Favorite High School Movies

Greetings fellow readers!

Hard to believe that summer is almost over. Now that my preschool is back in session I have been in the mood for classic schoolroom dramas. I have had this idea in the works for a while now. Re-watching Dead Poet’s Society kick started this endeavor, that and the weather beginning to cool off. Also, sliding in a few that aren’t strictly about high school. Why not? 😉

So Let’s get started!

#10 Napoleon Dynamite

First time I watched this was with my cousins on Thanksgiving, found myself laughing at the quirkiness. Although could have been the turkey.

Napoleon is looking for a friend which isn’t the easiest thing to accomplish. He meets Trisha in an unexpected way.

It truly captures the socially awkwardness of high school. Not a much of a plot, but so quotable!

#9 Princess Diaries

What happens to a high schooler when she finds out she is royalty? This movie answers that question. So many great moments in this movie and the score for this is excellent! Got to love Joe!

Watched this on repeat growing up. Makes for a great Friday night movie!

#8 Anne of Avonlea

You can’t talk about teachers without mentioning Anne. This was a quintessential movie of my childhood. Asked repeatedly for the “Anne in the muddy” scene.

Anne takes on the challenge of teaching a lady’s college. Little does she know how prickly the Pringle family can be.

Also, the romance with Gilbert finally takes off.

#7 Karate Kid

After moving to a new school, Daniel is being bullied; he decides to learn karate to protect himself. Mr. Miyagi is a great teacher. He is patient and starts with the basics. Wax on. Wax off.

You just can’t beat the original. None of the others came close.

#6 Rudy

Do you want an underdog story with lots of heart? This is for you. I say that and this movie is revolves around football. So that is is high praise from someone who isn’t a sports fan.

Rudy has a dream of playing football at the University of Notre Dame. Unfortunately, many obstacles stand in his way. Rudy has a sweeping score and a great cast.

And now to the top five!

#5 10 Things I Hate about You

For Cameron to date Bianca, her older sister, Kat, has to date first. This is highly unlikely as Kat is a strong-willed feminist. It hits quite a few high school tropes but in a unique way.

Who would have thought that Shakespeare would fit so well in high school.

#4 Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

When Ferris Bueller decides to skip school for the day, chaos follows in his wake. Honestly, can’t believe his parents don’t have a clue to his antics. A must watch for every high schooler. Not the best role model, but iconic and just funny.

If I’m anybody from this movie, I’m Cameron.

#3 The Outsiders

You may be asking why put The Outsiders above Bueller. Well, this movie is better in my opinion. Ponyboy is a dreamer who doesn’t quite fit in the greaser gang. Deals with the issue of gang violence.

Honestly, I am just a sucker for a sad story. You will recognize many of the members in this cast; a very young Tom Cruise being one of them.

#2 Dead Poets Society

Robin Williams plays a poetry teacher at an all boy’s school. He uses some unconventional methods that inspires these boys to reestablish the Dead Poets Society. Just a heads up the ending does deal with a suicide.

I love how Mr. Keating wants the boys to think outside the box. I’m not a big poetry fan, but this movie almost changed my mind.

Take a guess at the top spot????

#1 October Sky

I have probably mentioned on here that I am a space nerd. I love anything relating to the space race! Watching October Sky for the first time while on vacation, lighted my imagination and I connected with it. Every couple years I get a hankering to see it again.

Homer lives in a coal mining town. Homer’s father wants Homer to join the ranks in the mine. Meanwhile, Homer dreams about rockets.

It is based on a true story.

So there it is folks my top ten school related movies. Now I hand the baton over to you. What are some of your favorites?

Happy Fall!

Anna

Rewind – Looking Back on 2022 Shows

I have had this post simmering in my mind for a while now, and am excited that I have a bit of free time to do it. 🙂 2022 wasn’t the best year for TV shows. I saw a few that were just kinda meh. However, there are a few that stand out.

Let’s get started!

Alex Rider – YA, Action

Honestly, I stumbled across this on Amazon Prime while I was sick. Looked intriguing and up my alley. I know nothing of the books or the previous movie.

I liked the whole vibe!! The show gave me Sherlock vibes which surprised me as before this I had not found anything close to Sherlock. The acting was well done in my opinion. Point Blanc was intriguing, but the show hit its stride in the second season. Likable characters and it is relatively clean.

