1. Courtney Love
2. Madonna
3.Mick Jagger
4. Halle Berry 
5.Jennifer Lopez
6. Demi Moore
7. David Duchovny
8. Julia Roberts
9. Phil Collins
10. Pamela Anderson
11. Robert DeNiro
12.Jennifer Aniston
13.John Lennon
This week it's very simple. Figure out who each person is below, and email me your answers at holly_f_smith@yahoo.com. I will post the answers on Monday, July 7th. Thanks for playing!!!
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
I found this meme over at Malcolm's Pop Culture Dish.
Here are the rules:
Bold the movie if you’ve seen it.
Put asterisks next to the movies you’ve seen and liked.
(I also took the liberty of putting one, two, or three asterisks next to the movies I liked....since this might be my only opportunity to be Roger Ebert for a day.)
1. Pulp Fiction 1994 *
2. The Lord of the Rings trilogy 2001-03 *
3. Titanic 1997 **
4. Blue Velvet 1986
5. Toy Story 1995 **
6. Saving Private Ryan 1998 *
7. Hannah and Her Sisters 1986
8. The Silence of the Lambs 1991***
9. Die Hard 1988*
10. Moulin Rouge 2001
11. This Is Spinal Tap 1984
12. The Matrix 1999
13. GoodFellas 1990**
14. Crumb 1995
15. Edward Scissorhands 1990*
16. Boogie Nights 1997
17. Jerry Maguire 1996***
18. Do the Right Thing 1989
19. Casino Royale 2006
20. The Lion King 1994***
21. Schindler’s List 1993***
22. Rushmore 1998
23. Memento 2001
24. A Room With a View 1986
25. Shrek 2001**
26. Hoop Dreams 1994**
27. Aliens 1986
28. Wings of Desire 1988
29. The Bourne Supremacy 2004***
30. When Harry Met Sally… 1989*
31. Brokeback Mountain 2005*
32. Fight Club 1999
33. The Breakfast Club 1985**
34. Fargo 1996*
35. The Incredibles 2004
36. Spider-Man 2 2004
37. Pretty Woman 1990*
38. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind 2004
39. The Sixth Sense 1999*
40. Speed 1994*
41. Dazed and Confused 1993*
42. Clueless 1995*
43. Gladiator 2000**
44. The Player 1992
45. Rain Man 1988***
46. Children of Men 2006
47. Men in Black 1997*
48. Scarface 1983*
49. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon 2000*
50. The Piano 1993**
51. There Will Be Blood 2007**
52. The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad 1988**
53. The Truman Show 1998
54. Fatal Attraction 1987**
55. Risky Business 1983**
56. The Lives of Others 2006
57. There’s Something About Mary 1998***
58. Ghostbusters 1984*
59. L.A. Confidential 1997
60. Scream 1996*
61. Beverly Hills Cop 1984*
62. sex, lies and videotape 1989
63. Big 1988***
64. No Country For Old Men 2007
65. Dirty Dancing 1987
66. Natural Born Killers 1994
67. Donnie Brasco 1997
68. Witness 1985**
69. All About My Mother 1999
70. Broadcast News 1987
71. Unforgiven 1992
72. Thelma & Louise 1991***
73. Office Space 1999***
74. Drugstore Cowboy 1989
75. Out of Africa 1985
76. The Departed 2006**
77. Sid and Nancy 1986
78. Terminator 2: Judgment Day 1991
79. Waiting for Guffman 1996
80. Michael Clayton 2007
81. Moonstruck 1987*
82. Lost in Translation 2003
83. Evil Dead 2: Dead by Dawn 1987
84. Sideways 2004
85. The 40 Year-Old Virgin 2005***
86. Y Tu Mamá También 2002
87. Swingers 1996
88. Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery 1997**
89. Breaking the Waves 1996
90. Napoleon Dynamite 2004*
91. Back to the Future 1985***
92. Menace II Society 1993
93. Ed Wood 1994
94. Full Metal Jacket 1987*
95. In the Mood for Love 2001
96. Far From Heaven 2002
97. Glory 1989**
98. The Talented Mr. Ripley 1999***
99. The Blair Witch Project 1999
100. South Park: Bigger Longer & Uncut 1999
This week's edition of Entertainment Weekly featured many of my favorite things: LISTS! It includes the top 100 "New Classic" movies, albums, television shows, and more. One hundred movies seems like a lot, but when you're covering a twenty-five year span, it doesn't leave much room for errors. So, of course, I thought that there were plenty of movies that could have should have been included in place of several that were (in my humble opinion) less than classic (ie. Casino Royale, Speed, Clueless, and to top it off: Evil Dead 2: Dead by Dawn). Here are 13 movies that I think should have been included in Entertainment Weekly's list of The 100 Best Films of the Last 25 Years:
2. 
Dumb and Dumber (1994)
3. 
Boyz N the Hood (1991)
4. 
