20101130:
Rasputin's powers were questionable. He seemed powerful, and yet he failed horribly at destroying Anastasia. Perhaps there are rules involved in wreaking havoc which I don't understand.
In regards to the character voices, first, I definitely recognized Meg Ryan's voice. Of course it helps that I've seen several of her movies and already knew she was Anastasia's voice. Second, I didn't realize that Christopher Lloyd was Rasputin until seeing it in the credits. Third, I didn't pick up on John Cusack's voice; perhaps I would if I watched the movie again.
Overall, while I enjoyed the singing and most of the animation, the movie had its flaws.
Best Quote:
"Just wishing I could do the job for you, sir. I'd give her a HA! And a HI-YA! And then a OUU-WA! And I'd kick her, sir." - Bartok
Most Memorable Scene:
Anastasia remembers the cat, and they wonder because they didn't tell her about the cat.
[20160710 Edit][20190914 Edit]
Watched 20101130 (Netflix, Instant)
Watched at least once before when I was a kid... Most likely around the time the movie came out on VHS... Assuming this was the case, 1998, I was about 12... Interesting.
Anastasia (1997) Don Bluth and Gary Goldman. 94 min. [based on live-action film otsn (1956)]
Relevant Links:
Anastasia (IMDb.com)
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Justice League: The New Frontier (2008)
20101129:
This movie has a heavy focus on the Hal Jordan Green Lantern and Martian Manhunter stories. After those two, we have the following roles of importance (most to least): Superman, Batman, the Flash, and Wonder Woman. Other characters appear but aren't nearly as prominent.
Note: This movie is geared towards more mature audiences. If I recall correctly, it's more for adults than Batman Under the Red Hood and Superman Doomsday. I could be wrong, but there is blood splatter. In fact at the beginning there is an implied suicide.
I'm not familiar with the older versions of the characters, but I'm guessing the characters were drawn with an earlier style (e.g., costumes look different and "older") to reflect the movie being set in the 1950's. I'll have to do some research on the area.
[20101201]
20190914 Comment:
To answer my previous suspicion, I did some searching and specifically found the following (on the source comic DC: The New Frontier): "New Frontier is set primarily in the 1950s and depicts Golden Age superheroes Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman meeting Silver Age characters The Flash, Green Lantern and Martian Manhunter." (Wikipedia.org)
Watched 20101129 (Netflix, Instant)
Justice League: The New Frontier (2008) Dave Bullock. 75 min. [adapted ft six-issue comic book series DC: The New Frontier (2004-2005)]
Relevant Links:
Justice League: The New Frontier (IMDb.com)
Justice League: The New Frontier (Wikipedia.org)
DC: The New Frontier (Wikipedia.org)
This movie has a heavy focus on the Hal Jordan Green Lantern and Martian Manhunter stories. After those two, we have the following roles of importance (most to least): Superman, Batman, the Flash, and Wonder Woman. Other characters appear but aren't nearly as prominent.
Note: This movie is geared towards more mature audiences. If I recall correctly, it's more for adults than Batman Under the Red Hood and Superman Doomsday. I could be wrong, but there is blood splatter. In fact at the beginning there is an implied suicide.
I'm not familiar with the older versions of the characters, but I'm guessing the characters were drawn with an earlier style (e.g., costumes look different and "older") to reflect the movie being set in the 1950's. I'll have to do some research on the area.
[20101201]
20190914 Comment:
To answer my previous suspicion, I did some searching and specifically found the following (on the source comic DC: The New Frontier): "New Frontier is set primarily in the 1950s and depicts Golden Age superheroes Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman meeting Silver Age characters The Flash, Green Lantern and Martian Manhunter." (Wikipedia.org)
Watched 20101129 (Netflix, Instant)
Justice League: The New Frontier (2008) Dave Bullock. 75 min. [adapted ft six-issue comic book series DC: The New Frontier (2004-2005)]
Relevant Links:
Justice League: The New Frontier (IMDb.com)
Justice League: The New Frontier (Wikipedia.org)
DC: The New Frontier (Wikipedia.org)
Saturday, November 27, 2010
National Geographic: Great Migrations
20101127:
It's been a while since I've watched a nature documentary. Today I was studying with this documentary playing in the background; it was great! I should have tried studying with nature documentaries in the background sooner. Occasionally I can look up and see something amazing, but then go right back to studying. It's almost like the visual equivalent of classical music. In particular, the documentary doesn't demand my attention (the same way a story-based movie would), and the ambient noise can be soothing. I suppose that's why I watched March of the Penguins the other day.
Moments That Caught My Attention:
1) Mother zebra chases baby cheetah away.
2) Elephant seals fighting. Blood spill. Poke in the eye. Man... that's brutal.
3) Walrus swimming lesson.
Note: I started watching the first episode "Born to Move" at midnight, but fell asleep partway through. The four episodes were "Born to Move," "Need to Breed," "Race to Survive," and "Feast or Famine." Though I didn't exactly notice the themes.
[20101127][20190504 Edit]
20230217:
Today I finished the fifth episode of the series ("Science of Great Migrations"), and I went on to watch the sixth episode ("Rhythm of Life"), which was an unnarrated episode which features scenes (many if not all which were already shown in previous episodes) and various music.*
*According to the Wikipedia article, there are actually seven episodes. The fifth and sixth episodes above on Disney+ are listed as the sixth and seventh episodes on the Wikipedia page. The fifth episode on the Wikipedia page is titled "Behind the Scenes" and doesn't appear to be available on Disney+.
S1E1 Born to Move
Hehe. The music makes the zebra chasing the baby cheetah very dramatic
Five out of six.
Month long
Whoa. "However they can" (eating another crab)
The monarch butterflies!
"Males pluck females from trees like reluctant flowers. And they mate."
Multigenerational migration. WTF. What's the purpose of such a migration if it takes so long. I suppose it would help distribute resources. [Oh, the migration is seasonal, so as a species, the monarchs travel from Mexico, to the north, and back. But individual generations are only responsible for a part of the trip.]
Hehe. The crocodiles gathering waiting for the migrating wildebeests has me thinking of how humans gather for yearly events such as Black Friday.
2000 times!
"Many will drown in their frenzy to launch their eggs seaward."
100,000 eggs!!!
"Sizing up the competition. In more ways than one..." Literally a dick-measuring contest.
Is it literally in their genes?
Baby crabs versus crazy ants
1=20230117
S1E2 Need to Breed
"He is 3.5 metric tons of raw, sexual aggression."
30 year bond... wow.
Wow. That's brutal (the wounds)
What is the motivation? [the narrator soon says, the need to pass on one's legacy... but how is the encoded in the animal. as an adult human, there's my desire to pass on my legacy that is at odds with my desire for self-preservation. I suppose the young male is also more interested in living and does not make any attempt to mate. whereas the two males that have at it have somehow judged themselves at being worthy]
Hmm. What would the evolution that led to bats look like? [while I was searching for more of a sequence of animals between some ancestor rodent and the modern day bat, this Wikipedia article gives a partial answer][This article is more the angle I was looking for, and so apparently there are mostly just theories]
Lol. WTF. A structure mostly made of ants...
Do ants have a hive mind? [various search results say yes, and liken the collection of ants to a human brain, where each individual ant is a neuron and the signal between ants are pheromones (the equivalent of electrical signals between neurons)]
What makes it so that the striated caracara (Johnny rook) doesn't attack an adult?
What is the expected life expectancy of a colony?
Urine...
How simple. Raise the young for a while, and then leave them.
Wow. Possibly 10 years until returning to shore
1=20230125
S1E3 Race to Survive
Yikes. Crazy bloodshot eyes.
Watching the pronghorn, I felt like expanding my thoughts regarding the living Earth. Animals migrations are no doubt amazing, but can be likened to blood passing through the body. That is, it seems natural to view the animals as being alive and the ones making the trip. However, one can instead view the Earth as being alive with natural pathways which its inhabitants must follow. That was a great sound as the pronghorn escaped the fence.
Poor foal. Doesn't understand the situation. (Certainly there's some dramatization imparted by the narrator, but it's still sad)
Huh. One of them had a third tooth.
What do walruses primarily use their tusks for? ["Walruses use their tusks to haul themselves out of the water and onto the sea ice. Their tusks are also used for keeping breathing holes open in the ice, fighting with other walruses, and for defence against predators" "The main role of the tusks, however, is a social one. Walruses use them in their herd for dominance and mating displays."]
Huh. The scavengers would be offended. "The father herds his son away from the awful spectacle"
1=20230126
S1E4 Feast or Famine
Two years in the womb (elephant)
Why does it just have a bite taken out of it. Why wouldn't the shark be able to completely feast on the entire elephant seal?
I was thinking if the entire seal will be eaten or not. But I recall that uneaten pieces will float to the bottom of the ocean where other creatures will feed on the remains
Interesting. What distinguishes two distinct species, the Golden Jellyfish and the algae growing on them, versus being one?
The elephant honor the dead newborn.
Is there a reasons the elephant families would join up and travel together?
1=20230130
S1E5 Science of Great Migrations
1a: I'm not sure I understand. Why do they have to find the butterflies by plane, only to later go out and look by car.
1a: Ooo. I love it. Superorganism
1a: Wow. That's amazing. The randomness making it harder for the lion to find them.
1a=20230131,1b=20230217
Watched 20101127 (Netflix, Instant)
Watched 20230117 (Disney+)
National Geographic: Great Migration (2010)
It's been a while since I've watched a nature documentary. Today I was studying with this documentary playing in the background; it was great! I should have tried studying with nature documentaries in the background sooner. Occasionally I can look up and see something amazing, but then go right back to studying. It's almost like the visual equivalent of classical music. In particular, the documentary doesn't demand my attention (the same way a story-based movie would), and the ambient noise can be soothing. I suppose that's why I watched March of the Penguins the other day.
Moments That Caught My Attention:
1) Mother zebra chases baby cheetah away.
2) Elephant seals fighting. Blood spill. Poke in the eye. Man... that's brutal.
3) Walrus swimming lesson.
Note: I started watching the first episode "Born to Move" at midnight, but fell asleep partway through. The four episodes were "Born to Move," "Need to Breed," "Race to Survive," and "Feast or Famine." Though I didn't exactly notice the themes.
[20101127][20190504 Edit]
20230217:
Today I finished the fifth episode of the series ("Science of Great Migrations"), and I went on to watch the sixth episode ("Rhythm of Life"), which was an unnarrated episode which features scenes (many if not all which were already shown in previous episodes) and various music.*
*According to the Wikipedia article, there are actually seven episodes. The fifth and sixth episodes above on Disney+ are listed as the sixth and seventh episodes on the Wikipedia page. The fifth episode on the Wikipedia page is titled "Behind the Scenes" and doesn't appear to be available on Disney+.
S1E1 Born to Move
Hehe. The music makes the zebra chasing the baby cheetah very dramatic
Five out of six.
Month long
Whoa. "However they can" (eating another crab)
The monarch butterflies!
"Males pluck females from trees like reluctant flowers. And they mate."
Multigenerational migration. WTF. What's the purpose of such a migration if it takes so long. I suppose it would help distribute resources. [Oh, the migration is seasonal, so as a species, the monarchs travel from Mexico, to the north, and back. But individual generations are only responsible for a part of the trip.]
Hehe. The crocodiles gathering waiting for the migrating wildebeests has me thinking of how humans gather for yearly events such as Black Friday.
2000 times!
"Many will drown in their frenzy to launch their eggs seaward."
100,000 eggs!!!
"Sizing up the competition. In more ways than one..." Literally a dick-measuring contest.
Is it literally in their genes?
Baby crabs versus crazy ants
1=20230117
S1E2 Need to Breed
"He is 3.5 metric tons of raw, sexual aggression."
30 year bond... wow.
