Who: Amber
What: He-Man and She-Ra: A Christmas Special
Where: I borrowed a friend's DVD
Why: Why not!
Oh wow - was this Christmas special super cheesy. I loved watching He-Man when I was a kid, but I knew that 20 years later, it would look utterly ridiculous, and I was right. It was silly. Why does He-Man wear animal skin undies? And She-Ra's normal outfit is a leotard, but when she transforms, she's wearing a cute little skirt. And she flies around on a rainbow unicorn. It's so 80s, I love it!
So He-Man and She-Ra are getting ready to celebrate their birthdays (they are twins - remember?). Actually, their real names are Adam and Alura (I think that's She-Ra's name). All their cheesy superhero friends are helping to decorate for a rockin' party.
In the meantime, He-Man, and some creepy looking guy with a creepy looking mustache (maybe He-Man's dad?!?) have built a 'sky spy' rocket ship to help spy on Skeletor. He-Man's doofis magical flying guy hops in the rocket, and accidentally launches it. He crash lands on … guess where … Earth, where Christmas is a few days away.
Doofis magical flying guy runs into 2 young kids who are lost in the woods looking for a Christmas tree. They are cold, so they go to the rocket ship to warm up. Doofis magical flying guy asks the kids all about Christmas, since he's never heard about it before. The young girls talks about presents, but the older boy mentions that it's not all about presents. He tip toes around the religious reason for Christmas. I am proud of this cheese ball Christmas special. It's now all about Santa and presents. It's more about the real reason for the season. Kudos He-Man!
Well, of course He-Man has the power to bring back the 'sky spy' rocket back to Eternia (their planet). Well, the kids are still stuck in the rocket ship, so they come back to Eternia too.
The kids tell He-Man and She-Ran all about Christmas. And the story spreads to their cheesy super hero friends as well. Even Skeletor gets in on the Christmas spirit!
I don't think this special is on TV any longer, but if you have Nexflix, check it out!
Showing posts with label '80's. Show all posts
Showing posts with label '80's. Show all posts
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Oliver & Company
Who: Bill and Melanie
What: Oliver & Company
Where: DVR recording from The Disney Channel
Why: Bill had never seen it.
The classic Charles Dickens novel “Oliver Twist” has been adapted to film numerous times, both as a drama and even as a musical-- 1968’s Oliver!, which itself was adapted from a musical play in England and on Broadway. In 1988, Walt Disney Pictures gave the story a contemporary animated “twist” set in the gritty streets of New York City and featuring all-star vocal talent.
Oliver (Joey Lawrence) is an abandoned kitten who is befriended by a group of street-smart dogs led by Dodger (Billy Joel). The pack‘s owner, bumbling but good-hearted Fagin (Dom DeLuise), owes a huge debt to a powerful loan shark named Sykes (Robert Loggia) and in danger of losing his life if Fagin can‘t come up with the needed funds. Meanwhile, Oliver is soon befriended by a sweet young girl named Jenny much to the chagrin of her spoiled prize-winning poodle Georgette (Bette Midler). The kitten unexpectedly departs his new friends, but they haven’t forgotten about Oliver and manage to get him back in the pack. But Fagin plans to hold Oliver for ransom once realizing the wealthy nature of Jenny’s family. This being a Disney movie, of course there has to be a happy ending for all involved… but maybe not.
Disney animation was on the verge of a second “golden age” of highly successful features when Oliver & Company came out in 1988. In addition to Billy Joel and Bette Midler, musical contributions are provided by Huey Lewis, Barry Manilow, Ruth Pointer (from The Pointer Sisters) and lyricist Howard Ashman. Other characters in the film are voiced by Cheech Marin, Richard Mulligan, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Roscoe Lee Browne and the versatile Frank Welker. And for the first time, CGI effects were put to extensive use in supplementing the hand-drawn animation. Yet while an entertaining movie, Oliver & Company is lacking as an overall engaging story. Certainly Oliver the kitten is cute enough, but none of the other characters are especially lovable. The music is well-done, but ultimately forgettable. Still, its worth recommending as fine family entertainment and possible musical nostalgia for children of the 80’s. For fans of Disney’s animated classics, look for cameos from dogs seen in Lady and the Tramp and the original One Hundred and One Dalmatians.
What: Oliver & Company
Where: DVR recording from The Disney Channel
Why: Bill had never seen it.