Once Upon a Time – Fantasy

I was browsing with my sister to find something short to watch. This is what we found. Years ago, I knew several friends who enjoyed it, but I felt like it wasn’t my thing. Growing up, I was never a princess fan.

However, Once did surprise me. The plot was different. All these fairy tale characters are trapped in a town by an evil queen. She has erased their memories so all they know is modern life not who they were beforehand. Except for one day, a detective shows up and things begin to unravel.

The one big complaint I have is the acting. Gosh, at times it is bad. Especially Prince Charming, eek. Snow White is not much better. Currently midway through season 2 and sort of took a break.

Rings of Power – Fantasy

There was so much hype for The Rings of Power and I was on the fence for the longest time. Overall I’m glad I did, but I still have a few reservations about the big reveals. I did want to like it.

It takes place during the second age which is many years before Lord of the Rings. Bits of the story come from The Silmarillion which is Tolkien’s history book of the First and Second age and the Appendixes.

First, I did like Elrond and Durin. Their relationship felt the most realistic to Tolkien’s works. Disa added to the story as well. Numenoor was neat to see as that’s where Aragorn’s people come from. Galadriel was only so-so. For me, I just did not care one way or another about her mission. There was no reason to care. The Harfoots added nothing to the story except maybe finding young Gandalf and even then he didn’t do much.

The cinematography had some beautiful shots, but I did not really feel like I was in Middle-earth. Will see what happens in the next season.

Survivor David Vs. Goliath– Reality show

I remember seeing a handful of episodes growing up and knew the concept of Survivor, but this was the first time I actually watched a full season.

David Vs Goliath is a later season and had quite a few twists and turns. Definitely better then some of the other seasons we watched. Fans Vs. Favorites was horrible; we quit a few episodes into it.

There was more strategy during this season and lots of alliances. It surprised me that the two tribes kept their separate identities even after the merge. If I remember right, even a sacrifice of an immunity idol. I rooted for the David tribe as they were very much the underdogs. We liked Christian, he got along with most of the tribe. Overall it was just a tight season.

Stranger Things – Sci-fi, Horror

I was super excited to see season 4 as Stranger Things is one of my favorite shows. We got hooked on the show pretty soon after season 2 aired so I feel like we have gotten to know these characters. I was discussing with my sister why the certain thing that had occurred hurt so much, and we concluded that we have seen these characters grow up. This is why I think that waiting in between episodes or seasons can be a good thing

The characters are created realistically I think. We have Steve who goes from a jerk to becoming an adult and wanting a family. Yet, not every character grows in a good way, I mean Jonathan kinda wonders down a rabbit trail, but that happens in real life. Hooper grows as a dad and figures out how to help his daughter. The boys reach high school and Nancy finds her love of journalism.

Season 4 packs a punch. At one point my sister and I almost quit. It got pretty dark, especially with Vecna, but we stuck it out and things begin to be explained. We get a glimpse into Eleven’s previous life. Good characters die, while others are put in the ringer.

Is this a show for everybody? No, but that’s alright. Is it dark and at times scary? Yep, but there are good things as well.

Anyway, that’s the end of my little discussion. Any shows that stuck out to you in 2022? Any recommendations? Do you like any of these?

Anna

Marvel Cinematic Universe Tag

I am finally getting around to participating in this Marvel Blogathon hosted by Miss Woodhouse –http://notesfromahartfieldgirl.blogspot.com/ and Winchester North Star – https://www.thewinchesternorthstar.net/2020/12/tag-of-ten-mcu-bolgathon.html. Thank you guys for hosting this!! What a fun event!! Throughout the month of January they are reviewing favorite characters, movies and superpowers. For my contribution, I will be doing the tag of ten!! Whohoo!!

Just a heads up there are spoilers throughout this post. So here we go!

1. What is Your Favorite Movie?

Hmm, this is a hard one. I have several contenders: Doctor Strange, Endgame, & Ant-Man. Visually, Doctor Strange is stunning, both odd and cool at the same time. Plus an amazing character arc! Endgame is well the endgame. A culmination of all the movies. Ant-man is just hilarious! Well, I’m gonna say Doctor Strange just cause I feel like everyone will say Endgame.

