The Buzz: movie reviews

 Wondering what to watch after the egg nog and mistletoe ? I've curated a list of movies that are perfect for January that bring in some new year energy. January can be dark and cold, but it's also a time of renewal. If you have some movies that are good for some "new year" vibes, tell me about them in the comments!  Here's my list, in no particular order:  1. Castaway (2001) - Tom Hanks gets stranded on an island around Christmas time and has to learn how to survive all alone. A perfect story for the post-Christmas daze leading into the new year. It's also a meditation of sorts about how to rebuild your life after loss, and rediscovering who you are. And, Wilson . I love Wilson.  2. Yes Man (2009) - This often overlooked Jim Carrey flick is an annual tradition in our household. We watch it every New Year's Day . This corny comedy follows "Carl" (Jim Carrey) on a journey of self-discovery when he joins a self-help style cult where you have ...

  Thanksgiving is that cherished time of year when we gather with family, often reconnecting with loved ones we seldom see. It brings back the warmth of nostalgic memories—traveling up to Kentucky to stay with my grandparents, the house filled with the comforting aroma of turkey and all the festive trimmings. As the afternoon fades and the football ends, there’s a special magic in settling in together, embracing the cozy quiet of family time. The only question left is…what to watch? With generations gathered, from grandparents to the youngest cousins, finding the perfect movie is key. So, I’ve carefully curated a list of my favorite top 7 films to enjoy together on Thanksgiving, in no particular order. 7. Wonka "Based on the extraordinary character at the center of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Roald Dahl’s most iconic children's book and one of the best-selling children's books of all time, "Wonka" tells the wondrous story of how the world's greatest in...

October is spooky season, and the Halloween and horror movie genres hog the spotlight. However, if Halloween movies are not quite your thing, or if you're bored with the same old selections, then you'll enjoy my curated list of movies for October. These movies capture the spirit /vibe / feelings / mood of the season without being too on-the-nose. You can also comment some of your favorite "non-Halloween" movies for October in the comments. This is not an exhaustive list. Now, in no particular order, my movies for October 2024 that are not Halloween movies:  10. The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)  The Royal Tenenbaums comes loaded with a heavy dose of early 2000's nostalgia, a magical cast, and a quirky Wes Anderson autumn style that's perfectly fitting for a cozy October movie night.  9. The Batman (2022)  This 2022 version of The dark knight was a popular blockbuster, and even spawned a television series spinoff starring Colin Farrell in his memorable role as The...

  Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family, enjoy a delicious meal, and create lasting memories. After the turkey has been devoured and the football games have come to an end, what better way to continue the festivities than by watching some heartwarming movies together? In this blog post, we present a handpicked selection of family movies for your Thanksgiving celebration: "Mary Poppins Returns," "The Jungle Cruise," "Toy Story 4," "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" (2005), and "Deck the Halls." Let's explore why each of these movies would make a fantastic choice for post-Thanksgiving entertainment. 1. " Mary Poppins Returns ": "Mary Poppins Returns" is a delightful musical fantasy that will transport you to the magical world of Mary Poppins once again. This sequel to the beloved classic captures the spirit of the original while introducing new adventures and songs. With its dazzling visuals, catchy tunes, ...

 Title: Great Movies to Watch in October 2023 (Non-Halloween Edition) As the spookiest month of the year rolls in, it's natural to associate October with horror films and Halloween-themed entertainment. However, if you're not a fan of the horror genre, fear not! There are plenty of fantastic movies to enjoy in October that offer heartwarming, thrilling, and inspiring stories. Here's a curated list of films that will provide a perfect alternative to the traditional Halloween fare, showcasing positive attributes that will make your movie nights a delightful experience. 1. "Yesterday" (2019): "Yesterday" is a feel-good musical comedy that celebrates the timeless music of The Beatles. Directed by Danny Boyle, the film follows a struggling musician who wakes up in a world where the legendary band never existed. As he rises to fame by performing their songs, the movie highlights the power of music to bring people together and inspire joy. With its charming sto...

