"The love of my life is the love between friends."

                While the last two posts were rather sad and intense posts about movies that impact the human spirit, this post is dedicated to a movie that impacts the human spirit on a happier note. The Youtube video about Christian the lion is a short video that is a tear-jerker but in a happy way. I love the premise of the story: how friendship lasts a lifetime. I watch this video when I am having a bad day or I send this video to friends who are having a bad day. While the film is of poor quality, the message is great. I love the courage the two men had buying the lion cub, raising him and then releasing him into the wild. Risking the idea that they may never see him again, the men released him because they loved Christian to much, to see him cramped in a human world. I do not want to give the ending away, because it ruins the whole theme of the video. However, this video is an answer to any bad day and showcases the poor of love and friendship.

"This list... is an absolute good. The list is life. All around its margins lies the gulf. "

     Considering that my last post was about equality and the fight for justice, I find it only fitting to dedicate this next entry to one of the most epic and powerful movies in all of film history:Schindler's List. Released in 1993 under the direction of Steven Spielberg, the movie stars Liam Neeson, Ralph Fiennes and Ben Kingsley. Spielberg directed the film of the premise of Thomas Keneally's novel Schindler's Ark. Both the book and the movie tell the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman, who saved more than a thousand Polish Jewish refugees during the Holocaust by employing them in his factories. After it's release, the film won seven oscars. Some of the oscars won were best picture, best original score and best director. The American Film Institute in 2007 selected the 100 greatest movies ever made- Schindler's List was in eighth place. 

Part of what makes this movie so memorable, aside from the fact that is about genocide, is both the music and the cinematography. Spielberg decided to forgo storyboards when planning this film out, because he decided to shoot the movie as if it were a documentary. Forty percent of the cameras used in the film were handheld. Spielberg also decided to film in black and white because he wanted the film to appear timeless. Also, most of the images of the Holocaust are only seen in black and white, so Spielberg only found it fitting to film in black and white. John Williams produced the score for the movie, and he at first was so overcome by the film, that he felt a better composer was needed to accurately compose music for this film.

However, the most griping part of the movie for me was the little girl in the red coat. I don't think anything else in any other movie has moved me so much as seeing that little girl, my eyes are even welling up now, as I write about her. The little represents the change in Schindler, not to mention the many other people who watch the movie. To me at least, the little girl represents the importance of equality, justice, wisdom, peace and tolerance. More often then not, when people discuss this movie, they always mention the little girl.

There is nothing glamourous about this film, nothing that gives you hope, it is a war story and true war stories are not supposed to leave you uplifted. This a story of the war between humans. The movie ends letting the audience know that at the time of the release of the film there were fewer then 4,000 Jews left in Poland while there were more then 6,000 descendants of Schindler Jews worldwide. This is an emotionally-draining film, but a film that everyone sound view.

"Some of these people make me sick. But a law's been broken here. You do remember the law, don't you? "

It is far and few between that a movie comes along that is so poignant, raw and inspiring. A movie that leaves you gripping at the edge of your seat as you watch inhumane things happen to individuals. Looking for a film to encompass all of this? then watch Philadelphia. Released in 1993 starring Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington, this movie demonstrates the impact the HIV/AIDS epidemic had on this country when it first hit. This movie is truly a masterpiece about justice and the fight for equality. It was an interesting ploy to cast a black and white male in the lead roles. The white male, Tom Hanks, experiencing the discrimination of having the HIV/AIDS virus, while the black man, Denzel Washington, is man moving above the discrimination he has experienced to reach success. It is interesting to watch the relationship between the two men unfold as the film progresses. Watching this movie, I feel in love with the actor's script. Some of the lines were so sharp, that I felt my soul enrage in anger, fear, happiness and disappointment. I found the script so good that I had to include some of my favorite quotes:

-"I didn't raise my kids to sit in the back of the bus. You get in there, and you fight for your right, ok?"

-"But, I don't consider myself any different from anyone who has this disease. I'm not guilty. I'm not innocent. I'm just trying to survive."

-"In this courtroom, Mr. Miller, justice is blind to matters of race, creed, color, religion and sexual orientation." "With all due respect your honor, we don't live in this court room though, do we?" 

