This 1997 action sci-fi comedy is a satirical look at the galactic possibilities of extraterrestrial life. It stars Will Smith & Tommy Lee Jones as underground agents that work for the now infamous Area 51 which is a hub of activity for diplomacy among the stars. They employ a device that can "erase memory". It was widely acclaimed and developed into sequels. Overall I very much enjoyed this film. I give it a 5 out of 5.
This 1963 animated fantasy film was the last to be made while Walt Disney was still alive. It tells the story of an enchanted sword that is lodged in a stone with magical properties named Excalibur. A variety of characters make an appearance including Merlin. This was Disney at its best and most classic. Using cell animation to capture the nostalgic motion that isn't as widely used today. Overall I very much enjoyed this film. I give it a 5 out of 5.
This 1988 comedy drama stars Dustin Hoffman & Tom Cruise. It tells the story of an autistic man whose inherited his father's fortune & his calvilier brother who was unaware of him until their father died. This was a moving plot that touches on mental health with a pleasant mix of wit & humor. It grossed $429+ million on a $25 million budget. Overall I very much enjoyed this film. I give it a 5 out of 5.
This 1987 animated tv series was originally broadcast between 1987 & 1990. Based on the comic Uncle Scrooge and the comics by Carl Banks. This series had a catchy them song intro also that was written by Jeff Pescetto. Scrooge's nephews go on adventures & the series even spawned the alternate Darkwing Dark. Overall I very much enjoyed this tv series & give it a 5 out of 5.
This 2015 animated film was directed by Peter Docter. It was produced by Pixar Studios for Walt Disney. It has a mental health theme with the variety of emotions of a young girl portrayed as lively characters in the storyline. I give credit for a major studio for broaching the subject of mental health. Not to say the mind can be reduced to cartoons but it certainly is food for thought to see it organized that way. I very much enjoyed this film & give it a 5 out of 5.
This 2001 war film was directed and produced by Ridley Scott. It is based on the 1999 non-fiction book by journalist Mark Bowden. It is an account of the often volatile and controversial politics of Africa. When humanitarian and compassionate aims take centre stage it becomes a high stakes operation. It grossed $173 million on a $92 million budget. It paints a picture of the realistic application of force. Some controversy was made and it sparked some criticism for the content raised. Nonetheless, it was an exhilarating movie and portrays the heroic side of "peacemaking." I give it a 5 out of 5.
This 1987 comedy film was directed by John Cherry III. It stars Jim Varney as Ernest Worrell. Much like Jim Carrey & Peewee Herman this series is a comic repreive from the serious. It grossed $23.5 million on a $3.5 million budget. I recommend for a good laugh about going camping in the woods or a park. I give it a 5 out of 5.
This 1989 comedy drama features Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold and his family as they set out to have a "merry" Christmas. Much laughter is to be had and comic interludes ensue as they make their way through the holidays. This is the 3rd installment of the series, and it is based on the short story Christmas '59 by Hughes. It grossed a total of $71+ million at the box office. I recommend for a little brevity amidst the heaviness the holidays can sometimes bring. Overall, I recommend to anyone for quality family viewing. I give it a 5 out of 5.
This 1957 epic war film was directed by David Lean and written by Pierre Boulle. It is an example of content that was very controversial at the time but later came to be recognized as a great contribution to culture. Another well depicted example of the madness of war. I very much enjoyed this movie. I give it a 5 out of 5.
This 2014 epic sci-fi film was directed by Christopher Nolan. It tells the story of a group of people tasked with navigating a wormhole by Saturn, to further the fate of humankind. In true sci-fi fashion it takes the bold step of painting a picture of realistic space travel. With all the intrigue of space, one would think a full disclosure would be something in the works. I very much enjoyed this film, and recommend it to anyone. I give it a 5 out of 5.
This animated sitcom was originally broadcast in the early 60s. It is set in a fictional prehistoric time with Fred & Wilma with Pebbles with their Dino and Barney & Betty with BamBam. I recall this cartoon so well because during the 80s it was slotted in at lunchtime so I could watch it during noonhour at home while eating lunch. Fred works in the quarry, and is a bit of a smart alec. It was later developed into a feature length film with John Goodman starring in it. It was produced by Hanna-Barbera. It was highly acclaimed, and ran for many decades. Overall, I give this tv series a 5 out of 5.
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Lots of good merriment and holiday cheer was had to celebrate another year in the books. Hope Homes sponsored a dinner at Mr. Schnapp's in the Ne. Much thanks 2 Cathy & Greg & Family for a wonderful event.
