magical-kingdom Reviews

Radio (2003)

OSCAR WORTHY WINNER

[10/10 · 30 June 2024]

True story! Of a high school football coach, Harold Jones (Ed Harris) who befriends a mentally disabled black young man (Cuba Gooding, Jr) who becomes a student at T. L. Hanna High School, So Carolina. (Alfre Woodard, Principal) They form a friendship bond over the football season which extends over several decades, as he transforms from a shy, tormented man into an inspiration to his community.

Jones protects him from the abuse of some of his players, assisted by his wife (Debra Winger). He says his name is Radio, it's really James Robert Kennedy, who can hardly speak. After some months in the companion of Coach Jones, some resistance of the locals, Radio becomes popular, beloved and a symbol for most of the population.

Romance on the Orient Express (1985 TV Movie)

ORIENT EXPRESS ROMANCE

[10/10 · 8 June 2024]

Beautiful Story and Scenery! Great chemistry between Alex (Stuart Wilson) and strikingly beautiful Lily (Cheryl Ladd) as she takes the Orient Express with a girlfriend, (Ruby Wax). Remembering her history with a past love.

During the flashback and thoughts, we see her and previous girlfriend traveling through Europe; meeting Alex and his friend. Lily and Alex have an interlude but are separated for10 years until present day. When Alex finds her traveling again on Orient Express he tries to make up for what happened. In spite of their renewed love making Lily's fear of a repeat painful situation insisted he leaves her alone.

Alex is making alternate plans when he unexpectedly encounters Lily's friend whose purchasing a gift for Lily's daughter. A revelation providing him with renewed energy/attitude toward a continuous pursuit.

This is a very deeply felt and sincere little film for the true romantic at heart. The locales and aura come together to make a very rare televised film becoming a true favorite for romantically inclined people.

Alex looked so pitifully sorrowful searching for them. Surely would have been upset if the climax broke his heart.

Elvis and Me (1988 TV Movie)

ELVIS and ME

[10/10 · 13 February 2023]

"ELVIS and ME" 1988. Elvis left this world in 1977 but still remains the most imitated man in history, weather on stage or in films.

Susan Walters made a hauntingly beautiful Priscilla. The similarity was fascinating. Dale Midkiff, brought an electric sensitivity to this role. Midkiff's style can hypnotize an audience with a single stare without ever uttering a word. His biographic acting history mentions the considerable positive affect this role was for him.

Magical from the beginning, a 14 year old school girl/Army brat, who stole the heart of Elvis Presley! Her years at Graceland, the wedding, sudden birth of their only child, Lisa Marie. Priscilla's life, as Elvis wife was certainly not a fairy tale. However, recently read her last wishes are to join Elvis and Lisa Maria at Graceland. .

Te Ata (2016)

FANTASTIC, EDUCATIONAL PORTRAYAL LIFE OF NATIVE AMERICANS

[10/10 · 7 February 2022]

FANTASTIC, EDUCATIONAL FILM.... Following the life of a remarkable Native American spokeswoman, Te Ata Thompson Fisher of the Chickasaw Nation.

Historically accurate accounting of the Chickasaw nation being unwillingly forced to become part of the state of Oklahoma. Prejudice against Native Americans in the early 20th Century being still quite strong throughout the United States.

Te Ata rose above these prejudices to present the stories of indigenous people to the world. She was invited to perform at the White House for President Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt, with whom she became great friends and personally honored in a national park. She even entertained the King and Queen of England at the behest of the Roosevelt's.

Biographical history shared after the film is quite interesting. Te Ata lived until 100 yrs old. During that time she married and continued with her native calling.