Wow. That's brutal (the wounds)
What is the motivation? [the narrator soon says, the need to pass on one's legacy... but how is the encoded in the animal. as an adult human, there's my desire to pass on my legacy that is at odds with my desire for self-preservation. I suppose the young male is also more interested in living and does not make any attempt to mate. whereas the two males that have at it have somehow judged themselves at being worthy]
Hmm. What would the evolution that led to bats look like? [while I was searching for more of a sequence of animals between some ancestor rodent and the modern day bat, this Wikipedia article gives a partial answer][This article is more the angle I was looking for, and so apparently there are mostly just theories]
Lol. WTF. A structure mostly made of ants...
Do ants have a hive mind? [various search results say yes, and liken the collection of ants to a human brain, where each individual ant is a neuron and the signal between ants are pheromones (the equivalent of electrical signals between neurons)]
What makes it so that the striated caracara (Johnny rook) doesn't attack an adult?
What is the expected life expectancy of a colony?
Urine...
How simple. Raise the young for a while, and then leave them.
Wow. Possibly 10 years until returning to shore
1=20230125
S1E3 Race to Survive
Yikes. Crazy bloodshot eyes.
Watching the pronghorn, I felt like expanding my thoughts regarding the living Earth. Animals migrations are no doubt amazing, but can be likened to blood passing through the body. That is, it seems natural to view the animals as being alive and the ones making the trip. However, one can instead view the Earth as being alive with natural pathways which its inhabitants must follow. That was a great sound as the pronghorn escaped the fence.
Poor foal. Doesn't understand the situation. (Certainly there's some dramatization imparted by the narrator, but it's still sad)
Huh. One of them had a third tooth.
What do walruses primarily use their tusks for? ["Walruses use their tusks to haul themselves out of the water and onto the sea ice. Their tusks are also used for keeping breathing holes open in the ice, fighting with other walruses, and for defence against predators" "The main role of the tusks, however, is a social one. Walruses use them in their herd for dominance and mating displays."]
Huh. The scavengers would be offended. "The father herds his son away from the awful spectacle"
1=20230126
S1E4 Feast or Famine
Two years in the womb (elephant)
Why does it just have a bite taken out of it. Why wouldn't the shark be able to completely feast on the entire elephant seal?
I was thinking if the entire seal will be eaten or not. But I recall that uneaten pieces will float to the bottom of the ocean where other creatures will feed on the remains
Interesting. What distinguishes two distinct species, the Golden Jellyfish and the algae growing on them, versus being one?
The elephant honor the dead newborn.
Is there a reasons the elephant families would join up and travel together?
1=20230130
S1E5 Science of Great Migrations
1a: I'm not sure I understand. Why do they have to find the butterflies by plane, only to later go out and look by car.
1a: Ooo. I love it. Superorganism
1a: Wow. That's amazing. The randomness making it harder for the lion to find them.
1a=20230131,1b=20230217
Watched 20101127 (Netflix, Instant)
Watched 20230117 (Disney+)
National Geographic: Great Migration (2010)
Friday, November 26, 2010
Wallace and Gromit: A Matter of Loaf and Death (2008)
20101126:
Lol, the Batman (1966) reference when Gromit is trying to get rid of the bomb. Lovely short.
What a lovely ending for Gromit.
[20101205]
Watched 20101126 (Netflix, Instant)
Wallace and Gromit: A Matter of Loaf and Death (2008) Nick Park. 30 min.
Relevant Links:
Wallace and Gromit: A Matter of Loaf and Death (IMDb.com)
Wallace and Gromit: A Matter of Loaf and Death (Wikipedia.org)
Lol, the Batman (1966) reference when Gromit is trying to get rid of the bomb. Lovely short.
What a lovely ending for Gromit.
[20101205]
Watched 20101126 (Netflix, Instant)
Wallace and Gromit: A Matter of Loaf and Death (2008) Nick Park. 30 min.
Relevant Links:
Wallace and Gromit: A Matter of Loaf and Death (IMDb.com)
Wallace and Gromit: A Matter of Loaf and Death (Wikipedia.org)
Important Things with Demetri Martin
20101126:
There were some pretty good jokes in this first episode. And some not so funny. But it's nice that the show is familiar (has jokes similar to Demetri Martin. Person.)
S1E01
1=20101126 06:05PM-06:25PM
Important Things with Demetri Martin
There were some pretty good jokes in this first episode. And some not so funny. But it's nice that the show is familiar (has jokes similar to Demetri Martin. Person.)
S1E01
1=20101126 06:05PM-06:25PM
Important Things with Demetri Martin
Young Sherlock Holmes (1985)
20101126:
This movie was okay. I didn't like most of the scenes which involved hallucinations. The one with the stained glass was alright. Furthermore, the narration was a little annoying. I suppose, however, it moved the story along and wasn't as out of place as the hallucination scenes.
Overall, I thought the movie was okay.
[20101203]
Instant Comments:
The movie starts with a cold open. Showing the first murder before starting the opening credits.
"I should have mastered the damn thing by now." [...] "3 days."
Interesting he called it a failed attempt. It seemed like a very successful flight. Though maybe he wants flight, whereas his device seemed to be less flight and more of gliding.
"Where'd you get that rubbish from." "It's framed. On the wall behind you."
Credits:
A scene plays after the credits finish rolling.
"I'd like a room please."
Watched 20101126 (Netflix, Instant)
Young Sherlock Holmes (1985) Barry Levinson. 109 min
Relevant Links:
Young Sherlock Holmes (IMDb.com)
Young Sherlock Holmes (RottenTomatoes.com)
Young Sherlock Holmes (Wikipedia.org)
This movie was okay. I didn't like most of the scenes which involved hallucinations. The one with the stained glass was alright. Furthermore, the narration was a little annoying. I suppose, however, it moved the story along and wasn't as out of place as the hallucination scenes.
 |
| Watson (left) arrives at school. In the background is Holmes (right). |
Overall, I thought the movie was okay.
[20101203]
Instant Comments:
The movie starts with a cold open. Showing the first murder before starting the opening credits.
"I should have mastered the damn thing by now." [...] "3 days."
Interesting he called it a failed attempt. It seemed like a very successful flight. Though maybe he wants flight, whereas his device seemed to be less flight and more of gliding.
"Where'd you get that rubbish from." "It's framed. On the wall behind you."
Credits:
A scene plays after the credits finish rolling.
"I'd like a room please."
Watched 20101126 (Netflix, Instant)
Young Sherlock Holmes (1985) Barry Levinson. 109 min
 |
| Watson and Holmes in chemistry class. |
Relevant Links:
Young Sherlock Holmes (IMDb.com)
Young Sherlock Holmes (RottenTomatoes.com)
Young Sherlock Holmes (Wikipedia.org)
Thursday, November 25, 2010
March of the Penguins (2005)
20101126:
I put this movie on to play in the background. I had seen it before so knew what it was about. I had forgotten how depressing it was. Though all the depressing facts are offset by the cute little penguin chicks.
Morgan Freeman is the narrator.
I guess the ups and downs are what make a nature documentary interesting. It is the dilemma or obstacle that drives my interest in watching. If the event wasn't somehow miraculous, then there's less of an interest. Unless perhaps the style of a documentary has changed to attract the type of audience that enjoys this type of drama. I don't know the history of documentaries, but I guess an interesting documentary beats a plain cut and dry one.
[20101203]
Watched once before
Watched 20101126 (Netflix, Instant)
March of the Penguins (2005) Luc Jacquet. 80 min.
Relevant Links:
March of the Penguins (Wikipedia.org)
March of the Penguins (IMDb.com)
I put this movie on to play in the background. I had seen it before so knew what it was about. I had forgotten how depressing it was. Though all the depressing facts are offset by the cute little penguin chicks.
Morgan Freeman is the narrator.
I guess the ups and downs are what make a nature documentary interesting. It is the dilemma or obstacle that drives my interest in watching. If the event wasn't somehow miraculous, then there's less of an interest. Unless perhaps the style of a documentary has changed to attract the type of audience that enjoys this type of drama. I don't know the history of documentaries, but I guess an interesting documentary beats a plain cut and dry one.
[20101203]
Watched once before
Watched 20101126 (Netflix, Instant)
March of the Penguins (2005) Luc Jacquet. 80 min.
Relevant Links:
March of the Penguins (Wikipedia.org)
March of the Penguins (IMDb.com)
Hook (1991)
20101125:
I enjoyed the film for the most part. Some parts were just too silly for me. The movie would be great for kids. I don't know how to explain it. Like the animated Peter Pan is a children's movie, but it isn't silly. Perhaps the word ridiculous might be apt. Again, overall the story and idea was good, but some of the actual scenes I didn't like.
It turns out Rufio (Dante Basco) did the voice for Zuko in Avatar: The Last Airbender.
Lol: "Don't try to stop me Smee."
Watched 20101125 (Netflix, Instant) 142 min.
Hook (1991) Steven Spielberg. 144 min.
Relevant Links:
Hook (IMDb.com)
Hook (Wikipedia.org)
I enjoyed the film for the most part. Some parts were just too silly for me. The movie would be great for kids. I don't know how to explain it. Like the animated Peter Pan is a children's movie, but it isn't silly. Perhaps the word ridiculous might be apt. Again, overall the story and idea was good, but some of the actual scenes I didn't like.
It turns out Rufio (Dante Basco) did the voice for Zuko in Avatar: The Last Airbender.
Lol: "Don't try to stop me Smee."
Watched 20101125 (Netflix, Instant) 142 min.
Hook (1991) Steven Spielberg. 144 min.
Relevant Links:
Hook (IMDb.com)
Hook (Wikipedia.org)
The Fugitive (1993)
20101125:
At first with man's wife gets killed I thought I saw the movie already. I couldn't think of what I was thinking of so I did some searching. It wasn't Law Abiding Citizen, which is what I found first. Eventually I found the movie I was looking for but it didn't have a dead wife: Edge of Darkness.
It's Rose from Lost! (L. Scott Caldwell)
Lol: "Every time I look in the mirror pal, except for the beard."
At first I was wondering how a doctor could begin to fight for his life. When the movie begins to show us this, I'm thoroughly impressed.
Good action/thriller movie.
Watched 20101125 (Netflix, Instant) 130 min
The Fugitive (1993) Andrew Davis. 130 min. [bot television series otsn (1963-1967)]
Relevant Links:
The Fugitive (IMDb.com)
The Fugitive (Wikipedia.org)
At first with man's wife gets killed I thought I saw the movie already. I couldn't think of what I was thinking of so I did some searching. It wasn't Law Abiding Citizen, which is what I found first. Eventually I found the movie I was looking for but it didn't have a dead wife: Edge of Darkness.
It's Rose from Lost! (L. Scott Caldwell)
Lol: "Every time I look in the mirror pal, except for the beard."
At first I was wondering how a doctor could begin to fight for his life. When the movie begins to show us this, I'm thoroughly impressed.
Good action/thriller movie.
Watched 20101125 (Netflix, Instant) 130 min
The Fugitive (1993) Andrew Davis. 130 min. [bot television series otsn (1963-1967)]
Relevant Links:
The Fugitive (IMDb.com)
The Fugitive (Wikipedia.org)
The Land Before Time (1988)
 |
| Ducky (Judith Barsi) and Littlefoot (Gabriel Damon) |
20101125:
As far as I can remember, I've never watched this movie before.
Overall, The Land Before Time keeps the plot simple and enjoyable. Despite the simple plot, I was happy to be watching a classic 2D animation.
 |
| Baby Cera |
With that being said, I don't think the movie built the right amount of suspense or tension at the proper moments.
However, containing a nice message about friendship, this film makes a great movie for children.
20160725:
With only a 69 minute running time, this movie is short and captures several important themes including friendship, perseverance, and teamwork.
 |
| Ducky and Spike |
Unfortunately, the film, at least for the version available on Netflix, had a noticeably low and detail compared to modern-day films.
I would still recommend the film for its story.
[20160725]
Instant Comments:
2: "Some things you see with your eyes. Others you see with your heart."
2: What does that call sound like? "Mother!" Oh it sounded like when Bambi calls for his mother...
