Best Movie Musicals Since 2002

The American Film Institute (AFI) released an article in 2006 listing the greatest musicals of all-time. While the films on there are fantastic, some I would even call must watches, the most recent films on there are Moulin Rouge (2001) and Chicago (2002). Surely there have been some good musicals since then right? Here are some musicals released since 2002 that the AFI should consider adding to their greatest musicals list (their IMDB links will also be included). In addition to explaining why the movie is great I will also include which song is the must watch performance of the entire film, along with a link to a YouTube video showcasing the performance.

Dreamgirls. Based on the Broadway musical, this 2006 film was a huge success upon its release. Staring Jamie Foxx, Beyoncé, Eddie Murphy, Anika Noni Rose and the acting debut of Jennifer Hudson Dreamgirls follows a girl group as they try to making it big during the 60’s to 70’s. There is a lot of drama, romance and show-stopping performances to satisfy any musical fan. Hudson would win multiple awards, including an Oscar, for her part while Dreamgirls was nominated for others, including three for Best Original Song. Performance to watch: Jennifer Hudson steals the show with the show stopping climatic number “And I’m Telling You I’m Not Going”. Many often say that was the moment Hudson earned her Oscar win.

School of Rock. While this 2003 Jack Black film may be considered more of comedy than musical it doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be considered; it was the highest grossing musical comedy for nearly 12 years. Nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance Black stars as Dewey Finn a wannabe rock star who takes up a substitute teacher at a prep school. Upon discovering his students are musically gifted Finn decides to turn them into a rock group for the upcoming Battle of the Band contest. Black gives one of the best performances of his career whilst also showcasing the incredible young talent of the students. The film was also turned into a Nickelodeon TV series and a Broadway musical. Performance to watch: “The School of Rock” by Black and the kids during the contest. After everything the bad went thru to get to that point it was a rocking number, pun intended.

Once. One of the best reviewed musicals on this list this 2007 film proved that sometimes the unexpected can lead to something wonderful. Staring Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová as people only addressed as Guy and Girl the two of them make beautiful music together. It is obvious how drawn they are to each other, but sadly they cannot be together. The film won the Oscar for Best Original Song whilst inspiring a Tony award winning musical. Performance to watch: the Oscar winning duet “Falling Slowly” often described as “moving” “touching” and “romantic.”

Rent. Most musically adapted films very rarely cast Broadway, but this 2005 adaption of one of the most beloved shows on Broadway proved that Hollywood should take a second look. With Broadway veterans Jesse L. Martin, Idina Menzel, Anthony Rapp and Taye Diggs reprising their roles from the original movie as well as Rosario Dawson the film follows a group of New Yorkers as they live their Bohemian lifestyle: including paying their rent, sexuality and AIDS as they celebrate a new decade. Critics were mixed on the film, but fans of the musical loved it. Performance to watch: with so many incredible performances it is hard to decide, but the opening number “Seasons of Love” featuring the entire cast leaves audiences with goosebumps wanting more.

The Greatest Showman. If there is a soundtrack on here that can leave audiences inspired it might be this 2017 musical. Hugh Jackman stars as P.T Barnum a family man who starts a museum and later brings in people considered to be “freaks” to make it more alive; calling it a circus. Also featuring wonderful performances by Zac Efron, Michelle Williams, Zendaya, Keala Settle and Rebecca Ferguson (who doesn’t do her own singing) the movie leaves audiences with warmth in their hearts and songs that will be stuck in their heads for weeks. Performance to watch: while the romantic duet between Efron and Zendaya is beautifully choreographed the must listen too song has to go to “This is Me.” Settle’s voice is not only mesmerizing but the message of being true to oneself is inspiring.

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Inspired by the 1979 Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler Broadway show this 2007 Tim Burton film was one of the most critically acclaimed films of the year, and showed that musicals have a dark side. Starring Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter and Alan Rickman the film follows Depp’s Sweeney Todd as he takes swears revenge on the man who took him from his family; killing anyone who stands in his way with the help of a widowed pie-maker enamored with him. Audiences thought Depp was perfect as the insane Todd and his singing voice surprised many. The film won an Oscar for its Art Direction and was nominated for two Oscars including one for Depp as Best Actor; it did win two Golden Globes for Depp as Actor in a Comedy/Musical and for Best Comedy/Musical. Performance to watch: “Not While I’m Around” is easily the most famous number in the show and the performance by Carter and the young Edward Sanders can give anyone chills.

La La Land. With so many adaptions out there it seemed that original ideas for musicals had died out, until this 2016 film. Staring Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone in their musical debuts and a soundtrack mostly written by Pasek and Paul the movie focuses on a jazz singer and actress trying to make it big in Hollywood and fall in love. Those who have watched golden age of Hollywood musicals may see similarities in the dancing, singing and love story, but it doesn’t mean the film isn’t original in its own way. Critics and audiences loved it, with many saying the film brought musicals into a light that hadn’t been seen in many years. It cleaned up at the Oscars, even with the Best Picture screw-up, winning for Best Actress for Stone, Cinematography, Director, Production Design, Score and Song. Performance to watch: Ryan Gosling might not be the best singer in the movie, but the duet he has with Stone “City of Stars” is so beautiful it can easily be forgiven.

Les Misérables. After years in developmental hell the long awaited adaption of the 1980 musical of Victor Hugo’s 1862 novel was released in 2012. The film follows a prisoner Jean Valjean as he breaks parole and goes on the run whilst taking care of the young Cosette. To say it was a huge hit would be an understatement with incomparable performances (acting and singing) by Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway (who won an Oscar for her role), Amanda Seyfried, Eddie Redmayne and more. While some singing wasn’t fantastic (Russell Crowe) the fact that the vocal were recorded on set really sets the film apart from other musicals. The story keeps audiences on the edge of their seat and tears in their eyes. Performance to watch: considering the whole movie is the cast singing it would have been difficult to pick one song, but an absolute must watch has got to be Hathaway as Fantine singing “I Dreamed a Dream”; if one doesn’t cry or feel sadness when Hathaway sings this melancholy number they may want to check their pulse.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast live action adaption. The original AFI list had the 1991 animated film so why shouldn’t a possible expanded list have the 2017 live action version as well? With veteran Broadway/musical actors such as Ewan McGregor, Josh Gad and Audra McDonald performing, as well as surprising singing from Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Emma Thompson Luke Evans and Ian McKellen the adaption of one of Disney’s most beloved movies was embraced by audiences and critics; it currently holds the position of highest grossing musical of all time (animated and live-action). Performance to watch: with many favorites from the original movie returning it is hard to decide what the best song is. However the number audiences might remember the most is Emma Thompson’s take of “Beauty and the Beast”; it is not as well delivered as the Angela Lansbury one we know and love but it is closer to the original than the version sung on the soundtrack by Ariana Grande and John Legend.

