Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Tip#626: Perseverance & Teamwork, Part 1 – The Fugitive

Early this morning I had the most incredible, vivid dream that I was with a group of fantastic people working as a team on something huge. I guess you could say they were my “dream team”! It felt so real and I knew we were all working to help make the world a better place. I woke up feeling so fresh and rejuvenated and brimming with enthusiasm. I loved the idea that I had a super team working on a global level.

I currently have an amazing team of a business coach, wellness coach and business advisors I am very grateful for. I'd like to believe the dream I had was a cosmic message that a new team is coming together for the next exciting phase of Motivatorman!

The Fugitive (1993)

The action thriller The Fugitive is about Dr. Richard Kimble (Harrison Ford) unjustly accused of murdering his wife and must find the real killer. He is pursued by a team of U.S. Marshals led by Deputy Samuel Gerard (Tommy Lee Jones). Kimble demonstrates great resilience as he survives a train collision, leaping from a high dam and being the target of a nationwide manhunt. Regardless of his adversities, Kimble persevered to do whatever it took to clear his name.


I have seen this film many times over the years and always found it very entertaining. It was only recently that I recognized that Gerard and his team also demonstrated great perseverance and effective teamwork. Gerard showed strong leadership and his team of deputies responded by following his directions with success. There was also a humorous comradery showing how they enjoyed working together.

We all have dreams and goals we want to achieve whether it’s in the workplace, a business, career or in life. Finding a dream team can make the tasks much faster to accomplish especially when you find a group of supportive individuals filled with respect, professionalism and a positive attitude. And if you already have a dream team then celebrate this special group today!

RELATED TIPS:
Tip#627: Perseverance & Teamwork, Part 2, Wreck-It Ralph
Tip#399: Find Your Dream Team - Micmacs

EMMANUEL’S NEW BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Difficult Times”
Read the Introduction and Chapter 1 now: Click here

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Sunday, January 27, 2013

Tip#625: Rude, Crude & Hilarious Movies – Top 5 Movies

Do you enjoy rude and crude comedies? I do because they make me laugh big time! And I have seen some that absolutely shocked me with what they showed OR what I heard coming out of a famous actor’s mouth!

There is the just released new comedy I have yet to see called Movie 43 and it is being promoted as one of the most shocking, original and dangerous comedies ever made. It includes many big stars like Halle Berry, Kate Winslet, Hugh Jackman, Emma Stone and Richard Gere. Here is the uncensored red-band trailer (WARNING, swearing and nudity!): Click here

For now here is a list of my top 5 rude, crude and hilarious movies!

Bridesmaids - Unrated (2011)

This comedy stars Kristen Wiig and Maya Rudolph and has some over the top scenes! There’s one where all the bridesmaids and bride eat at a Brazilian steak restaurant, get food poisoning and later try on dresses at a bridal shop. What happens next is shockingly funny!

The Dictator - BANNED & UNRATED Version (2012)

I almost included Sascha Baron Cohen’s other film Borat on this list but would rather include The Dictator because it seems to get funnier each time I see it. It is just jam-packed full of hilarious ad-libbed lines and crazy scenes. One scene was simply about the dictator trying to come up with a fake name in a restaurant by using words from the signs on the wall. You just have to see it!

Horrible Bosses – Totally Inappropriate Edition (2011]

A big part of why this film is funny is seeing actors Colin Farrell and Jennifer Aniston do and say things so dirty and so wrong! Aniston plays a dentist sexually harassing her assistant and is so fun and shocking at the same time! At the end credits they show bloopers so keep watching for more laughs.

Knocked Up - Unrated and Unprotected (2007)

This comedy stars Seth Rogen and Paul Rudd who have been in a number of comedies built on the benefits of ad-libbed scenes. This film is packed with so many movie references and F-bombs that repeat viewings would be in order. The film is both funny and insightful about dealing with unexpected changes in life.

Ted - Unrated (2012)

If you love the TV series The Family Guy then you will love creator Seth MacFarlane’s movie debut about a teddy bear that comes to life and becomes a dirty, vulgar bear. This film is absolutely packed full of 80’s pop culture references and, like many of the movies listed, have a heartfelt message.

