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Tag Archives: Michelle Pfeiffer
June 23, 2019 by Moreland
Non-Austen Films for Austen Fans: Stardust (2007)
So after you watch every single version of Jane Austen movies, what do you have to watch next?
Hmm…I don't know!
That's why I started this list, to have non-Austen films that Austen fans can enjoy.
I can't stop watching!
Here we go with:
I lOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOve this movie!
So years ago my friend and I were having a hunk-a-thon, a movie marathon with films that had men we found attractive in it. We used to do this every three or four months.
Squee! I loved it!
I remember that my friend Anne had brought this and wanted to watch it. I wasn't feeling it as I wanted to watch another movie, but it was her turn to choose, so we did and I straight up loved it! She fell asleep as she had seen it before, while I wanted to watch every minute.
I love it so much I will watch this film over and over again.
I loved it so much that of course I wanted to read the book…and I did. Let me say that this is a statement I rarely ever, ever say: The movie was way better.
I know, the world must be ending again.
Anyways…let's get back to the plot synopsis.
There is a small village called Wall that resides next to an ancient wall. No one knows why it was built, who built it, or why they are supposed to keep people from crossing it. On one side of the wall is the village, and the other is a field.
A long time ago there was a break in the wall, and as long as they can remember there was a guard there to keep people from crossing it. One young man, Dunstan Thorn, has been very curious and decides to vault over there.
When he does he finds himself in a magical world. There is a market by the wall, and Dunstan stops at a caravan which houses a beautiful woman, Una (Kate Magowan), an enslaved princess. She is trapped by witch Ditchwater Sal and can't be free until the witch dies.
That's my life. 😦
She offers the wares, and sells Dunstan a snowdrop flower for a kiss. The snowdrop is a very special enchanted flower that offers protection to the owner. She invites him into the caravan, and after Dunstan returns home.
Dunstan tries to get over the wall again, but the spry wall guard will not allow it. He thinks that is all, until nine months later a baby is left at the wall with a candle, a note for Dunstan, an a note for the boy, Tristan.
Years pass and Tristan is a young man and played by the very handsome Charlie Cox, also known as Daredevil.
Tristan is just an average boy, with an average life. His father is a farmer and he works in a shop. He is in love with the town beauty, Victoria, but she isn't interested. She wants Humphrey, who has money.
I'm on the Tristan side as I find Cox attractive and love that name.
He loses his job at the shop for being more focused on Victoria. He feels out of sorts, but his dad encourages him and he surprises Victoria with an amazing picnic and watch a falling star. He tries to woo her and Victoria tells him that he has a week-until her birthday-to get her that star or she will marry Humphrey.
Now in the magical land on the other side of the wall, Stormhold, the King is dying. He had seven sons and one daughter. There is a fierce competition for the throne-although three of the sons have been murdered, the sister has vanished, and one is pushed out the window-leaving three left. A male heir must take the throne and to decide who will inherit the king throws his priceless ruby into the sky-knocking a star down (the one Tristan and Victoria saw)-and whoever finds it will be the next king. Another brother is disposed of and we are left with only two- Primus and Septimus (Mark Strong)-both searching for the jewel.
Mark Strong, you say?
Meanwhile, the falling star awakens the three witch Queens-Lamia (Michelle Pfeiffer), Mormo, and Empusa. They need the star's heart in order to maintain immortality. Lamia eats the remaining part of a former heart, giving her some youth and power, and she sets off to find the new star.
Meanwhile, Tristan wants to get over the wall, but the wall guard won't let him and beats him up. When he gets home his father sees him and after they talk, decides to reveal his true parentage. Tristan reads his note and that his mother wanted to keep him but was unable to. She gifted him with a Babylon Candle, that will send the owner anywhere they think of when they light it. She tells Tristan he is the only one who can save her and tells him to light it and think of her and nothing else.
Tristan does, but instead of his mother ends up on top of Yvaine (Claire Danes), the star. Yes, when a star is knocked out of the sky it becomes a human form. It turns out Tristan was thinking of Victoria and went to the star instead.
He chains Yvaine to himself and prepares to take her to Victoria, promising that if she goes with him to win his true love, he will give her the rest of the babylon candle and she can return to the sky.
As they go along, the brothers are also searching and plotting against each other. Meanwhile, Lamia, prepares a trap for the star.
That is not good,
Tristan and Yvaine are separated when she can no longer walk on, and Tristan goes in search of how far the next town is and falls asleep. A unicorn comes to help Yvaine, but instead goes right into the trap that Lamia has set up-a fake inn. There she gives Yvaine a bath to refresh her as she sees a happy, glowing star.
The forest wakes Tristan and warn him that something bad will happen to Yvaine. He wakes up and catches a ride with Piramus, who is still searching for the ruby.
They manage to get to the inn before Lamia puts her plan into action. Although, Piramus isn't so lucky-he gets his throat cut.
Tristan pulls out the Babylon candle and tells Yvaine to think of home, he thinking of Wall-she thinking of space, and they end up in the middle-the sky!
There they get picked up by Captain Shakespeare and his lightening pirates. Captain Shakespeare (Robert De Niro) is known throughout the land to be fierce, strong ruthless, and has a dreadful reputation.
It turns out that Captain Shakespeare isn't as bad as he seems. He is fun, loves England (named himself Shakespeare after the author), ballet, music, clothes, etc. He "kills" Tristan to protect his reputation and then gives him a fierce makeover (sorry I have been watching a lot of America's Next Top Model). And teaches him to sword fight, dance, etc.
He takes them to as close as he can and gives Tristan some advice to not pass over Yvaine. They continue to the Wall, but will Tristan continue on his quest to give a jerk not worthy of his time something priceless? Will he ever find his mother? Will Yvaine get her true love and find her home? Who will be King? And will they outsmart the witches, or Yvaine be on the menu?
So an AMAZING!!!!! AMAZING!!! AMAZING film!!! I LOVE it.
So what makes it something an Austen fan will love?
So the first thing that kept popping in my head when they spoke about Tristan was that he was a lot like Catherine Morland. Both growing up in okay families, seen as ordinary and average-nothing special.
"No one who had ever seen Catherine Morland in her infancy would have supposed her born to be a heroine. Her situation in life, the character of her father and mother, her own person and disposition, were all equally against her."
But Catherine ends up being whisked away to the big city, has two men after her, goes to a mysterious abbey, etc. Tristan has to fight witches, get kidnapped by pirates, outwits princes, etc.
Catherine is also like Yvanie. Both are dreamers wanting more. Catherine a reader-reading romances and dreaming about them. Tristian dreams about adventure as well. And both find themselves smack dab in the middle of a romantic adventure with gothic elements.
Yvaine: You know, it's funny. I used to watch… I used to watch people having adventures. I envied them.
Tristan: You ever heard the expression "Be careful of what you wish for"?
Yvaine: What, so ending up with my heart cut out – that will serve me right?
Tristan: No, I didn't mean it like that. Look, I admire you dreaming. A shop boy like me… I could never have imagined an adventure this big in order to wish for it. I just thought I'd find some lump of celestial rock, take it home and that would be it.
Yvaine: And you got me. [they both begin to laugh] If there's one thing I've learned about all my years watching Earth, is that people aren't what they may seem. There are shop boys, and there are boys who just happen to work in a shop for the time being. And trust me Tristan, you're no shop boy. You saved my life. Thank you.
And then there is Victoria.
Victoria is the girl that Tristan likes and wants to win her heart, but she doesn't care about him. She is just interested in money and wants Humphrey as he has it. She plays around with Tistian's feelings, enjoying how he does things for her, let's her cut in line at the shop, gets Champagne, etc. She reminds me of Mary Crawford and Mr. Wickham with their search for a wealthy partner to take care of them; along with being like Mr. Wickham and Frank Churchill in how she flirts, teases, and plays on other's affections-when she has no intention of being with them at all. Frank just messes around with Emma, and Wickham toys with Lydia and Elizabeth.
And of course, Mark Strong is in it. Mark Strong played Mr. Knightley in Emma (1996) AKA the Kate Beckinsale Version.
For more Non-Austen Films for Austen Fans, go to Non-Austen Films for Austen Fans: To All the Boys I've Loved Before (2018)
For more Neil Gaiman, go to Heaven on Earth: 13 of the Best Fictional Libraries
For more Charlie Cox, go to Old Fandoms and New Fancies
For more Mark Strong, go to Emma (1996) AKA the Kate Beckinsale Version
For more Jane Austen film/TV, go to I'll Be Watching You: Austentatious (2015)
Posted in Non-Austen Films for Austen Fans
Tagged Babylon Candle, Captain Shakespeare, Catherine Morland, Charlie Cox, Claire Danes, Daredevil, Daredevil (TV Show) Netflix, Ditchwater Sal, Dunstan Thorn, Emma, Emma (1996), Empusa, Falling Star, Film based on a book, Frank Churchill, Hunk-a-Thon, Jane Austen Quotes, Kate Beckinsale, Kate Magowan, Lamia, Magic, Magic World, Mansfield Park, Mark Strong, Mary Crawford, Michelle Pfeiffer, Mormo, Movie Marathon, Mr. Wickham, Neil Gaiman, Non-Austen Films for Austen Fans, Northanger Abbey, Pride and Prejudice, Primus, Robert De Niro, Septimus, Shooting Stars, Snowdrop, Stardust, Stormhold, Tristan Thorn, Una, Victoria, Wall, Yvaine
I Carry You With Me Wherever I Go: New Year's Eve (2011)
Most Romantic Moment #11
New Year's Eve (2011)
So this is another one of those movies that is like a Jane Austen book, in how you have all these different characters and story lines, but in the end they all link together somehow.
