Tip#608: God in Cinema, Part 1 - Life of Pi

"Even when God seemed to have abandoned me, he was watching. Even when he seemed indifferent to my suffering, he was watching. And when I was beyond all hope of saving, he gave me rest. Then he gave me a sign to continue my journey." 
Life of Pi (2012)

One of the greatest gifts my life journey has helped me with was the deeper relationship I have now with God. And hearing the above quote in the movie Life of Pi touched my soul because I have experienced it time and time again. And I feel so grateful that yet another cinematic experience can communicate something so personal to me AND that I can now recommend to others going through difficult times.

Life of Pi (2012)

The fantasy adventure drama Life of Pi is an epic journey of survival and self-discovery for a young man from India, Pi (Suraj Sharma), sharing a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger. As shown when he is a boy, Pi was passionately learning about God through many religions. This learning continued through his hardships alone at sea and experiencing many spectacular, magical moments with nature. His relationship with God deepens and enriches his soul to learn how to stay alive AND co-exist with the tiger. See: movie trailer

Right from the beginning when the opening song played I got chills up my spine and knew I was in for a cinematic treat! The rich, colourful sequences and computer-generated imagery were absolutely stunning. And it also uses 3D effects in fantastic ways. I truly felt magic radiating from this movie. All these factors enhanced the powerful motivational messages about life, purpose, perseverance and God.

If and when you are at your absolute lowest in life remember there is always the option of surrendering to a higher power. Always remember that you are never alone. And remember that there is magic in movies that can lift you up when you feel lost. And maybe, just maybe its because a higher power led you to see it!

Related Tips:
Tip#841: God in Movies, Part 2 – The Ten Commandments
Tip#239: Why Your Buttons Get Pushed - Evan Almighty  
Tip#450: Don't Let Your Karma Run Over My Dogma - Dogma 
Tip#546: Be Open to Messages from Above – Bruce Almighty
Tip#815: Be Inspired by Amazing True Stories, Part 4 – Star in the Night

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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Personal & Professional Development for Movie Lovers
 See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2012

Tip#607: Movie Message about Purpose - Rise of the Guardians

Purpose: Defined as the reason for which something is done or created or for which something exists.

How do you feel when you hear Christmas music playing in stores early in mid-November? For me I love it because I always feel a happy surge of joy inside that spreads out to every part of my body. It feels blissful! Over the years I've learned that the purpose of Christmas songs is an uplifting resource that fills me up with a timeless, feel good energy.

I also feel my purpose is to share uplifting resources I've discovered or created with others feeling low, stuck or going through difficult times. For years I've done this consciously through my art, illustrations and music as well as my motivational talks AND this movie blog. I've felt a passion in all these areas which is why I know this is my purpose.

Rise of the Guardians (2012)

The computer-animated fantasy-adventure Rise of the Guardians is about the team up of mythical childhood characters as superheroes to save the children of the world. The characters include Santa Claus (Alec Baldwin), the Easter Bunny (Hugh Jackman), the Tooth Fairy (Isla Fisher), the Sandman and Jack Frost (Chris Pine). These imaginatively re-invented personalities battle the Boogeyman (Jude Law) in rich and visually stunning landscapes around the world. See: movie trailer

The film is also rich with messages for young and old centered on Jack Frost. Frost was born with a talent and yet for years has been seeking his purpose. He also wants to be seen and recognized by others. Santa helps him on his search for an answer by asking him, "What is your centre?" This is one of those rare films that can tap into the magic of your childhood memories of Christmas, Easter, etc. and take it to the next level for finding answers to grown-up questions about…

• How to find your purpose
• Importance of being acknowledged, seen and believed in
• How to face fears

Finding purpose in any part of your life is about being more aware and conscious of what energizes you. What moves you? What makes you take action? Recognize the answers and then embrace it with all your heart and soul. You may realize you've been following your purpose in some small way all along.

