Zootopia, an animated film review.

 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.

The Man Who Knew Infinity, a film review.

 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.

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon a martial arts film review.

 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.

How to Train Your Dragon, an animated film review.

 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.

Happy Feet, a film review.

 This animated musical comedy was a co-production between the United States & Australia. It stars Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman, Robin Williams, and Elijah Wood. It is set in Antarctica with a flock of penguins. The story centres around a young penguin named Mumble who can't sing. There are obvious associations made to autism, and to me the broader neurotypical community being  made. Also Linux the open-source operating system often uses a Penguin as its symbol. The film generated $348 million on a $100 million budget. This is wholesome family entertainment that all the family can enjoy. Seeing as how penguins swim rather than fly is also a novel visual signifier of intrigue in this film. Overall, I give it a 5 out of 5.

Dances with Wolves, a film review.

 This epic historical drama tells the story of John Dunbar, played by Kevin Costner. It is based on the 1988 novel of the same name by Michael Blake. In it an army soldier travels to the edge of the frontier to meet with the Lakota people. Much of the film was shot in Wyoming, and South Dakota in 1989. It was a box office hit grossing $424 million with an initial budget of $15 million. What this movie did that alot of Western movies didn't do was try to immerse the Western man into the World of the First Nation's culture, something that Orientalism tried and often failed to do. It was made into a sequel. I very much enjoyed this film, it won several awards. Living in harmony with Nature was something that enchanted and mystified the Western rational mind. At the same time, Western ingenuity and worldliness attracted the First Nations to trade and develop their own lines of history to modernity. I give it a 5 out of 5.

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, a film review.

 This 1975 comedy-drama is another film featuring the epic acting of Jack Nicholson. It is based on the novel by Ken Kesey. It tells the story of mental patients in an institution as they navigate the care system for those labelled "insane". It has plenty of comic interludes, and the characters are laughable and lovable. The one nurse is especially well-portrayed. Cold, calculated in white attire. Jack's sense of humour, and sarcasm for a healthcare system that leaves much to be admired. I very much enjoyed this film, especially the ending where the First Nations Chief uses a water fountain to break out and escape the asylum. The irony of Hollywood can be too much sometimes. I give it a 5 out of 5.

 

 

As Good as it Gets, a film review.

 This romantic comedy features Jack Nicholson as Melvin Udall who has Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and is a writer. The story bounces between him and several characters that make it a charming, infectious glance at the life of a maniacal creative. It garnered several awards including Best Actor & Best Actress. It was a huge success at the box office generating $314 million, on a $50 million budget. Owen Wilson was an associate producer on this film, one of his first jobs in Hollywood. Overall, I very much enjoyed this film. It certainly is a highlight of Jack's career, and a great film in the history of film. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Frozen, an animated film review.

 This 2013 animated musical fantasy is based on the novel Snow Queen by Hans Christian Andersen. It tells the story of Anna of Arendelle who with several others sets off into the mountains to free her sister from the grips of an icy winter. This movie was Disney at its best, fun for the whole family with a classic plot of a princess caught in a bind. I very much enjoyed this film & recommend it to anyone. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Amelie, a film review.

 This romantic comedy is a masterpiece of cinema in my opinion. Starring Audrey Tautao and directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet. It features creative editing, clever visual effects, and a characteristically avant-garde, cheeky plot. Audrey is simply fantastic as she finds herself in a love-game. She encourages her lovesick father, who is a widower, to travel the world. This film is fun, adventurous and witty. It is a foray into Parisian culture and a whimsical combination of joy & intrigue. I very much enjoyed this film and recommend it to a mature audience. Some of the scenes are a little risque. It won several awards, and was widely acclaimed on its showing at the box office. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Tremors, a film review.

 This 1990 horror film was directed by Ron Underwood. It tells the story of a group of people in a small desert town in Nevada. Things get scary when mysterious deaths start appearing, and a seismologist gets strange readings. Large worm creatures wreak havoc on the town. This film stars Kevin Bacon & Reba McEntire. With the combined imagination of a dinosaur and monster concept, this film was interesting to watch. It was a modest success at the box office, but gained a cult following in the home rental market. It was made into several sequels. Overall, I enjoyed this movie & recommend it to a mature audience. I give it a 5 out of 5.

The Crow, a film review.

