People come up to me, and they say ... "Steve, how can you be so (freaking) funny?" - Steve Martin
I'm a funny guy. Sometimes, I just sit back and bask in my funny-ness. (Yes, that's a word.) I don't tell traditional jokes. I don't tell stories. Instead, I make witty, insightful remarks on a deep, thought-provoking level that some might refer to as 'high-brow humor.'
Here's an example from last week:
My children like playing 'Just Dance 3' on the Wii. One of the songs is called "Boogie Wonderland." While they were dancing to it, I started singing "Booger Wonderland."
My oldest daughter chuckled.
As if that wasn't enough, I started putting a finger up my nose and singing even louder ... "Booger Wonderland ... " No one laughed out loud, but a couple of kids smiled. A couple of others looked grossed out.
Like I said, I'm a funny guy. Witty. Insightful. High-brow.
This week, I took it to a whole new level. My wife and I were out driving near Lake Travis. We passed a dam. I pointed to it and said, "Damn!"
Yep. Funny.
My wife didn't laugh out loud, but I'm sure she was chuckling ... maybe even smiling really big on the inside.
Why? Cause I'm a funny guy. If you're lucky, you'll be around me the next time I make one of these humorous insights. I just hope you'll have your 'thinking-cap' on so you can keep up.
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
4 Years Later ...
It's been four years. Four years ago, we made the biggest move of our lives.
On Sunday, July 27, I stood in the pulpit for the very last time as Pastor of First Baptist Church in Blackwell, Oklahoma. Just a couple of days later, we stood in a courtroom Newkirk, Oklahoma, and finalized the adoption of two of our children. On Thursday, July 31, the 7 of us loaded into the biggest U-Haul they make (pulling our car) and our minivan, and drove everything we owned down to the countryside outside of Gonzales, Texas. That Thursday night would be the first night in our new home: the RV Park we were purchasing. (Those first few nights are a long story ... that I still don't even have the words for!) On Friday, August 1, we signed the papers and officially became the owners of Hill Shade RV Park.
There are several aspects of this story I could talk about. But here's what struck me this week:
As a Southern Baptist Minister for 20+ years ... I was never the most 'talented,' but I was always honest, sincere, and genuine. I truly cared for the people I was lucky enough to work with, be around, and experience life with.
Now, 4 years later, I'm a school teacher. Not the most talented one. But, I'm always honest, sincere, and genuine. I truly care for the students I have the privilege to teach, and the teachers I'm lucky enough to work with.
My career path has changed. But, in the ways I consider most important, I'm still the same guy I've always been. That makes me happy.
Monday, July 29, 2013
The Needs of the Two Outweigh the Needs of the Many
On Friday, July 19, I spent over 8 hours sitting on an
airplane. For most on the trip, it was a
long, uncomfortable experience, with 2+ hours of delays on an already long day.
However, for two passengers,
circumstances worked to their benefit.
There is a phrase that goes something like: “The needs of the many
outweigh the needs of the few, or the one.”
On July 19, on Southwest Flight #411 from Manchester to Baltimore, the
Universe decided that the needs of the two
outweighed the needs of the many.
My trip started out in Manchester, New Hampshire. It was supposed to be an hour-and-a-half
flight to Baltimore, where I would change planes, and then fly home to
Austin. However, on the way, we were
diverted to the airport in Norfolk, Virginia.
There was a big storm system just sitting over Baltimore, and the
Captain announced that because of the storm, and because we did not have enough
fuel to simply fly around until the storm moved on, we were being diverted to
Norfolk. (Yes, it freaked me out a
little bit that we were low enough on fuel to be diverted that far out of the
way!) After the announcement that we
were being diverted to Norfolk, the gentleman sitting next to me said, “Are we
going to Norfolk? That’s my final
destination!”
Wow. And just like
that, he was getting home early. The
flight attendants announced his good fortune, and people actually applauded for
him as he walked off the plane while we were refueling. It was a nice gesture. People were clapping for one man, as the rest
of us sat … delayed … frustrated.
Then, a few people actually boarded the plane. I was intrigued. This was an unscheduled stop. Why would people be boarding a plane that was
never supposed to be there in the first place?!
And, since the seat next to me had become available, a young woman sat
down.
I asked her why she boarded a plane that was never supposed
to be there. She said, “My original flight
to Baltimore was cancelled. Now, I can
actually get to Baltimore and catch my connecting flight to Detroit, and get to
see my husband this weekend!”
Wow. Without my
flight being diverted several miles south of Baltimore, this young lady (who
serves in the Coast Guard and is therefore separated from her husband for
several weeks out of the year) would’ve missed cherished time with her husband
in Detroit. At the earliest, without my
diverted flight, she would’ve arrived in Detroit 18 hours later. But because of bad weather over Baltimore,
and low fuel on my plane, and a decision to divert to Norfolk, this young lady
can get her full weekend with her husband.
Again, for most of us on this flight, it was longer than we
wanted. Frustrating. Tiresome.
And we were stuck on an airplane instead of in the airport able to eat
or stretch out. Add to this, that once
we actually landed in Baltimore, we had to continue to sit on the plane in a
‘Remote Parking Area’ because the airport traffic was so backed-up.
But, for two people, these circumstances worked out to their
benefit. For me, it was a fascinating
turn of events. And I was happy for them
… and tired … and frustrated.
Saturday, July 27, 2013
My Week in New England
I am one lucky teacher. I teach Robotics and Engineering classes, and the company who writes most of my curriculum is based in Manchester, New Hampshire. Every summer, they host professional development training for teachers, and I get to attend.
It is a helpful conference. I really do learn a lot. As a bonus, this company chooses to treat the teachers they host like Kings and Queens. Once we arrive in Manchester, we don't pay for anything. They put us up in a Sheraton hotel, and feed us constantly. They spare no expense when taking us out, either. It's very nice. Like I said ... I'm one lucky teacher.
This year, I learned much more about our Classroom Management software, which hosts all of the curriculum modules. Plus, it was my first year to get some experience with the new Cortex Robotics Controllers (the controller is the 'brain' of the robot). The new transmitters look like XBox Gamepads! The students are really going to like them.
It is a helpful conference. I really do learn a lot. As a bonus, this company chooses to treat the teachers they host like Kings and Queens. Once we arrive in Manchester, we don't pay for anything. They put us up in a Sheraton hotel, and feed us constantly. They spare no expense when taking us out, either. It's very nice. Like I said ... I'm one lucky teacher.
