Ready Player One celebrates video games over the decades

Movie Title:      Ready Player One

Grade:  A-

Rating: PG-13, 140 minutes

In a Nutshell:   The creator of the largest virtual reality world ever, called the OASIS, dies and leaves a challenge to anyone who can find three invisible keys that lead to a hidden Easter egg to win a fortune and ownership over the OASIS.  Directed by Steven Spielberg, it is full of imagination, fun, action, romance, humor, and a moral lesson.  Game on!

If you’re not into video games, this movie is probably not for you.  I don’t really play video games, but I still enjoyed it.  I have four sons who played video games for many years growing up, so I was exposed enough to most of the characters that make an appearance in this movie that I got a kick out of it all.  One of my sons is now living his dream as a 3D character artist for the hugely successful video game company Blizzard.

                                              

Tips for parents: 

·       Ready Player One is rated PG-13 for tons of violence, bloody images, partial nudity, profanity, and some suggestive material.  
   *  I was worried that the movie would glorify video games and encourage kids to plug into technology even more, but the message in the end is that we all need each other and real life.   I thought the ending was actually very sweet.

·       Some profanity and other crude language.

·       A character flips the bird.

·       It shows real people losing touch with reality as they play video games.

·       Several people have face and body tattoos.

·       The leading lady’s avatar (Art3mis) has a super skimpy outfit on.

·       You see the partial naked back side of a virtual reality woman. 
*   There is an important reference to “Rosebud” in the 1941 movie Citizen Kane that very few kids or even adults will catch.

·       

Uplifting theme: 

·       “People need to spend more time in the real world.” – Wade/Parzival

·       “It’s not about winning, but playing.” – Wade/Parzival

·       “As painful and terrifying as the real world can be, it’s the only place you can get a decent meal…because reality is real.” – Halliday

·       “No man is alone who has a friend.” – I-R0k

·       Illusion vs. reality

• Real world consequences

                             

Things I liked:

• The movie itself is classic Spielberg with absolutely fantastic action sequences and imagination.  
• The special effects are really well done and blend easily from virtual reality environments into scenes with people in reality. 
• The movie is overflowing with references that span several decades of movies, music, and pop culture, focusing mostly on the 1980’s.  While the main character (Wade Owen Watts) is looking for the grand prize, there are TONS of fun Easter eggs for the audience to look for and enjoy during the entire film.  At one point, there is a scene with a famous Anime motorcycle that Spielberg is notorious for having rejected 30 years ago, dismissing it as “unsalable” for film.  It’s fun to see how he now embraces and celebrates it on the big screen. 
• There is some humor and heart in the film with most of the comic relief provided by a scary-looking, yet hilarious character named I-R0k, voiced by T. J. Miller. 
• Alvin Silvestri offered an energizing and fun musical score.  Originally, Steven Spielberg’s favorite composer, John Williams, was going to tackle the project, but he had to step away to finish his work on another Spielberg film, The Post
• If you can, try to see the movie in 3D, but it’s still fun without the glasses and extra fee.  
• Climb Mt. Everest with Batman.  Ha ha
• I love Simon Pegg and Mark Rylance in anything.

Things I didn’t like:

·   Older folks will probably claim the movie is on sensory overload (they’re right), but the younger crowd will feel like they’re right in the middle of playing a video game.  A really old guy sitting near me in the theater got up and walked out.

• There are a LOT of exposition scenes that tell us what’s happening and the movie drags a little bit in the Third Act.  
• It’s a very long 2 hours 20 minutes flick, so Grandpa or Junior may fall asleep.
•  Sit farther back in the theater; otherwise, you won’t be able to focus on everything going on.  There is a LOT happening on the screen.

Funny lines:

• “There are only 3 things I hate in the world: Steam Punk, pirates, and Tabouli.” – I-R0k (T.J. Miller)
• “Am I being punked?” – Aech/Helen (Lea Waithe)
• “She wanted to go dancing, so we went to a movie.” – Halliday (Mark Rylance)
• “She could be a dude, a 300 pound dude who lives in his mother’s basement…and his name is Chuck.  Think about that!” – Aech/Helen
• “Voila….which is French for….” – I-R0k
• “Do you want it or not?” – Anorak (Mark Rylance)

Interesting lines:

• “People go to the Oasis for all the things they can do, but they stay because of all the things they can be.” – Wade
• “A fanboy knows a hater.” – Parzival
• “Things move forward whether you like it or not.” – Ogden Morrow (Simon Pegg)

If you loved it and want more, check out the book that it’s based on, Ready Player One ,written by Ernest Cline.  The movie adds to and deletes from the source material, frustrating true fanboys, but they both have something to offer.  Cline actually mentioned Steven Spielberg in the original novel.

