Thursday, January 31, 2019
The Selling of Erotica in Movies
There is a real distinction to be made between pornography and erotica in films.. Pornography for example is the explicit and graphic depiction of sexually scenes. However, Erotica is the art of arousing or stimulating sexually .. (i.e. reading an erotic novel one might feel aroused sexually)..
Movies are no different.. Here are some my favorite erotic films..
1. American Gigolo 1980 - is a crime drama based on a high-end escort ( Richard Gere ) who after agreeing to "substitute" for another gigolo realizes that he is being targeted a murder he didn't commit and is now on the hook for an alibi considering his clients value their anonymity.. For me this movie is like a cult classic and is a very compelling subject matter shedding light on a dark subject ..
2. 9 1/2 Weeks 1986 - is an erotic romantic drama based on an art gallery employee ( Kim Basinger ) who has a wildly erotic affair with a Wall Street broker ( Mickey Rourke ). While the movie received mixed reactions by critics, the film developed a cult following and is still well worth watching.. The novel that the movie was based on "9½ Weeks: A Memoir of a Love Affair" was said to be of a much darker tone..
3. Fifty Shades of Grey 2015 - is an erotic romantic drama based on a young college graduate Anastasia Steele (Dakota Johnson) who becomes involved in a sadomasochistic relationship with a young business magnate Christian Grey (Jamie Dornan). Based on the E. L. James novel of the same name, Shades of Grey was the first film released in the trilogy.. and was followed by Fifty Shades Darker in 2017 and Fifty Shades Freed in 2018. All three films did remarkably well at the box office and I can honestly say I loved them ..
4. Unfaithful 2002 - is an erotic drama thriller and based on woman (Diane Lane) who indulges in an erotic affair with a young man she meets.. Her husband (Richard Gere) finds out and ends up having a mental break. This movie is full of drama and in the end breaks your heart showing just how painful an affair can be..
5. Honorable Mention
Eyes Wide Shut 1999 - is an erotic psychological thriller based on a 1926 Vienna story written by Arthur Schnitzler. In the film which takes place in the New York City a married physician Bill Harford (Tom Cruise) after being told by his wife Alice (Nicole Kidman) of a contemplated affair becomes sexually aroused and embarks on attending a secret masked sex society event. Unfortunately that is where the story starts to spiral out of control. The reason that this film is basically a cult erotic thriller is more than likely based on the fact that in the 90s the subject matter (i.e. HIV transmission, sex clubs, voyeurism) of the movie was at that time somewhat startling.
Two Moon Junction 1988 - is an erotic romance thriller that follows April Delongpre (Sherilyn Fenn) the daughter of an Alabama senator and heiress of a respectable, old and well to do Southern family.. When April returns home while awaiting her nuptials to fiance' Chad Fairchild .. A carnival comes to town and while accompanying her sisters to the fairgrounds she is completely enchanted by Perry (Richard Tyson) a ruggedly handsome drifter, and one of the workers at the carnival.. A few days later both her fiance' and family members are away for the weekend spawning a steamy affair between the two.. The film is mesmerizing and intensely erotic.. and is in all aspects an erotic classic that has stood the test of time..
Friday, January 25, 2019
I am adding this repost from my Murfreesboro TN services review blog.. After all delivery services for movie watchers can be very beneficial..
Let me just say I've been a freelance writer for many years, writing articles, blogs and reviews on literally everything.. including healthcare, food, travel and services..
After moving to TN in 2014.. I found myself searching for service providers in everything from healthcare to auto care... and after settling into my apartment I looked for what was available in restaurant delivery services.. ultimately having to settle for the typical go to places pizza and Asian food.. However over the past few years there has been a dramatic change in delivery services available.. For example in 2017.. I found Blueraiderfood and literally leaped for joy at the ability to get more than the typical food delivery... In fact they quickly stated they were a growing local delivery service that would be adding more and more eateries as time went on.. and they definitely have.. I still order from Blueraider but after wanting more choices in cuisine I finally started to order from GrubHub one of their competitors.. and I can honestly say they definitely have some stiff competition.. and not for any other reason than they both are fighting for essentially the same patrons..
However in my opinion they both are equal opponents.. after all there are plenty of eateries for them to share.. and I know there are other delivery services available in the area as well..Look I am a shopper and if one has a coupon..or I am looking for a certain cuisine.. it just depends on what I am looking for as to which one I will order from.. both have equally as nice delivery people.. both are pretty much equal on service fees.. and from a patron that has spent definitely more than I need to on food delivery I will continue to use them both..
I also want to offer a quick review on InstaCart.. For a long time now I have been using Kroger's Clicklist pickup service and will honestly continue to do so.. after all I live next to Kroger's and it is very easy to use .. quick.. and even though you pay a small shopping fee.. it is worth it considering when I did my own shopping I always spent more than I needed by impulse buying
However recently due to sickness and weather decided to use InstaCart grocery delivery.. and I have only used it twice..but I think it is great as well.. and again just as in restaurant delivery it definitely has a place in today's society.. After all it is 2019 people..
I am certain some people would say services like this are just services based on convenience and I am not going to disagree.. there is a lot to be said for the convenience factor..but it is so much more.. lets say your sick, the weather is horrible, elderly, or perhaps you have only one vehicle and the spouse needs it for work... there are a lot of reasons why a customer might need one of these services.. and I for one welcome the benefit..
I can remember years ago having my groceries or prescriptions delivered was thought of as literally a service that a customer might receive during extreme circumstances.. and a lot of it was based on the circumstances or availability of delivery staff.. For example I lived in a small town that would deliver if there was anyway possible to shut in, the elderly or someone who had medical issue..
At least for me having delivery services available is a great thing and a service that is here to stay..
Let me just say I've been a freelance writer for many years, writing articles, blogs and reviews on literally everything.. including healthcare, food, travel and services..
After moving to TN in 2014.. I found myself searching for service providers in everything from healthcare to auto care... and after settling into my apartment I looked for what was available in restaurant delivery services.. ultimately having to settle for the typical go to places pizza and Asian food.. However over the past few years there has been a dramatic change in delivery services available.. For example in 2017.. I found Blueraiderfood and literally leaped for joy at the ability to get more than the typical food delivery... In fact they quickly stated they were a growing local delivery service that would be adding more and more eateries as time went on.. and they definitely have.. I still order from Blueraider but after wanting more choices in cuisine I finally started to order from GrubHub one of their competitors.. and I can honestly say they definitely have some stiff competition.. and not for any other reason than they both are fighting for essentially the same patrons..
However in my opinion they both are equal opponents.. after all there are plenty of eateries for them to share.. and I know there are other delivery services available in the area as well..Look I am a shopper and if one has a coupon..or I am looking for a certain cuisine.. it just depends on what I am looking for as to which one I will order from.. both have equally as nice delivery people.. both are pretty much equal on service fees.. and from a patron that has spent definitely more than I need to on food delivery I will continue to use them both..
I also want to offer a quick review on InstaCart.. For a long time now I have been using Kroger's Clicklist pickup service and will honestly continue to do so.. after all I live next to Kroger's and it is very easy to use .. quick.. and even though you pay a small shopping fee.. it is worth it considering when I did my own shopping I always spent more than I needed by impulse buying
However recently due to sickness and weather decided to use InstaCart grocery delivery.. and I have only used it twice..but I think it is great as well.. and again just as in restaurant delivery it definitely has a place in today's society.. After all it is 2019 people..
I am certain some people would say services like this are just services based on convenience and I am not going to disagree.. there is a lot to be said for the convenience factor..but it is so much more.. lets say your sick, the weather is horrible, elderly, or perhaps you have only one vehicle and the spouse needs it for work... there are a lot of reasons why a customer might need one of these services.. and I for one welcome the benefit..
I can remember years ago having my groceries or prescriptions delivered was thought of as literally a service that a customer might receive during extreme circumstances.. and a lot of it was based on the circumstances or availability of delivery staff.. For example I lived in a small town that would deliver if there was anyway possible to shut in, the elderly or someone who had medical issue..
At least for me having delivery services available is a great thing and a service that is here to stay..
Monday, January 21, 2019
If your anything like me Disaster Movies definitely make you think.. After all I live in an area (Tornado Alley) where tornadoes are prevalent along with the likelihood that a devastating earthquake (New Madrid Fault) is long overdue.. However there are areas everywhere around this country that face disasters such as these.. such as the hurricanes that have hit Puerto Rico, Florida, Texas, Louisiana and other coastal areas.. and California knows far to well what can happen in a devastating earthquake or wildfire.. Natural disasters such as these can literally happen anywhere and at anytime..
1. Twister 1996 - is an action disaster film based on two storm chasers who have developed a tornado research system. The tornado outbreak they are chasing leads them on a path that eventually collides with a F5 tornado.. The film features many disaster tornado scenes and since its release has become a much loved classic disaster movie..
2. Deep Impact 1998 - is a sci fi disaster film based on a discovery of a young amateur astronomer that later turns out to be a 7 mile long comet on a collision course with earth.. This size of the comet is noted to be one of mass extinction and interception plans are quickly devised in order to hopefully save humanity .. This film had some mixed reviews but with an exceptional cast, and several really touching moments.. I have always loved it..
3. Armageddon 1998 - is a sci fi disaster film with a very similar storyline to that of Deep Impact.. The film follows a group of deep core drillers employed by NASA to land and hopefully destroy a very large asteroid on a collision course with Earth.. The exceptional cast includes Bruce Willis, Ben Affleck, Billy Bob Thornton, Liv Tyler, Owen Wilson, as well as many others .. The movie has some great dramatic scenes throughout the film and over time has become a real classic in sci fi disaster films.. I really think this is a must see movie for all ages..
4. The Impossible 2012 - is based on the real life experience of Maria Belon and her family in the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.. I remember this disaster.. It happened the day after Christmas and was caused by an earthquake in the ocean.. The film is gripping and features some very gut wrenching scenes.. I definitely recommend this movie ..
5. The Poseidon Adventure 1972 - is a timeless classic disaster film with an outstanding cast.. The movie is based on a luxury cruise ship that is overturned by an enormous tsunami wave leaving passengers and crew trapped inside.. The movie features some really tragic scenes and some left me in tears..
6. Honorable Mention.. The Wave 2015 - is a Norwegian disaster film based on an experienced geologist who tries desperately to save the town and his family after a crevasse collapse creates an avalanche that spawns a massive tsunami destroying everything in its path.. The movie was based on true events that hit the village of Tafjord and Fjora.. Movie had some real edge of your seat moments.. loved it
The Quake 2018 - is a Norwegian catastrophic movie in which a massive earthquake takes place in Oslo. A geologist who previously saved a town from a tsunami in The Wave 2015, struggles with the people he could not save in the event. The man has isolated himself and his depression has kept him separated from his family. However after a colleague's sudden death while investigating tremors in Oslo he searches for proof that a large quake maybe coming. I have to say while this movie looks like just another natural disaster film it still maintained my interest. I was captivated by the story of this tormented man who tries to reconnect with his family while saving them and others from what surely will be a massive quake in Oslo Norway. I also found the movie interesting as I was not aware that Norway has daily quakes and geologists as well as other scientists study this area all the time. Although the movie has English subtitles I had no trouble with feeling the desperation of this man and his family.
1. Twister 1996 - is an action disaster film based on two storm chasers who have developed a tornado research system. The tornado outbreak they are chasing leads them on a path that eventually collides with a F5 tornado.. The film features many disaster tornado scenes and since its release has become a much loved classic disaster movie..
