tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95447902024-03-13T07:35:27.104-07:00Manuel'sViewBest there is, best there was, and best there ever will beMrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.comBlogger1364125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-67548550034035691382014-05-20T18:59:00.000-07:002014-05-20T19:25:43.996-07:00Through His EyesI've been privileged enough to visit Disneyland so many times in my life now, but it never gets old. Even though it never gets old to me, I rarely get to experience something NEW. That changed this past week when our nephew (along with the family) accompanied us on our trip. Now, he went with us about a year and a half ago for his first trip, but at a year and a half old, he doesn't really remember it nor was he able to fully process where he was. But this trip was something completely different.<br />
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Leading up to the trip, he had fully grasped what Disney and Disneyland was. He now had favorite Disney movies, knew all the characters by name, and sang along with the songs. He's now a full fledged Disney fan instead of when he was very young and simply watched them because they were visually stimulating. He was now actually excited about getting to meet all these characters in person. Besides Disney characters, he also had become very familiar with Disneyland rides thanks to the magic of YouTube. He loved going on YouTube and watching rides, clearly having his favorites. The lead up to going on the trip was much like many other kids, "When do we go to Disneyland?" being asked on a daily basis. We had that feeling that this was going to be a special trip. We had no idea just how special it would be.<br />
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Despite the excitement, he did a really good job of behaving throughout the long drive down to Anaheim. His first moment of excitement was after the Grapevine and the view of Magic Mountain rides came in to view. He screamed and pointed, "Disneyland!!!" It was adorable that the site of roller coasters made him think we were there, but we had to break his heart and tell him we still had a little bit to go. When we exited the freeway and told him we were almost there, he actually started clapping with excitement. I know how that feels. We checked in to our hotel and then my family had to wait in line to get their tickets validated. It had been an hour since we got off the freeway and he was still so patient. Finally, we got to go in through one of those magic tunnels and we were finally in Disneyland.<br />
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We were in the park for no longer than a minute that a parade started right where we entered. Again, because of the magic of YouTube, he already knew the music for this parade and his eyes lit up when the music started. We found an amazing place right at the start of the parade and as soon as the parade started coming out, you could see the excitement in his eyes. It really was magic seeing him so excited, jumping up and down, waving to the characters as they came out, and dancing to the music. In all my years of going to Disneyland, it is easily one of my favorite moments of all time. He was finally seeing something in person that he had only seen on a computer screen. And he got it. He got that he was in Disneyland and seeing things where they really happen.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying the parade</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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From there we headed over to Haunted Mansion, his favorite ride to watch on YouTube. We told him where we were going, but he still asked once we walked in that first gate and approached the ride. When we told him we were at Haunted Mansion, he bent over, put his hands on his knees, and screamed out, "Oh, GOD!" I couldn't believe the excitement in his voice. This was going to be great; his first ride was going to be an amazing experience. And then as we entered the ride he screamed bloody murder. We couldn't believe it. He loved the ride on YouTube. He was so excited 1 minute earlier. And now he was too scared to go in. We tried to calm him down to no avail. We finally just decided that we were going to see what happens if we just bring him in. He screamed as we entered the portrait room. And then all of the sudden, he stopped. It was like he flipped a switch as we walked that last hallway to the Doom Buggies. He started pointing stuff out and asking questions. He got on the ride with Jess and I and pointed things out the entire ride. He had overcome what initially frightened him. As we exited the ride, he begged to go on again. In fact, he would beg to go on the ride all trip long, even after multiple times on the ride.<br />
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The next day we started meeting characters and he would run up to each and every one to give them big hugs. There was no hesitation. He had become so familiar with the characters over the last year and now seeing them in person, there was nothing but excitement. Seeing the giant hugs for each character was pure Disneyland magic. They were the kind of moments that Disney records and puts in their commercials.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Magic</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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This magic continued throughout the trip. Huge smiles, pointing at everything on every ride, waving at any character that walked by, it all contributed to an amazing time for all involved. I spent most of my time on this trip looking at him. It was just amazing to see someone so excited about my happy place because they were seeing it all for the first time. I can't remember my first time experiencing Disneyland so to see it through his eyes was truly a special experience that I will never forget. Only at Disneyland.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Until we meet again</td></tr>
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MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-88011021840218706892014-04-22T15:50:00.001-07:002014-04-22T15:50:20.526-07:00What Happened To The Movie Reviews and the Next Part of the Guns n Roses CountdownYou two or three readers might be wondering what happened to the movie reviews I was doing. Well, I AM still watching all of my movies in alphabetical order. That much hasn't changed. But due to the fact that I wasn't really blogging at the time, I got behind in actually writing the reviews of all the movies. So now, by my calculations, I am 43 movie reviews behind. It's just become too big of a hole to dig out of. I am going to continue watching them, but I think catching up on the reviews is out of the question! Sorry!<br />
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I AM continuing with my Guns n Roses countdown though! If you remember from last post, I am counting down my ten favorite songs they have released. We continue on with #9:<br />
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"Better," is the only song on the list from the infamous Chinese Democracy album and truthfully, I love it. Although most people seem to hate the album, I really enjoy it. Sure, it is more like the broad range of the Use Your Illusion albums than the hard rock of the Appetite album, but I really enjoy it. Then again, I always slightly preferred the Use Your Illusion albums to Appetite. There wasn't enough on the album to crack my top ten other than "Better," but that doesn't mean it lacked appeal for me. "Better," is the song that seems the most like it belongs on the Illusion albums. Axl's voice is pretty similar to how he sounded on them and the tempo and tone are also quite the same. The only thing really missing is the sound of Slash. As I said in the last post, Slash has such a distinct sound and it is really missed in the Chinese Democracy album. But that is not to say that the songs lacked guitar prowess. The awesome Buckethead played on some of the songs on the album and this particular song included some great solos by him. Check one out around the 2:40 mark. Hell, watch the whole video. It has the feel of the Paradise City video and makes me so sad that I still have yet to see this band in concert in any incarnation. Maybe one day.
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/ykRtSrx4HYk" width="420"></iframe>MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-57293113834868103702014-04-13T18:30:00.000-07:002014-04-13T18:30:03.280-07:00The Guns n Roses Countdown (and a quick catch up)I haven't blogged since September. What was once an outlet for my thoughts has become just another forgotten page on the internet; a diary that you find in the back of your closet while cleaning it out. It will probably never be what it once was (thanks to Facebook keeping everyone up to date with my life in a much simpler fashion), but I'll never get rid of it. Hell, in December the blog will turn TEN years old. That thought just boggles my mind.<br />
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And it isn't like I have had nothing to blog about. Since my last post, we took a memorable trip to Europe, a fellow blogger that I became friends with because of this page passed away, I had work stresses, and Jess became pregnant. This blog has tons of stories in the archives about our pregnancy struggles. Like I said, this was essentially my diary for many years. <br />
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But I was inspired to return to blogging a few days ago while listening to nothing but Guns n Roses, my all time favorite band, on a two hour car ride. I thought to myself, "How difficult would it be to come up with my top ten favorite songs by this band?" I tried to come up with a short list on that ride home and have spent the last couple of hours looking at track lists to try to narrow it down to 10. I finally did... kind of. We'll start this series by doing #10 on this blog post. Enjoy because I know I did.<br />
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<b>#10 - Mr. Brownstone</b><br />
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Off the first album, <i>Appetite for Destruction</i>, I think this song fully symbolizes early Guns n Roses: raw, vulgar, and drug related. The opening guitar is the unmistakable sound of Slash, my favorite guitarist. His sound is so recognizable, and that is something I love about him. When I heard the first single from Velvet Revolver and heard that guitar sound I hadn't heard for years, I was hooked. But it is this early sound that got me started. Sure, I couldn't relate to this song because I clearly wasn't a heroin addict, but I still love this song because it reminds me of those early Guns n Roses days. We don't have rock n roll bands quite like this anymore.<br />
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I'll be back in a few days with #9. MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-374472908791930812013-09-26T13:58:00.001-07:002013-09-26T13:58:49.848-07:00Counting DownOver two months since my last blog post so I am clearly just a slacker. I'll keep my movie reviews REALLY short so that I can go on with what is really going on in life. So first reviews, then a real update. <br />
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<b>Movie Review #86 - Domino </b><br />
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<i>I decided to never invest too much emotion in one thing. It's always a set-up to the pain of losing them. </i><br />
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A good action/drama that is a little on the weird side because it has some pretty trippy scenes. The main trio of Keira Knightly, <i> </i>Mickey Rourke, and Edgar Ramirez are damn awesome as bounty hunters. Fun story that was clearly directed by Tony Scott. 7.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers. <i></i><br />
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<b>Movie Review #87 - Don't Say a Word</b><br />
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<i>I'll never tell... </i><br />
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You know what I take out of this movie upon rewatching it? <i> </i>It is a shame that Brittany Murphy died because she actually was pretty talented and did a fairly decent job in this film. She could have had a nice little career. That is too bad. Michael Douglas is his usual awesome self as the psychiatrist trying to get a secret from her. 6.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers. <i><br /></i><br />
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<i><br /></i><b>Movie Review #88 - Dracula</b><br />
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<i>We've all become God's madmen, all of us. </i><br />
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Coppolo's version is pretty cool as long as you can get past some of the real bad acting. The film is also a little melodramatic and almost tries to be too serious. But it's still a good story and there are some really cool scenes in it. Gary Oldman is awesome. 7 out of 10 cheeseburgers. <i></i><br />
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<b>Movie Review #89 - Dumb and Dumber</b><br />
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<i>Want to hear the most annoying sound in the world? </i><br />
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One of the funniest movies I have ever seen and I hope the upcoming sequel will not be a disappointment. Carrey is at his absolute funniest and Jeff Daniels is a very worthy companion. This is the lowest form of cinema and I absolutely love it. 8 out of 10 cheeseburgers<i></i><br />
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<b>Movie Review #90 - Dumbo</b><br />
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<i>Hot diggety! You're flyin'! You're flyin'! </i><br />
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I hadn't seen this movie since I was a kid and I was amazed I still remembered my favorite song from it. I also didn't remember how good it was or maybe I can just appreciate it now. I was amazed how short it was though! Still, it was nice to revisit it. 7.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers<i> </i><br />
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<b>Movie Review #91 - Eastern Promises </b><i></i><br />
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<i>Forget any of this happened. Stay away from people like me.</i><br />
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One of the best movies to come out in the last couple of decades. I can't express how much I like this movie and appreciate how wonderful it is. Viggo steals the show and is absolutely perfect. Everyone should see this organized crime drama. 10 out of 10 cheeseburgers<br />
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With those out of the way, what is really going on in life. Well, the weight loss journey continues and in a positive way. <br />
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Back in August Jess and I hit an awesome milestone where we reached 100 pounds lost between the two of us. <br />
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It is so much easier to lose weight when you have someone to do it with who knows exactly what you are going through. I wouldn't want to lose weight with anyone else! <br />
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We gained some back because right after reaching this goal, we did a weekend camping trip and then a week after that, we went to Vegas for a few days. We both gain weight really easily so we packed some weight on, but we enjoyed ourselves and don't want to be put on restrictions when we are busy enjoying ourselves. <br />
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Last week I hit the goal I never thought I would reach. For the first time since probably the beginning of my freshman year of college, I got on the scale and saw that I was under 200 pounds. It was so strange seeing my weight begin with a ONE, but it was amazingly awesome. I aim to be lower, but getting under 200 pounds really was my ultimate goal! Of course, right after that was the Sacramento Burger Battle and I put some pounds back on that I am still trying to get off (between that day and cheat day this past Sunday), but seeing that number gives me the knowledge that I CAN get there and will get there again really soon. <br />
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Now we just need to keep losing as much weight as we can before November 5th. Europe is just around the corner and we have a bunch of new and exciting food to try across the pond! <br />
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<i> </i>MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-38810679385157086202013-07-12T17:12:00.001-07:002013-07-12T17:12:36.218-07:00Achievement Unlocked: 50 Pounds Down<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well, I made it! I hit the 50 pounds down mark almost three weeks ago! I tell ya, it feels so good. You know, I knew I was overweight before, but didn't really realize how bad it was until I put these two pics side by side. In fact, I have gone from morbidly obese to just obese according to that ridiculous BMI chart. Hell, if I lose another 30ish pounds, I will then only be overweight! Truthfully, I don't look at that chart unless I need a laugh, but it is just one more sign of the progress I have made. I'm going to keep this adventure going. Sure, I am still going to cheat on the weekends. It is what I need to do to keep myself sane. Sure that makes the transformation take a lot longer. But I am happy, and that is all that matters. 4 steps forward and 3 steps back is still going forward. <br />
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And now that the update is out of the way, on with more reviews:<br />
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<b>Movie Review #80 - Dinosaur</b><br />
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<i>This "monster's" got no teeth! What's he gonna do? Gum us to death? </i><br />
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I was watching this film for the first time ever. There was a time when Jessica's mom was buying us any Disney movie we didn't own and this ended up being one of them despite that fact that we had never seen it. Now that I have seen it, I am not sure I will be seeing it again. <br />
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Ok, it wasn't BAD, but there was absolutely NOTHING memorable about it. It was such a by the numbers animated film (well, computer generated) that seemed like it was done as a side project in between more important and profitable films. And the computer animation was actually pretty damn creepy. And the story? Meh, it was totally forgettable. I wasn't bored or anything, but it was on and then it was over and I went on with my life. <br />
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3 out of 10 cheeseburgers<br />
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<b>Movie Review #81 - Dirty Dancing</b><br />
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<i>Oh, come on, ladies. God wouldn't have given you maracas if He didn't want you to shake 'em.</i><br />
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Despite this pretty much being a chick flick, there has never been a time that I didn't like and appreciate this movie. I think the main thing that drew me to it at first was the soundtrack. Growing up with my parents, I appreciated the Oldies and this movie was full of great older songs ( in addition to some very popular contemporary songs). The music added to an already entertaining movie. Watching it now, it is still quite entertaining, but some of the acting and lines are fairly ridiculous. And Jennifer Gray is actually quite annoying in the film. I also don't know how well their chemistry actually works. It is more apparent now (or maybe it is because I know the back story) how much her and Swayze actually hated each other during the filming of this movie. They hid it fairly well, but it is there. But I don't want to bash on the film too much because it is still a good movie, maybe not the love story to end all love stories that I thought it once was. <br />
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6.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers<br />
