and the life of the creator of the heart felt stories AA Mine, inspired by his son Christopher Robin.. I found this film to be truly gripping.. Although this may not be a film for the truly young crowd.. it is a truly enriching family movie and describes the relationship between a father and his son.. I cried of course tend to do that in movies that have dramatic story lines.. and this movie doesn't disappoint.. and is definitely my favorite among the two films..

Christopher Robin .. however is a much different story.. it does have appeal for the smaller crowd..since all the characters talk.. and the story is about how Christopher Robin grows up only to be focused on his work and push his family to the side.. until Winnie the Pooh seeks him out for his help in Hundred Acre Wood.  There is a very good ending when he learns what is important.. Definitely not my favorite of the two films but much more a comedy family movie in the end, and everyone these days deserves some laughter in their lives.

3. Nine Lives 2016  I have to be honest this movie provided me more laughter and smiles than I have had in a long time.. Another father trying to connect with his young daughter decides to buy a cat for a gift.. However magic always seems to come in handy when teaching someone there is more to life than business ventures.. I don't want to spoil anything because this film is truly one that holds everything a family movie needs.. there is action, laughs galore, and a great cast to make it a fantastic film for the whole family.. Here kitty kitty.. Nice kitty kitty.. Trust me this is a movie for all ages and watch it..  

4. Max 2015 - is a family adventure drama and tells the story of Max (Malinois breed) who was a combat deployed canine with the Marines in Afghanistan and handled by Kyle Wincott.. After Kyle is questioned after weapons go missing, he confronts his friend Tyler and while on the battlefield under fire Kyle is killed and Max is injured and released from duty to Kyle's family.. 

Kyle's brother Justin eventually uncovers the circumstances of his brother's death.. The film has lots of action and drama.. truly loved all the twists and turns.. and this dog is amazing.. a true family movie.. and a definite must see.. All I am going to say is I cried.. more than once.. love love love

The movie has been compared to the true life story of Eli a combat bomb sniffing Labrador Retriever whose handler Colton Rusk was killed by Taliban sniper fire and upon being released from duty bonded with Colton's brother Brady..  Sadly there are so many service handlers and canines that lose their lives during combat.. for a combat canine to be released from duty and returned to a handler or his family is truly a blessing..

A sequel was released Max 2 White House Hero 2017.. but for me sadly couldn't compare to the original film..

5. Honorable Mention

Charlotte's Web 1973 - is an animated drama based on a little pig named Wilbur who becomes friends with a very intelligent spider named Charlotte who saves him from being slaughtered..

Charlotte's Web 2006 - is a live action and computer animated comedy drama that featured a star studded cast including Dakota Fanning, Beau Bridges, Julia Roberts, Oprah Winfrey, Cedric the Entertainer, Robert Redford and many others.. 

Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey 1993 - is an adventure family comedy .. based on a book by the same name by Sheila Burnford and is a remake of the 1963 film The Incredible Journey..  Homeward Bound is about three family pets that believe they have been abandoned and decide to embark on a journey to make their way home.. Shadow is a Golden Retriever and the oldest of the three (voiced by Don Ameche) , Sassy is a very mouthy Himalayan cat (voiced by Sally Field) and the youngest of the three is Chance a mischievous and immature American Bulldog (voiced by Michael J. Fox)..  the film features many adventures as they struggle to stay together and make their way home to their humans.. Loved Loved Loved it.. truly a film for the whole family.. and a definite must see

Ice Age Franchise 

Ice Age 2002 - is the original film and centers on a group of mammals trying to survive the Paleolithic ice age.. It features Manny, a mammoth and Sid, a sloth.. who while they are traveling north rescue a baby .. and decide to find the father and return the baby..The soon are joined by Diego one of the tigers that previously attacked the humans.. who after joining the group falls in love with the baby.. This film is adorable and very funny..

Ice Age: The Meltdown 2006 - features the trio (Manny, Sid and Diego) living in a valley that is surrounded by enormous ice walls.. that they soon discover are barely holding a massive body of water the valley.. They embark to get to a boat to save them but they only have three days to get there.. Along the way Manny meets Ellie a female mammoth that thinks she is a possum because she has grown up with two brother possums.. adventure abounds...

Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs 2009 - features Manny and Ellie who are expecting their first child.. Sid who wishes to start his own family.. and Diego who is feeling anxious ..

Ice Age: Continental Drift 2012 - takes place several years after in which Manny and Ellie's daughter Peaches is now a teenager.. and after being separated from the rest of the family and the film follows the trio (Manny, Sid and Diego) struggling to get home..

Ice Age: Collision Course 2016 - takes place after Continental Drift and after the planet is threatened Manny, Sid and Diego along with the rest of the herd leave their home to find a way to save the planet..


I know they have talked about releasing a sixth installment of Ice Age but as of now no date has been issued..

Disturbing Movies that are thought provoking

1. Netflix 2018..The Kindergarten Teacher is what I would call a dark drama about a teacher that fixates on a young pupil that composes and recites poetry.  She thinks the boy is gifted and instead of acting appropriately she spirals into a truly possessed woman over this boy.  I found myself holding my breath during so many parts, and I don't wish to spoil this very thought provoking film. I will however tell you the ending will leave you speechless. This is a movie that takes you on a slippery slope of emotions and is a must see.

