Princess Mononoke, a film review.

 This 1997 Japanese animation film is a historical fantasy. Set during the Muramachi period. It tells the story of Ashitanga, a prince with an injured arm and a girl raised by wolves named San. The film used a combination of traditional cell animation techniques and computer generated images. The film was written and directed by by the now infamous Hiyao Miyazaki, who produced the Totoro character also. The film has a natural mystical element that I appreciated. It broke conventions with the character design as well. The film grossed $212.2 million worldwide. Overall, I very much enjoyed this film & give it a 5 out of 5.

Toopy & Binoo, a tv series review.

 This 1996 children's book was adapted for tv by Dominique Jolin in collaboration with Raymond Lebrun. It features a mouse named Toopy and his cat Binoo. A total of 175 episodes were produced by Echo Media and broadcast by Treehouse & Tele-Quebec. The style of animation is influenced by cell animation & yet possesses digital enhancements. The show emphasizes compassion, comraderie, and friendship. The episodes were only 15 minutes long and took up a 1/4 hour slot. Seasons 1 & 2 have been broadcast in over 179 countries & 30 languages. Overall, I very much enjoyed watching this family entertainment, and recommend it to anyone. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Guardians of the Galaxy, a film review.

 This 2014 superhero film is based on the Marvel comic. It is the 10th film in the cinematic Marvel universe. It stars Chris Pratt as Peter Quill. It was directed & co-written by James Gunn. There are a host of lively characters including the feisty raccoon Rocket & the baby tree Groot. Thanos is portrayed as a villain with the powerful infinity stones. I very much enjoyed this movie & recommend it to anyone. I give it a 5 out of 5.

The Smurfs, a film review.

 This 2011 live action animated film is based on the comic book by Peyo. It features the story of a group of Smurfs, small blue characters three apples high, that go on adventures and use an essence that is magical.  Gargamel works to obstruct them, and is the villain. The film stars Neil Patrick Harris, Sofia Vergara & Jayma Hays. Overall I very much enjoyed this film. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Seven Years in Tibet, a film review.

 This 1997 historical drama was directed by Jean-Jacques Annaud. It tells the story of an Austrian mountain climber during a tumultuous period in a contentious region in SE Asia. This movie stars Brad Pitt and reflects upon a beautiful & endearing culture. Overall, I very much enjoyed this movie. I give it a 5 out of 5.

The Cannonball Run, a film review.

 This 1981 comedy drama was produced by Hong Kong firm Golden Harvest. It stars Burt Reynolds, Farrah Fawcett, Dean Martin & Sammie Davis Jr. It is based on a real life event that took place where competitors raced in outlaw fashion across America in sports cars. This movie is characteristic of the 80s aesthetics. I very much enjoyed this movie. I give it a 5 out 5.

Speed, a film review.

 This 1994 thriller action movie was directed Jan de Bont and written by Graham Yost. It stars Keanu Reeves, Dennis Hopper and Sandra Bullock. It tells the story of a bus with a bomb on board that is speeding out of control with a few passengers on board who are tasked with saving the day. This movie helped launch Keanu Reeves bold & brazen career, and grossed $350.5 million worldwide at the box office. It was met with wide acclaim and garnered much attention from the critics. Overall, I very much enjoyed this movie and give it a 5 out of 5.