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<b>Movie Review #82 - Disturbia </b><br />
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<i>Where are the coffee and doughnuts? You can't have a stakeout without coffee and doughnuts. </i><br />
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Rear Window for a new generation. While Hitchcock's film is a masterpiece, this movie does a pretty damn good job at being entertaining. I know a lot of people hate Shia Lebeouf, but I find him pretty likeable and he does a good job in this movie of playing the part of the kid who nobody believes. The movie has some good suspense, it has some pretty funny moments, and it has a super hot girl. I am not sure I can ask for much more in a mindless two hours of entertainment. It's one of those movie that you catch while flipping through channels on cable and when you find it, have a hard time turning it off even though you have seen it over and over. You can jump in at any time and just start watching. If you were a fan of Rear Window and want a teen friendly version, give it a try.<br />
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7 out of 10 cheeseburgers<i></i><br />
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<b>Movie Review #83 - Django Unchained</b><i></i><br />
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<i>Gentlemen, you had my curiosity. But now you have my attention. </i><br />
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I am about to say something that I can't believe I am about to say. Once I type it out, it's official. I think Django Unchained may be Tarantino's best film. Yes, his BEST film. Everyone should know my love of Pulp Fiction. Even writing the words, "Pulp Fiction," is making me rethink calling Django the best. But even if it isn't his best, it comes pretty damn close. And why does it come close? Because it is a pretty damn near perfect film. <br />
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First off, the storyline is amazing. Tarantino has truly scripted a wonderful piece and you totally care about the characters. In typical Tarantino fashion, it also has the right amount of humor. It's not going to take you out of the film and make you mistake the film for a comedy, but it injects humor to keep the film from being too serious. And the acting. Wow, the acting is outstanding headlined by the amazing Cristoph Waltz. In a Tarantino film for a second time, I am blown away by how amazing this guy is. I would watch him in anything because he owns every scene he is in. Leonardo is prefect as a villain and it was great to see him in such a different role. And Jamie Foxx was also great in the title role. I am glad that Will Smith ended up turning down this role (In order to make MIB III) because I feel that Foxx works so much better in this. All those guys plus the amazing story make this one of my absolute favorites. <br />
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10 out of 10 cheeseburgers<br />
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<b>Movie Review #84 - Dodgeball </b><br />
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<i>Nobody makes me bleed my own blood. </i><br />
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Much like another Ben Still film that will appear on this list MUCH later on this list,this film really grew on me. I watched it the first time and was entertained, but thought it was pretty silly. I laughed and that was important. Then I saw it again. And again. And again. And suddenly I was loving this comedy. It's silly in all the right ways for me. Throw in the fact that is a sports underdog film, one of my favorite genres, and you have an entertaining film. Yes, it is ridiculous. Yes, it is brainless. But sometimes you need that and this one works for me. Stiller is absolutely ridiculous and proves a perfect foil for Vaughn's deadpan delivery. It also has a hilarious supporting cast and some funny cameos. If you like funny sports films and you don't mind the silliness of Stiller, then you can appreciate this film. I can always watch this. <br />
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7.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers<br />
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<b>Movie Review #85 - Dogma </b><br />
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<i>I have issues with anyone who treats God as a burden instead of a blessing. You people don't celebrate your faith; you mourn it.</i><br />
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Kevin Smith at the top of his game. Mix Kevin Smith witty writing with a storyline that both attacks and celebrates religion of today and you have a classic. This is such an underrated film, most likely because people can't look past Smith's dick and fart jokes that he happily spews with the glee of a 12 year old. They are in there simply because Smith can't contain himself. But underneath those jokes in a film that really digs DEEP into religion and really makes you think. I can see why so many people protested this film, but even though it seems like he is destroying religion in this film, he actually seems to be talking about why it is good and simply just being practiced in the incorrect way. I wish people could see that. Sure, it is hard to see that in a film with a Shit Monster, but it is truly a special film. Much like the tagline in American Beauty, you just have to, "Look Closer." <br />
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8.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers.<i> </i><br />
MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-634797748307562552013-06-13T17:41:00.002-07:002013-06-13T17:41:39.927-07:00The Devil Dies HardI would actually watch my movie collection goal a lot quicker if I didn't have a goal of reviewing every movie. There have been a few times where I have had the time to watch a movie during work and I have ended up just watching TV because I knew I didn't have the time to write the review. Rather than create a huge backlog of movie to review, I just hold off. Not very efficient, but it is what it is.<br />
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So what has been up lately? Um, I turned 35 and I had an amazingly awesome birthday party like always. I even hired a mariachi band. I've been struggling to reach my goal of 50 pounds lost, having been around the 45-47 pound mark for a few weeks or so. I'll get it soon, hopefully. Even though the title of this post refers to the movies I am about to review, it also refers to my struggle with weight.<br />
<br />
I like food. Better yet, I like unhealthy food. Try all you want, you will not convince me that a nice salad or something else considered healthy is better than a burger. I am not going to sacrifice my happiness and stay good all the time in order to achieve my goal quicker. I'm just not. But the problem I face is that any time I eat anything not on my weight watchers diet, I not only gain but I gain a lot. I could have a couple bad meals, nothing crazy like a buffet or something, but a burger one night and pancakes for breakfast, etc, and I will end up about 3-7 pounds up by the end of the weekend. It is frustrating to see people eat whatever they want and stay a consistent weight while I need to work my ASS off both in diet and in exercise in order to work off what I gained each week. It has made this whole process slow going. I am proud of what I have achieved so far, but if only I had the ability to actually keep off weight that some people have. Anyways, let's review some movies!<br />
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<b>Movie Review #75 - The Devil's Rejects</b><br />
<br />
<i>Boy, the next word that comes out of your mouth better be some brilliant
fuckin' Mark Twain shit. 'Cause it's definitely getting chiseled on
your tombstone.</i><br />
<br />
You will never hear Free Bird and not think of this movie after seeing it. Well, at least that is the case for me. Rob Zombie's follow up to House of a 1000 Corpses was such a pleasant surprise when I saw it. House of 1000 Corpses was just odd. It had its moments, but there was nothing memorable about it other than the weirdness. I rented Rejects out of pure curiosity and was so glad I did. No longer an attempt at a horror movie, this is a straight crazy serial killers on the run film that is vile, bloody, harsh, and awesome. The characters are sick and yet so awesome to watch. The main authority trying to catch them is a total asshole and so you find yourself rooting for the villains because they are just more likable to watch on screen. They are pure evil, some of the most evil put on screen, but it is a fun ride. 7.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers<br />
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<i> </i><br />
<b>Movie Review #76 - Die Hard</b><i></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Nine million terrorists in the world and I gotta kill one with feet smaller than my sister.</i><br />
<br />
C'mon, it's friggin' Die Hard! Do I even need to review it. This is the movie that brought us the bad ass Bruce Willis (Moonlighting does NOT count). This movie introduced us to John McClane. This movie brought us the every day action hero. They didn't need to have muscles up the wazoo. This movie brought us a genre of movie that was copied so often after this (Die Hard on a bus, Die Hard on a plane, Die Hard on a boat, etc). But this movie isn't just a movie that laid the groundwork so that other movies could improve on it. No, it set the bar at an extremely high level and not many action movies can even come close to it. It has just about everything you want in an action movie - great action, good humor, a cool hero, and an amazing villain. Yes, I am not sure this movie would be as good as it is if it wasn't for Alan Rickman in the Hans Gruber role. He is absolutely perfect. Between him and Willis and a great supporting cast, I am not sure this movie can be topped in the action category. 9.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers<br />
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<b>Movie Review #77 - Die Hard 2: Die Harder </b><br />
<br />
<i>Just once, I'd like a regular, normal Christmas. Eggnog, a fuckin'
Christmas tree, a little turkey. But, no. I gotta crawl around in this
motherfuckin' tin can. </i><br />
<br />
With the success of Die Hard, you knew there would be a sequel. And this is before the age we live in now where almost everything gets a sequel, usually within a couple of years. You fear that a sequel will ruin the legacy of the original film by giving us an unnecessary film. <i> </i>This movie, while not as good as the original, thankfully does not ruin anything. It has a fun story and Bruce is just as awesome. William Sadler doesn't quite match the evil awesomeness of Rickman, but not many people can. This film has a few ridiculous moments, but this is a trend in the series, especially after this one, so you ignore it. It has exactly what you want out of it - John McClane, pretty much on his own, trying to save the day while spewing as many wisecracks as he has time for. 8 out of 10 cheeseburgers<br />
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<br />
<b>Movie Review #78 - Die Hard with a Vengeance </b><br />
<br />
<i>I threw his little brother off the thirty-second floor of Nakatomi
Towers out in L.A. I guess he's a little pissed off about it. </i><br />
<br />
A third movie in the series? Can they possibly sustain the awesomeness? As a matter of fact, yes they can. Not only that, but they improved from the second film. Bruce is just as awesome in this, but the film becomes a buddy cop like film with the addition of Samuel L. Jackson and the two are absolutely perfect together. They way they feed off each other is absolutely hilarious and the connection between the two is what makes this movie so great. Well, one of the reasons. The little games or brain teasers that the villain, Simon, sets throughout the film also make it quite enjoyable. Jeremy Irons is great as the villain, but again, he is no Hans Gruber. And his henchmen, while a clear attempt at the copying the henchmen from the first one, don't come anywhere close. But man, what a fun movie. Great action and humor that is not matched in any of the other Die Hard films. 8.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers<br />
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<b><i> </i></b><br />
<b>Movie Review #79 - Live Free or Die Hard</b><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>You just killed a helicopter with a car! </i><br />
<br />
Yes, the film starts with an L, but like I said when I first started this journey, I will keep the series films together even if that means I need to go a little off alphabetical order. To me, this is Die Hard 4 despite what the title is. <br />
<br />
I never thought I would get a 4th Die Hard film and once this movie was announced, I was as giddy as one person could be. I would get to see John McClane on the big screen again. But would it suck? Thankfully, the answer is NO. Well, at least in my book. I know some people didn't like this film, but I LOVED it. And I still do. Sure, some of the action scenes in this film are BEYOND ridiculous, but I don't go into action movies hoping that the films will be as realistic as possible. That's just stupid. I just want to be entertained and if some of the action scenes are a little over the top, then so be it. I got Bruce Willis still being his bad ass self, some good humor, some good action, a pretty decent villain, and some good side characters. What more do I want? Well, for a Die Hard film, I don't want anything more than that. 8.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers. MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-30273729239625653512013-05-07T18:54:00.002-07:002013-05-07T18:54:19.950-07:00Bless me, Father, for I have just killed quite a few men. More movie reviews this time and this time it was a really good selection! Let's get to it!<br />
<br />
<b>Movie Review #70 - Deja Vu</b><br />
<br />
<i>What if you had to tell someone the most important thing in the world, but you knew they'd never believe you? </i><br />
<br />
Before his passing, Tony Scott really didn't make bad films. His career spans nothing but awesomeness. Many of his films involved Denzel and together they made some amazing films. This one wasn't quite as popular as some of their other hits, but it was no less outstanding. What is funny to me about this film is how quickly I forgot how good it actually was. I hadn't seen this film in a few years and watching it again made me further appreciate it. I like that is a basically a cop film with some sci-fi elements, but without being over the top. Those who have trouble with time travel films with struggle a little with it, but it is quite enjoyable and a surprisingly touching story. <i> </i>If you somehow missed this film but like either Tony Scott films or films starring Denzel, definitely give this a try. 7.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Movie Review #71 - Demolition Man</b><br />
<br />
<i>You are a savage creature John Spartan, and I wish for you to leave my domicile now! </i><br />
<br />
Other than the Rocky and Rambo films, I am not sure there is a Stallone film that I enjoy more than Demolition Man. It has both great action and is absolutely hilarious at the same time. Even Sandra Bullock isn't annoying in the film. And as awesome as Stallone is in the film, Snipes is equally as awesome as the villain in the film. He is both kick ass and funny as well. The futuristic element to the film also contributes greatly to the humor while mocking current (or what was current at the time of filming) pop culture. But it is Stallone who really makes this film. He is awesome in this, going back and forth between butt kicker, charmer, and joke dropper. I never tire of this movie. 8 out of 10 cheeseburgers<br />
<br />
<i> </i><br />
<b>Movie Review #72 - The Departed</b><i></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>I'm the guy who does his job. You must be the other guy. </i><br />
<br />
I feel weird giving such high praise to a film that is a remake, but The Departed is a darn near perfect film to me. The story - amazing. The acting - amazing. Hell, even the soundtrack that accompanied the film fit perfectly. Almost everyone loves a good crime drama and this is absolutely as good as it gets. From the minute the movie starts until the shocking last ten minutes of the film, you are absolutely hooked. With all the amazing actors, I don't think I could even come close to being able to pick my favorite performance in the film. If there was ever a film that deserved the Best Picture Oscar in the year it was nominated, this was it. 10 out of 10 cheeseburgers<br />
<br />
<i> </i><br />
<b>Movie Review #73 - The Descent</b><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>We're in the wrong fucking cave!</i><br />
<br />
<i> </i>I am not sure what drove us to go see The Descent in the theaters. I believe we might have gone to see one film and then just movie hopped into it because we had nothing else to do. A movie meant to make you feel claustrophobic really works when seen in a darkened movie theater and it made me not want to go in a cave any time soon. The premise of cave divers encountering horrors they didn't expect is pretty simple, but it totally worked for me. I find this movie super creepy even after multiple viewings. Yeah, the monsters that live in the cave might be unbelievable, but it is the premise of encountering something you weren't expecting on something so routine is what gives it that creepy factor. Fun little horror film. 7 out of 10 cheeseburgers<br />
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<b><br /></b>
<b>Movie Review #74 - Desperado </b><br />
<br />
<i>I am looking for a man who calls himself Bucho, but you had to do it the hard way. </i> <br />
<br />
The movie that introduced me to Salma Hayek. That alone gives this movie a ton of points. And although I had seen Antonio in a couple other films prior to this, he didn't REALLY stand out to me until this film. It was a western set in Mexico. It was a revenge film. It has a great story and fun action. The writing was awesome. Oh, and there was a funny Tarantino cameo. It all translated into an amazingly good time. I became a huge fan of Robert Rodriguez because of this. His style just blew me away and I try not to miss any of his non-kid films now. I tell ya, I never tire of watching this film. Oh, and that soundtrack is AMAZING. Because of the soundtrack, Jess gets to hear me sing in Spanish. And she LOVES that. 9 out of 10 cheeseburgers<br />
<br />
<br />MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-32309579200907989702013-04-25T16:46:00.003-07:002013-04-25T16:46:41.721-07:00Summer 2013 Movie PreviewBack for one of my yearly articles (although I think I skipped last year) is the summer movie preview! Summer is one of the best times for going to the movies assuming you aren't looking for deep, Academy type films. This is popcorn movie season and if you simply want to be entertained with low attention span films, summer is the time for you. Like always, I'll highlight what I think will be popular over the next few months as well as tell you MY top 5 anticipated films! Here. We. GO!<br />
<br />
<b>May 3rd</b><br />
Iron Man 3 - We start off the movie season with a bang! It's only been a year since Avengers came out and we are already starting up with Phase 2 of the Marvel movie juggernaut. I couldn't be more excited. Iron Man, which is a couple years old now, was a tiny bit lacking compared to the first one, but hot on the heels of the amazing Avengers film and the freshness of a new director, I am expecting exciting things from Iron Man 3!<br />
<br />
<b>May 10th</b><br />
The Great Gatsby - There was a time last year when this was predicted to be up for some nominations at the Academy Awards. Then the film was delayed past movie awards season and is now finally coming out. I love the book even though it has now been a decade since I have read it last. With a great cast, this could be good, but it seems like it is being released at the wrong time of the year. We shall see. <br />
<br />
<b>May 17th</b><br />
Star Trek Into Darkness - JJ Abrams did an amazing job with the reboot of Star Trek a few years back and I am hoping that this new films is just as good. Hell, you didn't even have to be a Star Trek film to enjoy the last one because of how good it was. If the trailers are any indications, this could be just as awesome.<br />