2. What is Your Favorite Stan Lee Cameo?

Honestly, the one that made me laugh the hardest was his appearance in Captain America Civil War “Are you Tony Stank?” 🙂 It’s perfect way to close an intense and emotional movie.

3. Who is Your Favorite Character from the Original Six?

It’s between Hawkeye and Captain America. Although, we don’t get much screen time with Hawkeye in movies, what we do see is that he is a wonderful father and husband. He quits being an avenger to stay home and be with them. On the battlefield he is focused and precise while also giving advice to those who need it. Cap is a stand up guy trying to do the right thing for his friends. He will have your back no matter what and will take risks if it means saving a friend in trouble * cough * looking at you Bucky.

4. Who is Your Favorite Sidekick (characters not from the Original Six who don’t have their own movie)?

It’s got to be Luis!! He is such a funny character and supports Scott Lang albeit in a bit of an odd way. Luis goes from being a hacker/bugler to forming a security agency. I really wanted Luis to do a recap of all the movies for Endgame, but that didn’t happen.

5. What is the Funniest Moment?

There are so many funny moments throughout these movie. Hmm, oh I remember one. Get Help! Loki and Thor are having a conversation in an elevator before a battle and Thor suggests they “Let’s do Get Help.” Loki is adamantly against it. Yet, we get this is hilarious scene of Thor throwing Loki at an assailant. Priceless!!

6. Who is Your Favorite Villain?

Loki, that’s easy! He is a conflicted villain who at times you kinda feel sorry for. Then at the beginning of Infinity War we get a powerful redemptive moment with Loki and Thor. While no where near as power as Thanos, Loki has some charm.

7. What is Your Favorite Power or Technology?

The time stone is unique and would be fun to use! I think it would be a lot of fun to travel around in time. Although, being careful about not upsetting the different realities. 😉 So yeah, that’s my favorite.

8. What is Your Favorite Sequel (no trilogies!)?

What a hard question! Hmm, Spider-Man Far From Home is the best so far. Ned and Peter learn some life lessons and begin to grow. After Endgame, it held up quite well, & even had some surprises. Mysterio made for a pretty decent villain. Although the Spider-Man Homecoming was better in my opinion.

9. What are Your Favorite End Credits? Or End Credit’s Scene?

Honestly, I’m drawing a blank on end credit scenes. So much for staying in the theaters, waiting patiently for such short scenes that I can’t remember . ;)I remember the scene in Doctor Strange caused more questions then answers. So I’m just going to use that one.

10. Who is Your Favorite Ship?

So, I have three! The first is not cannon with the movies. Peggy and Daniel Sousa. This is from Agent Carter a show that takes place after WW2 and we see what Peggy does after finding out Captain America supposed death. I liked their chemistry and to me it makes more sense for her to have gotten married. Like is suggested in Captain America Winter Soldier as apposed to Endgame. I know lots of people like Peggy and Cap, but I think it would have upset a whole timeline having him stay.

Also Dr. Strange and Christine! I thought they made a cute couple. Plus, what a way to come back after a break-up, almost dying.

The other ship is Daisy and Lincoln from Agent’s of Shield. They worked so well together!! Ugh, so mad they killed him off, but at the same time quite a sacrifice.

Anyway, that’s my contribution to this Blogathan!! Hope you enjoyed it!!

What’s your favorite Marvel Movie? Have a favorite sidekick or ship?

Anna

Review of The Maze Runner

The Maze Runner by James Dashner

Genre – Dystopian, Science Fiction, Survival

Series – 1st book in the Maze Runner series

Rating – PG-13 for violence, scary situations

Synopsis –

Thomas wakes up in box remembering nothing of his previous life, except his name. He soon discovers that he is trapped inside a maze with roughly 4o other boys with similar experiences. They live in the Glade a square space set in the middle of the maze that is closed off from the maze at night. As he befriends some of the other boys, becomes curious about how the maze works. Alby and Newt (the two leaders) show Thomas the ropes, and he soon realizes that he desperately wants to be one of the runners who map out the maze. There is a little resistance from Gally, who claims to recognize Thomas, There are also Grievers, a rubber slug like creature with robotic appendages, who roam the maze at night. Will Thomas and the other boys be able to find a way out? Who put them here?