Yep, just like He's Just NOT That Into You or Love Actually it is one tangled web.
The film follows many people all trying to accomplish something on New Years Eve. Paul (Zac Efron) has been hired by Ingrid (Michelle Pfeiffer) to help her achieve all her New Year's resolutions. Ingrid has recently quit her job at Ahern music company, but still has four tickets to their amazing party, which she will give Paul, if he completes everything.
Mrs. Rose Ahern is the matriarch of the industry and is trying to pull of a phenomenal party. She has hired Chef Laura (Katherine Heigl) to cater the event, and Laura is determined to make a name for herself and get more clients. Only problem is, her ex-fiance, rock star, Jensen (Jon Bon Jovi) who broke her heart, is headlining the event and trying to get them back together.
Hailey (Abigal Breslin) has a huge crush on guy in her class, Seth (Jake T. Austin), and escapes from her mom to spend New Year's Eve with him in Times' Square. Kim (Sarah Jessica Parker) is upset as she wanted to spend the evening with her, and has to get her brother, Paul, to help her find her daughter.
Claire Morgan (Hilary Swank) as always loved watching the ball drop on New Year's Eve. This year she is in charge of the whole event, and when the ball has some mechanical difficulties, she has to figure out how to get it rollin'.
Couldn't resist
Randy (Ashton Kutcher), Paul's roommate, hates New Year's Eve, ever since a girl broke his heart. He was going to spend the night wallowing in pity, but ends up getting stuck in an elevator with Elise (Lea Michelle), Jensen's back-up singer. Through spending time with her, he starts moving past his broken heart and learning to love again.
Tess (Jessica Biel) and Griffen Byrne (Seth Mayer) are competing with another family to have the first baby of the new year and win $25,000. Also at the hospital is Stan (Robert De Niro) who is dying of cancer and trying to make it to midnight. Nurse Amy (Halle Berry) is caring for him.
Sam Ahern (Josh Duhamel) is stuck in Conneticut, having been best man for his friend's wedding. He hitches a ride with the local minister trying to get to New York so he can deliver a speech and meet up with a women he met on New Year's Eve of the year before.
*****Most Romantic Moment******
So the thread I'm going to focus on is that of Sam Ahern. So here we have the very rich, handsome, suave, charming Sam Ahern; who could get any woman he's ever wanted. I mean he's played by Josh Duhamel!
Anyways, so even though he wants to get back to New York to give his speech, he has an even more important reason. Last year he had to give a speech at the company party and was super nervous, so he ducked out to grab a slice of pizza and relax. While he was there he met a girl and had an amazing night just talking and hanging out with her. He left for the bathroom, and when he got back to the table she was gone, but she had left a note asking him to meet her at the same place, same time, next year. Sam has no other way of finding her as she never gave him her name.
So fast forward the year, and here is Sam hanging with the minister's family and telling them the story of what had happened. As he tells the family the story of what occurs, he pulls the note out of his wallet, laminated.
That's right folks, not only has he been carrying her note around for A WHOLE year, BUT he had it laminated. Yes he knew he would be constantly taking it out and looking at that he had to have it on him at all times and have it protected.
So romantic!
How can you not be swayed by that. Sooooooooooooooo romantic!!!! I know to others it might not seem like much, but like I said, I find it incredibly romantic!
To start Romance is in the Air: Part III, go to I Can See Your Beauty: The Breakfast Club (1985)
For the previous post, go to Marry Me: Gigi (1958)
For more on Josh Duhamel, go to A Fantabulous Post
Posted in Romance is in the Air III
Tagged Abigal Breslin, Ahern Music Company, Ashton Kutcher, Charming, Claire Morgan, Connecticut, Griffen Byrne, Halle Berry, Handsome, He's Just NOT That Into You, Hilary Swank, Jake T. Austin, Jane Austen, Jensen, Jessica Biel, Jon Bon Jovi, Josh Duhamel, Katherine Heigl, Laminated, Lea Michelle, Love Actually, Michelle Pfeiffer, Mrs. Rose Ahern, New Year's Eve, New Year's Eve (2011), New York, Nurse Amy, Pizza, Pizza Break, Quite a Romantic, Rich, Robert De Niro, Romantic, Sam Ahern, Sarah Jessica Parker, Seth Mayer, Suave, Tess Byrne, Zac Efron
December 25, 2014 by Moreland
25 More Films of Christmas
So two years ago I tried to do a Christmas countdown, the 12 Posts of Christmas, but I discovered that it is really difficult as you get involved in Christmas activities. So last year I decided to make it easier on myself and did a singular post listing 25 of my favorite films that were either classified as Christmas movies or had a Christmas scene in it. Since it worked so great last year, I decided why not do it again? So here are 25 more films of Christmas! (Once again these aren't my my top favorite 25, but randomly picked and then rearranged them in the order of how I love them.
25) Holiday (1938)
Holiday (1938) is a remake of the 1930 film. In it Johnny Case (Cary Grant), a self-made man, is heading to his fiancé Julia Seton's house for the holidays. While on the surface the two appreared perfect for each other, as Johnny spends more time at the Seton household he finds himself having more in common with Julia's younger sister, Linda (Katherine Hepburn). Johnny now finds himself in a dilemma, should he honor the commitment he made to Julia? Or should he try to find love with another?
Why it's Great: Hepburn and Grant made four films together, and anytime you have these two paired up you have pure gold. Grant is his attractive, charming, and at times comical self. Hepburn is the silly, comedic, oddball, and modern woman that she always does great at. A fun film. Plus those scenes of Grant tumbling? Priceless.
24) The Polar Express (2004)
The Polar Express is based on the short book of the same name. In the 1950s, a little boy, no longer believes in Santa Claus. On Christmas Eve, he hears something outside and goes aboard the Polar Express, the train that heads right up to the North Pole and Santa's home. He makes new friends on the train, helps control the train, meets a ghost hobo who tries to teach him morals, and ends up in the North Pole coming face to face with Santa Claus.
Why it's Great: This is a cute kid's movie. Tom Hanks is pretty amazing at how he plays almost every character in the film. The kids are cute, especially the geeky, know-it-all tattletale. He makes me laugh. It has a good message of faith, believing, leading, etc. It also has a couple great songs: The Polar Express and When Christmas Comes to Town. It does have a few problems though. Mainly it suffers from the same issues all small picture book film adaptions face, extra content to fill the time block. There are a lot of unnecessary songs, characters, and scenes; that if they had been culled would have resulted in a stronger film. But on the whole it is a cute, family, Christmas film.
23) Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)
The sequel to Home Alone (see #2 on the list). Home Alone 2 has Kevin McCallister once again finding himself spending Christmas on his own, but this time he's in New York! How did this happen? Well this year instead of going to France, the McCallister clan is heading to Florida. Once again they find themselves running late to the airport (but this time being sure they have Kevin) and have to run to catch their flight. Kevin stops for a moment to get batteries out of his dad's bag and accidentally follows the wrong man onto a plane to New York City. He starts living it large at the Plaza and using all his dad's credit cards and cash (as he has his bag). Everything goes well, until he runs into the two thieves he harassed the year before and sent to prison. They come after him, but luckily he has rigged his uncle's townhouse into one giant trap.
Why it's Great: I have to say how he gets alone again was done really clever. The scenes of him just spending the dough and buying pizza, ice-cream, going on huge toy shopping trips, etc is fantastic. That was all the things that kids wished they could be able to do. Tim Curry plays the hotel manager who notices the lack of an adult and is awesome in being evil and trying to trip Kevin up. Unfortunately, the second half the film falls a little flat. I mean what are the odds of the thieves running into Kevin in New York City? There are a gajillion people who live there. Also the traps aren't as clever as in the original film. It wasn't nearly as great as the original, but still one fun holiday film.
22) Elf (2003)
One Christmas a baby boy accidentally gets on to Santa Claus' sled and is transported to the North Pole. One of the elves adopts him and raises him as his own child, naming him Buddy. One day, Buddy overhears some elves mention he is a human. He goes to his elf father and discovers the story of his adoption. They tell him who is real father is, and Buddy travels to New York City to meet him. When he firsts meets his father Walter Hobbs (James Caan), Walter doesn't believe Buddy's story to be true. After a DNA test confirms it, Buddy is introduced to the family. Buddy befriends his stepmother, stepbrother, and makes new friends. However, he doesn't fit in well with "humans" and after an argument with his dad, decides to return to the North Pole. On his way he runs into Santa who is having trouble using his sleigh and magic as people don't believe in him anymore. Now Buddy has a bigger problem to solve. How can he save Santa?