2. Acrimony 2018 is a suspense dark drama that follows the path of a woman who gives up her dreams to support a mechanical engineering student through adulthood. The young woman loses her mother early in the movie and it becomes apparently quickly that this young man has big dreams of inventing a what he thinks will be the next big thing and will stop at nothing to attain it. Including draining her over the years of all her inheritance.  While again I do not wish to spoil all the twists and turns throughout the movie.  I will say that I was screaming at him to come to his senses many times, however the ending left me spellbound at how she ultimately becomes unglued.  This is a thriller full of jaw dropping events and one worthy of watching.

3. Collateral Beauty 2016 is a real tear-jerker drama that has an outstanding cast.  At first the movie takes you on the journey of a man who has loss touch with his life after the death of his young daughter, which to me seems in some aspects understandable.  After all the pain of grief is to many people hard to deal with alone.  Many times during the film you find yourself wanting to know what exactly happened and will he ever be able to come back from his heart breaking depression.  His business partners who are worried about his ability to continue to run the business go behind his back and find a dramatic way to use his mental status against him.  In the end the emotional well written journey will lift your spirit and revitalize your faith. If you haven't seen this movie watch it and let me know what you think.

4. Hostiles 2017 is a western with a disturbing look at how gruesomely brutal a life back in 1892. The movie starts with a horrific attack upon a family by Comanches.  After fleeing from the attack the wife and mother of the family is the only one left alive. At the same time a military detail is ordered to escort a dying Cheyenne chief and four members of his family back to their tribe. As the military group embarks on the orders with the chief and his family they soon come upon the family homestead and find the mother surrounded by the carnage.  After convincing her it is in her best interest that she ride along with them to their destination they are ambushed by Comanches and soon it comes to light that they all have to work together to make it to their destination alive.  I really enjoy watching westerns especially those with exceptional casts and this one was not only scripted well but was gripping from the start.  A truly heart stopping western nail-biting film worth watching.

5. Lizzie 2018 is a biographical thriller remake of the story of Lizzie Borden.. This film stars Kristen Stewart as the live in maid and ultimately an accomplice in the murders of Lizzie's father and stepmother.  I found this film takes on a relatively darker version of the crime story than I had previously seen in such films as The Legend of Lizzie Borden in 1975 starring Elizabeth Montgomery who were actually sixth cousins once removed and equally a gruesome account of the disturbing murders. Both of these films are exceptional dark thrillers and worth watching to gain history on the murders and ultimately the acquittal of Lizzie Borden.

The Holidays are Upon Us!.. Here are a few of my favorite shows, films and loves for the Holiday Season..

1)  The Grinch .. Newest Animated Version 2018 ,, is out and I loved the updated version.. I thought it was well thought out and just as good as earlier versions of this beloved movie / cartoon fame character.. Kids everywhere love the Grinch .. I know all mine did and even my grand kids are in love with the character.. and Cindy Lou is as always adorable..

The Grinch movie from 2000 is actually called (How the Grinch Stole Christmas) was with Jim Carrey.   and  Jim Carrey really brought the Grinch to life for everyone.. and actually features one of my favorite versions of Christmas movie songs sung by Faith Hill (Where are you Christmas?)

The classic Boris Karloff narrated cartoon (How the Grinch Stole Christmas) 1966.. is what I would call the original loved version of the trio and one I, myself loved as a child .. it has graced not only me but countless thousands through the years including my children every year throughout the holiday season.  It even still plays to this day on TV every year.

Of course honorable mention is the countless cartoons and books starring the Grinch (a Dr Seuss born classic beloved character for children everywhere)

2)  The Nightmare Before Christmas 1993 is an animated movie which is a dark fantasy mixture between Halloween / Christmas .. and one that has an acquired taste but one that my children and grand kids have all fondly come to enjoy.  However I think the story which includes a countless array of characters and music score .. is what truly makes this animated a classic that grabs everyone.

3) I also want highlight several of the beloved cartoons that have played every season since I was a child and that just as my children enjoyed them will forever be a staple from our childhood that will be passed on throughout generations to come .. ( to which I love to watch every year )

Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer
Santa Claus is Coming to Town
Frosty the Snowman
A Charlie Brown Christmas
Twas the Night Before Christmas

Only to name a few there are several newer Christmas cartoons out these days including ones with Shrek, Barbie and Toy Story.

4) Jack Frost - 1998 movie that makes me cry every time I watch it.. Story line is absentee hard-working father dies in an accident leaving the family grieving, especially the son that is having dealing with his death.  Father comes back to life (so to speak) as a snowman to reconnect with his grieving son and over just a small period of time a full spectrum of emotions play out between the son and his father.  Over time it becomes clear that it is time for him to leave his son now that he has helped his son with his passing but I won't spoil the ending other than to say .. I wish I could have had that kind of closure when my grandfather passed suddenly.  This movie is a definite Christmas go to tearjerker for the whole family..

