tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75816164652759887752024-03-13T20:09:27.175-06:00Slice of Fried GoldThere is no "I" in team, but there is an "I" in pie.The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.comBlogger312125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-67845129317407479612024-01-15T00:01:00.034-07:002024-01-15T11:29:09.190-07:00My Own Subjective Top 10 Movies of 2023<p>Hello, <a href="https://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Screen-Shot-2020-01-08-at-5.07.41-PM-1536x1133.jpg" target="_blank">faithful readers</a>! </p><p>Despite the fact that <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NplRzs9DL1o" target="_blank">germs</a> have invaded my home and I'm attempting to write this article while <a href="https://i.imgflip.com/5s4yqs.jpg" target="_blank">heavily medicated</a>, I knew that I just couldn't let you down with my once-a-year blog post about which movies I enjoyed watching during the previous year. After all, I've gotten at least seven comments on similar posts for <a href="https://theformer786.blogspot.com/2023/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2022.html" target="_blank">2022</a>, <a href="https://theformer786.blogspot.com/2022/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2021.html" target="_blank">2021</a>, <a href="https://theformer786.blogspot.com/2021/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2020.html" target="_blank">2020</a>, <a href="https://theformer786.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2019.html" target="_blank">2019</a>, <a href="https://theformer786.blogspot.com/2019/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2018.html" target="_blank">2018</a>, <a href="https://theformer786.blogspot.com/2018/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2017.html" target="_blank">2017</a>, <a href="https://theformer786.blogspot.com/2017/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2016.html" target="_blank">2016</a>, <a href="https://theformer786.blogspot.com/2016/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2015.html" target="_blank">2015</a>, <a href="https://theformer786.blogspot.com/2015/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2014.html" target="_blank">2014</a>, <a href="https://theformer786.blogspot.com/2014/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2013.html" target="_blank">2013</a>, <a href="https://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2012.html" target="_blank">2012</a>, <a href="https://theformer786.blogspot.com/2012/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2011.html" target="_blank">2011</a>, <a href="https://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2010.html" target="_blank">2010</a>, and <a href="https://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2009.html" target="_blank">2009</a>.</p><p>So without further <a href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/attachments.readmedia.com/files/65461/original/muchado_2.jpg?1426521526" target="_blank">ado</a>, but with a little <a href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/static.rogerebert.com/uploads/review/primary_image/reviews/nanny-mcphee-2006/EB20060126REVIEWS60117004AR.jpg" target="_blank">congestion</a>, here are my top ten favorite movies that I watched in 2023.</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxUoDZn-i8o-YgOfxJvHFGCjV1-Bg0l_LmadTjCy-YGMM2df-aFR29rfdNbuOywPTCWCU_49tpsNvGcW5-x97syAZhrXPzunZhnOqbPTPBxUWDS8MrWDlQuI2ohp1-sANVDp4P_k6TdostT_zXSOTVFsp1UXu1cSEQIQkpIhg6m_0zjKrWDDuOk-Tn66iu/s1000/714lbsoabGL._AC_UF894,1000_QL80_.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="674" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxUoDZn-i8o-YgOfxJvHFGCjV1-Bg0l_LmadTjCy-YGMM2df-aFR29rfdNbuOywPTCWCU_49tpsNvGcW5-x97syAZhrXPzunZhnOqbPTPBxUWDS8MrWDlQuI2ohp1-sANVDp4P_k6TdostT_zXSOTVFsp1UXu1cSEQIQkpIhg6m_0zjKrWDDuOk-Tn66iu/s320/714lbsoabGL._AC_UF894,1000_QL80_.jpg" width="216" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br />10. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AVVO3Yat_Bw" target="_blank">RRR</a> (2022)</b></span><p></p><p>As strange as it sounds, RRR is a high-octane action movie/musical. At times, this film is <a href="https://i.pinimg.com/originals/07/d7/3e/07d73e0d9bef4adfbf540a58d9e1ac78.gif" target="_blank">deliciously cheesy</a>, such as the over-the-top fight scenes and highly entertaining dance numbers. Other parts, however, were a bit too corny for my tastes. It also didn’t really need to be over three hours long. They definitely took their time to get to some plot points. Nevertheless, I enjoyed my experience watching it. It’s hard to dislike a movie as fun as this one. Plus, I had no concept of the true stories this fictional account was based on, so I felt like I learned something about Indian history, as well.</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNemXHIYd9qGpcnFw9jS_r01no1TIQi3LVai3cdjHOCTLwuOVrywMVO0gRQJFgi0q6pm-ZF_YY9UFP-ziD-939RBJ4qEkrcbKl0rF1CEPyVfHbGuH-Wq33ZALRiTI5GNFFkus4nvLXpbXFktqdCbVU9lU6nI8r9n6YViKuvGvW0MCr_0nQ7TmiZqY44m6D/s1500/71Q73XE+mwL.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="947" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNemXHIYd9qGpcnFw9jS_r01no1TIQi3LVai3cdjHOCTLwuOVrywMVO0gRQJFgi0q6pm-ZF_YY9UFP-ziD-939RBJ4qEkrcbKl0rF1CEPyVfHbGuH-Wq33ZALRiTI5GNFFkus4nvLXpbXFktqdCbVU9lU6nI8r9n6YViKuvGvW0MCr_0nQ7TmiZqY44m6D/s320/71Q73XE+mwL.jpg" width="202" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br />9. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RqrXhwS33yc" target="_blank">Puss in Boots: The Last Wish</a> (2022)</b></span><p></p><p>Puss in Boots: The Last Wish is far better than it had the right to be. This is the <a href="https://beam-images.warnermediacdn.com/BEAM_LWM_DELIVERABLES/16044ef0-4709-4543-bddc-b09a2ace2e8b/46c13c906d3967908b3e9e7ce1694338ad90eefb.jpg?host=wbd-images.prod-vod.h264.io&partner=beamcom">sixth movie</a> in the Shrek franchise. It’s a sequel to a spin-off. And yet I found myself laughing more than I have since Shrek 2. The animation is vibrant & colorful, and the action sequences are highly energetic. It’s obvious that the animators took good notes while watching Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. Antonio Banderas and Salma Hayek Pinault do a good job, as per usual, but newcomers Harvey Guillén, Florence Pugh, and John Mulaney gave memorable performances, as well. It seems that Puss really is a legend.</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk9yCXLXgLarSMLnL2iIifDnTJGTPnvd9Sw8NEWorY9UD6U4G0NXFtTdRN3P1g0cq1C-tmaf_0ZmbwaIKyqt_nlw-hXskS3PUPvx_Ep7Vv_fPdzV4nxtl7N7ZRBNJY1i2-YkXP_yVsXubwhIRJCYbQBif9M0T6O8CBD0O4U8tYqglDKVdl5DlDifEznfUy/s1000/51ymvx0BdEL._AC_UF894,1000_QL80_.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="680" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk9yCXLXgLarSMLnL2iIifDnTJGTPnvd9Sw8NEWorY9UD6U4G0NXFtTdRN3P1g0cq1C-tmaf_0ZmbwaIKyqt_nlw-hXskS3PUPvx_Ep7Vv_fPdzV4nxtl7N7ZRBNJY1i2-YkXP_yVsXubwhIRJCYbQBif9M0T6O8CBD0O4U8tYqglDKVdl5DlDifEznfUy/s320/51ymvx0BdEL._AC_UF894,1000_QL80_.jpg" width="218" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br />8. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z50PjmZYS4A" target="_blank">A Bronx Tale</a> (1993)</b></span><p></p><p>I’d seen pieces of A Bronx Tale on television when I was growing up. I got the gist of the story—a boy who is conflicted about wanting the “<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Zqtl8azCs8" target="_blank">glamorous life</a>” of a gangster and wanting to obey his parents—but I didn’t really get the full emotional impact of the film. Watching it in its entirety was a different experience. It’s a dramatic coming-of-age tale with interesting characters and remarkable acting. I was especially impressed by little Francis Capra. Yes, I may still get this De Niro/Pesci/mafia movie mixed up with the other iconic ones, but I’m glad I finally sat down to watch A Bronx Tale.</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh1RRmmmqX98X2FfyEQkrB7QZYzEy9evMa0Z-Z2XIPNgKbo_UbJMVKjijZkGAI5WPxoRwR2S-nJMOMDWZLnaKfwaWxcAfSYOciAdXQgYjikmQt5I-dGK9uc1lgP7XDzqMDAKINp6Ld2T6c7lt8fptljXvpVGu11Jpwr72BejQwy9YzH8F0Zl1PMV5-rUXm/s1000/61t9V6SwegL._AC_UF894,1000_QL80_.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="636" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh1RRmmmqX98X2FfyEQkrB7QZYzEy9evMa0Z-Z2XIPNgKbo_UbJMVKjijZkGAI5WPxoRwR2S-nJMOMDWZLnaKfwaWxcAfSYOciAdXQgYjikmQt5I-dGK9uc1lgP7XDzqMDAKINp6Ld2T6c7lt8fptljXvpVGu11Jpwr72BejQwy9YzH8F0Zl1PMV5-rUXm/s320/61t9V6SwegL._AC_UF894,1000_QL80_.jpg" width="204" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br />7. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dPAqttGXFaU" target="_blank">A Night to Remember</a> (1958)</b></span><p></p><p>A Night to Remember is presented in such a matter-of-fact way that it almost feels like a documentary. And, indeed, this film was released only <a href="https://sffbookreview.files.wordpress.com/2023/07/colossalbitesizeddiplodocus-size_restricted.gif?w=460" target="_blank">46 years</a> after the real-life events, and the filmmakers interviewed a number of survivors to make sure they got certain details correct. While Titanic (1997) wins when it comes to the visual effects of this disaster, I feel A Night to Remember captured the tragedy & seriousness of it all more effectively. In addition, I learned a few new things about the real story, too. It’s a powerful film without all <a href="https://www.themarysue.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/The-Flash-Erza-Miller.jpg" target="_blank">the flash</a> and melodrama of James Cameron’s version.</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh77yNLoVwkTiyghlRfIUclcCj0aK_PTFkRSm54kzebREQcwXzfppn0J16sohyuDEeH1zV4OPaNqddpCzqG8SeFntvpz6cEGESdT9zIJCahZr3u1zn_i6VdzfITC0pYKen8nOH4paGr6lJesr7_GyDCHvTrLTT58XUdXYoVyJEVRfHIRWpN-H8gnFCAlSHD/s1000/61YzejpAw4L._AC_UF894,1000_QL80_.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="674" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh77yNLoVwkTiyghlRfIUclcCj0aK_PTFkRSm54kzebREQcwXzfppn0J16sohyuDEeH1zV4OPaNqddpCzqG8SeFntvpz6cEGESdT9zIJCahZr3u1zn_i6VdzfITC0pYKen8nOH4paGr6lJesr7_GyDCHvTrLTT58XUdXYoVyJEVRfHIRWpN-H8gnFCAlSHD/s320/61YzejpAw4L._AC_UF894,1000_QL80_.jpg" width="216" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br />6. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BRb4U99OU80" target="_blank">M3GAN</a> (2022)</b></span><p></p><p>I didn’t really expect much from M3GAN, but I was pleasantly surprised by this movie. This is like Child’s Play for the modern PG-13 crowd. It isn’t exceptionally scary—I think I laughed more than I jumped—but I found the story to be engaging and the somewhat campy tone works. Plus, this movie has a few genuinely creepy moments. Allison Williams and Violet McGraw both give good performances, and the team of Amie Donald, Jenna Davis, and the visual effects team do a great job of making M3GAN an <a href="https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/2001/images/2/21/HAL_closeup.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20220217154550" target="_blank">increasingly intimidating antagonist</a>. This is a popcorn horror movie for teens, and it’s self-aware of that.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSMnMiY7gBZHtyg5ET3mph3g3jpWezJb4Huwo1yk5OD17Em6wtSG_dc2ZU89ByP57eS1b6tLSo2UVMQqOHPy1a7TIDRaa0DhiEQeAmFNNcMqwMYYFFqd6fkD53V7TBa1dcCQAbfRYIzCb30vj7zI2VsgHcXwm340Te0CC8h3s-4Myt0lQqVaqF3DbVzgXb/s1170/5d2741a8122c5576f9f6d62a2f97ae9e.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1170" data-original-width="780" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSMnMiY7gBZHtyg5ET3mph3g3jpWezJb4Huwo1yk5OD17Em6wtSG_dc2ZU89ByP57eS1b6tLSo2UVMQqOHPy1a7TIDRaa0DhiEQeAmFNNcMqwMYYFFqd6fkD53V7TBa1dcCQAbfRYIzCb30vj7zI2VsgHcXwm340Te0CC8h3s-4Myt0lQqVaqF3DbVzgXb/s320/5d2741a8122c5576f9f6d62a2f97ae9e.jpg" width="213" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />5. </span></b><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fFyZzqPDws" target="_blank">The Beatles: Eight Days a Week - The Touring Years</a> (2016)</b></span><p></p><p>For some reason, I didn’t know that The Beatles: Eight Days a Week - The Touring Years existed. This documentary somehow flew under the radar for me. I enjoyed it. It’s a concise history of the band and features some fun behind-the-scenes footage of <a href="https://baconsale.com/2023/05/08/baconsale-episode-400-the-fab-400/" target="_blank">The Fab Four</a>. It’s also more upbeat than the other biography I watched this week, The Beatles: Get Back. Ron Howard’s documentary actually serves as an interesting companion to Peter Jackson’s, giving almost the whole history of The Beatles when viewed sequentially. I’m glad I discovered this movie and would recommend it to other fans of The Beatles.</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFubd_4mKcWBUqaepQ6iAR4ZVa_10Y3JasUWbpj16RxlMyL7rDOHFv4kyZYQsowAmf6tM5N4xRmHlJn9KTBmy9LNk9tDsXE4rCJbyl6JcLq6WJ8OkUKDoeh_lMB2ZlAIKgixwLgnGIG0bqvhqUshi3hyphenhyphenUd7WwIMKbZvOfMlc9fkCN8KNWikJ_J_5YdhOrn/s1440/p493_v_v8_aa.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFubd_4mKcWBUqaepQ6iAR4ZVa_10Y3JasUWbpj16RxlMyL7rDOHFv4kyZYQsowAmf6tM5N4xRmHlJn9KTBmy9LNk9tDsXE4rCJbyl6JcLq6WJ8OkUKDoeh_lMB2ZlAIKgixwLgnGIG0bqvhqUshi3hyphenhyphenUd7WwIMKbZvOfMlc9fkCN8KNWikJ_J_5YdhOrn/s320/p493_v_v8_aa.jpg" width="213" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br />4. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZQdYvVXaug" target="_blank">Jeremiah Johnson</a> (1972)</b></span><p></p><p>Jeremiah Johnson is an oddly soothing film. Despite the hardships and life-threatening obstacles Robert Redford’s character faces, there’s a continual sense of hope, courage & perseverance throughout this story. This movie resonated with me, as well, despite the fact I’m not really the <a href="https://i.insider.com/5d5ecabe23f19c2d4d63f446?width=600&format=jpeg&auto=webp" target="_blank">outdoorsy type</a> and would never choose the isolated existence of a mountain man. I’ll admit that I finally chose to watch this movie because of the <a href="https://media1.giphy.com/media/Lr4RSBQs8k9aCKKtjI/giphy.gif" target="_blank">famous GIF</a> circulating around the internet, but I’m really glad I did. I may never live the life that Johnson did, but it made me appreciate the life I have a little more.</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL9jW5O5tk1UJi_y1IsDvfV47SLeJk2Ie5SHp-v8MCYBfyEvIxeZ5IQRFQ0dRuMIiNUiYe7G7vivY5XMdxG3SAa5ZL5Abs52Gvcm7PKKmJzoTOq1N0LCYnWSBiL6SzujVZ-XO-JHL2rlCYpd_O6JpTf21xxIj3cMYUmeyAewhJzkiF4P5cz1qxduE_xDMe/s1481/MV5BZmZmNTdiYjMtZDdmNi00ZGU4LThkYmQtZTFhZWNlYmUxYWZkXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMDM2NDM2MQ@@._V1_FMjpg_UX1000_.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1481" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL9jW5O5tk1UJi_y1IsDvfV47SLeJk2Ie5SHp-v8MCYBfyEvIxeZ5IQRFQ0dRuMIiNUiYe7G7vivY5XMdxG3SAa5ZL5Abs52Gvcm7PKKmJzoTOq1N0LCYnWSBiL6SzujVZ-XO-JHL2rlCYpd_O6JpTf21xxIj3cMYUmeyAewhJzkiF4P5cz1qxduE_xDMe/s320/MV5BZmZmNTdiYjMtZDdmNi00ZGU4LThkYmQtZTFhZWNlYmUxYWZkXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMDM2NDM2MQ@@._V1_FMjpg_UX1000_.jpg" width="216" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br />3. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-BLM1naCfME" target="_blank">Tetris</a> (2023)</b></span><p></p><p>The thing that most impressed me about Tetris is that I was in total suspense during a movie about getting the distribution rights to a video game. This should have been a very dry topic, but the filmmakers did a great job of telling the story in a highly engaging way. <a href="https://pyxis.nymag.com/v1/imgs/07f/91a/6f02ec158ae8ee7325b3976527163d1e35-13-alden-ehrenreich.2x.h473.w710.jpg" target="_blank">Taron Egerton</a> really brought an emotional center to the movie. I was also amused by the visuals of this film, which incorporate <a href="https://baconsale.files.wordpress.com/2020/05/nestalgia.jpg" target="_blank">8-bit effects</a> at the right times. The soundtrack is fun, too. I know some parts of Tetris are complete fiction, but I was shocked by how much drama there was behind the history of this classic video game.</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIAvZF0ldLyX9_oOeIR0nEkQlH-56sFckb5uWvxK0ecpWXOfGL3jWnKtSbYSxYsboxzngBHofUyW_LUfwZxs_gAX11g3dZ25jNGpZCKOc3bFqhljzW1TeYakhjM3yJMR_3d49Jtvtka2kiG7_fmMydKfZWDDPk_h6UJ1Me-acfyPr6pMwSRogCXBcZDEtu/s1200/s-l1200.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIAvZF0ldLyX9_oOeIR0nEkQlH-56sFckb5uWvxK0ecpWXOfGL3jWnKtSbYSxYsboxzngBHofUyW_LUfwZxs_gAX11g3dZ25jNGpZCKOc3bFqhljzW1TeYakhjM3yJMR_3d49Jtvtka2kiG7_fmMydKfZWDDPk_h6UJ1Me-acfyPr6pMwSRogCXBcZDEtu/s320/s-l1200.jpg" width="213" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br />2. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHgMSR4F1Ak" target="_blank">Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie</a> (2023)</b></span><p></p><p>Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie would have been an interesting story in and by itself. However, the way this story is told makes this documentary absolutely fascinating. It blends old film & TV clips, dramatic recreations, and real-life footage in an almost seamless way to create a memorable cinematic experience. And it’s an inspiring tale about a man who is continuing the fight against impossible odds. Michael J. Fox seems like such a down-to-earth guy, even though he was one of the <a href="https://clickamericana.com/wp-content/uploads/Dynamite-Michael-J-Fox.jpg" target="_blank">80s biggest stars</a>, and I’m glad that he was able to create this autobiographical film while he was still able to.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>And the #1 movie I watched in 2023 is....</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDV1DpPWO2dtBSYrCwuZhkyQbhLSrwRSdpC79IPgrBL6to9CsMH-F_ITW4xq4vvOtw5uqVDzig1IqSyMQUEIUwxIlv3g_3ZnP5ICve4zcwszffiFgndPvYlpBKukEMCD0G8vTsBfFNwqkRQa_xXBBjuYvb-2yEnCrZjKzSm_EyiQc9HdOgi1B92V8nYFoJ/s1481/imdb_last_night.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1481" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDV1DpPWO2dtBSYrCwuZhkyQbhLSrwRSdpC79IPgrBL6to9CsMH-F_ITW4xq4vvOtw5uqVDzig1IqSyMQUEIUwxIlv3g_3ZnP5ICve4zcwszffiFgndPvYlpBKukEMCD0G8vTsBfFNwqkRQa_xXBBjuYvb-2yEnCrZjKzSm_EyiQc9HdOgi1B92V8nYFoJ/s320/imdb_last_night.jpg" width="216" /></a></div><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>1. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AcVnFrxjPjI" target="_blank">Last Night in Soho</a> (2021)</b></span></p><p>Last Night in Soho is a dark & dazzling mix of sight, sound, and story. Edgar Wright carefully crafts each scene to keep your eyes and your ears at attention as everything unfolds. The soundtrack is as <a href="https://www.youtube.com/shorts/lTizOEOjmz8" target="_blank">carefully choreographed</a> as the dance scenes, creating a highly intricate film that demands a second viewing. I become more impressed with Thomasin McKenzie with each performance I see of hers, and Anya Taylor-Joy commands the screen whenever she’s on it. I can see some reasons why this movie didn’t fare well at the box office, but I think more people should take a stab at watching Last Night in Soho.</p><p>So there you have it, <a href="https://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Screen-Shot-2024-01-02-at-1.22.36-PM-1174x1536.jpg" target="_blank">faithful readers</a>. That's my list of the movies I enjoyed the most last year. If you'd like to hear about the movies I didn't enjoy in 2023, you can visit <a href="https://baconsale.com/2024/01/15/baconsale-episode-433-best-worst-movies-of-2023-ish/" target="_blank">Baconsale.com</a>. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go blow my nose for the <a href="https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/lostpedia/images/1/15/Hatchnumbers.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20070222213903" target="_blank">4,815th</a> time this morning and take another nap.</p>The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-24084656617787803872023-01-16T00:01:00.192-07:002023-01-19T09:37:32.756-07:00My Own Subjective Top 10 Movies of 2022<p>Happy January, <a href="https://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Screen-Shot-2023-01-16-at-1.51.07-PM.jpg" target="_blank">faithful readers</a>! </p><p>You'd think that doing a blog post would be like <a href="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/M0DRpLOBf_4/maxresdefault.jpg" target="_blank">riding a bike</a>, but since I've only been doing it once a year lately, I always feel so out of practice. Also, on a related note, I believe the last time I rode my bike was <a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.churchplanting.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/frozen-bicycle1.jpg?fit=1000%2C712&ssl=1" target="_blank">last January</a>, as well.</p><p>But I digress. Once again, I'm going to <a href="https://miro.medium.com/max/1400/0*dPQ364HOabmf3vqY" target="_blank">appease the masses</a> by giving a countdown of my favorite movies that I watched last year. If you're confused, then you should check out my blog posts from <a href="https://theformer786.blogspot.com/2022/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2021.html" target="_blank">2021</a>, <a href="https://theformer786.blogspot.com/2021/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2020.html" target="_blank">2020</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2019.html" target="_blank">2019</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2019/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2018.html" target="_blank">2018</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2018/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2017.html" target="_blank">2017</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2017/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2016.html" target="_blank">2016</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2016/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2015.html" target="_blank">2015</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2015/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2014.html" target="_blank">2014</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2014/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2013.html" target="_blank">2013</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2012.html" target="_blank">2012</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2012/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2011.html" target="_blank">2011</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2010.html" target="_blank">2010</a>, and <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2009.html" target="_blank">2009</a>. In addition, I gave an abbreviated version of this year's list on my podcast, Baconsale, where I shared my <a href="https://baconsale.com/2023/01/16/baconsale-episode-384-best-worst-movies-of-2022-ish/" target="_blank">bottom five movies</a>, as well. </p><p>However, this isn't a blog post to promote my <a href="https://baconsale.com/" target="_blank">family-friendly pop culture podcast</a> that has been entertaining our listener for nine seasons with our amusing discussions about <a href="https://baconsale.com/2020/10/05/baconsale-episode-274-horror-movie-training/" target="_blank">movies</a>, <a href="https://baconsale.com/2018/03/19/baconsale-episode-147-tournament-of-80s-new-wave-bands/" target="_blank">music</a>, <a href="https://baconsale.com/2016/06/06/baconsale-episode-60-after-these-messages-well-be-right-baconsale/" target="_blank">TV</a>, <a href="https://baconsale.com/2021/06/21/baconsale-episode-308-we-ate-everything-at-subway/" target="_blank">food</a>, <a href="https://baconsale.com/2015/07/27/baconsale-episode-17-your-podcast-is-in-another-castle/" target="_blank">video games</a>, and <a href="https://baconsale.com/2022/08/22/baconsale-episode-366-bad-to-school-outfits/" target="_blank">more</a>. This is a post about me. Therefore, <a href="https://flxt.tmsimg.com/assets/p14753_p_v8_al.jpg" target="_blank">without further ado</a>, here's my top ten movies from 2022.</p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0GjXRUu4ikm4L7lu8HXiVDnMV2t7l1To9d2slzB0a9jjv9lSU9igZKWU3lp6DVE-uLatMAGl8ns7AZqwMzH9voZhX_UV7cttk4PNVCTJ1cWCri22D6we9w_ITgXyPt8221XKKpll9KI7cRUNHoTdOMrdxT-KLez6LoEjDzR9BcOkdSsPh7lwl3r7EPg/s1200/38.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0GjXRUu4ikm4L7lu8HXiVDnMV2t7l1To9d2slzB0a9jjv9lSU9igZKWU3lp6DVE-uLatMAGl8ns7AZqwMzH9voZhX_UV7cttk4PNVCTJ1cWCri22D6we9w_ITgXyPt8221XKKpll9KI7cRUNHoTdOMrdxT-KLez6LoEjDzR9BcOkdSsPh7lwl3r7EPg/s320/38.jpeg" width="213" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />10. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1aCp1Z1gAo" target="_blank">The Remains of the Day</a> (1993)</span></b><p></p><p>What makes The Remains of the Day fascinating is how what is being said is just as interesting as what is not being said. Both <a href="https://www.denofgeek.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Anthony-Hopkins-as-Hannibal-Lecter-in-The-Silence-of-the-Lambs.jpg?resize=768%2C432" target="_blank">Anthony Hopkins</a> and <a href="https://www.irishnews.com/picturesarchive/irishnews/irishnews/2021/09/21/141217617-fc9c6e48-5de6-4fc7-9f8d-ebcbe8b87677.jpg" target="_blank">Emma Thompson</a> are able to show a range of emotions while their characters are repressing those same emotions. It’s a well-crafted, understated drama that probably would have gotten more attention, had it not been released the same year as Jurassic Park, The Fugitive, and Schindler’s List.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi48hH28saewLrBtsdv8upI2mb1c_Tz24F4AEkFTWTJsEEeTswFJgnNPGW2Bpvsq0HYTfvg8gwPnXvnIhlcBZkO8AJWofjXjQ3lC3lzYGJwFRgMXbWSQe98jHWY-oy4VgIqBEGvvDuJB9cTnLYONKiFWw9kHY5ZIwGr_GKwRrHbZ_f6ldaqHhA32pNAVQ/s2560/A1fICuIPwBL.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="1694" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi48hH28saewLrBtsdv8upI2mb1c_Tz24F4AEkFTWTJsEEeTswFJgnNPGW2Bpvsq0HYTfvg8gwPnXvnIhlcBZkO8AJWofjXjQ3lC3lzYGJwFRgMXbWSQe98jHWY-oy4VgIqBEGvvDuJB9cTnLYONKiFWw9kHY5ZIwGr_GKwRrHbZ_f6ldaqHhA32pNAVQ/s320/A1fICuIPwBL.jpg" width="212" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />9. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AF9gNKJi79g" target="_blank">The Elephant Man</a> (1980)</span></b><p></p><p>The Elephant Man’s success comes from John Hurt’s powerful performance and Christopher Tucker’s amazing makeup design. I’ll admit that I wasn’t really a fan of <a href="https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/0349cc3911df37045877d02b2a8a7051b60a7cb4/0_143_2648_1589/master/2648.jpg?width=1200&quality=85&auto=format&fit=max&s=19e5164f5b0b6e6a24f0f0f19abcbd8a" target="_blank">David Lynch’s surrealist sequences</a>, but I felt joy when people treated John Merrick with kindness, and I felt sorrow when others took advantage of him. No, it’s not the true story of Joseph Merrick, but I feel like this film can inspire us all to be a little kinder to those who are different from us.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3bEPAPxtlO6_sSGK3XB-w3oyYOM7zu_sfZKjb9ehxXtn41RBn6Grht6ZgqDXKZaiGXon5rKTtmPyNOa8ISNYoddmdue_qJqaVBB8UKt5GqsVo2iSr69vAdqmQ2ucLCF2JQq_WRExLcIwddGwL9daKwJ1tQbV7YCXRrWfyI49oZGQPlee-qs3aWZ-7dg/s2100/MV5BMmRjZGUyMzYtMjMyYy00ZTFkLWEyZjktYjA5NjY4MjgzZTcxXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyNjc5NjEzNA@@._V1_.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2100" data-original-width="1400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3bEPAPxtlO6_sSGK3XB-w3oyYOM7zu_sfZKjb9ehxXtn41RBn6Grht6ZgqDXKZaiGXon5rKTtmPyNOa8ISNYoddmdue_qJqaVBB8UKt5GqsVo2iSr69vAdqmQ2ucLCF2JQq_WRExLcIwddGwL9daKwJ1tQbV7YCXRrWfyI49oZGQPlee-qs3aWZ-7dg/s320/MV5BMmRjZGUyMzYtMjMyYy00ZTFkLWEyZjktYjA5NjY4MjgzZTcxXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyNjc5NjEzNA@@._V1_.jpg" width="213" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />8. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sVObHkzoFPg" target="_blank">A Christmas Carol</a> (1984)</span></b><p></p><p>Even though it was made for television, this 1984 version of A Christmas Carol has better production value than many of the theatrically released adaptations. George C. Scott gives an engaging performance as Ebenezer Scrooge. He doesn’t play him as a cartoon villain, he plays a cynic that is so <a href="https://flxt.tmsimg.com/assets/p13526_v_h9_aa.jpg" target="_blank">realistically cold</a> that you wonder if his heart will thaw out by the end of the film. He’s also able to be joyous without it seeming artificial. The story does run a little long, and I wasn’t a big fan of <a href="https://www.horror.land/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/A_Christmas_Carol_1984_Ghost_of_Christmas_Past_v01.jpg" target="_blank">the Ghost of Christmas Past</a>, but this adaptation of A Christmas Carol is definitely one of the best.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7yz9H3TxDtxybHi1FcOkp1QGNAbkVxW10WyIcafiffEyZPIvLXlMupmbmbwpwRulENzbHTQFpvqoD2djhLSFATdScPA8wz7Km6jdDazNzFRRIJViHie8STynYG_w7kluNSEiCz6pXOV34a9cV9E5s0J9tEEA9stIOj_pm5zmRUJNLo1mgs-2Vq1I7Q/s3000/lf.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="2032" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7yz9H3TxDtxybHi1FcOkp1QGNAbkVxW10WyIcafiffEyZPIvLXlMupmbmbwpwRulENzbHTQFpvqoD2djhLSFATdScPA8wz7Km6jdDazNzFRRIJViHie8STynYG_w7kluNSEiCz6pXOV34a9cV9E5s0J9tEEA9stIOj_pm5zmRUJNLo1mgs-2Vq1I7Q/s320/lf.jpeg" width="217" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />7. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BauhJIjn9Uk" target="_blank">The Straight Story</a> (1999)</span></b><p></p><p>There's something endearing about the simplicity of The Straight Story. This movie is like driving on the open road. During the more boring parts, you can just sit back and enjoy the scenery. Richard Farnsworth plays his role well. Even though his quest makes you want to <a href="https://www.bark.us/learn/smh-meaning/" target="_blank">shake your head</a>, you like Alvin and cheer him on as he goes. It's still strange to me that David Lynch made a G-rated Disney movie, but I certainly enjoyed the journey.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2PRo5zM6MwhjyT10rKA7MNThzLHJQGkj9Hb1M7G2QEXQSXyorPxEDAkv_hwCGu3gzMR-x7mBZ-2pCT-3H3Lc7ilQaGHVWXa_4zTLSuxG0_2-GH2kHBXBiKzeKbJCALt1RzbKe18hI23kYnoR1IbyC0GBq17kJg94r9czUsJSZcgXNkK1GnqNvxsbicA/s1000/51+xGEo2pfL._AC_UF894,1000_QL80_.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="715" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2PRo5zM6MwhjyT10rKA7MNThzLHJQGkj9Hb1M7G2QEXQSXyorPxEDAkv_hwCGu3gzMR-x7mBZ-2pCT-3H3Lc7ilQaGHVWXa_4zTLSuxG0_2-GH2kHBXBiKzeKbJCALt1RzbKe18hI23kYnoR1IbyC0GBq17kJg94r9czUsJSZcgXNkK1GnqNvxsbicA/s320/51+xGEo2pfL._AC_UF894,1000_QL80_.jpg" width="229" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />6. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GlaUzQgRKPI" target="_blank">42</a> (2013)</span></b><p></p><p>If you know the basic story of Jackie Robinson’s baseball career, then you pretty much know what 42 is going to be. It rounds the bases on all the plot points you’d expect in a film like this. However, what really makes 42 stand out among the <a href="https://baconsale.com/2019/03/11/baconsale-episode-195-tournament-of-sports-movies/" target="_blank">crowd of inspirational sports movies</a> is Chadwick Boseman. He is so charismatic and sincere in his role as Robinson. This movie made me feel a variety of emotions, including anger & frustration, but what it really does is inspire. It teaches that you can stand strong in the face of adversity, and that there is good amidst all the bad one can find in this world.