Why it's Great: Now let me say that I am not that big a fan of Will Ferrell. I only like a few of his films, and this is one of those. The story is silly, but the reason it works is that Ferrell goes all in to the character of Buddy. Unlike everyone I know, I do not watch it over and over, but I do think it is definitely worth checking out and viewing around the holidays. And I do have to agree that I am as crazy about Christmas as Buddy.
21) Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Dr. Seuss' beloved book finds itself heading to the big screen with Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Jim Carrey plays the Grinch, the beloved grump who hates the Whos and hates Christmas. He terrorizes Whoville, and all are afraid of him. Except one girl, Cindy Lou Who. Cindy Lou is eager to find out all she can about the Grinch and why he is the way he is. She discovers his sad childhood and decides making him the Holiday Cheermister will repair everything. When her idea has disastrous results, the Grinch decides to head down to Whoville and steal Christmas.
Why it's Great: Jim Carrey really is the only reason why the film is great. Like The Polar Express, it suffers from being stuffed with extra scenes, characters, and things not needed in order to fill the time block. And I absolutely hate the song "Where Are You Christmas?" But as I said, Jim Carrey is a great Grinch. His makeup is amazing, I mean look at him! He's looks just like the illustration. The backstory of why he is mean loses ground, but the film really picks up once he starts stealing Christmas. I love how they illustrate the song and copy the scenes from the original film. It's worth watching the film to see that scene. It may not be as great as the Boris Karloff version, but it is still a fun Christmas film.
20) The Santa Clause 2 (2002)
This is the sequel to The Santa Clause (see below #6). Eight years has passed since the original film and Scott Calvin, AKA Santa Claus, has just discovered that if he is to remain being Santa Claus he has to have a Mrs. Claus. Scott also discovers that Charlie has been having a lot of problems and and acting up. So the elves create a robot Santa to fill in for him, and Scott heads back home. He stays with his ex-wife's family, trying to reach Charlie, and becoming an uncle figure to Charlie's sister Lucy. When talking to Charlie's principal he finds himself falling for her, but will she believe him and go with him back to the North Pole? Also, while Scott has been gone, his robo-Santa has become and evil dictator. Will Scott be able to stop him in time to save Christmas?
Why it's Great: I like how this film deals with real issues. Charlie is having problems as he misses his father, has the stress of having to lie about his dad's job, etc. I loved how realistic it was as this are issues a boy who's father has to be away for his job would actually deal with. I also enjoy the scenes of Scott and Principal Carol Newman. There were real dates and actually showed them falling in love over a period of time, it wasn't instantaneous. And the Principal's reaction to "I'm Santa" talk was completely real. Some scenes are definitely cheesy and silly, but I have to say this is one of the better Disney sequels and one great film to watch at Christmas.
19) The Toy That Saved Christmas (1996)
So this film is part of the Veggietales series. Veggietales was a series of Christian films that lasted 30 mins and told two stories that were either a retelling of a bible story or had a strong biblical message. And all the characters were fruits and veggies! The Toy That Saved Christmas was the first Christmas Veggietale video and starts with a green onion, Grandpa George, telling his granddaughter Annie a Christmas story. In the Veggietown (or wherever they live), December is here which means CHRISTMAS!!! All the kids are excited. They see a commercial on TV for a new toy Buzz Saw Louie and everyone wants them. Besides having a saw, Louie talks and tells people that the true meaning of Christmas is getting stuff. This was planned by the toy factory owner as he wants to sell more toys. When more Louies are being made, something happens to one, and it comes to life. It starts to wonder if getting stuff is the true meaning of Christmas. Louie escapes from the factory and gets stuck in the snow. The next day Bob the tomato, Larry the cucumber, and Junior the asparagus all go sledding and come upon the toy. They also run into Grandpa George who tells them the true meaning of Christmas. After the hear the message they want to tell the world the good news? But how? They get the idea to use the factory owner's equipment and make a commercial. Will their plan work? Will everyone get to know the true meaning of Christmas?
Why it's Great: It is an incredibly funny and adorable film. This is one that my family has to watch every year. Besides the comedy, adventure, and fun it also has a lot of great songs. One of my favorites is Can't Believe It's Christmas! as it truly captures being a kid excited about the holiday. And then there is the hilarious silly song Oh Santa!. If you don't watch the film at least check out that song.
18) Lady and the Tramp (1955)
The classic story of a rich girl who meets a boy from the wrong side of the tracks with one major difference-dogs! Lady is a cocker spaniel is a Christmas gift to "Darling" by her husband Jim "Dear". She grows up in the household, becoming a real "Lady". Everything changes when Darling gets pregnant. With a baby coming Lady is unsure of what her life will be like. The baby comes and Lady realizes that she loves him as much as her other masters. Things seem to be great until Darling and Jim Dear have to go away on business. Jim Dear's Aunt Sarah comes to watch the baby, and brings along her two siamese cats that cause problems for Lady, and gets her a muzzle. Lady embarrassed, scared, and confused; runs away and straight into a mutt, Tramp, from the other side of town. He not only frees her, but the two have a romantic dinner, a moonlit walk in the park, etc. However, when the Tramp gets Lady to chase chickens, she winds up being sent to the dog pound. There she hears all about Tramp's sordid past. She is freed from the pound but chained up outside by Aunt Sarah. The Tramp visits to apologize, but Lady won't hear anything. Then a rat tries to get into the nursery. Will Lady be able to save the baby? Will Lady and the Tramp get back together?
Why it's Great: It is an old story that has been done before, but the choice of dogs is great. I love how the dog thinks Jim Dear and Darling are their real names as that is only what she hears, and there are also some great dogisms. The We Are Siamese song is really catchy and the pasta scene is just adorable. This film actually has two Christmases in it; one when Lady is first introduced, and the second at the end of the film. Making this a great film to see round the holidays or any time of the year.
For more on Lady and the Tramp, go to Part IX: Adventures in Movie Lines
17) Chasing Christmas (2005)
This abcFamily film, part of the 25 Days 'til Christmas countdown, tells the story of A Christmas Carol in a completely new way. Jack Cameron is a modern day Scrooge. He caught his wife with another man at his daughter's Christmas play. Not only is the marriage over, but so is his love for Christmas and Christmas spirit. At the Bureau of Yuletide Affairs (BYA) the company is reviewing which holiday grumps need a little Dickens spirit. He assigns Christmas Past (Leslie Jordan) and Present (Andrea Roth) to take care of him. Past has started to become disgruntled with life. Every year it is the same thing over and over again. So he decides to do something about it. After taking Jack to his childhood in the '60s he knocks him out and takes off. Present is then sent back to catch Past and help Jack find his Christmas spirit. As they travel through time Jack discovers a lot about himself and his family. When they reach the '70s, they accidentally break their time machine and are desperate to find Past in order to get back to the future. Will they ever catch up to Christmas Past? Or are they doomed to stay in the '70s? And more importantly, will they be able to save Jack's love of Christmas?
Why it's Great: The twist on the classic is extremely hilarious, fun, and adorable. In fact, the film is almost a parody of all the films and TV episodes that rip of Dickens' work. The characters are lovable as you have the sarcastic, unhappy, stick-in-a-rut Past that wants to relive the good times instead of just visiting. Then there is Jack, the average guy who gets pulled into this adventure and really starts having a great time. Then there is Present, who knows nothing about the past and has to educated by Jack. This is actually pretty adorable, as it awakens his love for different things as he explains why they are important or special. A truly great film, loosely based on one great book.
16) Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
The story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer started out as a short poem, then transformed into the hit song, and ultimately (like everything) found its way into film. Rudolph is the son of Santa's flying Reindeer Donner. Everyone bullies him and doesn't want him around because he has a blinking, red nose. Rudolph ends up not being able to deal with it and runs away, hoping to find a place for misfits. As he heads out, he runs into an elf named Hermy. Hermy is also a misfit as he doesn't want to make toys, sing carols, or other elf-y things; he wants to be a dentist. As the two journey out they run into a miner named Yukon Cornelius, hunting for silver and gold, who joins up with them. They have to fight the Abominable Snow Monster, when running from him they hitch a ride on ice and end up on the Island of Misfit Toys. Rudolph, conscious that his nose almost got them attacked by Abominable, he takes off on his own. He later returns home to find that his family has been captured by the Abominable Snow Monster while searching for him. It's up to the team to save them from the monster. Everything seems like it is going to be a great Christmas until the fog rolls in and Santa won't be able to see where he is flying. That is until Rudolph steps up to the plate.
Why it's Great: My earliest memory of this cartoon was when I was three years old. My family was visiting my aunt's house, and being kids, us cousins were running around everywhere. I ran smack into my cousin Sean, and began bawling. I was bruised, so I did have a reason to be sad, but I wouldn't stop crying. I kept going and going, until my mom told me that I could watch Rudolph if I stopped crying. I stopped immediately. My favorite character as a kid actually wasn't Rudolph. I loved Yukon as I thought he was hilarious and I loved Hermy as I too wanted to be a dentist (which everyone thought was weird). Watching it as an adult, I still love it. Happy Anniversary Rudolph! Here's to another 50 years!
