In 25 Christmas Movies You Should Watch I brought you my family's favorite holiday movies and invited you, my readers, to share with me your favorite holiday films. A hearty thanks to all who participated and I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas!
So here we go, in no particular order...
Bad Santa (2003)
Nothing could be more Christmas-y than robbing department stores, right? And who has more access than Santa and his little helper? Throw in a little sex, a lot of alcohol, and more than a few swear words and you've got Bad Santa.
Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984)
After witnessing his parents' slaughter at the hands of a man dressed as Santa, Billy enters an orphanage only to be abused by the nun in charge. As a grown up, Billy has to take the place of an ill Santa in the store in which he works. He cracks under the pressure and goes on a murderous rampage all the way back to the orphanage.
Emmet Otter's Jug Band Christmas (1977)
How dare I forget my husband's favorite Christmas classic on my original Christmas list? Jim Henson created Emmet Otter's world complete with otters. porcupines, lizards, rabbits, snakes, bears, opossums, and so much more. A take on "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry, Emmet and his mother each sacrifice something in order to have a chance at giving the other the best Christmas present ever.
Love Actually (2003)
Love Actually is one of those few all-star cast movies that I think works really well. Sometimes these movies end up being a big pile-up and sometimes they are just right, with stories weaving in and out of each other without that messy crash ending. One of the things I really liked about this movie is that it affects all types of people at all social levels, stages of life, and parts of their relationships.
This may not have been a big list, but it was definitely a very eclectic list. I don't think we've left any genre out on this one. Thanks for playing along! Merry Christmas! And look for my favorite love stories coming in (when else?) February.
Monday, December 23, 2013
Thursday, December 12, 2013
The Brass Teapot (2012)
What could be better than a genie in a bottle? A teapot that gives you money, of course. It gives you an unlimited amount of funds, provided you are willing to give something in return. After all, you can't get something for nothing. Ramaa Mosley's, The Brass Teapot, is a well executed tale about greed, envy, pride and love.
The Premise
Alice and John are a young married couple struggling to make ends meet. They come across an antique brass teapot that magically gives them money. The catch is, they have to experience pain in order to get paid. With big dreams and high expectations, they push their limits and find out just how far they are willing to go for the big pay off.
My Take
I have been a big fan of Juno Temple since Dirty Girl (2010). Since taking notice of her, I have realized just how many movies I have seen her in and just how versatile Juno really is. In The Brass Teapot, she plays Alice. Alice is educated and looking for a job but wants to start anywhere but the bottom. Therefore, she remains unemployed. Michael Angarano is Alice's husband, John. He is working as a telemarketer and is doing the best he can to make ends meet. Angarano has grown so much since I first saw him in Sky High (2005), which I absolutely loved. Together, they make the perfect couple. It is clear how much they love each other, despite the problems they may be having.
Alice comes across an antique brass teapot and takes it home. She discovers, by accident, that if she gets hurt the teapot produces money. From there, John and Alice do some funny, crazy, and kinky things in order to see the teapot pay them for their efforts. Eventually, they are able to move into the neighborhood they always wanted to live in, have the parties they always wanted have, eat in the restaurants they always wanted eat in, and fit in with people they always wanted to fit in with. This means nearly forgetting the true friends that they already had, played by Bobby Moynihan and Alia Shawkat, whom I just saw in The To Do List. Alice and John are chased by Jewish brothers (Thomas Middleditch and Bob McClure), a curious Chinese man (Steve Park), and greedy landlords (Billy Magnussen and Crisitn Milioti). All why trying to be happy emulating their richer friends, Payton and Ricky (Alexis Bledel and Ben Rappaport).
The Verdict
This movie was perfectly cast. Juno Temple and Michael Angarano were perfect together as Alice and John. They were fearless as actors and loving as their characters. They portrayed a couple that went to the brink of disaster but somehow managed to hold onto each other in the end. The supporting cast did their jobs wonderfully. All of the actors, especially Moynihan and Shawkat, were touching and funny in such an effortless way that they blended in seamlessly with landscape of the movie. The Brass Teapot was sexy, absurd, and a wonderful allegory about greed, pride and love. I give The Brass Teapot 5/5 dollars.
Saturday, December 7, 2013
The To Do List (2013)
I enjoy a good sex comedy. Combine that with a coming of age flick, and you get Maggie Carey's The To Do List. The To Do List is a movie about letting go of your insecurities and learning more about yourself as you explore sex and friendships. Mistakes happen, hearts are broken, and memories are made as Brandy Klark feels her way through her last summer as a virgin.
The Premise
Brandy Klark is ready to lose her virginity before going off to college in the fall. With the help of her sister and her friends, she makes a To-Do list of all the things she needs to do to get her ready for her first sexual experience with the very lusty Rusty Waters.
My Take
The girls who played Brandy Karl's friends stood out and stole many of the scenes they were in. Their characters were perfect examples of high school girls trying to be grown ups. Alia Shawkat played friend Fiona and Sarah Steele played friend Wendy. They were the perfect comedic compliment to Aubrey Plaza's rendition of very a serious and studious Brandy Karl. All three girls worked together to form a cohesive unit of horny teenagers exploring sex in the early 1990's.
Scott Porter was the object of Brandy's affection as he portrayed life guard, Rusty Waters. He was everything a girl could want as her 'first'. He was tall, blond, tan and played the guitar. And he was a college boy, to boot. Cameron was the cute, but platonic, boy in the story. Played by Johnny Simmons, Cameron was used for some of Brandy's sexual experiments but ended up having his poor little heart stepped on when he when discovered that Brandy had her eyes on a hunkier prize. Simmons was hilarious and was able to hold his own against the more experienced Bill Hader, who played a prominent role in the movie as the teens' boss at the neighborhood pool.
Adding to Brandy's sexual escapades were Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Andy Samberg, and Donald Glover. Rachel Bilson and Connie Britton gave her some sound, and sometimes not so sound advice, along the way. Clark Gregg played Brandy's stodgy and traditional father. It was nice to see him play something other than Agent Coulson in the Marvel franchise.
The Verdict
The To Do List was well written, well directed, and well acted. There weren't any weak links as far as the cast goes. It was a cute coming of age story about a girl who had trouble letting loose. Sometimes, the main character felt a little hard to relate to, but Aubrey Plaza managed to make her charming and likable. Likewise with Connie Britton's portrayal of Brandy's mother. I give The To Do List 4/5 friends with benefits, because, while it wasn't perfect, the direction and the cast made up for any imperfections.
The Premise
Brandy Klark is ready to lose her virginity before going off to college in the fall. With the help of her sister and her friends, she makes a To-Do list of all the things she needs to do to get her ready for her first sexual experience with the very lusty Rusty Waters.
My Take
The girls who played Brandy Karl's friends stood out and stole many of the scenes they were in. Their characters were perfect examples of high school girls trying to be grown ups. Alia Shawkat played friend Fiona and Sarah Steele played friend Wendy. They were the perfect comedic compliment to Aubrey Plaza's rendition of very a serious and studious Brandy Karl. All three girls worked together to form a cohesive unit of horny teenagers exploring sex in the early 1990's.
Scott Porter was the object of Brandy's affection as he portrayed life guard, Rusty Waters. He was everything a girl could want as her 'first'. He was tall, blond, tan and played the guitar. And he was a college boy, to boot. Cameron was the cute, but platonic, boy in the story. Played by Johnny Simmons, Cameron was used for some of Brandy's sexual experiments but ended up having his poor little heart stepped on when he when discovered that Brandy had her eyes on a hunkier prize. Simmons was hilarious and was able to hold his own against the more experienced Bill Hader, who played a prominent role in the movie as the teens' boss at the neighborhood pool.
Adding to Brandy's sexual escapades were Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Andy Samberg, and Donald Glover. Rachel Bilson and Connie Britton gave her some sound, and sometimes not so sound advice, along the way. Clark Gregg played Brandy's stodgy and traditional father. It was nice to see him play something other than Agent Coulson in the Marvel franchise.
The Verdict
The To Do List was well written, well directed, and well acted. There weren't any weak links as far as the cast goes. It was a cute coming of age story about a girl who had trouble letting loose. Sometimes, the main character felt a little hard to relate to, but Aubrey Plaza managed to make her charming and likable. Likewise with Connie Britton's portrayal of Brandy's mother. I give The To Do List 4/5 friends with benefits, because, while it wasn't perfect, the direction and the cast made up for any imperfections.
Thursday, December 5, 2013
25 Christmas Movies You Should Watch...
Christmas is a time for family and a time for get togethers. We love movies in our household. I want to share with you some our favorite Christmas movies and Christmas specials that only come around once a year. I want you invite you, my readers, to tell me your favorite Christmas movies and Christmas specials. Leave me a comment below, on Face Book, or on Twitter and I'll include your movies in a special follow up later this month!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from my family to yours!
Here we go (in no particular to order)...
A Christmas Carol (ALL OF THEM)
A Christmas Carol is my absolute favorite story of time. For me, nothing will ever compare to this Charles Dickens classic. I own many different copies of this masterpiece and torture my family with it every year. My favorite version is the 1951 Alastair Sim version. No particular reason why, I just love that one. Unfortunately, most of my copies are on VHS, so if anyone wants to donate their DVDs to an avid fan, I certainly won't complain...
Scrooged (1988)
Speaking of A Christmas Carol, Scrooged is another one of my favorites I have to watch it every year. It's a more modern take on the tale starring Bill Murray, Karen Allen, Bobcat Goldthwait, David Johansen, Carol Kane, Alfre Woodard, and John Murray.
It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
Hmm, I'm sensing a theme here. A man goes back and examines his life. Except in this one he discovers what would have happened had he never been born. He discovers the joy that he brings to those around him.
A Christmas Story (1983)
When this movie was played on an endless loop on television, I grew tired of it. Now that it seems to be a rare find, I love it. In fact, now I own it. Who doesn't quote lines from this movie? "You'll shoot your eye out!"
Die Hard (1988)
Yes, this is a Christmas movie. John McClane is out beating the bad guys at Christmas time. Who doesn't love a sweaty, sexy Bruce Willis and and equally sexy and formidable Alan Rickman.
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989)
I have to admit that this is the only one of the vacation movies I truly love. I love the wackiness of the whole family, the uninvited guests, the lights, the cat, the dried out turkey, everything. Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo, Johnny Galecki, Juliette Lewis, and Randy Quaid round out the cast in this movie.
Home Alone (1990)
I like movies where kids get the best of us adults and this movie is one of the best examples of that.Yes, the parents weren't as responsible as they should have been, but all in all they raised a pretty darn creative kid and they should be proud.
The Santa Clause (1994)
Santa Claus is one of those things that gets passed on from generation to generation. So it makes perfect sense to me that Santa Claus be vulnerable and there be a clause in place so that someone else can take his place. Why not? The only bad thing about this movie is that they never show it on the movie channels. I hate having to watch my movies commercial cut and edited for time. There really should be a law against it.
Christmas with the Kranks (2004)
Another Tim Allen movie, Christmas with the Kranks is a movie about a couple who try to put Christmas off for one year, but, of course, life gets in the way. I love Jamie Lee Curtis in this film. She is perfect as the wife who wants to agree with her husband but is struggling against that Christmas spirit that infects us all.
Gremlins (1984)
Gizmo is the cutest little thing ever! Gremlins, starring Zach Galligan, Phoebe Cates, and Corey Feldman, is a story about a boy who learns a very important lesson about what happens when you break the rules.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966)
Boris Karloff was the narrator in this Christmas special in 1966. Based on Dr. Seuss's book of the same name, the Grinch sneaks into Whoville thinking he will ruin Christmas, but learns a very heartwarming lesson instead.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Director Ron Howard managed to bring Whoville to life in the live action version of Dr. Seuss's famous story. Starring Jim Carrey, Taylor Momsen, Bill Irwin, Molly Shannon, Christine Baranski and Jeffrey Tambor, How the Grinch Stole Christmas is one of our family's favorites.
Deck the Halls (2006)
Christmas isn't always love and cheer and peace. Sometimes there is a little feuding between neighbors. Deck the Halls is a movie about two neighbors constantly trying to outdo each other. Finally, it results in an all out Christmas light war when one of them decides he wants his house to be so bright it can be seen from space.
Jingle All the Way (1996)
This is another movie that isn't all about peace and love. Remember when Tickle Me Elmo was all the rage? This movie is about two dads (Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sinbad) doing everything they can to get the last Turbo Man action doll for their sons.
The Polar Express (2004)
Based on the best selling book of the same name, The Polar Express takes you on a journey to the North Pole. During the adventure, the young boy in the story receives a bell that he will be able to hear so long as he believes. I loved this book, even though I was older when I found it, and I think Robert Zemeckis did an excellent job recreating it for the movie.
Rudolph, the Red Nosed Reindeer (1964)
One of the Rankin and Bass classics, this is the story of Rudolph, the reindeer with the unfortunate red nose. Even Santa didn't accept him until that one foggy Christmas Eve.
Santa Claus is Coming to Town (1970)
This is the story of the origin of Santa Claus. Rankin and Bass takes us to a town where toys are no longer allowed and Kris Kringle takes it upon himself to deliver happiness to the children by sneaking into their homes and leaving presents in their stockings.
Frosty the Snowman (1969)
Frosty comes to life because of a magic hat. Unfortunately, he has to find his way to a colder climate before he melts. The snowman, and his little friend, Karen, make their way north to Santa's village.
Lethal Weapon (1987)
Mel Gibson and Danny Glover team up at Christmas time in Lethal Weapon. They are two cops with very different personalities who somehow manage to make it work in order to do the right thing. And make it home in time for Christmas dinner.
Edward Scissorhands (1990)
I like this movie a lot because I have often felt like a misfit and can relate to Johnny Depp's character. I can't say that I have ever had scissors for hands, but I think that everyone understands that longing to belong somewhere. Likewise, with Winona Ryder and Dianne Wiest, sometimes it only takes one person to make a difference in someone's life.
Just Friends (2005)
I adore Ryan Reynolds and Amy Smart in this movie. I laugh every time I watch Just Friends. It is romantic and funny and smart and is one of my favorite guilty Christmas time pleasures.
Prancer (1989)
A young girl finds a deer and comes to the logical conclusion that it's Prancer, one of Santa's reindeer. She hides him in her family's barn and feeds him cookies. She wants to get him well enough to fly home but her dad has other plans for the deer.
A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
Charlie Brown wants to find the true meaning of Christmas, despite the rampant commercialism he sees all around him. I think it is a lesson that still rings true today. We all need a tiny Charlie Brown Christmas tree in our lives to remind us of the true meaning of Christmas.
Four Christmases (2008)
Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn star in this film about a couple who accidentally get stuck spending Christmas with their families. Because both of their parents are divorced they have four separate families to visit. These visits begin to make the couple reevaluate their lives together.
Arthur Christmas (2011)
When one child gets forgotten on Christmas Eve, Arthur takes it upon himself to deliver his present. But Arthur isn't next in line to be Santa Claus, his brother is. This causes a huge problem. Not to mention that Arthur is more than just a little bit clumsy. I always like rooting for the underdog and Arthur is a great one to root for.
I hope you enjoyed my little list and that it inspires you to make your own. If you have a personal favorite let me know and I will include it in my next list!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from my family to yours!
Here we go (in no particular to order)...