The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
5. 
Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
6. 
Forrest Gump (1994)
7. 
The Cider House Rules (1999)
10. 
The Karate Kid (1984)
12. 
National Lampoon's Vacation (1983)
13. 
Philadelphia (1993)
As soon as we finished watching La Misma Luna (Under the Same Moon) last night, I knew I had to write about it today. It is honestly one of the best movies I have ever seen. I'd rank it up there with The Shawshank Redemption and Steel Magnolias (and for me that's saying a lot!) It just came out on DVD yesterday. Without giving much away, it is the story of Carlitos, a nine year old boy who embarks on a journey to find his mother. She has been away for several years in L.A., trying to earn money and provide him with a better life.
Carlitos is played by Adrian Alonso.
(He also appeared in 2005's The Legend of Zorro, playing the young son of the title character.) His performance in La Misma Luna is absolutely the best one I have ever seen by a child actor.
I am going to attempt to persuade you to rent this film as soon as possible, but I do not want to give away much of the plot. I want you to watch this film with an open mind and heart. Trust me, you'll be glad you did!
This week it's about movies! Chris and I went to see the latest Indiana Jones movie on Saturday. So for this week's Thursday Thirteen, I thought I'd give my two cents on the last thirteen movies we've seen (mostly at home on DVD).
1. 
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull - Without giving much away, I thought that the special effects were incredible. I especially enjoyed the interaction between Shia LaBeouf and Harrison Ford. But, honestly, the plot left something to be desired. That is not to say that the movie is not worth watching. It will definitely be a classic piece of Americana. It's just that the alien aspect of the plot was a little silly for me.
2. 
The Lost City - This is the story of an affluent Cuban family dealing with major political changes during the late 1950s. Batista's rule ended, but with Fidel Castro, came a Marxist government. This film poignantly shows how a family is torn apart over political ideals. Andy Garcia, who was born in Cuba, stars in and directed this amazing film. I thought he did an excellent job directing the scenes that he acted in with his father. He also makes the audience understand how important music is to Cuban culture.
3. 
Before the Devil Knows You're Dead - This was a really great film! I had never heard of it, but Chris rented it last week. It stars Ethan Hawke, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Marisa Tomei, and Albert Finney. This is a story about a chain of events that just spirals out of control. It's one of those movies that explores how far one will go to get away with what they want. That's not explaining much, but I don't want to ruin it for anyone. This is one that you've just got to see!
4. 
Charlie Wilson's War - We thoroughly enjoyed this movie. Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts, and Philip Seymour Hoffman were all fantastic. Charlie Wilson, a politician with lots of character flaws, finds a way to make a real difference in the world. He helps rebels in Afghanistan fight the Soviets by giving them weapons and support. It all sounds far fetched, but it is based on a true story!
5. 
Cassandra's Dream - Two brothers, played by Colin Farrell and Ewan McGregor, try to make a play that could really change their lives. But, as plans like this often do, it all starts to unravel. I really enjoyed this one, but it's not the feel good movie of the year.
6. 
National Treasure: Book of Secrets - This sequel was almost as good as the original. I'm a sucker for cheesy one-liners, as long as the plot is creative and original. This one is definitely worth renting. Plus, this is one that the whole family can enjoy!
7. 
Schindler's List - Chris had never seen this one, so we borrowed it from my brother. What an exceptional film. This is one that we should all probably see more than once.
8. 
Thank You For Smoking - This one has been out for a few years. I thought it was very cleverly done. I really thought that Aaron Eckhart was very convincing as a tobacco lobbyist, spinning his way out of every sticky situation - up to a point. William H. Macy is also fun to watch as his "Vermont Cheddar" is scrutinized for its cholesterol content. This one has a satisfying ending.
9. 
The Upside of Anger - This is the story of a woman who must deal with the sudden absence of her husband. Major alcoholism and depression make this a real challenge. Her three young adult daughters must also navigate through this major transition. While it might seem like a real downer, I found the relationships and conversations to be both realistic and revealing. Rent it and you'll be glad you did.
10. 
The Other Boleyn Girl - We loved this movie! But, we are really into the Showtime Series Tudors. If you like the drama, mystery, and history of the Boleyn and Tudor families, you will probably enjoy this film. Scarlett Johansson plays Mary Boleyn, the less famous sister of Ann. According to the film, she falls in love and produces a son with King Henry VIII. But, because she was confined to bedrest during most of the pregnancy, he loses interest in her and becomes infatuated with her sister Ann. He fails to recognize the child as his heir, and proceeds to give up many things in order to make Ann his Queen.
11. 
The List - DO NOT RENT THIS MOVIE! It is so bad that it will make you laugh out loud. In all fairness to Chris for picking it out, it appears to be an interesting story about a secret list that dates back to the Civil War. But, it turns out that the movie is all about "the power of prayer" and "fighting off evil". There's nothing wrong with those two things, but the script is almost as bad as the acting in this one.