2: Littlefoot is so nice. He releases leaves when Cera rams the tree.
 |
| Spike, Cera (Candace Hutson), Littlefoot, Ducky and Petrie (Will Ryan) |
2: Why did they join sleep with Cera not Littlefoot?
2: Why did they switch?
2=20160725
Watched 20101125 (Netflix, Instant) 69 min.
watched 20160725 (Netflix, Instant)
The Land Before Time (1988) Don Bluth. 69 min.
 |
| Baby Littlefoot |
Relevant Links:
The Land Before Time (IMDb.com)
The Land Before Time (Wikipedia.org)
On the Waterfront (1954)
20101125:
"You don't understand! I coulda had class. I coulda been a contender. I coulda been somebody instead of a bum, which is what I am."
Lee J. Cobb was also in 12 Angry Men.
Watched 20101125 (Netflix, Instant) 107 min.
On the Waterfront (1954) Elia Kazan. 108 min.
Relevant Links:
On the Waterfront (Wikipedia.org)
On the Waterfront (IMDb.com)
"You don't understand! I coulda had class. I coulda been a contender. I coulda been somebody instead of a bum, which is what I am."
Lee J. Cobb was also in 12 Angry Men.
Watched 20101125 (Netflix, Instant) 107 min.
On the Waterfront (1954) Elia Kazan. 108 min.
Relevant Links:
On the Waterfront (Wikipedia.org)
On the Waterfront (IMDb.com)
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Driving Miss Daisy (1989)
20101121:
I wouldn't have been able to guess this movie was made in 1989.
Morgan Freeman is great. Dan Aykroyd is a good side character.
Kind of a neutral, warming movie. It touches on some issues but not too much.
Overall a good movie, but certainly wouldn't be a memorable movie. I'm glad to have watched it, but wouldn't exactly recommend it. That sort of movie.
Instant Comments:
The can of salmon part was predictable.
I like that. "We ain't gonna worry about what's in the middle?"
I wonder what time period this is? I found the answer to be the 1950's (well when Hoke is hired)
In any case, at the point they are driving to someone's house on Christmas, I decided to predict there's only two choices to how this movie could possibly end. After the two obvious predictions I have a third and then a fourth.
Whoa... the scene with the cops I didn't see coming. That was heavy. Then followed by the toilet issue...
Note: There are so many stars visible despite the billboard being illuminated.
I should keep Morgan Freeman's mouth twitch movement in this movie in mind, it might come in handy for something.
Krispy Kreme?
It's possible, apparently they've been around since 1937.
No predictions came true. Thus it gets some points for being unpredictable.
Watched 20101121 (Netflix, Instant)
Driving Miss Daisy (1989) Bruce Beresford. 99 min. [adapted ft play otsn (1987) by Alfred Uhry]
Driving Miss Daisy (IMDb.com)
Driving Miss Daisy (Wikipedia.org)
Driving Miss Daisy (play) (Wikipedia.org)
I wouldn't have been able to guess this movie was made in 1989.
Morgan Freeman is great. Dan Aykroyd is a good side character.
Kind of a neutral, warming movie. It touches on some issues but not too much.
Overall a good movie, but certainly wouldn't be a memorable movie. I'm glad to have watched it, but wouldn't exactly recommend it. That sort of movie.
Instant Comments:
The can of salmon part was predictable.
I like that. "We ain't gonna worry about what's in the middle?"
I wonder what time period this is? I found the answer to be the 1950's (well when Hoke is hired)
In any case, at the point they are driving to someone's house on Christmas, I decided to predict there's only two choices to how this movie could possibly end. After the two obvious predictions I have a third and then a fourth.
Whoa... the scene with the cops I didn't see coming. That was heavy. Then followed by the toilet issue...
Note: There are so many stars visible despite the billboard being illuminated.
I should keep Morgan Freeman's mouth twitch movement in this movie in mind, it might come in handy for something.
Krispy Kreme?
It's possible, apparently they've been around since 1937.
No predictions came true. Thus it gets some points for being unpredictable.
Watched 20101121 (Netflix, Instant)
Driving Miss Daisy (1989) Bruce Beresford. 99 min. [adapted ft play otsn (1987) by Alfred Uhry]
Driving Miss Daisy (IMDb.com)
Driving Miss Daisy (Wikipedia.org)
Driving Miss Daisy (play) (Wikipedia.org)
Sleepless in Seattle (1993)
20101121:
Simply put: Cute movie.
20150623:
Having remembered Sleepless in Seattle as great movie, I decided to watch it again today with a friend.
In particular, I thought I had seen it at least twice before, but apparently I've only seen it once before.
In any case, this particular romantic comedy puts an emphasis on love at first sight. In fact, the movie's protagonists (played by Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan) are only on screen with each other for a short part of the movie.
[20150623 Assumed Entry Date][20190914 Edit]
Instant Comments:
1: Lol @ title reference: The radio show doctor refers to Tom Hank's character as Sleepless in Seattle. At about 20 minutes in.
1: Rosie O'Donnell.
1: Baltimore!
1: Lol @ his sister describing the Cary Grant movie
1: Lol @ the guys making fun of her and doing their description of the Dirty Dozen.
1: Haha. "Didn't you see Fatal Attraction?"
1=20101121
Watched 20101121 (Netflix, Instant)
Watched 20150623 (Netflix, Instant)
Sleepless in Seattle (1993) Nora Ephron. 105 min.
Relevant Links:
Sleepless in Seattle (IMDb.com)
Simply put: Cute movie.
20150623:
Having remembered Sleepless in Seattle as great movie, I decided to watch it again today with a friend.
In particular, I thought I had seen it at least twice before, but apparently I've only seen it once before.
In any case, this particular romantic comedy puts an emphasis on love at first sight. In fact, the movie's protagonists (played by Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan) are only on screen with each other for a short part of the movie.
[20150623 Assumed Entry Date][20190914 Edit]
Instant Comments:
1: Lol @ title reference: The radio show doctor refers to Tom Hank's character as Sleepless in Seattle. At about 20 minutes in.
1: Rosie O'Donnell.
1: Baltimore!
1: Lol @ his sister describing the Cary Grant movie
1: Lol @ the guys making fun of her and doing their description of the Dirty Dozen.
1: Haha. "Didn't you see Fatal Attraction?"
1=20101121
Watched 20101121 (Netflix, Instant)
Watched 20150623 (Netflix, Instant)
Sleepless in Seattle (1993) Nora Ephron. 105 min.
Relevant Links:
Sleepless in Seattle (IMDb.com)
Avatar: The Last Airbender
20101123:
Uncle Iroh is an awesome character. In fact, he's my favorite character.
Book 1
Chapter One: The Boy in the Iceberg
The show starts off great. Immediately grabbing my interest. And Aang's personality is lovable. Of course the other two protagonists introduced so far are also interesting.
20101120 ~09:30PM-~10:00PM
Chapter Two: The Avatar Returns
This episode really gets action going and shows us what I would guess to be a taste of Aang's power.
Water, then Earth, then Fire.
20101120 ~10:00PM-~10:30PM
Chapter Three: The Southern Air Temple
We learn a bit about some connection Aang has with his Avatar spirit.
20101120 ~10:30PM-~11:00PM
Chapter Four: The Warriors of Kyoshi
Lol, the marble trick.
Haha, no-handed push-ups.
The change in color was pretty cool. Added a mood to the ending.
20101120 ~11:00PM-~11:30PM
Chapter Five: The King of Omashu
20101120 ~11:30PM-~12:00PM
Chapter Six: Imprisoned
Damn, ungrateful old man.
20101121 ~12:00AM-~12:30PM
Chapter Seven: The Spirit World (Winter Solstice, Part 1)
20101121 ~12:30AM-~01:00AM
Chapter Eight: Avatar Roku (Winter Solstice, Part 2)
20101121 ~02:55AM-~02:20AM
Chapter Nine: The Waterbending Scroll
The cabbage! Haha.
20101121 ~02:20AM-~03:45AM
Chapter Ten: Jet
Katara's use of water out of her canteen is awesome. Can't wait to see how that develops by the end of the show. Whoa, the ice!
20101121 ~03:45AM-~03:10AM
Chapter Eleven: The Great Divide
20101121 ~03:10AM-~03:35AM
Chapter Twelve: The Storm
It's great to learn some history on both the Prince and Aang. On the Prince's part, it gives me pity towards the Prince, and some of the plot further opens his character. I didn't realize it before, but at least two of the other episodes revealed his honorable character.
Being a children's cartoon, the plots within each episode can often be predictable. In particular, The King of Omashu episode with who the king was, and in this episode with Aang's story. Though in general, it's only predictable enough to be enjoying I suppose, because many plot points are surprising, the cartoon is really well written.
20101121 ~03:35AM-~04:00AM
Chapter Thirteen: The Blue Spirit
As I watch this episode, I'm reminded of my thought as to when the crew will get a new ally. At the moment, the Prince plays a sort of enemy-ally role where in my point of view, can possibly become the secretly an ally or disgruntled ally turned full ally. Certainly the idea of the greater evil has been introduced. But perhaps the show wants to introduce an even greater antagonist.
20101121 ~10:10AM-~10:35AM
Chapter Fourteen: The Fortuneteller
Lol, "Can your science tell you how it rains?" "Yes, yes it can."
I like how one of the previous episodes set up the bit about clouds being made of water.
20101121 ~10:35AM-~11:00AM
Chapter Fifteen:
Lol, "Uncle I didn't see you get licked..." "Shhh..."
20101121 ~11:00AM-~11:30AM
Chapter Sixteen:
Cool new powers and characters and development. Love the storyline.
20101121 ~11:30AM-~12:00PM
Chapter Seventeen:
20101121 ~12:00PM-~12:30PM
Chapter Eighteen:
I don't understand how come she didn't show this much skill before. Was it her anger that helped give her power?
20101121 ~12:30PM-~01:00PM
Chapter Nineteen:
Lol, "I wouldn't say mastered, but check this out." Snowman.
I'm glad Katara was praised for her water bending. I suppose she has both the discipline and potential.
20101121 ~01:00PM-~01:30PM
Chapter Twenty:
I love every time there is a color change. It is an artistic type of freshness, that compliments the plot being fresh.
End of Book 1. Great ending.
20101121 ~01:30PM-~02:00PM
Book 2
The Avatar State
20101122 ~12:00PM-~12:30PM
The Cave of Two Lovers
I love whenever stories are told, because they tend to be done in an artistic style different from the main story. The last time a story was told nicely was Aang telling the story in a Great Divide.
20101122 ~12:30PM-~01:00PM
Return to Omashu
20101122 ~01:00PM-~01:30PM
The Swamp
20101122 ~01:30PM-~02:00PM
Avatar Day
Interesting in that the confession to me reveals that the event was accidental, but no one from the village seems to see it as such. Anyhow, I like the story for explaining why Kyoshi is an island.
20101122 ~02:00PM-~02:30PM
The Blind Bandit
Yay, the extra follower I was waiting for!
Also, lol, "Water tribe..."
20101122 ~02:30PM-~03:00PM
Zuko Alone
I like how the show carefully balances Zuko on the tip, sometimes we have reason to like him and sometimes we have reason to dislike him.
20101122 ~03:00PM-~03:30PM
The Chase
20101122 ~06:30PM-~07:00PM
Bitter Work
20101122 ~07:00PM-~07:30PM
The Library
20101122 ~07:30PM-~08:00PM
The Desert
20101122 ~08:00PM-~08:30PM
The Serpent's Pass
20101122 ~08:30PM-~09:30PM
The Drill
20101122 ~09:30PM-~10:00AM
City of Walls and Secrets
20101122 ~10:00PM-~10:30AM
The Tales of Ba Sing Se
20101122 ~10:30PM-~11:00AM
Appa's Lost Days
20101122 ~11:00PM-~11:30PM
Lake Laogai
20101122 ~11:30PM-~11:59PM
The Earth King
20101123 ~06:00PM-~06:30PM
The Guru
Toph the "metalbender."