The Pitch Perfect franchise. This film series which began in 2012 and has two sequels in 2015 and 2017 respectively gave a whole new perspective to a Capella singing. Each film follows a group called The Barden Bellas as they struggle for redemption and their friendships are tested. With spectacular performances (comedic and singing) by Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson, Brittany Snow, Anna Camp, Ester Dean, Skylar Astin, Ben Platt, Adam DeVine in the original film and Hailee Steinfeld joining in the sequels the franchise has left a huge mark in the comedy/musical genre; the second film is currently the highest grossing music comedy of all-time, surpassing School of Rock. Performance to watch: regardless if it is the first, second or third one the most entertaining number is usually “The Riff-Off” when the Bellas, their main opposition and other groups singing songs that have to do with a randomly picked category.

Is there a musical missing from this list? Could a yet to be released musical this year (Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga’s version of A Star is Born) or in the future (the planned adaptions of Wicked and remake of West Side Story) might be included in a revived list? Please comment below, and get your singing voices ready.

Image courtesy of Pixabay.

Films Perfect for Back to School

It is almost time to hear the bells ring, pack up backpacks and hit the books. School will be starting up again soon for many students: elementary, high school and even college. Many films have been made depicting school life: students, teachers, and even parents, as either paradise or an absolute nightmare depending on the parties involved. Here are some films, which can be explored more on their IMDB pages, involving school in a way: student life, extracurricular activities, gifted students, caring teachers and even parents getting involved in their kid’s lives that are fantastic to watch; some films might not be appropriate for all ages. The picture is courtesy of Pixabay

Dead Poets Society. This 1989 film is perfect for those who love English and reading. Robin Williams (in one of his most memorable roles) stars as Mr. Keating an English teacher at an all-boys prep school.  He teaches his students about living their lives to the fullest; telling them to carpe diem Latin for “seize the day.” Some of the boys even restart the unauthorized Dead Poets Society: reading poems and verses. However the new rebellious natures of the boys might cost them everything. The film also stars Ethan Hawke, Robert Sean Leonard and Josh Charles as some of the students influenced by Keating.

Regarded as one of the best school movies or all time, Dead Poets Society shows how one teacher can change a school and open some student’s eyes to not obey rules but to enjoy their life. On a side note if one of the required readings for English is J.D Sallinger’s Catcher in the Rye this is a good match to understand what the students are going through.

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Not encouraging students to do exactly what this classic film character did, but sometimes we all need a day off. Starring Matthew Broderick, Alan Ruck, Mia Sara, Jennifer Grey and Jeffrey Jones, this 1986 John Hughes film has a high school student faking being sick to spend the day in the city with his friends. Meanwhile his high school principal and sister don’t buy it and try and expose Ferris for the fraud he is. It might not be the most in school nor the most modern film on here, but it is still a classic high school film no matter how old it gets.

Mean Girls. High school can be scary for many entering for the first time; some may even worry about fitting in with the many cliques there. This 2004 cult classic comedy shows that despite the facade of being perfect most cliques are not what they appear to be. Lindsay Lohan is Cady a former home school student entering high school for the first time and gets caught up in the top group of the school: The Plastics. Cady soon clashes with queen bee Regina George (Rachel McAdams) and decides the best way to fight is to become friends. While high school can be described in so many horrible ways just remember this: it will soon be a distant memory.

Old School. Definitely more for college rather than high school students. Released in 2003, Will Ferrell, Luke Wilson and Vince Vaughn star as 30 something men that create a fraternity just so they can continue their partying ways. However when it looks like they may lose the house unless they pass several academic and athletic tests the guys are gonna have to grow up fast. Many critics and viewers have said this film has never done the college party scene better, but through the comedy, alcohol and so much profanity there is heart.

Lean On Me. The first film to be based on a true story on this list. Released in 1989 Lean On Me stars Morgan Freeman as Joe Clark, aka “Crazy Joe” who takes over a New Jersey high school raided with drugs and gangs. Joe makes it his mission to turn the school around for the students, but the teachers and parents have trouble with Joe’s radical measures. Morgan Freeman as always delivers a spectacular performance as “Crazy” Joe; he may not be the most conventional person to run a school, but the students grow to love their principal.

Bad Moms. While this 2015 movie doesn’t take place in school many parents (not just moms) with kids can completely relate to Mila Kunis, Kristen Bell and Kathryn Hahn’s characters. The trio are portrayed overworked moms finally fed up with trying to lead perfect lives for their kids. Deciding to be “bad” the ladies let loose and have fun with their kids; at the same time they must handle the wrath of the school PTA president Gwendolyn (Christina Applegate). The reason why the film was a success is not just because the women are hysterical but every single person with school age children have felt exactly like the main characters did at least once. While parents probably shouldn’t go as extreme as the moms in here, it does show how much work happens before and after school for everyone involved.

The Perks of Being A Wallflower. One of the most recent coming of age movies. This 2012 film stars Logan Lerman as Charlie a young man recently released from a mental hospital after suffering from depression. Enrolled into a new school Charlie has trouble making friends until he meets Sam (Emma Watson) and her step brother Patrick (Ezra Miler) who invite him into their own little circle. Charlie soon struggles with his growing feelings for Sam as well as coming into the young man he is meant to be. Two of the three leads were well known for other films prior to this one (Lerman as Percy Jackson and Watson as Hermione Granger) but this film helped launch them in addition to Miler into more adult roles in their career. It also shows that while there may be darkness in the past and school may stink, with the right people there will always be a bright future.

Stand and Deliver. Math; you are either good at it or you are not, but in this 1988 film it isn’t just calculus the students are struggling with. Based on a true story Edward James Olmos stars as Jamie Escalante, a new math teacher at an East Los Angeles high school begins teaching students from working class Hispanic families with multiple problems (academic and social). Realizing the school has given up on them Escalante sets out to prove his students are not only smart but can pass the toughest AP Calculus tests. It is rare on film to see a teacher that cares so much for their students; seeing the dedication Olmos’s character has towards his job and his fight for the kids is something to admire.

Easy A. In what has been called Emma Stone’s breakout role, this 2010 movie shows how a little white lie in high school can go a very long way. Told over a webcam Stone’s character Olive Penderghast helps out a gay friend by claiming she slept with him. When word spreads out about it other guys who could never get a girlfriend ask for Olive’s help in increasing their reputation. Olive becomes labeled as the school tramp and several students, led by the queen Christian bee Marianne (Amanda Bynes), want Olive gone. It will probably be remembered as one of the best high school comedies of the 2010’s and the beginning of Emma Stone’s young successful career

Animal House. Be honest when someone says college movies this is the first one to pop into mind. Starring the hilarious John Belushi, Kevin Bacon, Tim Matheson and John Vernon among so many other funny stars this 1978 movie is all about a fraternity all about partying must go up against the school dean who wants them all gone. While most college parties at fraternities are probably not as insane it is still an absolutely side splitting hysterical movie.