A Christmas Carol (ALL OF THEM)
A Christmas Carol is my absolute favorite story of time. For me, nothing will ever compare to this Charles Dickens classic. I own many different copies of this masterpiece and torture my family with it every year. My favorite version is the 1951 Alastair Sim version. No particular reason why, I just love that one. Unfortunately, most of my copies are on VHS, so if anyone wants to donate their DVDs to an avid fan, I certainly won't complain...
Scrooged (1988)
Speaking of A Christmas Carol, Scrooged is another one of my favorites I have to watch it every year. It's a more modern take on the tale starring Bill Murray, Karen Allen, Bobcat Goldthwait, David Johansen, Carol Kane, Alfre Woodard, and John Murray.
It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
Hmm, I'm sensing a theme here. A man goes back and examines his life. Except in this one he discovers what would have happened had he never been born. He discovers the joy that he brings to those around him.
A Christmas Story (1983)
When this movie was played on an endless loop on television, I grew tired of it. Now that it seems to be a rare find, I love it. In fact, now I own it. Who doesn't quote lines from this movie? "You'll shoot your eye out!"
Die Hard (1988)
Yes, this is a Christmas movie. John McClane is out beating the bad guys at Christmas time. Who doesn't love a sweaty, sexy Bruce Willis and and equally sexy and formidable Alan Rickman.
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989)
I have to admit that this is the only one of the vacation movies I truly love. I love the wackiness of the whole family, the uninvited guests, the lights, the cat, the dried out turkey, everything. Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo, Johnny Galecki, Juliette Lewis, and Randy Quaid round out the cast in this movie.
Home Alone (1990)
I like movies where kids get the best of us adults and this movie is one of the best examples of that.Yes, the parents weren't as responsible as they should have been, but all in all they raised a pretty darn creative kid and they should be proud.
The Santa Clause (1994)
Santa Claus is one of those things that gets passed on from generation to generation. So it makes perfect sense to me that Santa Claus be vulnerable and there be a clause in place so that someone else can take his place. Why not? The only bad thing about this movie is that they never show it on the movie channels. I hate having to watch my movies commercial cut and edited for time. There really should be a law against it.
Christmas with the Kranks (2004)
Another Tim Allen movie, Christmas with the Kranks is a movie about a couple who try to put Christmas off for one year, but, of course, life gets in the way. I love Jamie Lee Curtis in this film. She is perfect as the wife who wants to agree with her husband but is struggling against that Christmas spirit that infects us all.
Gremlins (1984)
Gizmo is the cutest little thing ever! Gremlins, starring Zach Galligan, Phoebe Cates, and Corey Feldman, is a story about a boy who learns a very important lesson about what happens when you break the rules.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966)
Boris Karloff was the narrator in this Christmas special in 1966. Based on Dr. Seuss's book of the same name, the Grinch sneaks into Whoville thinking he will ruin Christmas, but learns a very heartwarming lesson instead.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Director Ron Howard managed to bring Whoville to life in the live action version of Dr. Seuss's famous story. Starring Jim Carrey, Taylor Momsen, Bill Irwin, Molly Shannon, Christine Baranski and Jeffrey Tambor, How the Grinch Stole Christmas is one of our family's favorites.
Deck the Halls (2006)
Christmas isn't always love and cheer and peace. Sometimes there is a little feuding between neighbors. Deck the Halls is a movie about two neighbors constantly trying to outdo each other. Finally, it results in an all out Christmas light war when one of them decides he wants his house to be so bright it can be seen from space.
Jingle All the Way (1996)
This is another movie that isn't all about peace and love. Remember when Tickle Me Elmo was all the rage? This movie is about two dads (Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sinbad) doing everything they can to get the last Turbo Man action doll for their sons.
The Polar Express (2004)
Based on the best selling book of the same name, The Polar Express takes you on a journey to the North Pole. During the adventure, the young boy in the story receives a bell that he will be able to hear so long as he believes. I loved this book, even though I was older when I found it, and I think Robert Zemeckis did an excellent job recreating it for the movie.
Rudolph, the Red Nosed Reindeer (1964)
One of the Rankin and Bass classics, this is the story of Rudolph, the reindeer with the unfortunate red nose. Even Santa didn't accept him until that one foggy Christmas Eve.
Santa Claus is Coming to Town (1970)
This is the story of the origin of Santa Claus. Rankin and Bass takes us to a town where toys are no longer allowed and Kris Kringle takes it upon himself to deliver happiness to the children by sneaking into their homes and leaving presents in their stockings.
Frosty the Snowman (1969)
Frosty comes to life because of a magic hat. Unfortunately, he has to find his way to a colder climate before he melts. The snowman, and his little friend, Karen, make their way north to Santa's village.
Lethal Weapon (1987)
Mel Gibson and Danny Glover team up at Christmas time in Lethal Weapon. They are two cops with very different personalities who somehow manage to make it work in order to do the right thing. And make it home in time for Christmas dinner.
Edward Scissorhands (1990)
I like this movie a lot because I have often felt like a misfit and can relate to Johnny Depp's character. I can't say that I have ever had scissors for hands, but I think that everyone understands that longing to belong somewhere. Likewise, with Winona Ryder and Dianne Wiest, sometimes it only takes one person to make a difference in someone's life.
Just Friends (2005)
I adore Ryan Reynolds and Amy Smart in this movie. I laugh every time I watch Just Friends. It is romantic and funny and smart and is one of my favorite guilty Christmas time pleasures.
Prancer (1989)
A young girl finds a deer and comes to the logical conclusion that it's Prancer, one of Santa's reindeer. She hides him in her family's barn and feeds him cookies. She wants to get him well enough to fly home but her dad has other plans for the deer.
A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
Charlie Brown wants to find the true meaning of Christmas, despite the rampant commercialism he sees all around him. I think it is a lesson that still rings true today. We all need a tiny Charlie Brown Christmas tree in our lives to remind us of the true meaning of Christmas.
Four Christmases (2008)
Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn star in this film about a couple who accidentally get stuck spending Christmas with their families. Because both of their parents are divorced they have four separate families to visit. These visits begin to make the couple reevaluate their lives together.
Arthur Christmas (2011)
When one child gets forgotten on Christmas Eve, Arthur takes it upon himself to deliver his present. But Arthur isn't next in line to be Santa Claus, his brother is. This causes a huge problem. Not to mention that Arthur is more than just a little bit clumsy. I always like rooting for the underdog and Arthur is a great one to root for.
I hope you enjoyed my little list and that it inspires you to make your own. If you have a personal favorite let me know and I will include it in my next list!
Friday, November 8, 2013
Impractical Jokers (TV)
Last year my kids and I discovered Impractical Jokers on truTV. I have slowly realized that this is still a hidden gem as I try to explain the show to friends and family.
The Premise
Four life long friends have taken what they know best, practical jokes, and turned it into a reality tv show. They dare each other to say and do outrageous things or risk a punishment that is sure to be worse than the original dare.
My Take
This is one of the few shows I am not allowed to watch without the entire family present. Joe, Murr, Q and Sal never fail to get us laughing. Not just a giggle here and there, but fits of laughter so hard that we have to pause the DVR in order to catch our breaths before we can continue watching. Impractical Jokers is also one of those shows that is nice to have on hand to watch when you have an especially bad day. It doesn't matter if it's an episode you have seen before, it will at least bring a smile to your face.
Some of the things they have done in the past include pretending to be inventors, kissing random strangers, stealing socks, giving sensuous foot massages, teaching seminars about sexual harassment, getting a stranger to dance, teaching art class, working at restaurants and offices, having personal calls in front of strangers... All of this is done by one or two of the guys while the other guys tell them what to do and say. And, of course, all of this is in an effort to get the doer to quit or fail in some way. And it is hilarious!
The Verdict
Every once in a while Impractical Jokers gets a little raunchy for young kids to watch, so if you're the type of parent that likes to watch things before your kids do, at least you won't mind. Like any practical joke, there are some that are just stupid, but my 12 year old son still thinks they are the funniest thing ever. I give Impractical Jokers 3/4 best friends. Because you know what would this better? A ninja. (If you watched the show - you'd get it)
The Premise
Four life long friends have taken what they know best, practical jokes, and turned it into a reality tv show. They dare each other to say and do outrageous things or risk a punishment that is sure to be worse than the original dare.
My Take
This is one of the few shows I am not allowed to watch without the entire family present. Joe, Murr, Q and Sal never fail to get us laughing. Not just a giggle here and there, but fits of laughter so hard that we have to pause the DVR in order to catch our breaths before we can continue watching. Impractical Jokers is also one of those shows that is nice to have on hand to watch when you have an especially bad day. It doesn't matter if it's an episode you have seen before, it will at least bring a smile to your face.
Some of the things they have done in the past include pretending to be inventors, kissing random strangers, stealing socks, giving sensuous foot massages, teaching seminars about sexual harassment, getting a stranger to dance, teaching art class, working at restaurants and offices, having personal calls in front of strangers... All of this is done by one or two of the guys while the other guys tell them what to do and say. And, of course, all of this is in an effort to get the doer to quit or fail in some way. And it is hilarious!
The Verdict
Every once in a while Impractical Jokers gets a little raunchy for young kids to watch, so if you're the type of parent that likes to watch things before your kids do, at least you won't mind. Like any practical joke, there are some that are just stupid, but my 12 year old son still thinks they are the funniest thing ever. I give Impractical Jokers 3/4 best friends. Because you know what would this better? A ninja. (If you watched the show - you'd get it)
Monday, October 28, 2013
More Halloween Movies to Watch...
To conclude my series on which Movies to Watch this Halloween season, I am only including the movies that were submitted by you, the readers, via FaceBook, Twitter and Google. Please forgive me as there are some movies that I am unfamiliar with, but I am going to try my best to do them justice. And without further ado, and in no particular order:
The Mist (2007)
More Halloween Moves to Watch...
Clownhouse (1989)
Three mental patients escape from an institution and murder a troupe of traveling circus clowns. After donning their costumes, they terrorizing some young boys in a nearby town. Unfortunately, this is also one of those movies that is incredibly hard to find and I need it! I really do!
What Lies Beneath (2000)
This is one of those movies that begs the question, "Am I crazy or is my husband just trying to make me think I'm crazy so he can get away with murder?" It is kind of like a modern day Gaslight and Psycho all in one.
Gothika (2003)
A movie that takes a woman who has lost her memory, places her in an dangerous place, accuses her of a heinous crime and now makes her battle with frightening spirits.
The Ring (2002)
If you watch a certain video tape, you will die. That is the premise of The Ring. So you ask yourself, why would anyone ever watch it?
The Strangers (2008)
There is nothing more terrifying than people that are willing to torture you just because they want to. In The Strangers, a couple has become trapped their own vacation home. What is supposed to be a time to relax and enjoy each other and become a time to fight for survival from masked, anonymous intruders.
Pet Sematary (1989)
Sometimes the dead are better off dead, no matter how painful it is for the living. This is a lesson that the family in Pet Sematary will soon learn. Pet Sematary is based on a story by horror maven Stephen King.
Shocker (1989)
Shocker is about a serial killer who has been put to death and then uses electricity to continue to kill from beyond the grave. Even dead murderers want revenge, especially on the ones responsible for putting them away.
Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
A young couple has broken down in the rain and has sought shelter in a nearby home. Little do they know that they are in for a night of debauchery, cross dressing, and song and dance! RHPS as become one of the biggest cult classics ever and has a huge fan base around the world.
The Woman in Black (1989/2012)
Vengeful ghosts make for good stories. In this movie, a spirit is seeking revenge for her drowned son. Her story seems to unfold only to terrorize a young lawyer who has been sent to settle the angry spirit's estate.
The Cabin in the Woods (2012)
This is the story of what happens when horror has been designed for you. When five friends get together in an isolated cabin, and someone else is pulling the strings, how far will they go to escape their fates?
The Awakening (2011)
A young woman, who exposes hoaxes, gets involved with a ghost investigation at a boarding school. Events lead the usually skeptical woman to doubt her beliefs and to be afraid for probably the first time.
Devil (2010)
Claustrophobia is a real fear. In Devil, a group of people are trapped in an elevator and if that wasn't enough, one of them has a hidden agenda.
Peur(s) du Noir AKA Fear(s) of the Dark (2007)
This film features animated scary stories in a series of shorts.
The Mist (2007)
Another movie based on a short story by Stephen King, The Mist is about the unseen things you are afraid of. People become trapped in a small town grocery store after a freak storm pushes a strange mist into their area. The mist is full of strange blood, sucking creatures.
Jisatsu Sakuru AKA Suicide Club (2001)
A detective is trying to solve the mystery of a rash of suicides in Japan. But how do you stop a killer when the killer is yourself?
Janghwa, Hongryeon AKA A Tale of Two Sisters (2003)
A Korean film about two sisters having to deal with a cruel step-mother and a few ghosts while recovering from a stint in a metal institution.
L'uccello Dalle Piume di Cristallo AKA The Bird With the Crystal Plumage (1970)
An American writer travelling in Rome becomes the target of a serial killer after witnessing the attack on the lone surviving victim. Without much for the police to go on, the writer takes on the investigation himself, pulling him further and further into the killer's deadly game.
Hour of the Wolf (1968)
A husband is haunted by his past demons. His wife, desperate to help him, begins to share in his late night hallucinations.
That Darn Cat (1965/1997)
A kidnapped woman is able to get messages out via a wandering cat. The cat's owner, in turn, contacts the authorities. Together they take down the inept crooks.
Shaun of the Dead (2004)
A romance movie that just happens to have zombies... Shaun is trying to win back Liz's heart when a zombie apocalypse breaks out and hilarity ensues!
Zombieland (2009)
Zombieland taught us the rules of how to live in a world infested with zombies. "Double Tap!"
When a Stranger Calls (1979)
Before the days of Caller ID, it was so much easier to terrorize your babysitters. When someone calls and keeps inquiring about the children in your care, it's either their parents or a lunatic waiting to tear you apart.
Thank you so much for all of your suggestions! I had so much fun reading all your comments and discussing movies with all of you! Look for the next list coming out in December, "Christmas Movies You Must See"!
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Life According to Sam (2013)
Progeria is known as the "premature aging" disease. It is a rare genetic condition that is caused by a mutation in one of our genes. In Life According to Sam, we get to know the Berns family and their life with Progeria. Sam is the son of doctors Leslie Gordon and Scott Berns. His parents refused to accept the grim diagnosis given them and the Progeria Research Foundation was born.
The Premise
Life According to Sam takes us through the not so ordinary lives of the Berns family. Sam is a teenager living with Progeria. His parents, both doctors, have dedicated their lives to healing others and have now poured that same passion into finding treatments and a cure for Progeria. This illuminating documentary shows what it is like to endure a child's illness, and the heart break and triumph that go along with it.
My Take
Sam is an an incredibly inspiring young man. His optimism and honesty are contagious. When facing the possibility of a short life, Sam still has the motivation to make plans for the future and that speaks volumes about his character. His parents are ever present in his life and help make sure that he has every opportunity to succeed. As a result, he is an honor student and a member of his high school's marching band. I can think of very few people that are equally as encouraging as young Sam.
Dr. Leslie Gordon is Sam's mother and is the Medical Director of the Progeria Research Foundation (PRF). When Leslie and Dr. Scott Berns, Sam's father, got the diagnosis that their only son had Progeria they quickly realized that there was a lack of information out there for other families as well as a lack of research being done for the medical community. They were able to form the PRF to help children affected with Progeria in hopes to raise awareness, educate families and the public, find the cause, find a treatment and one day find a cure for Progeria.