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_351KW1_KHsy_ben6qUbcopi_4WLR8ZciV5UX1GbJAzvb039NDmpO9HcmVbHTtU4iksDnhcFYmVuiehOUyWzYS7hziS6PYT0qteLA9H0KKOYRQO0IkQpl7cHyIDlWZCbgJRPK2-ApuOv4a3hoSEucVB8KjT5_E6IpLQQ0AjGyV7IjrQXLwP_wTnHoVA/s1481/MV5BZmMyMmE0M2UtN2E2MC00YzVmLTkwODgtOTVhYjVlOTBhY2RjXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyODk4OTc3MTY@._V1_FMjpg_UX1000_.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1481" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_351KW1_KHsy_ben6qUbcopi_4WLR8ZciV5UX1GbJAzvb039NDmpO9HcmVbHTtU4iksDnhcFYmVuiehOUyWzYS7hziS6PYT0qteLA9H0KKOYRQO0IkQpl7cHyIDlWZCbgJRPK2-ApuOv4a3hoSEucVB8KjT5_E6IpLQQ0AjGyV7IjrQXLwP_wTnHoVA/s320/MV5BZmMyMmE0M2UtN2E2MC00YzVmLTkwODgtOTVhYjVlOTBhY2RjXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyODk4OTc3MTY@._V1_FMjpg_UX1000_.jpg" width="216" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />5. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJserno8tyU" target="_blank">Tick, Tick... Boom!</a> (2021)</span></b><p></p><p>As a creative person, Tick, Tick... Boom! kind of stressed me out. I could empathize with Jonathan Larson as he struggled to finish his musical in time. I’ve never seen <a href="https://y.yarn.co/615bb5fe-448a-4216-8bc6-92dfca7a1af5_screenshot.jpg" target="_blank">Rent</a>, and I didn’t know the story of the real Jonathan Larson, yet this film was engaging and surprised me a few times. Tick, Tick... Boom! is an innovative musical, blending reality & fantasy in a magical way.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpfmGt_pTYnoMRPGUShfh755SF3GnlnlAc1caczh2mWR0efImMMoidS2nklDMO2mKLdV7TwrcE266WbDZIyYGSTS_GvH8YmvX-FXewYPq_vJhw1Cp3ITVB_ku9j5bdt8fcqt9Ll-TuETSqLhPapTy0qUiFR61uhR2W6F4hRDB8DSd7bpU0Ah3lNdx_A/s1500/inside-lowres.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpfmGt_pTYnoMRPGUShfh755SF3GnlnlAc1caczh2mWR0efImMMoidS2nklDMO2mKLdV7TwrcE266WbDZIyYGSTS_GvH8YmvX-FXewYPq_vJhw1Cp3ITVB_ku9j5bdt8fcqt9Ll-TuETSqLhPapTy0qUiFR61uhR2W6F4hRDB8DSd7bpU0Ah3lNdx_A/s320/inside-lowres.jpg" width="213" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />4. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hio87bsTopM" target="_blank">Bo Burnham: Inside</a> (2021)</span></b><p></p><p>Wow. Bo Burnham was much more productive during quarantine than I was. Inside is a highly unique comedy special that will make you <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6LavEptIHs8" target="_blank">laugh out loud</a>, <a href="https://media.tenor.com/F12ilhIiz-YAAAAC/bo-burnham-inside.gif" target="_blank">gasp in shock</a>, and occasionally <a href="https://static.ffx.io/images/$zoom_0.278%2C$multiply_0.9735%2C$ratio_1.5%2C$width_756%2C$x_263%2C$y_187/t_crop_custom/q_86%2Cf_auto/ccc6287706e2ed02de20458caa3177a79d98dbb7" target="_blank">sit in quiet contemplation</a>. You may even get emotional at times. I wish he wasn’t vulgar as he tends to be, but Burnham is a very talented artist and it definitely shows during Inside.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoo_HG67naZMtcnbESxwgzkb9AsQ9eg-YthIreDE8t-EHDl9efAPU3QDiVQV1usmeaCJ5EKi5UlYyuGMd0o8_zxNpNxY05dQgpNDzAzCzwZYw0yEbxt9OIwWhZ564cPcrP39HMLp7Npl2xdW1VfPBAEavIpI_SY3o91djPh1JO9xMpMnVSL2ATATrc2g/s1034/onesheet.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1034" data-original-width="700" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoo_HG67naZMtcnbESxwgzkb9AsQ9eg-YthIreDE8t-EHDl9efAPU3QDiVQV1usmeaCJ5EKi5UlYyuGMd0o8_zxNpNxY05dQgpNDzAzCzwZYw0yEbxt9OIwWhZ564cPcrP39HMLp7Npl2xdW1VfPBAEavIpI_SY3o91djPh1JO9xMpMnVSL2ATATrc2g/s320/onesheet.jpg" width="217" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />3. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0pmfrE1YL4I" target="_blank">CODA</a> (2021)</span></b><p></p><p>CODA is a movie I expected to like, and I was not disappointed. Each member of the cast is pulling their weight in this thought-provoking family drama. I was especially impressed by Eugenio Derbez as the music teacher and Daniel Durant as the overlooked brother. This film could have been <a href="https://www.tvguide.com/a/img/catalog/provider/1/2/1-435395427.jpg" target="_blank">melodramatic, sappy, or preachy</a>, but instead it’s a realistic emotional ride.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Yh2mB8U4nrmiemy17kgf2D_y_ot0JBpF8hNcUsHvPEJnOTfPc3jlpt5_P2fviV8OboOTaWn3Y0XvTuA7utw5SqwMMBHD-DfndzOvzYzAh2ZAmIxozhQhergcfconcTGx5fSiDG-BBMJBAJS7fFLU5zkX9p0GcnVC1hyFHA0Y5mFytDMLuAG-aS8ymA/s1500/MV5BOWRiNmI1OTItYjc0Zi00YTYwLWI4OTEtMmE0YTNlODJkOTQwXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMDM2NDM2MQ@@._V1_FMjpg_UX1000_.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Yh2mB8U4nrmiemy17kgf2D_y_ot0JBpF8hNcUsHvPEJnOTfPc3jlpt5_P2fviV8OboOTaWn3Y0XvTuA7utw5SqwMMBHD-DfndzOvzYzAh2ZAmIxozhQhergcfconcTGx5fSiDG-BBMJBAJS7fFLU5zkX9p0GcnVC1hyFHA0Y5mFytDMLuAG-aS8ymA/s320/MV5BOWRiNmI1OTItYjc0Zi00YTYwLWI4OTEtMmE0YTNlODJkOTQwXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMDM2NDM2MQ@@._V1_FMjpg_UX1000_.jpg" width="213" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />2. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RyYZOtAxYKY" target="_blank">Weird: The Al Yankovic Story</a> (2022)</span></b><p></p><p>Weird: The Al Yankovic Story is completely ridiculous...and I absolutely loved it. I honestly haven't laughed at a movie this much in a long time. If you're familiar with Weird Al's life, then this movie will definitely tickle your funny bone. If you're not, then just know that this documentary is <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcNuiri2dV0" target="_blank">100% accurate</a>. Daniel Radcliffe is giving this role his all and swinging for the fences with the deadpan humor, and it works. I also found all the references and Easter eggs highly amusing. I couldn't stop smirking the entire time. I know not everyone is a fan of "Weird Al" Yankovic, but they should be.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>And my #1 movie from last year is....</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEins8PAX5XLSRAGuRvSO898iFtvghhbOfEzX9g9Y3wxc4OGcx0yl1UFEesjoPGzObHpEqMvkFVKQI3sNdApYGfFELOSZr1knDrtkutSejRQe3ghHKdrHVHdMMQCZVx2OOhi3JEQyFkUsVSrp0QOzD96a8YA-v7c3ZjXgNKzagLhRA7o5b2vktGqsmX3jw/s1500/Top%20Gun%20Maverick.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1012" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEins8PAX5XLSRAGuRvSO898iFtvghhbOfEzX9g9Y3wxc4OGcx0yl1UFEesjoPGzObHpEqMvkFVKQI3sNdApYGfFELOSZr1knDrtkutSejRQe3ghHKdrHVHdMMQCZVx2OOhi3JEQyFkUsVSrp0QOzD96a8YA-v7c3ZjXgNKzagLhRA7o5b2vktGqsmX3jw/s320/Top%20Gun%20Maverick.jpg" width="216" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />1. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=giXco2jaZ_4" target="_blank">Top Gun: Maverick</a> (2022)</span></b><p></p><p>I’ll admit that I had my reservations about them making a sequel to Top Gun, but Top Gun: Maverick delivers the same thrills the original did, along with improved & highly <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMXHb9wcRNE&t=34s" target="_blank">impressive aerial action sequences</a>. The story is fairly standard, yet that’s part of what makes it great, as it feels like a throwback to the summer popcorn flicks of the 80s. I don’t think Top Gun: Maverick is as iconic as the first movie, but I do think it’s the best possible wingman for Top Gun.</p><p>So there you have it. That's my list of movies that impressed me this past year. Hopefully it <a href="https://i.kym-cdn.com/entries/icons/facebook/000/015/273/pajamakid.jpg" target="_blank">impressed you</a>, too.</p><p>Oh, and I have a few honorable mentions, as well, including: <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0056197/" target="_blank">The Longest Day</a> (1962), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2463208/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0" target="_blank">The Adam Project</a> (2022), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0029843/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0" target="_blank">The Adventures of Robin Hood</a> (1938), and <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9214832/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_11" target="_blank">Emma.</a> (2020). Those were all enjoyable, but they didn't quite <a href="https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/villains/images/5/52/Chucky.jpg/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/1000?cb=20131125164933" target="_blank">make the cut</a> this year.</p><p>Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go for a <a href="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/y_bwKW6V1lw/maxresdefault.jpg" target="_blank">winter bike ride</a>.</p>The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-2811047159275794482022-01-10T00:01:00.301-07:002022-01-10T16:22:58.615-07:00My Own Subjective Top 10 Movies of 2021<p>Well, <a href="https://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Screen-Shot-2021-11-11-at-4.11.17-PM.jpg" target="_blank">faithful readers</a>, another year has drawn to a close, which obviously means you are all waiting with bated breath for the list of my favorite movies I saw in 2021. Or maybe you're waiting with "baited" breath, which would mean you're trying to lure something into your mouth so you could eat it, <a href="https://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Screen-Shot-2021-11-04-at-12.47.39-PM-1.jpg" target="_blank">you weirdo</a>.</p><p>Either way, much like I did in <a href="https://theformer786.blogspot.com/2021/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2020.html" target="_blank">2020</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2019.html" target="_blank">2019</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2019/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2018.html" target="_blank">2018</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2018/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2017.html" target="_blank">2017</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2017/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2016.html" target="_blank">2016</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2016/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2015.html" target="_blank">2015</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2015/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2014.html" target="_blank">2014</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2014/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2013.html" target="_blank">2013</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2012.html" target="_blank">2012</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2012/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2011.html" target="_blank">2011</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2010.html" target="_blank">2010</a>, and <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2009.html" target="_blank">2009</a>, I am going to list the top 10 movies I watched for the first time this past year. If you're interested in hearing about the worst movies I watched last year, you can hear them (and the abbreviated version of this list) on my podcast, <a href="https://baconsale.com/2022/01/10/baconsale-episode-334-best-worst-movies-of-2021-ish/" target="_blank">Baconsale</a>.</p><p>So without <a href="https://img.apmcdn.org/2f91f43ea8e9b3117de6d91ae133f35b2626fc8a/portrait/4a4478-20141104-much-ado-about-nothing.jpg" target="_blank">further ado</a>, let's talk movies worth watching!</p><p><br /></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhjJhyWylzjRbCu0HKePlZ2L02C7og2nRmXye6VmhUpiIJ-tkiNhKI8wUI_VhHpiFHxYA3MhQD56cv5lHg5CN0H43YorjSNiwGjYCS8EuUiaomEnZk8cclKpaBI2dA_8wjX3RAot5iEXGDcnUun0Z-jdKHFmSrnRn-fs1ZpBOJ1uKx4muCUqiLdx8KV3g=s755" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="755" data-original-width="510" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhjJhyWylzjRbCu0HKePlZ2L02C7og2nRmXye6VmhUpiIJ-tkiNhKI8wUI_VhHpiFHxYA3MhQD56cv5lHg5CN0H43YorjSNiwGjYCS8EuUiaomEnZk8cclKpaBI2dA_8wjX3RAot5iEXGDcnUun0Z-jdKHFmSrnRn-fs1ZpBOJ1uKx4muCUqiLdx8KV3g=s320" width="216" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />10. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ak5dFt8Ar0" target="_blank">The Mitchells vs the Machines</a> (2021)</span></b><p></p><p>The Mitchells vs the Machines starts off pretty mechanically. There’s a kid who doesn’t fit in (as usual), with quirky family members (seen it), and she’s getting ready to go off to college (been there). But then, as it progresses, this movie <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pkdry54C0oU" target="_blank">transforms into something unique</a>, and it managed to pleasantly surprise me a few times. It takes a while to ramp up, but I was really enjoying the story by the end.</p><p><br /></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi0bGDv0RQm_Y7FZE9aZPID-hGAUhcNZf21edBrCiOc9YBzGn0qKbXY2wmkM57odVnkXnSl9Ld_NpJwngsXh7okmCuRgdY3ABbeE-fDOx6_HBp7bkz5ifF7JeH5gIl1msZA0mxSVfZb3n-15s2rIhM0rS4cHmthqTOU1I0mzNlT7t6cWm4Ra-1NHAXE1w=s755" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="755" data-original-width="521" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi0bGDv0RQm_Y7FZE9aZPID-hGAUhcNZf21edBrCiOc9YBzGn0qKbXY2wmkM57odVnkXnSl9Ld_NpJwngsXh7okmCuRgdY3ABbeE-fDOx6_HBp7bkz5ifF7JeH5gIl1msZA0mxSVfZb3n-15s2rIhM0rS4cHmthqTOU1I0mzNlT7t6cWm4Ra-1NHAXE1w=s320" width="221" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />9. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQ0gFidlro8" target="_blank">Minari</a> (2020)</span></b><p></p><p>Even if you’ve never been a <a href="https://www.gannett-cdn.com/-mm-/02e698e122e616d786494f8a0487b725097192ed/c=1085-0-3050-2618/local/-/media/USATODAY/test/2013/11/05/1383667266000-XXX-walking-dead-class-yeun-reedus-3281-.jpg" target="_blank">Korean immigrant farmer in the 1980s</a>, Minari is still very relatable. It’s a beautiful slice-of-life drama that focuses on the family experience, with engaging performances from the entire cast. This film could have easily turned cynical or become melodramatic, but instead it sows the seeds of realism and allows the story to grow naturally. And even though the ending <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1x9YACdBUrU&t=265s" target="_blank">feels a little abrupt</a>, I still enjoyed the journey Minari took me on.</p><p><br /></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiZqMLVzBEhCFtPB-9ViMLKf0SKSHZRJ44ylw5gM-cYumk5QyJaKO4ecRG62vK8H8MPSR-ZHzUByXdH3l5XXOmfBpx2rXm_0sUBsAyj-zLSFUczHwjBKmXJ0LsUuXjSf5cJF7Qn_Lluzftey40AkrTpaeIC6UhOXKZ41t92h6t0PJromBXIxEDjV3PjyQ=s755" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="755" data-original-width="510" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiZqMLVzBEhCFtPB-9ViMLKf0SKSHZRJ44ylw5gM-cYumk5QyJaKO4ecRG62vK8H8MPSR-ZHzUByXdH3l5XXOmfBpx2rXm_0sUBsAyj-zLSFUczHwjBKmXJ0LsUuXjSf5cJF7Qn_Lluzftey40AkrTpaeIC6UhOXKZ41t92h6t0PJromBXIxEDjV3PjyQ=s320" width="216" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />8. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jcqziqIcJ_g" target="_blank">Phineas and Ferb the Movie: Candace Against the Universe</a> (2020)</span></b><p></p><p>Even after all these years, Phineas and Ferb still makes me laugh. Candace Against the Universe feels like a longer episode of the series, but it doesn’t wear out its welcome or drag. The story clips along with plenty of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xuPiOxgtRro" target="_blank">visual gags and clever jokes</a> to keep the viewers entertained. It also manages to bring in some emotion at the end, which makes the experience that much more enjoyable. I don’t know how newcomers to the franchise will enjoy this movie, but I certainly had a good time.</p><p><br /></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><br /></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh3SOYVCUKY3dh_t_CE9cELb2U5Xva24UQsPGY2vTa3gJ4TDHi6aA_lmBsJRW3G6xWP--EMcj3N72cUbuT98PBxJL14FtGWyh4m5GoQAsNRn2cu4rV28la2CGXIcgLXhfZ1Apq8xHsVoAVXBJdqUVmFsoXPXbSVsLxW8E7QpvVEUBSK3O_VOSs_b5U0_g=s755" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="755" data-original-width="510" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh3SOYVCUKY3dh_t_CE9cELb2U5Xva24UQsPGY2vTa3gJ4TDHi6aA_lmBsJRW3G6xWP--EMcj3N72cUbuT98PBxJL14FtGWyh4m5GoQAsNRn2cu4rV28la2CGXIcgLXhfZ1Apq8xHsVoAVXBJdqUVmFsoXPXbSVsLxW8E7QpvVEUBSK3O_VOSs_b5U0_g=s320" width="216" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />7. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_TXB2qTJMRE" target="_blank">A Simple Plan</a> (1998)</span></b><p></p><p>A Simple Plan is a compelling movie because it kept making me ask myself <a href="https://images.payhip.com/o_1ee6vp7m1aup1gll1kc215gt14n67.png" target="_blank">what I would do</a> in this type of situation. And while it is stressful to watch everything start to spiral out of control, I couldn’t look away. Sam Raimi takes a very subtle approach with his directing and Bill Paxton, Billy Bob Thornton, Brent Briscoe & Bridget Fonda keep things grounded in reality. I’ve been wanting to see this movie for a long time, and it was worth the wait.</p><p><br /></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjykgDdu3KMsjtwLaC-zmYZ4mxRjnNNbk9z5WHek0nPgWU3izlG0mZlqyf_A2KNiqnz7JhEv-FIg_d2dodgFlLx6CjW0tUE4t5HFI4q2dFlGmeBTtWB82fMe4_--I99IcaoFOUkgRrq9x1R6hG3Az8lqKQjLrTGiu5j7k2wkKIJP9P0r4ZVrrJ9LRf4pw=s755" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="755" data-original-width="510" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjykgDdu3KMsjtwLaC-zmYZ4mxRjnNNbk9z5WHek0nPgWU3izlG0mZlqyf_A2KNiqnz7JhEv-FIg_d2dodgFlLx6CjW0tUE4t5HFI4q2dFlGmeBTtWB82fMe4_--I99IcaoFOUkgRrq9x1R6hG3Az8lqKQjLrTGiu5j7k2wkKIJP9P0r4ZVrrJ9LRf4pw=s320" width="216" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />6. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BpdDN9d9Jio" target="_blank">A Quiet Place Part II</a> (2021)</span></b><p></p><p>A Quiet Place Part II feels like a natural extension of the first part. It doesn’t try to flip the story on its head, nor does it undercut what the original movie set up. It’s full of tense moments as well as believable performances from the whole cast. This film has <a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/46/Be-quiet%21_Logo.svg/2560px-Be-quiet%21_Logo.svg.png" target="_blank">a simple plot</a>, yet I found myself completely engrossed in what was going on as I tried to stay as silent as possible.</p><p><br /></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEitcjfwZw-s2GJ7lj_Wc3Sf5PBxuKH0XkyVBAPS-kn7vIcV4L4SDLg9P_hN1rf_sPgdOpJhjgpMbke7C5xcJMETFprd4aLTjc1OhsKQ5f9-4avFKjkl_Xk2KAGsX6J_vMl6rWyGEomsvu1DWxbOgPm5YLlafkqaeuo8ilwpjlSWAytsvIybr9BMMkhdWw=s755" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="755" data-original-width="510" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEitcjfwZw-s2GJ7lj_Wc3Sf5PBxuKH0XkyVBAPS-kn7vIcV4L4SDLg9P_hN1rf_sPgdOpJhjgpMbke7C5xcJMETFprd4aLTjc1OhsKQ5f9-4avFKjkl_Xk2KAGsX6J_vMl6rWyGEomsvu1DWxbOgPm5YLlafkqaeuo8ilwpjlSWAytsvIybr9BMMkhdWw=s320" width="216" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />5. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFOrGkAvjAE" target="_blank">Sound of Metal</a> (2020)</span></b><p></p><p>Much like the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRmYakh52u8" target="_blank">drummer in a band</a>, Riz Ahmed is the backbone of Sound of Metal. His performance in this movie is what makes it so relatable and realistic. This film also uses creative sound editing to give the viewer a sense of what it’s like to be hearing impaired. Sound of Metal is a stressful, yet hopeful cinematic journey created by a <a href="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/6Jphg98vvDM/maxresdefault.jpg" target="_blank">talented cast</a>, a capable director, and a convincing script.</p><p><br /></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhnTmUDTSWNP-EOuSjq4DzIeD9aWY4M8xFX_sIB992Gh5gv_HYebr5c7TrgKKw4E_XeGSRWGfCDfT5-UehJM7WhEF_1EiemMAw1209jnSu6B8BvJ6lCEihjRhU1DQN6QIz2ULSVl-NA7r_W2JAH-_-ShL1qemzf-iyDvQPXmOtBPeaHi6JfGsmNkjRx4w=s888" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="623" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhnTmUDTSWNP-EOuSjq4DzIeD9aWY4M8xFX_sIB992Gh5gv_HYebr5c7TrgKKw4E_XeGSRWGfCDfT5-UehJM7WhEF_1EiemMAw1209jnSu6B8BvJ6lCEihjRhU1DQN6QIz2ULSVl-NA7r_W2JAH-_-ShL1qemzf-iyDvQPXmOtBPeaHi6JfGsmNkjRx4w=s320" width="225" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />4. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYY0QJhlXjc" target="_blank">His House</a> (2020)</span></b><p></p><p>His House is a captivating horror movie, because underneath the ghostly tale, you also get a deeper story regarding relocated refugees, <a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71zlDAuAZSL.jpg" target="_blank">marital relationships</a>, and grief. Parts of this film chilled me to the bone, whereas others gave me an emotional gut punch. This movie also has an independent, low-budget feel that works to its advantage. I will be thinking about His House for a long time.</p><p><br /></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjWy60SKLb8s9EoZ1gYvehuNGuF-ZS8DNhIH5eAebj7vFNKxs73BYJa_jjMA-tRa6g3XvqUMulLY3YqhRa0Q1n56Sr_2piYoO96hz2xzVuuI1NMYu0T1cLiy2h7v3uFoMcgFrj4ycn0So9wLSgE2a0HV5IKCChiRYekk-fManki0n9UWF4G7aOigk8RXw=s755" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="755" data-original-width="516" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjWy60SKLb8s9EoZ1gYvehuNGuF-ZS8DNhIH5eAebj7vFNKxs73BYJa_jjMA-tRa6g3XvqUMulLY3YqhRa0Q1n56Sr_2piYoO96hz2xzVuuI1NMYu0T1cLiy2h7v3uFoMcgFrj4ycn0So9wLSgE2a0HV5IKCChiRYekk-fManki0n9UWF4G7aOigk8RXw=s320" width="219" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />3. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pI5w1I6IX40" target="_blank">Palm Springs</a> (2020)</span></b><p></p><p>Due to the repetitive nature of time loop movies, they have to be done right in order to keep the audience engaged the whole time. Palm Springs does it right. This film does a great job of keeping things fresh. Andy Samberg shows that he’s more than just a goofball, and Cristin Milioti proves, once again, why she should have had a more prominent role on How I Met Your Mother. I wish this film were <a href="https://try.clearplay.com/home/" target="_blank">a little less vulgar</a>, so it would be accessible to a broader audience, because I think more people should take a trip with Palm Springs.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg0CQrhR8JB639LqIMhjYeEJ6_8kHzie6AZLhVGZ8DLunhGG-M1fFCuL10-zEWhJVqi5oCdPlUHxNQk7VopF7EOMdPWrTpDa6yaRhlp-pKfse3AmvZrNgx25zByiZXbSgANnLfhA2ViwgziTjACY_lup84LWXAiv74FlB0-BE4oGDsvhx9i8daGW9lVbg=s755" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="755" data-original-width="505" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg0CQrhR8JB639LqIMhjYeEJ6_8kHzie6AZLhVGZ8DLunhGG-M1fFCuL10-zEWhJVqi5oCdPlUHxNQk7VopF7EOMdPWrTpDa6yaRhlp-pKfse3AmvZrNgx25zByiZXbSgANnLfhA2ViwgziTjACY_lup84LWXAiv74FlB0-BE4oGDsvhx9i8daGW9lVbg=s320" width="214" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />2. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OE-VWDsdkwM" target="_blank">Stagecoach</a> (1939)</span></b><p></p><p>Even though Stagecoach was made in 1939, and it became the template for <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lists_of_Western_films" target="_blank">many westerns that followed it</a>, it still managed to surprise me a few times. The story is simple, but the characters are interesting, and the stunt work & cinematography are quite impressive. <a href="https://giffiles.alphacoders.com/208/208412.gif" target="_blank">John Wayne</a> makes an impression from the moment he enters the picture. I don’t know why it took me so long to watch this classic film. I’m glad I finally did.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>And my #1 favorite movie that I saw in 2021 is....</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiDKyqoMXf-Oc8bl9NuDhy-1tkpOm6NlPd-Klp5XSWveC7-66NVnD8nTfFMAJQ3vfPCTJmH4DWrgQwWMWfT-RzDYc5z1A4J3PLwY_rtBD0E_nQ09sXomchSpuGAOqQi0BER29XOrTr46aCL6o4FlYz8gqZLA9eQpyFozFxchHkJAkZ7VqIOU38XwpPMXw=s755" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="755" data-original-width="509" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiDKyqoMXf-Oc8bl9NuDhy-1tkpOm6NlPd-Klp5XSWveC7-66NVnD8nTfFMAJQ3vfPCTJmH4DWrgQwWMWfT-RzDYc5z1A4J3PLwY_rtBD0E_nQ09sXomchSpuGAOqQi0BER29XOrTr46aCL6o4FlYz8gqZLA9eQpyFozFxchHkJAkZ7VqIOU38XwpPMXw=s320" width="216" /></a></div><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">1. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JfVOs4VSpmA" target="_blank">Spider-Man: No Way Home</a> (2021)</span></b></p><p>They did it! A Spider-Man trilogy <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngORPZj4wwY" target="_blank">finally stuck the landing</a>! Spider-Man: No Way Home is an impressive culmination of the films that came before it, with an engaging storyline, exciting action, laugh out loud moments, and dramatic consequences. The beginning climb is a little slow, but it’s an exhilarating ride once things get swinging. I don’t exactly know how this movie will hold up after multiple viewings, as there are some plot points that don’t quite make sense when you <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MbmTMEYnEzo" target="_blank">start to think about them</a>, but I thoroughly enjoyed myself this first time.</p><p>And if that weren't enough, I also have a few other honorable mentions I'd like to....mention, because they would round off my top 19 movies of the year: <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0093010/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1" target="_blank">Fatal Attraction</a> (1987), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1189340/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1" target="_blank">The Lincoln Lawyer</a> (2011), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7888964/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1" target="_blank">Nobody</a> (2021), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0114069/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0" target="_blank">Outbreak</a> (1995), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0105414/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0" target="_blank">Single White Female</a> (1992), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0025878/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0" target="_blank">The Thin Man</a> (1934), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9777666/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0" target="_blank">The Tomorrow War</a> (2021), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0055630/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0" target="_blank">Yojimbo</a> (1961), and <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt12361974/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0" target="_blank">Zack Snyder’s Justice League</a> (2021).</p><p><br /></p><p>So there you go, <a href="https://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/alclown-e1468538995747.jpg" target="_blank">faithful readers</a>. Even though I still feel like 2020 has just passed, we're now at the start of 2022, full of hope & optimism that this new year will bring a little more <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=naqX9iYE0V0&t=28s" target="_blank">kindness</a>, a little more <a href="https://i.pinimg.com/originals/08/24/c0/0824c057d48d60d33f8559918f0422ba.jpg" target="_blank">caring</a>, and a little more understanding of the difference between the words "bated" and "baited."</p>The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-66124947733597112612021-01-18T00:01:00.004-07:002021-01-18T11:25:49.461-07:00My Own Subjective Top 10 Movies of 2020<p>Hello, <a href="https://www.studyfinds.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/chairs-color-colour-67836.jpg">faithful readers</a>!</p><p>2020 may have <a href="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/aKkSsrQiGmA/sddefault.jpg">robbed us</a> of a lot of things, such as spending time with extended family, going on <a href="https://i.imgur.com/NbBORd5.gif">vacations</a>, and exercising at the gym (it was the global pandemic's fault, I swear!), but I'll be darned if I let 2020 rob you of knowing my favorite movies of the past year! Especially since you've come to expect this top 10 list, which I've been doing for over a decade now (see: <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2019.html">2019</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2019/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2018.html">2018</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2018/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2017.html">2017</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2017/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2016.html">2016</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2016/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2015.html">2015</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2015/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2014.html">2014</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2014/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2013.html">2013</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2012.html">2012</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2012/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2011.html">2011</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2010.html">2010</a>, and <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2009.html">2009</a>).</p><p>2020 only gave us a <a href="https://www.thecinemadaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Highest-Grossing-Movies-2020-1.jpg">handful of new movies</a> to see in theaters, but thankfully my annual list on this blog doesn't rely on that. If I saw a film for the first time in a calendar year, it's eligible. Additionally, if you're interested in hearing my LEAST favorite flicks that I saw last year, just listen to the latest episode of my podcast, <a href="https://baconsale.com/2021/01/18/baconsale-episode-286-best-worst-movies-of-2020-ish/">Baconsale</a>.</p><p>But without <a href="https://decider.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/much-ado-about-nothing-1993.png?w=646&h=335&crop=1">further ado</a>, let's talk about the best movies I saw in 2020, starting off many years ago with...</p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-InFRS0sNyaA/YAIFZ7sYDCI/AAAAAAAACtg/6hYBNP1kXiEKVkHmTMXN6KUE7pPGqnXyQCLcBGAsYHQ/s679/Top%2BHat.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="679" data-original-width="446" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-InFRS0sNyaA/YAIFZ7sYDCI/AAAAAAAACtg/6hYBNP1kXiEKVkHmTMXN6KUE7pPGqnXyQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Top%2BHat.jpg" /></a></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b><p></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">10. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbMpecOKoDY">Top Hat</a> (1935)</span></b></p><p><a href="https://s.hdnux.com/photos/01/07/21/51/18684487/5/420x0.jpg">Fred Astaire</a> and <a href="https://cdn.britannica.com/56/132956-050-9E59B290/Mister-Rogers-television-persona.jpg">Ginger Rogers</a> make quite the pair. And there are few times that their star power is able to shine more than in Top Hat. It’s a simple story which stretches the bounds of believability at times, but the lead couple is so charming and talented that you can’t help but smile as you watch it. Audiences loved Top Hat back in the day, and I think if you give it a chance, you will, too.