Hearts of Gold (2003 TV Movie)

GREAT LOVE STORY

[9/10 · 20 November 2021]

Doctor Andrew John (Jeremy Sheffield); Hospital Administrator's (David Warner's) son falls in love with Nurse Bethan Powell....a miner's daughter. They soon become lovers in spite of challenges. Families try to keep them apart, because of different class. His miserable father soon gives him a choice 1) Transfer to a job in London or 2) Bethan loses her job. Andrew makes the ultimate sacrifice by leaving a broken hearted Bethan. Without knowing she is pregnant. Scandal reaches hospital administration and Bethan's fired. Andrew's overwhelmed with pain/sorrow. He learns of unknown details and comes back for Bethan. A wonderful, romantic mini series from BBC. Great performances by entire cast including Kate Jarman (Nurse Powell) a new comer.

Hawkeye (1994–1995)

FABULOUS

[7/10 · 22 September 2021]

FABULOUS Hawkeye is a beautiful story that takes place in the year 1755 in Hudson Valley, New York during the time of the British & French war. The scenery is magnificent with an outstanding cast. Lee Horsley an excellent actor who presents a superior rendition of Hawkeye. A breathtakingly handsome hero with upstanding morals and great horseman.

Rodney Grant (Chingachgook) his best friend, chief of Delaware Indians. Beautiful! Lynda Carter (Elizabeth) Lots of action, adventure along with a sweet love story. Elizabeth's husband is kidnapped. Meanwhile, she takes it upon herself to run the fort and Hawkeye develops an interest in her. At times Hawkeye and Elizabeth appear to want to move forward in their relationship which is always on the up and up. Hawkeye honoring his decent moral character, always watching over her and Chingachgook and vice versa. You can't help but like his character. What a wonderful find. This was a beautifully told series and I thoroughly enjoyed every episode and wished there were more. In fact I'm re-watching and seriously thinking of purchasing the DVD's.

Denial (II) (2016)

EXCELLENT FILM WITH GREAT ACTING and MESSAGE

[10/10 · 20 December 2020]

"Denial" is based on the book "History on Trial: My Day in Court with a Holocaust Denier." It is the story of Deborah E. Lipstadt (Rachel Weiss) and her legal battle in a libel trial brought by David Irving (Timothy Spall) a pathetic figure blind to how his racism and antisemitism corrupted his writings and beliefs. Deborah must prove that the historian lied with intention. Of course for any sane human being, it's beyond belief that a Holocaust denier could achieve even a modicum of attention or notoriety, much less have the audacity to bring suit against a scholar who simply published descriptions of that denier's own words. (Tom Wilkinson) is the outstanding, impressive barrister Richard Rampton who advocates for Ms. Lipstadt and Penguin Books. He must prove Irving was a racist, an Anti-Semite and knowingly misrepresented the facts in his works as a Holocaust denier. Though courtroom drama and corresponding legal work takes up much of the film, the most moving scene was the team's visit to Auschwitz. Heart and soul scenes that speak for themselves. This film is well-written, well-acted, directed and thought provoking. The court exchanges are acted out verbatim - as they actually happened. A reminder of how current society continues to struggle with such inexplicable thoughts.

Rectify (2013–2016)

Haunting Portrayal, Incredibly Well Acted

[10/10 · 21 September 2020]

Aden Young as Daniel, who at the age of 18 was sent to death row for rape and murder, is now free after 19 years. His haunting portrayal as someone who is suddenly thrust into freeway traffic when he's never even seen a car is award worthy. The everyday world is whizzing by him at a pace he's never seen or doesn't remember. He's in a constant state of confusion and bewilderment. "Gasping for Air" as he breaks to the surface for the first time in many years. Every move he makes is cautious because in his mind it could be his last. He is slow, speaks with the syntax of someone whose well read but had very little experience actually having a conversation with another living person. He comes off as odd. Who wouldn't after what he's been through. His lost youth, the experiences he endured and will never recover from. All around him are more victims. His family, especially Mother and Sister. Whose love, understanding and support is unmeasured. Family of murdered girl. Judgmental authorities who continue to fight for his execution. It's incredibly well acted and gives us some time to know the characters. At the onset, I wasn't sure if the story perked my interest enough but found myself very emotionally involved expressing more feeling, speaking out loud than I can recall about any recent series. EXCELLENT!!