Sixteen Candles. John Hughes sure knows how to write and direct movies about high school. In this 1984 coming of age tale staring the likes of Molly Ringwald, Michael Schoeffling, Anthony Michael Hall and Paul Dooley the film follows newly sixteen Sam Baker as she gets through her birthday which her family has forgotten due to her sister’s wedding the next day. To make matters worse her crush Jake Ryan finds out about her feelings for him and school geek Ted will not leave her alone. While other films had come out about teens acting out, nothing like Sixteen Candles had teens portrayed as those who love to party and drink (among other things).

Pitch Perfect. Not many modern musicals really captured high school and college students quite like this 2012 musical comedy, and its two sequels. With an all-star young cast including Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson, Britney Snow, Anna Camp, Adam DeVine, Skylar Astin, Ben Platt and Elizabeth Banks, Pitch Perfect made being involved in a capella cool once again. It may not have focused on actual classes, but it doesn’t mean the girls didn’t learn a lesson or two about life.

The Breakfast Club. This is the last John Hughes movie on here I promise. Taking place on a Saturday detention this 1985 comedy/drama focuses on five high school students: bad boy John Bender (Judd Nelson), princess like Claire Standish (Molly Ringwald), jock Andrew Clarke (Emilio Estevez), nerd Brian Johnson (Anthony Michael Hall) and oddball Allison Reynolds (Ally Sheedy). On the outside they have nothing in common, but as the film progresses the teens soon begin discussing their lives at home; growing closer along the way. This is one of the few films showing how students of different lifestyles and high school cliques are not as different as they originally thought. This is a must watch for students in high school.

21 Jump Street. There have been many adaptations about adults being undercover in high school, including the television series this 2012 film is based on, and its sequel involving college. No one quite expected Channing Tatum or Jonah Hill to be mistaken as high school students; yet that is what happened as the two bumbling police officers are on the hunt for a drug dealer selling to kids at a local high school. There are many who do not even want to think about going back to high school, nor could probably get away with it, but it will always play a major part of our lives. Just don’t let be the only good thing looking back.

Clueless. Sometimes being pretty and popular can get you far in high school, but it won’t always work. This 1999 high school comedy focuses on Cher (Alicia Silverstone) who is the queen bee of her school. Discovering how much she likes helping people she takes new girl Tai Fraiser (Britney Murphy) to be groomed to be just as popular as her. However when her project works too well Cher realizes being popular doesn’t mean much if there aren’t people who you love standing beside you. It does poke fun at the supposed lifestyle of Beverly Hills, but it also shows behind all the money and glamour they are people too.

The Edge of Seventeen. In the most recent coming of age film on this list this 2016 film takes a real good look at growing up in high school. Staring Hailee Steinfeld, Woody Harrelson, Kyra Sedgwick and Blake Jenner we take a look at the life of Steinfeld’s character Nadine as her life begins to change: from her best friend dating her brother, her feelings towards an older student, the friend completely in love with her and overall struggling to open herself back up to friends and family after the death of her father. Hailee gives one of the best performances of her young career and shows that high school as insane as it is can be the place to find who you are meant to be.

Legally Blonde. If you looked up “never judge a book by its cover” in films you might see a picture of Reese Witherspoon as Elle Woods. In this 2001 comedy Elle decides to follow her ex-boyfriend to Harvard Law School despite being seen as a ditsy blonde. Determined to prove him and others wrong about how serious she is Elle works hard to earn her place as a lawyer. Audiences adored the film with many praising Witherspoon’s performance as the perky Woods; they also loved the message about how not to let people’ opinions about how one looks stop you from reaching your goals.

Romy & Michele’s High School Reunion. The story may have not taken place in school, but it doesn’t mean it’s not relevant. Released in 1997 the film stars Mira Sorvino and Lisa Kudrow as Romy and Michele traveling to their high school reunion. Wanting to stand out for their former classmates, including their enemy Christie Masters, the women claim they are successful business women; in fact they are anything but. The overall lesson for the film: while high school will be an important part of our lives, don’t live life like you’re still in it. Just because someone was a queen bee or nerd in school doesn’t mean they stayed that way for the rest of their lives.

Is there a school movie missing from this list? Please comment below your favorite high school or college movie. Do it before the bell rings!

Movie Review: The King and I

Rodgers and Hammerstein have written fantastic musicals, I know a big understatement on my part. Many incorporated dramatic history into the story, perhaps none more so than this one. First debuting on Broadway in 1951 and based on Margaret Landon’s 1944 novel Anna and the King of Siam which was a mix of fiction and true story, it would become a film in 1956. The film version of The King and I would become one of the most successful musicals of all time. I saw a recent Broadway production of the story and it along with the film, definitely leaves you with tears in your eyes and your heart feeling a little heavier. Spoilers as always.

Anna Leonowens (Deborah Kerr with Marni Nixon doing the singing) a widow school teacher travels with her son Louis (Rex Thompson) to Bangkok, Siam (now Thailand) to become the teacher of the children of the King of Siam, King Mongkut (Yul Brynner who won an Oscar for his part). The two meet the prime minister and the King’s closest friend Kralahome (Martin Benson) who has been told to escort them to the palace where they are going to live; Anna is upset because her contract stated she and her son would get their own home. King Mongkut says he doesn’t remember promising Anna a home and introduces Anna to his wives (no, that is not a misprint) and 15 of his 67 children (once again no mistake there) that Anna will teach, including his eldest son Prince Chulalongkorn (Patrick Adiarte). Despite being upset that the King violated her contract Anna agrees to teach the children, although she does drop hints during her lessons to annoy the King. Anna becomes close with the children as well as the wives, including the head wife Lady Thiang (Terry Saunders) and the latest wife Tuptim (Rita Moreno with Leona Gordon singing); Tuptim however is not happy with her forced marriage as she is in love with one of the men who brought her Lun Tha (Carlos Rivas with Rueben Fuentes singing) and he with her forcing the pair to sneak around at night. The children soon come to care for Anna and Louis, although they do get into arguments when Anna introduces things they have never seen before like snow. The King and Anna also clash, not just over the contract but their cultures as the two have different outlooks over pretty much everything. Anna almost leaves because of it, but Lady Thiang explains that the King is upset because British papers are calling him a barbarian and threatened to take Siam away from him. Knowing the King is many things, but not what the British clam, Anna agrees to help the King prove that they can be European and the two’s walls slowly start to come down. Unfortunately the King’s stubborn ways may cost him greatly. About as far as I should go without giving away the rest of the movie.

If any film has a big clash of cultures it is this one. The King and Anna’s relationship develops as king/servant in his mind to mutual respect; many say love but I’m not completely certain. Deborah Kerr is just stunning to watch as Anna, the strong willed teacher who has to show not just the children and wives but the King that their world is not as big as they think and they have to change. Yul Brynner, who portrayed the King on multiple Broadway productions before and after the film is memorizing as King Mongkut, a man who is stuck in the past and doesn’t understand why the world isn’t like his country; absolutely deserved his Oscar. The rest of the cast is impeccable; Moreno, Saunders, Rivas and Benson sticking out the most in my opinion as do the children, although I admit by today’s standards some roles are considered to be whitewashing so beware. The film doesn’t use every word or every song from the Broadway show which may have done some harm from the critics but otherwise the film was well received. The soundtrack has some of the show’s most famous songs such as “Getting to Know You”, “Shall We Dance”, “It’s a Puzzlement” and “I Whistle a Happy Tune” among others.