2. Deep Impact 1998 - is a sci fi disaster film based on a discovery of a young amateur astronomer that later turns out to be a 7 mile long comet on a collision course with earth.. This size of the comet is noted to be one of mass extinction and interception plans are quickly devised in order to hopefully save humanity .. This film had some mixed reviews but with an exceptional cast, and several really touching moments.. I have always loved it..
3. Armageddon 1998 - is a sci fi disaster film with a very similar storyline to that of Deep Impact.. The film follows a group of deep core drillers employed by NASA to land and hopefully destroy a very large asteroid on a collision course with Earth.. The exceptional cast includes Bruce Willis, Ben Affleck, Billy Bob Thornton, Liv Tyler, Owen Wilson, as well as many others .. The movie has some great dramatic scenes throughout the film and over time has become a real classic in sci fi disaster films.. I really think this is a must see movie for all ages..
4. The Impossible 2012 - is based on the real life experience of Maria Belon and her family in the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.. I remember this disaster.. It happened the day after Christmas and was caused by an earthquake in the ocean.. The film is gripping and features some very gut wrenching scenes.. I definitely recommend this movie ..
5. The Poseidon Adventure 1972 - is a timeless classic disaster film with an outstanding cast.. The movie is based on a luxury cruise ship that is overturned by an enormous tsunami wave leaving passengers and crew trapped inside.. The movie features some really tragic scenes and some left me in tears..
6. Honorable Mention.. The Wave 2015 - is a Norwegian disaster film based on an experienced geologist who tries desperately to save the town and his family after a crevasse collapse creates an avalanche that spawns a massive tsunami destroying everything in its path.. The movie was based on true events that hit the village of Tafjord and Fjora.. Movie had some real edge of your seat moments.. loved it
The Quake 2018 - is a Norwegian catastrophic movie in which a massive earthquake takes place in Oslo. A geologist who previously saved a town from a tsunami in The Wave 2015, struggles with the people he could not save in the event. The man has isolated himself and his depression has kept him separated from his family. However after a colleague's sudden death while investigating tremors in Oslo he searches for proof that a large quake maybe coming. I have to say while this movie looks like just another natural disaster film it still maintained my interest. I was captivated by the story of this tormented man who tries to reconnect with his family while saving them and others from what surely will be a massive quake in Oslo Norway. I also found the movie interesting as I was not aware that Norway has daily quakes and geologists as well as other scientists study this area all the time. Although the movie has English subtitles I had no trouble with feeling the desperation of this man and his family.
Classic Movies are for the majority of us films that we grew up with that have stood the test of time for one reason or another.. In many instances these films had overwhelming success at the box office and have huge viewer followings.. Here are some of my favorites..
1. Close Encounters of the Third Kind 1977 - is a fictional science movie based on the story of Roy Neary (Richard Dreyfuss) an electrical lineman whose whole life changes after an encounter with a UFO.. Roy becomes obsessed with unidentified flying objects and during a well known scene in the movie actually sculpts a mountain from mashed potatoes.. While not wanting to give too many details of the movie.. if you haven't seen it .. you definitely should..
2. An Officer and a Gentleman 1982 - is a romance drama based on a young United States Navy Officer cadet Zack Mayo (Richard Gere) who is attending Aviation Officer School .. During his time at school Zack has to overcome many challenges and eventually falls in love with a young woman named Paula (Debra Winger).. The story takes you on a roller coaster ride throughout the entire film.. However in the end it is a very heart warming story.. that I will always love.. a definite must see..
3. Saturday Night Fever 1977 - is a wildly popular drama film based on Tony Manero (John Travolta), a young Brooklyn man who spends his weekends dancing at a local disco.. To everyone at the disco Tony is a much loved dancer with a large group of young friends.. Tony eventually meets a new love interest and talks her into entering a dance contest .. Saturday Night Fever is definitely a cult classic that has a huge viewer following.. As for myself.. I will have to admit I was smitten the first time I saw the film and danced a similar choreographed number at my high school.. If you were alive in the 70s, no doubt you have seen this timeless classic..
4. Top Gun 1986 - is an action drama based on a young naval aviator (Tom Cruise) who has the chance to train at the Navy's Miramar Fighter Weapons School .. where he meets and falls in love with an instructor (Kelly McGillis) .. I love everything about film.. the exceptional cast.. the soundtrack.. and the gut wrenching dramatic scenes.. The whole movie is outstanding..
Note: A sequel Top Gun Maverick with Tom Cruise is being made and scheduled to be released in June 26 2020 Trailer
5. Dirty Dancing 1987 - is a drama romance film based on a young woman (Jennifer Grey) known as Baby who falls in love with a dance instructor Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze) while on vacation at a resort with her family.. The film is packed with drama, comedy and young love.. Sadly Patrick Swayze has now passed but his film career including this film will live on forever..
6. Risky Business 1983 - is a romance comedy based on a young Joel Goodson (Tom Cruise) who falls for a sexy prostitute Lana (Rebecca De Mornay).. In the film Joel quickly gets in way over his head when his parents leave him in charge while they are out of town and he becomes entangled in a confrontation with Lana's pimp.. A feel good, coming of age film..
_______________________________________________________________________________
Horror Film Classics
Jaws 1975 - A giant shark terrorizes beach-goers... I remember going to the movie theatre to see this and lets just say I still don't swim in the ocean.. Several sequels have also been made of this film..
The Exorcist 1973 - Demonic possession of a young girl ..To be honest Night of the Living Dead 1968 and The Exorcist 1973.. were probably the first horror movies I ever watched as a young girl..
Halloween 1978 - Horror slasher film.. Thank goodness I was older when I saw this movie because I use to babysit a lot when I was in high school... Many sequels of Halloween have been made through the years.. with the latest in the series having been just released this past year in 2018..
1. Close Encounters of the Third Kind 1977 - is a fictional science movie based on the story of Roy Neary (Richard Dreyfuss) an electrical lineman whose whole life changes after an encounter with a UFO.. Roy becomes obsessed with unidentified flying objects and during a well known scene in the movie actually sculpts a mountain from mashed potatoes.. While not wanting to give too many details of the movie.. if you haven't seen it .. you definitely should..
2. An Officer and a Gentleman 1982 - is a romance drama based on a young United States Navy Officer cadet Zack Mayo (Richard Gere) who is attending Aviation Officer School .. During his time at school Zack has to overcome many challenges and eventually falls in love with a young woman named Paula (Debra Winger).. The story takes you on a roller coaster ride throughout the entire film.. However in the end it is a very heart warming story.. that I will always love.. a definite must see..
3. Saturday Night Fever 1977 - is a wildly popular drama film based on Tony Manero (John Travolta), a young Brooklyn man who spends his weekends dancing at a local disco.. To everyone at the disco Tony is a much loved dancer with a large group of young friends.. Tony eventually meets a new love interest and talks her into entering a dance contest .. Saturday Night Fever is definitely a cult classic that has a huge viewer following.. As for myself.. I will have to admit I was smitten the first time I saw the film and danced a similar choreographed number at my high school.. If you were alive in the 70s, no doubt you have seen this timeless classic..
4. Top Gun 1986 - is an action drama based on a young naval aviator (Tom Cruise) who has the chance to train at the Navy's Miramar Fighter Weapons School .. where he meets and falls in love with an instructor (Kelly McGillis) .. I love everything about film.. the exceptional cast.. the soundtrack.. and the gut wrenching dramatic scenes.. The whole movie is outstanding..
Note: A sequel Top Gun Maverick with Tom Cruise is being made and scheduled to be released in June 26 2020 Trailer
5. Dirty Dancing 1987 - is a drama romance film based on a young woman (Jennifer Grey) known as Baby who falls in love with a dance instructor Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze) while on vacation at a resort with her family.. The film is packed with drama, comedy and young love.. Sadly Patrick Swayze has now passed but his film career including this film will live on forever..
6. Risky Business 1983 - is a romance comedy based on a young Joel Goodson (Tom Cruise) who falls for a sexy prostitute Lana (Rebecca De Mornay).. In the film Joel quickly gets in way over his head when his parents leave him in charge while they are out of town and he becomes entangled in a confrontation with Lana's pimp.. A feel good, coming of age film..
_______________________________________________________________________________
Horror Film Classics
Jaws 1975 - A giant shark terrorizes beach-goers... I remember going to the movie theatre to see this and lets just say I still don't swim in the ocean.. Several sequels have also been made of this film..
The Exorcist 1973 - Demonic possession of a young girl ..To be honest Night of the Living Dead 1968 and The Exorcist 1973.. were probably the first horror movies I ever watched as a young girl..
Halloween 1978 - Horror slasher film.. Thank goodness I was older when I saw this movie because I use to babysit a lot when I was in high school... Many sequels of Halloween have been made through the years.. with the latest in the series having been just released this past year in 2018..
Wednesday, January 16, 2019
Female Action Flicks
1. Salt 2010 - is an action thriller featuring Angelina Jolie, who after being accused as a Russian agent goes on the run to clear her name.. The film is packed with exceptional action scenes.. In my opinion Jolie is like a female James Bond..
2. Wanted 2008 - is another jam-packed action thriller with an outstanding cast .. including Morgan Freeman and Angelina Jolie.. I loved this movie and the story..it definitely kept me on the edge of my seat.. The story revolves around a young man who discovers that he is the son of a professional assassin and after being introduced to the secret society in which his father once worked ..his training ensues.. A definite must see...
3. Lucy 2014 - is a sci fi action thriller .. The movie is based on a young woman in her 20s (Scarlett Johansson) who after being pushed into delivering a briefcase to a drug lord is captured. The drug lord orders drugs to be sewn into her abdomen.. and told to deliver them to Europe.. However during her captivity she is kicked in her stomach and a large amount of the nootropic drug quickly absorbs into her bloodstream leaving her to gain physical and mental abilities. Amazing cutthroat action scenes..
4. The Long Kiss Goodnight 1996 - is an action thriller starring Geena Davis who is a mother and small town schoolteacher.. In the film you learn that eight years earlier she was found on a beach suffering from amnesia.. In order to discover her past the woman hires a private investigator (Samuel Jackson), but after being in a car accident she finds she possesses skills that she cannot explain.. Furthermore after being attacked in her home she decides to leave with the investigator to seek out answers to her past .. This movie is packed with action, as well as gut wrenching parts including when her daughter is endangered..
5. Ghost in the Shell 2017 - is a sci-fi action thriller starring Scarlett Johansson as a human - cyborg super soldier who after having some unexplainable memory issues which are dismissed as (glitches) goes on a mission to investigate her past.. The storyline is full of twists and turns and the movie has a very interesting ending.. I know the film acquired some criticism but I thought Scarlett Johansson did an exceptional job.. Loved it, please let me know what you think..
Honorable Mention
Angelina Jolie (Lara Croft) .. Tomb Raider franchise - Action Adventure films that originated from the video game series.. The film focuses on a British archaeologist Lara Croft who travels around the world in search of lost ancient artifacts .. In my opinion ..Tomb Raider films are much like female versions of the Indiana Jones films.. The films are action packed with plenty of special effects..
Lara Croft Tomb Raider 2001 - Is the original film
Lara Croft Tomb Raider . The Cradle of Life 2003
Tomb Raider 2018 - stars Alicia Vikander as Lara Croft .. embarking on a journey to her father's last known destination on hopes of solving the mystery that surrounds his disappearance..