The End.. Have a Great Holiday Season.. Christmas is my birthday and my favorite holiday season ..but unfortunately also the time I cry the most .. Love to all, especially my beloved kids and grandchildren

5. The Holiday 2006 - This movie is a cross between a love story and a Christmas must see.  The cast is exceptional and I do think that is what ultimately makes this one of my favorite films.  The film is based on two women who presented with spending a really sad holiday season decide to swap homes in the hopes that new scenery may brighten their spirits.  One from England and one from LA embarking on spending the holiday for only two weeks. However what they both find enriches their lives forever. I love this movie, it has everything good Christmas love stories should have laughter and love mixed with Christmas and New Year's joy.. 

6. Almost Christmas 2016 - is a hilarious Christmas comedy based on a dysfunctional but loving family that comes together for the first Christmas holiday after their mom's death. The movie has an outstanding cast that includes Gabrielle Union, Mo'Nique, Danny Glover, Omar Epps, Jessie Usher, Keri Hilson, Nicole Ari Parker, Kimberly Elise, John Michael Higgins as well as many others..  I literally laughed through the entire movie..  The film not only shows how dramatic the loss of the mother was to the entire family but it also makes you smile..highlighting all the dynamic personalities within the family .. this is a must see movie.. Happy Holidays 
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Honorable Mention Die Hard 1988, Die Hard 2 1990, Die Hard with a Vengeance 1995, Live Free or Die Hard 2007,  A Good Day to Die Hard 2013 - The Die Hard series are all action films.. 

However the first Die Hard movie has become a huge iconic Christmas classic .. because the action film takes place on Christmas Eve when John McClane (Bruce Willis) comes to a company Christmas party to be with his wife Holly.. However soon after arriving he realizes terrorists have taken over the building to steal millions from the vault in the building..  The first Die Hard is a cult holiday action flick with a huge fan following.. 

Die Hard 2.. is another film of the series that takes place on Christmas Eve .. and takes place while John McClane is waiting at Washington International Airport for his wife.. of course the movie is full of action as mercenaries take over the airport and McClane learns of their plans...

Die Hard with a Vengeance ..  is the third movie in the series and McClane is back in NYC and suspended from the police force .. when a terrorist threatens to blow up various locations unless McClane will play his version of Simon Says.. with riddles and tasks.. McClane learns the terrorist is the brother of the terrorist from the first film and agrees to help.. action action action.. 

Live Free or Die Hard .. is the fourth in the series and this film takes place on Independence Day .. McClane is now divorced when terrorists hack into FBI computers and go after McClane who was sent to bring in a computer hacker for questioning .. The terrorists end up holding McClane's estranged daughter hostage .. which was not a good idea.. John McClane to the rescue.. 

A Good Day to Die Hard .. the fifth in the series takes place in Moscow.. when McClane finds out that his estranged son Jack has been arrested in Moscow for murder.. However when he goes to the courthouse terrorists bomb the building and Jack escapes.. McClane action ensues.. the plot thickens with CIA, uranium and plenty of on the edge of your seat action.. 

Top TV watchable Series (In my opinion to which are both provocative and entertaining)

1. True Blood- American Fantasy Horror based on a series of novels which premiered in 2008 depicts a unique and yet fantasy driven story based in Louisiana about mortals, vampires and wolves would simply not do this series, the cast also includes fairies, witches, and shape-shifters as well.  While the storyline seems dark and brooding it also contains many provocative nuances along with humorous aspects. While the series has now ended, it continues to have a fan base and many such as myself loved many of the characters. It was pure entertainment, at times very sexual which more than likely didn't hurt its ratings .. Look this sort of series isn't for everyone but if you want to binge watch and enjoy TV fantasy genre such as Night Gallery, X Files, Tales from the Crypt, The Twilight Zone (all oldies and yet classic fantasy series), and American Horror Story (still ongoing American Fantasy series with many provocative story lines as well) than you will enjoy True Blood. So what do you have to lose, trust me it will keep your attention.

2.  Weeds - Premiered in 2005 and wrapped up in 2012 however it sets the bar high in my opinion for being one of the best marijuana based long running series.  Weeds was definitely in my opinion one of the first but now in just the past couple of years more series and shows based on marijuana have sprouted up..(notice how I added that sly play on words Sprout..ha ha)  . Storyline is based on Nancy Botwin a woman who starts dealing from the suburbs after her husband dies.. but along with marijuana dealing the show soon takes off on the family dynamics of her two sons, brother-in-law along with a whole list of friends.  It is not the typical drug dealing aspects one might be inclined to think.. this is the suburbs and they are not the typical bunch of gangsters you might think.. However the story spans what seems like a lot in just the 7 years it ran.. and Nancy Botwin becomes a very self learned drug dealing woman.  The series has humor, sex and pushes the envelope on drug dealing in the suburbs .. I think the series carries a good cast and makes a fantastic pick for binge watching .. Enjoy..

3.  Power - American Crime Drama premiered on Starz in 2014, and is a series still going strong .. but why wouldn't it with an amazing cast and drug dealing storyline.  I will be honest I was hooked on this series from the first episode.. This show is dynamic in just about every facet .. while drug dealing is the backdrop it draws you in as being really human.. the pull of wanting to break free from crime and yet doing what is right isn't always easy .. and how growing up on the streets and making it is hard.. I can't describe how jaw dropping and enticing the story is .. and how the struggles and pain the main characters have to endure through the years .. but this series is gripping just doesn't do it justice.. I am not black but I see it as being a series that anyone can identify with .. life and marriage is tough and not everyone will have your back.. as well as dreams are hard to achieve.. Just watch it and judge for yourself.. I will warn this is hard-hitting but the overall storyline will keep you watching and the cast is superb..

