Bjcorbin's Blog

1.      A Few Good Men:  I loved the acting in this movie.  Jack Nicholson, Kiefer Sutherland and Kevin Bacon were excellent as always; and Tom Cruise and Demi Moore were better than I would have expected.  The script was full of incredible exchanges and memorable one liners.

2.      The Sound of Music:  I thought Julie Andrews was far more likeable in this movie than in (her Oscar winning performance) “Mary Poppins”.  Certainly the story and the music were better too.  Definitely a high point in Rodger & Hammerstein’s brilliant career.

3.      Remember the Titans:  I’m a sucker for a feel good story and anything that Denzel Washington does.  Add a great assembly of young actors and some wonderful old songs from that era and you’ll get me every time.  The fact that it’s based on a true story makes it even better.

4.      Scrooge:  Dickens classic, “A Christmas Carol” is easily one of my favorite stories of all time and this (at times cheesy) musical version from the 1970’s especially resonates with me.  Albert Finney is convincing in every stage of Ebenezer’s life story and I even like a lot of the songs.

5.      The Ultimate Gift:  This is just a great story that drives home what really matters in life.  This young man’s transformation is believable and moving.

6.      12 Angry Men:  This classic starring Henry Fonda is filled with intricate dialogue and worthwhile insights on human nature.

7.      Shall We Dance:  I thought Richard Gere was tremendous in this movie.  His dissatisfaction with where life had taken him, his fascination with his dance instructor (a stunning Jennifer Lopez) and ultimately his love for his wife (Susan Sarandon) were all palpable.  I was pleasantly surprised when the script skipped the typical lurid affair for something far more worthwhile.

8.      Taking Chance:  This HBO film, starring Kevin Bacon is probably too subtle for mass consumption; but as someone who grew up on military bases and who spent twelve years in the Navy, it really hits home with me.  Incredibly touching.

9.      A Walk to Remember:  I love any story where someone is able to reach beyond their own selfish desires and genuinely care about someone else.  Though this clearly falls in the “Chick Flick” section, it absolutely worked for me.

10.  The Polar Express:  This is kind of an odd little movie, but definitely one I can watch repeatedly.  It is beautifully drawn, with great music and an ultimately redeeming theme.  While traditionalists might find some things to quibble with, I thought it was highly engaging.