12. 
The Bucket List - Now this is a great movie! It was so popular that I'm sure everyone knows about the story. But honestly, I didn't think it would be as moving as it turned out to be. If you want to 1.see something majestic 2.laugh until you cry 3.you get the picture.....check it out!
13.
Match Point - Want something a little different? This is the story of a guy who wants to climb his way up the social and economic ladder. Who doesn't? But it's what he's willing to do to get there that makes this Woody Allen picture so shocking. It will definitely keep you guessing.
Another Wednesday has rolled and around, and I realize that I have not posted the answers to my Thursday Thirteen from two weeks ago! Thea from I'm a Drama Mama was the only person to get them all correct. Way to go, Thea! But I must add that Malcolm from Pop Culture Dish got most of them right as well. (His recent pledge to not use the internet on quizzes is quite commendable.) Thanks for playing everyone!
Here are the answers from two weeks ago. Click here to see the post.
1. Sarah Jessica Parker and Rachel McAdams were in The Family Stone.
2. Rachel McAdams and Tina Fey were in Mean Girls.
3. Tina Fey and Amy Poehler are in Baby Mama.
4. Amy Poehler and Susan Sarandon were in Mr. Woodcock.
5. Susan Sarandon and Nia Long were in Alfie.
6. Nia Long and Sandra Bullock were in Premonition.
7. Sandra Bullock and Ellen Burstyn were in Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood.
8. Ellen Burstyn and Meg Ryan were in When a Man Loves a Woman.
9. Meg Ryan and Jennifer Jason Leigh were in In the Cut.
10. Jennifer Jason Leigh and Kathy Bates were in Dolores Claiborne.
11. Kathy Bates and Hilary Swank were in P.S. I Love You.
12. Hilary Swank and Katie Holmes were in The Gift.
13. Katie Holmes and Queen Latifah were in Mad Money.
This week's edition is just thirteen random questions about one of my all-time favorite television shows, "The Golden Girls." Thanks to Lifetime, I think I've seen every single episode at least three times! Please email me your answers at holly_f_smith@yahoo.com. Do not leave them in the comments section, just because you might get them before others have a chance to play. Thanks so much!
1. By what name does Blanche call her father?
2. In one episode, Dorothy and Rose write a song for a contest. Can you finish this line from the tune?
"Miami, Miami, you've got style, Blue skies, sunshine, _____ ____ __ ___ ____."
3. What was the name of Sophia's former retirement home?
4. What was the name of Rose's hometown?
5. What dessert did the ladies often enjoy while sitting around the kitchen table?
6. What was Dorothy's profession?
7. Dorothy's ex-husband, Stan, finally left her for a flight attendant. What was her name?
8. What was the name of Dorothy's father?
9. What was Sophia's nickname for Dorothy?
10. What was Blanche's late husband's name?
11. What actress played Sophia when she was younger (1950s)?
12. As a young child, who did Rose believe was her biological father?
13. Just curious, which Golden Girl is your favorite?
This week's game is 'Connect the Actors Part VI'. Can you connect Shirley Temple to Sean Astin through films? The answer for each question will be the movie title that connects the actor for that number with the following one. Just in case my directions sound as bad as I think they do, here's an example series:
1. George Clooney
2. Brad Pitt
3. Susan Sarandon
4. Sean Penn
The answers :
1. 
(Think - George Clooney stars with Brad Pitt in...) Ocean's 11
2. 
(Think - Brad Pitt stars with Susan Sarandon in...) Thelma and Louise
3. 
Dead Man Walking
I realize that some of these might have more than one answer, so any true connection that I can prove with IMDB will be counted as a correct answer. Also, please note that there are 14 actors listed, but only thirteen answers. The thirteenth answer will be the movie that stars both Josh Brolin and Sean Astin. Please do not leave your answers in the comments section. If you would like to play, just leave me a comment letting me know, and then e-mail me your answers at: holly_f_smith@yahoo.com. I'll post the answers on Monday morning. Good luck and have fun!
1. Shirley Temple
2. Lionel Barrymore
3. James Stewart
4. Alfred Hitchcock
5. Anthony Perkins
6. Lauren Bacall
7. Kathy Bates
8. Jack Nicholson
9. John Lithgow
10. Janine Turner
11. Sam Shepard
12. Denzel Washington
13. Josh Brolin
14. Sean Astin
Malcolm of Pop Culture Dish and Anna of Beth and Cory's Mom got all 13 answers correct. Way to go you two! (Sorry for the extremely long delay - I just realized that I never posted them on Monday like I promised!) Click here to see the original post.
Here are the answers:
1. Fast Times at Ridgemont High
2. The Last King of Scotland
3. Atonement
4. Pirates of the Caribbean
5. Edward Scissorhands
6. Parenthood
7. Philadelphia
8. The Terminal
9. America's Sweethearts or High Fidelity
10. Must Love Dogs
11. Unfaithful
12. Pretty Woman
13. Charlie Wilson's War
Thanks for playing!