Related Tips:
Tip#607: Movie Message about Purpose - Rise of the Guardians
Tip#1026: Movie Message About Purpose, Part 2 - A Dog’s Purpose

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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Personal & Professional Development for Movie Lovers
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2012

Tip#606: Movies About the Homeless & Hope - It Happened on Fifth Avenue

One great benefit of going through the experience of bankruptcy (see tip#400) is that I am now debt free. It has also transformed my awareness and empathy for homeless people because I can now relate with having lost a home and most of my possessions. I now see street people with new, compassionate eyes.

On Nov. 15, 2012, Philanthropist Suzanne Rogers and more than 50 other business and community leaders slept on the streets of Toronto. It was for a fundraiser for Covenant House, who provides services and shelter for street youth. Others who joined in included Toronto Maple Leafs President Brian Burke, Arlene Dickinson of Dragons' Den, Toronto Police Chief Bill Blair and Property Brothers Drew and Jonathan Scott. Read more about the Covenant House fundraiser in: The Toronto Star

Movies can also raise awareness of the homeless and demonstrate how compassion can make a world of difference to someone in difficult times.

It Happened on Fifth Avenue (1947)

The comedy, It Happened on Fifth Avenue, is about a homeless New Yorker named Aloyisius T. McKeever (Victor Moore) who secretly moves into a huge mansion. Along the way he brings in other homeless people where humorous situations result from their money generating ideas, mistaken identities and romance. It also gives you insights on the challenges that arose from The Great Depression for individuals and families.

I just discovered this hidden gem from the 40's and I can see this becoming a classic at Christmas time. It is such a feel good movie! There are also some great motivational quotes such as…

"For to be without friends is a serious form of poverty."

This comedy felt like a Frank Capra film like Mr. Deeds Goes to Town or It's A Wonderful Life. They all entertain as well as bring to light the realities of those hit by difficult times. They can help you reflect on your own blessings and open your heart more to those in need. Now whenever I look into the eyes of a street person asking for change I always do my best to give whatever I can AND with a smile. My own life experiences, though a challenge, helped open me up more to those in need.

Whatever you choose to do or think about the homeless is up to you. One thing for sure is that acknowledging a street person even with just a smile could make a big difference in their day. You'll also feel really good afterwards! Do it today!

Other related tips:
Tip#382: Ignite Your Neighborly Spirit – G20 Toronto Pt.9 – Mr. Deeds Goes To Town

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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Personal & Professional Development for Movie Lovers
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2012

 

Tip#605: We Are All On Different Paths – Knocked Up

My younger brother just got married and it was a beautiful ceremony. I saw friends from as far back as high school and met their children. Amazingly, I didn't look at my own life and question what I had and didn't have like I've done in the past. I felt no regrets and just knew that I am EXACTLY where I am suppose to be. We are all on different paths and I believe no matter what happens we must learn to adapt, stay positive and enjoy the journey.

Having said that, I am also very open to transforming parts of myself holding me back from my dreams and desires. That's where the magic of movie heroes can reflect ideas and thoughts for personal growth. Even from a raunchy comedy!

Knocked Up: Extended and Unrated (2007)

The romantic comedy Knocked Up is about Ben Stone (Seth Rogen) who has a one-night stand with Alison Scott (Katherine Heigl) and gets pregnant. This is a shock to both of their lives and careers and yet it becomes a hilarious and touching journey as they learn to adapt to change.

Ben eventually finds the courage to transform his slacker lifestyle in order to prepare for being a responsible father and husband to Alison. And though this was a rude and crude comedy you get to witness Ben's personal growth and confidence as he takes on his new role in life. Seeing this movie inspired me to look at my own life and be open to any radical lifestyle AND mindset changes necessary to move forward with my dreams.

We are all on different paths in our lives and it is so important to honour and embrace what we have chosen. It is equally important to be open to unexpected life changes that take us onto new paths. Just remember to stay positive and enjoy the journey!