So if you are entertained by comedies filled with swearing and politically incorrect humor then you’ll enjoy these movie recommendations! Are these movies motivational? Well if they make you laugh and feel good then yes. A good belly laugh is good for the soul! Laughter reduces blood pressure and stress hormones. It improves alertness, creativity and memory. So have a great, big laugh today!

DID YOU KNOW YOU DON’T NEED
A KINDLE DEVICE TO READ A KINDLE EBOOK?
People have been wanting to read my new eBook but think they need a Kindle device. You can download a free Kindle Reader app for any device or computer: Click here

EMMANUEL’S NEW BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Difficult Times” 
Read the Introduction and Chapter 1 now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Personal & Professional Development for Movie Lovers
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Tip#624: Movies Inspired by Actual Events - Won’t Back Down

“Have you heard about those mothers that lift one ton trucks off their babies? They’re nothing compared to me.” Won’t Back Down (2012)

There are many movies based on true stories where the facts are altered to enhance the flow of the story or fit a certain screen time. Films like The King’s Speech, Argo and Titanic still have an emotional impact despite changes to the actual events. In the end I believe if a movie can inspire you to be a better person then it has achieved it’s greatest purpose.

Check out this fascinating website called Chasing the Frog that is about “chasing after the truth behind movies based on true stories”. Some films featured include The Blind Side, Erin Brockovich, The Pursuit of Happyness, Rudy, Schindler’s List and Titanic: Click here

Won't Back Down (2012)

The movie Won’t Back Down is about two determined mothers, Jamie (Maggie Gyllenhaal) and Nona (Viola Davis) who aim to transform their children’s failing inner city school. The film is loosely based on events in 2010 Los Angeles where several groups of parents attempted to take over several failing public schools. Both Jamie and Nona demonstrated great passion and perseverance all for the love of their children and their future. See: movie trailer

Jamie’s strength as a leader was inspiring. She showed great confidence, resilience and indestructible optimism to achieve a task that seemed impossible. These challenges ended up bringing out the best in Jamie and re-ignited Nona’s passion for teaching. Their passion is also what helped attracted the individuals they needed for success!

Whether a movie is based on fact, fiction or a little of both let it inspire you to bring out your best. Let the movie heroes re-ignite your passion and increase your confidence, resilience, perseverance and optimism. Let their story help you create a more amazing life story for yourself today!

DID YOU KNOW YOU DON’T NEED A
KINDLE DEVICE TO READ A KINDLE EBOOK?
People have been wanting to read my new eBook but think they need a Kindle device. You can download a free Kindle Reader app for any device or computer: Click here

A GREAT NEW YEAR’S GIFT TO MOTIVATE YOURSELF!
EMMANUEL’S NEW BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Difficult Times”
Read the Introduction and Chapter 1 now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
JOIN ME on TWITTER: Click here
JOIN ME on YOUTUBE: Click here

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Sunday, January 20, 2013

Tip#623: Be Open to Unexpected Movies that Entertain, Part 1 – Django Unchained

In my book, Movies for Motivation: How to Stay Strong in Difficult Times I outline three factors of how movies can help you:

A) Entertain & Escape
B) Re-energize & Release
C) Insights, Epiphanies & AHA moments

For me, the first factor is very important as I always want to be entertained by a film and escape into another world for awhile. This usually leads to the 2nd and 3rd factor if the movie has stories and movie heroes that inspire. And sometimes there are films that I initially have no interest in seeing and yet am drawn to because of my gut feeling or intuition. Or if a film is nominated for an Oscar or other awards it peaks my curiosity. This happened with Django Unchained.

Django Unchained (2012)

The American western film, Django Unchained is about a German bounty hunter, Dr. King Schultz (Christoph Waltz) who teams up with a slave he freed named Django (Jamie Foxx). Together they track down wanted criminals and then set out to rescue Django’s wife from a brutal Mississippi plantation owner Calvin Candie (Leonardo DiCaprio). The film is written and directed by Quentin Tarantino so it is overflowing with his trademark dialogue, over-the-top violence and unique mashup of cinematic styles and soundtrack songs.