Walking with the Enemy (2013)

WALKING WITH THE ENEMY

[10/10 · 4 September 2020]

Such an incredible accounting based on a unique true story and tribute to an amazing, courageous young man brave enough to stand against Hitler's horrible killing machine by impersonating a Nazi SS officer in order to save the lives of innocent people. Rescuing thousands of men, women and children from extermination. A powerful time in history when protecting other's often meant sacrificing your own life. So very sad to think of the suffering and heartache people had to endure due to such inhumane acts committed because of hate, desire for importance and world denomination. Gripping horrible time in history. Excellent acting by entire cast. Brilliant performance by lead actor Jonas Armstrong.

Little Women (2019)

LITTLE WOMEN 2019 VS 1994

[5/10 · 11 January 2020]

Little Women 2019 A period drama about the growing up and loves of the March sister's in 1800's America. Constant time jumps due to flashbacks were a bit confusing. Appreciated the performances and certain elements of it but I generally prefer the 1994 version in many ways: linear storytelling, two different Amy's. Storyline has far more heart, warmth, coziness. I've viewed it several times and always cry when Beth dies (Claire Daines fantastic in that scene). (Christian Bale) as Laurie - great actor, captures Laurie very well: charming, confident, sensitive. Susan Sarandon as (Marme) awesome actress brought so much more to the screen. Both were "A cut above" no comparison. (Gabriel Bryne) as Jo's Friedrich is ideal...much better actor. The music, performances of "Little Women" 1994 version does by far the best job of selling that drama and pulling at your heartstrings.

Closing the Ring (2007)

A VERY UNIQUE, ENGAGING ROMANTIC DRAMA

[8/10 · 14 November 2019]

"Closing The Ring" is an engaging romantic drama. It is worth a watch. A really fine movie about unresolved love over the decades. The story flips fairly seamlessly between 1991 and 1943, starting with the funeral of Shirley MacLaine's WW2 Veteran husband. Christopher Plummer sits outside with her during the service. While her daughter Neve Campbell delivers the eulogy and not understanding her Mother's indifferent attitude about her father's death. She refuses to grieve, numbing herself with alcohol, lashing out at her daughter and lifelong friend Christoper Plummer.(the only person knowing her secrets). Then, a flash to the past, with a young Shirley MacLaine surrounded by three adoring servicemen about to be shipped off to WW2. As the film continues, more mysteries are introduced. In Ireland, Pete Postlethwaite is digging in a dangerous area, finding pieces of a wrecked WW2 airplane. Each flashback to the 1940s gives gives just one more piece to the ever-growing puzzle, and it keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.

Outlander: Man of Worth (2019) Season 4, Episode 13

THREE MEN OF WORTH

[10/10 · 1 February 2019]

So exicting, full of emotions. Fantastic, Superub Acting. Jamie so strong, compassionate dealing with difficult situations. Ian's heartwrenching sacrifice. Tears from everyone, saying goodbye. Jamie's desire to prove a worthy parent. Determined to rescue Roger singlehanded. "I"ll not return to Bree with a lump of rock;while Roger is still here" Roger's Rescue...He and Jamie fighting. Demand Roger make a decision. "You cost me a lad I love, my daughter doesn't need a coward. Rather she hate me the rest of her life than allow you to break her heart" Great, Murtagh and Jocasta...Interaction "Scheming..You sound like a lunatic" Next morning their in bed. Whoa, Never knew a man with long white hair could look so fine. Bree running down the field to Roger. Him asking to see his son. Men of worth...Roger, Ian and Jamie. Episode so very well done. Didn't mind J&C not being there for birth. Governor Tyron Order: Form a Militia. First mission: hunt down and kill fugitive Murtagh Fitzgibbons. Scary

Dickensian (2015–2016)