15) Winnie the Pooh and Christmas Too (1991)
It's Christmas time at the Hundred Acre Woods and Christopher Robin is writing a letter to Santa Claus. As he is finishing the letter, asking for a sled big enough for him and a friend, he asks each one of his friends what they want for Christmas. Rabbit needs a new fly swatter; Tigger a snowshoe for his tail; Eeyore an umbrella to keep snow off his house; and Piglet asks for whatever Santa wants to give him. Christopher Robin sends his letter off into the wind and to Santa. The next day, Christmas Eve, Winnie-the-Pooh is drawing his Christmas tree on the wall when Piglet comes in and tells him that Pooh forgot to ask Santa for something. They chase after the letter, find it, and take it to Rabbit's house to add on Pooh's request for honey. As they are doing that everyone asks for an upgraded present: Rabbit a super bug sprayer, Tigger a special bouncing boot, and Eeyore a mobile home. They send the letter out, but when Pooh gets home a southern wind has sent the letter the same way. Pooh and Piglet don't want Christmas ruined so they set out to fix everything. They try to create the gifts asked, suit up, and head out. Will their homemade gifts work? Will Christmas be ruined? Or will everything turn out just right?
Why it's Great: First of all it's Winnie-the-Pooh. Secondly, the story is amazingly sweet. Once Pooh realizes that Christmas might be ruined, he tries to do everything in his power to make it right. A great story of friendship, love, and Christmas!
For more on Winnie the Pooh, go to Heartbreak Hotel
14) Christmas Every Day (1996)
Billy hates Christmas! For him it is always the worst day of the year and this one is no different. It starts off with him tripping, his uncle coming to visit and crashing into the garage, the pies burn, he misses his basketball shot, he loses the jellybean thousand dollar contest, messes up the Christmas pageant, and gets socked in the eye. To top it off, his uncle is bringing his monster conglomerate store, Value Mart to town, and will be putting all the smaller businesses, (including his dad's store) out of business. Billy sarcastically wishes it was Christmas everyday, and gets his wish granted. At first he is in denial, then he makes it the most selfish Christmas, then tries to make it the most unselfish Christmas, but still remains stuck in the day. After he has been going through all those days, he finally stops thinking about himself, but tries to make it the best Christmas for his friends and family. Will it be the best? Will he finally get to December 26th? Will he be able to stop his uncle from bringing in his Value Mart?
Why it's Great: My sister and I loved this movie so much. We would watch it every year on the 25 Days 'til Christmas until they stopped showing it. I just rewatched it a week ago and love it as much now as I did then. I thought Billy was pretty realistic in how he dealt with being stuck in Christmas, sort of the preteen version of Bill Murray in Groundhog's Day. He gets over his Christmas hate much quicker than in Groundhog's Day, but he is a kid and hasn't been jaded as long. The best part, of course, is the fact how Billy learns from his past mistakes, and ultimately does create the best Christmas for himself and everyone.
13) Batman Returns (1992)
The Joker may be gone, but Batman is back to the big screen in his film Batman Returns. It's Christmas time in Gotham, but even though it is supposed to be a time of good cheer, crime still abounds in the city. Oswald Cobblepot (Danny DeVito), who as a baby was thrown down the sewers by his rich parents because of his deformity only to be saved and raised by penguins, has returned 33 years later as the Penguin and leader of the Red Triangle Circus Gang. He kidnaps businessman, Max Shreck (played by Christopher Walken) and blackmails him about his dirty business dealings into making the Penguin a citizen of Gotham. Shreck agrees and promises to do even better, promising to make the Penguin mayor. Shreck has some plans he wants to put in motion, but knows the current mayor would not approve. Unfortunately, Shreck's secretary, meek Selina Kyle (Michelle Pfeiffer) has discovered them. Shreck does the only thing he thinks he can do, he kills her by throwing her out the window. Unbeknownst to him, Selina is revived by nine cats and granted "9 lives." She goes home having fully transformed in her personality, creating a black leather outfit, and becoming Catwoman. She returns to work for Shreck, planning on destroying him when he least expects it, and runs into Bruce Wayne. The two begin dating, while at night their alter egos begin fighting. The penguin and Catwoman team up to destroy Batman. They sully his reputation, but Batman is able to outwit the Penguin and disgrace him. Upset, the Penguin renounces humanity and kidnaps the first sons of all the wealthy families of Gotham during Shreck's annual Christmas party. Bruce takes Selina as his date to the party and the two discover that they are Batman and Catwoman. What does this mean to their relationship? Will Batman be able to stop the Penguin? Will Catwoman get her revenge?
Why it's Great: So Christmas does play a role in this film as a little more than a backdrop. There is a line about mistletoe that is the key in discovering each other's identities. When Batman and Catwoman are fighting the first time Batman says, "You know, mistletoe can be deadly if you eat it." In which Catwoman replies, "But a kiss can be even deadlier if you mean it." When Bruce and Selina are at the party, Selina tells Bruce ,"You know, mistletoe can be deadly if you eat it." In which Bruce replies, "But a kiss can be even deadlier if you mean it." But that's not the reason why I like this film. First of all Michael Keaton has to be my favorite Batman, he just gets the stoic and serious, along with debonair and slightly fun side correct. I mean out of all the actors I think he captured the duality of Batman's character the most. Then we have Michelle Pfeiffer who has been the best Catwoman to date. Morally ambiguous, vengeful, focused on her goals, but still having a heart of gold. No one could have played her better. Plus Christopher Walken as the bad guy? Perfect. The only thing I don't like is that the Penguin was much sillier than I would have had him be. Danny DeVito did a great job and he looked great, but a lot of his lines and obsession with birds of all kinds were just a bit too silly. Otherwise, this is one great film to watch anytime.
For more on Batman Returns, go to Fanning All Over the Place
12) The Year Without a Santa Claus (1975)
Santa Claus is sick and tired, and has decided that he does not want to do Christmas anymore. After all, no one believes in him anymore. Mrs. Claus is determined to prove Santa wrong and sends out two elves, Jingle and Jangle. The two get into some scrapes and end up in Southtown, USA. Their mistakes cause Santa to come down and try and help out. The two elves and a small Southtown boy, Ignatius, end up getting the Mayor to agree to giving Santa a holiday, only if it snows in Southtown. The chance of that happening, -100%. The elves go to Snow Miser, but he it isn't his territory and he can't do it unless his stepbrother Heat Miser agrees. Heat Miser will only let them, IF he gets the North Pole. Something that Snow Miser will never give up. Will they be able to get the two to compromise? Will Santa get his holiday? Will we have a year without Santa Claus?
Why it's Great: This is a cute film that tries to revitalize the Christmas spirit. It has some great numbers like the Miser Brothers' Song, I Believe in Santa Claus, I'll Have a Blue Christmas, and Here Comes Santa Claus. A cute film that old and young will love.
11) The First Christmas: The Story of the First Christmas Snow (1975)
In The First Christmas: The Story of the First Christmas Snow, Lucas a shepherd boy is blinded by lightening. Nearby is the nunnery, who takes in the orphan boy. He befriends a girl Lisa, who helps him. Sister Theresa, one of the nuns, takes care of Lucas, even describing the snow that wishes would come. Lucas is chosen to be an angel in the play, and as it starts snowing, a Christmas miracle occurs. The snow falls in Lucas' eyes and grant him back his sight. He remains with the nuns and the priest, finally having a family.
Why it's Great: This is a cute and cuddly Christmas film with great songs. You'll enjoy this half hour production, along with their version of White Christmas and The First White Christmas. It is a great addition to your Christmas lineup.
10) Borrowed Hearts (1997)
Sam Field is a millionaire who is trying to negotiate the biggest deal of his life with Javier Del Campo. The only problem, Del Campo only likes to do business with family-orientated people, and Sam is a confirmed bachelor. He hires a family to pretend to be his, but that doesn't work out very well, and he is unsure of what to do. Enter Kathleen, single mother and worker at Sam's plant. She is trying to save up money to buy a house, but so far does not have as much as she needs. A chance meeting, winds up with Kathleen and her daughter Zooey pretending to be his family for a few days, which expands into weeks as Del Campo wants to spend Christmas with the Fields. As they spend more time together; Sam, Kathleen, and Zooey all learn more about family and learning to love again.
Why it's Great: I love this film sooooo much. It's one of my all-time favorite Christmas movies. I will not go to far into it, as I have written a separate blog post on it that you should check out.