From the opening scene I was immediately drawn into the movie especially with Waltz’s charismatic performance of Schultz. I loved how articulate he was and how he followed a code of ethics that he always communicated with extreme confidence. He inspired me to emulate the same confidence in my life and profession. And Schultz inspired me in how he treated Django like an equal human being and together they achieved many goals. These movie heroes could inspire you too.

Sometimes there are films you have no interest in seeing and yet, when the time is right, they can help re-energize your spirit and fill you with insights for improving your life or career. Most importantly, movies are meant to entertain and help you escape for awhile. Be open to a meaningful, unexpected cinematic experience coming to you today!

Related Tips:
Tip#623: Be Open to Unexpected Movies that Entertain, Part 1 – Django Unchained
Tip#802: Be Open to Unexpected Movies that Entertain, Part 2 – The Judge – Labor Day
Tip#1054: Be Open to Unexpected Movies that Entertain, Part 3 - War for the Planet of the Apes - King Arthur: Legend of the Sword

DID YOU KNOW YOU DON’T NEED A
KINDLE DEVICE TO READ A KINDLE EBOOK?
People have been wanting to read my new eBook but think they need a Kindle device. You can download a free Kindle Reader app for any device or computer: Click here

A GREAT NEW YEAR’S GIFT TO MOTIVATE YOURSELF!
EMMANUEL’S NEW BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Difficult Times”
Read the Introduction and Chapter 1 now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
JOIN ME on TWITTER: Click here
JOIN ME on YOUTUBE: Click here

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

Tip#622: The Gain in Pain – Les Misérables

I started a weekly 90 minute exercise class called Total Body Workout which is the first major exercise I’ve committed to since I stopped doing Ashtanga Yoga over a year and a half ago. The physical pain I experienced in the first class was excruciating as I struggled to keep up with the instructor and driving dance tracks.

I knew this pain was good for my body and yet every limb was screaming and burning. What got me through was thinking of the pain some movie heroes had to endure.

Les Misérables (2012)

The musical drama Les Misérables is based on a musical and French novel of the same name taking place in 19th century France. It is about Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman) who breaks his parole and is hunted for decades by a ruthless policeman named Javert (Russell Crowe). The film is like an opera which means all of the dialogue is sung.

Les Misérables translated variously from French means the miserable ones, the wretched, the poor ones, the victims and this film is filled with characters experiencing very difficult lives. The one character that touched me the most was Fantine (Anne Hathaway), who is let go from her job at Valjean’s factory and forced into prostitution to support her young daughter. Hathaway’s performance of "I Dreamed a Dream" is heart-wrenching and deeply emotional to watch. It was all one shot and sung live for the camera capturing all the pain her character had to endure. See: movie trailer

This scene inspired me in that Fantine’s pain and misery was being expressed in song. She poured out the passion of the pain she was in. And so out of her pain came something positive and beautiful. That’s what I am applying to my challenging exercises because I know my physical, mental and emotional bodies will greatly benefit. There is gain in my pain!

We all experience pain in some form in our lives, careers and relationships. We just need to focus on the hidden learnings and benefits within it. Find the silver lining and then you’ll be able to endure and overcome those difficult times.

DID YOU KNOW YOU DON’T NEED A 
KINDLE DEVICE TO READ A KINDLE EBOOK?
People have been wanting to read my new eBook but think they need a Kindle device. You can download a free Kindle Reader app for any device or computer. Click here 

A GREAT NEW YEAR’S GIFT TO MOTIVATE YOURSELF! 
EMMANUEL’S NEW BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE: 
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Difficult Times”
Read the Introduction and Chapter 1 now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Personal & Professional Development for Movie Lovers
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Sunday, January 13, 2013

Tip#621: Every Cloud Has A Silver Lining, Part 2 - Silver Linings Playbook

This past week has been full of wonderful gifts in the form of messages I’ve received from readers/fans who love this movie blog. Their comments on how I’ve helped them in some way become bright lights reminding me that I am on the right track with my purpose in life! And on those days I feel a dark cloud come over me their messages will remind me of the silver lining and to, once again, focus on the positives!