The film won five Oscars: Best Actor for Brynner, music, art direction, costume design and sound recording while it was nominated for four others: Best director, cinematography, actress for Kerr and Best Picture. The film has also been listed on three American Film Institute 100 lists: #11 on Best Musicals, #54 on Best Songs “Shall We Dance” and 100 Passions Films #31 for Anna and the King. While the film might take place during the Civil War some of its issues still hit strong points today and I would definitely say this is a must watch for not just musical fans but of movie fans in general.

Movie Review: Joyful Noise

If you look at the picture for this 2012 movie alone you can already see the amount of talent in this musical comedy. Admittedly the script kinda feels all over the place at times, but the performances of the cast and music more than make-up for it. Joyful Noise will be leaving Netflix on September 1st so if you haven’t watched it I would recommend you do before that date. Spoilers ahead as always. I DO NOT OWN THE PICTURE.

Vi Rose Hill (Queen Latifah) a no nonsense controlling mother of two takes over the church choir of a small church in Pacashau, GA after the passing of the original director Bernie (Kris Kristofferson). Bernie’s widow G.G. Sparrow (Dolly Parton) felt like the role should have been passed to her as she is the main benefactor so she and Vi Rose clash multiple times (each more hilarious than the last). Vi Rose uses traditional Gospel songs approved by Pastor Dale (Courtney B. Vance) for the Joyful Noise competition, where church choirs go head to head but have yet to capture first place. Pacashau has been hit hard by the economy; many of the members of the choir forced to close their businesses so Vi Rose is determined to win this year. G.G’s grandson Randy (Jeremy Jordan) comes to live with her after his parents kick him out and, after hearing the choir sing, joins in and convinces choir members, Earla (Angela Grovey), Caleb (Andy Karl), Devonne (Dequina Moore) and Vi Rose’s teenage daughter Olivia (Keke Palmer), to use more contemporary pop songs for their numbers (obviously tweaking it for church). Vi Rose and Pastor Dale don’t approve the plan, nor does Vi Rose approve Randy getting close to her family; Randy befriends her son Walter (Dexter Darden) who has Asperger syndrome while he falls in love with Olivia despite competition from Manny (Paul Woolfolk) who only sees the “church girl” as a challenge. Vi Rose and Olivia’s relationship starts to crumble because of how she feels for Randy, in addition to the absence of Vi Rose’s husband, Olivia and Walter’s father, Marcus (Jesse L. Martin) because of his army duties. I can’t say anymore without spoiling the rest of the movie.

As i said earlier the amount of talent in this movie can been seen on the poster, and even if you had no clue you learned fast. While I admit I’ve seen the four main stars (Latifah, Parton, Jordan and Palmer) in better works, their performance still shined. The amount of sass between Parton and Latifah is an absolute joy to watch; there is a scene in a dinner that had me in stitches. Their individual performances were also fantastic. Latifah has scenes were she is the only reasonable one in the room and goes into fantastic speeches. Parton can be sweet one minute, sassy the next and funny the last. Palmer and Jordan are two very talented young people and their chemistry was great. I’ve been a fan of Palmer for years and was glad to hear her sing; I think she is one of the most powerful young singers I’ve heard. If you read my review of Newsies (if not you can click the title) you might remember I said that I thought Jordan looked familiar; when he began singing I realized I saw him in a production of West Side Story. Without question Jordan is one of the most talent, and handsome, men I have ever seen in film, TV or Broadway; anytime I hear him sing I feel goosebumps up and down my arm. Taking nothing away from the rest of the cast Grovey, Moore and Karl are also very good singers; Karl has been on Broadway multiple times including Legally Blonde the Musical, Groundhog Day, Wicked, Rocky The Musical (yep you read that correctly) and most recently Pretty Woman The Musical and has been nominated for three Tonys. Finally it was nice to see Jesse L. Martin for a few moments in the movie, but it would have been so much better if he sang for a little bit; the man’s voice is like velvet. While the performances were pretty good, I kinda felt like the writing and editing was all over the place; one minute we’re doing something with Vi Rose and Olivia and then Olivia is with Randy.

The soundtrack is pretty good with songs performed by individually by Latifah, Parton, Palmer, Jordan and a couple songs by the choir. Latifah has a number called “Fix Me Jesus” on the piano, Parton wrote three songs for the film including “Not Enough”, performed in the beginning of the film by herself, Latifah and the choir, “From Here to The Moon and Back” which she did along with Jordan and Kristofferson and finally “He’s Everything” at the end of the film. Palmer performs “Man in the Mirror” while she and Jordan sing “Maybe I’m Amazed” to try and incorporated pop songs into the choir. My favorite performance is when the choir makes it to the finals and they use pop songs tweaked for church purposes called “Higher Melody” I’m not gonna say what songs are used in the number; all I’m gonna say is listen and be surprised. Joyful Noise is a cute musical and while it’s not a need to see this moment the film will be leaving Netflix next month so if you are interested stream it now.

Movie Review: Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again

It has been over 10 years since the previous Mamma Mia and took the musical world by storm. Whether it was good or bad people were talking about it; I have often seen it listed as a guilty pleasure film for many. As I mentioned in my review of the first film which you can view here I was looking forward to the sequel but I won’t lie and say I wasn’t concerned that they would mess up with the original story. While the sequel was not perfect and might have messed up the timeline a tiny bit I still very much enjoyed the movie. As this is still in theaters I’m issuing a big spoiler alert. I DO NOT OWN THE PICTURE.

Five years after the previous film Sophie Sheridan (Amanda Seyfried) now runs the hotel after Donna (Meryl Streep) passed away a year ago. She plans a big re-opening of the hotel named after Donna as she prepares along with the staff; including new gloomy manager Fernando Cienfuegos (Andy Garcia), one of her dads/stepfather Sam Carmichael (Pierce Brosnan) who is still grieving Donna’s death and her mom’s closest friend Tanya (Christine Baranski) and Rosie (Julie Walters). Sophie expresses her desire to make her mother proud, but she is also upset because two of her dads Bill (Stellan Skarsgård) and Harry (Colin Firth) cannot make it and Sky (Dominic Cooper) has a job offer in New York; further somewhat straining their relationship. Meanwhile while this is happening the audience travels all the way back to 1979 when Donna (Lily James) graduates from Oxford, along with Tanya (Jessica Keenan Wynn) and Rosie (Alexa Davies). After her mother doesn’t show up for her graduation Donna decides to travel to the island of Kalokairi. While traveling there, and after arriving Donna meets three men that would change her life forever: the quirky Harry (Hugh Skinner), the flirty Bill (Josh Dylan) and the handsome Sam (Jeremy Irvine) I probably shouldn’t go into too much more, but I cannot forget the arrival of Sophie’s estranged grandmother Ruby (Cher)

