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Where have I been?

Image of a hospital

Hey friends,

Soooo, you’ve probably noticed I’ve been a little MIA lately (unless you’re thinking that I’ve suddenly become some sort of desert hermit). But yeah, there’s a solid reason for it. I had a bit of an accident. By “bit of an accident,” I mean—I shattered both my hip and my pelvis. Like, if my bones were a vase, they’d be more like fine china that slid off the shelf in slow-motion while you’re too far away to catch it… but, you know, in bone-form. Ta-da! 🎉

So yeah, long story short, I’ve been spending the past three weeks in the hospital getting acquainted with Oxycodone and pitifully watching subpar daytime TV. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t as glamorous as it sounds. To top things off, I just spent another week in Rehab. Not the rockstar kind of rehab, though. More the “oh no, I need to walk again without resembling a newborn giraffe but I can put no weight on my left side” kind of rehab. Turns out, learning to navigate the world with a pelvic injury makes you feel like a clumsy puppet with half its strings cut.

It’s gonna be a bit of a haul getting back to my usual self, and I’m still in recovery mode (iced coffee and binge-worthy series included on prescription). So, sadly, my posts might pop up less often.

Now, if we rewind a bit, you might remember I was doing that little movie-a-day challenge? Yeah, that thing where I tried watching a movie every day for a year. Let me tell you, I gave it a good shot. I hit over 300 days in a row! That’s basically an entire year in dog-movie-watching years (yes, I invented that term). But here’s the thing. With my current physical predicament, lying around in bed all day with a shattered pelvis isn’t exactly ideal for movie marathons. Somehow, I can’t even find the energy to hit “Next episode” anymore, and that tells you all you need to know. Sooo yeah, I think it’s fair to say that challenge is wrapped up. Cue dramatic applause 🎬

Was it an epic journey filled with incredible stories, strange plots, and too many bad CGI explosions to count? Yup. Did I feel like I was living in the IMDb database half the time? Absolutely. It was a cool challenge, and hey, I even discovered some weird indie gems along the way (plus, I’m now an absolute pro at finding obscure Korean thrillers). But every hero’s journey comes to an end. Every dragon eventually flies off into the sunset. And this hip-shattered movie lover is calling it a day on the one-a-day rule.

But! I still totally plan on tossing the occasional movie review your way! I mean, c’mon, you didn’t think I was walking away cold turkey, did you? If anything, I’ll be filtering my “best of the best” binge-watching for you. Gotta stay classy, right? (Sort of.) I’ll just make ‘em a little less frequent than before because, you know, bones.

Random fact here! Did you know that recovery from a pelvic fracture can genuinely take up to 8-12 weeks (or longer in some cases)? Oh! And the pelvis is actually made up of three bones: the ilium, ischium, and pubis. My pelvis? All three in shambles. It’s like I won the pelvis injury lottery… 🎉🏆

ANYWAY, what this all boils down to is: I’m still alive. I’m still watching things on TV and spending way too much time on Reddit and YouTube, and I’m still planning to share cool stuff with you all. Just… less, ‘cause I’m trying to assemble my skeleton back into some semblance of normal. Pretty wild how much you appreciate working legs when you’ve got crutches jammed into your armpits, huh?

If there’s one silver lining, I’ve also got loads of time to reflect on life… and answer those deep, deep questions like: Why can I never just eat one potato chip? Or Do hospital gowns have a union because damn* if they’re not all ill-fitting*. And I’m hoping that when you’ve gotta power through obstacles (even ones that involve crutches and orthopedic inserts), a bit of positivity, good conversation, and real good movies can brighten things up.

Til’ next time, fam. You know I’ll be floating in and out of the digital realm. Resting, watching, and probably rewriting the list of “Best Action Sequences of 1992-1999” because, well, priorities.

Let’s keep it real. Always.
Roger

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The Scars of Dracula

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 302! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

You know, when it comes to Christopher Lee and his Dracula films, I can’t help but get a little giddy. I mean, there’s a very specific type of charm to his portrayal—like, he’s got that whole “I’m going to kill you and enjoy doing it” vibe down to a science, and it never gets old. So, when I found myself in the mood for some hokey, old-fashioned monster madness, “The Scars of Dracula” was just screaming at me from my watchlist. And let me tell you, it was an experience.

Okay, let’s not kid ourselves here—this movie is peak 1970s horror cheese. It’s got it all: questionable dialogue, melodramatic acting, and a plot that’s sometimes so all over the place that you half expect Dracula himself to get confused and wander off set. But, honestly, isn’t that part of the fun?