This week's game is 'Connect the Actors Part V'. Can you connect Sean Penn to Philip Seymour Hoffman through films? The answer for each question will be the movie title that connects the actor for that number with the following one. Just in case my directions sound as bad as I think they do, here's an example series:
1. George Clooney
2. Brad Pitt
3. Susan Sarandon
4. Sean Penn
The answers :
1. (Think - George Clooney stars with Brad Pitt in...) Ocean's 11
2. (Think - Brad Pitt stars with Susan Sarandon in...) Thelma and Louise
3. Dead Man Walking
I realize that some of these might have more than one answer, so any true connection that I can prove with IMDB will be counted as a correct answer. Also, please note that there are 14 actors listed, but only thirteen answers. The thirteenth answer will be the movie that stars both Julia Roberts and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Please do not leave your answers in the comments section. If you would like to play, just leave me a comment letting me know, and then e-mail me your answers at: holly_f_smith@yahoo.com. I'll post the answers on Monday morning. Good luck and have fun!
1. Sean Penn
2. Forest Whitaker
3. James McAvoy
4. Keira Knightley
5. Johnny Depp
6. Dianne Wiest
7. Jason Robards
8. Tom Hanks
9. Catherine Zeta-Jones
10. John Cusack
11. Diane Lane
12. Richard Gere
13. Julia Roberts
14. Philip Seymour Hoffman
Malcolm of Pop Culture Dish was the only one to correctly identify the connections between the fourteen actors listed this week. Way to go Malcolm, once again!
Here are the answers:
1. The Fugitive
2. La Bamba
3. Courage Under Fire
4. Glory
5. The Cable Guy
6. The Holiday
7. Gattaca
8. Reality Bites
9. Daddy Day Care
10. Another 48 Hours
11. I'll Do Anything
12. The Muse
13. The Fisher King
This week's game is 'Connect the Actors Part IV'. This time it's all about male actors. Can you connect Harrison Ford to Robin Williams through films? The answer for each question will be the movie title that connects the actor for that number with the following one. Just in case my directions sound as bad as I think they do, here's an example series:
1. George Clooney
2. Brad Pitt
3. Susan Sarandon
4. Sean Penn
The answers :
1. (Think - George Clooney stars with Brad Pitt in...) Ocean's 11
2. (Think - Brad Pitt stars with Susan Sarandon in...) Thelma and Louise
3. Dead Man Walking
I realize that some of these might have more than one answer, so any true connection that I can prove with IMDB will be counted as a correct answer. Also, please note that there are 14 actors listed, but only thirteen answers. The thirteenth answer will be the movie that stars both Jeff Bridges and Robin Williams. Please do not leave your answers in the comments section. If you would like to play, just leave me a comment letting me know, and then e-mail me your answers at: holly_f_smith@yahoo.com. I'll post the answers on Monday morning. Good luck and have fun!
1. Harrison Ford
2. Joe Pantoliano
3. Lou Diamond Phillips
4. Denzel Washington
5. Matthew Broderick
6. Jack Black
7. Jude Law
8. Ethan Hawke
9. Steve Zahn
10. Eddie Murphy
11. Nick Nolte
12. Albert Brooks
13. Jeff Bridges
14. Robin Williams
Thanks for playing this week's edition of Connect the Actors. This week, Malcolm of Pop Culture Dish was the only person to get them all correct. Way to go Malcolm!
Here are the answers:
Be sure to check back this Wed. for Part IV of Connect the Actors!
This week's game is 'Connect the Actors Part III'. This time it's all about actresses. Can you connect Emma Thompson to Juliette Lewis through films? The answer for for each question will be the movie title that connects the actress for that number with the following one. Just in case my directions sound as bad as I think they do, here's an example series:
1. George Clooney
2. Brad Pitt
3. Susan Sarandon
4. Sean Penn....
The answers :
1. (Think - George Clooney stars with Brad Pitt in...) Ocean's 11
2. (Think - Brad Pitt stars with Susan Sarandon in...) Thelma and Louise
3. Dead Man Walking
I realize that some of these might have more than one answer, so any true connection that I can prove with IMDB will be counted as a correct answer. Also, please note that there are 14 actors listed, but only thirteen answers. The thirteenth answer will be the movie that stars both Jessica Lange and Juliette Lewis. Please do not leave your answers in the comments section. If you would like to play, just leave me a comment letting me know, and then e-mail me your answers at: holly_f_smith@yahoo.com. I'll post the answers on Monday morning. Good luck and have fun!