During the course of the documentary, we follow the Berns family, as well as other families, as they participate in the first ever human drug trial for a treatment for Progeria. We experience first hand the difficulty these kids experience as their little bodies are aging and their minds stay young. Their bones become brittle, their hearing and sight change, and their arteries harden and narrow, too. In fact most of these children will die of heart attack or stroke. And anyone that knows me knows that stroke is near and dear to my heart, having suffered a stroke at a young age myself due to a heart defect.
The Verdict
Life According to Sam made me cry probably half a dozen times. It tugged at my heart in ways that few documentaries have. It made me laugh, too. This film is not about trying to make you feel bad or feel sorry for the kids that were featured. In fact, it made we wish I knew them. They were all so brave and so beautiful and so full of life. I give Life According to Sam 17/17 years, because that is how old Sam is today.
Please visit the Progeria Research Foundation Website by clicking here.
The Premise
Life According to Sam takes us through the not so ordinary lives of the Berns family. Sam is a teenager living with Progeria. His parents, both doctors, have dedicated their lives to healing others and have now poured that same passion into finding treatments and a cure for Progeria. This illuminating documentary shows what it is like to endure a child's illness, and the heart break and triumph that go along with it.
My Take
Sam is an an incredibly inspiring young man. His optimism and honesty are contagious. When facing the possibility of a short life, Sam still has the motivation to make plans for the future and that speaks volumes about his character. His parents are ever present in his life and help make sure that he has every opportunity to succeed. As a result, he is an honor student and a member of his high school's marching band. I can think of very few people that are equally as encouraging as young Sam.
Dr. Leslie Gordon is Sam's mother and is the Medical Director of the Progeria Research Foundation (PRF). When Leslie and Dr. Scott Berns, Sam's father, got the diagnosis that their only son had Progeria they quickly realized that there was a lack of information out there for other families as well as a lack of research being done for the medical community. They were able to form the PRF to help children affected with Progeria in hopes to raise awareness, educate families and the public, find the cause, find a treatment and one day find a cure for Progeria.
During the course of the documentary, we follow the Berns family, as well as other families, as they participate in the first ever human drug trial for a treatment for Progeria. We experience first hand the difficulty these kids experience as their little bodies are aging and their minds stay young. Their bones become brittle, their hearing and sight change, and their arteries harden and narrow, too. In fact most of these children will die of heart attack or stroke. And anyone that knows me knows that stroke is near and dear to my heart, having suffered a stroke at a young age myself due to a heart defect.
The Verdict
Life According to Sam made me cry probably half a dozen times. It tugged at my heart in ways that few documentaries have. It made me laugh, too. This film is not about trying to make you feel bad or feel sorry for the kids that were featured. In fact, it made we wish I knew them. They were all so brave and so beautiful and so full of life. I give Life According to Sam 17/17 years, because that is how old Sam is today.
Please visit the Progeria Research Foundation Website by clicking here.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
It's a Disaster (2012)
It's a Disaster is couple's movie if there ever was a couple's movie. You know, if there was also an impending world disaster on the horizon. Written and directed by Todd Berger, It's a Disaster is a comedy about what happens when people who know too much about each other are trapped in a house together, until they die.
The Premise
Four couples meet for their regular Sunday brunch, but this is anything but a regular Sunday. The eight friends become trapped inside as catastrophe strikes, only to air grievances, lick old wounds and watch their fates unfurl.
My Take
The reason this movie works so well is because it is so easy to relate to all the characters. As I watched this movie, I saw each friend and each couple as either myself or as other friends and other couples that I know.
There is Emma and Pete (Erinn Hayes and Blaise Miller). They are the perfect couple that are hosting the perfect couple's brunch. It seems that this is the couple every other couple looks to for advice. They were the first to get married and now they are the first to file for divorce. Too much pressure to be perfect? Next is Lexi and Buck, played by Rachel Boston and Kevin M. Brennan. This is the couple that is always on the verge of being inappropriate. Be it the drugs, the sex, or the bad timing, they are hilariously carefree. That brings us to America Ferrera and Jeff Grace, who are Hedy and Shane. Hedy and Shane are the couple that cannot get along no matter what. That's the couple that makes you wonder how they ever got together and why they even bother, but Ferrera and Grace make their blunders fun to watch. And finally there is Glen, played by David Cross, and Tracy, played by Julia Stiles. They are the new couple. They are on their third date, to be exact, and Tracy is nervous because she always attracts the crazy ones.
As the movie progresses, and the individuals are trapped in the house together, they all reconnect in ways they don't expect. Of course there are the expected arguments as personalities clash, but there are also tender moments as some fires are rekindled and others are put out. Everything is pieced together in such a funny and brilliant way, that you almost forget it is Armageddon outside.
The Verdict
I love how casual the dialogue is in this movie. Everyone talks over each other just like in real life. In real life, no one waits their turn to talk. You interrupt one another, talk over each other, yell, whisper behind each other's backs, and they do that in It's a Disaster. All of the actors did an excellent job of developing their individual personalities and fusing them to match and counter their mate's personalities. I give It's a Disaster 7/8 friends to watch this with, if you're lucky enough to find friends like these.
The Premise
Four couples meet for their regular Sunday brunch, but this is anything but a regular Sunday. The eight friends become trapped inside as catastrophe strikes, only to air grievances, lick old wounds and watch their fates unfurl.
My Take
The reason this movie works so well is because it is so easy to relate to all the characters. As I watched this movie, I saw each friend and each couple as either myself or as other friends and other couples that I know.
There is Emma and Pete (Erinn Hayes and Blaise Miller). They are the perfect couple that are hosting the perfect couple's brunch. It seems that this is the couple every other couple looks to for advice. They were the first to get married and now they are the first to file for divorce. Too much pressure to be perfect? Next is Lexi and Buck, played by Rachel Boston and Kevin M. Brennan. This is the couple that is always on the verge of being inappropriate. Be it the drugs, the sex, or the bad timing, they are hilariously carefree. That brings us to America Ferrera and Jeff Grace, who are Hedy and Shane. Hedy and Shane are the couple that cannot get along no matter what. That's the couple that makes you wonder how they ever got together and why they even bother, but Ferrera and Grace make their blunders fun to watch. And finally there is Glen, played by David Cross, and Tracy, played by Julia Stiles. They are the new couple. They are on their third date, to be exact, and Tracy is nervous because she always attracts the crazy ones.
As the movie progresses, and the individuals are trapped in the house together, they all reconnect in ways they don't expect. Of course there are the expected arguments as personalities clash, but there are also tender moments as some fires are rekindled and others are put out. Everything is pieced together in such a funny and brilliant way, that you almost forget it is Armageddon outside.
The Verdict
I love how casual the dialogue is in this movie. Everyone talks over each other just like in real life. In real life, no one waits their turn to talk. You interrupt one another, talk over each other, yell, whisper behind each other's backs, and they do that in It's a Disaster. All of the actors did an excellent job of developing their individual personalities and fusing them to match and counter their mate's personalities. I give It's a Disaster 7/8 friends to watch this with, if you're lucky enough to find friends like these.
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Cockneys vs Zombies (2012)
I love a little comedy in my horror. That's probably why I love movies like Shaun of the Dead, Grabbers, and Tucker and Dale vs Evil. They use a lot of classic horror movie ideas but make them their own by mixing in a lot of classic comedic moments. And I apologize to my fellow Americans, but I think our neighbors across the pond have a great handle on this genre. Movies like Shaun of the Dead, Grabbers, Attack the Block, and Cockneys vs Zombies are quickly becoming some of my favorite films.
The Premise
Two brothers and their cousin have decided to rob a bank in order to save their grandfather's convalescent home from being torn down. The problem is, they haven't enlisted the most competent people to help them and the East End of London is being over run by hordes of zombies. Now they have to make it back to the retirement home, hostages in tow, to save their grandfather before zombies eat them all.
My Take
I love my grandpa and would totally rob a bank to save his arse. Especially if he was as gritty and spirited as the way Alan Ford plays Ray. Ray is the grandfather Terry, Andy and Katy are robbing the bank when zombies are released from a tomb on a construction site. The poor inept bank robbers accidentally end up with more money than they intend to and are surrounded by police. Mental Mickey, played by Ashley Bashy Thomas, decides to take hostages and comes out of the bank, guns blazing, only to find out that zombies have done the job for them. The police have either been eaten or have turned into zombies themselves. The only thing they can think to do is to go rescue their grandpa.
Of course, things are never that simple. People are lost on the way, sometimes through really bizarre circumstances. Poor Davey. The elderly get trapped in their retirement home and have to fight their way through zombies with walkers, canes, and corn flakes. The dialogue is hilarious and there were several times we had to pause the movie because we didn't want to miss anything simply because we were laughing so hard.
I loved Michelle Ryan, who played Katy. She is a fantastic female lead. She kicked butt and managed to still be sexy. Rasmus Hardiker and Harry Treadaway were very good as the two brothers, Terry and Andy. Their chemistry was such that when they argued, cut each other off, and finish each other's sentences, they managed to make it feel natural. Emma, the hostage played by Georgia King, made me laugh several times. And,of course, the cast wouldn't be complete without mentioning the elderly heroes, Honor Blackman, Tony Selby, Georgina Hale, Dudley Sutton and Richard Briers. You guys can protect me any day.
The Verdict
I felt that Cockneys vs Zombies set out to do what it wanted to do. They made an entertaining film about zombies and the importance of family. It made me laugh. I loved the script and the direction. The special
effects were good, but sometimes they were either over the top or a little lagging for me. But, having never seen a zombie up close, who am I to criticize? This is a movie I will be adding to my next "Must Watch List". I give Cockneys vs Zombies 7/10 rolling zombie heads.
I do have one question, though. Being American, I have no idea what the tagline, "The undead are brown bread" means. Perhaps one of you can be so kind as to explain it to me?
The Premise
Two brothers and their cousin have decided to rob a bank in order to save their grandfather's convalescent home from being torn down. The problem is, they haven't enlisted the most competent people to help them and the East End of London is being over run by hordes of zombies. Now they have to make it back to the retirement home, hostages in tow, to save their grandfather before zombies eat them all.
My Take
I love my grandpa and would totally rob a bank to save his arse. Especially if he was as gritty and spirited as the way Alan Ford plays Ray. Ray is the grandfather Terry, Andy and Katy are robbing the bank when zombies are released from a tomb on a construction site. The poor inept bank robbers accidentally end up with more money than they intend to and are surrounded by police. Mental Mickey, played by Ashley Bashy Thomas, decides to take hostages and comes out of the bank, guns blazing, only to find out that zombies have done the job for them. The police have either been eaten or have turned into zombies themselves. The only thing they can think to do is to go rescue their grandpa.
Of course, things are never that simple. People are lost on the way, sometimes through really bizarre circumstances. Poor Davey. The elderly get trapped in their retirement home and have to fight their way through zombies with walkers, canes, and corn flakes. The dialogue is hilarious and there were several times we had to pause the movie because we didn't want to miss anything simply because we were laughing so hard.
I loved Michelle Ryan, who played Katy. She is a fantastic female lead. She kicked butt and managed to still be sexy. Rasmus Hardiker and Harry Treadaway were very good as the two brothers, Terry and Andy. Their chemistry was such that when they argued, cut each other off, and finish each other's sentences, they managed to make it feel natural. Emma, the hostage played by Georgia King, made me laugh several times. And,of course, the cast wouldn't be complete without mentioning the elderly heroes, Honor Blackman, Tony Selby, Georgina Hale, Dudley Sutton and Richard Briers. You guys can protect me any day.
The Verdict
I felt that Cockneys vs Zombies set out to do what it wanted to do. They made an entertaining film about zombies and the importance of family. It made me laugh. I loved the script and the direction. The special
effects were good, but sometimes they were either over the top or a little lagging for me. But, having never seen a zombie up close, who am I to criticize? This is a movie I will be adding to my next "Must Watch List". I give Cockneys vs Zombies 7/10 rolling zombie heads.
I do have one question, though. Being American, I have no idea what the tagline, "The undead are brown bread" means. Perhaps one of you can be so kind as to explain it to me?
Friday, October 4, 2013
25 Movies You Should Watch This Halloween
I thought I would compile a list of movies you should add to your "Must Watch" list of Halloween movies this October. I want to invite you, my readers, to add any movies you love in the comment section. From that comment section, and comments I get on FaceBook and Twitter, I will compile an additional list. See? I listen to you guys! Here we go!
In No Particular Order You Should Watch:
Halloween (1978)
Duh! Who hasn't seen this classic? It is an absolute must! It changed the face of all horror movies and was done on the budget of an independent film. Just goes to show that you can do great things with a small amount of money. It is also a lesson in self defense for every babysitter.
Night of the Living Dead (1968)
The zombie movie that started all zombie movies and another movie made with very little money. It accidentally added to the commentary on racial tensions in America at the time by casting a black actor in the lead role that ultimately had control over the white actors.
Pumpkinhead (1988)
The story of a man seeking revenge for his fallen son. This is a personal favorite of my husband. Some teenagers accidentally kill a man's son so he conjures up a demon in order to seek vengeance. But vengeance comes with a steep price.
Young Frankenstein (1974)
I love this movie. It is my absolute favorite Mel Brooks comedy. You can only deny your heritage for so long. And poor Dr. Frankenstein finally succumbs to who he really is in the most fantastically funny way in Young Frankenstein.
Jeepers Creepers (2001)
I like this movie because it was an original idea at the time. They set the scene just right so that it wasn't cheesy or goofy. It was suspenseful and interesting and cast very well. In fact I just watched it again last night.
Beetlejuice (1988)
I make no apologies for loving this movie. Everyone has their guilty pleasures and this is one of mine. I saw it as a kid and thought that it was creepy and silly. As an adult I think that it's goofy and funny. But my kids love it so I still get to watch it. Just don't say his name three times!
Trick 'r Treat (2007)
I don't think very many people have seen this movie. I like this one. It had four separate stories that end up all coming together. It's one of those movies that I can't say too much about because I would give too much away, but it's worth a watch.
Scream (1996)
"What's your favorite scary movie?" This movie made the ghost face mask a favorite Halloween costume for years. It made fun of the 'rules' of scary movies and set new standards for new generations to live up to.
Poltergeist (1982)
A movie about a family plagued with problems turned cast plagued with catastrophe. Creepy!
The Thing (1982)
I remember watching this movie with my dad. I love this movie! The special effects were amazing for the time. It was a scary idea during the Cold War. People were not who you thought they were. It was a movie about hiding in plain sight. The 2011 version was pretty good, too.
An American Werewolf in London (1981)
I love special effects, in case you haven't noticed. In this movie, they wanted to show the audience the werewolf transformation and friend, Jack's, deteriorating state. The rest of the movie was pretty good, too.
Psycho (1960)
The Hitchcock movie that made every woman afraid of taking a shower. It may not be very scary by today's standards, but it was downright frightening in the 1960's.
It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown (1966)
Not my personal favorite, but the kids love it. And it's a tradition, I suppose.
Casper (1995)
Casper, the friendly ghost, made it to the big screen. He befriends the daughter of a paranormal expert who moves into the house where he and his three ghostly uncles reside.
The Witches (1990)
This family movie is based on a book that I have yet to read. Witches think children smell like dog poop and turn them into mice. Then, one little mouse-child gets the best of them. It's not how big you are, it's how smart you are.