My Thoughts –

Sorry about the small Hiatus! Things have picked up at work and life has been busy! Hoping to post more soon. I liked this book, I really did, despite reading of this book after watching the movie. Previously, I hadn’t really heard of this series before finding it at local library. I was fascinated by the mystery behind it. Reminded me a lot of Lost, which I thoroughly enjoyed. So after seeing the first movie, I found the book at the library and plowed through it fairly quickly. I have to say that personally, I like puzzles and figuring out what’s going on, so I didn’t mind that the author held back information or gave it to us in small chunks.

I have to say that I liked the movie’s portrayal of Alby and Thomas better then the book. I feel like it flushed out their characters a bit better then the book did. Although, Newt and Mingho had more personality in the book. So, go figure that one out. Chuck is so sweet and the perfect friend for Thomas, who could be a bit selfish at times. Newt is one of my favorite characters and I can connect with him on several levels. He is kinda like the peacemaker of the group and the one who keeps things going. Not really a leader though. Liked the whole Newt having a limb, remind anybody of Crutchie from Newsies ?? 🙂

Although the writing wasn’t super great, the plot moved quickly and kept me interested in the story. There isn’t much character development, more focused on the action and mystery behind the maze which didn’t bug me too much. You don’t get many answers even by the end of the book. * Spoiler Alert *_{I liked that the maze actually spelled out words to help escape}, but wanted more there to be more it. Ending a wee bit flat. It seemed that Thomas just suddenly had the answer to solving maze. Wished he had to work harder to get answer.

There were several little bits that I really loved! Chuck’s sacrifice! What a noble act for such a young kid! He was so brave. I also loved the parts about the Glade and how they had built a little community. Every person had a job; left me wanting more. It felt like that section so brief before we moved on to more action sequences. The meeting of the Keepers was also a nice touch.

Language – Maybe 2 uses of mild British language, mostly the author invented his own slang words that the boys used frequently like “Greenie”, “shank”, “shuck”

Innuendo – None

Violence – Um, yeah, there is quite a bit. Not gory, but it’s in there. First, there is this sickness that people get if stung by the Grievers. It makes them lose their mind and eventually die if they don’t get antidote. The antidote has side effects as well. It causes green veins to appear all over the body & gives the person flash backs to their previous life. The Grievers also will attack at night and either sting them or use its appendages to cause harm. This happens a couple times. Mentions of people getting left out in maze at night who disappear or killed. There is a battle where many Gladers are killed by grievers. Not really detailed, but we know it happens. Chuck jumps in front of a knife to save Thomas. One guy tries to kill Thomas after going through changeling process and remembering.

Other – One other thing I want to mention. After the guy tries to kill Thomas, he is banished to the maze. They all kinda push him out of the glade. This made no sense to me. I mean the guy wasn’t right in the head due to the antidote. Cut him some slack. I felt sorry for him and we see Thomas being horrified at this. Just wish he didn’t have to die.

Conclusion –

I’m a sucker for good mystery with twists and complex puzzles; this book fit perfectly. I enjoyed it quite a bit! The characters felt and acted like normal teenage kids and hopefully they get a bit fleshed out and develop over next book. I really wanted to figure out what was going on, despite having seen the movie, as there were some big differences. Although I had a few quibbles, its a decent first installment and yeah, I’m reading the next one. 😉

Have you seen or heard of this series? What are your thoughts? Can you believe it is already November!

Anna

Sherlock Blog Party

So Thunderbird Queen https://www.thewinchesternorthstar.net/2020/05/tag-of-ten-sherlock-blog-party-2020.html

and Miss Woodhouse http://notesfromahartfieldgirl.blogspot.com/2020/05/what-say-you-to-blog-party.html are hosting a Sherlock blog party throughout the month of May. I think is such a fun idea. Especially since Sherlock is one of my favorite shows!! One of the first posts asked some Would you rather questions. Thunderbird Queen said that we could copy her questions. So here they are!

~ A Tag of Ten ~
Would You Rather….
1. Spend a day with Sherlock or John?

Honestly, although John is such a kind and patient friend, I think it would be more fun to spend a day with Sherlock. Watson is a doctor so I would have to follow him around with his patients, while Sherlock would be out and about getting clues. So Sherlock.

2. Watch the first episode or last episode?

This is such a hard question. I have re-watched both of these episodes multiple times. I’m gonna say the Final Problem. It is such an emotional episode, but I love how it ends!