Potential Place had their event in the Ne at the Austrian Canadian cultural club. I liked the salmon and dill was a nice touch. Ronni spoke eloquently and Lawrence walked away with the biggest gift basket.
The Chumir care centre mental health unit also known as Act sponsored a dinner event at the Blackfoot Inn w clients & staff. It was nice a few of the Drs partook in the festivities also. The food was delicious and plenty of prizes were given out.
I joked that a virgin birth is impressive.
This 1987 comedy fantasy was in part produced by the recently deceased & accomplished Rob Reiner. It is a laughable portrayal of a Prince and his adventures in romance. Very good natured & witty this film pokes fun at the haughty taughtiness of royalty. One call tell it has an American independent air to the attitude behind the script. I very much enjoyed this film & give it a 5 out of 5.
This 1981 Canadian adult animated fantasy film was directed by Gerald Potterton. It is based on the magazine of which Potterton was involved as well. Incorporating a variety of themes and with a nemesis named "The Sum of All Evils" it is most definitely an adult viewing experience. I bought several of the comics over the years, and enjoyed reading them. A very creative, and liberal arts montage. For a mature audience, and I give both the magazine & film a 5 out of 5.
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This book published in 1995 is written by Howard Bloom. It asserts that competition and natural selection inherently evolve "evil" as a byproduct. He goes on to discuss the "Superorganism" as an entity. He also reverts to the age old idea of a "pecking order" and cites examples in the animal kingdom. This book is very, very controversial to specific groups for its idea of giving an objective view of a sociological phenomenon. It attempts to combine the onjective & subjective in a post-conventional way. Overall, I very much enjoyed reading this book & give it 5 out of 5.
This 1995 post-apocalyptic film was directed by Kevin Reynolds. In it the distant future has seen the world's icecaps have melted and caused significant sea-level rise. The main character, the Mariner, played by Kevin Costner must navigate floating communities to survive. This film was interesting in it's premise and expensive to produce. The honest environmental angle of this film to address global warming is apparent & is evident by Costner's casting. I enjoyed this movie and give it a 4 out of 5.
This 2007 animated comedy drama was produced by Pixar. It features the story of a rat food connoisseur who becomes involved in a restaurant kitchen in aid to the lead chef. The attention to detail in this movie is what makes it exceptional. Ratatouille is a dish of French gourmet cuisine. My grandma's crepes would fit right in in this movie. It grossed $623.7 million worldwide. Overall I very much enjoyed this film & recommend it to anyone. I give it a 5 out of 5.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
This 1984 fantasy film is co-written & directed by Wolfgang Peterson and is based on the book by Michael Ende. It is a surrealist portrayal of a world with vividly depicted characters. In it a young boy finds a book & is tasked with stopping the Nothing. This movie captured my imagination thoroughly and I enjoyed it. It grossed $100 million at the box office worldwide. It has been referenced many times since release in pop culture. I give it a 5 out of 5.
This 1995 crime drama features the acting of Brad Pitt & Morgan Freeman. Set in a sprawling American city this jaded duo set out to solve the case of a serial killer who uses the 7 deadly sins as clues in his murders. This movie was intriguing and gripping in the storytelling. It is unusually grim its content but paints an honest picture of urban violence in America & globally for that matter. I give it a 5 out of 5.
This 2009 mystery action film stars Robert Downey Jr. as Sherlock Holmes. It was directed by Guy Ritchie. This story uncovers a mysterious secret society governed by Lord Blackwood. The movie generated $525 million at the box office & won several awards. It captured the time period of 19th century quite well. Overall, I very much enjoyed this film and recommend it to a mature audience. I give it a 5 out of 5.
This 2003 action superhero movie is based on the comic created by Stan Lee & Jack Kirby. It was produced by Universal Pictures in association Marvel, Valhalla & Good Machine. It stars Eric Bana as the Hulk. The story goes a scientist develops an experimental serum that he administers to himself, and he becomes super-strong but nearly uncontrollable. This movie brought the comic to life, and as a collector of comics when I was younger, I very much enjoyed this film. Might not be suitable for all ages, as there is some violence. Overall, I give this movie a 5 out of 5.
This 1993 comedy drama stars Will Smith & Donald Sutherland. It tells the story of a would-be dandy socialite who pulls a fast-one on a couple of upper crust New Yorkers. At first the couple is bedazzled by the man's taste in art & joie de vivre but slowly they catch on to his act. The film closes with the couple pondering the audacity of the brave young man. Overall, this was an interesting film and one that breaks the mould of Hollywood's glass ceiling. I give it a 5 out of 5.