1. Emma Thompson
2. Kate Winslet
3. Kirsten Dunst
4. Susan Sarandon
5. Natalie Portman
6. Julia Roberts
7. Joan Cusack
8. Hope Davis
9. Gwyneth Paltrow
10. Jeanne Tripplehorn
11. Sharon Stone
12. Halle Berry
13. Jessica Lange
14. Juliette Lewis
We finally saw No Country For Old Men this weekend. I was really looking forward to watching it after it won the Oscar for Best Picture this year. Javier Bardem clearly deserved (and won) the Oscar for Best Actor. What a creepy guy! The scene where he terrorizes the store clerk with a coin toss was extremely well acted and written. But I thought that Josh Brolin was also deserving of an Oscar nomination. The only thing I didn't like about the film was the ending. I don't want to spoil it for anyone, but if you've seen it, you can probably relate. Maybe if I watched it again it would make more sense to me. What did you think about this movie?
Thanks for playing this week's edition of Connect the Actors. This week, three of you got them all correct: Malcolm of Pop Culture Dish, Anna of Beth and Cory's Mom, and Thea of I'm a Drama Mama. Fantastic job you guys!
Here are the answers:
Be sure to check back this Wed. for Part III of Connect the Actors!
This week's game is 'Connect the Actors Part II'. Can you connect Billy Crystal to Kurt Russell through films? The answer for for each question will be the movie title that connects the actor for that number with the following actor. Just in case my directions sound as bad as I think they do, here's an example series:
1. George Clooney
2. Brad Pitt
3. Susan Sarandon
4. Sean Penn....
The answers :
1. (Think - George Clooney stars with Brad Pitt in...) Ocean's 11
2. (Think - Brad Pitt stars with Susan Sarandon in...) Thelma and Louise
3. Dead Man Walking
I realize that some of these might have more than one answer, so any true connection that I can prove with IMDB will be counted as a correct answer. Also, please note that there are 14 actors listed, but only thirteen answers. The thirteenth answer will be the movie that stars both Dakota Fanning and Kurt Russell.
Please do not leave your answers in the comments section. If you would like to play, just leave me a comment letting me know, and then e-mail me your answers at: holly_f_smith@yahoo.com. I'll post the answers on Monday morning. Good luck and have fun!
1. Billy Crystal
2. Meg Ryan
3. Tom Hanks
4. Paul Newman
5. Tom Cruise
6. Robert Duvall
7. Julia Roberts
8. Albert Finney
9. Matt Damon
10. Gwyneth Paltrow
11. Ethan Hawke
12. Denzel Washington
13. Dakota Fanning
14. Kurt Russell
Last night, we rented Michael Clayton. Tilda Swinton won an Oscar for her role as Karen Crowder, the corporate executive. Tom Wilkinson and George Clooney were also nominated, and of course the film was nominated for 'Best Picture'. It really looked like our kind of movie. But, I have to say that I was a little disappointed. It was a fairly good movie, but I don't think it deserved a nomination for 'Best Picture'. It didn't have very many suspenseful moments, and I thought it was very predictable. We saw Gone Baby Gone a couple of weeks ago, and I thought it was a much better film overall. I think it deserved a 'Best Picture' nomination more than Michael Clayton. If you've seen this film, what are your thoughts?
This week's game is 'Connect the Actors'. Can you connect Tom Cruise to Richard Dreyfuss through films? The answer for for each question will be the movie title that connects the actor for that number with the following actor. Just in case my directions sound as bad as I think they do, here's an example series:
1. George Clooney
2. Brad Pitt
3. Susan Sarandon
4. Sean Penn....
The answers :
1. (Think - George Clooney stars with Brad Pitt in...) Ocean's 11
2. (Think - Brad Pitt stars with Susan Sarandon in...) Thelma and Louise
3. Dead Man Walking
I realize that some of these might have more than one answer, so any true connection that I can prove with IMDB will be counted as a correct answer. Also, please note that there are 14 actors listed, but only thirteen answers. The thirteenth answer will be the movie that stars both Bill Murray and Richard Dreyfuss.
Please do not leave your answers in the comments section. This time, if you would like to play, just leave me a comment letting me know, and then e-mail me your answers at: holly_f_smith@yahoo.com. I'll post the answers on Monday morning. Good luck and have fun!
1. Tom Cruise
2. Meg Ryan
3. Nicholas Cage
4. Sean Connery
5. Alec Baldwin
6. Michael Keaton
7. Nicole Kidman
8. Matthew Broderick
9. Jennifer Grey
10. Lea Thompson
11. Michael J. Fox
12. Woody Harrelson
13. Bill Murray
14. Richard Dreyfuss
Thanks for playing this week everyone! Many of you got lots of them correct, but Malcolm from Pop Culture Dish was able to get them all. Check back on Wednesday at 4pm CT for another Thursday Thirteen Quiz.
4.
Office Space
5.
The Pursuit of Happyness
6.
Tommy Boy
7.
Seven
8. 
A Perfect Murder
9. 
What's Love Got to Do With It?
11.