"You're the boss, applesauce! "

Factory Girl is now one of my favorite movies. Siena Miller is beautiful, and she plays the ever elusive and quirky Edie Sedgwick. Sedgwick was an icon in the 1960's when she became popular as one of Andy's Warhols muses. I think one of the reasons why I enjoyed the film so much is because I am fascinated with the 1960's, especially Andy Warhol. Watching the movie, I remained captivated listening to the script, the cinematography, looking at the sets and the beauty of Siena Miller, but also Hayden Christensen who plays Billy Quinn, a character who is a Bob Dylan knock-off. I also enjoyed the costumes. The mod-inspired clothing was so cool, it makes me want to go out and buy stripes, boots and black and white items of clothing. I think the other reason why I ket watching the movie is because I really felt an odd connection to Sedgwick. I felt sorry for her and I kept rooting for her through all of her low points. Sedgwick did not have an easy childhood, which was probably the reason why she lived the such a fast-paced lifestyle with Warhol and the reason why I kept rooting for Sedgwick to find happiness. Factory Girl from this point forward is one of my favorite movies.

"What if you meet the love of your life, are you supposed to let them pass you by? "

So I finally gave in and watched the most feminine movie ever made- He's Just Not That Into You. And I was just not that into it. I'm sorry to all of my friends, and other females out there who thought this movie was amazing and so relatable, I just found the movie boring and annoying. While I am someone who ha always been interested in people's interactions with one another, this movie just did not do it for me. Perhaps, if I had read the book prior to viewing the movie I would have a newfound appreciation. Yet, often if I have read the book before seeing the movie, I am highly disappointed. I found the characters to be whiney and overbearing, it's like every time spoke, I envisioned nails on a chalkboard. This came as a surprise to me because some of the actresses in the movie I truly enjoy like Jennifer Connelly and Jennifer Aniston. 

Needless to say, I thought the movie offered an interesting perspective on romantic relationships between men and women. The idea of romance and love left me pessimistic and depressed at the end of the movie. While the title is not all that optimistic sounding, I totally thought the movie would end on a happier note. Regardless, I am pleased with my decision on viewing this movie because of my intrigue of the film. However, if you are a male, or a person with a lack of tolerance for whining and/or stupid things, please restrain from viewing this movie.

"Women come to New York for the two L's: Labels and Love. "

Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte and Samantha- the four cinematic friends that make love, fashion, sex and New York the funniest thing a girl can ask for in the movie Sex and the City. Released in the summer of 2008, the movie is a continuation to the series finale on HBO. Like the television series the movie full of love, fashion, friendship, drama and sex. Normally, I wouldn't enjoy such a girlie film, however, this film is one of my all-time favorites. I think that girls enjoy the movie because not only do they enjoy the fashion, but they can also relate to the characters of Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte and Samantha. Everyone has a friend who is like Charlotte, Miranda, Carrie or Samantha. Furthermore, some of the issues that arise for some of the characters are issues to many women today. I enjoy the movie also because of the set design, dialogue and music. I would never recommend that guys watch the movie- this is a girls' only treat!

"You mistake me, my dear. I have the utmost respect for your nerves. They've been my constant companion these twenty years. "

     Pride and Prejudice, what a fantastic movie. I truly adore Jane Austen. While I have never read any of her books, I am a fan of Pride and Prejudice but also Sense and Sensibility. Pride, was released in 2005 and Kiera Knightley stars as the one and only Elizabeth Bennett. Bennett, is such a cool woman, one that I think all women should aspire to be due to her courage and her sense of self. I truly love a strong female in movies, they are inspiring and fun to watch. There are some breathtaking backdrops and scenery that are just beautiful. The old, English mansions, the wild cliffs, gardens and countryside escapes. The scenery is probably one of the reasons why I enjoyed the movie so much. 

"Marriages are very healthy, sir. You see, married men live much longer than bachelors."

    I truly adore the TCM television channel. The movies never disappoint me. Last week, I discovered a new movie called The Royal Wedding. Released in 1951, the movie stars Fred Astaire and Jane Powell. The movie is a musical and is one of several musicals that MGM released. It is a rather short film, only 93 minutes, but it is full of talent both in acting, dancing and singing.

     Fred Astaire is truly a gifted individual. Not only can he act, but he can dance and sing wonderfully. I adore tap dancing, and watching him dance is such a pleasure. His footwork is flawless and lithe. Watching him dance makes me want to begin tap dancing again. I enjoy viewing these types of films, because it is a true show: the dancing, singing, acting, costumes and set design. Also, the sound of old films is one of my favorite sounds, the opening credits and the crackling of the film. The colors in older films seem vibrant and fantasy-like. 

"She's fair game, Joe. It's always open season on princesses. "

     I love the TCM channel. Turner Classic Movies always has awesome movies playing. Last night, Roman Holiday with Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. Filmed in 1953, it is a romantic comedy, that Hepburn won a 'Best Actress' Academy Award. It was such an enchanting film. The movie is a black and white picture with beautiful scenery. Hepburn is one of the most beautiful woman I have ever seen. Her skin is flawless, and her smile is welcoming. Her voice graceful and poised. Peck is very handsome. 