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b9i-e6QOgrU/YAIFqXBt5WI/AAAAAAAACuA/C_PnU64fFFYTNxC-UJ-2d53bzanHmFzzwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1000/Jumanji.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="686" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b9i-e6QOgrU/YAIFqXBt5WI/AAAAAAAACuA/C_PnU64fFFYTNxC-UJ-2d53bzanHmFzzwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Jumanji.jpg" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span></b><p></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">9. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rBxcF-r9Ibs">Jumanji: The Next Level</a> (2019)</span></b></p><p>I don’t know how this sequel to a reboot did it, but Jumanji: The Next Level managed to be just as entertaining and exciting as <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7ojOWMwpNM">Welcome to the Jungle</a>. Instead of trying to top what it did last time, this film tries something different, and it works. You can tell the cast had a lot of fun while making this movie, and I had a lot of fun watching it. In fact, I wouldn’t be opposed to seeing <a href="https://i.scdn.co/image/ab67706c0000bebb8259532e1333c7f00faa6d51">another entry</a> in this film franchise.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q8nsgfCUb1g/YAIFvZeWAUI/AAAAAAAACuE/nyNF2jOJg0A0Ish2sqJ4Wc7VPjtPePv1QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1025/Peanut%2BButter%2BFalcon.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1025" data-original-width="726" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q8nsgfCUb1g/YAIFvZeWAUI/AAAAAAAACuE/nyNF2jOJg0A0Ish2sqJ4Wc7VPjtPePv1QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Peanut%2BButter%2BFalcon.jpg" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /><br /></b></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>8. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNl9RqjLCwc">The Peanut Butter Falcon</a> (2019)</b></span></p><p>The <a href="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DuzvSJaWwAAFLKN.jpg">Peanut Butter Falcon</a> is an impressive movie with an equally impressive backstory. This story is bizarre, yet heartfelt. The performances of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0u4M6vppCI">Shia LaBeouf</a>, Zack Gottsagen, and Dakota Johnson feel genuine and, therefore, make you really care about the characters and what happens to them. I didn’t quite know what to expect when I started watching this film, but I’m glad I was able to share this adventure with Tyler & Zak.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B-4Tf0-8S8Q/YAIF0oKHSkI/AAAAAAAACuI/l8-79_8Wxp0DBhJ9f0O9BqXR1OC4lto9ACLcBGAsYHQ/s741/1917.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="741" data-original-width="494" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B-4Tf0-8S8Q/YAIF0oKHSkI/AAAAAAAACuI/l8-79_8Wxp0DBhJ9f0O9BqXR1OC4lto9ACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/1917.jpg" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span></b><p></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">7. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YqNYrYUiMfg">1917</a> (2019)</span></b></p><p>1917 is a simple story told in a magnificent way. The cinematography is like a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g3uq9qYGV2k">well-choreographed dance</a>, moving from scene to scene almost seamlessly. This film tugs at your heartstrings during some parts, then makes you hold your breath during others. Trust me, once this movie starts, it’s hard to take your <a href="https://media.tenor.com/images/3c04572e9b6f38a770909513863151f5/tenor.png">eyes off the screen</a>.</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GOei0hf95AE/YAIF_CqHdMI/AAAAAAAACuQ/rszOaw6diEwVI5iPjKe20xOS2ZijloLbwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1473/American%2BAnimals.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1473" data-original-width="995" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GOei0hf95AE/YAIF_CqHdMI/AAAAAAAACuQ/rszOaw6diEwVI5iPjKe20xOS2ZijloLbwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/American%2BAnimals.jpg" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /><br /></b></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>6. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmJYELj-jNE">American Animals</a> (2018)</b></span></p><p>American Animals offers a unique experience in storytelling. This film blends <a href="https://i.pinimg.com/originals/b8/ba/f4/b8baf45a9d20bbbd96fb318ba8f1af12.jpg">documentary-style interviews</a> with a dramatized version of the actual events in a way I’ve never seen before, highlighting the unreliable nature of our memories. Plus, the story is one you need to see to believe, as this insane heist was carried out by <a href="https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/community-sitcom/images/8/86/6x1_Ladders_class.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20150317205701">college-aged amateurs</a>. I’ll be thinking about this film for a while.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sCHDz1obQcs/YAIGDu1AMeI/AAAAAAAACuU/kE3CadGeHMU3TXe1nlcbJpxqbj3YwDE_ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1149/Sullivan%2527s%2BTravels.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1149" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sCHDz1obQcs/YAIGDu1AMeI/AAAAAAAACuU/kE3CadGeHMU3TXe1nlcbJpxqbj3YwDE_ACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Sullivan%2527s%2BTravels.jpg" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /></span></b><p></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;">5. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUNHxGDLfIE">Sullivan’s Travels</a> (1941)</span></b></p><p>Sullivan’s Travels is a <a href="https://data.whicdn.com/images/64802472/original.jpg">hidden gem</a> of a movie. People don’t talk about it much anymore, but it’s one I think more people should watch. It features witty dialogue and a clever story that skillfully shifts between comedic farce and compelling drama. Plus, it’s entertaining to watch Joel McCrea and <a href="https://prod-images.tcm.com/Master-Profile-Images/VeronicaLake.jpg">Veronica Lake</a> play off each other. Yes, it’s a little dated and kind of cheesy, but I’d recommend Sullivan’s Travels to anyone who enjoys the experience of going to the movies.</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KBNB8WUBwus/YAIGHSyNKxI/AAAAAAAACuY/CsmfpI_JX-Ioq8lBmBFRC74HzkvSJ6qdQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1500/Erin%2BBrockovich.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1017" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KBNB8WUBwus/YAIGHSyNKxI/AAAAAAAACuY/CsmfpI_JX-Ioq8lBmBFRC74HzkvSJ6qdQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Erin%2BBrockovich.jpg" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /><br /></b></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>4. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELzu636Xf6Y">Erin Brockovich</a> (2000)</b></span></p><p>Erin Brockovich would have been a compelling drama even if it weren’t a <a href="https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2020/03/931/524/Erin-Brockovich-split-Getty-images.jpg?ve=1&tl=1">true story</a>, but it is a true story, so it’s even more captivating. Julia Roberts is a commanding presence whenever she’s on the screen, and her antagonistic relationship with Albert Finney is a lot of fun to watch. This film makes you laugh almost as much as it tugs at your heartstrings, and it’s deserving of <a href="https://media4.s-nbcnews.com/i/newscms/2017_16/1208854/julia-roberts-2001-oscar-dress-today-170420-tease_d6041994d4bae37665a5cfff8c5b13d3.jpg">all the praise</a> it gets.</p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VIn8aJghc04/YAIGMAM_nQI/AAAAAAAACuc/jfrevpV0WPU1WVpcWs3JXFv_hb42ANPHQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1200/Hamilton.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="810" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VIn8aJghc04/YAIGMAM_nQI/AAAAAAAACuc/jfrevpV0WPU1WVpcWs3JXFv_hb42ANPHQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Hamilton.jpg" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /><br /></b></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>3. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSCKfXpAGHc">Hamilton</a> (2020)</b></span></p><p>There was so much hype surrounding Hamilton that I thought there was no way it could live up to expectations—and yet it does. The songs in this musical production are <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oNEdEDbhTQw">complex and emotional</a>, and the story explains the history of our founding fathers in an engaging way. Yes, it would probably be better to see it on stage and no, it’s not perfect, but I’m glad I was finally able to see Hamilton performed instead of just <a href="https://image.freepik.com/free-photo/crazy-man-with-headphones-funny-expression_1194-3156.jpg">listening to the soundtrack</a>.</p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0pTpFP73yk/YAIGRM4zFMI/AAAAAAAACug/IwDNVPjakRM1trbvIWsF2MCsx4odDBhlgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1500/JOker.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1035" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0pTpFP73yk/YAIGRM4zFMI/AAAAAAAACug/IwDNVPjakRM1trbvIWsF2MCsx4odDBhlgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/JOker.jpg" /></a></div><b><span style="font-size: large;">2. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAGVQLHvwOY">Joker</a> (2019)</span></b><p></p><p>Joaquin Phoenix had some big shoes to fill after such performances by <a href="https://fastly.syfy.com/sites/syfy/files/2019/09/ceasar-joker-batman.jpg">Cesar Romero</a>, <a href="https://media.comicbook.com/2017/09/jack-nicholson-joker-1018634.png">Jack Nicholson</a>, <a href="https://d13ezvd6yrslxm.cloudfront.net/wp/wp-content/images/Mark-Hamill-Trickster.jpg">Mark Hamill</a>, and <a href="https://pyxis.nymag.com/v1/imgs/c85/e3a/527f6946a4b4cef72f2df5fc6d62a50af2-10-joker-heath-ledger.2x.rhorizontal.w710.jpg">Heath Ledger</a>, but his take on the Joker is definitely one to watch. In fact, it’s almost impossible to take your eyes off the screen because you’re worried Arthur Fleck is going to sneak up and attack you. This origin story of the Clown Prince of Crime is a well-made drama, grounded in reality, but riddled with delusional fantasy.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>And my #1 favorite movie that I watched last year is.....</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-22kHiOhWs4w/YAIGYmrce7I/AAAAAAAACus/wYmJmSk3rWg_GWNktN-1N7oQ-6M2z9VCgCLcBGAsYHQ/s879/Parasite.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="879" data-original-width="569" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-22kHiOhWs4w/YAIGYmrce7I/AAAAAAAACus/wYmJmSk3rWg_GWNktN-1N7oQ-6M2z9VCgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Parasite.jpg" /></a></span></b></div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />1. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5xH0HfJHsaY">Parasite</a> (2019)</span></b><p></p><p>It’s hard to nail down what type of movie Parasite is, but this drama/thriller/comedy is definitely worth seeing. Bong Joon-ho tells this story in a way that keeps you engaged and keeps you guessing, with <a href="https://i0.wp.com/kakuchopurei.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Tenet-Ending-Explained-1.jpg?fit=1920%2C1080&ssl=1">protagonists</a> you can’t fully like and antagonists you don’t really hate. Even though I may not agree with every decision this film makes, I enjoyed <a href="https://i1.wp.com/media0.giphy.com/media/gKqY3Xh9RE6JAmbdfo/giphy.gif?resize=640%2C640&ssl=1&crop=1">the journey</a> and I’ll be thinking about it for a very long time.</p><p><br /></p><p>But wait! There's more! They may have not made my top 10, but I also wanted to give an honorable mention to these other movies I saw for the first time in 2020: <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0052151/">Run Silent, Run Deep</a> (1958), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0046359/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">Stalag 17</a> (1953), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1148204/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">Orphan</a> (2009), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8364368/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0">Crawl</a> (2019), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0436697/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_3">The Queen</a> (2006), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0033152/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0">The Thief of Bagdad</a> (1940), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0057076/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">From Russia with Love</a> (1963), and <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0076752/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">The Spy Who Loved Me</a> (1977).</p><p>Thanks for visiting <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/">Slice of Fried Gold</a> once again, <a href="https://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Screen-Shot-2021-01-14-at-5.10.00-PM.jpg">faithful readers</a>! Here's to hoping that 2021 gives us more theatrical releases, more parties with extended family, more <a href="https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-674x446/06/6e/ea/50.jpg">vacations abroad</a>, and more excuses to not go to the gym!</p>The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-63740629069512826902020-01-13T00:01:00.001-07:002021-01-15T13:50:17.318-07:00My Own Subjective Top 10 Movies of 2019Huh. I guess it's <a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/1/1c/High_School_Musical_2_%E2%80%93_What_Time_Is_It%3F.png">that time again</a>.<br />
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<i>*blows the dust off of Blogger* </i><br />
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Hello, <a href="https://s3.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/27174640/9am.jpg">faithful readers</a>! If you're reading this, it means you're reading a blog. DO NOT BE ALARMED! You have not traveled <a href="http://www.forgetthebox.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Top-of-post1.jpg">back in time to 2012</a>! This is actually the one time a year that I update <a href="https://media2.s-nbcnews.com/i/newscms/2018_40/1373641/popeyes-gold-wings-today-main-181004_98a022ecc01f9314b578d24bcc224d04.jpg">Slice of Fried Gold</a> because it's time for me to inform you of my top 10 favorite movies that I watched this past year.<br />
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I've been doing this since <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2009.html">2009</a> (including such years as <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2010.html">2010</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2012/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2011.html">2011</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2012.html">2012</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2014/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2013.html">2013</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2015/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2014.html">2014</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2016/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2015.html">2015</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2017/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2016.html">2016</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2018/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2017.html">2017</a> & <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2019/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2018.html">2018</a>), and while it's mostly a self-indulgent way for me to keep track of my favorite movies, it's also so that, in the unlikely event that someone actually asks me for a film recommendation, I can give them one—maybe even by simply pointing them to this blog instead of having any sort of <a href="https://www.amodelrecommends.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Screen-Shot-2017-07-01-at-07.40.26-550x550.png">tedious verbal conversation</a>.<br />
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By the way, if you want to hear the five worst movies I saw last year, give a listen to the latest episode of my podcast, <a href="https://baconsale.com/2020/01/13/baconsale-episode-236-best-worst-movies-of-2019-ish/">Baconsale</a>.<br />
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Anyway, without further <a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/sgp-catalog-images/region_US/lt5wv-C0P5CZZRD3W-Full-Image_GalleryBackground-en-US-1569606108069._SX1080_.jpg">ado</a>, let's see which movies I liked in 2019.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">10. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nt9L1jCKGnE">Spider-Man: Far from Home</a> (2019)</span></b><br />
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Spider-Man: Far from Home is a highly entertaining sequel as well as a satisfying continuation of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. <a href="https://img1.looper.com/img/gallery/why-hollywood-wont-cast-tom-welling-anymore/-1505480984.jpg">Tom Holland</a> really captures the character of a kid overwhelmed with new responsibilities. The jokes were plentiful, and I found myself laughing a lot more than I thought I would. Plus, the action was <a href="https://i.pinimg.com/originals/21/4b/17/214b17f73053f73474b16ff6eb6c61f8.gif">visually thrilling</a>. If you just keep in mind that this is a comic book movie with comic book problems & solutions, you shouldn't be disappointed.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">9. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=urRVZ4SW7WU">Free Solo</a> (2018)</span></b><br />
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I don’t think my palms have stopped sweating since watching <a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/7277/7610747876_d265197010_b.jpg">Free Solo</a>. This documentary is beautifully shot and told in a way that keeps you hanging on every moment. Professional rock climber Alex Honnold is definitely insane, and yet you have to admire his strength and determination. I have no desire to climb <a href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/as-graphic-yosemite.jpg">El Capitan</a>, nor do I think anyone else should try climbing it free solo, but I’m glad I got to experience it by proxy safely from the comfort of my couch.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">8. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkZxoko_HC0">Green Book</a> (2018)</span></b><br />
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Green Book is anchored in two wonderful performances by Mahershala Ali and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5vsCrWjC7cs">Viggo Mortensen</a>. Their characters are complex and nuanced and it's the relationship between these two characters that keeps you engaged. It's also interesting to see Peter Farrelly direct something that isn't as goofy as his <a href="https://www.imdb.com/list/ls063998887/">previous movies</a>. This story felt unique and was able to address the subject of racism in a way that didn't feel cliched or cartoonish. Is it the best film of 2018? That's debatable. But it's definitely enjoyable.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">7. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LV3z2Ytxu90">High and Low</a> (1963)</span></b><br />
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Considering that most of High and Low takes place in one setting, this movie does a great job of building suspense and holding the interest of the audience. It also feels very realistic as the detectives try to discover the location and the identity of the <a href="https://www.todaysparent.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/agebyageguidetonaps1280x960-810x445-1488387934.jpg">kidnapper</a>. It's a slow-moving, but well-thought-out story with characters that you care about.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">6. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tL4McUzXfFI">Jojo Rabbit</a> (2019)</span></b><br />
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Watching Jojo Rabbit is a peculiar experience. At times, this film is delightfully irreverent. Then suddenly the story becomes emotionally poignant. And then somehow it swings back to the <a href="http://www.scottyhdavis.com/.a/6a00d8341eb8e453ef019102d917a6970c-pi">silly</a> again. The dark comedy feels almost "verboten," but it’s also kind of refreshing to see material like this in our increasingly <a href="https://i.pinimg.com/originals/b5/50/59/b550593c709889610f1d2e365d12e7a7.jpg">hypersensitive world</a>. Plus, Roman Griffin Davis gives an impressively nuanced performance as the titular character. I don’t know how or why this movie works, but it truly does.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">5. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=go6GEIrcvFY">Shazam!</a> (2019)</span></b><br />
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I'm not going to say that Shazam is the <a href="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BMmIwZWY1YTYtNDlhOS00NDRmLWI4MzItNjk2NDc1N2NhYzNlXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyNTUyMzE4Mzg@._V1_.jpg">best DC movie ever</a>, but I am going to say that this is the most enjoyable DC Comics movie I've seen in a long time. This fun family action flick has heart behind the humor, which makes it resonate more with the audience. And while the film has its fair share of flaws, it's easy to overlook them because it's an entertaining ride. Shazam <a href="https://66.media.tumblr.com/9d560e0780d539d47da2be4ba67d7cf6/tumblr_ppldu9bdDX1rrkahjo1_540.gifv">has the spark</a> that many other superhero movies are missing.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hUraDx3oFVg">Take Shelter</a> (2011)</span></b><br />
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Take Shelter preys on one of my biggest fears: not knowing the difference between <a href="https://i.pinimg.com/originals/93/51/6f/93516fd5f5f4c126ceaf8a28fa1a6071.jpg">what’s real</a> and <a href="https://qph.fs.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-92ea95f697a09f01c37b5bc6ae5afc25">what’s not</a>. This is a slow-paced, yet methodical psychological thriller that is carried almost entirely by Michael Shannon’s engaging performance. And while the ending left me scratching my head a bit, I haven’t stopped thinking about this film since I saw it.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y8lFgF_IjPw">Eighth Grade</a> (2018)</span></b><br />
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If there is one word to describe Eighth Grade, it's genuine. This film doesn't try to hit the usual clichés of <a href="https://img04.mgo-images.com/image/thumbnail?id=1MV6cfdabc27e3c737b1e2bb58bfb45ccb0&ql=70&sizes=310x465">teen angst movies</a>, it simply tells the awkward (and sometimes hilarious) truth of youth growing up in the modern era. Plus, the performances of Elsie Fisher, Josh Hamilton and the rest of the cast are refreshingly sincere. I may have hated <a href="https://i.chzbgr.com/full/9273198336/h76D460B9/funny-memea-bout-8th-grade-boys-using-axe-body-spray-instead-of-showering">eighth grade</a> in real life, but I really enjoyed Eighth Grade the movie.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcMBFSGVi1c">Avengers: Endgame</a> - (2019)</span></b><br />
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Avengers: Endgame is a well-made and well-deserved victory lap for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It ties in <a href="https://live.staticflickr.com/4738/39138378452_57b59f66e4_b.jpg">many different storylines</a> from previous films and allows you to reminisce while also saying goodbye to characters you’ve known and loved. This film has a <a href="https://i.redd.it/zw41wn8om1e31.png">few flaws</a>, but it also made some bold choices and surprised me a number of times. I laughed. I cried. I loved this finale to the Infinity Saga.<br />
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And the best movie that I watched in 2019 was....<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g4Hbz2jLxvQ">Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse</a> (2018)</span></b><br />
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We really didn't need another Spider-Man movie. After all, the <a href="http://www.followingthenerd.com/site/wp-content/uploads/spider-man-5.jpg">franchise has been rebooted</a> so many times that the timelines are starting to get muddled—which is why Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse works so perfectly. The film deals with multiple dimensions in a palatable & pleasing way. The animation is uniquely superb and makes you feel like you're <a href="https://i.redd.it/pbqhkp0yxm831.jpg">watching a comic book</a>. Plus, the story feels like a classic Wall-crawler adventure. Look out! Here comes a truly amazing Spider-Man movie.<br />
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And let's not forget my honorable mentions: <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4244998/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">Alpha</a> (2018), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1037705/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">The Book of Eli</a> (2010), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3224458/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0">A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood</a> (2019), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0115988/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0">The Crucible</a> (1996), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0043265/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0">The African Queen</a> (1951), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0114287/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0">Rob Roy</a> (1995), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0347618/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0">The Cat Returns</a> (2002), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1568921/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0">The Secret World of Arrietty</a> (2010), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4729430/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_3">Klaus</a> (2019), and <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7653254/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0">Marriage Story</a> (2019).<br />
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So there you go. That's my list. That's all he wrote. Except for this last part where I thank you for making it all the way here to the bottom. I hope this list helped you discover a movie or two that interest you. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NhjC4Sks024">Until I see you again</a>, <a href="https://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Cabbage-Patch-2048x2048.jpg">faithful readers</a>!The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-15245205036755075402019-01-14T00:01:00.000-07:002019-01-15T00:07:06.511-07:00My Own Subjective Top 10 Movies of 2018Well, <a href="https://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Screen-Shot-2019-01-08-at-5.28.03-PM.jpg">faithful readers</a>, the Earth has made another trip around the sun, which means it's time for yet another post about my favorite movies that I watched for the first time this past year, regardless of the year they were released.<br />
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It seems as if this is the only time I'm ever going to update this blog, doesn't it? Well, the truth is, most of my creativity is currently being used for a podcast I host called <a href="https://baconsale.com/">Baconsale</a>. In fact, on the latest episode, I not only talk about my favorite movies, I also talk about my <i>least </i>favorite. <a href="https://baconsale.com/2019/01/14/baconsale-episode-187-best-worst-movies-of-2018-ish/">Give it a listen</a>, won't you?<br />
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However, unlike other years' lists, such as <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2009.html">2009</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2010.html">2010</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2012/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2011.html">2011</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2012.html">2012</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2014/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2013.html">2013</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2015/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2014.html">2014</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2016/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2015.html">2015</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2017/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2016.html">2016</a>, and <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2018/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2017.html">2017</a>, this year's list is about 2018, which is totally different.<br />
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Shall we begin? <a href="https://getyarn.io/yarn-clip/e1f90bfe-1700-4390-87ec-57dc77b6e7c4">Okay, then....</a><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pnMUcVE-Piw/XDv8C61USTI/AAAAAAAACmQ/2hi77Iq6dV01L4ovk4yTtpdRaxPmRn-TgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Infinity%2BWar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="679" data-original-width="453" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pnMUcVE-Piw/XDv8C61USTI/AAAAAAAACmQ/2hi77Iq6dV01L4ovk4yTtpdRaxPmRn-TgCEwYBhgL/s320/Infinity%2BWar.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">10. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ZfuNTqbHE8">Avengers: Infinity War</a> (2018)</span></b><br />
Avengers: Infinity War does a good job of taking moving parts from the 18 <a href="https://cdn3.whatculture.com/images/2013/11/01.jpg">previous Marvel films</a> and putting them together into one, cohesive machine. Each superhero gets his or her chance to shine, and Thanos holds his own as the antagonist. This movie can't really stand on its own, but is has an epic feel, as well as enough humor and action to keep <a href="https://plus.google.com/photos/103620319122041569376/albums/profile/6005203595126733218?iso=false">fans of this cinematic universe</a> entertained.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bkzjwp6NMd4/XDv8Juc78eI/AAAAAAAACms/ooW1DW9MqTY825BBymswLr0OKhYq2D0mQCEwYBhgL/s1600/Ready%2BPlayer%2BOne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bkzjwp6NMd4/XDv8Juc78eI/AAAAAAAACms/ooW1DW9MqTY825BBymswLr0OKhYq2D0mQCEwYBhgL/s320/Ready%2BPlayer%2BOne.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">9. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cSp1dM2Vj48">Ready Player One</a> (2018)</span></b><br />