 This film noir movie is based on a 1989 comic book series by James O'Barr. It stars Brandon Lee, the infamous martial artist Bruce Lee's son. The main character, Eric Draven, comes back from the dead to seek vengeance. In a mysterious twist, a prop malfunction caused the death of Brandon, and the remainder of the film was finished with digital effects & stunt doubles. The film portrays gang life, and the seedy underbelly of a big metropolis. Miramax dedicated the film to Brandon & his fiancee Eliza Hutton. This is a one of a kind film, that tried to reboot its success with sequels but the original was just too unique. Overall, I very much enjoyed this film and recommend it to anyone. It certainly possesses some of the mystique that his dad Bruce had. For a mature audience. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, a book & film review.

 This is a cult classic radio broadcast that became a sensation in many formats including novel, comic and movie. The novels have been translated into more than 30 languages. It tells the story of the last man on Earth, Arthur Dent and his interactions with a group called the Vogons. It is cheesy sci-fi at its best. I read the book and watched the film. It was written by Douglas Adams, and broadcast originally between 1978 & 1980. In my opinion, this was a very creative concept, and I very much enjoyed both the book & the movie. I recommend it to anyone. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Goodwill Hunting, a film review.

 This is another classic drama featuring three top stars , Robin Williams, Matt Damon & Ben Affleck. It tells the story of a janitor that is discovered to have a remarkable ability at MIT. This is another of Robin's great works. It grossed over $225 million with a $10 million budget. It is in the list for Hollywood's top 100 movies. Overall, I very much enjoyed this movie & recommend it to anyone. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Dead Poet's Society, a film review.

 This classic drama features the much loved & widely acclaimed actor Robin Williams. It was directed by Peter Weir. The film tells the story of an unconventional teacher who encouraged his students to seize the day or Carpe Diem. His unorthodox style inspires them to study poetry & form a clique. This is one of Robin's greatest works in my opinion to my knowledge. I too have a love for lingo & the creative use of it. Also in hindsight of Robin's passing is a testament to the urgency of mental health awareness. I recommend this film to anyone. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Passchendaele, a film review.

 This historical film is about the families involved in Canada, that became involved in the First World War. It is based on accounts by people who lived experience during that time. It was filmed in Calgary, Alberta. It depicts the folly of war, and the overcoming of differences to find common ground. This was the highest-budgeted Canadian film ever, with a budget of around $20 million. It tells the story of the 10th Battalion. The film only grossed around $4 million, well under expected revenue. Overall, I enjoyed this war drama & liked how it linked to the region I am currently living in. Many Canadians were affected by these world events, and it still is a stark reminder of how conflict hurts the ordinary people the most. I give it a 5 out of 5.

A few non-profits I support.

Doctors Without Borders

An ambitious project to provide medical care to people especially in conflict, & disaster zones.

Ckua 93.7fm

A community radio station with a focus on diversity, inclusion & playing a wide selection of great music. Mostly donor funded.

Wikipedia

A source for free information on history, pop culture & knowledge of any kind. Open source, community oriented.

Clubhouse International 

A movement started in New York in the 1940s. Operating in over 100 countries worldwide. Based in egalitarian values where work, social rec, comraderie & inclusion can be therapy for those suffering from mental health issues.

Photo by Alex Martinez.

Bowling in Columbine, a documentary review.

 This brave documentary-style film explores the causes and effects of gun violence. It was directed by the infamous Michael Moore & deals directly with the highly contentious issue of gun ownership & mental health particularly in the US. The statistics set the US apart from most other developed countries but one has to remember that freedom is a big part of the American ethos. Overall, I give credence to Moore for bracing to provoke debate on this issue. Safety in schools is something the public can rally around without a doubt. I recommend this film for anyone. I give it a 5 out of 5. 

Clerks, a film review.

 This hilarious comedy film was written & directed by Kevin Smith. It centres around the lives of guys that hang around & work at a convenience corner store. They deal with unruly customers, manage workers, play ice hockey and even partake in "snootchie bootchies". Jay & Silent Bob are a dynamic duo that spawned much cosplay lore. The initial budget was under $300,000 and it generated over $4 million in theatres. This film is often considered a keystone in American film history. It was made into a sequel. I very much enjoyed this film, and give it a 5 out of 5.

The Commitments, a film review.