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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Personal & Professional Development for Movie Lovers
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2012

Tip#604: Recognize Great Leaders - Lincoln

Do you realize how lucky and blessed we are living in a time where a black man can be President of the United States? As of this writing President Barack Obama has historically won a second term as the 44th President. While back in 1864 Abraham Lincoln was fighting to put through the 13th Amendment to free black people of slavery.

Lincoln (2012)

The biographical war drama, Lincoln is directed by Steven Spielberg and is about America's 16th president determined to emancipate black slaves while ending the Civil War. Lincoln (Daniel Day-Lewis) had a vision to free the slaves and faced great resistance on multiple fronts. All the performances in the film were powerful in depicting the emotions and opinions of 1864 while the settings were so rich with authentic detail that I felt transported back into history. See: movie trailer

Lincoln showed great perseverance and a strategic mind during his struggles. He also demonstrated a calming energy through his many engaging stories he’d tell. And because the film is based on true events, it also inspires by showing how positive change takes time, pain and, unfortunately, death for those fighting for it. So seeing this story now over 100 years later made me feel emotionally grateful for Lincoln’s conviction to follow his vision of freedom in our world.

Take time today to feel grateful for the multitude of leaders in history that helped make this a better world. Feel inspired by their strength and conviction. And if you feel compelled to make a positive change in society know that there are great people that have paved the way for you. The spirit of these great leaders will be cheering you on to persevere!

Related Tips:
Tip#604: Recognize Great Leaders - Lincoln
Tip#702: Great Leadership in Movies, Part 1 – Ender’s Game
Tip#766: Great Leadership in Movies, Part 2 - How to Train Your Dragon 2
Tip#882: Great Leadership in Movies, Part 3 - The Towering Inferno
Tip#926: Great Leadership in Movies, Part 4 - Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Personal & Professional Development for Movie Lovers
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2012

Tip#603: Find a Balance with the Old & New - Skyfall

As of this writing the latest actor to play James Bond is Daniel Craig who is 44 years old. The latest Bond film Skyfall has also been released on the 50th anniversary of the Bond film series. All this has synchronistic significance for me because I’m in my 40's and see the changing decades of the Bond movies as a mirror for what is obsolete or still relevant in my life today.

Just like Daniel Craig's reboot of the series with Casino Royale in 2006, I have been rebooting my own life and career. Craig's Bond has become a cinematic role model for me with his grittier, tenacious approach to accomplishing his goals. It's an energy that helps activate my courage and drive to really look at the old AND new in my life and find a harmonious balance between the best of both. The latest Bond film happens to explore these themes!

Skyfall (2012)

The action thriller, Skyfall is the 23rd spy film in the James Bond series with Daniel Craig starring for the 3rd time. Bond investigates a devastating attack on his spy organization MI6 which leads him to villain Raoul Silva (Javier Bardem). Along with the exotic locations, exciting action sequences, beautiful Bond girls and hi-tech gadgets we really get to know more about Bond and his past. See: movie trailer

The film deeply explores the "old" film world of Bond and how it fits into the "new" world. Even the new Q (Ben Whishaw) is a much younger man representing the youth of today who are experts with online tech. For fans of the Bond series they will enjoy many nods to the past like the return of the classic Aston Martin DB5. In the end the questions of what is of great value of the past AND of the present can help you move forward towards the future you desire.

In the film, M (Judi Densch) shares this inspiring verse from Tennyson's Ulysses:

Tho' much is taken, much abides; and tho' 
We are not now that strength which in old days 
Moved earth and heaven; that which we are, we are; 
One equal temper of heroic hearts, 
Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will 
To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield. 

If you are at a point in your life where you feel stuck and need a reboot see this as a time to take inventory of what is obsolete from your past and what is of value to move forward. Then apply that thinking to your life today. Find a balance with the old and the new and you’ll be brimming with a new energy for the next stage in your life!