The classic Charles Dickens novel “Oliver Twist” has been adapted to film numerous times, both as a drama and even as a musical-- 1968’s Oliver!, which itself was adapted from a musical play in England and on Broadway. In 1988, Walt Disney Pictures gave the story a contemporary animated “twist” set in the gritty streets of New York City and featuring all-star vocal talent.
Oliver (Joey Lawrence) is an abandoned kitten who is befriended by a group of street-smart dogs led by Dodger (Billy Joel). The pack‘s owner, bumbling but good-hearted Fagin (Dom DeLuise), owes a huge debt to a powerful loan shark named Sykes (Robert Loggia) and in danger of losing his life if Fagin can‘t come up with the needed funds. Meanwhile, Oliver is soon befriended by a sweet young girl named Jenny much to the chagrin of her spoiled prize-winning poodle Georgette (Bette Midler). The kitten unexpectedly departs his new friends, but they haven’t forgotten about Oliver and manage to get him back in the pack. But Fagin plans to hold Oliver for ransom once realizing the wealthy nature of Jenny’s family. This being a Disney movie, of course there has to be a happy ending for all involved… but maybe not.
Disney animation was on the verge of a second “golden age” of highly successful features when Oliver & Company came out in 1988. In addition to Billy Joel and Bette Midler, musical contributions are provided by Huey Lewis, Barry Manilow, Ruth Pointer (from The Pointer Sisters) and lyricist Howard Ashman. Other characters in the film are voiced by Cheech Marin, Richard Mulligan, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Roscoe Lee Browne and the versatile Frank Welker. And for the first time, CGI effects were put to extensive use in supplementing the hand-drawn animation. Yet while an entertaining movie, Oliver & Company is lacking as an overall engaging story. Certainly Oliver the kitten is cute enough, but none of the other characters are especially lovable. The music is well-done, but ultimately forgettable. Still, its worth recommending as fine family entertainment and possible musical nostalgia for children of the 80’s. For fans of Disney’s animated classics, look for cameos from dogs seen in Lady and the Tramp and the original One Hundred and One Dalmatians.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
The Running Man
Who: Amber & Jonathan
What: The Running Man
Where: @ home off cable
Why: Jonathan has never seen it, and it's a classic in my book
In the far future ... 2017 ... the world economy has collapsed. Sounds familiar huh? Well, in the late '80s, the year 2017 was far away.
The US has become totally controlled by the government, even TV. The most popular TV show is called The Running Man. It shows a couple criminals running away from "the stalkers" whose job is to kill them. Literally - kill them. People love seeing criminals killed by the stalkers!
Ben Richards (Schwarzenegger) used to be an Army military pilot. On a routine mission, the Army asks Ben to fire on some innocent people. He refuses and his Army captain knocks him out, and fires on the innocent people. Then he frames Ben, and he goes to jail for 2 years ... until he escapes!
Unfortunately, he doesn't get very far. Next thing he knows he's on The Running Man, along with 3 of his good buddies.
Richards is a tough dude. Unstead of being killed by the stalkers, he takes them out one by one.
This movie is a cheesy ball of goodness! Although, I highly recommend the short story by Richard Bachman (aka: Steven King). It's a fantastic read! Way better than the movie!
What: The Running Man
Where: @ home off cable
Why: Jonathan has never seen it, and it's a classic in my book
In the far future ... 2017 ... the world economy has collapsed. Sounds familiar huh? Well, in the late '80s, the year 2017 was far away.
The US has become totally controlled by the government, even TV. The most popular TV show is called The Running Man. It shows a couple criminals running away from "the stalkers" whose job is to kill them. Literally - kill them. People love seeing criminals killed by the stalkers!
Ben Richards (Schwarzenegger) used to be an Army military pilot. On a routine mission, the Army asks Ben to fire on some innocent people. He refuses and his Army captain knocks him out, and fires on the innocent people. Then he frames Ben, and he goes to jail for 2 years ... until he escapes!
Unfortunately, he doesn't get very far. Next thing he knows he's on The Running Man, along with 3 of his good buddies.
Richards is a tough dude. Unstead of being killed by the stalkers, he takes them out one by one.
This movie is a cheesy ball of goodness! Although, I highly recommend the short story by Richard Bachman (aka: Steven King). It's a fantastic read! Way better than the movie!
Monday, February 9, 2009
Who Framed Roger Rabbit?
Who: Amber & Jonathan
What: Who Framed Roger Rabbit?