     

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                                                              @trinaboice

The Post shows that the power of the press is still relevant in a day of fake news

Movie Title:      The Post

Grade:  B+

Rating: PG-13,

In a Nutshell: Spielberg, Hanks, Streep.  Powerhouse combination that reminds us why they’re the masters of their trade. 

Surprisingly, this is the first time all three have worked together on a film. 

Oscar bait?  Yeah, probably.  It has already received several nominations by the Golden Globes and National Board of Review.  Is an Academy Award next?  Probably not.  We’ll see.

                                        

Tips for parents: 

• Children and teens will be bored out of their minds.
• Some profanity.
• As more and more traditional newspapers die a slow death due to the internet, kids might think the film is irrelevant, but there is much to be learned about the Constitution as the Pentagon Papers are introduced to this younger generation.  As talk of “fake news” has become a part of everyday conversation, director Steven Spielberg raced to finish this film with unprecedented speed.  Clearly, he thought the content was extremely relevant.  Spielberg thought it was ironic that the pendulum has swung in journalism from ’71 to ’17.

Uplifting theme: 

• Women in  business.  The film is dedicated to a woman, Nora Ephron, who helped  uncover the Watergate scandal in 1972.
• Freedom of the press vs. government security
• “The Founding Fathers gave the free press the protection it must have to fulfill its essential role in our democracy.  The press was to serve the governed, not the governors.”  Justice Black’s opinion
• Power, politics, truth

                                            

Things I liked:

• I loved how the last scene bleeds into the Watergate scandal.
• Nixon’s actual voice is used when he’s talking from the Oval office.
• Interested in this topic?  You’ll want to see the movie All The President's Men.  In fact, the last scene of this movie is almost shot for shot the same as the first scene in All The President's Men.
• I always get a kick out of Bradley Whitford in everything.
• Usually the comic relief, it was interesting to see David Cross as a serious journalist.

Things I didn’t like:

• The first half of the movie moves very slowly.
• It's a bit heavy-handed.
• It can get confusing with lots of names to try to keep straight.

Funny lines:

• “It must be precious cargo.” – Flight attendant

“Yeah.  It’s just government secrets.” – Bob Odenkirk (Howard Simons)

Interesting lines:

• “The only way to protect the right to publish is to publish.” – Ben Bradlee   (Tom Hanks)
• “I always wanted to be part of a small rebellion.” – Bob Odenkirk
• “Whatever happens tomorrow, we are not a little paper anymore.” – Ben Bradlee 
• “You know what my husband used to say about the newspaper?  He called it the first rough draft of history.” -  Kay Graham  (Meryl Streep)

Other good movies about the freedom and power of the press:

             

                                        @trinaboice

The BFG is full of Spielberg magic

Movie Title:   

The BFG

  

Grade:  B+

Rating:  PG, 115 minutes

In a Nutshell:     In an interview with Regal Theaters, Steven Spielberg said “This is one of the best experiences I’ve ever had.” It was a reunion of sorts with some of his old team from the E.T. movie days. 

Director Steven Spielberg and musical composer John Williams are both film legends, so it’s awesome to see a new film that uses both of their talents again.  They introduce us to a magical world based on the 1982 novel by Roald Dahl.

Uplifting theme: 

• The world is more giant than you can imagine.
• The healing power of friendship.
• "Dreams are quick on the outside, but last long on the inside." - The BFG

Things I liked:

• Mark Rylance truly shines as the Big Friendly Giant.
• John Williams’ musical score conjures a magical spell that rests lovingly on this old-fashioned tale.
• I love all the fun words the BFG makes up.  He says, “I cannot be helping it if I saying things a little squiggly.”   English teachers will be delighted and frustrated.
• Ruby Barnhill is fantastic and one of Spielberg’s best child talents ever. She is extremely entertaining with a bright future ahead of her.
• Technically, this movie is stellar, mixing CG and motion-capture images as one.  Of that impressive blend, Steven Spielberg said, “Motion capture makes you believe a little girl and a big giant can exist in the same shot.”   The animation itself was incredibly detailed and realistic-looking.
• I have never read The BFG by Roald Dahl, but I hear that there are some darker elements in the book that Spielberg and writer Melissa Mathison decided to leave out in lieu of a more family-friendly, feel-good flick.  You don't have to read the book to enjoy or understand the movie.
• Some of the conversations are pretty funny.

Things I didn’t like:

• The movie definitely takes its time to develop, but the second half of the movie got bogged down a little bit.  The breakfast scene with the queen was fun, but definitely slowed down the pacing of the movie even more.
• Exactly what The BFG does for a living is a little fuzzy.  I mean, was he self-appointed to his job and who is he going to pass his trade on to?
• No women giants.  The BFG explains that giants don't have parents, so apparently, female giants aren't needed.
• Am I monster to admit I was a little bit bored a few times?