The film is a cute love story lacking the usual love story ending, which is one of the reasons why I like the film so much, aside from Hepburn and Peck's acting talent. Hepburn in the movie plays a princess who escapes her structured life for a change and meets a set of reporters who in turn protect her , not exploit her like they intended too.  The movie is a story of love, friendship and secrets. It is a classic film.

"The battle of the Smithsonian. The greatest battle the world will never know."

Wednesday night I went to the movies to see Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian. It had been a long time since I had sat in those comfy, cushioned, reclining chairs with the comfy arm-rests. I love the whole experience of sitting in the theater- the chatting with friends, or people-watching, the opening previews and the ease of getting comfortable in the chair. The theater nearly empty- only a handful of people were seated. I was very upset because I missed the opening previews, due dinner running over time. 

My friend saw the movie a week ago, and told me that it wasn't worth seeing in the theaters, however, I went anyways- to each is his own, right? And, I wasn't disappointed. It was the original cast as from the last movie, however, there are so good additions to the cast. Like the men from Superbad, yes, Seth Rogan is in the movie, he plays a security guard. Amy Adams plays Amelia Earhart, one my favorite people of all time! 

The reason why I liked the movie so much was the overall theme- which is 'do what you love to do'. Ben Stiller, plays Larry a retired night- guard for the museum, and the whole movie challenges him to reevaluate his life choices after leaving the museum. Earhart, is pivotal in unleashing Larry from the confines of his life by being adventurous and excited about her passion for flying. Trust me, Im not trying to make this children's movie a deep, inspirational piece, it is just the underlying theme to the storyline.

Furthermore, I like the movie because it brings history alive. There are characters such as Teddy Roosevelt, Albert Einstein, Amelia Earhart, Abe Lincoln, Ivan the Terrible, Al Capone, Attila the Hun and Napoleon who come to life within the film. Also, this film showcased the Air & Space Museum which actually appeard alot cooler in the film then in real life. The artwork featured in the film also comes to life! For example, the famous photo of the navy man kissing the nurse after WWII ended comes to life! That is one of my favorite pictures. Last but certainly not least, the giant octopus in the film was so cool! Octopuses intrigue me, so it was a special treat for me to see him in the film. 

Overall, this was a great film!

"So are you ready for the final question for 20 million rupees?"

So I spent my Saturday night watching Slumdog Millionaire. It is good. The beginning was a little much for me, however the ending made up for it. Over the past few months, many people raved about the movie, and tonight I finally had the opportunity to watch it. The Pussycat Doll's rendition of the theme song is catchy and I first youtubed it before I even had any desire to see the movie.  Over the past couple of weeks, I had read about the child stars of the film and how they were still poverty-stricken even after all the success and just recently their homes were bulldozed down. However, I am happy to find out that the director of the movie helped financed purchases for apartments for these talented youngsters. 

What I liked most about the movie was the colors, music and Jamal's unrelenting, strong spirit. It is inspirational. Also, the children at the beginning of the film were so adorable, their looks should be illegal. Frieda Pinto the lead actress is beautiful and was is very talented. I noticed in the credits that the movie was based off of a book, I wonder what the book is like or what book is the basis for the movie. Does anyone know? I enjoyed the movie a lot because it is such an inspiration and it is a realistic story line. Against all odds, Jamal found his true love and he became rich, very different from the childhood he had.

The movie is up for 6 MTV movie awards. So let's keep our fingers crossed.

"Well, you know, in Mexico, law enforcement is an entrepreneurial activity,"- Montel Gordon

      Today in southern Rhode Island, yielded a rather cool, damp, gray day.  With nothing to do, I decided, why not pop some popcorn, grab a blanket and tuck into a good movie. Browsing the options of movies, I grabbed Traffic a 2000 movie directed by Steven Soderbergh. The movie is a crime drama that follows the drug trade between Mexico and the United States. Benicio del Toro, Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Dennis Quaid and the ever-elusive Don Cheadle make up the movie's cast. 

     The movie won four Oscars: best director, best supporting actor, best film editing and best adapted screenplay. With these credentials and a slew of talented actors and actresses ( Salema Hayek, has a small part also in the film), this movie is almost too good to watch. The movie offers four different perspectives of the drug trade: the perspectives are from the user, the politician, the enforcer and the trafficker. Each perspective is interesting and deep in emotion. It is easy to feel for all the parties. There are the two Mexican police officers who juggle between good and evil, the mother and wife who is engulfed with financial issues, the trafficker who was caught and it trying to uncover other's involvements in the business, as well as the mother and father desperately trying to save their daughter from the dark, lonely, dangerous dungeons of drug abuse. 