So, let’s talk plot—because I know you’re dying to know (pun totally intended). The movie kicks off with a village under Dracula’s reign of terror (who’s surprised?). The locals, naturally, have had enough and decide to burn down his castle. As if that ever works. I mean, this is Dracula we’re talking about! Spoiler: He comes back. And not just with a vengeance—oh no, he comes back to crash a pretty messed-up romance. Cue screams and melodrama.

Christopher Lee, as always, is suave AF as Count Dracula. It’s like he was born to play the guy, even though this particular film gives him a bit less to sink his teeth into (okay, I’ll stop with the puns). Still, the man is menace personified just by standing there with those piercing red eyes, dark cape, and impeccable fangs. Even in scenes when the script is doing him zero favors, Lee just makes Dracula work. It’s kind of incredible. There’s no sparkle to him—this ain’t no Twilight, folks—just straight-up gothic dread.

Now, the rest of the cast… oh boy. Where do I even start? Dennis Waterman plays Simon Carlson, who sets out to find his missing brother, Paul, only to end up smack in the middle of Dracula’s cursed territory. Simon’s the designated hero, I guess, but honestly, he’s kind of cardboard. You just know Dracula’s rolling his eyes whenever this guy tries to get serious. But props to Waterman for trying, I suppose. The damsel-in-distress of this flick (because you’ve gotta have one, right?) is Sarah, played by Jenny Hanley. She’s sweet, she screams, she faints—rinse and repeat. At least she nails the helpless horror heroine gig, even while the script sort of does her dirty with predictable clichés.

One of my favorite—oh-so-random—things about “The Scars of Dracula” has to be the bat effects. And by favorite, I definitely mean “so so bad it’s good.” There’s a scene where these bats attack people, and they’re clearly made out of the kind of rubber that would probably flinch at a gust of wind. It’s like the B-movie gods smiled down and said, “Yes, let there be rubber bats, and let them be utterly, magnificently terrible.” It’s glorious. You can’t help but chuckle. It’s cinema gold, I swear.

The film’s atmosphere, though, deserves a shoutout. Hammer Films—which, by the way, produced this little gem—has always been unmatched when it comes to gothic horror aesthetics: misty forests, decrepit castles, flickering candlelight, and eerie shadows cast on stone walls. It’s the kind of art direction that makes you want to curl up (in mortal fear, of course) with a steaming mug of something unidentifiable and slightly sinister. They just nailed the mood. Always.

At the end of the day, “The Scars of Dracula” is not exactly what you’d call a “great” movie. It’s kinda goofy, bits of it don’t make a whole lot of sense, and some of the acting might leave you smirking rather than shuddering. But it’s exactly what I wanted—good old-fashioned monster movie shenanigans with Christopher Lee looking like he’s got the whole world, or at least Transylvania, in his bloodthirsty hands. So if you’re in the mood for some campy horror that doesn’t try too hard, give it a whirl. Just, uh, maybe don’t expect to be too scared. Unless, of course, you have a serious phobia of rubber bats.

See you under the full moon,
Roger

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The Time Capsule

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 301! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Oh boy, where to start with The Time Capsule? This was an experience that’s a liiiittle bit whimsical and a whole lotta “What if we could relive our past?” It’s directed by Erwann Marshall, and I’m not saying that lightly. I mean, who even remembers the directors most times? But something about the way this film played out makes me think, “Man, this one’s got a filmmaker who’s definitely been through some stuff.”

So, let’s talk plot. Imagine you’ve just been dumped by someone super special, someone you’ve got history with. Deep history. Got that sinking feeling in your stomach yet? That’s where Jack (played by Todd Grinnell) is at when the movie starts. He’s a former politician who’s reached that point in life where you begin to question all your big choices, like, “Was running for office really worth it?”, “Why did I break up with her again?”, and “Do I really wanna spend the rest of my life doing this? Do I really love my wife?” Ugh, Jack, I feel you, man.

Anyway, after a bruising election loss, Jack decides to retreat back to his hometown—a small, sleepy New England kind of vibe. But just as he’s settling into a rhythm of fishing and self-reflection, BAM! Enter his high school sweetheart, Elise (the radiant (played by Brianna Hildebrand), looking not a day older than the last time they shared a stolen kiss under the summer moon… twenty years ago.

Turns out, Elise has been on a two-decade space mission, and thanks to some relativistic shenanigans, she’s has not aged a wrinkle. Talk about a blast from the past! So cue the existential crisis and a whole lot of awkwardness. We watch as Jack, torn between his present commitments and the reawakening of a long-dormant flame, navigates a moral minefield.