Hocus Pocus (1993)
Another one of my favorite witch movies. I love when kids get revenge on adults. It helps keep things in check and keeps us adults on our toes.
Monster House (2006)
Monster House gives you a good reason to stay off of that old man's lawn. You never know if his departed wife's spirit has taken over his house and will devour you if ever come in. Best heed his warning...
Wasting Away aka Aaah! Zombies! (2007)
A zombie movie in which the zombies don't know they're zombies. It's completely silly and told mostly from the zombie's perspective as they try to understand why they are being chased, gunned down, and are soooo hungry! Mmmm, brains...
Clue (1985)
I knew every word to this movie when I was a kid and it is probably the one movie my mom will never watch again. It's another one of my guilty pleasure movies. It's a mystery and that's why it is on my list. Don't judge me.
The Amityville Horror (1979)
Supposedly based on true events, The Amityville Horror takes you through the terrifying events that the Lutz family experienced in their short stay in the haunted house.
Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1978)
Another movie that is scary because people may not be what they seem. I especially love this movie for the ending.
Slither (2006)
I love movies that add humor to their horror and Slither is one of those. When I saw Grabbers, I immediately thought of Slither because of the similarity in style.
28 Days Later (2002)
I think this was one of the best post-apocalyptic zombie worlds ever created for a movie. It revealed all sides of human nature and inspired countless other movies and television shows, like the Walking Dead.
Friday the 13th (1980)
It was Mrs. Vorhees! Sorry to give away the ending, but I hate it when people blame poor Jason for all that carnage. I know we all laugh when it happens now, but the big reveal of finding all the bodies was genius in 1980.
Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Freddy will get you in your dreams! What a great idea! A person who can kill you in your sleep. And it was all your parent's fault! Even better.
I hope you enjoyed my list and that it inspires you to make your own. Please tell me your favorites so that I can compile a second "Favorite's List"! I look forward to hearing from you! Happy Haunting!
In No Particular Order You Should Watch:
Halloween (1978)
Duh! Who hasn't seen this classic? It is an absolute must! It changed the face of all horror movies and was done on the budget of an independent film. Just goes to show that you can do great things with a small amount of money. It is also a lesson in self defense for every babysitter.
Night of the Living Dead (1968)
The zombie movie that started all zombie movies and another movie made with very little money. It accidentally added to the commentary on racial tensions in America at the time by casting a black actor in the lead role that ultimately had control over the white actors.
Pumpkinhead (1988)
The story of a man seeking revenge for his fallen son. This is a personal favorite of my husband. Some teenagers accidentally kill a man's son so he conjures up a demon in order to seek vengeance. But vengeance comes with a steep price.
Young Frankenstein (1974)
I love this movie. It is my absolute favorite Mel Brooks comedy. You can only deny your heritage for so long. And poor Dr. Frankenstein finally succumbs to who he really is in the most fantastically funny way in Young Frankenstein.
Jeepers Creepers (2001)
I like this movie because it was an original idea at the time. They set the scene just right so that it wasn't cheesy or goofy. It was suspenseful and interesting and cast very well. In fact I just watched it again last night.
Beetlejuice (1988)
I make no apologies for loving this movie. Everyone has their guilty pleasures and this is one of mine. I saw it as a kid and thought that it was creepy and silly. As an adult I think that it's goofy and funny. But my kids love it so I still get to watch it. Just don't say his name three times!
Trick 'r Treat (2007)
I don't think very many people have seen this movie. I like this one. It had four separate stories that end up all coming together. It's one of those movies that I can't say too much about because I would give too much away, but it's worth a watch.
Scream (1996)
"What's your favorite scary movie?" This movie made the ghost face mask a favorite Halloween costume for years. It made fun of the 'rules' of scary movies and set new standards for new generations to live up to.
Poltergeist (1982)
A movie about a family plagued with problems turned cast plagued with catastrophe. Creepy!
The Thing (1982)
I remember watching this movie with my dad. I love this movie! The special effects were amazing for the time. It was a scary idea during the Cold War. People were not who you thought they were. It was a movie about hiding in plain sight. The 2011 version was pretty good, too.
An American Werewolf in London (1981)
I love special effects, in case you haven't noticed. In this movie, they wanted to show the audience the werewolf transformation and friend, Jack's, deteriorating state. The rest of the movie was pretty good, too.
Psycho (1960)
The Hitchcock movie that made every woman afraid of taking a shower. It may not be very scary by today's standards, but it was downright frightening in the 1960's.
It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown (1966)
Not my personal favorite, but the kids love it. And it's a tradition, I suppose.
Casper (1995)
Casper, the friendly ghost, made it to the big screen. He befriends the daughter of a paranormal expert who moves into the house where he and his three ghostly uncles reside.
The Witches (1990)
This family movie is based on a book that I have yet to read. Witches think children smell like dog poop and turn them into mice. Then, one little mouse-child gets the best of them. It's not how big you are, it's how smart you are.
Hocus Pocus (1993)
Another one of my favorite witch movies. I love when kids get revenge on adults. It helps keep things in check and keeps us adults on our toes.
Monster House (2006)
Monster House gives you a good reason to stay off of that old man's lawn. You never know if his departed wife's spirit has taken over his house and will devour you if ever come in. Best heed his warning...
Wasting Away aka Aaah! Zombies! (2007)
A zombie movie in which the zombies don't know they're zombies. It's completely silly and told mostly from the zombie's perspective as they try to understand why they are being chased, gunned down, and are soooo hungry! Mmmm, brains...
Clue (1985)
I knew every word to this movie when I was a kid and it is probably the one movie my mom will never watch again. It's another one of my guilty pleasure movies. It's a mystery and that's why it is on my list. Don't judge me.
The Amityville Horror (1979)
Supposedly based on true events, The Amityville Horror takes you through the terrifying events that the Lutz family experienced in their short stay in the haunted house.
Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1978)
Another movie that is scary because people may not be what they seem. I especially love this movie for the ending.
Slither (2006)
I love movies that add humor to their horror and Slither is one of those. When I saw Grabbers, I immediately thought of Slither because of the similarity in style.
28 Days Later (2002)
I think this was one of the best post-apocalyptic zombie worlds ever created for a movie. It revealed all sides of human nature and inspired countless other movies and television shows, like the Walking Dead.
Friday the 13th (1980)
It was Mrs. Vorhees! Sorry to give away the ending, but I hate it when people blame poor Jason for all that carnage. I know we all laugh when it happens now, but the big reveal of finding all the bodies was genius in 1980.
Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Freddy will get you in your dreams! What a great idea! A person who can kill you in your sleep. And it was all your parent's fault! Even better.
I hope you enjoyed my list and that it inspires you to make your own. Please tell me your favorites so that I can compile a second "Favorite's List"! I look forward to hearing from you! Happy Haunting!
Thursday, September 26, 2013
First Cousin Once Removed (2012)
First Cousin Once Removed is the most recent documentary from director Alan Berliner. It is no secret that Alzheimer's Disease is a terrible illness that is affecting an untold number of people around the world. First Cousin is a very personal documentary that takes a look inside of the mind of poet Edwin Honig as he lost his memory to Alzheimer's Disease.
The Premise
Acclaimed poet, translator and professor, Edwin Honig has given his cousin, Alan Berlinger, permission to film him has he struggles with memory loss due to Alzheimer's Disease. First Cousin Once Removed is filmed over the course of five years and shows, with compassionate honesty, the emotional and physical toll that memory loss takes on the Edwin, his friends and his family.
My Take
There was a moment, in the very beginning of the film, in which Edwin's sister stated that she was afraid this project would be demeaning. She didn't approve that her brother would be shown deteriorating and in such a helpless state. Later, she realized that her brother had in fact given his permission, when he was still lucid, for this project to proceed. She then came to appreciate the impact that such a documentary could make. Edwin Honig was an accomplished poet and respected professor. He wanted to help his cousin, Alan, make a film that would make a difference.
First Cousin was filmed over the course of five years. I can't even begin to imagine the editing process involved in a project this size. I have trouble editing my daughter's Barbie videos. The common theme of this documentary were the memories of Edwin's past. What did he remember about different events/people/times from his past? His responses were edited together to show the lapses in his memory. At different times he could remember different details or sometimes nothing at all. These edits also showed how Alzheimer's affected him physically. As the disease took over his mind, his body began fail. First Cousin illustrated this without ever telling us directly.
There were some wonderful emotional moments as well; good ones as well as sad ones. Edwin had a play-date with Alan's son. They connected through music. Music is very powerful. Musical memories are some of the last to go. They played the piano, hummed, banged, played a harmonica and sang. Unfortunately, Edwin's relationship with his own sons was strained. That was one of the more difficult moments. His memories of them became hazy. That was bittersweet because he didn't remember that they no longer spoke.
Are there memories that we are best off not remembering? Are there things we want to remember forever?
What happens when a creator becomes trapped in his own mind and can no longer create? Can no longer express? Can no longer openly display the ideas that are surely still running through addled brains?
The Verdict
First Cousin Once Removed was a documentary about a very smart a creative man named Edwin Honig, who happened to have Alzheimer's Disease. This film treated him with the dignity and respect that all memory impaired loved ones deserve. It was beautifully filmed and executed by someone who loved him and set out to make a statement.
If I were to have any critiques, it would be that the typewriter sound effects got old after the first thirty minutes. I understood the point of keeping them in for so long, but I grew tired of the clacking. I give First Cousin Once Removed 9/10 stanzas.
For more information about Alzheimer's Disease click here
The Premise
Acclaimed poet, translator and professor, Edwin Honig has given his cousin, Alan Berlinger, permission to film him has he struggles with memory loss due to Alzheimer's Disease. First Cousin Once Removed is filmed over the course of five years and shows, with compassionate honesty, the emotional and physical toll that memory loss takes on the Edwin, his friends and his family.
My Take
There was a moment, in the very beginning of the film, in which Edwin's sister stated that she was afraid this project would be demeaning. She didn't approve that her brother would be shown deteriorating and in such a helpless state. Later, she realized that her brother had in fact given his permission, when he was still lucid, for this project to proceed. She then came to appreciate the impact that such a documentary could make. Edwin Honig was an accomplished poet and respected professor. He wanted to help his cousin, Alan, make a film that would make a difference.
First Cousin was filmed over the course of five years. I can't even begin to imagine the editing process involved in a project this size. I have trouble editing my daughter's Barbie videos. The common theme of this documentary were the memories of Edwin's past. What did he remember about different events/people/times from his past? His responses were edited together to show the lapses in his memory. At different times he could remember different details or sometimes nothing at all. These edits also showed how Alzheimer's affected him physically. As the disease took over his mind, his body began fail. First Cousin illustrated this without ever telling us directly.
There were some wonderful emotional moments as well; good ones as well as sad ones. Edwin had a play-date with Alan's son. They connected through music. Music is very powerful. Musical memories are some of the last to go. They played the piano, hummed, banged, played a harmonica and sang. Unfortunately, Edwin's relationship with his own sons was strained. That was one of the more difficult moments. His memories of them became hazy. That was bittersweet because he didn't remember that they no longer spoke.
Are there memories that we are best off not remembering? Are there things we want to remember forever?
What happens when a creator becomes trapped in his own mind and can no longer create? Can no longer express? Can no longer openly display the ideas that are surely still running through addled brains?
The Verdict
First Cousin Once Removed was a documentary about a very smart a creative man named Edwin Honig, who happened to have Alzheimer's Disease. This film treated him with the dignity and respect that all memory impaired loved ones deserve. It was beautifully filmed and executed by someone who loved him and set out to make a statement.
If I were to have any critiques, it would be that the typewriter sound effects got old after the first thirty minutes. I understood the point of keeping them in for so long, but I grew tired of the clacking. I give First Cousin Once Removed 9/10 stanzas.
For more information about Alzheimer's Disease click here
Monday, September 9, 2013
Grabbers (2012)
I drink to save the world...
Or at least to survive a hoard of blood sucking aliens that have taken over a small Irish island. That is the premise of Grabbers. This has to be my favorite Irish film since Waking Ned Devine. Grabbers has all the right ingredients for an entertaining film. Aliens, romance, beautiful scenery and drunken Irish men and women trying to make coherent decisions.
The Premise
A squid-like alien race is trying to take over a small island off the coast of Ireland. The Irish police force discover, after a drunken encounter with one of their own, that these bloodsucking creatures can't tolerate alcohol. It is now up to them to keep the town drunk while they figure out how to defeat the aliens.
My Take
You can't go wrong when the Irish are poking fun at the Irish for being drunk. There was so much development in even the minor characters of this movie, that it made me want to visit this town. Aside from the killer aliens, of course. I don't know if writer Kevin Lehane and director Jon Wright worked together closely on this project or not, but the script and the direction went together seamlessly. Lehane wrote a script full of humor and quit wit, which I personally love. There were a lot little moments between characters that let you know how deep their friendships or relationships ran without ever going into long, drawn-out back stories. Wright seems to have that rare knack of bringing out the best in his actors. They were so funny without ever putting forth any real effort. And you would swore that entire cast was actually drunk.
Richard Coyle was Garda Ciaran O'Shea, the officer with a drinking problem. American audiences have seen Coyle most recently as Simon Fischer on Covert Affairs. He is also better known as Jeff on Coupling. But Coyle played the alcoholic Irish cop, OShea, in Grabbers with such ease that it was easy to erase the images of his former characters. I could almost smell him, he was so hungover. He was mean and sarcastic and yet likable in a pathetic sort of way. Then a woman came into his life.
That woman was Ruth Bradley who played, Garda Lisa Nolan, the workaholic. I am unfamiliar with Bradley's work, but I loved her in Grabbers. I don't think I have ever seen a better drunk. This poor woman's character was a strict, by the book police officer who was suddenly expected to do her job completely smashed. And she did it with such gusto that we couldn't stop laughing. Even better, we were laughing with her, not at her.
I loved the bartender, Brian, played by David Pearse. This poor man let the entire town take over his bar. Russell Tovey was hysterical as the straight-laced scientist who can't handle his liquor. I'm still holding out hope that they'll find him sleeping it off somewhere. There was a drunk priest, little old ladies, little old men, bitter girlfriends, Irish drinking songs, and many an homage to classic horror films. The ones I caught were to Gremlins, Aliens, and Tremors.
The Verdict
If you love Sci-fi, horror and humor you will probably like this movie. It moves really fast but still takes the time to get you invested in the story and the characters. The script was paired up with just the right director. So raise a toast! I give this movie 8/8 tentacles. I think that everything came together just right in this one.
Or at least to survive a hoard of blood sucking aliens that have taken over a small Irish island. That is the premise of Grabbers. This has to be my favorite Irish film since Waking Ned Devine. Grabbers has all the right ingredients for an entertaining film. Aliens, romance, beautiful scenery and drunken Irish men and women trying to make coherent decisions.
The Premise
A squid-like alien race is trying to take over a small island off the coast of Ireland. The Irish police force discover, after a drunken encounter with one of their own, that these bloodsucking creatures can't tolerate alcohol. It is now up to them to keep the town drunk while they figure out how to defeat the aliens.
My Take
You can't go wrong when the Irish are poking fun at the Irish for being drunk. There was so much development in even the minor characters of this movie, that it made me want to visit this town. Aside from the killer aliens, of course. I don't know if writer Kevin Lehane and director Jon Wright worked together closely on this project or not, but the script and the direction went together seamlessly. Lehane wrote a script full of humor and quit wit, which I personally love. There were a lot little moments between characters that let you know how deep their friendships or relationships ran without ever going into long, drawn-out back stories. Wright seems to have that rare knack of bringing out the best in his actors. They were so funny without ever putting forth any real effort. And you would swore that entire cast was actually drunk.