<br />
<b>May 24th</b><br />
Epic - I hadn't even heard of this film a few weeks ago and now I am starting to see promotional items such as commercials all the time for it. A new animated movie from the people who made Ice Age, I think this could be a pretty big films with kids based on what I see on the trailer. They are also heavily promoting the voices in the film to get people even more excited.<br />
<br />
Fast Six - The series that has no business being on the sixth film and somehow, keeps getting better and better. Ever since the original cast returned in part 4, the series has been given a big lift. Part 1 was fun, parts 2 and 3 were decent, and then 4 came along and blew me away. Then the 5th came along and EASILY became my favorite in the series. I am hoping that good fortune continues with this 6th film.<br />
<br />
The Hangover Part III - Meh. Ok, I thought the first one WAS funny. I laughed out loud a couple of times. Was it as good as everyone said it was. Well, not for me. Then two came long and I found it pretty silly. It wasn't terrible, but I didn't laugh too much. Needless to say, I am not excited for part III and I can wait until video.<br />
<br />
<b>May 31st</b><br />
After Earth - <span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">M. Night Shyamalan's latest film is a sci-fi movie starring Will Smith. I remember being so excited when M. Night had a new movie coming out. That thrill is gone even if I do like his latest films more than most people. And this one isn't fully written by him so it could be a change. I just feel like this could end up bombing though. </span></span><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA"><br /></span></span>
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">Now You See Me - I hadn't even heard of this film until a week ago when I saw a trailer when I went and saw Oblivion. I don't know how this film flew under my radar because it looks REALLY good. Magicians who are robbers may be an old story, but the amazing cast involved and the mystery of it all has me really intrigued. Pretty excited for this.</span></span><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA"><br /></span></span>
<b><span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">June 7th</span></span></b><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">The Internship - Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn lose their jobs and try to get jobs at Google by doing outrageous things. Looks kind of silly, truthfully, but it could end up being pretty funny AND making a lot of money. We shall see. Very on the fence on this one and only giving it the benefit of the doubt because of these two guys.</span></span><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA"><br /></span></span>
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">The Purge - Pretty cool looking suspense film where there is zero crime in the USA due to the fact that one night a year, you are allowed to commit any crime you want. Looks nice and creepy and something that will have you on the edge of your seat. </span></span><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA"><br /></span></span>
<b><span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">June 12th</span></span></b><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">This is the End - This movie looks friggin' hilarious with people like James Franco and Seth Rogan playing themselves in an end of the world type movie. I am sure this is going to have a TON of cameos. The first couple of trailers had me busting up laughing so this will be one of those rare times when I see a comedy in the theaters.</span></span><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA"><br /></span></span>
<b><span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">June 14th</span></span></b><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">Man of Steel - Superman is a douche.</span></span><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA"><br /></span></span>
<b><span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">June 21st</span></span></b><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">Monsters University - I love Monsters Inc and even though I am excited they have made a prequel to it, not much in the trailer makes me SUPER excited to see it. If it doesn't get good reviews, I may even wait until video. If I hear good things, I am so there. We shall see.</span></span><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA"><br /></span></span>
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">World War Z - World War Z was a great book that I really enjoyed, but I don't see anything in the trailer even resembling the book. I mean, it looks really good and I am going to see it, but it just looks like a typical zombie movie, but with the summer blockbuster budget. I sure hope it isn't a letdown.</span></span><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA"><br /></span></span>
<b><span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">June 28th</span></span></b><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">The Heat - A comedy buddy cop film with Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy. People crack up at the trailer when I see it in the theaters. I roll my eyes.</span></span><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA"><br /></span></span>
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">White House Down - The second White House invasion film in a few months, but this time with Channing Tatum. I'll rent it.</span></span><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA"><br /></span></span>
<b><span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">July 3rd</span></span></b><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">Despicable Me 2 - I thought the first one was enjoyable, but I can wait for video. When it is a movie simply about the yellow minions, maybe then I will go see it.</span></span><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA"><br /></span></span>
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">The Lone Ranger - Johnny Depp being weird again. I'll be honest, the trailers for this Disney blockbuster do nothing for me and since I have no attachment to the original Lone Ranger, I'll be skipping this.</span></span><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA"><br /></span></span>
<b><span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">July 12th</span></span></b><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">Grown Ups 2- Just no. The first one wasn't very good so I will skip this one. I don't need to see a deer peeing on Adam Sandler.</span></span><br />
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA"><br /></span></span>
<span class="kno-fv"><span class="kno-fv-vq fl" data-vq="/search?safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=F5q&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=%22after+earth%22+%22director%22+%22m.+night+shyamalan%22&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAGOovnz8BQMDgwAHsxKXfq6-QUZGeoa5gQNj3crJ7l1vVondulJ35JLqyWutp7VVAZVDLlotAAAA">Pacific Rim - </span></span>Guillermo del Toro's latest film, this time a summer sci-fi blockbuster about humans controlling giant robots in order to fight off giant monsters. Sounds silly, but I am guessing this will be one of those have to see and hear in a theater kind of films. Could be silly or could end up being REALY awesome.<br />
<br />
<b>July 17th</b><br />
Turbo - A new animated movie by Dreamworks about a racing snail. No interest but big money.<br />
<br />
<b>July 19th</b><br />
Red 2 - I actually didn't see the first Red movie from a few years back, but heard it was fun and entertaining. I guess I will have to watch it eventually. <br />
<br />
R.I.P.D. - A comic book movie with Jeff Bridges and Ryan Reynolds playing cops brought back from the dead to fight off demons or something to protect the people still alive. Trailer had a VERY Men In Black feel to it from the humor to the way it looked. I can certainly wait for video. <br />
<br />
<b>July 26th</b><br />
The Wolverine - Wolverine in Japan, the site of many of his great stories in the comic books. Looks petty good and Hugh Jackman is AWESOME whenever he plays Wolverine so I am excited.<br />
<br />
<b>August 2nd</b><br />
300: Rise of an Empire - New soldiers fight Xerxes is the same style as the original 300 film. I am not sure this needed a sequel and fear this will be bad. I hope I am proven wrong.<br />
<br />
<b>August 9th</b><br />
Elysium - Sci fi movie with Matt Damon and Jodie Foster about class warfare in the future. Looks pretty good and has gotten some good buzz. We shall see if it is getting that same buzz once the movie gets closer to coming out.<br />
<br />
Planes - Like the Pixar film Cars, but with Planes. The fact that this was originally going to be a direct to video film and that I didn't really care for either Cars films makes me avoid this film like the plague.<br />
<br />
<b>August 16th</b><br />
Kick Ass 2 - I love the comics and I love the first movie so how could I NOT be excited for this film?!?! I hope it is just as good as the first one and isn't a letdown. I think the casting of Jim Carey is genius and hope it pays off. <br />
<br />
As you can see, this summer is JAM PACKED. I even left off a few that I could have added but the list was already getting so long and I am afraid my readers (HA!) might have tuned out by now! So without any further explanation, these are my top 5 anticipated films of the summer and yes, this was hard to narrow down:<br />
<br />
5. World War Z<br />
4.The Wolverine<br />
3. Fast Six<br />
2. Star Trek<br />
1. Iron Man 3 <br />
<br />
<br />
What movies do you want to see this summer?MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-32899343080681282732013-04-11T12:54:00.001-07:002013-04-11T12:54:23.373-07:00A Need for ImprovementI have been doing this photography thing for a few years now, and while I do feel I have improved over the years, I feel that I am kind of in a rut now as far as my development. I guess I shouldn't complain considering I am almost 100% self taught, but I feel at this point, I should be even better than I currently am. <br />
<br />
It's not like I haven't had some moments that have really boosted my ego over my abilities. I had the photo that almost made it on to the cover of a phone book if not for some legal issues. I had a picture be picked to be in a travel guide and while they told me they have hit some snags and the book might not come out until later this year, they still intend to release the book with my picture included. And then I had my photography exhibit where I not only received tons of kudos, I actually sold a decent amount of stuff too. This all feels good, but deep down, I feel like I am not improving enough. <br />
<br />
The daily picture, now in my 4th year, keeps me active in taking photographs. But you can't imagine how hard it is to take a photograph of something different each and every day for this long. I do it as a challenge, but I don't think it really makes me any better. Yes, I still do take the occasional photo that wows me, but are they really THAT much better than any photo I have taken a year or even two years ago? I was REALLY happy with the photo shoot I did for someone a few weeks back and I feel it was my best one to date, but other than that one, I can't say any of the most recent shoots have been THAT much better than anything in the past. <br />
<br />
So what now? Well, it's my fault that I haven't taken it to the next level. I haven't read books with tips. I have a couple that I have started, but never fully immersed myself in them. I guess I could take some classes, whether it be online or in person, but those are always going to take money and possibly time I don't have. I'll start with the books I have, but who knows when I will finish them. Like anything, if you want to get better at something, you have to make a commitment to it and that has been where I have been lacking, I guess. As always, this is still and will always remain a hobby for me. I do this for the fun of it and understand that I will never be as good as people who do this full time or even part time. I'm not trying to convince others that I am as good as those who do that because I know I haven't made that commitment to take it to that level. When I see someone post pictures they had done from a professional, I KNOW they are better than mine. Does it make me a little sad that I am not at that level? Sure, of course! But make no mistake about it, I don't have any misconceptions that my photos are at that level. I am not delusional to that fact. But that doesn't mean there is no room for improvement, even at the hobby level. And I need to consider taking those next steps. MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-74899434864897955052013-03-21T19:38:00.001-07:002013-03-21T19:39:07.507-07:00Still AliveOnce again, I have fallen off the face of the blogging world because I am lazy writer. Let me keep it boring today and simply catch up on where I am with my movie progress. Last post, at the beginning of February, I was just finishing up the Cs so now we can finally move on to the Ds. Well, we'll actually be starting with another C movie that I recently bought so that gets reviewed first before I can officially be on the Ds. Here we go.<br />
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<b>Movie Review #63: Cobra</b><br />
<br />
<i>You're the disease, I'm the cure</i><br />
<br />
Outside of the Rocky and Rambo movies, I consider Cobra to be one of Stallone's best films. It's just eighty something minutes of Stallone kicking ass in some great action scenes. The fact that the movie focuses on a killer cult also adds some coolness to the movie as it feels like a cop/serial killer movie but with the Stallone touches. It is a winning combination for a movie that I never get tired of watching. The one liners are great in this film. It was as if Stallone and Arnold were competing in their respective movies over who could have the best lines. This movie had some of the best. 7.5 cheeseburgers out of 10!<br />
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<b>Movie Review #64: The Dark Knight</b><br />
<br />
<i>And...here...we...go</i>. <br />
<br />
I saw The Dark Knight almost right after it came out at the theaters and liked it a lot. I, like most people, was in awe of Heath Ledger's performance. It is simply amazing and upon repeat viewings, I still feel the same way. Between this and Brokeback, it is truly tragic that he is no longer here and making movies. But despite really liking the film, I started to despise the film soon after because I was sick of all the talk about how it was one of the best movies of all time. It isn't. It's a great film, but it doesn't belong at the top of the mountain that many people put it. But now, years later and with the hype gone from it, I can sit and enjoy the film again. It truly is a great film. A lot of the greatness is attributed to Ledger's performance, but it isn't the only great thing in this film. It is really a great story and I am glad I can enjoy it again. 8.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers!<br />
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<b>Movie Review #65: The DaVinci Code</b><br />
<br />
<i>You are the secret</i><br />
<br />
Like a lot of people about a decade ago, I had to read The DaVinci code to see what all the fuss was about and ended up LOVING it. The fact that they were making a movie out of a book I loved so much was very exciting. And then the film came out. I believe we saw the movie at the first showing on opening day. What followed was two plus hours of disappointment. The film wasn't really that bad, but as a huge fan of the book, they changed some things that I totally didn't agree with it. Now, almost a decade later, some of that disappointment has gone down because frankly, I don't remember much about the book or what was changed. Now I can just watch the movie and enjoy it for what it is. It's a fun story with a cool mystery. I am sure it still is nothing compared to the book, but on its own, it is still enjoyable. 7 out of 10 cheeseburgers!<br />
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<b>Movie Review #66: Dawn of the Dead (2004)</b><br />
<br />
<i>When there is no more room in hell the dead will walk the Earth </i><br />
<br />
This movie is probably in the top 5 of number of times Jess and I have seen a movie together. I mean, we used to watch this ALL THE TIME. Can't think of what to watch, hey, let's just watch Dawn of the Dead again. I am not sure what got us to go see this film in the theaters since neither of us are big fans of the original. But we did go see it and we have been hooked on this film ever since. Zombies are fun, but this movie makes then even more fun. It has awesome characters, great suspense, a fun storyline, an appropriate amount of humor, and some great gore. As a horror film, I am not sure it can get any better. In fact, just writing about it makes me want to watch it again, it is that addictive. 8.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers!<br />
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<b><br /></b>
<b>Movie Review #67: The Day After Tomorrow</b><br />
<br />
<i>To England! To Mankind! To Manchester United! </i><br />
<br />
I'm a sucker for a good disaster film. Hell, I am a sucker for a decent disaster film and that is what this movie is. The storyline is fairly out there, the characters are pretty cliche, the acting isn't all great, and some of the special effects are goofy as hell! But it entertains. It's a B movie with an A movie budget and it works for those who can turn off their brain for a couple of hours. Plus, Emmy Rossum is hot. 6.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers.<br />
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<b>Movie Review #68: Death Proof</b><br />
<br />
<i>I'm afraid you're going to have to start getting scared... immediately.</i> <br />
<br />
Tarantino can do no wrong! Ok, he can do no wrong as long as we don't count this movie. Part of the Grindhouse collaboration with Robert Rodriguez, this film just isn't up to par with the rest of his works. I know he was trying to do something different with this film, but I just don't feel it works that well. I know Tarantino writes great and his conversations between characters, where two people are just sitting there and talking, are often highlights of his films, but in this film, he just overdid it. The first hour of the 90 minute film is just a bunch of talking, often about REALLY pointless things. I can take it to an extent, but in the case, it seems as if he was just writing to write. It isn't cool. Some of the stuff is ok, but in the end, I felt empty. The final action scene is REALLY fun and saves the movie, but other than that, I find it just average and perhaps only tolerate because it IS Tarantino and the film does have sprinkles of his genius. But it isn't as good as one would expect. 5 out of 10 cheeseburgers!<br />
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<b>Movie Review #69: Death Race</b><br />
<br />
<i>You wanted a monster? Well, you've got one.</i><br />
<br />
I never saw the original Death Race, but I really liked this remake. It's kind of like watching an R Rated Mario Kart. Cars racing that get weapons from the track and you try to eliminate your competitors with said weapons. What is not to like? Jason Statham is as bad ass as usual and the movie is absolutely action packed. This is a film for people with a short attention span because it never lets up. There are really not enough good R Rated action films like this anymore. Statham really is the successor to Arnold and Sly's action throne. 7.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers<br />
<br />
Whew, caught up! As long as I don't get too lazy and I don't have too man movies to write about, I have an actual post planned for next post! Fingers crossed! MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-6808639710348669742013-02-05T20:46:00.002-08:002013-02-05T21:15:28.211-08:00C is for CheeseburgerI'm finally going to finish off the Cs today! It feels like I have been doing this forever and I am only finishing up my third letter of the alphabet. Wow, I will be at this for a while. Good thing I am enjoying myself! <br />