For more on Borrowed Hearts, go to On the 9th Day 'Til Christmas: Borrowed Hearts (1997)
9) Rise of the Guardians (2012)
In Rise of the Guardians, Jack Frost (played by Chris Pine), is created in the depths of a pond and suffers from amnesia. He doesn't know how or why he was created, but just goes around having fun. One day Santa Claus (Alec Baldwin) discovers that the Boogeyman Pitch, has returned and notifies the other Guardians: Tooth Fairy (Isla Fisher), Australian Easter Bunny (Hugh Jackman) and the Sandman. They learn that their creator, the Man in the Moon, has chosen Jack Frost to join them as a Guardian of Children. Pitch goes about trying to destroy the children's beliefs in these characters, and attacks the Tooth Fairy's home, stealing her helpers. The other Guardians pitch in to help her out, doing the same for the Easter Bunny. Will they be able to defeat the Pitch? Will Jack finally learn who he is and why he was chosen? Will they secure the children's belief in Jack Frost, Santa Clause, the Tooth Fairy, the Easter Bunny, and the Sandman?
Why it's Great: When the film first came out, I thought it would be really dumb, but then I saw it and loved it. It is funny, cute, sweet, everything you'd want in a family film. The characters are amazing and just perfect as they bring your childhood to life. I just love this film and could watch it over and over.
For more on Rise of the Guardians, go to Dreaming of the Sandman
8) Swiss Family Robinson (1960)
It tells the story of the Robinson family, (they are Swiss), who are traveling to New Guniea but end up getting stuck in a storm, abandoned, and stranded on their broken ship. They pack up every bit of supplies they can and travel to the nearest place, a little island. The family consists of the father, mother, and three boys; Fritz (my fav the cute one), Ernst (the smart one), and Francis (the baby). The family creates a tree house and lives on the island going through many adventures; dealing with wild animals, saving a young teen, fighting pirates, etc.
Why it's Great: This was a favorite of mine as a kid, although more beloved by my sister than me. It has everything you could want: action, adventure, pirates, etc. Plus, like Supernatural, you have your pick of which brother to chose from. Do you like a brawny man of action? Or are you more interested in a thinker and planner? And let's not forget their amazing treehouse. I wanted one like it so bad growing up. It used to be in Disneyland, but they replaced it with Tarzan. And yes, this film does have Christmas in it. The Robinson family has sent out Ernst and Fritz to explore the island, and are sad that they won't all be together for Christmas. The boys surprise them with a zebra for Francis, and a rescued hostage. It is classic Disney at its best, and a worthwhile checkout any time of the year.
For more on the Swiss Family Robinson, go to Snakes on a Post: Chinese New Year
7) Jingle All the Way
Howard Langston (Arnold Schwarzenegger) is a workaholic. His wife and child are very upset with him, and the only way he can get back in their good graces is to pick up a Turbo-Man doll. Only problem is, EVERYONE wants one and EVERYONE is sold out. This causes him to go on one crazy adventure involving a faux toy factory, a postal postman, a mall doing a Hunger Games to sell off their remaining doll, battling a reindeer, storming a radio station, bombs, fistfights, etc. Howard even goes as far as replacing Turbo-Man in the Christmas parade in order to try to get a doll. Will he be able to do it? Will his family be reunited for Christmas?
Why it's Great: This movie is so freakin' hilarious. I just love it so much. All the crazy things that happen to Howard as he tries to achieve success in his quest to get the doll. And that end fight scene is just great. A true holiday classic that I watch every year I can.
6) The Santa Clause
Scott Calvin (Tim Allen) is a self-absorbed and selfish toy designer. This Christmas Eve he gets to have his son spend the holiday with him, while his ex-wife and her husband celebrate elsewhere. Of course he is not only extremely late (too much partying at the office), but he burns their Christmas Eve dinner. Things are not going as planned. That night Charlie hears something, and the two go out to investigate, surprising Santa and causing him to fall off the roof! Scott puts on the suit, and the two go out to deliver the gifts. After the deed is done, Scott discovers that when he put on the suit he entered a clause, that is a decree, making him the new Santa. He doesn't believe it, but as the year passes, his body starts to become more Santa-like. Will he have enough faith to become Santa? Will he be able to change his ways so he can be more like Santa?
Why it's Great: Like Borrowed Hearts I have done a post on this, so I'm not going to talk too much aout it. It is a truly hilarious movie with some truly memorable lines and scenes. I love this movie so much that I don't even always wait for Christmas to watch it. Defintely worth seeing again and again.
For more on The Santa Clause, go to On the 11 Day 'Til Christmas: The Santa Clause (1994)
4) Christmas With the Kranks (2004)
Based on the John Grisham novel, Christmas with the Kranks shows how one can never truly skip Christmas. After Luther (Tim Allen) and Nora Krank (Jamie Lee Curtis) discover that their beloved daughter Blair won't be coming home for Christmas, they decide to forget it entirely. No decorations, no Christmas cards, no Christmas party, no Christmas tree, zip. Instead, the two will go on a lovely cruise. It starts out a great plan, until they start getting upsetting calls from the neighbors who want to win the best decorated street contest; tickets from policemen who are used to them buying multiple calendars, charities who expect their yearly donation, etc. As they are getting ready to go on Christmas Eve, they get a call from Blair who is surprising them by flying home-with a fiancé. They have to rely on their neighbors for help in making this the greatest Christmas ever.
Why it's Great: I just realized that this is the third Tim Allen movie on this list. Guess it was a good thing I decided to save Toy Story for another time, or else there would be four. Anyways this is just a hilarious film, from beginning to end. Grisham is a true master and the actors really bring his work to life. This is a truly great addition to you Christmas lineup as it is funny, heartwarming, and covers the true meaning of Christmas.
3) Goodfellas (1990)
A film based on the real life of gangster turned FBI witness, Henry Hill. Half-Italian, half-Irish; Henry Hill (Ray Liotta) has always wanted to be a gangster. He is taken under the wing of mob-boss Paul "Paulie" Cicero, to work under James "Jimmy the Gent" Conway (Robert De Niro) alongside Tommy DeVito (Joe Pesci). The trio hijack cars, commit insurance fraud, and the famous 1967 Air France Robbery. They spend most of their time at the Copacabana, hanging out with women. Hill meets Karen, Jewish and upper class, and the two eventually marry. At first Karen is alarmed at Hill's lifestyle, but eventually becomes enamored with the perks. They continue to live the criminal lifestyle, ultimately having to serve a stint in prison. There Hill discovers how "real" money can be made in drugs, and his life starts to take some real twists and turns.
Why it's Great: Now this film isn't for everyone, but if you are a fan of the gangster genre then you need to check this out. It covers the life of Hill pretty accurately, and of course the actors they chose are just amazing-De Niro, Liotta, & Pesci. In fact if this wasn't a Christmas list countdown, I probably would have it even higher. And for the Christmas part of the film, well this is no Christmas film but the holiday does play into a crucial part of the film. My friends and I used to have "gangster film and spaghetti" parties, with this one always being one of the main courses.
For more on Goodfellas, go to Sucky Sequels: Mean Girls 2 (2011)
2) Home Alone (1990)
Kevin McCallister's whole family is getting ready to fly to Paris for Christmas, spending the holidays with his uncle and aunt. The night before they leave, Kevin is punished (unfairly) to sleep up in the attic by himself, where he makes a wish that his family would just disappear. When a tree limb crashes on the powerline, the McCallister's find themselves waking up late and rushing out the door to the airport, in order to catch their plane. And…completely forgetting Kevin. At first being home alone is just fun and games, but when two robbers try to get into his house, Kevin finds himself defending it, in very imaginative ways.
Why it's Great: This movie became so popular, almost every family pic after it tried to recreate it's success. It is funny, memorable, and the scenes where Kevin is just wolfing down junk food was every kid's dream. It is one fantastic movie, great for Christmas or anytime you want a laugh.
1) Santa Claus is Comin' to Town (1970)
In Santa Claus is Comin' to Town, postman Special Delivery Klugman (Fred Astaire) is prepared to answer all questions about Santa Claus. In Sombertown, the Burgermeister Meisterburger discovers a baby on his doorstep, with a tag saying Claus. He sends one of his stooges to take the baby to the orphanage, but a wind blows the baby away. The forest creatures take the baby to the elf family Kringle, where he is raised as one of their own, Kris Kringle. The Kringles used to be toymakers for the King, but an evil man, the Winter Warlock, keeps them from continuing this tradition. Kris resolves that when he is old enough, he will brave the forest and Warlock, in order to give their toys to the children in the nearby town. He manages to slip the Warlock and heads to the town. Unbeknownst to Kris, toys are outlawed in Sombertown. He meets the school teacher, Jessica, and convinces them all to take toys. Kris almost gets arrested, but runs away, only to be captured by the Winter Warlock. When he gives the Warlock a gift, it melts his icy heart and removes his evil. Winter Warlock teaches Kris a few tricks, like magic snowballs that allow you to watch anyone. Kris keeps coming back and giving more toys, first handing them out to kids, then leaving them at night, lastly putting them in the children's stockings. The Burgermeister Meisterburger lays a trap and catches Kris. In order to free him, Jessica gets the Winter Warlock to give reindeer his flying corn, and thus Kris' eight flying reindeer were born. Jessica and Kris get married and move to the North Pole, Kris reverting to his given name of Claus.