Tuesday, January 15, 2019
New Movies to Definitely Go See
I definitely have started to go see more and more movies on the big screen.. plus it is much easier to see them now that I moved to TN.. Did I mention I live like a block from the theatre..
1. Replicas 2018 - is a sci-fi thriller with an outstanding cast. The movie tells the story of a neuroscientist (Keanu Reeves) who during a planned trip with his family is involved in a devastating wreck that kills his wife and three children, in which due to his research he can bring back to life. The science that he has worked on his entire life, he now has to count on to recreate his family. I really can't say enough about this movie it was absolutely fantastic, it kept my attention from start to finish. It would be wrong for me to give you any details but it is a definite must see and lets just say I can't wait for the sequel.
2. Green Book 2018 - is a comedy drama based on the real life of relationship between classical and jazz pianist Don Shirley and Tony Vallelonga ( known as Tony Lip ) a bouncer who served as a bodyguard and driver for Don Shirley in the 60s. While I had never heard this story before, this movie was definitely awe-inspiring. I thought the film represented a good portrait of the era and the dynamics of racial prejudice during the 60s. I really loved this film and thought that both of the main characters (Mahershala Ali and Viggo Mortensen) did a great job at bringing to life the longtime friendship.
3. The Mule 2018 - is a crime drama based on the real life story of Leo Sharp (Clint Eastwood) a World War II elderly vet who became a drug carrier (mule) for the Sinaloa Cartel. This movie is totally captivating and charming. The film also paints a poignant picture of how aging takes a toll on everyone including the star of the film Clint Eastwood to whom did an outstanding acting portrayal of the real life character Leo Sharp who was released from prison in 2015 and passed away in 2016 due to natural causes at the age of 92.
4. Creed II 2018 is a sports drama and the sequel to Creed 2015. In the first Creed, Apollo Creed's son seeks Rocky's (Sylvester Stallone) help in pursuing his dream of becoming a boxer like his father. Reluctantly Rocky trains Adonis Donnie Johnson who later has to admit that he is the son of Apollo Creed and wins the title. In the sequel, Creed II - the title is being challenged but this time by the son of the man who killed his father. Rocky tries to reason with Adonis but ultimately he takes a severe beating, however Rocky gets him back on his feet and with his wife and newborn daughter Adonis fights his way back... The Rocky franchise has been a huge draw for many years and in my opinion both Creed films effortlessly fall into place in the series.. These types of sports movies insight that winning (come from behind) spirit that is in all of us ..
5. Second Act 2018 - is definitely a feel good woman's movie, it has everything anyone could ask for.. comedy, romance and an outstanding cast including Jennifer Lopez, Vanessa Hudgens, Leah Remini, and Milo Ventimiglia. In the movie Jennifer Lopez plays a woman in her 40s who wants to move up in her career at a grocery store, however she is passed over for lack of credentials.. Than after a friend's son creates her a fake resume, credentials and a social media presence she is offered a new position ( a second chance ) to live the life that she has always dreamed of..
I have to be honest I not only found the movie extremely enjoyable but also very touching.. After all, I think many people who have years of experience can identify with being passed over due to a lack of education credentials.. but for me the movie touched on so much more.. Leaving me crying at what she thought she had loss..
In the end, I love Jennifer Lopez and her movies always make me smile and tug at my heart..
Here are some of my other J. Lo favorites..
Selena
The Wedding Planner
Enough
Maid in Manhattan
Shall we Dance
Monster In Law
The Backup Plan
The Boy Next Door
I definitely have started to go see more and more movies on the big screen.. plus it is much easier to see them now that I moved to TN.. Did I mention I live like a block from the theatre..
1. Replicas 2018 - is a sci-fi thriller with an outstanding cast. The movie tells the story of a neuroscientist (Keanu Reeves) who during a planned trip with his family is involved in a devastating wreck that kills his wife and three children, in which due to his research he can bring back to life. The science that he has worked on his entire life, he now has to count on to recreate his family. I really can't say enough about this movie it was absolutely fantastic, it kept my attention from start to finish. It would be wrong for me to give you any details but it is a definite must see and lets just say I can't wait for the sequel.
2. Green Book 2018 - is a comedy drama based on the real life of relationship between classical and jazz pianist Don Shirley and Tony Vallelonga ( known as Tony Lip ) a bouncer who served as a bodyguard and driver for Don Shirley in the 60s. While I had never heard this story before, this movie was definitely awe-inspiring. I thought the film represented a good portrait of the era and the dynamics of racial prejudice during the 60s. I really loved this film and thought that both of the main characters (Mahershala Ali and Viggo Mortensen) did a great job at bringing to life the longtime friendship.
3. The Mule 2018 - is a crime drama based on the real life story of Leo Sharp (Clint Eastwood) a World War II elderly vet who became a drug carrier (mule) for the Sinaloa Cartel. This movie is totally captivating and charming. The film also paints a poignant picture of how aging takes a toll on everyone including the star of the film Clint Eastwood to whom did an outstanding acting portrayal of the real life character Leo Sharp who was released from prison in 2015 and passed away in 2016 due to natural causes at the age of 92.
4. Creed II 2018 is a sports drama and the sequel to Creed 2015. In the first Creed, Apollo Creed's son seeks Rocky's (Sylvester Stallone) help in pursuing his dream of becoming a boxer like his father. Reluctantly Rocky trains Adonis Donnie Johnson who later has to admit that he is the son of Apollo Creed and wins the title. In the sequel, Creed II - the title is being challenged but this time by the son of the man who killed his father. Rocky tries to reason with Adonis but ultimately he takes a severe beating, however Rocky gets him back on his feet and with his wife and newborn daughter Adonis fights his way back... The Rocky franchise has been a huge draw for many years and in my opinion both Creed films effortlessly fall into place in the series.. These types of sports movies insight that winning (come from behind) spirit that is in all of us ..
5. Second Act 2018 - is definitely a feel good woman's movie, it has everything anyone could ask for.. comedy, romance and an outstanding cast including Jennifer Lopez, Vanessa Hudgens, Leah Remini, and Milo Ventimiglia. In the movie Jennifer Lopez plays a woman in her 40s who wants to move up in her career at a grocery store, however she is passed over for lack of credentials.. Than after a friend's son creates her a fake resume, credentials and a social media presence she is offered a new position ( a second chance ) to live the life that she has always dreamed of..
I have to be honest I not only found the movie extremely enjoyable but also very touching.. After all, I think many people who have years of experience can identify with being passed over due to a lack of education credentials.. but for me the movie touched on so much more.. Leaving me crying at what she thought she had loss..
In the end, I love Jennifer Lopez and her movies always make me smile and tug at my heart..
Here are some of my other J. Lo favorites..
Selena
The Wedding Planner
Enough
Maid in Manhattan
Shall we Dance
Monster In Law
The Backup Plan
The Boy Next Door
Monday, January 14, 2019
Movies about children
As a parent.. movies involving children can be at times extremely hard to watch, some involve traumatic events, or real tearjerkers and some films make you simply think how you might react if presented with the same set of circumstances..
1. Wonder 2017 - Wonder is a dramatic comedy that revolves around a boy (Auggie) who was born with Treacher Collins syndrome (a rare and devastating facial deformity). The story revolves around Auggie (previously home schooled and sheltered by his loving family) who is enrolled into fifth grade at a private school and now has to learn how to deal with social interaction. This movie is heartbreaking but uplifting at the same time.. The cast did a superb job and as a parent the movie provides plenty of very teachable moments..
2. The Florida Project 2017 - is a dramatic film based on the struggles of one little 6-year-old girl and her friends, who are faced with poverty and some very hard to handle parental circumstances .. The movie not only shines a light on neglect, addiction and homelessness but the film leaves you wondering at just how many children live this life daily... I think this is a film everyone should watch.. truly gut wrenching..
3. The Book of Henry 2017 - is a drama and based on an 11 yr old boy genius who manages and emotionally supports his single mom and brother. When Henry sees the girl next door is being abused he puts together detailed plan to save her.. In the meantime Henry becomes gravely ill.. This movie is well put together and inspiring.. The film is full of dramatic twists and turns taking the viewer on a roller coaster ride.. However it is a must see for the entire family.. and one you will not soon forget..
4. Please Stand By 2018 - is a comedy drama film based on a young high functioning autistic woman who is living in a group home.. In the film you see her as a brilliant very organized woman who has a fixation on Star Trek .. However upon learning there is a Star Trek screenwriting contest she immerses herself into writing a 450 page script to enter but when the deadline quickly approaches.. well lets just say .. that sends her into a tailspin.. I will not tell you anymore because I think Dakota Fanning who played the girl Wendy did a fantastic job.. I thought the movie was charming and ultimately a feel good movie.. Please watch it and let me know if the film brought a smile to your face as it did mine..
5. Instant Family 2018 - is a comedy film with an outstanding cast. The movie is based on a married couple (Mark Wahlberg and Rose Byrne) who feel a void and decide to possibly adopt a child since there are so many children who need homes.. While visiting a fostering fair they take an interest in a young teenage girl and are informed by social workers that she has two siblings that also need a home.. This movie is full of belly laugh and feel good moments.. and will if anything in the end warm your heart.. I loved every minute of it.. from start to finish.. and so will you.. it is a definite must see film..
6. Boy Erased 2018 - is a biographical drama with an outstanding dynamic cast. To begin I will say this movie was extremely eye-opening. The story follows Jared Eamons the son of Baptist parents who is forced take part in gay conversion therapy. While I will admit I had previously heard of the barbaric practice of conversion therapy used on homosexuals to supposedly change their sexual orientation.. I had only heard stories..
Boy Erased is the film adaptation of the autobiographical memoir of Garrard Conley who went through the very controversial and ineffective practice of conversion therapy..
The film Boy Erased touches on a contentious subject but one that I believe has to be discussed. The practice of conversion therapy does more harm than good and for anyone struggling with their sexual orientation I completely understand where this could drive them to possibly do something extreme if they feel they are not being accepted by their religious upbringing or society including family.. I feel this film is a must see by everyone and possibly could be introduced into some churches as a way to open discussions on the topic.. For myself I believe in a loving God and a God that would never turn away anyone... Please watch this film and let me know if you agree
7. Beautiful Boy 2010, Beautiful Boy 2018 - Both of these films are exceptionally well written and feature two outstanding casts.. and both films tear at your soul..however they do not portray the same storylines..
Beautiful Boy 2010 - is a movie based on parents who sadly wake up one day, going about their daily activities only to learn that there has been an active shooter at their child's college.. The movie is gripping from start to finish and like any other parent I can only imagine how literally helpless one might feel.. The film is tragic and shows graphically how traumatic it was for them ..after all not only did they questions themselves.. but they have to deal with news, police, burial, family and friends.. The film does a great job at telling the story of those left behind and how they have literally no words when they know their son did an unspeakable despicable act but they also have to deal with losing their son.. A must see film..
Beautiful Boy 2018 - is a biographical drama based on the memoirs of Beautiful Boy, A Father's Journey Through His Son's Addiction..which is a book written by David Sheff (played in the movie by Steve Carell).. The movie deals with his son's methamphetamine addiction and chronicles the pain and agony that both David Sheff and his son Nic Sheff went through while battling his drug abuse. This film does an exceptional job at showing how the whole family is affected by drug addiction and how this father tried so hard to not only find help for his son but to understand what his son was going through as well.. I loved this film and challenge everyone to watch it ..after all drug addiction is rampant and has to be addressed.. Please see this movie..