<br />
Before I do the last 4 reviews, I wanted to touch on the fun thing I have been doing on Facebook. Obviously everyone reading this blog knows about my love for burgers; the absolute best food known to man. A few years ago I took a picture of every burger I ate for the year and posted them on the blog. I forgot exactly how many I ate in the year but think it averaged out to one every 5 days or so for the whole year. This year I wanted to get people involved and started a burger loving group on Facebook. I asked people to join and post a picture of every burger they ate throughout the year. My goal, my DREAM, was to see if we could get 1000 burger pictures in 2013. Through the first month and 5 days, we are up to 159 burgers! We are well on pace to make the 1000 burger pictures in the year goal. I am so excited with how well the group has taken off and how well received it has been. It is awesome to see how many other people share my love of burgers. So exciting!<br />
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Now, let's finish off the Cs!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Movie Review #59 - Con Air</b><br />
<br />
<i>On any other day, that might seem strange. </i><br />
<br />
Con Air is so friggin' goofy but it works because it is absolute nonstop action that keeps you on the edge of your seat. But action alone won't make a good movie. The amount of colorful villains is what truly makes this film, from Malkovich to Ving<i> </i>to Buscemi, to Trejo, man, they just keep this movie so entertaining. They are all at their top of their game, Malkovich especially. They are what make this movie as entertaining to me as it is. Nic Cage is his usual self meaning half the time he is cool and half the time he is over the top ridiculous. And his accent in this movie - good lord it is bad but it fits with the cartoon like feel the whole movie has. And why is he squinting for half the movie?<br />
<br />
Con Air is about as unbelievable as any action movie made in the last 20 years. Yeah, even the Fast and the Furious movies are more believable. But if you suspend all disbelief and enjoy the movie for what it is, pure action for entertainment value, you can sit through it. Don't nitpick it for not being possible. Of course it isn't. What it is is a fun movie that I can watch over and over again.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcLRV0FWJGY/URHW3LkVdvI/AAAAAAAADTo/_xokxWR498o/s1600/burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcLRV0FWJGY/URHW3LkVdvI/AAAAAAAADTo/_xokxWR498o/s1600/burger.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<b>Movie Review #60 - Cool Runnings</b><br />
<br />
<i>Feel the rhythm! Feel the rhyme! Get on up, its bobsled time! COOL RUNNINGS!</i><br />
<br />
Everyone loves a good underdog story and Cool Runnings is one of my absolute favorites. In fact, it is one of the few movies that almost makes me tear up the end. I just find it so inspirational and such a wonderful story of overcoming odds. Throw in a little bit of that Disney magic and I find it such a joy to watch over and over again. I love the 4 bobsledders too; so much fun. <br />
<br />
When I was watching it the other day, I couldn't help but think how much I miss John Candy. He made so many great movies in his career and although he was the serious one in the film for a change, he still was the heart of the movie even here at the ending of his career. <i> </i>
<br />
<br />
Olympics, underdog story, fun characters, John Candy, tear jerking moments, this movie has so much going for it. I never tire of it. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcLRV0FWJGY/URHW3LkVdvI/AAAAAAAADTo/_xokxWR498o/s1600/burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcLRV0FWJGY/URHW3LkVdvI/AAAAAAAADTo/_xokxWR498o/s1600/burger.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Movie Review #61 - Copycat</b><br />
<br />
<i>
I'm death and life to you, doc... death and life. </i><br />
<br />
I have said it before and I will say it again, Copycat is an underrated movie. Cursed with being released at around the same time as Se7en, many people overlook this movie because it isn't quite as good. But that is not a bad thing. Se7en is a spectacular film and hard to top in the thriller genre. But on its own, Copycat is really good thriller and also quite creepy. <br />
<i> </i><br />
I think the thing that appeals to me is the way the killer goes about his crimes in the film. I love true crime type of stuff and the fact that the killer bases all his murders on real life serial killers is quite entertaining to me as disturbing as that may sound. Although, like Silence of Lambs, the most memorable villain in the film isn't the one doing the actual murders, but the one in prison who is "helping" with the investigation. Harry Connick Jr. is the best part of the film and is quite awesome as Daryl Lee Cullen. I wouldn't have minded if they had made a sequel or prequel based on his character because he was absolutely creepy in that role. If only it could have been because he was the best part of the movie.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcLRV0FWJGY/URHW3LkVdvI/AAAAAAAADTo/_xokxWR498o/s1600/burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcLRV0FWJGY/URHW3LkVdvI/AAAAAAAADTo/_xokxWR498o/s1600/burger.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<b>Movie Review #62 - The Count of Monte Cristo</b><br />
<br />
<i>How did I escape? With difficulty. How did I plan this moment? With pleasure!
</i><br />
<br />
I read Count of Monte Cristo as an 8th grader and absolutely loved it. It was a long-ish book for someone of that age and I loved every page of the book. I haven't read the book since for some reason, but I know when the movie was set to release, I still eagerly anticipated it even though it had been about a decade since I had read the book. And thankfully, I wasn't disappointed. It has been so long now since I have read it that I can't remember how well the movie follows the book, but the basic element still remains - a man is wronged and spends many years of his life planning and acting out his revenge. It's a perfect story.<br />
<br />
The acting in the film is decent enough, nothing bad, nothing spectacular, but it carries the story well enough. I find it funny that whenever I hear Richard Harris speak in the film, all I hear is Dumbledore now (despite him only being in a couple of the films before his death). It's funny how a role does that. Acting aside though, it is the story that makes me like this film so much. There are certain parts in the film, even after watching it so many times, that make me smile as the lead exacts his revenge. It is nice to see wrongs get righted. It is nice to see Karma come full circle. If only real life always worked so well.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcLRV0FWJGY/URHW3LkVdvI/AAAAAAAADTo/_xokxWR498o/s1600/burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcLRV0FWJGY/URHW3LkVdvI/AAAAAAAADTo/_xokxWR498o/s1600/burger.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-10730364565812390142013-01-24T16:30:00.002-08:002013-02-05T20:47:33.870-08:00Why I Don't Get Political on Facebook......and finishing off the "C" movies.<br />
<br />
As I try to get through this monumental task of watching all my movies and writing reviews on all of them, the bigger chore becomes trying to get the motivation of writing about other things on the blog as well so as not to make the readers bored. I have a very low readership (I am just assuming this by the number of comments) so I want to make it so the blog doesn't become so monotonous. But writing all those movie reviews plus coming up with other topics to write about can be time consuming. I'm trying though.<br />
<br />
Over the weekend I was having a discussion with a friend or two about political debates on Facebook. Surprisingly, I try to stay out of them for the most part on Facebook. I was a little vocal with the whole Chick-fil-A topic only because I started talking about way before it became such a hot topic and I felt very strongly about it. But I noticed that no matter how strongly I felt about it, no matter how many points I tried to make, I didn't sway anyone to my side of the argument. And therein lies the problem. People have strong opinions on a variety of subjects and it pretty much takes an act of God to get them to change their mind.<br />
<br />
I've yet to see on the countless political posts on my wall someone say, "You know, that is an excellent point, I am changing my view on this." It just doesn't happen. So despite my very strong feelings that I see on Facebook, I stay out of it. Obama, gun control, etc, these are all things that I could talk endlessly about. But why? What would it accomplish other than letting people know where I personally stand? Does anyone really care? I post enough on Facebook as it is, does anyone need me to share posts about my political views 20 times a day? Hell, that might even get me blocked by some people. I know I block people that post these all day long. I get your view. I got it after the first or second post. I don't need to see it fifty times. And that is not how I want people to feel about me. Look, I am a pretty opinionated guy, but I just feel it is in my best interest to stay out of these things. I know I'm not changing anyone's mind any time soon. <br />
Soapbox done. Let's finish off the Cs. <br />
<br />
<b>Movie Review #56: Cliffhanger </b><br />
<br />
<i>If you're looking for Qualen, try about 4,000 feet south of here. He'll be the one wearing the helicopter.</i><br />
<br />
I LOVE Cliffhanger. When I first started this blog, I did a review of my favorite, non Rocky or Rambo films and this came in at number 2. On a sidenote: Why don't I own Cobra, my number 3 movie? Back to the point, Cliffhanger is just an awesome action movie. You want nonstop action, this is good choice. And it starts off right from the beginning. I challenge you to find a more suspenseful first 5 minutes of a film than the one in this one, at least the first time you see it. It really is edge of your seat stuff and it while it never reaches that level of intensity in the rest of the film, you can't help but have your blood pumping throughout the film. <br />
<br />
Besides the great action, it is really John Lithgow who makes this film. He is completely awesome as the villain in this film. A little over the top, but it really works! While looking up this movie, I noticed that he was nominated for a Razzie for Worst Supporting Actor (along with 3 other nominations for the film). This is one of the reasons why, despite the Razzies being fun, I often don't pay attention to them because they are nominated on reputation alone. I think Lithgow was considered for worst supporting actor simply because he was in a Stallone film. C'mon, man, broaden your horizons. The film is just fun action, not an attempt to win Best Picture. But lighten up a little, it isn't bad at all. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>Movie Review #57: Collateral</b><i> </i><br />
<br />
<i> There's no good reason, there's no bad reason to live or to die.</i><br />
<br />
I was blown away by Collateral the first time I saw it. The storyline, the performances, the subtlety of it; all amazing. I just love how much happens in this film and how intense it is when really, the movie is pretty slow, plodding, quiet, and pretty low key. There are a few action moments, but for the most part, the story keeps going at the same slow pace throughout the film, but I think that is really what makes the movie works. The movie is about the characters in the film, their interactions, and life in general and and full on action movie, while possibly making it more exciting, wouldn't have made it into the great film it turned out to be.<br />
<br />
Good story or not, the film wouldn't have worked if it wasn't for the great performances put on my Foxx and Cruise. I LOVED seeing Cruise as a bad guy in this film. He was totally believable and I loved how evil he was without being over the top psycho. He needs to be a villain more. And I loved Foxx in this. While I liked his earlier performance in Ray which I had seen earlier, I liked him even more because it was a more down to earth role that I really feel he sunk in to. It was this film, not Ray, that convinced me of his acting abilities. I think a lot of people missed this movie, but it is worth a rental. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7.5 out of 10 Cheeseburgers </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<i> </i>
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<b><i> </i>Movie Review #58: Commando</b><br />
<br />
<b> </b><i>You're a funny guy Sully, I like you. That's why I'm going to kill you last</i>.<br />
<br />
Everything you need to know about this film can be summed up in this video. This is every one of Arnold's estimated 87 kills in the film:
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/pNVmXyZUerg" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
Who needs a plot when you have utter destruction like this? Although it may seem like a pointless movie, this was really a movie that brought Arnold out as the action star he is today. Sure he was a novelty in Conan and a killer cyborg in Terminator, but this was his first role set in a "real" life and what led to so many other films of the same prototype not only for him, but many other actors of the 80s. I can't begin to tell you how many times I watched this film as kid. And you know what, it still hold up today. Not as a movie masterpiece by any means, but as the epitome of mindless action. Well, mindless action and over the top one liners. It was this film that made me expect cheezy one liners in every Arnold movie that followed. They way he spewed them out in Expendables 2 was a throwback to what he started here and you realized than no matter how ridiculous they were, you looked forward to them.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
Ok, maybe I won't finish the Cs off here. Three more to go and I will save them for the next blog post. Until then. Thanks for reading and an even bigger thank you for commenting. MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-64263382640972387422013-01-16T20:46:00.000-08:002013-01-16T20:46:21.872-08:00C is for Cinema and Counting BlessingsJess and I just went through another miscarriage (#4), but I am not sure how much I want to actually write about it. It is what it is. At this point, we don't really expect this to happen for us and the hurt was a lot less this time. In the end, we know we have a good life together and although if we never have a kid, we'll know we'll have a little emptiness in our lives, we can't complain about all the other blessings we have been given. With that, on to more movies. <br />
<br />
Plenty of movies to review. I'll just keep going!<br />
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<b>Movie Review #51: Cinderella </b><br />
<br />
<i>No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing, the dream that you wish will come true. </i><br />
<br />
So far in my movie watching, I have been fairly disappointed with the classic Disney movies that I have been watching. They haven't been bad, but nothing spectacular. Cinderella, thankfully, turned it all around. This film is true Disney magic and I was surprised how much I enjoyed it. I was also surprised how many words I knew from the songs that were sung. I must have watched this movie a lot as a kid or something. It gives me a lot of hope for the viewings of future Disney Princess films. <br />
<i> </i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i> <b><br /></b></i><br />
<b>Movie Review #52: City of Angels</b><br />
<br />
<i>I wait all day, just hoping for one more minute with you, and I don't even know you. </i><br />
<br />
This may be the first time I have seen this movie since the theaters. I remember being fairly touched by it the first time I saw it, but this time, I don't know, it seemed kind of corny to me. Maybe because I knew how the film was going to end up, but it just didn't do anything for me this time. Nic Cage seemed hokey as hell and while I can appreciate that it was a decent love story of <i> </i>desiring someone you can't have, I've seen much better. It's not a bad film, but it didn't seem to age well past the first viewing. Meg Ryan sure used to be cute though.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">5 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>Movie Review #53: Clerks</b><br />
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<i> I'm not even supposed to be here today! </i><br />
<br />
The movie that introduced the world to Kevin Smith. I am not even sure how I heard of this movie enough to rent it with some friends right when it came out, but I am glad I did. I sat there dumbfounded that they were saying the things they were saying in a movie like this. But it wasn't just pure raunchiness, it was<i> </i>smart at the same time. It was something fresh and I am glad the film caught on enough so that Smith could make more films. On repeated viewings, the films just doesn't get old to me. Partially because the film is so funny and partially because the film is so quotable, I can simply watch this film over and over again and not get tired of it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>Movie Review #54: Clerks II</b><br />
<br />
<i>Thirty-two and you're flipping burgers? Jesus, anybody else from our graduating class back there?</i><br />
<br />
Clerks II is one of those rare movies that keeps getting better and better with each repeated viewing. I enjoyed Clerks II the first time I watched it, but there was the slightest amount of disappointment that it wasn't as comical as the first one. This one had a lot of serious things going on underneath the usual vulgarity. But the more I watch it, the more I find things I can relate to and it becomes a more personable movie and I see why Smith names this as his favorite film he has made to date. The jokes are still funny as hell and it crosses that line that you didn't think it would go, but I find the story amazing. It is because of this that I now enjoy Clerks II more that the first one. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>Movie Review #55: Click</b><br />
<br />
<i><b> </b>Shut up, James Earl Jones! </i><br />
<br />
Off the top of my head, this was the last Adam Sandler movie that I enjoyed. Hell, most of them I am have skipped just because of how terrible they looked. Even this film has some eye rolling moments, but if you look past some of the cringe-worthy comedy, it has a story with a good lesson. I don't really laugh out loud at any of the parts as I did when I first saw the film, but I am still touched by the point the film is trying to make. I wish funny Adam Sandler would come back to Earth. <br />
<i> </i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i> </i><br />
<i> </i><br />
<br />
<br />
I think I have about 6 or 7 more movies to review in the Cs and then I am finally done (and hopefully caught up)! <i> </i>
MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-9376125179410512282013-01-10T16:31:00.000-08:002013-01-10T16:50:23.689-08:00"C" What I Have Been WatchingGeez that title is terrible...<br />
<br />
Since there are so many reviews, I will try to keep it short.<br />
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<b>Movie Review #45: Cabin in the Woods</b><br />
<br />
<i>Cleanse them. Cleanse the world of their ignorance and sin. Bathe them in the crimson of<b>... </b>am I on speakerphone? </i><br />
<br />
When I first went to see this at the movies last year, I didn't know what to expect other than the fact it was getting good buzz and heard it was not what you would expect. I walked out of the theater having just watched one of the most fun movies I had ever seen. The movie is truly unique, especially for a horror genre that seems to recycle the same storyline over and over. After multiple viewings, it has become one of my all time favorites. I really don't get sick of watching it because it is just so much fun. Good horror elements, great comedy, and a storyline that I just did not expect. It starts off looking so cliche and by the end, you can't believe the originality that you just saw. Absolutely love it!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">9.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>Movie Review #46 - Cable Guy</b><br />
<br />
<i>Come back here, so that I may brain thee!</i><br />