 This 1991 musical drama-comedy is set in Dublin, Ireland. The film is based on the novel by Roddy Doyle. It is about a group of working-class people that come together to form a blues band, in part to alleviate social pressures, and revel in a little Americana-influenced culture partly also to find a voice in the white noise. The language is lively, and much cursing is in the script. This film is the first in a series called the Barrytown trilogy. It is quirky, full of character, and different in a good way. It shows both the uniqueness of the middle-class of Ireland, and the huge influence American Blues music had abroad. Overall,  I very much enjoyed this movie. For a mature audience. I give it a 5 out of 5.

 

 

Pi, a film review.

 This black & white film has a variety of themes. Patterns, order, chaos, mental health & the inanity of the market. The main character uses his computer to find a prediction of the stock market but he throws it away in the garbage. This film was directed & written by Darren Aronofsky. It was released in 1998. It won several awards & did fairly well financially with a relatively low budget. Overall, I very much enjoyed this film. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Life of Pi, a film review.

 This mysterious film is about a 16 year old man and a tiger stranded on a lifeboat in the Pacific. Originally, the boat was destined for Canada. The film was directed by Ang Lee. The man & the tiger were afloat 227 days before making land somewhere tropical. This movie was adventurous & bold in its inception and full of visual imagery to awe & appreciate. It has unexpected turns which make it exciting. Overall I give it a 5 out of 5.

Bon Cop, Bad Cop a film review.

 This film is a crime movie about two cops that partner up to solve a murder that happened on the border between two two jurisdictions, Ontario & Quebec. They have differing styles of investigating, David Bouchard's being intuitive and free, while Martin Ward's is by-the-book and directed. Much comedy ensues as they follow leads to catch the killer. It was released in 2006. This was the 2nd feature length film to feature bilingualism in Canada. It grossed over 12$ million domestically, and making it one of the highest revenue generating of all time in Canada. It was nominated & won several awards. Overall, I very much enjoyed this movie and recommend it to anyone. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Fraggle Rock, a tv series review.

 This much acclaimed tv series was a major international studio effort. It combined the direction of TVS, CBC & HBO. It debuted in 1983 by Jim Henson Productions. It is a silly frenzy of characters and ploy that is both humorous & playful for the whole family. There were some variations made according to different markets. One character I got a kick out of was the Trash Heap, a pile of leaves in the garden that could talk and bemoan his opinion. The fraggles mainly eat radishes which is a novel thought. A reboot of this was made for a streaming service. I didn't see every episode, but the ones I did see I very much enjoyed. I give this classic 80s tv series a 5 out of 5.

 

 

Fantastic Beasts, a film series review.

 This fun & partly animated film features the story of Newt Scamander. Along with him he uncovers a variety of creatures that make up part of the fantastic world he lives in. I only saw one of the three in the series, the Crimes of Grindewald. These films are prequels to the Harry Potter series, and written by the infamous J.K. Rowling. The characters are curious and entertaining, and much enthusiasm was made in both the protagonists and the antagonists in this movie. I did read every book in the Harry Potter series however, so I was well versed in the style of imagery and content that Rowling has. Overall, I very much enjoyed this film. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Theory of Everything, a book review.

 This comprehensive, all-encompassing "map" delves into the subject of human development. It tracks how the subjective & objective can both be understood as parts of larger & smaller wholes. Always pointing to a place where humans find themselves along the spiral that is the web of life. Wilber illuminates how people move through tiers of consciousness towards embracing a higher purpose to the greater good. I've also read Boomeritis, and Integral Buddhism. He speaks of a Fourth Turning of the Wheel of Buddhism in reference to the West's commitment to Pluralism & Science. From my personal experience as a hobby artist & environmental activist I see great potential in applying his theory more broadly academically. Super thinkers & doers already are making waves like star DJs, CEOs, Underground Bosses & Artists of all types. I recommend this book to anyone looking to broaden their horizons philosophically. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Green Mile, a film review.

 This excellent film portrays the story of a man, played by Michael Duncan, convicted of a brutal crime and his time in prison at the hands of hard-lined prison guards. The man, John, adopts a mouse and much to the guards dismay it is something that John loves. John seems to have a mysterious ability & heals one of the prison guards cancer. This film was very dramatic and portrays an often misunderstood aspect of American society, violent crime & restorative justice. In 2025 alone there were over 340 mass shootings so far. A startling statistic. I very much enjoyed this film and recommend it to a mature audience. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Shawshank Redemption, a film review.