Richard Coyle was Garda Ciaran O'Shea, the officer with a drinking problem. American audiences have seen Coyle most recently as Simon Fischer on Covert Affairs. He is also better known as Jeff on Coupling. But Coyle played the alcoholic Irish cop, OShea, in Grabbers with such ease that it was easy to erase the images of his former characters. I could almost smell him, he was so hungover. He was mean and sarcastic and yet likable in a pathetic sort of way. Then a woman came into his life.
That woman was Ruth Bradley who played, Garda Lisa Nolan, the workaholic. I am unfamiliar with Bradley's work, but I loved her in Grabbers. I don't think I have ever seen a better drunk. This poor woman's character was a strict, by the book police officer who was suddenly expected to do her job completely smashed. And she did it with such gusto that we couldn't stop laughing. Even better, we were laughing with her, not at her.
I loved the bartender, Brian, played by David Pearse. This poor man let the entire town take over his bar. Russell Tovey was hysterical as the straight-laced scientist who can't handle his liquor. I'm still holding out hope that they'll find him sleeping it off somewhere. There was a drunk priest, little old ladies, little old men, bitter girlfriends, Irish drinking songs, and many an homage to classic horror films. The ones I caught were to Gremlins, Aliens, and Tremors.
The Verdict
If you love Sci-fi, horror and humor you will probably like this movie. It moves really fast but still takes the time to get you invested in the story and the characters. The script was paired up with just the right director. So raise a toast! I give this movie 8/8 tentacles. I think that everything came together just right in this one.
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Smashed (2012)
Smashed is a little film from director/writer James Ponsoldt and writer Susan Burke. I caught it on cable the other night and wondered why I hadn't seen it in theaters. I know that independent films rarely get the wide release that they deserve and I think that's a shame. The public ends up missing out those rare gems that make independent films so satisfying. But then I suppose a wide release would take away the intimacy that independent films have garnered over the years. And that would take away that special feeling you get when you watch something really personal. Smashed was one of those films for me.
I really enjoy films that are about personal journeys. Personal journeys are something everyone can relate to. We may not all go through the exact same situation, and movies are generally dramatized for our benefit, but we all know someone or have ourselves been in a time or at a place in our lives in which we can feel for the characters on screen.
The Premise
Kate and Charlie are happily married and are feeling no pain. Everything is bliss until Kate has an awakening and decides it is time to sober up. Sobriety tests her marriage, job and her way of life. With help from new friends, Kate finds the strength to conquer her addiction and tries to make a new life for herself.
My Take
Mary Elizabeth Winstead plays Kate, the first grade teacher with a drinking problem. She goes to sleep drunk and treats her hangovers with a bit of the "hair of the dog". She is married to Charlie, played by Breaking Bad's Aaron Paul. Together they form a co-dependent couple that are as married to each other as they are to alcohol. I don't know if Aaron and Mary were able to get to know each other prior to filming, but they were absolutely believable as a married couple. They shared glances, touches, and smiles just like a real couple. It made the escalation of events and the eventual breakdown of their marriage more believable.
Mary does an excellent job with all the emotions involved in playing Kate. She is a joyful amnesiac when drinking and mournful and guilt ridden when facing her demons. She plays Kate with perfect courage and anxiety. She made me feel for her. I couldn't help but think, "Poor dear," every time something else bad happened. That's the sign of a good actress. One that can pull you into a story.
I read some comments saying that Aaron Paul was playing his character Jesse Pinkman (from Breaking Bad) instead of portraying Charlie. I disagree. I think that Charlie had some similarities to Jesse, which may be why Aaron was cast, but there were differences between Aaron's character on Breaking Bad and his character on Smashed. Aaron is a kinder, gentler man as Charlie. He is in love with his wife, his life and his addiction. Charlie is happy and hopeful for his future. I think the biggest difference comes in toward the end of the film when Kate has her relapse. Charlie tries his best to calm her down. That was my favorite moment for Aaron in this movie. He was desperate, scared and the realization of his wife's problems finally hit him full force.
The supporting cast includes Megan Mullally as the inappropriately over involved school principle. I think she was great. It was an understated role that went to very funny lady. Octavia Spencer, whom I know most recently from The Help, was Kate's AA sponsor. And, finally, Nick Offerman rounds out the cast as the creepy vice principle that originally offers to help Kate.
The Verdict
Smashed was a story about one woman's struggle with sobriety. As far as I could see, it was very well done. Because Kate chose AA, I think it would have been helpful to see her go through some of the steps. For example, does Kate ever try to make up with her mom? I would have liked to see a little more story line with Kate and Charlie's marriage as it changed. But I did like the way the film ended. I felt that the conversation during the croquet game at the end had a bit of a double meaning. If so, I got it. I give Smashed 10/12 wickets.
I really enjoy films that are about personal journeys. Personal journeys are something everyone can relate to. We may not all go through the exact same situation, and movies are generally dramatized for our benefit, but we all know someone or have ourselves been in a time or at a place in our lives in which we can feel for the characters on screen.
The Premise
Kate and Charlie are happily married and are feeling no pain. Everything is bliss until Kate has an awakening and decides it is time to sober up. Sobriety tests her marriage, job and her way of life. With help from new friends, Kate finds the strength to conquer her addiction and tries to make a new life for herself.
My Take
Mary Elizabeth Winstead plays Kate, the first grade teacher with a drinking problem. She goes to sleep drunk and treats her hangovers with a bit of the "hair of the dog". She is married to Charlie, played by Breaking Bad's Aaron Paul. Together they form a co-dependent couple that are as married to each other as they are to alcohol. I don't know if Aaron and Mary were able to get to know each other prior to filming, but they were absolutely believable as a married couple. They shared glances, touches, and smiles just like a real couple. It made the escalation of events and the eventual breakdown of their marriage more believable.
Mary does an excellent job with all the emotions involved in playing Kate. She is a joyful amnesiac when drinking and mournful and guilt ridden when facing her demons. She plays Kate with perfect courage and anxiety. She made me feel for her. I couldn't help but think, "Poor dear," every time something else bad happened. That's the sign of a good actress. One that can pull you into a story.
I read some comments saying that Aaron Paul was playing his character Jesse Pinkman (from Breaking Bad) instead of portraying Charlie. I disagree. I think that Charlie had some similarities to Jesse, which may be why Aaron was cast, but there were differences between Aaron's character on Breaking Bad and his character on Smashed. Aaron is a kinder, gentler man as Charlie. He is in love with his wife, his life and his addiction. Charlie is happy and hopeful for his future. I think the biggest difference comes in toward the end of the film when Kate has her relapse. Charlie tries his best to calm her down. That was my favorite moment for Aaron in this movie. He was desperate, scared and the realization of his wife's problems finally hit him full force.
The supporting cast includes Megan Mullally as the inappropriately over involved school principle. I think she was great. It was an understated role that went to very funny lady. Octavia Spencer, whom I know most recently from The Help, was Kate's AA sponsor. And, finally, Nick Offerman rounds out the cast as the creepy vice principle that originally offers to help Kate.
The Verdict
Smashed was a story about one woman's struggle with sobriety. As far as I could see, it was very well done. Because Kate chose AA, I think it would have been helpful to see her go through some of the steps. For example, does Kate ever try to make up with her mom? I would have liked to see a little more story line with Kate and Charlie's marriage as it changed. But I did like the way the film ended. I felt that the conversation during the croquet game at the end had a bit of a double meaning. If so, I got it. I give Smashed 10/12 wickets.
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Cards Against Humanity
My favorite new game has to be Cards Against Humanity. In my house, we are big on games and constantly on the search for newer, bigger, better versions of the same old games that everyone has. Every time we venture into a toy store or department store, we stop at the game aisle to peruse what has come out.
I can't take credit for finding Cards Against Humanity. That privilege goes to a dear friend of ours who knows of our love of games. We try to have game nights as often as we can with our friends. On this particular evening we were treated to a night of a raunchy, hilarious, and often filthy card game.
The Premise
Cards Against Humanity is a very easy game to play. Each round, a player reads a Black Question Card aloud. Every other player then plays their best White Answer Card in response. The reader then chooses what he feels is the best answer. The one who played the best White Answer Card wins the Black Question Card. The player with the most Black Cards at the end of the game wins!
My Take
The game is very similar to Apples to Apples in the way it is played. The difference comes in what the cards say. The cards in Cards Against Humanity are rarely used to played G-Rated material. At least in my household. And I love that. It is a game in which adults can get together and let loose and play a game that has no boundaries. We can be as politically incorrect, offensive or just ridiculous as we want to be. I have a feeling that I would be fast friends with the creators.
The game can be downloaded for free, provided you want to sit and cut out every single card. And there are a lot of cards. Alternatively, you could pay $25 and buy the game. Currently there are also three expansion packs available for $10 each. They seem like they are open to new card ideas, too. There is an area where you can "Suggest a card". Actually, it says, "Submit your dumb idea," which gives you a bit of insight into their sense of humor.
The Verdict
Cards Against Humanity is a great game for adults who are like minded, mature and slightly off. Well, maybe not so mature. With cards like "My sex life", "Actually taking candy from a baby", and "Dick fingers" what could possibly go wrong? I give Cards Against Humanity 9/10 cards. Why? Because there's always room for improvement. Right guys?
I can't take credit for finding Cards Against Humanity. That privilege goes to a dear friend of ours who knows of our love of games. We try to have game nights as often as we can with our friends. On this particular evening we were treated to a night of a raunchy, hilarious, and often filthy card game.
The Premise
Cards Against Humanity is a very easy game to play. Each round, a player reads a Black Question Card aloud. Every other player then plays their best White Answer Card in response. The reader then chooses what he feels is the best answer. The one who played the best White Answer Card wins the Black Question Card. The player with the most Black Cards at the end of the game wins!
My Take
The game is very similar to Apples to Apples in the way it is played. The difference comes in what the cards say. The cards in Cards Against Humanity are rarely used to played G-Rated material. At least in my household. And I love that. It is a game in which adults can get together and let loose and play a game that has no boundaries. We can be as politically incorrect, offensive or just ridiculous as we want to be. I have a feeling that I would be fast friends with the creators.
The game can be downloaded for free, provided you want to sit and cut out every single card. And there are a lot of cards. Alternatively, you could pay $25 and buy the game. Currently there are also three expansion packs available for $10 each. They seem like they are open to new card ideas, too. There is an area where you can "Suggest a card". Actually, it says, "Submit your dumb idea," which gives you a bit of insight into their sense of humor.
The Verdict
Cards Against Humanity is a great game for adults who are like minded, mature and slightly off. Well, maybe not so mature. With cards like "My sex life", "Actually taking candy from a baby", and "Dick fingers" what could possibly go wrong? I give Cards Against Humanity 9/10 cards. Why? Because there's always room for improvement. Right guys?
Monday, August 26, 2013
The World's End (2013)
What better thing to do the weekend before school starts than go to the movies? The only movie I wanted to see this weekend was The World's End. We are huge fans of Simon Pegg and Edgar Wright's other collaborations, Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz. We even took the kids to see The World's End because of their love of Shaun of the Dead.
The Premise
A group of five friends reunite after 20 years to complete the Golden Mile, a mile long pub crawl in their home town. Things have changed since they left, but they slowly start to realize that things are definitely not all they seem. They race on to complete their personal quest and at the same time, try to save the world.
My Take
The cast was fantastic. I adore Martin Freeman, who took the role of Oliver. He plays my favorite version of Watson in BBC's rendition of Sherlock. I only wish we in the states could see it before the episodes were a year or two old. Paddy Considine is cast as Steven. He was in Hot Fuzz with Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, who takes a different role in this movie. In the two previous films, Frost was the dumb, yet lovable, sidekick. In The World's End, Frost's character was more serious. It stretched his acting chops and he wasn't overshadowed by these other great actors; this time because of his ability not because of his antics. Simon Pegg took the role with more shenanigans this time. He plays the group's ring leader, Gary King. Eddie Marsan, who can currently be seen on Showtime's Ray Donovan, rounded out the group as Peter.
Gary gets it in his head that life was never better than it was 20 years ago when he had all his friends together and they were trying to complete their epic pub crawl. He begs, borrows and steals his way into convincing the old gang into trying it one last time. For Gary, the 90's never ended. It's sad, because I think I know people like that.
As the men make their way through town, they begin to feel that things have changed. People bleed blue blood, lights shine out of their eyes, their cell phones don't work and no one has recognized them. They decide the best thing to do is to get to The World's End, the last pub, and get down to root of the problem. Meanwhile they're getting beaten up, chased, and, of course, tanked.
If you're familiar with Pegg and Wright's sense of humor, you'll enjoy the irony of the names of the pubs the guys visit. For example, the first pub is aptly named "The First Post". The guys get into a fight at "The Cross Hands". There are many similarities between The World's End and the previous two movies. This made watching it even better. It was like being part of a private joke. There were characters we knew and scenes that were familiar. It was a satisfying end to their trilogy.
But now that it's over, what's next? You can tell me...
The Verdict
My whole family enjoyed The World's End (ages 8 and up). I don't think it was as good as Shaun of the Dead, but I don't think anyone ever really measures up to their first big hit. Especially when a pedestal has been set so high. I still loved the movie. I laughed the whole way through. The ending was a bit weak for me, but I am only one person. And let's face it, I probably couldn't have done it better myself. I give The World's End 10/12 pints of beer.
The Premise
A group of five friends reunite after 20 years to complete the Golden Mile, a mile long pub crawl in their home town. Things have changed since they left, but they slowly start to realize that things are definitely not all they seem. They race on to complete their personal quest and at the same time, try to save the world.
My Take
The cast was fantastic. I adore Martin Freeman, who took the role of Oliver. He plays my favorite version of Watson in BBC's rendition of Sherlock. I only wish we in the states could see it before the episodes were a year or two old. Paddy Considine is cast as Steven. He was in Hot Fuzz with Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, who takes a different role in this movie. In the two previous films, Frost was the dumb, yet lovable, sidekick. In The World's End, Frost's character was more serious. It stretched his acting chops and he wasn't overshadowed by these other great actors; this time because of his ability not because of his antics. Simon Pegg took the role with more shenanigans this time. He plays the group's ring leader, Gary King. Eddie Marsan, who can currently be seen on Showtime's Ray Donovan, rounded out the group as Peter.
Gary gets it in his head that life was never better than it was 20 years ago when he had all his friends together and they were trying to complete their epic pub crawl. He begs, borrows and steals his way into convincing the old gang into trying it one last time. For Gary, the 90's never ended. It's sad, because I think I know people like that.
As the men make their way through town, they begin to feel that things have changed. People bleed blue blood, lights shine out of their eyes, their cell phones don't work and no one has recognized them. They decide the best thing to do is to get to The World's End, the last pub, and get down to root of the problem. Meanwhile they're getting beaten up, chased, and, of course, tanked.
If you're familiar with Pegg and Wright's sense of humor, you'll enjoy the irony of the names of the pubs the guys visit. For example, the first pub is aptly named "The First Post". The guys get into a fight at "The Cross Hands". There are many similarities between The World's End and the previous two movies. This made watching it even better. It was like being part of a private joke. There were characters we knew and scenes that were familiar. It was a satisfying end to their trilogy.