That's all for now.. remember not all my picks maybe your cup of tea.. but trust me you will enjoy watching..

Favorite Romance Movies.. Girly Flicks



Everyone will probably think that my favorite titles would be ones such as Titanic, The Notebook, Bridget Jones movie series, Ghost, Love Story, Dirty Dancing, PS I Love You etc.. and while I do love any romantic movie especially movies that bring me to tears .. Below are a few of my favorites

1. Terms of Endearment.. 1983 , while this tear jerky is filled with drama and comedy keep watching the movie is very descriptive of life most of us can identify in one way or another.  For me I could feel it within just the first few minutes.. after all I could remember waking my baby when I was a new mother just to make sure she was still breathing..  Ha.. yes I was one of those.. got so bad eventually I would drop to the floor below her line of sight to crawl out of the room .. after all I didn't want her to see me and want to be picked up.

The story highlights Emma played by Debra Winger as a young woman coming into her own as a mother and wife while dealing with her mother (Aurora) played by Shirley Maclaine. Lets just say the storyline is highly addicting and I can identify in many ways to the riveting conflict yet love between the two of them.. after all, sometimes it takes life altering events to realize the people who truly love you..

I can't say enough about the emotions this movie is filled with .. at times you will laugh, at times you will definitely be brought to tears.. but in the end your heart will be filled.. please watch this Academy award-winning movie and allow yourself to see life.

2.  Steel Magnolias..1989 .. another good life based tearjerker.. Steel Magnolias tells about the loving bond between a few women in a small Louisiana town.. The strong loving mother (Sally Field) of a young woman (Shelby played by Julia Roberts) who has battled Type 1 diabetes all her life.. and their loving friends and family characters surrounding them..

The movie instantly pulls you in with comedy and drama and focuses on the upcoming nuptials of Shelby.  Filled with love, laughter and twists and turns this movie highlights the lives of the full cast  and ultimately the traumatic loss this group of women will have to endure.

Something else worth mentioning is while the cast is filled with talent.. Shirley Maclaine is also one of the main characters in this movie as Terms of Endearment previously listed.

All I can say is this movie will break your heart and lift your soul .. a true GEM and worth watching by everyone.

3. Letters to Juliet  2010 This movie focuses on Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) a young writer who goes on a vacation with her fiancé to Italy.. but soon is drawn into story of a long-lost love.. brought about by an unanswered letter .. Sophie meets up with the woman seeking her long lost love and attempts to write her story while helping her fulfill her hopes of reconnecting with him.. with many twists and turns this movie highlights not only the search for love lost but a new beginning for Sophie.. and one that will surely bring both tears and joy..

I loved the heartwarming feel of this entire movie.. Amanda Seyfried was perfectly cast for the part of Sophie and delivers a truly ideal almost princess like ever after love that most people can only hope to find.. and one that in my case I have longed for my entire life..

Happily Ever After .. are words that truly deliver in this movie .. so go ahead..believe in true love and watch this movie

4.  Pretty Woman 1990 .. This movie is often thought of as one of the best updated "Cinderella type, love story films" starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere.  The movie focuses on a struggling hooker who meets a very wealthy man who ends up offering her a large amount of money to be his exclusive companion for one week.  Ultimately the two see something far more enticing than they originally expected in one another and it comes down to whether there can be a fairytale ending. Most people can tell by the way the movie progresses how this will all work out in the end.. but it is one of those movies that draws you in and just flat-out makes you feel good.. A definite must see for anyone who believes in fairytale endings still can come true..

5.  Silkwood 1983 .. While at first one might wonder why I included this very disturbing, drama filled true story in the Romance / Girly movies section.  I will gladly tell you.

Silkwood is one of those movies that from the moment I first watched touched my soul.. The movie is based on the true story of Karen Silkwood, a chemical technician and union activist that worked at Kerr-McGee Cimarron Fuel Fabrication Site Plant.  Karen's job was making plutonium pellets for nuclear reactor fuel rods that go into nuclear plants.  In the movie it details how the employees can and have in the past been exposed and upon doing so have to be decontaminated. During the time she worked at the facility the plant had experienced theft of plutonium by workers. Under suspicious circumstances both Karen Silkwood and her home was found to have been contaminated.  Karen testified about her concerns to the Atomic Energy Commission and later died in a mysterious car crash while attempting to meet with a New York journalist.

The movie Silkwood and it's cast did an exceptional job at bringing Karen Silkwood's dramatic story to life.. brought me to tears


..The End

Whistleblower TV show

Whistleblower TV show first premiered just this year on CBS.

CBS in my opinion is a highly trusted TV network probably best known for such ground breaking news worthy shows as 60 Minutes, 48 Hours and Face the Nation.

Now CBS has introduced a TV show Whistleblower and in my opinion it is something that can educate society in general on a very sensitive but necessary issue that amounts to checks and balances (something that I definitely can speak to as I was a whistleblower for OWCP and DOL medical fraud).