There have been times when movies get a sequel and they are not really necessary. That is what I originally thought when I heard about this film; however those thoughts were quickly erased from my mind a few moments after Lily James came on the screen. She has recently been an actress I have admired over a few of her films and this role is no exception. I’m sure she felt the pressure of portraying a young version of Meryl Streep (arguably the greatest actress alive today) but I thought she absolutely nailed it in terms of acting and singing. I also very much enjoyed the younger versions of the dads. Skinner, Dylan and Irvine are all very good looking men, their singing voices were better than I thought they were gonna be and their acting was pretty spot one with their older selves; I hope their careers continue to grow after this. Wynn and Davies were perfect as Tanya and Rosie; Davies if I may say had me laughing a little too loud in the theater at times. Of course I cannot forget about the original cast members that returned. Seyfried shined once again as Sophie while Streep’s appearance was brief but nonetheless enjoyable. It was great to see Brosnan, Skarsgård and Firth again; and while some singing has improved it is not by much. Baranski and Walters were just as hilarious as in the first film (Baranski has a line that almost had me falling out of my seat) while Cooper did pretty well as Sky; although I admit his singing voice may have gone down since the first film. Garcia was amusing as Fernando but of course a special spotlight was shined on Cher as Ruby. Whether it is her singing or her acting you cannot take your eyes off of Cher. The writing was pretty good, but I was a little annoyed because how Donna met the guys in the film doesn’t seem to line up with how it was in the original show and movie.

The soundtrack for the movie including many more of ABBA’s greatest hits and I think it might actually be better than the first. Favorites from the first film such as “Mamma Mia” performed by James, Wynn and Davies, “Dancing Queen” by the present cast “I Have a Dream” by James “Waterloo” performed hilariously by James and Skinner “The Name of the Game” by James as she expresses her love for Sam and “Super Trooper” by everyone at the end of the film made their way back, songs from the Broadway show that did not make it to the first film such as “One of Us” performed by Seyfried and Cooper on opposite sides of the world and “Knowing Me Knowing You” performed by James and Irvine as the couple breaks up appeared while new songs were added to tell the past story of Donna as well as the present with Sophie and company. Among the new songs were “Fernando” sung brilliantly by Cher, “Why Did It Have to Be Me” by James, Skinner and Dylan, “Andante Andante” by James, “Angel Eyes” and “I’ve Been Waiting For You” by Seyfried, Walters and Baranski and finally “My Love, My Life” by Streep and Seyfried which may or may not leave a tear in your eye.

Regardless of the small inaccuracies I still loved the sequel I did not know I wanted. While you may not have to watch the original film to understand the sequel it does help a little bit. I will definitely by going again and again to see Mamma Mia Here We Go Again.

Movie Review: Disney’s The Princess and The Frog

Disney knows how to take classic fairy tales and turn it into major motion pictures; yes I am aware that it is probably the understatement of the century. However they also know how to make their movies relevant to audiences, regardless of when the film takes place. In 2009 Disney took the beloved childhood story of The Princess and the Frog, but found a way to modernized it. Having re-watched the film recently I decided to give my thoughts on one of Disney’s more relevant to today animated movies. Spoilers will be ahead. I DO NOT OWN THE PICTURE.

The film takes place beginning in 1912 but quickly transitions to 1926 in the beautiful city of New Orleans. Tiana (Anika Noni Rose) works as a waitress at two diners, and has a natural talent for cooking. She wants to own her own restaurant and work as a chef, having been inspired by her late father James (Terrance Howard); owning a restaurant was always a dream he wanted to share with Tiana and his wife Eudora (Oprah Winfrey), but he passed away before it became a reality. Not wanting to let her father’s dream die, Tiana spends all her time working and earning money towards a restaurant, even picking out an old sugar mill as the location. However her ambition leaves very little to no time for a social life.

New Orleans soon welcomes the arrival of Prince Naveen of Maldonia (Bruno Campos), a handsome and seemingly wealthy young man; although it is revealed his parents have cut him off because of his irresponsible behavior. Tiana’s best friend from childhood, Charlotte La Bouff (Jennifer Cody), decides to take advantage of the prince’s arrival (having wanted to marry a prince since she was a child.) Along with her rich daddy Eli “Big Daddy” La Bouff (John Goodman) Charlotte throws a big costume party at their mansion, hoping to impress the prince; hiring Tiana to work as a chef and giving her enough money to buy the mill. Meanwhile Naveen, along with his over-worked man-servant Lawrence (Peter Bartlett), run into Dr. Facilier (Keith David), an evil voodoo witch doctor also going by the nickname The Shadowman. Dr. Facilier takes advantage of both Naveen’s stupidity and Lawrence’s greed, making their dreams come true; but not in the way they expected or probably wanted. At the party while Charlotte is dancing with “Naveen” Tiana is depressed; she may lose the sugar mill due to a higher bidder and has a limited amount of time to raise enough money to continue her dream. Desperate Tiana turns to the Evening Star, a star that allegedly can make wishes come true. Tiana sees a frog next to her and freaks out when it starts talking; the talking frog is of course the real Naveen.

Believing Tiana is a princess, based on her outfit and not realizing it is a costume party, Naveen asks Tiana to kiss him to break the spell like in the original fairy tale. Tiana reluctantly agrees after Naveen promises to provide money for her restaurant. However after Tiana kisses him, she is turned into a frog! The two manage to escape the party, but leave an impression on the fake Naveen, whom is actually Lawrence. He is wearing a talisman provided by Facilier. Facilier’s plan is for Lawrence to marry Charlotte and split her money once Big Daddy dies; which Facilier plans to make happen the moment they say “I do.” Tiana and Naveen make it to bayou where they meet a colorful cast of characters: Louis (Michael-Leon Wooley) a trumpet playing alligator who desires to be human just to play the with the big boys (and not worry about guns), Ray (Jim Cummings) a Cajun firefly who is in love with the Evening Star he calls Evangeline and finally Mama Odie (Jennifer Lewis), a nearly 200 blind voodoo priestess with plenty of sass to spare. Together they have to find a way to turn Tiana and Naveen back to human and stop Dr. Facilier, along with his shadow friends from the other side. During their adventure Tiana and Naveen grow as characters and discover what they want might not be what they need; Naveen realizing there is more to life than money while Tiana figures out she can have more than one goal in life. The two also fall very deeply in love with each other as time begins to run out. This is probably about as far as I should go without giving away the rest of the film; although I admit it is not hard to figure out.

