Change Your Image
Magman1
Reviews
Akeelah and the Bee (2006)
An eleven year old from a minority neighborhood enters a spelling bee.
This is a truly inspirational film and story demonstrating the heights one can attain if they believe in themselves and have the support of others. This is a film that will make you stand up and cheer. Congratulations and thanks to Lawrence Fishburne for producing this thoroughly enjoyable film. The casting and actors are all perfect. If you liked this film, see "Rudy" and "Searching for Bobby Fisher". "Searching for Bobby Fisher" also stars Lawrence Fishburne who similar to Akeelah, inspires and teaches a young child in becoming a chess champion. While "Akeelah and the Bee" is a fictional story, both "Rudy" and "Searching for Bobby Fisher" are both based on true stories.
Red Sky at Morning (1971)
A naval officer sends his family to New Mexico for safety while he serves in WW II.
I first saw this film while in the Air Force during Viet Nam. It had such a profound effect on my memory that years later I stayed up until 2 AM to record it from the Late Movie on TV. I still watch it often despite the horrible editing. Excellent cinematography, acting, scenery, music, and story. One of the best "coming of age " movies made. Look for the symbolic train that carries the high schoolers away from their youth and into adulthood forever. Similar to the theme of "Racing with the Moon" with Nicholas Cage and Sean Penn (also recommended). Desi Arnez Jr nearly steals every scene he is in. One of John Thomas' best roles, and whatever happened to Catherine Burns in the movies? She was great in this one! Every person I have showed this movie to have loved it and always asks the question..." Why haven't I heard of this movie before?" Proof again that Hollywood Executives don't always know what they're doing. If you can ever find this film from any friend, collection, flea market, or any source whatsoever, watch it! (Out of print and not available on VHS or DVD).
Headin' for Broadway (1980)
Applicants of various backgrounds audition for a spot on Broadway
Singers and dancers from various parts of the country and with various backgrounds head to Broadway to audition for a spot in a show. Focusing on four dancers ranging from Los Angeles to Philadelphia, the film takes them through the whole process of trying out. While the acting isn't all that great, the dancing and music is top notch. Only one actor is recognizable; Lonnie Price,(Niel Kellerman from "Dirty Dancing") plays the role of an NYU student. "Headin For Broadway" also fairly illustrates the audition process, perhaps better than "A Chorus Line". While it is very rare film to find, out of print on VHS and not available on DVD, it is an enjoyable and entertaining movie. If you like good musicals and dance numbers, this is for you.