Silver Linings Playbook (2012)

The romantic comedy Silver Linings Playbook is about Pat Solitano (Bradley Cooper) just released from a mental health facility and learning to live again after a traumatic marital experience. He meets another troubled person named Tiffany Maxwell (Jennifer Lawrence) and though they have a volatile start to their relationship begin working together on a dance competition.

There is so much more about this amazing film than this simply plot! The electric chemistry between the couple and performances of all the other characters are just so engaging. Pat’s relationship with his parents (Robert DeNiro and Jackie Weaver) is full of fireworks and beautiful, heartfelt moments. The performances ended up achieving a rare feat of being nominated in all four acting categories for the 85th Academy Awards.

This film is about moving forward from painful experiences, family, love, laughter, letting go and most of all healing. In a lot of ways the title Silver Linings Playbook says it all, where personal development tips based on the phrase “every cloud has a silver lining” are scattered throughout the film. Silver lining is a metaphor for optimism and this movie will put you in that feel good feeling!

Sometimes it’s a challenge to see the positives while you are in a negative situation. That’s why movies can be there to help entertain you and transform a negative mindset. Films can help you step away from your challenges and then allow you to see the silver lining. Fill yourself with optimism today and be amazed at the shining positives that were in front of you all along!

Related Tips:
Tip#67: Every Cloud Has A Silver Lining, Part 1 - 4 Movie Tips 
Tip#621: Every Cloud Has A Silver Lining, Part 2 - Silver Linings Playbook  
Tip#902: Every Cloud Has A Silver Lining, Part 3 - Mental Health - K-PAX  
Tip#188: Wear A Coat of Optimism – The Shawshank Redemption
Tip#200: How To Build Indestructible Optimism - Top 9 Movie Tips 
Tip#593: Remember Your Indestructible Optimism, Part 1 - Argo
Tip#904: Remember Your Indestructible Optimism, Part 2 – Depression - The 33
Tip#974: Remember Your Indestructible Optimism, Part 3 - Ghostbusters 2016 
Tip#977: Remember Your Indestructible Optimism, Part 4 - Me Before You 
Tip#998: Top 20 Movies on How To Activate Indestructible Optimism! 

A GREAT NEW YEAR’S GIFT TO MOTIVATE YOURSELF!
EMMANUEL’S NEW BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Difficult Times”
Read the Introduction and Chapter 1 now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
JOIN ME on TWITTER: Click here
JOIN ME on YOUTUBE: Click here

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Wednesday, January 09, 2013

Tip#620: Find Confidence from a Movie - Superstar

This post is a little different because I am featuring a movie that was more inspiring for someone else than me and needed to share her story! I recently met a Chinese woman who came to Canada 18 years ago who got excited when I told her the title of my new book, Movies for Motivation: How to Stay Strong in Difficult Times. She said she knew exactly what my book was about because, during her difficult time looking for a job after graduating University, a comedy had helped her tremendously.

The movie she referred to was 1999’s Superstar and she really lit up as she remembered the movie hero having helped her believe in herself. She found her confidence and immediately got a great job at a mutual funds company. Her enthusiasm was so contagious that I knew I had to share her story. Her movie recommendation could inspire you!

Superstar (1999)

The comedy Superstar is about a nerdy Catholic schoolgirl, Mary Katherine Gallagher (Molly Shannon) dreaming of superstardom. Despite being picked on at school Mary perseveres to enter a talent show being supported by other socially inept students. She is also supported by God played by Will Ferrell who also portrays her love interest Sky. Mary is also a movie lover and finds much inspiration from films such as Carrie and The Boy in the Plastic Bubble.


There are some hilarious scenes and one that was surprisingly heartfelt. In one scene Mary sadly reveals to a new friend that she “sometimes hates the way I am”. With this new friend’s belief in her she finds her confidence and then inspires her fellow performers with this quote she later says is from the movie The Initiation of Sarah starring Shelley Winters.

“Don't listen to the names that people call you. If you believe in yourself, then nobody can hurt you. You are your own rainbow.” 

Whether it is a drama, fantasy or a comedy, movies have the ability to inspire the best in you. Movie heroes who overcome difficult times can mirror you to do the same. You are already a superstar! All you have to do is believe it!