The chemistry between Grinnell and Hildebrand is electric, reigniting that teenage spark with a maturity and depth that only comes with time (or lack thereof, in Holly’s case). We watch as Jack grapples with his rekindled feelings, torn between his present life and the alluring “what if” of a love that defies time.

So, the plot floats between your typical “What have I done with my life?” existential crisis and a swirly, fantastical storyline where time itself is more of a background character than a rigid structure. Imagine you had the power to unpause time from whenever you last felt truly alive. What would you do? Who would you try to reconnect with? That’s kind of the haunting and sweet nature of their reunion—and the movie itself. Can you ever really go back? Or will you always be haunted by the road not taken? In a way, I guess the film wants you to ponder that question yourself.

Elise also seems almost like an embodiment of what we’ve lost in the endless march of technology, while also showing us what could be regained if we just stopped looking at our screens for, like, five seconds.

Grinnell’s performance is nuanced and captivating, portraying a man caught between loyalty and longing. He’s got this grounded energy that makes you empathize with him even when he’s being a bit of a numbskull. The guy’s charming in that “I don’t even know why you like me” kind of way, which, let’s face it, is relatable on so many levels. Strickland, as the seemingly composed wife Maggie, delivers a quiet intensity that hints at the turmoil brewing beneath the surface. And Hildebrand, as the eternally youthful Elise, exudes an infectious energy that lights up the screen.

And of course, there’s a strong supporting cast, but honestly, it’s Todd and Brianna who make things sizzle. Their heartfelt performances give The Time Capsule its emotional core.

One thing’s for sure: the cinematography here hits you in the feels. There are all these small-town vibes—you know, the kind where the air’s crisp, the mornings are perpetually golden, and you’re pretty sure you can smell the ginormous pancakes from everybody’s kitchens. It’s like the movie itself is telling you to pause, take in the scenery, and remember what it feels like to have tangible memories.

All in all, it’s not just a movie about regret or a metaphorical second chance—it’s more about connection: with others, with ourselves, and with everything flying by while we’re busy making plans. You’ll find yourself submerged in nostalgic papercuts and maybe even questioning the choices that brought you to where you are (which I guess might be in front of a screen, taking in my rambling review?).

Alright, I’m off to contemplate life and avoid finishing that one thing I’ve been procrastinating on for too long. Watch The Time Capsule if you haven’t—it might make you feel like you’re still driving down that melancholy road back to your hometown.

Cheers!
Roger and Out.

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Movie-a-Day Challenge: Howl

howl movie posterThis post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 244! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey there, friends!

So, I finally got around to watching “Howl,” directed by the dynamite duo Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman. If you haven’t checked it out yet, you’re in for a treat, especially if you dig poetry or have a soft spot for the beat generation. “Howl” is not your run-of-the-mill biopic; it’s a creative whirlwind that captures the essence of Allen Ginsberg’s groundbreaking poem and its impact.

First, let’s talk about James Franco. Guys, he embodies Ginsberg with such eerie precision—it’s like he channeled the man’s soul. Franco delivers lines with a raw, magnetic energy that totally transports you back to 1950s America, a time when speaking your truth was often met with raised eyebrows and even a court gavel. The scenes where he’s reciting the poem? Absolutely mesmerizing. You can feel the frustration and passion vibrating in the air.

The film uses this cool blend of black-and-white and color sequences, and then there are these wild animated sequences that roll out like a trippy, shadowy dream. These bits visualize parts of the poem, and honestly, it’s like stepping inside Ginsberg’s mind during a feverish dream. It’s a bit of a head-scratcher at times, but that’s kind of the point, right? Art is supposed to challenge us. There’s a scene with a saxophone wailing in the background, and the smoky haze just makes you want to snap your fingers like they did in those old poetry readings.

Speaking of challenges, the obscenity trial is a major part of the movie. You’ve got David Strathairn, playing the prosecutor, who’s all stiff and starchy, trying to prove that “Howl” is obscene. And then there’s Jon Hamm, the dapper Don Draper himself, plays the lawyer defending the poem’s publisher with a smooth-as-butter demeanor. Seeing him in a courtroom instead of a smoky bar is a bit of a shock, but he’s as smooth as ever.

The trial scenes are intense, showing how “Howl” was seen as a threat to the establishment. Those courtroom exchanges are a fascinating look at the societal norms of the time, and they pose this big question: what is art and who gets to decide what’s too bold? It’s a reminder that art can be a powerful force for change.

Now, this movie isn’t for everyone. It’s experimental, it’s poetic, and it definitely makes you think. But if you’re into literature, history, or just want to see something different, give it a shot. You might be surprised by how much it resonates with you.