Where: @ home - we own it on DVD
Why: It recently celebrated an anniversary (20 years maybe?)
What: Who Framed Roger Rabbit?
Where: @ home - we own it on DVD
Why: It recently celebrated an anniversary (20 years maybe?)
This movie is soooooooooooooo good. If you haven't seen it, you will be amazed. Especially when you think about the fact that it was made in the late '80s. The effects are pretty impressive. I mean, when you watch an 80's movie, you can totally say, "arg - nice '80s effects!", but not this movie. It's totally seamless between the animated characters and the human characters.
The story revolves around Roger Rabbit (a cartoon rabbit) and Eddie Valient (a human detective). Eddie used to enjoy working for 'toons', until a toon killed his brother. Dropped a piano on his head.
Well, Eddie is down on his luck, and gets involved in sleuthing around the death of RK Maroon - one of the main lovers of toons. If RK's will doesn't show up soon, anybody will be able to buy Toontown! Will Eddie get over his hatred of toons to help them out (RK Maroon was supposed to will Toontown to the toons!)? Or will a piano get dropped on his head, just like his brother?
What's fun about this movie is all the cartoon characters. You'll see Mickey Mouse, Betty Boop, Dumbo, Yosemite Same and hundreds more! You could probably watch this movie a zillion times and still not catch all the cool background stuff.
Best line of the movie:
"What's the password?"
"Walt sent me"
(as in Walt Disney!)
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Tron
Who: Bill
What: Tron
Where: Rented DVD from Netflix
Why: Believe it or not, I’d never seen the whole movie!
I admit it-- it took me 26 years to watch Tron from start to finish. There were opportunities to see it before, but for one reason or another, I never got around to watching all of it until now. But I’m glad I finally did.
Tron is one of the first movies to make extensive use of computer-generated graphics. In the early 1980‘s, the emerging field of computer technology was taking hold in the workplace. Video games were capturing the imagination of people not only in dedicated arcades but in homes thanks to Atari. The timing could not have been better for a film such as Tron to take advantage of the fascination with computers and computer-based games. For Walt Disney Productions, Tron was a story well beyond the typical boundaries previously put forth by the studio. Just two years earlier for example, lackluster efforts such as Herbie Goes Bananas was standard fare when it came to Disney’s live-action product even though the studio was beginning to try out different concepts such as 1979’s The Black Hole.
Most of the action in Tron is set within the fantasy world of computer gaming. An ambitious programmer named Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges) has made numerous attempts to remotely hack into his former employer’s mainframe to prove the thievery of co-worker Ed Dillinger (David Warner), who stole ideas of Flynn’s in order to advance to an executive level. Dillinger has created a self-running Master Control Program or MCP and it is the MCP that prevents Flynn’s efforts to gain access. Meanwhile, Alan Bradley (Bruce Boxleitner) has developed a security program called TRON to watch over the MCP. But the MCP, which has evolved to nearly outsmart its human counterparts, doesn’t take kindly to being monitored by anyone or any program. After Flynn is brought back to the lab by Bradley and co-worker--and former girlfriend-- Lora Baines (Cindy Morgan), Flynn directly confronts the MCP and is transported into the gaming world where his program counterpart Clu is challenged to a series of games. Its up to Flynn/Clu to outsmart the MCP and stay alive to destroy it, or be erased forever. Characters in the real world have digital counterparts. Thus, Dillinger is the meanacing leader named Sark as well as the MCP’s voice, Lora is Yori, and Alan is Tron.
The visual effects make Tron stand out. It amazed audiences in 1982 and when seen from that perspective, it still looks impressive in 2008. For years, rumors of a sequel had come and gone. On July 24, 2008, guests at San Diego Comic Con were surprised when Disney presented test footage from what was termed “TR2N” or Tron 2. The projected release date is for 2011. Jeff Bridges is scheduled to return as Kevin Flynn. Director and co-writer Steven Lisberger will also be involved in the sequel as a co-producer. With the incredible advancements in CGI since Tron was released, antcipation should be high for another stunning visual achievement in how movies are made.
What: Tron
Where: Rented DVD from Netflix
Why: Believe it or not, I’d never seen the whole movie!
I admit it-- it took me 26 years to watch Tron from start to finish. There were opportunities to see it before, but for one reason or another, I never got around to watching all of it until now. But I’m glad I finally did.