<br />
I don't know why this movie gets such a bad rap. I think it may be my second favorite Jim Carey movie. I think I like it because it is somewhat dark and creepy. It's not just a comedy film with Carey doing his goofy schtick. It's actually kind of sad and although Carey does some goofy things in the film, he is more of a disturbed individual. This could have very well been turned into a top shelf thriller. But they did make it into a comedy and there are some absolutely hilarious parts. But it is that dark undertones that carry the film and I love every second of it. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8 out of 10 cheeseburgers<i></i></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></td></tr>
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<i> </i><br />
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<b>Movie Review #47 <i>- </i>Captain America</b><br />
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<i><b> </b>I knocked out Adolf Hitler over 200 times.</i><br />
<br />
I loved Captain America. Even if it didn't have the background of being a Marvel comic, I would have loved it as it such a cool feel good story. The story of Steve Rogers and his determination to serve his country one way or another is so inspiring, something you wouldn't expect to come from a comic book. Sure, it has some comic-y type characters, but at the root of the film is a story about overcoming odds. And they did an awesome job. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
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<b>Movie Review #48 - Changing Lanes</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<i>Money. You... you think I want money? What I want is my morning back. I
need you to give my time back to me. Can you give me back my time? Can
you give my time back to me?</i><br />
<br />
<i> </i>I like this movie because it shows how seemingly good people can be driven to bad things because of circumstances that are almost out of control. I like movies that make you think, "What would I do in that situation?" Samuel L. Jackson and Ben Affleck are generally good people in the film, but they are driven to be so mean to each other, even if they know deep down it is wrong. I like the solemn tone the film has because there really is nothing nice about what is going on in the film. It's not depressing, but it sure makes you think.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
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<b>Movie Review #49 - Chasing Amy</b><br />
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<i>What did I tell you? She just needs the right guy. </i><br />
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After the hilarity that was Clerks and Mallrats, I was not expecting Kevin Smith's third film to be what it ended up being. Sure, it is hilarious, but at the heart of the movie is a love story so it was kind of funny that me and three of my guy friends went out to see this in the theater when it came out. But as it turns out, it was Smith's best written film to date. It had the hilarious aspects of his first two films while also including a deep story that is both believable and touching. It doesn't quite end up how one would expect, but I think I commend it even more for not giving it that typical romantic comedy ending. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-46g_AOgETCs/UOeHLTUuPuI/AAAAAAAADSM/docAjySBp2w/s1600/burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-46g_AOgETCs/UOeHLTUuPuI/AAAAAAAADSM/docAjySBp2w/s1600/burger.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
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<b>Movie Review #50 - Chicago</b><i></i><br />
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<i>Pop.
Six.<b> </b>Squish. Unh-uh. Cicero. Lipschitz.</i><br />
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I didn't want to see Chicago when it was out in theaters but had to because of it being nominated for Best Picture. It was a musical. I hate musicals. I think by the ten minute mark of the film, I was hooked. Chicago is so fun because not only is it just a good story, but the songs, the aspect I dread, are even more fun than the spoken dialogue. That is what makes this film so enjoyable to me. Hell, I even own the soundtrack and have it on my iPod. I think that says something. Because of this movie, I don't quite go into a musical with the same negative attitude, but I have yet to find a musical I have enjoyed anywhere as much as this film. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-46g_AOgETCs/UOeHLTUuPuI/AAAAAAAADSM/docAjySBp2w/s1600/burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-46g_AOgETCs/UOeHLTUuPuI/AAAAAAAADSM/docAjySBp2w/s1600/burger.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
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<i> </i>MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-45663371128657254082013-01-04T17:32:00.001-08:002013-01-04T17:32:50.092-08:00Back and Better Than Ever? Ok, I'm back to the blog. I won't promise anything, but I fully intend to post more than the 20 times I did in 2012. That is just terrible. Since I last blogged at the beginning of November, I have been so incredibly busy. It's not an excuse, just the truth. So what has happened since then?<br />
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Well, we had an amazing 10th anniversary vacation. I am truly blessed with a wonderful wife. I had my photography exhibit and that went amazingly well. I feel so honored to not only be asked to have my works on display, but that people actually bought some stuff. My pictures are good enough for people to want to pay for them and display them in their home! It feels so good and yet, I can't believe it! The Christmas season was equally amazing with a Disneyland trip and the normal Christmas awesomeness. And of course New Years was wonderful as always with our always fun group of friends. <br />
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Jess and I were talking about how compared to the last couple of years, 2012 was a pretty damn good year. 2010 and 2011 were filled with so much heartache that the great times of 2012 were even more appreciated and needed than would could ever imagine. Here is to hoping that 2013 is just as wonderful if not even more wonderful than 2012. I mean, we can always hope, right? <br />
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I certainly have not given up on my goal to watch all my movies in alphabetical order. In November I moved on to the letter C and because I was so busy work-wise, got to watch a bunch of them. But because I was so busy, I didn't have a chance to write about them. Then December hit and because I was so behind on actually writing the reviews, I didn't keep watching films because I didn't want to get even further behind on reviews. Thus, my movie viewing was kind of put on hold until I could write my reviews. So, next blog post will be short reviews of what I have watched since the last review and I will TRY to stay on top of it. Probably. Maybe. MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-33882016054237766992012-11-01T02:00:00.000-07:002012-11-01T07:41:47.831-07:00Defining Our Marriage, Part 2Make sure you have read the first part of this entry to know what it is I am talking about. I'll continue with talking about the events or characteristics that have defined our first ten years of marriage.<br />
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<b>Friends and Family:</b> We have been blessed with amazing friends and family. Some people don't have family that they are really close to or perhaps, that they don't get to see that often. Other people may not have a big set of friends with whom they can let loose, have fun, and enjoy wonderful times together. We are lucky enough to have both and we fully take advantage of that. I think we have done a really good job at balancing family time with friend time. Sure, we have had to miss various things because of choosing one over the other, but in the end, it has been a really good balance over these ten years and we have had so many wonderful memories with both groups.<br />
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<b>Loss: </b> At the beginning of our marriage, it was unthinkable that by the end of our first decade of marriage, Jess would have lost both of her mothers already. Hell, even five years into our marriage, it didn't seem like something even remotely on the radar. But things took a drastic turn and within a year and a half period, Jessica lost both of her moms. The deaths, while significant and devastating because we had two absolutely strong, beautiful, courageous women taken from us, are only part of the story. If anything, the things I will remember will be everything leading up to the actual passings: the long nights, the close calls, the teary goodbyes, the emotions, and so much more. Through it all, Jess remained as strong as ever. She could have shut down, she could have let the wave of emotions take over, but she didn't and through these difficult times, she showed me how strong she could truly be.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is my memory of Jess during these times: keeping a vigil. </td></tr>
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<b>Pregnancy:</b> I wish I could say that the deaths were the only major traumatic events in our first decade of marriage. Those of you who know us know that not to be true. In fact we had to deal with this almost the entire duration of our marriage. Our struggles with infertility have been something weighing on us for years. It has brought us many days and nights of tears, heartache, worries, and stress. It brought us to the highest of highs when we finally got pregnant, got an ultrasound, and saw our baby's heartbeat, only to bring us to the lowest of all lows when there wasn't a heartbeat on the next ultrasound. After years of trying, early miscarriages, and scientific involvement, we thought we had achieved our goal, but it just wasn't meant to be. I am not sure I have ever cried harder. We just didn't understand how something we wanted so bad, how something that so many other people get to have, just wasn't happening for us, and this has weighed on us for so long now. But you know what, we're surviving. We're kind of getting adjusted to the fact that it probably isn't going to happen for us and at this point, we are starting to be ok with it. We are blessed in so many other ways and even though there will always be some small part of our heart that will feel empty, we will move on and be happy with everything else we have been blessed with in our lives.<br />
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<b>The Nephew: </b>You know, even though we have a small hole in our hearts from not being able to have a child of our own, I have to say that most of that hole has been filled with the birth of our nephew in June of 2011. It was hard at the very beginning knowing that my sister would be having a baby before we did, but we quickly got over it, almost as quickly got excited for it, and eagerly anticipated his birth. And he's done more for us than we could have ever possibly imagined. We love that boy. Not only is he our nephew, but we are blessed to be his godparents and I'll tell ya, we couldn't have hand picked a better child to call our godchild. When we are with him, we really don't think about what we don't have any more. We don't feel any jealousy. We just feel complete and total love for him and if we are never blessed with a child, he is definitely the next best thing for us. Heck, when he is acting up, we sometimes feel blessed that we DON'T have any kids. :-) But in all seriousness, we love him so much and he is exactly what we need.<br />
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<b>Love and Laughter: </b>If there is one thing that really defines our first decade of marriage, I would have to say it is the love and laughter we still share. Nothing has changed since the day we were married. There was no 7 year itch. In fact, things just get better and better. We still leave each other love notes. We still say I love you at night, kiss goodbye whenever we go somewhere, and hold hands whenever we can. Someone once asked Jess, "Wow, you guys still hold hands?" Of course! Why shouldn't we? I mean, we don't try to put on a show and be overly lovely to make others jealous or anything, but that is just how we are with each other. Alone in our own home, we are still the same way. We still cuddle almost every night before bed, cuddle on the sofa or lay down so we can get our feet or head rubbed, and give each other loving looks from across the living room. And we try to make the other one laugh as much as possible. We're married, but we are best friends in every definition of the word. We actually enjoy each other's company. We take pride in the compliments we get sometimes about how we are a great couple. But we don't do anything special to try to get people to think this; it's just who we are and what you see; the affection, the laughter, the closeness, the friendship - it's really how we are whether people are watching or not. It has been a wonderful decade and I can't imagine being happier with any other person. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love you, Jess. Here is to many more decades to come. </td></tr>
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MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-53136961692009618982012-10-30T17:57:00.000-07:002012-10-30T17:57:32.436-07:00A Disturbance in the Force? Today's purchase of Lucasfilm by Disney seemingly came out of nowhere, at least to me and apparently everyone I know. Like with anything, opinions seem to be all over the place. As so many thoughts were going through my head when this came out and more and more thoughts seem to pop up by the second, I thought I would get them all down in a blog post. If anything, I can look back on this in 2015, the year the next film is set to release, and see how much of this comes true. <br />
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The first opinion I have read a lot is that this will be a disaster as Disney will ruin the franchise, make it too much for kids, etc. People who have those thoughts have apparently not seen episodes I, II, and III. Was there ever a film series that took such a drastic change in tone as this series did going from the original trilogy to the new trilogy? The new series is totally for kids. Lucas has even come out and said as much. It's childish with childish jokes. Yes, C3PO and R2D2 were comic relief in the original trilogy, but not anywhere to the childish extent that the new trilogy has with terribly silly CGI characters. Not even the Ewoks were that bad. And why do people automatically think that because Disney is in charge, it will be childish. I don't know about you, but the general consensus is that the Avengers film was pretty damn good under the Disney brand. And was it childish? No. Someone actually posted that because it is Disney owned, we will probably see people like Justin Bieber and other kid friendly people star in the movie. C'mon, let's not be asinine here! Remember that little film called Pulp Fiction released by Miramax? Not very kid friendly, right? Who owned Miramax when the movie came out? Right, it was Disney. <br />
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Ok, so if Lucas is gone and can't make any more movies like the newest trilogy, then we can expect nothing but good things from Disney, right? Well, again, not so fast. Lucas is gone, but Kathleen Kennedy will be in charge of Lucasfilm now for Disney. Who is she? On the outside, she has been a very successful producer for some of the best (or funnest) films in recent times - E.T., the Indiana Jones films, Goonies, the Jurassic Park trilogy, Back to the Future trilogy, Schindler's List, Sixth Sense, and countless other hits. Not a bad track record, right? She's pretty successful and knows about being involved in great films. But just this Summer, she left her own production company to join Lucasfilm and become his second in command. Fast forward a few months and Lucas sells his company with the stipulation that Kennedy be the new head of Lucasfilm. It's just too convenient. I just have to believe that this has been in negotiations for a while and that she was brought on with the big picture in mind. So with her in charge, I just wonder how much influence Lucas will have in the decisions she will be making. Are we really free of the questionable decisions he has been making in recent years? I am not so sure. Sure, she could be completely independent of him, but I am skeptical just because of the timing of all of this. <br />
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Ok, so regardless of how we feel, a new trilogy IS coming. They have already announced that Episode VII will come out in 2015 (which Lucas has already said he has mapped out so being totally free of him appears to be out of the question). So the question has to be asked - what SHOULD the new trilogy be about? Should this be set way in the future after Return of the Jedi or should it be close enough to the ending of Jedi so that we can bring back Luke, Leia, and Han? Obviously, most people want to see these iconic characters back, and really, how awesome would that be to see these people we never though we see again? Yeah, BUT, the counterpoint is, what if they do come back and they absolutely ruin the characters? It could be a boost the series needs or it could leave a bad taste in our collective mouths. I would love to have the lasting memory of the characters be positive rather than bring them back for something embarrassing. Just know, Ford's wish was always for Han Solo to be killed off so if his character does return, prepare to watch one of the best characters off all time to lose his life. Not something I am sure I want to see. Or hey, maybe they will surprise us all and do it right? But just to be safe, perhaps way in the future is the way to go. Who knows? I'd be willing to bet money that we will see two certain droids in the film, for sure. <br />
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In the end, this is all happening and the next couple of years as more news comes out will be quite exciting. The recent trilogy, despite my thoughts on it in this post weren't the worst movies in the world. But then again, they weren't the best either. I enjoyed parts of them, but if they had never been made, if the only part of Star Wars lore that I had in my memory was the original trilogy, I wouldn't be at a loss. These new movies have a chance to further ruin the original trilogy's legacy or it has a chance to redeem the franchise. George Lucas created something that is very important to me and then proceeded to tarnish it because of questionable decisions. With him "somewhat" gone, what will happen next? MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-66810439549967720712012-10-29T05:00:00.000-07:002012-10-29T05:00:22.808-07:00Defining Our Marriage, Part 1On November 2nd, Jess and I will celebrate ten wonderful years of marriage. On some days, it seems like it was just yesterday while on other days, it seems like we have been married forever. I know it is cliche to say this, but these past ten years have been the best years of my life, and our marriage seems to get better and better every single day. Yes, our marriage has had its ups and downs, but they aren't the normal ups and downs that many couples often make reference to. Our downs weren't spats, disagreements, etc, but rather they were things we experienced together and got through the only way we know how - together. But whether they were good things or bad things, there was so much in the past ten years that helped define our marriage and make it as strong as it is now. In honor of our ten years, I came up with a list of the ten things that really define us as a couple and brought us to the point we are at now.<br />