Why it's Great: This film is absolutely adorable and Christmas is never the same without at least one viewing of this film.
Merry Christmas All!
For more on Christmas, go to O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree
For more on Christmas movies, go to 25 Films of Christmas
For more quizzes, go to Simply Fantastic
For more of my favorite quotes, go to Dreaming of the Sandman
Posted in Christmas, Disney, Non-Austen Movies, Pride and Prejudice, Quizzes, Quotable Quotes
Tagged 12 Posts of Christmas, 1967 Air France Robbery, 25 Days 'Til Christmas, 25 Days of Christmas, 25 Films of Christmas, A Christmas Carol, abc family, Abominable Snow Monster, Alec Baldwin, Amnesia, Andrea Roth, Batman, Batman Returns, believing, Bill Murray, Bob the Tomato, Boogeyman, Boris Karloff, Borrowed Hearts, Brawn, Bruce Wayne, Buddy, Bureau of Yuletide Affairs, Burgermeister Meisterburger, Buzz Saw Louie, Can't Believe It's Christmas!, Cary Grant, Catwoman, Charles Dickens, Chasing Christmas, Christmas, Christmas Every Day, Christmas Past, Christmas Present, Christmas With the Kranks, Christopher Robin, Christopher Walken, Cindy Lou Who, Classic Disney Film, Cocker Spaniel, Copacabana, Cruise, Danny DeVito, Dentist, Disney Film, Disneyland, DNA, DNA Test, Dog Pound, Donner, Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Easter Bunny, Eeyore, Elf, Elf (2003), Elves, Ernst, Evil Dictator, Faith, Film based on a book, Film based on a Real Person, Film based on a Song, Film Based on a True Story, Florida, focused on her goals, Francis, Fred Astaire, Fritz, Fruits, Gangster, gangster film and spaghetti parties, Gangster Genre, Goodfellas, Gotham, Grandpa George, Groundhog's Day, Grump, Happy Anniversary, Heart of Gold, Heat Miser, Henry Hill, Here Comes Santa Claus, Hermy, Hobo, Holiday (1938), Home Alone, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966), Howard Langston, Hugh Jackman, Hundred Acre Woods, I Believe in Santa Claus, I'll Have a Blue Christmas, Insurance Fraud, Isla Fisher, Island of Misfit Toys, Jack Cameron, Jack Frost, James "Jimmy the Gent" Conway, James Caan, Jamie Lee Curtis, Jane Austen, Jane Austen Quotes, Javier Del Campo, Jim Carrey, Jimmy the Gent, Jingle All the Way, Joe Pesci, John Grisham, Johnny Case, Joker, Julia Seton, Junior the Asparagus, Katherine Hepburn, Kathleen, Kevin McCallister, Kris Kringel, Kris Kringle, Lady and the Tramp, Larry the Cucumber, leading, Leslie Jordan, Linda Seton, Luther Krank, Man in the Moon, Man of Action, Max Shreck, Michael Keaton, Michelle Pfeiffer, Miser Brothers' Song, Misfit, Misfits, Mistletoe, Modern Remake, Modern Twist on a Classic, Morally ambiguous, Morals, Mr. Sandman, Mrs. Claus, New York, Nora Krank, North Pole, Nuns, Oh Santa!, Oswald Cobblepot, Parody, Paul "Paulie" Cicero, Penguins, Piglet, Pitch, Planner, Pride & Prejudice, Priest, Principal, Principal Carol Newman, Quest, Rabbit, Ray Liotta, Red Triangle Circus Gang, Remake, Rich Girl Meets Poor Boy, Robert De Niro, Robo-Santa, Rudolph, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Sam Field, Santa Claus, Santa Claus is Comin' to Town (1970), Scott Calvin, Scrooge, Secret Identity, Selina Kyle, Sequel, Shipwrecked, Shipwrecks, Siamese Cats, Snow Miser, Spanned Sequels, Supernatural, Swiss Family Robinson (1960), Tarzan (1999), The Bishop's Wife, The First Christmas: The Story of the First Christmas Snow, The First White Christmas: The Story of the First Christmas Snow, The Hunger Games, The Joker, The Penguin, The Plaza, The Polar Express, The Santa Clause, The Santa Clause 2, The Toy That Saved Christmas, The Year Without a Santa Claus, Thinker, Tigger, Tim Allen, Tim Curry, Tom Hanks, Tommy DeVito, Tooth Fairy, Toy Story, Train, True Meaning of Christmas, Tumbling, Turbo-Man, Veggies, Veggietales, vengeful, We Are Siamese, When Christmas Comes to Town, Where Are You Christmas?, White Christmas, Whos, Whoville, Will Ferrell, Winnie the Pooh, Winnie the Pooh and Christmas Too, Winter Warlock, Yukon Cornelius, Zebra, Zooey
Fanning All Over the Place
Yes, its true.
I am such a fangirl and have so many, many, many fandoms that I belong to. They take over my life! I mean if you think of all the hours that are put into being a massive fan, it's astounding!
Here is a list of things (alphabetically) that constantly take over my life. I'm actually breaking this up into a series of posts, as just one was tooooo much.
Anne of Green Gables Series
I love Anne of Green Gables. It is one of my most favorite book series and books turned into films. The book takes place in Canada in the early 20th century. Marilla and Matthew Cuthburt, two elderly people, have decided to take in an orphan boy to help take care of their farm, Green Gables. When Matthew goes to pick the orphan up, he finds a girl instead of a boy! A redhead named Anne. Anne proves to be widely entertaining, spirited, imaginative and a whole lot of fun.
Anne is just so awesome how she is always trying to find a kindred spirit and using her optimism and sweetness in everyday life. She also has an overactive imagination and gets herself into the best scrapes.
All my friends say that I am just like her, which I have to say is definitely true. While I'm missing the red hair; I most definitely have the same temper, imagination, and tendency to get into accidents/scrapes.
Yep I totally would have whacked him too!
So the first book Anne of Green Gables, is about her life as she lives on Prince Edward Island. You get introduced to her character along with meeting the rest of the people who live on the island. She studies hard and ends up getting a scholarship to college, but things happen that makes her decide to wait and become a teacher for the present.
In its sequel Anne of Avonlea, it chronicles her time as a teacher on the island, and her desire to become a writer. She continues to get into scrapes, even though she that being older should make her wiser. Her family also takes in twins, Daisy and Davy, to raise.
In Anne of the Island, Anne goes to college and it chronicles her years there. She also gets six proposals.Yes, not one, not two, not even three, but six!
In the end, she agrees to marry one of her suitors. I won't tell you who, as you have to read!
Anne of Windy Poplars she can't get married right away as her fiancé is still in school. She goes to Windy Poplars to teach and has to contend with the politics of the areas, as certain "old families" run the roost.
Anne's House of Dreams Anne is married and has to deal with the issues of early marriage, running a home, and eventually kids. But that doesn't stop her from her earlier imaginative games and friendmaking.
Anne of Ingleside details her married life, spotlights her children, and visits old friends and flames.
Besides the wonderful, imaginative, and fun Anne; you also have one of the best romantic heros ever. Gilbert Blythe.
Yep, I'm Anne. I know I say stuff like that all the time, but if I had to pick a fictional character I'm really like, it is her. We are the same although I live about a hundred years later than her. (Yeah an exact 100 years, spooky).
Which means that Gilbert is absolutely perfect for me. Still looking for him. Someday I'll find him.
Definitely check out the books and the films. Just an FYI the films move away from the stories, and the first two are the only good ones.
For more on the Anne of Green Gables series, go to Part XI: A Movie Lines List's Excellent Adventure
Austenite/Janeite
Do I really need to explain this? I mean look at the title of my blog and half the things I write about. I am a huge Austenite and love everything Jane Austen.
Jane Austen was an amazing woman who faced all kinds of adversary. She grew up with money, but ended up living in poverty. She fell in love with a high class man, but his family intervened and sent him away. She was given another opportunity to marry a wealthy man that would have saved her and her family from destitution, but she couldn't marry him as she didn't love him.
She continued to wait for her true love; although he never walked back into her life. Her first book she ever wrote, Northanger Abbey (then called Lady Susan) was published post-mortem. Her second novel and the most famous, Pride and Prejudice, was turned down several times before being published. In fact, it was published after she wrote her third novel, Sense and Sensibility.
Austen wrote not only great stories that have stood the test of time, but wrote about real issues and her more radical thoughts/philosophies, that wouldn't be as easily accepted if spoken in person.
There is so much more I could say, but that would take several posts to fill it up. I recommend reading On the 10th Day 'Til Christmas: Merry Christnas from the Austen Novels to read more of my love for Jane Austen's work and her characters.
For more on Jane Austen, go to Opening With…
Now I may be one of the few that are far more interested in The Avengers than Magic Mike but I see that as a good thing. The Avengers are another part of the Marvel (now Disney) family. The comic originated in the '60s, with the team consisting of Iron Man, Ant Man, Wasp, Thor, Hulk, & Captain America. Superheros from all the Marvel comics have joined up as team members through the years, such as Kitty Pryde and Wolverine from the X-Men. Even solo acts like Spider-man, have joined up for a while.