Tron is one of the first movies to make extensive use of computer-generated graphics. In the early 1980‘s, the emerging field of computer technology was taking hold in the workplace. Video games were capturing the imagination of people not only in dedicated arcades but in homes thanks to Atari. The timing could not have been better for a film such as Tron to take advantage of the fascination with computers and computer-based games. For Walt Disney Productions, Tron was a story well beyond the typical boundaries previously put forth by the studio. Just two years earlier for example, lackluster efforts such as Herbie Goes Bananas was standard fare when it came to Disney’s live-action product even though the studio was beginning to try out different concepts such as 1979’s The Black Hole.
Most of the action in Tron is set within the fantasy world of computer gaming. An ambitious programmer named Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges) has made numerous attempts to remotely hack into his former employer’s mainframe to prove the thievery of co-worker Ed Dillinger (David Warner), who stole ideas of Flynn’s in order to advance to an executive level. Dillinger has created a self-running Master Control Program or MCP and it is the MCP that prevents Flynn’s efforts to gain access. Meanwhile, Alan Bradley (Bruce Boxleitner) has developed a security program called TRON to watch over the MCP. But the MCP, which has evolved to nearly outsmart its human counterparts, doesn’t take kindly to being monitored by anyone or any program. After Flynn is brought back to the lab by Bradley and co-worker--and former girlfriend-- Lora Baines (Cindy Morgan), Flynn directly confronts the MCP and is transported into the gaming world where his program counterpart Clu is challenged to a series of games. Its up to Flynn/Clu to outsmart the MCP and stay alive to destroy it, or be erased forever. Characters in the real world have digital counterparts. Thus, Dillinger is the meanacing leader named Sark as well as the MCP’s voice, Lora is Yori, and Alan is Tron.
The visual effects make Tron stand out. It amazed audiences in 1982 and when seen from that perspective, it still looks impressive in 2008. For years, rumors of a sequel had come and gone. On July 24, 2008, guests at San Diego Comic Con were surprised when Disney presented test footage from what was termed “TR2N” or Tron 2. The projected release date is for 2011. Jeff Bridges is scheduled to return as Kevin Flynn. Director and co-writer Steven Lisberger will also be involved in the sequel as a co-producer. With the incredible advancements in CGI since Tron was released, antcipation should be high for another stunning visual achievement in how movies are made.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Music and Lyrics
Who: Amber
What: Music and Lyrics
Where: @ home - free HBO
Why: Bill already Movie Yak'ed about it, and he made me want to see it
What: Music and Lyrics
Where: @ home - free HBO
Why: Bill already Movie Yak'ed about it, and he made me want to see it
This movie was super cute!!! I highly recommend it. It combined 2 things I really enjoy: '80's music and Drew Berrymore. (I think I spelled her name wrong).
The movie starts out with a cheese-ball music video by everybody's (fake) '80's band POP! "Pop goes my heart" It's a duo of 2 guys - like Wham. And just like Wham, one of them continues on to fame, and the other one pretty much seems to die.
This movie is about the 'dead' member of Pop. His name is Alex, and he's living comfortably in NYC. He's fully aware that he's an 80's has been, and it's ok with him. He does shows at little state fairs, at some 1987 high school reuinion, etc. The ladies still love him and his sexy hip action!
The problem, the Brittney Spears-like singer of this time, named Cora, wants a to collaborate with an '80s had been. Whom ever can write a song in 3 days gets the job and gets to tour with Cora! Alex is all over this challenge - he could become an UN-has been!
Drew Barrymore (Sophie) is at Alex's house, watering his plants or something. Alex is trying to write a song and play a tune on the piano. Alex says some lyrics, and Sophie opens her big mouth and whips out some genius lyrics. She's a natural song writer. 3 straight days of Alex writing music and Sophie writing lyrics and wha-la - a hit song!
I wont' give away the rest to you, but it ends pretty much how you would expect it to. It's a super cute movie, with some super groovy songs. Make sure you pay attention to the Pop Up Video during the credits. Man, I could watch Pop Up Videos all day long ...
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Airplane!
Who: Bill
What: Airplane!
Where: Own the DVD
Why: One of my favorites and one of the funniest movies ever made.
When the crew and some passengers of Trans American Flight 209 are overcome with food poisoning, its up to ex-fighter pilot Ted Striker (Robert Hays) to overcome his fear of flying and land the plane safely. Helping him in his courageous effort are his ex-girlfriend, flight attendant Elaine Dickenson (Julie Hagerty) and fellow passenger Dr. Rumack (Leslie Nielsen). Sounds pretty serious and heavy, doesn’t it?