Ready Player One is more than just a nostalgia-fueled adrenaline rush. It has heart, a compelling story and ideas that don't seem <a href="http://ixd.prattsi.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/VR-fail.jpg">too far from reality</a>. The fact that this movie has amazing visuals and more Easter eggs than you can possibly catch in one viewing doesn't hurt, either. This film is a lot of fun for any fan of pop culture, and <a href="https://i.imgflip.com/fhzg.png">the book is even better</a>!<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ic3AfHCIj9w/XDv8H2tVdJI/AAAAAAAACmY/X-eMEVzT25Uuh_1cLXQHdU0l4mj5YFxJQCEwYBhgL/s1600/I%2BConfess.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="601" data-original-width="450" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ic3AfHCIj9w/XDv8H2tVdJI/AAAAAAAACmY/X-eMEVzT25Uuh_1cLXQHdU0l4mj5YFxJQCEwYBhgL/s320/I%2BConfess.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">8. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NiajVY-f99s">I Confess</a> (1953)</span></b><br />
I Confess is a riveting drama with a powerful performance by Montgomery Clift as a man having <a href="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/fUwC_gDVooQ/maxresdefault.jpg">a serious moral and theological crisis</a>. O.E. Hasse also does a wonderful job as the antagonist, needling Father Logan (Clift) when he feels he has the upper hand. Aside from a few minor missteps, this is a top-tier thriller from <a href="https://baconsale.com/2018/10/01/baconsale-episode-175-the-men-who-knew-too-much-about-hitchcock/">Alfred Hitchcock</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1j5L98mGQ1g/XDv8IOeNl1I/AAAAAAAACm4/Ysiv1Bzyx0IQ19sDiRqk4ieDVW8Kx0NbwCEwYBhgL/s1600/I%2BTonya.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="679" data-original-width="441" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1j5L98mGQ1g/XDv8IOeNl1I/AAAAAAAACm4/Ysiv1Bzyx0IQ19sDiRqk4ieDVW8Kx0NbwCEwYBhgL/s320/I%2BTonya.jpg" width="207" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">7. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXZQ5DfSAAc">I, Tonya</a> (2017)</span></b><br />
I don't know if I buy everything they're selling in I, Tonya, but I sure enjoyed the way they <a href="https://www.maxim.com/.image/ar_8:10%2Cc_fill%2Ccs_srgb%2Cfl_progressive%2Cg_faces:center%2Cq_auto:good%2Cw_620/MTUwMjg2MDMxNzMwNTE4MDEy/margot-robbie-wolf-1.jpg">presented it</a>. This movie gives a different perspective on the story we all heard about back in the 90s in a way that keeps you engaged and entertained. Allison Janney is horribly delightful, and Margot Robbie disappears into the role of Tonya Harding. This film is <a href="https://external-preview.redd.it/ofDmKksYswWrIuB5FTniOjjwJr4Sb3vXQmfzsywjTSA.jpg?auto=webp&s=12c7a5e39d741c9463fe9c6a1c533d03fc10f544">dark, funny and absolutely fascinating</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ycnlrjz8QTE/XDv8J3CCftI/AAAAAAAACnE/pMsyXTmst1UbcrGgPN75dGl-bYes6LAfwCEwYBhgL/s1600/Three%2BBillboards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="652" data-original-width="440" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ycnlrjz8QTE/XDv8J3CCftI/AAAAAAAACnE/pMsyXTmst1UbcrGgPN75dGl-bYes6LAfwCEwYBhgL/s320/Three%2BBillboards.jpg" width="215" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>6. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KwC5gazxFQc">Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri</a> (2017)</b></span><br />
One of my favorite things about Three Billboards Outside of Ebbing, Missouri is that I had no idea what was going to happen. The cast is full of <a href="https://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--EzMzlxDH--/c_scale,f_auto,fl_progressive,q_80,w_800/ytwss3xbexp3qauixvgf.jpg">complex characters</a> with evolving motivations and the story is unique and compelling. Also, despite the serious subject matter, this film is darkly comedic. Well done, <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1732981/#director">Martin McDonagh</a>.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">5. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CxeBdrGGU8U">Paddington</a> (2014)</span></b><br />
Paddington is a surprising delight. This movie has a <a href="http://pophaircuts.com/images/2012/02/Long-Layered-Hairstyles-2012.jpg">charming</a> quality to it that keeps you smiling almost the entire time. It's also quite clever, entertaining the adults just as much as the children. I was never really a big fan of Paddington Bear as I was <a href="http://www.5thgradebooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/kid_reading_boring-e1459526032134.jpg">growing up</a>, but this film made me want to give the franchise another chance.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m80yy9kDKfg/XDv8J8EulDI/AAAAAAAACnI/dNhEXEMwQJAXkvj7Vm87rgukcpFlyp9DACEwYBhgL/s1600/Upgrade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="681" data-original-width="453" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m80yy9kDKfg/XDv8J8EulDI/AAAAAAAACnI/dNhEXEMwQJAXkvj7Vm87rgukcpFlyp9DACEwYBhgL/s320/Upgrade.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36PDeN9NRZ0">Upgrade</a> (2018)</span></b><br />
Upgrade surprised me. It’s an interesting mix of action and sci-fi horror, but it also has a <a href="https://ci.memecdn.com/6430645.jpg">pinch of comedy</a>, which I wasn’t expecting. The clever cinematography and editing keep you engaged, and <a href="https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/i_MAjlCFyvcyhqO8WayaRw--~A/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjtzbT0xO3c9NzY4O2g9MTAyNA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en-US/homerun/w_988/8da70efd6da34b64e4d9f3990bd9628f">Logan Marshall-Green</a> (who is NOT <a href="https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/2018-10/2/15/asset/buzzfeed-prod-web-02/sub-buzz-22674-1538508352-22.jpg">Tom Hardy</a>) is able to carry the film mostly on his own. It’s a darker movie, but it’s also refreshing to see an original science fiction story.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XX5KpqpBSfQ">Game Night</a> (2018)</span></b><br />
When it comes to dark comedies, Game Night plays its cards right. Jason Bateman and Rachel McAdams make a great team, and <a href="https://www.gannett-cdn.com/-mm-/da864afff488a2050013275c99768666d8a79a58/c=463-0-1637-883/local/-/media/2018/02/21/USATODAY/USATODAY/636548361514747841-GN-FP-0040.jpg?width=540&height=405&fit=crop">Jesse Plemons</a> is absolutely hilarious. I found myself laughing out loud much more than I thought I would. The fun twists and turns do require some suspension of disbelief but, then again, so do most <a href="https://i.imgur.com/CJYzism.jpg">role-playing games</a>. If you're in the mood for a laugh, I'd definitely recommend rolling the dice and watching this movie.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=leE10vdvkho">Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle</a> (2017)</b></span><br />
When I first heard they were making a sequel to Jumanji, I was <a href="https://freebeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/54352612.jpg">against it</a>. However, upon seeing it, I was pleasantly surprised. This is an entertaining movie. It builds on the original movie, but it can stand on its own, and the film creates a new set of obstacles for the heroes to overcome. Plus, it features plenty of action and laughs. Jumanji: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7ojOWMwpNM">Welcome to the Jungle</a> is a sequel done right.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WR7cc5t7tv8">A Quiet Place</a> (2018)</b></span><br />
Wow! This film is intense! A Quiet Place is a smart and ambitious horror film unlike any I've seen before—and I've seen a lot of <a href="https://theformer786.blogspot.com/search?q=horror">scary movies</a>. It's consistently suspenseful, and it has a strong emotional core due to powerful performances from the cast. Listen, even if you're <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/film/2018/apr/08/john-krasinski-a-quiet-place-emily-blunt-horror">not a fan of horror</a>, you should still give this sci-fi drama a chance. It's definitely worth watching.<br />
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I'd also like to give an honorable mention to <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0469494/?ref_=nv_sr_1">There Will be Blood</a> (2007), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4925292/?ref_=nv_sr_1">Lady Bird</a> (2017), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0040897/?ref_=nv_sr_1">The Treasure of the Sierra Madre</a> (1948), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0056217/?ref_=nv_sr_1">The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance</a> (1962), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1485796/">The Greatest Showman</a> (2017), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5700672/">Train to Busan</a> (2016), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1396484/?ref_=nv_sr_3">It</a> (2017), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4468740/?ref_=nv_sr_1">Paddington 2</a> (2018) and <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7668870/?ref_=nv_sr_1">Searching</a> (2018). These are the ones that stand out in a cinematic year that, well, wasn't that good.<br />
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Well, that's all for now. Like I said, listen to Baconsale if you want to hear my <a href="https://i.pinimg.com/originals/5f/52/5a/5f525a12c6391aeb1c8f92df771a532e.jpg">most-hated movies</a> of 2018, as well. So until next year, <a href="https://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Screen-Shot-2018-11-30-at-3.35.31-PM.jpg">faithful readers</a>, keep on doing stuff and enjoying things. . .<br />
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Man, I really gotta come up with a better closing <a href="https://play.howstuffworks.com/quiz/tv-catchphrase-quiz">catchphrase</a>.The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-37709687128408206062018-01-15T00:01:00.000-07:002018-01-15T23:03:32.920-07:00My Own Subjective Top 10 Movies of 2017First, there was my subjective film list of <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2009.html">2009</a>....<br />
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Then came the lists of <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2010.html">2010</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2012/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2011.html">2011</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2012.html">2012</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2014/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2013.html">2013</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2015/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2014.html">2014</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2016/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2015.html">2015</a> and <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2017/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2016.html">2016</a>.<br />
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And now, <a href="https://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2017/12/Screen-Shot-2017-12-06-at-6_28_47-PM/438034056.jpg">faithful readers</a>, since I know that you've all been <a href="https://associationsnow.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/1210_meetings-800x480.jpg">clamoring for it</a>, here is the official countdown list of my favorite films that I watched in 2017.*<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>*They didn't have to be released last year, though most of them </i>are <i>this time. Strange.**</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>**I also watched many of these films using ClearPlay and VidAngel. If you wonder why I watch edited movies, you're in luck! I wrote <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/07/why-i-watch-edited-movies.html">a post about it back in 2013</a>.***</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>***Made you look.</i></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">10. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9YZw_X5UzQ">Baby Driver</a> (2017)</span></b><br />
With Baby Driver, Edgar Wright has, once again, proved himself as one of the most creative directors of our time. And I'm not just giving him a pass because he is the man who created <a href="https://media2.giphy.com/media/Zw3oBUuOlDJ3W/giphy.gif">Shaun of the Dead</a>. This movie is refreshingly original. It's an action/musical hybrid, complete with carefully choreographed car chases and gunfights timed to a <a href="https://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--QtvbyVKd--/c_scale,fl_progressive,q_80,w_800/18fvdu6qes8n6jpg.jpg">toe-tapping soundtrack</a>. It's darker than I thought it was going to be, but I still couldn't stop smiling the whole time during this film.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">9. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQoqsKoJVDw">Hell or High Water</a> (2016)</span></b><br />
Hell or High Water is an intense and complicated film. I found myself rooting for <a href="https://i.pinimg.com/736x/3e/8e/63/3e8e63860c9cec1bdcc1886838e96d7b--chris-evans-chris-delia.jpg">Chris Pine</a> at certain points in the story, and then, at other times, I was rooting for <a href="https://pmcvariety.files.wordpress.com/2017/03/jeff-daniels.jpg?w=1000&h=563&crop=1">Jeff Bridges</a> -- both of whom give fantastic performances. This is a slow burn movie with plenty of suspense before the explosive and emotional ending.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">8. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dW1BIid8Osg">Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2</a> (2017)</span></b><br />
From the opening credits to the final battle, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 is highly entertaining. I think I like this sequel more than the original. It may be a bit silly for <a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/599ba6ee6f4ca3f47157ddd1/t/59a37732e3df28ce227f6a75/1503885112680/Image_Banner_14KennyD.jpg">cynical adults</a>, and it's a little too dark for children, but it feels just about right for teenagers. Is it a perfect movie? No. Do all the hundreds of jokes land? No. That doesn't really matter, though, because if you just sit back and enjoy the ride, you'll realize this is precisely what a <a href="https://m.popkey.co/98d4e9/1GJN7.gif">summer blockbuster</a> should be.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">7. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRfnevzM9kQ">Get Out</a> (2017)</span></b><br />
Get Out is unique, captivating and, at times, absolutely uncomfortable. I wasn't sold on Daniel Kaluuya as the lead initially -- he seemed kind of <a href="http://cdn2us.denofgeek.com/sites/denofgeekus/files/the-wicker-man_0.jpg">wooden</a> -- however, by the end, I was completely sold on his performance. And the rest of the cast adds to the suspenseful ambiance of this film. Jordan Peele has proven himself as a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ezg4sr67OGA">hilarious comedian</a>, now he can check the box next to talented writer/director, as well.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">6. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFMo3UJ4B4g">Arrival</a> (2016)</span></b><br />
Arrival seems very plausible, which is why it works. It feels like a realistic response to an <a href="https://i.pinimg.com/originals/b8/30/9d/b8309d787c8a397d589e1bf3845d8977.jpg">extra-terrestrial encounter</a>. This isn't an action-packed alien invasion blockbuster -- it's a deep-thinking drama about trying to understand the incomprehensible. <a href="http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2016/11/18/01/3A7EF70600000578-0-image-m-70_1479431453088.jpg">Amy Adams</a> carries this movie, and Jeremy Renner isn't annoying, which was a surprise. This is slow, but smart science fiction.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">5. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84TouqfIsiI">Split</a> (2017)</span></b><br />
Split is not M. Night Shyamalan's best work, but it was one of my favorite experiences in a <a href="https://margethelarge.files.wordpress.com/2015/02/dirty-movie-theater.jpg">movie theater</a> in a long time. When I realized <i><span style="color: red;"><b>****SPOILER ALERT****</b></span></i> this movie was really a secret sequel to Unbreakable, <i><b><span style="color: red;">****END OF SPOILERS****</span></b></i> I was blown away. It's obvious that James McAvoy enjoys playing the <a href="https://estreetfilmsociety.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/three-faces-of-eve-cinema-quad-movie-poster-1.jpg">different personalities</a>, and he does a fantastic job with that role. If you like Shyamalan's earlier films like Unbreakable and The Sixth Sense, then you should avoid any spoilers and go see this movie.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jcD0Daqc3Yw">The Big Sick</a> (2017)</span></b><br />
The Big Sick starts out like a standard <a href="https://i.imgur.com/BJgfukE.gif">low-budget</a> indie movie about a comedian trying to make it big, but then it morphs into something different and better. It's quite funny, but there's also a dramatic edge to it that pulls you in. Kumail Nanjiani isn't just a goofy character, he actually <a href="https://images.redbox.com/Images/EPC/boxartvertical/200334.jpg">emotes</a> and makes the whole film feel more believable. This is a surprisingly impressive film.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKFuXETZUsI">Moana</a> (2016)</span></b><br />
Moana is a memorable movie with <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPAbx5kgCJo">beautiful music</a> (that isn't as annoying as some other, colder, soundtracks I could name) and stunning animation. Disney is hitting on all cylinders this time around. I loved the story and Auli'i Cravalho as Moana is particularly endearing. And who knew <a href="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/WT0te6DvuoE/maxresdefault.jpg">The Rock</a> could sing? This has definitely earned a place among the Disney animated classics.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9DwoQ7HWvI">Spider-Man: Homecoming</a> (2017)</span></b><br />
I was very skeptical about yet another <a href="https://cs.pikabu.ru/post_img/2012-12_5/1356283303_1690281961.jpg">web-slinging reboot</a>, but Spider-Man: Homecoming surprised me. It is much more than I expected it to be. It's fun, it's funny and it's cleverly tied in to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Tom Holland plays Peter Parker perfectly, while Michael Keaton is excellent as the <a href="http://slideplayer.com/slide/9705616/31/images/2/Alliteration+The+repetition+of+the+same+letter+or+sound+at+the+beginning+of+words.+Example+1:+She+sells+sea+shells+by+the+sea+shore.jpg">villainous Vulture</a>. This film gives me hope for the future of the Spider-Man franchise.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0pdqf4P9MB8">La La Land</a> (2016)</span></b><br />
La La Land offers a stunningly beautiful portrayal of the joy of <a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NT8rw0InPdc/Vw5k3Cx6R5I/AAAAAAAAVBc/Rw9qUQnohRoGhzISNOXfC94Ew4wjmQMKwCLcB/s320/BAJAR%2BCON%2BESTILO%2B42016.gif">falling in love</a>, as well as the agony of trying to follow your dreams. This throwback to classic musicals features a highly impressive opening number and powerful performances from both Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling. It gives us the sweet without being too sappy and shows us the <a href="http://www.funnyjunksite.com/pictures/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Fall-In-Love.jpg">bitter</a> without being too pessimistic. Here's to the ones who dreamed up this film.<br />
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And since I can't fit all of the films I really liked in the top ten (I <a href="https://nowtoronto.com/downloads/73745/download/BInge-Cover.jpg?cb=67f15ed5d6ea31c9e9803e2343295532">watch a lot of movies</a>), here are my honorable mentions for others I enjoyed seeing for the first time this past year: <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2316204/?ref_=nv_sr_1">Alien: Covenant</a> (2017), <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1856101/?ref_=nv_sr_1">Blade Runner 2049</a> (2017), <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3065204/?ref_=nv_sr_2">The Conjuring 2</a> (2016), <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0435625/?ref_=nv_sr_1">The Descent</a> (2005), <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt5013056/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">Dunkirk</a> (2017), <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0058461/?ref_=nv_sr_2">A Fistful of Dollars</a> (1964), <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2119532/?ref_=nv_sr_1">Hacksaw Ridge</a> (2016), <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0974015/?ref_=nv_sr_1">Justice League</a> (2017), <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt5439796/?ref_=nv_sr_1">Logan Lucky</a> (2017), <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3315342/?ref_=nv_sr_1">Logan</a> (2017), <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt5362988/?ref_=nv_sr_1">Wind River</a> (2017) and <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt5311514/?ref_=nv_sr_2">Your Name</a> (2017).<br />
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And, as an added bonus, if you want to hear my worst-hated movies of 2017, you can listen to this episode of Baconsale: <a href="https://baconsale.com/2018/01/15/baconsale-episode-138-best-worst-movies-of-2017-ish/">https://baconsale.com/2018/01/15/baconsale-episode-138-best-worst-movies-of-2017-ish/</a><br />
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Stay well, <a href="https://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2017/12/hair/49138520.jpg">faithful readers</a>!The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-27750131793646803982017-01-04T00:01:00.000-07:002017-01-04T00:01:14.868-07:00My Own Subjective Top 10 Movies of 2016<br />
So, yes, <a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2016/12/15443135_10154029541866560_7301729414793109969_o/3911005941.jpg">faithful readers</a>, at this point you can probably surmise that these annual countdowns are going to be the only regular posts on this blog. I have a few drafts that I've started, but life in 2016 was <a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-5W8CcPH1Jm8/UMpLqa_O3tI/AAAAAAAAHSw/hjd_OT7zZHk/w800-h800/useless_598.gif">pretty busy</a> for me. However, I still managed to make time to watch movies (go figure), and I still managed to piece together my own subjective list of favorite movies I watched this <a href="http://beartoons.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/4-27-16-Bearman-Cartoon-Grim-Reaper-Fortune-Cookie.png">past year</a>.<br />
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Now, once again, I must put a disclaimer that these are movies I <i>saw</i> for the first time in 2016 -- not necessarily films that were made in 2016. And I should also disclaim that I watched many of these movies using my old, reliable <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/07/why-i-watch-edited-movies.html">ClearPlay</a> and the newcomer <a href="http://savefiltering.nationbuilder.com/">VidAngel</a>. In fact, if you haven't read <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2009.html">my</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2010.html">previous</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2012/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2011.html">movie</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2012.html">lists</a> from the <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2014/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2013.html">past</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2015/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2014.html">seven</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2016/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2015.html">years</a>, you should go back and read those for the rest of my disclaimers and header information.<br />
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For now, and without further <a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/df/42/3f/df423fc75c49e0c982244f96ffb65eb4.jpg">ado</a>, let's get into it!<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mfSA414HGjo/WGx1SfDZ4PI/AAAAAAAACgw/i2v4CH_3SmkyVhUAywqC21Yd_SlFENZkgCEw/s1600/Brooklyn%2BPoster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mfSA414HGjo/WGx1SfDZ4PI/AAAAAAAACgw/i2v4CH_3SmkyVhUAywqC21Yd_SlFENZkgCEw/s320/Brooklyn%2BPoster.jpg" width="213" /></a><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">10. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15syDwC000k">Brooklyn</a> (2015)</span></b><br />
Brooklyn is a well-made film, but it seems odd to me that it was nominated for Best Picture. This movie is, essentially, a more dramatic version of <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/07/essential-ingredients-of-romantic.html">Sweet Home Alabama</a>. Nevertheless, Saoirse Ronan is outstanding in her role as Eilis, and the supporting cast is a delight to watch, as well. 'Tis a fine <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/03/watch-me-im-irish.html">Irish film</a>!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wYZywYBvbCs/WGx1TF2-MWI/AAAAAAAAChQ/Z2-CVpyAerIpUYgiCclRj-8UEe_bwc3SACEw/s1600/nanny_mcphee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wYZywYBvbCs/WGx1TF2-MWI/AAAAAAAAChQ/Z2-CVpyAerIpUYgiCclRj-8UEe_bwc3SACEw/s320/nanny_mcphee.jpg" width="216" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">9. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2wxtZPI5kRo">Nanny McPhee</a> (2006)</span></b><br />
I was worried that Nanny McPhee was going to be a cheap rip-off of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2T5_0AGdFic">Mary Poppins</a>, but I was surprised how quirky, entertaining and original this film feels. It's a lot of fun. Emma Thompson is delightfully enigmatic, and the story is compelling enough to keep both children and adults interested. This movie was a pleasant <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Cg0UrJfrmCo/UzXSS2mAw8I/AAAAAAAAATI/lK2YxZFmPuU/s1600/P3300244.jpg">surprise</a> for me.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">8. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoebZZ8K5N0">The Revenant</a> (2015)</span></b><br />
If you ever want to convince someone to not go <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZdqIpYhM6PE">camping</a>, The Revenant would make a pretty effective argument. This film is raw and brutal and powerful, and Alejandro G. Iñárritu makes you feel like you're freezing and suffering alongside the characters as you're watching it. Leonardo DiCaprio pulls out some of his <a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/a8/ee/5d/a8ee5d5929e449c6981df1912d1bc1d3.jpg">best acting chops</a>, while Tom Hardy completely disappears into John Fitzgerald's despicable boots. This may not have won Best Picture, but it is certainly one of the most memorable films of 2015.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">7. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8tlEcnrGnU">Sicario</a> (2015)</span></b><br />
Sicario is stressful - very, very stressful. And the scariest thing is that this film doesn't seem too far detached from <a href="http://i.imgur.com/qRH4vxw.jpg">reality</a>. Emily Blunt gives a powerful and emotional performance, and Benicio Del Toro is mesmerizing as the mysterious Alejandro. This is not a movie that I can <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2008/11/inspirational-film-list.html">pop in anytime and enjoy</a>, but it is a well-crafted piece of cinema.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">6. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dKrVegVI0Us">Captain America: Civil War</a> (2016)</span></b><br />
Captain America: Civil War is a lot of fun. This film <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VFEvABdPvbI/VMgnGb_yXBI/AAAAAAAAAt0/8yOSEHW2ntg/s1600/tumblr_nagq6amcu91ry46hlo1_500.gif">expertly juggles</a> action, drama, humor and multiple character storylines in a way that makes you almost forget that this is the longest Marvel movie to date. The plot is compelling and the actors play well off of each other. The ending isn't as satisfying as I had hoped it would be, and you have to have seen at least <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_e-y-Rrz58H4/TM4QNHdsRlI/AAAAAAAABLA/lXCtyj3SzjE/s1600/DC_Captain_America.jpg">Captain America: The Winter Soldier</a> and <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DPKyhesDcrc/Uza89L1AimI/AAAAAAAAlk8/17oO0tskVy0/s1600/pzra.png">Avengers: Age of Ultron</a> to fully understand what is going on, but overall this is one of the best movies in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">5. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EwdCIpbTN5g">Spotlight</a> (2015)</span></b><br />
Spotlight is a well-made and heartbreaking film. The actors, <a href="http://i.imgur.com/yHvXe.jpg">Mark Ruffalo</a> in particular, do a great job of expressing the range of emotions required for such a sensitive topic. Plus, the story, though hard to watch, is absolutely compelling. I'm not bothered that this won <a href="https://baconsale.com/2016/02/22/baconsale-episode-45-it-was-the-best-of-pictures-it-was-the-worst-of-pictures/">Best Picture</a>.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ecW-d-CBPc">Gran Torino</a> (2009)</span></b><br />
How can a film be <a href="http://www.kidsgamesheroes.com/paginasinfo/images/Dora-The-Explorer-Full.jpg">offensive and violent</a>, yet <a href="http://static-ru.relax.by/images/common/wysiwyg/2015/06/eabbddff67df03e68b8d0a5bdbfe4b86.jpg">charming and uplifting</a> at the same time? I don't know, but Gran Torino sure pulls it off. Clint Eastwood plays a despicable character, yet you can't help but like him. It shows what a good actor Eastwood is - even if the rest of the cast <a href="http://s2.quickmeme.com/img/d9/d9ad7b08d630cdd00032bd9f6f2c0f006dd3027afd4496e1665d5a1018da0865.jpg">struggles</a>. I didn't expect to like this movie as much as I did.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3</span></b><b><span style="font-size: large;">. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8LuxOYIpu-I">Trainspotting</a> (1996)</span></b><br />
Trainspotting is a frantic, bizarre, hilarious and horrifying look into the life of <a href="http://images.guff.com/media/25253/list/644128/5.jpg">drug addicts</a>. The pacing of this film grabs ahold of you at the very beginning and doesn't let go. The story pulls you along, whether you want to follow or not. Plus, through the course of the movie, you end up simultaneously loving and hating the main characters - which is an <a href="http://68.media.tumblr.com/8695884f60dd7167343830c29b50385e/tumblr_mrv17yRSbF1qdu4dpo1_1280.jpg">impressive feat</a>. In short, choose to watch Trainspotting.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=saHzng8fxLs">10 Cloverfield Lane</a> (2016)</span></b><br />
The best part about 10 Cloverfield Lane is that it keeps you guessing. <a href="http://s2.quickmeme.com/img/d6/d65eb45f4884a1f068ce528612a03dcb5e84fd9f616468fc86cd1f9d8870ab9b.jpg">John Goodman</a> does a fantastic job of portraying a character you don't know if you should trust or not, and Mary Elizabeth Winstead is a conflicted and effective protagonist. This is a clever, suspenseful and unique <a href="http://media.veryfunnypics.eu/2012/08/funny-picture-leaning-tower-of-piea-cause-this-is-thriller-thriller-night-555x472.jpg">thriller</a> that is definitely worth a watch.<br />