8. A Kid Like Jake 2018 - is a drama based on a 2013 play by the same name. The film has an outstanding cast including Claire Danes, Jim Parsons, and Octavia Spencer. The story involves a young couple and their 4 year old son. On applying for kindergarten they soon realize their son might be transgender. This movie will inspire you (give you food for thought) but ultimately will win you over as it did me..
9. Gifted 2017 - is a drama movie based on a intellectually gifted 7 year old girl who becomes the object of a custody battle between her uncle and her grandmother.. The movie has an outstanding cast including Octavia Spencer, Chris Evans, and McKenna Grace. After home schooling his deceased sister's daughter Frank enrolls Mary into public school.. where her teacher soon discovers that she is gifted beyond her years.. and trouble ensues when the grandmother learns of her passed on prodigy talent and strives to remove her from her uncle's custody .. this movie while hard to describe is really a heart breaking tear-jerker film.. and a definite must see movie for the whole family..
As a parent.. movies involving children can be at times extremely hard to watch, some involve traumatic events, or real tearjerkers and some films make you simply think how you might react if presented with the same set of circumstances..
1. Wonder 2017 - Wonder is a dramatic comedy that revolves around a boy (Auggie) who was born with Treacher Collins syndrome (a rare and devastating facial deformity). The story revolves around Auggie (previously home schooled and sheltered by his loving family) who is enrolled into fifth grade at a private school and now has to learn how to deal with social interaction. This movie is heartbreaking but uplifting at the same time.. The cast did a superb job and as a parent the movie provides plenty of very teachable moments..
2. The Florida Project 2017 - is a dramatic film based on the struggles of one little 6-year-old girl and her friends, who are faced with poverty and some very hard to handle parental circumstances .. The movie not only shines a light on neglect, addiction and homelessness but the film leaves you wondering at just how many children live this life daily... I think this is a film everyone should watch.. truly gut wrenching..
3. The Book of Henry 2017 - is a drama and based on an 11 yr old boy genius who manages and emotionally supports his single mom and brother. When Henry sees the girl next door is being abused he puts together detailed plan to save her.. In the meantime Henry becomes gravely ill.. This movie is well put together and inspiring.. The film is full of dramatic twists and turns taking the viewer on a roller coaster ride.. However it is a must see for the entire family.. and one you will not soon forget..
4. Please Stand By 2018 - is a comedy drama film based on a young high functioning autistic woman who is living in a group home.. In the film you see her as a brilliant very organized woman who has a fixation on Star Trek .. However upon learning there is a Star Trek screenwriting contest she immerses herself into writing a 450 page script to enter but when the deadline quickly approaches.. well lets just say .. that sends her into a tailspin.. I will not tell you anymore because I think Dakota Fanning who played the girl Wendy did a fantastic job.. I thought the movie was charming and ultimately a feel good movie.. Please watch it and let me know if the film brought a smile to your face as it did mine..
5. Instant Family 2018 - is a comedy film with an outstanding cast. The movie is based on a married couple (Mark Wahlberg and Rose Byrne) who feel a void and decide to possibly adopt a child since there are so many children who need homes.. While visiting a fostering fair they take an interest in a young teenage girl and are informed by social workers that she has two siblings that also need a home.. This movie is full of belly laugh and feel good moments.. and will if anything in the end warm your heart.. I loved every minute of it.. from start to finish.. and so will you.. it is a definite must see film..
6. Boy Erased 2018 - is a biographical drama with an outstanding dynamic cast. To begin I will say this movie was extremely eye-opening. The story follows Jared Eamons the son of Baptist parents who is forced take part in gay conversion therapy. While I will admit I had previously heard of the barbaric practice of conversion therapy used on homosexuals to supposedly change their sexual orientation.. I had only heard stories..
Boy Erased is the film adaptation of the autobiographical memoir of Garrard Conley who went through the very controversial and ineffective practice of conversion therapy..
The film Boy Erased touches on a contentious subject but one that I believe has to be discussed. The practice of conversion therapy does more harm than good and for anyone struggling with their sexual orientation I completely understand where this could drive them to possibly do something extreme if they feel they are not being accepted by their religious upbringing or society including family.. I feel this film is a must see by everyone and possibly could be introduced into some churches as a way to open discussions on the topic.. For myself I believe in a loving God and a God that would never turn away anyone... Please watch this film and let me know if you agree
7. Beautiful Boy 2010, Beautiful Boy 2018 - Both of these films are exceptionally well written and feature two outstanding casts.. and both films tear at your soul..however they do not portray the same storylines..
Beautiful Boy 2010 - is a movie based on parents who sadly wake up one day, going about their daily activities only to learn that there has been an active shooter at their child's college.. The movie is gripping from start to finish and like any other parent I can only imagine how literally helpless one might feel.. The film is tragic and shows graphically how traumatic it was for them ..after all not only did they questions themselves.. but they have to deal with news, police, burial, family and friends.. The film does a great job at telling the story of those left behind and how they have literally no words when they know their son did an unspeakable despicable act but they also have to deal with losing their son.. A must see film..
Beautiful Boy 2018 - is a biographical drama based on the memoirs of Beautiful Boy, A Father's Journey Through His Son's Addiction..which is a book written by David Sheff (played in the movie by Steve Carell).. The movie deals with his son's methamphetamine addiction and chronicles the pain and agony that both David Sheff and his son Nic Sheff went through while battling his drug abuse. This film does an exceptional job at showing how the whole family is affected by drug addiction and how this father tried so hard to not only find help for his son but to understand what his son was going through as well.. I loved this film and challenge everyone to watch it ..after all drug addiction is rampant and has to be addressed.. Please see this movie..
8. A Kid Like Jake 2018 - is a drama based on a 2013 play by the same name. The film has an outstanding cast including Claire Danes, Jim Parsons, and Octavia Spencer. The story involves a young couple and their 4 year old son. On applying for kindergarten they soon realize their son might be transgender. This movie will inspire you (give you food for thought) but ultimately will win you over as it did me..
9. Gifted 2017 - is a drama movie based on a intellectually gifted 7 year old girl who becomes the object of a custody battle between her uncle and her grandmother.. The movie has an outstanding cast including Octavia Spencer, Chris Evans, and McKenna Grace. After home schooling his deceased sister's daughter Frank enrolls Mary into public school.. where her teacher soon discovers that she is gifted beyond her years.. and trouble ensues when the grandmother learns of her passed on prodigy talent and strives to remove her from her uncle's custody .. this movie while hard to describe is really a heart breaking tear-jerker film.. and a definite must see movie for the whole family..
Saturday, January 12, 2019
This post is a partial re-post from my personal blog.. Changing My Life One Day At a Time
the post is about the Clinton Scandal.. and Surviving R. Kelly
Taking One Day At A Time
I watched on TV last night the Monica and Bill documentary on ABC, which confirmed what I had recently seen in The Clinton Affair on A & E, both shows documented the story of how the affair started and was eventually revealed to the public. I remember the real life scandal of Bill Clinton's affair while in office.. and unfortunately no matter how sad it was than it is even more disappointing today to watch the shameful events that took place while Bill Clinton was President..
I am sure I am not the only woman who knows men such as Bill Clinton who are not only pervs, but so to speak self gratifying sex addicts. Furthermore their shameful womanizing ways are literally a part of their makeup and one that no matter how disgusting is allowed by those around them.. I know Monica was naïve but she also has to understand she was walking around like a school girl infatuated with the notion that she had something special with the President of the United States. Who was not only married but had a child. Naive doesn't excuse her from being someone who also did a grave injustice of her role in the White House. Think about it anyone working within the White House has to know the difference between right and wrong.. and in my eyes if she was clueless than why didn't she just flaunt her affair to everyone.. why be so secretive.. she very well knew it was wrong. It makes me sad that men in general that act like hound-dogs are given (at least in the past) a long leash in which to act like cavemen.. but really Bill Clinton was our President and while I can't speak for other presidents in the past which I have heard unfortunately stories about .. I can speak on Bill Clinton and how appalled I was that when this scandal first broke when he was in office and there were people everywhere that stated that his extramarital affair didn't affect how he was as a president.. Shameful
However now watching this rehashed scandal play out in multiple documentaries makes me feel as though Monica is trying to play the victim along side the Me Too movement and make monetary gain from her cooperation with the documentaries.. Again this is a truly sad and disgusting scandal to have to revisit.. Literally think about it she may have been naïve but she willing did those sorted things with him .. she sit waiting for him to call in hopes she would have a chance to be with him if only for those lewd moments.. and you can never convince me she wasn't heartbroken when she realized she was just a woman acting like a schoolgirl who needed a reality check ..
If I had been Linda Tripp I can honestly say I would have been even quicker to spill the beans on Monica and tell her how clueless she was acting.. Grow-up for goodness sake.. Act like someone equally as worthy of working in the White House..
Truly sad..
I also want to sound off about Surviving R. Kelly.. Really since when did we give celebrities a free pass to be disgusting pervs.. Yes I get it .. R. Kelly to many people has been a great artist .. but if you listen to the music and the documentary you must consider some of the songs we thought were great were instead music he had written driven by his sexual perversions.. Bump and Grind, Ignition.. I can remember those songs vividly and it wasn't like I knew them word for word.. or the hidden message behind the songs.. and yes I remember hearing about the video but I never watched it or knew the truth.. as I am sure many other people didn't .. I do however blame the people he surrounded himself with.. Yes I heard them say how he was their employer and what could they do, they needed the paycheck.. Really someone has to tell you that speaking up and doing the right thing.. was the course of action you should have taken..
In many ways the Me Too movement has caused everyone to step up and now speak the truth but did it really take all this time to pass before the shades were lifted.. Another sad carriage of injustice..
I will say however Me Too should embrace the R. Kelly victims because I also lived in a domestic violence relationship and I do not doubt that they lived that life.. being degraded, and isolated is typical of domestic violence.. and it is also typical that victims are blinded (if not brain washed) into thinking they are loved or wanted by the perpetrator.. Also you have to remember these women saw R. Kelly as a huge artist that in many cases was going to help them in the industry..
I was appalled at the documentary Surviving R. Kelly but more so because not only was he allowed by those around him to continue when they said they saw what was happening but after the video came out they continued to look the other way.. even the legal process didn't do a full investigation and charge him as a predator..
I can only say that I think the time of covering lewd behavior is gone .. it is time that we all are held accountable and to a higher standard..
CBS Gayle King Interview with R Kelly
The End
the post is about the Clinton Scandal.. and Surviving R. Kelly
Taking One Day At A Time
I watched on TV last night the Monica and Bill documentary on ABC, which confirmed what I had recently seen in The Clinton Affair on A & E, both shows documented the story of how the affair started and was eventually revealed to the public. I remember the real life scandal of Bill Clinton's affair while in office.. and unfortunately no matter how sad it was than it is even more disappointing today to watch the shameful events that took place while Bill Clinton was President..