This year, I learned much more about our Classroom Management software, which hosts all of the curriculum modules. Plus, it was my first year to get some experience with the new Cortex Robotics Controllers (the controller is the 'brain' of the robot). The new transmitters look like XBox Gamepads! The students are really going to like them.
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
Action-Movie Overload
My Summer Break - Day 32
In less than a week's time, I watched the following movies:
- World War Z
- Mission: Impossible
- Mission: Impossible II
- Mission: Impossible III
- Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol
- The Naked Gun 2 1/2: The Smell of Fear
- White House Down
That's a lot of movies featuring spies, shoot-outs, explosions, espionage, deceit, disguises, thrills, tension, etc. Apparently, my brain overloaded! Not to mention ... I mixed in a couple of episodes of "House of Cards" and "Lost: Season 2" along the way.
A couple of nights ago, I had a dream in which I was pulled over by the police for going too fast in a motorized wheel chair. The wheel chair could go really fast! I was in a parking lot ... and as I passed a police car, I tried to slow down ... and ended up doing some moves like Tom Cruise did in Mission: Impossible II on his motorcycle. (I think the wheel chair was from Naked Gun 2 1/2.)
Later, when I was trying to provide my drivers license (yes, for driving a motorized wheel chair), my wallet was very dirty and greasy, and had bullet fragments in it.
Last night, I can't remember details of my dream, but I remember waking up at one point feeling like I was being followed/chased. At another point, I had a dream in which I was going to engage another person in hand-to-hand combat ... actually believing that I could do 'some moves.'
Yeah .. overloaded!
For the last couple of days, whenever I've been out of the house, I've been watching people. What are they carrying? Is that a device? Do they look suspicious? Is that their real face or are they going to pull off a mask?!
I think I need to watch some comedies. No guns. No explosions. No spies or conspiracies. Unless it's Archer!
Monday, June 17, 2013
iPadpalooza
iPadpalooza.
Yeah ... the title of this conference bugs me a little, too. The IT department in my school district signed all of the Technology teachers up for this conference. A two-day workshop aimed at equipping us to use iPads in the classroom.
My expectations: not very high. My students already have a 1-1 ratio with desktop computers and internet access. Plus, we have Robot Kits that we work with almost every day. I'm not sure where to fit iPads into that ... my feeling is that I would simply be doing it just to do it.
We'll see.
Update: Post-Conference
The conference was much what I expected ... very little application for ME in MY classroom. Again, with an already 1-1 ratio of students to computers, and Robot-Kits available, there just isn't much room to 'fit in' activities with the iPad.
A handful of the classes at this workshop focused merely on telling you what Apps are out there and available. Many of the apps talked about are for simple entertainment. Others are primarily or solely for Elementary-age students.
I did learn a little bit about file-sharing ... like: it's still limited.
If you are a teacher, and have little or no access to computer work-stations, then access to an iPad cart can be a wonderful addition to your classroom. Be ready to put in a lot of work and time spent pre-planning.
Father's Day
Summer Break: Day 16
Father's Day was nice. I enjoyed a lazy morning. I went grocery shopping. I watched a movie (the Patriot) with my kids. And the Spurs beat the Heat. (I'm not a Spurs fan ... but I like seeing the Heat lose!)
There were two highlights of my day.
1) Mackenzie "Heisenberg'd" me! She sketched a picture of me ... and it looks awesome! She is quite the artist, and this was her Father's Day gift to me:
2) I got to catch up with an 'old' friend. (She's not old ... I've just known her a long time!) Michelle and I have known each other since Junior High, and we only live about an hour away from each other. We've been talking about catching up together, but never have. On Sunday, she was passing through town, messaged me on Facebook, and I encouraged her to drop by the house. I'm so glad I did. It was SO FUN catching up with her.
Sunday, June 9, 2013
Lake Travis
My Summer Break - Day 07
On Friday, a friend of ours offered to take our whole family (5 kids and all!) out on Lake Travis. We are so lucky to have a friend who would spend his whole afternoon playing with our kids and giving them an experience that they have never had before.
Our friend is a member of a boat club, and reserved a boat that would hold up to 10 people ... the seven of us, himself, and his two boys. We were stocked with wake-boards, a knee-board, a tube, and life-vests for everyone. (Plus an ice chest and a couple of bags of snacks!)
Our goal was to give our kids as many opportunities as they could handle out on the water. They had never done any of this before, so we wanted them to try it all. That being said, I rode the tube twice ... once with my oldest daughter and once with my youngest daughter. Other than that, I drove the boat a couple of times and just enjoyed relaxing and riding.
I can't remember that last time I've spent that long out on the water. Growing up in Rockport, I had the opportunity to be on the water lots of times ... sometimes hours and hours at a time. It was really nice to get to do that again.
 |
| About to go tubing |
 |
| Just enjoying the ride |
Thursday, June 6, 2013
My Day with My Dad
On Thursday, June 6, I got to spend the day with my Dad. His birthday is in June, and mine was back in April. I wanted to go to an Astros game for my birthday, and I wanted to take him to one for his birthday. So, I did.
The Astros game was very fun. It was my first time to Minute Maid Park, and I was excited to finally attend a game there. I have to admit, the stadium looked different to me than it had on TV all these years. (I thought that was odd.) We ate lunch at the 5-7 Grill ... named after Bagwell's and Biggio's numbers. There were some great pictures of former players all around. There were probably some less-expensive places to eat, but I really wanted to eat there. I figured if I was only going to ONE game this year, I was gonna do the things I WANTED to do. :)
I bought us tickets down the first base line, and with the kind of season the Astros are having, the crowd was sparse. The seats were great and the game had some great moments, even though the Astros lost 3-1. The Astros missed 3 different home-runs by mere feet. And, we had a foul ball land only 5 rows behind us. I believe, in all of our years attending Astro games in the Dome, that's the closest I ever had a foul ball land to me!
After the game, we drove back to Wharton and ate dinner together. I really enjoyed listening to my Dad talk about our days in Wharton. It was a special day for me ... a great way to celebrate my 45th birthday.