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And my #1 subjective pick for best movie I saw in 2016 is...<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPZqF_TPTGs">Room</a> (2015)</span></b><br />
Room is horrifying, beautiful and amazing. Brie Larson and Jacob Tremblay both give very <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MIt0VY7Yg2w">powerful performances</a> that deserve every accolade they've received. Plus, the story is absolutely riveting. There were parts of this movie where I was unable to breathe. This film makes you feel <a href="https://uproxx.files.wordpress.com/2014/01/troy-barnes-emotions.gif?w=650&h=330">all sorts of emotions</a>. It's not an easy movie to watch, but it is well worth your time.<br />
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So there you go. As <a href="http://experiencethewonder.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/2010-Warner-Bros-Consumer-Products-WBCP-DC-Comics-Licensing-Art-Wonder-Woman-Pop-Culture-007.jpg">my wife</a> pointed out, these are mostly pretty hard movies to watch, so, just in cast you need a little more variety, here are my honorable mentions from this past year: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3a9YU1SVbSE">The Maltese Falcon</a> (1941), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GLzWGnBqumk">Mr. Deeds Goes to Town</a> (1936), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sm9qaEJ3MBc">Mr. Smith Goes to Washington</a> (1939), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HcIMY1Ah3aw">Spartacus</a> (1960), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BiXFJdiGoWA">The Magnificent Seven</a> (1960) and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3IiZU9JBuE">The Gift</a> (2015).<br />
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Until my next post, <a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2016/12/goth-e1481591539801/600930592.png">faithful readers</a>! Or next year. Whichever comes first. We'll see.The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-13092055011956681842016-01-11T00:01:00.000-07:002016-01-11T12:58:33.738-07:00My Own Subjective Top 10 Movies of 2015No, <a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2016/01/kA4ps1z/200827989.jpg">faithful readers</a>, I'm <a href="https://sanguinefortitude.files.wordpress.com/2015/03/tomjgpc3nn7vsd5zdrg.gif">not dead yet</a>. In fact, I actually started a podcast this past year. It's called <a href="http://baconsale.com/">Baconsale</a> and it's my new creative outlet I have with Kent from <a href="http://showtimeshowdown.com/">Showtime Showdown</a> and Jacob from <a href="http://www.wherewhitepeoplemeet.com/">whatever he does</a>. So I guess the blog post <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/11/300-rise-of-sabbatical.html">sabbatical</a> continues.<br />
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NEVERTHELESS, I plan to continue to do my yearly countdown of the best movies I watched in the previous year, if for no other reason than to keep track of what movies I want to <a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/9/94/Clockwork'71.jpg">force other people to watch</a>. It's the same type of list you've <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2009.html">seen</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2010.html">for</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2012/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2011.html">the</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2012.html">past</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2014/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2013.html">six</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2015/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2014.html">years</a>. And, once again, just to reiterate, these are my favorite movies that I <i>watched for the first time</i> in 2015, they didn't have to be released in 2015. Make sense? Well, it does to me. So, without further <a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bd/Much_Ado_Quarto.JPG">ado</a>, here is my top ten list:<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">10. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2AUmvWm5ZDQ">John Wick</a> (2014)</span></b><br />
Every now and then, it feels good to watch a movie like John Wick. This revenge film is unapologetically brutal, and it gives us a <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_7D3VrzRaG8Y/TNWWcJXakEI/AAAAAAAACCI/8NbfctVJSh8/s1600/00016971.jpg">protagonist</a> that is <a href="https://thewhiteboarddoodles.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/jackbauerseason2.jpg">single-minded in purpose</a> and <a href="http://www.24spoilers.com/wp-content/uploads/2006/04/jack-bauer-plane-gun-24-season-5.jpg">extraordinarily good at what he does</a>. It's a simple and satisfying action flick. I could see John Wick going toe-to-toe with many of the classic action stars we already know and love and I welcome him with open arms (and a concealed side arm).<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>9. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EoQuVnKhxaM">Ex Machina</a> (2015)</b></span><br />
Ex Machina is an intelligent sci-fi thriller that puts you in a constant state of unease. This film has an intentionally slow and methodical pace that creates a mood and builds suspense. It has a <a href="http://screenrant.com/wp-content/uploads/Star-Wars-7-General-Hux-Character-Name.jpg">small</a> <a href="http://static4.techinsider.io/image/55ce1d2f371d2212008bfe25-1365-683/11879145_1007879875930280_3304429837994472327_o.jpg">cast</a>, but each actor plays their part very well. I didn't know where this movie was going to go and I liked that. It's not one I could watch over and over again, but I wish there were more original films like this one.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5uAR8P9dGVk/VpLSxj2ynlI/AAAAAAAACfo/mzO2L2UrLXg/s1600/Gone%2BBaby%2BGone%2BPoster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5uAR8P9dGVk/VpLSxj2ynlI/AAAAAAAACfo/mzO2L2UrLXg/s320/Gone%2BBaby%2BGone%2BPoster.jpg" width="216" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">8. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vAhPH8Qa_os">Gone Baby Gone</a> (2007)</span></b><br />
Gone Baby Gone is a well-directed, well-acted and emotionally complex film. It's not an easy movie to watch, but it presents its gritty reality in a way that makes it hard to look away. The actors, especially <a href="http://vignette1.wikia.nocookie.net/theoffice/images/2/27/Holly2.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20101114061802">Amy Ryan</a>, disappear into their roles and heighten the sense of realism. The film also brings up some interesting moral dilemmas that are sure to be a catalyst for conversation. Well done, <a href="http://13thdimension.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Batman-Yellow-West.jpg">Ben Affleck</a>.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">7. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1uP_8VJkDQ">Nightcrawler</a> (2014)</span></b><br />
Nightcrawler is an intense movie. Jake Gyllenhaal's performance as the sociopathic Louis Bloom is absolutely terrifying. Most of the suspense comes from wondering just how far <a href="http://media.comicbook.com/uploads1/2015/01/orlando-bloom-birthday-117709.jpg">Bloom</a> will go to succeed. This movie exposes a world of voyeuristic vultures running around recording other people's pain for profit. Plus, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uLOMdddg11A">Nightcrawler</a> is also a scathing rebuke of the ratings-hungry media as well as those who consume it. This is a well-crafted film.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yx6YwjZVGNI/VpLSzSOuuYI/AAAAAAAACfY/jq-V6PSKs0U/s1600/Whiplash%2BPoster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yx6YwjZVGNI/VpLSzSOuuYI/AAAAAAAACfY/jq-V6PSKs0U/s320/Whiplash%2BPoster.jpg" width="215" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">6. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7d_jQycdQGo" target="">Whiplash</a> (2014)</span></b><br />
Whiplash is a story without a real hero. J.K. Simmons is a terrifying villain and Miles Teller is a <a href="http://www.peoples.ru/art/circus/illusionist/david_blaine/blaine_200709180529215jpg">self-absorbed masochist</a>. That being said, this movie is absolutely compelling. I've never been in a band and I'm not really a fan of jazz music, yet I was completely drawn in by the movie and felt all sorts of emotions - mostly fear, panic and anxiety. I hope to never encounter someone like Terence Fletcher in my lifetime.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">5. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0oX0xiwOv8">Boyhood</a> (2014)</span></b><br />
Boyhood is a fascinating experiment in filmmaking. Watching the <a href="http://cdn-obs.line-apps.com/line/r/lineq/c/8da0c53b-fab3-4598-8658-22d90d240d40c11e15t02b53f9e">actors grow up</a> over the course of 12 years is a truly unique experience. I also like that the main characters are good people - they're not perfect, but they're trying to do their best. This movie is like watching someone's home movies...if their home movies were beautifully shot and wonderfully acted. This was a very ambitious film and I'm glad I saw it. I also look forward to seeing "Boyhood 2: Manhood" in another 12 years.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ym3LB0lOJ0o">Gone Girl</a> (2014)</span></b><br />
I like it when a movie can keep me guessing until the end, and Gone Girl did just that. Most of the time I didn't know where this film was going, and each new twist and turn was a surprise. You can't help but get pulled into the story. The actors all gave excellent performances, as well. I don't think I'll ever be able to look at <a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/6d/c5/12/6dc512b7b8643e5d94081891a4fe07d4.jpg">Rosamund Pike</a> the same way again. This movie is what a crime thriller should be.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGbxmsDFVnE">Star Wars: The Force Awakens</a> (2015)</span></b><br />
Star Wars: The Force Awakens is easily the fourth best movie of the franchise. It fits in just below the original series, but it is definitely better than any of the prequels. The acting is well done (unlike the <a href="http://www.slate.com/articles/video/video/2015/05/star_wars_prequels_supercut_proof_that_they_really_were_that_bad_video.html">prequels</a>), and it offers a good mix of practical effects and CGI. This film isn't without its faults, but it continues the story in a compelling way that feels like a natural continuation of the saga. I would happily watch this movie again and I would gladly add it to my <a href="http://www.bitrebels.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/retro-movie-sharpie-drawings-6.jpg">movie collection</a>.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWNWi-ZWL3c">Mad Max: Fury Road</a> (2015)</span></b><br />
Mad Max: Fury Road is confusing, it's unsettling and it's absolutely entertaining. Even though this is a sequel, George Miller has given us the most unique film of 2015. It really is like <a href="http://i.huffpost.com/gen/1766155/images/o-BABY-SURPRISED-facebook.jpg">nothing you've seen before</a>. Plus, this movie is filled to the brim with impressive practical effects and remarkable stunt work. This is an adrenaline-fueled ride through the mind of a <a href="http://static.independent.co.uk/s3fs-public/thumbnails/image/2014/09/12/22/Gary_Busey.jpg">crazy person</a>, and I was happy to be a passenger.<br />
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And my #1 movie that I watched in 2015 is. . .<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4NCribDx4U">Kingsman: The Secret Service</a> (2015)</span></b><br />
The reason that Kingsman: The Secret Service works is because it doesn't take itself too seriously. This movie is a throwback to the gentleman spy type of Bond movies, complete with <a href="http://www.thinkgeek.com/images/products/zoom/ef0b_useless_box_kit_anim.gif">fun gadgets</a> and outrageous villains. This film is also very aware that it is an over-the-top spy movie and it embraces that fact. The dialogue is witty, the action is impressive and it just feels refreshing. It is also a bit more vulgar than it needed to be. I recommend watching it <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/07/why-i-watch-edited-movies.html">edited</a>.<br />
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Wow. There are a lot of downers in that list. I swear I'm not depressed, nor am I a <a href="http://photos.famouswiki.com/k/kenny-g-35393/gallery/kenny-g-567834.jpg">psychopath</a>. Also, it seems as if my <a href="https://www.clearplay.com/p-450-clearplay-blu-ray-player-cp1126.aspx">ClearPlay Blu-ray player</a> (yes, I've upgraded) got quite the workout in 2015. Hopefully 2016 will bring about more quality feel-good films. But here are the movies that didn't quite make my top ten this year, although they are still quality films: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aiObc2XmVqw">All Quiet on the Western Front</a> (1930), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlzfqVtmxVA">Ben-Hur</a> (1959), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3sHMCRaS3ao">Dawn of the Planet of the Apes</a> (2014), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Cn716jv61s">Goosebumps</a> (2015), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-x08iNZ8Mfc">The Man from U.N.C.L.E.</a> (2015), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIah4s6ePQo">Marty</a> (1955), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOW_azQbOjw">Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation</a> (2015), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aFalJyGNGmE">Mutiny on the Bounty</a> (1935), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LTDaET-JweU">Spectre</a> (2015) and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKB5Myy4N00">Wings</a> (1927).<br />
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Until next time, <a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2015/12/4do906n/1179885450.jpg">faithful readers</a>!. . .which, let's face it, may or may not be until next year!</div>
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The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-64301711813838072052015-01-05T00:01:00.000-07:002016-01-10T21:09:20.285-07:00My Own Subjective Top 10 Movies of 2014Oh, hello, <a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2014/12/Nico-e1419871556445/144076374.jpg">faithful readers</a>. I've missed you.<br />
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Despite the fact that I'm still on <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/11/300-rise-of-sabbatical.html">sabbatical</a> when it comes to blog posting, I do enjoy looking back at the movies I watched in a calendar year and determining which ones were the best. If nothing else, it's fun for me to go back and see which movies I put in my top ten in past years, such as <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2009.html">2009</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2010.html">2010</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2012/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2011.html">2011</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2012.html">2012</a> and <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2014/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2013.html">2013</a>. So, yes, once again, this is all about me and my wants. <a href="http://i.imgur.com/NPjhKDH.gif">Deal with it</a>.<br />
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And aside from a <a href="http://www.civictheatre.ca/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Election-1999-picture-MOV_58ad269c_b.jpg">few</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABKy-Pqu-HQ">stinkers</a>, this was a pretty good movie-watching year for me. So without <a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/b/b6/MuchAdo.jpg/220px-MuchAdo.jpg">further ado</a>, here are my top ten favorite films that I watched for the first time in 2014 (because I don't know what movies <i>you</i> watched in 2014):<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">10. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skZDG3Ffw8A">All About Eve</a> (1950)</span></b><br />
This is the oldest movie on my list this year. The dialogue alone in All About Eve makes this film worth watching. This movie is full of witty banter and <a href="http://voicelessvictim.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/motivational-of-bette-davis.png">clever quips</a>. The acting is also very well done – making you believe these are real people and not just players on a stage. Plus, the story is dramatic and compelling. It’s not hard to see why this movie got nominated for so many <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hehSqBHt1V4/UNyRzTzy-0I/AAAAAAAAAVA/Xh2B9CL6RM0/s1600/SarahSiddonsAward1.jpg">awards</a>.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">9. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c1Xk-yTuFEU">The Secret Life of Walter Mitty</a> (2013)</span></b><br />
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty is inspiring and creative, and I appreciate creativity and being inspired. The <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0359950/locations">exotic settings</a> and the unique soundtrack enhance the viewing experience. I do feel like it should have been funnier, though. I don't know if it will hold up during subsequent viewings, but this movie helped keep me entertained during a very <a href="http://www.jonco48.com/blog/LongFlight_20Lange_20Vlucht.jpg">long flight</a>.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">8. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkvUNfySGQU">The Hunger Games: Catching Fire</a> (2013)</span></b><br />
From the acting to the sets to the special effects, The Hunger Games: Catching Fire is an exceptional film. This movie is long, but it doesn't feel watered down or stretched out - there is plenty of story and action to fill the time. Plus, <a href="http://media4.onsugar.com/files/2013/08/12/833/n/1922398/3a9296910b700fb0_tumblr_mj1k17kIL61qfjyrro1_500.xxxlarge.gif">Jennifer Lawrence</a> doesn't have to carry the movie on her own. The supporting cast does an excellent job, as well. This film <a href="http://jacktmurphy.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Star-Wars-The-Empire-Strikes-Back-1980-Style-A-by-Roger-Kastel.jpg">can't really stand on its own</a>, but it's still a fun ride and an excellent adaptation of the book.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">7. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0PpLG3GnaM">Captain Phillips</a> (2013)</span></b><br />
Captain Phillips is a captivating film. I've grown accustomed to seeing hostage situations in movies end with <a href="http://i.ytimg.com/vi/ORJAE3pVOMY/hqdefault.jpg">super-human characters</a> using martial arts or something like that, so it is almost refreshing to see a regular guy just try to survive one. Plus, this film gives the <a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/01/Opera_Australia's_Pirates_of_Penzance.jpg">pirates</a> some humanity without making them too sympathetic. All of these elements, along with the excellent acting, make this a realistic and suspenseful movie that is well worth your time.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">6. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OwNo1i3jkCo">The Way Way Back</a> (2013)</span></b></div>
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The Way Way Back is a simple and sweet film. It's a classic coming of age movie with an indie feel. This movie brings with it an honest (and sometimes uncomfortable) sense of humor as well as a heart. And it shows that the <a href="http://www.eonline.com/eol_images/Entire_Site/2014718/rs_560x415-140818145546-560-shake-it-off-taylor-swift.ls.81814.jpg">good</a> people in the world can counteract the <a href="http://www2.pictures.zimbio.com/mp/L6pfoi9dGUgl.jpg">bad</a>. Plus, it made me want to work at a <a href="http://soak-blog.andrewkelsalldes.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Best-Water-Kingdom-Ever.jpg">water park</a>. This movie is definitely one to see.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yuT4m2ImSXY/VKRHn25Q5KI/AAAAAAAACdE/n5Xa_79Nge4/s1600/frailty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yuT4m2ImSXY/VKRHn25Q5KI/AAAAAAAACdE/n5Xa_79Nge4/s1600/frailty.jpg" width="218" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">5. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKFi3owPUmg">Frailty</a> (2001)</span></b></div>
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Frailty is a fascinating film. It's <a href="http://motrolix.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/2015-Lincoln-MKC-ad.jpg">Matthew McConaughey doing drama</a> before <a href="http://recodetech.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/snl-jim-carrey-matthew-mcconaughey-lincoln-ad.png?w=640">Matthew McConaughey doing drama</a> was cool. This is a very unique horror movie because it's difficult to guess which way it's going to go. Additionally, the acting, in particular Bill Paxton's character, is very well done. If only they would have come up with a better title for this film.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZ_JOBCLF-I">The Lego Movie</a> (2014)</span></b><br />
The Lego Movie is entertaining. Only about three of every six jokes land, but at least they're <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOta9eJoSsw">swinging for the fences</a>. My kids were completely engaged in this movie, and I was happy to be along for the ride. The voice acting is well done and the animation is clever. This film could have easily turned into a <a href="http://shirtoid.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Watch-Your-Step.jpg">commercial for Legos</a>, but it didn't, thankfully. I would definitely watch this movie again.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k10ETZ41q5o">The Conjuring</a> (2013)</span></b><br />
The Conjuring is a laundry list of <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/10/six-horror-movie-cliches-that-need-to.html">haunted house clichés</a>, but somehow it still manages to be a very effective horror movie. It's effective in the atmospheric terror, it's effective in the jump scares - it just works. This film gives you protagonists that you really care about and an antagonist that is <a href="http://l1.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/HWYbCncXsC1idQSmNStJvw--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7Y2g9NjE0O2NyPTE7Y3c9NDUwO2R4PTA7ZHk9MDtmaT11bGNyb3A7aD02MTQ7cT03NTt3PTQ1MA--/http://l.yimg.com/os/publish-images/lifestyles/2014-02-06/cc7f8930-8f76-11e3-bb98-cdfbeeb6e0ce_lifeandstylemag_cover7.jpg">truly frightening</a>. Plus, the actual story of The Warrens is fascinating, as well. Overall, this is a great scary movie that I am happy to add to my <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/10/totally-subjective-horror-film-list.html">Halloween roster</a>.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yUmSVcttXnI">Edge of Tomorrow</a> (2014)</span></b></div>
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Edge of Tomorrow is a creative and entertaining action-packed thriller. How did this not do <a href="http://www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=allyouneediskill.htm">better at the box office</a>? It's much better than most of the <a href="http://content6.flixster.com/movie/11/18/00/11180032_800.jpg">sequel-driven drivel</a> that Hollywood is churning out these days. The premise of this movie is unique and whenever the formula starts to get tired, they change it up or throw in a new element. Plus, the performances are well done - I like seeing Tom Cruise as the reluctant, inexperienced hero. Note: If you're looking to rent this movie at <a href="http://cdn.someecards.com/someecards/usercards/MjAxMy04ZDZkOWJiNTBiZDJhMWE3.png">Redbox</a>, the studio is now re-branding it as "Live. Die. Repeat. Edge of Tomorrow," probably because the first round of marketing for this film failed so miserably.</div>
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And my #1 movie that I watched in 2014 is...</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eq1rm5ClfT8">About Time</a> (2013)</span></b></div>
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Every now and then, a film comes along that changes the way I think about life -- About Time is that kind of movie. This pleasantly unique film isn't just a love story, it's a life story. It showcases a variety of relationships that go beyond the traditional <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/07/essential-ingredients-of-romantic.html">rom-com stereotypes</a>. The story is uplifting, the acting is excellent and the humor is plentiful. This movie made me want to be a better person, and I'm very glad I saw it.<br />
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So, there you have it, that's my top ten movies that I saw in 2014. I would recommend watching any of them (though I would recommend watching some of them <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/07/why-i-watch-edited-movies.html">edited</a>). I would also like to give an honorable mention to: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rLHxbemvpxY">Mitt</a> (2014), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kgxObbIqubE">Holiday Inn</a> (1942), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7SlILk2WMTI">Captain America: The Winter Soldier</a> (2014), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bLXzqSmxGaM">Patton</a> (1970), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gsjtg7m1MMM">X-Men Days of Future Past</a> (2014), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ne6p6MfLBxc">Her</a> (2013), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wHJwDdUxHL4">The Searchers</a> (1956), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nX5PwfEMBM0">Snowpiercer</a> (2013), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_HONQ4HCs4">The Grand Budapest Hotel</a> (2014), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d96cjJhvlMA">Guardians of the Galaxy</a> (2014) and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EbCoDf44oCE">Rise of the Planet of the Apes</a> (2011).<br />
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Well done, 2014!<br />
. . .or should I say 2013, since most of these movies came from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2013_in_film">that year</a>?<br />
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Oh <a href="http://thewolfmancometh.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/cousin-it.jpg">well</a>.</div>
The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-12072595175783104292014-08-25T00:01:00.000-06:002014-08-28T10:40:58.985-06:00Judge Not, You Judgy Judgers!WARNING: Never read the comments section on the internet.<br />
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Don't read the comments section on a news article. Don't read the comments on a controversial Facebook post. And please, for all that is good and holy, do NOT read the <a href="http://imgs.xkcd.com/comics/listen_to_yourself.png">comments on YouTube</a>. Trust me, you will only find yourself disappointed in the state of the world.</div>
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If you wish to comment on a certain topic, that's fine. Log on, state your piece, log off and don't look back for any replies. Because no one is going to reply to what you say. They're only going to reply to what they <i>think</i> you said. They're going to reply to who they <i>think</i> you are. They're going to give some snappy, <a href="http://vinteeage.com/product-images/you-don-t-know-me-t-shirt-vintage-t-shirt-review-cotton-factory-cotton-factory-3.gif">canned answer</a> based on something that they heard on some <a href="http://a1.img.talkingpointsmemo.com/image/upload/c_fill,fl_keep_iptc,g_faces,h_365,w_652/w0oo2q0cqrvdkctbsult.jpg">quasi-political talk show</a> the other night and consider their argument won.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z_ZiSenQCiw/U_q-yK7PK1I/AAAAAAAACbU/hfyd9vu8SO8/s1600/angry-judge.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z_ZiSenQCiw/U_q-yK7PK1I/AAAAAAAACbU/hfyd9vu8SO8/s1600/angry-judge.jpeg" height="190" width="200" /></a></div>
And one of the most widely used canned answers in any comment section these days is "don't judge me." Oddly enough, even though this anti-judging sentiment is religious in origin (Matthew 7:1), it is mostly used against those who are religious by people who are anti-religion. It's brought up by people who know the basic phrasing, and feel like they can throw it in a religious person's face and immediately end the argument, like someone holding up a <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Asm1iAEmZA4/SSHsiNck1kI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/Sqiz47bkhhU/s1600/vampirekit.jpg">cross to Dracula</a>.</div>
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I'm sorry, canned answer man, but to quote <a href="http://grizzlybomb.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/tumblr_lsatlehq1w1qby14bo1_500.gif">Jerry</a>, the ancient vampire in the classic 1985 film <i>Fright Night</i>, "you have to have faith in order for it to work on me."</div>
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The phrase "don't judge me" has been completely blown out of proportion. It has lost its meaning. And while I don't consider myself a super scriptural scholar (alliteration! woo!), I would like to <a href="http://cedarconsulting.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/dust-off.jpg">dust off</a> this particular phrase that has been dragged through the mud and give it a fresh perspective. And yes, there will be some judging going on. </div>
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<a href="http://www.zwolanerd.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/dealwithit.gif">Deal with it</a>.</div>
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Let's look at the "don't judge" scripture here, in context. In Matthew, chapter 7, Jesus Christ (who is religious, I might add) is concluding the Sermon on the Mount. Side note: most of the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTO7-Jarl-E">Sermon on the Mount</a> is Christ telling people what is right and wrong. Anyway, here is what He has to say:</div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"> 1 Judge not, that ye be not judged.<br /><br /> 2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.</span></i><br />
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To me, that seems more cautionary than commandment...ary. It seems to me that Christ is saying that you will be judged by the same standard that you hold other people to. That doesn't seem to be a problem as long as you're practicing righteous judgement -- meaning, you're not holding anyone to an <a href="http://www.beheadingboredom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/unfair-standard-barbie-vs-he-man.jpg">unfair standard</a> that you, yourself, are not willing to meet.<br />
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Let's recap what we've learned so far: if I tell a person that arson is wrong and turn them into the police for even thinking it, knowing full well that I'm going to <a href="http://r2.firehouse.com/files/cygnus/image/FHC/2011/JAN/600x400/IHOP1.jpg_10556914.jpg">burn down the local IHOP</a> later that night, I'm in the wrong. However, just telling someone that arson is wrong, when I, too, believe it's wrong isn't a problem.<br />