Quite the contrary. If you have never seen Airplane!, then you have been missing out of one of funniest movies ever made. In fact, it would be impossible to catch all the jokes in one showing. There are so many and they often come so quickly, that you’ll find something new on a second, third, fourth or more viewings. Credit (or blame, depending on your view) goes to Writers/Producers/Directors Jim Abrahams, David Zucker and Jerry Zucker, who took parody to new heights (pun intended) with Airplane! However, I do understand the humor will not be to everyone’s taste. Either its 90 minutes of carefully crafted brilliant satire or silly stupidity.
Airplane! was a huge hit upon its release in 1980, due to its on-target parody of then-popular disaster movies and the appearance of many famous faces from film, television and even sports and music. As the jokes “fly” fast and furious, look also for Peter Graves, Lloyd Bridges, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Barbara Billingsley, Joyce Bulifant (The Mary Tyler Moore Show) David Leisure (commercial’s Joe Isuzu and Empty Nest), Jill Whelan (The Love Boat) and legendary singer Ethel Merman! Surely, this is a movie not be missed. But don’t call me “Shirley”.
A sequel, appropriately titled Airplane II: The Sequel was released in 1982 without the involvement of Abrahams, Zucker and Zucker. They had already moved on to parodies of television cop shows and detective dramas with the classic but short-lived ABC series Police Squad! (Starring Leslie Nielsen), which in turn led to the successful Naked Gun movies. The trio would also send-up World War II dramas and Elvis Presley movies (!) in 1984’s Top Secret with Val Kilmer in his first starring role.
What: Airplane!
Where: Own the DVD
Why: One of my favorites and one of the funniest movies ever made.
When the crew and some passengers of Trans American Flight 209 are overcome with food poisoning, its up to ex-fighter pilot Ted Striker (Robert Hays) to overcome his fear of flying and land the plane safely. Helping him in his courageous effort are his ex-girlfriend, flight attendant Elaine Dickenson (Julie Hagerty) and fellow passenger Dr. Rumack (Leslie Nielsen). Sounds pretty serious and heavy, doesn’t it?
Quite the contrary. If you have never seen Airplane!, then you have been missing out of one of funniest movies ever made. In fact, it would be impossible to catch all the jokes in one showing. There are so many and they often come so quickly, that you’ll find something new on a second, third, fourth or more viewings. Credit (or blame, depending on your view) goes to Writers/Producers/Directors Jim Abrahams, David Zucker and Jerry Zucker, who took parody to new heights (pun intended) with Airplane! However, I do understand the humor will not be to everyone’s taste. Either its 90 minutes of carefully crafted brilliant satire or silly stupidity.
Airplane! was a huge hit upon its release in 1980, due to its on-target parody of then-popular disaster movies and the appearance of many famous faces from film, television and even sports and music. As the jokes “fly” fast and furious, look also for Peter Graves, Lloyd Bridges, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Barbara Billingsley, Joyce Bulifant (The Mary Tyler Moore Show) David Leisure (commercial’s Joe Isuzu and Empty Nest), Jill Whelan (The Love Boat) and legendary singer Ethel Merman! Surely, this is a movie not be missed. But don’t call me “Shirley”.
A sequel, appropriately titled Airplane II: The Sequel was released in 1982 without the involvement of Abrahams, Zucker and Zucker. They had already moved on to parodies of television cop shows and detective dramas with the classic but short-lived ABC series Police Squad! (Starring Leslie Nielsen), which in turn led to the successful Naked Gun movies. The trio would also send-up World War II dramas and Elvis Presley movies (!) in 1984’s Top Secret with Val Kilmer in his first starring role.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Music and Lyrics
Who: Bill and Melanie
What: Music and Lyrics
Where: DVD from Netflix
Why: Melanie wanted to see it
I don’t remember seeing much publicity for Music and Lyrics when it was released in February 2007. It apparently did not do very well in theaters and that is a shame, because Melanie and I thought it was really good when we recently rented the DVD. In fact, this is a great movie to watch with your loved one.
Alex Fletcher was one-half of a 1980’s pop group called, well, POP! After going solo, his career faltered and in recent years has been increasingly singing at high school reunions, theme parks and county fairs. He agrees to help a popular young singer (and a fan of POP!’s songs) named Cora Corman on a duet. Trouble is, he can only write music and not lyrics. Soon after he meets Sophie Fisher, who just happens to be an excellent writer but doesn’t know it. The two collaborate on a new song-- Alex composes the melody and Sophie contributes the words. It turns out to be a great creative partnership, while at the same time the two gradually fall in love.
