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A Short Break

Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to read my posts. I am very grateful for the likes and comments. I started this blog post as a project for one of my classes last semester, and I am happy with how it’s come along so far. For now, however, I will be taking a break from this blog to focus on my current semester. I hope that I can come back to make more content in the future. Thanks again for reading my stuff about film. :) 

#afilmsforthoughtblog #short break

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Bodacious Birds

Throughout the course of cinema, there have been many movies about birds and the crazy hijinks they get into in their lives. Down below, you’ll find some of my favorite fowls in movies. What are some of your favorite bird films? 

1. Alan-A-Dale from Robin Hood (1973)

Alan-A-Dale carried the whole movie. Without him, the entire movie’s vibes would’ve been thrown off. He’s very laid back and easy going. His songs make you feel every emotion when they come on. His sweet, southern twang will get you singing along to “Oo-De-Lally” in no time! 

2. Junior from Storks (2016)

Junior is the type of guy who can get the job done. He’s a real go-getter. His quick wit and sarcasm cracks me up every time! As well, I loved the dynamic between Tulip and him. Even though they didn’t get along well at first, they became friends after their adventure in taking the baby to her new parents. 

3. Mumble from Happy Feet (2006)

Mumble is very kind, loving, and brave. He is the only penguin in his clan that dances. Although he has to go on a journey to find himself, he finds out he is unique and beautiful because of his dancing. He gets the rest of the penguins to see that dancing is a wonderful action and they join in. He is a carefree soul who makes me smile every time I watch the film. 

4. Chicken Little from Chicken Little (2005)

Chicken Little is a nerdy goofball. He tries very hard to fit in, but who needs to fit in when you are the coolest guy out of the group? He knows that aliens are going to invade the planet, and he saves everyone despite their lack of confidence in him. His selflessness and wicked dance moves make this plot very fun. I think it’s a very underrated Disney film that should get more recognition! 

5. Hei Hei from Moana (2016)

Hei Hei is a national treasure. Poor little chicken with his dumb brain and lack of direction. He makes any scene funnier by his presence! He may not be the sharpest tool in the shed, but his overall personality makes one cool sidekick. I burst out laughing every time he has the freak out on the boat. 

#disney #robin hood #moana #chicken little #storks #happy feet #warner brothers

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Sequels Better than the Original

Last time, I discussed Sequels that should have never been made. Today, I will discuss sequels that are totally superior to the original movie. I do understand that without the first film, these next films wouldn’t exist, but I think that the filmmakers kept on improving their techniques with the list I have today! Which sequels do you think are better than the original? Let me know in the comments below! 

1. Toy Story 2 (1999)

Two words: New characters! Sure, who doesn’t love the dynamic duo that is Woody and Buzz Lightyear? However, introducing Jesse and Bullseye make quite the story arc. Seeing more of Woody’s past makes the audience love the character even more. Plus, one of the best montage scenes ever came out of this movie. I love watching Woody get a glow up every time. It’s so aesthetically pleasing. 

2. Shrek 2 (2004)

Now that Shrek got his “Fairy Tale Ending,” we finally get to see more of Fiona’s family and what it takes to be a royal. The opening scene with all the classic movie references? Iconic. Fairy Godmother and Prince Charming at the drive-thru? Iconic. Meeting Puss in Boots for the first time? Iconic. Shrek infiltrating Fairy Godmother’s factory causing chaos? Hilarious! There’s just so much about this movie that I could go on and on. Each scene is too good. As well, we can’t forget human Shrek! Ah, if only we could bring him back for another clip. I will say, the best thing about owning it on DVD is the spoof on American Idol called “Far Far Away Idol.” I would play that feature for hours because you could choose who won every time. Let’s not forget that from time to time, Simon Cowell would overrule your pick and declare himself the winner! Such good memories came from this film.

3. High School Musical 2 (2007)

Now that we’ve established who the characters are, it was fun seeing them on their summer vacation. Just seeing them let loose without having to worry about cliques or schoolwork makes me want to dance, too! Most importantly, we got the best bangers out of HSM 2. Songs such as “Bet on It,” “Work this Out,” “Fabulous,” and “I Don’t Dance,” are classic bops that always make me want to get out of my seat and jam! When this movie first premiered, I was so excited to choose the guest Disney star to appear in the final scene. It was a fun way to interact with the fans. 

4. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004)

This is my favorite out of the films and the books! I know the overall plot is Harry battling against Voldemort, but this was a nice break from having the whole movie overcast by the impending doom of he who must not be named. I am a bit biased because Sirius Black is one of my all time favorite characters in the franchise! I love the subplot of another possible evil villain on the loose except he’s not what you think at all. Harry finding out about his godfather makes me all happy inside because now he finally has the opportunity for a healthy, family relationship.  

5. The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)

The second film in The Hobbit Franchise creates a great transition between the first and third film. We finally get to meet Smaug and learn of his intentions. You know, if the dwarves hadn’t disturbed him, he wouldn’t have wreaked havoc all over Laketown. Nevertheless, he had to be awoken for the dwarves to reclaim the Arkenstone. As well,  Benedict Cumberbatch’s voice well-suited Smaug perfectly for the dark dragon which gives off a haunting ambiance. Also, the barrel scene is very entertaining to see because of all the dwarves floating down the river while holding on to giant, wooden kegs! 

#disney #toy story 2 #dreamworks #shrek 2 #warner brothers #harry potter #high school musical 2 #new line cinema #the hobbit #desolation of smaug

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Sequels that Shouldn’t Exist

What are some films that you wish were never made? I could have gone my whole life without watching these movies. 

1. Toy Story 4 (2019)

This movie feels like it could’ve been a tv special. The toys are off on another adventure with Bonnie. I know the filmmakers wanted to continue the journey with their new owner, but they should’ve ended the series with Toy Story 3. The third movie’s ending completed out the whole series. Andy goes off to college, and he passes the toys down to a new kid who will love them just as much as he did. There is no need for a fourth movie. Granted, we did find out about Bo Peep’s whereabouts, but I was fine not knowing where she ended up. 

2. Shrek Forever After (2010)

Just like Toy Story 4, the Shrek franchise didn’t need a fourth movie! The third, as well, rounded up the series quite nicely. In Shrek the Third, Fiona and Shrek find a new heir to rule Far Far Away, and they are able to live peaceful lives back in their swamp with their ogre babies. Shrek Forever After is a fever dream filled with an unnecessary alternate timeline. The only good thing to come out of this film is the memes. I constantly hear people my age recite the entire “Do the roar!” scene. 

3. Minions (2015)

I just don’t know where to begin with this spinoff. There are so many things to unpack here. When Despicable Me first came out, I was all for the cool villain turned good guy with his cute, little minions. However, marketing ruined this for me. Everywhere I looked, minions everywhere! I couldn’t escape those yellow twinkies. Older people on my Facebook share quotes with pictures of minions on them that doesn’t even connect with the message of the quote! Retail stores had them everywhere! Commercials ever so often had them blasting on the screen. Illumination Entertainment has even changed their logo to include the minion image! They aren’t even the best part of the franchise. They just made this spinoff to make more money.  

#toy story 4 #disney #minions #illumination entertainment #shrek forever after #dreamworks

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Express YoursELVES

Have you ever noticed how many different elves in cinema there are? I didn’t realize how many there were until I started paying attention to the many fantastical realms in film. Since there are so many, I’ve decided to highlight some of my favorite elves for you today! Who are your favorite elves? I always appreciate your feedback!  

1. Dobby from the Harry Potter Series (2001-2011)

I must admit, I wasn’t too sure about Dobby the house elf at first. He’s very mischievous and tries to sabotage Harry from going back to Hogwarts. However, once I learned more about Dobby as I went along, he only did those things because he thought he was protecting Harry. He only wants what is best for the wizard. He is also very clever. The sock scene is so iconic that you can’t help but root for him! 

2. Legolas from The Lord of the Rings Series (2001-2003)

Legolas joins the fellowship to help destroy the ring that rules them all!  Even though elves and dwarves usually hate one another, Legolas and Gimli become the best of friends during their journey together. He is as well faithful to his friend, Aragorn which shows great loyalty on his part. Not only is he a prince, but he is a masterful archer. His ability to use a bow and arrow make for one fantastic warrior! 

3. Buddy from Elf (2003)

Of course, I had to mention the loveable Buddy! Although he wasn’t born an elf, he was raised by some fabulous Christmas elves. Growing up in that environment, who’s to say that Buddy isn’t a true elf himself? The hijinks in pursuit of his biological father is quite hilarious. Once he does find his father, it’s interesting to see how he adapts to human life. He cannot believe how big things are in the real world! His quirkiness is sure to bring a smile to your face and will have you laughing out loud! 