TRULY, AMAZING DICKENS RENDITION

[10/10 · 24 January 2019]

"Dickensian" title perked my curiosity. Was quite skeptical about the whole premise surrounding Dickensian. The story was a seriously engaging combination dark retelling of Dickens stories....Superb!! Very well written and plotted. It was fun to see all the different books brought together, characters given life in such a cohesive, logical, refreshing way. Another continuing series would be great. Giving some sense of closure reference regarding the characters fate. Will Amelia find happiness? Will she forgive Arthur, welcoming him back into her life? Will Honoria! be reunited with her handsome soldier, Who truly loved her? Does she discover what her evil sister Frances did with her baby? How about the lawyer's involvement? The story is well written, plotted and utterly addictive. After falling asleep, missing several episodes, I returned to the beginning making certain nothing was missed.

Outlander: Down the Rabbit Hole (2018) Season 4, Episode 7

DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE

[8/10 · 15 January 2019]

Enjoyed episode! Very well done. Bree's entire meeting with Ian..SO SPECIAL. Ian surely wanted to spend more time but felt the urgency for Bree to move on. Missed Bree meeting Jenny and the encounter with L'Heery one of the best parts in the book. Laura being unavailable presented challenges but they did a great job. L'Heery's kindness soon turned into threat..revealing her true colors. Brave Joanie to the rescue...young but seen too much of her Mother's nastiness. Ship scenes with Stephen Bonnet and Roger were good. Flashback, split scenes excellent. Especially liked last scene with Bree visualizing Frank prior to voyage.

Outlander: Blood of My Blood (2018) Season 4, Episode 6

BLOOD OF MY BLOOD

[9/10 · 15 January 2019]

"Blood of my Blood" was an excellent episode. Interaction/honesty between Claire and Lord John was very well done. Claire questioning his motivation for coming to Fraser's Ridge..spot on. Wonderful love scene. Jamie's heartfelt present to Claire...a ring made from Ellen (his Mother's) candle holder, fashioned by Murtagh (Love of his life). Such a precious gift to treasure. Claire "Ellen would be proud to have raised such a thoughtful son" Master William...an ill mannered, annoying, spoiled brat..played the part well. Murtagh clashing with Lord John. Jamie reminding Murtagh he saved his life. Warning Murtagh, be careful you'll be eating rats again. Emotional exchange between characters..super!!

Outlander: Wilmington (2018) Season 4, Episode 8

WILMINGTON

[8/10 · 15 January 2019]

Great Episode!! Such an interesting mix of scenes. Good direction and story telling. So many characters being in Wilmington. Especially enjoyed Murtagh's reaction to Fergus unexpected arrival to warn him; Murtagh smile once realizing who he was. Love scene between Brianna and Roger, so sensitive, sexy. The ensuing argument causing separation was very unfortunate. Who knew Brianna would be the victim of a violent attack, directly following so much tenderness. Clare's interaction with Governor Tyron and onlookers while performing surgery. Meeting George Washington. Clare's comical remark about cutting down the cherry tree and explaining the history to Jamie. Historical comments regarding the theater production and decision to feature Bree's attack rather than flashbacks. Very well done!!

Outlander: The Birds and The Bees (2018) Season 4, Episode 9

THE BIRDS AND THE BEES

[8/10 · 15 January 2019]

Incredible. Jamie's expression, emotions, tears of joy. Finally meeting a child of his blood he doesn't have to hide. Adored Jamie & Bree's interaction while bee hunting. Jamie's chosen words, attitude perfect. Crediting Frank for loving, raising another man's child. His sadness letting her go. Happy she returned. Tears in his eyes watching his daughter smile in her sleep. Jamie to Claire "A gift from me to you". Murtagh's presence such a bonus. Claire's shock finding her wedding ring and learning Bonnet raped Brianna. Ian's humor. When it comes to Auntie Claire I've learned not to ask too many questions. Episode captured the pain, fear, intimacy, hate and humor. Fantastic presentation, well written and beautifully filmed. Tough time watching Jamie beat up on Roger, I turned away.