But what really stuck with me after watching “Howl” is how it captures the spirit of rebellion and the need to be heard. It’s about more than just a poem; it’s about fighting for the right to express oneself, about art shaking up the status quo. And while the film takes some artistic liberties (like all biopics do), it succeeds in making you feel connected to that restless energy of the Beats.

So yeah, whether you’re a poetry newbie or someone who can recite “Howl” by heart, there’s something magnetic about seeing this slice of literary history come to life. Plus, who can resist a throwback to when coffee houses were filled with cigarette smoke and fierce ideas, not just laptop screens and latte art? IMHO, this is also the kind of movie that’s meant to be experienced, not just understood.

Who knows? “Howl” may suddenly give you the urge to write, or at least read a bit of Ginsberg. Either way, it’s good!

Catch you later,
Roger

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Movie-a-Day Challenge: The Night Listener

The night listener movie posterThis post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 190! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey folks!

So, I sat down last night and entered into some serious psychological thriller territory watching, “The Night Listener,” based on the novel by Armistead Maupin. It’s more like a slow burn that creeps under your skin and keeps you mesmerized until the very end.

For those of you who haven’t caught this flick yet, it’s pretty intense. Robin Williams stars as Gabriel Noone, a late-night radio storyteller whose life kind of spirals when he starts talking to this young listener, Pete, played by Rory Culkin. Pete has written a manuscript about the horrific abuse he suffered at the hands of his parents. Here’s the kicker: Pete’s only 14 years old !

Gabriel is instantly captivated by Pete’s story and his vulnerability. He also starts forming a bond with Pete’s adoptive mother, Donna (played by the ever-talented Toni Collette). But hold on a sec, folks, because this is where things get tricky. As Gabriel delves deeper into Pete’s story, some inconsistencies start popping up. Is Pete really who he says he is? Is Donna as trustworthy as she seems? Has anyone ever even seen Pete? Is the whole thing one elaborate hoax?

Now, I don’t wanna spoil the entire movie for you, but let’s just say Gabriel finds himself questioning everything he thought he knew. The line between truth and fiction starts to blur, and the suspense gets so thick you could cut it with a knife .

Speaking of suspense, I gotta say that it’s not that in-your-face kind of scare but more of a slow burn that creeps up on you. And those scenes where Gabriel’s wandering around Pete’s supposed hometown? Absolute chills, folks. The cinematography’s all shadows and whispers and makes you feel like you’re right there with him, peeking around corners and doubting everything.

Robin Williams is phenomenal in this film by the way. He completely sheds his usual comedic persona and portrays a man grappling with loneliness and desperation. And Toni Collette? Let’s just say her performance is chillingly good – you never quite know what she’s thinking or what her motives might be.

But alright, if I’m being honest here (and why wouldn’t I be?), the movie isn’t perfect. The pace can feel a bit off at times, like it’s unsure whether it wants to sprint or just stroll through the creepy parts. And some plot points feel a bit undercooked, leaving you wanting more or maybe just something a bit different.

However, overall, “The Night Listener” nails that eerie, unsettling vibe that’s perfect for a late-night movie binge. It makes you question the stories we hear and the people we trust. And Robin Williams? Just phenomenal.

So yeah, if you’re in the mood for a thriller that’s more of a slow simmer than a full boil, give it a watch. It might just have you questioning what’s real and what’s just a story.

Peace out ✌️
Roger

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Movie-a-Day Challenge – Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves

Dungeons dragons honor among thieves movie posterThis post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 175! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey, friends!

So, last night’s film du jour was a fun fantasy entitled, “Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves.” And guess what? I had a blast! 🎉 I mean, who would’ve thought that a movie based on a role-playing game could turn out to be this entertaining? Directed by the dynamic duo John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein, this film isn’t just another fantasy flick; it was so much fun! Like, popcorn-munching, soda-slurping, grin-from-ear-to-ear kind of fun.

Let’s dish about the plot – it’s a total escapade into the world of D&D, complete with all the twists and turns of a classic dungeon crawl. The movie follows this charming rogue named Edgin (Chris Pine, looking oh-so-dapper in leather armor), who’s this charming rogue with a knack for trouble. Pine absolutely nails it, bringing a mix of humor and a little heartache to the role, which totally makes you root for him. He’s like that lovable scamp you can’t help but cheer for, even when he’s making questionable life choices.

