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
Friday, August 17, 2018
Friday, August 10, 2018
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
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
Wednesday, August 8, 2018
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.
.. 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.
Tuesday, August 7, 2018
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
_______________________________________________________________________________
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..
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..
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