4. Bernard from The Santa Clause (1994)

Another Christmas elf coming back at ya!  He has all the good qualities that a typical Christmas elf usually has, but he also has characteristics outside the normal realms of elfhood. He is sarcastic, witty, and hard working. He knows when to have fun and also knows when it’s time to get back to work.  Bernard is very charismatic. 

5. Hermey from Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)

Just like Bernard, Hermey breaks the mold for Christmas elves. He dreams of being a dentist! Why should he be stuck to one profession just because everyone around him is doing the same job? Along with Rudolph, they help each other to see that they are not misfits. They are uniquely made. Their originality helps them through their wacky adventures during the Christmas season. Their dynamic is a fun one to watch every year! 

#Harry Potter #Warner Brothers #Dobby #dobby the house elf #Legolas #Lord of the Rings #New Line Cinema #Buddy the elf #Elf #Buddy #Bernard #The Santa Clause #disney #Hermey #rudolph the red nosed reindeer

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Spooky Season Cinema

With Halloween being this weekend, I took a trip down memory lane and watched some Halloween favorites from my childhood. Times like these calls for a good nostalgia trip. What are your favorite Halloween movies? Let me know in the comments below! 

1. It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)

This film just oozes with nostalgia for me. Ever since I can remember, my family would always watch this around Halloween time.  It reminds me of all the fall fun that one can have during this season. Charlie Brown’s Halloween costume is still iconic! Who’s to say that there isn’t a Great Pumpkin? The only thing that bothers me with this film is that it’ll only be shown through Apple TV+ from now on. I wish that the movie could still be shown through regular broadcasting so that everyone would get a chance to watch it. I guess it’s time to blow off my VHS copy and view Charlie and the gang that way. 

2. My Babysitter’s a Vampire (2010)  

I know this movie looks cheesy, and that’s because it is. Despite that fact, my middle school self loved every minute of this film! Two huge geeks fighting off vampires while also battling their Freshman year of high school? Sign me up! They also have their own spoof of Twilight fans which is quite hilarious. The overall cringe throughout the movie reminds me that no matter how you look at it, you’re not as cool as you think you were when you’re a Freshman. 

3. The Haunted Mansion (2003)

This movie still gives me the creeps. I can’t watch it by myself, but it sure reminds me of the good times we had with family movie night. Retrieving the key from the mausoleum scene gave me nightmares for weeks! I think you would have, too, if some undead, slimy corpses were chasing after you! Casting Eddie Murphy made the whole movie watchable for someone like me who usually doesn’t go for scary movies. The Haunted Mansion maintains a good balance between horror and comedy.

4. Monster House (2006)

A lot of my friends do not remember this movie, but my siblings and I had a blast watching this film. After viewing it, we were always leery about the house at the end of our hollow. It plays on the dark fears of a creepy house on your street. What would happen if it was possessed by an evil spirit and wanted to eat you? The three friends must find a way to “kill” the house before more people get taken on Halloween night. 

5. Coraline (2009)

I must admit that when I was younger, my sister forced me to watch this with her. The other mother freaked me out too much. I didn’t get to watch the whole thing because I was too afraid of having my own eyes gouged out and replaced with buttons! Now that I’m older, I finally watched it completely through even though I still felt unnerved with some scenes. However, I loved the Other Father’s dynamic. He tries to help Coraline with clues during her stay with them. I still get the “Other Father Song” stuck in my head from time to time! 

#its the great pumpkin charlie brown #charlie brown #disney #the haunted mansion #coraline #laika animation #monster house #amblin entertainment #my babysitters a vampire

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Shocking Villains

*SPOILERS AHEAD*

Most of the time, we like to know who the heroes and the villains are right off the bat. This distinction gives us a sense of comfort in knowing which characters to root for. However,  there are certain times when a plot twist comes in and the protagonist was the villain all along! Sometimes, you don’t see it coming. The betrayal punches you right in the gut! Below, you will find some of the surprising villains from my favorite movies. Comment down below which character shocked you the most!  

1. Titan from Megamind (2010)

Before Hal becomes Titan, he is a nerdy guy who works as a cameraman for the local news station. He always follows Roxanne around to find the latest information about Metroman. His affections for his coworker are painstakingly obvious, but she is too nice to outright turn him down. Once Metroman leaves the city for good, Megamind takes over Metro City. He needs a new hero to battle. What better person to take Metroman’s place than the guy who knows everything about  him and the powers it takes to be a superhero? Hal seems the perfect fit, so Megamind disguises himself as a Space Dad to train Hal. He transforms into Titan, and all seems to be going well. Titan has the potential to be a decent hero, but he is so arrogant. His confidence ultimately becomes his downfall. When Roxanne rejects him, he spazzes out and gets all angry. He flips the script and becomes the villain! 