20101123 ~06:30PM-~07:00PM
The Crossroads of Destiny
They're pushing my patience with Zuko.
20101123 ~07:00PM-~07:30PM
Book 3
The Awakening
20101123 ~07:30PM-~08:00PM
The Headband
20101123 ~08:00PM-~08:30PM
The Painted Lady
20101123 ~08:30PM-~09:00PM
Sokka's Master
I love the scene after the guard gives Iroh food.
Lol, Aang in the armor.
::Clap clap::
"Funny how?"
20101123 ~09:00PM-~09:30PM
The Beach
"What a monster I was." Music stops. "Of course it was true..."
20101123 ~09:30PM-~10:00PM
The Avatar and the Firelord
Lol: "Just hold hands."
20101123 ~10:00PM-~10:30PM
The Runaway
Lol... the sweat was cool. The armpit sweat was kind of cool but also disgusting.
Combustion man. Haha.
20101123 ~10:30PM-~11:00PM
The Puppetmaster
20101124 ~11:00AM-~11:30AM
Nightmares and Daydreams
"And this time I brought pants!"
Major lol: "Want to try screaming into this pillow?" ::sheep::
Lol, this episode is just cracking me up.
20101124 ~11:30AM-~12:00PM
The Day of Black Sun Part 1: The Invasion
20101124 ~12:00PM-~12:30PM
The Day of Black Sun Part 2: The Eclipse
20101124 ~12:30PM-~01:00PM
The Western Air Temple
Haha, Zuko pretending to be Uncle. And then Azula.
Wait a minute, Toph knows when people are lying, how come she didn't sense that Zuko was telling the truth.
Haha, after I wrote it, the scene plays with Toph says he's telling the truth.
Nice: "I'm beginning to wonder who's the blind one around here."
Toph knows it was an accident and the others are just going crazy about it.
20101124 ~01:00PM-~01:30PM
The Firebending Masters
20101124 ~01:30PM-~02:00PM
The Boiling Rock, Part 1
20101124 ~02:00PM-~02:30PM
The Boiling Rock, Part 2
20101124 ~02:30PM-~03:00PM
The Southern Raiders
20101124 ~03:00PM-~03:30PM
The Ember Island Players
20101124 ~03:30PM-~03:55PM
Sozin's Comet Part 1: The Phoenix King
20101124 ~03:55PM-~04:20PM
Sozin's Comet Part 2: The Old Masters
20101124 ~04:20PM-~04:45PM
Sozin's Comet Part 3: Into the Inferno
20101124 ~04:45PM-~05:10PM
Sozin's Comet Part 4: Avatar Aang
20101124 ~05:10PM-~05:35PM
Watched 20101120, 20101121 Book One: Water
Watched 20101122, 20101123 Book Two: Earth
Watched 20101123, 20101124 Book Three: Fire
Avatar: The Last Airbender
Relevant Links:
Avatar: The Last Airbender (IMDb.com)
Avatar: The Last Airbender (Wikipedia.org)
Avatar: The Last Airbender (season 1) (Wikipedia.org)
Avatar: The Last Airbender (season 2) (Wikipedia.org)
Avatar: The Last Airbender (season 3) (Wikipedia.org)
Uncle Iroh is an awesome character. In fact, he's my favorite character.
Book 1
Chapter One: The Boy in the Iceberg
The show starts off great. Immediately grabbing my interest. And Aang's personality is lovable. Of course the other two protagonists introduced so far are also interesting.
20101120 ~09:30PM-~10:00PM
Chapter Two: The Avatar Returns
This episode really gets action going and shows us what I would guess to be a taste of Aang's power.
Water, then Earth, then Fire.
20101120 ~10:00PM-~10:30PM
Chapter Three: The Southern Air Temple
We learn a bit about some connection Aang has with his Avatar spirit.
20101120 ~10:30PM-~11:00PM
Chapter Four: The Warriors of Kyoshi
Lol, the marble trick.
Haha, no-handed push-ups.
The change in color was pretty cool. Added a mood to the ending.
20101120 ~11:00PM-~11:30PM
Chapter Five: The King of Omashu
20101120 ~11:30PM-~12:00PM
Chapter Six: Imprisoned
Damn, ungrateful old man.
20101121 ~12:00AM-~12:30PM
Chapter Seven: The Spirit World (Winter Solstice, Part 1)
20101121 ~12:30AM-~01:00AM
Chapter Eight: Avatar Roku (Winter Solstice, Part 2)
20101121 ~02:55AM-~02:20AM
Chapter Nine: The Waterbending Scroll
The cabbage! Haha.
20101121 ~02:20AM-~03:45AM
Chapter Ten: Jet
Katara's use of water out of her canteen is awesome. Can't wait to see how that develops by the end of the show. Whoa, the ice!
20101121 ~03:45AM-~03:10AM
Chapter Eleven: The Great Divide
20101121 ~03:10AM-~03:35AM
Chapter Twelve: The Storm
It's great to learn some history on both the Prince and Aang. On the Prince's part, it gives me pity towards the Prince, and some of the plot further opens his character. I didn't realize it before, but at least two of the other episodes revealed his honorable character.
Being a children's cartoon, the plots within each episode can often be predictable. In particular, The King of Omashu episode with who the king was, and in this episode with Aang's story. Though in general, it's only predictable enough to be enjoying I suppose, because many plot points are surprising, the cartoon is really well written.
20101121 ~03:35AM-~04:00AM
Chapter Thirteen: The Blue Spirit
As I watch this episode, I'm reminded of my thought as to when the crew will get a new ally. At the moment, the Prince plays a sort of enemy-ally role where in my point of view, can possibly become the secretly an ally or disgruntled ally turned full ally. Certainly the idea of the greater evil has been introduced. But perhaps the show wants to introduce an even greater antagonist.
20101121 ~10:10AM-~10:35AM
Chapter Fourteen: The Fortuneteller
Lol, "Can your science tell you how it rains?" "Yes, yes it can."
I like how one of the previous episodes set up the bit about clouds being made of water.
20101121 ~10:35AM-~11:00AM
Chapter Fifteen:
Lol, "Uncle I didn't see you get licked..." "Shhh..."
20101121 ~11:00AM-~11:30AM
Chapter Sixteen:
Cool new powers and characters and development. Love the storyline.
20101121 ~11:30AM-~12:00PM
Chapter Seventeen:
20101121 ~12:00PM-~12:30PM
Chapter Eighteen:
I don't understand how come she didn't show this much skill before. Was it her anger that helped give her power?
20101121 ~12:30PM-~01:00PM
Chapter Nineteen:
Lol, "I wouldn't say mastered, but check this out." Snowman.
I'm glad Katara was praised for her water bending. I suppose she has both the discipline and potential.
20101121 ~01:00PM-~01:30PM
Chapter Twenty:
I love every time there is a color change. It is an artistic type of freshness, that compliments the plot being fresh.
End of Book 1. Great ending.
20101121 ~01:30PM-~02:00PM
Book 2
The Avatar State
20101122 ~12:00PM-~12:30PM
The Cave of Two Lovers
I love whenever stories are told, because they tend to be done in an artistic style different from the main story. The last time a story was told nicely was Aang telling the story in a Great Divide.
20101122 ~12:30PM-~01:00PM
Return to Omashu
20101122 ~01:00PM-~01:30PM
The Swamp
20101122 ~01:30PM-~02:00PM
Avatar Day
Interesting in that the confession to me reveals that the event was accidental, but no one from the village seems to see it as such. Anyhow, I like the story for explaining why Kyoshi is an island.
20101122 ~02:00PM-~02:30PM
The Blind Bandit
Yay, the extra follower I was waiting for!
Also, lol, "Water tribe..."
20101122 ~02:30PM-~03:00PM
Zuko Alone
I like how the show carefully balances Zuko on the tip, sometimes we have reason to like him and sometimes we have reason to dislike him.
20101122 ~03:00PM-~03:30PM
The Chase
20101122 ~06:30PM-~07:00PM
Bitter Work
20101122 ~07:00PM-~07:30PM
The Library
20101122 ~07:30PM-~08:00PM
The Desert
20101122 ~08:00PM-~08:30PM
The Serpent's Pass
20101122 ~08:30PM-~09:30PM
The Drill
20101122 ~09:30PM-~10:00AM
City of Walls and Secrets
20101122 ~10:00PM-~10:30AM
The Tales of Ba Sing Se
20101122 ~10:30PM-~11:00AM
Appa's Lost Days
20101122 ~11:00PM-~11:30PM
Lake Laogai
20101122 ~11:30PM-~11:59PM
The Earth King
20101123 ~06:00PM-~06:30PM
The Guru
Toph the "metalbender."
20101123 ~06:30PM-~07:00PM
The Crossroads of Destiny
They're pushing my patience with Zuko.
20101123 ~07:00PM-~07:30PM
Book 3
The Awakening
20101123 ~07:30PM-~08:00PM
The Headband
20101123 ~08:00PM-~08:30PM
The Painted Lady
20101123 ~08:30PM-~09:00PM
Sokka's Master
I love the scene after the guard gives Iroh food.
Lol, Aang in the armor.
::Clap clap::
"Funny how?"
20101123 ~09:00PM-~09:30PM
The Beach
"What a monster I was." Music stops. "Of course it was true..."
20101123 ~09:30PM-~10:00PM
The Avatar and the Firelord
Lol: "Just hold hands."
20101123 ~10:00PM-~10:30PM
The Runaway
Lol... the sweat was cool. The armpit sweat was kind of cool but also disgusting.
Combustion man. Haha.
20101123 ~10:30PM-~11:00PM
The Puppetmaster
20101124 ~11:00AM-~11:30AM
Nightmares and Daydreams
"And this time I brought pants!"
Major lol: "Want to try screaming into this pillow?" ::sheep::
Lol, this episode is just cracking me up.
20101124 ~11:30AM-~12:00PM
The Day of Black Sun Part 1: The Invasion
20101124 ~12:00PM-~12:30PM
The Day of Black Sun Part 2: The Eclipse
20101124 ~12:30PM-~01:00PM
The Western Air Temple
Haha, Zuko pretending to be Uncle. And then Azula.
Wait a minute, Toph knows when people are lying, how come she didn't sense that Zuko was telling the truth.
Haha, after I wrote it, the scene plays with Toph says he's telling the truth.
Nice: "I'm beginning to wonder who's the blind one around here."
Toph knows it was an accident and the others are just going crazy about it.
20101124 ~01:00PM-~01:30PM
The Firebending Masters
20101124 ~01:30PM-~02:00PM
The Boiling Rock, Part 1
20101124 ~02:00PM-~02:30PM
The Boiling Rock, Part 2
20101124 ~02:30PM-~03:00PM
The Southern Raiders
20101124 ~03:00PM-~03:30PM
The Ember Island Players
20101124 ~03:30PM-~03:55PM
Sozin's Comet Part 1: The Phoenix King
20101124 ~03:55PM-~04:20PM
Sozin's Comet Part 2: The Old Masters
20101124 ~04:20PM-~04:45PM
Sozin's Comet Part 3: Into the Inferno
20101124 ~04:45PM-~05:10PM
Sozin's Comet Part 4: Avatar Aang
20101124 ~05:10PM-~05:35PM
Watched 20101120, 20101121 Book One: Water
Watched 20101122, 20101123 Book Two: Earth
Watched 20101123, 20101124 Book Three: Fire
Avatar: The Last Airbender
Relevant Links:
Avatar: The Last Airbender (IMDb.com)
Avatar: The Last Airbender (Wikipedia.org)
Avatar: The Last Airbender (season 1) (Wikipedia.org)
Avatar: The Last Airbender (season 2) (Wikipedia.org)
Avatar: The Last Airbender (season 3) (Wikipedia.org)
Friday, November 19, 2010
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (2010)
20101119:
This movie suffered from being half the book. It had built up loads of excitement, but left most of it up in the air.