Outlander: The Deep Heart's Core (2019) Season 4, Episode 10

THE DEEP HEART'S CORE

[10/10 · 15 January 2019]

Great episode! Loved how Jamie "proved" to Bree she could not have done anything to defend herself against Bonnet. Brianna is a disrespectful brat. Her initial anger was expected but slapping, punching family...who were protecting her. The horrible Jamie vs Frank "her father!"dig...so heart wrenching for Jamie. Claire and Bree not accepting there role as creators of the mess, or relaying details to Lizzy correctly. Claire's lack of support for Jamie, allowing Bree's unjustified behavior and Bree's indignant attitude, demands..What Gall. Holding fast to her insolence,continued bashing of Jamie and Ian's honor...No defense from Claire as they go their separate ways. In spite of Jamie begging her forgiveness. Bree could benefit from a trip to the tool shed that she sorely deserves.?? Liked how Murtaugh was included and seeing Aunt Jocasta again.

Outlander: If Not For Hope (2019) Season 4, Episode 11

IF NOT FOR HOPE

[9/10 · 15 January 2019]

Awesome episode! Great first meeting interaction between Lord John and Bree. Wonderful to see their relationship developing. Bree threatening to publicly expose his indiscretion. In spite of her desperation..Felt like smacking her when he kindly refused...Lord John's response..Perfect!!

Claire's apology for keeping a secret from Jamie...Not being forthcoming about Bonnet. How it could have saved Roger. So sad Jamie feels he can't be a Father to Bree, she doesn't need him. He's jealous of a dead man, who Bree said would never say those things to her...Told him...Go to Hell. Claire's reassurance "all will be well" Both spoke out of anger, they are alike, neither meant them. Murtagh's capture of Bonnet "Looking for a Gentleman and Your Not" Hits the floor...Yeah! Marasali's giving Fergus manhood a boost by asking Murtagh to include him in his plans and he does.

Outlander: Savages (2018) Season 4, Episode 5

Fabulous, Outstanding, Loved It.

[10/10 · 6 December 2018]

Fantastic Episode...Murtagh's reunion with both Jamie and Claire was awesome. Watched the reunion scenes 5 times. Jamie walking into the blacksmith shop complaining; Murtagh recognizing his voice but not turning around until Jamie insisted. The emotion, joy, tears, embracing touched my heart. Loved Murtagh's reaction to Ian Jr calling him an old coot AND Murtagh's when Jamie revealed Claire had come back to him. Jamie showing Murtagh his Mother's candlestick holders. Claire heard someone whistling "boogie woogie bugle boy" and was ecstatic to see Murtagh walking up the path at Fraser's Ridge

Walt Before Mickey (2015)

Walt Disney is a legacy never to be forgotten. Negative reviews undeserved.

[8/10 · 18 November 2018]

A simple life story of a legend whose brought more pleasure and entertainment to the masses than any single individual. Disney films winner of 22 Oscars, 36 Wins, 46 Nominations. From drawing pictures on the family barn, school books, selling sketches to neighbors at 7 yrs old. Aspiring to be an actor. Being an artist was his passion. Discovering at 13 yrs old film print was just a picture he could draw...animation. He dropped out of school at 16 yrs old and joined Red Cross Ambulance Unit. Became more mature/focused on an objective. Educated at art institutes in Chicago and Kansas. Laugh-O-Grams studio began joined with partners. With dreams comes failure. There were many obstacles, adversities, financial hurdles, destitution and hunger. Perseverance paid off...Alice in Wonderland first success. Global success of Mickey Mouse won 26 Academy Awards. Including one for creating first ever animated film: "Snow White and 7 Dwarfs" Orlando's Disney World was on the horizon in 1966 but he passed away before realizing that dream. His brother Roy saw it opened in 1971.

