Sometimes I just can’t decide what to write about next. One moment I feel like writing about movies and then decide maybe television instead. I think when I don’t have a clearcut idea, I’ll try something else. Since things like to happen in threes, I’m going to list off a few recommendations from different mediums. I figure that will cover my bases and let me focus on something I really want to write about.
Movies
Boyhood (2014) – Directed by Richard Linklater
The life of a young man, Mason, from age 5 to age 18.
Boyhood was a great joy to watch. While the plot is nothing crazy, the growth and change that happens to the characters and surroundings is fun to watch unfold. I felt the movie resonated a lot with me as well. Since I was close in age with the “boy” of the movie, I myself remember certain music or popular styles being showcased over the years. I felt as though I could watch this boy’s whole life if the movie played long enough. A risky project for the director that turned out great.
Mean Girls (2004) – Directed by Mark Waters
Cady Heron is a hit with The Plastics, the A-list girl clique at her new school, until she makes the mistake of falling for Aaron Samuels, the ex-boyfriend of alpha Plastic Regina George.
Mean Girls is hilarious and never gets old. This is a perfect teen comedy for both guys and girls (don’t let the title fool you). So many memorable characters and a who’s who of actors and actresses (many have gone on to be more famous). The jokes are great and come from each character, the comedy is spread out thick. If I had to choose a favourite, it would probably be Damien, he delivers on every line. A lot of people think the “teen” comedy movie genre is in bad shape these days, but Mean Girls is a terrific example on how to nail it.
Indie Game: The Movie (2012) – Directed by James Swirsky and Lisanne Pajot
A documentary that follows the journeys of indie game developers as they create games and release those works, and themselves, to the world.
I love watching a good documentary, especially one about video games. This is a great video game documentary because it focuses on independent video game creators (if that wasn’t obvious in the title) and the struggle they go through to make games near and dear to their heart. I also like the movie because it gives the viewer a behind the scenes experience of how these games are made and advertised to the public. You can tell the guys behind these games are truly passionate in what they do and treat their games like a child. Check it out and play the games!
Television
Sherlock (2010) – BBC
A modern update finds the famous sleuth and his doctor partner solving crime in 21st century London.
Took me a while, but I finally took the plunge on this terrific television series. What took me so long? Well, I’ve seen my fair share of Sherlock Holmes adaptations and I wasn’t in the mood for another. Finally, my girlfriend convinced me one night and I haven’t looked back. First of all, the modern day retelling is crafted very well. Both Sherlock and Watson are portrayed by terrific actors and shine with the writing (which is great as well). The relationship between the pair is ever growing and quite charming. The show is just oozing with fun moments, like when Sherlock is using deduction on someone or when they have a true mystery on their hands. The comedic elements are aplenty and hilarious too.
Lost (2004) – ABC
The survivors of a plane crash are forced to work together in order to survive on a seemingly deserted tropical island.
You could say this was my first “mature adult” show. Before watching lost, I was still kicking around the usual kid channels and couldn’t look away when I saw my parents watching this new show one night. I decided to watch it too and I ended up loving every minute of it and didn’t miss a new episode until its’ conclusion six seasons later. There is a lot to like about “Lost”, starting with the cast of characters. It’s an expansive cast, that’s for sure, but there’s so many interesting characters that we learn about (or lose). The show was naturally mysterious and full of intrigue and action, and taking place on a (somewhat) deserted island added to these elements. The show was also famous for its’ use of flashbacks for the characters and elements of time (past and future). It’s no surprise why the show became so huge and I can’t wait to watch it all again in a few years once I start to forget the specifics.
Freaks and Geeks (1999) – NBC
A television show about two unique groups of teenagers dealing with life in high school during the 80’s.
Talk about a show that ended too soon. Freaks and Geeks is one of best shows about teenagers. The show excels at being both a drama and a comedy. The acting is very well done and the cast is full of future stars, such as James Franco, Seth Rogen, Jason Segel, Linda Cardellini and just about everyone else. Freaks and Geeks took place in the early 80s and does a great representation of the time period in numerous ways (clothing, pop culture, music). The music in this show is terrific and includes some awesome tunes in each episode that fits the period exactly. The greatest moments in the show feel truly genuine and as if it could happen to you. The comedy moments are hysterical, especially from the geeks. It’s too bad the show didn’t get more seasons, but the cast and crew (Apatow, Feig) did some even better work afterwards.
Music
Some songs I’m listening to a bunch lately
Love me some Billy Joel! He has some great songs and you can really feel the energy in this song in particular.
Usually I prefer The Beatles over The Stones, but I am a fan of both. This is one of my favourites by the Stones that I can always jam too.
New Order is an amazing band, with lots of little gems. This is probably one of their better known tracks, but is still a beauty.
Such a different song that I come back to every once in a while. The opening is classic.
That’s it for now, until next time!
Jarthurdoyle 