I am sure I am not the only woman who knows men such as Bill Clinton who are not only pervs, but so to speak self gratifying sex addicts. Furthermore their shameful womanizing ways are literally a part of their makeup and one that no matter how disgusting is allowed by those around them.. I know Monica was naïve but she also has to understand she was walking around like a school girl infatuated with the notion that she had something special with the President of the United States. Who was not only married but had a child. Naive doesn't excuse her from being someone who also did a grave injustice of her role in the White House. Think about it anyone working within the White House has to know the difference between right and wrong.. and in my eyes if she was clueless than why didn't she just flaunt her affair to everyone.. why be so secretive.. she very well knew it was wrong. It makes me sad that men in general that act like hound-dogs are given (at least in the past) a long leash in which to act like cavemen.. but really Bill Clinton was our President and while I can't speak for other presidents in the past which I have heard unfortunately stories about .. I can speak on Bill Clinton and how appalled I was that when this scandal first broke when he was in office and there were people everywhere that stated that his extramarital affair didn't affect how he was as a president.. Shameful
However now watching this rehashed scandal play out in multiple documentaries makes me feel as though Monica is trying to play the victim along side the Me Too movement and make monetary gain from her cooperation with the documentaries.. Again this is a truly sad and disgusting scandal to have to revisit.. Literally think about it she may have been naïve but she willing did those sorted things with him .. she sit waiting for him to call in hopes she would have a chance to be with him if only for those lewd moments.. and you can never convince me she wasn't heartbroken when she realized she was just a woman acting like a schoolgirl who needed a reality check ..
If I had been Linda Tripp I can honestly say I would have been even quicker to spill the beans on Monica and tell her how clueless she was acting.. Grow-up for goodness sake.. Act like someone equally as worthy of working in the White House..
Truly sad..
I also want to sound off about Surviving R. Kelly.. Really since when did we give celebrities a free pass to be disgusting pervs.. Yes I get it .. R. Kelly to many people has been a great artist .. but if you listen to the music and the documentary you must consider some of the songs we thought were great were instead music he had written driven by his sexual perversions.. Bump and Grind, Ignition.. I can remember those songs vividly and it wasn't like I knew them word for word.. or the hidden message behind the songs.. and yes I remember hearing about the video but I never watched it or knew the truth.. as I am sure many other people didn't .. I do however blame the people he surrounded himself with.. Yes I heard them say how he was their employer and what could they do, they needed the paycheck.. Really someone has to tell you that speaking up and doing the right thing.. was the course of action you should have taken..
In many ways the Me Too movement has caused everyone to step up and now speak the truth but did it really take all this time to pass before the shades were lifted.. Another sad carriage of injustice..
I will say however Me Too should embrace the R. Kelly victims because I also lived in a domestic violence relationship and I do not doubt that they lived that life.. being degraded, and isolated is typical of domestic violence.. and it is also typical that victims are blinded (if not brain washed) into thinking they are loved or wanted by the perpetrator.. Also you have to remember these women saw R. Kelly as a huge artist that in many cases was going to help them in the industry..
I was appalled at the documentary Surviving R. Kelly but more so because not only was he allowed by those around him to continue when they said they saw what was happening but after the video came out they continued to look the other way.. even the legal process didn't do a full investigation and charge him as a predator..
I can only say that I think the time of covering lewd behavior is gone .. it is time that we all are held accountable and to a higher standard..
CBS Gayle King Interview with R Kelly
The End
Tuesday, January 8, 2019
Great TV viewing
I probably watch far to many TV shows, but I have been a fan of TV shows and movies for most of my life.. For example I remember when I was a child we only had 3 TV stations and I had my favorite shows and their time slots memorized. There was early morning shows on the weekdays like Captain Kangaroo daily in the mornings, Green Acres was on early in the mornings along with Bewitched, and in the afternoons there was Brady Bunch, Gilligan's Island, I Dream of Jeannie and countless others.. On Saturdays there was American Bandstand and Sunday evenings I can remember The Wonderful World of Disney and Wild Kingdom.. Loved each and every one of them ..
Here are a few of the TV shows I now watch, and do my very best to keep up with ..
1. Younger 2015 - Is an upbeat comedy show about a woman who poses as a younger millennial to get a job at a publishing house. Ultimately without giving you too many details the show is wonderful and will make you smile..
2. The Orville 2017 - is a sci-fi comedy and is probably what you would get if you entwined SNL with Star Trek. I love this light-hearted show, and has a wonderful cast including Seth MacFarlane. A real must see comedy..
3. So You Think You Can Dance 2005 - is a dance competition show that airs yearly. The show is broken into basically three parts, the open auditions..that take place everywhere around the US and then the academy were they push the dancers in all genres and do cuts as needed until they have the best of the dancers for the live TV show. Than the live dancers are cut based on the judges and viewing audience. I love this show and think it is one of the best competition shows at the present time.
4. Dancing with the Stars 2005 - is a yearly dance competition show. The show invites celebrities from all genres to come on the show and with the help of a professional dancer learns to dance (shake a tail feather) to win the mirror ball trophy. Everyone I know tries ( just like myself ) to watch every episode when it comes on and vote on the dancers. I know the show has been on for years but it still has a huge viewer following.. Viewers love to see which celebrities can excel at learning ballroom or who actually has two left feet.
5. The World of Dance 2017 - is another dance competition but with a different format. The show features contestants are from all over the world that are considered to be top dancers in their genre and age group. The judges are Jennifer Lopez, Ne-Yo, and Derek Hough who weed out the dancers to decide who wins a million dollars and is crowned World of Dance champion.
6. Shark Tank 2009 - is a reality TV show that allows entrepreneurs to pitch their ideas to a panel of investors (sharks) who if interested can invest their own money in their ideas. I love this show and just like other viewers watch it regularly to see what new products and ideas could be the next big thing.. I think overall a lot of people think I wish I had thought of that.. at least I know I do..
7. The Voice 2011 - is a singing competition show. The show like the name is based on contestants that are picked by professional artists solely by their vocal ability. If more than one professional artist is interested the contestants get to decide which artist they would like to work with. Over the course of the show the contestants go through a process in order to eventually advance into the live performance phase in which the viewers are allowed to vote. Almost everyone I know loves this show and a version of The Voice is in almost every country in the world. Personally I love the blind auditions and seeing the contestants face when they get the attention of the professional artists.
8. The Four-Battle for Stardom 2018 - is a new singing competition show that I, like many other viewers have fallen madly in love with. The show has a panel of artists led by Sean Combs who have hand-picked four aspiring artists that start off the show and over the course of weeks other aspiring artists perform (battle) someone in the starting four in order to take their seat and become one of The Four. The viewers vote on who wins the battle and during the last battle The Four end up taking on each other to decide the winner.. In my opinion this show lets the viewers play a pivotal part of the show throughout the process and keeps you on the edge of your seat cheering for the artists as they advance.
9. America's Got Talent 2006 - is a reality show that allows contestants from all walks of life, genres, ages, and countries to compete against each other to win a cash prize and the ability to headline a show in Las Vegas. I can honestly say I watch the show more so to see the variety of the acts, because you see everything from sword swallowing, singers, dancers, and comedians along with every other thing you can imagine.. I really love judges ( Mel B, Howie, Simon, and Heidi ) but have to say I miss Nick Cannon I think he was the best presenter.
10. Honorable mention Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknown.. Anthony Bourdain will be sorely missed by everyone that knew him and even those such as myself that didn't .. His personality and realness came through his shows such as Parts Unknown 2013-2018, No Reservations 2005-2012, The Layover 2011-2013 and many others. Anthony Bourdain was a celebrity chef, author, and basically a truly superb travel guide through literally every part of the world.. guiding us through the sights, sounds and food of distant lands.. Unfortunately however Anthony Bourdain committed suicide in June of 2018 and for many people including myself left a gaping hole in our hearts.. Although I didn't know him I felt extremely sad that he left this world in that way..
Unfortunately far to many people struggle with mental illness and take their lives leaving a multitude of unanswered questions for those left behind.. I can only pray .. Rest In Peace..
Anthony Michael Bourdain was an American celebrity chef, author, travel documentarian, and television personality who starred in programs focusing on the exploration of international culture, cuisine, and the human condition. He will always be considered one of the most influential chefs in the world
I probably watch far to many TV shows, but I have been a fan of TV shows and movies for most of my life.. For example I remember when I was a child we only had 3 TV stations and I had my favorite shows and their time slots memorized. There was early morning shows on the weekdays like Captain Kangaroo daily in the mornings, Green Acres was on early in the mornings along with Bewitched, and in the afternoons there was Brady Bunch, Gilligan's Island, I Dream of Jeannie and countless others.. On Saturdays there was American Bandstand and Sunday evenings I can remember The Wonderful World of Disney and Wild Kingdom.. Loved each and every one of them ..
Here are a few of the TV shows I now watch, and do my very best to keep up with ..
1. Younger 2015 - Is an upbeat comedy show about a woman who poses as a younger millennial to get a job at a publishing house. Ultimately without giving you too many details the show is wonderful and will make you smile..
2. The Orville 2017 - is a sci-fi comedy and is probably what you would get if you entwined SNL with Star Trek. I love this light-hearted show, and has a wonderful cast including Seth MacFarlane. A real must see comedy..
3. So You Think You Can Dance 2005 - is a dance competition show that airs yearly. The show is broken into basically three parts, the open auditions..that take place everywhere around the US and then the academy were they push the dancers in all genres and do cuts as needed until they have the best of the dancers for the live TV show. Than the live dancers are cut based on the judges and viewing audience. I love this show and think it is one of the best competition shows at the present time.
4. Dancing with the Stars 2005 - is a yearly dance competition show. The show invites celebrities from all genres to come on the show and with the help of a professional dancer learns to dance (shake a tail feather) to win the mirror ball trophy. Everyone I know tries ( just like myself ) to watch every episode when it comes on and vote on the dancers. I know the show has been on for years but it still has a huge viewer following.. Viewers love to see which celebrities can excel at learning ballroom or who actually has two left feet.
5. The World of Dance 2017 - is another dance competition but with a different format. The show features contestants are from all over the world that are considered to be top dancers in their genre and age group. The judges are Jennifer Lopez, Ne-Yo, and Derek Hough who weed out the dancers to decide who wins a million dollars and is crowned World of Dance champion.
6. Shark Tank 2009 - is a reality TV show that allows entrepreneurs to pitch their ideas to a panel of investors (sharks) who if interested can invest their own money in their ideas. I love this show and just like other viewers watch it regularly to see what new products and ideas could be the next big thing.. I think overall a lot of people think I wish I had thought of that.. at least I know I do..
7. The Voice 2011 - is a singing competition show. The show like the name is based on contestants that are picked by professional artists solely by their vocal ability. If more than one professional artist is interested the contestants get to decide which artist they would like to work with. Over the course of the show the contestants go through a process in order to eventually advance into the live performance phase in which the viewers are allowed to vote. Almost everyone I know loves this show and a version of The Voice is in almost every country in the world. Personally I love the blind auditions and seeing the contestants face when they get the attention of the professional artists.
8. The Four-Battle for Stardom 2018 - is a new singing competition show that I, like many other viewers have fallen madly in love with. The show has a panel of artists led by Sean Combs who have hand-picked four aspiring artists that start off the show and over the course of weeks other aspiring artists perform (battle) someone in the starting four in order to take their seat and become one of The Four. The viewers vote on who wins the battle and during the last battle The Four end up taking on each other to decide the winner.. In my opinion this show lets the viewers play a pivotal part of the show throughout the process and keeps you on the edge of your seat cheering for the artists as they advance.
9. America's Got Talent 2006 - is a reality show that allows contestants from all walks of life, genres, ages, and countries to compete against each other to win a cash prize and the ability to headline a show in Las Vegas. I can honestly say I watch the show more so to see the variety of the acts, because you see everything from sword swallowing, singers, dancers, and comedians along with every other thing you can imagine.. I really love judges ( Mel B, Howie, Simon, and Heidi ) but have to say I miss Nick Cannon I think he was the best presenter.