Now the film was amazing. The Avengers is one of the best superhero films to come out.They did an outstanding job as the film gave each superhero its chance to shine and made it about them as a whole, instead of one individual (that's how it's done X-Men. Yeah I'm looking at your 2000 series that was really only about Wolverine). Plus you have some extremely hunky guys. There is Chris Evans as Captain America, Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man, and Mark Ruffalo as the Hulk.
LOVE IT!! Check it out!
I LOVE Back to the Future. Words cannot describe what this film means to me.
After the first time I saw this film, I immediately became obsessed with it. I memorized every single line in the films. I would comb through the TV listings, and watch it every, single time it came on. One time I even got up at 4:00 am! That's commitment right there. And why not be obsessed with it? Duh, it's AWESOME!
The film is a combo of Science-fiction, historical fiction, the '50s, and the '80s. All things I love and hold dear. Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox), is the youngest of the McFly household and growing up in 1985. He wants to be a musician but is afraid of failing. He's close friends with amateur scientist and millionare, Dr. Emmet Brown, Doc for short. Doc has finally created the time machine he's been working on for 30 years. And put it in a Delorean.
Before he can set out on his trip through time, Doc is killed by the terrorists he bamboozled for uranium. Marty jumps in the car and takes off, accidentally going back to 1955 and messing up his parent's meetup. If he doesn't get them back together, he's history.
What's not to love? Comedy, romance, science-fiction, great music, clothes, Michael J. Fox? Plus amazing gags!
This film was a hit and followed by two more films. In Part II Marty goes to 2015 to fix something, but indadvertedly causes his present to be destroyed. When he goes back to 1985, he finds out his father is dead, mom is married to Biff, and the whole town is run by Biff and is a hell hole. He then has to go back to 1955 in order to refix the time stream. But, it won't be as easy as before, he can't run into himself or else the whole time-space continuum will be destroyed!
Part III, Marty discovers that the Doc from 1985 has gone back to 1885. He then has to get the 1955 Doc to help him out and send him to 1885. When he gets there, he discovers that Biff's however many grand pappy, "Mad Dog" Tanner, is planning on killing Doc.
They not only have to figure a way to get back without any modern convinces, but to make the issue even harder…Doc falls in love with a 1885 woman. Will they survive the Old West? Will Marty ever get back to 1985? Watch to find out!
Great mix of the '80s & Western film
I visited Universal Studios in 2012 and was devastated to see that they had hardly anything from Back to the Future. The clock tower was destroyed in that big fire, the ride had been taken out for "newer" things, and you couldn't find any cool souvenirs. When I went in 2013, things were different. Universal Studios has a studio museum that they constantly move props in and out and they had a whole Back to the Future collection. I was having a ball, in fact I wanted to climb over the plexiglass and sit in the Deloran.
Here are the clock tower building plans
And the beautiful car
For more on Back to the Future, go to Just a Friendly Reminder
So I love Batman. He will always be my favorite of the DC comics. And I like all the Batmans!
So here we have a man who's parent's die and cause him to become a vigilante; always hoping to finally destroy crime as that was the thing that killed his parents. He is a billionaire, but other than that a normal person. I mean, unlike Superman who has a gazillion powers, Batman relies on his mind, martial arts, and inventions.
He also has his strain of the double life. Just like Sir Percy Blakeney aka The Scarlet Pimpernel, Don Diego de la Vega aka Zorro, and Francisco Domingo Carlos Andres Sebastián d'Anconia from Atlas Shrugged. Batman knows that this charade of a playboy not only hides his intelligence, but the fact that he is be a main piece in destroying the crime. It has to be hard to be thought of and treated "as the richest man and the most spectacularly worthless playboy on Earth" (pg. 56, Atlas Shrugged). But Batman knows that it is a must to continue his work.
So there are many versions of Batman and I pretty much love them all.
So besides the comic books you have Batman (1966 – 1968), starring Adam West. This is a hilarious show as it just makes you giggle. It's fantastically corny.
Then you have Batman (1989) starring the handsome and wonderful Michael Keaton. In this we have Batman taken to the big screen in a darker way, with none other than the Creeper McCreepy Creep Jack Nicholson as the Joker. He is one of the best as his uber creepiness in real life was magnified on the screen. A great film, you should check out.
In Batman Returns, Michael Keaton is back and facing up against Christopher Walken, the Penguin, and Catwoman. I never really liked the penguin's part in this film, but Michelle Pfeiffer is the best Catwoman ever. Halle Berry and Anne Hathaway wish they could be as awesome as her. Definitely worth seeing for her and Michael Keaton.
Batman Forever totally sucked. Val Klimer is too stiff and monotone as Batman, Nicole Kidman the therapist is a sex-crazed woman who needs to help solve her own issues before getting into others, and Tommy Lee Jones as Two-Face is just…no wrong. Wrong. The only bright spot is Jim Carrey as the Riddler. He was absolutely perfect, and the only reason I watch this film.
That's probably how most of us fans would act when we meet out idol.
Batman and Robin is…its a mess. I know it. It is full of puns, lots of stuff makes zero sense, but I LOVE IT! I can't explain it. I find it absolutely hilarious. I love Arnold Schwarzenegger as Mr. Freeze. Its more of a parody, and I love it.
Besides that you have a some great cartoon series that came out. Such as Batman: The Animated Series. This has to be one of the best versions of Batman ever made. It really develops into the psyche and relationships of Bruce, Dick, Barbara, Comissioner Gordon, etc. Plus you have great villans like the Joker, Poison Ivy, Harley Quinn, etc. It is definitely worth a watch, and it is free on Amazon Instant Watch. I have my own favorite episodes, but Nostalgia Critic really hits on the best ones in the series (although I would add Harley & Ivy episode to that list).
Then we have Batman Beyond. In this they took the story to a different level. It was very dark and used the colors black and red only. It takes place in 2039, and Bruce is all alone. All his old friends have died or left him alone. Terry McGinnis gets involved with Bruce accidentally, and eventually Bruce trains him to become the new Batman and avenger of Gotham City.
Intense!
And then we have the new Batman films. Now I really liked Batman Begins and The Dark Knight. I didn't like The Dark Knight Rises however, but I'm like the only one. I just couldn't get into it and hate how they chose to end with Bane after the Joker. Come on now, seriously. But I thought the first film was great. The only issue I had with the second film was that they didn't give Two-Face enough screentime, and that he didn't argue with himself as much as he should have. He didn't have the same rooted issues. But all in all they were really good.
And I'm super pumped for Batman vs. Superman. Bring on the bat!
For more on Batman, go to That Girl is Poison
I love Bones because of one reason really, FBI Special Agent Seeley Booth played by David Boreanaz.
Bones is about forensic anthropologist Dr. Temperance "Bones" Brennan (Emily Deschanel) who gets hired by the FBI as a consultant to help them solve cases. There is also an amazing secondary cast: wild, artistic, Angela Montenegro who does facial reconstruction; Dr. Jack Hodgins, an entomologist who spurned his family's wealth and "buisness" to study science; Dr. Zack Addy, genius graduate student who is unfamilar with "social norms"; and Dr. Lance Sweets, the young, handsome, FBI psychologist who helps them out. It is a great show, that I highly recommend.
Ah, the life of a fangirl
Stay tuned for Part 2!
For more on my fangirlness, go to How I Differ from Others
For more of my favorite quotes, go to Peeta Please!
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Home > Policy and analysis > Reports > Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic student attainment at UK universities: #closingthegap
Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic student attainment at UK universities: #closingthegap
What is this report about?
The excellence and reputation of the UK higher education sector are recognised around the world. However, an attainment gap between students of different ethnicities exists at the vast majority of universities, and evidence suggests that these cannot be explained by a students' background or prior qualifications.
This report first explains what the attainment gap looks like in UK universities, followed by a summary of feedback from students and staff to two online calls for evidence. Information gathered through these surveys helped identify five steps to success. These are:
conversations about race and culture
racially diverse, inclusive environments
evidence and analysis
Subsequent chapters focus on each of these steps and the barriers that are preventing the sector from successfully closing the gap. They include recommendations for tackling the barriers to success.
What are universities doing about it?
Universities can collectively work together to address the Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) attainment gaps by sharing evidence and best practice of what works and what doesn't. As a first step, UUK has created this collection of case studies of what universities are already doing to close the gap on attainment differentials, and improve the experiences of BAME students at university.
Where can I learn more?