Day 06
The day started with my Dad and I driving around Wharton, Texas. I was born in Wharton, and lived there through the 5th grade. My dad lived there most of his life, and taught school there for 23 years. He was my tour guide this morning ... telling me where to drive ... pointing things out ... refreshing old memories. I thought it was funny how many buildings/places looked much smaller than I remember! Overall, it was a great trip down memory lane.The Astros game was very fun. It was my first time to Minute Maid Park, and I was excited to finally attend a game there. I have to admit, the stadium looked different to me than it had on TV all these years. (I thought that was odd.) We ate lunch at the 5-7 Grill ... named after Bagwell's and Biggio's numbers. There were some great pictures of former players all around. There were probably some less-expensive places to eat, but I really wanted to eat there. I figured if I was only going to ONE game this year, I was gonna do the things I WANTED to do. :)
I bought us tickets down the first base line, and with the kind of season the Astros are having, the crowd was sparse. The seats were great and the game had some great moments, even though the Astros lost 3-1. The Astros missed 3 different home-runs by mere feet. And, we had a foul ball land only 5 rows behind us. I believe, in all of our years attending Astro games in the Dome, that's the closest I ever had a foul ball land to me!
After the game, we drove back to Wharton and ate dinner together. I really enjoyed listening to my Dad talk about our days in Wharton. It was a special day for me ... a great way to celebrate my 45th birthday.
Monday, June 3, 2013
My Summer Break - Day 03
Day 03
A little bit of a misnomer ... the 3rd day of my Summer Break was my final in-service day. But, I completed everything that I needed to, my room is in better shape than at this time last year, and now I am DONE. What else did I do today?
- Drove to Austin and met my family after they had a swim day at Krausse Springs
- Got take-out at Thai House (yummy curry!)
- Got in a 20-minute run after I got home
- Shaved my face! (pictures of "summer Mike" coming soon)
Sunday, June 2, 2013
Summer Movie List
Michael's Summer Movie List
This summer, I'm going to be watching a lot of movies. Most, I'll be seeing for the first time, but I'm also going to watch some of my favorites with my kids ... movies that THEY will see for the first time!
Why am I sharing this? Mainly so I'll have a record of it, and can see just how much time I wasted during my Summer Break. :)
So ... here's my list:
1. The Two Towers (June 2)
** My 2nd time to see it ... my children's first time. The opening scenes with 3 of the main characters running ... and running ... gets a little old, but the battles and action scenes are amazing.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0167261/?ref_=sr_3
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_two_towers/
2. Stolen (June 2)
** Netflix. Decent action. Terrible music. It's a good story line and very easy to follow.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1656186/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/stolen_2012/
3. Jack Reacher (June 4)
** Decent action, but much more of a detective thriller than I expected. Also, this was a 'dark' movie, in my opinion. I liked Cruise a lot, but I always do. He's one of my favorite actors.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0790724/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/jack_reacher/
4. The Skulls (June 4)
** Somewhat predictable ... not as intense as I was hoping. I was hoping for more of a mystery/thriller ... much more of a drama. Plus, I just can't seem to like movies with Paul Walker in them. He's 0-3 in my book.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0192614/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/skulls/
5. The Num8ers Station (June 4)
** Very good action/thriller. John Cusack was surprisingly good. Interesting story line ... and good pace between action scenes and the actual story line. One was not sacrificed for the other.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1659338/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_numbers_station/
6. The Last Stand (June 8)
** This is the BEST "Arnold" movie I've seen since 'True Lies!' Very good story. Very good action. Forest Whitaker definitely adds some credibility, and is good as always. Like-able good-guys.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1549920/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/last_stand_2013/
7. Lord of the Rings: Return of the King (June 9)
** This was my 2nd time to see this movie, and my 1st time to watch it with my kids. I'm just not all that attracted to the LOTR story, but this really is an entertaining movie. And LONG.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0167260/?ref_=sr_2
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_return_of_the_king/
8. Quigly Down Under (June 11)
** I'm not sure how many times I've seen this movie. A LOT. Wanted my kids to see it. Thank you, Netflix.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0102744/?ref_=sr_1
9. Big Fish (June 12)
** This is a movie that I had wanted to see since I first saw the previews. It's been on Netflix instant for awhile now, and I've been putting it off. I really liked it. Fun, goofy story ... enjoyable characters ... and it's just a nice, friendly tale.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0319061/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/1127787-big_fish/
10. Happy Gilmore (June 14)
** One of those movies that seems like everyone has seen it but me. I laughed out loud several times.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0116483/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/happy_gilmore/
11. The Sum of All Fears (June 14)
** Decent action; a little hokie; although I like Afflect a lot now, this was back when he came across a little bit like a 'punk' in my opinion. Alec Baldwin is still my favorite "Jack Ryan."
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0164184/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/sum_of_all_fears/
12. Moneyball (June 15)
** My understanding is that the movie is not quite historically accurate on most of the details, but the overall story is true. Still, one fantastic movie. Really great acting and drama all the way around. I did not care for Philip Seymour Hoffman's portrayal of Art Howe, but other than that, this is one of my favorite movies.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1210166/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/moneyball/
13. The Patriot (June 16)
** A great war/history movie. I don't think it's completely historically accurate, but the main overall direction is solid. Acting is great. Story line and characters are very compelling. Fantastic action scenes. Maybe my favorite Mel Gibson movie.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0187393/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/1098149-patriot/
14. Zero Dark Thirty (June 17)
** Wow. I was not invested after the first 50 minutes, but I'm very glad I saw it through! The last hour and a half of this film was amazing. Brutal. Gritty. I hope it was historically accurate ... if so: WOW.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1790885/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/zero_dark_thirty/
15. Columbus Circle (June 20)
** The entire movie is less than 90 minutes. I really enjoyed the first ... 70 minutes. Then, during the last 15-20 minutes, it's like the writer got tired of writing, and just decided to end it. A major premise of the entire plot was simply 'done away with.' I was very disappointed in the ending.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1465533/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/columbus_circle/
16. The Devil's Own (June 21)
** I thought the title was a little misleading. "The Devil's Own" would, in my opinion, refer to someone who is evil. However, I was never rooting 'against' the supposed 'bad guy.' The movie portrayed him as a sympathetic character. That being said, it was a good story with decent action.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0118972/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/devils_own/
17. The Twilight Saga - Breaking Dawn: Part 2 (June 23)
** I liked the original Twilight movie very much. The next two seemed to get bogged down, in my opinion. However, I liked this final installment a lot. The ending was very satisfying. To me, The Twilight Saga is not a story about vampires, etc ... it is a love story, plain and simply ... with a lot of fun and interesting side stories thrown in.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1673434/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_twilight_saga_breaking_dawn_part_2/
18. The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (June 23)
** I liked it much better than I expected. And I especially liked Martin Freeman.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0903624/?ref_=sr_2
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_hobbit_an_unexpected_journey/
19. The Adventures of Rocky & Bullwinkle (June 23)
** I rounded out '3-movie-day' with my youngest daughter. This was a pretty cute movie.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0131704/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/adventures_of_rocky_and_bullwinkle/
20. The Hurt Locker (June 24)
** Wow. One HECK of a movie. Really, really good. After I watched, I had to Google what the heck 'hurt locker' means:
According to the writer-producer Mark Boal “hurt locker” is a military slang that means “a bad and painful place.” He said during an interview that “EOD soldiers use it as a form of poetic understatement: If an improvised explosive device, or IED, goes off while you're trying to disarm it, the ‘hurt locker’ is likely to mean a white box draped in a flag and shipped home with full military honors.”