But now that it's over, what's next? You can tell me...
The Verdict
My whole family enjoyed The World's End (ages 8 and up). I don't think it was as good as Shaun of the Dead, but I don't think anyone ever really measures up to their first big hit. Especially when a pedestal has been set so high. I still loved the movie. I laughed the whole way through. The ending was a bit weak for me, but I am only one person. And let's face it, I probably couldn't have done it better myself. I give The World's End 10/12 pints of beer.
Friday, August 23, 2013
Banshee {Season 1} (2013-?)
If you missed out on Banshee, like I almost did, then you missed out on what is quite possibly the best new show on cable. Unbeknownst to me, it premiered in January of this year on Cinemax. The very first episode had me hooked. It had it all. Action, mystery, violence, sex, and most importantly, characters I want to watch.
My husband and I are always searching for new shows we can watch together, especially ones we can watch after the kids go to bed. I found Banshee on our On Demand feature and thought it would be something we could watch to pass the time until Sons of Anarchy returns in September. It only took one episode and we were hooked.
The Premise is Brilliant
An ex-con gets out of prison and the first thing he does is search for the woman he loves, who is also his former partner. Through less than legal channels, he finds her living under an assumed name in the town of Banshee. Through an unfortunate turn of events, he assumes the identity of the new sheriff in the corrupt Amish town, bringing all his demons with him. He discovers a family he didn't know he had. The man he stole millions worth in diamonds from hasn't forgotten him. And he still has a penchant for criminal activity.
My Take
The ex-con (we never learn his real name) ends up in a small bar where some serious shit goes down and he witnesses the death of the sheriff. Turns out, this was a new sheriff (that no one had yet met) who had been brought in by the Mayor to clean up the corrupt town. One of the most corrupt towns an ex-con could have possibly ended up in. Perfect! The ex-con becomes Sheriff Lucas Hood and the insanity begins.
Did I mention the town is corrupt because of a shunned Amish mob boss? As much as Antony Starr is perfect playing the ex-con pretending to be a sheriff, Ulrich Thomsen is perfect as Kai Proctor, the shunned Amish boss that runs the town of Banshee. Neither of these characters are traditional "good guys", but you find yourself rooting for Hood and wishing pain on Proctor. Thomsen has a way of maintaining a perfectly calm demeanor that makes you hate his character even more. It's beautiful. And Matthew Rauch, who plays his accountant-like body guard, is the perfect compliment.
I love the women on this show as well. We learn a lot about Carrie Hopewell. She is Lucas Hood's former girlfriend and partner. Played by Ivana Milicevic, Carrie is a well written and extremely well acted character. She has a criminal past that she has been hiding from her family that, by all appearances, she did flawlessly until Lucas found her. As he stirs up old feelings, he stirs up a past that she had hidden so well she had nearly forgotten about it herself. A character I want to learn more about is Deputy Siobhan Kelly. She seems like there is a lot more to her than just a stereotype of a woman that joined the police force. Trieste Kelly Dunn plays her with, what I think, is just the right amount of strength and vulnerability. There are moments when we see Siobhan want to say or do so much more than she does. I feel that there is hidden story about her we may see in future episodes. Now for who my husband thinks is the sexiest woman on the show, if not on television right now, Lili Simmons, who plays Rebecca. Poor Rebecca. She seems to be following in the same footsteps as her Uncle Kai. She has been shunned by the Amish for her wild ways and her generous Uncle Kai has now taken her under his wing. As long as she quits sleeping with the sheriff.
Banshee is one if those shows that has a little bit for everybody. It has mafia ties, motorcycle gangs, corruption, violence, sex, prejudice, mystery, kidnapping, family issues, adultery, murder, rednecks, justice, lies, and the best cross dressing Asian I have ever seen. Seriously. Hoon Lee's character, Job, is not to missed. Or messed with.
I cannot wait for season two to begin. There are so many unanswered questions. Where is Rabbit (Ben Cross)? Will Gordon forgive Carrie for all her lies? Why did Lucas steal that painting? What does Jason need with his dad? What does the combination in the opening credits open? Will Rebecca be able to return to the Amish? Who hasn't had sex with Lucas? How come no one ever gets pregnant? Will the Moody boys get their revenge? Will Deva find out who her dad is? What is wrong with Max's lung? What will the fall out be from the YouTube video? Can I be on the show?
Ugh! I can't wait! Film faster, cast of Banshee! Film faster!
The Verdict
I love this show and it is so versatile that I think that there is truly something for everyone. It is not for children, though, so beware! I give Banshee 5/5 Amish Bonnets. Keep it up!
My husband and I are always searching for new shows we can watch together, especially ones we can watch after the kids go to bed. I found Banshee on our On Demand feature and thought it would be something we could watch to pass the time until Sons of Anarchy returns in September. It only took one episode and we were hooked.
The Premise is Brilliant
An ex-con gets out of prison and the first thing he does is search for the woman he loves, who is also his former partner. Through less than legal channels, he finds her living under an assumed name in the town of Banshee. Through an unfortunate turn of events, he assumes the identity of the new sheriff in the corrupt Amish town, bringing all his demons with him. He discovers a family he didn't know he had. The man he stole millions worth in diamonds from hasn't forgotten him. And he still has a penchant for criminal activity.
My Take
The ex-con (we never learn his real name) ends up in a small bar where some serious shit goes down and he witnesses the death of the sheriff. Turns out, this was a new sheriff (that no one had yet met) who had been brought in by the Mayor to clean up the corrupt town. One of the most corrupt towns an ex-con could have possibly ended up in. Perfect! The ex-con becomes Sheriff Lucas Hood and the insanity begins.
Did I mention the town is corrupt because of a shunned Amish mob boss? As much as Antony Starr is perfect playing the ex-con pretending to be a sheriff, Ulrich Thomsen is perfect as Kai Proctor, the shunned Amish boss that runs the town of Banshee. Neither of these characters are traditional "good guys", but you find yourself rooting for Hood and wishing pain on Proctor. Thomsen has a way of maintaining a perfectly calm demeanor that makes you hate his character even more. It's beautiful. And Matthew Rauch, who plays his accountant-like body guard, is the perfect compliment.
I love the women on this show as well. We learn a lot about Carrie Hopewell. She is Lucas Hood's former girlfriend and partner. Played by Ivana Milicevic, Carrie is a well written and extremely well acted character. She has a criminal past that she has been hiding from her family that, by all appearances, she did flawlessly until Lucas found her. As he stirs up old feelings, he stirs up a past that she had hidden so well she had nearly forgotten about it herself. A character I want to learn more about is Deputy Siobhan Kelly. She seems like there is a lot more to her than just a stereotype of a woman that joined the police force. Trieste Kelly Dunn plays her with, what I think, is just the right amount of strength and vulnerability. There are moments when we see Siobhan want to say or do so much more than she does. I feel that there is hidden story about her we may see in future episodes. Now for who my husband thinks is the sexiest woman on the show, if not on television right now, Lili Simmons, who plays Rebecca. Poor Rebecca. She seems to be following in the same footsteps as her Uncle Kai. She has been shunned by the Amish for her wild ways and her generous Uncle Kai has now taken her under his wing. As long as she quits sleeping with the sheriff.
Banshee is one if those shows that has a little bit for everybody. It has mafia ties, motorcycle gangs, corruption, violence, sex, prejudice, mystery, kidnapping, family issues, adultery, murder, rednecks, justice, lies, and the best cross dressing Asian I have ever seen. Seriously. Hoon Lee's character, Job, is not to missed. Or messed with.
I cannot wait for season two to begin. There are so many unanswered questions. Where is Rabbit (Ben Cross)? Will Gordon forgive Carrie for all her lies? Why did Lucas steal that painting? What does Jason need with his dad? What does the combination in the opening credits open? Will Rebecca be able to return to the Amish? Who hasn't had sex with Lucas? How come no one ever gets pregnant? Will the Moody boys get their revenge? Will Deva find out who her dad is? What is wrong with Max's lung? What will the fall out be from the YouTube video? Can I be on the show?
Ugh! I can't wait! Film faster, cast of Banshee! Film faster!
The Verdict
I love this show and it is so versatile that I think that there is truly something for everyone. It is not for children, though, so beware! I give Banshee 5/5 Amish Bonnets. Keep it up!
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Turn Me On, Dammit! (2011)
Turn Me On, Dammit!
Isn't that the best title ever for a coming of age film? Everyone can relate to that. Turn me on! This was a great foreign film about teen sex and sexual awakenings. To this reviewer, it was a more honest approach than any American movies I've seen lately about teenagers coming to terms with their sexual feelings.
My Take
The film is set in a Skoddeheimen, Norway. I know nothing about Norwegian life, but this town could have represented any rural area in America. One in which everyone knows everyone. The kids all know each other but still form their social clicks. The parents are hard working and not oblivious on purpose. The neighbors are elderly and nosy. Any typical small town.
The main character, Alma, is fifteen and has a very healthy fantasy life. It ranges from innocent to a little naughty to downright X rated. There is an incident at party in which Alma tells the truth and Artur (her crush) lies about what happens between them. Teen politics force Alma to become an outsider. She sticks to her guns, though, and refuses to recant her story. Furthermore, her mother discovers that Alma has been calling a phone sex line which alienates her even more.
It seems that everywhere Alma turns, she can't help the urges she has yet has no one to talk to or express them with. So she does what any frustrated, isolated, angry, lonely teenager would do. She runs away. Of course this action forces the resolution. And I do so hate giving away endings...
I can't say enough good things about this movie. It has won several well deserved awards, which doesn't usually impress me but this time I am happy to see them go to the right film. I will agree that it isn't for everyone. Obviously there is a lot of sexual content and it is about teenagers which could make a person uncomfortable. Some of the actors were only 16, but maybe the laws are different in Norway than they are here. I know that America is a very prude country in comparison to others. So watch at your own discretion.
The Verdict
Overall I give the movie 4/5 popcorn tubs. I loved this movie, but it isn't for everyone. It is a foreign film, a coming of age film, and features young people in sexual situations.
Isn't that the best title ever for a coming of age film? Everyone can relate to that. Turn me on! This was a great foreign film about teen sex and sexual awakenings. To this reviewer, it was a more honest approach than any American movies I've seen lately about teenagers coming to terms with their sexual feelings.
My Take
The film is set in a Skoddeheimen, Norway. I know nothing about Norwegian life, but this town could have represented any rural area in America. One in which everyone knows everyone. The kids all know each other but still form their social clicks. The parents are hard working and not oblivious on purpose. The neighbors are elderly and nosy. Any typical small town.
The main character, Alma, is fifteen and has a very healthy fantasy life. It ranges from innocent to a little naughty to downright X rated. There is an incident at party in which Alma tells the truth and Artur (her crush) lies about what happens between them. Teen politics force Alma to become an outsider. She sticks to her guns, though, and refuses to recant her story. Furthermore, her mother discovers that Alma has been calling a phone sex line which alienates her even more.
It seems that everywhere Alma turns, she can't help the urges she has yet has no one to talk to or express them with. So she does what any frustrated, isolated, angry, lonely teenager would do. She runs away. Of course this action forces the resolution. And I do so hate giving away endings...
I can't say enough good things about this movie. It has won several well deserved awards, which doesn't usually impress me but this time I am happy to see them go to the right film. I will agree that it isn't for everyone. Obviously there is a lot of sexual content and it is about teenagers which could make a person uncomfortable. Some of the actors were only 16, but maybe the laws are different in Norway than they are here. I know that America is a very prude country in comparison to others. So watch at your own discretion.
The Verdict
Overall I give the movie 4/5 popcorn tubs. I loved this movie, but it isn't for everyone. It is a foreign film, a coming of age film, and features young people in sexual situations.
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
Baywatch Dolphin Tours
One of the activities we did while we were still in Galveston a few weeks back was go on a dolphin tour of Galveston Bay. Anyone who knows me, knows that dolphins have long since been my favorite animal so this was one tourist attraction I did not want to pass up. I'm also happy to report that we were not disappointed in this experience.
The Premise
We went with Baywatch Dolphin Tours for a couple of reasons. The main reason was the price. Most boat tours in the area were out of our budget, especially considering we had a group of seven to consider, four of which were mine. Baywatch charges $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under (infants and pets are free). I spent a grand total of $25 plus tax. The second consideration was time. Baywatch had a boat leaving every hour on the hour. Convenient for those of us that don't like to plan every minute of the day. The tour lasted about 45 minutes which was plenty long in the Texas heat and humidity. Also, we knew it would be easy to locate because it is in Galveston's Pier 21 District. Trust me on this. My mom and I have had many a grand adventure because we get lost everywhere we go. In fact, my kids caught on long ago that when Mommy starts going in circles, it's best to tone it down and let me concentrate on getting back on track. Finally, it's within walking distance to The Strand, which was our next stop of the day. Nothing like a little retail therapy to end your day.
My Take
As far as I could tell there is only one boat that runs the entire operation. The boat was extremely well maintained. In fact, they cleaned it up in between tours; wiped the seats down and everything. On the boat, there were three main places to sit. Outside in the front, outside in the back or inside in the middle of the boat. My kids chose to sit in the front. We smarter, dare I say older, adults chose to sit in the shaded interior. The captain did his best to answer any questions that the group had. The captain also doubled as the tour guide. He was knowledgeable on the history of Galveston Harbor and Bay. And, true to the advertisement, we saw the dolphins.
A lot of dolphins. They were following the fishing and shrimp boats. They were beautiful, graceful, and majestic. Many times, they came close to our boat to show off. Dolphins weren't the only wildlife seen. It was amazing how many pelicans like to hang out with the fishermen. I realize how much sense this makes now. However, not being an avid fisherman, I had never thought much about the symbiotic relationship between the pelican and fisherman.
The ride was smooth and dolphin safe. The boat has no propellers to harm the dolphins or any other animals in the water. The captain slowed when the water got choppy and warned us of any wakes we encountered. They did their best to keep us all comfortable as well. Drinks were on sale for $1 should you get thirsty. Sunglasses were also available for $2.
The Verdict
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and would probably do it again just to get better pictures of the dolphins. The kids loved it as well. It was the first time they had been on a boat other than the ferry. The dolphins captivated them as did the rest of Galveston's wildlife.
I give Baywatch Dolphin Tours two fins up! Dorsal fins, that is. Keep it up and hopefully we'll be back soon!
The Premise
We went with Baywatch Dolphin Tours for a couple of reasons. The main reason was the price. Most boat tours in the area were out of our budget, especially considering we had a group of seven to consider, four of which were mine. Baywatch charges $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under (infants and pets are free). I spent a grand total of $25 plus tax. The second consideration was time. Baywatch had a boat leaving every hour on the hour. Convenient for those of us that don't like to plan every minute of the day. The tour lasted about 45 minutes which was plenty long in the Texas heat and humidity. Also, we knew it would be easy to locate because it is in Galveston's Pier 21 District. Trust me on this. My mom and I have had many a grand adventure because we get lost everywhere we go. In fact, my kids caught on long ago that when Mommy starts going in circles, it's best to tone it down and let me concentrate on getting back on track. Finally, it's within walking distance to The Strand, which was our next stop of the day. Nothing like a little retail therapy to end your day.