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Let's move on to the next section of scripture in Matthew, which is an illustration of this concept of judging:<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"> 3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?<br /><br /> 4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye?<br /><br /> 5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.</span></i></span><br />
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This section seems to deal primarily with hypocrisy. Of course we shouldn't be hypocrites, I think everyone agrees with that (except for hypocrites). And yes, we are all imperfect, no one would argue with that (although some people would in the <a href="http://imgs.xkcd.com/comics/duty_calls.png">comments section</a>, just to be contrary). However, I think that this is an example of hypocrisy when judging someone else, not what happens every time we judge someone. After all, not everyone that calls someone else out about a mote (a tiny piece of substance) in their eye has a beam (a ray or shaft of light. . .wait. . . I mean a long, sturdy piece of squared timber) in their own eyes.</div>
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So let's talk about who can judge. Is <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gd4VraE4o68">Simon Cowell</a> going to get in trouble for all the times he's told someone that they don't have (or do have) singing talent? Is Supreme Court Justice <a href="http://www.jewoftheweek.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/Westheimer.jpg">Ruth Bader Ginsburg</a> going to face hellfire for Eldred v. Ashcroft, 537 U.S. 186 (look it up...like I had to)? People judge others all the time. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3LI-o0_4vwk/U_q_JmiZ1hI/AAAAAAAACbc/4vcmXaJAf0A/s1600/Angry-Judge-Judy.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3LI-o0_4vwk/U_q_JmiZ1hI/AAAAAAAACbc/4vcmXaJAf0A/s1600/Angry-Judge-Judy.jpeg" /></a></div>
But what gives Judge Judy the right to tell people what's right and wrong? Is it the gavel? I could <a href="http://www.gavelstore.com/">get a gavel</a> if I wanted to -- robes, too. But I don't need robes or a gavel because I am not making a legally binding decision regarding any matter. I am not disqualifying anyone from the Hollywood finals. I am merely forming an opinion about someone else.</div>
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Let's take a look at the definition of the word "judge." According to a popular online dictionary whose name rhymes with "Berriam-Bebster," to judge means:</div>
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1. to form an opinion about (something or someone) after careful thought</div>
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2. to regard (someone) as either good or bad</div>
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3. law: to make an official decision about (a legal case)</div>
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It seems that "judging" someone is to form an opinion about them. Aren't we all entitled to an opinion? I'm pretty sure that the claim "everyone is entitled to their own opinion" is bandied about in the <a href="http://cdn-www.mania.com/content_pics/000005/13/57/58791b389b014054_large.jpg">online comments section</a> almost as much as "don't you judge me." So which is it, folks? "I'm allowed to have an opinion" or "You shouldn't judge others"?</div>
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Let's get legal here. In the First Amendment to the Constitution it states, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof." Wait. . .that's another point for another day. But the Free Press Clause in the First Amendment protects the publication of our opinions. And even though our Founding Fathers weren't subjected to the horrors of <a href="http://cdn.zmescience.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/090-0804113656-plastic-beach-03.jpg">comments sections on the internet</a>, that same liberty applies. We are all entitled to an opinion.</div>
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"But, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687">The Former 786</a>," you sneer, "the First Amendment just means that the government can't arrest you for what you say. It doesn't have anything to do with insignificant online arguments!"</div>
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Exactly. Thank you for helping to further my point, <a href="http://harrypottersorciers.free.fr/images/luciusmalfoy/luciusmalefoy2.jpg">Sneery McSneerface</a>.</div>
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Most of the time "don't judge me" is used, it's during an insignificant argument. The person doing the "judging" doesn't have any actual judge powers. There is a difference between making an official, <a href="http://mentalfloss.com/article/29829/what-legal-authority-does-judge-judy-have">legally binding</a> decision and telling someone they're being an idiot.</div>
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And we're not even talking about the world's laws here. We're talking about God's laws. In the end, <a href="https://www.lds.org/media-library/video/2013-10-1510-jesus-christ-will-be-our-final-judge?lang=eng">Jesus Christ will be our final judge</a>. That is the judging that we should not and, in fact, cannot do. Christ will be the one who will determine who is saved and who is damned. We do not have that power.</div>
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So we form opinions about each other. It's in <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Y3dsAY_a_I">our nature</a>. It's what we do. We form opinions every day. And yes, we <i>do</i> have the right to tell people if we think what they're doing is wrong.</div>
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Once again, looking to Christ's example, in John, chapter 8, when a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5GXnM_TxSQ">woman taken in adultery</a> is brought before Jesus, His interaction with her went something like this:</div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">10 When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"> 11 She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.</span></div>
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"Hey wait!" you <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/__vnNcrIWNJU/SdgPJg-NQ5I/AAAAAAAAAAM/mFS9O0Kovs4/s400/1129670872_rakiesmirk.jpg">proudly declare</a> in the comments section of this blog, "Jesus also said 'He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.' So that means that you shouldn't judge!" Not necessarily. And stop interrupting me. It seems that Christ, once again, is giving a lesson on hypocrisy. We should also not be extreme in our judgement. These men who brought this woman to Jesus wanted to pass final judgement right then and there. Jesus put a stop to that and, instead, took the softer approach. Jesus did not condemn her, because we all have the ability to repent of our sins, but He did <i>not</i> say "go, and do whatever makes you happy." He said "go, and sin no more." He told her that what she was doing was a sin and He told her not to do it anymore. </div>
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Because Jesus did tell people what was right and what was wrong.</div>
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In the very same Sermon on the Mount where he said "Judge not," he also said the following things were wrong: killing, getting angry, adultery, lust, fornication, swearing (oaths...though swear words aren't good either), hypocrisy and greed. And if Christ, our perfect example, has deemed these things as wrong, then <i>of course</i> we're going to call other people out when they do these things. That's not judging, that's <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qFDEp70vsVk/T6GZTyrcnpI/AAAAAAAAArw/ueFuiViKlQQ/s640/ArtBook__079_079__CaptainMoroniRaisesTheTitleOfLiberty____.jpg">holding up a standard</a>.</div>
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Also keep in mind, that this is also the same Jesus who made a scourge of small cords (a whip) and <a href="http://slodive.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/real-pictures-of-jesus/jesus-cleansing-temple-mormon.jpg">cast sinners out of the temple</a>. There is a time for meekness, and there is a time for boldness.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sAF-eine0HI/U_q_hp7EZ1I/AAAAAAAACbk/A-fRa3IJ-xc/s1600/judge-reinhold-on-arrested-development.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sAF-eine0HI/U_q_hp7EZ1I/AAAAAAAACbk/A-fRa3IJ-xc/s1600/judge-reinhold-on-arrested-development.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Now, I have taken quite the religious turn on this post, and I would apologize, but I'm <a href="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bqn8IVsCQAA16le.jpg:large">not sorry</a>. The people who use the flimsy "you're not supposed to judge" stance are usually trying to twist religion around to their own understanding. I want you to be clear how I understand it -- and that "defense" is not going to work on me.</div>
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Because we will continue to judge each other, and we have the right to do so. We won't (and can't) pass final judgement on whether you're going to heaven or hell, but people will form an opinion on words they hear you say and actions they see you do. They may <a href="https://i.chzbgr.com/maxW500/1571833088/h286E24ED/">judge you silently</a> or they may approach you (hopefully tactfully), but the judging will happen. People will (and can) form an opinion of you. It's in our nature to do so. It may not be a perfect opinion, but that's okay because none of us are perfect people.</div>
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So, <a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2014/08/im6/2215318749.jpg">faithful readers</a>, I will continue to try and judge with righteous judgement. I will continue to form opinions about people based on their words and their actions. These opinions may change, depending on the situation, but I have an opinion of what is wrong and what is right, and I have the right to share it.</div>
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Also, please stop using the idiom "people who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones." That's stupid. No one lives in a house <a href="http://www.logic-immo.be/simages/lexicon/maison-de-verre-milan.jpg">made entirely of glass</a>. And, if someone did, they certainly wouldn't be throwing stones around.</div>
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Yes, I just judged that saying.</div>
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<a href="http://i.imgur.com/haKtplV.gif">Deal with it</a>.</div>
The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-86650974793061548732014-01-27T00:01:00.000-07:002014-01-27T00:08:38.930-07:00My Own Subjective Top 10 Movies of 2013<ol>
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Hello, <a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2014/01/photo-1/1551113907.jpg">faithful readers</a>.<br />
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I told you I'd be back.<br />
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As I mentioned in <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/11/300-rise-of-sabbatical.html">my previous post</a>, I still plan on occasionally posting. I've just given up on regular posting for now. So I've decided to reappear, momentarily, to present to you my top ten list of movies I saw this past year. Remember, these films on this list don't need to have been made in 2013 to qualify, that just has to be the year that I watched them for the first time. Make sense? If not, you can check out past years' lists from <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2009.html">2009</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2010.html">2010</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2012/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2011.html">2011</a> and <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2012.html">2012</a>.<br />
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Truth be told, I thought it was going to be hard to populate my list with ten exceptional movies this year. For a while there in 2013, I went through a string of <a href="http://www.whatsupyasieve.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/man-of-steel-poster.jpg">movies that disappointed me</a>, <a href="http://synergytvnetwork.com/synergy2/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/War-Horse-Movie-poster-Film-review-e1324422829991.jpg">movies that I was completely indifferent about</a>, <a href="http://mystery756.files.wordpress.com/2013/05/marnie-tippi-hedren-sean-connery-1964-poster.jpg">movies I disliked</a> and <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--9XmeuQQQy0/TgN3kQmA-zI/AAAAAAAABSg/Be13jqSoAJU/s1600/The--last--dragon-picture.jpg">movies I absolutely hated</a>, and yet I still found more than 10 movies to which I gave a rating of four stars or more. And here they are, in a very particular order:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1UpoOlTzCIY/UuSRDeiBoqI/AAAAAAAACZ0/xvZWxoCxtNI/s1600/strangers_on_a_train.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1UpoOlTzCIY/UuSRDeiBoqI/AAAAAAAACZ0/xvZWxoCxtNI/s1600/strangers_on_a_train.jpg" height="320" width="192" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>10. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jtdmbx4Ky-A">Strangers on a Train</a> (1951)</b></span> - The reason that Strangers on a Train succeeds is because of its
antagonist. Robert Walker plays a character that is both <a href="http://calitreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Pennywise1.jpg">charming</a> and
<a href="http://cdn3.whatculture.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/pennywise.jpg">terrifying</a>. Plus, Hitchcock does an excellent job of creating suspense
and making the viewer feel anxious for the protagonist as well as the
antagonist. The climax is a little silly, but this film, overall, is
another example of why the name of Alfred Hitchcock will always be
remembered.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E-gi6EBOdeI/UuSRgsdKNqI/AAAAAAAACZ8/moIoxZYLoG8/s1600/behind_the_mask.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E-gi6EBOdeI/UuSRgsdKNqI/AAAAAAAACZ8/moIoxZYLoG8/s1600/behind_the_mask.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>9. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t432rePirH8">Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon</a> (2006)</b> </span>- Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon brings a fresh feel and a
<a href="http://keithmoonshine.files.wordpress.com/2011/08/leslie_vernon_behind_the_mask_03.jpg">fresh face</a> to the slasher genre. It's quite entertaining how this film
points out how much planning, how much preparation and how much luck would be needed
for the murders in those types of horror movies. It also lets us enjoy a
full-fledged slasher movie after showing everything that is going on
behind the scenes. I was pleasantly surprised by this film.<b> </b><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dFhJLGen87Y/UuSR_ieko_I/AAAAAAAACaE/OaeuDlBIFk8/s1600/life_of_pi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dFhJLGen87Y/UuSR_ieko_I/AAAAAAAACaE/OaeuDlBIFk8/s1600/life_of_pi.jpg" height="320" width="215" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>8. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m7WBfntqUoA">Life of Pi</a> (2012)</b></span> - Life of Pi is a beautiful movie, both visually and thematically. This
film reminded me of how much I enjoyed the book. Also, I was impressed
with Suraj Sharma, who carried his first movie mostly on his own. The <a href="http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m90ka9IAv71qcv0d3.gif">CGI is cartoony</a> at parts, but it's easy to get lost in the story and forget
that most of what you're seeing is nothing more than visual effects.
This is a wonderful adaptation of an excellent novel.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u1_mtrd9pVw/UuSSb-U7EOI/AAAAAAAACaM/n314zDwQs0A/s1600/new-looper-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u1_mtrd9pVw/UuSSb-U7EOI/AAAAAAAACaM/n314zDwQs0A/s1600/new-looper-2.jpg" height="320" width="215" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>7. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2iQuhsmtfHw">Looper</a> (2012)</b></span> - Looper is a clever film. Time travel is always a <a href="http://www.oocities.org/tiylaya/Rift_in_Time/grandfather_paradox2.gif">sticky issue</a>, but this
movie embraces the impossibilities and invites the audience to just
enjoy the ride. Whatever flaws this movie may have, it makes up for it
with its creativity. Plus, <a href="http://i.imgur.com/dT74g.gif">Joseph Gordon-Levitt</a> makes a great Bruce
Willis. We need more movies like Looper -- creative and smart movies.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n4-84xRITkE/UuSSpPoE7ZI/AAAAAAAACaU/xsggOgx1noI/s1600/impossible-poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n4-84xRITkE/UuSSpPoE7ZI/AAAAAAAACaU/xsggOgx1noI/s1600/impossible-poster.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">6. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bgw394ZKsis">The Impossible</a> (2012)</span> </b>- If you're not sure if your <a href="http://www.reactionface.info/sites/default/files/images/1314194350658.gif">tear ducts</a> are working, watch The Impossible.
This movie will inspire terror, despair and, perhaps most of all, hope.
However, this movie doesn't feel sappy or emotionally manipulative. The
acting is superb - even the child actors give amazingly realistic
performances - and the <a href="http://31.media.tumblr.com/672b7417784d1ee3276c92e848e7e858/tumblr_mnbrhlhk2Y1ry4q0lo1_400.gif">special effects are horrifying</a>. This is an
amazing true story brought to life on the big screen, and it is a good
reminder of what truly matters in this world.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vGZ9dbd18B4/UuSTEAFuSDI/AAAAAAAACac/Zlqm0P8RGOs/s1600/worlds-end-poster-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vGZ9dbd18B4/UuSTEAFuSDI/AAAAAAAACac/Zlqm0P8RGOs/s1600/worlds-end-poster-2.jpg" height="320" width="226" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n__1Y-N5tQk">The World's End</a> (2013)</b></span> - The World's End isn't as comedic as Shaun of the Dead or Hot Fuzz, but
it's still a solid action flick. It's interesting to see Nick Frost play
the sensible character and Simon Pegg play the screw-up. Plus, it features a
good ensemble cast. The plot is simple, yet fun, and the special effects
are spectacular. It's not a perfect movie, but it's an entertaining
movie and a suitable end to the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Three_Flavours_Cornetto_trilogy">Blood and Ice Cream Trilogy</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RXmth7ex2tA/UuSTbxQjYsI/AAAAAAAACak/U-bF86ySL0M/s1600/argo_xlg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RXmth7ex2tA/UuSTbxQjYsI/AAAAAAAACak/U-bF86ySL0M/s1600/argo_xlg.jpg" height="320" width="215" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>4. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w918Eh3fij0">Argo</a> (2012)</b></span> - Argo is a well-made movie based on a fascinating true story. No, it's <a href="http://www.cinemasterpieces.com/82011/bravesum95.jpg">not 100-percent historically accurate</a>, but it presents the plot in a
way that works on the big screen. This drama is also subtly comedic, and it
features excellent acting by the entire cast. I'll be interested to see if this one holds up as well on subsequent viewings.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-19UGUx2BIic/UuSTvhmVpBI/AAAAAAAACas/3cUvWMcqy98/s1600/wreckit_ralph_ver6_xlg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-19UGUx2BIic/UuSTvhmVpBI/AAAAAAAACas/3cUvWMcqy98/s1600/wreckit_ralph_ver6_xlg.jpg" height="320" width="215" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87E6N7ToCxs">Wreck-it Ralph</a> (2012)</b></span> - I enjoyed Wreck-It Ralph more than I thought I would. Even though the
trailer spoiled most of the funny stuff, this movie features a
heart-warming story about accepting who you are. The animation is
literally full of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qvrDt1I8h8">eye candy</a>, and it features enough <a href="http://25.media.tumblr.com/06a31460e0f0a63e2d3337ebb0b683f1/tumblr_mi61fiBdcr1qmo3obo1_400.gif">nerdy video game references</a> to keep me happy. Yes, Wreck-It Ralph has some flaws (e.g.
Sarah Silverman); however, as I learned from this movie, we should try
to look past the flaws and see the good. I've seen this film multiple times and it holds up quite well.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IU5jK9xb6Pg/UuSUg2Cdp9I/AAAAAAAACa0/oVSOUWV--Ww/s1600/silver_linings_playbook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IU5jK9xb6Pg/UuSUg2Cdp9I/AAAAAAAACa0/oVSOUWV--Ww/s1600/silver_linings_playbook.jpg" height="320" width="216" /></a><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lj5_FhLaaQQ">Silver Linings Playbook</a> (2012)</span> </b>- Silver Linings Playbook is technically a romantic comedy, but I hesitate
to lump it in with all of the other <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/07/essential-ingredients-of-romantic.html">cookie-cutter rom-coms</a> out there.
It is one of the most unique romantic comedies I've ever seen. Plus, it
doesn't have that pretentious "quirky for quirky's sake" feel that many
independent films do. Bradley Cooper is surprisingly good in his role
and <a href="http://24.media.tumblr.com/e54d765f699612c015b7f62580369600/tumblr_mwgj13aBGk1sgl0ajo1_500.gif">Jennifer Lawrence</a> is impressive as always. This is an intelligent
movie with an entertaining story about broken people who are trying to
help each other become whole.<br />
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And the best movie that I saw in 2013 was...<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufsrgE0BYf0">Gravity</a> (2013) </b></span>- Gravity isn't just a movie, it's an experience. It's an experience of
sight, it's an experience of sound and it's an emotional experience, as
well. This film makes you feel like you are drifting among the stars,
instead of just showing you a <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I7jfWI3PK4k/TVsDprbvtlI/AAAAAAAAADo/vFHdmMfFhqQ/s1600/spacecamp.A.jpg">story set in space</a>. The visual effects are
unique, awe-inspiring and terrifying, and while the plot is simple,
there is beauty in its simplicity. I've never seen a movie quite like
Gravity.<br />
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<ol>
</ol>
Also, as an honorable mention, this past year I enjoyed <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HcwTxRuq-uk">World War Z</a> (2013), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kK7y8Ou0VvM">Jack Reacher</a> (2012), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YxC_JNz5Vbg">Zero Dark Thirty</a> (2012), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73jSnAs7mq8">Safety Not Guaranteed</a> (2012), <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9etarIaqF1Y">The Good, The Bad and The Ugly</a> (1966) and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZtDh0d-1IH4">The Dirty Dozen</a> (1967), as well, but they weren't quite favorite enough to bump out anything in my top ten.<br />
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Let's hope 2014 brings about even more difficult choices as to what to include in my top ten list! Thanks for reading!The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-63007289719250083982013-11-11T00:01:00.000-07:002013-11-12T00:06:55.874-07:00300: Rise of a Sabbatical<a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2013/10/UnJustice-League-Paul-Crumrine/631826007.jpg">Faithful readers</a>, this is my 300th post on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sQ81Ggv_IAQ">Slice of Fried Gold</a>. And it's time for me to take a break.<br />
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I started this blog in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/February_2008">February of 2008</a> as a place where I could save and catalog the <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2010/BUSINESS/06/29/china.rent.white.people/index.html?iref=obinsite">strange</a> and <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/celebrities-as-ordinary-people-2012-7?op=1">funny</a> things I found on the internet. For a while there, I posted whenever I saw fit, but then somewhere along the line I decided to hold myself to a weekly post. So, for the past few years, the plan was that I would pick an idea from my <a href="http://cdn.someecards.com/someecards/filestorage/inbox-full-but-cry-for-help-ecard-someecards.jpg">email inbox</a> and I would spend the week crafting and polishing a post and then have it ready to go by 12:01 am each and every Monday morning.<br />
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But that's not what happened. For the last year or so, as my life got busier (or I got lazier, I can't really decide which one), I found myself doing the Sunday night scramble and ignoring my family and friends as I <a href="http://i1104.photobucket.com/albums/h328/girlybro/typing.gif">furiously typed away on the laptop</a> and scoured the interwebs for <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/25/flamy-burn-ward-mascot_n_2551598.html">random stories</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIa7BcS5wMA">YouTube videos</a> to embed into the post -- believe it or not, the <a href="http://thewholegardenwillbow.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/spiderman.gif?w=490">hyperlinks</a> were usually the most time consuming part of my blog posts.<br />
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Additionally, writing a blog post started to lose some of its luster. This arbitrary weekly deadline I set for myself began to loom over my head and I began to <a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6070/6080910233_001b196511.jpg">dread</a> Sunday evenings because of it. I struggled to find things I wanted to write about, and a number of times I just posted a <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/06/busted.html">YouTube video</a> with very little text, simply because I wanted to get the post out of the way -- and that's not the way it should be. This blog was a way for me to get my creative writing bug out, and now that it's become more of a chore, I decided it might be best for me to <a href="http://dataliteracy.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/ghostbust-23g1.gif">back off</a> a bit.<br />
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However, I didn't want to leave you, my <a href="http://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2013/11/IMG_94678930177248/3405287774.jpeg">faithful readers</a>, hanging. It bothers me when <a href="http://livingdeadguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/url-2.jpeg">TV shows end</a> without giving proper resolution or when <a href="http://showtimeshowdown.com/?p=2783">radio stations change formats</a> without an explanation. So this is my explanation to you: I won't be posting regularly from now on. I'm taking a <a href="http://www.obsessedwithsports.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/sabbatical.jpg">sabbatical</a>.<br />
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Frankly, it seems to me that the age of the blog has passed. I've seen a number of <a href="http://yousaidyoudbakeusacake.blogspot.com/">talented bloggers</a> <a href="http://crazybridestories.blogspot.com/">stop blogging</a> and I believe it's partly because the times have changed. Sure, there are popular <a href="http://www.71toes.com/">mommy blogs</a> and <a href="http://themattwalshblog.com/2013/11/04/i-dont-agree-with-your-parenting-choices-now-let-me-explain-how-you-should-raise-your-own-children/">opinion blogs</a> out there, but there's not really room for a blog that posts funny videos and weird stories weekly, when people can get the same thing hourly on Twitter or Facebook. I saw the downward slope of my traffic and choose to believe it's because of the decline of blogs in general and not because of a decline of my <a href="http://demonsresume.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/steve-martin.jpg">sense of humor</a>, but still, my heart just isn't in it anymore. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E7KupcL79sY/UoAL7fTkaaI/AAAAAAAACZk/VF_jmR_Modw/s1600/Slice+of+Fried+Gold+Stats.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E7KupcL79sY/UoAL7fTkaaI/AAAAAAAACZk/VF_jmR_Modw/s1600/Slice+of+Fried+Gold+Stats.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yup. These are my actual stats from Blogger.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
However, I would like to take a moment to acknowledge some <a href="http://30dayyogi.files.wordpress.com/2008/11/funny-pictures-proud-cat.jpg">milestones</a> on this, my 300th post:<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Most-viewed Post</b></span><br />
<ul>
<li><b><a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/06/anatomy-of-cartoon-characters.html" target="_blank">The Anatomy of Cartoon Characters</a></b>. With 20,647 pageviews, this post about cartoon skeletons dominates over the others, which is odd, because it still doesn't have a single comment. The runners up would be <b><a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/08/cinematic-world-without-world-war-ii.html" target="_blank">A Cinematic World Without World War II</a></b> (9,059 pageviews), <b><a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/08/angelina-jolie-why-is-she-famous.html" target="_blank">Angelina Jolie: Why is She Famous?</a></b> (7,118 pageviews), <b><a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/07/disney-and-single-parent.html" target="_blank">Disney and the Single Parent</a></b> (4,224 pageviews) and, for some reason, <b><a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/03/may-i-request-sidebar-your-honor.html" target="_blank">May I Request a Sidebar, Your Honor?</a></b> (3,892 pageviews).</li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Most Comments on a Post</b></span><br />
<ul>
<li><b><a class="GHUY-LPPB" href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/07/curse-of-number-3.html">The Curse of the Number 3</a></b> (26 comments). This post about the third movie in a series usually being the worst of the series got a pretty big boost because it was featured on the front page of IMDb (on the Hit List, which is something they've since discontinued). I was pretty proud of this one. It barely beat out <b><a class="GHUY-LPPB" href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2008/08/breaking-silence.html">Breaking Silence</a></b> (25 comments), which surprised me, since <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2008/11/twilight-eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee.html">Twilight fans</a> are usually pretty defensive and vocal.</li>
</ul>
Sidenote: I once said that I was going to stop <a href="http://blogs.babble.com/kid-scoop/files/2012/06/blog.jpg">blogging</a> whenever I got
three posts in a row with no comments, but that happened far too often.