Parenthood
Welcome to this week's Thursday Thirteen. It is a "Name That Movie" quiz. I'll show you a still shot from thirteen different movies, and you simply tell me the titles in the comments section. Let's see how many you recognize! Also, if you click on the image, you can see a larger version of it. (I will try to delete answers quickly so that you're not tempted to peek ; ). Good luck!
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
11.
12. 
This week I wanted to post a game as my Thursday Thirteen. Unscramble each set of words to reveal a movie title from the given year. Just leave your answers in the comments section. The first person to get them all correct will get a fake fabulous prize...Good luck!
[Check back to find the answers on Friday morning]
1. Het Kwsshhaan Prtndeemio (1994)
2. Sfooallegd (1990)
3. Errbvaahet (1995)
4. Olrtaauilet (2007)
5. Gveinnfour (1992)
6. Eht Secsnrpi Bedri (1987)
7. Hidgan (1982)
8. Hrcas (2004)
9. Ltese Siagoamln (1989)
10. Alihpeladhip (1993)
11. Csymti Evirr (2003)
12.Wsja (1975)
13. Eht Peaerddt (2006)
We finally rented The Pursuit of Happyness. I know it's not new, but I just had to write a post about it. I really wanted to go see this one in the theater, but then we never did. Somehow I had forgotten about it. So I was so glad when Chris walked in the door with this one on Friday evening.
It's the true story of how Chris Gardner (Will Smith) manages to make the best of an extremely difficult period in his life. Through sheer will power and determination, he figures out a way to climb the ladder of success. But, it is no easy road! You think you're resourceful? He figures out a way to make it, as a newly single dad no less, with a job that pays no salary! I don't think I've ever seen an actor run as much as Will Smith did in this film! His son Jaden is an excellent little actor, and the love between father and son was so evident and heart-warming. As good as I expected this movie to be, it exceeded those expectations. But, If you're like me, you might need to have a box of Kleenex on stand-by. It's a tear jerker, but it will also make you smile.
For this week's Thursday Thirteen, I'm going to list the Top 13 Movies (according to the Jan. 25th issue of Entertainment Weekly). After reviewing the Top 20 Chart, I realized that we need to get out more! We haven't seen any of these! I really prefer just renting movies and relaxing in my recliner anyway! Plus, the weather has been pretty dreary lately. At any rate, for those of you who do venture out into the cold to catch the latest flicks, here are the films you've been watching!
1. The Bucket List - My parents went to see it this Friday afternoon, and they loved it. They were joking that they were the youngest folks in the crowd.
2. First Sunday - This one stars Tracy Morgan and Ice Cube. The tagline is "Keep the faith. Steal the rest."
3. Juno - Pregnant 13 year old....giving baby up for adoption. But the critics love it.
4. National Treasure: Book of Secrets - I really want to see this one eventually, because I loved the original. The one-liners might have been cheesy, but it was also exciting!
5. Alvin and the Chipmunks - Looks cute enough to rent!
6. I Am Legend - I heard Regis say that it was pretty scary. But then again, Regis isn't exactly a tough guy.
7. One Missed Call - People receive voicemails from their "future selves" about when they are going to die...not my cup of tea.
8. P.S. I Love You - I'd never get Chris in the theater to see this one. It's oozing "girl movie".
9. The Pirates Who Don't Do Anything: A Veggie Tales Movie - The Veggie Tales have an aquired taste...but I think they're delicious.
10. Atonement - My kind of movie, I can just tell. Loved James McAvoy in The Last King of Scotland.
11. Charlie Wilson's War - My parents also saw this one. They enjoyed it.
12. Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street - I've seen the play version of this story in high school, and I'm curious to see Tim Burton's interpretation of it.
13. The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep: The commercial says it's the next E.T. That's enough to get me to watch it!
This year's Oscar Nominees will be announced on January 22nd. Of course, with the Writer's Strike going on, who knows what the broadcast of the awards show will actually be like.
So, I've been reading about possible nominees, and I 've discovered something. I've only seen a handful of any of the movies mentioned! We went to see The Bourne Ultimatum, and I know we've seen a couple of other movies in the theater, but we haven't seen any of the latest films with all the Oscar buzz. I thought 3:10 to Yuma was good enough to win something, Christian Bale and Russell Crowe were both excellent. (Click here for my review of the film.) I still want to see American Gangster, No Country For Old Men, Atonement, and The Bucket List. But, I can wait until they're on DVD. Which movies/actors do you think deserve Oscar Nominations this year?
We rented a couple of really good movies this weekend. 3:10 to Yuma was one of them. If you haven't seen it, you should check it out. Christian Bale plays Civil War Veteran Dan Evans, who is desperately trying to save his ranch. While out riding horses with his sons, he witnesses a gang, led by the legendary Ben Wade(Russell Crowe), rob a stage coach. Desperate to save his ranch, and without giving too much away, he eventually agrees to escort Wade to the 3:10 Prison Train to Yuma Prison for a fee of $200. Russell Crowe and Christian Bale were both excellent in this film. I also really enjoyed the performance by Logan Lerman, who plays Dan's son, William.