My Take
As far as I could tell there is only one boat that runs the entire operation. The boat was extremely well maintained. In fact, they cleaned it up in between tours; wiped the seats down and everything. On the boat, there were three main places to sit. Outside in the front, outside in the back or inside in the middle of the boat. My kids chose to sit in the front. We smarter, dare I say older, adults chose to sit in the shaded interior. The captain did his best to answer any questions that the group had. The captain also doubled as the tour guide. He was knowledgeable on the history of Galveston Harbor and Bay. And, true to the advertisement, we saw the dolphins.
A lot of dolphins. They were following the fishing and shrimp boats. They were beautiful, graceful, and majestic. Many times, they came close to our boat to show off. Dolphins weren't the only wildlife seen. It was amazing how many pelicans like to hang out with the fishermen. I realize how much sense this makes now. However, not being an avid fisherman, I had never thought much about the symbiotic relationship between the pelican and fisherman.
The ride was smooth and dolphin safe. The boat has no propellers to harm the dolphins or any other animals in the water. The captain slowed when the water got choppy and warned us of any wakes we encountered. They did their best to keep us all comfortable as well. Drinks were on sale for $1 should you get thirsty. Sunglasses were also available for $2.
The Verdict
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and would probably do it again just to get better pictures of the dolphins. The kids loved it as well. It was the first time they had been on a boat other than the ferry. The dolphins captivated them as did the rest of Galveston's wildlife.
I give Baywatch Dolphin Tours two fins up! Dorsal fins, that is. Keep it up and hopefully we'll be back soon!
 |
| I took this picture during the tour. |
Monday, July 1, 2013
Hotel Hospitality?
This past weekend my family went out of town to Kerrville, TX to help celebrate the golden anniversary of good friends and mentors to my husband. Roughly one month prior we made a hotel reservation and placed the charge on a credit card. This is our experience...
Our philosophy with hotels has always been to forgo comfort for price. On any trip my husband and I have ever made out of town, the room we stayed in has only been used at night. We never hung out at a hotel. We were always out visiting friends, sightseeing, shopping, eating, celebrating, etc. and never had the need for resort living while on vacation. That being said, we still have standards. The room must be clean, smoke free and private. I want to be able to shut my curtains and be certain that no Peeping Toms are spying on me while I'm dressing. That's my husband's job.
My Take:
My husband found America's Best Value Inn online. The pictures portrayed the motel as being clean and modest. They had an outstanding score on their own website. Of course, it was America's Best Value Inn rating America's Best Value Inn. The room we looked at had two queen sized beds. A tight squeeze for two adults and three kids, but again, we would only be sleeping there for two nights. Plus, we had plans for the two days that we would be in town and had no need for a large room where everyone would need their space. According to the photos, it would a nice enough experience for my kids' first hotel stay. Not too fancy so as not to spoil them and not a dump either.
We left our home late in the evening on Friday and didn't arrive at our destination until nearly midnight. My husband was buzzed into the locked lobby with our confirmation sheet in hand. He was greeted by Gita, the front desk lady, and proceeded to find out that we didn't have a room. The reason given? The reservation line didn't send her the confirmation fax. It didn't matter that our name was in the system. It didn't matter that we had reserved the room nearly one month prior. It didn't matter that the company had my credit card information. It didn't matter that according the reservation agreement if we didn't accept the room, we owed the full price of the room. We didn't have a room. Unless we wanted a single bed. For five people. She didn't offer us two rooms to make up for the mistake. She didn't offer a future discount on a future stay. What we got instead was the opportunity to find another place to stay for the weekend at midnight on a Friday night.
In a situation like this, who do you blame? The business is blaming corporate for not sending them a faxed confirmation. What was the point of making the reservation online if the location you are going to doesn't get the confirmation? However, it was confirmed that our name was in the system. It seems to me that the reservation was made but somebody somewhere dropped the ball and no one wanted to take the blame. The result is a bad review from me. (And don't worry, I called the credit card company and so far, we have not been charged.)
Our next stop was Best Western which was right up the road. By now it was after midnight, the girls have to pee and my youngest is almost in tears because she is so tired. We took the advantage of the open lobby and all went inside. I took the girls to the bathroom while my husband inquired about a room. Again, only single rooms available. As we were walking out I asked the lady at the desk if there were any events going on this weekend. I thought it was a reasonable question considering no rooms were available. I have only one word for her. Manners. I realize that it was late and we came trooping in to use your restroom and (heaven forbid) ask for a room in your hotel, but when a person politely asks a question, respond in kind. Instead, without ever making eye contact, she very snootily, as if I were interrupting her life somehow, responded, "It's summer". Because those two words were supposed to mean something to us when we were not there as tourists, not that you would know that because you clearly could have cared less about us. Needless to say, I was happy not to give her my business either. Rudeness never prospers.
Our next stop was Holiday Inn Express and Suites. We let dad go in and handle the business again. Finally, some luck! Again, they only had single rooms available but we were able to get a suite at a slightly discounted rate because they were doing renovations. In the suite, we had two queen sized beds and one pull out couch. There are 28 reviews of this particular Holiday Inn on the website giving it an average rating of 4.1/5 stars. For our purposes, it was much better. The staff was friendly and accommodating. They even came back to give us fresh towels and change our sheets when we requested after house keeping had left for the day. The continental breakfast was pretty good, too. Fresh eggs, pancakes, pastries, juice, milk, coffee, cereal, oatmeal, sausage and biscuits were enough to impress the kids. Plus we had two tv's in the room, so no fighting over programs to watch. I think I may be converted to a higher standard when it comes to my hotel stays. I think I was spoiled and, sadly, my standards were never very high to begin with. I guess they will be now.
And so are my kids'. So much for not spoiling them.
The Verdict
America's Best Value Inn: 0/5 for losing our reservation and not trying to come up with a way to compensate us for the mistake. Instead they played a game of "Pass the Buck".
Best Western: 1/5 because even though I didn't have a reservation with them, I could have been swayed to book two singles rooms if the front desk clerk had been at all interested in our business.
Holiday Inn: 5/5 for being accommodating, fast and friendly. The room was beautiful and the renovations didn't interfere with our stay at all. In hindsight, a suite was a much better idea than a single room for my family. We all had a little space of our own and the girls didn't have to share a bed with their brother. A definite plus if you ask them.
Our philosophy with hotels has always been to forgo comfort for price. On any trip my husband and I have ever made out of town, the room we stayed in has only been used at night. We never hung out at a hotel. We were always out visiting friends, sightseeing, shopping, eating, celebrating, etc. and never had the need for resort living while on vacation. That being said, we still have standards. The room must be clean, smoke free and private. I want to be able to shut my curtains and be certain that no Peeping Toms are spying on me while I'm dressing. That's my husband's job.
My Take:
My husband found America's Best Value Inn online. The pictures portrayed the motel as being clean and modest. They had an outstanding score on their own website. Of course, it was America's Best Value Inn rating America's Best Value Inn. The room we looked at had two queen sized beds. A tight squeeze for two adults and three kids, but again, we would only be sleeping there for two nights. Plus, we had plans for the two days that we would be in town and had no need for a large room where everyone would need their space. According to the photos, it would a nice enough experience for my kids' first hotel stay. Not too fancy so as not to spoil them and not a dump either.
We left our home late in the evening on Friday and didn't arrive at our destination until nearly midnight. My husband was buzzed into the locked lobby with our confirmation sheet in hand. He was greeted by Gita, the front desk lady, and proceeded to find out that we didn't have a room. The reason given? The reservation line didn't send her the confirmation fax. It didn't matter that our name was in the system. It didn't matter that we had reserved the room nearly one month prior. It didn't matter that the company had my credit card information. It didn't matter that according the reservation agreement if we didn't accept the room, we owed the full price of the room. We didn't have a room. Unless we wanted a single bed. For five people. She didn't offer us two rooms to make up for the mistake. She didn't offer a future discount on a future stay. What we got instead was the opportunity to find another place to stay for the weekend at midnight on a Friday night.
In a situation like this, who do you blame? The business is blaming corporate for not sending them a faxed confirmation. What was the point of making the reservation online if the location you are going to doesn't get the confirmation? However, it was confirmed that our name was in the system. It seems to me that the reservation was made but somebody somewhere dropped the ball and no one wanted to take the blame. The result is a bad review from me. (And don't worry, I called the credit card company and so far, we have not been charged.)
Our next stop was Best Western which was right up the road. By now it was after midnight, the girls have to pee and my youngest is almost in tears because she is so tired. We took the advantage of the open lobby and all went inside. I took the girls to the bathroom while my husband inquired about a room. Again, only single rooms available. As we were walking out I asked the lady at the desk if there were any events going on this weekend. I thought it was a reasonable question considering no rooms were available. I have only one word for her. Manners. I realize that it was late and we came trooping in to use your restroom and (heaven forbid) ask for a room in your hotel, but when a person politely asks a question, respond in kind. Instead, without ever making eye contact, she very snootily, as if I were interrupting her life somehow, responded, "It's summer". Because those two words were supposed to mean something to us when we were not there as tourists, not that you would know that because you clearly could have cared less about us. Needless to say, I was happy not to give her my business either. Rudeness never prospers.
Our next stop was Holiday Inn Express and Suites. We let dad go in and handle the business again. Finally, some luck! Again, they only had single rooms available but we were able to get a suite at a slightly discounted rate because they were doing renovations. In the suite, we had two queen sized beds and one pull out couch. There are 28 reviews of this particular Holiday Inn on the website giving it an average rating of 4.1/5 stars. For our purposes, it was much better. The staff was friendly and accommodating. They even came back to give us fresh towels and change our sheets when we requested after house keeping had left for the day. The continental breakfast was pretty good, too. Fresh eggs, pancakes, pastries, juice, milk, coffee, cereal, oatmeal, sausage and biscuits were enough to impress the kids. Plus we had two tv's in the room, so no fighting over programs to watch. I think I may be converted to a higher standard when it comes to my hotel stays. I think I was spoiled and, sadly, my standards were never very high to begin with. I guess they will be now.
And so are my kids'. So much for not spoiling them.
The Verdict
America's Best Value Inn: 0/5 for losing our reservation and not trying to come up with a way to compensate us for the mistake. Instead they played a game of "Pass the Buck".
Best Western: 1/5 because even though I didn't have a reservation with them, I could have been swayed to book two singles rooms if the front desk clerk had been at all interested in our business.
Holiday Inn: 5/5 for being accommodating, fast and friendly. The room was beautiful and the renovations didn't interfere with our stay at all. In hindsight, a suite was a much better idea than a single room for my family. We all had a little space of our own and the girls didn't have to share a bed with their brother. A definite plus if you ask them.
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Pleasure Pier in Galveston
I've been a bad blogger and didn't keep up with my blog for two weeks. One of those weeks I was sick, the other I was on vacation in Galveston, Texas. Time to catch up!
Last week we took a family vacation to Galveston. My mom, sister, nephew, myself and my three kids all went to the beach for a few days for fun in the sun. The only thing missing was my husband who had to stay behind to bring home the bacon. On Sunday, my mom and I drove down to the beach house she had rented and spent the day setting up house.
Monday we waited for my sister's arrival by visiting the beach. Once she got there we made our way down to Pleasure Pier. Something I learned about Pleasure Pier was that it was originally an entertainment facility for the U.S. military during WWII in the 1940's. It remained a prominent tourist destination until Hurricane Carla in 1961. After that, the pier was reconstructed into the Flagship Hotel. It remained the Flagship Hotel until Hurricane Ike in 2008. In 2011 construction began (by the Landry's Corporation) and Pleasure Pier opened in 2012.
Enough history, on with the review. Now that the pier is being used as an entertainment facility once again, how does it measure up?
My Take
I had a family of four, all over 48 inches tall. I bought the family four pack for $99.99. With tax the amount was just over $108. This meant we could ride all of the rides as many times as we wanted all day long for roughly $27 per person. Pleasure Pier has 16 rides. If you have kids under 48 inches, there are rides for them as well at a reduced ticket price. We rode nearly every ride in the park. The kids had their favorites, the adults had theirs. Of course, if you don't want to ride rides you can just pay the $10 entry fee. That sounds kind of like a waste to me unless you're going to supervise your kids, though. Other than a few lookout points over the ocean, there isn't really anything to see as a sightseer that you can't see from other points on the Sea Wall.
We were there during the work week. It wasn't very crowded and we were able to park nearby. There is a paid lot across the street but we were able to park on the Sea Wall for free. Yes, it was hot. But being on a pier has its advantages. There was a sea breeze all day plus we were riding rides which creates its own air conditioning. There was one ride in particular that was like a log ride. It had a splash zone where you could stand and get completely soaked so even though it was hot, it wasn't miserable. Needless to say, that was the kids' favorite ride and favorite place to hang out for the day.
Like any amusement park, there are rules about food and drinks. No outside food and drinks were allowed in. The Pier provided their own restaurants, food and drink services. At inflated prices, of course. A bottle of water was $3.50 and a large fountain drink was $5.50. I didn't bother with the restaurant prices but if you're interested Bubba Gump is the restaurant on Pleasure Pier. They also have kiosks that offer the standard hamburgers, pizzas and funnel cakes that most amusement parks offer. We chose instead to take advantage of the Pier's re-entry policy. We went back to the beach house to eat lunch, hydrate and rest before returning for more fun.
The staff was friendly and attentive. They were mostly Russian, which I thought was strange. They all had names like Viktor, Ivan, Igor, and Inga. It was almost as if a casting call went out for Russian models to work at Pleasure Pier. They were all good looking young people running the rides. I hadn't originally planned on riding rides because I was going to save a few pennies by buying the $10 day pass. The family four pack ended up only being a few dollars more than what I intended to pay so I bought that instead. Since I wasn't intending on riding rides, I wore a short blue jean skirt for the day. I'll tell you what, there's nothing more intimidating than a good looking Russian man having to check the seat connections between your knees when they're separated by a metal bar and you're wearing a mini skirt. And you're all sweaty and nasty from being out in the sun all day on the Gulf Coast in June.
All in all I thought the expense was worth the trip to Pleasure Pier. If you think about how much you pay at county fairs, festivals and other amusement parks, I felt like I got a good deal. The rides were in excellent condition. The Pier was immaculate. The staff was friendly and responsible. There are only two designated smoking sections on the Pier so no one is walking around throwing their butts on the ground or blowing smoke in your face (a personal pet peeve). My only complaint would have to be the price of refreshments.
The Verdict
Overall I give Pleasure Pier 8/10 roller coasters. Why? Because after paying for entry, you still have to pay to play midway games and for the high price of food and drinks.
Last week we took a family vacation to Galveston. My mom, sister, nephew, myself and my three kids all went to the beach for a few days for fun in the sun. The only thing missing was my husband who had to stay behind to bring home the bacon. On Sunday, my mom and I drove down to the beach house she had rented and spent the day setting up house.
Monday we waited for my sister's arrival by visiting the beach. Once she got there we made our way down to Pleasure Pier. Something I learned about Pleasure Pier was that it was originally an entertainment facility for the U.S. military during WWII in the 1940's. It remained a prominent tourist destination until Hurricane Carla in 1961. After that, the pier was reconstructed into the Flagship Hotel. It remained the Flagship Hotel until Hurricane Ike in 2008. In 2011 construction began (by the Landry's Corporation) and Pleasure Pier opened in 2012.
Enough history, on with the review. Now that the pier is being used as an entertainment facility once again, how does it measure up?