Funny lines:

•  You is an insult to giant people.” – Fleshlumpeater (Jemaine Clement)
• “Well, what I says and what I means is sometimes two different things.” – The BFG

Tips for parents:

• This is a sweet family film for most all ages.
• Very young children might be frightened by the bad giants or the thought that a giant gives them dreams by sneaking into their room at night.  They might worry that, like Sophie, they could be snatched out of their beds at night.
• No profanity.
• The BFG calls farts “wiz poppers.”   There are several discussions and BIG displays of farts.  Kids will think it's hilarious.

Bridge of Spies blends history with drama and a touch of Spielberg magic

Movie:    Bridge of Spies

Rating:  PG-13, 2 hours 15 minutes

Grade:   A

In a Nutshell:    “1957.  The height of the Cold War.  The United States and the Soviet Union fear each other’s nuclear capabilities – and intentions.  Both sides deploy spies – and hunt for them.”  And so the movie begins.

This is not a bang-bang, shoot ‘em up James Bond kind of spy film, but a thinking-man’s movie.  It’s a true story, which gives it all the “wow factor” the movie needs.  Thank you, Steven Spielberg, for another powerful movie.  He and Tom Hanks know how to do it right.  

Uplifting Theme:

·         Justice

·         “It doesn’t matter what other people think.  You know what you did.” – James Donovan

·         Good vs. Bad vs. something in between…
-     Patriotism comes in many colors.
                                                                        -    Which is more important: the ends or the means?
                                                                        -     What do YOU stand for?

Things I liked:

·         Written by the Coen brothers.   Humor.  Tension.  Historical drama.  Great job!

·         Good for Amy Ryan for starring in two movies in theaters at the same time!  (Goosebumps)
-     I loved the contrast between the 2 scenes that showed people jumping over a fence.
-     Some of the most powerful statements were never spoken.  Tom Hanks is the master of subtlety.
      Donovan was such a great negotiator that even when he got robbed, he was able to get directions from the guys who stole his coat!
      Check out the amazing statistics at the end of the movie that showcase Donovan's talents.
      SPOILER ALERT:  The scene on the bridge towards the end of the movie is a masterpiece.  Watch the camera angles and the contrast between light and dark.

Things I didn’t like:

·         It’s a little slow-moving at times.  Those who require non-stop action in their movie-going will get a good nap.

Funny lines:  

·         “You don’t look worried.” – James Donovan

“Would it help?” – Rudolph Abel

·         “I’m not afraid to die, Mr. Donovan, although it wouldn’t be my first choice.” – Rudolph Abel (played extremely well by Mark Rylance.  Best Supporting Actor Oscar?)

·          

Interesting lines:

·         “We need to have a conversation our governments can’t.”   James Donovan

·         “Everyone deserves a defense.  Every person matters.” - Donovan

Tips for Parents:

·         1 F-bomb by Tom Hanks.  Aw, doggonit.
-    Children will snooze and not be interested.  Teens might snooze, but will be rewarded if they can stick it out until the end.

·         You see innocent people being gunned down as they try to get over the East Berlin Wall.  Your children may not know about this point in history and the dangers of the Cold War after WWII.  I remember watching in utter amazement when the Berlin Wall finally came down.  I never thought it would happen.
- “Checkpoint Charlie” is also shown in the film.  Talk to your kids or grandkids about what life was like back then.   George Santayana is quoted as saying "Those who do not read history are doomed to repeat it. Those who fail to learn from the mistakes of their predecessors are destined to repeat them."

Want to learn more about this point in history?

 

Jurassic World sequel announced!

If you loved Jurassic World, I have great news for you...

Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard are set to return for a Jurassic World sequel, which is scheduled to hit theaters in 2018, Universal Studios said.  

Steven Spielberg has signed on to executive produce under his Amblin Entertainment banner. Director Colin Trevorrow will co-write the screenplay with Derek Connolly. 

Jurassic World has become the No. 3 highest-grossing film of all time, with $1.52 billion in ticket sales.

You can read my movie review of Jurassic World here.

The Hundred-Foot Journey is a Must-See for Foodies

Movie Title:   The Hundred-Foot Journey

Grade:  A

PG, 2 hours 2 minutes

In a Nutshell:   Mmmmm…..a must-see for foodies.  

I’m an instructor at the famous Le Cordon Bleu CulinarySchool and so, obviously, I love good food.  (You could also take one look at my figure and deduce that.) Dreamworks offered complimentary movie tickets to our faculty and students, so I was thrilled to join other epicurean nerds in a special preview of this delectable film.  I also brought my cute niece, Lacey Long, who was featured in a student episode of Top Chef Masters!