   What I also took away from the movie is that not only does the film offer an insight into the drug trade from many angles, but the movie is also a love story. Twisted at time, there is love in the movie. Love for the drug, the power,  the danger, the law, for family, for security and love for the future. I like the movie because it is realistic. I also liked the movie because it was heavy in emotions in that the drugs help expose the many types of love in the movie. The love story is what drew me in. Love can be dangerous and love can be kind, as this movie demonstrates.

    

    

"Cocked in Rhode Island, Drugs"

      I think that everyone who was either born in Rhode Island or anyone who has ever visited or lived in Rhode Island at some point in their life needs to watch Outside Providence, a film by the Farrelly Brothers which was released in 1999. I first watched this movie during my winter break of freshmen year. One of my high school friends, having been away in Maryland for the first half of the year, became obsessed with all things Rhode Island ,probably because she missed home. In turn, Outside Providence became a remedy to help cure this obsession for all things Rhode Island and would be one her many tools to help introduce the smallest state to people who have never had a Rhode Island experience. 

      At first, I was hesitant as to whether or not I would like the movie when I began watching it. It seemed slow. However, I feel in love. To me, I love this movie because I can relate to it. I don't think the movie has amazing acting talent, set design or screenplay, I love the movie because it is relatable. I love how the movie was filmed at the University of Rhode Island, I love watching the movie and recognizing different buildings. I love how I have been the movie set! Another highlight is that the gas station in the movie, where he spikes the Coke, is the same gas station I pass on my way to school. They drink Narragansett beer, I don't like it but it's so authentic that the characters drink it!

   To all my friends who are from Rhode Island, they like the movie, because they can all find something to relate too. For example, one of my friends likes the movie because his fraternities' letters are in the movie, they are displayed during the spring break part. Another friend likes the movie because she lives near Pawtucket, while another friend loves the movie because her best friend is an extra in the movie. I think this movie is a great movie for all Rhode Islanders, simply because people can relate to some aspect of the film; the vocabulary, the music or the scenery. 

   If you haven't seen the movie and have a connection to Rhode Island, please see it, I think you'll be happy you did. 

"All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them".-Walt Disney

So, I came across this website the other day titled, www.disneymovieslist.com. This website is a guide to all Disney cinema. One section of the website ranks the movies, based on supposed ratings and commentaries. I thought the rankings were interesting. I've included some of the rankings, please take a look.

1. The Lion King

2. Beauty and the Beast

3. Aladdin

4. The Little Mermaid

5. Finding Nemo

6. Toy Story

7. Pirates of the Caribbean

8. Robin Hood

9. Mary Poppins

10. Wall E

11. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

12. Peter Pan

13. Sleeping Beauty

14. Monsters, Inc.

15. Spirited Away

   - These are the top fifteen. All of my favorite movies are in the top fifteen. Here are some of the rankings for others:

16. Fox and the Hound

17. Cinderella

18. Lady and the Tramp

40. Cool Runnings

46. Homeward Bound

65. Mighty Ducks

111. D2: Mighty Ducks

"Movies are like an expensive form of therapy for me."- Tim Burton

Hello Everyone.

Welcome! Early this morning  I was logging into my computer and I saw a preview for the movie Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian and it looks so good! I remember in the fifth grade we researched explorers and I was completely enthralled with both Amelia Earhart and Sacaj(g)awea- they are both characters in the movie! Also I am excited for the animated film from Pixar called Up!, it looks carefree and fun. Angels & Demons looks entertaining too; I read book by Dan Brown and enjoyed it. I saw the DaVinci Code which disappointed me, so I am hoping  this movie will be better. 

Here is a list of the some of the upcoming summer movies with the release date. If you have seen them tell me about them-the good, the bad and the ugly.

1. Angels & Demons- May 15th

2. Star Trek- May 8th

3. X-Men Origins: Wolverine: May 1st

4. Night at the Museum: May 22nd

5. Up!: May 29th

6. Land of the Lost: June 5th

7. Year One: June 19th

8. Public Enemies: July 1st

9. Harry Potter and the Half-blood Prince: July 15th

10. Funny People: July 31st

11. Inglourious Basterds: Aug 21st

These are only a few, if you have seen any movie whether it is the theaters or not, please let me know!