A GREAT NEW YEAR’S GIFT TO MOTIVATE YOURSELF!
EMMANUEL’S NEW BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Difficult Times”
Read the Introduction and Chapter 1 now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
JOIN ME on TWITTER: Click here
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Personal & Professional Development for Movie Lovers
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Sunday, January 06, 2013

Tip#619: Movie Prescription for Mid-Life Crisis - This Is 40

Even though I currently do not have any kids I do feel like a gave birth to my first book last month in December (see tip#610). I know it’s not the same as the real thing and yet my book Movies for Motivation still feels like my baby! And though I am in my late 40's I believe I will still meet that special woman to share my life with and possibly having a family of my own. In the meantime I get to see the ups and downs of my close friends with kids or without and the comedies that come with being in their mid-life!

This Is 40 (2012)

The comedy This Is 40 is “the sort-of sequel” to Knocked Up from writer/director Judd Apatow and continues to follow the lives of middle-aged married couple Pete (Paul Rudd) and Debbie (Leslie Mann). The hilarious dialogue throughout reflects many of the life experiences anyone faces, questions and ponders entering their 40’s. Their children Sadie and Charlotte (played by real-life daughters of Leslie Mann and Judd Apatow) also add to the humour with their own points of view to life as siblings and as daughters.

The film also features Pete and Debbie’s relationships with each of their fathers Larry (Albert Brooks) and Oliver (John Lithgow). What makes their scenes inspiring is when during Pete’s celebration of his 40th birthday Debbie actually says exactly what anyone really wants to say about what pisses them off about a parent! And in doing so it actually helps improve the relationship.


I laughed a lot throughout the film and it also made me reflective of my own choices in life with its many perceptive scenes. In fact I highly recommend this film for any couples experiencing stress with their spouse or family because it covers so many topics that could generate much needed laughter and release! And even if you are younger than 40 this movie will still make you laugh and maybe even prepare you for what lies ahead!

Movies can provide many insights for seeing your own life challenges in a new light. At the same time they can help you laugh and release any stress you are feeling. Find a movie today that can provide both these key factors and you’ll feel better right away!

A GREAT NEW YEAR’S GIFT FOR YOURSELF!
EMMANUEL’S NEW BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Difficult Times”
Read the Introduction and Chapter 1 now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Author | Speaker | Movie Blogger
Personal & Professional Development for Movie Lovers
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Wednesday, January 02, 2013

Tip#618: The Power of the Human Spirit - The Impossible

I remember being in shock and awe from the devastating images of the 2004 tsunami. Later in 2010 the film Hereafter featured an incredible opening sequence of the tsunami striking Thailand. It was emotionally intense and I thought nothing could be more cinematically epic. And now on the first day of 2013 I was compelled to see The Impossible and was taken even deeper into one of the world’s biggest natural disasters for man.

The Impossible (2012)

The docudrama The Impossible is based on a true story of a British family hit by the 2004 tsunami while vacationing at a Thailand resort. They are separated by the tidal wave and struggle to find each other again. The visuals of the devastating event are stunning and emotionally charged to watch. The performances are also Oscar worthy with the mother Maria (Naomi Watts), father (Ewan McGregor) and eldest of three boys, Lucas (Tom Holland) gripping your attention and feelings every step of their journey.


Shining through all the painful adversities is the indestructible optimism of each family member. They each persevered despite overwhelming odds. And the moments of kindness and of strangers helping one another are deeply heartfelt throughout the film. The story is a powerful reminder to never give up in whatever struggles you face even if things appear impossible. And also that in your darkest times there can be a loving, helping hand nearby.

Stories of disasters can be painful to hear. They can also create stories filled with hope, love and kindness. Make sure to learn of those uplifting tales so the people who went through the devastation can inspire you in some way. Their legacy will be to fill you with the inner strength to never give up.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!
FROM EMMANUEL LOPEZ
a.k.a. MOTIVATORMAN

GREAT NEW YEAR’S GIFT FOR YOURSELF!
EMMANUEL’S NEW BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Difficult Times”
Read the Introduction and Chapter 1 now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
JOIN ME on TWITTER: Click here
JOIN ME on YOUTUBE: Click here

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013