10. Honorable mention Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknown.. Anthony Bourdain will be sorely missed by everyone that knew him and even those such as myself that didn't .. His personality and realness came through his shows such as Parts Unknown 2013-2018, No Reservations 2005-2012, The Layover 2011-2013 and many others. Anthony Bourdain was a celebrity chef, author, and basically a truly superb travel guide through literally every part of the world.. guiding us through the sights, sounds and food of distant lands.. Unfortunately however Anthony Bourdain committed suicide in June of 2018 and for many people including myself left a gaping hole in our hearts.. Although I didn't know him I felt extremely sad that he left this world in that way..
Unfortunately far to many people struggle with mental illness and take their lives leaving a multitude of unanswered questions for those left behind.. I can only pray .. Rest In Peace..
Anthony Michael Bourdain was an American celebrity chef, author, travel documentarian, and television personality who starred in programs focusing on the exploration of international culture, cuisine, and the human condition. He will always be considered one of the most influential chefs in the world
Monday, January 7, 2019
Fantasy Series
I have always found fantasy films interesting, as well as do a lot of other people as clear from the overwhelming gravitation of sci-fi, comic, paranormal and other fantasy type of movies, conventions and other venues.
1. Twilight 2008, Twilight New Moon 2009, Twilight Eclipse 2010, Twilight Breaking Dawn Part 1 2011, Twilight Breaking Dawn Part 2 2012- is a romance fantasy series based on the love spawned from a mortal young girl who meets and falls in love with a vampire young man.
The first movie Twilight - introduces how Bella (Kristen Stewart) met Edward (Robert Pattinson) and not how they fell in love but the history of the vampire family known as the Cullens. It also highlights the Cullens efforts to protect Bella from a separate group of traveling vicious vampires.
Twilight New Moon - Highlights Bella's depression upon learning of the Cullen's departure from the area. The movie also focuses on her friendship with the werewolf Jacob (Taylor Lautner) , along with the efforts of how Jacob and the other werewolves from his tribe agree to protect Bella from a rogue herd of vampires.
Twilight Eclipse - is based on how Bella comes to understand the complications that marrying a vampire (Edward) may have on everyone and shows how the vampires along with the werewolves join to form an alliance to protect Bella.
Twilight Breaking Dawn 1 - Highlights the marriage of Bella to Edward, as well as the pregnancy of Bella and the challenges of carrying a half mortal and half vampire child has upon Bella.
Twilight Breaking Dawn 2 - the movie focuses on Bella's new transformation into a vampire, and the efforts of the Cullen family along with the werewolves to protect their young daughter from Volturi who feel she is an abomination.
I really found the twilight series interesting and full of drama, action and romance I can only hope that someday they reprise the characters in a sequel of some kind.
2. Underworld 2003, Underworld Evolution 2006, Underworld Rise of the Lycans 2009, Underworld Awakening 2012, Underworld Blood War 2016 - The Underworld series are action, horror fantasy films and based on a post war stricken world over run by vampires and werewolves known as Lycans.
The first movie Underworld - highlights a vampire named Selene (Kate Beckinsale) who learns that the Lycans are pursuing a human named Michael Corvin for experimentation looking for a cure from the virus that plaques the creatures. The series is packed with action and so many history details about how the vampires and Lycans came to be enemies. I can only say this is a fantastic thrill ride that had me on the edge of my seat.
Underworld Evolution - continues the story of Michael Corvin and how Selene learns that Markus is the first vampire and that he plans to free his brother the first werewolf. The sorted details of the series continues.
Underworld Rise of the Lycans - continues to based on the history behind the vampires, Lycans and virus that plaques them. However this film highlights the tragic story of one of the first Lycans that was plagued with the virus Lucian who fell in love with Viktor's daughter Sonja who had become pregnant with Lucian's child. Viktor found out and killed his daughter to protect blending of the species which sparked the revolt against the vampires by Lucian.
Underworld Awakening - continues the saga after Selene is awakened and escapes imprisonment only to find out that she has had a daughter half vampire and half Lycan, leaving Selene determined to find her daughter. Furthermore after learning of the existence of the vampires and Lycans the humans have waged an all out war against any immortal creatures.
Underworld Blood Wars - highlights the fact that Selene is on the run from both the vampires who want to get revenge for the death of Viktor and the Lycans who want her daughter in hopes that her blood will make an army of hybrid vampire Lycans.
All of the Underworld films are well worth watching and there is some speculation if there will be a sixth installment.
3. The Shape of Water 2017 - is a fantasy romance drama based on the story of this young mute woman who works for a high security government lab and falls in love for a captured humanoid sea creature. Although the movie might sound to far fetched in fantasy to be taken seriously, I can attest to the film being exceptionally written with a superb cast. While I do not want to tell too much of the storyline I will say that the story has a drama filled romance aspect that draws the viewer in and keeps you on the edge of your seat. Let me know if you enjoy this film as much as I did..
4. Jurassic Park 1993 - is a sci-fi fantasy movie based on a newly built ill-fated theme park that is filled with prehistoric animals. A select group of specialists in their field have been brought to the park to view the cloned species however upon entering they learn they have not only cloned vegetable eaters but carnivores and may have crossed some of their DNA which has disastrous results. Upon release of the film Jurassic Park, it quickly became a huge hit and spawned sequels .. all of which have done extremely well. All of the films are filled with dramatic action scenes and outstanding visual effects. I urge you to watch all the movies and let me know what you think of each of them.
The Lost World Jurassic Park 1997, Jurassic Park III 2001, Jurassic World 2015, Jurassic World Fallen Kingdom 2018, and Jurassic World 3 is scheduled to be released in 2021.
5. Honorable mention fantasy driven films from history, again I want to stress these are only based on my opinion.
Star Wars - The original Star Wars premiered in 1977 and started a worldwide phenomenon. After the mega success of the original it was quickly followed by sequels, The Empire Strikes Back 1980, Return of the Jedi 1983, which was quickly deemed as the trilogy. After which others films have been released The Phantom Menace, Attack of the Clones, Revenge of the Sith all released as prequel trilogy, and The Force Awakens, The Last Jedi, and Star Wars Episode IX is scheduled to be released in December 2019 dubbed as sequel trilogy. There have also been three other stand alone movies released The Clone Wars, Rogue One, and Solo A Star Wars Story. The most outstanding memory I have of these films are that they all played a huge part of the lives of every man I have ever known including my son. When I married my first husband my stepson was completely engrossed with the original Star Wars and years later in 1990 when I had a son the series quickly became his favorite as well. I can attest while I have seen only some of the films almost every man who I know still to this day are completely enamored by the series.
________________________________________________________________________________
J. R. R. Tolkien books became a fantasy movie series and while at first were animated (The Hobbit 1977), the series quickly became live action and were released consecutively. Lord of the Rings Trilogy - The Fellowship of the Ring 2001, The Two Towers 2002, The Return of the King 2003. After that followed The Hunt for Gollum 2009, Born of Hope 2009. Than came The Hobbit An Unexpected Journey 2012, The Hobbit The Desolation of Smaug 2013, The Hobbit The Battle of the Five Armies 2014 known as The Hobbit Trilogy..
Again almost every man I have ever known including my son love these movies and are completely engrossed in the characters and story of each of them. I know they are set to release another movie spawned by J. R. R. Tolkien works titled The Silmarillion Return of Sauron in 2019 which will most likely spur more films in the future.
_______________________________________________________________________________
Harry Potter film series is based on the J. K. Rowling Harry Potter novels. The first movie was Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone in 2001, followed by Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets 2002, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban 2004, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire 2005, Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix 2007, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince 2009, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 2010, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 2011
I have to admit it would be very difficult for me to explain all the Harry Potter series however what I can tell you is that Harry Potter is an orphaned boy who is living with his aunt and uncle, and at age 11 a giant visits him and tells him he has magical skills. He also tells Harry that his parents were murdered by an evil wizard, and Harry is to come to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry to learn magic. During the time Harry is at Hogwarts he becomes friends with other schoolmates and they embark on many tales through the series.
I can also tell you that the Harry Potter series has a huge fan following, the movies are filled with fantasy and drama. The whole series is engaging and beloved by fans all over the world.
________________________________________________________________________________
The Wizard of Oz 1939 is for me timeless and really needs no explanation. I remember watching this movie multiple times throughout the years and not to long ago I was fortunately enough to watch it with my granddaughter who just as my own children was completely awe-struck at the characters, and story.
Labyrinth 1986 is another fantasy film that probably needs no introduction. The movie is a musical fantasy was directed by Jim Henson and is filled with a cast of puppet characters and features David Bowie as the live action Goblin King. My whole family loves this film and I hear they intend to release a Labyrinth 2 film which I am sure many fans are looking forward to.
The Neverending Story 1984 is another film series that our whole family loves.. The film is filled with a cast of lovable characters like that of the Labyrinth but includes live action. The sequels - The Next Chapter 1990, Escape from Fantasia 1994 likewise finish the series. While these films are geared to children they are full charm for all ages.
The Dark Crystal 1982 is a dark children fantasy if there is such a group. I remember watching this film with my kids when it was released and being as captivated as they were with the cast of characters and the storyline which was directed by Jim Henson. The story is very hard to put into words but I can tell you that it shows a good vs evil struggle and is full of intrigue and drama. Well worth watching for all ages. The Dark Crystal -Age of Resistance is scheduled to premiere on Netflix in Feb 2019 ..
Legend 1985 - is another dark fantasy film that enchanted my whole family many years ago. The story is based on a boy Jack (played by Tom Cruise) that learns Darkness and Goblins have been sent to kill unicorns, the magical creatures that guard the light. The goblins take the horns to Darkness who is trying to destroy the light. A girl Lily distracts Jack and after another unicorn is slain the world begins to change to winter. Fantasy abounds in this tale of light and eternal darkness as the pair of them rush to save the world from Darkness.
I have always found fantasy films interesting, as well as do a lot of other people as clear from the overwhelming gravitation of sci-fi, comic, paranormal and other fantasy type of movies, conventions and other venues.
1. Twilight 2008, Twilight New Moon 2009, Twilight Eclipse 2010, Twilight Breaking Dawn Part 1 2011, Twilight Breaking Dawn Part 2 2012- is a romance fantasy series based on the love spawned from a mortal young girl who meets and falls in love with a vampire young man.
The first movie Twilight - introduces how Bella (Kristen Stewart) met Edward (Robert Pattinson) and not how they fell in love but the history of the vampire family known as the Cullens. It also highlights the Cullens efforts to protect Bella from a separate group of traveling vicious vampires.
Twilight New Moon - Highlights Bella's depression upon learning of the Cullen's departure from the area. The movie also focuses on her friendship with the werewolf Jacob (Taylor Lautner) , along with the efforts of how Jacob and the other werewolves from his tribe agree to protect Bella from a rogue herd of vampires.
Twilight Eclipse - is based on how Bella comes to understand the complications that marrying a vampire (Edward) may have on everyone and shows how the vampires along with the werewolves join to form an alliance to protect Bella.
Twilight Breaking Dawn 1 - Highlights the marriage of Bella to Edward, as well as the pregnancy of Bella and the challenges of carrying a half mortal and half vampire child has upon Bella.