With that being said, I'm happy the final book got split into two movies (I wish more of the books were done that way). But I can't help but imagine it will be more enjoyable to watch both halves of the movie in one sitting. I hope such an option will be available in theaters during the release of part 2.
Like the last movie, this film was filled with some hilarious lines, but toned down in comparison. For example, "The heart-warming light." and "Let's take a vote."
Some scenes didn't happen the way I had pictured them when I read the story, but I haven't read the book in a while (about a year and a half ago) and of course a movie takes liberties in interpretation. In particular, this movie emphasized Ron and Hermione's roles beyond my original expectations - which is good. It was, however, strange after I watched Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007) just the other day which was heavily centered on Harry Potter. It might even be argued that Ron had a bigger role in this film than Harry. Actually, I did get the sense that Ron and Hermione were equals to Harry when I read the seventh book, but my point is the movie pushed the idea even further, which I like.
The seventh book had a lot of great action and those passages made their way into this film. Furthermore, this movie managed to portray more of the action of the books compared to some of the other movies with respect to their corresponding books.
In different words, this portion of the story gets the benefit of focusing less on character relationships and more on the action. Consequently, the movie would be better enjoyed by someone who has read all the books and/or seen all the movies over someone who has only seen a couple of the movies.
On a different note, I felt as if watching this movie in IMAX was a better experience than watching movies without IMAX. The experience was worth the cost; especially since I don't normally watch movies in theaters. However, I'm not absolutely sure because I've only seen the following movies in IMAX (if memory serves me correctly): The Human Body (2001), Avatar: The IMAX 3D Experience (2010), and now Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1: The IMAX Experience (2010).
See also my summary of watching a movie at three in the morning.
[20101206][20171126 Edit][20190918 Edit]
20110707:
I'm glad I got to watch the ending without a bunch of teenagers laughing through a dramatic scene. For this viewing, one person in the group was watching the film for the first time. Her impression of the movie was something along the line of good, but filled with a lot of uninteresting scenes. Indeed, part of the movie is just them wandering aimlessly. This would have been a good time for a montage.
We watched the deleted scenes and liked the one between Dudley and Harry. There was a scene between Aunt Petunia and Harry, but that one was emotionally flat. One of the scenes that took place while they were camping would have been informational, but given the film-makers already had so much of the traveling, it's removal probably helped the already slow pacing.
Overall, my experience with the Harry Potter movies is that I enjoyed immersing myself in the world and overarching story of the book, and that interest enhances my enjoyment of the movie. Otherwise, the Harry Potter series tends to suffer from the occasional drop in performance on the part of the actors and actresses.
We started this movie around 11:30 pm and finished around 2 in the morning. We spent some time after watching some of the special features and discussing the movie.
Oh, I almost forgot to emphasize how much I love the animation sequence that tells the story of the Deathly Hallows. It might be my favorite scene in the movie.
I don't mind the ending so much now that I know that's where the movie ends, sort of like with my first viewing of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001). Regardless, I'd want to see the first and second part in one sitting, and perhaps with some of the deleted scenes included, and some of the included scenes deleted.
[20110711]
Instant Comments:
3: Hedwig
3: Wand connection
3: Babbitty Rabbitty
3: That's an awkward cheek brush. ("Hermione, you're the best at spells.")
3: That's a powerful patronus.
3: "Yeah, I'm still here."
1: Awkward scene: the dance.
3: "I open at the close."
1: Favorite scene was the Deathly Hallows story.
3: When Bathilda first approached them, the caption said "[FLY BUZZES]"
3: "[INSECT BUZZES]"
1: Unexpected scene: the sensual one.
3: "Right, yeah. Antlers."
3: Three left? The three destroyed are Tom Riddle's diary, Marvolo Gaunt's ring, and now Salazar Slytherin's Locket.
3: Ha. Engorgio on the flame.
3: Mudblood (written onto Hermione's arm)
3: Unscrewing that chandelier.
1=20101119 (Post-Movie Comments), 3=20171125
Released 20101119.
Watched 20101119 Theatre. AMC Loews White Marsh 16 [HARRY POTTER AND T] 3:15 AM $15.50 (Midnight Showing) (The IMAX Experience)
Watched 20110707 Blu-ray
Watched 20171125 Blu-ray (English subtitles)
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (2010) David Yates. 146 min. [botn Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (2007) by J.K. Rowling]
Relevant Links:
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (IMDb.com)
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows: Part 1 (Wikipedia.org)
My Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (2011) post
This movie suffered from being half the book. It had built up loads of excitement, but left most of it up in the air.
With that being said, I'm happy the final book got split into two movies (I wish more of the books were done that way). But I can't help but imagine it will be more enjoyable to watch both halves of the movie in one sitting. I hope such an option will be available in theaters during the release of part 2.
Like the last movie, this film was filled with some hilarious lines, but toned down in comparison. For example, "The heart-warming light." and "Let's take a vote."
Some scenes didn't happen the way I had pictured them when I read the story, but I haven't read the book in a while (about a year and a half ago) and of course a movie takes liberties in interpretation. In particular, this movie emphasized Ron and Hermione's roles beyond my original expectations - which is good. It was, however, strange after I watched Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007) just the other day which was heavily centered on Harry Potter. It might even be argued that Ron had a bigger role in this film than Harry. Actually, I did get the sense that Ron and Hermione were equals to Harry when I read the seventh book, but my point is the movie pushed the idea even further, which I like.
The seventh book had a lot of great action and those passages made their way into this film. Furthermore, this movie managed to portray more of the action of the books compared to some of the other movies with respect to their corresponding books.
In different words, this portion of the story gets the benefit of focusing less on character relationships and more on the action. Consequently, the movie would be better enjoyed by someone who has read all the books and/or seen all the movies over someone who has only seen a couple of the movies.
On a different note, I felt as if watching this movie in IMAX was a better experience than watching movies without IMAX. The experience was worth the cost; especially since I don't normally watch movies in theaters. However, I'm not absolutely sure because I've only seen the following movies in IMAX (if memory serves me correctly): The Human Body (2001), Avatar: The IMAX 3D Experience (2010), and now Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1: The IMAX Experience (2010).
See also my summary of watching a movie at three in the morning.
[20101206][20171126 Edit][20190918 Edit]
20110707:
I'm glad I got to watch the ending without a bunch of teenagers laughing through a dramatic scene. For this viewing, one person in the group was watching the film for the first time. Her impression of the movie was something along the line of good, but filled with a lot of uninteresting scenes. Indeed, part of the movie is just them wandering aimlessly. This would have been a good time for a montage.
We watched the deleted scenes and liked the one between Dudley and Harry. There was a scene between Aunt Petunia and Harry, but that one was emotionally flat. One of the scenes that took place while they were camping would have been informational, but given the film-makers already had so much of the traveling, it's removal probably helped the already slow pacing.
Overall, my experience with the Harry Potter movies is that I enjoyed immersing myself in the world and overarching story of the book, and that interest enhances my enjoyment of the movie. Otherwise, the Harry Potter series tends to suffer from the occasional drop in performance on the part of the actors and actresses.
We started this movie around 11:30 pm and finished around 2 in the morning. We spent some time after watching some of the special features and discussing the movie.
Oh, I almost forgot to emphasize how much I love the animation sequence that tells the story of the Deathly Hallows. It might be my favorite scene in the movie.
I don't mind the ending so much now that I know that's where the movie ends, sort of like with my first viewing of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001). Regardless, I'd want to see the first and second part in one sitting, and perhaps with some of the deleted scenes included, and some of the included scenes deleted.
[20110711]
Instant Comments:
3: Hedwig
3: Wand connection
3: Babbitty Rabbitty
3: That's an awkward cheek brush. ("Hermione, you're the best at spells.")
3: That's a powerful patronus.
3: "Yeah, I'm still here."
1: Awkward scene: the dance.
3: "I open at the close."
1: Favorite scene was the Deathly Hallows story.
3: When Bathilda first approached them, the caption said "[FLY BUZZES]"
3: "[INSECT BUZZES]"
1: Unexpected scene: the sensual one.
3: "Right, yeah. Antlers."
3: Three left? The three destroyed are Tom Riddle's diary, Marvolo Gaunt's ring, and now Salazar Slytherin's Locket.
3: Ha. Engorgio on the flame.
3: Mudblood (written onto Hermione's arm)
3: Unscrewing that chandelier.
1=20101119 (Post-Movie Comments), 3=20171125
Released 20101119.
Watched 20101119 Theatre. AMC Loews White Marsh 16 [HARRY POTTER AND T] 3:15 AM $15.50 (Midnight Showing) (The IMAX Experience)
Watched 20110707 Blu-ray
Watched 20171125 Blu-ray (English subtitles)
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (2010) David Yates. 146 min. [botn Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (2007) by J.K. Rowling]
Relevant Links:
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (IMDb.com)
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows: Part 1 (Wikipedia.org)
My Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (2011) post
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007)
20101117:
This film had some pretty great moments. Though the fireworks scene could have been better I suppose.
My favorite character in this this movie: Luna Lovegood.
My favorite scene just might be the one with all the patronus charms. Then the one where Ginny Weasley uses reducto. Third would be the fight scene at the end.
Great villain: Professor Umbridge.
I understand that some things must be cut and changed from book to movie. I suppose that's a good reason to read the book. Though I suppose that's what Wikipedia is good for, telling you what's different between a book and a movie. Oh right, but I wish there was a better end fight scene. I recall the next movie had the same weakness.
Two great lines:
"I'm sorry professor, but I must not tell lies."
"He's back."
Oh and of course:
"I must have missed it but by a happy mistake I arrived at the ministry three hours early."
20110713:
We decided to start this movie after finishing Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005) at 11:30 PM. I had heavy eyelids. Actually, I realized I totally slept through many parts of the film. Including all of Umbridge catching various students, Hermione and Harry leading her to Grawp, and the centaurs. I also missed a lot of Sirius's conversations with Harry and the occlumency lesson where Harry uses protego against Snape's legilimency spell.
I agree with my friend's opinion that this movie starts off really well. Many of my instant comments below reiterate what I said above for 20101117. My favorite character is still Luna Lovegood.
Instant Comments:
4: Prior to starting the movie, I gave my opinion that I'd lean towards saying the fifth movie is best
4: Wormtail in the picture
4: Haha Umbridge at the end of the faculty table in pink
4: Trewlawney is shown twice
4: Umbridge is a great villain
4: I love the scene where Umbridge and McGonagall discuss going up the stairs
4: "I'm sure Harry's kissing is more than satisfactory"
4: Ginny's spell in the ministry, awesome like her spell in the Room of Requirement
4: The movie skips some of the excitement in the book
4: One unfortunate change regards Sirius's death. In the book, it is due to him falling through the veil. In the movie, it is because Bellatrix hits him with avada kedavra.
4: I didn't realize until today that the wands spew plasma in this movie like the last
4: One of the reasons I love this movie so much is the battle between Dumbledore and Voldemort, and how it culminates... Dumbledore's words to Harry. And then Harry's words to Voldemort... And finally "He's back."
4=20110713
Released 20070711.
Watched 20070717 Theatre. Century 20 Huntington Beach [HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER O] $7.50 4:20 PM
Watched several times
Watched 200908?? DVD Part of Harry Potter Marathon
Watched 20101117 DVD (English audio, no subtitles)
Watched 20101117 DVD The movie automatically started again. 1st third. (McGonagall vs. Umbridge) [omitted from movie log]
Watched 20110713 DVD (English audio, no subtitles)
Watched 20160801 DVD
Watched first third (42 minutes) 20171124 DVD
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007) David Yates. 138 min [botnotsn (2003) by J.K. Rowling]
Relevant Links:
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (IMDb.com)
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Wikipedia.org)
This film had some pretty great moments. Though the fireworks scene could have been better I suppose.
My favorite character in this this movie: Luna Lovegood.
My favorite scene just might be the one with all the patronus charms. Then the one where Ginny Weasley uses reducto. Third would be the fight scene at the end.
Great villain: Professor Umbridge.