3. Have Sherlock’s mind or John’s compassion?

Sherlock’s mind is incredible and he can processes information so quickly, but I think I would go mad. 😉 So I would rather have John’s compassion. Plus compassion is such a much needed character trait.

4. Work with Molly or Lestrade?

Both of their jobs are kinda gross. I mean I definitely don’t want to be apart of an autopsy, but finding dead bodies on the street isn’t great either. I am gonna go on character here. I would much rather spend time with Molly. She has such a kind, sweet personality and it would be fun to hang out.

5.Face off against Moriarty or Magnussen?

Ugh, both of these villains are horrible!! But, I detest Magnussen more. So I guess I’ll face off Moriarty.

6. Be best friends with Molly or Mary?

Can I be friends with both? These are both wonderful women. Mary does so much to help John, and has a great personality. Molly is the quiet geek who helps behind the scenes. If I can’t say both, I guess Molly. Especially with Mary’s background, it might not be a good idea to get to close. Her friends don’t last long.

7. Prevent the events of The Recheinbach Fall or The Six Thatchers?

Both of these events are emotional and have some drastic consequences. Due to Recheinbach, John thinks Sherlock is dead, but in The Six Thatchers, Mary dies and John’s emotional collapse. So I guess The Six Thatchers.

8. Deal with a grumpy Sherlock or a grumpy Mycroft?

Sherlock can get quite childish when he is grumpy. Avoids people, lays around all day and is very selfish. I would rather deal with a grumpy Mycroft as he will probably hide at his club and I won’t have to deal with him. 🙂

9. Ride in Mrs. Hudson’s car or Mycroft’s helicopter?

Helicopter please! I have only been on a small 5 person plane once and I loved it. So I think going on Mycroft’s helicopter would be epic!

10. Babysit Rosie or help plan the Watson wedding?

Easy!! Babysit Rosie! She is so cute and it would be so much fun to babysit her.

Bonus: Which version of “Sherlock Lives” scenarios would you choose to make canon?

Again, this one is easy. Sherlock and Molly! Although in the books Sherlock never gets a girlfriend, I think Molly’s relationship with him is cute.

Have you seen Sherlock? Have any favorite episodes?

My Current Top 5 TV Shows

I love books, but I also love movies and shows that bring characters to life. I had been mauling this post over in mind for a while now and I think I will give a brief synopsis of the show and what I liked/disliked. Alright, so onward we go!!

#1 Psych

Synopsis –

So, basically two best friends help consult the Santa Barbara police department solve cases by pretending to be psychic detectives. Most of the time they stumble across clues due to Shawn’s observations. Shawn’s dad used to be a policeman on the force, and they have a rocky relationship. Gus is his best friend and works as a pharmaceutical salesman when not working on cases.

My thoughts –

First, I should admit that I did not discover this show until last fall, long after it finished airing, but this is a show that will get you hooked from start to finish. It has a good mix of comedy and drama. They are almost always cracking jokes even when working the cases, and can seem a little immature, but as you go along there are moments where we get to see the real Shawn and Gus. I love all the characters and their gradual development over the eight seasons.

Plus, if you have not seen the show, now is a good time to start as a new tv movie will be airing this holiday season.

Dislikes – Language. The first several season keep the language down, but around season 6 or 7 they say a bit more. A couple kissing scenes that overdo it.

Rating – PG – Some mild innuendo throughout the show, and a bit of language. Great for teens on up.

#2 Leverage

Leverage:first season in 2019 | TV series | Leverage tv show ...

Synopsis –

Nate Ford’s son dies due to his insurance company refused to pay for his treatment. So to get even Nate joins a group of thieves to take from the powerful and give to those in need. It is like a modern Robin Hood with a touch of White Collar.

My Thoughts

This has been quite an entertaining show to watch. This ragtag band of misfits come together and find a sort of family. Despite the fact that they are committing crime, they are trying to right wrongs and I like that. All the characters have their own niche that they are good at, but put them together and they can do great things. My favorite characters are Eliot and Parker. They are quirky and both of their pasts are a little darker/sadder then some of the other characters.

Dislikes – Language, there is some infrequent mild language throughout the series. Two brief scenes where one character takes a shirt off, but you only see her from behind. A hint that two characters slept together. Maybe two times where you see women in bikinis. The violence is not to bad. Only a little blood is shown.