:) <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My Favorite Posts</b></span><br />
That's a difficult question. I mean, I have <a href="http://www.mywebpower.com/graphics/comments/thumbnails/funny_pictures/funny_sparta_300.jpg">300</a> to pick from. It includes all of the ones mentioned above (with the exception of May I Request a Sidebar, Your Honor? - that was a throwaway post), but in addition to those posts already mentioned, I also really enjoyed writing:<br />
<ul>
<li><b><a class="GHUY-LPPB" href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2008/11/inspirational-film-list.html">Totally Subjective Film Lists</a></b> and <b><a class="GHUY-LPPB" href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/10/totally-subjective-horror-film-list.html">Totally Subjective Horror Film List</a></b> - I reference these lists regularly when recommending movies to people. </li>
<li><a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2012/08/my-least-favorite-movies-of-all-time.html"><b>My Least Favorite Movies of All Time</b></a> - I reference this list when I'm warning people <i>against</i> watching certain movies. </li>
<li><b><a class="GHUY-LPPB" href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/07/essential-ingredients-of-romantic.html">Essential Ingredients of a Romantic Comedy</a></b> - This tried and true recipe still holds up.</li>
<li><b><a class="GHUY-LPPB" href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/08/breaking-down-term-chick-flick.html">Breaking Down the Term "Chick Flick"</a></b> - An important post for all to read, since the term "chick flick" has multiple meanings.</li>
<li><b><a class="GHUY-LPPB" href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/09/literal-tv-titles.html">Literal TV Titles</a></b> - This one was also featured on the IMDb Hit List.</li>
<li><b><a class="GHUY-LPPB" href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/07/why-i-watch-edited-movies.html">Why I Watch Edited Movies</a></b> - In defense of clean media.</li>
<li><b><a class="GHUY-LPPB" href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/05/around-23-to-42-questions-that-lost-may.html">Around 23 to 42 Questions That Lost May Never Answer</a> </b>- They didn't answer some of these, but I still enjoyed how Lost ended. </li>
<li><b><a class="GHUY-LPPB" href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/10/best-horror-movie-theme-songs.html">Best Horror Movie Theme Songs</a></b> - Essentials for anyone's Halloween playlist.</li>
<li><b><a class="GHUY-LPPB" href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/10/six-horror-movie-cliches-that-need-to.html">Six Horror Movie Clichés that Need to Go</a></b> - Hollywood still hasn't taken note of this post.</li>
<li>My <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2009.html">annual</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2010.html">top 10</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2012/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2011.html">movie</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/01/my-own-subjective-top-10-movies-of-2012.html">lists</a>. </li>
<li><a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2008/03/and-oscar-goes-to.html">My</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/01/and-winner-is.html">multiple</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/03/oscar-and-grouch.html">ranting</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2012/02/oscar-de-la-rant.html">Oscar</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/02/oscars-de-la-hoy.html">posts</a>.</li>
<li>My <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2008/12/ho-ho-aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah.html">annual</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/12/ho-ho-aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaagain.html">kids</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/12/ho-ho-aaaaaaaaaaaaaanother-one.html">scared</a> of <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/12/ho-ho-aaaaaaaaaaaaaand-its-become.html">Santa</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2012/12/ho-ho-aaaaaaaaaaaand-theyre-still.html">posts</a>. </li>
<li>And, of course, <b><a class="GHUY-LPPB" href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2008/02/send-in-zombies.html">Send in the Zombies</a></b>, which was my first post on this blog. </li>
</ul>
<br />
Now, this isn't a <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2008/10/cocks-gun-goodbye-mr-time-bang.html">goodbye</a>. I still plan to post when I have <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/10/lets-define-blackface.html">something to say</a>, but I'm not going to be doing it on a weekly basis. My time seems so limited lately, and, to put it in current terms, I'm <a href="http://memecreator.eu/media/created/cbnc9d.jpg">furloughing</a> non-essential activities. I'm taking my <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_uMef-VMRwb0/TF9b63xzoJI/AAAAAAAAARE/yK8-Vcs0PtA/s400/naps.jpg">Sundays</a> back, and I'm spending more time with my <a href="http://cdn.www.babble.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/Duggar.jpg">growing family</a>.<br />
<br />
I thank you for being a <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-15pgiJ88c_U/Tt5f0vhay2I/AAAAAAAAC3Y/ukJA0zpFPwU/s400/awkward-family-pet-photo.jpg">faithful reader</a> of <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/">Slice of Fried Gold</a>.The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-64262155943296071482013-11-04T00:01:00.000-07:002013-11-04T00:01:00.094-07:00Take a Bite Out of FashionOk, <a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2009/05/dad/1089055857.jpg">faithful readers</a>, since the <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/10/lets-define-blackface.html">last post</a> was only loosely related to <a href="http://dvd-rental-review.toptenreviews.com/best-halloween-movies-of-all-time.html">Halloween</a>, I decided it was only fair that I do one more <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/11/halloween-forever.html">Halloween-related post</a>. So even though all of my <a href="http://www.womansday.com/cm/womansday/images/uU/01-wd1009-Jeffrey-Scott-2.jpg">Halloween decorations</a> are cleaned up and I've spread the horror movies across my entire queue, instead of stacking them all at the top, let's dance around the theme of scary and unusual one more time, shall we?<br />
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This week's post was sent in by, <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GCvwnQ4gM90/T-Dp1YKLDeI/AAAAAAAAQ-g/P4b3e9ScLdI/s640/costume.jpg">alert reader</a>, <a href="http://www.cityweekly.net/utah/imgs/blogs/blog4840widea.jpg">Andrea</a> and I'll admit that it disturbed me. I consider my tolerance level for being grossed out pretty high (I changed two poopy diapers today and only <a href="http://stream1.gifsoup.com/view/160909/gag-o.gif">gagged twice</a>), but this fashion statement from a British couple named <a href="http://fantichandyoung.co.uk/?lc=sh1514">Fantich & Young</a> just seems. . .wrong.<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZ2ZHkBzmHQ">Check it out</a>:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ioy952eRoyU/UnW-Wfows7I/AAAAAAAACYg/E8yL5dEwSHU/s1600/teeth+shoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ioy952eRoyU/UnW-Wfows7I/AAAAAAAACYg/E8yL5dEwSHU/s400/teeth+shoes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Yup. Just in case you're not wearing your <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_CMhkcRtCnUA/TP30qOA4rKI/AAAAAAAAA4c/LZz39UIkCQs/s1600/big_funny_glasses.jpg">reading glasses</a> right now, there are teeth lining the bottom of those black <a href="http://acmrs.org/sites/default/files/Oxford%20United%20Kingdom%201183453762_0.jpg">Oxfords</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d1CUPdHZnDg/UnW-7wsEaDI/AAAAAAAACYo/8yBKkOPVXPk/s1600/teeth+shoes+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d1CUPdHZnDg/UnW-7wsEaDI/AAAAAAAACYo/8yBKkOPVXPk/s400/teeth+shoes+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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1,050 teeth, to be specific. No, they're not real teeth, they're just <a href="http://www.suerte-communications.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Doggie-dentures1.png">dentures</a>, but still. Ew.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cIMaK1Eu5Jc/UnW_SrNxtaI/AAAAAAAACYw/hkVBWTeYqf0/s1600/teeth+shoes+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cIMaK1Eu5Jc/UnW_SrNxtaI/AAAAAAAACYw/hkVBWTeYqf0/s400/teeth+shoes+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Just ew. Especially with the <a href="http://twistededge.org/Funny_As_Hell/Pure_Deviance/Gangsta_Rap/Gold_Teeth.jpg">gold teeth</a> accents on the front. I don't know why that disturbs me as much as it does, but it does.<br />
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But <a href="http://fantichandyoung.co.uk/self-portrait/">Mariana Fantich and Dominic Young</a> weren't just content with disturbing dress shoes with dentured soles. Oh, no.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L0Et2tgvNYE/UnW_3ZvyvWI/AAAAAAAACY8/-6DVRyVr_4o/s1600/hair+coat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L0Et2tgvNYE/UnW_3ZvyvWI/AAAAAAAACY8/-6DVRyVr_4o/s400/hair+coat.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
That, <a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2013/10/tumblr_lrkdsz7oAp1r39dcqo1_1280/1978800920.jpg">faithful readers</a>, is a perfectly normal coat with nothing unusual about it.<br />
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I'm kidding, of course. Fantich & Young created this monstrosity using a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Savile_Row">Savile Row</a> suit, dentures (of course), glass eyes and, you're not going to believe this, <a href="http://www.teamjimmyjoe.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Funny-Hair-Japanese-Elvis.jpg">human hair</a>. Yes, human hair.<br />
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And yes, there are <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/10/wink-wink.html">matching pants</a> with denture accents, as well.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aQCXyfR1_jo/UnXBFd_YVrI/AAAAAAAACZE/4I0pTgQkadw/s1600/matching+set.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aQCXyfR1_jo/UnXBFd_YVrI/AAAAAAAACZE/4I0pTgQkadw/s400/matching+set.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
They really do go well with those <a href="http://l2.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/_ALbPHWuDIgMnFhxFGJgnA--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7cT04NTt3PTMxMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en-US/blogs/partner/470_2519631.jpg">shoes</a>, I guess.<br />
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And, don't worry ladies, they have some <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_X3Jv3WfCHI">Jimmi Choos</a> for you, as well.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7alBXCClgtY/UnXB1rczckI/AAAAAAAACZM/LxP_rRsk5rk/s1600/timthumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7alBXCClgtY/UnXB1rczckI/AAAAAAAACZM/LxP_rRsk5rk/s400/timthumb.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<i>*shudder*</i>The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-62896441157265579302013-10-28T00:01:00.000-06:002013-10-29T12:59:58.975-06:00Let's Define "Blackface"<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><i><b>WARNING: THIS POST IS GOING TO DISCUSS THE ISSUE OF RACE.</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<i><b><span style="color: red;">CLARIFICATION: DON'T WORRY, BECAUSE IT'S OCTOBER, THIS WEEK'S POST IS STILL SOMEWHAT <span style="color: orange;">HALLOWEEN</span><span style="color: black;">-RELA<span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">TED</span>.</span> </span></span></b></i></div>
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Before I start, I feel that I should inform you that I'm "white." I put that color in quotes because my skin isn't really the color of a <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5ca0y4H_HrM/Ta9wvN3_5XI/AAAAAAAAB18/PDfSmVPtKiM/s1600/funny%2BCloud4.jpg">cloud</a> or a <a href="http://static.comicvine.com/uploads/original/5/53336/1002569-ghostbusters_stay_puft_marshmallow_man_bank_1.jpg">marshmallow</a> (though its consistency may be like one of those two things -- I need to work out more). My skin is more of a peach-ish, orange-ish, pink-ish hue. However, my race shouldn't be an issue here. After all, if you're going to dismiss my opinion based solely on the color of my skin, that kind of <a href="http://media1.giphy.com/media/TnN8ei3cMolpu/giphy.gif">makes you racist</a>, doesn't it?<br />
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I bring this up because recently <a href="http://youngwiki.weebly.com/uploads/6/1/8/6/6186755/9375861_orig.jpg">Julianne Hough</a> has been accused of racism because she appeared in "blackface" for her Halloween costume. Here's a picture:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0S27inJlLEA/Um2HPh9-TyI/AAAAAAAACXE/s3AZV3pb3a4/s1600/julianne-hough-614x400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0S27inJlLEA/Um2HPh9-TyI/AAAAAAAACXE/s3AZV3pb3a4/s400/julianne-hough-614x400.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Now, I don't really follow <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm2584600/?ref_=nv_sr_1">Ms. Hough's career</a> that much (I hear she dances and sings), but I find it interesting that people are considering this costume to be racially offensive. She was just using some makeup to look like one of her <a href="http://gil.acroyear.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/malcolm-reynolds-browncoat.jpg">favorite characters</a> from a TV show, who happens to be black. Here's a picture of the character she was trying to look like: </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7OIct66IQa0/Um2HsqRO5sI/AAAAAAAACXQ/r-qlfACEgnE/s1600/crazy-eyes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7OIct66IQa0/Um2HsqRO5sI/AAAAAAAACXQ/r-qlfACEgnE/s320/crazy-eyes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now, I don't really follow <a href="http://liztellsfrank.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/orange-is-the-new-black-poster.jpg">Orange is the New Black</a> that much (I hear there's dancing and singing), but if Julianne Hough is dressing up as Suzanne "Crazy Eyes" Warren, why shouldn't she try to match the skin tone of the character? If she didn't, Ms. Hough would spend the evening explaining who she was to each person at the party because no one would really get it. After all, Hough is a <a href="http://media.twirlit.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Julianne-Hough-Hair-Medium-Length.jpg">blond-haired</a>, <a href="http://img2.timeinc.net/people/i/2010/stylewatch/getthelook/100517/julianne-hough.jpg">blue-eyed</a> white girl. She was just trying to match the TV character (played by <a href="http://www1.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Uzo+Aduba+Orange+New+Black+Screening+Santa+AJISyjvW2WWx.jpg">Uzo Aduba</a>) as much as she possibly could.<br />
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Hough has since apologized for her costume, but did she really need to? If I was going as <a href="http://starcasm.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/conanobrien1.jpg">Conan O'Brien</a> for Halloween, for example, I would probably apply some <a href="http://images.starpulse.com/Photos/Previews/Pale-Force-tv-03.jpg">translucent white makeup</a> to lighten my skin and I'd probably also wear an <a href="http://cdn.teamcococdn.com/assets/image/640x0/scale:max/sig:d612981f3cd6b4c0730c9bb0155807e9/0218_COBinHair.jpg">orange wig</a>. I doubt anyone (including the Irish) would call that racist. So why would it be considered racist to darken my skin a little to match that of a character I'm trying to emulate? Furthermore, would it have been considered racist if Hough had worn a "Crazy Eyes" mask instead of using makeup?<br />
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To me, Julianne's costume is not blackface. It's just <a href="http://cdn.themetapicture.com/media/funny-girl-make-up-Halloween-scary-monster.jpg">makeup for a costume</a>. It wasn't done with the intent to offend or satirize the African American community, it was done to match a <a href="http://mypartyshirt.com/media/catalog/product/a/c/ac-slater-saved-by-the-bell-shirt.png">character on TV</a>. It's not a great costume, but it's also not a racist one.<br />
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You know what I think blackface is? Here's a picture:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j9hR5aTe2D8/Um2JEYbYXmI/AAAAAAAACXU/cP74NPKJF6k/s1600/ajolson-blackface-1909-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j9hR5aTe2D8/Um2JEYbYXmI/AAAAAAAACXU/cP74NPKJF6k/s1600/ajolson-blackface-1909-a.jpg" /></a></div>
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To me, this is a sloppy and, frankly, offensive way of portraying the skin of those with African heritage. Back in the day, actors would slather on the black makeup and then add a white mouth during <a href="http://bestwebs.com/vaudeville/vaud2.jpg">vaudeville shows</a> and <a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/51/Al_Jolson_Jazz_Singer.JPG">films</a>. Blackface was done as a satirical stereotype of an entire race and was a pretty bad idea in the first place, in my opinion.<br />
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Let's jump back to today, shall we?<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-99owb1sWqj8/Um2K8LncLTI/AAAAAAAACXg/ilzS141si2U/s1600/dunkin-donuts-blackface-hed-2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-99owb1sWqj8/Um2K8LncLTI/AAAAAAAACXg/ilzS141si2U/s400/dunkin-donuts-blackface-hed-2013.jpg" width="275" /></a></div>
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That picture is from a 2013 Dunkin' Donuts ad in Thailand about a dark chocolate doughnut. Now, I am unable to read the <a href="http://translate.google.com/#auto/th/I%20don%27t%20speak%20Thai.">Thai language</a>, but I'm going to go out on a limb and guess that the text doesn't say "I am a generalization of the African people, and I like doughnuts." No, this advertisement shows a chocolate-covered doughnut held by a <a href="http://www.missfitnesslife.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/charlie_choc_facotry.jpg">chocolate-covered person</a>. It has nothing to do with race. And yet some Americans still clamored that this ad was racist. They yelled "BLACKFACE!" and demanded that the ads be taken down because they were so offensive. Unless "Chocolate-covered Doughnut People" is an existing race on the World Census, this should not be considered racism and it should not be considered blackface.<br />
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But that's not to say that people don't do blackface in modern times.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W0HtirwKTek/Um2NmQNdiUI/AAAAAAAACXs/qEstSOO6onI/s1600/Danson-Goldberg_610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W0HtirwKTek/Um2NmQNdiUI/AAAAAAAACXs/qEstSOO6onI/s400/Danson-Goldberg_610.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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That picture is of <a href="http://hollywoodautographnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/dansoncheers.jpg">Ted Danson</a>. For those of you who don't know who Ted Danson is, he was a famous TV star who only really made one successful venture into the movie world with <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ohBNZZKmtnw">Three Men and a Baby</a>. Anyway, in 1993 he appeared at Whoopi Goldberg's roast, admittedly, in blackface. But for some reason <a href="http://cdn03.cdnwp.thefrisky.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/24/host-Whoopi-Goldberg.jpg">Ms. Goldberg</a> was fine with it (note her approving face in that picture). And when the media got after Mr. Danson, she defended him, saying she had helped write Danson's "comedic" material, and even referred Danson to the makeup artist who painted his face. Danson and Goldberg (which would be a good name for a law firm) also dismissed the accusations by saying that these types of roasts were intended to offend and shock people. This is blackface, but apparently it's an <a href="http://www.realisticrelationships.com/relationship-advice/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/free-pass.jpg">excused example</a> of blackface.<br />
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Here's another example I'd like to discuss: <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BSM-xcwieo0/Um2Py709IVI/AAAAAAAACX4/21QHLq6muUk/s1600/asu-blackface-intro.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BSM-xcwieo0/Um2Py709IVI/AAAAAAAACX4/21QHLq6muUk/s400/asu-blackface-intro.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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That picture depicts a group of fans painting themselves the <a href="http://www.thesportsdesignblog.com/thegoodstuff/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/colors_nfl1.jpg">color of their favorite sports team</a>, which happens to be black. As far as I can tell, those girls have no racial agenda with that makeup. If fans of the Dallas Cowboys painted their <a href="http://www.dubuque.k12.ia.us/Hempstead/WizardofOz/Tinman.jpg">skin silver</a>, would that be considered racist? Perhaps they would be showing racism against the <a href="http://rlv.zcache.com/rosie_the_robot_gasping_round_sticker-r3f1bc39a8cf7420fbfde40c3de64e9c8_v9waf_8byvr_512.jpg">robot race</a>? Should this be considered blackface? No. <br />
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Here is one final example of actual blackface, and, I need to warn you, this is offensive on a number of levels:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GhZLLvK-pUM/Um2RsudIrMI/AAAAAAAACYA/uJcGU5X8z5s/s1600/bxk4hw-ciaaodr3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GhZLLvK-pUM/Um2RsudIrMI/AAAAAAAACYA/uJcGU5X8z5s/s400/bxk4hw-ciaaodr3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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That is a picture of a guy smearing black makeup on his face, and fake blood on his hoodie to portray <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shooting_of_Trayvon_Martin">Trayvon Martin</a>. He and his buddy apparently chose a "couple's costume" for this Halloween party. The girl is the middle is just clueless. If she realized how offensive and wrong this costume was, she wouldn't be standing between those two idiots and smiling. This is when people <i>should</i> get offended. This is racist. This is wrong. This is blackface.<br />
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It doesn't make sense to call that final, terrible, example of blackface "blackface" and call Julianne Hough's costume "blackface" in the same breath. The motives behind and implementations of each costume are completely different. People need to stop crying "BLACKFACE!" when it's <a href="http://brucepoinsette.files.wordpress.com/2011/10/davechappele.jpg">not actually blackface</a>. The more you throw around that term, the less power it has when it should actually be used.<br />
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So, <a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2013/10/AFFsubmission-e1382378934379/2133883338.jpg">faithful readers</a>, let's recap what we've learned today:<br />
<ol>
<li>Using makeup to look like a <a href="http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/billy-crystal-oscar-blackface-sammy-davis-jr-296219">famous actor/character</a>, or painting yourself your team's colors is not blackface. </li>
<li>Smearing black paint on your face with the intention to portray a <a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/58/Minstrel_PosterBillyVanWare_edit.jpg">stereotyped caricature</a> of an entire race is blackface.</li>
<li>I need to <a href="http://theskinnyonmyjeans.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/rock-hard-abs.jpg">work out more</a>.</li>
</ol>
Now you know, and <a href="http://www.hisstank.com/gi-joe-news/attach/5/8/0/3/6/GIJoe---Hisstank_1379081740.jpg">knowing is half the battle</a>. The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-78866557272389359542013-10-21T00:01:00.000-06:002013-10-22T13:42:52.862-06:00Northampton: They All Float Down Here<a href="http://media.whas11.com/images/15_ht_awkward_xmas_random_clown_111213_ssv.jpg">Faithful readers</a>, can we call just take a moment, be honest with each other and admit that <a href="http://christopherstarr.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/pennywise1.gif">Tim Curry's</a> role of <a href="http://cdn3.whatculture.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/pennywise.jpg">Pennywise the Clown</a> in <a href="http://www.unwinnable.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/pennywise-clown-it.jpg">Stephen King's "It"</a> is the most terrifying thing to ever happen on television? Can we all just admit that that <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/10/nine-film-caused-fears.html">creepy clown</a> has haunted our dreams as children and may even cause feelings of dread in us as adults?<br />
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Or is it just <a href="http://www.bleedingcool.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/scared-girl.jpg">me</a>?<br />
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I first saw "It" when it was on <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1990_in_American_television">TV in 1990</a>. Confession: I was probably not quite old enough to be watching something like that. How do I know that I may have been too young? Because I threw up after watching the first half of the miniseries. Now, that could have been because I had eaten too much <a href="http://mealsbysheri.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/hamburger-gravy-019.jpg">hamburger gravy</a>, or it could have been that my body was revolting after the terror and stress I had just put it through.<br />
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And to this day I still get that sick feeling in the pit of my stomach whenever I see <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Yluc8KM_qw">Pennywise</a>, and sometimes when I just see <a href="http://images.lazygamer.net/2013/04/Wilderness-girwls.png">Tim Curry</a>. So you can imagine my feelings when I found out that someone in Northampton, England (which I believe is just north of Hampton, England) was dressing up as <a href="http://collider.com/wp-content/uploads/stephen-king-it-tim-curry.jpg">Pennywise the Clown</a> and roaming around the streets.<br />
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Apparently the Northampton Clown, as he's called, shows up at a random location and <a href="http://grizzlybomb.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Pennywise.gif">stares at people</a>. He doesn't talk, he doesn't juggle, he doesn't make <a href="http://www.balloondeliverydenver.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/scary-clown-balloon-sculpture-denver.jpg">balloon animals</a> or any of the other terrifying things that clowns normally do -- he just stands there and waves. So people began to be, understandably, <a href="https://i.chzbgr.com/maxW500/1500325120/h4A7CA561/">creeped out</a> by him, and they did what normal people who are disturbed by something do these days - take a picture and post it online.<br />
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Here are a few of them:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-44ZIMVXj6r4/UmRDJT9QHVI/AAAAAAAACWc/70WLqxeUISA/s1600/1236515_436780389774017_2079790508_n-2294777.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-44ZIMVXj6r4/UmRDJT9QHVI/AAAAAAAACWc/70WLqxeUISA/s320/1236515_436780389774017_2079790508_n-2294777.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh I get it!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SHj1B9-viuY/UmRDJbXQeWI/AAAAAAAACWM/QbLOrK-JYRE/s1600/Clown-Terrorizing-Northampton-Caught-on-Video.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="218" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SHj1B9-viuY/UmRDJbXQeWI/AAAAAAAACWM/QbLOrK-JYRE/s400/Clown-Terrorizing-Northampton-Caught-on-Video.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"They all float down here!"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7vGr2SvyN9M/UmRDJSUmQOI/AAAAAAAACWQ/qprFDPX4S6I/s1600/Creepy-Northampton-Clown-Facebook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7vGr2SvyN9M/UmRDJSUmQOI/AAAAAAAACWQ/qprFDPX4S6I/s400/Creepy-Northampton-Clown-Facebook.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Don't you want your balloon?"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RPRL70DQo3k/UmRDJ671o8I/AAAAAAAACWg/A7hLn2gSAzc/s1600/Northampton+clown+statue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RPRL70DQo3k/UmRDJ671o8I/AAAAAAAACWg/A7hLn2gSAzc/s400/Northampton+clown+statue.jpg" width="310" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great, a clown and a weeping angel in the same vicinity. <i>*shudder*</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a8LPL8R_-Jo/UmRDKL1bm1I/AAAAAAAACWk/8ZBpPVEMcws/s1600/northampton-clown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="244" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a8LPL8R_-Jo/UmRDKL1bm1I/AAAAAAAACWk/8ZBpPVEMcws/s400/northampton-clown.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pointing makes this picture especially creepy.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Northampton Clown first started popping up around September 2013 on <a href="http://dailyoftheday.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/its-friday-friday-the-13th.jpg">Friday the 13th</a> (of course). Since that time, his pictures have appeared on the <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XF8dNDbpvhk/UZFm6eWHurI/AAAAAAAAAhk/podTd6UD1H0/s1600/astV+NEWS+NETWORK.jpg">news</a>, he's started a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/spotnorthamptonsclown">Facebook page</a> and, just last week, his identity was revealed.<br />
<br />
News outlets are now reporting that the Northampton clown is a student named <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2457911/Northampton-Clown-unmasked-Pictured-preparing-Facebook-photo-shoot.html">Alex Powell</a>. Alex is a filmmaker who made a mockumentary about a clown in a similar getup a few months before the sightings began. However, even though the media is sure that the Northampton Clown is none other than <a href="http://i.huffpost.com/gen/1404403/thumbs/o-NORTHAMPTON-CLOWN-570.jpg?6">Alex Powell</a>, the Northampton Clown Facebook page simply states, "<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Don't worry, my identity is still safe. See you all soon! <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMsiWsce8s0&t=0m09s">BEEP BEEP</a>!" so perhaps the Northampton Clown is still out there. . .waiting to be found in the dark night.</span><br />
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<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"> Well, I guess it's back to <a href="http://media1.giphy.com/media/s4Q3geM5T1XCo/giphy.gif">nightmares</a> and bed-wetting for me.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Goodnight. </span><br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><br /></span>
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><br /></span>The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-66608186440324940902013-10-14T00:01:00.000-06:002013-10-14T00:21:50.423-06:00The Few, The Scared, The NudeNestled in between <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZV2jvngnvqg">Allentown</a> and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is a little town called Sinking Spring. Sinking Spring has a population of a little over 4,000, yet it has caught the eye of the national news lately. Why? Because of their Haunted Scream Park called Shocktoberfest. At first glance, it looks like your standard Halloween haunted attraction fare. You've got a <a href="http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/18iwdxea2ol1jjpg/original.jpg">haunted hayride</a>, a couple <a href="http://wac.450f.edgecastcdn.net/80450F/thefw.com/files/2011/10/Haunted-House-Scare-3.jpg">spook alleys</a> and a midway to keep people fed and entertained while they're waiting. However, they also have a new attraction this year called The Naked and Scared Challenge, which, <a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2013/09/wttf1/4160147924.jpg">faithful readers</a>, is exactly what it sounds like.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.shocktoberfest.com/attractions/#naked"><img border="0" height="145" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--kOI8Auwllo/UluD7pXTTGI/AAAAAAAACVw/-yU8BFuYn8E/s400/Naked-and-Scared-Challenge.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Yup. Some <a href="http://www.shocktoberfest.com/assets/professor.png">demented mind in Pennsylvania</a> thought it would be a fun idea to have people go through their <a href="http://cbswdok2.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/nightmares-fear-factory-24.jpg?w=625&h=352&crop=1">haunted house</a> completely nude.<br />