I understand that some things must be cut and changed from book to movie. I suppose that's a good reason to read the book. Though I suppose that's what Wikipedia is good for, telling you what's different between a book and a movie. Oh right, but I wish there was a better end fight scene. I recall the next movie had the same weakness.
Two great lines:
"I'm sorry professor, but I must not tell lies."
"He's back."
Oh and of course:
"I must have missed it but by a happy mistake I arrived at the ministry three hours early."
20110713:
We decided to start this movie after finishing Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005) at 11:30 PM. I had heavy eyelids. Actually, I realized I totally slept through many parts of the film. Including all of Umbridge catching various students, Hermione and Harry leading her to Grawp, and the centaurs. I also missed a lot of Sirius's conversations with Harry and the occlumency lesson where Harry uses protego against Snape's legilimency spell.
I agree with my friend's opinion that this movie starts off really well. Many of my instant comments below reiterate what I said above for 20101117. My favorite character is still Luna Lovegood.
Instant Comments:
4: Prior to starting the movie, I gave my opinion that I'd lean towards saying the fifth movie is best
4: Wormtail in the picture
4: Haha Umbridge at the end of the faculty table in pink
4: Trewlawney is shown twice
4: Umbridge is a great villain
4: I love the scene where Umbridge and McGonagall discuss going up the stairs
4: "I'm sure Harry's kissing is more than satisfactory"
4: Ginny's spell in the ministry, awesome like her spell in the Room of Requirement
4: The movie skips some of the excitement in the book
4: One unfortunate change regards Sirius's death. In the book, it is due to him falling through the veil. In the movie, it is because Bellatrix hits him with avada kedavra.
4: I didn't realize until today that the wands spew plasma in this movie like the last
4: One of the reasons I love this movie so much is the battle between Dumbledore and Voldemort, and how it culminates... Dumbledore's words to Harry. And then Harry's words to Voldemort... And finally "He's back."
4=20110713
Released 20070711.
Watched 20070717 Theatre. Century 20 Huntington Beach [HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER O] $7.50 4:20 PM
Watched several times
Watched 200908?? DVD Part of Harry Potter Marathon
Watched 20101117 DVD (English audio, no subtitles)
Watched 20101117 DVD The movie automatically started again. 1st third. (McGonagall vs. Umbridge) [omitted from movie log]
Watched 20110713 DVD (English audio, no subtitles)
Watched 20160801 DVD
Watched first third (42 minutes) 20171124 DVD
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007) David Yates. 138 min [botnotsn (2003) by J.K. Rowling]
Relevant Links:
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (IMDb.com)
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Wikipedia.org)
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005)
20101116:
The Triwizard Tournament and the Yule Ball gives this movie a good balance of action and love.
[20101205][20171123 Edit]
20110712:
I mentioned to my friend that throughout the entire series, I like both Maggie Smith's and Alan Rickman's performances the most. My liking the corresponding characters McGonagall and Snape might have something to do with it. I wonder if this movie would have been more enjoyable with more material. Or perhaps if it got the two movie treatment.
Instant Comments:
B: Portkey!
B: I noticed that he took the wand away as he was still announcing. And I turned to my sister and asked if his voice ceased projecting to the crowd as he did so. She said she also noticed that before, and other similar small details as she's watched the movies more and more.
B: Stopped watching when they entered the tent.
A: My friend mentioned that the Quidditch match, or at least the ending, was skipped [B: This comment and several others are during "A" which compare the movie to the book.
A: On that note I started noticing a lot of skipped parts. Like they skipped the Death Eaters and the puppetry.
B: Walked back in when the Urgstrom's were walking in.
A: Why isn't Fleur's hair silver?
B: I love when she winks at him. "Of course you didn't."
A: Ferret haha.
A: They skipped Harry learning the accio spell.
B: "Well done, dragon." - one of the twins.
A: "Now put your hand on my waist." Ron asks, "Where?" "My waist."
A, B: lol Snape rolls up his sleeves and pushes both their heads down
A: "You know how I like it when they walk."
A: lol Moaning Myrtle's lines are so funny
A: Somewhere in the plot they skipped the students being taught to resist the Imperius Curse.
A: They also skipped the house elf material, like Hermione advocating to free the house elves and Dobby giving Harry the gillyweed
B: Earlier my sister and I had trouble remembering if the Pencieve was further used in this film beyond the first; it is.
B: Oh, my sister asked if it was explained in this movie why Longbottom was cringing at the Cruciatus Curse. This scene pulls it all together: Igor Karkaroff finally names Barty Crouch Jr. as the man who used the Cruciatus Curse on Frank and Alice Longbottom.
B: I don't remember details about the book, but when it comes to the movie, it's weird how sometimes Dumbledore knows what's going on and sometimes he doesn't.
A: The movie skipped over parts of the maze.
B: Harry's act of kindness, saving Cedric from the vines, leads to Cedric's demise.
B: Riddle.
B: Hmm. Why did Lucius get reprimanded? He was responsible for placing Tom Riddle's diary into Ginny's set of books.
A: LOLOLOLOL, for some reason this time on watching the film. when Harry is screaming in pain, and Voldemort screams too, I find it hilarious; B: Ha. "I can touch you now."
B: A simple Expelliarmus vs Avada Kedavra.
B: Hmm. Part of Voldemort's undoing was his pride: "He's mine."
B: "He's back. He's back. Voldemort's back."
A: The lack of explanation of Priori Incantatem. B: Dumbledore utters the words, but it's not explained.
B: It's strange to think they went through an entire school year. It would have been neat for the story to have a Quidditch match that pitted Harry against Krum. I suppose it'd be fun to write a fan fiction match.
A: My friend mentioned he was impressed with the last shot. I agree.
A: My friend pointed out part of the credits say "no dragons were harmed in this movie."
Credits:
A: Pieces of paper from the Goblet of Fire come out with names for the lead roles. Then credits roll normally.
A=20110712, B=20171123
Released 20051118.
Watched 20051120 Theatre. AMC Disney [HARRY POTT] 12:00pm $8
Watched several times
Watched 200908?? DVD Part of Harry Potter Marathon
Watched 20101116 DVD (English audio, no subtitles)
Watched 20110712 DVD (English audio, no subtitles)
Watched 20171123 DVD (English subtitles)
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005) Mike Newell. 157 min [botnotsn (2000) by J.K. Rowling]
Relevant Links:
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (IMDb.com)
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Wikipedia.org)
The Triwizard Tournament and the Yule Ball gives this movie a good balance of action and love.
[20101205][20171123 Edit]
20110712:
I mentioned to my friend that throughout the entire series, I like both Maggie Smith's and Alan Rickman's performances the most. My liking the corresponding characters McGonagall and Snape might have something to do with it. I wonder if this movie would have been more enjoyable with more material. Or perhaps if it got the two movie treatment.
Instant Comments:
B: Portkey!
B: I noticed that he took the wand away as he was still announcing. And I turned to my sister and asked if his voice ceased projecting to the crowd as he did so. She said she also noticed that before, and other similar small details as she's watched the movies more and more.
B: Stopped watching when they entered the tent.
A: My friend mentioned that the Quidditch match, or at least the ending, was skipped [B: This comment and several others are during "A" which compare the movie to the book.
A: On that note I started noticing a lot of skipped parts. Like they skipped the Death Eaters and the puppetry.
B: Walked back in when the Urgstrom's were walking in.
A: Why isn't Fleur's hair silver?
B: I love when she winks at him. "Of course you didn't."
A: Ferret haha.
A: They skipped Harry learning the accio spell.
B: "Well done, dragon." - one of the twins.
A: "Now put your hand on my waist." Ron asks, "Where?" "My waist."
A, B: lol Snape rolls up his sleeves and pushes both their heads down
A: "You know how I like it when they walk."
A: lol Moaning Myrtle's lines are so funny
A: Somewhere in the plot they skipped the students being taught to resist the Imperius Curse.
A: They also skipped the house elf material, like Hermione advocating to free the house elves and Dobby giving Harry the gillyweed
B: Earlier my sister and I had trouble remembering if the Pencieve was further used in this film beyond the first; it is.
B: Oh, my sister asked if it was explained in this movie why Longbottom was cringing at the Cruciatus Curse. This scene pulls it all together: Igor Karkaroff finally names Barty Crouch Jr. as the man who used the Cruciatus Curse on Frank and Alice Longbottom.
B: I don't remember details about the book, but when it comes to the movie, it's weird how sometimes Dumbledore knows what's going on and sometimes he doesn't.
A: The movie skipped over parts of the maze.
B: Harry's act of kindness, saving Cedric from the vines, leads to Cedric's demise.
B: Riddle.
B: Hmm. Why did Lucius get reprimanded? He was responsible for placing Tom Riddle's diary into Ginny's set of books.
A: LOLOLOLOL, for some reason this time on watching the film. when Harry is screaming in pain, and Voldemort screams too, I find it hilarious; B: Ha. "I can touch you now."
B: A simple Expelliarmus vs Avada Kedavra.
B: Hmm. Part of Voldemort's undoing was his pride: "He's mine."
B: "He's back. He's back. Voldemort's back."
A: The lack of explanation of Priori Incantatem. B: Dumbledore utters the words, but it's not explained.
B: It's strange to think they went through an entire school year. It would have been neat for the story to have a Quidditch match that pitted Harry against Krum. I suppose it'd be fun to write a fan fiction match.
A: My friend mentioned he was impressed with the last shot. I agree.
A: My friend pointed out part of the credits say "no dragons were harmed in this movie."
Credits:
A: Pieces of paper from the Goblet of Fire come out with names for the lead roles. Then credits roll normally.
A=20110712, B=20171123
Released 20051118.
Watched 20051120 Theatre. AMC Disney [HARRY POTT] 12:00pm $8
Watched several times
Watched 200908?? DVD Part of Harry Potter Marathon
Watched 20101116 DVD (English audio, no subtitles)
Watched 20110712 DVD (English audio, no subtitles)
Watched 20171123 DVD (English subtitles)
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005) Mike Newell. 157 min [botnotsn (2000) by J.K. Rowling]
Relevant Links:
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (IMDb.com)
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Wikipedia.org)
Monday, November 15, 2010
Manhattan (1979)
Watched 20101115 (Netflix, Instant) 96 min.
Watched 20141115 (Netflix, Instant)
Manhattan (1979) Woody Allen. 96 min.
Relevant Links:
Manhattan (Wikipedia.org)
Manhattan (IMDb.com)
Manhattan (RottenTomatoes.com)
20101115:
After Annie Hall and Deconstructing Harry, this is the third Woody Allen movie I've watched.
Throughout the bulk of the movie, I had a neutral feeling towards Isaac (Woody Allen). But when Emily (Anne Byrne) says she was mad at him for introducing Mary (Diane Keaton) to Emily's husband Yale (Michael Murphy), I thought that was horrible.
Regardless, I thought the movie had a great ending.
On a slightly different note, I love George Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue.
20141115:
Coincidentally, I first watched Manhattan on the same day of the year four years ago.
In any case, I had totally forgotten how the movie ends and it was a wonderful experience seeing it and the movie as a whole all over again.
Instant Comments:
2: Hahahahaha. "I recently had an orgasm and my doctor told me it was the wrong kind."
2: Oh. After Gershwin's "'S Wonderful" plays, the scene goes to Mary and Isaac and Mary says "That was wonderful." I recognize the song from An American in Paris (1951) and Funny Face (1957).
2: What an awkward double date.
2: "You cry when you watch 'Gone with the Wind'."
2: Hahahaha. "Donnie's in a coma, he had a really bad acid experience."
Watched 20141115 (Netflix, Instant)
Manhattan (1979) Woody Allen. 96 min.
 |
| Isaac (Woody Allen) and Mary (Diane Keaton) |
Relevant Links:
Manhattan (Wikipedia.org)
Manhattan (IMDb.com)
Manhattan (RottenTomatoes.com)
 |
| Yale (Michael Murphy) |
20101115:
After Annie Hall and Deconstructing Harry, this is the third Woody Allen movie I've watched.