Together with SOAS, University of London, Universities UK is hosting a one-day event dedicated to confronting the BAME attainment gap. Chaired by Baroness Valerie Amos, the event will cover the five steps identified in the report in detail, and is designed to help all those committed to confronting this issue to do so, regardless of past experience or their job title. For further information, and to book your place, visit: https://www.universitiesuk.ac.uk/events/Pages/BAME-attainment-gap.aspx
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SBU News > Newsroom > Press Release > Faculty/Student Awards > Stony Brook University Names Historian Paul Kelton Endowed Chair In the Department Of History
Faculty/Student AwardsGeneralNewsroomPress Release
Stony Brook University Names Historian Paul Kelton Endowed Chair In the Department Of History
The First Robert David Lion Gardiner Chair In American History
Paul Kelton, PhD
STONY BROOK, NY, May 25, 2017 –– The Stony Brook University College of Arts and Sciences recently named historian Paul Kelton as the first Robert David Lion Gardiner Chair in American History. The endowed chair was established in the Department of History in February 2016, thanks to a major gift from the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation.
"We welcome Paul Kelton to the faculty in the Department of History, and are appreciative of the generous support from the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation," said Stony Brook University President Samuel L. Stanley Jr., MD. "Through his expertise, Professor Kelton will engage with and empower students as they learn about and explore the fascinating history of Long Island and its diverse culture."
Kelton, a leading scholar of Indigenous North American and Colonial American history, is the author of numerous published works that have made important revisions to our understanding of the biological processes involved in the European takeover of the Americas. He continues his in-depth research on Indigenous experiences with European-introduced diseases and has ongoing projects detailing the contours of Native death and survival during the Seven Years War in North America, the American Revolution, and Indian Removal.
"It is quite an honor to be the inaugural Robert David Lion Gardiner Chair in American History, and I am thrilled to be joining the outstanding faculty of the Department of History at Stony Brook University," said Professor Kelton. "Long Island is an exciting place to be a historian, and I look forward to working with my new colleagues and the Gardiner Foundation to support local historical organizations, libraries, museums, and other valuable cultural institutions. I deeply appreciate Stony Brook University and the Gardiner Foundation for this opportunity of a lifetime."
The mission of the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation is primarily to support the study of New York State history, with emphasis on Suffolk County. Since its establishment in 1987, the Foundation has garnered an extraordinary record of support for Long Island's historical, educational and cultural institutions.
"Stony Brook University is the premier educational center on Long Island, which led to its selection for this first history chair in the name of Robert David Lion Gardiner," said Joseph R. Attonito, Chairman of the Board of the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation. "We look forward to hearing of the research from Dr. Kelton and his students."
"The Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation Board of Trustees is delighted at the selection of Dr. Paul Kelton as the first Gardiner History Chair at Stony Brook University," added Kathryn M. Curran, the Foundation's executive director. "We are confident that his research will inspire and expand the study of Long Island's rich past and its role in the American experience."
The Gardiner chair is designed as a lasting testimony to the significant contributions made by the Gardiner family and Foundation to promote the study, preservation and celebration of Long Island history.
"We too are pleased to have Paul Kelton join the Stony Brook community as the inaugural Robert David Lion Gardiner Chair in American History," said said Michael Bernstein, Stony Brook University Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs. "Paul's expertise will lead to the formation of critical new insights into our local history. We congratulate Paul as he takes up this new position and celebrate Stony Brook's partnership with the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation."
Professor Kelton is the author of several articles, two books, and has co-edited Beyond Germs: Native Depopulation in North America (Arizona 2015), named a Choice Outstanding Academic Title for 2016. He has won grants and fellowships awarded by the American Philosophical Societies, the Hall Center for the Humanities, and the William Clements Library.
"I am very appreciative that we are developing this partnership with the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation, an organization that is so valuable to the preservation of the history and serving the people of Suffolk County," says Sacha Kopp, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. "We wholeheartedly welcome Professor Kelton to the College."
A native of Chelsea, OK, Professor Kelton received his bachelor's degree in history from the University of Tulsa, and both his MA and PhD in history from the University of Oklahoma. He held an appointment at Southern Connecticut State University before joining the Department of History at the University of Kansas in 2001 as an assistant professor. There, Professor Kelton rose to the rank of full professor and served as department chair and Associate Dean for the Humanities. He is married to Stephanie Kelton, who also joins Stony Brook University this fall as a professor in the forthcoming Center for the Study of Inequality and Social Justice. The Keltons have three children.
"Stony Brook University's Department of History is absolutely thrilled that Paul Kelton will hold the new Gardiner Chair," said Paul Gootenberg, chair of the Department of History. "Professor Kelton is a pioneer in combining the sophisticated and growing scholarship of two fields, that of the history of medicine and Native American history. He exemplifies what we as a department strive for: histories that connect and matter."
About Stony Brook University
Stony Brook University is going beyond the expectations of what today's public universities can accomplish. Since its founding in 1957, this young university has grown to become one of only four University Center campuses in the State University of New York (SUNY) system with more than 25,700 students, 2,500 faculty members, and 18 NCAA Division I athletic programs. Our faculty have earned numerous prestigious awards, including the Nobel Prize, Pulitzer Prize, Indianapolis Prize for animal conservation, Abel Prize and the inaugural Breakthrough Prize in Mathematics. The University offers students an elite education with an outstanding return on investment: U.S.News & World Report ranks Stony Brook among the top 40 public universities in the nation. Its membership in the Association of American Universities (AAU) places Stony Brook among the top 62 research institutions in North America. As part of the management team of Brookhaven National Laboratory, the University joins a prestigious group of universities that have a role in running federal R&D labs. Stony Brook University is a driving force in the region's economy, generating nearly 60,000 jobs and an annual economic impact of $4.65 billion. Our state, country and world demand ambitious ideas, imaginative solutions and exceptional leadership to forge a better future for all. The students, alumni, researchers and faculty of Stony Brook University are prepared to meet this challenge.
About The Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation
Established in 1987, The Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation primarily supports the study of Long Island and New York State history. Robert David Lion Gardiner was, until his death in August 2004, the 16th Lord of the Manor of Gardiner's Island, NY. The Gardiner family and their descendants have owned Gardiner's Island since 1639, obtained as part of a royal grant from King Charles I of England. The Foundation is inspired by Robert David Lion Gardiner's personal passion for Long Island and New York history.
Contact: Lauren Sheprow
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Markus Seeliger and colleagues assess how molecular mutations affect the release of a leading drug for leukemia STONY BROOK, NY, June 21, 2022 – Understanding why and how chemotherapy resistance occurs is a major step...
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My son is going to his honors calculus exam today armed with the TI-89 graphing calculator. He spent last night programming in all of the functions that he will need. He will be examined not only on his math skill but also on his grasp of the TI-89.
The graphing calculator is not an option in calculus at Episcopal. As a student in our upper school, you might be able to pass your math courses but you will not thrive if you do not own one. On its website, the College Board states, "Some questions on the Mathematics Level 1 and Level 2 Subject Tests cannot be solved without a scientific or graphing calculator. We recommend the use of a graphing calculator rather than a scientific calculator." Mastery of the technology is now an essential part of a modern education in mathematics.
It took a long time to get to this point. When I took calculus in 1979 I had to have a scientific calculator to do my work, but it was not allowed in exams. A few years earlier, my older brothers were required to use slide rules to do their math homework. And of course, there was a small culture war over the use of calculators when they were first introduced.
There was really no way to stop this kind of evolution; nor would it have been wise to try to accelerate it. In a similar way, the word processor has become, simply, the way one writes a paper, from the brainstorming stage all the way through to the finished product. Very few people still start with a yellow legal pad and a pencil, as many did just a decade or two ago.
Although new technologies can be disruptive and revolutionary, in education they tend to be evolutionary. I predict that the use of e-readers and digital reading will follow a similar pattern. In twenty years we will be reading differently -- just as we are writing differently and calculating differently than we did twenty years ago. But it will be habitual and natural for us.


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Dameon Clarke Talks Borderlands The Pre Sequel
GamerHub.TV Staff
 Published June 21, 2014 1:00 PM
Handsome Jack actor Dameon Clarke discusses Borderlands The Pre Sequel in this exclusive interview from the Turtle Beach booth at E3 2014.
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Published August 18, 2017 11:25 AM , by
Total War: Warhammer II Skaven Battle Gameplay
Total War: Warhammer II Skaven Battle Gameplay. Total War: Warhammer II is an upcoming turn-based strategy and real-time tactics video game developed by Creative Assembly and published by Sega. It is part of the Total War video game series and a sequel to 2016's Total War: Warhammer CONNECT WITH US! FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/shacknews TWITTER: https://twitter.com/shacknews INSTAGRAM: http://instagram.com/shacknews Total War: Warhammer II Skaven Battle Gameplay. Watch us live at http://www.twitch.tv/shacknews To support the team, visit the site: http://www.shacknews.com
Total War: Warhammer II Skaven Campaign Map Gameplay
Total War: Warhammer II Skaven Campaign Map Gameplay. Total War: Warhammer II is an upcoming turn-based strategy and real-time tactics video game developed by Creative Assembly and published by Sega. It is part of the Total War video game series and a sequel to 2016's Total War: Warhammer. CONNECT WITH US! FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/shacknews TWITTER: https://twitter.com/shacknews INSTAGRAM: http://instagram.com/shacknews Watch us live at http://www.twitch.tv/shacknews To support the team, visit the site: http://www.shacknews.com