While The Princess and the Frog did not do as well at the box office as Disney would have thought, I still think the movie was fantastic when I watched it in theaters, and I still think that today. I have been a fan of Anika Noni Rose since her role in Dreamgirls and I knew she would be great as Tiana. I believe Tiana is one of the more modern Disney princesses having been the only one so far to hold a job and a goal; I think many young children can look up to her along with the other princesses. Bruno Campos is fabulous as Naveen as his character develops from a self-absorbed playboy to a caring individual. Keith David is absolutely perfect as Dr. Facilier. Facilier has often been described as the love child of two of Disney’s classic villains, Jafar and Cruella DeVil; while I see elements of them Facilier still stands out among the Disney villains with his unique form of voodoo and charismatic personality. Jennifer Cody is hilarious as Charlotte; at first it was almost easy to write the character off as a spoiled rich daddy’s girl at first, but she proved to have a kind heart as big as her ambition. Louis, Ray and Mama Odie steal the show whenever they come on-screen; I have big props to Wooley, Cummings and Lewis on their performances. Terrance Howard and Oprah Winfrey brief appearances as James and Eudora helped show just how Tiana got to where she was in the beginning of the film, and also how they in a way helped Tiana at the end during her face-off with Facilier. The rest of the cast, as well as the writing and hand-drawn animation, is wonderful as well; the film was nominated for two Oscars in 2010 for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song.

Of course a great Disney movie comes with an equally great soundtrack; most of the songs were written by the incomparable Randy Newman. The song nominated for the Oscar is Tiana’s anthem (because every Disney princess has one) “Almost There” The song not only reflects Tiana’s ambition, but the animated sequence which has Tiana imagining her restaurant as she sings is beautifully hand-drawn. Multiple versions of “Down in New Orleans” are performed in the movie, two times by Rose in the beginning and end of the film while the main version is performed as we are introduced to the adult version of the characters by Dr. John. Facilier has a song (because every cool Disney villain needs one) called “Friends on the Other Side” where he manipulates Naveen and Lawrence and shows off his powers. Louis sings with Tina and Naveen as they say what they would do “When We’re Human” an upbeat song needed after a few close calls by Tiana and Naveen in the swamp. Ray has two numbers in the film: “Gonna Take You There” as he guides Tiana, Naveen and Louis to Mama Odie and “Ma Belle Evangeline” as he sings about his love for Evangeline; I know it sounds weird but it is a very romantic song. Mama Odie has a show-stopping number called “Dig a Little Deeper” where she says Tiana and Naveen may know what they want, but if they dig deeper they’ll find what they need; this makes Naveen realize just how deep his feelings are for Tiana. The final number, and the only song not written by Randy Newman, is during the credits of the film which sums up Tiana and Naveen’s relationship perfectly. It is called “Never Knew I Needed” performed by the multi-time Grammy winning artist Ne-Yo. Ne-Yo’s voice is wonderful to listen to as he sings about the woman who appeared in his life when he needed her; it is probably my favorite song on the soundtrack.

If you have not watched The Princess and the Frog I would highly recommend watching it; might not be a need to watch immediately but is still a great film. I may even call this an underrated Disney film, having been overshadowed in 2009 by another great Disney/Pixar film out earlier that year. The Princess and the Frog is, in my opinion, one of Disney’s more modern movies and I promise when you watch it you will not be disappointed.

Classic Movie Review: The Wizard of Oz

Today I am writing my 200th blog. For those that have been around since the beginning I thank you. For those who are just starting, I thank you as well.

For my 200th blog I wanted to make it special; a movie or show I believe everyone has or should see (if you have not, it must be put on the top spot on the must watch list immediately.) While glossing over the list of movies I’ve watch one stuck out and I knew I struck gold. It was one of the first non-animated movies I remember watching as a kid, the movie that made me fall in love with musicals and arguably the most watched movie of all time (not just in my house): The Wizard of Oz. Based on the beloved 1900 children’s book by L. Frank Baum, this 1939 classic musical is considered to be one of the greatest musicals and films of all time; and I’d love to find someone who would say otherwise. If for some reason you have not seen The Wizard of Oz here is the biggest spoiler alert I could possible give. I DO NOT OWN THE PICTURE.

Beginning in sepia tone Dorothy Gale (Jud Garland) and her dog Toto (Terry) lives with her Aunt Em (Clara Blandick) and Uncle Henry (Charley Grapewin) on their farm in Kansas. Toto gets in trouble when he bites the mean neighbor Miss Almira Gultch (Margaret Hamilton). Dorothy tries to explain what happened to her aunt and uncle, but they and the farm hands Huck (Ray Bolger), Hickory (Jack Haley) and Zeke (Bert Lahr) are too busy working to listen to her. Gultch arrives with the sheriff’s permission to take Toto away and put him down, much to Dorothy’s sadness, but the dog escapes. Dorothy and Toto run away, but after meeting and sort of tricked by the strange but kind hearted Professor Marvel (Frank Morgan who pulls off five roles in the movie) into turning around. A tornado has formed as Dorothy races home, but is too late to get in the storm cellar. She tries to seek shelter in her room, but gets knocked out.

Waking up she sees very odd things outside her window (her home was picked up by the tornado) before landing in the colorful Land of Oz; Dorothy famously saying “Toto, I have a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.” Dorothy meets the beautiful Glinda the Good Witch (Billie Burke) and the munchkins of Munckinland in the Land of Oz. They thank her for killing the Wicked Witch of the East; much to Dorothy’s horror her home crushed the witch to death leaving only her feet visible. However trouble soon arrives when the Wicked Witch of the West (Hamilton) arrives; Glinda says she’s worse than her sister. The Wicked Witch wants her sister’s magic ruby slippers, but Glinda has already given them to Dorothy; the witch promising “I’ll get you my pretty and your little dog too.” Dorothy wants to go home, but Glinda’s magic is not powerful enough to make it possible. Glinda says to Dorothy only The Wizard of Oz (Morgan) can help her; she must take the Yellow Brick Road to the Emerald City to meet the Wizard. Dorothy takes the path and soon meets three others who need help. The Scarecrow (Bolger) who desires a brain, the Tin Woodsman (Haley) who wants a heart and the Cowardly Lion (Lahr) who needs courage; Dorothy invites them all to accompany her to Oz. The four get stopped multiple times by the Wicked Witch, including a poppy field to make them sleep, but they make it to the Emerald City and eventually see the Wizard. He will only grant their requests if they bring him the Wicked Witch’s broomstick, but they will have to kill her to make that possible. About as far as I should go without spoiling the rest of the movie for those that haven’t read the book or watched it.

The Wizard of Oz is constantly listed as a movie many should watch before the age of 14, and if you have not that is absolutely fine. I remember watching the movie when I was a kid and just being completely enamored with it. The music, the characters, the story; even how it started off tan before going color. I still watch the movie today, maybe not with as much enthusiasm as when I was five but I still enjoy it.