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<b>- Our Furry Kids</b>: As you all know, Jess and I are apparently unable to have children (of course this will be covered later), and so we have filled that hole in our home with furry children. I was lucky enough to marry someone who loved dogs as much as I did and we have been blessed with wonderful dogs throughout our marriage. We got Leia a month after we got married and she has been our wonderful, intelligent, spoiled girl ever since. A few years later we added Orko to our little family and he was such a joy to have. When we had to put Orko down, it was an absolutely devastating moment in our lives, but the addition of little Winston has filled that gap that we experienced after Orko left us. We're dog people. The dogs are part of our family. Anyone who knows us knows how important they have been in our lives.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gjBj1FrDulY/UHtbQZXiYSI/AAAAAAAADM8/Ju5-J41tUKo/s1600/orko.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gjBj1FrDulY/UHtbQZXiYSI/AAAAAAAADM8/Ju5-J41tUKo/s320/orko.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miss you, buddy. </td></tr>
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<b>The House:</b> What a source of both happiness and stress our house has given us over our 10 years together! We bought our house around 2 years into our marriage and it was such a big step for us in feeling like actual adults! We really have turned this house into our home. We have, year by year, made it into what makes us happy and comfortable: paved backyard, hardwood floors, spa, paint, etc. The house is totally us. But as I mentioned above, it was also been a source of stress for many years. A few years back, with our initial 5 year loan about to end, we attempted to refinance. Not having ever been late on one single payment, we got very little help from our mortgage company which led us to seek a 3rd party for help which ended up going out of business and taking our $4,000 with them. For the last couple of years we have lived under one year fixed mortgages, afraid that at any time, the rate would get so high we would be unable to keep the house we worked so hard to make into our own. Then finally this year, under a new government program, we were given the 30 year mortgage we had been trying to get for so long. At last, we can rest. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our house in the reflection</td></tr>
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<b>Vacations:</b> Jess and I have been BLESSED to have been able to take so many vacations during our ten years of marriage. Off the top of my head, since we have been married we have been to New York, Oregon, Las Vegas, San Diego, Mexico, Washington DC, Reno, and multiple trips to Tahoe, the Central Coast, and of course, Disneyland. We have such an amazing time on trips and we really attribute it to the fact that we enjoy each other's company so damn much. We have so much fun together and are amazed how we never get sick of each other on our trips where we spend so much time together. And we have plenty of upcoming trips planned or in the works! We are very lucky.<br />
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<b>Job Issues:</b> Jess and I both went to college, we both got degrees, we both started careers, but it hasn't always been as smooth as we would have hoped. I was only a couple of months into my teaching career when we got married. I wanted so bad to be a teacher growing up, and I did accomplish that dream. But the teaching profession wasn't what I had envisioned for so many reasons. After a a couple of years, I was already feeling it, but by the third year, I could tell I was done. And it was hard to come to this decision. I had gone to college for this, spent so much time preparing myself to get to this point in my life and I was going to bail? It wasn't an easy decision, but Jess got me through it, helped me to come to the conclusion I needed, and basically supported me in whatever I ended up deciding to do. I wouldn't have been able to get through that decision without her. Then I tried my hand at real estate which was a very rough year in my life. Never have I gone through so much sadness, but again, Jess got me through it. After a year of trying my hand at that, I entered the field where I am now and have been for over 6 years, but if it wasn't for Jess supporting me and letting me know that she was behind whatever I decided, I might have gone crazy. Jess also had her ups and downs. From the hospital, to the clinic, to another clinic, and back to the hospital, she has had to deal with many work issues that often times brought her to tears, anger, and everything in between. But much like she supported me, I tried to have her back in the best way possible and we seem to have both come out for the best.<br />
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<b>The Knee: </b>I really can't talk about work without following up with Jessica's knee issues; something that has definitely impacted our lives during our marriage. The early years of our marriage were fairly free of knee problems, but in the second half of our marriage, it definitely became a source of constant turmoil. Mainly due to unlucky genetics, Jess has a degenerative knee disorder that become more and more painful for her. Many times, and in fact, most days before surgery, she would come home from work crying from the extreme pain she was having. It affected work, it affected vacations (wheelchair time!), and it affected simple daily life. One surgery to relieve the pain was cancelled and put off for a few months. Then she finally had the surgery in June of 2011 and she nearly died in the hospital because of a medication problem. The surgery led to her being home with me for over 6 months of recovery time. She's been back at work nearly a year now and while she is still nowhere near pain free, she does have some relief. It is still bothersome and the pain still can get in the way from time to time, but we are better off than where we started. But the knee has definitely been the source of many scary and sorrowful times in the last few years.<br />
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Come back in a couple of days for part 2...<br />
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<br />MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-23690347299783900382012-10-27T10:18:00.001-07:002012-10-27T10:18:21.721-07:00"B" Gone Let's finish off the Bs!<br />
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<b>Movie Review #38 - Breakdown</b><br />
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<i>You better pray she's still alive. </i><br />
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I love Breakdown because it's 90 minutes of nonstop action. Well, it isn't an action movie per say, but a great thriller that never has any lulls from start to finish. I think part of what makes the movie so good is that it is so believable. What happens in the movie really could happen to anyone so we can all relate to what happens in the film. We can all question what we would do in Kurt Russell's situation.<br />
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And speaking of Kurt Russell, man, he is just so good in everything he does, isn't he? Seriously, he's awesome, and I wish he was doing a lot more movies nowadays. I can still see him as a leading man and certainly, with the revival of 80s action stars, could still be a great action star. He is so believable as the man desperate to find his kidnapped wife. Breakdown is cool because it is one of the movies that you find on TV and even though you have seen it a million times, you sit down and watch it. High entertainment with little need for concentration is a perfect formula for a movie.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_H7UabJXkQs/UIslQ4XPkEI/AAAAAAAADRE/fScWkp4QlKE/s1600/burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_H7UabJXkQs/UIslQ4XPkEI/AAAAAAAADRE/fScWkp4QlKE/s1600/burger.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<b>Movie Review #39 - Breakin'</b><br />
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<i>OZONE! STREET DANCER! </i><br />
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Ah, Breakin' maybe the worst movie that I can officially call one of my favorites. Well, that title may actually go to the sequel. The story isn't TOO bad, in fact, I think it is a pretty inspirational story once you get down to the meat and bones of it, but it is full of so much cheese and so much bad acting that it would be hard to classify it as anything other than a B movie.<br />
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But you know what, I still love it. I grew up with and and saw it so many times. I love the soundtrack even though it isn't something I normally listen to. I love the amazing dancing they do in the film. I think it is fairly humorous and the characters, while mostly one dimensional, are pretty likable. And going back to the story, when everything works out for them in the end, I get a giant smile on my face. I get teased for liking the film, but I have no problem saying how much I like this film (even if it isn't very good).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_H7UabJXkQs/UIslQ4XPkEI/AAAAAAAADRE/fScWkp4QlKE/s1600/burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_H7UabJXkQs/UIslQ4XPkEI/AAAAAAAADRE/fScWkp4QlKE/s1600/burger.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">5 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
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<b>Movie Review #40 - Breakin' 2: Electric Boogaloo</b><br />
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<i>We made it, we made it! Thank you! Thank you!</i><b> </b><br />
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Ok, maybe this is the worst of my favorite films. I at least have to hand it to the writers of the film. A lot of terrible sequels fall in to the trap of simply rehashing the plot from the first film in a different manner. This film, while generic, is at least different from the first film. But it does get cheesier. The hospital dance scene may be the worst scene in the history of the film if it wasn't for the dancing scene at McDonald's in<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NdvO0tmNjGo"><i> Mac n Me.</i> </a><br />
And the acting seems to have gotten worse. You would think that acting would improve, but that is not the case. The director also falls into the trap of, "Well, the story is pretty weak, why don't we just keep putting in song and dance numbers?" But again, it entertains the hell out of me! I love these three main characters with Kelly (Lucinda Dickey) at the top because she has the best acting skills of the group and, she's way hot. I know I didn't pay attention to that as a kid, but now when I see the film, I have a total crush on her. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GhqYBaFBaF0/UIwE0mhCpAI/AAAAAAAADRc/G7mKQh9N2rU/s1600/EB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GhqYBaFBaF0/UIwE0mhCpAI/AAAAAAAADRc/G7mKQh9N2rU/s1600/EB.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How is this the only pic of her that came up from the movie on Google?</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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While not a good movie, it still holds a special place in my heart. It is perfect 80s cheese. Everyone has certain movies that defy reason as to why they like them. Breakin' and its sequel are mine. They are memorable and not just for the scene below from Electric Boogaloo.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ffGBdshHVaA/UIwFw9EoESI/AAAAAAAADRk/MqsSUhp94ZU/s1600/breakin-2-electric-boogaloo-armpits-1984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="234" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ffGBdshHVaA/UIwFw9EoESI/AAAAAAAADRk/MqsSUhp94ZU/s320/breakin-2-electric-boogaloo-armpits-1984.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm sorry. </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zl_ZUO3yuJA/UIwF4aCbUdI/AAAAAAAADRs/emDETKx1oaQ/s1600/burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zl_ZUO3yuJA/UIwF4aCbUdI/AAAAAAAADRs/emDETKx1oaQ/s1600/burger.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">5 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
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<b>Movie Review #41 - Brokeback Mountain</b><br />
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<i>I wish I knew how to quit you. </i><br />
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Probably the greatest love story I have seen on film and it is between two guys. It shouldn't matter, but there are many people who won't see this movie or take it seriously just because of that fact. I say that their closed mind is making them miss out. This is an absolutely beautiful movie that was totally robbed of the Best Picture win when it came out. The fact that it led to so many jokes is understandable considering the world we live in, but for those with an open mind, it is a perfect movie.<br />
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While the story is very well written and visually beautiful, the main kudos have to go the acting performances on screen. This is probably the first time I have seen the movie since Ledger's death and between this and his Joker role, it is devastating to know that we lost such an amazing talent. He would have been one of the best actors over the next 40+ years with talent like that. Gyllenhaal and the rest of the cast are also amazing, but it is Ledger who carries this story. And a what a perfect story it is.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zl_ZUO3yuJA/UIwF4aCbUdI/AAAAAAAADRs/emDETKx1oaQ/s1600/burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zl_ZUO3yuJA/UIwF4aCbUdI/AAAAAAAADRs/emDETKx1oaQ/s1600/burger.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">9.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
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<b>Movie Review #42 - Bruce Almighty</b><br />
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<i>God, why do you hate me? </i><b> </b><br />
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I have NEVER laughed harder in a theater than I did with this scene. <b></b><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/NSWGRfktwmQ" width="560"></iframe>
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<br />Yes, it is goofy and childish, but man, this scene had me laughing obnoxiously to the point that people turned around and looked at me like I had a second head. If that was the only funny scene in the film, it could be considered a disappointment, but I crack up from start to finish. Jim Carrey is again at the top of his game and besides the comedy in the film, it also has a lot of heart with a good lesson. Heck, I would even go so far as to almost call this movie religious preaching because of the lessons learned in the film. Too bad some church goers would never see it because Carrey is in it. Very funny without ever getting too far into the silly department, this is one my favorite Carrey movies and overall comedies. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zl_ZUO3yuJA/UIwF4aCbUdI/AAAAAAAADRs/emDETKx1oaQ/s1600/burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zl_ZUO3yuJA/UIwF4aCbUdI/AAAAAAAADRs/emDETKx1oaQ/s1600/burger.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7.5 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
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<b>Movie Review #43 - A Bug's Life</b> <br />
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<i>It's the same year after year, they come, they eat, they leave; that's our lot in life. It's not a lot, but it's our life.</i><br />
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For the most part, Pixar makes outstanding movies. There have been a couple of missteps, but overall, they can do no wrong. This movie kind of falls in between their great movies and their average movies. While nothing special (it doesn't have that touching/life lesson aspect that the best Pixar films have), it is cute. The characters are all fun and it has some great voice over work. But in the end, that is all it is - cute. It doesn't stick with me after or make me want to watch it again in the immediate future. I actually think the best part of the film is the credits where they made some fake bloopers. When the credits are the most memorable part of the film, the part you don't want to end, I think that says a little something about the film. Don't get me wrong, this is NOT a bad film, but it is not quite up to Pixar's high quality standards. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zl_ZUO3yuJA/UIwF4aCbUdI/AAAAAAAADRs/emDETKx1oaQ/s1600/burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zl_ZUO3yuJA/UIwF4aCbUdI/AAAAAAAADRs/emDETKx1oaQ/s1600/burger.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
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<b>Movie Review #44 - Butterfly Effect</b><br />
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<i>You can't play God, son. </i><br />
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I can't believe that a movie starring Ashton Kutcher stuck with me the way this one did. I can't believe that Ashton Kutcher did a convincing job as an actor. But both of those things did happen in this movie and it led to a pretty memorable movie that left me thinking, "What if?" to a lot of decisions in my life. <br />
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This movie does a really good job of making you see how little decisions in life can lead to completely different outcomes in your life. Of course, they do it to the extreme in a pretty creepy manner, but it gets the point across. And going back to Kutcher, I actually thought he was outstanding in this film. This isn't something he should be winning an acting award or anything, but for his standards, he did a really great job. You really feel for him as he tries to go back and right all his wrongs. <br />
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That leads to me to the final scene in the film. We saw this film in the theaters and I love how the ending, while not a happy ending, does give some positive closure to the story. On the DVD we own, it does have the Director's Cut ending which is one of the most asinine endings I have ever seen in a film. How the director though this was a better ending is beyond me because of how absurd it is, but I am sure happy that with the theatrical release, they chose to not go in that direction. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zl_ZUO3yuJA/UIwF4aCbUdI/AAAAAAAADRs/emDETKx1oaQ/s1600/burger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zl_ZUO3yuJA/UIwF4aCbUdI/AAAAAAAADRs/emDETKx1oaQ/s1600/burger.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7 out of 10 cheeseburgers</td></tr>
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<br />MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-3938669868510980992012-10-05T18:05:00.001-07:002012-10-05T18:05:12.805-07:00Catch Up ModeI've gotten so far behind in writing, I'm going to make these reviews short. I mean, really, who of you 4 or 5 readers wants to sit and read 9 long movie reviews right now? I'll even skip the burger pics so as not to make it look too long. I promise to maybe never get this far behind again <br />
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<b>Movie Review #29: The Avengers </b><br />
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<i>The Avengers. It's what we call ourselves, sort of like a team. "Earth's Mightiest Heroes" type thing. </i>
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Per the rules, if I buy a movie that falls in a part of the alphabet that I have already reviewed, I have to watch that movie right away. It wasn't that hard of a task. Honestly, this is now my favorite movie ever, A title "From Dusk Til Dawn" has held for a very long time. What can I say? This movie was everything I wanted and expected when Marvel started making great movies beginning with Iron Man. It was a perfect superhero team film and I have absolutely nothing negative to say about it. And you know what, a TON of people agree with me based on how much it made. 10 out of 10 burgers<br />
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<b>Movie Review #30: The Black Cauldron</b><br />
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<i>Oh, I'm sorry. I've ignored you. You did come for the Black Cauldron,
didn't you? Good. Then climb in! It will only cost you your life. </i><br />