Whistleblowers have long been thought of as people who for whatever reason have reported their employers for wrong doing. (ie. many whistleblowers have been mislabeled as disgruntled employees that report minor infringements that would more often than not - have otherwise gone unnoticed)  However this is not the case, whistleblowers in general are just normal people who upon finding wrong doing or corruption within the system (such as with their employers) and having tried to go through reasonable routes to correct the issues have no other recourse but to report to authorities and in many cases the wrong doings are heinous activities that can impact not just a select few but many people.

Either way whistleblowing as in my case is something that has its place in society. People have to stand up and speak out if they see wrong doing and whistleblowing is not an easy process.  First they are scrutinized for whether the issue is indeed something worthy of reporting (monetary or criminal).  I can only speak to my case but at one time it was discussed if the issue was just an act of greed or if indeed it was criminal and medically fraudulent.

I very much appreciate seeing the whistleblower cases highlighted on the show, as I see it may help people out there stand up against other wrong doings and understand that while it is a very difficult process it is the right thing to do .. because in many cases the issues highlighted may have truly gone unnoticed before either they or perhaps someone else would have reported the wrong doings to the proper authorities.

In the end.. I can only say doing the right thing is hard, and being a whistleblower is not an easy process but it is one I do not regret doing.

For anyone wishing to know more you can view my whistleblower case at  https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdky/pr/kentucky-otolaryngologist-pays-279-million-resolve-false-claims-allegations

TV Series that are Meaty, and can be Engaging

This blog is intended only to give you my personal picks for memorable, timeless and thought-provoking movies and shows. However I also base my movie and show favorites on their overall entertainment value. I consider myself an above average TV and movie watcher and over the years I have from time to time been enticed to watch a TV show or film that for lack of other words is sadly bland ( weak or wishy-washy ) .. needless to say I end up turning it off and feeling cheated.

Note Worthy TV

1.  Grey's Anatomy - Medical drama (based out of a fictional Seattle hospital) that first premiered in 2005.  I know medical TV shows are not everyone's cup of tea, however for me and most of the people I know they are very engaging and quickly draw the viewer's attention.. They usually contain severe medical conditions that many people will either identify with in some way or will cause the viewer to feel a real concern about what the outcome will ultimately be (at times you may end up sitting on the edge of your seat to see if someone lives or dies).

There have been many medical dramas over the years, both good and bad.. Some of the other ones that spring to mind as being equally entertaining are:

ER which premiered in 1994 and spanned 15 seasons.  The show was really in my opinion ground breaking and I can remember watching almost every episode with my ex husband. In many ways it was something that brought us together after all he had a medical background and I was also in healthcare so we found it very entertaining not only for the story lines each week (such as who was in love with who) but the medical situations they found themselves in .. Most medical staff criticize medical series and films as being unrealistic, however I believe the viewer must always remember it is indeed a TV show and while they may do their best to be accurate, I will admit they sometimes fall a little short.. again viewers should remember the shows are intended to be entertaining and not technical medical publications.

However the show had a huge following and many celebrities started on ER (such as George Clooney). The show was based in a fictitious hospital in Chicago Illinois showing the lives of ER medical staff and the huge medical issues they were tasked with .  ER was and still is one of the best medical drama series ever written.

House  premiered in 2004 and was a medical drama (based in a fictional hospital in New Jersey) that focused on a medical genius (played by Hugh Laurie) with an unorthodox approach to healthcare. Dr. House unfortunately was plagued with a chemical dependence on pain medication but his medical expertise along with his inspiring staff saved multiple people from some of the most intriguing medical conditions.

M*A*S*H first premiered in 1972 and focused on fictional medical doctors and their staff out of a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital based in South Korea during the Korean War.  Even though the series can be best described as a dark comedy medical drama it highlighted the intense aspects of war, death, and the duty of those that place their lives in danger for our country each and everyday. I was only 12 when this first premiered but I remember watching it and I remember it was one of my first introductions to what service men and women grappled with in war.  Although looking back now I can see the comic relief the show provided at that time in my life I remember seeing episodes on how they ran out of painkillers which presented a real issue considering they dealt with casualties everyday.  or the Korean woman who smothered her own child.. Ultimately this series will always be one of the timeless classics.

Of course there are so many more really good medical dramas, some of which have just jumped on the scene such as The Good Doctor, Chicago Med, The Resident and many others.  I believe that medical dramas can in someway bring about change in not only healthcare in general but how medical personnel practice medicine and attend to their patients..

After all healthcare is something that everyone should be concerned with..

2. Homeland  is an American terrorism spy thriller drama that premiered in 2011. (Wow that was a mouthful .. but it is).. Homeland is everything you would want in a politics based fight on terrorism thriller series that shows how people risk their lives hunting down terrorist abroad and domestic.

All though the series focuses on a covert CIA operative (played by Claire Danes) who is bipolar. The show does touch upon many of the issues facing this country, and although this is series of fiction it is gripping and has an exceptional cast.  I have read that the 8th season will be its last and will start in June 2019.  Trust me this series is a must see, and I will be sad to see it end..

Note  .. Other dramas with similar content worth mentioning are Blacklist and the NCIS, both equally entertaining.