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Now, yes, I've had those <a href="http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2012/10/18/article-0-158F0D26000005DC-844_634x473.jpg">nightmares</a> when I'm suddenly naked in front of a group of people, and yes, it was <a href="http://cbsk1047.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/nightmares-fear-factory-in-niagara-falls-canada-1210.jpg?w=720">terrifying</a>, but that's a completely different type of fear than being chased by a chainsaw-wielding maniac. Plus, I've witnessed the behind-the-scene antics of a haunted house before. Most of the people "working" there are young volunteers that had nothing better to do that night. So even though they may say "Participants are never in view of minors or non-participating customers," you're still being seen by the people you're with and the actors in the haunt. Plus, October is a <a href="http://lifeglobe.net/media/entry/3782/9.jpg">cold month</a>, especially in PA.<br />
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And apparently the <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Napxzg_3-EQ/TqiayLwj0QI/AAAAAAAAAfU/889XllShR70/s1600/reactionstoscaryplace.jpg">fear</a> was a little too real for a few of the township officials after this event got some national publicity, so Shocktoberfest has been asked to tone it down a bit. They've gotten rid of the <a href="http://spectrum.columbiaspectator.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/tobias_cutoffs-170x288.png">nude option</a> and only have the <a href="http://daicynotdaisy.files.wordpress.com/2010/10/nevernude.jpg">"prude" option</a>, which means you can only go through in your underwear now.<br />
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Darn.<br />
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I guess <a href="http://filmicfilly.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/wonder-woman2.png">my wife</a> and I will have to cancel that road trip to Sinking Spring, Pennsylvania this <a href="http://wac.450f.edgecastcdn.net/80450F/thefw.com/files/2013/09/Fear3.jpg">Halloween</a>. Oh well. There's always that naked Christmas <a href="http://cdn.followpics.com/show/283515739011410375_OaObK5xP_c.jpg">sleigh ride</a> in Alaska. . .The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-1776914011828315892013-10-07T00:01:00.000-06:002014-09-09T20:56:55.807-06:00Screams from Room #209Ok, <a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2013/09/brown/1508244425.jpg">faithful readers</a>, I will admit that I've had some difficulty getting into the <a href="http://api.ning.com/files/RKYj88z*Fzc2eYJOLvIqRqrV9kEEMcJ5v6YsQ1ylk7X4d6Av9CGJ7MW3*nhSA9Uiz5uZ91-dIpoBPORxM9o71nmvN-f2-VR2/FloatingGirlGhost3D.bmp">Halloween spirit</a> this year. But this video, sent in by, <a href="http://img.izismile.com/img/img2/20090820/family_2_46.jpg">alert reader</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-3sIJ_N3mw">Dena</a>, definitely gave me the creeps.<br />
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Quick Note: This is not one of those <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLicfr1AYfo">sudden jump-out videos</a>. I wouldn't do that to you. . .in this post.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/BobA5ujHkvU?rel=0" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
Now, there are a few of reasons why I think this video is fake. First of all, if it was recorded on September 4, 2003, why did it take so long for them to upload it? I mean, people have been uploading videos to YouTube since <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jNQXAC9IVRw">April 23, 2005</a> and people have been interested in the paranormal since at least <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_X-Files">September 10, 1993</a>, so why would they wait until September 4, 2012 to upload it, never mind the fact that it's just getting popular just now in October of 2013. Wow. I think I put too many <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0qIMTA4_YdU">dates</a> in that paragraph.<br />
<br />
Also, why is it that we can hear <a href="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_mdwdabMLAC1rwzsbso1_500.gif">Amy</a> at the beginning of the audio, but not later on? And why can you hear <a href="http://gifrific.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Jon-Hamm-Sure-Thing.gif">John's</a> muffled drive-thru speaker speech when he's outside of the room, but not when he's giving the description of what was in the room? Plus, the <a href="http://www.alaska-in-pictures.com/data/media/4/cry-of-an-eagle_5222.jpg">screams</a> from room #209 come in a bit too clear, if we can't even hear John most of the time.<br />
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Furthermore, two seconds pass between the time the <a href="http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20130520202238/parksandrecreation/images/e/ea/Burt_Macklin.png">unnamed security manager</a> says "John, are you there?" to when John walks back out of the room and is clearly not using his radio. And somehow, in those two seconds he manages to tell the security manager (and us, the audience) that he wants Amy to call the police, that there's no one in the room and that the <a href="http://assets.dornob.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/upside-down-home-interior.jpg">furniture was all turned over</a>. Then John puts the radio to his lips for one second, and manages to tell the security manager that the <a href="http://i.imgur.com/jckOAHT.jpg">carpet was ripped up</a> and the shower was on and, once again, there's nobody in there. <br />
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Finally, why didn't John turn on the light when he walked in the room? If I were John, turning on the lights would be the first thing I would do if I were to hear <a href="http://stream1.gifsoup.com/view2/1464672/home-alone-scream-o.gif">screams</a> in a dark room -- call me crazy. A flashlight is a <a href="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m0jafgzBbF1qaliojo1_500.gif">dark room</a> is just asking for the spooky.<br />
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However, even if this video isn't real (which I doubt it is, because <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/Jimmynut22?feature=watch">Jimmynut22</a>, who uploaded it is also a filmmaker, apparently) (and he uploaded the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iE45Jq2Kpl0">exact same video</a> with the title "Alien caught on camera" a day later on September 5, 2012), I still think it's effective as a creepy video and a fun way to <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/10/iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiits.html">kick off this Halloween season</a>.The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-23791180050753240322013-10-01T00:01:00.000-06:002013-10-01T21:25:03.059-06:00Breaking Bye-Bye<a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2013/10/tumblr_mtw8z7S8g41su8n06o1_500/1001041118.jpg">Faithful readers</a>, I wasn't able to watch the Breaking Bad finale Sunday night because I had <a href="http://imgsrv.pointradio.com/image/wpte2/UserFiles/Image/WooWoo_IMAGES/Lil_Cupcake_-_girls.jpg">other priorities</a>. So I had to go on a media fast to avoid spoilers for this show. I didn't get on <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/12/is-it-getting-geeky-in-here.html">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://www.mediabistro.com/alltwitter/files/2011/10/twitter-cartoon-2.jpg">Twitter,</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/06/where-street-scenes-have-no-name.html">Google</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/12/lol-new-moon-k-thx-bye.html">Blogger</a> (hey! that's what this blog is on!) for over 24 hours so I could avoid hearing anything about it. It was kind of liberating, actually -- I got a lot of stuff done. And it's surprising how easy it is to not read any spoilers when you just avoid the internet completely.<br />
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Anyway, <a href="http://img.izismile.com/img/img5/20120716/640/funny_breaking_bad_memes_640_28.jpg">Breaking Bad</a> is dark, depressing and hard to watch, but it was also amazingly creative, absolutely riveting and it's the reason I don't have a real blog post for you. I can't wait for <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/07/why-i-watch-edited-movies.html">ClearPlay</a> to get a filter for this show so I can actually recommend it to people.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i3DNRAugMGY/UkuOfFbTlqI/AAAAAAAACVc/1iIDjDXeKZA/s1600/goodbye+breaking+bad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i3DNRAugMGY/UkuOfFbTlqI/AAAAAAAACVc/1iIDjDXeKZA/s1600/goodbye+breaking+bad.jpg" /></a></div>
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Never fear, I have a whole slew of <a href="http://sd.keepcalm-o-matic.co.uk/i/keep-calm-halloween-is-coming-10.png">Halloween-related</a> posts for the month of October.The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-53069011112125077262013-09-23T00:01:00.000-06:002013-09-23T00:01:00.067-06:00Vegas Cat<a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2013/09/Screen-Shot-2013-09-16-at-2_32_07-PM/1617454542.jpg">Faithful readers</a>, we've discussed <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/06/busted.html">intelligent animals</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/03/all-hail-internet-animals.html">talking animals</a> and <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/02/everythings-better-with-bacon.html">delicious animals</a> on this blog before, but we've never really talked about animals that could make you a few bucks. Check out what Kido the kitty can do.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/GoXHVs65NFQ?rel=0" width="560"></iframe><br />
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If he's this good at the shell game, imagine how Kido could do at <a href="http://funnypicturesplus.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/funny-jack-black-meme.jpg">blackjack</a> or <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m1A4nGCF0eU/Uhxt2QptwLI/AAAAAAAADbQ/ps9U76El3Ek/s1600/funny-no-idea-doing-dog-playing-poker-pics.jpg">Texas hold 'em</a>!<br />
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We could make a fortune, Kido. <a href="http://stream1.gifsoup.com/view3/1957695/join-me-o.gif">Join me</a>!The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-23943621908530273672013-09-16T00:01:00.000-06:002013-09-16T15:39:04.182-06:00Waffles: A Challenge for the InternetOh Internet, you think you're so smart - so witty. You think you can take anything that's <a href="http://canigivemybaby.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/can-i-give-my-baby-eggs.jpg">seemingly mundane</a> and turn it into <a href="http://whereisemilylim.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/storm-egg.jpg">something cool</a> that will endlessly entertain people like me and the <a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2011/01/163484_1575268778178_1129333607_31372817_204293_n-e1378690529260/1018280320.jpg">faithful readers</a> of <a href="http://www.businesspundit.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/zzchoccake1.jpg">Slice of Fried Gold</a>.<br />
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Well I have a <a href="http://stream1.gifsoup.com/view4/1656725/glove-slap-o.gif">challenge</a> for you, Internet.<br />
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Popularize this!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/sDj72zqZakE?rel=0" width="560"></iframe><br />
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Yup. It's a waffle falling over. That's it. Thanks, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/schnooleheletteletto/feed">Schnooleheletteletto</a>! Not since <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V8c2lbt49eQ">Man Eats Hamburger</a> has someone uploaded something so unremarkable to YouTube. And you, Internet, now have to find a way to make it into something people will want to share. You must create it into a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3dErjFPTarc">meme</a> that will be copied and repeated dozens of hundreds of time!<br />
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Are you up for it?<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/-7ZPGIigMDM?rel=0" width="480"></iframe><br />
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Oh. Ok. I guess you are. That was <a href="https://i.chzbgr.com/maxW500/2729209344/h2DE030BE/">mildly entertaining</a>, I guess. But I'm not that big of a SpongeBob fan, so...<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/9KOPbNOWGLY?rel=0" width="480"></iframe> <br />
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Fine, Internet, you can try and appeal to me with my enjoyment of <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Kod1q39ddE">dubstep music</a>, but I still don't think these waffles are a meme yet. For that you need many, many more-<br />
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<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/0mFKNX_KVis?rel=0" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/4s1ebN4k-IY?rel=0" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/PD0er_Dwgpo?rel=0" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
Ok, those last three are just playing off <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/02/my-harlem-shake-brings-all-boys-to-yard.html">past</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/11/i-was-thinking-about-past-lot-this-week.html">Slice of Fried Gold</a> <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2013/07/and-thus-he-was-caught-with-guile.html">posts</a>! You can't just-<br />
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<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/T4yGYyQbeK8?rel=0" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/664MZlbSe70?rel=0" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/axdqtCAQ07Q?rel=0" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
And those are some my favorite <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/09/literal-tv-titles.html">TV shows</a>, but still... <br />
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<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/1sUAQte85hY?rel=0" width="560"></iframe><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/0W-ceckRNoI?rel=0" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/VwPS51GOtu4?rel=0" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<a href="http://medias.omgif.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/whay-is-happening.gif">How is this possible</a>?? It's just a video of a waffle falling over!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/_OcfQcq3C88?rel=0" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Lxv-KFDHoGo?rel=0" width="480"></iframe><br />
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<a href="http://www.oneutah.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/white-flag-Small.jpg">You win</a>, Internet.<br />
<br />The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-27521045019707890752013-09-09T00:01:00.000-06:002013-09-11T11:09:07.297-06:00Comic Con! Bang a Gong! Comic Con!<a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2012/03/blue-lip-feel/3190816439.jpg">Faithful readers</a>, I am officially a geek.<br />
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I mean, I've manifested <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2012/04/baby-baby-baby-ewww.html">geek tendencies</a> before, and I can hold my own when it comes to geek trivia, but I had a rite of passage this past weekend and I wanted to announce it to the world: I attended my first <a href="http://www.lolbrary.com/content/383/meanwhile-at-comic-con-30383.jpg">Comic Con</a>. And I would like to briefly share my experience and thoughts with you.<br />
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I've thought about attending the <a href="http://www.theworldisraw.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/cc011.jpg">Comic Con in San Diego</a> for some time now, but the tickets are way too expensive and the trip there would only add to the bill. So I just admired other people's pictures. However, Comic Con finally made its way to <a href="http://natashawilliams.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/img_0109.jpg">Salt Lake City</a> and that was much closer to me and much more manageable.<br />
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So I went. I was resistant at first (money and time were an issue), but I obtained a Press Pass (never mind <a href="http://moblog.net/media/c/r/a/craft/very-shallow-grave.jpg">how I got it</a>) and I was able to go to the <a href="http://saltlakecomiccon.com/">Salt Lake City Comic Con</a>. My first "Con" ever.<br />
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My first impression was how many people were there. As I was making my way to the <a href="http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/photo/2012-06/02/131627308_41n.jpg">Salt Palace</a> (in the pouring rain), I was amazed by all the people who were walking around the city in costume. It was awesome. But I was confused by the fact that many of the costumed people were walking <i>away</i> from the convention center. As it turns out, Salt Lake Comic Con was sold out. No new tickets were being sold. Luckily, I had that Press Pass, and the <a href="http://www.ausbt.com.au/photos/view/maxsize:640,480/4e924649d16445ff937d4ed2767f2254-redcarpet-2.jpg">event staff let me right in</a>.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://sphotos-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/9906_10202045772253037_1623121982_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://sphotos-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/9906_10202045772253037_1623121982_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crowds. . .why did it have to be crowds?</td></tr>
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Wow. <a href="http://static.neatorama.com/images/2007-08/crowded-pool-japan.jpg">So many people</a> were inside.<br />
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I'm not a big fan of crowds, so I was hesitant to wander down in the midst of the <a href="http://img833.imageshack.us/img833/9072/forthehordei.jpg">horde</a>, but it called to me. I couldn't resist.<br />
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I didn't really know where to go or what to do, so I just wandered and looked at <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/11/come-and-play-everythings-ok.html">costumes</a>. As it turns out, that was my favorite thing. I went to a couple panels and I wandered by the celebrity tables, but I just loved seeing the dedication and creative spirit of the people there. I was wearing my Firefly shirt, so I did put some effort into it, but I kept thinking how fun it would be to have a <a href="http://costumepop.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/bioshock-big-daddy-little-sister-costumes.jpg">costume that people wanted to photograph</a>. Maybe next year.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://sphotos-a-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/1233443_10202045772533044_431861522_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://sphotos-a-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/1233443_10202045772533044_431861522_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Hulk is much bigger than I thought he'd be.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Anyway, one thing I learned about <a href="http://thetoiletpaper.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/Comic%20Con%20Nerds.jpg">Comic Con</a> is that most of the <a href="http://saltlakecomiccon.com/guest-master-schedule/">celebrities charge</a> for a picture or an autograph -- I had no idea. It almost seems like highway robbery when you have to pay $40 to use your own camera to take a picture of you standing next to Lou Ferrigno. But I guess these people need to make a buck somehow. Some of the celebrities, like <a href="http://farm1.staticflickr.com/249/443939464_171edf86bb.jpg">Kevin Murphy</a> don't charge for an autograph or picture. But they will accept donations for a charity. Mr. Murphy mentioned that they had raised $850 for the American Red Cross during his time at the Salt Lake Comic Con. Way to go, Tom Servo!<br />
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Also, there are big lines to wait in if you want to shell out the cash to stand next to a celebrity. However, I soon discovered the power of the <a href="http://blog.uber.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/charlie-bucket1-1.jpeg">Press Pass</a> and was able to jump the line to snap a photo using my cell phone. Granted, I wasn't in any of the shots and I didn't actually meet any of the celebrities, but seeing them interacting with their fans was pretty interesting.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://sphotos-a-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/1240185_10202045777253162_1501845010_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://sphotos-a-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/1240185_10202045777253162_1501845010_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This guy does a GREAT Tom Servo impersonation.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have two regrets in that regard: One, I chickened out on meeting Kevin Murphy. <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/04/russian-spies-and-sitcom-rip-offs.html">Mystery Science Theater 3000</a> is my favorite TV show, and I get a little tongue-tied when I'm around people I admire. I had already made a fool around <a href="http://cdn.americansongwriter.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/l_586c5366cd534600145fcc128292787c.jpg">They Might Be Giants</a> a few years back, so I figured I'd sit this one out and just snap a photo and run.<br />
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The second regret is that I didn't get to see <a href="http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lmiafefRFt1qbforc.gif">Nicholas Brendon</a>. I recently convinced my wife to watch Buffy the Vampire Slayer in its entirety, and so I'm kind of on a Buffy high. Xander was on a break when I was doing my quick celebrity walk-by pictures, and then he was gone when I got back from attending a panel. Darn. I'll just tell myself that it wasn't Nicholas Brendon. I'll convince myself that it was his identical twin brother, <a href="http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20080424002606/buffy/images/7/71/Xanderdouble.jpg">Kelly Donovan</a>.<br />
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But that was pretty much it. I was only able to be there for a few hours. I wish I could have been there longer. It seemed strange that they <a href="http://cdn02.cdnwp.celebuzz.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/01/shut-it-down.gif">closed down the floor at 7:00</a>, when they still had panels going until 9:00. I don't know why they decided on that. The later panels seemed a little disorganized, too, like the event staff had gone home for the evening.<br />
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But I had fun. As I mentioned before, I just loved seeing people walk around in costumes. Plus, even though there were lines and crowds, everyone seemed to be in a good mood. Compliments were given out almost as much as <a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/36/Flyers_sobe_2.jpg">flyers</a> and business cards. Everyone seemed to be enjoying what they were doing. And there was a spirit of camaraderie among all of us geeks there. It was like <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNa8QyAl2YE">Burning Man</a>, but with more bathrooms and less nudity.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://sphotos-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/1237019_10202045777573170_1394225817_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://sphotos-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/1237019_10202045777573170_1394225817_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How many Deadpools can you fit into a TARDIS?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I'm glad I went to the <a href="http://fox13now.com/2013/09/08/massive-crowds-set-several-records-at-2013-salt-lake-comic-con/">Salt Lake Comic Con</a>, and I hope to go again next year.The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-6326974184064451382013-09-02T00:01:00.000-06:002013-09-02T11:09:55.291-06:00Total Eclipse of the Divas<a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2013/09/familyportrait-e1377301582702/3166237330.jpg">Faithful readers</a>, I don't normally like <a href="http://www.theartwolf.com/articles/50-impressionist-paintings.htm">impressionists</a>. For every one good impersonator out there, there are 4,815,162,342 terrible ones. Bad impressions are like nails on a chalkboard to me. However, every now and then, an impressionist comes along that actually impresses me; an impersonator who goes beyond the clichéd impressions of <a href="http://uploads.neatorama.com/images/posts/518/53/53518/1350024538-0.jpg">Jack Nicholson</a> or <a href="http://www.threemu.com/halloween/gollum3.jpg">Gollum</a>. And <a href="http://www.christinabianco.com/">Christina Bianco</a> is just that impressionist. She takes Bonnie Tyler's <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2009/06/turn-around-bright-eyes-literally.html">Total Eclipse of the Heart</a> and makes it her own. . .well. . .kind of.<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZ2ZHkBzmHQ">Check it out</a>:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/C3DlDPeurRw?rel=0" width="560"></iframe><br />
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Not bad, eh? I was initially lukewarm on the <a href="http://www4.pictures.zimbio.com/zp/Adele+2013+Oscars+85th+Academy+Awards+Season+cijZsaFBuQfl.jpg">Adele</a> impression, but when she hit <a href="http://d3rm69wky8vagu.cloudfront.net/article-photos/large/1.164654.jpg">Bette Midler</a>, <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2010/04/top-5-re-cutmashup-movie-trailers.html">Julie Andrews</a> and <a href="http://stream1.gifsoup.com/view5/2666768/celine-dion-o.gif">Celine Dion</a> so spot-on, I was won over. Well done, <a href="http://www.overthinkingit.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/miss-bianca-carousel.jpg">Ms. Bianco</a>, may your repertoire of impressions continue to grow and grow, and perhaps include a <a href="http://scott.sphotographs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/LOTR340.jpg">Gollum</a> impersonation -- people love Gollum.<br />
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My thanks to, <a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2013/09/Awkward-Family-Photo1/432417048.jpg">alert reader</a>, <a href="http://www.snappynewday.com/wp-content/gallery/Rogers/mister-rogers.jpg">Jacob</a> for sending this link in.The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-35258954007981827322013-08-26T00:01:00.000-06:002013-08-26T00:01:00.213-06:00Beard ScienceI'm normally a <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s1o8MC1-pzQ/TkufHqem6uI/AAAAAAAADOw/VyYx83AQtjg/s640/a+river+runs+through+it+brad+pitt+05.jpg">clean-shaven fellow</a>. I also don't really like to wear <a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5001/5312926589_e04997594d_z.jpg">hats</a>,or <a href="http://www.paulduane.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Brad-Pitt-Fight-Club-Sunglasses.png">sunglasses</a>, but that's beside the point. This post is about facial hair. As I previously stated, most days out of the year I don't have any facial hair, but whenever I go up to our <a href="http://img4-1.sunset.timeinc.net/i/2010/08/cabin-exterior-0810-l.jpg?400:400">family cabin</a> (which is usually once a year), I grow out my <a href="http://robonwriting.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/brad-pitt-beard.jpg">beard</a>.<br />
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Not shaving while in the woods for about a week allows me to get past the awkward, <a href="http://funnycrave.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/David-Hasselhoff-Drunk.jpg">drunk hobo </a>look and return to the public with <a href="http://www.rounds.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/longest-beard-hans.jpg">decent growth</a>. I usually keep the beard until it gets annoyingly itchy, or until I have to start to trim and maintain it, which is also <a href="http://cdn.sheknows.com/articles/2013/01/piers-morgan-alex-jones-gun-control-debate.jpg">annoying</a>. Having a beard gives me a chance to try a different look and hide my double chin. Plus, <a href="http://images.picturesdepot.com/photo/w/wonder_woman_cartoon_wallpaper-29655.jpg">my wife</a> likes me with facial hair, so that's a bonus. Although she called this last beard "distinguished," which means there's gray in it and I'm getting old.<br />
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However, every <a href="http://www.vyperlook.com/wp-content/uploads/massupload/766584funny%20beard%20and%20moustache.jpg">beard's</a> life must come to an end in my house. And when that time comes, I don't quite know how to deal with it. Just shaving it off seems so unceremonious and <a href="http://nowhitenoise.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Breaking-Dawn-Part-2-Wallpaper-twilight-series-32562180-1920-1200-1024x640.jpg">anti-climatic</a>. In the past I've shaved it off in parts and sported a goatee, an <a href="http://funny.picturepie.com/images/ultimate_fumanchu_beard.jpg">extended mustache</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9nk_tKc-KRE">mutton chops</a> for an evening. I should have been thinking <a href="http://www.hauntersdepot.com/2007NEWTEMPLATES/FrancoAmericanCostumeCollection/Wigs/WigAndBeardSets/LARGEImageFiles/Giant.jpg">bigger</a>. I should have been thinking more <a href="http://www.cynicallyoptimistic.com/blog/Files/CrazyBeard1.jpg">grandiose</a>. I should have been more creative, like <a href="http://www.bengarvin.com/#/about-ben">Ben Garvin</a> and his beard:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/zEYCPc9P-Q0?rel=0" width="480"></iframe><br />
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Now THAT'S how you <a href="http://cdn.themetapicture.com/media/funny-shaving-cream-Keanu-meme.jpg">shave</a> a beard off! Well done, Mr. Garvin.The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581616465275988775.post-8796826785485827742013-08-19T00:01:00.000-06:002013-08-19T00:01:00.044-06:00It's Electric -- Boogie Woogie Woogie!Live theater is fighting an uphill battle, <a href="http://static.awkwardfamilyphotos.com/wp-content/uploads/cache/2013/08/image17-e1376361513390/483658698.jpg">faithful readers</a>. In a world of <a href="http://cdn2.mocksession.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/SHARKNADO.gif">special effects</a>, <a href="http://www.survivingcollege.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/Sharknado-Bad-Graphics-Raining-Sharks-GIF.gif">computer-generated imagery</a> and <a href="http://pixel.nymag.com/imgs/daily/vulture/2013/07/12/sharknado/sharknado3.o.jpg/a_560x0.jpg">digital 3D</a>, the standard live performance suffers from a lack of pizazz. <span style="font-size: small;">Although, if you think about it, you can't get much more three-dimensional than watching a <a href="http://midvaletheatre.files.wordpress.com/2012/12/russ_quickwits.jpeg">live performance</a>.</span><br />
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The producers of live performances are so desperate to pull people's eyes away from the likes of <a href="http://frepowfilms.files.wordpress.com/2012/05/michaelbaymeme1.jpg">Michael Bay</a> and <a href="http://www.frostcave.com/store/images/tennisshoes-400.jpg">Jerry Bruckheimerdinger</a> that they're willing to risk their actors' well-being with shows like <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SY0kA7PRg54"><i>Spider-Man: Turn Off the Lights, So There's More Risk Involved</i></a>. But even that's not enough to get crowds into the theaters to see the performances. So some people in <a href="http://i1.ytimg.com/vi/iQ7hdZZw7aE/maxresdefault.jpg">Belfast, Ireland</a>, decided to take their spectacular live show to the crowds instead.<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WfGhfI_NwcA">Take a look</a>:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/3FpjcOWwiI4?rel=0" width="480"></iframe><br />
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I think that every kid who has seen <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2011/01/it-just-got-real-in-here.html">Return of the Jedi</a> has dreamed of a day when he or she could shoot lightning from his or fingertips. Sure, <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_3b9pVhqcbIY/TLovrxTSPRI/AAAAAAAAAGU/mLiqTEQeZpI/s1600/emperor-palpatine-star-wars-darkside-emperor-demotivational-poster-1234560454.jpg">Emperor Palpatine</a> is a bad guy, but that's still a pretty cool power. And this kind of technology gets us one step closer to Palpatine lightning fingers, which, in turn, puts us one step closer to <a href="http://theformer786.blogspot.com/2012/09/shut-up-and-take-my-money.html">lightsabers</a> -- and that is always a good thing.The Former 786http://www.blogger.com/profile/11836226718839989687noreply@blogger.com0