Throughout the bulk of the movie, I had a neutral feeling towards Isaac (Woody Allen). But when Emily (Anne Byrne) says she was mad at him for introducing Mary (Diane Keaton) to Emily's husband Yale (Michael Murphy), I thought that was horrible.
 |
| Isaac's ex-wife Jill (Meryl Streep) |
Regardless, I thought the movie had a great ending.
On a slightly different note, I love George Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue.
20141115:
Coincidentally, I first watched Manhattan on the same day of the year four years ago.
 |
| Tracy (Mariel Hemingway) |
In any case, I had totally forgotten how the movie ends and it was a wonderful experience seeing it and the movie as a whole all over again.
Instant Comments:
2: Hahahahaha. "I recently had an orgasm and my doctor told me it was the wrong kind."
2: Oh. After Gershwin's "'S Wonderful" plays, the scene goes to Mary and Isaac and Mary says "That was wonderful." I recognize the song from An American in Paris (1951) and Funny Face (1957).
2: What an awkward double date.
2: "You cry when you watch 'Gone with the Wind'."
2: Hahahaha. "Donnie's in a coma, he had a really bad acid experience."
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Mary and Max (2009)
20101115:
Great movie. Not knowing what the movie was about, I found the movie to be surprisingly geared towards an older audience. Loved it. The beginning of the movie I found interesting for the decision to have very little movement apart from the flies in the one scene.
Instant Comments:
1: I love the music.
1: I like the contrast between the color and black and white.
1: I love the narration.
1: Oh my gosh, I thought I was crazy to have this thought, but when I heard the character Max talk about why people have a religion, it made me so happy for having the thought.
1: Lovely movie.
1: Though, it's to be noted that while an animation, this movie is definitely geared for adults, or at least teenagers.
1: Cute theme song.
1=20101115
20101205 Comment:
I love claymation, making this movie super on my list.
20130213:
The film Mary and Max starts with a young Australian girl named Mary living in Australia. Alone in the world, except for her pet rooster Ethel, one day she randomly picks an address out of a U.S. phone book and writes to the address. The film then turns to the recipient Max in New York City. At first we learn Max is a bit strange, but later in the movie, we learn why. In any case, the plot follows the pen pals and their story of friendship.
While this movie can be strange and dark, it does so in a charming and artful way. Note that this is not a children's movie. The movie's plot includes topics such as death, suicide, theft, and where babies come from.
As I mentioned, the movie can be dark, but possibly (emotionally) heavy as well. You might not like the movie is you're a pessimist. However, it's a great movie and I would recommend everybody watch it at some point. As such, you can try putting yourself in a good mood so that your mind is in a optimistic mindset or simply, if necessary, follow this movie with a more uplifting movie. Note that I'm simply being cautious, and I think I would always be in the mood to watch this movie. As a final comment, I would recommend this movie to anybody who enjoys claymation.
Instant Comments:
2: Oh my. The opening notes of the score just immediately catch my attention. I love it.
2: Haha. "Why do they create bus timetables if the buses never run on time?" I was just thinking about this question earlier today. In fact, I sent an e-mail with an inquiry. In any case, the character Max exhibits similar thoughts to mine.
2: Destroying her book seemed a bit drastic.
2=20130213
20240115:
Today I watched the movie in the background while doing some work. Interestingly, I didn't remember the movie being so dark. Perhaps that's why I enjoy the movie. I would very much like to watch this movie again and take some notes.
Instant Comments:
3: oh there's a baby developing (valium scene)
3: the baby has a birthmark just like mary
3: oh i didn't remember all the papers on the ceiling
3: oh is that why he died looking up. i likely never got that
3=20240115
Watched 20101114 (Netflix, Instant) 92 min.
Watched 20130213 (Netflix, Instant, HD)
Watched 20240115 (YouTube - Free with Ads)
Mary and Max (2009) Adam Elliot.
Relevant Links:
Mary and Max (IMDb.com)
Mary and Max (Wikipedia.org)
Great movie. Not knowing what the movie was about, I found the movie to be surprisingly geared towards an older audience. Loved it. The beginning of the movie I found interesting for the decision to have very little movement apart from the flies in the one scene.
 |
| Max watching the Niblets. |
Instant Comments:
1: I love the music.
1: I like the contrast between the color and black and white.
1: I love the narration.
1: Oh my gosh, I thought I was crazy to have this thought, but when I heard the character Max talk about why people have a religion, it made me so happy for having the thought.
1: Lovely movie.
1: Though, it's to be noted that while an animation, this movie is definitely geared for adults, or at least teenagers.
1: Cute theme song.
1=20101115
 |
| Mary's pet rooster Ethel. |
20101205 Comment:
I love claymation, making this movie super on my list.
20130213:
The film Mary and Max starts with a young Australian girl named Mary living in Australia. Alone in the world, except for her pet rooster Ethel, one day she randomly picks an address out of a U.S. phone book and writes to the address. The film then turns to the recipient Max in New York City. At first we learn Max is a bit strange, but later in the movie, we learn why. In any case, the plot follows the pen pals and their story of friendship.
While this movie can be strange and dark, it does so in a charming and artful way. Note that this is not a children's movie. The movie's plot includes topics such as death, suicide, theft, and where babies come from.
As I mentioned, the movie can be dark, but possibly (emotionally) heavy as well. You might not like the movie is you're a pessimist. However, it's a great movie and I would recommend everybody watch it at some point. As such, you can try putting yourself in a good mood so that your mind is in a optimistic mindset or simply, if necessary, follow this movie with a more uplifting movie. Note that I'm simply being cautious, and I think I would always be in the mood to watch this movie. As a final comment, I would recommend this movie to anybody who enjoys claymation.
 |
| Max reading the latest package from Mary. |
Instant Comments:
2: Oh my. The opening notes of the score just immediately catch my attention. I love it.
2: Haha. "Why do they create bus timetables if the buses never run on time?" I was just thinking about this question earlier today. In fact, I sent an e-mail with an inquiry. In any case, the character Max exhibits similar thoughts to mine.
2: Destroying her book seemed a bit drastic.
2=20130213
 |
| Mary (right) and Max (left). |
20240115:
Today I watched the movie in the background while doing some work. Interestingly, I didn't remember the movie being so dark. Perhaps that's why I enjoy the movie. I would very much like to watch this movie again and take some notes.
Instant Comments:
3: oh there's a baby developing (valium scene)
3: the baby has a birthmark just like mary
3: oh i didn't remember all the papers on the ceiling
3: oh is that why he died looking up. i likely never got that
3=20240115
Watched 20101114 (Netflix, Instant) 92 min.
Watched 20130213 (Netflix, Instant, HD)
Watched 20240115 (YouTube - Free with Ads)
Mary and Max (2009) Adam Elliot.
 |
| Mary (left) and her mother (right). |
Relevant Links:
Mary and Max (IMDb.com)
Mary and Max (Wikipedia.org)
Seven Samurai (1954)
20101114:
Overall, I'd summarize and say most of the scenes I thought were beautiful. Some of the scenes and dialogue I thought was strange. Some of the themes I couldn't quite wrap my head around. That is to say, I couldn't completely comprehend how that would be an issue. That is, I couldn't personally relate, but in some sense I said to myself, I guess that could be an issue for some people. And then concluded that this would be historically out of my knowledge. For example, slavery and racism is much closer to what I know about. Though, I do have some knowledge about knights and lords that sort of society. I extrapolated that samurai were the equivalent of that in this society. I guess if I think about it, we must have learned a little about this time period of Japan. If not just barely. Nevertheless, enough repeating myself, great movie. I keep wanting to say there were impressive scenes that just... I don't know... maybe it's the effect of black and white you view things differently.
This movie takes some minutes to introduce the problem and resolution. But the movie from the point of the thief really gets good. Yes... starting with old man.
Though I'd have to say part of the movie does seem dated. Or perhaps... what the movie showed could have been substantial during it's time. The whole tier between samurai and peasants is not something I can quite comprehend. I suppose being part of middle class America makes it harder to see such a strong distinction as peasants and samurai. Also it's not cultural.
Many scenes are shot beautifully. Sometimes you just look and think, wow.
Dialogue didn't always seem so great. Though it's probably different if you understood Japanese. Yes, the barrier for the movie being awesome is my lack of understanding to the themes regarding women, samurai, peasants, etc. of the time and culture, etc. Those themes and others slightly transcended the times and culture, but I felt like if I knew more of the history, the movie could be deeper. But again, I loved a lot of the visuals. Especially amazing for black and white.
Great main theme song.
Instant Comments:
1: The old man.
1: The kid. Wanted to be a disciple.
1: The wannabe. Tags along. Has a good sense of humor.
1: The friendly one.
1: The friend of the old man.
1: The trustworthy one.
1: The skilled one.
1: "Once more we survive."
1: This movie had an intermission.
20101204 Comment:
Apparently the American Western The Magnificent Seven is based on this movie. I have yet to see it, but heard it's a good one.
I'd like to say again I love this movie.
Watched 20101114 (Netflix, Instant) 207 min. Japanese audio, English subtitles.
Seven Samurai (1954) Akira Kurosawa. 207 min.
Relevant Links:
Seven Samurai (IMDb.com)
Seven Samurai (Wikipedia.org)
Overall, I'd summarize and say most of the scenes I thought were beautiful. Some of the scenes and dialogue I thought was strange. Some of the themes I couldn't quite wrap my head around. That is to say, I couldn't completely comprehend how that would be an issue. That is, I couldn't personally relate, but in some sense I said to myself, I guess that could be an issue for some people. And then concluded that this would be historically out of my knowledge. For example, slavery and racism is much closer to what I know about. Though, I do have some knowledge about knights and lords that sort of society. I extrapolated that samurai were the equivalent of that in this society. I guess if I think about it, we must have learned a little about this time period of Japan. If not just barely. Nevertheless, enough repeating myself, great movie. I keep wanting to say there were impressive scenes that just... I don't know... maybe it's the effect of black and white you view things differently.
This movie takes some minutes to introduce the problem and resolution. But the movie from the point of the thief really gets good. Yes... starting with old man.
Though I'd have to say part of the movie does seem dated. Or perhaps... what the movie showed could have been substantial during it's time. The whole tier between samurai and peasants is not something I can quite comprehend. I suppose being part of middle class America makes it harder to see such a strong distinction as peasants and samurai. Also it's not cultural.
Many scenes are shot beautifully. Sometimes you just look and think, wow.
Dialogue didn't always seem so great. Though it's probably different if you understood Japanese. Yes, the barrier for the movie being awesome is my lack of understanding to the themes regarding women, samurai, peasants, etc. of the time and culture, etc. Those themes and others slightly transcended the times and culture, but I felt like if I knew more of the history, the movie could be deeper. But again, I loved a lot of the visuals. Especially amazing for black and white.
Great main theme song.
Instant Comments:
1: The old man.
1: The kid. Wanted to be a disciple.
1: The wannabe. Tags along. Has a good sense of humor.
1: The friendly one.
1: The friend of the old man.
1: The trustworthy one.
1: The skilled one.
1: "Once more we survive."
1: This movie had an intermission.
20101204 Comment:
Apparently the American Western The Magnificent Seven is based on this movie. I have yet to see it, but heard it's a good one.
I'd like to say again I love this movie.
Watched 20101114 (Netflix, Instant) 207 min. Japanese audio, English subtitles.
Seven Samurai (1954) Akira Kurosawa. 207 min.
Relevant Links:
Seven Samurai (IMDb.com)
Seven Samurai (Wikipedia.org)
Friday, November 12, 2010
Amélie (2001)
20101112:
I love how the movie started: the whole first fifteen minutes or so consist of narration. In particular, I thought the opening credits were done beautifully. The scenes were creative.
When the movie gets rolling and we are introduced to the main character Amélie, I find that she's sort of odd, but in a way in which I can relate. Sometimes, she is over-the-top strange and I questioned some of her actions. In any case, I had definitely hoped throughout the movie that she would find love.