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This is the movie that changed it all for Disney. As far as the movie is concerned, this really isn't a good thing. This ended up being one the Disney's biggest financial failures for an animated movie of all time<i>. </i>At the time, it was the most expensive animated movie to make ever and it didn't make back that money. A major revamp followed and it led a few movies later to the revitalization of the company with Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast. I remember liking it as a kid, but seeing it now, I see why it was a failure. Generic heroes, generic villains, and a sub-par plot make this a pretty sub-par movie. It's not terrible, but it just doesn't seem to have that Disney magic. 4 out of 10 burgers<br />
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<b>Movie Review #31: Black Swan</b><br />
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<i>I felt it. Perfect. I was perfect. </i><br />
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That line, the last line of the film, sums up how I feel about this film. When I first saw this film, I was so moved by how powerful this film was, I couldn't stop thinking about it. Although multiple viewings make it lose the tiniest of <i> </i>luster simply because the shock of what happens no longer surprises, it is still a spectacular film. Natalie Portman is at her absolute best and totally earned every award she received. The story is equally amazing and by the time the last act hits, I found myself breathless. Such a great film. 9.5 out of 10 burgers. <br />
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<b>Movie Review #32: Blade</b><br />
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<i> You give Frost a message from me. You tell him it's open season on all suckheads. </i><br />
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This was a really good entry into a really good trilogy of movies. Although not the best of the bunch, it was a really fun movie that I can still rewatch without being bored. Wesley Snipes is as badass as ever and if not for New Jack City, it might be his best role. Stephen Dorff is also great as the villain and the film does a good job of making an action film out of a horror genre. The best was yet to follow. 6.5 out of 10 burgers<i> </i><br />
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<b>Movie Review #33: Blade II</b><br />
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<i>You obviously do not know who you are fucking with! </i><br />
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The high point of the Blade trilogy is simply a great film. It increases the action of the first film but behind that is really impressive story that is a lot deeper than the standard action movie. It also has a great bunch of supporting characters that really complete the film. I'm a big Ron Perlman fan and he is as awesome as always in this film. But again, it is the story and the emotion behind it that really makes this film so great and makes it easily my favorite of the series. 7.0 out of 10 burgers<br />
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<b>Movie Review #34: Blade Trinity</b><br />
<b> </b><i> </i><br />
<i>So, can we just go right ahead and sign you up for one of our secret Nightstalker decoder rings? </i><br />
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The third film in the trilogy, while good, is the weakest of the series. In fact, it is a pretty basic action film with little emotion and a lot of stuff blowing up. Even Snipes seems to be over these movies. So why isn't it a total bomb? Ryan Reynolds and Jessica Biel. Biel is amazingly hot in the film and totally believable as an action star. Reynolds is at the top of his game in the humor department and it as if he took his role from Waiting and decided to just start hunting vampires. It is these two that make the film more than just a generic action film. They make it watchable and even fun despite the weak script. 6 out of 10 burgers<br />
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<b>Movie Review #35: Blair Witch 2, Book of Shadows</b><br />
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<i>We brought something back with us... </i><br />
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I'm not really sure why we don't own the first Blair Witch as I really like the film. It creeped the hell out of me. The sequel was an obvious cash grab due to the success of the first film, but I liked the first one enough to run and see the second. Despite being generally hated by most people, I actually don't think it is that bad. Although centered in the Blair Witch universe of the first film, I really don't think it has enough in common to be considered a sequel, but I think it is adequately creepy on its own. Just don't call it a Blair Witch film. 5 out of 10 burgers<br />
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<b>Movie Review #36: The Bone Collector</b><br />
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<br /><i>I gave you so many clues and you failed</i><br />
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I absolutely LOVE serial killer movies like this. It's fun to see all the clues come in to place and see the detectives figure them out one by one in order to try to figure out who the killer is. This is another great one. Now, I wouldn't put it quite on the same level as my personal favorites, Seven and Copycat, it does a really good job of being creepy and thought provoking at the same time. Denzel is his usual cool self but his role as a handicapped person seems to lighten his demeanor a little more than usual. Jolie is great in her role too, before she achieved worldwide celeb status. A fun movie if you are in to that sort of thing. 7 out of 10. <br />
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<b>Movie Review #37: Boondock Saints</b> <i> </i><br />
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<br /><i>Never shall innocent blood be shed, yet the blood of the wicked shall flow like a river.</i><br />
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While I don't carry the same enthusiasm as any other people on this film, I think it is a good movie. While others consider it their favorite movie or one of the coolest films of all time, I see it as a pretty entertaining film that came out in a time where Pulp Fiction was still in the back of everyone's mind and the cool, foul mouthed, anti-heroes were still all the rage. Don't get me wrong, I do like it, but I don't put it in the same class as many others. It's fun though. It has a pretty good story. The characters, while WAY over the top, are definitely unique. It all adds up to a pretty good film. Maybe not a great film, but a serviceable one. <i> </i> 6.5 out of 10 burgers <br />
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<i><br /></i>MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-19204094197725263812012-09-11T16:08:00.001-07:002012-09-11T16:17:06.137-07:00Hits and Misses Some new reviews! I can't believe I am already 25 movies in and am not even halfway through the Bs! This may take forever! Luckily, I am enjoying it. Have another non-movie review post coming up as well so come back really soon!<br />
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<b>Movie Review #25: Big Daddy</b><br />
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<i>Having a kid is great... as long as his eyes are closed and he's not moving or speaking. </i><br />
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Wait a second, I used to like this movie? What the hell was I thinking? Ok, it really isn't that bad, but having not seen it for years, this movie is not as cute as I used to remember. Nor is it as funny as I used to remember. It really is just an average movie. I already reviewed one Sandler movie that ended up being not as good as I remember and now we have a second. Is this going to be a trend? Man, I hope not. Maybe it is a backlash against the crap that he has been putting out lately, who knows.<br />
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Like I said though, it isn't a bad movie. It's kind of cute, but I never did once laugh out loud. And man, Sandler is pretty terrible as an actor in this film. When he attempts to look sad and tear up, it's actually pretty painful. It looks like he is holding back a sneeze. And the kid is pretty damn annoying. I think the most memorable aspect of this movie is the fact that whenever I see a scuba diver, I still ask if his name is Scuba Steve. Besides that, it is a pretty forgettable film. 2 out of 5 cheeseburgers<br />
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<b>Movie Review #26: Big Trouble in Little China</b><br />
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<i>Everybody relax, I'm here. </i><br />
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Thankfully, this is one movie that has not lost any of its luster and still holds up as a classic. Despite all the amazing things this movie has, there is one big reason why this movie succeeds: Kurt Russell. Russell as Jack Burton is clearly at the top of his game. He's as cool as an Indiana Jones or Han Solo character to the point that it surprises me that this film never got any kind of sequel on his character alone. He really is one of the coolest characters in film because of his great lines and awesome charisma.<br />
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But as I mentioned, although he is the biggest reason why the movie succeeds, he is not the only one. Great villains, a fun story, and great cast of supporting characters also contribute to making this movie such a fun ride. It's almost like a really good comic book, afterall, the large majority of the characters are comical all on their own. Throw in magic powers, one liners, and a setting that seems other worldly, and you have a fun, but totally unique film. How they never capitalized on this great film and created a sequel, I will never know. However, it's probably a good thing that they never attempted to recreate this film's greatness by following it up with some rushed, subpar sequel. A good, stand alone film is a concept that should be followed more often. 4.5 out of 5 cheeseburgers<br />
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<b>Movie Review # 27: Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure</b><br />
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<i>Be excellent to each other</i><br />
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Not having seen this in years, I admit, I expected this movie to not be very good any more. Thankfully, I was wrong. This movie still is, well, excellent. Now, let's not jump the gun and call this a cinematic masterpiece, but for what it is, it's perfect.<br />
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As much as we make fun of Keanu Reeves for his acting, especially early in his career, he is more believable in this role than Adam Sandler was in the film I reviewed up above. He's perfect here as is Alex Winter. And the amount of one liners that came out of this film were popular for many years after the release. Hell, you could probably still yell, "Excellent!" in a group of people and most of them would know what you were talking about. As for the film, well, we often complain that films lack imagination nowadays and that all films are too alike, but you have to give it up to this film for having a very unique plot. And the people they got to play all of the historical characters are all so much fun and totally dive head first into their roles. The film does still have some 80s cheese to it that doesn't quite transfer over to the modern era, but in the end, this is a fun 80s film that still holds up very well today. 3 out of 5 cheeseburgers<br />
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<b>Movie Review #28: Bill and Ted's Bogus Journey </b><br />
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<i>How's it hangin', Death? </i><br />
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And this is why it is ok to just stop after one movie. A description of the movie can be summed up simply by the movie titles. While the first film was "excellent," the second film is definitely "bogus." While not the worst film, or even the worst sequel I have ever seen, it isn't a very good film. With the first film, they were able to capture a little bit of magic and put it on the screen. You do have to hand it to the writers, they didn't just try to do the same movie by going back in time and picking up more characters. They did try to be unique and go a new direction. But based on the fact the the new direction ended up not being that good, perhaps they should have tried to just recreate the first film.<br />
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The new storyline is just silly. The main villain is just comically bad. Bill and Ted have lost some of their dumb charm of the first film and become almost annoying. It has weird sequences with silly monsters. It just reeks of an unimaginative, rushed film put out quickly to capitalize on the success of the first film. The only redeeming quality of the film is William Sadler totally stealing the film as Death. The guy simply owns every scene he is in and I would have watched a film just following his exploits. But overall, man, this film just misses the mark. Of course, if they ever make that rumored third film, I know I'll go see it. 1.5 out of 5 cheeseburgers<br />
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<br />MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-28807518462500971702012-09-03T18:59:00.001-07:002012-09-03T18:59:14.070-07:00Bad Boys and Disney Magic<br />
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<b>Movie Review #21: Bad Boys</b><br />
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<i>Don't be alarmed, we're Negros. </i><br />
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An up and coming action star in Will Smith and a still funny Martin Lawrence made Bad Boys a great movie when it came out. Looking back on it now, it is still a top shelf buddy cop movie. Will Smith showed great signs of being the great action star he would later become (his acting hadn't quite reached the level it is now). And Martin Lawrence was really at the top of his game here, probably due to the fact that he wasn't resorting to dressing up in Grandma outfits in order to get cheap laughs. Plus, Michael Bay directed it. Say what you will about his films, but I love them. They keep me entertained even as ridiculous as they can get.<br />
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Story-wise, the plot is fairly simple, but it really stays fresh because of the banter between Smith and Lawrence. Simple discussions about a car and cup holders becomes a laugh riot because of the two of them. I would love to know how much of the dialogue was actually written by the writers of the screenplay and how much was ad-libbed. I don't want to discredit the job screen writers do, but so much of the dialogue seems so random, I feel like so much of it was thought up on the spot to hilarious results. And not only is it funny, as an action movie, it DOES have some great action scenes. I mean, that is what Bay is good at, right? Overall, this movie has lost none of its appeal and it is still as entertaining now as it was back then while not seeming dated at all. 4 out of 5 cheeseburgers<br />
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<b>Movie Review #22: Bad Boys 2</b><br />
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<i>We ride together, we die together. Bad boys for life. </i><br />
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I'm not sure what took so long, but after 8 years, it was cool that they released another Bad Boys film. And truthfully, they never missed a beat. Yeah, they took it to the next level in every way imaginable and it became semi ridiculous, but it was still entertaining as Hell, maybe even more so than the first film. <br />
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In between the first and second films, Will Smith had become one of the biggest stars in Hollywood and his presence in the film definitely reflects that. He just oozes so much more charisma in this film than the first one and he takes on more of a serious role than he did previously. Martin Lawrence, while comical in the first one, is more of Will Smith's foil in this film, being the comedic sidekick to Will Smith's serious cop. This is not to say that they don't have comedic moments together. There are plenty! But they definitely have more defined roles in this one than in the first one and it works just as well. Martin Lawrence is absolutely hilarious in this one, but he was just probably happy to do a movie where he didn't have to dress in a fat suit. <br />
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As for the action, it takes on a whole new level. In fact, many reviews criticized the film for being so gratuitous with the violence. While it may be over the top, it's just for the sake of fun and it is just what you would expect from a Michael Bay movie. Again, we are not trying to throw this into consideration for an Oscar, but for pure entertainment and action with a great dose of humor, this movie totally gets it done and I would be there opening day if they decided to do a third film. 4 out of 5 cheeseburgers<br />
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<b>Movie Review #23: Bambi</b><br />
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<i>It is Man. He is here again. There are many this time. We must go deep into the forest.</i><br />
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After being fairly disappointed with the last two Disney films I have reviewed, I didn't have much hope for Bambi, a movie I haven't seen since I was a kid. I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed the film. What is interesting is just how simple the film really is. The plot is so basic and bare-bones, but somehow manages to make such a memorable impact on those who watch it and appreciate it. <br />
<i> </i><br />
I also really like how the "villains" of the film, humans, aren't even seen. They aren't necessary. The threat of them are enough to make the point that film is trying to make and enough to try to put the scare into the loveable characters of the forest. And the characters are really adorable. They really did a good job with giving them such great personalities in such a short amount of time. It really is a special film that is full of Disney magic. 3.5 out of 5 cheeseburgers<br />
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<b>Movie Review #24: Beauty and the Beast</b><br />
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<i>He's no monster, Gaston, YOU are!</i><br />
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While Little Mermaid ushered in a new age for Disney movies (they had been struggling for a few years with underachieving films), it was Beauty and the Beast that took it to another level. Upon watching it again, I really do see why it got nominated for a Best Picture Oscar. Animated or not, there are so many amazing elements in this film: a wonderful story, great characters, and a fun soundtrack. Like Little Mermaid right before it, the song features so many memorable songs that have been sung over and over throughout the years. What is great about all the songs is how well they move the plot along. The songs aren't placed in there for the simple task of filling time. Each song is essential and make the movie what it is. <br />
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But besides the music, the characters themselves are perfect. Belle is a classic Disney princess, albeit one that can definitely handle her own. The Beast is perfect as the lovable grump, and Gaston is about as good as villains get in the Disney realm. And that doesn't even hit on all of the great and memorable supporting characters. Throw in a perfect, touching love story and you have the makings of a spectacular film that you forget is even an animated film near the end. 4.5 out of 5 cheeseburgers<br />
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MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-30084566423762465042012-08-23T18:57:00.002-07:002012-08-23T18:57:57.924-07:00Back to the ReviewsAnd we're on to the Bs! And what better way to go back to doing movie reviews than to review the Back to the Future trilogy?!?<br />
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<b>Movie Review #18 - Back the Future</b><br />
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<i>Wait a minute, Doc. Ah... Are you telling me that you built a time machine... out of a DeLorean?