Twilight Breaking Dawn 2 - the movie focuses on Bella's new transformation into a vampire, and the efforts of the Cullen family along with the werewolves to protect their young daughter from Volturi who feel she is an abomination.
I really found the twilight series interesting and full of drama, action and romance I can only hope that someday they reprise the characters in a sequel of some kind.
2. Underworld 2003, Underworld Evolution 2006, Underworld Rise of the Lycans 2009, Underworld Awakening 2012, Underworld Blood War 2016 - The Underworld series are action, horror fantasy films and based on a post war stricken world over run by vampires and werewolves known as Lycans.
The first movie Underworld - highlights a vampire named Selene (Kate Beckinsale) who learns that the Lycans are pursuing a human named Michael Corvin for experimentation looking for a cure from the virus that plaques the creatures. The series is packed with action and so many history details about how the vampires and Lycans came to be enemies. I can only say this is a fantastic thrill ride that had me on the edge of my seat.
Underworld Evolution - continues the story of Michael Corvin and how Selene learns that Markus is the first vampire and that he plans to free his brother the first werewolf. The sorted details of the series continues.
Underworld Rise of the Lycans - continues to based on the history behind the vampires, Lycans and virus that plaques them. However this film highlights the tragic story of one of the first Lycans that was plagued with the virus Lucian who fell in love with Viktor's daughter Sonja who had become pregnant with Lucian's child. Viktor found out and killed his daughter to protect blending of the species which sparked the revolt against the vampires by Lucian.
Underworld Awakening - continues the saga after Selene is awakened and escapes imprisonment only to find out that she has had a daughter half vampire and half Lycan, leaving Selene determined to find her daughter. Furthermore after learning of the existence of the vampires and Lycans the humans have waged an all out war against any immortal creatures.
Underworld Blood Wars - highlights the fact that Selene is on the run from both the vampires who want to get revenge for the death of Viktor and the Lycans who want her daughter in hopes that her blood will make an army of hybrid vampire Lycans.
All of the Underworld films are well worth watching and there is some speculation if there will be a sixth installment.
3. The Shape of Water 2017 - is a fantasy romance drama based on the story of this young mute woman who works for a high security government lab and falls in love for a captured humanoid sea creature. Although the movie might sound to far fetched in fantasy to be taken seriously, I can attest to the film being exceptionally written with a superb cast. While I do not want to tell too much of the storyline I will say that the story has a drama filled romance aspect that draws the viewer in and keeps you on the edge of your seat. Let me know if you enjoy this film as much as I did..
4. Jurassic Park 1993 - is a sci-fi fantasy movie based on a newly built ill-fated theme park that is filled with prehistoric animals. A select group of specialists in their field have been brought to the park to view the cloned species however upon entering they learn they have not only cloned vegetable eaters but carnivores and may have crossed some of their DNA which has disastrous results. Upon release of the film Jurassic Park, it quickly became a huge hit and spawned sequels .. all of which have done extremely well. All of the films are filled with dramatic action scenes and outstanding visual effects. I urge you to watch all the movies and let me know what you think of each of them.
The Lost World Jurassic Park 1997, Jurassic Park III 2001, Jurassic World 2015, Jurassic World Fallen Kingdom 2018, and Jurassic World 3 is scheduled to be released in 2021.
5. Honorable mention fantasy driven films from history, again I want to stress these are only based on my opinion.
Star Wars - The original Star Wars premiered in 1977 and started a worldwide phenomenon. After the mega success of the original it was quickly followed by sequels, The Empire Strikes Back 1980, Return of the Jedi 1983, which was quickly deemed as the trilogy. After which others films have been released The Phantom Menace, Attack of the Clones, Revenge of the Sith all released as prequel trilogy, and The Force Awakens, The Last Jedi, and Star Wars Episode IX is scheduled to be released in December 2019 dubbed as sequel trilogy. There have also been three other stand alone movies released The Clone Wars, Rogue One, and Solo A Star Wars Story. The most outstanding memory I have of these films are that they all played a huge part of the lives of every man I have ever known including my son. When I married my first husband my stepson was completely engrossed with the original Star Wars and years later in 1990 when I had a son the series quickly became his favorite as well. I can attest while I have seen only some of the films almost every man who I know still to this day are completely enamored by the series.
________________________________________________________________________________
J. R. R. Tolkien books became a fantasy movie series and while at first were animated (The Hobbit 1977), the series quickly became live action and were released consecutively. Lord of the Rings Trilogy - The Fellowship of the Ring 2001, The Two Towers 2002, The Return of the King 2003. After that followed The Hunt for Gollum 2009, Born of Hope 2009. Than came The Hobbit An Unexpected Journey 2012, The Hobbit The Desolation of Smaug 2013, The Hobbit The Battle of the Five Armies 2014 known as The Hobbit Trilogy..
Again almost every man I have ever known including my son love these movies and are completely engrossed in the characters and story of each of them. I know they are set to release another movie spawned by J. R. R. Tolkien works titled The Silmarillion Return of Sauron in 2019 which will most likely spur more films in the future.
_______________________________________________________________________________
Harry Potter film series is based on the J. K. Rowling Harry Potter novels. The first movie was Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone in 2001, followed by Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets 2002, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban 2004, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire 2005, Harry Potter and the Order of Phoenix 2007, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince 2009, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 2010, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 2011
I have to admit it would be very difficult for me to explain all the Harry Potter series however what I can tell you is that Harry Potter is an orphaned boy who is living with his aunt and uncle, and at age 11 a giant visits him and tells him he has magical skills. He also tells Harry that his parents were murdered by an evil wizard, and Harry is to come to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry to learn magic. During the time Harry is at Hogwarts he becomes friends with other schoolmates and they embark on many tales through the series.
I can also tell you that the Harry Potter series has a huge fan following, the movies are filled with fantasy and drama. The whole series is engaging and beloved by fans all over the world.
________________________________________________________________________________
The Wizard of Oz 1939 is for me timeless and really needs no explanation. I remember watching this movie multiple times throughout the years and not to long ago I was fortunately enough to watch it with my granddaughter who just as my own children was completely awe-struck at the characters, and story.
Labyrinth 1986 is another fantasy film that probably needs no introduction. The movie is a musical fantasy was directed by Jim Henson and is filled with a cast of puppet characters and features David Bowie as the live action Goblin King. My whole family loves this film and I hear they intend to release a Labyrinth 2 film which I am sure many fans are looking forward to.
The Neverending Story 1984 is another film series that our whole family loves.. The film is filled with a cast of lovable characters like that of the Labyrinth but includes live action. The sequels - The Next Chapter 1990, Escape from Fantasia 1994 likewise finish the series. While these films are geared to children they are full charm for all ages.
The Dark Crystal 1982 is a dark children fantasy if there is such a group. I remember watching this film with my kids when it was released and being as captivated as they were with the cast of characters and the storyline which was directed by Jim Henson. The story is very hard to put into words but I can tell you that it shows a good vs evil struggle and is full of intrigue and drama. Well worth watching for all ages. The Dark Crystal -Age of Resistance is scheduled to premiere on Netflix in Feb 2019 ..
Legend 1985 - is another dark fantasy film that enchanted my whole family many years ago. The story is based on a boy Jack (played by Tom Cruise) that learns Darkness and Goblins have been sent to kill unicorns, the magical creatures that guard the light. The goblins take the horns to Darkness who is trying to destroy the light. A girl Lily distracts Jack and after another unicorn is slain the world begins to change to winter. Fantasy abounds in this tale of light and eternal darkness as the pair of them rush to save the world from Darkness.
Tuesday, January 1, 2019
Outstanding TV Series
While respectfully plenty of TV series that have stood the test of time and been etched into television history. I have my favorites and while I won't claim to be able to name them all. I will try to make mention to several in my television watching history as well as the ones that in recent years have stood out for me. Please remember these are only my favorites and I do recognize my tastes may not be the same as yours. This list is in no way a full list of every great TV series ( I have also left out any series previously mentioned in my blog ), just some of my favorites I wanted to share.
1. Outlander 2014 - This is a Starz series and definitely a series I find exceptional. The story follows Claire Randall Fraser and Jamie Fraser love story throughout the years.
Season 1 - Shows how WWII nurse Claire Randall and her husband Frank Randall are visiting Scotland when she travels through the stones to the 18th century. Out of necessity she is married to Jamie Fraser a Highlander clansmen but soon they both fall deeply in love with one another. The clan being pursued by the British redcoats and Claire is soon deemed a healer. The season ends with Jamie being captured and tortured by a sadistic British Officer. I will say that after watching the first season I was hooked and have not missed one episode since.
Season 2 - Without giving too many details away Claire and Jamie have traveled to France and the British officer makes an appearance but Claire convinces Jamie not to kill him until Frank Randall's ancestry can be assured. During this time Claire loses a baby and they set sail to return to Scotland, however after Jamie learns of her 2nd pregnancy he convinces her to return through the stones before the Battle of Culloden a fight that the Highlanders are in history destined to lose. After returning to the 20th century, she finds herself agreeing to raise the baby with Frank.
Season 3 - During this season you learn that Jamie was gravely injured at Culloden but was spared execution and imprisoned. He befriends the Governor who later paroles him to work at an English estate where Jamie fathers a son. Later Jamie leaves to return to Scotland and becomes a printer. After 20 years pass Claire has now become a doctor, Frank has died and she finds out during a visit to Scotland with Brianna and vows to return to him. It is hard to explain all the details but after Claire returns to find Jamie married to a widow woman however upon her return it nullifies the marriage. The two end up chasing after Jamie's nephew Ian traveling through the Caribbean and ending up shipwrecked in the Americas.
Season 4 - Has just started but they have have already traveled to North Carolina and visited Jamie's aunt on a plantation were slavery is sadly witnessed. They decide to travel north, where they end up claiming a piece of land called Fraser's Ridge and making it their home. While not trying to give too much away they settled tensions with their neighbors the Cherokees, Jamie was able to see his son as he traveled through with the Governor, and Jamie found his old friend Murtagh. Meanwhile after turning down Roger's marriage proposal Brianna finds out that both her mother and dad are doomed to die in a fire and goes to travel through the stones to warn them. After finding out that Brianna has gone to the stones he decides to follow her into the past. Season 4 is not yet over however I can say so far Brianna has arrived and Roger finally found her but I will not say more. I will say that this is an absolutely wonderful series and one that is definitely full of drama and tragic events. Please watch and let me know if you enjoy it as much as I have.
_______________________________________________________________________________
2. Game of Thrones 2011 - HBO's GOT has led in series since the moment it appeared, with a huge following of viewers. It has an outstanding cast, exceptional story, dynamic special effects and although sadly Season 8 is scheduled to start in April of 2019 it will end the series. I have no doubt they will go out on top.. and be viewed in record numbers by dedicated followers.
While I am not going to give you the details of the series know that it is a dramatic fantasy series with huge attention paid to its medieval realism. From the start it has generated buzz over its battle over good vs evil, hedonistic and political palace intrigue this series continually keeps you on the edge of your seat.. Remember this new year will be their last so you have time to binge watch every season before April and I am even considering on binge watching the seasons again before the last season starts just to totally immerse myself in the drama that Season 8 will assuredly bring.
I also want to mention I am totally a Jon Snow driven person.. I think he is the epitome of what a man should be. I also can't wait until this season to see what comes of the union between Jon and Daenerys (known to many as the Mother to Dragons).