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0887912/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/hurt_locker/
21. World War Z (June 26)
** The movie itself was really, really good. Seeing it at Alamo Draft House with a chocolate & peanut butter shake made it even better! Not the 'typical' zombie-movie-genre that I was expecting. I think it was more along the lines of 'Outbreak.' And, while it was thrilling and kept you on the edge of your seat, it was not bloody and gross.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0816711/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/world-war-z/
22. Death Race 2000 (June 27)
** Campy. Cult-ic. Wonderfully-horrible. I can imagine this movie being 'quoted along' with at Alamo Draft House.
Amazing to see so many influences this movie created ... I think it totally has a "Hunger Games meets Mad Max" feel ... Carradine's costume reminds me of Darth Vader ... his car is almost identical to the one driven in Corvette Summer ... I'd love to hear what you notice, as well.
Hard to believe that just two years later, Stallone walks in to a studio meeting and pitches his idea for Rocky ... and that anyone took him seriously after this film!
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0167261/?ref_=sr_3
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_two_towers/
2. Stolen (June 2)
** Netflix. Decent action. Terrible music. It's a good story line and very easy to follow.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1656186/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/stolen_2012/
3. Jack Reacher (June 4)
** Decent action, but much more of a detective thriller than I expected. Also, this was a 'dark' movie, in my opinion. I liked Cruise a lot, but I always do. He's one of my favorite actors.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0790724/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/jack_reacher/
4. The Skulls (June 4)
** Somewhat predictable ... not as intense as I was hoping. I was hoping for more of a mystery/thriller ... much more of a drama. Plus, I just can't seem to like movies with Paul Walker in them. He's 0-3 in my book.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0192614/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/skulls/
5. The Num8ers Station (June 4)
** Very good action/thriller. John Cusack was surprisingly good. Interesting story line ... and good pace between action scenes and the actual story line. One was not sacrificed for the other.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1659338/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_numbers_station/
6. The Last Stand (June 8)
** This is the BEST "Arnold" movie I've seen since 'True Lies!' Very good story. Very good action. Forest Whitaker definitely adds some credibility, and is good as always. Like-able good-guys.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1549920/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/last_stand_2013/
7. Lord of the Rings: Return of the King (June 9)
** This was my 2nd time to see this movie, and my 1st time to watch it with my kids. I'm just not all that attracted to the LOTR story, but this really is an entertaining movie. And LONG.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0167260/?ref_=sr_2
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_lord_of_the_rings_the_return_of_the_king/
8. Quigly Down Under (June 11)
** I'm not sure how many times I've seen this movie. A LOT. Wanted my kids to see it. Thank you, Netflix.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0102744/?ref_=sr_1
9. Big Fish (June 12)
** This is a movie that I had wanted to see since I first saw the previews. It's been on Netflix instant for awhile now, and I've been putting it off. I really liked it. Fun, goofy story ... enjoyable characters ... and it's just a nice, friendly tale.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0319061/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/1127787-big_fish/
10. Happy Gilmore (June 14)
** One of those movies that seems like everyone has seen it but me. I laughed out loud several times.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0116483/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/happy_gilmore/
11. The Sum of All Fears (June 14)
** Decent action; a little hokie; although I like Afflect a lot now, this was back when he came across a little bit like a 'punk' in my opinion. Alec Baldwin is still my favorite "Jack Ryan."
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0164184/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/sum_of_all_fears/
12. Moneyball (June 15)
** My understanding is that the movie is not quite historically accurate on most of the details, but the overall story is true. Still, one fantastic movie. Really great acting and drama all the way around. I did not care for Philip Seymour Hoffman's portrayal of Art Howe, but other than that, this is one of my favorite movies.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1210166/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/moneyball/
13. The Patriot (June 16)
** A great war/history movie. I don't think it's completely historically accurate, but the main overall direction is solid. Acting is great. Story line and characters are very compelling. Fantastic action scenes. Maybe my favorite Mel Gibson movie.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0187393/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/1098149-patriot/
14. Zero Dark Thirty (June 17)
** Wow. I was not invested after the first 50 minutes, but I'm very glad I saw it through! The last hour and a half of this film was amazing. Brutal. Gritty. I hope it was historically accurate ... if so: WOW.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1790885/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/zero_dark_thirty/
15. Columbus Circle (June 20)
** The entire movie is less than 90 minutes. I really enjoyed the first ... 70 minutes. Then, during the last 15-20 minutes, it's like the writer got tired of writing, and just decided to end it. A major premise of the entire plot was simply 'done away with.' I was very disappointed in the ending.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1465533/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/columbus_circle/
16. The Devil's Own (June 21)
** I thought the title was a little misleading. "The Devil's Own" would, in my opinion, refer to someone who is evil. However, I was never rooting 'against' the supposed 'bad guy.' The movie portrayed him as a sympathetic character. That being said, it was a good story with decent action.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0118972/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/devils_own/
17. The Twilight Saga - Breaking Dawn: Part 2 (June 23)
** I liked the original Twilight movie very much. The next two seemed to get bogged down, in my opinion. However, I liked this final installment a lot. The ending was very satisfying. To me, The Twilight Saga is not a story about vampires, etc ... it is a love story, plain and simply ... with a lot of fun and interesting side stories thrown in.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1673434/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_twilight_saga_breaking_dawn_part_2/
18. The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (June 23)
** I liked it much better than I expected. And I especially liked Martin Freeman.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0903624/?ref_=sr_2
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_hobbit_an_unexpected_journey/
19. The Adventures of Rocky & Bullwinkle (June 23)
** I rounded out '3-movie-day' with my youngest daughter. This was a pretty cute movie.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0131704/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/adventures_of_rocky_and_bullwinkle/
20. The Hurt Locker (June 24)
** Wow. One HECK of a movie. Really, really good. After I watched, I had to Google what the heck 'hurt locker' means:
According to the writer-producer Mark Boal “hurt locker” is a military slang that means “a bad and painful place.” He said during an interview that “EOD soldiers use it as a form of poetic understatement: If an improvised explosive device, or IED, goes off while you're trying to disarm it, the ‘hurt locker’ is likely to mean a white box draped in a flag and shipped home with full military honors.”