The characters are just incredible to watch. Judy Garland shines as Dorothy Gale, considered to be the most iconic role in her career; she even won an honorary juvenile Oscar for this role along with her role in Babes in America. Bolger is so fun to watch as Scarecrow (try and find his deleted dance sequence for the “If I Only Had a Brain” number; it is great to watch.) Haley, while amazing as the Tin-man, was not the first actor cast for the part; actor Buddy Ebsen was supposed to be the Tin-man but fell ill after putting on the make-up (it was coated in aluminum powder and it got into his lungs, but thankfully lived.) Lahr is hilarious as the Lion; he might be my favorite of the Oz trio. Morgan is absolutely amazing in his five roles in the movie (Marvel, the doorman, the cabbie, the guard and the Wizard) a feet not often used in films back then or even now. Burke is lovely as Glinda. Of course I cannot forget the performance of Margaret Hamilton as the Wicked Witch; one of the most iconic villains on-screen. I know she struggled after the film with children being frightened of her well after the movie; there is a very famous episode of Mister Roger’s Neighborhood where he showed that she was a person underneath the robe and green make-up. The writing, cinematography and background music are some of the best I’ve seen in film, I would appreciate this more as I got into movies.

I cannot forget the wonderful soundtrack that goes along with the movie. Scarecrow, Tin-man and the Lion each have their own songs explaining what they would do if they had their respective gifts; the Lion has an additional number saying what he’d do “If I Were the King of the Forrest”. The munchkins have a number of songs, the two most famous being “Ding Dong the Witch is Dead” and “Follow The Yellow Brick Road/You’re Off to See the Wizard”; Dorothy and her friends reprise the latter half song three more times with “We’re” instead of “You’re” The residents of Emerald City welcome Dorothy and her friend with a number called “The Merry Old Land of Oz” However the most famous song of all is “Over the Rainbow”. Dorothy sings this while in Kansas saying how she wished there was a place where she couldn’t get into trouble; honestly I still get goosebumps when I listen to it.

The Wizard of Oz would win two Oscars, including Best Original Song for “Over the Rainbow” as well as Best Score; the film was also nominated for Best Special Effects, art direction, cinematography in color and Best Picture. It has also been listed on multiple American Film Institute 100 best lists. Three quotes on 100 Quotes: # 4 “Toto, I have a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore”, #99 “I’ll get you my pretty and your little dog too” and # 23 “There’s no place like home” Two songs on the 100 songs: # 1″Over the Rainbow” and #82 “Ding Dong The Witch is Dead”, #43 on 100 Thrills, #4 villain on 100 Heroes and Villains, top 10 Fantasy film at #1, #26 on 100 Cheers, #3 on Movie Musicals, and #6 on the 100 Movie, it would slip to #10 on the 10th Anniversary list. The film inspired multiple adaptions of the book, including the Broadway production, film and TV special “The Wiz.” Allegedly five pairs of Dorothy’s ruby slippers were made; one can be seen at the Smithsonian in Washington D.C while another pair was stolen years ago and has not been seen since.

If you have not experience The Wizard of Oz, what are you waiting for? Grab your ruby slippers and get ready to travel from Kansas (or wherever you live) to the Land of Oz, but always remember “There’s no place like home.”

What Movies are Perfect to watch of the 4th of July?

First and foremost Happy Independence Day to everyone here in the United States. I hope you have a great day no matter what you are doing; hanging by the pool while someone makes burgers and hot-dogs or spending the day inside (hopefully with air conditioning) and watching some patriotic movies. Whether it is something about our founding fathers or a movie that makes you feel patriotic. Today I want to do something a little different today other than a review. I’m gonna give you some movies I feel are perfect to watch whether it’d be today or just to make you proud of waving the American Flag. Here are some of my picks in no particular order. I DO NOT OWN THE PICTURE.

1. Yankee Doodle Dandy. This 1942 biographical musical follows the true story of George M. Cohan (James Cagney) as he takes Broadway by storm; although his ego gets in the way a lot. Featuring songs such as “Over There” “You’re a Grand Old Flag” and “The Yankee Doodle Boy”. This film means so much to me because it was one of my grandmother’s favorites. Knowing George M. Cohan was so proud of our flag, and he was born on the fourth of July, makes me happy to be a musical fan as well as an American.
2. Air Force One. I did a review for this 1997 film, but let me give you a quick recap. President James Marshall (Harrison Ford) has to rely on his former military training when terrorists, led by Egor Korshunov (Gary Oldman), hijack Air Force One and threaten to kill everyone on board unless their dictator is released. One of my favorite Harrison Ford films outside the Star Wars and Indiana Jones franchises; this film showed just what would anyone do to protect their family; also who doesn’t cheer a little when Marshall says “Get off my plane.”
3. 1776. Yes another musical but at least it takes place leading up to why we celebrate the fourth of July. This 1972 film, based on the Broadway musical sees the Continental Congress as they make tough decisions; including whether or not independence from England is worth it. Starring William Daniels (yes, Mr. Feeny from Boy Meets World) as John Adams, Howard Da Silva as Benjamin Franklin, Ken Howard as Thomas Jefferson and Virginia Vestoff as Abigail Adams this musical gets your feet taping and flag waving.
4. Jaws. Maybe not a movie about war or the American flag, but this 1975 film helped start the phenomenon known as summer blockbusters at the movies. Jaws is about a town being threatened by a great white shark and the three men wanting to put the shark down for good. The film does take place over the Fourth of July weekend, so I guess that counts.
5. A League of their Own. Baseball has often been called the American past-time, and this 1992 film just might be one of the best sports films of all time. Starring Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, Madonna, Rosie O’Donnell, and Lori Petty the film takes a look back at the short lived All American Girls Professional Baseball League which took place during World War II. We watch as the girls have to deal with sexism, getting the public’s attention and proving they can be just as good as the men. A true classic film if I may say so.
6.  Hidden Figures. I don’t want to call this film a surprise hit, but I’ll admit that I did not expect to see this 2016 movie to appear at so many award shows. That being said it is still a fantastic watch. When it looks like the Russians might beat the U.S. to space three brilliant African American women working for NASA step up to make it possible. Staring Taraji P. Henson as mathematician Katherine Johnson, Octavia Spencer as supervisor, and later computer expert Dorothy Vaughen and Janelle Monáe as engineer Mary Jackson. The film also features Kevin Costner, Jim Parsons, Kirsten Dunst and Mahershala Ali as people who either stood in the way or made a path for them to succeed. A movie about change as well as patriotism.
7. The Rocky franchise. I know many will say Rocky IV is the most associated with patriotism, and that may be true, but I think not enough credit is given to the other films (at least the first three in addition to the fourth.) The franchise follows boxer Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) as he does from underdog to champion while finding and keeping the love of Adrian (Talia Shire). Everyone loves the underdog story, but I’ll admit the 1985 fourth film in the franchise is probably the more patriotic of the franchise; Rocky fights a Russian boxer named Drago (Dolph Lundgren) on Russian turf after Drago kills Apollo Creed (Carl Weathers) in the ring. On a side note I cannot wait to see Creed II this fall.
8. Independence Day. Come on, how was I not going to put this 1996 film on here? When aliens arrive to take over the world, military forces must team up to combat the menace. Starring Will Smith in one of his breakthrough movie roles, Bill Pullman as the president of the United States, Jeff Goldblum and Vivica A. Fox this film showed when a force wants to fight, we are gonna fight back.
9. Captain America: The First Avenger. I had to put one superhero movie on here and this 2011 film might be the most American of them all. The origin of one of the most popular comic book heroes is brought to life as Steve Trevor (Chris Evans) is transformed into Captain America. While starting of as joke, Steve soon proves he has the strength and heart of an American hero as his fights off a secret organization known as Hydra. Admittedly this is the weakest origin film of the Marvel movies, but it was one heck of a start to the Captain America part of the franchise.
10. Mr. Smith Goes To Washington. Another underdog story, but this time it involves politics. Released in 1939, Jefferson Smith (James Stewart) is taken under the wing of Joseph Paine (Claude Rains) a crooked senator. The simple-minded Smith is at first destroyed by the newspapers and politicians, but after a little help Smith rallies for the people and earns their respect, as well as the respect of the Senate. James Stewart does a phenomenal job and his speech reaffirming what America is truly about is one of the best parts of the movie.