  Halloween is often associated with spooky and horror-themed movies, but if you're not a fan of traditional scares, there are still plenty of lighter options available. Whether you're averse to horror or simply seeking a different vibe, these non-Halloween movies offer a fun and enjoyable alternative for your Halloween movie marathon. With the release of Disney’s new Haunted Mansion adventure movie earlier this year, this kind of “non-Halloween” movie may be on your mind. But, if ghosts and goblins are not quite your cup of tea, there are lots of wonderful alternatives. Let's explore a selection of films that provide a delightful and festive experience without the fright. 1. Batman and Robin: While not inherently Halloween-oriented, this superhero flick transports us to the dark and atmospheric streets of Gotham City. Batman and Robin battle notorious villains Mr. Freeze and Poison Ivy in a campy and entertaining way, making it a perfect choice for a Halloween movie night ...

Dramatic storytelling has the incredible power to bring true events to life on the silver screen. Over the last decade, several outstanding films have done just that, captivating audiences while shedding light on real-life stories. In this blog entry, we'll delve into six compelling dramas based on true stories: "Spotlight," "The Imitation Game," "Darkest Hour," "Moneyball," "Hidden Figures," and "The Social Network." Each of these films excels in its own way, skillfully highlighting the remarkable events that inspired them. 1. Spotlight (2015): "Spotlight" takes us behind the scenes of The Boston Globe's investigative journalism team as they uncover the systemic cover-up of child molestation within the Catholic Church. The film's merit lies in its unflinching portrayal of the tireless pursuit of truth by dedicated journalists. It shines a spotlight on the importance of investigative journalism and the im...

Sci-Fi Movie Weekend: A Journey Across Galaxies Are you ready for an out-of-this-world cinematic experience? If you're a sci-fi enthusiast seeking the perfect escape, look no further than a Sci-Fi Movie Weekend. We've curated a stellar lineup of science fiction films that promise to take you on thrilling journeys through space, dystopian futures, and uncharted territories. Let's dive into the world of imagination and wonder with these cinematic gems. **1. "Star Wars: Rise of Skywalker" (2019):**    - What better way to start our sci-fi movie marathon than with the epic conclusion of the Skywalker saga? "Rise of Skywalker" brings back beloved characters, epic battles, and the Force. It's a must-watch for fans of the Star Wars universe. **2. "Avatar: Way of Water" (2022):**    - The long-awaited sequel to the first Sci-Fi masterpiece proves that James Cameron is still in top form as a writer and director. This time, we are introduced to the w...

Houses often serve as more than mere settings in cinema; they can be characters, symbols, or even the heart of the plot. In this exploration, we'll dive into eight films where the house is not just a backdrop but a central player in the story. Clue (1985) In "Clue," the mansion itself is a vital part of the narrative. Set in a sprawling, mysterious estate, it's the ideal setting for a murder mystery based on the popular board game. Each room hosts a new clue, and the layout of the house itself becomes essential to the plot, adding intrigue and complexity to the storyline. The Haunted Mansion (2003) Disney's "The Haunted Mansion" brings the theme park attraction to life, with the house acting as the star. Filled with ghosts, secret passageways, and mysterious enchantments, the mansion's unique characteristics are central to the comedy and adventure. The house's design and personality drive the film, making it an unforgettable character. Parasite (...

Ah, the days of video rental stores like Blockbuster! The excitement of browsing through aisles of VHS tapes, the tangible delight of holding a physical copy of a new release, and the nostalgia of movie nights with friends and family are sentiments many of us fondly remember. Let's take a stroll down memory lane and reminisce about some movies that evoke the charm and fun of that bygone era. 1. **"The Burbs"**: This dark comedy featuring Tom Hanks is a quintessential '80s film that captures the quirky neighborhood suspicions we all had back in the day. It's a perfect representation of the comedic creativity found on the Blockbuster shelves. 2. **"Uncle Buck"**: John Candy's memorable performance as the lovable yet clumsy Uncle Buck would have been a must-rent for family gatherings. The film's warmth and humor embodied the era's penchant for feel-good comedies. 3. **"Demolition Man"**: A sci-fi action flick featuring Sylvester Stallo...

Tim Burton, a name synonymous with a unique and compelling style, is one of the most imaginative and brilliant filmmakers in the world. His body of work flaunts an unmistakable aesthetic and a profound connection to the peculiar, strange, and fantastical. Let's explore some of his most notable films to appreciate his genius and impact on the culture. Batman (1989) Burton's take on Batman brought a darker, gothic tone to the comic book hero. The striking visual imagery and unique art direction captured the gritty atmosphere of Gotham City. His ability to combine dark and complex characters with an atmospheric setting redefined superhero movies and made "Batman" an instant classic. Edward Scissorhands (1990) "Edward Scissorhands" showcases Burton's love for the outlandish and his empathy for the misunderstood. Johnny Depp's portrayal of the gentle and artificial man with scissors for hands is enhanced by Burton's whimsical yet dark vision. The fair...