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0887912/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/hurt_locker/
21. World War Z (June 26)
** The movie itself was really, really good. Seeing it at Alamo Draft House with a chocolate & peanut butter shake made it even better! Not the 'typical' zombie-movie-genre that I was expecting. I think it was more along the lines of 'Outbreak.' And, while it was thrilling and kept you on the edge of your seat, it was not bloody and gross.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0816711/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/world-war-z/
22. Death Race 2000 (June 27)
** Campy. Cult-ic. Wonderfully-horrible. I can imagine this movie being 'quoted along' with at Alamo Draft House.
Amazing to see so many influences this movie created ... I think it totally has a "Hunger Games meets Mad Max" feel ... Carradine's costume reminds me of Darth Vader ... his car is almost identical to the one driven in Corvette Summer ... I'd love to hear what you notice, as well.
Hard to believe that just two years later, Stallone walks in to a studio meeting and pitches his idea for Rocky ... and that anyone took him seriously after this film!
23. Life of Pi (June 28)
** Remarkable movie. This one has me doing a lot of thinking. I even went online to read what others thought about it ... especially the ending. Very deep stuff here.
24. Mission: Impossible (June 29)
** I really like this movie, and could watch it time and time again. The last 15-20 minutes ... from the time they crawl on top of the train until the end is great action. I remember not liking this movie the first time or two I saw it, and once I finally understood all of the plot-twists, etc., I have liked it a lot.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0117060/?ref_=sr_3
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/mission_impossible/
25. The Naked Gun 2 1/2: The Smell of Fear (June 29)
** Yep, it was released in 1991, and I'm just now seeing it. Leslie Nielsen continues to be hilarious, even if some of the jokes are old. There were many times I laughed out loud. I won't show it to my kids, though ... way too many sexual jokes and references.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0102510/?ref_=sr_2
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/naked_gun_2_12_the_the_smell_of_fear/
26. Mission: Impossible II (June 29)
** I saw this movie when it was first released to DVD, and I didn't like it. I felt it was too long and drawn out. Well, welcome to John Woo! This was my second time to watch it (the kids and I are watching all 4 this weekend!), and I enjoyed it a lot. Some action scenes were still drawn out a little too much for my taste, but I'm sure it looked spectacular on the big screen. This would be a great 3D movie. I agree with one reviewer who described it as 'cinematic adrenalin.'
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120755/?ref_=sr_4
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/mission_impossible_2/
27. Mission: Impossible III (June 30)
** J.J. Abrams. I'm starting to like everything this guy touches. So many things make this the strongest installment: story, cast, character development, tension, action, ending ... even the music. And, Phillip Seymour Hoffman is an incredible villain!
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0317919/?ref_=sr_2
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/mission_impossible_3/
28. Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol (June 30)
** Maybe the weakest installment, but still a good movie. The villains were not as compelling as others, the cast was missing Maggie Q and Ving Rhames, but the action was still good.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1229238/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/mission_impossible_ghost_protocol/
29. White House Down (July 1)
** This was "Die Hard" meets "Air Force One" but with lesser-actors. I'm figuring out that I'm just not a Jamie Foxx fan ... this is the 3rd movie I've seen with him in a prominent role, and have imagined each time that someone else would've done a better job. You put Bruce Willis and Don Cheadle in this movie ... and it might be the best Die Hard since the original. This was a big-budget, highly promoted movie that just didn't deliver for me.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2334879/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/white_house_down/
30. Bottle Rocket (July 2)
** I'm not a huge 'Owens-brothers' fan, but this was a pretty funny movie. Owen Wilson's character made me laugh out loud several times. It's worth a watch.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0115734/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/bottle_rocket/
31. Wreck-It Ralph (July 4)
** I enjoyed this movie more than I expected to. The cast of voice-actors was not my favorite. But, the last half-hour of this movie was really enjoyable, and I like how and where it ended.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1772341/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/wreck_it_ralph/
32. Star Trek (July 4)
** A GREAT re-boot by J.J. Abrams. Again, I'm liking everything this guy touches. He completely solved the problem of how to continue the Star Trek story with the characters that everyone loves the most, without ruining the old story lines and legacies. It was amazing how he could honor the legacies of the TV show and movies 1-6, and still kick-off a NEW franchise at the same time. Excellent story, excellent action. Great, great cast!
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0796366/?ref_=sr_2
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/star_trek_11/
33. Primer (July 5)
** Maybe my favorite movie on this whole list. A little 77-minute indie-thriller filmed on a $7,000 budget! I've already watched it twice, and have read multiple articles, essays, etc. on the film. Excellent watch!
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0390384/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/primer/
34. Broken City (July 7)
** While it's hard to go TOO wrong with the cast (Wahlberg, Crowe, Zeta-Jones), this movie was only good, not great.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1235522/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/broken_city/
35. Sleepwalk With Me (July 7)
** An indie-comedy written by, directed, and starring a stand-up comedian that I really like. It had some very funny moments, and even a few sad ones. It totally kept my interest. More than worth the 80-minute investment.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2077851/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/sleepwalk_with_me_2012/
36. Upstream Color (July 9)
** At this point, I'll watch anything Shane Carruth writes/directs. This film gives you lots to think about, and gives you more discussion points and questions than it does answers. His approach is so completely different from big-budget 'Hollywood' movies.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2084989/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/upstream_color/
37. The Lone Ranger (July 12)
** I would've done it differently. I didn't like the premise or the story line, however ... it had lots of great action and it did keep my attention. I was able to suspend my disbelief, and I was able to enjoy an entertaining ride. Even if it was a bit long. Overall, it was a fun movie.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1210819/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_lone_ranger/
38. Adventures of Power (July 12)
** A very enjoyable, funny spoof of music and drumming. I laughed out loud several times.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0960721/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/adventures_of_power/
39. Gangster Squad (July 13)
** I liked this one a lot. Kind of had a Dick Tracy meets The Untouchables vibe. Very good action scenes and likable characters. It's interesting that it's based on a true story, but very little of what happens in the movie actually happened. Typical, I guess.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1321870/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/gangster_squad_2012/
40. Hitchcock (July 13)
** I like this one. I learned a lot of behind-the-scenes info about the making of Psycho, but also learned that not everything in this movie is accurate. Some truth, a lot of exaggeration or just plain fiction. I will say, Scarlett Johansson, who played Janet Leigh, NAILED the voice perfectly. Wow. And Helen Mirren was fantastic, as always.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0975645/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/hitchcock/
41. Safety Not Guaranteed (July 15)
** Another Indie-movie that I ended up liking very much. It was an interesting story line, with a lot of comedic moments thrown in by the supporting cast.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1862079/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/safety_not_guaranteed/
42. Hyde Park on Hudson (July 16)
** The movie itself was very good and interesting. There were a couple of scenes that I really liked. However, most of the movie was fiction. The premise is true, but very few of the actual portrayals are, and that was disappointing.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1477855/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/hyde_park_on_hudson/
43. Stand Up Guys (July 17)
** This is a good, old-fashioned, gritty drama. I really like the cast. I wish Alan Arkin's part had been a bit bigger. The parts that were supposed to be funny weren't that funny to me, but the overall story-line and action scenes were very good.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1389096/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/stand_up_guys/
44. Snitch (July 18)
** Say what you want about Dwayne Johnson, this was a very good movie. No, he's not the greatest actor, but this movie was really interesting. I liked that his character, for once, did not rely on brute force and knuckles, but rather thinking and strategizing. The basic premise of the movie is true which even makes it more interesting to me.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0882977/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/snitch_2013/
45. Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters (July 21)
** Overall, I was disappointed in this movie. I thought there was a lot of potential for an 'updated' fairy tale, but this one was really dumbed-down, had unnecessary bad language, and did not develop any true tension. None of the characters were all that like-able.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1428538/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/hansel_and_gretel_witch_hunters/