This 2011 superhero film was a production of Marvel Studios. It tells the story of Thor being banished to Earth without his hammer Mjolnir. Loki his brother plots to ascend to the Asgard throne, Thor must prove himself worthy. Chris Hemsworth plays Thor and does a splendid job of it. The film's musical score was written by Patrick Doyle. This movie captured the imaginative world of the Scandinavian legend quite well. Overall, I very much enjoyed this movie and recommend to anyone for quality family entertainment. I give it a 5 out of 5.
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This film is a romantic drama based on the 1992 book by Robert Waller. IT tells the story of a country wife, who meets a National Geographic photographer who is on site doing a photo shoot of the rural America's covered bridges. It is a lovingly portrayal of an intimate relationship that "broke the rules" so to speak, as it turned out to be an affair. The movie ends with Clint's character passing away and the country wife's family reminiscing about the love they shared. This show illuminated both the sanctity of marriage and the passion of unattached intimacy, in a good way. I very much enjoyed this film, and it is a classic of both Clint Eastwood's and Meryl Streep's portfolio. I give it a 5 out of 5.
This crime drama was produced, directed and starred in by Clint Eastwood. This movie tells the story of a white lower-middle class man who has emotional baggage, and is looking to make a few quick dollars care of the illicit drug trade with Mexico. He uses his appearance to evade authorities, and much drama ensues. The highly concentrated white powder popular with elites is controversial in and of itself. Back in the day, tribes people would chew cocoa leaves to help stimulate their nervous systems. Altered states do have a place in developing higher stages of consciousness, although the tendency for dependency is there and always a risk. Clint is classic in this movie, and his cool demeanor is a hit. Overall, I give this movie a 5 out of 5.
This 2004 film is a romantic comedy. It is refreshing & stars Jim Carrey with Kate Winslet. The timeline of this movie is part of the intrigue, as it is non-linear. A montage of scenes. It grossed $73 million at the box office on a $20 million budget. This movie paints a picture of the fragility of love.This movie was very well done, and emotionally charging. It is definitely one of Jim Carrey's highlights of his wildly successful career. Overall, I very much enjoyed this movie, and give it a 5 out of 5.
This 1982 sci-fi movie based on a book by Philip Dick is both adventurous & ambitious. It stars Harrison Ford, and tells the story of an agent tasked with tracking cyborgs. This film helped launch the illustrious career of Ford. This movie is wildly imaginative and slightly dystopian portrayal of the not-so-distant future. At a time when space was a common theme for sci-fi this movie adds yet another attempt to cash in on the popular theme. It created some controversy with the original edit. However, it helped create the cyberpunk genre. Overall, this film was interesting yet a little disturbing. I give it a 4 out of 5.
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This 2003 animated comedy drama was produced by Pixar Studios for Walt Disney. It tells the story of an parent clownfish Marlin who is searching for his son Nemo. The vibrant colours of the ocean & the bright hues of the sea life make this an enjoyable watch. Nemo is also the name of a captain from a book about sea faring. Overall, I very much enjoyed this movie & recommend it to anyone for family viewing. I give it a 5 out of 5.
This stop-motion animation is done in a gothic style, and is a macabre portrayal of a love triangle between Victor , Victoria & Emily. It is based on a 17th century Jewish folk-tale. It was directed by Mike Johnson & Time Burton. It was a collaboration between studios in the United States & the United Kingdom. It is set in a small English town. It was nominated for Best Animation at the Academy Awards, and was a commercial success at the box office. Overall, I give this film a 5 out of 5.
This is a crime comedy that was written and directed by Guy Ritchie in 2002. It is a laughable series of events involving underground crime bosses, and their gang members with a group of "ordinary blokes" with gambling debts. What I loved about this movie is how it makes the whole idea of crime to be an exercise in futility. It was very well done, and I enjoyed this movie. For a mature audience. It grossed over $28 million at the box office with a $1.35 million budget. It was well acclaimed and helped launch Jason Statham's career. Overall, I give this film a 5 out of 5.
This stop-animation film is a dark portrayal of a young girl's fantastical dream world. Her family has a home with a hidden door to another dimension, that is inhabited by dark forces. This film was directed by Henry Selick, and based on the 2002 book by Neil Gaiman. It raised over $186 million at the box office. This film was whimsical, and characteristically lovable for its dark portrayal of Victorian aesthetics. Some adaptation was made for the movie. Overall, I very much enjoyed this movie, maybe best for the Halloween season. I give it a 5 out of 5.