3.  Law and Order - SVU premiered in 1999.  SVU (Special Victims Unit) is a spinoff of the original Law and Order series.  The intention of the show is to highlight cases based on the sex crimes bureau which is a unit that focuses on sexually based offenses, as well as crimes against children.  In my opinion SVU is not the typical police drama it deals with very sensitive subject and the cast of the show is outstanding.  I binge watch SVU even when I think I have seen every episode out there.. which shows how much I enjoy this show.

Law and Order Criminal Intent premiered in 2001 and is another good spinoff of Law and Order which was a huge hit and first premiered in 1990..

4. Criminal Minds premiered in 2005 and is definitely not your typical crime drama.  Starting with an outstanding cast that has over the years managed to become like extended family members.  As well as this drama doesn't just tackle the typical who done it mysteries but they tackle serial killers along with focusing on FBI profiling tactics to find their unsub (unknown subject or criminal).  In many cases we have learned a lot I think about profiling and saying something if we see something from Criminal Minds.. I know I find the show fascinating and in many cases heartbreaking because some of the subjects are for lack of other words gruesome.  However the show has weathered over 14 seasons and in my opinion is still going strong.

Note I would like to mention that although there has been spinoffs (such as Beyond Borders and Suspect Behavior) the original Criminal Minds is still my favorite.  One of my favorite episodes is J.J.'s fight scene in the season 7 finale.

5. Goliath premiered in 2016 and is a dark legal drama. The main character Billy McBride is played by Billy Bob Thornton (need I say more) and is tasked with the role of an attorney who is down and out and has basically given up on practicing law.  However in the first season he comes back to fight a nemesis.  The story line is full of dark twists and turns while showing the human side of Mr. McBride as he tries hard to get his life back from walking away from the legal system.  In season two he is asked to get a young man out of trouble and ends up fighting an unscrupulous politician,  both seasons are outstanding and I hope Amazon renews it.  If you haven't seen this series ..watch it you will not be disappointed.

The End

Movies that are Remarkable.. and worthy of talking about.

Remarkable movies or shows are ones that provoke a conversation, as well as can depict unusual and interesting events.  I know for me after watching something that I find remarkable I usually end up looking up details on the subject whether it was a headline at some point in history, a person or event that I would like to know more about.  Over time I have watched these types of movies in just about every genre and enjoyed them for many reasons.  Here is just a few of the many titles I will end up writing about. 

.. True and Exceptional

1.  A United Kingdom released in 2016 .. is the story of Prince Seretse Khama of Botswana who shockingly married a white woman from London back in the 1940s.  After falling in love, they had to fight not only against prejudice but for his right to led his people.  Ultimately gaining his countries freedom from British rule.  This true story not only highlights the strife of prejudice back in the 40s but the struggle Botswana faced for Democracy.  I researched more about the story after watching this movie and read more on Winston Churchill's banishment of the Prince from his own country and how the his eldest son Ian Khama was elected President of Botswana and served two terms,  announcing recently his resignation from office.

2. All the Money in the World released in 2017 is the based on J. Paul Getty's refusal to extortion demands made by those responsible for abducting his grandson John Paul Getty III back in 1973. After watching the money I immediately researched the events of the movie vs history and found out indeed there was a refusal to pay but after receiving an ear and lock of his hair ..Mr. Getty agreed to pay the abductors. The dynamics of this movie is gripping and very interesting. I was only thirteen back then so a kidnapping in Italy by what has been touted to be the Calabrian Mafia would not have probably caught my attention. However after watching the movie I was very curious to learn about the details of the kidnapping and finding out what eventually happened to John Paul Getty III.

3. Erin Brockovich  released in 2000 was a biographical drama based on the true story of Erin Brockovich (played by Julia Roberts in the movie) who after losing her own case in court starts working for her lawyer after he takes pity on her being broke and offers her a job.

Erin Brockovich eventually fights against the energy corporation PG&E (Pacific Gas and Electric Company) in California back in 1993.  The case was based on contamination of drinking water with hexavalent chromium and affected the town of Hinkley.  Again this is a very gripping and disturbing story in history that causes you pause and review of what contamination on this scale can literally do to people's lives and for generations to come.  Although the story is very disheartening you do find yourself rooting for Erin Brockovich to continue fighting against this corporate giant to get justice for these people (ultimately there is no amount of money that can repay them for their health and loss but the settlement they finally reached did give them something at least)..

4. 12 Years a Slave released in 2013 was a period drama based on the true story of Soloman Northup who was a free black man from upstate New York who was abducted in Washington D.C. and sold into slavery back in 1841.  Mr. Northup ended up working on plantations in Louisiana for 12 years before gaining his freedom. The story shows his incredible fight for survival through those years. This movie is a very thought-provoking film based on Mr. Northup's memoir from 1853 and one in which you will most likely investigate what ultimately happened to Mr. Northup after he returned to his family in New York. It is also worth mentioning that Mr. Soloman Northup was one of just a few kidnapped black people with their freedom to regain their freedom after being sold into slavery.