The Shape of Water (2017)

Modern Slant on "Creature from the Black Lagoon"

[7/10 · 20 March 2018]

The Shape of Water is a very unique story revolving around Elisa (Sally Hawkins) a mute,isolated woman working as a cleaning lady in a high security government laboratory in 1962 Baltimore. She falls in love with a mysterious, scaled creature living in a water tank who accepts her in spite of faults. Elisa develops a unique bond with her new friend, she soon learns that its fate and very survival lies in the hands of a hostile government agent and a marine biologist. Michael Shannon is the cruel, government bad guy. Octavia Spencer, a sassy black woman supports and understands Elisa completely. Feels like a modern slant on "Creature from the Black Lagoon" Enjoyed the out of ordinary uniqueness that some may consider weird.

The Paradise (2012–2013)

ONLY THE BEST GET CANCELLED

[10/10 · 1 March 2018]

Loved it!! This was a thoroughly delightful series to watch. Stunning costumes. Outstanding performances. Based around Paradise, England's first department store, Tollgate Street, its many merchants and surrounding countryside. The Paradise has it all: love, hate, greed, rivalries, betrayals, intrigue, secrecy, control, manipulation and redemption. Moray, who owns and operates the Paradise is tormented by his past,which direction to follow and being true to his heart/soul. He's torn between Katherine, a rich arrogant aristocrat vs Denise, love interest, pretty country girl. Denise and Moray, both have mixed emotions of jealously and career ambition. A cast of interesting characters reveals their own struggles...Jonas, store detective, Mr. Westin, cruel sociopath, Sam, fun loving sales person. A very well written story with many twists & turns. Disappointed the story doesn't continue. FYI AMAZON VIEWER REVIEWS ARE VERY POSITIVE AND MORE FAIR.

Outlander: The Doldrums (2017) Season 3, Episode 9

Jamie and Claire overcoming hurdles,slow return

[8/10 · 19 November 2017]

Very good! Favorite scene: Jamie likes Claire's gray hair. The way the light hits it,a piece of silver moonlight. Claire: "How could I not love a man who says such things" "If you were to say that in the 20th century...The King of all Men" Loved the closeness, connection between Claire and Jamie. Also love the of the man in the moon. Claire telling Jamie stories of Bree as she grew up,sentiment of longing, missing her. Before leaving with Jared. Jamie told Claire he was being punished for wanting her. Claire's response: No God,worth his salt, would have your nephew kidnapped because you want to be happy. Liked Mr. Willoughby's story. His acupuncture, to help Jamie's sea sickness. Jamie afraid to hurt Claire feelings,giving her more reason to leave. Claire assured Jamie although she was confused/frustrated coming back that she LOVED HIM.♥️

Outlander: First Wife (2017) Season 3, Episode 8

Fantastic, Superb, Awesome

[10/10 · 9 November 2017]

So many good scenes. Of course the top notch shooting and surgery. Great combo of poignancy and humor. Fans were ready to see the Jamie and Claire we fell in love with...Our Heroes. The out-of-character behavior did not please many fans,myself included. Reality vs Fantasy.

Just a few highlights,not necessarily in my favorite order: 1) Jamie's explaining why, he married L'Heery...Heat of Shame 2) Jenny's vision during Jamie & L'Heery's wedding. 3) Jenny's point about Claire would never stop looking for Jamie. 4) Ian chiding Jenny's foolishness "If there's a pot of ***** on to boil ye stir it like it's God's work" 5) The Fight..Wild Beast..Jamie would have done worse than lie, Jenny dousing them. 6) Ian Jr's punishment "Stinks like a devil's ****,rather be thrashed" 7) Ian Sr's wee fire, if it was wee you wouldn't be standing here. Loved it all!

The flashbacks in between were special. The Hogmanny festival at Lallybroch showing Jamie's loneliness. White Witch on Silkie Island, hidden treasure were such a bonuses.

Please,note Scottish version of swear words wasn't allowed. I used symbols *****