Based on Richard C. Morais’s first book, you know that co-producers Steven Spielberg and Oprah Winfrey are going to create something truly magical.  And it is.  Because it was a special preview, we got to hear from them before the movie began.  Oprah calls the film “Deliciously charming.”  And it is.  It satisfies the senses and is comfort food for the soul.

I finally get to use the word “bucolic” in a movie review.  The bulk of the movie takes place in a picturesque and postcard-perfect village in the gorgeous south of France.  The cinematography is stunning. This is also one movie where I really wish smellovision existed.

Uplifting theme:  In addition to the inspiring dishes, the film serves up cultural understanding, tolerance, and appreciation.

Things I liked:

• The title of the book and movie is brilliant.
• Academy Award Winner Helen Mirren is a national treasure.
• Manish Dayal is adorable as Hassan Kadam and Om Puri is a lovable, wise Papa.
• The dialogue is filled with layered meanings.  I love that.  Like an onion.

 Things I didn’t like:

• This film will make you hungry. 
• The drama is sentimental, but easily forgivable.

Did you notice?

• Madame Mallory’s big, beautiful ring?
• The crepe maker in the outdoor market?
• Le Cordon Bleu book on the bookshelf?  When we saw Hassan look at it, all of us from the Culinary School cheered with obnoxious enthusiasm.  By the way, did you know they offer free community classes and campus tours?  See if one is in your city!  (My shameless plug)  Another book that was featured was a pastry book written by Jules de Gouffe.
• The giant chef’s knife the young boy uses in the courtyard?
• The sleek wine carafe Madame Mallory uses on Bastille Day?
• The hideous wallpaper in Papa’s bedroom?

Great lines:

• “Wherever the family is at is home.”  - Papa
• “Asking for a discount doesn’t mean I’m poor.  It means I’m thrifty.”  - Papa  (I completely agree!  Check out my “thrifty-living” blog at Sister Thrifty!)
• “In this restaurant we do not serve an old, tired marriage, but a passionate affair.” – Madame Mallory
• “One Michelin star is good.  Two is amazing.  Three is only for the gods.”  - Madame Gallory
• “If your food is anything like your music, then I suggest you tone it down.”  Madame Mallory
• “You’re a chef.  I do not pay you to burn things.” – Madame Mallory
• “Welcome to our humble abode and thank you for barging in.”  - Papa
• “Smile!  You got good teeth…just smile!”  - Papa says to his daughter on their opening night.  In contrast, Charlotte Le Bon doesn’t have good teeth, but has a beautiful smile.  She’s a beautiful and charming French actress who is perfectly cast as Marguerite.
• Talking about the five “mother sauces”, Marguerite says “You must find them in your heart.  Then, bring them to your pots.  That’s the secret.”
• “Food is memories.” – Hassan
• “I’m waiting for Hassan Kadam or death, whichever comes soonest.”  - Madame Mallory
• Papa asks “Is he as good as I think he is?”  Madame Mallory pronounces “Better.”
• “This is the beast that must be fed twice a day.  And what does it like?  Innovation.”  - Parisian restaurateur

French words to know before seeing the movie:

• Bon chance   =  Good luck
• Je suis désolé    =  I’m sorry
• Maison   = house, home
• Incroyable   = incredible
• Bon vivant  =   gourmet
• Le aster = star, luminary
• Le aliment = food

Tips for parents:   Kids may think the length of the film is too long.  Food lovers will enjoy every tasty morsel.

You've seen the movie, now read the book!

If you were inspired by the book or movie, then get cooking!

Great news for Star Wars fans!

Great news for Star Wars Trilogy Episodes IV-VI (Blu-ray + DVD) fans!

The official Star Wars website by Lucasfilm and Walt Disney Co. just announced who some special cast members will be for the "Star Wars: Episode VII" movie that will begin filming soon.   Fans will be pleased to see original stars Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, and Harrison Ford!  The cast will include fresh faces, as well as a return of some of our favorites.

            
Star Trek director J.J. Abrams will lead the film's setting to take place 30 years after 1983's Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi    We'll also see Peter Mayhew back as the lovable rug, Chewbacca, as well as Kenny Baker in the role of R2D2.

The talented John Williams will score the music, as he created the original trilogy's famous themes.  I heard him speak on a radio show when he shared a story about a conversation he had with director Steven Spielberg.  Williams had just watched the raw footage of Schindler's List to help him prepare the music for it.  He was extremely touched and said to Spielberg "This movie is fantastic and so powerful.  You're going to need a better composer to score it."   Spielberg responded "I know.  But all of the good composers are dead." 

With such talent working on this new new installment in the Star Wars franchise, it should be a hit!  My sons used to watch Star Wars every Friday night when they were little.  They would fall asleep in front of the TV with smiles on their faces.   I can't wait to see this new episode!