Have you seen American Gangster? We are dying to see this movie. I'm hoping that we can go this weekend. It's based on Frank Lucas, the real-life 1970s drug lord, and the cop that tries to take him down. I love Denzel Washington in most anything (my favorites are Philadelphia and Man on Fire). I was also really impressed with Russell Crowe in Cinderella Man. Anyway, I'd love to hear anyone's thoughts about the movie. But please don't reveal too much about the plot.
The results of my "Second Poll of the Week" are in. I've already talked about my love for the film Steel Magnolias. It's the one DVD I could watch at least once a week, and never get sick of. It may get a bad rap at times as a chick flick, but I think it offers something for everyone.
Ouiser is the winner! Shirley MacLaine is one of my favorite actresses of all time. I like almost every movie I can think of in which she is involved. Of course, in Steel Magnolias, she is doing her best to be the most disgusting, unhappy old grump that she can be. But, you can't help falling for her anyway. My favorite scenes with Ouiser are those that she has with Drum (M'Lynne's husband played by Tom Skerritt). Remember when she chops off the tail of the groom's cake? "Nothing like a good piece 'o ass." I love the playful and vile interaction between those two.
All of the actresses were phenomenal in my opinion. I chose Olympia Dukakis as Clairee (left) as my favorite just because she had some of the best one-liners in the movie. There is the obvious scene at the funeral, which is probably the best point in the entire film. One of the best relationships in the film was that between Clairee and Ouiser (Shirley MacLaine). Clairee took the film to a new level, with her biting sarcasm and quick-witted comments.
Everybody loves Dolly Parton, right? I just love her sweet Southern accent, her charm, and her positive outlook on life. She brought all these things to her character, Truvy, in Steel Magnolias. She's the most positive spirit behind the film. She would have been my second choice in favorite character.
I'm a big Julia Roberts fan. However, when I watch this movie I can see how far she has come as an actress. It's not that she wasn't fantastic in Steel Magnolias, its just that she was even better in her later films. I think her Southern accent sounded the most forced of all the women. My favorite Julia Roberts movie is Erin Brochovich.
Surprisingly, Sally Field did not receive any votes. I thought she was excellent in this film! But, it's so hard to choose between all these fantastic actresses. The mother/daughter relationship between Shelby and M'Lynne was very realistic to me. It isn't easy when a mother must "let go" and allow her daughter to make her own decisions.
Annelle, played by Daryl Hannah was also terrific in this movie. But, I didn't expect her to win. I enjoyed her ability to go from "wild child" to "holy roller" with such ease. She also had lots of funny lines in the movie. I think the guy that played her new husband was really funny as well.
Chris and I love using Netflix. We received a one year plan as a Christmas gift from my parents. Basically we get to always have a movie to watch. Since we hardly ever go out to the movies anymore, Netflix is perfect for us. We can take turns picking out movies. What's really cool to me is that I can find out so much information about the movie before I select it. Also, when I'm in a video store I tend to just grab something so that I can go home. I can never remember the older movies that we missed when they were new releases. Do you use Netflix or Blockbuster on-line?
Last 13 Picks on Netflix (click on the titles for IMDB information)
1. The Killing Fields (1984)
2. The Verdict (1982)
3. Witness (1985)
4. Next (2007)
5. Disturbia (2007)
6. Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (2006)
7. Taxi: Season 3 - Disc 1 (1980)
8. Good Night and Good Luck (2005)
9. Raging Bull (1980)
10. City of God (2002)
Next we'll receive:
11. Blood In Blood Out (1993)
12. World Trade Center (2006)
13. The Fog of War (2003)
Any thoughts about any of these? I'd love to hear them! Happy Halloween!
I'm such a big fan of soundtracks. I'd say about half of my CDs are movie soundtracks. They are like little "greatest hit" albums that remind you of where you were when you first saw that particular film. I had a hard time narrowing my list to just thirteen. But, these are the ones that I've listened to the most. Please let me know if you like or own any of these yourself.
My 13 Favorite Movie Soundtracks:
1. Cocktail (1988)
2. Forrest Gump (1994)
3. Philadelphia (1993)
4. Corrina, Corrina (1994)
5. Boys on the Side (1995)
6. Singles (1992)
7. The Lion King (1994)
8. Curious George (2006)
9. The Wizard of Oz (1939)
10. The Graduate (1967)
11. The Big Chill (1983)
12. Reality Bites (1994)
13. Top Gun (1986)
There are so many movies coming out that actually look great! Sometimes it seems like there aren't any movies worth going to the theater to see. But, I've found quite a few that look terrific! I guess it's the time of year when the Oscar buzz is already here. It seems like the better quality movies always come out around the holidays. Please let me know if you're interested in any of these as well.
13 New Movies I'd Like to See:
(Click on the titles for a link to the IMDB details for each one.)