5. American Made released in 2017 as a biographical crime story based on Barry Seal (played by Tom Cruise) a former TWA pilot that became a drug smuggler for the Medellin Cartel during the 80s and who flew missions for the CIA. In the end Mr. Seal becomes an informant for the DEA to avoid jail time after being convicted on smuggling charges.  Needless to say there is endless action and some comedy throughout this film, as well as this movie is just plain entertaining.  After researching the story I learned that ultimately Mr. Seal was killed in front of his workplace by contract hit men hired by either the Ochoas or Pablo Escobar.  The movie version leaves out and distorts some of the real Barry Seal story but after researching more about Mr. Seal, I believe he may have witness much more violence than projected in the movie. Another note worth mentioning is Barry Seal is portrayed (by Dylan Bruno) in the 1st season of the Netflix series Narcos.

Don't worry this is not all the movies that I find exceptional or timeless there are still plenty more to come.. so STAY TUNED.. The End.

Making sense of Reviews for TV and Movies can be Unsettling.

First I should say I have been a movie and TV buff my entire life.. and at one time I had an overwhelming amount of VHS movies but over the years they degraded and now I just rely on media streaming sites (such as Netflix, Amazon and Hulu) along with cable to keep me on point.  However like many other people the amount of choices can be overwhelming and if your anything like me what you watch as far as movies or TV largely depends on what you have heard about it (such as media coverage and of course there are other avenues such as promotional trailers or Internet sites such as Rotten Tomatoes)

Ultimately the reason I chose to write this movie and TV blog was to offer a little more insight on my interpretations of movies and TV that can for lack of other words be TIMELESS, MEMORABLE and THOUGHT PROVOKING.  Most sites have reviews that often seem off pudding (i.e. disconcerting or in my opinion doesn't always show the movies ability to captivate) I have read some movie and TV reviews with high scores that I lost interest in early on and some that were rated much less that were not only thought-provoking but had real entertainment value, and worthy of higher ratings in my opinion.

Now I am not saying I have any accolades as a reviewer and I welcome any responses you may care to give on my reviews, but try to keep an open mind.. I only hope to give a non biased review from an ordinary person with a deep passion for movies and TV.  This blog is not intended to be rocket science but only heart-felt reviews from someone who escapes the everyday grind by watching movies and TV shows regularly. As well as, strives only to share my thoughts with my readers.

Lets call this my first one..  Timeless Kids

1. Beauty and the Beast - 1991 Disney version or 2017 Disney remake version

While there have been many variations of Beauty and the Beast movies through the years in my opinion Disney perfected the movies interpretation back in 1991 and then released a 2017 live action version both in many ways equally mesmerizing.  I can remember how drawn my kids were when they were young to the 1991 version with its story of Belle falling in love with the Beast. Mind you I had 3 girls all of which longed to be a princess when they grew up.

The 2017 version was even more captivating with all the live action grandeur and stand out performances.  I can remember catching my breath as the Gaston attacks the Beast. Keep in mind I am grown woman who still eagerly watches Disney releases and now my grandchildren (all mini versions of their mommies) are the ones longing to be princesses.

Lets just say you can't go wrong with either version, the 1991 animated version is a classic but if you want to see the movie in all its glory the 2017 version I do believe is truly memorable.

2.  Willy Wonka came out in 1971 when I was only 11 years of age and I remember all too well watching it as a child.  How did this place with all its candy and a man named Willy Wonka (played by Gene Wilder) even exist and poor Charlie who was encouraged to steal by Slugworth, ultimately though Mr Wonka awards Charlie the factory and made him an heir to his fortune with a happily ever after ending for him and his family.  This was one of those movies I watched as a child that I eagerly shared with my own children and holds a special place in my heart.

In 2005 a remake was made of the timeless film titled Charlie and the Chocolate Factory  starring Johnny Depp.  The story could be described as a darker fantasy version than that of the earlier version for many reasons but overall they both have many teachable moments throughout the movies (such as restraint, rudeness, gluttony).  In the end I loved both for the rawness of fantasy driven comedy at its best and I respectfully can only hope both children classics will be around for many more generations to enjoy and learn from.

3. Frozen released in 2013 is another note worth Disney timeless classic..  I have to be honest this animated movie holds a very personal spot in my heart because upon moving to Tennessee in 2014 before my little granddaughter Jordy turned 3 years old she could bring me to tears as she tried desperately to vocalize and act out every sequence within the film.  It is definitely something I will always remember and cherish and I have some hysterical video clips of Jordy as she swayed and did an awesome job pretending to be both Elsa and Anna... of course Nana (that is what she calls me) will never forget watching this pint size little one as she pretended to untie and flip her hair while trying to be Elsa singing Let It Go.  Disney will always have many noteworthy films but this one will always hold special memories I hope to share with her as she continues to grow.  Frozen 2 is coming out in  Nov 22 2019 Disney Trailer 


4. Moana likewise is a Disney animated movie released in 2016 depicting a little Polynesian island princess who is driven to see what lies beyond her island and when her island is threatened bravely sets sail to save her people becoming a hero. Moana has like many other Disney movies a truly captivating storyline  along with a great soundtrack.  I loved that Dewayne Johnson (otherwise known as The Rock) who is paying the price for his earlier actions, sets sail along with Moana to restore things as they were.