Music and Lyrics is a romantic comedy, but thanks to Hugh Grant as Alex, never becomes too syrupy. He always seems to have a snappy one-liner at the ready, doesn’t seem to mind being labeled a “has-been” and somewhat enjoys performing for his devoted but aging female fans. Drew Barrymore is well-cast as Sophie, unsure of herself and on the rebound of a failed romance. Both actors also have excellent chemistry. All this combined makes this movie very enjoyable to watch. As a bonus, Grant turns out to be a pretty good singer-- and Barrymore herself isn’t too bad for the small singing she does. Music and Lyrics begins with a “flashback” to POP!’s glory days. The music video “POP! Goes My Heart”-- which is also a bonus feature on the DVD-- is very effective in its simultaneous homage and parody of 1980’s pop music videos. Its quite funny and appropriately over-the-top.
Adding support to the strong leads are Brad Garret as Alex’s manager Chris Riley, Kristen Johnston as Sophie’s sister Rhonda and newcomer Haley Bennett as Cora Corman.
A strong cast with two excellent leads and a good story. You too may find yourself singing the praises of Music and Lyrics.
What: Music and Lyrics
Where: DVD from Netflix
Why: Melanie wanted to see it
I don’t remember seeing much publicity for Music and Lyrics when it was released in February 2007. It apparently did not do very well in theaters and that is a shame, because Melanie and I thought it was really good when we recently rented the DVD. In fact, this is a great movie to watch with your loved one.
Alex Fletcher was one-half of a 1980’s pop group called, well, POP! After going solo, his career faltered and in recent years has been increasingly singing at high school reunions, theme parks and county fairs. He agrees to help a popular young singer (and a fan of POP!’s songs) named Cora Corman on a duet. Trouble is, he can only write music and not lyrics. Soon after he meets Sophie Fisher, who just happens to be an excellent writer but doesn’t know it. The two collaborate on a new song-- Alex composes the melody and Sophie contributes the words. It turns out to be a great creative partnership, while at the same time the two gradually fall in love.
Music and Lyrics is a romantic comedy, but thanks to Hugh Grant as Alex, never becomes too syrupy. He always seems to have a snappy one-liner at the ready, doesn’t seem to mind being labeled a “has-been” and somewhat enjoys performing for his devoted but aging female fans. Drew Barrymore is well-cast as Sophie, unsure of herself and on the rebound of a failed romance. Both actors also have excellent chemistry. All this combined makes this movie very enjoyable to watch. As a bonus, Grant turns out to be a pretty good singer-- and Barrymore herself isn’t too bad for the small singing she does. Music and Lyrics begins with a “flashback” to POP!’s glory days. The music video “POP! Goes My Heart”-- which is also a bonus feature on the DVD-- is very effective in its simultaneous homage and parody of 1980’s pop music videos. Its quite funny and appropriately over-the-top.
Adding support to the strong leads are Brad Garret as Alex’s manager Chris Riley, Kristen Johnston as Sophie’s sister Rhonda and newcomer Haley Bennett as Cora Corman.
A strong cast with two excellent leads and a good story. You too may find yourself singing the praises of Music and Lyrics.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
Who: Amber & Jonathan
What: Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
Where: at home - on cable (although we own it on DVD too, so why were we watching it on TV with commercials?)
Why: Why not - it's one of the best movies ever!
What: Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
Where: at home - on cable (although we own it on DVD too, so why were we watching it on TV with commercials?)
Why: Why not - it's one of the best movies ever!
First of all, who hasn't seen this movie?!? (Actually, I know my friend Katie hasn't seen it - that just blows my mind!)
In my opinion, this is the best Indiana Jones movies out there. Normally introducing a "random father" into a successful movie franchise would be cheesy and super lame, but this somehow works.
I'm also a sucker for movies involving mazes and obstical type courses. "Only the penetant man shall pass". Priceless! Now, since he finds the correct cup and drinks the water (oops - did I just ruin the ending?), shouldn't he have eteranal life? They just kind-of blow over that fact and end the movie with them riding off into the sunset.