Daenerys Targaryen to Jon Snow
I cannot sing the Game of Thrones praises more other than saying many series come and go but the ones of this quality are very few and far between. I am sad already knowing The End Is Upon Us!
I know HBO is probably already hard at work to provide everyone follow ups to the series which I hope will be of the same quality.
_______________________________________________________________________________
3. The Handmaids Tale 2017- The Handmaids Tale is a unique series from Hulu and while admittedly it is a Dystopian fictional drama. The series has never lacked in jaw dropping controversial moments or horrific futuristic events not only for me but for everyone I know that also watches the show.
The series is based on a world in which everything has changed from what it is now, in fact the series gives you a glimpse of how the world changed for the main character known as Offred .. In the series fertility rates have collapsed and within the chaos a totalitarian government has been established, in which women's equality has been stripped away and a militarized, hierarchical regime has been devised. Furthermore fertile women (known as handmaids) become some sort of biblical sex slaves to those families that cannot conceive. From the moment the first episode aired the horrific events and characters in this series quickly grabbed viewers attention.
I have to say this series takes you on a roller coaster ride that you want soon forget. It also provokes conversation about how in literally in an instance political change can take away our freedoms. This series is worth watching and a series that will leave you lost for words. I know I can't wait until Season 3 let me know if you agree.
_______________________________________________________________________________ Below I have listed some of the series I've watched through the years ..either as a child or an adult .. Remember the ones I chose to list are just based on my personal memory and I was not able to list them all.
All in the Family - While this series is from the 70s, I can remember watching it as a child and thinking it was somewhat like my family and was one that due to the times had a huge following. I mostly remembered feeling sorry that Edith when Archie called her a dingbat and when he yelled about literally everything, looking back it truly is sad that I felt like this show was similar in any way to my family.
The Big Bang Theory - premiered in 2007 and while I won't claim to have watched every episode. I do think it is a very funny show with an outstanding cast. Sheldon is of course my favorite, but I truly love the interaction between him and all the other cast and how over time the story has expanded to include marriage and children.. Truly plenty of laughter to go around.
Seinfield - premiered in 1989 ended in 1998 and while I feel like through reruns I have almost watched every episode I can honestly say for a show about nothing I truly think it was one of the smartest comedies ever made. I always have been a Jerry Seinfield fan, watching him on shows like Johnny Carson's Tonight Show , stand up specials and Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee. However everyone in Seinfield made the show what it was a truly exceptional show.
Roseanne - premiered in 1988 and ran through 1997, than attempted a restart in 2018 only to be cancelled by the network for a comment made by Roseanne Barr. While I do not condone anything that was said I do want to say that the original Roseanne show I truly identified with since it highlighted a blue-collar family, somewhat dysfunctional struggling through what all of us at the time were and making us laugh at ourselves.. Over the years there are several takeaways from the original show that I fondly remember like when Roseanne taught kids how to shop for groceries to feed their families on a limited budget. As well as loose meat sandwiches, when to allow birth control, Roseanne seeing for herself David's living condition and allowing him to move in with the Conners. I can't possibly remember all the episodes but I know my family identified in some way with all of them and they made us smile.
Note I will say that times change and I was still out on the restart of Roseanne when it was cancelled, however the network has again restarted the show under ( The Conners ) now that Roseanne Barr has been written out of the restart and I do not know if the new show will stand the test of time but I can tell the cast is doing their best to save it.
other shows I remember fondly from years gone by
The Golden Girls
Bewitched
Brady Bunch
Happy Days
Sanford and Son
Sonny and Cher
Marcus Welby MD
Adam 12
Emergency
Good Times
The Waltons
Bonanza
Gilligan's Island
as well as many others ..
While respectfully plenty of TV series that have stood the test of time and been etched into television history. I have my favorites and while I won't claim to be able to name them all. I will try to make mention to several in my television watching history as well as the ones that in recent years have stood out for me. Please remember these are only my favorites and I do recognize my tastes may not be the same as yours. This list is in no way a full list of every great TV series ( I have also left out any series previously mentioned in my blog ), just some of my favorites I wanted to share.
1. Outlander 2014 - This is a Starz series and definitely a series I find exceptional. The story follows Claire Randall Fraser and Jamie Fraser love story throughout the years.
Season 1 - Shows how WWII nurse Claire Randall and her husband Frank Randall are visiting Scotland when she travels through the stones to the 18th century. Out of necessity she is married to Jamie Fraser a Highlander clansmen but soon they both fall deeply in love with one another. The clan being pursued by the British redcoats and Claire is soon deemed a healer. The season ends with Jamie being captured and tortured by a sadistic British Officer. I will say that after watching the first season I was hooked and have not missed one episode since.
Season 2 - Without giving too many details away Claire and Jamie have traveled to France and the British officer makes an appearance but Claire convinces Jamie not to kill him until Frank Randall's ancestry can be assured. During this time Claire loses a baby and they set sail to return to Scotland, however after Jamie learns of her 2nd pregnancy he convinces her to return through the stones before the Battle of Culloden a fight that the Highlanders are in history destined to lose. After returning to the 20th century, she finds herself agreeing to raise the baby with Frank.
Season 3 - During this season you learn that Jamie was gravely injured at Culloden but was spared execution and imprisoned. He befriends the Governor who later paroles him to work at an English estate where Jamie fathers a son. Later Jamie leaves to return to Scotland and becomes a printer. After 20 years pass Claire has now become a doctor, Frank has died and she finds out during a visit to Scotland with Brianna and vows to return to him. It is hard to explain all the details but after Claire returns to find Jamie married to a widow woman however upon her return it nullifies the marriage. The two end up chasing after Jamie's nephew Ian traveling through the Caribbean and ending up shipwrecked in the Americas.
Season 4 - Has just started but they have have already traveled to North Carolina and visited Jamie's aunt on a plantation were slavery is sadly witnessed. They decide to travel north, where they end up claiming a piece of land called Fraser's Ridge and making it their home. While not trying to give too much away they settled tensions with their neighbors the Cherokees, Jamie was able to see his son as he traveled through with the Governor, and Jamie found his old friend Murtagh. Meanwhile after turning down Roger's marriage proposal Brianna finds out that both her mother and dad are doomed to die in a fire and goes to travel through the stones to warn them. After finding out that Brianna has gone to the stones he decides to follow her into the past. Season 4 is not yet over however I can say so far Brianna has arrived and Roger finally found her but I will not say more. I will say that this is an absolutely wonderful series and one that is definitely full of drama and tragic events. Please watch and let me know if you enjoy it as much as I have.
_______________________________________________________________________________
2. Game of Thrones 2011 - HBO's GOT has led in series since the moment it appeared, with a huge following of viewers. It has an outstanding cast, exceptional story, dynamic special effects and although sadly Season 8 is scheduled to start in April of 2019 it will end the series. I have no doubt they will go out on top.. and be viewed in record numbers by dedicated followers.
While I am not going to give you the details of the series know that it is a dramatic fantasy series with huge attention paid to its medieval realism. From the start it has generated buzz over its battle over good vs evil, hedonistic and political palace intrigue this series continually keeps you on the edge of your seat.. Remember this new year will be their last so you have time to binge watch every season before April and I am even considering on binge watching the seasons again before the last season starts just to totally immerse myself in the drama that Season 8 will assuredly bring.
I also want to mention I am totally a Jon Snow driven person.. I think he is the epitome of what a man should be. I also can't wait until this season to see what comes of the union between Jon and Daenerys (known to many as the Mother to Dragons).
Daenerys Targaryen to Jon Snow
- I spent my life in foreign lands. So many men have tried to kill me, I don't remember all their names. I have been sold like a broodmare. I've been chained and betrayed, raped and defiled. Do you know what kept me standing through all those years in exile? Faith. Not in any gods. Not in myths and legends. In myself. In Daenerys Targaryen. The world hadn't seen a dragon in centuries until my children were born. The Dothraki hadn't crossed the sea. Any sea. They did for me. I was born to rule the Seven Kingdoms, and I will."
I cannot sing the Game of Thrones praises more other than saying many series come and go but the ones of this quality are very few and far between. I am sad already knowing The End Is Upon Us!
I know HBO is probably already hard at work to provide everyone follow ups to the series which I hope will be of the same quality.
_______________________________________________________________________________
3. The Handmaids Tale 2017- The Handmaids Tale is a unique series from Hulu and while admittedly it is a Dystopian fictional drama. The series has never lacked in jaw dropping controversial moments or horrific futuristic events not only for me but for everyone I know that also watches the show.
The series is based on a world in which everything has changed from what it is now, in fact the series gives you a glimpse of how the world changed for the main character known as Offred .. In the series fertility rates have collapsed and within the chaos a totalitarian government has been established, in which women's equality has been stripped away and a militarized, hierarchical regime has been devised. Furthermore fertile women (known as handmaids) become some sort of biblical sex slaves to those families that cannot conceive. From the moment the first episode aired the horrific events and characters in this series quickly grabbed viewers attention.
I have to say this series takes you on a roller coaster ride that you want soon forget. It also provokes conversation about how in literally in an instance political change can take away our freedoms. This series is worth watching and a series that will leave you lost for words. I know I can't wait until Season 3 let me know if you agree.
_______________________________________________________________________________ Below I have listed some of the series I've watched through the years ..either as a child or an adult .. Remember the ones I chose to list are just based on my personal memory and I was not able to list them all.
All in the Family - While this series is from the 70s, I can remember watching it as a child and thinking it was somewhat like my family and was one that due to the times had a huge following. I mostly remembered feeling sorry that Edith when Archie called her a dingbat and when he yelled about literally everything, looking back it truly is sad that I felt like this show was similar in any way to my family.
The Big Bang Theory - premiered in 2007 and while I won't claim to have watched every episode. I do think it is a very funny show with an outstanding cast. Sheldon is of course my favorite, but I truly love the interaction between him and all the other cast and how over time the story has expanded to include marriage and children.. Truly plenty of laughter to go around.
Seinfield - premiered in 1989 ended in 1998 and while I feel like through reruns I have almost watched every episode I can honestly say for a show about nothing I truly think it was one of the smartest comedies ever made. I always have been a Jerry Seinfield fan, watching him on shows like Johnny Carson's Tonight Show , stand up specials and Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee. However everyone in Seinfield made the show what it was a truly exceptional show.
Roseanne - premiered in 1988 and ran through 1997, than attempted a restart in 2018 only to be cancelled by the network for a comment made by Roseanne Barr. While I do not condone anything that was said I do want to say that the original Roseanne show I truly identified with since it highlighted a blue-collar family, somewhat dysfunctional struggling through what all of us at the time were and making us laugh at ourselves.. Over the years there are several takeaways from the original show that I fondly remember like when Roseanne taught kids how to shop for groceries to feed their families on a limited budget. As well as loose meat sandwiches, when to allow birth control, Roseanne seeing for herself David's living condition and allowing him to move in with the Conners. I can't possibly remember all the episodes but I know my family identified in some way with all of them and they made us smile.
Note I will say that times change and I was still out on the restart of Roseanne when it was cancelled, however the network has again restarted the show under ( The Conners ) now that Roseanne Barr has been written out of the restart and I do not know if the new show will stand the test of time but I can tell the cast is doing their best to save it.
other shows I remember fondly from years gone by
The Golden Girls
Bewitched
Brady Bunch
Happy Days
Sanford and Son
Sonny and Cher
Marcus Welby MD
Adam 12
Emergency
Good Times
The Waltons
Bonanza
Gilligan's Island
as well as many others ..
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)