 This epic film tells the story of prisoners and the relationships they form during a transitional period of American history. This film is a bonanza of theme, visual imagery & striking significance. Moreover, it makes one appreciate the little things in life. However, mundane they may seem in the bigger picture. This film is based on the 1982 book by author Stephen King. I read Skeleton Crew a collection of short stories which is also one of his notable works. Overall, I very much enjoyed this film & recommend it to a mature audience. I give it a 5 out of 5.

The Book of Negroes, a tv series review.

 This tv series is based on real events with a fictional character. It tells the story of the emancipation movement and how people sought freedom from unfair living & working conditions. This series was received with wide acclaim on its first airing in 2015. The controversy regarding historical injustices still affects many people today however this tv series illuminates that a multicultural approach is not only possible very much common sense. This was a CBC production and I very much enjoyed it. I watched every episode in earnest. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Alice in Wonderland, a film review.

 This classic fantasy animation features the story of a blonde, blue-eyed girl named Alice that goes on an adventure. She follows a white rabbit down a hole in the woods, and subsequently is taken on a lucid series of events that are in character like a dream or a psychedelic trip. The film is based on the book by the author Lewis Carroll. Alice meets the Cheshire Cat, the Mad Hatter, the Caterpillar, & the Queen of Hearts among many more zany characters .This film was remade into a modern take with Johnny Depp. What I like about this film is the blending of imagination with real archetypes. It was very well done.  It was ahead of its time since it didn't generate much revenue at the box office with its original release. Overall, I give this film a 5 out of 5.

Wallace & Gromit: the curse of the Were-Rabbit, a film review.

 This animated film is part of the franchise Wallace & Gromit. It's about an inventor & his mute dog Gromit. In this particular installment, Wallace & Gromit, must investigate as bunnies are eating the veggies in all the townsfolk's gardens. There is one giant bunny that is particularly troublesome. This a lovable infectiously humourous & humble portrayal of British society. I very much enjoyed this film. And recommend for quality family entertainment. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Nostalgia, a book review.

 This fictional story features the lives of Presley Smith & Dr. Frank Sina and a diagnosis of Leaked Memory Syndrome. The story takes them to the Sunflower Centre & a host of places. This book was written by M. G. Vassanji, a much acclaimed Indo-Kenyan-Canadian writer. He won the Governor General's award. He lives & works in Toronto. Overall, I very much enjoyed this book. I recommend it to anyone & give it a 5 out of 5. 

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, a film review.

 This punk film is about a vigilante hacker that goes on a mission to expose hidden criminals & sap them of their wealth. It is based on the novel by Stieg Larsson. The soundtrack was done in part with Trent Reznor. I didn't read the books but I very much enjoyed this thriller. It was made into a sequel. And this film did very well at the box office. Overall, I give it a 5 out of 5. For a mature audience however.

Mama Mia, a film review.

 This romantic comedy film is based on the story of Sophie & her Mom. It features a musical format with songs from the hit band Abba. This is a fun movie starring Meryl Streep & many more stars. There is dancing and plenty of gaffs to chuckle at. It was a hit at the box office and went on to develop a sequel. It was filmed on the Greek island of Skopelos. Overall, I very much enjoyed this film. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Wall-e, a film review.

This fun animated film is about a little recycling robot. Humanity has vacated the planet & become obese to live in space. It is the last robot of its kind on Earth and is visited by Eve another advanced robot from a distant planet whom it falls in love with. This film touches on themes of consumerism, waste management and natural disasters. The sound effects are futuristic. Wall-e discovers a seedling and they work to save life on Earth with this hope for the future. Overall, I very much enjoyed this film. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Death comes to town, a tv series review.

This series aired on CBC in 2010 featuring the cast of Kids in the Hall. It is a dark murder mystery, where the mayor has been murdered. In a macabre way, it is a ludicrous portrayal of a small Ontario town, Shuckton. It is a comical foray into the lives of small-town Canadians. I very much enjoyed this series and watched every episode. It casts a somewhat critical light on the naivity sometimes small-town people can be, but in a gentle humourous way. Overall, I give this tv series a 5 out of 5. Some of the humour may be for more of an adult audience however.

Zeitgeist, a film review.

This film series puts forth several interesting assertions. It is divided into 3 parts. The film was directed by Peter Joseph. Some of the issues raised are the history of religion, the true nature of current and recent global events. The private interests that runs the US federal bank. Many of the topics are very controversial and to be taken with a grain of salt. Nonetheless, it is food for thought and provoking as an art endeavour. It is definitely post-conventional and possesses a certain bravado for approaching these topics. I would give this series a 4 out of 5.