Side note: Jonathan just bought a tiny Lego set from this movie. It has a Lego Indy and the more adorable Lego Sean Connery!!! They are on the motorcycle with the little side caddy for Sean Connery.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun
Who: Alina
What: Girls Just Wanna Have Fun
Where: At home on Fuse
Why: One of my favorite movies as a kid
If you like dance movies this a good one. It's about a talented military brat, Janie, who always wanted to go to Chicago because her favorite show, Dance TV, was there. Dance TV is looking for a new couple to be regulars on the show so she auditions, against her father's wishes, and gets picked to be one of the finalist. They pair her up with her complete opposite, Jeff, and they automatically clash. Of course, they get close and challenge the obstacles that are in their way. Janie has a really strict father causing her to sneak out for rehersals. A rival's rich father threatens to fire Jeff's dad if he doesn't throw the competition and others typical stuff. It's a feel good movie so its totally predictable, totally cheesy, totally 80's, and totally fun!
You'll recognize some familiar faces such as Sarah Jessica Parker, Helen Hunt, and a preteen Shannon Doherty. SJP's Janie is a far cry from Carrie Bradshaw but endearing none the less. Hunt is funny as her outrageous best friend. I don't know what is up with the guys in this movie since they seemed to have vanished the last couple of years but they were great too. The rest of the cast is good.
You won't find any hip-hop, electric boogaloo stuff here. This is straight up dancing with a sprinkling of gymnastics thrown in! Todays dance films are impressive with their dancing but it's too much rump shaking and dependant on stunts. The dancing here is great, technical, and old school. The choreography is awesome and it was a nice change of pace to see dancers actually perform routines in a tradtional style rather than hip hop. As a dancer in my younger years I was totally enthralled with this movie.
It's great rainy day movie! It's a great filler movie since there is absolutely nothing on TV now that it's Summer. You'll come away with a smile. At the very least get a chuckle out of the 80's styles we all know and love!
What: Girls Just Wanna Have Fun
Where: At home on Fuse
Why: One of my favorite movies as a kid
If you like dance movies this a good one. It's about a talented military brat, Janie, who always wanted to go to Chicago because her favorite show, Dance TV, was there. Dance TV is looking for a new couple to be regulars on the show so she auditions, against her father's wishes, and gets picked to be one of the finalist. They pair her up with her complete opposite, Jeff, and they automatically clash. Of course, they get close and challenge the obstacles that are in their way. Janie has a really strict father causing her to sneak out for rehersals. A rival's rich father threatens to fire Jeff's dad if he doesn't throw the competition and others typical stuff. It's a feel good movie so its totally predictable, totally cheesy, totally 80's, and totally fun!
You'll recognize some familiar faces such as Sarah Jessica Parker, Helen Hunt, and a preteen Shannon Doherty. SJP's Janie is a far cry from Carrie Bradshaw but endearing none the less. Hunt is funny as her outrageous best friend. I don't know what is up with the guys in this movie since they seemed to have vanished the last couple of years but they were great too. The rest of the cast is good.
You won't find any hip-hop, electric boogaloo stuff here. This is straight up dancing with a sprinkling of gymnastics thrown in! Todays dance films are impressive with their dancing but it's too much rump shaking and dependant on stunts. The dancing here is great, technical, and old school. The choreography is awesome and it was a nice change of pace to see dancers actually perform routines in a tradtional style rather than hip hop. As a dancer in my younger years I was totally enthralled with this movie.
It's great rainy day movie! It's a great filler movie since there is absolutely nothing on TV now that it's Summer. You'll come away with a smile. At the very least get a chuckle out of the 80's styles we all know and love!
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Adventures in Babysitting
Who: Amber
What: Adventures in Babysitting
Where: @ home (I own it on DVD)
Why: It's a classic!
I can't belive this movie is over 20 years old! What makes it fun is that this sort of thing would never happen now a days, which is kind-of sad. First of all, cell phones and credit cards would've meant this movie would've been over in 5 minutes.
None the less, 3 kids (2 of which are in high school) and their babysitter (also in high school) venture into Chicago to find the babysitters moronic friend who ran away from home. Of course everything goes wrong, which makes for ridiculous and fun side stories. Singing the blues in a bar - check! Escaping from the mob - check! Almost getting beat up at a frat party - check!
Maybe it's because I babysat a lot growing up, or I used to live near Chicago, or I was the perfect age (13) when this movie came out, but I will never get tired of watching this flick!
I also heard that they are doing a remake of this movie. This terrifies me.