2. Ernesto de la Cruz from Coco (2017)

This turn of events stabbed me right in my heart! All Miguel wants to do is be a musician. So, when he needs to get back to the land of the living, he searches for Ernesto de la Cruz in hopes of getting his blessing to return. He surely would help his great-great grandson? Right? WRONG. Usually, when someone is put upon a pedestal, eventually, they’ll come crashing down. I think the plot twist in this movie is bigger than Hans from Frozen! Ernesto’s not his relative at all! He’s the man who stole everything from Miguel’s great-great grandfather and murdered him in the process. I won’t spoil the ending, but I am happy with Ernesto de la Cruz’s fateful end. Once you re-watch Coco, all the clues smack you in the face. You’ll never look at this character the same way again. 

3. Hans from Frozen (2013)

C’mon. You know I had to add Hans in the mix. I know I said Ernesto de la Cruz’s villainy was more shocking than Hans’ reveal, but for the longest while, Hans had the biggest character twist in Disney history! So far in this company, we’ve seen the same trope over and over. Girl meets boy and marries him even though they’ve only known each other for a short amount of time, or true love’s kiss will save the day. When Elsa accidentally freezes Anna’s heart, she seeks out Hans to heal her because she believes they are soulmates. As the camera pans in their faces to seal the deal, Hans quickly stops the kiss and utters one of the sickest burns ever: “Oh, Anna, if only there was someone out there who loved you.” My whole body screamed in agony the first time I watched this scene! The complete look of betrayal on Anna’s face is priceless. The whole ambience unfolds as he kills all sources of heat in the room with the intent to kill her. Once he think Anna’s out of the way, there’s no stopping Hans from taking the throne over Elsa!

4.  Scrappy-Doo from Scooby-Doo: The Movie (2002)

As a child, this film used to scare me so bad. As I’ve gotten older, though, the comedy is topnotch and the monsters are quite hilarious. Which is why Scrappy-Doo as a villain makes so much sense in the Scooby-Doo universe. When the gang finally thinks that they’ve defeated their culprit, more chaos ensues. Mondavarious was only the face of the plans. Literally! Once they rip his face off, no one is underneath the mask! Instead, Scrappy reveals to be in the robot body the whole time! All this revenge just to become a buff, tootsie roll dog. 

5. Mysterio from Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)

Mysterio’s reveal is a real kick in the face. After Tony Stark’s death, it’s hard for Peter Parker to have a father figure to look up to. He then meets Quentin Beck, AKA Mysterio. They’re chemistry throughout the film entices the viewer to keep watching their relationship grow as superheroes. However, it all comes crashing down when Beck’s plans are revealed to dominate the world and get revenge over everything Stark stood for even if it means crushing Peter in the process. The Mysterio ruse tricks everyone into thinking he’s the good guy, but in reality, he foils the path of expectation. The catastrophic events are strategically planned to make Spider-Man the villain. Mysterio’s actions leave the movie with a cliffhanger. What will happen to Peter Parker?  

#tighten #megamind #dreamworks #disney #ernesto de la cruz #hans #scrappy doo #marvel #mysterio

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Hugh Jackman: More than Muscle

In honor of Hugh’s recent birthday, I’ve decided to showcase some characters other than Wolverine. He’s more than a muscly superhero. I hope you enjoy these films just as much as I do. Let me know in the comments your favorite Hugh Jackman movies! 

1) Les Misérables (2012)

Welcome to my freshman year of high school obsession! After I saw this in theaters, I immediately downloaded the soundtrack onto my computer. I listened to the songs nonstop for weeks. I really loved Hugh’s range in this film specifically in songs like, “The Confrontation,” and “Who Am I?” From losing everything to regaining his worth, Jean Valjean’s character shows the audience that anyone can reclaim their life back even when the odds are stacked against you. 

2) The Greatest Showman (2017) 

Just when I thought I couldn’t get enough of Hugh’s music, this banger of a movie arrives in theaters! You can really see the pure joy this film brings to Hugh Jackman. His dancing, singing, and acting proves that he is the ultimate triple threat. Plus, the dynamic duo between P.T. Barnum and Phillip Carlyle is truly a sight to see. “The Other Side” bar scene makes me so happy every time I watch it. 