46. Back to the Future (July 26)
** A classic. I enjoy it every time I watch it. This was the first time my kids watched it, and they LOVED it!
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0088763/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/back_to_the_future/
47. Breach (July 26)
** This is based on a true account, and the DVD even included material from DateLine TV about the actual events. It is incredible that this type of spying actually took place under the noses of the FBI and other agencies. However, the movie was not all that gripping. Plus, I am not a fan of anyone in the cast.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0401997/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/breach/
48. Back to the Future, Part II (July 27)
** I've only seen this movie twice, and there's no reason I can think of that will cause me to watch it again. My children really enjoyed it, though ... so it was worth it.
The 'gags' were old and felt 'used,' and having Michael J. Fox play multiple characters in his family was too much over-the-top for me. It really cheapened the production. And, although I have a major crush on Elizabeth Shue, she really over-acted her parts!
A friend encouraged me to basically look at this movie as a segue to the third movie. I agree. It's filler-material that gets us to the Old West.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0096874/?ref_=sr_2
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/back_to_the_future_2/
49. Interview With the Assassin (July 27)
** An indie mockumentary that I liked very much. Very well made, and plausible. It kept my attention!
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0308411/?ref_=sr_2
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/interview_with_the_assassin/
51. Back To The Future, Part III (July 28)
** A nice end to the trilogy. I was glad to see the story get away from the 'silliness' of Part II, and back to the substance of the original.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0099088/?ref_=sr_3
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/back_to_the_future_3/
51. Frost Nixon (July 30)
** I really liked this one. Obviously, I have been into Dramas-based-on-real-life. This one, directed by Ron Howard, stayed very close to real life. Of course, it's based on 12 hours of interviews, and the movie took two hours to recap the interviews, develop the characters, build tension, develop heroes and villains, and give some background stories. One of the best movies I've seen this summer.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0870111/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/frostnixon/
52. G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra (August 1)
** Great action and fun story (both of which kept my children entertained); but thin, surface-level characters (which left me disappointed). The best things about this movie: plenty of eye-candy, lots of explosions, and it doesn't go over two hours.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1046173/?ref_=sr_2
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/gi_joe_the_rise_of_cobra/
53. G.I. Joe: Retaliation (August 1)
** The action in the first movie was better, but the action and story line in this one is a bit more plausable. The children were entertained, the story kept my attention, and I'm starting to like "The Rock" more and more. However ... I'm still not sure whose 'retaliation' the title was referring to, Cobra or the Joe's. Also, I found it odd that very few characters made it back from the original. They really decided to go in a different direction. And, who can blame them.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1583421/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/gi_joe_retaliation/
54. C.S.A.: The Confederate States of America (August 2)
** A very interesting comedic mockumentary supposing the South had won the Civil War. Parts of it were silly, but overall it was a poignant look at 'what could have been' ... as well as the current state of racism.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0389828/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/csa_confederate_states_of_america/
55. 61* (August 3)
** Yes, I know. This should've been my 61st movie. Followed by 'Field of Dreams' and 'Sandlot.' This was a fantastic movie. I really like historical dramas. And I love them when they are historically accurate. And this movie was as authentic as possible. Thank you, Billy Crystal.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0250934/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/61/
56. Side Effects (August 3)
** I wasn't sure about this movie half way through, but I ended up liking it very much. And the title not only applies to the obvious (side effects of drugs), but also the side-effects of one's actions. I thought this was a very good thriller/drama. And, once again, Jude Law and Catherine Zeta-Jones prove I can count on them for wonderful performances.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2053463/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/side_effects_2013/
57. The Good Shepherd (August 6)
** This was a very detailed movie, but not all that compelling. I like the cast, but I have no desire to ever watch the movie again. Nothing all-that thought provoking. I kept waiting for something big to happen. And 167 minutes is a LONG time to wait.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0343737/?ref_=sr_3
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/good_shepherd/
58. 300 (August 7)
** I ended up liking this very much. I'm liking the 'Graphic Novels' turned-into-movies more and more. The action was top-notch, even though most of the story lines and plot-devices were fiction loosely based on a true story. Very entertaining movie. I would totally watch it again.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0416449/?ref_=sr_2
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/300/
59. The Prestige (August 8)
** This is one of my favorite movies. I watched it for the first time a couple of years ago, and it left me spell-bound ... mesmerized! Watching it a second time was just as good. Great story! Great acting! Love this movie!