My Take
I had a family of four, all over 48 inches tall. I bought the family four pack for $99.99. With tax the amount was just over $108. This meant we could ride all of the rides as many times as we wanted all day long for roughly $27 per person. Pleasure Pier has 16 rides. If you have kids under 48 inches, there are rides for them as well at a reduced ticket price. We rode nearly every ride in the park. The kids had their favorites, the adults had theirs. Of course, if you don't want to ride rides you can just pay the $10 entry fee. That sounds kind of like a waste to me unless you're going to supervise your kids, though. Other than a few lookout points over the ocean, there isn't really anything to see as a sightseer that you can't see from other points on the Sea Wall.
We were there during the work week. It wasn't very crowded and we were able to park nearby. There is a paid lot across the street but we were able to park on the Sea Wall for free. Yes, it was hot. But being on a pier has its advantages. There was a sea breeze all day plus we were riding rides which creates its own air conditioning. There was one ride in particular that was like a log ride. It had a splash zone where you could stand and get completely soaked so even though it was hot, it wasn't miserable. Needless to say, that was the kids' favorite ride and favorite place to hang out for the day.
Like any amusement park, there are rules about food and drinks. No outside food and drinks were allowed in. The Pier provided their own restaurants, food and drink services. At inflated prices, of course. A bottle of water was $3.50 and a large fountain drink was $5.50. I didn't bother with the restaurant prices but if you're interested Bubba Gump is the restaurant on Pleasure Pier. They also have kiosks that offer the standard hamburgers, pizzas and funnel cakes that most amusement parks offer. We chose instead to take advantage of the Pier's re-entry policy. We went back to the beach house to eat lunch, hydrate and rest before returning for more fun.
The staff was friendly and attentive. They were mostly Russian, which I thought was strange. They all had names like Viktor, Ivan, Igor, and Inga. It was almost as if a casting call went out for Russian models to work at Pleasure Pier. They were all good looking young people running the rides. I hadn't originally planned on riding rides because I was going to save a few pennies by buying the $10 day pass. The family four pack ended up only being a few dollars more than what I intended to pay so I bought that instead. Since I wasn't intending on riding rides, I wore a short blue jean skirt for the day. I'll tell you what, there's nothing more intimidating than a good looking Russian man having to check the seat connections between your knees when they're separated by a metal bar and you're wearing a mini skirt. And you're all sweaty and nasty from being out in the sun all day on the Gulf Coast in June.
All in all I thought the expense was worth the trip to Pleasure Pier. If you think about how much you pay at county fairs, festivals and other amusement parks, I felt like I got a good deal. The rides were in excellent condition. The Pier was immaculate. The staff was friendly and responsible. There are only two designated smoking sections on the Pier so no one is walking around throwing their butts on the ground or blowing smoke in your face (a personal pet peeve). My only complaint would have to be the price of refreshments.
The Verdict
Overall I give Pleasure Pier 8/10 roller coasters. Why? Because after paying for entry, you still have to pay to play midway games and for the high price of food and drinks.
Monday, June 3, 2013
Inseparable (2011)
Inseparable is a movie that I had sitting in my Netflix Instant Play Que for a pretty long time. Last night was one of those nights where we were looking for something to watch and Kevin Spacey caught our attention. Both my husband and I are huge Spacey fans, which is probably how Inseparable ended up in my Que to begin with. Because most people probably haven't seen this one, I'm not going to give a full synopsis but I will give you my take on on the flick.
My Take
For starters, the movie is subtitled the entire way through, spoken in both Chinese and English. So if you can stand that, you're off to a good start. The main character, Li (the very talented Daniel Wu), is facing some personal demons and has come to a turning point in his life. Do I end it all or go on living in misery? A new friend happens to show up just at the right moment. The new friend, played my future ex-beau Kevin Spacey, (don't worry, we'll always be friends) gives Li a new outlook on life. They team up as a superhero duo and try to right the wrongs they feel have been the burden of common man. Eventually Li begins to question Chuck (played by Spacey) about his motives. Who is he, where does he come from, etc. And that is where the conflict begins. There are clues throughout the film that lead you to the inevitable conclusion of events, but the joyride it takes is worth the wait.
Daniel Wu and Kevin Spacey make an interesting pair, to say the least. There is something charming and warm about Wu. Spacey's character is sarcastic and pushy. Together they make it work. So much so that when they don their superhero costumes, it actually makes sense. The themes of friendships, relationships, need, loneliness, and mental health were not lost on me. But I appreciate the writers and director not beating me over the head with it. It was easy enough to identify with a person who just wanted to fix things so badly he temporarily loses his touch with reality, I didn't need a PSA on top of it. So I commend the decisions made in production. Well done.
The Verdict
I give the movie 4/5 superheroes. I really enjoyed it, but I recognize it's not for everyone. But if you want to see Kevin Spacey running around in superhero tights, this one is for you.
My Take
For starters, the movie is subtitled the entire way through, spoken in both Chinese and English. So if you can stand that, you're off to a good start. The main character, Li (the very talented Daniel Wu), is facing some personal demons and has come to a turning point in his life. Do I end it all or go on living in misery? A new friend happens to show up just at the right moment. The new friend, played my future ex-beau Kevin Spacey, (don't worry, we'll always be friends) gives Li a new outlook on life. They team up as a superhero duo and try to right the wrongs they feel have been the burden of common man. Eventually Li begins to question Chuck (played by Spacey) about his motives. Who is he, where does he come from, etc. And that is where the conflict begins. There are clues throughout the film that lead you to the inevitable conclusion of events, but the joyride it takes is worth the wait.
Daniel Wu and Kevin Spacey make an interesting pair, to say the least. There is something charming and warm about Wu. Spacey's character is sarcastic and pushy. Together they make it work. So much so that when they don their superhero costumes, it actually makes sense. The themes of friendships, relationships, need, loneliness, and mental health were not lost on me. But I appreciate the writers and director not beating me over the head with it. It was easy enough to identify with a person who just wanted to fix things so badly he temporarily loses his touch with reality, I didn't need a PSA on top of it. So I commend the decisions made in production. Well done.
The Verdict
I give the movie 4/5 superheroes. I really enjoyed it, but I recognize it's not for everyone. But if you want to see Kevin Spacey running around in superhero tights, this one is for you.
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Christian Brothers Automotive
Yesterday was a busy day for me which is why I failed to post a review. I had to get my state inspection done on one of our vehicles. A chore I dread. In fact any job having to do with cars, I put off for as long as I can. I started saving them for those days I need a shave and a shower. I put on my baggiest clothes, pull my greasy hair into a pony tail and walk in wearing my high-waisted mom shorts and about a weeks worth of growth on my legs. You'd think it would be a deterrent.
I took the opportunity to patronize a new place of business. (Well, new to me.) I ventured down the road to Christian Brothers Automotive. The parking lot was full when I drove in, which is either a good or bad sign depending on which way you look at it. I pulled in thinking, "They must be good at what they do, but dang it! I'm going to have to wait forever!" Surprisingly the lobby was empty. I don't know where all the other car owners were, but they weren't waiting impatiently inside.
I was greeted very promptly and very professionally by the manager, Mike. He warned me that it may take a while before they could squeeze me in, but I was expecting to have to wait anyway so all was well. I'd like to say that I waited until the end of the month to get my state inspection done just so I could squeeze it in when everyone else was trying to squeeze theirs in and see how the business handled the pressure, but, the truth is, I'm just lazy. And forgetful. At any rate, Mike promised to have it done as soon as possible and offered me a cool frosty beverage.
One thing that I noticed about the lobby was that there was no television, very few magazines and copies of the New Testament on the tables. Everything was clean and actually didn't smell like grease monkeys. I settled in with my water and proceeded to read and play games on my Kindle. A little while later a young mother and her toddler walked in for a scheduled repair. Mike the manager was right on top of things. A part hadn't been ordered correctly, but rather than reschedule the customer he got right on the phone to have it delivered immediately and made arrangements for mom and son to go home and relax while the repair was being made. While doing this another, less agreeable, customer came in to inquire about why he was still waiting. I was really impressed with the way in which both situations were handled. The phone conversation with the shop was put on hold and the grumpy man was taken outside to, I assume, explain his situation. Then Mike returned and continued his phone conversation ordering parts. The customer was put first. In fact the shop was run so efficiently that my car was fit in during a stopping point during a brake job and I was in and out with my new inspection sticker in about 30 minutes.
And not once did anyone hit on me, try to look down my shirt, or offer me a 'discount' on a service I didn't need. At least I've been smart enough to say that I'll have my own mechanic look at my car before I have any work done. Not to be sexist, but I know as much about cars as most other women do. And have about as much interest in learning. I can check my fluids and air pressure and I can change a tire, but that's about it. I might be more inclined to learn if I didn't have to get so oily.
The Verdict
Definitely a 5/5 for customer service. I will go back there again when I need anything else done and tell you how it goes.
I took the opportunity to patronize a new place of business. (Well, new to me.) I ventured down the road to Christian Brothers Automotive. The parking lot was full when I drove in, which is either a good or bad sign depending on which way you look at it. I pulled in thinking, "They must be good at what they do, but dang it! I'm going to have to wait forever!" Surprisingly the lobby was empty. I don't know where all the other car owners were, but they weren't waiting impatiently inside.
I was greeted very promptly and very professionally by the manager, Mike. He warned me that it may take a while before they could squeeze me in, but I was expecting to have to wait anyway so all was well. I'd like to say that I waited until the end of the month to get my state inspection done just so I could squeeze it in when everyone else was trying to squeeze theirs in and see how the business handled the pressure, but, the truth is, I'm just lazy. And forgetful. At any rate, Mike promised to have it done as soon as possible and offered me a cool frosty beverage.
One thing that I noticed about the lobby was that there was no television, very few magazines and copies of the New Testament on the tables. Everything was clean and actually didn't smell like grease monkeys. I settled in with my water and proceeded to read and play games on my Kindle. A little while later a young mother and her toddler walked in for a scheduled repair. Mike the manager was right on top of things. A part hadn't been ordered correctly, but rather than reschedule the customer he got right on the phone to have it delivered immediately and made arrangements for mom and son to go home and relax while the repair was being made. While doing this another, less agreeable, customer came in to inquire about why he was still waiting. I was really impressed with the way in which both situations were handled. The phone conversation with the shop was put on hold and the grumpy man was taken outside to, I assume, explain his situation. Then Mike returned and continued his phone conversation ordering parts. The customer was put first. In fact the shop was run so efficiently that my car was fit in during a stopping point during a brake job and I was in and out with my new inspection sticker in about 30 minutes.
And not once did anyone hit on me, try to look down my shirt, or offer me a 'discount' on a service I didn't need. At least I've been smart enough to say that I'll have my own mechanic look at my car before I have any work done. Not to be sexist, but I know as much about cars as most other women do. And have about as much interest in learning. I can check my fluids and air pressure and I can change a tire, but that's about it. I might be more inclined to learn if I didn't have to get so oily.
The Verdict
Definitely a 5/5 for customer service. I will go back there again when I need anything else done and tell you how it goes.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
As they Grow
This past weekend we joined millions of others in celebrating Memorial Day by going to a pool party and eating bar-b-que with friends. The company was great and a good time was had by all. While everyone was sitting around the pool I couldn't help but take in the sight of my three kids playing and splashing in the water, getting along for the first time in weeks. I remember what it was like to be a child and make friends for the day. Today we're besties, floating and diving and making up rules to our own games. Tomorrow we're sunburned, tired and happy. Nothing but the memories of a good time to get us through the last few days of school.
I love the age that my kids are now. Old enough to be on their own but still vulnerable enough to need the watchful eyes of their parents. Tim is 12 and is awkward, funny, and always just outside the group. Rebecca, at 10, seems to get along with everyone whether she wants to or not. She is too nice to say no to others even at a cost to herself. Diana, 7, is independent and voices her feelings without a filter, happy to play on her own or with others. As they splashed and laughed I observed and smiled, grateful for the opportunity.
There were kids of all ages at the gathering. I found myself being thankful that I no longer have to hop in the pool to insure their safety. I don't have to feel like the meddling mom, constantly checking on her brood. I can stay on the sidelines, within reach, and still answer the call, "Mom, watch this!" Or swim and play with them because they want me to, not because they need to.
I'm not even sure I miss those days. I loved having my babies. I loved carting them around, bathing them, clothing them, wiping away tears and cleaning boo boos. I would never trade it for anything. But I, much like my kids, have grown and changed. I have matured and am still working on becoming the mom I want to be. Every once in a while I still get to wipe away tears, but it won't be long before it's due to broken hearts or fights with friends instead of trips and falls. Boo boos are coming fewer and farther between and I've learned to treasure the time I have. I still sneak in their bedrooms at night to stroke their hair, kiss their cheeks, pull the blankets up a little higher. That is the one vice I will not give up.
I love the freedom that having kids has afforded me. They made me a better person. I don't feel tied down to them. I feel liberated by what they have given me. I was taught responsibility, how to educate, entertain, and worry. My kids gave me the freedom of choice. What kind of mom do I want to be?
I think the proof was in the pool that day. As all three kids forgot their petty arguments with each other and played uninhibited with a slew of other equally great kids, I felt a satisfaction like none other. Not that mom and dad don't love their dates; we just appreciate them all the more.
Kids grow up and you can't change that. You do have some control over what kind of person they will turn out to be. Nothing is ever perfect, including yourself. Cheers to the bittersweet adventure that children are.
4/5 - Because you can't stop it and you can't change it, even for the better.
I love the age that my kids are now. Old enough to be on their own but still vulnerable enough to need the watchful eyes of their parents. Tim is 12 and is awkward, funny, and always just outside the group. Rebecca, at 10, seems to get along with everyone whether she wants to or not. She is too nice to say no to others even at a cost to herself. Diana, 7, is independent and voices her feelings without a filter, happy to play on her own or with others. As they splashed and laughed I observed and smiled, grateful for the opportunity.
There were kids of all ages at the gathering. I found myself being thankful that I no longer have to hop in the pool to insure their safety. I don't have to feel like the meddling mom, constantly checking on her brood. I can stay on the sidelines, within reach, and still answer the call, "Mom, watch this!" Or swim and play with them because they want me to, not because they need to.
I'm not even sure I miss those days. I loved having my babies. I loved carting them around, bathing them, clothing them, wiping away tears and cleaning boo boos. I would never trade it for anything. But I, much like my kids, have grown and changed. I have matured and am still working on becoming the mom I want to be. Every once in a while I still get to wipe away tears, but it won't be long before it's due to broken hearts or fights with friends instead of trips and falls. Boo boos are coming fewer and farther between and I've learned to treasure the time I have. I still sneak in their bedrooms at night to stroke their hair, kiss their cheeks, pull the blankets up a little higher. That is the one vice I will not give up.
I love the freedom that having kids has afforded me. They made me a better person. I don't feel tied down to them. I feel liberated by what they have given me. I was taught responsibility, how to educate, entertain, and worry. My kids gave me the freedom of choice. What kind of mom do I want to be?
I think the proof was in the pool that day. As all three kids forgot their petty arguments with each other and played uninhibited with a slew of other equally great kids, I felt a satisfaction like none other. Not that mom and dad don't love their dates; we just appreciate them all the more.
Kids grow up and you can't change that. You do have some control over what kind of person they will turn out to be. Nothing is ever perfect, including yourself. Cheers to the bittersweet adventure that children are.
4/5 - Because you can't stop it and you can't change it, even for the better.
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