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<b><a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000502/"></a></b><br />
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Everyone has seen this movie by now, right? Well, I actually know one friend who hasn't seen this, but she has a valid reason. But besides her, everyone has seen this multiple times, right? I mean, it's a classic and it still holds up so well. Whenever I think of Michael J. Fox, I think of Marty McFly. Whenever I think of Christopher Lloyd, I think of Dr. Emmett Brown. These are iconic roles in a classic movie and I can still watch this over and over. <br />
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What makes this film work so well? For one, Fox and Lloyd are absolutely perfect. But it is not just them who make this movie. The supporting cast is outstanding as well and totally complete the film. The story in itself is hilarious and just so much fun. I am sure it also has a ton of nostalgia for people born in the 50s, but I appreciate it no less by being born in '78. Plus, it has the Sci-Fi elements that give an added element to the plot. Overall, it just seems to have a little bit for everyone. 4.5 out of 5 cheeseburgers!<br />
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<b>Movie Review #19 - Back to the Future II</b><br />
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<i>You're not gonna believe this, we gotta go back to 1955. </i><br />
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When I was a kid, the time between Back the Future and its sequel seemed like decades. I liked the first movie so much and with the first movie ending on a partial cliffhanger, I eagerly awaited the release of the second film. Now that I think of it, the 4 years in between wasn't THAT long for a sequel to come out, but it seemed like the longest wait over. Was the wait worth it? Well, as a kid, it totally was. In fact, there was a time where the sequel was my favorite of the series. <br />
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So why did I enjoy this film so much? Well, as a kid, all of the futuristic stuff really appealed to me: the flying cars, hover boards, multiple TV shows on one screen, holograms, etc. This was awesome, imaginative stuff and I totally ate it all up. Add all that to the already well established awesome characters and this movie had great replay value. Now that I am older, I actually find the futuristic aspects of the film to be the weaker points and really feel like it doesn't reach its high point until they go back to 1955 in the final third of the film. The future parts, while still fun, are a little over the top and cheesy. They aren't bad by any means, but it lacks some of the magic of the first film. But once they go back to 1955, all the greatness of the first one instantly return. It's almost like revisiting an old friend for the first time in years and finding nothing has changed at all. As a kid, it was the weaker part of the film, but not that I have grown up, the roles have changed. These scenes turn a pretty good film to a really good film. 3.5 out of 5 cheeseburgers <i> </i><br />
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<b>Movie Review #20 - Back to the Future III</b><br />
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<i><b> </b>I wish I'd never invented that infernal time machine. It's caused nothing but disaster.</i><br />
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If the wait for the second film in the series was agonizing, the break between the second and third films, only months apart, was a welcome relief. Filmed back to back with the second film, the third film in the Back to the Future trilogy was a good way to end the series. Yes, the quality went down even further, but the film was anything but a disaster or a complete letdown. <br />
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As the first film went a few decades in the past and the second film went in to the future, the writers had to come up with another time frame for which to base the third film. The old west seemed like a pretty logical choice because of the nostalgia factor. And overall, it did pretty well at achieving this. But by the third film, things were starting to get a little goofy, both in story and in character. Yeah, it was Back to the Future film, but the charm of the first two films had pretty much warn off. Still, it does a good job of giving closure to the series and the characters. 3 out of 5 cheeseburgers<br />
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MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-14494110304236479722012-08-10T12:55:00.000-07:002012-08-10T12:55:00.792-07:00The Break, ExplainedI haven't given up on my goal of watching every movie in my collection in alphabetical order. In fact, I am on to the Bs and have three movies to put a review up for in a few days. But as I haven't blogged in a couple of weeks, why I haven't I been watching more movies? Well...<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/pokermanuel/7744182298/" title="July 27th 2012 - Day 209 by pokermanuel, on Flickr"><img alt="July 27th 2012 - Day 209" height="213" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8017/7744182298_f238d0e260.jpg" width="320" /> </a><br />
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That kind of explains it all, right? Truth be told, I am a HUGE Olympics fan and watch as much of it as I possibly can. Of course, soccer is more of a priority for me than ever now and I have watched a TON of soccer, I am still trying to watch as many sports as I possibly can. And I am enjoying every single minute of it. But I'll be back to watching movies sometime next week, I'm sure. <br />
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So what else have I been up to the last couple of weeks? Well, again, a picture should explain it:<br />
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Yeah, I broke my ankle. Years of playing soccer on a terribly weak and unsteady ankle finally caught up to me while playing soccer a couple of weeks ago. I never imagined I would do something like this, but I guess I was just testing fate by continuing to play on it. I initially thought it was just a bad sprain as I practically sprain my ankle every time I play outdoor soccer. So, like any dumb individual, I continued to play on it for another hour. It actually started to feel slighter better by the end of the hour, but maybe that was me going into shock. A couple of days later, it was was actually feeling worse so I decided to get it checked out. Sure enough, it was broken. It was pretty devastating, actually. The first thing I thought of was that Jess and I were two thirds of the way through P90x and I would have to abandon that goal of completing the workout routine. To come so far in a program that many people quit and have to quit myself was just not acceptable. Then I also started thinking of my weight loss and how hard it would be while living a sedentary lifestyle for a month, at the minimum.<br />
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The first few hours were actually pretty depressing, but I figured I could sit and be depressed over it while accomplishing nothing or I could continue to exercise as best as I could and just know that I was doing all that I possibly could. A couple of weeks later, I am actually doing pretty well. I am still getting a decent sweat while I exercise while doing many exercises from a chair. The pain in my ankle is still there so hopefully that will going away soon. My only hope now is that when I see the doc in a little over two weeks, we can take this cast off. I do NOT want to have this thing on any more. The next step is a walking boot, but that is nothing like a cast. Fingers crossed!<br />
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And to end on a happy note, here are a couple of pics I have taken lately. Enjoy...<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/pokermanuel/7744279102/" title="July 20th, 2012 - Day 202 by pokermanuel, on Flickr"><img alt="July 20th, 2012 - Day 202" height="327" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8296/7744279102_76fbe32d71.jpg" width="500" /></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/pokermanuel/7744286772/" title="July 19th, 2012 - Day 201 by pokermanuel, on Flickr"><img alt="July 19th, 2012 - Day 201" height="333" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7135/7744286772_90e41eee23.jpg" width="500" /></a>MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9544790.post-9286306028220117542012-07-19T18:29:00.003-07:002012-07-19T18:51:00.490-07:00The End of the AsThree more movie reviews and we complete the first letter of the alphabet! Thank you so much to those of you keeping up! I especially love when I hear your thoughts on the movies or whether you have seen them or not! Love it!<br />
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<b>Movie Review #15: The Aristocats</b><br />
I'll be honest, even though I own this movie and it is considered a Disney classic, I think this was the first time I had seen this movie. Some parts seemed vaguely familiar, but I am not sure if it is because I have seen it MANY years ago or have just seen clips. Overall, it was kind of cute. Talking animals are usually pretty fun. A couple things struck me though:<br />
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First, I expected this movie to be more about the cat, Marie. Why? Well, as most of you know, I collect Vinylmations and there has been an abundance of figures made of that particular character. Not remembering anything about the movie, I expected going in that the movie would be about her based on how popular she seems to be. This wasn't the case though and I would hardly even call her the main character, certainly not one worthy of having so many figures made of her. <br />
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Secondly, although the movie was decent, there is really only ONE thing I am taking from this movie. Ladies and Gentleman, Disney's racist cat:
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Siamese Cat? Of course it has to have some stereotypical Asian accent! I actually had to rewind it to make sure that I saw it right. This could have been the best movie ever, and THIS is what would have stuck! Racial issues aside, this was just a decent movie - Two out of Five Cheeseburgers<br />
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<b>Movie Review #16 - Armageddon </b><br />
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<i>Miss Stamper? Colonel Willie Sharp, United States Airforce, ma'am.
Requesting permission to shake the hand of the daughter of the bravest
man I've ever met.</i><br />
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It has been my experience that you either love this film or hate it. I rarely see any in-betweens. I am in that category of people who love it. Yeah, it is a little cheesy. Yeah, it has your typical Michael Bay-isms. But for pure entertainment value, there are very few movies that do more for me. First off, the cast and the fun characters they play are outstanding. They're hilarious! I mean, Bruce is always a cool guy, but from top to bottom, I love all these characters. The story is about as believable as Unicorns on Mars, but if you put believability aside, you can really get into this movie. And they don't take the easy way out by having everyone safe and make it until the end. No, they actually kill off characters, people we actually like.<br />
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And I haven't even touched on the emotions that are evoked on some people when they watch this film. I recently talked about this film on Facebook and I got a ton of responses from people about how much it makes them cry. I don't think I have shed a tear, but I definitely get pretty emotional. If the film didn't work, it wouldn't get this kind of emotion out of so many people. <br />
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I just can't express how much I like this movie. Is it the type of film that is going to win a ton of awards come Oscar time? Of course not! But a movie doesn't need to be THAT type of film to be considered a classic. Four and a half out of five cheeseburgers!<br />
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<b>Movie Review #17 - Avatar</b><br />
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<i>Up ahead was Pandora. You grew up hearing about it, but I never figured I'd be goin' there.</i><br />
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I really have a love/hate relationship with Avatar. Well, let me rephrase that. I don't hate this film. I don't hate anything about it, actually. What I hated was the amount of praise that followed this film after it came out. Hell, it almost won friggin' Best Picture! Is it in that category? No! It is still a good, enjoyable film? Of course. <br />
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I was spoiled in that the first time I saw this film, it was on an Imax screen. Visually, the movie is about as beautiful as you can get, despite most of it simply being special effects and not real scenery. But you take that beauty and put it on a screen the size of Imax? Well, it really feels like you are part of the movie. Take this movie home, and it does lose some of the appeal. Sure, I have it on Blu Ray and I have the kick ass TV, but it still doesn't quite reach the level of what you see in the theaters and that takes away some of the appeal.<br />
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Storywise, it is pretty good despite its recycled plot that has been seen in so many movies from Dances with Wolves to Pocahontas. But that is also one of the main reasons why I just can't put this film into the upper echelon of movies. It's been done before. And with something similar like Dances with Wolves, I felt a lot more emotion. Not anytime in this film do I feel an ounce of compassion for any of the characters. Not once do I have any emotions stirred up other than, "Wow, that looks cool!" That is not necessarily a bad thing if I just want to be entertained, but the amount of praise that the film got, despite what I felt were these shortcomings, was sickening to me. I mean, I guess people are free to like what they want, but it just boggled my mind. THIS is the film that everyone had to go out and see over and over so that it became the highest grossing film of all time? THIS movie? <br />
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But it's really not all that bad. I like it. It entertained me. It is still beautiful to look at even if it has lost some of its luster. Just don't call it one of the best films of all time. Three and a half out of 5 cheeseburgers. <br />
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Next up: The Back to the Future trilogy!MrManuelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12003292550689890179noreply@blogger.com5