Overall – We have been able to watch this as a family and enjoy the characters develop. I love the more complex heists which throw a couple curve-balls at you.

Rating TV14 – for violence and language

#3 BBC Robin Hood

Synopsis –

Robin of Locksley returns after the crusades to find that his village has been overtaken by the sheriff and his men. Becoming an outlaw, he gathers together a group of outcasts and tries to protect his people and those he loves.

My Thoughts –

This is another recent find and I have enjoyed this series immensely. Yes, it is a little cheesy, and yes, the fight scenes are corny, but it is the acting and characters that makes this good. The BBC knows how to put together a good drama. I love Robin and Marian together. They are the cutest couple, and they have to go through so many obstacles. The sheriff is truly evil and I root for Robin and his gang. They also give Robin flaws which is nice.

If you have seen The Hobbit, Guy of Gisborne is Thorin Oakenshield.

Dislikes –

Honestly, so far it has been a pretty clean show. The violence is super cheesy and light. They do show a hanging or two, but Robin mostly saves the people from getting hurt. Language is almost nonexistent, maybe a choice word here or there. So far (I am currently in the middle of season 2) only like three scenes with innuendo. Some of Marian’s dresses are a little low.

Overall – So far I have really enjoyed it and look forward to finishing it. Update – I finished it!! Interesting ending. I actually kinda liked it.

Rating – PG

#4 BBC Sherlock

I can't not recommend this... While I love RDJs action-packed ...

Synopsis –

This is a modern remake of the story of Sherlock. Sherlock is a consulting detective for Scotland yard. He meets a injured army doctor returning from war and they end up working together to solve crime. But how far will Sherlock go to keep his friends safe?

My Thoughts –

The first time I watched it, I thought hmm, this is kinda good. Then as we ended season one I thought, how cruel!!! You can not end it like that! They got me hook, line and sinker. 🙂 Anyway, the acting is supurb, and the mysteries are intense! Most of the episodes come from a story in the original books. I am the type of person who will overlook plot holes, if the show/book has really good characters. Sherlock’s character development over the four seasons is absolutely amazing! I love how he grows as a character from being quit the jerk to saving his friend’s life. My favorite episode is probably The Sign of Four. So many good moments in there.

Dislikes –

There are a couple content issues as sometimes it can be a little dark. The language is not too bad, mostly mild language with some British cuss words thrown in occasionally. The violence includes someone falling off a building, a couple time where someone is shot, a scary dog hallucination, and bombs. For the innuendo, there is one episode we skipped which is the first episode in season 2 and there is some stuff in the last episode of season 3 where Sherlock gets a girlfriend, but just for a case. There are some sad scenes with Watson in season 4, but they way it is resolved is quit good. Very tearful.

Rating – TV14

Overall –

Due to what I mentioned earlier, I would say teen on up with this show. I do love it! There is some amazing acting, sets are great, as are costumes!

#5 Doc Martin

Doc Martin (TV Series) (2004) - FilmAffinity

Synopsis –

A brain surgeon suddenly develops a blood phobia and moves from London to the town of Port Wenn where he becomes there local GP. He is a crusty curmudgeon who has no bedside manner. Yet, he meets a local school teacher who finds a place in his heart.

My Thoughts –

This another British drama that is excellent. I like that this drama show regular people as they are with their issues and quirks. Normal people with problems. Marin has a really good character arc as he discovers things about himself. Louisa is another character who is great! There is a will they won’t they that goes on for quit a while. A little annoying as they go back and forth for a long time. Lastly, the scenery is absolutely beautiful!! It is set in Port Issac which they rename Port Wenn for the show.

Dislikes –

The doc sometimes likes to use colorful language now and then. He has a statue of Buddha, and definitely not a believer. The violence is minimal as the most you see if a little blood. In a later season someone get cut from glass which they do show. We only skipped maybe two episodes in season 2 or 3 . A couple references to character not being faithful. Two characters slept together outside of marriage once.

Overall –

The show feels light and despite the doc’s surliness, you do see that he cares about the people in the town. Then one is probably teen on up. Younger kids might get bored.

Rating – TV14

So have you seen any of these shows? Did you like/dislike them? Any shows that you would suggest?

Anna