What: Adventures in Babysitting
Where: @ home (I own it on DVD)
Why: It's a classic!
I can't belive this movie is over 20 years old! What makes it fun is that this sort of thing would never happen now a days, which is kind-of sad. First of all, cell phones and credit cards would've meant this movie would've been over in 5 minutes.
None the less, 3 kids (2 of which are in high school) and their babysitter (also in high school) venture into Chicago to find the babysitters moronic friend who ran away from home. Of course everything goes wrong, which makes for ridiculous and fun side stories. Singing the blues in a bar - check! Escaping from the mob - check! Almost getting beat up at a frat party - check!
Maybe it's because I babysat a lot growing up, or I used to live near Chicago, or I was the perfect age (13) when this movie came out, but I will never get tired of watching this flick!
I also heard that they are doing a remake of this movie. This terrifies me.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Masters of the Universe
Who: Jaclyn
What: Masters of the Universe
Where: Home
Why: Nostalgia
So I decided to Netflix this movie to relive my childhood, which I've been doing a lot lately. However, I didn't remember this movie being SO awful. For those who don't know about this movie, it's a live-action movie of He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, which was made popular by the 80's cartoon. You know, Skeletor, Orko, He-Man, Cringer, Teela, etc.
The acting is dismal and the effects are cheesy. I know that's pretty standard for 80's movies, but come on. This is a total slap in the face to the cartoon, which I'll admit is cheesy in its own way. I wonder if in the theater I actually stayed awake. Even as a seven year old, I imagine I was out like a light.
I wonder if they were to attempt to make this movie again (hopefully with a better script) if the characters would do the original series justice. They certainly didn't in this movie.
What: Masters of the Universe
Where: Home
Why: Nostalgia
So I decided to Netflix this movie to relive my childhood, which I've been doing a lot lately. However, I didn't remember this movie being SO awful. For those who don't know about this movie, it's a live-action movie of He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, which was made popular by the 80's cartoon. You know, Skeletor, Orko, He-Man, Cringer, Teela, etc.
The acting is dismal and the effects are cheesy. I know that's pretty standard for 80's movies, but come on. This is a total slap in the face to the cartoon, which I'll admit is cheesy in its own way. I wonder if in the theater I actually stayed awake. Even as a seven year old, I imagine I was out like a light.
I wonder if they were to attempt to make this movie again (hopefully with a better script) if the characters would do the original series justice. They certainly didn't in this movie.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Revenge of the Nerds II
Who: Amber (at 7:30am - why am I awake on Saturday this early?!?)
What: Revenge of the Nerds II - Nerds in Paradise
Where: at home - DVR'ed off some channel - I knew it would come in handy at some point
Why: Just something mindless to watch
Being a child of the '80's, I LOVED Revenge of the Nerds (the original). This movie is the same group of nerds (minus Anthony Edwards, the original, 'cuter' nerd - he has about 15 minutes of screen time - I guess he wasn't 100% in, just 5% in).
This time the nerds are in the greatest place for Spring Break ... wait for it ... Fort Lauderdale, FL!!!! The bikini's are totally '80's, the hair is totally '80's, the "cool fraternities" all have on shirts with the collars standing straight up ... you get the idea. It's always fun to watch random '80's movies because you recognize famous people who were just getting their starts. Check out that "cool" guy - he looks familiar! Check out the cute little hotel reception clerk - she looks familiar!
I also DVR'ed Revenge of the Nerds III. That will have to wait for another mindless Saturday morning.
What: Revenge of the Nerds II - Nerds in Paradise
Where: at home - DVR'ed off some channel - I knew it would come in handy at some point
Why: Just something mindless to watch
Being a child of the '80's, I LOVED Revenge of the Nerds (the original). This movie is the same group of nerds (minus Anthony Edwards, the original, 'cuter' nerd - he has about 15 minutes of screen time - I guess he wasn't 100% in, just 5% in).
This time the nerds are in the greatest place for Spring Break ... wait for it ... Fort Lauderdale, FL!!!! The bikini's are totally '80's, the hair is totally '80's, the "cool fraternities" all have on shirts with the collars standing straight up ... you get the idea. It's always fun to watch random '80's movies because you recognize famous people who were just getting their starts. Check out that "cool" guy - he looks familiar! Check out the cute little hotel reception clerk - she looks familiar!
I also DVR'ed Revenge of the Nerds III. That will have to wait for another mindless Saturday morning.
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