5. Maleficent  was released in 2014 and stars one of my favorite actresses (Angelina Jolie) and is basically a dark live action fantasy action movie inspired by Disney's Sleeping Beauty fairy tale originally released in 1959.  Maleficent tells the story of a fairy who was betrayed by someone she  trusted and has her wings taken, which in turn Maleficent places a curse on Aurora the baby of the king (and the princess known as Sleeping Beauty).  Over time though the story develops and Maleficent and Aurora grow close resulting in a climactic ending.  I have to admit I enjoyed this movie greatly and I am looking forward to Maleficent 2 that I think is not scheduled to be released until 2020.

Maleficent 2  scheduled to premier May 29 2020  Disney Trailer 
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Noteworthy - While I will not list every Disney movie as a timeless classic,  I will say that not only did I grow up with Disney movies, Mickey Mouse, and the Wonderful World of Disney but Disney has been a staple in many homes and lives (such as my own) over the years.. I remember watching Walt Disney appear on the television show.  I remember watching specials on the Disney theme parks being built and the Mickey Mouse Club TV show including old footage featuring Annette Funicello one of the original Mickey Mouse Club Mouseketeers.  I also have fond memories of when I was very young my grandfather telling me how he knew Mickey Mouse, even going so far as to tell me stories about how he would visit him from time to time.. My grandfather was not only a great storyteller but did many of the cartoon character voices.. I can remember being convinced he was there with us but he didn't want to come out after all there were rules.. Life growing up back then was a much easier time but Disney is still around and I will continue to believe Disney will always be a big part of children's lives. Movies that I grew up with and are still timeless classics are Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Pinocchio, Dumbo, Bambi, Song of the South, Cinderella, Alice in Wonderland, Lady and the Tramp, One Hundred and One Dalmatians, The Jungle Book, The Little Mermaid, Aladdin,  The Lion King, Pocahontas, Toy Story (To Infinity and Beyond), Mulan, Tarzan, Finding Nemo, Up and so so many others. Please forgive me if I leave any out of the list.. there are just too many classic movies that have continued to charm generations just as they did me as a small child.   

Disney will be releasing The Lion King in live action which is already getting media buzz and my whole family can't wait.  The Lion King July 19 2019 Disney Trailer 

Disney is also schedule to release Toy Story 4.. June 21 2019 Disney Trailer 
and Aladdin live action is schedule to be released   May 24 2019 Disney Trailer 

Disney to release live action Dumbo directed by Tim Burton. March 29 2019 Disney Trailer 
I know all Disney fans including my whole family cannot wait for any of these movies to debut. 

Mulan live action is scheduled to premier March 27 2020 Disney Trailer

I know that there are many movies Disney has made over the years that can not be considered timeless classics but that is the way with all TV and movies in general, however I can with all honesty say that you don't have to look very hard to see that Disney has done more than their fair share in making children happy all over the world and will I am certain will continue to do so..

Not long ago when Toys R Us announced their closure and our local Toys R Us shut its doors. I was I have to say a little tearful after all I can remember making special trips during holidays and birthdays to load up on all the trendy toys for my little ones, even going there to shop for my grandchildren and now I was there watching the store dwindle to nothing as they prepared to shut their doors.  I can remember thinking what is this world coming to.. all those memories that can not be shared to new generations.. after all someday people will only tell stories of places such as Toys R Us where you could go and see isles and isles of toys any day throughout the year.  Just as I had remembered when Sears Wish Books ceased to exist.  I can remember getting them every year to place orders. However I did hear that Sears as of 2017 revived their Wish Book and even offered an online version to order from, however nothing will ever compare to those iconic ones we all circled things in when I was a child..

The sad reality is all things change.. life changes as we age.. the world changes and so do toy stores and shopping in general .. now there is online shopping, you can place an order and most of the time it can be received next day .. there are even some things you can literally order and have delivered on the same day.

All of this being a part of the world we now live in.. technology has changed our world in ways most of us never could have believed..

Don't get me wrong I am sure over the course of things I will talk about this again.. but it is the truth.. life changes and someday we may have replicators in our homes that just give us whatever we want with the simple request placed .. ( Star Trek here we come) .. Hey do not laugh it most likely will happen some time in the future.. you never know.. The only thing I do know is that things are not as they were,  a lot has changed over the years .. Just look at me I am on this laptop at 1:00 am in the morning because I can't sleep typing away on a blog that is most like becoming obsolete the longer I sit here .. Let us be real .. as soon as something comes on the scene it eventually peaks than dies off .. the going hip thing now is Instagram, and You Tube videos (both of which you can make real money on if you have enough brands and followers to market to).. Don't laugh .. I am old but I get it.. lets say you are doing videos picturing using say a certain item ( i.e. a toy) ...  it makes you money by showing this item because if it is cool and you have plenty of subscribers the idea is you make that product soar off the shelves ..their sales go up and you get money for the marketing of that item.. (this is just an example, and I am certain that is just highlighting one way).

Anyway before I head off to bed.. just wanted to say again times change.. I've changed a lot actually and for now the blogging thing keeps me busy.. not to mention people might see my blog and who knows right!.. All it takes is one person to notice that what you are saying is worth listening to and before you know it .. you're a Kardashian.. LOL.. Gotta admit that was funny

The End..