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0482571/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/prestige/
60. 2 Guns (August 9)
** I liked this movie a lot. There were a couple of plot-advances that were ... borderline cheesy ... but the acting and action scenes were incredible. Very good story line. I really like Mark Wahlberg in a comedic role ... he's very funny.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1272878/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/2_guns/
61. Capote (August 14)
** I understand that Hoffman's performance was very respected and worthy of awards, but the movie was just not that interesting to me. The progression was slow, and Capote's personal story-line was not all that gripping.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0379725/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/1151898-capote/
62. 42 (August 15)
** Great story ... I truly cannot imagine going through what Jackie Robinson went through. I admire the people who stood up for him, and it was very uncomfortable to watch those who refused to accept him and made his life so difficult.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0453562/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/42_2013/
63. Identity (August 15)
** This movie was good, not great ... until the last 20-30 minutes ... then it became a really, really good psychological thriller. Just when I thought the movie crossed the line from plausible into something I wasn't going to like, it came crashing back into ... 'wow!' Cusak and Leota are solid, as usual. I always like their work.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0309698/?ref_=sr_3
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/identity/
64. Zodiac (August 17)
** The movie is almost 3 hours long, but it doesn't feel like it. It's a gripping thriller. The acting, suspense, and story-line are all fantastic.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0443706/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/zodiac/
65. Kumare (August 17)
** Very powerful documentary about a man pretending to be a 'guru.' What started out to be sort-of prank, ended up being an incredible learning experience. I found it incredibly interesting, and as it reached its conclusion, I was totally drawn in.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1865425/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/kumare/
66. The Imposter (August 17)
** Unbelievable story. UN.BE.LIEV.ABLE The first half of the documentary, I wasn't sure what was left to tell. Then, the last half was incredible. Lots of mixed feelings after watching. So many unanswered questions.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1966604/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_imposter_2012/
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0796366/?ref_=sr_2
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/star_trek_11/
33. Primer (July 5)
** Maybe my favorite movie on this whole list. A little 77-minute indie-thriller filmed on a $7,000 budget! I've already watched it twice, and have read multiple articles, essays, etc. on the film. Excellent watch!
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0390384/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/primer/
34. Broken City (July 7)
** While it's hard to go TOO wrong with the cast (Wahlberg, Crowe, Zeta-Jones), this movie was only good, not great.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1235522/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/broken_city/
35. Sleepwalk With Me (July 7)
** An indie-comedy written by, directed, and starring a stand-up comedian that I really like. It had some very funny moments, and even a few sad ones. It totally kept my interest. More than worth the 80-minute investment.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2077851/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/sleepwalk_with_me_2012/
36. Upstream Color (July 9)
** At this point, I'll watch anything Shane Carruth writes/directs. This film gives you lots to think about, and gives you more discussion points and questions than it does answers. His approach is so completely different from big-budget 'Hollywood' movies.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2084989/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/upstream_color/
37. The Lone Ranger (July 12)
** I would've done it differently. I didn't like the premise or the story line, however ... it had lots of great action and it did keep my attention. I was able to suspend my disbelief, and I was able to enjoy an entertaining ride. Even if it was a bit long. Overall, it was a fun movie.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1210819/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_lone_ranger/
38. Adventures of Power (July 12)
** A very enjoyable, funny spoof of music and drumming. I laughed out loud several times.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0960721/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/adventures_of_power/
39. Gangster Squad (July 13)
** I liked this one a lot. Kind of had a Dick Tracy meets The Untouchables vibe. Very good action scenes and likable characters. It's interesting that it's based on a true story, but very little of what happens in the movie actually happened. Typical, I guess.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1321870/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/gangster_squad_2012/
40. Hitchcock (July 13)
** I like this one. I learned a lot of behind-the-scenes info about the making of Psycho, but also learned that not everything in this movie is accurate. Some truth, a lot of exaggeration or just plain fiction. I will say, Scarlett Johansson, who played Janet Leigh, NAILED the voice perfectly. Wow. And Helen Mirren was fantastic, as always.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0975645/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/hitchcock/
41. Safety Not Guaranteed (July 15)
** Another Indie-movie that I ended up liking very much. It was an interesting story line, with a lot of comedic moments thrown in by the supporting cast.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1862079/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/safety_not_guaranteed/
42. Hyde Park on Hudson (July 16)
** The movie itself was very good and interesting. There were a couple of scenes that I really liked. However, most of the movie was fiction. The premise is true, but very few of the actual portrayals are, and that was disappointing.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1477855/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/hyde_park_on_hudson/
43. Stand Up Guys (July 17)
** This is a good, old-fashioned, gritty drama. I really like the cast. I wish Alan Arkin's part had been a bit bigger. The parts that were supposed to be funny weren't that funny to me, but the overall story-line and action scenes were very good.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1389096/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/stand_up_guys/
44. Snitch (July 18)
** Say what you want about Dwayne Johnson, this was a very good movie. No, he's not the greatest actor, but this movie was really interesting. I liked that his character, for once, did not rely on brute force and knuckles, but rather thinking and strategizing. The basic premise of the movie is true which even makes it more interesting to me.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0882977/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/snitch_2013/
45. Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters (July 21)
** Overall, I was disappointed in this movie. I thought there was a lot of potential for an 'updated' fairy tale, but this one was really dumbed-down, had unnecessary bad language, and did not develop any true tension. None of the characters were all that like-able.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1428538/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/hansel_and_gretel_witch_hunters/
46. Back to the Future (July 26)
** A classic. I enjoy it every time I watch it. This was the first time my kids watched it, and they LOVED it!
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0088763/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/back_to_the_future/
47. Breach (July 26)
** This is based on a true account, and the DVD even included material from DateLine TV about the actual events. It is incredible that this type of spying actually took place under the noses of the FBI and other agencies. However, the movie was not all that gripping. Plus, I am not a fan of anyone in the cast.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0401997/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/breach/
48. Back to the Future, Part II (July 27)
** I've only seen this movie twice, and there's no reason I can think of that will cause me to watch it again. My children really enjoyed it, though ... so it was worth it.
The 'gags' were old and felt 'used,' and having Michael J. Fox play multiple characters in his family was too much over-the-top for me. It really cheapened the production. And, although I have a major crush on Elizabeth Shue, she really over-acted her parts!