Weekends are the perfect time to gather the family, make some popcorn, and enjoy a fun movie night together. Here's a collection of engaging and wholesome PG-rated movies that will captivate children and entertain adults alike. 1. **"Mr. Popper's Penguins"**: Jim Carrey brings his comedic talent to this heartwarming tale of a businessman who inherits a flock of penguins. With physical comedy and life lessons about family and responsibility, this film delights viewers of all ages. 2. **"The Spiderwick Chronicles"**: Dive into the world of magic and mythical creatures with this adventurous film. The engaging plot and stunning visual effects provide thrilling entertainment, while the theme of family unity adds an emotional touch. 3. **"Tangled"**: Disney's retelling of Rapunzel offers a vibrant and enchanting experience, filled with humor, catchy songs, and strong characters. The empowering story encourages children to pursue their dreams and forg...

 Movies about September 11: Commemorating a National Tragedy  The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, stand as one of the most significant and tragic events in modern history. Over the years, several films have been made that address the impact and aftermath of this harrowing day. These movies serve as important reminders of the resilience, courage, and unity displayed by the nation during this dark period. Let's briefly discuss some of these films and their significance as poignant reminders of the September 11 tragedy. 1. "United 93" (2006): Directed by Paul Greengrass, "United 93" offers a gripping and visceral account of the passengers' heroic efforts aboard United Airlines Flight 93. The film portrays the bravery and determination of those who fought back against the hijackers, preventing the plane from reaching its intended target. "United 93" serves as a moving tribute to the courage of ordinary individuals who sacrificed their lives to...

 Indie Movies from the 2000's The dawn of the 21st century was marked by a wave of innovative filmmaking that came to be epitomized by the indie (or "indje") movie scene. Throughout the 2000's, these films not only shaped cinematic aesthetics but also left an indelible mark on popular culture. Below, we will explore some of the seminal indie movies from that era.  **The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)** Wes Anderson's quirky and visually distinctive style in "The Royal Tenenbaums" set the tone for the 2000's indie movement. The film's eccentric characters and intricate set design reflected a desire to explore complex family dynamics. Its impact on culture was such that it spawned a trend of stylized storytelling that became synonymous with the indie genre.  **About Schmidt (2002) "About Schmidt," starring Jack Nicholson, offered a nuanced exploration of aging and self-reflection. Its unpretentious and heartfelt narrative mirrored the growing in...

An Evening in Black and White: Rediscovering the Monochrome Magic In the kaleidoscope of modern cinema, the appeal of black and white movies often gets overlooked. However, these monochromatic gems like "Roma," "Good Night, and Good Luck.," "Ed Wood," "Nebraska," "The Artist," and "Manhattan" exhibit an artistic brilliance that transcends color.  Starting our journey is Alfonso Cuarón's "Roma" (2018). Set in 1970s Mexico, this movie's choice of black and white conjures a nostalgic atmosphere, while also bringing raw emotions into sharper focus. Every shot is a meticulously crafted snapshot of life that subtly combines the personal and the political, showing us how intimate stories are intertwined with grand societal narratives. "Good Night, and Good Luck." (2005) delves into the world of 1950s broadcast journalism during the McCarthy era. The black and white format in this George Clooney-directed fi...

Cats, with their diverse personalities and unmistakable charm, have made their way into the hearts of many film creators and audiences alike. They've had starring roles, supporting parts, and inspiring cameos. Here's a look at some of the best movies about cats and the unique approach each film takes. **1. The Aristocats** - This delightful Disney classic captures the spirit of felines through its animation and voice acting. Each character is distinct and full of personality, from the refined Duchess to the street-smart Thomas O'Malley. This film uses cats to convey themes of family, adventure, and the merging of different worlds. **2. Kedi** - A touching documentary, Kedi explores the lives of street cats in Istanbul and their relationships with the humans who care for them. Kedi celebrates the complex, subtle interactions between humans and cats, showing a profound, symbiotic bond. It's a raw and realistic portrayal of feline life. **3. A Street Cat Named Bob** - This...