I hope everyone has a great Independence Day. Is there a film missing from my list that is one yours? Please leave a comment of what film and why it is great for the Fourth of July.

Movie Review: Walk The Line

I was re-watching the teaser trailer for the upcoming Freddie Mercury film, Bohemian Rhapsody, with a friend the other day. I said how much I was looking forward to watching it and before we knew it the conversation shifted to other musical biographical films we loved. The one film we both agreed on was this 2005 award winning movie about one of the greatest country singers of all time, and the woman that changed his life. As always a spoiler alert is being issued. I DO NOT OWN THE PICTURE.

Johnny Cash (Joaquin Phoenix, nominated for an Oscar for his part) had a tough life growing up after the death of his brother Jack. He would enlist in the Air Force in 1950 and be stationed in West Germany. Having always loved singing Johnny would purchase a guitar in 1952 and begin writing songs just to find solace; one of the songs being “Folsom Prison Blues”. Johnny would later marry his girlfriend Vivian Liberto (Ginnifer Goodwin) and had four children with her while working as a door to door salesman. Music still kept calling Johnny and, after organizing a band, would perform and earn a contract for Sun Records, owned by Sam Phillips (Dallas Roberts). While touring, Johnny meets June Carter (Reese Witherspoon who won an Oscar for her part). The two develop a close bond; with Johnny quickly falling in love for her. Despite feeling the same way (and divorcing two husbands with one child each throughout the course of the movie), June refuses to be with Johnny; even after they have a passionate night together. In addition to the rejection Johnny begins abusing drugs and alcohol and his performance begins to become affected. Johnny would later be arrested for purchasing drugs and, in addition to noticing how close Johnny and June are, Vivian divorces him. June, after pleas from his mother, helps Johnny get back on his feet and the two finally begin a relationship; it inspires June to write perhaps Cash’s most famous song “Ring of Fire”. Johnny discovers most of his fans are prisoners and decides to record a live concert album inside one of the prisons; specifically Folsom Prison despite the protests from the record producers. The album would become a huge success and Johnny and June would later marry; the film concludes with him famously proposing on stage and her accepting.

I know I probably gave away a lot of the film, but everything is a part of music history. Johnny Cash is one of the most successful country artists of all time and, if I may say, one of the most unique voices I’ve heard. His story is something to watch on screen. I thought then as I do now that Joaquin Phoenix was perfect as Cash; while I think he looked more like Elvis rather than Cash his performance made up for it. The true standout of the film is Reese Witherspoon as June Carter. While I think her role as Elle Woods will go down as her most iconic part, when it comes to acting I think Walk the Line has been Reese’s best role to date; winning multiple awards including the Golden Globe and Oscar. The chemistry between Phoenix and Witherspoon is infectious as was the real love between Johnny and June (of course there was a lot of drama getting to that happy ending.) Walk The Line was also nominated for four other Oscars including Best Actor, Costume, Film Editing and Sound. Being a musical there has to be a great soundtrack to go with it; and this Grammy winning album did not disappoint. Phoenix and Witherspoon provided their own singing and I have to admit I was surprised to hear how good they were; while they did not sound exactly like Johnny and June it came pretty close. While I am not certain how accurate the film is I would say Walk the Line is one heck of a drama/musical biographical movie. If you enjoy those movies put this on the must watch list.

Movie Review: A Cinderella Story: Once Upon a Song

The third installment of the Cinderella story franchise may not be as well known (or as good) as the previous two, but it is still a decent watch. Released on DVD in 2011 this one is more musical than the other two and took the story in a different direction, which actually made it all the more interesting. Spoilers ahead as always. I DO NOT OWN THE PICTURE.

Katie Gibbs (Lucy Hale) is a student at the Wellesley Academy of Arts aspiring to be a singer, but has many obstacles in her way. For starters she lives with her horrible stepmother (and headmistress of the school) Gail Van Ravensway (Missi Pyle) who has never had success as an artist, her mean and tone-deaf step sister Bev (Megan Park), her trouble making (but actually cares about her) step brother Victor (Matthew Lintz) and Gail’s guru Tony (Manu Narayan), and cannot escape Gail or Bev in school with only her friend Angela (Jessalyn Williams) for company. Gail gets excited when Guy Morgan (Dikran Tulaine), the president of Massive Records Inc. comes to enroll his son, and gorgeous pop star, Luke (Freddie Stroma) in the school. Katie manages to slip in a demo into Guy’s briefcase, and capture the attention of Luke, but Gail claims it is Bev’s. On the night of a big Bollywood ball at the school Gail orders Katie to babysit Victor, but she convinces Tony (who is not actually a guru but an actor needing the work) to do the job. Katie, wearing a disguise, impresses Luke with her voice but quickly leaves when Gail arrives. However Gail beats Katie home and threatens Angela’s education if Katie doesn’t help Bev get with Luke. Katie agrees, even though it is killing her seeing Luke with Bev. About as far as I should go, but given the material it is probably not hard to figure out.

While I did not like this film as much as the previous Cinderella stories, I did like the twist that the stepmother actually beats Cinderella home and force her to help the stepsister; for the record I don’t support it but is definitely a good twist. I was a little familiar with Lucy Hale from some works, but I had no idea how great of a singer she was; it was a very pleasant surprise. Freddie Stroma I remembered from Harry Potter and I was glad to see him as a good guy, and a pretty good singer. Missi Pyle is hilarious as Gail; I almost sympathized with Megan Park and enjoyed the performances of Lintz, Narayan and Williams. The writing and filming could have been better, but I liked the soundtrack. Lucy Hale sang really well with songs such as “Make You Believe”, “Bless Myself” and “Run This Town” while Stroma did pretty good on “Knockin”. While this is probably not must see, if you liked the previous Cinderella stories, then A Cinderella Story: Once Upon a Song is great for you.