A friend encouraged me to basically look at this movie as a segue to the third movie. I agree. It's filler-material that gets us to the Old West.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0096874/?ref_=sr_2
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/back_to_the_future_2/
49. Interview With the Assassin (July 27)
** An indie mockumentary that I liked very much. Very well made, and plausible. It kept my attention!
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0308411/?ref_=sr_2
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/interview_with_the_assassin/
51. Back To The Future, Part III (July 28)
** A nice end to the trilogy. I was glad to see the story get away from the 'silliness' of Part II, and back to the substance of the original.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0099088/?ref_=sr_3
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/back_to_the_future_3/
51. Frost Nixon (July 30)
** I really liked this one. Obviously, I have been into Dramas-based-on-real-life. This one, directed by Ron Howard, stayed very close to real life. Of course, it's based on 12 hours of interviews, and the movie took two hours to recap the interviews, develop the characters, build tension, develop heroes and villains, and give some background stories. One of the best movies I've seen this summer.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0870111/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/frostnixon/
52. G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra (August 1)
** Great action and fun story (both of which kept my children entertained); but thin, surface-level characters (which left me disappointed). The best things about this movie: plenty of eye-candy, lots of explosions, and it doesn't go over two hours.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1046173/?ref_=sr_2
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/gi_joe_the_rise_of_cobra/
53. G.I. Joe: Retaliation (August 1)
** The action in the first movie was better, but the action and story line in this one is a bit more plausable. The children were entertained, the story kept my attention, and I'm starting to like "The Rock" more and more. However ... I'm still not sure whose 'retaliation' the title was referring to, Cobra or the Joe's. Also, I found it odd that very few characters made it back from the original. They really decided to go in a different direction. And, who can blame them.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1583421/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/gi_joe_retaliation/
54. C.S.A.: The Confederate States of America (August 2)
** A very interesting comedic mockumentary supposing the South had won the Civil War. Parts of it were silly, but overall it was a poignant look at 'what could have been' ... as well as the current state of racism.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0389828/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/csa_confederate_states_of_america/
55. 61* (August 3)
** Yes, I know. This should've been my 61st movie. Followed by 'Field of Dreams' and 'Sandlot.' This was a fantastic movie. I really like historical dramas. And I love them when they are historically accurate. And this movie was as authentic as possible. Thank you, Billy Crystal.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0250934/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/61/
56. Side Effects (August 3)
** I wasn't sure about this movie half way through, but I ended up liking it very much. And the title not only applies to the obvious (side effects of drugs), but also the side-effects of one's actions. I thought this was a very good thriller/drama. And, once again, Jude Law and Catherine Zeta-Jones prove I can count on them for wonderful performances.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2053463/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/side_effects_2013/
57. The Good Shepherd (August 6)
** This was a very detailed movie, but not all that compelling. I like the cast, but I have no desire to ever watch the movie again. Nothing all-that thought provoking. I kept waiting for something big to happen. And 167 minutes is a LONG time to wait.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0343737/?ref_=sr_3
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/good_shepherd/
58. 300 (August 7)
** I ended up liking this very much. I'm liking the 'Graphic Novels' turned-into-movies more and more. The action was top-notch, even though most of the story lines and plot-devices were fiction loosely based on a true story. Very entertaining movie. I would totally watch it again.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0416449/?ref_=sr_2
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/300/
59. The Prestige (August 8)
** This is one of my favorite movies. I watched it for the first time a couple of years ago, and it left me spell-bound ... mesmerized! Watching it a second time was just as good. Great story! Great acting! Love this movie!
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0482571/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/prestige/
60. 2 Guns (August 9)
** I liked this movie a lot. There were a couple of plot-advances that were ... borderline cheesy ... but the acting and action scenes were incredible. Very good story line. I really like Mark Wahlberg in a comedic role ... he's very funny.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1272878/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/2_guns/
61. Capote (August 14)
** I understand that Hoffman's performance was very respected and worthy of awards, but the movie was just not that interesting to me. The progression was slow, and Capote's personal story-line was not all that gripping.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0379725/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/1151898-capote/
62. 42 (August 15)
** Great story ... I truly cannot imagine going through what Jackie Robinson went through. I admire the people who stood up for him, and it was very uncomfortable to watch those who refused to accept him and made his life so difficult.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0453562/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/42_2013/
63. Identity (August 15)
** This movie was good, not great ... until the last 20-30 minutes ... then it became a really, really good psychological thriller. Just when I thought the movie crossed the line from plausible into something I wasn't going to like, it came crashing back into ... 'wow!' Cusak and Leota are solid, as usual. I always like their work.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0309698/?ref_=sr_3
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/identity/
64. Zodiac (August 17)
** The movie is almost 3 hours long, but it doesn't feel like it. It's a gripping thriller. The acting, suspense, and story-line are all fantastic.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0443706/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/zodiac/
65. Kumare (August 17)
** Very powerful documentary about a man pretending to be a 'guru.' What started out to be sort-of prank, ended up being an incredible learning experience. I found it incredibly interesting, and as it reached its conclusion, I was totally drawn in.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1865425/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/kumare/
66. The Imposter (August 17)
** Unbelievable story. UN.BE.LIEV.ABLE The first half of the documentary, I wasn't sure what was left to tell. Then, the last half was incredible. Lots of mixed feelings after watching. So many unanswered questions.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1966604/?ref_=sr_1
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_imposter_2012/
Saturday, June 1, 2013
My Summer Break - Day 01
I'm a School Teacher, so I get a "summer vacation." However, I refer to it as a "summer break." It just sounds more ... professional. I've discovered that people respect that I get a 'break' from my job ... but a 2+ month vacation?? ... not so much.
When I was younger, it seemed a trendy thing for public school students to have to write an essay entitled, "What I did on my Summer Vacation." I'm honestly not sure if that is still a trend, but I'm going to write about my summer "break." I'm doing this so that at the end of said 'break' ... when asked, "What did you do this summer?" ... I'll have some notes to look back on.
When I was younger, it seemed a trendy thing for public school students to have to write an essay entitled, "What I did on my Summer Vacation." I'm honestly not sure if that is still a trend, but I'm going to write about my summer "break." I'm doing this so that at the end of said 'break' ... when asked, "What did you do this summer?" ... I'll have some notes to look back on.
Day 01
Day One began, technically, with me at Project Graduation. I volunteered to take the 11:00pm to 1:00am shift ... which means that I got to stand around, sit around, eat free food, and play games with students. I just completed my 3rd year of teaching, so I knew this Senior Class pretty well, and had a good time hanging out with them.
I got to bed around 1:45am, and on my first official morning to sleep in, I woke up at ... 5:54am!! Really?! Sadly, I never went back to sleep.
Today, I accomplished a few things:
- I ran for 20 minutes. I'm still coming back from an IT band injury, and I'm trying to build up - once again - to a 5K.
- I cleaned up a vacated RV site. Typically, when a monthly tenant moves, there's trash, etc. to pick up and grass to be mowed, etc.
- I fixed my youngest daughter's bicycle tire. It had been flat for awhile, and she told me her wheels were 20" wheels. So, I bought two 20" tubes. Her wheels are 24". I was very happy. (Sarcasm) However, I managed to pump some 'Slime' into her existing tube, patch it up, air it up, and get her on her way.
- I cooked Vegan, Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese for supper, and it was GREAT!
- I watched the Pacers fend off the Heat in Game 6.
Day well spent.
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