I Want to be a Producer!

I recently went to see the movie The Producers at the theatre. I was anticipating this movie since I saw the production of this musical on stage. When I saw it on stage there were actors in it that were good and fun to watch. Leo Bloom was played by Alan Ruck (Cameron from Ferris Bueller's Day Off). But seeing the original stage cast made a huge difference. I don't think I have ever laughed so hard in a theatre. Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick did an amazing job in this mad-cap and hilarious show.

Of course I remember the original movie that was made a long time ago...before it was a musical. That one starred the wonderful Gene Wilder; that created and molded the Leo Bloom character to perfection. But I recommend taking the time to see this gem of a film. You'll laugh, you'll be shocked, and you'll come out singing.

Which Action Hero are You?

You scored as Indiana Jones. Indiana Jones is an archaeologist/adventurer with an unquenchable love for danger and excitement. He travels the globe in search of historical relics. He loves travel, excitement, and a good archaeological discovery. He hates Nazis and snakes, perhaps to the same degree. He always brings along his trusty whip and fedora. He's tough, cool, and dedicated. He relies on both brains and brawn to get him out of trouble and into it. Indiana Jones 79% James Bond, Agent 007 75% William Wallace 71% El Zorro 67% Neo, the "One" 63% Captain Jack Sparrow 58% Maximus 58% Lara Croft 54% The Amazing Spider-Man 54% The Terminator 50% Batman, the Dark Knight 50% Which Action Hero Would You Be? v. 2.0 created with QuizFarm.com

I guess I'm more adventurous than I realized. It would be fun to travel all the time and go on adventures. Now I must be off to explore the mysterious and vast land of my backyard...Since that is about as far as I get these days.

You scored as Strawberry Shortcake. Don't stand for that new version crap. If you go shortcake, go shortcake all the way. . .

Strawberry Shortcake		75%
Heman		67%
Voltron		58%
Transformers		50%
Thundercats		25%
Smurf		17%
Shera		8%

Which 1980's Cartoon Character are you?
created with QuizFarm.com

So which of you would have guessed that I am Strawberry Shortcake? The weird thing is that I scored second highest as He-man. Now I loved He-man as a child and thought that he was cool. But I never could deal with his twin sister Aurora (aka She-ra).

Jacque and I discussed this many moons ago, and we agreed that even at our young age we thought that She-ra was a phony reproduction created to appease little girls. The girl version of He-man. So we weren't feelin' that, man.

So I challenge you all to use the link above and take this quick quiz. Find out what 80's Cartoon character you are and post it here in the comments.

Oh, and by the way, since I am Strawberry Shortcake I will be assigning my friends with a nickname after a sweet. So who wants to be Peach Cobbler?

An "Empire Records" Moment

For all of you that have seen the movie Empire Records you will thoroughly enjoy a moment to remember some of the great things about this film. For example: How many of us lovingly hug our couch cushions in memory and honor of Lucas? I know I do. Let's all say it together with gusto as you read along:

"Lucas!"
"Joe"
"Lucas"
"Joe"
"Where's the money Lucas?"
"It's in Atlantic City, Joe."
"What's it doing in Atlantic City?"
"Recirculating?"

This is a world that is contained all in one music store. The entire day is focused around the antics of Lucas and Rex Manning Day. "Say No More, Mon Amore." Jacque and I have picked a day on the calendar in which to celebrate Rex Manning Day. This is a day for exchanging gifts that have something to do with Rex Manning or the Empire Records movie (or at least something that reminds you both of a time when you watched the movie together). These are the things that old college roommates do (create their own holidays) in order to remember the good old days...when the only responsibility that we had was to go to class on time.
And now, another moment from Empire Records brought to you by my cousin's new chocolate lab puppy, Moxie (who is up for adoption if any of you want her):

"Who glued this quarter to the ground?"
"I did, Warren."
"Why?"
"I don't feel the need to explain my art to you, Warren."

Finally, "we mustn't dwell, not today, it's Rex Manning Day!"This is one of the many reasons why I love this movie so much...the simple quoteableness of it all. The entire movie is filled with one line zingers and great small conversations that are poignant and stupid all at the same time. It makes you want to go out and get a job in some random local music store. But as we all know even the random local music stores aren't like the movies.

So remember the philosophy of Empire Records: "The best things in life are free, but you can give them to the birds and bees. I want money; that's what I want."

One final shout out to my cousin, Susan. She has a love for this movie as well. If you look in the background, when they're in the office, there is a poster on the wall next to Joe's office that says, "Band of Susans." It took some searching, but I was able to find the CD that is on that poster and give it to her for Christmas a few years back. As you know we all love things that revolve around us; and a Band of Susans does have something in common with Susan.

Movie Review: NARNIA

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe is a must see! This wondrous film depicts C.S. Lewis' classic tale of fantasy, imagination, and fun in a dazzling and awe-inspiring new light. This film opens to rave reviews with comments such as:

"For the first time I feel like clapping after a film." -Noelle

"Wow, that was an amazing film!" -Lynda

Not only does this movie gain two thumbs up from me; but it also makes me want to tell everyone the true glory that is found within it.
I loved the children that played the main characters. First there was Lucy, who is truly darling and fun to watch. She's like a little proper girl with her mannerisms and English accent. When she meets Mr. Tumnus she truly shines as a sweetheart. Mr. Tumnus, played by James McAvoy, is gentle and child-like. He introduces Lucy to the strange new world of Narnia. He cares greatly for Lucy and does his best to protect her when possible.


This unusual character, Tumnus, is just one of the many creations that makes this film amazing to watch. This truly was a feast for the eyes with a world that is filled with White Witches, Centaurs, fauns, Satyrs, and even Father Christmas himself. Children will love this film...But I recommend this film for kids of 5-6 years and older. It depends on the maturity of your child, but some scenes might be frightening for them to watch (or younger ones could just lose interest). This is a great film to see together as a family. It is something that you can all talk about and learn by showing your kids how the story is an allegory for the Bible.

Aslan is masterfully done. This CGI lion that rules the world of Narnia was impressive. The production company said that it took them two years to get Aslan right for this film.

They studied real lions for a long time to get the movements are looks correct. The director said that he didn't want to let everybody down with a cartoonish Aslan that no one can believe. This Lion, voiced by Liam Neeson, is a magical and loving character that demands respect and awe with his grace, power, and compassion.

So if you have the time go see this tale of an epic war in a magical world. If you don't have the time, find it so you can be a part of this new classic. A story of witches, magic, dwarfs, and giants, phoenixs, queens and kings, epic wars, sacrifices, and so much more. It has it all!