3) Oklahoma! (1999) 

I’m not one for Westerns, but Hugh made this musical worth watching. His charisma and charm engulfed me in to the storyline, and I didn’t care that I had spent three hours watching a southern love triangle. Although, his country accent did make me laugh! Every now and then, I’ll blast, “Oh, What a Beautiful Morning,” to get my day going. 

#hugh jackman #les mis #les miserables #the greatest showman #p.t. barnum #jean valjean #oklahoma #curly

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Bopping with The Beatles

I am a huge Beatles fan, so it’s no surprise that I would eventually incorporate my love for them with my love for film! These are the three most interesting films that incorporate The Beatles’ music.

1. Yesterday (2019)

A world without The Beatles is not a world I want to live in. After a massive power outage across the globe, everyone forgets who the band is except aspiring musician Jack Malik. Just as the lights go out, he gets hit by a giant bus. When he recovers, he takes this opportunity to use their songs to become famous, but in doing so, major consequences occur. I really enjoy the “What if?” aspect of the movie because anything can happen! Also, Ed Sheeran co-stars in this film. The rivalry between Ed and Jack is very hilarious. 

2. Yellow Submarine (1968)

If you want a real visual trip, you’re in for a treat when you watch this movie. Each landscape in the movie sounds like a Beatles song. The Blue Meanies hate music and want to destroy Pepperland. The captain of the place finds The Beatles in order for them to save their land! I still get nightmares about the Chief Blue Meanie. He gives me the creeps. Yet, the overall Beatles atmosphere triumphs over my fears of those blue blobs. 

 3. Across the Universe (2007)

I could watch this film and never be tired of it! Across the Universe has got to be my all time favorite jukebox musical. The movie uses The Beatles’ music to tell the story. The cinematography is just phenomenal with the sound and the hues of color used. This movie depicts a group of friends during the Civil Rights Movement and the height of the Vietnam War. I tear up every time I hear “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” and “Let it Be.” 

#The Beatles #Beatles #Yesterday #Across the Universe #Yellow Submarine #Paul McCartney #John Lennon #George Harrison #Ringo Starr #himesh patel #jim sturgess #evan rachel wood #joe anderson

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Rockin’ Rodents

Up with cheese. Down with lactose intolerance! These are the best mice/rats in film. 

1) Remy from Ratatouille (2007)

C’mon. You know he was going to be number one. A rat who can cook? Sign me up! He continues to chase after his dreams and becomes successful in Paris. With the help of Linguini, their wacky culinary adventures are sure to give you a laugh. 

2) Fievel Mousekewitz from  An American Tail Franchise (1986-1999)

In An American Tail, Fievel’s family emigrates from Russia to the United States. Before they make it to New York City, Fievel falls overboard and separates from his family. The whole movie showcases the journey he takes to reunite with his loved ones and the realities of North America. I cry every time when I hear “Somewhere Out There.” He’s so adorable that I want to explode!

3) Mrs. Brisby from The Secret of NIMH (1982) 

Coming back at ya with another Don Bluth Film! Mrs. Brisby has ultimate mom goals. She is quick-witted, courageous, and brave. She puts her life at risk to save the lives of her children and the secret society of intelligent mice. Plus, her relationship with Jeremy cracks me up every time! 

4) Stuart Little from the Stuart Little Franchise (1999-2005) 

When I first watched the Stuart Little movie,  it felt like a fever dream to me. The concept of a couple choosing to adopt a mouse over all the children in the orphanage confused me, but as the movie went on, Stuart’s charm and kindheartedness grew on me. I could see the appeal of having a mouse for a brother. He takes every situation and turns the event into a positive one. Just wait till you see his voyage in the boat race scene! 

5) Despereaux Tilling from The Tale of Despereaux (2008)

All because of soup and miscommunication, there’s a battle between mice and humans. The conflict continues until a courageous mouse steps in to save the day. Despereaux radiates underdog energy. He is brave, courageous and fearless! He fights against societal norms to help the mice in his community to see that they are mightier than they believe and that humans aren’t all bad. This movie gets looked over a lot, but I think it’s worth watching again!

#Disney #Universal Studios #sony pictures #remy #ratatouille #mrs. brisby #secret of nimh #fievel #an american tail #stuart little #despereaux #the tale of despereaux