The storyline kicks off after Edgin and his buddy Holga, played by the always awesome Michelle Rodriguez, get themselves into a typical mess of needing to steal a magical relic to save Edgin’s daughter. Classic, right? But, oh boy, the fun doesn’t stop there. They end up forming a ragtag group with a wizard named Simon, hilariously underplayed by Justice Smith, and a shapeshifting druid, Doric, who Sophia Lillis brings to life with such pep it’s contagious!

And get this – Hugh Grant as the villainous Forge Fletcher? He’s just perfect, blending sleaze and charm into a villain you love to hate. The dynamics among the characters are spot on, with banter that feels like what you’d have with your friends during an actual D&D game. 😄

There’s this one scene where they’re all sneaking through a dungeon that’s so classic. It’s filled with traps and treasures, and it’s so vividly shot that you almost feel the dank air and hear the distant clinks and clatters of the dungeon life. And don’t even get me started on the CGI effects – they’re seriously cool, not overdone but just magical enough to whisk you away from reality.

One thing I really loved was how the film didn’t just stick to the script of being a visual spectacle; it had its emotional beats. You know, moments where the characters reflect on their past choices, which gives it a layer of depth you sometimes miss in action-packed blockbusters.

Honestly, “Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” is one of those movies that leaves you with a goofy smile as the credits begin to roll. It’s a reminder of how movies can be fun and light-hearted, yet clever and captivating. If you’re in for a good time, with plenty of laughs and some edge-of-your-seat moments, this is your ticket.

TTFN 👋
Roger

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Movie-a-Day Challenge: The Way He Looks

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 165! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey friends, 🌈

So, last night, after an eternity of scrolling through Netflix (you know the drill), I stumbled upon this gem called “The Way He Looks.” It’s a Brazilian movie from 2014, directed by Daniel Ribeiro, and oh boy, am I glad I hit play! This one’s not your typical teen romance, folks. Get ready for a coming-of-age story that’s equal parts adorable and thought-provoking.

Our main character is Leo, a visually-impaired teenager with a serious case of wanderlust. Stuck between his overprotective mom and his well-meaning but slightly smothering best friend Giovana (seriously, this girl!), Leo just wants a taste of independence. Enter Gabriel, the new kid at school with a voice like smooth jazz and a smile that could melt glaciers. Let’s just say, sparks fly when these two are paired up for a school project. Yep, it’s a coming-of-age and coming-out story wrapped in one. But it’s crafted so beautifully that it feels fresh and utterly captivating.

Now, the beauty of “The Way He Looks” is that it doesn’t treat Leo’s blindness like a defining characteristic. It’s there, sure, but it’s not the entire story. We see the world through Leo’s senses – the comforting rhythm of his tapping cane, the way, the thrill of riding two-up on a bicycle with the wind whipping through his hair (yes, you read that right!). It’s a refreshing change from movies that often portray disability as a limitation.

And let’s talk about Leonardo, played by Ghilherme Lobo. This guy, I tell you, brings such a raw, genuine vibe to Leo that you can’t help but root for him from the get-go. And not in a pity-party way, but more like, “Yes, Leo, go explore the world, make mistakes, fall in love, live your best life!” kind of way. Then there’s Fabio Audi as Gabriel, who’s just… chef’s kiss.

Of course, there’s the whole will-they-won’t-they tension between Leo and Gabriel. The actors, Guilherme Lobo and Fábio Audi, have incredible chemistry, making their friendship and eventual romance in the film feel so real and heartwarming. It’s like, you can feel the butterflies in your stomach during their scenes together. They capture that awkward sweetness of young love perfectly – stolen glances, shy smiles, those fumbled attempts to hold hands that make you wanna rewind and relive your own first crush.

The chemistry between these two is off the charts, making their friendship and eventual romance feel so real and heartwarming. It’s like, you can feel the butterflies in your stomach during their scenes together.

But it’s not all butterflies and rainbows. There’s Giovana’s jealousy to contend with, the ever-present societal pressures, and Leo’s own internal struggles about his sexuality. The plot is simple but incredibly effective. It’s a story about love, jealousy, and the complexities of human relationships. The film doesn’t shy away from these complexities, but it handles them with a delicate touch that feels genuine. The film also doesn’t shy away from addressing bullying and the struggle of wanting to be accepted for who you are.

Did I tear up? Maybe a little. But hey, that’s just the power of good storytelling, right? “The Way He Looks” is a beautiful reminder that love can blossom in the most unexpected places, and that sometimes, the most profound connections are made not with our eyes, but with our hearts.

Anyway, this movie left me feeling all gooey inside and seriously impressed. If you’re looking for a coming-of-age story that’s both heartwarming and thought-provoking, “The Way He Looks” is definitely worth a watch. So grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready to be swept away. Until next time, happy watching!

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