Related posts:
Tip#19: Unleash Your Inner '007' - Casino Royale
Tip#240: Evolve With The Times - Quantum of Solace
Tip#561: The Benefits of a Reboot – The Amazing Spider-Man
Tip#585: Learning from James Bond - Casino Royale

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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Personal & Professional Development for Movie Lovers
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2012

 

Tip#602: You Are Awesome! Part 1 – Validation (short film)

On Oprah Winfrey’s final show that aired May of 2011 she revealed deep insights she had discovered about people. Here’s one she shared…

"I've talked to nearly 30,000 people on this show, and all 30,000 had one thing in common: They all wanted validation. If I could reach through this television and sit on your sofa or sit on a stool in your kitchen right now, I would tell you that every single person you will ever meet shares that common desire. They want to know: 'Do you see me? Do you hear me? Does what I say mean anything to you?'"

Oprah later says… "Try it with your children, your husband, your wife, your boss, your friends. Validate them. 'I see you. I hear you. And what you say matters to me.'" 

Validation (2007)

The romantic comedy fable Validation is a short film about a parking attendant named Hugh (T.J.Thyne) who gives his customers real validations. He gives them heartfelt compliments. That’s all I’m going to write because I want you to watch this magical feel good 16 minute movie right now! See: full movie

 I rarely feature short films on this blog and yet this movie has become one of my favourites. There are important life lessons in this whimsical story and every performance or scene will put a big smile on your face! Mostly, it demonstrates what Oprah was sharing in her final show about how important validation is for each and every person on this planet.

 So if you really want to bond with someone or make a person feel good, doesn’t it make perfect sense to acknowledge that person in some way? Give someone a compliment and make them smile today. Or say… 'I see you. I hear you. And what you say matters to me.’ Oh and remember, YOU are AWESOME!

Related Tips:
Tip#602: You Are Awesome! Part 1 – Validation (short film)
Tip#835: You Are Awesome! Part 2 - The Duff
Tip#609: Believe in Yourself - ParaNorman
Tip#743: Create the Best Version of You - Divergent
Tip#326: The Power of Acknowledgement, Part 1 - Groundhog Day 
Tip#838: The Power of Acknowledgement, Part 2 – Mental Health in the Workplace - What Women Want 
Tip#848: The Power of Acknowledgement, Part 3 – Mental Health in the Workplace - Kumiko, The Treasure Hunter  
Tip#889: Random Acts of Kindness – Depression - Seven Pounds
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Personal & Professional Development for Movie Lovers
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2012

Tip#601: Benefits of Alternate Reality Movies – Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter

"Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." 
Albert Einstein 

"We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them."
Albert Einstein 

These are two quotes I absolutely love because they are a constant reminder that the only way to break out of repetitive life challenges is to rewrite what you think you know. Transforming old habits of thinking is the key to breaking free and that's why movies about time travel and alternate realities helps expand one's imagination to what is possible.

I am now entering my 7th year of writing this movie blog and it has been a long journey documenting the tools and methods I've learned to overcome challenges that keep repeating. Author John Assaraf and his term "neural reconditioning" have been very helpful (see tip#576). Movies about alternate realities have also helped to activate my imagination and build my optimistic mindset.

Here is a list of my top 10 Alternate Reality Movies: click here 

Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter (2012)

The action fantasy horror film Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter is about the 16th President of the United States (Benjamin Walker) who made it his mission to eliminate vampires since they killed his mother when he was a boy. Along the way Lincoln is aided by other historical figures such as Mary Todd Lincoln (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) and Joshua Speed (Jimmi Simpson). See: movie trailer

I'll admit when I first read the movie title I laughed and thought it was a silly concept. But after I read some positive reviews gave it a chance and I was surprised at how drawn into this alternate reality of Lincoln I became. The rich detail of the period costumes, sets and locations helped me to embrace this fantasy story. This was a perfect example of my brain rewiring to allow a new concept to be accepted.

If you are finding yourself caught in a same situation over and over again recognize it as a big sign that it is time to rewrite your thinking. See it as a sign to explore concepts you would normally reject. Expand your imagination and imagine that you have an alternate reality where that version of you has all the answers you seek! Be bold and ask that person for a little advice today!

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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Personal & Professional Development for Movie Lovers
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2012