Title Release Date
1. We Own the Night 10/12/07
2. Michael Clayton 10/05/07
3. Rendition 10/19/07
4. Gone Baby Gone 10/19/07
5. 3:10 to Yuma in theaters
6. The Brave One in theaters
7. American Gangster 11/02/07
8. Music Within 10/26/07
9. Eastern Promises in theaters
10. In the Valley of Elah in theaters
11. Reservation Road 10/19/07
12. Stardust still in theaters?
13. Across the Universe in theaters
Here are the results to the Mama Pajama Movie Quiz. Sorry you needed a magnifying glass to see these pictures! Next time I'll make sure they are bigger! Malcolm and Barb tied as the winners, each getting nine out of eleven correct. Congratulations you two!! I predict that you will each go on to win fabulous prizes....but not today : ). Thanks to all that participated!!
A. The Brady Bunch Movie (1995)
C. Ghostbusters (1984)
Mama Pajama's Movie Quiz
After playing Skittles' Movie Quiz last week, I had to make my own. Guess as many movie titles as you can, and then e-mail me your answers to holly_f_smith@yahoo.com
Please leave me a comment with your URL as well....but no answers! I will post the results in a few days, with links to those that do the best. Thanks for playing! I'm curious to see if anyone can get all eleven correct!!
A.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
This is a list of my favorite movies DURING the 1980's; as in when I was between the ages of 3 and 13. There are so many movies I could list that I like now from that decade, but I've only listed those that I loved when I was a kid.
1. The Great Muppet Caper (1981) - Kermit and Fozzie are reporters that must travel to London to interview Lady Holiday, a rich fashion designer whose diamond necklace has been stolen. Long story short, Miss Piggy gets framed and the Muppets must find the real jewel thieves.
2. E.T. (1982) - This is the only movie I remember seeing at a "Drive-In" movie theater. Then, hurricane Alicia hit Galveston, and it was gone.
3. National Lampoon's Vacation (1983) - Favorite part: Grandma (Imogene Coca) is eating her lunch at the picnic table, and even though they figured out that the dog peed on the sandwiches, she just shrugs and takes another bite.....my husband can do a great impression of this....
4. Terms of Endearment (1983) - I've always been a sucker for cry baby movies. I watched this one with my mom (many times). Now that I'm older it's even more moving.
5. The Never Ending Story (1984) - This was one of about three movies we had on tape. So I saw it I'd say, 5,000 times?? I can't think of a better kid movie.
6. Splash (1984) - We also had this on tape. I just loved Darryl Hannah. I'm going to have to order this one from Netflix.
7. The Karate Kid (1984) - Favorite Quote:
Daniel: Hey, what kind of belt do you have?
Mr. Miagi: Canvas. JC Penny. Three ninety-eight. You like?
[laughs]
Daniel: No, I meant...
Mr. Miagi: In Okinawa, belt mean no need rope to hold up pants.
[laughs; then, seriously]
Mr. Miagi: Daniel-san, karate here.
[he taps his head]
Mr. Miagi: Karate here.
[he taps his heart]
Mr. Miagi: Karate never here.
[points to his belt]
Mr. Miagi: Understand?
8. The Goonies (1985) I had a major crush on Sean Astin....and I just realized that Joe Pantoliano was one of the bad guys. He always plays a good slime ball (Risky Business, The Sopranos, etc.).
9. Flight of the Navigator (1986) Hey, that was Jessica Parker in this movie. Basically, a 12 year old boy goes missing in 1978, and then reappears in 1986. However, he hasn't aged during this time. He was actually off having an adventure on a space ship. I remember watching this at school for a reward day.
10. Stand By Me (1986) - Oh how I love this film! Richard Dreyfuss is retelling a story about his childhood. It's everything good and bad about growing up.
11. Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986) - "Want a gummy bear?"
12. The Princess Bride (1987) There are so many classic quotes from this movie, but I also loved Fred Savage with his Grandpa:
Grandson: A book?
Grandpa: That's right. When I was your age, television was called books. And this is a special book. It was the book my father used to read to me when I was sick, and I used to read it to your father. And today I'm gonna read it to you.
Grandson: Has it got any sports in it?
Grandpa: Are you kidding? Fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles...
Grandson: Doesn't sound too bad. I'll try to stay awake.
Grandpa: Oh, well, thank you very much, very nice of you. Your vote of confidence is overwhelming.
13. Steel Magnolias (1989) I suppose I'll find any reason to include this movie in every post I write. But it simply is my favorite movie. I'll never have enough of Claree, Ouiser, M'Lynn,Truvy, and Shelby. I can identify with the relationships in this movie: Claree and Ouiser's friendship, M'Lynn and Shelby as mother and daughter, and I love the dynamic between Ouiser and Drum (M'Lynn's husband). I adore these strong southern women.
13 Random Movies We Own:
The Last Thirteen Movies we've rented:
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