Eventually all the pieces started to come together and certain parts of the movie just culminate to the end. It's all very clever and I find the movie continually adds something fresh to the story. In all, the movie is a bunch of short stories cleverly sewn together into a single, cohesive story.
I especially love the movie's visuals and how it pays attentions to the small details.
I would recommend that everybody watches this movie at least once in his/her life; its visually aesthetic and the story-telling is clever.
[20140603 Edit]
20140603:
I distinctly remember watching parts of this film after recommending it to my sister. It would seem, however, that today (20140603) is only the second time I've seen the movie in full.
I should note that having only seen the movie in full for a second time comes as a surprise to me, because the movie is so charming that I feel like I've seen it several times over.
If you haven't seen Amélie before, then I highly recommend you put it on your list of movies to watch.
Instant Comments:
2: "Fifteen."
2: "Bre-to-deau. But if I say it, it won't count. I'm senile." Ha.
2: Ha. "Sure it does..."
2: Hahaha. "Sleeping in the cauliflower."
2: Ha. "Porno Video Store." [...] "Are you shaved?"
2: "You'll never be a vegetable, even artichokes have hearts."
2: Haha. "Psychiatric helpline."
2: Wow. She wrote that backwards very well.
2=20101112
Watched 20101112 (Netflix, Instant) English subtitles, French audio. 122 min.
Watched 20140603 (Netflix, Instant, HD) English subtitles, French audio.
Amélie* (2001) Jean-Pierre Jeunet. 122 min.
*Le Fabuleux Destin d'Amélie Poulain (2001)
Keyword: Amelie
Relevant Links:
Amélie (IMDb.com)
Amélie (Wikipedia.org)
Amélie (RottenTomatoes.com)
Paths of Glory (1957)
20101112:
Wow, this movie's message is clear. In multiple instances, the movie takes an anti-war standpoint, particularly in terms of obeying your superiors. The movie's ending was great. Not quite a happy ending, but fitting. Not knowing exactly what the movie was about, it didn't interest me at first. The antagonist, the character with the scar, did a great job with immediately forming a dislike for this character. It could have been the scar, the attitude, the actions he took. Though I guess it's easy from my point of view to dislike that character, there might be some people whether due to time period or not, that would agree with him. It's an intense movie. The one soldier who was crying though, I'm not sure how a real person would act in his place, but he seemed like he was overdoing it. Kind of annoying. Almost as annoying as the one soldier in Aliens who was complaining, but not that annoying.
Watched 20101112 (Netflix, Instant) 87 min.
Paths of Glory (1957) Stanley Kubrick. 88 min.
Relevant Links:
Paths of Glory (IMDb.com)
Paths of Glory (WIkipedia.org)
Wow, this movie's message is clear. In multiple instances, the movie takes an anti-war standpoint, particularly in terms of obeying your superiors. The movie's ending was great. Not quite a happy ending, but fitting. Not knowing exactly what the movie was about, it didn't interest me at first. The antagonist, the character with the scar, did a great job with immediately forming a dislike for this character. It could have been the scar, the attitude, the actions he took. Though I guess it's easy from my point of view to dislike that character, there might be some people whether due to time period or not, that would agree with him. It's an intense movie. The one soldier who was crying though, I'm not sure how a real person would act in his place, but he seemed like he was overdoing it. Kind of annoying. Almost as annoying as the one soldier in Aliens who was complaining, but not that annoying.
Watched 20101112 (Netflix, Instant) 87 min.
Paths of Glory (1957) Stanley Kubrick. 88 min.
Relevant Links:
Paths of Glory (IMDb.com)
Paths of Glory (WIkipedia.org)
Lupin the 3rd: The Castle of Cagliostro (1979)
Overview: Lupin the 3rd, a thief, and his partner Jigen are looking for the source of well-made counterfeit money. They're hunt leads them to Lady Clarisse d' Cagliostro, who Lupin wishes to save from Count Cagliostro, who is arranged to marry Clarisse. Along the way, Lupin gets the help of Goemon, a samurai, Fujiko, a fellow thief, and Inspector Zenigata, a police inspector out on a mission to arrest Lupin.
20101112:
Lupin the 3rd: The Castle of Cagliostro was a reat movie. The beginning quickly established a mood. It had great music. It also had great animation, especially for a movie released in the 80s.
I haven't seen the show or read any of the manga, but this movie made me want to watch the show or read the manga.
The roof jumping was hilarious.
20180731:*
I watched this movie again today with Ada. It has a good story. 8:18 PM PT
It's a cute movie. 8:39 PM PT
Ada thought it was nice. 8:39 PM PT
*Initially, on 20181130, I couldn't find my notes on the movie; it seemed unlike me. Luckily, Ada woke up from her nap and came out while the movie was still playing and she recognized it as "Lupin." That's when I realized that we had watched it together, and typically, when I watch a movie with her, I'll either not take any notes or take notes via text messages to my email. In this case, it was the latter.
20181130:
Screenshot viewing
On 20181130, Netflix determined the movie for me as a 97% match. I decided to give the movie a thumbs up.
Instant Comments:
2: Wedding scene. It's a lot of action.
2=20180731
Watched 20101112 (Netflix, Instant) 102 min. English audio.
Watched 20180731 (Netflix, Instant) (English audio, English subtitles**)
Lupin the 3rd: The Castle of Cagliostro* (1979) Hayao Miyazaki. 110 min.
*Rupan sansei: Kariosutoro no shiro
Relevant Links:
The Castle of Cagliostro (IMDb.com)
The Castle of Cagliostro (Wikipedia.org)
**Probably meant for Japanese audio, doesn't correspond to English audio.
 |
| Arsène Lupin III (bottom, Yasuo Yamada) and Daisuke Jigen (Kiyoshi Kobayashi) |
20101112:
Lupin the 3rd: The Castle of Cagliostro was a reat movie. The beginning quickly established a mood. It had great music. It also had great animation, especially for a movie released in the 80s.
I haven't seen the show or read any of the manga, but this movie made me want to watch the show or read the manga.
 |
| Fujiko Mine (Eiko Masuyama), and Lady Clarisse d Cagliostro (Sumi Shimamoto) |
The roof jumping was hilarious.
20180731:*
I watched this movie again today with Ada. It has a good story. 8:18 PM PT
It's a cute movie. 8:39 PM PT
 |
| Goemon Ishikawa XIII (Makio Inoue) and Jigen |
Ada thought it was nice. 8:39 PM PT
*Initially, on 20181130, I couldn't find my notes on the movie; it seemed unlike me. Luckily, Ada woke up from her nap and came out while the movie was still playing and she recognized it as "Lupin." That's when I realized that we had watched it together, and typically, when I watch a movie with her, I'll either not take any notes or take notes via text messages to my email. In this case, it was the latter.
 |
| Inspector Kôichi Zenigata (Gorô Naya) |
20181130:
Screenshot viewing
On 20181130, Netflix determined the movie for me as a 97% match. I decided to give the movie a thumbs up.
Instant Comments:
2: Wedding scene. It's a lot of action.
2=20180731
 |
| Lupin and Clarisse |
Watched 20101112 (Netflix, Instant) 102 min. English audio.
Watched 20180731 (Netflix, Instant) (English audio, English subtitles**)
Lupin the 3rd: The Castle of Cagliostro* (1979) Hayao Miyazaki. 110 min.
*Rupan sansei: Kariosutoro no shiro
Relevant Links:
The Castle of Cagliostro (IMDb.com)
The Castle of Cagliostro (Wikipedia.org)
 |
| Count Lazare d' Cagliostro (Tarô Ishida) |
**Probably meant for Japanese audio, doesn't correspond to English audio.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Rocky (1976)
Watched 20101108 (Netflix, Instant)
Watched 20140628 (Netflix, Instant, HD) (Streaming until 20140701)
Rocky (1976) John G. Avildsen. 119 min.
Relevant Links:
Rocky (IMDb.com)
Rocky (Wikipedia.org)
Rocky (RottenTomatoes.com)
20101108:
At first I thought the movie was kind of silly, but I think I liked it better as it went on.
In particular, I didn't find the introduction that great, but I really liked the scene where Rocky and Adrian first kiss. I also thought the ending was well done.
The relationship between the manager and Rocky felt poorly developed. Actually, a lot of the relationships between characters felt unfinished.
Of course, I love the famous training montage.
"Adrian! Adrian! Adrian!"
20140628:
I'm pretty sure I liked the movie as a whole on this viewing much more than I did on my previous viewing.
As a whole, I would highly recommend this movie to just about anybody.
Instant Comments:
2: "You want me to take a shot? I'll take a shot."
2: "You see, it's simple mathematics."
2: "Hey Rocky, screw you, creepo!"
2: Haha. "Yo Paulie! Your sister's with me! I'll call yous back later!"
2: That kiss.
2: I wonder if they waited for the train to come, or if they set the train to come. (When Rocky shakes hands with Mike)
2: Five eggs, all cracked one-handed, drank sloppily.
2: Wow. When he climbs up those rails and stands. That's a big movie moment.
2: That cut. I wonder if its illegal, cause they made it real discrete.
2: Oh my goodness. "Adrian! Adrian!" I don't remember if I felt so moved by his calls for Adrian last time as I did this time, but goodness. "Adrian!" Great end.
2=20140628
Philadelphia Museum of Art:
This last May, my family and I had a chance to visit Philadelphia, PA and we, like many others, came to the Philadelphia Museum of Art to see the so-called Rocky Steps (Wikipedia.org). The first picture is from the film, the second is shot of the steps and museum from our trip, and the third is my sister and I raising our arms in celebration.
Washington Monument:
You can see this monument in the background in one of the pictures above. Though from that point of view, you'll be look at the rear of the monument.
Rocky Statue:
Finally, this Rocky Statue is located around the corner from the base of the steps. Apparently it can be seen in one of the sequels.
Watched 20140628 (Netflix, Instant, HD) (Streaming until 20140701)
Rocky (1976) John G. Avildsen. 119 min.
Relevant Links:
Rocky (IMDb.com)
Rocky (Wikipedia.org)
Rocky (RottenTomatoes.com)
20101108:
At first I thought the movie was kind of silly, but I think I liked it better as it went on.
In particular, I didn't find the introduction that great, but I really liked the scene where Rocky and Adrian first kiss. I also thought the ending was well done.
The relationship between the manager and Rocky felt poorly developed. Actually, a lot of the relationships between characters felt unfinished.
Of course, I love the famous training montage.
"Adrian! Adrian! Adrian!"
20140628:
I'm pretty sure I liked the movie as a whole on this viewing much more than I did on my previous viewing.
As a whole, I would highly recommend this movie to just about anybody.
Instant Comments:
2: "You want me to take a shot? I'll take a shot."
2: "You see, it's simple mathematics."
2: "Hey Rocky, screw you, creepo!"
2: Haha. "Yo Paulie! Your sister's with me! I'll call yous back later!"
2: That kiss.
2: I wonder if they waited for the train to come, or if they set the train to come. (When Rocky shakes hands with Mike)
2: Five eggs, all cracked one-handed, drank sloppily.
2: Wow. When he climbs up those rails and stands. That's a big movie moment.
2: That cut. I wonder if its illegal, cause they made it real discrete.
2: Oh my goodness. "Adrian! Adrian!" I don't remember if I felt so moved by his calls for Adrian last time as I did this time, but goodness. "Adrian!" Great end.
2=20140628
Philadelphia Museum of Art:
This last May, my family and I had a chance to visit Philadelphia, PA and we, like many others, came to the Philadelphia Museum of Art to see the so-called Rocky Steps (Wikipedia.org). The first picture is from the film, the second is shot of the steps and museum from our trip, and the third is my sister and I raising our arms in celebration.
Washington Monument:
You can see this monument in the background in one of the pictures above. Though from that point of view, you'll be look at the rear of the monument.
Rocky Statue:
Finally, this Rocky Statue is located around the corner from the base of the steps. Apparently it can be seen in one of the sequels.