This adult tv series is a gonzo foray into cartoon family pandamonium that follows series like the Simpsons, Family Guy, & South Park. It features Rick Sanchez, and his grandson, Morty Smith and their family as they plot to deal with advanced technologies, otherworldly creatures, and mayhem of all sorts. This is a gonzo humor show, that is over-the-top half the time. It should be pointed out that Rick is an alcoholic, and there is content that is risque. Overall, it breaks the conventions in a good way, and despite being peppered with violence like all things American, it has an infectious hilarity. Overall, I give it a 5 out of 5.
This fun-loving animated tv series is about a kid who is "half-gem". With his relatives he and the Crystal Gems seek to embody love, healthy relationships and a spirit for adventure. The cartoon is well done with colourful and vibrant scenes. It incorporates other worldly themes and a superpowered ruby is on Steven's stomach. Overall, I enjoyed watching several episodes of this series. I recommend it to anyone for quality family viewing, I give it a 5 out of 5.
This sci-fi film was directed by the Wachowski brothers, and Tom Tykwer. It is based on the 2004 novel by David Mitchell. It is a montage of different time periods in the future. It was one of the most expensive independent films ever produced with a budget of over 246$ million. It stars Tom Hanks, & Halle Berry. It is a bizarre addition to the portfolio of the Wachowski brothers, but in the Matrix style for sure. Overall, I very much enjoyed this movie, For a mature audience. I give a 5 out of 5.
This film features the direction of Stanley Kubrick. The infamous director of Clockwork Orange. This movie very much broke convention, and stars Tom Cruise & Nicole Kidman. Just to give you an idea of how out of the box this movie was, there was a Hutterite couple sitting in the theatre ahead of me and there were so shocked by the few opening scenes of the movie that they got up and walked out. Being something that defied norms it is a bizarre foray into the surreal melodramatic. Kubrick died shortly after showing Warner Brothers the final cut of the film. Overall, I very much enjoyed this film and give it a 5 out of 5.
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This much acclaimed animated comedy, is about two buddy cops. A bunny, Judy Hopps, & a fox, Nick Wilde as they work to solve a crime spree in a Zoological metropolis. The movie has a long list of stars, including Jason Bateman, Jenny Slate, Tommy Chong & Idris Elba to name a few. One of the interesting things about this movie is the sheep has infiltrated the upper council posing as a do-gooder, thanks to their persistent efforts Judy & Nick save the day from the crime spree. The anthropomorphized characters are well done in this movie, and a sequel is in the works.I liked the water buffalo chief of police, he looked really tough and vigilant. I recommend this movie to anyone, it is quality family entertainment. I give it a 5 out of 5.
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This film is based on the life of Srinivasa Ramanujan. The book of the same name as the title of this blog entry is by Robert Kanigel. The film stars Dev Patel, and Jeremy Irons. With humble beginnings and living in a small town in India, this remarkable story takes shape as Ramanujan cultivates his love for mathematics. Given a chance to pursue his higher goals he is given a post, and promotes his ability further. Attracting the attention of University of Cambridge alumni H. Hardy. He takes the leap and travels abroad, to work and develop his theories. Together they create ground-breaking work. Due to his dietary restrictions and the limited supply of produce during the war, he suffered some health complications, and returns to India to be with his family. For his perseverance and hard work he was accepted as a fellow into the Royal Society not without much hardship, and tribulation as a result from his peers. I very much enjoyed this movie, and related on a personal level being from a meager starting point & a small town. I recommend this movie to anyone. I give it a 5 out of 5.
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This outstanding martial arts film features the acting & martial arts of Chow Yun Fat, Michelle Yeoh & Zhang Ziyi. This was a multinational production that is based on the novel of the same name by Wang Dulu. It was widely acclaimed at the box office and won many awards. It is set during the Qing dynasty in China. The storyline follows lovers who are martial artists & the Green Sword of Destiny. It is a very moving & emotionally engaging motion picture. I was very touched by it. I enjoyed this movie, and recommend it to anyone. It was thoroughly entertaining and gripping in its storytelling. I give it a 5 out of 5.
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This fun & adventurous animated film tells the story of a young boy Berk & his dragon Nightshade. The viking village was prone to the attacks of a pack of dragons, until Berk decides to befriend them and make peace with the fire breathing creatures. His buddy Nightshade injures his wing, and Berk makes a ramshackle appendage to allow him to fly still. Overall, I very much enjoyed this film. It had a well developed storyline, and a feast for the eyes in colours & effects. The film is based on the 2003 novel by Cressida Cowell. I give it a 5 out of 5.