Avatar, a film review.

This epic animated film is about a group of Earthlings that go on a mission to a distant planet to harvest much needed minerals. Much to their dismay, there is a native tribe living on the planet that is in synchronicity with the natural life there. One of the Terrans is tasked to become one of them by using advanced technology that creates an Avatar in their world. James Cameron wrote & directed this film, and it was a huge success at the box office internationally. The series is not stopping on 1, a sequel was made, and more are in the works. One thing I like about this film it takes on the huge lobbying power issue of fossil fuel companies, and raises the honest question. "Are we being reckless with our environment?" Overall, I very much enjoyed this film. I recommend it to anyone for quality family entertainment. I give it a 5 out of 5.

Analyze this, a film review.

This film is about an Italian mob boss that suffers a mental illness. Billy Crystal stars as his therapist, and the ongoing comedy & drama that ensue as they try to charter a healthier path for this big-time gangster. There is an underlying sarcasm of the psychotherapy industry & at the same time a healthy critique of mafia organizations. One thing I like about his movie is that it brings attention to a poorly understood science, mental health. Even in modern age times, we still have stigma for people suffering with mental health disorders. It can effect any strata of society too. Overall, I enjoyed this movie and give it a 5 out of 5 stars.

Cuphead, a film review.

This cute animated film is on Netflix. It features Cuphead & Mugman with a variety of other characters including Elder Kettle, and the Pig who runs the Supply Shop. There is a number of episodes but the overarching theme is that the Devil is trying to get Cuphead & Mugman's soul. One of the protragonists is Chalice that likes to dance and is friends with this dynamic duo. There is a hint of satire to this series which I relish in. This is a Canadian series that was developed in Ontario. It was also subsequently developed into a video game, both the series & the video game are done in a retro-early animation style that gives it an early 20th Century aesthetic. Overall, I like this series and would recommend it to anyone for family viewing. I give it a 5 out f 5.

Wreck it Ralph, a film review.

This animated film is about a character in a video game that wrecks buildings, Ralph. He and a few more characters in the arcade deal with a virus outbreak and Ralph tries his hand at becoming a hero. This film is characteristically varied and conceptually well thought out, it captures the enthusiasm a lot of people had for video games. Especially when they were in arcades, and required a quarter to play. The game Sugar Rush sounds a lot like the much acclaimed game Candy Crush. The protagonist Vanelope is a glitch which finds her rightful place in the arcade after much time. There are cameos from many famous video games including Sonic the Hedgehog, Pac-man and Donkey Kong. Overall, this film was a wonderful Disney production and I enjoyed watching this feature film. I give it a 5 out of 5.

The Incredibles, a film review.

This stylized-animated film is about a family of super-heros. This film debuted at the El Capitan theatre on October 24, 2004. The plot takes them along twists & turns of high profile spies, and their villains. The colours are vibrant, and the movie ends with the possibility of a sequel. This movie earned $632 million worldwide. Again, this is a tongue-in-cheek poke at the seriousness of public life by a major cartoon studio Disney. I very much enjoyed this film, and it makes me want to see more like it. I give this movie a 5 out of 5.

Lord of War, a film review.

This film is a crime drama, that features the story of Yuri Orlov. He is an arms dealer, that wants to capitalize on the dodgy trade. He becomes disenchanted as he slowly realizes that he is selling to both sides of a conflict. The timeliness of this movie as it relates to various conflicts around the world is evident. It strikes at the core of the necessity for defense & the futility of af the arms trade when so many go without, especially women & children. It is somewhat discouraging but enlightening for the breadth and scope of this film, and I commend Nicolas Cage for taking on such a controversial role. I give this film a 5 out of 5.

Sicko by Michael Moore, a documentary film review.

This documentary-style film features an in depth critique of the US healthcare system, and how it often fails the country's most vulnerable citizens. One must give credit to the film-maker for braving such a controversial issue, in a country where the elite have so much sway over the policy makers. Nonetheless, he raises eyebrows with this thoughtful questioning of why such a wealthy country like the US doesn't care for those without the means to pay for care and medicine. This issue is ever more pertinent as the US is finding itself strapped for cash, and with a gargantuan resource consumer, the US army, one has to wonder. Overall, I thought this film was relevant and addresses a real issue that this art-piece is trying to raise awareness about. I give it a 5 out of 5.